Archive for June, 2012
Vegan Ideas In Phoenix?
13
I absolutely love my hometown, but one thing it lacks is a vegan scene. Thankfully I’m easily pleased, willing to do my research, and I can find something to eat darn near anywhere.
However, something I’m looking forward to as we begin our adventures in Phoenix, vegan options! Just a quick search on Google gave me multiple sites with many options. And when I say many I mean 203 vegan-friendly places in the Phoenix area listed on Veg Guide alone. I’m not all about eating out for every meal and I actually hope to seek a more raw vegan lifestyle due to the warmer weather (more on that later), but it’s going to be fantastic to have so many places to try.
Part Of My Meal While In Sedona
Grilled Cactus Pads with Onions Along with Fresh Salsa
I’m into supporting local businesses so I’ve been very grateful to have Health Plus Natural Foods locally for my “special needs”, but I must admit that having Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s as close options is going to be quite awesome. In the past I’ve had to travel at least an hour to shop at them.
Once again, I’m reaching out to you! Any yummy cuisines or restaurants you’d recommend when we arrive is Arizona? Remember, the restaurants don’t necessarily have to be “vegan”, just something new to try.
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
Moving To AZ, There Will Be No Rev3, For Me
30
If you read my posts regularly you know that I’ve been planning and looking forward to running my first Half Revolution3 Triathlon this year. You may be wondering how I’m going to pull it off with our big adventure ahead.
I’m not going to pull it off. There will be no Half Revolution3 for me….this time around. I will admit, it pains me to type that.
After taking a few years off of running races due to my health this was supposed to be a decent race year for me. Or at least that’s what I had hoped. My first race of the year was supposed to be the Toledo Glass City Half Marathon. After several months of training I ended up with my first DNS due to an ankle issue.
As I eyed other races for summer I found myself having issues deciding on what would fit best into my Half Rev3 training schedule. I never did decide on a race schedule (maybe I somehow knew I wouldn’t be racing??) Instead, I set my eyes to my Rev3 training. I signed up for Rev3 Coaching, dealt with my freak out, and logged a decent amount of hours swimming, running, and biking.
I know to some it may seem like I’m throwing it all away and I’m sure some may even question my goal setting, planning, and execution. In my mind all of my hard work and time wasn’t all for naught. I believe no matter how big or small, every experience in our lives builds character and makes us stronger.
Running a Half Rev3 is a challenge I’d like to conquer, but it’s not my dream. Heading out west for adventure is my dream. I will definitely run a Revolution3 race in the future…and it will be sooner than later. For now I’m going to live my dream, continue training, running races/triathlons, and hope to pick up some more fun sports.
What helpful hints do you have for me as I head out AZ? Where should I run/train? What are your fave races? What other outdoor sports do I need to try??
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
Buzz: Dreams And Adventures? The Time Is Now.
43June 25, 2012
in Simply Happy, Travel
When I said my trip with Columbia Sportswear to Sedona and the Grand Canyon was life changing I wasn’t kidding. So life changing that D and I are relocating to Arizona. Yes, you read right. We are selling half of our belongings, loading up both cars with our menagerie of companion animals, and heading out west.
You may have seen my announcement on Twitter or Instagram Friday, but I promised to fill everyone in on the details. Things are still coming together but I thought I could fill you in on our progress so far.
The idea of us moving isn’t all that crazy. When we initially married D was serving in the Marine Corps in New Orleans so I packed my bags and relocated down there. After his enlistment we weren’t necessarily ready to move back to our hometown so we moved to Michigan for a year. After that year we were ready to moved “home”, bought a house, and set up residence. It felt good to be back.
Last year D and I found ourselves chomping at the bit to take off again. Unfortunately with our house and the additional “kids” we’ve added we decided it wouldn’t be our best move and booked a trip to Italy in hopes of satisfying our need for adventure. Although we had a blast in Italy we weren’t satiated. My friend Bex then posed the question: “What is your dream?” For weeks I asked myself this question on a daily basis. I asked it so much it caused me anxiety. With the an imminent job lay off in both of our futures you can guess that my anxiety was increased 10 fold.
