Posts tagged Running
Help! I Need New Workout Clothes
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Over the past year I’ve added a few pieces of fit gear here and there. Some of it I won from giveaways while others were to review. The majority of it has been yoga based. As I looked through my running clothes I realized it had been awhile since I had updated. Some items no longer fit (yep, gained some weight) while others just look sad and mangy. Like my fashion (or lack thereof) when I get set on something I like I buy in multiples and have some favorites. When it comes to fit gear right support and fit are deal breakers. As I took to the stores looking to replenish and update my gear I quickly realized it may be harder than I expect. Let me do some explaining…
I’ll start with the easier problem, shorts. For shorter runs I’m a Nike Tempo short wearer. Anything longer than that I wear Road Runner Sports compression shorts to reduce thigh chafing. I’m leaning towards shorter runs these days so I’m wearing my Tempos more. These are one of the items that have gotten tighter. I figured I’d just go up a size but going up a size made me feel like I was wearing a diaper. I need an in-between size. So…..I guess I need to search out a new go-to short.
As for tanks, this is where things get a bit more complicated. If the subject of bras and boobs isn’t your thing, stop here. A little TMI but I’m honestly reaching out for help….
Keeping it real, my boobs can cause some major issues when it comes to running. This is actually one of the things that kept me from attempting to run for so many years. Due to fibrosis it’s imperative that those suckers don’t move an inch. Thankfully after some researching and real-life testing I found some bras that worked.
I love Nike Pro Bras. Unfortunately for me they don’t provide enough support when it comes to wearing looser t-shirt tops or tanks without shelf bras. That’s where my Moving Comfort bra comes into play. It works perfectly for t-shirts but a no go for tanks without shelf bras as I have the overflow side boob chafing action. Not cool.
To break it down:
Tank with shelf bra = Nike Pro Bra
T-shirt = Moving Comfort Bra
Tank without shelf bra = ??
Ever tried running and taking photo at the same time? Not easy.
So you may think, “What’s the big deal? Just wear t-shirts or find tanks with shelf bras and avoid tanks without shelf bras.” If it were only that easy. It seems that the concept of tanks with functional shelf bras aren’t the thing anymore. Sure, some have them but they don’t help one bit. The tanks that I do find seem to fit me looser in the chest and tight around the waist. As I already stated, although I consider myself pretty busty, I have a larger cup size but am smaller around. Add that to my curvy hips. I’m the exact opposite fit for the tanks. Are my proportion sizes wacky compared to normal people?
I’ve scoured Dick’s Sporting Goods, TJMaxx, Target, Road Runner Sports, Old Navy, Nike, Reebok, Under Armor and haven’t walked away with anything that works. So this is my cry for help. Do you have any of the same problems? If so, do you have any “favorites” that I need to check out? Or, if you’re a brand that specializes in fit gear, help a sister out. I would LOVE to see tanks with snug chest areas with longish, looser waists. I can picture them in my head….Trust me when I say, my working out depends on this. That or I’ll have to keep running in my old stinky gear.
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
What Happened To Real Blogging?
0May 5, 2013
in Simply Happy
I’ve already written about this but have since had further thoughts, hence why I’m sharing more….
It’s hard to believe that I’ve been blogging since 2006. With the exception of one major dry spell I’ve been writing since then. It wasn’t until a couple years ago that I transferred from my old blog to being BananaBuzzbomb. I didn’t transfer all of the blog posts during the transition because quite honestly I didn’t think they “belonged” here.
Old school old blog banner
I’ve said it before, but when I first started blogging it was to keep my family up-to-date on our day-to-day lives. You name it, I wrote about it. It was more like a journal and I held nothing back. My regular readers were family with the exception of a few strangers who would stumble upon my blog for various reasons. To this day I still have blog posts that have regular traffic and receive comments. I loved blogging. It was natural. It was freeing. I didn’t really have to think about it. I just wrote. I didn’t worry about who I’d offend or if topics would hurt my traffic or cost me partnerships with brands.
As I saw social media evolve I saw the opportunity to see if I could work towards making a living off of my blogging…or at least a supplemental income. I was already blogging, so why not? When I started BananaBuzzbomb I attempted to be more formal and business-like….or building my own “brand”. I worked on finding my niche and became associated with a network of individuals that helped share my content as I did for them as well. During that time I saw everyone and their mom creating blogs. I thought, “The more the merrier. Come join the party!”
