You Cant Live A Full Life On An Empty Stomach

Clean. Fit Box Review

“Things often go wrong and cooking can be messy, but the act of creating something from disparate ingredients still remains satisfying. Cooking reminds me that I am capable of taking care of myself and worthy of taking care of and nourishing myself.” ― Roxane Gay

I am capable of taking care of and nourishing myself. Such a simple phrase, but this positive affirmation has stuck with me for the past few weeks. It's no secret that age is just a number, yet each day I notice my body softening and a new story reveals itself through my tiny wrinkles and stretch marks. My body is aging and no longer can survive on Diet Coke and Pretzels as my main two food groups for nourishment. I still crave my sweets, but when I listen to my body, I hear it asking for the nutritious meals and snacks it desires. 

My relationship with food has not always been easy, whether I was starving myself  for dance or coming to terms with eating for two during my pregnancies. The idea that my food intake had a direct correlation to my happiness and overall health changed how I approached my eating habits. I learned you cant live a full life on an empty stomach. 

Teaching Barre Fitness and Aerial Silks 5 times a week on top of raising two little humans keeps me pretty busy. It's easy to justify my poor eating habits and even I succumb to the gloriousness of the Golden Arches. Can I get an #amen for my beloved Large Diet Coke and Fries!?! At the best of times I feel empowered and strong when I teach healthy habits to my Barrebabes, but sometimes I feel like a hypocrite. I say one thing, but find myself doing another. After I teach class, my kids are hungry and fussy and sometimes the only thing to bring my sanity back is to zip through the closest drive through. Perhaps this just makes me a "mom", its simply the phase of life that I'm in, but I still feel guilty when I know I can make healthier choices for my body. 

Healthy eating shouldn't be such a struggle, but for most of us it truly is. I do my best to have healthy snacks on hand, and have made an effort to stop buying junk food. (It's been over a year since I bought Oreo's, Chips A'hoy, and Doritos. I'm happy to say I dont crave these vices anymore!) My new go to healthy snacks are Rice Cakes, Carrots, and Trail Mix. I dont have to lose my salty and sweet cravings, I simply choose healthier versions of my favorite foods. Thats one of the reasons why I jumped on board for subscribing to the Clean. Fit Box. They make healthy eating easy and delicious. I no longer have to search high and low in the pantry for something to eat, everything is simple to prepare and if I'm on the go, they make snacking a breeze.

Whats the Hoopla with Subscription Boxes? And why should I invest in one?

It seems like Subscription Boxes are all the rage right now, I'm bombarded on social media about monthly delivery services for products like fantasy books, workout gear, and even pies. So much of it seems like a fun way to treat yo self, but only a few of them adhere to any practicality.  Living a healthy lifestyle is important to our family and I support businesses who value the same ideals I do. 

Clean.Fit is a monthly subscription box filled with clean snacks and supplements that support the fit life. The first step is to choose a delivery plan, followed by committing to the clean.fit type; picking either Original, Gluten Free, or Vegetarian. Then your last step is to enjoy and repeat! Each month, you'll receive 5-7 items: an assortment of clean, delicious fitness snacks and all-natural, workout enhancing supplements. 

"Clean.fit helps people achieve their fitness goals and maintain mind and body wellness while enjoying delicious, all-natural, and convenient snacks and supplements. It's our mission to promote a clean.fit life: the intersection of eating well, staying fit, and practicing self-love."

I received my first order in November and was over the moon with what I received! I was away for 10 days over the Holidays and all I could think about was going back home to unwrap my box! I felt really spoiled with all the goodies that were inside! I was impressed with the portion sizes and full variety of products included in my November clean.fit box. I recognized a few brand names, but for the most part many of the brands I had never heard of. I was quick to find out about each product included in my box and had a stronger appreciation for the clean.fit box company in their efforts to bring together so many diverse, local, and mainstream businesses together. The products I received were:

Artisana Organics Walnut Butter

Hawaiian OLA Noni Immunity and Energy Shots

Jimmy Bars High Protein Snack Bar

Live Glean GF Pumpkin Flour

Munk Pack Protein Cookies

North Creek Smoke House Sausage Sticks

A delicious Walnut-cashew butter blend pre-portioned squeeze pack that's easy for quick snacking. Add some dark chocolate and a hint of sea salt for a perfect guilt free indulgence.

