Ask, and you shall receive...A few of my FAVORITE recipes...

If you know me, you know I LOVE to bake.  But, I also love to cook.  The thing is, I am much less inclined to try challenging cooking recipes.  But, I have come a long way in both areas and now I get a lot of questions about recipes, both of the sweet stuff and the whole-food-good-for-you type.  Last year, my resolution was to make my own soups for lunch.  So I tried out a bunch of different kinds, and found a favorite.  I can eat it every day.  I also have become more adventurous with cooking.  The requirements for cooking is that it be easy, healthy and delicious.  The requirements for baking is that it be fun and amazing.  I wanted to extend some of my favorites to you.  The cooking recipes are, for the most part, whole foods only, nothing processed, gluten free, dairy free, sugar free and nutritious.  I hope you enjoy some of these!!

Rosemary Chicken and Red Potatoes

 2.5 lbs Chicken Breast
2 tbsp Olive Oil
Rosemary
1 tbsp Garlic
Salt or alternate seasoning
1 tbsp Paprika
1 tsp Pepper
3-4 Red Potatoes

Heat oven to 425
Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.  Toss chicken and potatoes to coat.  Place in a glass cooking dish, separating potatoes in one and chicken in another.  The potatoes go in first and cook for 15 mn.  Then, add chicken and cook for another 35 mn, or until potatoes are soft and chicken is cooked thoroughly.

This is a delicious dinner, super easy and saves well if you have leftovers.  You can also pair it with rice, add to a salad or pasta.  You can play with the seasonings to your personal taste.  I LOVE garlic and paprika so I add more.

Black Bean Sweet Potato Soup

1 Carton Veggie Broth, or Chicken Broth.  Low sodium preferred
1 Large Can of Diced Tomatoes.  Fire roasted works well.
1-2 cans of Black Bean.  Low sodium preferred.
1 Sweet Potato, roughly peeled and diced
1 Green or Red pepper, chopped to your liking
1 tbsp minced garlic
1/2 Red Onion, diced to your preference
Cilantro, chopped.  As much or as little as you want!
1 tbsp Olive Oil
1 tbsp Cumin
1 tbsp Taco seasoning, or whatever seasonings you like.  I sometimes use Chili Pepper, Cayenne, paprika...


In a large pot, add olive oil and and onion and cook down for about 5 minutes, then add garlic for another minute.
Add sweet potato and green pepper for and cook for 5 minutes.
Add balck beans, tomatoes, broth and seasonings.  Simmer for about 30 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are soft.  Add cilantro towards the end.

Super easy, very satisfying and makes enough for 1-2 weeks worth of soup!!  I have also added kale, carrots, and different kinds of beans, or even chicken!  Make it your own!

Homemade Granola Bars

1 2/3 cups rolled oats
1/3 c wheat pastry flour, or use gluten free flour if desired
1/3 c raw honey
1 tsp vanilla
1/4 c coconut oil
1/2 of a chocolate bar roughly chopped
1/2 cup nuts
1/2 cup dried fruit.  I love dried cranberries!

Heat oven to 350.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
Mix coconut oil and honey together.  Add in oats and flour.
Fold in chocolate bar, nuts and dried fruit.
Spread mixture onto baking sheet.  I only use about half of the baking sheet, so the granola bars are thicker.
Bake for about 20 minutes, or until desired texture is reached.  I prefer mine softer.

I play with this one a lot!  Sometimes I just get trail mix from Sprout's and use that.  As long as it is about a cup, use whatever excites you!!  I eat these as a snack, or as fuel on long rides or runs.  If you make them crispy, you can break them up and use them as cereal or a topping for yogurt, fruit, etc.

PERFECT Chocolate Chip Cookies

2 1/4 cups flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt.  I use Kosher.
2 sticks real butter, softened.  Important!  Use REAL butter!
2 eggs
1 tsp Vanilla
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups chocolate chips.  Semi-sweet, milk chocolate, butterscotch, white chocolate.  Whatever you like!

Heat oven to 350.
Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.  Add eggs, vanilla and beat until completely smooth.
Mix in flour and baking soda until combined.  Do not over mix.
Fold in chocolate chips.
Drop about 1 tbsp of dough, about 1-2 inches apart onto cookie sheets.  Each cookie sheet will hold about 12 cookies.
Bake for about 10 minutes, until cookies begin to look golden on the bottom.  Take them out before they are too brown.

I have played with so many different cookie recipes, until I finally figured this one out!  It makes the perfect soft and chewy cookie.  It really doesn't get much better then a fresh cookie, out of the oven, all soft and chewy and PERFECT!

