Posts tagged Challenge
Mastering Makeup
11June 12, 2013
As I stated in my post about beauty, over the past few years I’ve made it a point to reduce my dependence on items that aren’t necessary to survive. One of those things would be the use of makeup. Ever since that post and the inevitable lifestyle change as I become a Rock Star Wife, I’ve been thinking about a lot of stuff lately….specifically makeup and fashion.
It’s safe to say I’m pretty darn comfortable in my own skin and thankfully my husband loves me just the way I am. However, I can’t be going to shows looking like a hot mess or hag, right? Enter my newest “project” for myself…attempting to master the application of make up. Keeping it real, I’m not doing this for anyone but me. (Remember D prefers me WITHOUT makeup) Even if I can make this happen, chances are 9.9 times out of 10 you’ll still find me without makeup. But we both agree that it wouldn’t hurt to spice things up a bit here and there. Not to mention, I’ll take any help I can get at fending off his admirers 
Au naturale
Makeup has never been my thing. As a teenager I was never one of those girls that would sit in her room applying makeup. The extent of my daily makeup routine would possibly be powder foundation, maybe blush, and a touch of eye shadow. I never touched eyeliner or lipstick. The first time I ever wore eyeliner was for my wedding almost 11+ years ago and someone else applied it. So as you can see I literally have no base when it comes to makeup application skill.
To add to the challenge I want all products I use to be cruelty-free. Thankfully there are companies that produce cruelty-free makeup. The downside: there aren’t many, they tend to be more expensive, and even if the brand is cruelty-free the parent company sometimes isn’t (big gray area but I want to try my best to avoid supporting those companies)
As of now I’ve turned to YouTube videos in attempt of learning some application techniques. It’s always fun to realize I’m learning to apply makeup by girls that are half my age. I swear no matter what technique I try it all looks the same too. Goodness, I need some serious help. What I need is a makeup artist to sit down and teach me one-on-one. Shoot, at this point I’d settle for the basics. Maybe one day we’ll have enough money so I can hire a stylist/makeup artist. Seriously, how rad would that be? Never say never….
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
Challenges Of Life Changes
7March 21, 2013
in Simply Happy
I’ll admit that lately I’ve felt like a broken record in my blog posts. But, this is what’s my life. These are the thoughts that roam around in this brain of mind. I’ve written about passions and this is somewhat circling the same idea.
Recently at work we’ve been asked to work on our individual development plans. In a nutshell, you make a goal, break down what steps you’re going to take to get there, and state how you’re going to measure the success. Given I’m a temp employee it’s not necessary for me to have one. At the same time it’s not a bad idea to create one since we’re trying to prove my worth in hopes of making me a permanent employee. What better way than to make a goal and blast it out of the water, right? Which leads me to what should be on my plan? The million dollar question.
Our meeting today consisted of how to create a plan to suit our needs and desires. The core of the discussion was, you need to choose something that you want to do, that motivates you, or you won’t follow through on the plan….of course it also needs to benefit the company in some way. I’ve got that, but there are some issues.
Number one, I’ve come to the recent realization that my creative side sucks. Give me a goal and I’ll make it happen. Have me come up with a goal and I’ve got nothing. Even when it comes to blog writing I often have issues. I love trouble-shooting and thinking outside of the box, but only when dealing with numbers and hard facts. Make sense? Coming to this realization actually made me feel quite sad. Almost like I feel that I’ve been spoon-fed for too long??
Number two, I am really enjoying my job. At the same time, over the past few years I’ve worked at separating myself from my job. When I do work I’m present in the moment, but at the same time it’s just my job. I want to enjoy my profession, but it doesn’t necessarily define who I am. Some people seek out, making their passions their jobs. Although this would be fantastic that’s not where I am nor where I necessarily want to be. I’ve already hashed that out.
Number three, quite frankly, I don’t really know what I want. Wait, that’s a lie. I do know what I want, because I already have it. It isn’t a thing you can touch or something that is earned. It just is. And that is happiness. And right now, I’m happy. At this point in my life I want to live with passion but not attachment. I just want to be.