Quench your thirst with a super fruit that delivers an unbelievable antioxidant punch and has many benefits: it's an anti-inflammatory, it boosts immunity, it can lower blood sugar and cholesterol, and can even fight parasites. Whether you add a shot to your morning smoothie or just drink it plain, this Immunity & Energy shot is the perfect drink to combat this years Cold/Flu season.

GF and Paleo friendly, this flour is made from 100% Pumpkins. No fillers or special blends, this is a fabulous cooking staple for anyone who has a dietary restriction. The mission statement is, Alternatives for everyday eating.  Which is perfect for those who want to focus on the nutritional aspects of their health. Clean.Fit included an awesome recipe for Pumpkin Energy Balls, and I have big plans to try out the recipe for a party i'm going to in a couple of days!

Need a chocolate fix? Look no further then the Double Chocolate Cookie in your Clean.Fit box! Each cookie offers 18g of protein and is the perfect portion size for easy snacking! Who needs a Hershey Bar when you've got twice the chocolate in half the calories! 

Feeling funky fresh? Grab a Jimmy Bar! for a quick GF snack or meal replacement. This is going to be a go to for me after I teach Barre! I was really happy with the flavor I received and my kids took a bite or two and they rated it 2 thumbs up.

30 years of creating simple, old fashioned jerky is something you dont mess around with. North Creek Smokehouse has perfected their Jerky and any carnivore could take one bite and appreciate the richness of their flavoring. It's the perfect stocking stuffer for the meat lover in your life. In the words of Ron Swanson, "You had me at meat tornado".

Overall I happily recommend the clean.fit subscription box. They've created a fun twist to healthy eating, and provide a service that I think everyone could benefit from. Making conscious health decisions shouldn't have to be a burden, and it's my hope that everyone can seek out a helping hand to guide them in their health and wellness endeavors. No matter your shape, size, or gender; we all want to feel beautiful and healthy in our bodies. Ordering clean.fit is an amazing step towards nourishing our bodies and caring for them from the inside out. If there was one subscription box you invested in this year, clean.fit is the one for you! Treat yo self, friends, and loved ones to a box and give the gift of health this holiday season.

“I want to look good. I want to feel good. I want to be beautiful in this body I am in.” 
― Roxane Gay

You Cant Live A Full Life On An Empty Stomach

Clean. Fit Box Review

“Things often go wrong and cooking can be messy, but the act of creating something from disparate ingredients still remains satisfying. Cooking reminds me that I am capable of taking care of myself and worthy of taking care of and nourishing myself.” ― Roxane Gay

I am capable of taking care of and nourishing myself. Such a simple phrase, but this positive affirmation has stuck with me for the past few weeks. It's no secret that age is just a number, yet each day I notice my body softening and a new story reveals itself through my tiny wrinkles and stretch marks. My body is aging and no longer can survive on Diet Coke and Pretzels as my main two food groups for nourishment. I still crave my sweets, but when I listen to my body, I hear it asking for the nutritious meals and snacks it desires. 

My relationship with food has not always been easy, whether I was starving myself  for dance or coming to terms with eating for two during my pregnancies. The idea that my food intake had a direct correlation to my happiness and overall health changed how I approached my eating habits. I learned you cant live a full life on an empty stomach. 

Teaching Barre Fitness and Aerial Silks 5 times a week on top of raising two little humans keeps me pretty busy. It's easy to justify my poor eating habits and even I succumb to the gloriousness of the Golden Arches. Can I get an #amen for my beloved Large Diet Coke and Fries!?! At the best of times I feel empowered and strong when I teach healthy habits to my Barrebabes, but sometimes I feel like a hypocrite. I say one thing, but find myself doing another. After I teach class, my kids are hungry and fussy and sometimes the only thing to bring my sanity back is to zip through the closest drive through. Perhaps this just makes me a "mom", its simply the phase of life that I'm in, but I still feel guilty when I know I can make healthier choices for my body. 

Healthy eating shouldn't be such a struggle, but for most of us it truly is. I do my best to have healthy snacks on hand, and have made an effort to stop buying junk food. (It's been over a year since I bought Oreo's, Chips A'hoy, and Doritos. I'm happy to say I dont crave these vices anymore!) My new go to healthy snacks are Rice Cakes, Carrots, and Trail Mix. I dont have to lose my salty and sweet cravings, I simply choose healthier versions of my favorite foods. Thats one of the reasons why I jumped on board for subscribing to the Clean. Fit Box. They make healthy eating easy and delicious. I no longer have to search high and low in the pantry for something to eat, everything is simple to prepare and if I'm on the go, they make snacking a breeze.

