natural health cleanse w3

20 day Rej. Plan Time Frame:
Week #1: 03/28 to 04/03 - Detox
Week #2: 04/04 to 04/10 - Rejv. Plan
Week #3: 04/11 to 04/17 - Rejv. Plan

Monday hit and I was so glad to finally eat solids again.  Not that I was hungry, it's just the mindset of being full means I've chewed on something, not consumed it in liquid and supplements, so gum was my best friend for the 3 days of the detox.  The Lemon concocktion is actually pretty tasty if you make it the day of.  I used my VitaMix to put it together, but it still required a little straining and I removed some of the froth from the pulp.  Not a fan of that.  Plus, I didn't get all the seeds out of the lemons when I was deseading them, and my Vitamin chopped them up pretty good, but their was still a bit left over that I didn't want to drink.  My best batch was Sunday; it was the most tastiest.  My worst was Monday, because I made it Sunday morning since I knew I wasn't going to have enough time Monday morning to make it.  It just was a little bitter, but it was still drinkable. 

Once the detox stage ended I was back to eating veggies and fruits still with no grains, meat, seeds or dairy.  My doc says I'm doing pretty good and may not need the blood test that most people get done, which is an additonal $250 out of pocket expense since most insurance companies don't cover it so I'm hoping I wont need it.  I had blood work taken last October, so hopefully if things continue to go well I will avoid an added expense. 

I'm still doing my morning Energizer Workout (link below) and it's still takes my breath away, but I'm getting there.  My biggest accomplishment this week was my 4.3 mile run.  I created an interval of 4 min job / 2 min walk to my runkeeper and kept going and the next thing I knew I was home and ran 4.3 miles. 

Another awesome thing from thsi check up is that I LOST MORE WEIGHT.  Though I know it's because I was only on liquids for 3 days that I lost 4.6lbs this week, but hoping next week I will continue to be on my weight loss streak.  I'm feeling pretty good and currently weighting 149.6! that I thought I would post an updated ABs photo, escially since my last one had an eye sore of a muffin top. 

The Basics:
* no meat, dairy or grains
* eat fruits and veggies. 
   veggies should equal twice the amount as fruit.
* veggies should be raw, but can be cooked for 2-3 minutes
* only distilled water (during detox at least)
   Smart water was the only one I could find and they
    were in 1-lt bottles; perfect
* drink detox mixture for 3 days - NO solids

The Scale:  
03/14/12: 156.2
03/28/12: 154.2 (-2lbs)
04/04/12: 149.6 (-6.6lbs)

Physical Activity:  
Morning Energizer Workout

04/03 Run 4.39 miles
04/04 Walk .34 miles (morning doggy walk)
04/04 walk 1.33 miles (lunch break walk)

saved by the bank

Today I came face to face with a realization that I had not fully laid down my desire for this house as my heart sunk to the floor after viewing the words

status: off market.

I was viewing new listings sent by my realtor and had opened up my trulia icon link (truila and zillow  have been very helpful, because their information is more home-buyer friendly ind typically include more photos), but it's also directly linked to "my favorite: house four" (see journey to my first place) so I stay focused on my dream and why I'm working so hard in the  next 60 days .  However, today was not one of those inspirational days as those 3 ugly words stared right at me as the page loaded, causing me to forget how to breath.

It's hard to remember sometimes, especially when your heart is so set on a dream to truly let it go, because without first laying down your desires God will be unable to fill you with His, which from experience is far better and more satisfying then anything I'd ever imagined.

IMAGE SOURCE  

Once I was able to regroup I called my Realtor to hear it straight from him.  He called me back once he spoke with the listing agent and to my relief, the listing has been temporarily removed for the next 30-60 days.  The owners have chosen to go forward with a full foreclosure now that the price has been lowered significantly.  During this time the bank will take full ownership of the property and will be setting up an appraisal and inspection before re-listing. 

I'm believing that this is God's way of showing me that this house has been reserved for me, because now no one can make an offer while the bank is performing their inspections and appraisals, which leaves plenty of time for me to have everything I need.  You can be sure that I'll still be checking up on the property on a regular basis and as soon as the status has changed I'll be calling my Realtor to write up the contract.   

p.s.

