Just breathe....and believe

Hi friends,

   Sure has been awhile since I have made a post. I don't have a solid excuse why I have not sat down to update my blog. Plenty has been going on to talk about.

Currently, I am wrapping up training for my 2nd marathon that is on December 9th! Woo hoo. I am nervous but I am just praying for NO rain!
http://www.dallasmarathon.com/

I am excited that I have amazing friends to share this with!

 My buddy Victor is coming to visit me the week before to do our last long run together since we haven't been able to run this entire season.
I am also excited to be running with my dear gal, Ashley D, she is amazing! I am not sure I would have signed up without her push.

The sun is currently flowing through my office window and I am listening to the Lumineers.( if you aren't familiar with them or this album-I suggest you give it a listen) I feel like I am blessed. Just so blessed.

Why you ask? Life, love and health. Every day I am given a new day. A new palate. A day to create something new. To accomplish a new goal or form a new dream. That is a gift. As they say, a mind is a terrible thing to waste. And I have to agree...I am a dreamer and a thinker.

My daughter brings so much love to my life. She fills my heart with so much JOY. Here she is today just being herself.  (another reason I feel SO incredibly blessed)

I LOVE HER SO SO SO MUCH

New topic now is I am on to a new venture. I am now involved with the company Visalus. I am drinking the shakes that are amazing. I have tried several different protein shakes. Especially because I like the idea of a quick, healthy meal that sustains. I have to say, I have never had this much sleep and energy. I am on day 5 of a 90 day challenge and I feel incredible.

I know there are several mixed reviews as there are on ANY company especially when people these days are so skeptical on companies making claims on health. But you just have to try and go with what you like. I am an adult and can make decisions for myself.
I know it works. I know I feel good. I know I am sleeping like a log. This makes me love this product and I wish more people would join me on my 90 day challenge or create one for themselves.
www.emmyratcliff.myvi.net

Another project or should I say dream/goal coming to life is me becoming a personal trainer. Classes are to begin this week! I could not be more pleased! I can't wait to have this accomplished.

I love life. To love life is to love yourself and want a happy and healthy life. That starts from the inside. You must want to be here. Eating burgers and sitting on the couch isn't going to do that. I want to be free of disease and sickness. And I want to share the wealth of knowledge to others and encourage others.

AND I am going back to work. After a little over 2 years home with my AMAZING angel girl, I am putting my skills back in use.

I feel like I am leaving 2012 with a bang! And I could not be more pleased!!!

My final message today is to love everyone. My cousin (Michelle) posted this on Facebook today. I want to share it because I feel the same. Let's move forward after this election and STOP the negative talk.

I love you if you're a liberal or a conservative, if you're black or white, if you're gay or straight, if you had an abortion or have not, if you're rich or poor, if you're an atheist or believer...If you are human, I love you.

I wish you all a WONDERFUL day!
Cheers!
Em

Back to Square One

It was Sunday. My long run days. I took the route around my hood. I knew it would be hot and the hills were steap but I needed a soul cleansing for that is my church. It was definitely a sight with the amount of sweat seeping from my pores...woo wee

Here I was running down the street, watching cars go by in their Sunday best. Running by churches, fields, Wal Greens, houses...everything.. thinking to myself how DIFFERENT my life is just from one year ago.

* One of the church signs I passed caught my attention. It said "word of the week:compassion" I stopped an shot a picture of it. I felt like with all the the tragedy that is happening all around us...YES. We should all show compassion to one another. It has been my word of the week and I challenge you to make it YOURS too.*

Back to where I was .....I was in Dallas a year ago...eating meat (now vegetarian) running at my favorite spot. White Rock Lake. I loved it. The air, the water, the boats and especially the sunrises and sunsets. It was like food for my soul running there and it ALWAYS cleared my mind.

I still haven't found a spot here that I feel that way yet. I definitely felt soul awakening on Sunday because I thought here I am...back where I started..back where I am from. I am a firm believer in things happen for a reason. I believe your life's plan is mapped out. Yes, we take detours but what is supposed to happen does even if it hurts. I believe that people come in to your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime.

It is wild. It seemed like when I moved to Dallas in 2002 that I was starting a new chapter in my life. I was back reunited with my sister and my husbands family is primarily down there. I did start a new chapter there. I did start a family.  I made some amazing friends over the years there that I miss incredibly much.

my sister and I when she visited me in June

On the other side of this, I am reunited with many many old friends I have not seen in years. It wonderful knowing that they are only a phone call away.

So friends, I say that it is time. It is time to write the book I always said I would write. I have written columns and product reviews for magazines. I found that fun and I enjoyed but I know that I more to say and definitely more to share. Many of my long time friends would agree...