A huge issue I have yet to really figure out is managing the balance of making things happen and letting them happen. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, I can’t just sit around and expect things to fall into my lap, yet at the same time I don’t want to constantly be gunning for the next best thing. Especially when I’m already happy. In darn near every work model the goal is to make it to the next level, and then the next, and next….all the way to the top. Everyone wants to be bigger, better, faster, smarter, richer…the list goes on. (something else I’ve discussed)
That’s the old Heidi. I was always the driven person with a plan. I knew where I was going, how I was going to get there, and when I was going to get there. I’ve written about this as well. It’s been tough to let that go. But now that I have allowed myself to do so I feel like I’m constantly being challenged to bring that old mindset back into my life. Trust me, I don’t want to, but how do I remain true to myself when the world is attempting to shove me into a mold? I was never made to fit into a mold.
I too want to be a better person, but better in a much different way.
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
I Conquered Skiing.
11
I’ve already written my full Omniten Reunion recap, however, I pretty much glossed over the entire idea of completing the challenge I presented myself. To rehash the challenge a bit: Back in 1995 I broke my femur skiing. Obviously I’m walking and living a pretty normal life with few complications today, but at only 12 years of age it was a pretty tough experience for me. I have since been skiing but it’s been years so I knew I needed to get out and hit the slopes again.
Let’s be real. I’ve never will I be some world class skier or even take to black diamond or double black diamond slopes. I didn’t expect all that much of myself and made sure that made known to my fellow Omniten my lack of experience.
D-Day came and it was time to get gear up. First, I don’t remember ski boots being that uncomfortable. Mind you I had to rent so it’s not as though the gear was custom fit, but something tells me I don’t think I’d ever call ski boots comfortable. I made sure to click in to my skis on flat land, but was pleasantly surprised how many things came back naturally. You know what they say about riding a bike, right? Same deal. From what we could tell Alta didn’t have any “bunny hills” for me to test out my ol’ skills so we headed immediately toward the lifts. Cue my severe anxiety. No worries, the Omniten said, “You can just ride the lift down if necessary.” Ha, now that’d be funny. I wouldn’t look like a tool for doing that
With the exception of 2 steeper sections I was pleased by the mild incline of the hill. First run of the day + no crashes = whew. I had my mojo back. Not that I ever really had mojo. For the sake of being smart I stuck with green runs all day and was quite content. They provided enough challenge but not too much anxiety that left me feeling I had conquered my challenge.
Unfortunately for me they next day at Solitude didn’t go quite so well. My initial plan was to once again stick with green runs but with the encouragement of the Omniten I went ahead and loaded a lift for a blue run. I tried not to think too much about it but I gotta say as we were heading up in the lift I regretted my decision. Standing at the top, ready to descend, my heart was in my throat and all I wanted to do was vomit. With the assistance of Katie I attempted my descent. Before I knew it the same scenario as back in 1995 unfolded before my eyes. For some reason I’ve never been able to master getting away from the “pizza technique”. In other words, even when traversing the mountain I tend to stay in the wedge/pizza position out of fear of speed. Even in the wedge position I pick up speed, which then leads to my skis crossing, which in turn leads to crashing. And that’s exactly what happened.
Skis crossed, body whips around, ski releases, and I go spinning down the hill. All I could think was, “No pain. No pain. No pain…..” I was waiting for the pain of a broken leg to hit. I know some people say it’s hard to remember such immense pain. That’s not the situation in my case…I remember that pain. Thanks to the other kind skiers heading down the hill I was reunited with my ski and asked if I was ok. I shook it off slid down the remainder of the section on my butt, tried to regroup, but the damage was done. My occipital lobe was pounding and my ego was bruised.
Blame it on the adrenalin or pain, but I knew I needed to find a peaceful corner to shed a few tears and digest what just happened, so I did just that. After some time I hit up the bunny hill to once again prove to myself, “I can do this!” but couldn’t help but still feel defeated.
While at lunch the Omniten discussed the situation. Almost everyone agreed that I needed to head up at least one more time so that I could feel at peace with the situation. We all agreed I didn’t need to take on a blue hill, but I needed something more than the bunny hill. So we did just that. I quickly learned that with the exception of a few catwalk sections the green run was more like a blue run. Not good. Needless to say I spent the majority of my descent side stepping or sliding on my butt. There was even a portion where I found myself thigh deep in powder due to attempting to walk the descent while carrying my skis. In other words, the run was not successful.