Over the past several months I realized how commercialized blogging has become. As I looked around at my fellow bloggers I couldn’t help but think, “This isn’t really blogging.” Is anyone actually sharing their real story or are they just sharing bits and pieces that conform around their niche? Even more, are they even sharing any of their real life or just creating an image surrounding products that they receive for free or for compensation? Does anyone really care about their true voice and what they are writing? What ever happened to real blogging?
It wasn’t until I took a step back that I realized I had lost my authentic voice. Sure there was a bit of Heidi in those posts (I wrote them!) , but I was conforming to the change happening around me. I’m not a salesperson and I was literally trying to sell myself. And that’s why it seemed to take forever to write my posts.
Quite honestly the last thing I want is to be known as is an authority on something ( I even say that in my About Me that was written well over 2 years ago). Yes, I want people to trust my words, but authority? No. I simply want to share my life. Losing my authentic voice also meant I didn’t use certain words or share my thoughts on topics that I had an opinion on because I was too scared to hurt my own personal “brand”. In other words, more often than not I was holding back.
I’m not hating on the situation because I was doing it as well. I’m also not saying that people shouldn’t make money off of blogging. There are people out there that are masters of their creation, weaving true blogging and making money off of it. I’m also not against working with brands. However, two important questions I’ve started asking myself when asked to review/promote products are: “Do I already use this product/brand?” and for new products “Would I be willing to spend my money on this if it wasn’t given to me for free?” I’ve quickly found that I needed to pass on more opportunities that I wouldn’t have in the past…but that’s okay. I have and will always be loyal to the promise I made myself. As time goes on I’ve found that I want to be even more conservative.
I want to get back to the basics of blogging. When I read my friend Carey’s blog the other day it confirmed what I’ve been feeling over these past couple months. Her posts are refreshing. They are legit. She doesn’t hold anything back. True life experiences with emotions and all. I’m not saying that I want to hear about every waking moment of someone’s life by reading their blog, but I want to know about them. If they’re a runner. Great. But doesn’t their life consist of more than running? Tell me about that stuff too.
I’m not saying that all the other blogs are crap. On the contrary, there are many great writers out there…but my hope is that they stay true to their voice and are sharing their real-life stories and not some facade in order to get more page hits. Because that’s not what real blogging is about.
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
4/25/13: I Am Grateful For….
0April 25, 2013
You know, I could actually plan out my blog posts, like I used to…something like every Friday write my “grateful” posts. But that never felt right and let’s be honest, that sort of planning actually works against my whole “Be Here Now” plan. I’m over it. I’m going to write what I want to write, when I want to write. For those that are regular readers I’m sure you’ve already picked up on this transition since I used to post Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, which is no longer happening.
Although I’ve always had control over my blog, (hello, I write it.) taking this thought and actually living it has felt empowering. I also have to say that my blogging voice is coming through much easier . My posts may not flow all that well (not that they ever did), but lately I’ve found that when I sit down to type there’s a much easier flow from my brains thoughts to keyboard.
So, with all that being said, it’s been several weeks since I’ve posted about things that I am grateful for I figured it’s time to share.
Mobile banking. Since we have direct deposit that last time we stopped at our bank was months ago. Direct deposit is awesome given that we bank with a credit union and there aren’t locations on every street corner. I recently received a check in the mail to be deposited but kept putting off depositing it because it wasn’t convenient to make my way over to our bank. However, I just happened to check if they offered mobile deposits, like Bank of America shows in their commercials, and sure enough they do! I simply downloaded the app, took a few photos, submitted, and within 24 hours the deposit was accepted. Now, I gotta admit, the whole thought is a bit scary but given that it’s not something I’d be doing regularly it’s a rad option to have.