I'm also believing that the bank is going to re-list it at a lower price point.

I'm pretty confident that I'm blessed, because He is the way, the truth and the light of my life and with Him I will walk and not stumble as He leads me down the path of righteousness.

journey to my first place

My life is pretty amazing, considering where my life was just a year and a half ago.  You would never know that I was worried about my financial standing and unable to pay any of my bills.  On April 1, 2009, yep April Fool’s Day, I was let go from my job as an Interior Designer.  This was the start of my transformation journey….

I had moved back to Pennsylvania in January of 2010 after being unemployed for 9 months and finally found employed through a temp agency when I came home to visit in November of 2009.  It was not my first choice to move back here, but every step felt like I was going in the right direction.  After taking this job it became evident that even though I was working I was still unable to catch up on all of my expenses and was determined to find a part time job.  I applied for a total of 3 jobs within a weeks time and was hired for 2 of them.  Yep, after not having any job I now had 3 and even though it meant sacrificing my Saturday's and working almost 60 hours every week I knew it was a blessing and that it would give me freedom in the long run. I made several spreadsheets to track my progress and keep me focused.  Sunday's were my day to rest and re-energize.  Every time I was paid I immediately deposited it and made a check out to the next bill that was on my spreadsheet and before I knew it I had caught up on all my bills and even started paying down my debt.  By having the separate paychecks it made it easy for me to use it for my bills instead of keeping it tucked in my checking account ready for me to spend it on something that wasn't going to move me forward in my goal.  

I am so proud of where I am today and I am so close to being at zero with my debt.  I have 3 cards left all with very little balances.  

CARD ONE
was supposed to be paid off on the 5th, but I keep running into speed bumps.  It was supposed to come out again on the 19th, but it still hasn't debited.  This is my largest card left and I really want it be be ZERO so my credit score will improve so I can benefit from the higher score. 

CARD TWO
is a very tiny balance of $60, which will be paid off next week once T-Mobile finally returns the money they owe me.  

CARD THREE
is a TJ MAXX card that I used to buy a patio set that I am returning  on the 19th.  Hopefully, there will be no complications and I'll receive my full-money back refund and not a store credit.  

So by the end of this month I will have no credit card debt!!!  It's so worth every sacrifice I had to make in the last year just to have the feeling of knowing I am free of this debt and I can finally start enjoying living in today.  It's also been exciting watching my credit score increase thanks to CreditKarma, a free credit score program available for free online.    I joined in July this year and my score was 666. They send you reminder emails every few weeks to update your score and I received one last week.   When I signed on and hit  update score it INCREASED!! I know have a 671 score! It's still Fair, but it's going up and that's all that matters.

the apartment life isn't for me

I had been searching for apartments for several months and was not able to find any place that I truly wanted to call home.  There was one thing or another wrong with each apartment that was such a downer.  The apartment layout was great, but the kitchen was so tiny or the lack of parking, etc.   There wasn't one that really stood out to me, until I saw a for rent sign along Trindle and immediately I pulled over and called the number.  The lady gave me information about the place and that it would be ready for viewing in a week.  My mom was in town and I decided to take her for a drive there so she could see the grounds and location and it was pretty awesome that same night we were able to view the apartment.  The lady seemed very nice, but also very particular.  She was looking for someone who would fit into her little apartment community and was committed to stay there for the long hall as the lease terms were a minimum of 2 years.  It was a beautiful remodeled apartment on the first floor and  was so excited to find something so well laid out, minus the especially small bedrooms.   

We looked at the apartments on Friday and I had been even more excited about the apartments after seeing the interior, however, there was so much paperwork she required that it felt like I was  getting ready to buy a house.  When Sunday came around I had an easy feeling that even though the apartment was lovely, it was not where I was supposed to call home.  Especially, since there were so many uncertainties with us that seemed to unease the landlord and I knew that I would feel anxious and worried about how perfect I would need to be and that wasn't a way I wanted to live.

