I'm learning to be tired...and thats ok!

Hi!

Its been a while...so lets chat!! As you can see I basically skipped 2015 - where does the time go?? I've been thinking about you all and even talking to some of you "offline" and everyone seems so great. I'm great too, but just a little bit tired. So there it is. Not sure if it ever goes away and probably takes on different forms throughout our lives, but I took a bit of a "nap" over this past year. All for good reasons!

In my world of one husband, and 8 yr old, 6 yr old, 4 yr old and 6th month old...I'm tired. Period. And yes, you read that correctly, I have a 6th month old baby girl! It's been some time since I've last posted and lots has happened. Good, bad and better 💗. I've missed you!

Ms Taylor Ann was born in October 2015 and completed our family - she's amazing. Weighing in at a whopping 19lbs (at 6 months, not birth) we love every roll and chubby cheek this girl has to offer. She's sleeping like a champ, rolling over, eating food - obviously, and smiles all day long.

So basically I'm learning to embrace being tired instead of trying to fight it. Fight it with that second (or third) cup of coffee, or those dreaded girl scout cookies (and all other sugars in my pantry). My arch enemies. Alcohol still helps... Don't get me wrong. Girls nights and date nights are a necessary and important part of parenting and a cocktail is just what I need sometimes at the end of a hard day. What I would do without them?!? But I wouldn't trade this life for anyone others so why wouldn't I embrace being sleepy every so often. Lie down when I need to (easier said than done) or let the laundry pile up - who cares. My 6 year old wears dirty clothes anyway (thats a whole nother blog post..ugh).

(I wish I could nap like that)

What I'm getting at and why I'm writing this post is that I think sometimes you just have to slow down. It's how we keep ourselves healthy from the inside out. Yoga has done that for me. I've always loved yoga but never been able to implement that much in my life because i've always had a hard time slowing down. I like to run ...that's always my thing. Getting out on a trail and just running to music is something I look forward to each and every day. But with four kids it also can provide me with much unnecessary and unneeded exhaustion. I was waking up at 5/6am at some points to go running before the kids got up. Yoga has been a savior for me. At least once a week now I've been able to take some me time I just slow down and breathe. Its provided me clarity that I don't need to exhaust myself in order to feel better (aka sweat it out). Yoga is my naptime, my downtime, to slow down and take a moment.

Think about what babies do when they're tired..they take a nap. It's their much-needed rest to wake up smiling and happy again. We need to find what takes us to that place in our own self so we can wake up with wide eyed and be happy. So this past year I was able to take my nap, figuratively speaking. Just taking time for myself and enjoying my family trying to embrace my pregnancy, and delivering a beautiful baby girl this past October! I feel so much more whole and complete. Try not to stress about the small stuff and take each day as it comes. It's really helped me. I don't live up to other people's expectations... Only my own. And so should you! If life gets to be too much or you have to much on your plate remember you can always ask for help or just take your "nap". I promise you'll feel like new again very soon 💗

True Confessions: How my Blog began?

People ask me all the time how this blog started...and honestly, it was simple. I had a passion for nutrition, life, and my family and I wanted to share it with others. I've tried very hard over the past 10 years to create a happy and healthy life for me and my family. You can always read my very first post which describes a little of how it all begin or read about our family motto. I didn't know where to start, but through trial & error, reading and asking many questions I have found this blog to be a place of comfort. Somewhere I can share a little part of me, with you.

I'm passionate an dedicated to all things health and want others to know eating well does not have to mean you have become vegan or cut out everything you love. We all have our own triggers (gluten, lactose, caffeine intolerance) which we need to recognize. Have you ever heard "listen to your body?"...it might actually be telling you something you NEED to know. Don't ignore it.

Health is an overall awareness of yourself, what you're eating and what you're feeding others. Now, with kids, it can be a little tricky, but we've found ways to incorporate the best nutrition with "normal" kid foods and flavors they love. Our family isn't perfect, we love our burgers and ice cream just like everyone else. We just might eat turkey burgers with sweet potato fries or that ice cream I mentioned only on special outings or occasions. That is where my blog began - as a place for people who were interested in how I nourish my family to come and not make me feel like I was preaching to you. I've said before, I'm not a doctor, but I know enough to know what I should/shouldn't be putting into my body. And I'm learning more and more everyday -I love it!