Swanson Vitamins. After mobile banking and now reading this next one you may think I’m lazy. I swear, I’m not. It’s all about convenience! Coming from a small town I often had to order vegan products to avoid making hour-long trips to Whole Foods and such. Living in Phoenix has made things a lot easier, but heading to the store or mall drives me bonkers (can you believe D loves shopping way more than me?). So from clothes, food, and other odds and ends, I’m all about online shopping. The friendly folks at Swanson Vitamins contacted me and asked to see if I’d like to check out their products and services. Free goodies for trying them out? Why not? I must admit I was pretty blown away not only by the prices (the vitamins I normally order on Amazon are actually cheaper from Swanson) but they have so much more than just vitamins. I was thrilled I could purchase so many of the things I regularly use all from one source.
I also decided to order some Justin’s Nut Butter, which I had never tried. That may or may not have been a good idea. I’ll let you decide.
Running mojo. After several months off of running it may be back. I attribute this to listening to my body, taking a break from my daily runs, and adding in yoga. As you know over the past several weeks I’ve added in Zumba and Total Body classes to the mix. I have slowly pieced together all of this cross-training and am back to working out on a daily basis. I am no longer running everyday (like I used to), but I still workout everyday, with the exception of rest days, and still manage to practice yoga. It feels good and more importantly I’m having fun.
Amande Yogurt. I was never a big fan of yogurt prior to going vegan so it wasn’t something I missed. Several months ago I just so happened to see yogurt at Sprouts Farm Market that was made of almond milk. I was intrigued and grabbed the the coconut flavor. Delicious! I have since tried their other flavors, which are tasty as well, but coconut wins hands down. Unfortunately the closest Sprouts doesn’t carry the coconut flavor nor do they carry the large containers (hence, why David went on the hunt). I have since found the flavor and size at Whole Foods, but it takes a bit of a drive, so I stock up whenever I’m in the area.
Grateful Jar. Speaking of gratefuls. Just like many people we chose to start a Grateful Jar at the beginning of the year. Although I’m not great at putting something in each day I usually make up for it the rest of the days and the jar is slowly filling up. I look forward to reading them at the end of the year. Should be fun!
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
#BostonStrongPHX Recap
0April 23, 2013
in Running
My friend, Brian, also known as PavementRunner in the online community, came up with the idea of BostonStrong. I debated organizing a run in the PHX area. Would anyone even show up? After conversing with my friends and with their assistance, I went ahead with the plan.
The Phoenix event literally started a small idea….a few friends, meeting at the iRun running store, getting together for a run. I thought, “Why not make it public? Some others may be interested.” I went ahead, made a Facebook event, and waited to see what would happen. Within the first 12 hours we had close to 30 people commit. As the days passed the number continued to grow. With the help of Mark at iRun, an actual event began to take shape. Even more, I saw different events across Phoenix take shape. Some may say, “Well other events means more competition for your event.” This was never about competition. BostonStrong was simply about getting the running community out and running. Seeing the response, not only across the valley but the world, has taught me to never doubt the heart of my fellow runners
I cannot tell you how many people showed up to iRun yesterday evening since I lost count after 25. Mark set up a table with a ton of running gear. Any donation to the Challenged Athletes Foundation, no matter how large or small, allowed you to choose an item or two off of the table. Multiple pairs of shoes were given away through raffle drawings in hopes of collecting donations for the foundation as well.
Shortly after 6:30p our massive group of runners took off through the streets of Phoenix with everyone going their own pace. One thing is for sure, we had all paces and age groups covered.
The run ended with a moment of silence complete with candles followed by everyone hanging out and enjoying pizza offered my iRun.
What an experience….all from a simple idea. I reference this quote ALL of the time. It’s one of my faves and I could hear it ringing through my ears the entire evening.
Running is such an individual sport but we are still a community…a family. I know each person had a different reason for being at the run tonight. Whatever their reason, I am grateful they were there.
A big thank you to everyone who turned out tonight and a HUGE thank you Mark and iRun.
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
Come Run #BostonStrongPHX
0April 17, 2013
in Running
I’ve seen some people criticize runners that are wearing race shirts or running miles “for Boston” saying, “What’s running/wearing something going to do? You can’t change what happened.” What they don’t realize is that everyone deals with tragedy in a different way. Some pray, some cry, and some…run.
True. I can’t change what happened but I can focus on the love and community that surrounds the sport that I so love. A sport that no matter how many times I need a break it’s always there for me when I return. A sport that has created some of my best friendships and best memories. A sport that has nudged me past my physical and emotional limits. A sport that bridged the gap and helped me meet new people when I moved across the United States. A sport that changed my life 6 years ago.