Enter my trip to Arizona.
In Arizona I was able to see what else was “out there” once again and meet people who are living their dreams through their adventures. Something else that struck a cord was that many of them either carried no college degree or if they did they weren’t working in the specified field of their degree. Lightbulb moment!!
Bliss? Yes.
Over the past several years I have gone through so many transitions in my life from going vegan, to reducing our personal belongings, and changing my profession, just to name a few. Although transition is a normal part of life I can’t help but think I was specifically targeting these areas unknowingly that it was my hope of getting out there and doing the same thing as my new friends. I believe my dream is to not necessarily search for adventure, but live my adventure. Enough of this, “We have a house, we can’t do that….” stuff. That’s what keeps people doing what they’ve always done and getting what they’ve always got. Right?
After deep conversation D and I found we share the same dream. I think we’ve always shared the dream. It shouldn’t be a surprise to us considering we were always driving until we got lost and finding treasures along the way. We were always up for new adventures. Heck, I even have the word “Adventure” tattooed on my body.
But after our last move we became comfortable in our surroundings and somewhat lost a bit of our sense of adventure. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that, but at this point in our lives I think it may be one more missing piece to the puzzle we’re trying to build.
You may have noticed I haven’t been as active on social media lately and I’ve also had a lack of VLOGs to accompany my post. To say we’ve been busy is an understatement. Within the past week we’ve been googling like mad, found a reputable couple to rent our current house, researched different possible locations, decided on Phoenix (for now), secured a place to live, sold many of our belongings, and decided on a moving company to assist us with our move.
I’m sure these next few weeks will be quite insane because we are tentatively scheduled to move July 16th. Yes, that would be in 3 weeks….less than a month away. Some have said, “Whoa! You act fast!” Would you expect anything less from someone called Buzzbomb? 
Some may think we’re crazy. Although things are happening fast, trust me when I say that this is something we’ve thought about for well over a year, have done our research, and are just now acting on it. And when I put my mind to something you better believe I follow through and to the fullest extent.
There’s no doubt in my mind that we’ll hit bumps in the road, but isn’t that what adventures are all about? As Brian, our guide from AOA put it, “What’s the definition of ‘adventure’?” Going into a situation and not knowing the outcome.” I’m ready for an adventure.
To be honest I’m not sure what type of content I’ll be posting here on BananaBuzzbomb.com. I may be straying away from my typical posting patterns but I invite you along for the ride. It’s sure to be fun! Be sure to follow me on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for real-time updates.
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
Pushing The Limits Of Omni-Freeze Zero….And Myself
18
After such an exciting Day 1 and Day 2 of my trip to Arizona with Columbia Sportswear as part of Team Omniten I didn’t think it could get any better. I was in for a surprise.
The third day of our adventures started at 5:00a so that the 25 or so of us going on the extension could make the trek via bus to meet up with our Arizona Outback Adventures AKA AOA Guides to venture to the Grand Canyon. We even got to ride along Route 66 and made a stop in Seligman. Mark that off the bucket list!
Prior to my arrival I knew we’d be hiking to Havasu Falls. Even after some research I didn’t really know what it all entailed. I quickly found out that we would actually be hiking 10 miles from the Hualapai Tribe Reservation down to the Havasupai (Supai) Tribe Reservation. 10 miles? No big deal, right?
What I didn’t know is that the first mile of the hike consisted of a 1,000 ft drop into the canyon done through swtichbacks. Thereafter, the remaining miles of the hike consist of an addition 1,300 ft drop. All done in midday sun with little to no shade. In addition, we carried our own packs and it was recommended that we each bring at least 4 liters of water each to remain hydrated. The terrain started as gravel and as the hike went on we found that gravel changing to sand from being pulverized by the horse/mule traffic. I’m so thankful I overcame my issue with sand last year. If I hadn’t this would’ve been an absolutely horrible experience.
After 8 miles in we made a pit stop at the tribal village of Supai and then made our way on to the campground. Just when I thought, “How much farther can this be?” We came upon this….