....And now.  If you have come this far...I am about to disclose two recipes that I receive a lot of compliments on.  The Fruit Crisp, and the Pumpkin Cheesecake.  I was reluctant to share, but I think that you should be able to enjoy these with out me, if you want.  Or, feel free to bake them and bring me your version.  I promise I wouldn't mind!!!

Fruit Crisp

6 cups of fruit.  Apples are my go-to, but berries, peaches, or any other fruit can work too!  Apple and cranberry is a great combo, and so is strawberry blueberry!
1/2 cup sugar.  If you use apples, try brown sugar.
1 tbsp Cornstarch
1 tsp Lemon Juice.  Meyer lemons are perfect if you can find them.
1 tbsp Cinnamon if using apples

3/4 c flour.  For gluten free, use gluten free flour.  Cup For Cup is a great one.
1/2 c Rolled Oats
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
6 tbsp butter
1/3 cup sugar

Preheat oven to 375.
For the filling: Mix fruit, lemon juice, sugar and transfer to an 8" baking dish.
For the topping: Cream softened butter and sugar.  Add in oats, flour, baking powder and salt. Mixture will be a rough texture.
Sprinkle the topping onto the fruit.  You can make little clumps so it's kind of a streussel topping.
Bake until bubbling in the center, about 1 hour.

This is super-easy, and not as high-calorie as a pie with a crust.  It's easy to serve, and if you add ice cream, everyone will remember you until the end of time!

Okay...here it is.  I have been making this for years now.  It started as a recipe I stole from a doctor at work.  Then, I got adventurous and started playing with it.  I think I have perfected it.  It now stands alone amongst any dish.  When Thanksgiving arrives, we all start talking about it.  When you eat it, you just melt.  I have never seen so much love for a cheesecake, as this one.  It is worth the time, and the energy, to see people eat this.  I swear I have more friends now, just because of this cheesecake.  You might think, "It's just a cheesecake."  No.  It's not.  It's pure magic, I promise.

Pumpkin Cheesecake

Graham Cracker Crust:
2 cups graham cracker crumbs.  Don't buy the already crushed crumbs.  Go big.  Buy the graham crackers and crush them yourself.  More love, more flavor and more fun to crush them!
1 stick melted butter
3 tbsp sugar.  Brown sugar brings more flavor and makes it chewier.  If you like a crispier crust, use white
Cinnamon, to taste.  You don't HAVE to, but come on...

Crush crumbs, add sugar and cinnamon.  Mix in melted butter and combine.  Press into a cheesecake pan, making sure to come up on the sides.  I dump it all in the pan, get my hands wet, and work my way out.  Set pan aside.  Move onto the magic.

Pumpkin Cheesecake:
1 1/4 lbs of cream cheese(about 3 boxes) softened to room temp(leave out of the fridge for about 4 hours to soften)
1 1/4 cup sugar.  I use about 1 cup of brown and 1/4 white.
1 tbsp flour
1 tbsp cinnamon
1 tsp Allspice
Nutmeg, if desired
1 tbsp vanilla
1/2 cup sour cream
4 large eggs
1 cup pumpkin

Preheat oven to 350.
Place cream cheese in large bowl and beat with a mixer for 1 minute.  Use a spatula to scrape down the sides.
Add sugar and mix for another minute.
Add in flour and spices and beat for 1 minute.
Add in vanilla and sour cream and mix until incorporated.
Beat eggs in a separate bowl, then slowly beat into the mix.
Add pumpkin last and mix until combined.
Pour into the cheesecake pan and put in the oven, on a baking sheet, in the middle rack.
Bake for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the middle looks set, and not liquid.  Then, turn oven off and leave the cheesecake in the oven for another 15 minutes.  After 15 minutes, open oven door, and let sit for another 15 minutes.  Remove and let cool.  Refrigerate for at least four hours, to over night.  The longer you let it cool in the fridge, the more "set" the cheese cake will become.  Ideally, it's the best when refrigerated over night.

There it is!!!  In all it's glory.  The best cheesecake.  Ever.  The original recipe calls for heavy whipping cream instead of sour cream.  I prefer the sour cream because it gives the cheesecake more of a sour, tangy flavor, while the heavy whipping cream seems flat.  Also, the brown sugar is a recent change, because the molasses of the brown sugar really gives it a nice, rich flavor and pairs really well with the pumpkin.  The original recipe called for ginger and cloves, but I find these spices really overtook the cheesecake and made it taste too much like a cookie, and less like a cheesecake, so I prefer cinnamon, Allspice and sometimes a dash of nutmeg.  But, play with it to find what you like.  I sometimes add a whipped topping, mixing heavy whipping cream white sugar, and cinnamon.  You don't need it, but it sure is good!