My rad friend, PavementRunner, came up with a fabulous idea. One week after Boston, let’s all meet up for a run. Of course all of us from across the US can’t meet up in one location….but we can meet up by city. The idea?
A run for us to unite and show our strength.
A run for those that were unable to finish.
A run for those that may never run again.
A run for us to try and make sense of the tragedy that has forever changed something we love.
So what do you say? You. Me. Let’s go for a run.
It’s quite simple. We’ll meet up and run/walk 3 miles (or whatever distance you’d like). Nothing fancy. No worries about time or pace….just a group of people getting together to run.
Details for the #BostonStrongPHX
Location: iRun, 4730 E Indian School. Phoenix, Arizona 85018
Date: Monday, April 22, 2013
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Distance: 3 miles
Facebook Event Page: RSVP here
Spread the word. The more, the merrier!
For more details on organizing a run for your city visit PavementRunner’s site for more details.
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
Unity and Love In The Face Of Tragedy
0April 16, 2013
in Running
I had a post finished and ready to be published for Tuesday. I never got around to posting it. With all that happened in Boston I didn’t feel it was appropriate to share today. I debated posting anything today. I avoided the topic of Newtown and had actually planned to avoid this as well. At the same time I didn’t want to look like a total asshole by not mentioning it. But there’s a reason I avoid things like this. Because I suck at writing. Yes, I’m a blogger and yet I’ll be the first to admit that I suck at it. My grammar alone is horrible. Just look at the commas I like to throw in wherever I like. Always has been a problem….
Even more, I have a real hard time putting into words what I often feel, yyet I am a very sensory person, meaning I feel emotions so easily. I’m not claiming I have a special power, it’s just that I have pretty heightened senses. Mix the 2 together and I am just one big ball of emotion unable to express herself.
My thoughts are so often all over the place. I can have many opinions on a topic and sometimes they contradict each other. I am concerned my posts will come across as a bit schizophrenic and all over the place, which I feel is already the direction this post is heading. Needless to say, you’ll rarely, if ever find an eloquent post written by me.
Lastly, so often I try to avoid topics of conflict and/or try to make sure my wording is just right do I don’t offend anyone. Nowadays, you never know. Personally I feel there is so much more in the world to care about than being offended. Not to mention, 9 times out of 10 if you’re offended the problem is with you and not the offender…but what do I know.
So hence, why I avoid things like this, but I’m going to give it a go….let’s see what happens.
After the initial shock of receiving the news my first thought was love. I’m sure most people were sad if not angry. Although I had some time of sadness later on in the day I must say anger never entered my mind. Anger only drives darkness and there’s no room for that in my life. As for love? From giving to receiving, I want it to be in constant flow. And sure enough it was there. From the texts and tweets I received with people wondering if my running friends were okay (Yes, my friends were safe) to the outpouring of communication on social media, love was there.
Continuing on through today my social media feeds and google reader were full of posts focusing on the good and not the hatred that surrounds the situation. Sure there is anger out there, but what I’m seeing are individuals choosing to focus on the positive and coming together as a community.
I’ve seen this many times over. No, not the bombing, but something tragic happening that brings everyone together. My biggest fear is that just like every tragic experience we become lax and return to our old habits of judgement and discord. Why does it take such circumstances in order for us to make these changes? Why doesn’t it stick around? We’re having more of these unfortunate experiences and although we always have the time of unity we seem to return to our old ways faster and faster each time.
Our lives have once again been changed but we have the choice on which path to take. If I know anything about runners and Bostonians it is that we are passionate and neither of us are known to give up. I don’t see that changing anytime soon. I’m grateful for all the acts of love I’ve witnessed. People donating blood, running memorial miles, wearing race shirts in support of the running community, and trending hashtags. This time around don’t let it end. I’m not saying we live in mourning. On the contrary, we need to celebrate life on a daily basis, continually uplifting each other as we face challenges, big or small. I’m not going to give up my hope on this idea even if I feel like I’m the only one trying.
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
If Fitness Is About Health Then Why Hurt Yourself?