I see this as a huge learning experience.
Not all green hills are created equal…especially when your only experience is the mountain-less slopes of Ohio.
There is a fine line between pushing yourself/stepping outside your comfort zone and realizing your limits. With the encouragement of my Omniten Family I started to push my limits. Normally I’m all for being adventurous, pushing yourself, and stepping outside your comfort zone. In this case I should have been more conservative. In no way am I blaming my friends. I made my decisions, but in my heart and mind I knew the limitations of my skill level and should have listened to my mind and heart.
Where does this leave me? Initially I wasn’t sure and must admit that I was pretty bummed out and felt defeated. But when I think of it, I did what I went to do….get up on skis again. That’s considered success in my book.
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
First #Omniten Reunion
8
The first Omniten Reunion was pretty darn fantastic! As usual, I’m having a hard time putting into words the experience. After our Sedona/Havasu trip in June we had hoped to reunite in the future. I’m not unsure if anyone really thought it’d happen. Thankfully we were able to personally come together and make a reunion happen, even though some could not attend. (No worries! I’m sure there will be more.)
Upon my arrival I was greeted at baggage claim by Heather and Katie. We then headed over the neighboring terminal to grab Jon. Gotta love when flight schedules coincide. After a few quick hugs we ventured out into the COLD weather (Holy crap, did I really ever live in this sort of climate?!) to be met by Will, ready to start our short road trip to Park City.
Will was volunteered for the task of organizing this adventure and to say he delivered is an understatement. Our lodging alone spoke for itself. I’ve always hoped to vacation in a lodge such as Timber Wolf Lodge and it finally happened.
Fireplace? Check. Hot tub? Check. Classic wood/cabin furniture? Check. Warm and welcoming? Check. Kick butt entertainment set up? Check. Pots, pans, dishes, and other kitchen utensils? Check. It was all that I had hoped. You better believe I chose to sleep on the couch and fell asleep by the light of the fireplace each night.
Once settled in we made our way to the market to grab all of our food necessities for our time in Park City. We kicked off our first evening with a gourmet meal from Will and called it an early night.
We woke up early the next morning in hopes of hitting the slopes at opening. After Jon and I grabbed our rentals at Park City Sport (High five to them. We almost didn’t acquire rentals for our lack of planning. They were super nice and understanding. Not to mention, they didn’t make me feel like a tool for my lack of knowledge.) we headed to Alta.
That would be the look of fear captured by Katie
I knew this, but wow, ski resorts out west are nothing like Ohio. Those aren’t just hills. Those are mountains. There are no words to describe the beauty.
Photo Courtesy of Heather
After taking a brief moment to take it all (brief, because it was flippin’ cold! I don’t know if I’m meant for cold weather anymore…), it was time to face the challenge I set before myself well over a year ago. That’s when the nerves kicked in. How in the world was I going to survive on these little toothpicks? Alas, I did it. First run of the day + no crashes = success. Woohoo!
Photo courtesy of Katie
Another photo from Heather
After several hours of runs we took a brief lunch and then headed back for a few more runs before calling it a day. The second half of the day was filled with even more beauty as we were surrounded by falling snow. So peaceful.
Alta is a pretty sweet mountain. The slopes were perfect for my lack of experience and I really fell in love with all it had to offer. Unfortunately those that are looking to snowboard must head to another mountain since it’s only open to skiing. However, the variety of green, blue, black runs provided enjoyment for the varying skill levels in our group.
We finished up the day with a quiet night in the lodge since the next day called for more skiing!
Day 2 of skiing lead us to meeting up with another member of the Omniten, Steve, and took us to Solitude. A bit quieter than most mountains, Solitude lives up to it’s name. With the sun shining and the snow falling consistently throughout the day, it was as though diamonds were falling from the sky. Can’t beat that. Unfortunately for me day 2 didn’t go as well as day 1 (more on that in the future). Even so, it was another beautiful day on the mountain.
That evening we had several Blends (blog +friends) come to our lodge to celebrate New Years and have dinner.
I love meeting blends in real-life. Heck, these are some of my best friends, so it’s always great when the opportunity arises. After dinner we hit downtown Park City to ring in the New Year.