Well, phew!  There it is!  A few of my favorite recipes.  As you can probably tell, I'm all about balance in life.  I eat pretty well, but I also believe in enjoying the sweet things in life on occasion.  I really hope you can try some of these, and share them with your loved ones, friends, and family.  Let me know how it goes for you!!!!  And if you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask!  Enjoy! 


 

I love Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. Well, okay, my birthday is my favorite holiday, but that just sounds kind of selfish to say. Thanksgiving is my favorite non-selfish holiday. There. But I got to thinking today of why it's my favorite and it was like being slammed in the face with a million memories. So, I decided to try to write it out. We all have such vivid memories of Thanksgiving, and here are some of mine....
When I was younger, Thanksgiving meant Gammys house. Which meant, family. And lots of noise, chaos and jovial times. My immediate family would crowd into whatever van we had at the time. Usually a Previa, which resembled an egg. It was cool when we were young, but by the coming of the second one we were pretty much over the minivan thing. We also had a larger van, that had curtains and a bed in the back. Of course, this van would be dubbed the "child molester van" and with good reason(it fit the bill), but man, it was comfy. My brother, Kyle always seemed to get the bed, while my sister Michelle and I were left in the captains seats. Probably best, as you never know what three hours in a van could do to you. No matter the vehicle, we were always guaranteed some memories would be made, just in the journey of getting to Thanksgiving dinner at Gammys. We had troll dolls that would put on little plays. They would discuss their favorite foods. They always preferred mashed potatoes. Tommy was the main troll, with Melissa coming in a little later. By the time we got to Joey, who was by far the coolest, rockerish of them all, we were over the trolls.
We listened to music of varying genres. My poor parents had to endure New Kids on the Block, Wilson Phillips, Paula Abdul. All in a tape deck, mind you.  It was also a time for the parents to introduce us to some of their music and it was then I fell in love with Marc Cohn, Fleetwood Mac, Bruce Springsteen.  We sang along.  We argued.  We bonded. 
On our way to Gammy's house, we were allowed to have fast food.  We never got fast food, but lucky for us, In N Out was the halfway point and we would stop and indulge.  Nothing ever tasted better to me.  We would get so excited to pull up and choose from the menu, like it ever changed.  But we learned the special things on the menu like "animal style" and neopolitan shakes.  We got our little lap mats and a wad of napkins and we were in heaven.  Usually by the time we got there, it was a breaking point/meltdown point/pee in your pants point, but In N Out solved all these issues.
Gammy's house was always like walking into a theatre production.  We had so many characters there!  It was so loud, and it was so calming at the same time.  It was home.  And we just knew that was the way it was.  Gammy was always so busy, with everyone taking turns pestering her over some minor detail.  "No, no.  Do it THIS way."  Grandpa Bob was discussing some world event in his loud, dramatic tone.  Don't get him started on Michael Jackson, and by the way, OJ Simpson is innocent because he went to USC.  He would ask me, "To be, or not to be, that is the question."  I never knew the answer, but it peaked my interest enough to get into public speaking.  Uncle Randy was into music and his booming voice, and husky vocals were so impressive.  He could play anything on the guitar, and he could do it well.  His wife, at the time, was the "fun aunt" and she gave me my first leopard print, sexy bathing suit.  I thought I was pretty hot, but wow...  Uncle Clark was the guy who was intimidating, intelligent and if he spoke, you listened.  He always seemed larger than life and even his impromptu speeches seemed as if they had been planned and rehearsed.  Aunt Marla and Uncle George were like my second parents and seeing them always warmed my heart.  Until Uncle George and my dad ganged up on us and tickled us to death, dubbed "Tickle Torture."  My cousins were my best friends and over the years we had so many memories in that house, at Thanksgiving.  Since we had to sit at the kid's table well into our teens, we got into so much trouble there.  I shouldn't even go into it, but let's just say there were a lot of firsts, despite our parents being in the next room.  Hey, what can I say?
Dinner was always a production.  I remember one year, my grandma tried to get us to sit boy-girl-boy and I lost it.  I ran crying to my mom's room and refused to continue with Thanksgiving.  What a brat!  I finally returned, embarrassed, but we never did assigned seating again.  We loaded our plates with turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, rolls.  No one ever left hungry.  No one ever left, period.  We all stayed the night, and the fun continued all weekend.  We had fun times, playing in the pool, walking around the neighborhood, being kids.  No idea it would ever not be that way.  No clue that things change.  But they do.
These days, Thanksgiving is different.  Now, it's just our immediate family.  Gammy, Grandpa Bob, Uncle George all celebrate in heaven.  But despite several people being noticeably absent, we have a great time.  There's still the chaos, the loudness, the unique characters, the laughing, the stories, the experience of sharing.  Thanksgiving has evolved, but it is none the less meaningful.  I now get to bake a pumpkin cheesecake.  I still indulge in stuffing like a ravenous crow, or something like that.  I get to sit at "The Big Kid's Table."  I get to be surrounded by the ones I love.  I get to be thankful for everything Thanksgiving is, was, and will be.  Happy Thanksgiving!   

