Thanks to our societal definitions of "pretty" and "beautiful" millions of people each year try to lose weight. We start working out more, change how we eat...and I say "we" because I'm still trying to lose weight...both for my vanity and health. But as I'm taking off those last few pounds and shifting into "maintenance mode" I'm keeping my eating habits as healthy as I can and I've gotta vent a little here...I'm sick of the "What...you on a diet?" comments, looks and snears as I order healthier food or pack my lunch on days I know that pizza is being ordered for a lunch time meeting.
First of all...a lil reminder courtesy of the grammar queen in me... The primary definition of the word "diet" is "a : food and drink regularly provided or consumed" (according to the Merriam Webster dictionary). Yes there is a definiton relating to a prescribed food and amounts for a specific reason but the main definition is simply the food we eat. When I talk to people about being healthy and their diet, I typically mean simply "What and how much are you eating?" When I say I have a particular diet, it doesn't mean that I have a precharted plan of food that I will follow strictly to lose weight. Yes, there are diet plans which strictly plan out your calories and nutrition and some people need those. We all need to have the right diet - regardless of our weightloss needs - to make sure that we are getting the nutrients our bodies need. Why does "diet" have to be such a terrible word?
And hand in hand with that - why should only obviously overweight people eat healthy? Yes, I'm a slender girl and don't have a pressing health reason to lose weight. I'm within (and on the lower end) of a healthy weight range for my height and age. I'd like to lose about 5-10 more pounds but those are vanity pounds at this point....no need for me to worry! However, I do have more than enough signs in my family history that indicate I need to pay attention to my health...not to mention how much better I feel when I eat the right foods! Why should I be the one called out at gatherings for watching what I eat? I was in training all day for a few days in a row and knew that pizza was ordered for lunch. Instead of allowing myself to get out of my routine and feel "off" for three days because I ate greasy food not normally part of my routine, I packed lunch. Nearly half the room took notice when a few of my coworkers looked at me, laughed and said "What...you on a diet?". Luckily it was noticed enough that the next time we were in training, a salad was ordered for myself and another health-conscious coworker. When I do say that I simply watch what I eat, want to be healthier or that yes, I am on a diet to preserve the results for which I worked so hard, I get "consoled" like I'm boardering an eating disorder. It's come from family, friends, and coworkers and while more often than not I'm sure it comes from caring - the tone could be significantly improved.
How have those around you reacted to your changed eating habits? Do you not "diet" when you're around those who may judge? What do you think when you see a seemingly healthy coworker go out of their way to continue their healthy habits?
Monday, August 30, 2010
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Making the case for Brandywine
I just found out that Brandywine High School is in the running for $500,000 from Kohl's Cares but we need more votes. I'll try to keep this short and sweet because your time is precious but if there was ever a school that needed that money, it's Brandywine. The students who get involved in projects, teams, clubs, etc. are genuinely passionate about what they're doing and the district is fortunate to have teachers and coaches who share in that passion. They just don't have the resources to really explore their interests. The teachers and staff at BHS do amazing with the little that they have but that extra edge is always missing. This is their chance to finally showcase their full potential.
So why Brandywine?
- Asbestos lab tables. Unsafe drinking water from the fountains and showers that didn't work. Leaky ceiling tiles around the entire building. That was the high school as I was graduating. The district could hardly afford to fix the building, let alone support the programs that really help develop students. They have recently passed a bond that allowed them to make improvements but most of the difference was to make sure that the school didn't fall apart around them.
- Sports: Our district boasts of an amazing sports program. Softball state title, volleyball state runs, conference titles hung around the entire gym... They have the talent but until a few years ago, they were still running on a cinder track which made them ineligible to host track meets. A lot of effort, passion, and money has gone into revamping our sporting facilities and the community is so proud of the changes they've made. Imagine what they'd do with more!
- Fine Arts: Our band, choir, theatre, and visual arts students have been regularly selected for showcase at the Conference Fine Arts Festival. As a high school band dork, I can tell you, Brandywine High School Marching Band was the band to beat at competitions. These fine arts programs have suffered because of lack of funds. Competitions, instruments, materials...everything is on a strict budget. It has been heartbreaking to see the band program which was made up of over 20% of our high school, dwindle and lose momentum. This year they will be lucky to have 20 kids in band.
- Academics: Arguably the most important component of high school. My junior year of high school (2001)a friend came to me with his biology book, laughing. As he opened the front cover he pointed out the second person who signed to check out this textbook. It was my dad...checking out the book for his biology class in 1971. I'm no biology major but I'm fairly certain the field has developed since the 70s.
If a district is going to prepare its students for college, the "real world" and everything their next step may bring, shouldn't they have the resources to get all the information they deserve? Brandywine is full of involved parents, teachers, staff, and students...many of whom have known each other for generations. They want to continue to develop the school and bring it back up to the standard which was expected when the school began - to be the School of Choice in the Niles area and provide its students with a better than average academic experience. They already do so much with so little and what often holds them back are the funds. Please help them achieve their goals and cast 5 votes for the Brandywine Bobcats or use the button at the bottom of this blog. http://bit.ly/cCci5G
For more information about Brandywine Community Schools, please visit http://brandywine.schoolfusion.us/
So why Brandywine?
- Asbestos lab tables. Unsafe drinking water from the fountains and showers that didn't work. Leaky ceiling tiles around the entire building. That was the high school as I was graduating. The district could hardly afford to fix the building, let alone support the programs that really help develop students. They have recently passed a bond that allowed them to make improvements but most of the difference was to make sure that the school didn't fall apart around them.
- Sports: Our district boasts of an amazing sports program. Softball state title, volleyball state runs, conference titles hung around the entire gym... They have the talent but until a few years ago, they were still running on a cinder track which made them ineligible to host track meets. A lot of effort, passion, and money has gone into revamping our sporting facilities and the community is so proud of the changes they've made. Imagine what they'd do with more!