The next day called for sleeping in, eating lots, checking out more of Park City, playing cards, and even some dancing. Before we knew it, nighttime had once again come and it was time to call it a day.
As expected, our final morning together was filled with cleaning, packing, and goodbyes. As always, time flew by faster than we imagined. Could it really be time to head home?
2012 was filled with adventures and experiences that were out of this world for me. 2 life-changing experiences included my Omniten family. In our short times together they’ve seen me at my highest and also at my lowest. They’ve provided inspiration to pursue my adventures and kind words or a shoulder to cry on when I’ve stumbled (both literally and figuratively) through these adventures. I really couldn’t imagine my life without them.
To friends and future adventures!
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
How Do You Deal With A Running Funk?
15October 16, 2012
in Running
After going back and forth on what races to run this winter in Arizona I think I have a game plan. Ya’ll already know I completed my first race and the Phoenix Color Me Rad 5K is next. Last week I registered for the Fiesta Half and I really want to run the Lost Dutchman and/or Phoenix Half Marathon (Have yet to sign up for either). My plan is to continue sprinkling in some of of the remaining XTerra Arizona Trail Race Series races and I haven’t ruled out registering for a late spring race possibly in California. By then my race funds will probably have dried up but I can always hope, right?
I had a very hard time deciding between the Tucson Half versus the Fiesta Half. Ultimately price and location are what sealed the deal for me. Unfortunately with me going back and forth for so long I didn’t even realize I should be training for prospective races I wanted to race. So instead of starting at Week 1, I had to jump in at Week 4 of my training plan. Whoops.
Now, I gotta share a “keeping it real” moment. As time goes on my runs in Arizona have not really gotten much easier. Let me clarify. My runs have NEVER been easy no matter what my location. What I mean is that lately things just haven’t been clicking. Have you ever gone through a running/workout funk? I’m not talking about when your heart’s not in it, but when everything seems to be working against you. That’s where I am. I have the zest for running and training, but I feel like my shoes are full on concrete, my gear is rubbing in all the wrong places, and I’m struggling to with each step to keep forward momentum. In other words I feel like I’m revisiting my not so pleasant days of training for Rev3CP. What’s the deal?! I’ve trained for these distances before. Have I gotten soft and blocked from my memory how hard training really was?
For the past year I’ve tried mixing things up to get the fun back in my run. As I sit down and think about it, am I lacking fun in my run? No. I have the enthusiasm and drive that I had when I initially started running. I don’t hold any goals or expectations over my head so I really have no worries. I’m beginning to wonder if it isn’t really a mental issue, but a physical problem(s) that I’m having. Improper fueling, inadequate hydration, or maybe the wrong gear. I have no clue.
I am in no way a world-class, superstar athlete, but when it feels like almost every training session for close to a year has whipped your butt, that’s a pretty major blow to your ego. Mind you, this past Sunday the skies cleared and the stars align for an almost perfect 8 mile run. There was really no rhyme of reason to my preparation and I was initially dreading it, thinking I’d do poorly, and then things just clicked. What?! No clue…at all. Here’s to more runs like that!
In the meantime, at least I have nice surroundings and a great view.
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
Buzz: My Crazy Idea – Venturing Into Trail Running
28September 23, 2012
Some of you may have seen my post on Twitter and Facebook stating that I’m thinking about trying something crazy. Well, I’ve followed through on my “something crazy.”
A couple weeks ago I posted a list of several races I’m interested in running. One of those included running one of races in the XTerra Trail Run Arizona Series. Quite honestly when I included it in my post I thought it was a long shot and said, “Maybe next year….”
As you know, one of the points of us moving to Arizona was to live lives full of fun and adventure. For several years I’ve wanted to try out trail running. Although I’ve run a trail race but it was in the flat lands of Ohio. Coming out to Arizona is totally different territory.
Thanks to the kind folks at Mizuno I was hooked up with some new Wave Ascend trail shoes about a month ago.
Unfortunately I’ve been unable to put them to use. That all changed this weekend….
After the chatter on the Cholla Chicks, a local running group, message board I had an itch I just had to scratch and signed up for my first ever 8K trail training run. Mind you, the longest distance I’ve ever run in Arizona is 5K.