Rock Falls
Gorgeous blue green water that looks oh so refreshing. The falls are this gorgeous color due to the high mineral content of travertine. And just a little ways more we saw it….
That would be Havasu Falls. Absolutely amazing. It took us all of a few minutes to jump in the water. It was chilly but refreshing. I made sure to bust out my GoPro and took some videos. (Coming soon!) The natural structure of the falls allowed for some climbing and cliff jumping into the pools below. Was this real?!
Rebecca, Me, Heather, And Jon
After our well deserved swim we walked a few steps to AOA’s permanent campsite equipped with a full outdoor kitchen area, picnic tables, Columbia tents, sleeping bags, pads, and our own little “private” access to more blue green water. Just a few steps away composting toilets were available. I kid you not when I say that they didn’t stink. I swear they smelled better than my home bathroom. I was amazed.
After settling in and getting to know our guides Brian, Chris, Jenn, and Sheldon a bit better we were served an absolutely fantastic meal complete with appetizers and dessert. Many of us asked, “Are we really camping?” What made it even better? I had special vegan dishes made just for me. Each meal I had what the others were eating but with slight changes to make them vegan. Throughout the trip they even asked me if it was ok to use certain products or cook it in a certain location due to cross contamination. I never get this “service” in a regular restaurant or eat this well at home. AOA rocked my world when it came to my food.
The first evening in the canyon we spent exploring caves. To finish the evening we sat quietly at the entrance of one cave with the stars glowing above. I’ve never seen such a clear sky. I once again found myself literally pinching myself making sure the experience was real.
Although it was warm at night I enjoyed it. Anytime I’ve been camping I’ve woken up to cold mornings filled with dew all over my gear. This didn’t happen in Arizona. After being served fresh fruit and vegan pancakes for breakfast it was time for another day of adventures.
We spent the day going in an out of water doing things I never dreamed I’d be doing. Like, climbing down near vertical walls to get to Mooney Falls. A little anxiety with that but I think everyone will agree I took it in stride and you wouldn’t have guessed I had never done anything like that before.
Mooney Falls
I am so thankful for my Columbia Powerdrains. I’ve already expressed my love for these shoes, but they performed seamlessly as we went into and out of water.
Later in the day Brian and Chris took us to a location with a hidden waterfall. Although many were cliff jumping from high above I chose to go with the 10 ft distance. I gathered my courage, took a deep breath, and jumped.
Photo Credit to Katie Boue’
We then crossed the water, hand in hand to support each other, and ventured on to a new location, New Navajo Falls.
Is this what Heaven looks like? After traversing the hurricane deck of the falls we found ourselves in the surprisingly warm “Paradise Pool Jacuzzi”.
It was just about time to head back to camp for dinner but we had to make a quick stop at Rock Falls. This is when I had a brave moment and thought, “I’ve done so many things outside my comfort zone on this trip. Why not one more?” So as Elphaba says, “It’s time to trust my instincts, close me eyes, and leap….” and so I did…..off a 30 ft waterfall.
Photo Credit to Katie Boue’
The thrill was unimaginable. There are not enough adjectives in the world describe the experience. I was flying high all night.
9 of 10 Omniten
Katie, Rebecca, Heather, Jon, Casey, Katie, Me, Gina, and Steve
Before I knew it 5am had arrived on our final morning and it was time to make our trek out of the canyon. The sooner we headed out the better off we’d be in order to avoid direct sun exposure. Katie and I teamed up and started our 4 hour journey.
I’m not going to sugarcoat this. I pride myself on being a pretty tough cookie, but the hike out was probably one of the hardest things I’ve done in my life. Remember, I run/bike on pavement. I was totally out of my element. The heat + sand + incline + switchbacks called for me harden up. Although it was physically hard, it was also a test of my mental toughness. Katie and I had many o’ moments of bonding during those 4 hours.
But we did it.
I had a quiet emotional moment. I couldn’t wrap my head around what all I’d experienced in the past 48 hours. Pushing my limits, stepping outside my comfort zone, and soaking up every moment for all that it’s worth.