- Fine Arts: Our band, choir, theatre, and visual arts students have been regularly selected for showcase at the Conference Fine Arts Festival. As a high school band dork, I can tell you, Brandywine High School Marching Band was the band to beat at competitions. These fine arts programs have suffered because of lack of funds. Competitions, instruments, materials...everything is on a strict budget. It has been heartbreaking to see the band program which was made up of over 20% of our high school, dwindle and lose momentum. This year they will be lucky to have 20 kids in band.
- Academics: Arguably the most important component of high school. My junior year of high school (2001)a friend came to me with his biology book, laughing. As he opened the front cover he pointed out the second person who signed to check out this textbook. It was my dad...checking out the book for his biology class in 1971. I'm no biology major but I'm fairly certain the field has developed since the 70s.
If a district is going to prepare its students for college, the "real world" and everything their next step may bring, shouldn't they have the resources to get all the information they deserve? Brandywine is full of involved parents, teachers, staff, and students...many of whom have known each other for generations. They want to continue to develop the school and bring it back up to the standard which was expected when the school began - to be the School of Choice in the Niles area and provide its students with a better than average academic experience. They already do so much with so little and what often holds them back are the funds. Please help them achieve their goals and cast 5 votes for the Brandywine Bobcats or use the button at the bottom of this blog. http://bit.ly/cCci5G
For more information about Brandywine Community Schools, please visit http://brandywine.schoolfusion.us/
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
5K and confidence
Happy Tuesday everyone!
Some of you may remember I was going to run a 5K at my old high school this weekend. I was looking forward to seeing some people I haven't seen in a long time, running well, and dominating my old high school course.
Almost none of that happened. I saw a couple friends from high school cross country but unfortunately it was after I ran a miserable race. I could blame the humidity and heat (which I do...partly) but mostly I was unprepared for a run with hills and weather. In the end though I had a good time and still managed to medal (despite my 31+ minute race time...ick) and it was good to spend the time with my mom and sister. What was really fun was how muddy The Swamp was. Our course has always been known for being tough and that included the shoe-stealing swamp. It was good and muddy as evident by my running shoes...these were WHITE at the start of my race:
Despite the terrible race time - my PR is 23:56 for a 5K - I had a good time and now have a goal to do better at this race in particular next year.
Yesterday was a far more fun day though. It started with TurboFire Fire 45 which I KILLED! I set a new personal best and peaked at 10.3 calories / minute at one point during my workout. Crushed over 400 calories yesterday morning before 6 am. Not bad if I may say so myself. With that high I started getting ready for work and the great day just kept going....
I had found this awesome bright yellow dress at Marshall's earlier this year and couldn't wait to wear it. I was able to buy it in a size 8!! and have been nervous about the fit for weeks. Finally yesterday I decided I needed a bright fun outfit and was confident enough to wear it to work. I was flattered all day by coworkers' and friends' compliments (thank you to my Facebook friends who wanted to see and then seemingly adored the picture) so its a new favorite outfit.I felt great. I love how the success I've had on my wellness journey has fed my confidence so much and I'm sure that my elevated confidence helps me in so many other areas of my life.
Some of you may remember I was going to run a 5K at my old high school this weekend. I was looking forward to seeing some people I haven't seen in a long time, running well, and dominating my old high school course.
Almost none of that happened. I saw a couple friends from high school cross country but unfortunately it was after I ran a miserable race. I could blame the humidity and heat (which I do...partly) but mostly I was unprepared for a run with hills and weather. In the end though I had a good time and still managed to medal (despite my 31+ minute race time...ick) and it was good to spend the time with my mom and sister. What was really fun was how muddy The Swamp was. Our course has always been known for being tough and that included the shoe-stealing swamp. It was good and muddy as evident by my running shoes...these were WHITE at the start of my race:
 |
| ddy muddy race shoes.... |
 |
| Post race - by my locker with my medal...and of course, turbo girl pose :) |
Despite the terrible race time - my PR is 23:56 for a 5K - I had a good time and now have a goal to do better at this race in particular next year.
Yesterday was a far more fun day though. It started with TurboFire Fire 45 which I KILLED! I set a new personal best and peaked at 10.3 calories / minute at one point during my workout. Crushed over 400 calories yesterday morning before 6 am. Not bad if I may say so myself. With that high I started getting ready for work and the great day just kept going....
I had found this awesome bright yellow dress at Marshall's earlier this year and couldn't wait to wear it. I was able to buy it in a size 8!! and have been nervous about the fit for weeks. Finally yesterday I decided I needed a bright fun outfit and was confident enough to wear it to work. I was flattered all day by coworkers' and friends' compliments (thank you to my Facebook friends who wanted to see and then seemingly adored the picture) so its a new favorite outfit.I felt great. I love how the success I've had on my wellness journey has fed my confidence so much and I'm sure that my elevated confidence helps me in so many other areas of my life.
So that's it. Today's a new day and I'm going to get two birds with one stone tonight - going to see how much I can blow up my bodybugg with cleaning the apartment tonight. I need a clean apartment to think straight and I haven't gotten as much done as I'd like lately! Have a great Tuesday everyone!
Friday, August 20, 2010
So what's this coaching deal about anyway?
I love being a Beachbody coach, as I've blogged before, and I'd love to share the experience with you. The information below covers the basics so please check it out and let me know what you think!
Team Beachbody
Team Beachbody is where good health and fitness are supported by a unique peer community and coaching network to help you get the results you want and deserve.
Our Vision
Created by CEO Carl Daikeler, the vision is simple: to make fitness, weight loss, and overall health fun and exceptionally rewarding. That means helping people to get in shape physically and financially. It's what we call the Total Solution. Our Coaches are our greatest asset to helping change the trend of obesity into a trend of activity!