As I drove to Estrella Mountain, yes mountain, at 5am Sunday morning I was giddy with excitement. Could I do this? Was I going to die? Not to mention I was excited to officially hook up with some of the Cholla Chicks. No matter what was going to happen I knew I would at least have the gorgeous moment of seeing the sun rise over the hills.
By 5:45a the parking lot was buzzing with about 20 runners and I found Sue, Michelle, Jennifer, and Abby of the Cholla Chicks. After my quick disclaimer of, “I’ve never done this. Feel free to leave me in the dust.” We were on our way. I was pleasantly surprised to find that I could keep pace with them. Whew! The easy conversation took over and before we knew it we were at the 4 mile mark, the deciding point of going the short or long distance of the trail. Sue used her magical powers to convince us to go long. Just like that, my 8K trail run turned into 20K. I was game!
Just like the first half of the run, the conversation took over. It allowed me to get to know the girls and kept the time moving. After a few stumbles, a couple stops for photos, Jennifer and Michelle taking falls, and walk breaks, the parking lot came into view. We had made it. Did I just run/hike 12 miles?! That’s the longest I’ve run in a LONG time…not to mention, it was in mountainous/dessert terrain. Hot dang.
Was it a challenge? Yes. Am I sore? Yes. Did I succeed? Yes. Did I love it. YES! This trail running stuff rocks.
But my crazy idea doesn’t end there. Today’s run was a training run for the first XTerra Race in their series….the one on my running wishlist. Guess it’s not such a long shot anymore, eh? With that being said, I’ve decided to sign up for my first official big girl trail race. In 2 weeks I’ll once again be out running Estrella Mountain. Given that I’ll be running alone I’ve chosen to go with the 8K distance and am saving the 20K for another time.
I’ve been keeping this a bit of a secret since luck hasn’t been on my side when it’s comes to signing up and actually running races lately, but I’m pretty darn stoked about this. Fingers crossed I stay healthy between now and then.
A huge thank to the rockin’ Cholla Chicks! Thanks for encouraging me to push my limits and do what I came out to Arizona to do…be adventurous. I look forward to many more runs and races with you!!
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
Buzz: Living Life At Buzzbomb Speed
14September 16, 2012
Something you need to know about me is that my life moves at warp speed. With the moniker “Buzzbomb” I’m sure you could’ve guessed that. Never a dull moment, that’s for sure! I actually love that my life moves so fast but I do need to remind myself often to stop and smell the roses. I’m taking a moment to do so by sharing with you all the exciting things going on right now.
For those that actually read my blog from the webpage and not a reader you may have notice a sparkly new badge on my sidebar. I’m proud to say that last week I was accepted into the Arizona Bloggers Network. This is a network of female bloggers, over the age of 21, who share their interests, life, and passions through a blog. Yep, I fit into all of those categories! What better way to find more blogs, meet new people, and learn all about the happenings around Arizona? Pretty stoked about this.
Remember when I told you about What Inspires Me To Sweat and asked you to share my post in hopes of earning free registration to Inspiration & Perspiration in Las Vegas? Well, I was one of the lucky ones chosen to attend for free! Thanks for your help!! This is quite exciting as this conference sounds AMAZING. Not to mention, I’ve never been to Vegas before. You know what would make it even better? If you registered and came too! It’s sure to be a great time.
I think I have narrowed down my list of what races I want to do this winter. I’m not ready to announce my tentative plans just yet, but trust me when I say I’ve got my thinking cap on. In the meantime, thanks to Ashley and Color Me Rad, I’m going to have a little fun in November. What’s that you say? You say you want to join me in some fun? That’d be awesome since I have no one to run this race with yet and I think it’d be much more fun to run with someone or even better, a group. Sign up and let’s have some fun!
My last bit of excitement that’s going on is that planning for an Omnfriend Omniten reunion is currently underway. If all goes as planned I will be heading up to Salt Lake City come January to not only meet my challenge that I’ve so far unsuccessfully conquered, but also hang with some of the raddest people I know.
Even living life at Buzzbomb speed I’m absolutely grateful for all that’s going on. What exciting is going on in your life right now?
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
What is VEDA?
