Relaxing Into It

I have been serious about healthy living for twenty months, almost two years! I learned in the very beginning that this is a marathon, not a sprint. I am in this for the long haul, for improved health and quality of life for the REST of my life.

I have learned a lot of great, healthy habits that I've been practicing for a while. It's no longer a chore to reach for fruits and veggies. It's no longer a duty to exercise, it's something I enjoy and even look forward to.  I am still constantly learning and pushing myself, but I "think" I've reached a place where I am much more relaxed. As Schoolhouse Rock taught me, "Knowledge is Power!"

It was a good week of relying on the knowledge that I have gained.

Fitness: A stellar week! I worked out for a total of 205 minutes. I ran for my fastest overall pace on Monday, plus had a great "long" run on Saturday. A year ago, I was just learning to run and didn't love it. What a year has done! I love running and wake up ready to go on running days. I can't wait to hit the pavement! I only got two strength workouts in due to a busy schedule; I want to do three this week.

Monday: a.m. running
Tuesday: warm up on the exercise bike, followed by legs/core/arms strength circuits
Wednesday: a.m. running
Thursday: exercise bike workout
Friday: warm up on the exercise bike, followed by legs/core/arms strength circuits
Saturday: 4 mile run!
Sunday: rest day

Nutrition: It was a good week in this department too. I focused on lots of fruits and veggies. I mentioned making zucchini "pasta" last week, and lot of folks wanted me to share more about that. I made it two nights in a row, once raw and once cooked. I used the smallest julienne attachment on my mandolin to make long strips. On the cooked night, I sauteed it with olive oil, onion and garlic, but only until it was al dente. Then I topped it with my homemade chunky spaghetti sauce. On the raw night, the heat from the sauce warmed up the raw pasta, but it was still nice and crunchy. It was delish either way!

For this week, I'll keep my focus on fresh fruit and veggie, especially more raw produce. My breakfasts this week will be green smoothies - almond milk, spinach or kale, and fruit. They are a great way to start the day!

The Scale: I'm on a break from the scale right now.


Non-Scale Victories: This week, running was definitely a victory! Monday, my average pace was 13:04 for 2.37 miles. And Saturday, I ran 4 miles at an average pace of 13:50! I've stepped up my Saturday running to increase my endurance. I feel strong and I love the way I feel when I run!

Thanks for your continued support & encouragement! I can't do this without you!