It makes me happy when my girls want to cook with me in the kitchen or grocery shop and want to choose a new veggie or fruit to try. That is what its all about - trying new things together and figuring out what works for you.

My family is the most important component of my life, they come first. Their health and happiness is why I get up in the morning and be the best mom and wife I can each day. This blog is to enhance the well being of our family, not to take away from it. Any gaps you see in my blog posts are due to me taking some time off to spend more time with the kids (typically over the Summer when they're all home or when we have a new baby and life just shifts). Life is good right now, we're all happy & healthy. I count my blessings everyday.

XOXO

Road to a Half Marathon: We Did It!

So I mentioned a brief hiatus from my blog after the holiday craze and 1/2 marathon training - who knew it would take up so much of my time. Waking up early, staying up late, long runs on the weekends. Its not an easy road, but its certainly doable with focus and perseverance (and a fabulous husband who knew how important this was to me) . If you look back on last year around this time I was training for my first 10k and very candid that although I've been a runner for years, I never ventured over 4 or so miles. That was within my comfort zone. I never had to hold myself accountable for anything longer than that. It was merely a form of exercise I enjoyed and did it to clear my head. This 1/2 marathon process has opened up my eyes to what my body (and mind) is capable of. I have to say that now completing it, I'm very proud!

Per your request, below is the chart I followed for my training purposes. Because I had already been running 4-5 miles every other day on most weeks, I skipped more of the shorter runs focusing on consistency of increasing my heart rate and long Saturday runs. In hindsight I could not have completed the 1/2 marathon without sticking to a plan and running my designated long Saturday run mileage. I was very lucky to corral friends to run with me which never made for a dull run. Friends keep you motivated and accountable during those tougher days when you'd rather pull the covers over you in bed. Another motivator I used was Map My Run. There are many other running pals out there to help track your progress, but I happened to pick this one from the beginning of my training and vowed to stick with it. It helps track your total mileage and your pace (which is important when running longer mileage). You never want to burn yourself out too quickly. Starting slower can help balance out your run so you can sustain a comfortable pace.

My Personal Training Tips

1. Get a Plan - I just happened to Google a training plan for a 1/2 Marathon and modified it (chart above) to what I enjoy. I like being active everyday so those "rest" days in the first few weeks were more of weights or light walking for me.
2. Grab a friend - I truly enjoy the time I get to work out alone, but having someone to run alongside on race day was something I didn't think twice about (especially on the longer runs). It helps you stick to your goal!
3. Proper Attire is Key - Not only is it important to choose comfortable workout attire, but also to make sure its weather appropriate. Good running shoes are essential - and they don't have to be expensive. Just make sure you have trained in the shoes you'll be running in..or you feet might regret it.
4. Stay Hydrated - Not one tip is more important than this one, in my opinion. Staying hydrated will keep you from getting fatigued and keep cramps at bay during the race and will also keep your focus off unexpected hunger. Proper hydration is so key!
5. Stay Healthy- This should be a no-brainer and hopefully by deciding to start training for any type of race you've already jumped on the health bandwagon - good for you! I highly recommend daily vitamins & supplements to boost your immune system and recharge your overall health.
6. Have Fun - Simply put, enjoy yourself. This shouldn't be grueling. Make small goals for yourself  and what you know you can handle. The reward will come on race day when you cross that finish line - I promise!

It is amazing to me how far I've come in just one short year. It was only a short time ago I was training for a 10k, now I've completed a Half. I'm so proud. I hope you get inspired as I did to challenge yourself and take the time to conquer a goal (even its a small one). This was something that was important for me to complete - and I'm so glad I did. Onto the next adventure!!

Summer Weight Workout

As you get older, you realize weights are more and more of your friend. Throughout the years I have always been more of a cardio person (and still am for the most part), but I quickly came to realize I need weights in my workout to keep me fit, healthy & toned. I certainly enjoy the peacefulness I get with running or walking, but weights are what is going to get me to love the body that I want. I encourage everyone to lift weights as they get older. For nothing more than to keep you from aging faster than you need to.

Note: I love food and a good glass of wine so not working out is NOT an option for me!

This is a simple workout routine* below that anyone can do and it takes no more than 45min to an hour to complete. It should be done 3x a week with alternating cardio days - biking, jogging, walking. Enjoy!