So I on my run Sunday I decided I would begin my dream and make it happen...I find it only necessary that I am back to square one because I feel like I am going to have a chapter or two or three just from being back...
I can already tell by the people I have run into since I have been back.

Getting ready for the adventure... because I am ready to relive some of most wonderful, crazy, happy and sad times in one collection. Of course names will be changed to protect them.

Happy Tuesday! Happy National Tequila Day *drink up

CHEERS friends!!!

All Aboard

I survived! I just got back from a 7 day excursion to some of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. I still am overwhelmed with gratitude that my dear friend, Sarah, took me on this journey.

It started in Puerto Rico. When I got off the plan I couldn't believe it was real. It seemed like a journey just to get there. LOTS of hours in the plane to get to Puerto Rico but it was definitely worth it.

It was overcast in PR, but that didn't damper my spirit. I will admit leaving my sweet little girl for 7 days was tough...I had tears on the way to the airport...but it was a good experience for the BOTH of us.She got quality daddy and family time. 

I got a trip of a lifetime with a friend I don't get to see very often.

We started by heading straight to the liquor store. Surprise surprise. I learned that you could bring 2 bottles each of wine or the bubbly (champagne) so we quickly gathered our supplies.

Sarah had some stuff she brought taken away. She thought she would just pack it. Hilarious. She was actually surprised when they took it. Still makes me laugh.

We got to our ocean view room and unpacked. Anyone that knows me should not be surprised. I am a neat freak! I like things in place.

We decided after to check the ship out. Get familiar. I am not sure why because we continued to get LOST all week long. 

Anyone that has been a cheesy Carnival cruise should know they like to take your picture. Not only do they like to take it but with CHEESY backgrounds. I would rather pass them by but not my friend. She takes every opportunity to let us make asses of ourselves.

If the pictures weren't $20 a pop you would have enjoyed seeing the pictures we took. Something I think about and just laugh. We definitely used the props and acted out scenes. SOBER mind you.
(think titantic)

After our exploring, we enjoyed our first chef prepared meal. I loved the vegetarian options.

We decided to stay in that night since we knew we had a full week ahead.  So after walking around some more we went to our room to call it a night.

We got up early to hit the gym. YEP. The gym. I worked out every day on the ship. Good way to start the day.

Our first stop was St Thomas. There seems to be many Americans that stay there. I asked every single one of them why St Thomas and no one had a real answer for me.  I came to the conclusion that the ships just left them behind. I just truly wasn't a huge fan.

Don't get me wrong, it is very beautiful there but just wasn't my favorite.

Tuesday was a day at sea. We were thankful for the "day" off to just relax because we both had long days on Sunday from travel.
We found chairs on the upper deck and just sun bathed ALL DAY long. It was perfect.

Wednesday was Barbados. One of the best days I have EVER had in my life. I don't even have pictures really (still waiting on some from Sarah) but the day itself was just magical.

It was overcast and we thought we wouldn't get much sun. We like to just park it on a beach.  We had asked our waiter the night before for a suggestion of a beach but SO thankful we asked the locals when we got off the ship.

Brown's beach was the SPOT. Sarah and I like to talk to people. Especially locals. We like to find out their story etc. Everyone in Barbados seemed to be young looking and just HAPPY.

Even the beach vendors didn't annoy me. It's like a NYC sidewalk on the beach. I actually bought and anklet. Unlike me but the RUM punch was good...soooo good. The secret was nutmeg. Delicious and dangerous. No real stop there.

Friday was St Kitts. BEAUTIFUL! So beautiful. It was just breathtaking. The only thing is LOTS of hills. I have a fear of heights and those cab rides I was PRAYING the entire time and NOT looking down.


I need to add some pictures of St Kitts. Everyone has a pet monkey. So cute. We made another friend for the day, his name was Joe and his pet monkey was Mr Jim Brown. Hilarious.

He was our buddy for the day and we enjoyed learned more about the culture and way of life there. I seriously just wanted to move there.

This brings us to the last day. St Maarten. This was my favorite island. Not my favorite day but I loved it there. I do definitely plan on coming back to visit. Lots to do and the beaches were just gorgeous.

I probably could elaborate more on each day or even the nights or let Sarah tell her version...haha I definitely acted younger than my age. But I blame the people. They all thought I was 26. One said 28 and thought that was going to offend me.

People thought I looked like Jewel or Cameron Diaz. It was good for my ego. Seriously.  Funny too.

I had the BEST time. I am glad this is how I got to start my summer. What a blast and a trip I will NEVER forget!

Cheers.

I will add more scenery pics soon!

Stolen, Thinkin' & Cruisin'

Happy Thursday Friends!