Our Mission
Our mission and our passion is to reverse the trend of obesity by giving people the tools and support to achieve a fit and healthy body. We get you going and keep you going using a combination of proven fitness programs, easy-to-follow on-line diet guidelines, incredible incentives, and a revolutionary support system unlike any other in the industry. We have committed to building Team Beachbody into the largest comprehensive fitness and weight-loss community on earth, and the momentum is building.
Our Difference
Feeling and looking good makes people around you take notice. When they do, they'll want what you have achieved, and that's part of the power behind the Team Beachbody opportunity.
Our Breakthrough Products
Beachbody has created some of the most popular in-home video fitness and weight-loss solutions in history: P90X , Hip Hop Abs , Kathy Smith's: Project YOU, Yoga Booty Ballet , Slim in 6, Power 90 and Turbo Jam, Chalean Extreme, Brazil Butt Lift and others. We have also created a line of superior nutritional supplements and fitness accessories to help you maximize the healthy results from every workout. The entire catalog is promoted nationally with over $90 million a year in television advertising!
We encourage people to "Keep Pushing Play" every day so they can change their lives and inspire others to do the same. And we have created an innovative online community that brings our customers together so everyone has the support they need to succeed. We're proving that changing your body and your life is truly possible. And it CAN be fun, simple and rewarding.
Independent Beachbody Coach Opportunity
As an Independent Beachbody Coach, you'll be at the forefront of the most exciting new business opportunity to hit the health and fitness scene. If you want to guide, motivate, and inspire others to reach their goals and make money while doing it, becoming an Independent Beachbody Coach is for you.
How does Team Beachbody work?
A number of options are available to you as a Team Beachbody Coach to increase your income - either on a part-time or full-time basis.
How do I become and Independent Team Beachbody Coach?
This business has been designed so that ANYONE with a sincere desire for success can do it - regardless of background or experience.
What if I don't have a sales background?
This is a business about sharing, not selling. Marketing Team Beachbody is about sharing the opportunity with those you talk with every day. As a Team Beachbody Coach, you'll more than likely find your efforts directed more at educating and supporting customers and coaches rather than convincing people to buy something they feel they may not need.
Regardless of your background, experience, or education level, this is a business that can work for you. Successful Team Beachbody Coaches come from all walks of life and professional background.
* Education
* Real Estate
* Personal Fitness Trainers
* Advertising
* Stay at home parents
* Accountants
* Law Enforcement
* Retirees
* Military Personnel
* Students
* Fire Fighters
* And other...
Will I receive support and training?
YES! Once you join you will be part of the Beachbody Team. Our Training program is designed to give you "hands on" experience in learning how to present the membership and share the coaching opportunity with others.
What would I actually be doing?
A number of marketing options are available to fit your lifestyle and schedule, but in a nutshell: You connect with people who are interested in a fit and healthy lifestyle and present the Beachbody coaching opportunity to them.
Workout and eat healthier!
Support the customers Team Beachbody gives you.
You share with others the Team Beachbody vision.
Sign up others who want to join Team Beachbody
**Start Your Business**
It costs $39.95 to start your own business with Team Beachbody.
This includes:
* Your own Coach website including a retail and back office site.
* Sales aids and materials to help you get started immediately.
* Support from those on your team.
* Access to a wide range of marketing supplies.
* Business documents, communications, logo templates, e-cards.
* $80 - $90 million in national advertising each year from Beachbody to help you grow your business.
What if this doesn't work out?
Team Beachbody offers a 30 day money back guarantee. You're doing research now by learning about what this opportunity is all about. If you decide to invest $39.95 into your future, we believe we can provide you with a legitimate opportunity to make a living while making a difference.
However, consider this: If this were a large franchise offering an opportunity to own your own business, you might consider it. If it cost $100,000 to start, you'd have to ask yourself, "What if it doesn't work?".
At just $39.95, most people ask themselves, "What if this DOES work?" It's not by luck that you will succeed at this business. If you work your business as if you've invested $100,000, you can succeed by your efforts and the proven business model presented to you through training and support.
Team Beachbody
Team Beachbody is where good health and fitness are supported by a unique peer community and coaching network to help you get the results you want and deserve.
Our Vision
Created by CEO Carl Daikeler, the vision is simple: to make fitness, weight loss, and overall health fun and exceptionally rewarding. That means helping people to get in shape physically and financially. It's what we call the Total Solution. Our Coaches are our greatest asset to helping change the trend of obesity into a trend of activity!
Our Mission
Our mission and our passion is to reverse the trend of obesity by giving people the tools and support to achieve a fit and healthy body. We get you going and keep you going using a combination of proven fitness programs, easy-to-follow on-line diet guidelines, incredible incentives, and a revolutionary support system unlike any other in the industry. We have committed to building Team Beachbody into the largest comprehensive fitness and weight-loss community on earth, and the momentum is building.
Our Difference
Feeling and looking good makes people around you take notice. When they do, they'll want what you have achieved, and that's part of the power behind the Team Beachbody opportunity.
Our Breakthrough Products
Beachbody has created some of the most popular in-home video fitness and weight-loss solutions in history: P90X , Hip Hop Abs , Kathy Smith's: Project YOU, Yoga Booty Ballet , Slim in 6, Power 90 and Turbo Jam, Chalean Extreme, Brazil Butt Lift and others. We have also created a line of superior nutritional supplements and fitness accessories to help you maximize the healthy results from every workout. The entire catalog is promoted nationally with over $90 million a year in television advertising!
We encourage people to "Keep Pushing Play" every day so they can change their lives and inspire others to do the same. And we have created an innovative online community that brings our customers together so everyone has the support they need to succeed. We're proving that changing your body and your life is truly possible. And it CAN be fun, simple and rewarding.