Warm Up	Jog for 6 min
Stretch	Bridge - 90 sec.	Plank - 90 sec.
Alternate 3x Each
Chest Press	20lbs	12 reps
Lunges w/ weighted ball	12lb Ball	8 Lunges Each Leg
Alternate 3x Each
Lat Pulldown	40lbs	12 reps
Squat Machine	40lbs	10 reps
Alternate 3x Each
Shoulder Press	10lbs	12 reps
Step Ups (kick Machine)	25lbs	12 Reps Each Leg
Alternate 3x Each
Bicep Curls	20lbs	12 reps
Lift - Romanian Dead Lift	30lbs	12 reps
Alternate 3x Each
Tricep Extension	15lbs	12 reps
Abs/Leg Lifts Over Head		10 reps

*Please make sure to check with your doctor before beginning a workout regime. This workout is based on my height & weight so tweak it to your comfort zone so no injuries occur.

School's Out for Summer...Now What?

Whoo Hoo!

The day I've been waiting for all year (well, sort of). This has been a hectic year to say the least. If anyone tries to claim that a woman can't multitask, they're wrong! Ask any mom :) School is officially over. Summer is now here and I'm am so excited. Excited not to be a slave to other people's schedules - only my own!

Now lies the question, "what to do?" In my opinion, simple things are best. School is filled with schedules and deadlines that Summer should be enjoyed with very little planned and more spontaneous fun. Meet up with friends at your neighborhood pool, try out a new park, have a pizza & movie night (and maybe even let the kids stay up late)!? Why not, they don't have school the next day!

If you're one of those lucky ones that has a vacation home or gets to travel, that's amazing! Have your kids get a journal or a small photo album to capture your vacation moments in one fell swoop. Plus they're great for planes or cars - doodling is for all ages :) If your a homebody family there is nothing wrong with that either. There is so much your own town has to offer - explore the outdoors, your local botanical garden, or a outdoor petting zoo. Your kids will love you just the same as if you jet-setted off to a far away land. They're small, they don't know the difference! I love just exploring with my kids and seeing the world through their eyes. You never know what they might discover.

Here are a few local ideas I had in mind for summer...consider it our Summer Bucket List:

• Clark's Eliok Farm - I've been wanting to take my kids here for years. This is the year!
• Reston Zoo - a popular destination among my friends, but I've actually never been.
• The National Zoo - always a good summer go-to. Who doesn't love the Zoo?
• Clemyjontri Park - a HUGE open playground for all ages.
• Glen Echo Park - a great adventure park with a beautiful carousel.
• Downtown Annapolis - to see the boats, of course!

Although I've been to a few of the places above, they are loved by my kids and we can usually only take advantage of them during the summer when we have no schedules!!

On a side note, I have felt very lucky to have been able to reach out to you each day since starting my blog. I'm going to slow down over the summer and re-post some favorites over the past few months. Kind of like how television shows go on summer hiatus and show reruns for a bit! Nothing wrong with taking a little time for yourself every once in a while. You'll see some new posts here and there, but not daily. This is summer vaca after all!

Dear Friend

You know how when you were little you used to blurt out everything you felt to other kids- you're my best friend, you're the best, your shoes are so pretty, I love your sparkly skirt, and so on. Why don't we do that more as grown ups? Wouldn't you feel good receiving a compliment everyday - whether it be your hair, your shoes, your helpfulness, your generosity, etc. I always think to tell people how much they mean to me and how wonderful I think they are and then it slips my mind more quickly than it enters it. Why is that? My friends mean the world to me and there is nothing more I want than to let them know that. As you get older (or at least I've noticed myself), you appreciate life a bit more and all it has to offer. You try not and take things for granted as you realize life can easily pass you by. Its an inevitable part of life that you begin to attend more births and more funerals - it hopefully enables you to embrace your own life and be compassionate to those going through tough times (knowing one day you'll be there too).

Besides family, friends are your backbone in life (or at least they are mine). As you get older the friendships change, but always remain so close to your heart. I would like to tell each friend just how much I love them....and you know who you are!

This is just a small sampling of my dear friends. 

Dear Friend,

When I see you, I hug you. I'm excited to see you and I love you. Even when I can't be with you often, I love you. We met in this life for a reason and that reason stands true to this day. Every person has a purpose and I'm lucky to have you. When I'm happy, I think of you. When I'm sad, I think of you. You are important to me - always. I don't want life to pass me by before I can tell you again how much you mean to me. You make me laugh when we're having fun, you pick me up when I am down and you support me when I am hurt. Just because we don't see each other as much as we used to, doesn't mean I still don't love you. You do, and always will, mean so much to me. We met in childhood, in a sports camp, in high school, in college, at work, and through mutual friends- you're so special to me and I mean that! One day I will find the courage to individually express my sincerest gratitude for your friendship. But for right now, this will have to do. You know who you are - you're my true friend!