What a week! Let me start by saying that my spirit was temporarily "out of service" earlier this week.

Some creep (putting it nicely) stole my identity. Not to just charge it up but to get a tax refund! Holy Hell. I cannot believe this has happened and I don't really have deets as the IRS keeps most of that private...all I know is it is A HUGE NIGHTMARE and money that was rightfully owed to us is now delayed at the EARLIEST 4 months. SUPER sad face!

I spent that day in bed. Tears. Snot. Feeling pretty darn crappy. But I did what I could do on my end and after all that is all I can do. Now I have to sit and wait.(let me say a quick appreciation to my friends (you know who you are) that sent me virtual hugs and messages to cheer me UP)

I decided that I wasn't going to let that trump me. Yes, it is a set back. Yes, it has ruined my credit. Yes, I am being investigated. Yes, I am still angry. BUT I am alive, healthy, roof over my head, food to eat etc etc and so is my family. FOR that I give thanks.

This is my latest column for the online mag I write for...pretty much coincides with this.

http://dign2it.com/mag/2012/please-and-thank-you 

On a much happier note....the day before this ordeal....I found out and finalized that I am going on a 7 day CRUISE!!!! HECK YEAH! My lovely and fabulous friend Sarah has invited me on this trip of a lifetime! We leave out of Puerto Rico and cruise the Virgin Islands for 7 days! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO WEEEEEEEEEEEEE

This could NOT have happened at a better time. I feel like this is exactly what I need. EXACTLY. After moving and all the changes that are happening in my life.

Time to sit back, take in some vitamin D, laugh, and just enjoy my time for a week.

This will be my view...feel free to BE VERY JEALOUS


I want to tell you about an oatmeal I had this morning. It was so freaking good that I want to share

 It comes in this pouch that you can measure your 2 cups of water with. It tasted like cocoa pebbles...just warm. SO YUMMY! Even has flaxseed folks! DELISH!

Have a great Thursday and weekend! Remember to always give thanks!

Cheers!!

*albums to check out: Karmin  and The Wood Brothers Live Volume One Sky High*

May has arrived!

 For many, that is race season.

 I just actually had my 1st race for the year. I was hoping it would have been at least a 1/2 marathon but without proper training I completed a 10k.

It was really fun because it was on the campus of my college-Oklahoma State University.

 I got to run through campus and just think about all the good times I had there. Seeing how much has changed.

I am in the yellow with my friends Bill & Kristi with their daughter

Here is my race medal for Remember the Ten Race

I wanted to finish in 60 minutes. I knew that would be tough goal considering I have not really been running enough. I finished in 70 minutes. I was very PROUD of myself for that!


*It honors the 10 members of the basketball team that we lost January 27, 2001 in a plane crash.

I'm glad I did it and I look forward to doing it again next year now that I am back in Oklahoma.

I am not going to lie I have not been running as much I would like to be. It was rough just jumping into a 10k race but I knew I could do it. I think that has been my mentality ever since I did the 26.2.

I will begin training for my next marathon come June 1st.

I am really enjoying life here in the windy city...I know it isn't technically called that but seriously should be!

This last weekend my Aunt Nancy came up and we went to the Arts Festival here. It should be called the "eats" festival because man did we PIG out. The food was DEEEE licious.

here we are in the grassy area...my lil one was mesmerized by the statue behind us

But here we are later playing on the ground in our living room.

I love her and how silly she can be.


Hope you all have a wonderful weekend! I look forward to doing more races now that I finally got one under my belt for the year!

Cheers!

Tornado REMIX

Hey friends!
   How was your Friday the 13th? Probably not quite like mine. Let's see I just happen to be cruising on the high way during a tornado....sound fun? Hardly.

I was headed back to Dallas for the weekend (hard to believe it has already been a month) for a memorial service. My dear friend's dad had passed after his TOUGH battle with esphageal cancer. It was a beautiful memorial and it was wonderful to hug such special friends even though the circumstances were sad.

I am sure you want me to talk more about this tornado huh?
I was driving and it was raining really hard. I could barely see in front of me. Part of me wanted to just turn around and go home but truly that was the direction the storm was supposed to be heading.

I started noticing people stopping and pulling over under the over passes. I was listening to my remix(something I will share shortly) and so I didn't hear anything announced on the radio.

I quickly called my husband who was at home and DEADLY terrified of tornados. He told me there was one in Norman. Well friends, guess where I was. Yep. This tornado was rain wrapped which means you can't see it. EVEN SCARIER. I counted on prayers to pull me out of this.

I had tears running down my face. I am not afraid to admit it because shit folks it was a freaking tornado! I was thinking of my girl. My beautiful incredible and wonderful 22 month old Zoie. I didn't want this to be the end...and sure enough I made it through.