Independent Beachbody Coach Opportunity
As an Independent Beachbody Coach, you'll be at the forefront of the most exciting new business opportunity to hit the health and fitness scene. If you want to guide, motivate, and inspire others to reach their goals and make money while doing it, becoming an Independent Beachbody Coach is for you.
How does Team Beachbody work?
A number of options are available to you as a Team Beachbody Coach to increase your income - either on a part-time or full-time basis.
How do I become and Independent Team Beachbody Coach?
This business has been designed so that ANYONE with a sincere desire for success can do it - regardless of background or experience.
What if I don't have a sales background?
This is a business about sharing, not selling. Marketing Team Beachbody is about sharing the opportunity with those you talk with every day. As a Team Beachbody Coach, you'll more than likely find your efforts directed more at educating and supporting customers and coaches rather than convincing people to buy something they feel they may not need.
Regardless of your background, experience, or education level, this is a business that can work for you. Successful Team Beachbody Coaches come from all walks of life and professional background.
* Education
* Real Estate
* Personal Fitness Trainers
* Advertising
* Stay at home parents
* Accountants
* Law Enforcement
* Retirees
* Military Personnel
* Students
* Fire Fighters
* And other...
Will I receive support and training?
YES! Once you join you will be part of the Beachbody Team. Our Training program is designed to give you "hands on" experience in learning how to present the membership and share the coaching opportunity with others.
What would I actually be doing?
A number of marketing options are available to fit your lifestyle and schedule, but in a nutshell: You connect with people who are interested in a fit and healthy lifestyle and present the Beachbody coaching opportunity to them.
Workout and eat healthier!
Support the customers Team Beachbody gives you.
You share with others the Team Beachbody vision.
Sign up others who want to join Team Beachbody
**Start Your Business**
It costs $39.95 to start your own business with Team Beachbody.
This includes:
* Your own Coach website including a retail and back office site.
* Sales aids and materials to help you get started immediately.
* Support from those on your team.
* Access to a wide range of marketing supplies.
* Business documents, communications, logo templates, e-cards.
* $80 - $90 million in national advertising each year from Beachbody to help you grow your business.
What if this doesn't work out?
Team Beachbody offers a 30 day money back guarantee. You're doing research now by learning about what this opportunity is all about. If you decide to invest $39.95 into your future, we believe we can provide you with a legitimate opportunity to make a living while making a difference.
However, consider this: If this were a large franchise offering an opportunity to own your own business, you might consider it. If it cost $100,000 to start, you'd have to ask yourself, "What if it doesn't work?".
At just $39.95, most people ask themselves, "What if this DOES work?" It's not by luck that you will succeed at this business. If you work your business as if you've invested $100,000, you can succeed by your efforts and the proven business model presented to you through training and support.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
A little delayed...but I ran a 10K....
Yes I had to make the blog title rhyme...just one of those days.
I look TERRIBLE in these pictures but bear with me. I promised a review of the race so here it is. I ran a 10K on July 31 with my little sister. It was her first and she finished and did great! For the first time ever racing with my sister, I beat her! I started getting a lead on her around 8K but refused to slow down to her pace...told her to keep up! I finished in 1:18 and even though that's not my best time ever, I was glad to finish and feel like a runner.
Steve's Run (http://www.swmich.edu/fireup/stevesrun/) is an event held by Southwestern Michigan College in Dowagiac in memoriam of an exceptional runner who graduated from SMC who lost his batte with cancer. The road and course trail is phenominal and if you're ever in the area the last weekend of July, I recommend running this race! We lucked out with the weather...it rained all morning, cleared up for the start and stayed relatively cool for the duration of the event. I love running the trails again (ran them in high school as part of our regular 5K course) and getting to spend a little time with my sister.
We took a "pre-race" picture...
(like I said..I look terrible so enjoy..haha)
We found our way to the back of the starting pack to make sure that we didn't start out too fast (a bad habit of mine especially).
Once we got to the trails, some of the volunteers had decorated one area to be like a safari. I saw the "Rhino Path" and had to take a picture of all of the awesome Platinum Presenters on our Thursday night Rhino Calls!
Overall it was a great day...best part being that I really felt like a runner again. I've been recovering from some damage I did to my lungs / ribcage training for my third marathon so it was great to get back in it, run a strong race without walking and feel so awesome afterwards!
And what event is complete without a Turbo girl pose??
I look TERRIBLE in these pictures but bear with me. I promised a review of the race so here it is. I ran a 10K on July 31 with my little sister. It was her first and she finished and did great! For the first time ever racing with my sister, I beat her! I started getting a lead on her around 8K but refused to slow down to her pace...told her to keep up! I finished in 1:18 and even though that's not my best time ever, I was glad to finish and feel like a runner.
Steve's Run (http://www.swmich.edu/fireup/stevesrun/) is an event held by Southwestern Michigan College in Dowagiac in memoriam of an exceptional runner who graduated from SMC who lost his batte with cancer. The road and course trail is phenominal and if you're ever in the area the last weekend of July, I recommend running this race! We lucked out with the weather...it rained all morning, cleared up for the start and stayed relatively cool for the duration of the event. I love running the trails again (ran them in high school as part of our regular 5K course) and getting to spend a little time with my sister.
We took a "pre-race" picture...
We found our way to the back of the starting pack to make sure that we didn't start out too fast (a bad habit of mine especially).
Once we got to the trails, some of the volunteers had decorated one area to be like a safari. I saw the "Rhino Path" and had to take a picture of all of the awesome Platinum Presenters on our Thursday night Rhino Calls!
It wasn't long after this that I started pulling away from Amelia a bit. She continued to do great through the trails, across a hot, flat area of the course and into the downhill finish. So proud of her!
And what event is complete without a Turbo girl pose??
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
TurboFire - what's in the box?
Ok I promised this entry AGES ago...about time I finally posted it, huh? My TurboFire arrived in an amazing, wonderful box...it was like Christmas! Some of you might remember my very excited posting of its arrival...