0August 1, 2012
in Simply Happy
Within the past 24 hours I got wind of the VEDA Challenge. Huh? What the heck is the VEDA Challenge? Quick research showed me that it VEDA = Vlog Every Day in August. Ah, I get it.
I debated for a few hours, should I do it? As you saw, I’ve decided to join in. Why?
Being unemployed at this moment (I’m working on that!) I have a bit of time.
It will encourage me to VLOG more.
I’m hoping to connect with more people through my social media accounts by adding more variety.
Short, sweet, impromptu vlogs will give my readers/viewers more insight into my lifestyle and what I’m really like.
This is the perfect time for me to share all of our new experiences in Arizona.
Vlogging will give my family back home a chance to hear my voice more. =)
I know many readers loathe vlogs, while I know some prefer vlogs. This is why I try to do both.
With that being said, I do plan on keep my normal blog routine of Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, but will more than likely post my VEDA vlogs here too. To be sure you don’t miss any of the action, subscribe to my YouTube Channel. We’ll see what happens, but I hope you come along for the ride!
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
You Win This Round Mother Nature
4March 20, 2012
in Fitness
Here we are, March and it’s darn near 70 degrees out! I’m not complaining but this is not even close to normal for northern Ohio. Actually, this entire winter has been mild. Once again, not complaining, especially since I’ve held myself to training outside (no treadmill for me this year!)
If you remember back I issued myself a challenge. My challenge was to get back out skiing again. You may also remember that I have a history of breaking my femur in 1995. I have been skiing since my accident but it’s been well over 10 years since I’ve hit the slopes. I had all intentions of conquering that challenge this year, but Mother Nature decided differently.
Alas, I admit defeat…this time around.
I hate to admit any kind of defeat because that’s not how I roll. I see a challenge, I conquer it. But this circumstance was really out of my hands. I was prepared and ready to go. I just didn’t have snow. Yeah, snow is needed to ski. I can probably count on my two hands how many days we actually had snow this year. And when we did it was during the week, while I was working, and didn’t stay around long. Totally crazy and not normal.
So Mother Nature, it looks like you won this round, but I haven’t forgotten. Next year!
Have you had mild weather in your area this winter? If so, has it helped or hindered your winter plans?
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
Venturing Into Vegetarianism As An Athlete
7
As a FitFluential Ambassador I had the opportunity of being a Guest Blogger on the FitFluential Blog. This is the post that was featured. I hope to write more for the FitFluential blog in the future. In the meantime I invite you to not only read this post but the many other posts other ambassadors have written.
I’ve seen so many people push the idea around, yet they ask, “Can I still be an athlete AND a vegetarian/vegan?” I answer that with a resounding, “YES!!”
There are many levels of vegetarianism, from the basic lacto-ovo vegetarian, who still integrates dairy and eggs in their diet, to the strictest vegan, who not only changes their diet, but also their lifestyle to exclude all animal-derived products. Some are driven by moral/ethical issues, others are focused on their health, and for some it’s all the above. Whatever the reason, it is possible to thrive on the lifestyle.
Let’s delve into some concerns that many athletes have:
What about protein?
This is the question that everyone asks. My question in return is always, “How much protein do you think we need?” Most people look at my dumbfounded since they have absolutely no idea and are surprised to find out that the average protein intake of individuals in the U.S. is only 16%. Of course there are those that believe athletes need higher amounts of protein, and I am not going to dispute their opinions. However, what you should know is that you can achieve just as much, if not more, protein from plant-derived sources. For instance, 30% of the calories from spinach are protein, whereas an egg contains 37% of it’s calories as protein. Not much difference.
What about Vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12 deficiency is not limited to vegetarians and vegans, as it is also common to those eating a Standard American Diet. Although Vitamin B12 is found in animal products such as meat, shellfish, milk, cheese, and eggs, many people have a difficult time absorbing the Vitamin B12.
Will I have to take a ton of supplements?
Chances are you won’t be on any more or less supplements than you already are, especially if you are a fitness, health-minded person. Supplementation MAY be required, but I will get to that in a bit.
The diet seems so limiting. What will I eat?
On the contrary, I have found this diet to open my eyes to so many different food options I would’ve never tried before. Kale, quinoa, dates, figs, tofu….the list goes on! Prior to living a vegan diet, I would’ve never given them a second look.
