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....