- Fuel the Fire: The most awesome nutrition guide. Not a meal plan as much as awesome recipe ideas and gorgeous pictures to guide you through. Definitely an awesome addition to ANY workout plan...not just TurboFire.
- Guide thru TurboFire: what it is, how it works, the music, the workouts and notes from Chalene
- Class Schedule: I keep mine on the fridge. It keeps me on track and its great to see what's next and what workout I should do today especially mornings when I don't have time to log in and check my Beachbody profile (www.teambeachbody.com/gabriellah99)
- The 5 Day Inferno Plan: 5 days to get my weekend body. Its a full meal / workout plan that has shown to have amazing results. I think I'm going to do it in November. Stay tuned!
- Get Fired Up DVD: A message from Chalene to get you fired up about the program. It's an intense program - every little piece of motivation helps and Chalene is an amazing motivator!
- 11 DVDs of workouts!!! Love the fact that typically a day's workout will only call for 1 CD. The Stretch 10 which typically follows a workout is repeated on each DVD so you don't have to mess with it mid-workout.
- Lower body band perfect for some of the exercises and a tape measure to track your progress.
Also included is the P90X results and recovery formula. I normally don't like drinks like that but this one is YUMMY! Just a note: you get all of these things if you order the complete system. There is a basic that has most but not all of this and also an add-on in case you order the basic and that's just not enough :-) I'd also recommend some resistance bands and handles for the strength training classes.
I love this workout. Love love love this workout :-) Granted tonight I'm going for a run since I'm running a 5K on Saturday but I'll do a TurboFire workout tomorrow again to get my fix.
Let me know if this piques your interest - I love sharing my addictions! What's your favorite workout of all time?
Head over to http://tiny.cc/CoachG for this and more awesome programs.
So why was I so excited? Inside I found....
- Guide thru TurboFire: what it is, how it works, the music, the workouts and notes from Chalene
- Class Schedule: I keep mine on the fridge. It keeps me on track and its great to see what's next and what workout I should do today especially mornings when I don't have time to log in and check my Beachbody profile (www.teambeachbody.com/gabriellah99)
- The 5 Day Inferno Plan: 5 days to get my weekend body. Its a full meal / workout plan that has shown to have amazing results. I think I'm going to do it in November. Stay tuned!
- Get Fired Up DVD: A message from Chalene to get you fired up about the program. It's an intense program - every little piece of motivation helps and Chalene is an amazing motivator!
- 11 DVDs of workouts!!! Love the fact that typically a day's workout will only call for 1 CD. The Stretch 10 which typically follows a workout is repeated on each DVD so you don't have to mess with it mid-workout.
- Lower body band perfect for some of the exercises and a tape measure to track your progress.
Also included is the P90X results and recovery formula. I normally don't like drinks like that but this one is YUMMY! Just a note: you get all of these things if you order the complete system. There is a basic that has most but not all of this and also an add-on in case you order the basic and that's just not enough :-) I'd also recommend some resistance bands and handles for the strength training classes.
I love this workout. Love love love this workout :-) Granted tonight I'm going for a run since I'm running a 5K on Saturday but I'll do a TurboFire workout tomorrow again to get my fix.
Let me know if this piques your interest - I love sharing my addictions! What's your favorite workout of all time?
Head over to http://tiny.cc/CoachG for this and more awesome programs.
Monday, August 16, 2010
August Wrap-up Shakeology Challenge!
I hate to say it but after the cool challenge set up by my friend Katie, I didn't follow through and do it. Let's try this again...The 3 Day Shakeology Challenge starts Sunday, August 29 but let me know by Friday, August 20 if you'd like to order the shakes from me so I can get them to you. For doing this challenge, I'll send you 6 shakes for the price of 5 or, if you order from www.shakeology.com/GabriellaH99 and let me know that you ordered for this challenge (email to gabriellah99@beachbodycoach.com) I'll send you a free packet in your choice of greenberry or chocolate. Be sure to include your shipping address in your email to me so I can send your shake! Look for the event on my facebook page (www.facebook.com/gabriellah99) and go to http://tiny.cc/3Day to sign up for the challenge!
Can't wait to hear about your awesome results!!!
Can't wait to hear about your awesome results!!!
Sunday, August 15, 2010
The real question
As I talk to more and more people about Beachbody, my workouts, Shakeology, and overall wellness I realize how much I love being a Beachbody coach. To be honest, I became a Beachbody coach is very different from why I love being a Beachbody coach.
Yes I've been active most all my life. Soccer, dance, marching band, gymnastics, cross country, track, and constantly being told to "go outside" on nice days (a great favor done by my parents to my siblings and me). Never really overweight but not the skinny girl either I made various vain "attempts" to watch what I ate as the typical self conscious teenager. In college I was always very active and avoided the freshman fifteen just by the nature of being in band and taking advantage of the salad bar and gyms on campus. It was never a conscious effort - just happened. Then I had surgery on my ankle and had to take a year off of running and virtually all physical activity as I relearned basic things like balance. I gained about 20 lbs and weighed over 170 through the rest of college and a year and a half after graduation. It bothered me and I tried to lose some weight but never made a well-educated, whole hearted effort. As my sister graduated from high school (weight at this point was over 175), I realized how fast time flies and I joined http://www.sparkpeople.com/ and started paying attention to the little habits I have that weren't helping me any healthier. I lost about 15 pounds and found it so very rewarding. I was taking control of my life and losing weight in a very healthy way. Good thing too because at my height, 170 put me near the upper end of a healthy weight. I wasn't overweight...yet. However, with the way I was going, "overweight" was in my very near future. Then there was the family history. I'll spare the details but there are plenty of weight related reasons for me to get that in check now while my metabolism is at its peak as opposed to try to undo years of habits I could improve now.