Whats the Hoopla with Subscription Boxes? And why should I invest in one?

It seems like Subscription Boxes are all the rage right now, I'm bombarded on social media about monthly delivery services for products like fantasy books, workout gear, and even pies. So much of it seems like a fun way to treat yo self, but only a few of them adhere to any practicality.  Living a healthy lifestyle is important to our family and I support businesses who value the same ideals I do. 

Clean.Fit is a monthly subscription box filled with clean snacks and supplements that support the fit life. The first step is to choose a delivery plan, followed by committing to the clean.fit type; picking either Original, Gluten Free, or Vegetarian. Then your last step is to enjoy and repeat! Each month, you'll receive 5-7 items: an assortment of clean, delicious fitness snacks and all-natural, workout enhancing supplements. 

"Clean.fit helps people achieve their fitness goals and maintain mind and body wellness while enjoying delicious, all-natural, and convenient snacks and supplements. It's our mission to promote a clean.fit life: the intersection of eating well, staying fit, and practicing self-love."

I received my first order in November and was over the moon with what I received! I was away for 10 days over the Holidays and all I could think about was going back home to unwrap my box! I felt really spoiled with all the goodies that were inside! I was impressed with the portion sizes and full variety of products included in my November clean.fit box. I recognized a few brand names, but for the most part many of the brands I had never heard of. I was quick to find out about each product included in my box and had a stronger appreciation for the clean.fit box company in their efforts to bring together so many diverse, local, and mainstream businesses together. The products I received were:

Artisana Organics Walnut Butter

Hawaiian OLA Noni Immunity and Energy Shots

Jimmy Bars High Protein Snack Bar

Live Glean GF Pumpkin Flour

Munk Pack Protein Cookies

North Creek Smoke House Sausage Sticks

A delicious Walnut-cashew butter blend pre-portioned squeeze pack that's easy for quick snacking. Add some dark chocolate and a hint of sea salt for a perfect guilt free indulgence.

Quench your thirst with a super fruit that delivers an unbelievable antioxidant punch and has many benefits: it's an anti-inflammatory, it boosts immunity, it can lower blood sugar and cholesterol, and can even fight parasites. Whether you add a shot to your morning smoothie or just drink it plain, this Immunity & Energy shot is the perfect drink to combat this years Cold/Flu season.

GF and Paleo friendly, this flour is made from 100% Pumpkins. No fillers or special blends, this is a fabulous cooking staple for anyone who has a dietary restriction. The mission statement is, Alternatives for everyday eating.  Which is perfect for those who want to focus on the nutritional aspects of their health. Clean.Fit included an awesome recipe for Pumpkin Energy Balls, and I have big plans to try out the recipe for a party i'm going to in a couple of days!

Need a chocolate fix? Look no further then the Double Chocolate Cookie in your Clean.Fit box! Each cookie offers 18g of protein and is the perfect portion size for easy snacking! Who needs a Hershey Bar when you've got twice the chocolate in half the calories! 

Feeling funky fresh? Grab a Jimmy Bar! for a quick GF snack or meal replacement. This is going to be a go to for me after I teach Barre! I was really happy with the flavor I received and my kids took a bite or two and they rated it 2 thumbs up.

30 years of creating simple, old fashioned jerky is something you dont mess around with. North Creek Smokehouse has perfected their Jerky and any carnivore could take one bite and appreciate the richness of their flavoring. It's the perfect stocking stuffer for the meat lover in your life. In the words of Ron Swanson, "You had me at meat tornado".

Overall I happily recommend the clean.fit subscription box. They've created a fun twist to healthy eating, and provide a service that I think everyone could benefit from. Making conscious health decisions shouldn't have to be a burden, and it's my hope that everyone can seek out a helping hand to guide them in their health and wellness endeavors. No matter your shape, size, or gender; we all want to feel beautiful and healthy in our bodies. Ordering clean.fit is an amazing step towards nourishing our bodies and caring for them from the inside out. If there was one subscription box you invested in this year, clean.fit is the one for you! Treat yo self, friends, and loved ones to a box and give the gift of health this holiday season.