With love,

Kristen xoxo

My Make-Up Favorites

You may have noticed the banner on the right side of my blog page about My Makeup Favorites. If not, this post is for you! Like most girls, I've loved to experiment with different make up throughout the years. Some have done well for me as others have failed miserably. There is nothing better than a good drug store find, but there is also something fun about going to the pricey beauty counter and getting some new face powder to brighten your day (or your complexion).  Below are a few of my beauty favs - some of which I've used since high school. They're just that good!

As for beauty, here are a few of my weekday Favorites 

• Laura Mercier Oil Free Tinted Moisturizer (nude) or Urban Decay Naked Skin BB Broad Spectrum Cream SPF 20*
• Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer (sand)
• Rimmel London Stay Matte Powder (sandstorm)
• Bare Minerals Ready Bronzer (bronze)
• Laura Mericier Eye Basics Primer (linen)
• Bare Minerals Eyeshadow Palette in The Truth or Cover Girl Shimmering Sands
• Lancome Definicils Mascara (black) or Maybelline Falsies (black)

With these staples (now that I type it out it seems like a lot, but its really not considering you use very little of each item) - I can "be presentable" in about 5 minutes and go. More importantly, feel like myself and a little more put together. Gone are the days where I can go without make-up, unfortunately. With these few items above, I know I can put them on and feel refreshed and ready for the day!

*Updated as of 3/26/2014

What are your make-up favorites? Do share...Enjoy!

True Confessions: Mommy Revelations

There definitely is a transition when becoming a mom - even becoming an expectant mom. Your thought process is different, your cares change, your focus switches, and so on. There is a certain light your children bring into your life and they can either drive you crazy or put you at ease (or both). There were definitely revelations for me and I wanted to share them with you...especially all my expectant mother friends who may be anticipating the birth of their first child this year. Congratulations!!!

15 Special Moments About Being A Mom

1. Children will rock your world - for the better. You'll love it!
2. They help you appreciate the little things in life. The sky, the moon, a pretty flower, etc.
3. They giggle, just for fun. Why not?
4. A ball is a game. Period.
5. Little baby fingers and toes. Need I say more?
6. Watching kids grow is amazing. Enjoy it.
7. Playing in the rain is fun. Now, go grab your boots.
8. You're supposed to be chipper in the morning. Remember?
9. The playground is an amusement park to young kids. Keep it simple.
10. They help you do better. Be better. Eat better. Live better.
11. Be kind is what you'll teach them. Be kind is what you should be.
12. If you've never appreciated your own mother...you will now.
13. When life gets hectic take a deep breath..or a mommy time out. Have gratitude for today.
14. You will sleep again, eventually. I promise.
15. Unconditional love is real.

Happy Mother's Day Weekend to all you mommies out there! You deserved to be spoiled! Enjoy!

True Confessions: 25 Things You Didn't Know About Me

25 Things You Didn't Know About Me

1. I brush my teeth 3 times a day, but I hate flossing.
2. I had braces when I was 26 years old. And pregnant.
3. I am always early. Always.
4. I am so terrified of heights that I used to not be able to walk on the 2nd story of a Mall.
5. I haven't been on a roller coaster since I was 6. Which is where #4 comes in.
6. I'm a natural brunette. Duh.
7. I was the point guard of my basketball team.
8. Growing up, I always thought I would become a teacher.
9. I've seen every episode of Friends at least 10 times. I still own all of them on DVD. Even the Series Finale!
10. I have a terrible memory so photos are so precious to me.
11. Bruce Springsteen is my favorite musician of all time.
12. My Father Daughter Dance song at my wedding was Thunder Road.
13. I was 4'11''when I entered high school. When I graduated, I was 5'7''.
14. I can't help but watch Dirty Dancing everytime its on TV.
15. I'm not a big animal lover, but I really want a dog.
16. I've never broken a bone.
17. We have a home speaker system so I listen to Country Music all day long.
18. I'm a compulsive list maker.
19. I used to eat Pepsi & Doritos everyday after school.
20. I love jeans - skinny jeans, jean shorts, jean skirts, jean jackets, etc.
21. I had a melanoma removed about 3 months ago and have a big scar to prove it.
22. I haven't been tanning in years, but I certainly will never go again.
23. I organize my fridge everyday. And my pantry.
24. I used to be slightly obsessed with Britney Spears.
25. My husband calls me Kiki. My niece calls me Uncle Kiki :)