WOO WEE that was the biggest wall cloud I have seen in a really long time. I am from Oklahoma and I have been through this before just not in a long time and not in front of my face!

I am thankful for a safe trip down and a wonderful weekend amongst family and friends despite the reason I traveled there! I probably should get better about posting pictures. I will indeed work on that.

Ok for the title of this blog. I did this before and some people asked me to do it again so here you go. I made a playlist for my drive down that I titled "driving" but I am going to rename this Tornado REMIX.

Some of these songs are NOT new obviously and some you might think what the......
do not judge my song choices. They all move me and I will admit some just make me want to move my booty...

Enjoy!

Here is the list:
Don't Leave Me ( ne me quitte pas) by Regina Spektor
The Rifle's Spiral  by The Shins
Wild Onesby Flo Rida featuring Sia
Love Interruption by Jack White
Hold On by Alabama Shakes
Somebody That I Used to Know by Gotye
Boyfriend By Justin Bieber (see you are judging)
Strange Clouds By B.O.B featuruing Lil Wayne
Feel the Tide by Mumford & Sons
The Cave By Mumford & Sons (one of my most fav songs)
Rack City by Tyga *you will judge me for this one I'm sure
Dog Days Are Over By Florence+the Machine
Love in Her Eyes by Reckless Kelly
Laundry Room By Avett Brothers
I Won't Give Up by Jason Mraz
Safe & Sound By Taylor Swift
I And Love And You by Avett Brothers
Let Me Hold You by Stoney Larue
Lonely Boy by  The Black Keys
We Are Young by Fun
Faster by Matt Nathanson
Hey Girl (Live in Madison Square Garden) By O.A.R.
Love And Memories (") By O.A.R.
The Love Song by Trevor Hall
Wagon Wheel By Old Crow Medicine Show
Crazy Eddie's Last Hurrah By Reckless Kelly
On My Way Back Home Again by Jim Ward
Take Me Home Tonight By Eddie Money
Your Love by The Outfield
Ni**as in Paris By Jay Z
Good Life By OneRepublic
I'm Alive By Kenny Chesney / Dave Matthews
Lay Down by O.A.R.
3 Rounds And A Sound By Blind Pilot  (another fav song)


Well, hope I might I might of introduced to something if not update one of your playlists. I love music! Obviously my taste is all over the place.

Happy Monday All! I hope you have a wonderful week!

Cheers!

New Chapter Begins

Howdy friends!

  I cannot believe it has been nearly 2 months since I have written anything. Actually, I can. I was told I was moving to another state and had to find a home and MOVE all within around 30 days.

I am here to report. I am moved. I am unpacked and I am pretty much settled in.
It is SO different here. Yes, I am from Oklahoma but I have never lived in Edmond (suburb of the OC) and I have not lived in OKC for over 12 years +.

I LOVE LOVE LOVE my neighborhood and my new neighbors and is a BREATH of fresh air having so much community feel around me. We never got to know any of our neighbors in the entire time we lived in Dallas.

It is more kid friendly here and we can take walks around our neighborhood at night. There is even a path on the main streets that many run on! That was seriously awesome to see.

I am still searching for the gym I want to join but no worries there because it is WAY cheaper here. I can't even begin to express.

I get to see my dad multiple times a week and I have seen many old faces just in the last couple of weeks.

I have a feeling I am going to enjoy it here even though I said I would never move back. I am happy and I love the feeling I have here.

Oklahoma is more than just OK it is fantastic!!

Cheers!

Cha Cha Cha Changes

I have finally made the big announcement that I have been sitting on for a couple of weeks.

I am moving. Not just into another home but out of state.

"No" The answer my husband originally gave his boss when he was asked about going. Only because he knew I never wanted to move back. I have nothing against Oklahoma City (yes that's where I'm headed) I just had closed that chapter.

My husband is very excited. He has obviously never lived there so it is a brand new world for him to explore. Many things have changed over the years so I have lots of exploring myself to do.


In fact, I haven't lived in OKC since probably 2000? I don't remember. I came straight to Dallas from Stillwater, Ok (where I went to school).

I am open for change. LOTS OF IT. After all, I am a Sagittarius.  True to my sign. My wandering spirit.

Although, we were originally talking in January about Tennessee or North Carolina. He wanted to be closer to his Grandparents. But this opportunity presented itself and that is where I am from. I have LOTS of wonderful friends that still live there and my DEAR DAD! This is wonderful for my little girl. She will get to see him weekly, as will I.

Some have asked why Oklahoma? He works for the Red Cross. He is offered a higher position being in charge of Oklahoma & Arkansas. I am super proud of him. I said "HECK NO" to the idea of moving to Arkansas (sorry to offend anyone) but I am just not interested in living there.