“I want to look good. I want to feel good. I want to be beautiful in this body I am in.” 
― Roxane Gay

I Am Triathamom

I Can and I Will: 

Triathlons and Body Image

I can do hard things. Easier said than done, but this Mantra has been running through my head all year. There have been so many goals i've met and challenges I've overcome, just because I had the nerve to believe in myself. Simply put, I can do hard things... I can, and I will. Isn't it amazing what a little self confidence can do for the heart and soul? Without the courage to try new new endeavors, I wouldn't have started my Twinkletoes Blog, pursued opportunities to Model, or train for my first Triathlon. All huge goals and very much NOT who I am. I'm not a blogger, I can barely journal. I'm not a model, I'm a curvy mom of 2. I'm not a triathlete, I hate running. Yet despite all of my excuses, here I am...blogging, modeling and racing. 

Since moving to Utah and working at Cahoots Fitness, I've always wanted to join their Triathamom team. I've always stayed within in the confines of "Artistic Sports & Exercises" (Dance, Figure Skating, Barre Fitness, Zumba and etc), so focusing on high intensity  aerobic activities like swimming, biking and running, were waaaay out of my comfort zone. For the first few years I didnt participate because I was either pregnant or still within the first few months of breastfeeding. But this was my year, the stars aligned and I knew it was the right time to sign up for my first Triathlon.

Triathamom is a fully supported, non-competitive, women only triathlon.  That means I signed up for a 300 meter swim, 12 mile bike ride, and 5k run. It wouldn't be a complete triathlon experience without chip timing, body marking, and the intense feeling of accomplishment as I cross the finish line. Another reason why I chose this race was because of the Carnival Style Cheering Section they provide for your family during the race. They have a ‘sign making station’, bounce house, face painting, inflatable slide, cotton candy, and everything to keep my littles entertained while I was complete my first race.

I started training in the early summer, simple jogs and swims with the family. I was still teaching 4 Barre classes a week, so I wanted to take things slow. I eventually worked up to double and triple workouts in one day. I remember one week in August looked a little something like this:

Monday: 9am Barre, 8pm Barre, 9pm Swim laps   

Tuesday: 9am Barre, 4pm 8 Mile Bike ride

Wednesday: 10am Barre, 1pm walk/jog, 8pm Swim

Thursday: 12 Mile Bike ride

Friday:  Morning Yoga, 5 Mile Bike ride

Saturday: 8 Mile Family Bike ride

Looking back at this schedule, it seems pretty insane. Even now, I don't really know how I did it. I remember scheduling my workouts everyday and having to work hard with my husband to coordinate babysitting and times he was available so I could train. But despite the singularity of training for such an individual sport, I was able to include my family in a lot of my workouts. I have fond memories of 8 mile bike rides every Saturday morning. Swimming laps around my kids in the pool, and attempting jogs with the double stroller. Which unless you've got a B.O.B. I would not recommend. Man that was tough, I really don't care for running and having to push my kids along with me was the straw that broke the camels back. If I had to run, I did it after my kids went down for bed. But even then I was scowling with every step I took.

"I did not wake up like this. I changed my lifestyle for this. I workout late for this. I changed what I ate for this. I sweat for this. I cried for this. I lift heavy for this. I workout everyday for this. I made this, and this is worth it."

But do you know what? By challenging myself to train for a Triathlon I learned alot about patience and respecting my body. Too often I take for granted the body I've been given and the miraculous gift that is a breathing and functioning form. In dance we strive for perfection, the smaller the frame the better. The longer the lines, the closer the dancer is to perfection. One must be strong yet small, petite yet powerful. Dance on your toes, squeeze the abdomen in, chin up and smile. Lengthen out past the body without filling the space with your body. It's been drilled in my head for so long, its hard to remember that these ideas about the human form are not applicable in every circumstance. 

After having children, I grew to respect and trust my body to create, sustain and care for the life of my children. The desire to be thin and long, weren't constant companions in my day to day affairs. I was able to finally relax and enjoy the body I have been given. I breastfed my daughter for 16 months and and for the first time in my life felt like I had a balanced and healthy relationship with my body. I was successfully breastfeeding, teaching Barre and training for my Triathlon. I was never as strong or secure in my health as I was at this time in my life. I gained weight, muscle and confidence...and that meant more to me then any number on the scale.