That's when I hit my plateu. I tried what felt like everything. I mixed up my calorie intakes, obsessed about tracking every bite of food. Did more weight lifting. Worked out in the morning. Switched it to evenings. Joined a new gym. Worked out twice a day. It was ridiculous. Seemed like I would never get under 160.
Then last fall I had a sick day that changed my life. We all know there's nothing good on daytime TV and as I don't have cable (one of my excuse busters and ways to save dough!) I had even fewer options for shows. Flipping channels I saw a commercial for Turbo Jam by Beachbody. Seemed like a good deal and a great way to bust the "I can't get to the gym today" excuse. If the DVDs are in my living room, I'd have no more excuses. It would be up to me to DECIDE to workout and do the right thing. The music was addicting and within the hour I had ordered my Turbo Jam. Once I started doing the workouts, I reactived my twitter account so I could talk to the creator of my new addiction: Chalene Johnson (chalenejohnson on twitter). I met a ton of Turbo Jam addicts and ended up going to a Beachbody Coach info meeting thanks to an invite from Chalene's sister, Jenelle Summers (turbosister on twitter). I heard all the great things that could come with being a coach but I'll be honest (just like I was with Jenelle that night) my main reason for becoming a coach was the savings I would get on Shakeology and other Beachbody products. Little did I know that the discounts would become the smallest benefit of being a coach.
Through twitter, I met so many amazing people whom I feel like I've known forever. I've been fortunate enough to meet several of these other wonderful coaches in person and others I email / text / twitter nearly daily. Not to mention that I quickly learned that as much as Chalene is a celebrity instructor, she didn't come by it by accident. She recommended books and daily reminds me (along with her thousands of adoring fans) that to-do lists and goal setting is the prime way to achieve success. I started 2010 with real goals thanks to books she recommended and have been en route of achieving them ever since. She's not the only God-send. My fellow Beachbody coaches are amazing. Beth, Kristy, and Jaime are my Turbo Sisters and we have an email string that just hasn't seemed to die. I send tweets back and forth with my Chicago girls Katie and Ashley on a regular basis. With everything going on lately, I don't know how I'd make it through without them. Ophie invited me to visit her TurboKick class in Indy and next thing I knew I wanted to teach classes in Fort Wayne. Well actually I wanted to go to classes here but after checking http://www.turbokick.com/ I didn't see any classes in the area so I figured I needed to learn how to teach. Thanks to the ladies I've mentioned so far and all of the other amazing Beachbody coaches I didn't name (sorry! This blog was already getting too long) my new drive is invigorating. I'm more productive at work, my personal life, my Beachbody business is starting gain a little drive, and its so exciting to hear how my own successes (big or small) are helping other people make changes.
So why did I become a Beachbody coach? Yeah it was for the discounts and opportunity to "maybe someday" make it a business. Why do I love being a Beachbody coach? Now that's the real question with an awesome answer. With this network, I've found more than fitness, I have wellness. I have amazing friends with the same kind of drive and determination. They understand the importance of a healthy and balanced lifestyle. They are helping me get through some of the toughest stuff in life. We laugh. We cry (rarely!). We support each other. And we get to work on our own businesses in the process. Who could ask for anything more?
For more information on becoming a Beachbody coach, leave me a voicemail by clicking the voicemail button at the bottom of my blog or send an email to gabriellah99@beachbodycoach.com.
Yes I've been active most all my life. Soccer, dance, marching band, gymnastics, cross country, track, and constantly being told to "go outside" on nice days (a great favor done by my parents to my siblings and me). Never really overweight but not the skinny girl either I made various vain "attempts" to watch what I ate as the typical self conscious teenager. In college I was always very active and avoided the freshman fifteen just by the nature of being in band and taking advantage of the salad bar and gyms on campus. It was never a conscious effort - just happened. Then I had surgery on my ankle and had to take a year off of running and virtually all physical activity as I relearned basic things like balance. I gained about 20 lbs and weighed over 170 through the rest of college and a year and a half after graduation. It bothered me and I tried to lose some weight but never made a well-educated, whole hearted effort. As my sister graduated from high school (weight at this point was over 175), I realized how fast time flies and I joined http://www.sparkpeople.com/ and started paying attention to the little habits I have that weren't helping me any healthier. I lost about 15 pounds and found it so very rewarding. I was taking control of my life and losing weight in a very healthy way. Good thing too because at my height, 170 put me near the upper end of a healthy weight. I wasn't overweight...yet. However, with the way I was going, "overweight" was in my very near future. Then there was the family history. I'll spare the details but there are plenty of weight related reasons for me to get that in check now while my metabolism is at its peak as opposed to try to undo years of habits I could improve now.
That's when I hit my plateu. I tried what felt like everything. I mixed up my calorie intakes, obsessed about tracking every bite of food. Did more weight lifting. Worked out in the morning. Switched it to evenings. Joined a new gym. Worked out twice a day. It was ridiculous. Seemed like I would never get under 160.
Then last fall I had a sick day that changed my life. We all know there's nothing good on daytime TV and as I don't have cable (one of my excuse busters and ways to save dough!) I had even fewer options for shows. Flipping channels I saw a commercial for Turbo Jam by Beachbody. Seemed like a good deal and a great way to bust the "I can't get to the gym today" excuse. If the DVDs are in my living room, I'd have no more excuses. It would be up to me to DECIDE to workout and do the right thing. The music was addicting and within the hour I had ordered my Turbo Jam. Once I started doing the workouts, I reactived my twitter account so I could talk to the creator of my new addiction: Chalene Johnson (chalenejohnson on twitter). I met a ton of Turbo Jam addicts and ended up going to a Beachbody Coach info meeting thanks to an invite from Chalene's sister, Jenelle Summers (turbosister on twitter). I heard all the great things that could come with being a coach but I'll be honest (just like I was with Jenelle that night) my main reason for becoming a coach was the savings I would get on Shakeology and other Beachbody products. Little did I know that the discounts would become the smallest benefit of being a coach.