This move will happen within the next month. I am very busy searching for a home. I am actually getting really excited knowing I can see my best friends any weekend I want. That is very magical to me!

Ready for this next chapter...in my so called life...

CHEERS!!! oh and YEE HAW!

Tag You Are It

My gal Betsy tagged me to do this...
Here are the rules:
1. Post these rules.
2. You must post 11 random things about yourself.
3. Answer the questions set for you in their post.
4. Create 11 new questions for the people you tag to answer.
5. Go to their blog and tell them you’ve tagged them.
6. No stuff in the tagging section about you are tagged if you are reading this. You legitimately have to tag 11 people.

Here are the 11 random facts about me:
1. I can see the beauty in anyone
2. I am a music fanatic. I do NOT feel like I could live with out it.
3. I hiccup once everyday. Yep, just once.
4. Love mascara. I do not look alive without it.
5. I wish I could live in Paris. If only for a year. Maybe one day..*sigh
6. My sister and brother are twins. Fraternal obviously. And both are bad a**
7. I love country music. Not the annoying main stream but Red Dirt. IF you are not familiar than get familiar. I went to Oklahoma State University. This is where my love started. I also love rap music. Don't judge me.
8. I used to love scary movies. Ever since I had my daughter, I cannot not watch them. High blood pressure.
9. I think farts are funny. Very childish. But I still giggle when they happen.
10. I am not religious but I do believe in the power of prayer. I do not think going to church or a religious establishment makes you a good "whatever". I truly believe being a good person everyday and believing in a higher power is what it is all about.
11. the number 11 is my birthday month. it is also the month I got married in.  11 is s good number

Now here are the questions I was asked to answer:
1. Which of your race medals is your favorite? Why?

I only have one medal. My proud 26.2 and I earned it! It was freezing rain the entire time and I had a cut heal. I finished. I did it.

2. It’s a leap year! What are you going to do with your extra day on February 29th?

be thankful I was given an extra day

3. What food can you not live without?

 probably back in the early days I would have said ice cream but that really has changed.
I would probably say avocados

4. What race is your dream race? Why?

I always wanted to do Chicago or NY but now I feel like those really aren't for me. I am more interested in something on the California coast..I forget the name of it but its in San Fran - Bets knows

5. What cartoon character are you most like? Why?

Smurfette no totally kidding anyone that knows me would prob say Tazmanian Devil and I don't know why :)

6. Does each pair of sock have a “left” sock and a “right” sock?

I think so. My dryer must like me.

7. What is your favorite way to cross train?

I would say a video of  insanity

8. What is your favorite race shirt?

Tie between my marathon finisher (which I have not worn) & my cancer race shirts. I like knowing I did something for someone I know that was battling it or is

9. Do you have a bucket list?

HUGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

10. Do you have a certain song that you always put at the beginning of your playlists

Hmmm...I wouldn't say it's at the beginning but "Hey Girl" by OAR and Footloose is usually on every single one

11. Do you think I am crazy for signing up for the Tough Mudder?

NOPE! I think you are strong and brave! I admire your tenacity to achieve your goals and strength to persevere through life's challenges

Now it’s time to tag some fellow bloggers!
Doug Cassaro
Powercakes
Caitplusate
Lori-Purely Numbers
Team CYU
Citizen Sailor
Christian Zenguyrunning
Emz
Heather wheres-the-beach
Go Sport ID Kase
Kimberly @ciesla504
Eric Double E I call him @roctherun
*Warrior Betsy* My Bets who originally tagged me

Ok Now here are my questions for you...answer these and tag 11 more people! Have fun!
1. Why do you run?
2. What is your favorite childhood memory? Why?
3. If you could be anything other than your current profession, what would you be and why?
4. Favorite City you have run in or raced
5. Favorite late night snack
6. Describe yourself best in 3 words
7. What is your drink of choice? Alcoholic or Non?(drink that is)
8. What kind of vitamins do you take? Why? Certain brand?
9. How do you sleep? On your back, side, pillow btw the legs...
10. Your first pets name and your moms maiden name? (combine those thats your porn name)
11. Favorite Book. How many times have your read it?

Ok I can't wait to read your answers friends!!!!

View from the top

On Saturday, I climbed 52 flights of stairs to show my support on the fight on cancer.

My friend from college is a two time survivor of Leukemia.  Her company she works for was the chair this year. I am happy to report this event raised a little over $100,000!

I really didn't know how it would go or  how hard it would be. Even the firefighters go up in FULL gear!

They let you up one by one and there are different time slots so the stairs aren't over crowded. My goal was to finish. I told myself I wasn't worried about time. After all, this wasn't running..... an entirely different ball game.