You’d be amazed at how many dishes can be what I call “veganized”. I have found very few dishes that I cannot substitute an animal-derived ingredient with a vegan friendly ingredient. For instance, using Ener G Egg Replacer or making your own egg with other ingredients you already have around the house.
At this day in age there are so many ready-made vegetarian options that no one should go hungry. With that being said, just like a Standard American Diet, it’s easy to be an unhealthy vegetarian. For instance, French fries are considered vegetarian, but that doesn’t mean that you should eat them on a daily basis or that they should be your sole diet.
And for endurance athletes: What about my fueling options during training and racing?
Believe it or not most options are vegetarian and surprisingly many are vegan too! Of course you have the option of the VegaSport line and Chocolate #9 Energy Gels, which are specifically vegan-made. But you also have products such as Hammer Nutrition Gels, Clif Shot Energy Gels, and Clif Shot Bloks, which are oftentimes more readily available. And don’t forget, easy-to-pack dates are a fantastic energy source as are homemade energy bars.
Still not convinced you can be a vegetarian/vegan athlete? What about these successful elite plant strong athletes?
Triathlete - Hilary Biscay
Triathlete – Brendan Brazier
Cyclist – Molly Cameron
Bodybuilder – Robert Cheeke
Endurance Athlete/Ultrarunner - Rich Roll
MMA Fighter – Jake Shields
Former Track & Field Athlete – Carl Lewis
Snowboarder – Hannah Teter
Recently Serena and Venus Williams have even chosen to live a vegan lifestyle for health reasons.
So, are you ready to become a plant strong athlete??
Here are a few helpful hints:
Realize your beliefs may not be accepted by other
Most people are against the idea because they don’t understand the lifestyle. It doesn’t mean that you can’t succeed!
Surround yourself with a support system that encourages your lifestyle change
With the dawn of social media you can “surround yourself” with like-minded people that are either moving towards the same goal or already living the lifestyle. Take advantage of their positive energy and knowledge!
Educate yourself
Read, read, read. Buy several books and soak up the information that they provide. By educating yourself you will feel certain in your decision and when those that doubt your lifestyle raise questions you can confidently answer them.
My favorites: Being Vegetarian for Dummies, Eating Animals, 80/10/10 (raw veganism), and Nutrition and Athletic Performance.
Invest in a few cookbooks
Cooking for a vegetarian lifestyle can be as complex or as simple as you’d like.
Some of my favorite books include The Happy Herbivore Cookbook/Everyday Happy Herbivore, and The Thrive Diet. 
Bookmark some reputable websites
My favorite go-to recipe website is VegWeb. I also frequent No Meat Athlete for plant-based recommendations, recipes, and helpful hints for athletes.
Have routine checkups with blood work
No matter what your lifestyle this is a good idea. Supplementing from the beginning or waiting to supplement after finding where you’re deficient is a hotly debated topic and should be discussed with your doctor. If possible, I would highly recommend blood work to be performed prior to going vegetarian. This will provide you a base line to go off of in the future. I would also recommend blood work be performed a minimum of every 1-2 years as deficiencies may take time to develop. Specific blood values to target: CBC, Iron, B12. Here’s a link to my most recent blood work and what my course of action is regarding the results.
Don’t worry about being perfect
You will have hiccups along the way. Maybe you crave something or maybe the chef at a restaurant puts butter on your vegetables and you don’t realize it. Don’t lose sleep over it! You’re still moving in the direction in which you desire.
Don’t feel overwhelmed
I transitioned to a vegetarian lifestyle in 2008 and never dreamed I’d ever become a vegan. I thought, “How is that even possible?!” Surprisingly after two years of living a vegetarian lifestyle, making small changes, it was only natural for me to become vegan. All the while I was living an active lifestyle as a runner and triathlete. I have not only modified my diet but also my personal care products and clothing. (Search ‘vegetarian’ on this blog and you can see all of my transitions over the past several years) I’m not saying this is the route everyone takes, nor should you. Make this your own journey.
Have you ever considered moving towards a plant-based lifestyle? Are you living one right now? If so, what recommendations would you give to others thinking about trying it out?
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