So, is Columbia Omni-Freeze Zero legit? After putting it to the test in some extreme conditions, heck yes! TOTALLY legit. I almost passed on taking my neck gaiter to the Grand Canyon and am SO grateful I took it along. I’m not normally the type to wear and gaiter but I think it’s safe to say that it was the favorite of everyone on the trip.
The “Angels” – Katie, Heather, And Me
When Omni-Freeze Zero is released in Spring 2013 you can bet I’ll be first in line to grab some more gear. No matter what you’re activity I think anyone can benefit from this technology.
After several hours in a bus to get to Phoenix and long showers we finished our trip by having a farewell dinner. I hated to see that our time together was coming to an end. These people, who I considered strangers just days before, were now some of the closest friends I’ve ever had. Needless to say the next 24 hours for me were quite emotional.
Just before beginning our hike into the Grand Canyon one of our guides told me that the hike would be a life changing experience. Little did I know, he was absolutely right.
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
________________________________________________________________
Want to see more photos of my trip? Follow this link!
Calm & Cool Yoga In Columbia Omni-Freeze Zero
19
Day 2 in Sedona called for an early morning wake up to start testing out our Omni-Freeze Zero gear. After sending in our RSVP to the Columbia Spring Preview we were asked to choose what activity we’d like to do: vortex yoga, mountain biking, or hiking. Knowing that we would be hiking into the Grand Canyon just a couple days later and also knowing that I lack mountain biking skills I went with yoga. However, yoga was still a new experience for me since I technically had never had an official yoga experience. We started the day all wearing our Omni-Freeze Zero shirts.
Heather, Katie, Jon, Me, and Katie
Katie, Katie, Jon, Me, Gina, Steve, and Heather
After a buffet-style breakfast we were taken via Red Rock Jeeps to our specified locations for our daily adventures. Although there were others that chose yoga, Katie and I were the only Omniten that chose this as our activity.
So what exactly is vortex yoga? According to YogaLife.net
Legend says that Sedona is one of the “power spots” of the world, and that its red rock country is a vortex of energy. Indians tell us that Sedona’s “towering crimson peaks stimulate sensitivity and are the home of the Great Spirit.” Amid red rock vortex country, people come face to face with themselves and the potentials of their nature. Author Dick Sutphen says psychic vortex energy in Sedona is “greater than anywhere else in the country,” and Sedona’s increased vortex energy rapidly expands higher consciousness.
In the 1970′s, a woman named Page Bryant located several major electromagnetic fields of vortex energy in the Sedona area: Boynton Canyon vortex, close to the ancient ruins of Palatki; Bell Rock vortex; Cathedral Rock vortex and Airport Mesa vortex. There are said to be additional vortexes on Schnebly Hill and Chapel Road close to the Chapel of the Holy Cross as well as in many other areas in Sedona. Some say that the whole of Sedona is one giant vortex or swirl of powerful energy.
Similar vortex energy centers have been cited in Stonehenge, England, Machu Picchu, Peru, and the Great Pyramids of Egypt. From as early as 1936, there have been writings suggesting that ley lines (grid lines deep within the earth) are “lines of power” linking prehistoric sites and sources of cosmic vortex energy within the earth. Nicholas Mann wrote about the the ley lines causing amplified energy in Sedona. The crossing of ley lines in Sedona is said to create a heightened vortex energy field much like the power of the meridians in the body.
Sedona has long been used by Native Americans for its healing atmosphere and sacred sites. The Sedona/Oak Creek Canyon area has been sacred to aboriginal people since prehistoric times. The Hopi, Navajo and their ancestors, as well as natives from Canada and Central America would journey here for healing and learning. Their sacred ceremonies and offerings of prayer have blessed the land with greater spiritual energy. dick Sutphen says that the Native Americans regarded Sedona to be “the wigwam of the Great Spirit.”
So there you have it. As with anything, I went into this experience with an open mind, ready to feel any forces if they were to arise. Johanna and Andrea met us at Bell Rock with warm, welcoming spirits. We started with a short hike to Bell Rock. a deep centering followed by aa clearing meditation with aromatherapy oils, and finished with yoga on one of the flat surfaces of Bell Rock.