I finished under 15 minutes! I cannot believe it. I thought at first it was around 20 but we got chip times back! And honestly, it wasn't as bad as I thought it might be. I actually thought at times I could of gone faster but I was staying along with my sis.

Up the stair walls, you see many different posters. Some saying climbing for ........ and some that have lost their battle. ALL of it is pure inspiration because you know why you are doing what you are doing.

That brings me to today. One of my friends from junior high/high school is trying to FIGHT cancer! She was diagnosed with oral cancer last year. Today she has a chest scan that will determine if this is unbeatable.  She asked for prayers. Lots of prayers. She is a mother, wife, sister, and friend to so many. Please take a moment and say a prayer for Kendra. I can't even imagine being in her shoes.

We must all be grateful for each day we are given. WE must give life all we got. And continue to support and raise awareness to #beatcancer

Cheers!

Making a Difference

If you lived on the 52nd floor of your building or worked on the 52nd floor would you take the stairs?

I am sure many of you or probably all of you would say NO. This is why we have elevators right?

I am climbing 52 flights of stairs tomorrow. Why you ask? Because my friend is a survivor. She has survived not once but two times her battle with Leukemia.

I figure if she can survive this than I can climb it...right!

It reminds me of when I was running my marathon. I remember seeing those in wheelchairs who wanted to be a part of the race. It almost brought me to tears but that only gave me the push I needed because their determination and will is just as strong if not stronger.

Yesterday I received an e-mail from my editor. He said that my January article moved him.* Please see previous post for article information* I felt so good hearing that if I inspired one person than to me that is what it is about.

The concept of paying it forward. I am challenging you to do so today. Give a compliment, smile at a stranger, let someone in your lane...do something that could brighten someones day.

CHEERS Happy Friday!

And if you can help at all I would like to ask for your help in raising awareness to this horrible disease..#beatcancer Even $5 can help!

Visit my fundraising
page at http://ntx.bigdclimb.llsevent.org/emmyratcliff

Manic Monday

Funny how when I was just about to sit down to write this the popular song by The Bangles popped in my head. I am sure we are all familiar with "Manic Monday"
The lyrics almost made me made me laugh...or at least chuckle

It's just another manic Monday
I wish it was Sunday
*My I don't have to runday
It's just another manic Monday

* Funny because Sunday is my "I have to runday."
Since I am in a "musical" mood, I thought I would share 10 of my "must" listen to right now list. Some are not brand new but current obsessions and I thought I would pass them along.

1) Somebody I Used to Know by Gotye
2) Laundry Room By The Avett Brothers
3) Down in the Valley by Head & the Heart
4) Forgive Me by City & Colour
5)I Won't Give Up by Jason Mraz
6) Calamity Song by The Decemberists
7) Lucky Now by Ryan Adams
8)Bright Lights by Gary Clark Jr
9)Lonely Boy by The Black Keys
10) Get Some by Lykke LI

I hope I added some new music to your play list! Enjoy! I might just start making Monday "music monday" and sharing new songs.

As Monday always approaches, I always try to have a positive attitude. After all, you were given a new week right there that is something to be thankful for. Right?

On the twitter feed this morning I saw a tweet from a gal named Caitlin. She listed some wonderful things and her hash tag was #toenjoylist.

 Long story short...she picked up this idea from another gal named Heather. I told them both I was going to join this train.

Basically, daily you list things or such that you are grateful for. This is actually something I used to do. I used list 3 things daily.

 I am jumping back on ship and riding this out! I want to invite you to join. 
Today I would love to see the twitter feed loaded up with #toenjoylist and if you want to follow the lovely gals who are embracing this
I encourage you follow @hriacobacci (founder :0) @caitplusate (responsible for me writing this up today)

Let's do this!

Last but not least I would just like to share my monthly column I write. I thought it might help those who might have fallen off the NY resolution train and I would like to encourage NOT to give up!
http://dign2it.com/mag/2012/new-year-and-a-new-you

HOPE all of you have a wonderful week! Go check out those tunes, start your #toenjoylist & ENjoy my column!

Cheers!

twenty twelve-I am digging you

I really am starting to feel like this is going to be my year! I have already done the NY post but as the weeks go on I am feeling like I really know what I want and I am going after that.

HEALTH is by far at the top of my list. I am glad I started this before the NY rang in because it kept me rolling on...

I have to say its starting to be an obsession. I have been e-mailing articles to my family and I LOVE the response I am getting. Many of my cousins and aunts including my SIL are asking me questions and telling me I INSPIRED THEM! That is so very cool to me.

I even have friends that have never ran that are inspired by my 26.2 in December that they have started running! I love hearing that!