Bonus: My best friend growing up was also names Cristin...but with a "C" ;)

My Favorite Skin Care Products

As with my hair care product selection, my skin care regimen has changed over the years - as it should with everyone as they age. The problem with skin care is you have to really be careful about what you put on your skin. What you choose when you're 15 can come back to bite you in the ass in you're 20's and 30's if you're not careful. Your skin is so important and can say so much about how well you take care of yourself.

First and foremost, hydration...hydration...hydration. It is something I'm very guilty of, and work so hard at each day to get in my intended about of water. A good rule of thumb for an active person to staying hydrated is to drink your body weight in ounces. The warm lemon water in the morning has helped tremendously!

OK, back to the fun stuff. I have combination and dehydrated skin so my typical routine goes:


Morning
CervVe Hydrating Wash*
Cadaulie Vinosource S.O.S. Thirst Quenching Serum
CerVe AM Facial Moustierizing Lotion*
Bobbi Brown Hydrating Eye Cream





Evening
Neova Radiant Skin Cleasner Facewash*
CerVe PM Facial Mousterizing Lotion*
ROC Retinnol Correction Deep Wrinkle Night Cream
Dermalogica Overnight Clearing Gel

*My dermatologist recommended these a couple of years ago and I've never turned back. These products have saved my skin!

As for the Cadaulie Serum I don't know how I ever lived without this. It is an amazing product I stumbled upon about a year or so ago. It soaks right up in your skin leaving a clean slate for your moisturizer to go on evenly and allowing your make-up to settle nicely on your face.

So this was a fun project - I recruited some of my gorgeous and insightful girlfriends (aka beauty consultants) to give me their take on favorite skin care products and here's what they said:

Ashleigh Says:
Neutrogena Deep Clean Cream Cleanser
Dermalogica Daily Face Wash
Olay Professional Pro-X Advanced Cleansing System 
Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye Synchronized Complex
Neutrogena SkinClearing Blemish Concealer

Beth Says:
Olay Regenerist Facewash
Loreal Youth Code
Balm Concealer
Lumene Vitamin C Beads

Bridget Says:

I love any and all Dermalogica products:

-Active Moist

-Skin Smoothing Cream

-Overnight Clearing Gel

-Dermal Clay Cleanser

Blue Mercury's M-61 Fast Blast Vitamin C Facial Mask

Kate Says:

Dove soap & Aveeno Moisterizer

CeraVe Lotion

Aquafor for Eyes & Nose

Baking Soda + Dove Soap = Perfect Exfoliator

Lisa Says:

Philosophy When Hope Is Not Enough Firming Serum

Philosophy Turbo Booster C Powder

MD Forte II Facial Cream

CeraVe Lotion

Kiehl's Rosa Arctica Eye Cream or Clinique's All About Eyes (I do love this stuff too!!)

All of these ladies couldn't be more unique and more beautiful. It just goes to show you that there are so many products out there and even all of us, good friends, don't have to use the same products. Not all skin types are created equal. We all use what works for us. That is the most important lesson you learn as you age - don't follow the fads. I will add that we all agreed on one thing - wear your SPF daily!! In the meantime, find what works for your skin and what will nourish it for the future and go from there!

Mama & Baby Love - You'll Love her Too!

So my baby girl ended up getting sick a few times in the middle of the night last night and ended up sleeping in our bed. In order to make sure she was OK and comfortable we let her watch her favorite cartoon until she was comfortable enough to fall asleep on her own - which took some time. So what does every mom do while up in the night - why go on the Internet, of course. Unfortunately all I had was my phone to browse on, but it didn't matter...I was hooked on a fellow (and way more experienced) bloggers site. I've mentioned her before in previous posts, but if you've never paid attention I recommend you do now. She wrote a wonderful book, which I own, about Slow Cooker Freezer Meals. Its simply wonderful!

This caught my eye instantly. It was from M & BL's website. Think about it.