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There once was a time when I didn’t care if I hurt my body while exercising. I just figured somehow my body would bounce back. Yes, I’ve gone down that road of pushing, pushing, pushing only to realize I was doing more harm than good. For instance, as I increased in mileage I found inflammation and pain in my bad knee. Then one day I thought, “WTF are you doing Heidi?” There was nothing that triggered this thought per se, it just happened….thankfully before I had done permanent damage.
This is what I believe: Fitness and physical activity should be challenging. There are times it should leave us tired and sore. Trust me when I say that allowing myself to fall deeper in an asana is not easy nor is it comfortable. However, barring the freak accident, fitness shouldn’t cause us pain, agony, or compromise our health and well-being. Yes, Exercise should make us push our limits, but not our breaking points.
As I scroll through my social media feeds so often I see fellow friends/athletes that are sharing their fitness injuries through photos. Torn hands from cross fit. Busted up runner’s knees being iced with peas. Bodies taped to the limit. I cringe at the sight of these photos. I don’t cringe because I feel their pain but at the thought of people voluntarily hurting their body.
Seeing these photos makes me realize that I’m in the minority when it comes to my beliefs. Then again, maybe people don’t really realize what they’re doing to their bodies? Or maybe they think it’s “proof” that they’re a bad ass? Or is it a one-upping type of thing? This all in turn begs the question, if instagram/social media didn’t exist would people be doing this to their bodies? Don’t get me wrong a little healthy competition or seeing other people out there pushing themselves may encourage others to get out there and move. It it can also have the opposite effect as well.
I’m no super athlete nor do I make a living off of my physical activities, which is the case for the majority of my friends. No doubt, the pros are out there pushing themselves, but most are in tune to their bodies more than the average Joe and are also in a different realm of physical capacity than most of us, right?
As always, the point of this isn’t to criticize anyone but more to share my recent thoughts and provide some food for thought. Physical activity/exercise is a commitment I’ve made to myself, but so is my health and well-being. From physical activity, to what food I eat, or even my everyday actions and choices, nowadays I ask myself, “Will this help me or hurt me?” and it makes my decisions much easier.
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
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There are only a couple days left to enter my Road Runner Sports Giveaway. Don’t forget to enter!
Meet Ellie: Fitness Apparel Review
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I’m sure a week after last week’s post on having my blog be more personal you didn’t expect to see a review. Alas, I have several posts that I promised to deliver and I don’t break a promise. Not to mention, as I stated, I will continue to bring insight on products that I use and/or find helpful.
It seems as though monthly subscriptions boxes of stuff are popping up everywhere. I even did a review on NatureBox awhile back who offers healthy snack foods right to your door step. It should come as no surprise that one that delivers fitness apparel would pop up at some point. Enter Ellie.
Several months ago I was introduced to PV.Body through social media channels and blog posts about a company that delivers high quality apparel to your mailbox on a monthly basis for a set fee. I was intrigued. Lucky for me they contacted me wanting to know if I wanted to try their services at no charge to me. I jumped at the chance. Who wouldn’t? I took their Style Profile Quiz which would help them choose my outfit and I patiently awaited the arrival of what I’d receive.
Soon after I received my bright pink package of two items that I loved I started reading some bad reports from fellow bloggers. Their complaints ranged from ill-fitting items, lack of quality or high-end brands they expected, and bad customer service. A few days later I began hearing “rumors” of changes that were happening within PV.Body. They were going to continue their service but under a different name and only provide their brand new, personal line of clothing. Many felt they were bait switched by having signed up under a different premise only to have the rug pulled out from underneath them. I didn’t want to pass judgement or jump to conclusions and wanted to await their formal announcement of what their actual plans were with the company.
Staying true to my promise of only presenting products I use and/or believe in, I spoke with my contact for PV.Body stating that I didn’t want to review their service based on the items I received because basically I’d be saying, ” Hey. Here’s PV.Body and this is the concept…but now it’s different…because the concept is different and this isn’t the product you’re going to get…you’re going to get their line of clothing.” Make sense? They were 100% understanding and told me to sit tight.