This is how we do it!

Hey, I'm just like you.  I put my Coeur running shorts on one leg at a time.  And just like you, I struggle with motivating myself at times.  Sometimes I struggle with the Gemini in me.  One twin wants to be ambitious and workout for hours, while the other thinks that baking and watching E! News sounds pretty dang good.  But over the years, I've got it pretty much figured out.  And while I still struggle at times, and I totally empathize with the posts about how you just couldn't manage to get that workout it, I have figured out how to work around that evil, less-than-ambitious twin.  So I wanted to share some tips I use to motivate myself and get that workout in!

Even Easton has to find motivation sometimes!

1. It's in the "plan."  Just like you plan to go to work, and you plan to go to that bridal shower, you have to put it in the plan to workout.  It's not an option, it's on the list of Things To Do.  And you know you want to check that box off!


2.  Set goals on Sunday.  Write it out and then commit to it.  I learned this while training for Ironman.  I HAD to get my workouts in and knowing that I needed them all, I was less likely to talk myself out of them.  Don't take No for an answer when it comes to getting to your goals.


3.  If you know that working out after work or a long day probably won't happen, then bite the bullet and wake up early to get it done.  You won't be sorry when you get off work and you don't workout, because you are FREE!  You already worked out. 


4.  Along the lines of waking up early to get it in...set your alarm to a random number.  For example, I have to be ON my trainer by 5am to get my workout in.  So I set my alarm to 4:53am.  This somehow tricks me into thinking I was going to be up at this time anyway, since it's a random time.  IDK why this works for me.  But it does.  Also, I wake up to the song, "Happy."  Come on, how could you not be? 


5.  Set your clothes out the night before.  You don't need to make these decisions in the dark when you are half asleep.  Set out your adorable workout gear(ummm, Coeur, right?) in the bathroom so all you have to do is put them on and go.  If they are cute, bonus.  I workout better in cute clothes.


6.  Make a playlist that you can only use when you workout.  Make new ones every so often to keep it interesting.  Be fun.  I'll do a throwback playlist, and think about where I was when they were popular.  I'll make one with just gangster rap and pretend I'm super hard-core, because, well, duh.  Or, if I am feeling kind of down, I'll put a bunch of sappy love songs on it and just call it therapy.  Whatever it takes, man.


7.  Find things to look forward to.  When I couldn't run, I went to the gym and did the elliptical.  And I watched the Cooking Network.  I learned all about broccoli one day, and honey the next day.  I got all inspired and made broccoli with a honey Dijon dressing.  I also subscribe to Glamour, but the deal is I can only read it on the trainer.  Workout AND learn what the best hair products are?  Uh, that's called multi-tasking, friends.


8.  Go with a friend.  If you don't have anything you are training for, find someone who does have something.  Be their cheerleader.  Be a part of their journey, and get your workout in at the same time.  Also, you are less likely to bail on a friend.


9.  Change your mind.  So often we think of working out as this awful chore.  We are always stoked when we do it, but we go in to it thinking it's this necessary evil.  Well, let me get real.  That attitude sucks.  Life is what you make it.  I have lost the opportunity to workout on a few occasions and it has made me really grateful for what I am able to do now.  You say, "I HAVE to go for a run."  I say, "You GET to go on a run."  Change your mindset.  Be grateful.


10.  Recovery is a discipline too.  As much as I encourage working out, I also encourage balance.  Plan the day you want to consider your recovery day, or your "cheat" day or whatever you want to call it.  Do what you want.  If you want to workout, do it.  But if you really just want to bake and watch E! News, then live it up.  You are more likely to want to workout and workout well if you do take the time to recover and enjoy some well-deserved time off.  You don't want to push yourself so hard that you end up despising working out and you break down.  Your body and mind deserve a break once in a while!

These are a few things I am happy to share with you all.  Please, let me know what you all do to get yourself motivated!  No excuses, right?!

The Art of the Interview

Most of my blogs revolve around health and fitness, but I have other things that I am passionate about...I swear!  So this is a blog of a different type.  You've been warned!


Years ago, I was in the corporate world and I had the honor of hiring and training for the company.  I loved it!  Well, the corporate world was not for me, but I was lucky enough to find a job that combines my love of animals with my love of interviewing people.  Combined, I have been interviewing people for about 10 years on and off, and have learned a great deal about what makes a GREAT interview. 