"Strength doesn't come from what you can do. It comes from overcoming the things you once thought you couldn't."

Race day finally came on August 19th, 2017. I was up by 4am and ready to go. The reassuring thing about this race was its an all female non competitive Tri. Meaning I could go as fast or as slow I needed to, without feeling pressure to perform at a fitness level I wasn't comfortable with. It was the perfect Triathlon to start with. I met up with my Cahoots Fitness friends and together we settled our bikes and gear in the Transition zone then headed off to the swim portion of the race. I was a bundle on nerves and had to visit the restrooms more then once before the Tri began. The nervous poo's were in full effect that morning. 

Alongside the edges of the pool where we were to start our swim portion, over 500 women gathered round for the opening ceremonies. We came in all shapes, sizes and skill levels. At one point we were asked to echo this affirmation, "I am enough, I am strong, I am a Mother, I am a Triathlete", I was overwhelmed with emotion. I cried and felt this amazing connection within this community of women! Though I was surrounded by strangers, I felt more at home with this group of women then I have in a long time. We all have unique backgrounds, fitness levels and varying degrees of experience with Triathlons, but we were all together in this one action... to make it across the finish line. We were of one of heart and mind, this race was not about competing with the girl next to you, it was about competing with yourself. Training to be the best version you could possibly be.

I went up a level in the swim, and I'm so glad I did. I finished my 300 meter swim in 7 minutes and that alone made all the difference in my over all timing. I took 2 1/2 minutes in transition and hoped on my bike and started the 12 mile ride along the Jordan river. I raced on my husbands Mt. Bike, but trust me when I say that if you sign up for a Triathlon, invest in a Tri bike. Thats my one regret,  despite training so hard, I just couldn't go as fast as the other racers. I didn't anticipate the hills, and I almost added 6 minutes to my time because of my slower pace. But honestly I cant complain, my bike was in good condition and got me from point A to point B in one piece. I saw several triathletes on the side of the trail trying to patch their tires or even worse, receive medical attention for bike collisions. Finally I came to the home stretch, the 5k sprint. I had to recite my mantra over and over again in my head, I can do hard things. I can do hard things. Slow and steady wins the race and I promised myself that it didn't matter how slow I went,  as long as I never stopped I would be happy. I had to keep going.
So I did. Just like Dory, I had to tell myself to keep on swimming. Despite the heat, endless switchbacks, and the exhaustion...I wouldn't give up. As I ran up the last switchback and saw the crowd begin to grow, I grew in my excitement. I pumped my legs harder and launched into the final push. I saw the Finish line approaching and suddenly I heard my name being chanted from the crowd. My beautiful family was cheering me on, and as I looked at their happy faces I was overcome with emotion. I crossed the finish line in tears. Happy, wonderful tears. I did the impossible, I completed my Triathlon.

Complete Stats

Total Time:  1:34:54.1

Splits

Swim Time: 7:14.3

T1 Time: 2:35.1

Bike Time: 49:04.3

T2 Time: 0:44.5

Run Time: 35:15.7

AG POS

16 of 48 (F 25-29)

Finish POS

166 of 417 

I'm incredibly proud of myself and what I accomplished this summer. I never thought I could do something so physically demanding and intense, but do you know what? If I did it once, I can do it again! I hope to make this Triathlon a new tradition! I loved how I could incorporate my children into my training and lead by example the importance of living a happy and healthy life. Taking the time to care for my physical and mental health was more beneficial to my overall happiness then anything I've ever done. Refocusing my goals and changing my lifestyle helped me become a better wife, mother, and friend. I hope I can always keep the spirit of the race with me as I go about my life. In the short months of training, I learned more about the human spirit and the mantra "Mind over Matter", then any other physical activity Iv'e ever done. I can do hard things...I can and I will.

“Mind over matter represents the triumph of will over physical hindrance. Our thoughts are our weapon against the world."- David Adam

 

If you want anymore information about The Triathamom race or are interested in learning more about Triathlons in your area, check out the links below: 

Triathamom Utah 

USA Triathlon

Triathamom Blog

"Motherhood is hard. We give all we can to those little ones. It's true that sometimes we give so much that we forget about the giver. Us. We forget to take care of us and to do things that make us proud to be us. I truly believe that as mothers, we should model what we want for our children." Aly, the founder of Triathamom Utah.