One of my favorite photos from my new camera provided by GoPro
I didn’t have the sense of spinning like some do when on the vortex but I understand the forces of Bell Rock can wax and wane depending on the day. Not to mention, although I tried to shut off my mind to the best of my ability I was also attempting to document the experience through camera. It was a learning experience but more importantly I definitely felt centered following the meditation. I had that, “Oh! This is what it’s supposed to feel like.” How refreshing and what a fantastic first yoga experience.
Another GoPro shot
Johanna assisting me
Although the temperatures were in the 90s we all felt surprisingly cool in our Omni-Freeze Zero shirts. On our hike back to our transportation we randomly came across these people that were ready set our gear to full activation.
You see, when you sweat the Omni-Freeze Zero technology activates, but if you add actual water it kicks it up several notches. So not only were we feeling calm but also cool post yoga.
Following our activities we took a quick trip up to the Sedona airport that is located on top of a high mesa providing fantastic views of the city.
We then headed to arts and crafts village of Tlaquepaque for lunch on the rooftop veranda. Tlaquepaque is a small little area loaded with little galleries and boutiques that make you feel like you’re in another world. Once again. BeCore came through with my food options.
After eating some grub we were able to discuss the updated Drainmaker shoe line that will be available Spring 2013 with Adam Craig and see the footwear in action.
Many other innovators and designers were also available for us to learn about new gear and provide our feedback to be taken into consideration in the future.
Seeing Omni-Freeze Zero in action through the use of a thermal camera
We were even given the opportunity to discuss the possibility of sports bras containing Omni-Freeze Zero with Mick McCormick. Will these be in the future? Let’s hope so!
After a quick trip to the The Hike House most of us headed back to the Hilton Sedona Resort. Heather and I took advantage of our time and got a quick run in the resort gym.
Before we knew it dinner time was upon us. This time around we were shuttled to The Briar Patch Inn by trolley. It was these little details that made our already cool experience just that much more special. We once again had dinner outside under the stars, by candlelight, with Oak Creek flowing quietly below, being serenaded by acoustic guitar.
Team Omniten took the opportunity to get to know each other a bit more. And while many of the attendees of the Spring 2013 Preview were seeing their Columbia experience coming to an end, we all knew that our adventure was just beginning. The Grand Canyon was in our future….
Read more about our Vortex Yoga experience from Katie here.
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
Project Z Revealed
19
Several days ago I arrived home from my trip to Sedona, AZ and the Grand Canyon with Columbia Sportswear. I’ve attempted mutliple times to gather my thoughts and emotions from the entire experience. I must admit that nothing I say or write can explain all that we experienced. Yes, it was that amazing from start to finish. This week, and maybe even the next, I’m going to shift gears on my normal blog schedule to tell you all about it. Let’s face it, I’m a blogger, not a journalist. I’m going to cover this to the best of my ability, but I’d like to invite you to check out Trek Tech Blog and The Gearcaster for their fantastic recaps.
Let’s start at the very beginning (cue the Sound of Music soundtrack…..)
After an uneventful flight I was greeted by Columbia folks and quickly swept off in a Cadillac Escalade with Rhonda. Before I know it I was receiving a hug from a fellow Omniten Jon and we were off to Sedona.
The entire ride to Sedona was a blast. Having two midwesterners (Jon’s from Indiana) I’m sure we were quite a hoot with our random outbursts of “Mountains?!” Yeah, we don’t see those type of things where we’re from. We made a couple stops including a scenic overlook. About halfway to Sedona Rhonda pulled off the highway and we sat while she received further instruction on where to take us. Waiting on the side of the road, in the middle of nowhere, with this sign,
I can understand why Jon and I were a bit hesitant and wondering if we were about to be dropped in the middle of nowhere. I believe Jon’s words were, “I watch Bear Grylls, I know how this works.” But no worries, just a few steps away we encountered Columbia’s Oasis In The Dessert. Yes, an ice cream truck set up in the middle of the desert serving ice cream. This was the first of many surprises to get things kicked off for our adventure weekend.