The other day I realized that interviewing is becoming a lost art form.  Which is really a bummer because it is such a vital tool in life.  So I put together a list of things that can help you when you are interviewing.  Please spread the word.  Let's bring back the Art of the Interview!!


The Art of the Interview


1.  Show up early.  Your interview time is not approximate.  It is not a party where being fashionably late is acceptable.  Being on time shows that you are punctual, reliable, and you respect other people's time.  It also shows that you are capable of arriving on time to your job.  When you arrive(early) be kind to everyone.  I will ask the reception team how they viewed the person who came in.  It says a lot about someone's character if they are kind to everyone, not just the interviewer.  Be present, be kind, and be on time. 


2.  Always dress professionally, whether you are interviewing for a job on Wall Street or Jack in the Box.  Professional wear includes: dress slacks, blouses, button up shirts, blazers, skirts, ties, suits, dress shoes.  Women: Makeup and hair should be conservative.  An interview is not the place to try your new glitter sparkle cat eye and red lip.  Do not show cleavage.  Do not show too much leg.  Do not wear jeans, flip flops, t-shirts, or anything that you would consider wearing to a club, a gym or a BBQ.  This is an impression you are making, so dress to impress.  You want the interviewer to see that you are dressed professionally and not be distracted by your attire.


3.  Practice shaking hands.  You might think this doesn't matter, but it does.  You want a firm handshake.  Not weak, not aggressive.  You want to shake the interviewer's hand, and look them in the eye.  This says a lot.  So while it might sound funny, try to practice your handshake.


4.  Bring a copy of your resume and 3 professional references.  Your resume should be well organized, easy to read, and on nice paper.  Have someone help you with your resume if you are unsure of how to format it.  And always, always, proof-read it before you print it!!  I could write a whole blog on resume writing, but honestly if you need help, feel free to reach out to me!


5.  Know the company you are interviewing for.  This day and age, everyone and everything is online.  Look up the company you are interviewing for to get an idea of what they are all about.  If they have a mission statement, learn it and try to bring it up in the interview. 


6.  Watch your posture and realize that once you sit down your body language will speak volumes.  Don't close yourself off, open yourself up!  Sit tall, lean forward, make eye contact, and smile.  Do not cross your arms, lean back in your chair or avert eye contact.  Be engaged.


7.  Be personable, but professional.  I want to get an idea of who you are.  Every company wants to see that you are the right "fit" for the job.  So, while you need to be professional, it is totally okay to let your personality shine through.  On the other hand, do not go too far with this.  The person interviewing you doesn't need to know that you get really bad cramps, your boyfriend really failed on Valentine's Day, or that your mom hasn't talk to you in two years.  Keep on topic. 


8.  Shine!!  This is your time to tell me all about yourself.  I know some people feel uncomfortable talking about themselves, but this is a requirement.  You have to sell yourself in an interview.  Why should they hire you?  Based on what?  The person who interviews you needs a reason to hire you, so give them lots of reasons!  Before you go in to an interview, spend some time writing out your best qualities.  Remember them.  What are your strengths?  What could you improve on?  What do you love about the field you are interviewing for?  What do you bring to the position?  What sets you apart from others?  Why do you want the job?  Elaborate on things.  A good interview will turn into a conversation, not just a question/answer session.  Try not to answer with blunt, short, simple answers.  Give them all you've got!


9.  Ask questions.  Some people think that an interview is just the interviewer asking questions, but an interview is an opportunity to get to know each other.  Come prepared with a few questions to ask.  Try not to focus too much on the salary though.  Obviously, this is important, but tread lightly and try to ask it professionally.  You don't want it to come across that money is your only driving factor in the quest for a job. Some questions that I enjoy are:  What's a typical day like here?  How many years has the company been around?  What do you enjoy the most about your position?  Is there room for advancement?  Try to connect with the interviewer.  Ask, ask, ask! 


10.  Ask for the job!!  Asking for the job is so important, yet it rarely happens.  It shows that you want the job, and you are assertive enough to just ask.  I want to hear that you want THIS job, not just A job.  I love when people want the job they are interviewing for.  It really makes the person WANT to hire you.  If it came down to two candidates that were both equally qualified for the job, but one person asked for the job, the person who WANTED it would probably be the one who got it. 


11.  At the end of your interview, always thank the interviewer, shake their hand, and smile.  This is the last impression you leave with the interviewer, so make it pleasant!  It is appropriate to ask, "When can I look forward to hearing from you regarding the position?"  It plants a seed that there will be further communication and you are already looking forward to it!  Thinking ahead is a great quality.