I Am Triathamom

I Can and I Will: 

Triathlons and Body Image

I can do hard things. Easier said than done, but this Mantra has been running through my head all year. There have been so many goals i've met and challenges I've overcome, just because I had the nerve to believe in myself. Simply put, I can do hard things... I can, and I will. Isn't it amazing what a little self confidence can do for the heart and soul? Without the courage to try new new endeavors, I wouldn't have started my Twinkletoes Blog, pursued opportunities to Model, or train for my first Triathlon. All huge goals and very much NOT who I am. I'm not a blogger, I can barely journal. I'm not a model, I'm a curvy mom of 2. I'm not a triathlete, I hate running. Yet despite all of my excuses, here I am...blogging, modeling and racing. 

Since moving to Utah and working at Cahoots Fitness, I've always wanted to join their Triathamom team. I've always stayed within in the confines of "Artistic Sports & Exercises" (Dance, Figure Skating, Barre Fitness, Zumba and etc), so focusing on high intensity  aerobic activities like swimming, biking and running, were waaaay out of my comfort zone. For the first few years I didnt participate because I was either pregnant or still within the first few months of breastfeeding. But this was my year, the stars aligned and I knew it was the right time to sign up for my first Triathlon.

Triathamom is a fully supported, non-competitive, women only triathlon.  That means I signed up for a 300 meter swim, 12 mile bike ride, and 5k run. It wouldn't be a complete triathlon experience without chip timing, body marking, and the intense feeling of accomplishment as I cross the finish line. Another reason why I chose this race was because of the Carnival Style Cheering Section they provide for your family during the race. They have a ‘sign making station’, bounce house, face painting, inflatable slide, cotton candy, and everything to keep my littles entertained while I was complete my first race.

I started training in the early summer, simple jogs and swims with the family. I was still teaching 4 Barre classes a week, so I wanted to take things slow. I eventually worked up to double and triple workouts in one day. I remember one week in August looked a little something like this:

Monday: 9am Barre, 8pm Barre, 9pm Swim laps   

Tuesday: 9am Barre, 4pm 8 Mile Bike ride

Wednesday: 10am Barre, 1pm walk/jog, 8pm Swim

Thursday: 12 Mile Bike ride

Friday:  Morning Yoga, 5 Mile Bike ride

Saturday: 8 Mile Family Bike ride

Looking back at this schedule, it seems pretty insane. Even now, I don't really know how I did it. I remember scheduling my workouts everyday and having to work hard with my husband to coordinate babysitting and times he was available so I could train. But despite the singularity of training for such an individual sport, I was able to include my family in a lot of my workouts. I have fond memories of 8 mile bike rides every Saturday morning. Swimming laps around my kids in the pool, and attempting jogs with the double stroller. Which unless you've got a B.O.B. I would not recommend. Man that was tough, I really don't care for running and having to push my kids along with me was the straw that broke the camels back. If I had to run, I did it after my kids went down for bed. But even then I was scowling with every step I took.

"I did not wake up like this. I changed my lifestyle for this. I workout late for this. I changed what I ate for this. I sweat for this. I cried for this. I lift heavy for this. I workout everyday for this. I made this, and this is worth it."

But do you know what? By challenging myself to train for a Triathlon I learned alot about patience and respecting my body. Too often I take for granted the body I've been given and the miraculous gift that is a breathing and functioning form. In dance we strive for perfection, the smaller the frame the better. The longer the lines, the closer the dancer is to perfection. One must be strong yet small, petite yet powerful. Dance on your toes, squeeze the abdomen in, chin up and smile. Lengthen out past the body without filling the space with your body. It's been drilled in my head for so long, its hard to remember that these ideas about the human form are not applicable in every circumstance. 

After having children, I grew to respect and trust my body to create, sustain and care for the life of my children. The desire to be thin and long, weren't constant companions in my day to day affairs. I was able to finally relax and enjoy the body I have been given. I breastfed my daughter for 16 months and and for the first time in my life felt like I had a balanced and healthy relationship with my body. I was successfully breastfeeding, teaching Barre and training for my Triathlon. I was never as strong or secure in my health as I was at this time in my life. I gained weight, muscle and confidence...and that meant more to me then any number on the scale.

"Strength doesn't come from what you can do. It comes from overcoming the things you once thought you couldn't."