I don’t know the ins and outs of all of the details or whether this was their plan all along but as things began to unfold my own personal opinion developed. What I do know is that what I was seeing was a newer company growing at an exponential rate. Any company has growing pains, whether change in product or vision, but when it is thrust into motion at such a high speed it makes it that much more challenging. Most companies aren’t that well known yet for them to be noticed or criticized. With its popularity it was that much more in the limelight and placed under a microscope.
A formal announcement was finally made about all of the rumors that were swirling. Yes, it’s true PV.Body was now going to be known as Ellie and their monthly subscription would only include items from their yet-to-be released fitness apparel line. They also provided a few more details. Here they are along with my thoughts are in italics:
-Every month, Ellie will launch a new collection of 16 tops and 8 bottoms. <- Different choices each month.
-Your choice of two pieces from that months Look Book for $49.95 per month. You can choose two tops, two bottoms or a top and a bottom and the price is always the same. <- You know what you’re getting.
-You have until the 7th of each month to select your own pieces. Otherwise, Ellie will select and ship an outfit (top and bottom) to you, depending on your selected style profile.
-Ellie offers free shipping on all orders, exchanged, and return to Fit Fashionista program members - If you are not satisfied with the quality of Ellie, you can ship it back for free both ways and you will receive another free piece from Ellie’s collection. <- Doesn’t fit or don’t like it? Send it back.
-Ellie offers exclusive access to pieces available only to Fit Fasionista members. <- Want more of the pieces released this month? You can buy them.
-You can still cancel your membership at any point in time. <-Not locked into a commitment.
More from the brand:
-Ellie created their own TruFit technogology. According to Ellie, “TruFit begins with the fabric. Each piece is pre-shrunk to make sure it never shrinks again. We guarantee that our clothing will fit the same the first time you try it and the 30th time you hit the gym. We carefully design very piece to make sure it fits you in all the right places.”
-The waistband on all bottoms will be the exact same. <- once you find out what size works for you, you’re golden.
-Every piece of every collection is washer and dryer-friendly.
-All products are manufactured in the USA. <- That puts the cherry on top. Pretty rad.
Personally I think this is better than the PV.Body deal on so many levels. Upon seeing the February Look Book and making my choice of 2 pieces I was pretty pumped for them to arrive. When they arrived I immediately fell in love. The Catch Me If You Can top was so buttery soft.
I was nervous when it came to choosing the Electric Love Capris. I love bright colors but didn’t know if they’d be too bright or make me feel uncomfortable. I’m glad I took the chance because they are the perfect fit and beyond comfortable.
I loved both the look and feel of the pieces so much that I actually felt inspired to go for a run. Seriously. And they performed beautifully.
Final thoughts: I know people lost a lot of faith in the PV.Body/Ellie with all that’s gone down in the past month. Fingers crossed that they’ve pulled it together or can do so really fast, because I think they have a great concept and product. I can’t wait to see what this months choice brings.
Interested in trying out some of their stuff? Click to receive 20% off coupon off of your first order and feel free to pass along to any friends that may be interested.
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
Do More Of What Makes You Happy
2February 24, 2013
Over the past month my workout routine has changed a bit. I’ve been running maybe once or twice (at the most) per week and the remainder of my physical activities consist of yoga and hiking.
With the change in my routine have come others as well. Am I in the best shape of my life? I guess that’s up for debate. Am I as thin as I was a couple years ago when I was pounding out the miles rain or shine? No. Does this leave me a little uneasy that my body is a bit different? Yes. Initially I felt that urge to get out and run. In all honesty, I still have that urge. But instead of it being about my weight on the scale it’s more about knowing that I’m one of those people that if I don’t use it, I lose it. I always want running to be a part of my life. Running came to me at a time when I needed it most. It helped me cope with anxiety and even some depression. Unfortunately through the years it transitioned to causing me anxiety. I’ve been at the point in my life where I feel that I HAVE to run in order to survive. I’m past that point. I’m grateful for what it’s given me but I’m ready to be open to other activities in my life as well.
Like most weekends, this past weekend several big events were being held in the running world. My social media feeds were filled up from those running Tough Mudder and Ragnar Relay here in Phoenix along with the Disney World Princess Half Marathon. I even made it a point to stop to see my fellow Cholla Chicks as they took on the Ragnar Relay as an ultra team (they are beasts!) Seeing all of these updates made me swell with pride realizing once again that I am friends with some pretty rad people. However, at no time was I envious or jealous that everyone was out there doing their thing. Sure, I’d still love to run a Disney race, but that’s not where I am in my life right now and I realize that.