It is one thing to inspire someone to smile, have a good day or what have you but hearing you inspire a LIFESTYLE change well I think that is incredible.

Yes, this year did start rough losing a loved one and my kiddo getting sick but you always learn from those or gain. I have to say we were so sad to lose her (dear Mimi) but we got QUALITY time with other family member we would not have and so did Zoie.  Memories we can treasure forever.

Next week I am doing a 52 level stair climb! I know. Wild huh? Totally different ball game than running.  BUT it is for an excellent cause! My friend is a TWO TIME survivor and that just tells you we MUST KEEP FIGHTING!
If you have a moment and you are able please help me raise some money
Personal Fundraising Page: http://ntx.bigdclimb.llsevent.org/emmyratcliff
What for you ask? Check out my page!

I have a long lists of wants that I plan to make happen this year...and it might include a new city so stay tuned.....

Remember NEVER GIVE UP. If it is important to you or you think about it more than a day...it is worth it.  You were given this life because you ARE strong enough to live it! Remember that!

Thanks for traveling on my journey!
Cheers!

Hippy Hippy Shake....Literally

Today was my first go at trying something new. I had always used Whey protein for my shakes. I recently read how Hemp protein is more natural, no chemicals and prevents your body from bloating unlike the others.

I don't know about you but when I think hemp I think necklaces, tie dye, and joints. Call me old fashioned....I suppose.
I was nervous about the taste because everything I read also said it was an acquired taste. I knew the color might through me off...puke green but I was still willing to give it a go.

As I mentioned before, I am now a vegetarian. This was a recent decision that I started the new year off with and so far so good. I find it difficult on a road trip as I recapped earlier but other than that smooth sailing.

I am cutting dairy out as much as possible. I am not ready to go full vegan although I will be eating like one probably 85-90% of the time. Almond Milk is a beautiful alternative.

I am loving finding new recipes and creating some as well as this new protein that I just tried. I have to say I liked it. It didn't have a strange taste at all. The container suggests using Almond Milk (which I love) and a banana. All I could taste really was the banana and because Almond Milk is so tasty and think it was a great shake! I just got 15 grams of protein! Woo wee

I am going to recommend it. I will be making one of my green machine juices this afternoon. I am really on this health kick. I like the way it makes me feel and knowing I am "repairing" my body on the inside is a beautiful thing.

Cheers!

Angry Juice

Where to begin from my last post...so much has gone on.


In a nutshell, my fast did not last the intended 10 days. I made it to Day 4. Although, the energy level seemed alright, I truly felt hungry and my time to have my 3rd shake on Day 4 I just went and made a salad instead.I was getting cranky. My husband called it "angry juice"


 My new goal was to just eat what I would with the shakes and still juice.


Unfortunately, my plans had to change. We had to pack up suddenly and jump in the car and head to Ohio the following day for a family emergency. I just returned yesterday afternoon. I did only eat vegetarian but I did indulge in some sweet treats.
It is very hard to eat well on the road. Especially when all you can grab is a salad and that option isn't always available. I even skipped out a meal or two when I didn't have an option because I am sticking to my NEW vegetarian lifestyle.


I still recommend this juice fast to others because I felt good and clean. I will still make some juices once a day. I think its a great way to get your body the nutrients it needs.


I truly believe you just have to eat right and exercise. I don't think there is anything else you can do. I don't believe in cutting carbs or any of those diets. And I really did it for a cleanse. I haven't seen a much of a scale difference.


I think the key is to plan ahead so you don't end up snacking on something you would regret and always have water nearby. I guzzle it all day long.


Right now, I am extremely exhausted from our trip. BUT I did just get back from the store picking up goodies like kale, carrots etc to juice!


HAPPY MONDAY

B to the L to the OAT

Here I am on Day 3. I still am feeling pretty good. I am very surprised at my energy level. I was able to do crunches and pushups last night. They were not easy and had to take breaks due to getting lightheaded.

I am going to try to run this weekend. Not a far distance but at least 3 miles a day hopefully more depending on how I feel.

I am still getting creative with my juices. I originally said I would not make any more up and that I would make one big batch but I have done neither. I guess washing the juicer is fun...nope but I do it.

I stick with the "original" recipe from this cleanse and have it in the morning and night. The other two I have during the day are really random. I have to use some staples because you need juice so cucumbers and either kale, spinach and today I used chard.

One of my juices today had radishes. Yep, love those spicy little roots! It was a different taste but I mixed carrots, spinach, and pears with it. A little celery too and of course cucumbers. Those are juicy veggies.

One thing is I am eating or "drinking" carrots. I don't like them but I can't really taste them. So I am definitely going to buy more.