Through twitter, I met so many amazing people whom I feel like I've known forever. I've been fortunate enough to meet several of these other wonderful coaches in person and others I email / text / twitter nearly daily. Not to mention that I quickly learned that as much as Chalene is a celebrity instructor, she didn't come by it by accident. She recommended books and daily reminds me (along with her thousands of adoring fans) that to-do lists and goal setting is the prime way to achieve success. I started 2010 with real goals thanks to books she recommended and have been en route of achieving them ever since. She's not the only God-send. My fellow Beachbody coaches are amazing. Beth, Kristy, and Jaime are my Turbo Sisters and we have an email string that just hasn't seemed to die. I send tweets back and forth with my Chicago girls Katie and Ashley on a regular basis. With everything going on lately, I don't know how I'd make it through without them. Ophie invited me to visit her TurboKick class in Indy and next thing I knew I wanted to teach classes in Fort Wayne. Well actually I wanted to go to classes here but after checking http://www.turbokick.com/ I didn't see any classes in the area so I figured I needed to learn how to teach. Thanks to the ladies I've mentioned so far and all of the other amazing Beachbody coaches I didn't name (sorry! This blog was already getting too long) my new drive is invigorating. I'm more productive at work, my personal life, my Beachbody business is starting gain a little drive, and its so exciting to hear how my own successes (big or small) are helping other people make changes.
So why did I become a Beachbody coach? Yeah it was for the discounts and opportunity to "maybe someday" make it a business. Why do I love being a Beachbody coach? Now that's the real question with an awesome answer. With this network, I've found more than fitness, I have wellness. I have amazing friends with the same kind of drive and determination. They understand the importance of a healthy and balanced lifestyle. They are helping me get through some of the toughest stuff in life. We laugh. We cry (rarely!). We support each other. And we get to work on our own businesses in the process. Who could ask for anything more?
For more information on becoming a Beachbody coach, leave me a voicemail by clicking the voicemail button at the bottom of my blog or send an email to gabriellah99@beachbodycoach.com.
Saturday, August 14, 2010
I knew him before he was famous!
Once upon a marching field not so long ago I met a red headed horn player with a hysterical sense of humor. After hours on the field and in Bible study we parted aways and had facebook to stay in touch. Imagine my surprise when I saw him post that NINE of his photographs were going to be featured in the Michiana Hematology Oncology Center located very near my parents' home. Excitedly, I told him I would be sure to stop by and see his photographs on display. I was back in the area in the building right next door and got the opportunity to spend a little time to visit the MHO center and look for his work. I didn't have to look far! One of his photos was the first thing to be seen when I walked in the door!
I wasn't able to see all of his photographs but it was amazing to find the 6 that I did and hear the reactions of those who work in the building. His work was displayed all over the building, in patient areas, behind reception desks...it was awesome. To get to say "Yeah I know the photographer" was fun too! Check out the rest of my pics of his pics below. For more information about Brian Wolfe, his work, photos and more, go to his website at www.brianwolfey.com/blog. Enjoy!
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
My Summer Vacation - Harrison Family Camping 2010
Just a side note: none of these photos have been post processed...what you see is what I saw exactly. I'm not a pro by any means but I love trying!
Ok so as promised, a multimedia extravaganza. The only sense you'll deprive with this is smell I think.
The Harrison family is known for a couple things. Being a family of (mostly) engineers, we're a solid group of dorks and we love it...so what better way to start out a family vacation than....
Yup...Star Wars...In Concert. Really? You want to try to find a combination I'd geek out about more than symphony and Star Wars? Ok well we found one in my dessert. I read the description and I had to have it...whiskey, chocolate and cake. Pair that with my cappuccino and I was a happy happy girl (in desperate need of her TurboFire or a run...)
Heaven on a plate...seriously...
For those who don't know, I'm a marching band dork. Not just a dork...I was the drum major (conductor for the non bandos out there) in high school and marched in the Michigan Marching Band. As soon as I saw this score, I had to send it to my bff Christen as she was a drum major too. We were the rockstar DMs of the tri county area...we would have LOVED conducting this...
And then because I've developed a slight obsession with Chewbacca, I had to take a picture with him!
From there we headed up to our campsite where we ran into the second thing for which the Harrison family is known: bringing a thunderstorm to any campsite. Not kidding, a few years ago we ended a 3 month drought in Indiana by going camping. Rained for 3 days straight and it was the first trip which we almost left camp for 4 solid walls and a dry bed...but we toughed it out. ANYWAY...back to 2010. We're driving up, lil sis (referenced throughout this blog as Stinker) is riding with me and we're watching this **spectacular** lightening show in our path...before we realize that's right over camp. I hand her my phone, direct her to my weather app and the entire radar map for the Ludington and surrounding area is red. Not good. I slept in the car because I didn't want my sleeping bag to get soaked between my car and the tent...and something about all that lightening didn't seem fun either. Regardless, we survived another "character building experience" as Daddy has labeled them.
Dry off, clean up, and back into the cars to meet some friends at their sailboat they had docked up this way for the summer. Stinker is into boats like I am cars so she was thrilled when Captain allowed her to take over the helm. She did great!
I was trying not to get seasick (fail) and tried to focus on taking some good pictures...only got a couple.
The next day I got up determined to finally get that run...and run I did. I felt great and really enjoyed the serenity and calm of the sunrise in Northern Michigan. G-o-r-g-e-o-u-s.
The view
The hill
The serenity
I got back from my run and joined the family on our bikes for a ride out to the same lighthouse to which I almost ran less than an hour before...more exercise with the family! Yay! I love seeing my family active. This time I had my camera and caught some fun shots...we couldn't have asked for a more beautiful day! Here are my favorite shots.