Race day finally came on August 19th, 2017. I was up by 4am and ready to go. The reassuring thing about this race was its an all female non competitive Tri. Meaning I could go as fast or as slow I needed to, without feeling pressure to perform at a fitness level I wasn't comfortable with. It was the perfect Triathlon to start with. I met up with my Cahoots Fitness friends and together we settled our bikes and gear in the Transition zone then headed off to the swim portion of the race. I was a bundle on nerves and had to visit the restrooms more then once before the Tri began. The nervous poo's were in full effect that morning. 

Alongside the edges of the pool where we were to start our swim portion, over 500 women gathered round for the opening ceremonies. We came in all shapes, sizes and skill levels. At one point we were asked to echo this affirmation, "I am enough, I am strong, I am a Mother, I am a Triathlete", I was overwhelmed with emotion. I cried and felt this amazing connection within this community of women! Though I was surrounded by strangers, I felt more at home with this group of women then I have in a long time. We all have unique backgrounds, fitness levels and varying degrees of experience with Triathlons, but we were all together in this one action... to make it across the finish line. We were of one of heart and mind, this race was not about competing with the girl next to you, it was about competing with yourself. Training to be the best version you could possibly be.

I went up a level in the swim, and I'm so glad I did. I finished my 300 meter swim in 7 minutes and that alone made all the difference in my over all timing. I took 2 1/2 minutes in transition and hoped on my bike and started the 12 mile ride along the Jordan river. I raced on my husbands Mt. Bike, but trust me when I say that if you sign up for a Triathlon, invest in a Tri bike. Thats my one regret,  despite training so hard, I just couldn't go as fast as the other racers. I didn't anticipate the hills, and I almost added 6 minutes to my time because of my slower pace. But honestly I cant complain, my bike was in good condition and got me from point A to point B in one piece. I saw several triathletes on the side of the trail trying to patch their tires or even worse, receive medical attention for bike collisions. Finally I came to the home stretch, the 5k sprint. I had to recite my mantra over and over again in my head, I can do hard things. I can do hard things. Slow and steady wins the race and I promised myself that it didn't matter how slow I went,  as long as I never stopped I would be happy. I had to keep going.
So I did. Just like Dory, I had to tell myself to keep on swimming. Despite the heat, endless switchbacks, and the exhaustion...I wouldn't give up. As I ran up the last switchback and saw the crowd begin to grow, I grew in my excitement. I pumped my legs harder and launched into the final push. I saw the Finish line approaching and suddenly I heard my name being chanted from the crowd. My beautiful family was cheering me on, and as I looked at their happy faces I was overcome with emotion. I crossed the finish line in tears. Happy, wonderful tears. I did the impossible, I completed my Triathlon.

Complete Stats

Total Time:  1:34:54.1

Splits

Swim Time: 7:14.3

T1 Time: 2:35.1

Bike Time: 49:04.3

T2 Time: 0:44.5

Run Time: 35:15.7

AG POS

16 of 48 (F 25-29)

Finish POS

166 of 417 

I'm incredibly proud of myself and what I accomplished this summer. I never thought I could do something so physically demanding and intense, but do you know what? If I did it once, I can do it again! I hope to make this Triathlon a new tradition! I loved how I could incorporate my children into my training and lead by example the importance of living a happy and healthy life. Taking the time to care for my physical and mental health was more beneficial to my overall happiness then anything I've ever done. Refocusing my goals and changing my lifestyle helped me become a better wife, mother, and friend. I hope I can always keep the spirit of the race with me as I go about my life. In the short months of training, I learned more about the human spirit and the mantra "Mind over Matter", then any other physical activity Iv'e ever done. I can do hard things...I can and I will.

“Mind over matter represents the triumph of will over physical hindrance. Our thoughts are our weapon against the world."- David Adam

 

If you want anymore information about The Triathamom race or are interested in learning more about Triathlons in your area, check out the links below: 

Triathamom Utah 

USA Triathlon

Triathamom Blog

"Motherhood is hard. We give all we can to those little ones. It's true that sometimes we give so much that we forget about the giver. Us. We forget to take care of us and to do things that make us proud to be us. I truly believe that as mothers, we should model what we want for our children." Aly, the founder of Triathamom Utah.