Funny this morning my husband tried to eat on of my green apples. I told him no. haha He was like "Em you have 4 bags" like I said you would be shocked how much it takes to get 16-20 oz of juice!

I feel energized but FAT. I guess bloated is the proper term. I am not pooping like I thought I would be doing. Just peeing a lot. I wanted a I dropped 10 lbs poop or something.  O 'well maybe as I push on. haha  I am laughing because my energy level is high and everything I say I think is funny. Oh dear.

Ok I have one more shake to go today and the weekend is here. It will be tough watching my husband eat but at least he will be choosing healthy options and won't scarf down a bacon burger in my face because if he did...I might end up on the 10 o'clock news.

Alright folks...I will probably recap my weekend Monday!

Cheers! Drink Up...juice that is!

floating along...literally

Today is a new day and I feel different already after only 1 day on my cleanse.  The scale is also already showing a 2lb decrease from Monday...although that is not why I did this but BONUS BEATS!

I woke up feeling rested. I did still feel hungry, but I chose to not really focus on that. The good news was I knew that is was working.

 I slept really well last night. That doesn't happen all the time unless I have something to help me out. Like Valerian Root (natural herb to help calm the body) or alcohol haha but we all know that isn't REAL SLEEP!

I went back to the store today to load up on more veggies and fruit. I was thinking when I left that if I was just eating this stuff raw it would last a lot longer! It is amazing how much goes in to 20 oz of JUICE!

My husband asked to have one this morning. He liked it. It is wild that he is on board with all this vegetarian stuff with me. He is such the meat lover! In fact, he used to say "if it had a mom or dad and a face it belongs on my grill"

What is funny is that watching Forks Over Knives documentary, a Dr said almost the same words but said YOU SHOULDN'T EAT IT! Wild stuff!

I am on my 2nd shake of the day. I know I said I would not create a new "flavor" after yesterday but I still did. It is so delicious. I used kale, spinach, celery, parsley, lemon, blackberries, cucumber, golden delicious apples and carrots.

I am excited to continue this journey...I am not going to lie it is TOUGH not eating. I feel the hunger and when I prepare stuff for my daughter I want to taste it and have to hold myself back. Her sweet potato she is currently chowing down on for lunch is like poison to me right now because it is taking everything I have not to go over to her and steal it! Haha

Alright folks...I would do a recap of the remainder of the day tomorrow and hopefully have new things to report!

Shout out to @joymcgill for her cheerleading!Thanks friend!

And so it begins...

Happy 2012 all!

   I ended my 2011 feeling really good about myself!Mainly because of the marathon I finished!
 I actually wasn't trying to find a new fad diet for once or have anxiety about thinking about how quickly summer will come (bathing suit season). Yee haw I love SUMMER TIME!

Becoming a runner, came with a new lifestyle.
 I have maintained a solid weight and of course I want more to drop off...I am female! Few of my fellow running buddies had suggested some documentaries for me to check out. Fat Sick & Nearly Dead and Forks Over Knives...actually some others too that I still plan to check out.

The two I watched, that are listed above, have changed me. I don't want to give all the details away because I really want you to watch them if you have not already. I just want to say it is to your benefit that you do. I am not saying it is the "healthy bible" but to me it is.

Today is day 1 of my juice fast. This was inspired by Fat Sick & Nearly Dead. I will say today has been tough. I do feel really hungry and find myself almost slapping my hand when I pass the pantry or fridge.

I have had 3 shakes aka juice blends. ( you must have 4 16-20oz a day) 

 The first is the original recipe from the film that has kale, cucumber, celery, green apples, ginger root and lemon. That was very drinkable and I was pleasantly surprised.
Shake 2 consisted of spinach, parsley, golden delicious apples, cucumber and lemon.This was very yummy. This might become my morning juice because the taste of the apples was great!

I think I felt a little too confident when I approached shake 3.  I mixed spinach, celery, cucumber,cilantro, ginger, lemon and blueberries.NOT a home run. YUCK. I will stick to the other recipes I got.

Most of the bases are kale or spinach and have cucumbers! I love cucumbers and they seem to have lots of juice.

I am ending today with one more blend. Not sure if I will do a repeat or try a new one listed. I know tomorrow I will make it in bulk because the sound scares my daughter (the juicer) haha and cleaning it multiple times a day is not soothing especially when I am dreaming of food.

They mentioned that the first 2 days would be tough. I imagine. Because I do feel REALLY hungry. I am drinking lots of water too.

Lots of people thought I would be taking multiple shadoobies (*craps) all day but not the case. I just have been peeing. I know you wanted to know this!

Right now, I am excited to see how I feel at the end. I know in just a couple of days it will be no sweat! I must be strong and push on! I CAN DO THIS....