Back to camp with us to get cleaned up and head out to a family tradition, Mac Woods Dune Rides. Seriously a blast. If you've never been out on the dunes like this, I highly recommend it. Great view of the lake too as you can see in the video :-)
To make things even cooler, we were in an International truck! For those who don't know, I work for Navistar, the holding company of International Truck. We no longer make this model so it was cool to ride in a piece of my company's history. Of course a photo shoot was in order!
In the garage was one of the older models and I love this grille...
One more night of enjoying the campsite...love campfires :-)
All too soon it was time to head back. Mom and I had a banquet Sunday so we drove back Saturday afternoon. I had a cute chipmunk buddy while I was loading the car...the camera was already packed though so I had to "shoot" him with my phone...can you find him?
Lil Silver Surfer did a great job...Mom and I took back a LOT of stuff...
So that was the trip. Lots of fun, good times, great family memories, loved getting "away from it all" for sure...and with our family, its always an adventure!
Ok so as promised, a multimedia extravaganza. The only sense you'll deprive with this is smell I think.
The Harrison family is known for a couple things. Being a family of (mostly) engineers, we're a solid group of dorks and we love it...so what better way to start out a family vacation than....
Yup...Star Wars...In Concert. Really? You want to try to find a combination I'd geek out about more than symphony and Star Wars? Ok well we found one in my dessert. I read the description and I had to have it...whiskey, chocolate and cake. Pair that with my cappuccino and I was a happy happy girl (in desperate need of her TurboFire or a run...)
 |
| From Star Wars In Concert! |
For those who don't know, I'm a marching band dork. Not just a dork...I was the drum major (conductor for the non bandos out there) in high school and marched in the Michigan Marching Band. As soon as I saw this score, I had to send it to my bff Christen as she was a drum major too. We were the rockstar DMs of the tri county area...we would have LOVED conducting this...
 |
| From Star Wars In Concert! |
And then because I've developed a slight obsession with Chewbacca, I had to take a picture with him!
 |
| From Star Wars In Concert! |
From there we headed up to our campsite where we ran into the second thing for which the Harrison family is known: bringing a thunderstorm to any campsite. Not kidding, a few years ago we ended a 3 month drought in Indiana by going camping. Rained for 3 days straight and it was the first trip which we almost left camp for 4 solid walls and a dry bed...but we toughed it out. ANYWAY...back to 2010. We're driving up, lil sis (referenced throughout this blog as Stinker) is riding with me and we're watching this **spectacular** lightening show in our path...before we realize that's right over camp. I hand her my phone, direct her to my weather app and the entire radar map for the Ludington and surrounding area is red. Not good. I slept in the car because I didn't want my sleeping bag to get soaked between my car and the tent...and something about all that lightening didn't seem fun either. Regardless, we survived another "character building experience" as Daddy has labeled them.
Dry off, clean up, and back into the cars to meet some friends at their sailboat they had docked up this way for the summer. Stinker is into boats like I am cars so she was thrilled when Captain allowed her to take over the helm. She did great!
 |
| From Harrison family Camping trip 2010 - 1 of 3 |
I was trying not to get seasick (fail) and tried to focus on taking some good pictures...only got a couple.
 |
| From Harrison family Camping trip 2010 - 1 of 3 |
 |
| From Harrison family Camping trip 2010 - 1 of 3 |
 |
| From Harrison family Camping trip 2010 - 1 of 3 |
The next day I got up determined to finally get that run...and run I did. I felt great and really enjoyed the serenity and calm of the sunrise in Northern Michigan. G-o-r-g-e-o-u-s.
The view
 |
| From Harrison family Camping trip 2010 - 2 of 3 |
 |
| From Harrison family Camping trip 2010 - 2 of 3 |
The hill
 |
| From Harrison family Camping trip 2010 - 2 of 3 |
The serenity
 |
| From Harrison family Camping trip 2010 - 2 of 3 |
I got back from my run and joined the family on our bikes for a ride out to the same lighthouse to which I almost ran less than an hour before...more exercise with the family! Yay! I love seeing my family active. This time I had my camera and caught some fun shots...we couldn't have asked for a more beautiful day! Here are my favorite shots.
 |
| From Harrison family Camping trip 2010 - 2 of 3 |
 |
| From Harrison family Camping trip 2010 - 2 of 3 |
 |
| From Harrison family Camping trip 2010 - 2 of 3 |
 |
| From Harrison family Camping trip 2010 - 2 of 3 |
Back to camp with us to get cleaned up and head out to a family tradition, Mac Woods Dune Rides. Seriously a blast. If you've never been out on the dunes like this, I highly recommend it. Great view of the lake too as you can see in the video :-)
To make things even cooler, we were in an International truck! For those who don't know, I work for Navistar, the holding company of International Truck. We no longer make this model so it was cool to ride in a piece of my company's history. Of course a photo shoot was in order!
 |
| From Harrison family Camping trip 2010 - 2 of 3 |
In the garage was one of the older models and I love this grille...
 |
| From Harrison family Camping trip 2010 - 2 of 3 |
One more night of enjoying the campsite...love campfires :-)
All too soon it was time to head back. Mom and I had a banquet Sunday so we drove back Saturday afternoon. I had a cute chipmunk buddy while I was loading the car...the camera was already packed though so I had to "shoot" him with my phone...can you find him?
 |
| From Harrison family Camping trip 2010 - 3 of 3 |
Lil Silver Surfer did a great job...Mom and I took back a LOT of stuff...
 |
| From Harrison family Camping trip 2010 - 3 of 3 |
 |
| From Harrison family Camping trip 2010 - 3 of 3 |
So that was the trip. Lots of fun, good times, great family memories, loved getting "away from it all" for sure...and with our family, its always an adventure!
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