That's it for now.  I hope you got something out of this blog.  Please share with others that you know so we can bring back the Art of the Interview.  We all know we need a job, but sometimes we don't know exactly how to go about getting the one we want.  Interviewing is truly an art, but done correctly can land you with a great job!  You'd be surprised that even if you might not be the most qualified, if you can interview well, most places will be willing to train you.  So put yourself out there, be YOU, and go get that job!     

Coeur, Fat Cat, and a girl named Denice

Contrary to popular belief, I was not born riding a tri bike.  Once, I was just merely a spectator at my parent's triathlons, and my passion was horses.  I loved them with all of my heart, just the way I love triathlons today.  And I was so shy, so it was hard for me to want to compete, but I did.  I had to wear what is called a "habit" and I felt so cool all dressed up.  But I was nervous and unsure at every event.

As you might know, I am a thinker and a planner so I needed to figure out how to overcome this fear I had of competing.  Why was I afraid?  Because I was alone out there in the ring.  I had no trainer to coach me, I had no parents riding next to me.  I felt alone.  So, I searched for something I could take with me to give me the heart and courage to go out there and kick butt.  I found it in a cat.

A million years ago, when I was seven, there were these toys called Littlest Petshop.  To this day, I will never understand who thought it was a good idea to make tiny little plastic creatures to play with, but whatever, I had the cats.  I believe there were three of them in my set.  Two of them were average, but beautiful cats.  And then there was the fat cat.  Looking all fat and happy.  He looked like his only care was where to score some milk and a nap.  He looked so content.  And so I chose him to accompany me.  He would be my entourage, my friend, and if I had any doubts, I knew he had me covered.  He was my pocket-sized heart and courage.  I took him to every show, in that fancy habit, and I will swear to this day he helped me at every one.

Fast forward to college, when I decided public speaking was my new "thing."  I wore a suit at all my events and I had to make sure I purchased a blazer with a pocket or it was a no-go.  Fat Cat must be with me.  And he was.  As I went through college with my speeches, he was always there.  My heart.  My courage.  My reminder that I am never alone in my endeavors.

Today, you better believe that Fat Cat is at every triathlon.  Every single one.  He comes in my triathlon bag with me, and lives in Jeff's pocket if I'm really nervous, like at Ironman.  You can not help but smile and feel a sense of relief when you see that little guy.  He's a plastic cat, but to me, he is so much more.

So where is this going, you might ask?  Well, this season I am honored to be sponsored by Coeur Sports.  Initially, I was on board because I love Kebby Holden and I will support just about any endeavor she decides to take on.  I knew her passion for the sport, and I knew she was exactly the person I wanted to know was standing behind me at races.  It didn't hurt that I was sure she was on to something really awesome with her female-specific triathlon gear.  But I had no idea what would evolve here...

I first started out obsessed with the Chevron tri top/bottoms.  Honestly, they could have been made of sandpaper and I would have worn them due to how adorable they are!  BUT.  OH.  MY.  GOODNESS.  The tri bottoms fit like they were custom made just for you.  In fact, I thought they were, but it turns out that Coeur just really knows their stuff.  They have one panel in the crotch area so you know what?  Chafing?  What's that?  It is genius.  And they have large leg holes for my cyclist legs and you don't even realize you are wearing them!  I'd like them in every color, for every day.  The tri top is wonderful as well and really takes the guess work out of the whole thing.  You don't need a sports bra, and there's no need to worry about where to put your stuff because there's pockets!!  Yeehaw!!  And, of course, it's a matching set.  I have never felt so adorable at a race.  I get nervous about rocking skin tight stuff, but it's so well made that you are covered.  It's fitted, but it's not tight in all the wrong places like a lot of the stuff out there.  Perfection. 

Last Saturday, on my birthday(insert many exclamation points here), I decided to go for a run.  I had just ordered the Coeur Chevron run shorts and saved them for my birthday run(duh).  Honestly, I am kind of a running shorts snob.  I have SO many pairs and of all of those, I have maybe two pairs I am okay with.  So starting out, I was slightly skeptical.  But Coeur did it again.  They are so figure flattering, and have a great yoga-type waist band.  The material is great.  It dries so quickly and is buttery soft, I swear.  It almost looks like a skirt upon first view, and it flows like one too, but it's shorts!  The built in underwear are made for an athlete, you know, one with a larger behind.  Like me!  Represent!  And there are two pockets.  TWO!  That's one for my key and also one for my Chapstick.  Winning.