Click here to view more details

Her name is Stephanie and she has a masterpiece of a site called Mama & Baby Love. She covers everything from motherhood, to healthy eating, to yoga, to chronically her recent move to Southern Florida. She is so inspirational and you wonder how she does it all- but like every mother, she works very hard and prioritizes her time. Although I'm a huge fan of her Real Food eating method and farm raised food, I came across an article at about 1 am last night I couldn't stop reading. It was her bearing it all for the sake of making every mom out there accept who they are and not be so hard on themselves for not spending countless hours at the gym everyday. Now, she does explain that she works very hard at healthy eating and living a healthy lifestyle (which I couldn't agree more with), but she also expresses how little "gym time" she takes for herself. This is so important for everyone to read - There are so many ways you can easily incorporate exercise into your day without having to trek off to the gym. Her article,  Workout Just 3 Hours a Week and Be Slim & Healthy, has something in it for every mom. Believe me, I'm a gym go-er myself and sometimes its what I need for my own sanity..and she couldn't agree more. But her focus is to draw your attention to the importance of eating healthy so you don't have to spend those hours burning it off on an exercise machine. Genius, right?!

Furthermore, her comments on Cod Liver Oil & Weight Loss caught my eye and I certainly agree to adding a fish or cod liver oil to your supplement regimen. Please take some time to check out her website -I promise you won't be disappointed. I don't know Stephanie, personally, but you're easily drawn to her through her words and experiences. I just love her! I guaranteed you'll be just as hooked as I am!

Road to 10K: We Did It!

...and I stress we very hard. I could not have done this without my beautiful sister by my side. Although we live far apart and didn't train together, we signed up to run the actual race with each other - and wouldn't have had it any other way. I highly recommend always having someone to run with...it definitely makes it easier. Luckily her and I run the same pace!

Note: We started in the second wave so the finish time isn't accurate.

The morning was beautiful and we only had a slight bit of anxiety, never have running in a race before (other than smaller charity runs throughout the years). We started off with confidence and said all we would do is stick together and keep on running no matter what! I don't have official race results, but by the looks of it we kept a 8:50 min pace and finished around 50 min. We were extremely proud of ourselves. Its not easy finding time to do things for yourself, but this race was important to me. I couldn't have been happier I did it!

With the tragedy in Boston this past week, I couldn't help but be emotional towards the end of the race. Knowing my family was waiting for us at the finish line, I kept thinking of those Boston Marathon runners who were approaching their own finish line coming up on that awful catastrophe  Not even being able to comprehend what could have possibly be going through their minds at the time, I got a tear in my eye. God bless all of those emergency personal who were right there to help, along with the heroic civilians who put their own lives at risk to help others.

Completing this race was important - as a mom, wife, sister, daughter, and even woman. Its necessary to make yourself a priority every once in a while. And not to loose yourself in your family, work, and day to day life. I don't think of it as being selfish, I consider it making me a better person. I'm happier when I get to take time for myself - feeling almost "normal" again and not so consumed by the world of homemaking and motherhood.

I look forward to signing up for another run - hopefully soon! Thank you for all of the kind words of encouragement throughout this process. Its been so amazing!!

Road to 10K: Final Saturday Run

Its amazing how good you feel when you get a FULL 8 hours of sleep - its priceless! I think that was the first time in 18 months that has happened. Seriously. Anyway, today was my final Saturday run before the 10K which meant I had 7 miles of open road ahead of me. Although living in a suburb of a larger city that means lots of side streets, major intersections, and dodging construction vehicles. I had the best of luck this morning though - it is gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous outside. A brisk 70 degrees and sunny. I could not have asked for a better morning to run a peaceful finale to my Road to my first 10K. And I did it!

I have to honestly say, I wasn't sure how I would find the time to work everything out with the different recommended runs and workout scheduled for training. And of course, there will always be set backs with kids, school, sports, or even injuries. You just have to know that going into it and know everything will work itself out. My advice would simply be to take a day off if you need to, but always get right back up and keep on going. You'll be so thankful you did.

One of my favorite sayings ever!

Love this saying so much! These words are so true and so relevant for the time we live in. Life seems as busy as ever, but we don't want to forget what we (as moms) love to do and what we enjoy. Running is something that gives me pride, energy, and most of all - sanity. I am very proud of myself for making this commitment and I can't wait for the next challenge -who's with me?!