Soon we found ourselves entering the Red Rock region of Arizona and were delivered to the Hilton Sedona Resort. Whoa. Not my typical accommodations. Each of us were given our own separate suite and were greeted by these packs upon entering our rooms. 
The packs then exploded and we found a ton o’ gear to cover us for the weekend. Woohoo!
After settling in a bit I headed down to the pool area for free drinks and munchies. Slowly Omniten members slowly began to trickle in and I can only compare it to a MTV Real World scenario. Although we had all interacted through the internet it was about time we actually met face to face. 
I think it was at this point all of us realized how big this event was going to be. While Jon and I knew magazine editors were to be present (something the rest of the Omniten had no idea about) we didn’t realize the extent of this event. Columbia didn’t provide a ton of details prior to our arrival, which is how I think they wanted it. We soon began to realize that this was HUGE…not necessarily in size but in experience. Self Magazine, Women’s Health Magazine, ESPN Magazine, Running Times, Outside Magazine, Competitor…the list goes on. And this doesn’t include the individual websites that were also represented.
BeCore took care of the event planning for our entire time in Sedona and knocked it out of the water. It only makes sense that Columbia, a class act company would choose another company that does the exact same in their profession. Every part of the experience was well thought out, planned to a T, with no stones left unturned.
Within a few hours it was time to head out to dinner. 
After a small bus trip we found ourselves in a pristine location known as Rancho Los Lagos. We were going to eat outside with this as our backdrop?! Was I dreaming? 
During the cocktail hour we had the opportunity to converse and meet many individuals. It wasn’t until AFTER meeting people that I realized just who they were. For instance, Tim Boyle. Oh yeah, he’s just the CEO of Columbia. No big deal But that was the cool thing about the experience. Not knowing who people were allowed us to be ourselves. Even better, everyone was warm, welcoming, and down to earth.
After eating our fantastic meals we slowly made our way over the bridge crossing a creek to find ourselves once again under the stars to finally hear about the main reason we were in Sedona…..the big Project Z reveal.
Enter Omni-Freeze Zero. The innovation behind Omni-Freeze Zero is that it not only wicks away sweat, like every other “technical” fabric, but claims it cools you in the process. You see, the fabric has these small rings of polymer embedded in the fabric that absorb and slightly e expand when exposed to moisture, producing a prolonged cooling effect.
I remember when I was first introduced to Columbia’s Omni-Heat and wondered if it really worked. I quickly found that the products delivered exactly as they stated. So, would Omni-Freeze Zero do the same? Over the next several days the Omniten along with a handful of journalists would be testing the technology to the max through yoga, mountain biking, and hiking in, around, and out of the Grand Canyon in triple digit heat.
Stay tuned….more adventure recaps coming your way…..
In the meantime want to see more photos?? Follow this link.
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
Vegan Yummy Goodness + Giveaway
44
I know I should be writing about my Sedona experience but to be honest I’m still trying to wrap my brain around it all. You can bet I will not only have one, but several posts about the entire experience. Not to mention, I need some more time to edit and post all of my photos. But, until then, enjoy some yummy goodness….
Being a part of the FitFluential Family has granted me so many opportunities. One such opportunity is meeting amazing individuals who are pursuing their dreams and passions. I’ve already spoken about Nicole of Pure Bliss Eats and how she left her job of teaching to pursue her business of making yummy goodies.
I’ve recently had the opportunity to try several other food items from FitFluential Ambassador such as Lori and Michelle’s Brownie and Mint Bites from their business, Twin Cakes Bakery. Both were super yummy but I’ll admit the mint won me over immediately. It was like have a scoop of mint chocolate chip ice cream. And what’s even cooler? They are raw, vegan, and gluten free. How awesome?
Next up I tried Lindsay’s Healthy Bites. While her regular bites are gluten-free they are not vegan. But she jumped at the chance to tweak her recipes to make them vegan. The result? Success! 
I ordered vegan versions of the cookie dough, vanilla “whey” good protein, and the apricot fig bites. Once again, while all were seriously good the vanilla “whey” good protein bites were to die for.
Cookie Dough Bite
I think it’s awesome that I have so many inspriring friends who are making their dreams come true. They have some creative ideas and products that are pretty darn amazing.