Thanksgiving: An Attitude of Gratitude

Service Is Love In Action   

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I love how the holidays capture the spirit of love, kindness, and charity. It truly is a magical time of year where we set aside our differences and come together with grateful hearts and compassion for others. It's a time of reflection and rededication to living a Christ-like life centered on service and hope.

If the Holidays have the power to bring out the best in us, it is capable of bringing out the worst as well. Too often we get swept away in the tide of greed, entitlement, and longing for the things we don't have but feel we deserve. We are bombarded by messages that tell us to buy more, chase perfection, and create your own happiness. Commercialism has taken over our wants and turned them into needs. It is no longer ok to wish for something, we are encouraged to buy our happiness one credit card swipe at a time. I know this first hand because I'm guilty of trying to keep up with the Jones's...I want nice things and have shallowly believed my worth equated to what I owned.

As I've begun navigating the "Social Media" sea, I've noticed so much of what I want in life is a reflection of what I see on my feed. I'm bombarded by images of beautiful mothers reading to their perfectly groomed children, the free spirited friend who's making a name for herself on the EDM circuit, or the go-getters who travel the world seeking adventure. The people in these little squares are imperfect, flawed and human... I know this, yet I'm blinded by the fact that they have what I don't. This kind of thinking turns even the loveliest of souls into soured grapes. We must remind ourselves...that Social Media is just a glorified highlight reel of our lives. Yes the people in those squares have strengths I don't possess, the time to pursue dreams that are still too far for me to reach, and talents that surpass my own. But, I am special just the way I am. I don't need what they have to be happy. The white walls, glowing complexion, and the perfect table spread wont make me any more likable to my friends. When you strive to live your life in a way that inspires kindness, positivity, and love, others will take note and will want to emulate the example you set.

 “When you walk with gratitude, you do not walk with arrogance and conceit and egotism, you walk with a spirit of thanksgiving that is becoming to you and will bless your lives."- Gordon B. Hinkley.

This spirit of thanksgiving isn't reserved for one holiday a year, it is an attitude of gratitude that uplifts hearts all year around. How often do I walk with gratitude? Honestly, not often enough. What kind of example do I set for my children? Not a very humble one. That needs to change. I cant expect to teach my children the value of what they have if they are constantly seeking out more. I can do so much more to serve my family, friends and community. Which got me thinking of all the ways I have felt appreciated of grateful for someones service. Service is love in action, and what better way to express my gratitude then by taking the time to serve the ones I love. Iv'e compiled a list on how I can show my gratitude for others throughout this season. It's my very own Gratitude Bucket List! I want to turn my heart outward and show my appreciation for others through my actions, not just my words. I hope you can join me!

Gratitude Bucket List

- Create a Thankful Tree

-Make a meal for a family in need

-Write a Thank You Note

- Call my Grandparents 

- Serve in a soup kitchen

- Participate in a charitable cause

- Create a Reverse Bucket List

- Offer more compliments

- Give a larger tip

- Volunteer at my childs school

- Say my prayers morning and night

-Pay it forward, pay for the person behind me

-Donate gently used clothing

- Give of my time 

Thomas S. Monson, President of the LDS church said, "Regardless of our circumstances, each of us has much for which to be grateful if we will but pause and contemplate our blessings. This is a wonderful time to be on earth. While there is much that is wrong in the world today, there are many things that are right and good. There are marriages that make it, parents who love their children and sacrifice for them, friends who care about us and help us, teachers who teach. Our lives are blessed in countless ways. We can lift ourselves and others as well when we refuse to remain in the realm of negative thought and cultivate within our hearts an attitude of gratitude. If ingratitude be numbered among the serious sins, then gratitude takes its place among the noblest of virtues. Someone has said that “gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all others.”

Gratitude List

A Healthy functioning body

A strong Marriage relationship

My son and his achievements in school

My daughter who has her daddy's eyes but her mothers soul

For a home that provides comfort and love

Parents who believed in my dreams from a young age

Friends who emulate kindness and strength

A hardworking Husband who supports and loves his family

The transformative power of music

Final Thoughts

"My brothers and sisters, to express gratitude is gracious and honorable, to enact gratitude is generous and noble, but to live with gratitude ever in our hearts is to touch heaven."- Thomas S. Monson.  

I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving with your family and friends! Take a moment today to jot down a quick note of what you are grateful for and how you can show your appreciation to others! Have a wonderful day my friends!