My Favorite Hair Care Products

Seen as how I color my hair (shocker, right??) and don't have much time to pull myself together on a daily basis, I need tried and true products that actually work. I have very fine hair so its taken me a while to adapt to products that didn't weigh my hair down. I also have to wash my hair everyday, even though you're not supposed to. These items below are products I have now used for a few years that work for me. I have spent countless dollars on products that do not work - from high end shampoos to serums that turned my hair green. As much as advertisers try to get you, you have to do what works for your hair type. This is what I've found works for me!
                                
               
Here are some of my favorite hair products that I couldn't live without:

• Loreal Color Vive Shampoo & Conditioner: Purchased at your local drugstore it is the BEST around!
• Ojon Restorative Hair Treatment: A rich, velvety balm that dramatically helps repair damaged hair in minutes.
• Kerastase Sublimateur Jour: Provides Instant light-weight nourishment. Fiber is protected against frizz and dryness. Does not leave hair greasy.
• Kerastase Cristalliste Lumiere Liquide: Shine perfecting serum for free flowing hair (aka "stray hairs"). Apply only to ends for a seamless look and shine.
• Kenra Root Lifting Spray: Volumizer for maximum body & style support. This stuff is amazing.
• Tigi BedHead Masterpiece Shine Hairspray: Massive shine, serious hold hairspray. Even smells like strawberries!

Because I already color and wash my hair daily, I don't like blow drying my hair everyday for damage purposes. As I mentioned above, my hair is very fine so it also takes me close to 45 min to blow dry my hair. For this reason, I tend to wear my hair pulled back during most of the week and then blow dry it on the weekends. I'm running around so much during the week and often at the gym, that there really is no reason for me to apply product and do my hair all the time. These products above I can guarantee will stick with me for a very long time and I can promise you you'll love them too!

All of the above products can be found online, at your local drugstore, or hair salon. Good Luck!

Road to 10K: Spring Break Saturday Run

Welcome to Spring!

Today is the first day of Spring Break and finally it actually feels like it outside...at least for today. It made running 5 miles a little easier with the sun shining on my face and a cool breeze in the air. After a week and a half of being sick - it felt good, really good to be outdoors and getting back on track. Just the other day I had to run 4 miles on a treadmill with no music (I forgot my headphones) - that was awful!

I wasn't sure if I would accomplish today's goal because I had a little too much fun at a girls night last night. We were up late and had a few cocktails to celebrate new babies, new mommies, and old friends. To be honest, I felt a little dehydrated this morning. I knew I should have drank more water before going to bed, as well as a sufficient amount when I woke up. I just didn't and I could feel it on my run. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, loss of coordination, and muscle cramping - all things to avoid during a run (or any other time for that matter). I could tell it was a little harder to breathe during my run and I knew exactly why. I knew if I was properly hydrated as I should be it would have been a bit smoother. Never the less, I stuck to my motto of keep on moving and luckily with the beautiful day I finished - and it felt great!

Top 10 Running Songs on my iPod right now:

1. Fun - Some Nights
2. Poison - Talk Dirty to Me
3. Poison - Fallen Angel
4. Kid Rock - Born Free
5. Carrie Underwood - Good Girl
6. Carly Rae Jepsen - Call Me Maybe
7. Pistol Annies - Hell on Heels
8. Katy Perry - Teenage Dream
9. Gwen Stefani - Sweet Escape
10. Journey - Faithfully

Enjoy your Spring Break and try to get outside if you can. I am jealous of all those heading out on vacation...my Spring Break Saturday Run will have to do for now!

For more info on the importance of water check out my blog post: Water...And Those Other Drinks

If interested, I also found this great article from the American Council on Exercise in regards to proper hydration. Enjoy!

True Confessions of a Stay at Home Mom: Kids

1. They'll make you laugh every day.
2. They'll bring you to tears (almost) every day.
3. They'll love you unconditionally - on most days.
4. You'll love them unconditionally every single day.
5. They'll cut their own hair with a pair of scissors one day.
6. They'll draw on your newly painted walls with crayons one day.
7. They'll paint your antique furniture with glitter nail polish one day. #truestory
8. They'll bite, pinch, scratch their siblings every day.
9. They'll squeeze, hug, kiss, and love their siblings every day.
10. They'll drive you crazy and turn your hair gray one day.
11. You won't know what you're doing on any given day.
12. You'll question whether you're doing it right on any given day. #thatswhatfriendsarefor
13. You'll battle over what they eat every single day.
14. As soon as you pack up to walk out the door, someone has to pee.
15. As soon as you get to your shopping destination, someone has to pee.
16. As soon as you get far enough away from home on a road trip, someone has to pee.
17. Just buy a potty for the car. It saves alot of headaches - and accidents!
18. You will turn on the tv more than you'd like to every day.
19. # 17 will provide you peace every single day.
20. They'll never realize how much you actually love them - its impossible.
21. Do the best you can on any given day.
22. Tell them you love them every single day. Life is good, Life is sweet, but Life is short.