Just because I’m not running regularly doesn’t mean I’m just letting my body go. I personally feel it’s important for everyone to make a point to be physically active. However, at this time I’m just listening to my mind, body, and soul, letting it guide me through my daily routines. More importantly, my focus is to do more of what makes me happy.
Not so long ago I was spending time figuring out my race schedule or training plans. That time is now spent figuring out what trail I want to venture to or what peak I want to conquer next. It’s just all part of my journey and I’m loving every second.
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
My Journey Through Blogging And Life
8February 21, 2013
I have a bit of a confession to make. I’ve been debating a hiatus from blogging. With everything that’s been going on in my life, with all of the changes, I almost feel like it’s time to step back. I talk about “be here now“. I really believe in it and yet I’m not living it because I get so caught up in everything…including my blog.
Over the past year my blog has taken many twists and turns. I’ve dabbled in video, attempted to find my “niche”, and even done work with brands on sponsored campaigns. For every experience, I am grateful. But ultimately, I’ve found that road isn’t really for me.
It’s no secret that I have a history of over analyzing almost every aspect of my life. I’ve gotten much better at accepting things as they come and going with the flow. However, I think it’s also very important to ask questions and assess myself, my journey, and my surroundings. In other words, greet everything with curiosity Looking at my blogging situation is no different. As I questioned whether I wanted to continue blogging these are the thoughts and questions I found swirling around in my head….
I love documenting what I’m doing but compared to many people my life isn’t all that exciting. I get up at 4:30a, do yoga, work, come home, make a simple meal, blog, and then go to bed. Some days I may mix up my workouts/activity, but that’s about it.
Weekends tend to be more adventurous, but I feel that I cannot appropriately put into words all that I’ve experienced because the words don’t seem to come to me or the emotions I experience are too hard for me to express. I feel like I’m not serving my experiences justice.
Lately I’ve had the same thoughts/experiences going round and round me but who wants to hear about the same blogs time and time again….even if they seem important to me.
I’m spending too much time thinking/mulling over my posts that it’s been causing me stress and anxiety. Whatever happened to simple blogging? Now I link back posts, make sure there’s some sort of photo, or even add video.
Video is easier for me but I have an even smaller following to my vlogs and most people who read my blogs have no interest in watching vlogs. I myself am not a vlog watcher. Not to mention, I have a hard time doing only video as I feel I still have to supplement with writing.
As an athlete I’m mediocre at best and have no speedy or high mileage achievements. I’m not one to post workouts or give advice, with the exception of some basics. How can I be a “fitness blogger”?
As a vegan I’ve also covered some of the basics, but I’m not one to preach from the rooftops. When it comes to cooking and eating, I’m real basic. Sure, I’ll eat out, but I rarely post recipes because I hate to cook and 95%+ time I eat whole, raw foods, or keep it VERY simple.
What about my connections with brands by taking a break, walking away, or changing things up? No doubt, I’ve had some amazing experiences and connections all because of my blog, and it’s great to get “free” items, but really, what are those things worth?
Where does this leave me? What do I have to offer? Myself. I’m not a world-class athlete or chef, but I am a student of life. I’m a lover of adventure and trying new things. Someone that’s willing to try something new, even if it means stumbling, falling, or taking a few steps back.
As for finding my “niche”. I’ve never been one to fit a stereotype or label so why force myself into something now?
Will I lose opportunities with brands? Time will tell. Something I pride myself on is the genuine sharing of brands I believe in. Sure Columbia Sportswear, Mizuno, and Road Runner Sports have been great to me but I was a supporter of them prior to my connections. More importantly, I really do love and use their products. My promise to you and myself is that I only align myself with brands that I actually use and/or that fit my life.
One thing about life is that we are constantly evolving. Oftentimes I feel like my life is evolving faster than I can keep up. If you’ve followed along, even for a short time, you probably have witnessed this. I wouldn’t change it for the world. That idea alone is one of the main reasons I began blogging…to share my journey.
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