If you have read this far, I want to share the real reason I am writing this.  As I was running on the best day ever(my birthday), I realized that Coeur is my Fat Cat.  When I am in their gear, I am stoked that it is so well made.  I love to be comfortable, adorable and confident.  But, more than that, I want to not feel alone.  I love competing so much because I love the energy of the crowd, the cheering, the crowds of spectators, and the feeling that you are part of something great.  I feed off of that.  With Coeur, I feel that every time I wear it.  I might be out on a run, all alone, but I get to carry the entire brand with me.  A brand that represents everything that I want to be.  A brand of women with heart and courage, and so much of it that they share it!  Coeur Sports goes way beyond well-made, adorable clothing.  Coeur represents the woman I want to be in this sport, and I am so honored to be a part of it.  Coeur isn't Starbucks, with the pre-made cookie cutter items on the menu.  Coeur is your favorite coffee shop, where the owners make your coffee exactly the way you want it, they know your name, and you feel great every time you are there.  I hope all you wonderful women out there give it a tri!

The weight debate

There's been a lot of chatter lately on weight.  I guess as athletes, we tend to consider this issue on the daily.  What should I weigh?  What's my perfect race weight?  If I weigh less, will I be a better athlete?  And I have a lot to say on this, but I have kept quiet.  Mostly because, I struggle with this as well.  I'm a girl.  I'm an athlete.  I'm a perfectionist.  And I don't know what the heck I should weigh!

Recently, I was honored to be invited to be an ambassador for the Coeur Sports Team.  As I have friended a lot of the girls on the team, I have been inspired by them.  I admire their efforts, their outlook, their lifestyles.  These girls are a force to be reckoned with and it is my honor to be amongst them.  I am finding that I am learning more than ever what it is like to live with heart and courage.  And so, it is with much heart and courage, that I speak out about weight.  Gasp!


I stepped on the scale the other day.  I weighed almost 130 pounds.  I got off the scale and tried again.  Those earrings were heavy, and we all know a watch can weigh a lot.  And then there was the headband, which I'm sure when drenched in sweat could really pack on the pounds.  But despite my best efforts, the scale still told the truth.  And I was offended.  I took a look in the mirror and realized that I no longer had my Ironman body.  My Ironman body weighed 120-125.  This body just wouldn't do.  I resolved to change it.  Immediately.  Back to 125, STAT!

But being the introvert that I am, I also started questioning this idea.  And over the next few days, the fact that I was so upset with this number on a scale started to weigh on me(pun intended).  Why was this number so important?  Why was I being so harsh?  Why was I judging myself on a number that represents nothing to anyone?  And more than that, do I think I am worth more to myself and others if I weigh a certain number?


I've tried to pride myself on the fact that I don't judge.  I'm a strong believer that everyone has their own unique journey that I have no say in.  It's not my business, and I'm not here to invest my energy in what other's feel is right for them.  But why then, am I so open to judge myself?  I would never go to the gym and see a girl working out and think, "Man, she is overweight."  I would never watch a cyclist in my class and say, "She would be so much better if she could just tone up."  And I would never, ever, get upset with another person for a number on a freaking scale!  I've never once looked at someone and thought they were better or worse for what they weighed.  But there I was the other day, self-talking myself in to less of a woman.  It is so unacceptable.  And it's negative, demeaning and wrong.  And it's going to change.


I don't know why as women we feel the need to reach a certain number.  I don't know why we feel better or worse if we can reach a goal of a number, on an inanimate object, that poses no actual measure of who you are.  As if you at 120 are a great person, but at 130 you hold little value to the human race.  It's actually really pathetic, sad, and petty.  Ladies, we are more that that.


The truth is, we will not win or lose a race based on what we weigh.  We will not be perceived as better or worse because of the size of our jeans.  People will not like us because we are 10 or 20 pounds heavier or lighter than what we perceive as an ideal weight.  We will not inspire others because of what the scale says.  Our loved ones will not love us more or less based on our BMI.  We will not touch the world more because we lost ten pounds.  And at the end of this life, there is no Biggest Loser weigh-in that determines our fate.  Can you imagine standing at the Gates of Heaven, and G-d saying, "You managed to reach your goal weight of 125.  You may now enter heaven."  The image makes me LOL.


Maybe I'll end up losing weight.  Maybe I'll stay the same.  But to focus on something so irrelevant really takes away the energy I could be using to actually make the world a better place.  And I'm more than that.  I think we all are.  We spend infinite hours training our bodies, fueling ourselves in an effort to reach greatness, and training our minds to endure the pain that we put on our plates.  But we are missing something.  We are missing out on training our minds to love who we are.  For exactly WHO we are.  And WHO you are will never, ever, be determined by a number on a scale. 


So let's ditch the scales and invest in something that really matters.  YOU.    

A few of my favorite things...