Kids certainly don't make things any easier, but they certainly make things better. If you have children I stand there with you in saying it is the best thing that has ever happened to me. As much as they can drive me crazy, I love them more and more every single day!

Road to 10K: My First Saturday Run

So today I woke up knowing I had to do my first longer run of my 10k training program - the long runs increase every week to get me to my goal of 6.2 in 7 weeks. I've run 3.5 miles plenty of times before so I wasn't necessarily intimidated by the length, but I certainly didn't know how well I would do. I try to never put pressure on myself to run fast or finish within a certain time. My goal is always to never stop running not matter how slow that might be and just finish the intended distance. Today was an exceptionally beautiful day which helped. The sun was shining and there was a bit of a breeze which is always beneficial on a long run day. But I will say, I was extremely tired and wasn't sure I would finish with a smile on my face. My kids were sick this week and I was certainly fighting off something - a possible stomach bug virus going around - but I didn't want that to discourage me from getting out there and taking that time for myself.

I got all geared up - yes, I bought myself a new running jacket for "motivation" - put on my headphones and started my run, loving every minute of it! I haven't been outside to run in months..it felt so good! Not only did I complete my 3.5 miles with a 9:00 mi pace..but I exceeded that doing 3.75 miles sprinting at the end. Who knew??! I really was proud of myself. I wanted to keep going, but having a time constraint at home and knowing I wanted to stick as close to the training program as possible, I stopped (with a smile on my face). The sense of accomplishment was enough for me.

Highly Recommend Map My Run App: http://www.mapmyrun.com/

Bring on tomorrow!

My First 10K...a Commitment to Me

So, it may not sound like much, but a 10k is a big deal for me - in more ways than one. Yes, its 6.2 miles of running and yes, you have to keep a certain pace or you get booted off the course (yikes!)....but more importantly its a personal commitment I'm making to myself. I have been a runner (by my standards only) for over 10 years, but for pure enjoyment and peace of mind mainly. Its the biggest stress release for me to strap on my tennis shoes and just start running. I never go to far, nor have I ever had to. I usually ran anywhere from 30-60 min listening to music, clearing my head...and then on to the next task back at home. I don't want to come across as a martyr because I certainly don't feel like one, but since I had kids I definitely put them first before myself. Having three kids almost back-to-back left me with little time alone, a staggered exercise regimen and a yoga class here and there for solitude. Although I'll take anything I could get, I never wanted to make the commitment of signing up for a race in fear I wouldn't make the goal due to pregnancy symptoms, recovery, sick kids, you name it. I knew whatever I did I would have to train for it because I was just a leisure runner. I've finally gotten to a place (with a bit of a push) to make this commitment for ME. Just for me.

So...I went and signed up for the Pike's Peak 10k in April and couldn't be more psyched! (And I might have conjured my younger sister into doing it with me - thanks Kels!). I don't have any doubts I can run the mileage, but I've been known to freak myself out on "game day". I just hope when the day comes I find a sense of peace and just run my heart out. Thats all I want to do is put one foot in front of the other and finish. And to see my family at the end of the finish line - that would certainly make that run that much sweeter.

I am so proud of the family my husband and I created together and to see their faces as I cross another finish line of a commitment we made together - I'm sure it'll bring tears to my eyes. Those personal experiences you enjoy as a mom make you that much better of a person. I never want to look back and wish I had done anything different. I would stress to any mom to still work at accomplishing your goals - even if its just a 10k like me!

I began my training this week and so far so good. I've only had to run 2-2.5 miles and did a Pilates class (which I'm really sore from). I'm sure there will be grueling days ahead. If you'll let me, I'll take you all on my journey with me to let you in on my progress...who knows, maybe you'll consider doing something for YOU soon too!

Kristen xoxo

For more information on Pikes Peek 10k, please visit their website: http://pikespeek10k.com/






















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