I also recently had the opportunity to try out The Simply Bar. They have several different flavors to choose from and they have more of a puffed rice/granola bar texture. Although I wasn’t a huge fan of their flavor combinations I do like their concept and that they’re vegan!
I stumbled onto EcoTrek Fitness Whole Food Bars several months ago and have since fallen in LOVE with them.
The EcoTrek Bars were created by Cari Draft who also runs EcoTrek Fitness in Michigan, where she offers 75 minute workouts that integrate strength training, cardio, & flexibility, all in an outdoor atmosphere. That’s pretty darn cool in my book. But back to the bars…. Not only are the bars 100% natural, vegan, healthy for you, and taste fantastic, but also made somewhat local to me since they’re made in Michigan. Not to mention, I can purchase these bars at my local Meijer store. (They’re available in all 197 Meijer stores in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois & Kentucky) 
Between the 2 flavors, Dark Chcolate Raspberry and Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter, I can’t choose what’s my favorite. All I know is they’re good for you but also taste like a candy bar. Seriously.
Now, for the goodies! Cari has been sweet enough to allow me to pass on some of her bars to 2 of my readers.
– To enter, I’ll keep it simple. Tell me, what’s your passion? Are you living it? Are you working to make it happen?
-To rock my world you can tweet about this giveaway using @BananaBuzzbomb and gain an extra entry. Just make sure you come back and comment that you tweeted too!
– The giveaway ends Friday, June 22nd at 11:59PM EST. The winner will be chosen at random using Random.org and will be announced by the following Monday. Sorry international friends, this giveaway is open to followers with US shipping addresses only.
Now, let me hear those dreams!
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
Mission Accomplished!
9June 14, 2012
in Travel
I’ve arrived safely back from my trip to the Sedona and the Grand Canyon with Columbia Sportswear. I’m going to take a few days to digest my experiences and will come back ready to tell ya’ll about it. Many photos are in the future for sure!
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
Hiatus Ahead: I’m Heading To Sedona!
11June 8, 2012
in Travel
I know it’s Friday which should mean it’s time for another Vegan post. Sorry friends there will be no vegan talk today. But I’ll be back with vegan talk next week!
It seems like just yesterday I was telling you I was taking a hiatus from blogging as I traveled to Italy. Well, the time has once again come for me to tell you another hiatus is ahead. Chances are by the time you read this I’ll either be heading to the airport or on a plane flying to Sedona. Yes, I’m heading to Sedona today with the rest of Columbia Sportswear’s Team Omniten for 6 days of adventure.
My itinerary consists of Vortex Yoga, Exploring Sedona, hiking to Havasu Falls, camping out, along with trying and testing Columbia Gear. I’ll even get a sneak peak at their Spring 2013 gear. Pretty darn cool. And you can bet I’ll be documenting it all through photo (Remember my 1,200 photos from Italy?!) and video on my new GoPro Camera.
So please pardon my blogging hiatus for the next week. I’ll be back to share my adventures with you! Although I’ll be taking a hiatus from blogging I’ll still be connected to bring ya’ll some live action. Be sure to follow me on Twitter (#Omniten & #ProjectZ too!), Facebook, and Instagram for live updates!
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
Injured? You Can Still Make Your Workout Count!
18
After you’ve been fitted for the right shoes and just started moving toward your journey of running, I’m sure the chances of injury aren’t the first things that will cross your mind. But whether you’re new or old to running I can guarantee at some point in your running career you will suffer an injury. That’s not to say running will cause the injury. Something freak, like my accident last month, could hinder your training plans. You may have to take time off from running, but depending on the injury you may be able to do another form of workout that can take the place of running.
Since I haven’t been able to keep to my training 100% I’ve finally been able to implement the use of my Human Trainer that I won from Bex at Bexlife.com several months ago. I’ve been wanting to use the equipment for months but haven’t been able to fit it in the training schedule. Injuring myself gave me the prime opportunity to do so and has helped me stay sane.
If you’re ever injured you may have to think outside the box, but don’t just throw in the towel. And most importantly, listen to your body!
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