If you know me, you know I believe everyone has their own journey.  We all learn along the way, right?  Well, while I know all of you athletes out there are stoked to be figuring things out on your own, I thought maybe I'd just blog about a few of my favorite things.  For starters, raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens, bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens.  Did anyone get that?  I digress.


I've been on this triathlon journey for some years now.  I have had some unique obstacles that have led me to a slightly different approach to certain things like nutrition .  But regardless, isn't it always nice to hear what works for someone, and maybe(just maybe) you try it and don't HAVE to learn the hard way?!  So here are a few of my favorite things, in no particular order:


For the swim:
*Silicon swim caps- Such a wonderful thing!  They don't pull your hair out, which is wonderful when you don't have much to begin with(like me).
*TYR two piece swim suits-I have a long torso and can't find a one piece that doesn't ride up and make me uncomfortable.  They last forever too!
*X-1 Audio Player- By far, my FAVORITE swim aid.  Makes the workout so enjoyable as you wind up choreographing your swim to music.  Also, you can use you iPod Shuffle that you probably already have and this thing does not leak.  And no need for earplugs anymore!  The ear buds keep water out! www.x-1.com
*Body Glide- For those open water swims.  Prevents chaffing!

For the bike:
*Terry saddle- Made for a woman and has some give so you get a comfortable ride.
*Speedplay pedals- Oh man.  Everyone raved about these and I balked.  But after I finally got them I can't imagine riding in any other clip in pedal.  Easy in, easy out, means less crashes at stoplights for me!
*Coeur tri shorts- This is a newer female specific clothing line for athletes.  I am honored to be sponsored by them, as well.  Their tri shorts are just, wow.  I call them my sexy shorts.  I want to wear them everywhere...on the bike, out to dinner, to spin class, you get the idea.  The material is like butter.  Silky , soft, like a second skin.  There are three pockets in the back that happen to be so strategically placed that I am obsessed with my butt in them!  The chamois is one panel of soft fleece, to prevent chaffing.  After riding in them, I realized I had actually forgotten that I was riding in them!  The waistband is wide so no muffin top, and the legs are large enough to accommodate a cyclists beefy quads.  Total win, Coeur!  www.coeursports.com


For the run:
*Brooks Pure Flow- If you have a wide foot, and an arch high enough to make a ballerina jealous, these are the shoes for you!  They are a minimalist-ish shoe, but are substantial enough to run long distances.  I did Ironman in these and had no problems.
*Brooks Pure Grit- For trail running, these are by far the best I've ever had.  Not bulky like a normal trail shoe, just the right amount of grip and stand up to even the most complicated, technical trails.
*Feetures socks- A sock is just a sock, right?  Nope.  After wearing these I wonder how my feet survived without them.  The perfect sock.
*CEP Compression socks/sleeves- Do I need to explain?  Compression is a wonderful thing and these socks are the ones that started it all.  The hot pink are my favorite.
*Coeur headbands- I am a headband kind of girl, and these are my absolute favorite.  You can wear them wide or narrow, and they stay put.  They also do a great job of keeping my bangs back and the sweat out of my eyes, which is a must since I wear contacts. www.coeursports.com

Nutrition and etc:
*Covergirl Lash Blast Volume Waterproof- Look, I am a triathlete, but I'm also a girl.  And I need mascara.  But after many trials, this is the mascara that won't go anywhere.  Seriously.  I wear this for spin class, triathlons, Ironman.  No problems.  And you still get to look good in those post-race photos!
*Baby Lips Chapstick- Made with an SPF and very smooth.  Doesn't have an awful taste and fits in to your little pockets.
*Secret Clinical Strength Waterproof-  It's deodorant.  It is waterproof.  Need I say more?
*Picky Bars- Designed by a triathlete and a runner, these are gluten free, dairy free and vegan.  Real food, balanced, and delicious.  This was my go-to nutrition for Ironman.  And it sat well.  I had no GI issues and I am so thankful for that!  Since I don't do gels, or any of that stuff, this was perfect.
*Sprout's trail mix- My next go-to for Ironman.  I picked the one with cashews, almonds, pepitas, sunflower seeds, cranberries.  Love, love, love it!
*Dried mangoes- I  don't know why, but these little buggers are so good.  I put them in my special needs bag during my Ironman marathon.  A couple of these and I was feeling pretty decent. 
*Osmo Hydration- Look in to it, ladies.  The science behind it is so forward thinking, yet so basic.  Women are NOT small men.  We need a different hydration strategy because we aren't made the same. www.osmonutrition.com

That's it, for now.  I probably left something out.  But then I suppose as I try more, I'll find more things to love!  I hope that you can use some of these to make your athletic endeavors even more fun, comfortable and stylish!  Thanks for reading!