I fell off my chair:
A few people had mentioned that I should look into buying a house and inside I laughed, because why would someone let me buy a house with how my credit history has been the last few years.  I eventually caved to the idea and posted an inquiry about a Realtor someone recommended on my fb page.  I had a few people who respond and I took the initiative to call the Realtor who then recommended me to a broker  who could pre-qualify me.  I struggled internally when I was talking to the broker, because I so felt like looking into buying was a waste of time my and the brokers time.  However, after gathering all the information he needed to run the number I almost fell of my chair when he told me I pre-qualified for 100k.   I couldn't believe it, who would have thought that I would be allowed to even qualify for any loan amount, but God was showing me His favor.  He knew what I needed to do with me so I could be ready for where He wanted me now.  He took the time to walk me through and light a fire under me and I'm thankful for that.

house hunting:
Since being approved I've been reviewing listings online that my realitor has been sending me and sending him feedback on the one's I liked.

Last Saturday he took me to view a few of my favorite listings.
Adams St: house one

I liked the exterior, kitchen and living area of this house, but the backyard, bedrooms and attack left me thinking how much money needed to go into this place.

Green St: house two

This house was nothing less than exquisite, until you walked outside.  The neighborhood was very dirty and my adjoining neighbors were just o close.  The yard needed a lot of work, which I was fine with that, but the house lacked central air and open parkingand it was already at the top of my budget.

N. 5th St: house three

This house was so adorable and just enough space for two, but after seeing the other larger homes I was leaning more towards a 3 or 4 bedroom.  Though the neighborhood was nicer, it was not enough to make living across from a school with the basketball court and child playground was facing my house.  

my favorite: house four

I will refrain from posting any photos right now, as this is the one I want to make an offer on, but am financially unable to for at least 30 days when I can secure half of my down-payment.  I am very excited about this house as it has a large country kitchen, laminate wood floors in the living and dining room, 4 bedrooms and 1.5 baths.  As a bonus it has a back yard that wont overwhelm me, a large deck to do yoga and have amazing bbq's on, a shed and central air.  This house is at the top of my budget, but it's pretty much move in ready and their aren't any changes I would make, well other than putting in a garage.

At this point I just have to wait and hope that if this house is for me that it will still be available in 30 days and possibly a few thousand less then it is now. 

Crunch Up

workout
Week 1 Friday

I almost allowed myself to sleep in to the point of missing my workout, but I kept thinking about the donut and nachos I ate yesterday and knew that if I didn't do my workout this morning I would be very unhappy with myself.  I'm learning that it's okay to eat these types of foods every so often, but I have to work for them.  If I"m going to eat them then I need to workout, NO EXCUSES.  It was 6:50 when I got up and immediately turned on my laptop while I changed into some basic workout wear.  I needed to review the video again before starting since Zuzana didn't  post pictures for this routine. 

I'm still pretty new to these exercises and not as strong so I  needed a few modification.  I really liked this routine and loved how fun and challenging it was.  The Knee Tuck, Leg Lift, Kick Up on One Leg was a really sweet move, but I need to work on the Knee Tuck part.  The Super Low Hop Squats were super fun and I think my favorite so far.  This move really helps to wake you up, keep you focused and even manages to put a smile on your face.  The Cross Over Crunch Up was pretty sweet, because it 's one that requires slower contraction of the muscles so you can really focus on using your abs for the crunch up.

Modifications:
* 3 sets instead of 5
* Completed in 15 minutes
* Tummy Tuck for Grab the Knee Plank 
* skipped 10 minute Yoga due to not enough time

Tummy Tuck     

Strong is Sexy Fitness Challenge  
* Tone, Trim & Tight a bodyrock time challenge
* 10 min Weight Loss Yoga Video

view daily workout

daily affirmation
I effortlessly achieve my goals

Proverbs 7: 2
Keep my commands and live,
and my law as the apple of your eye.

Proverbs 7:25
Do not let your heart turn aside her (sin) ways,
Do not stray into her paths;

daily review:
* read Scale Down rest 7 + part ch. 8 pg 87-114 (42 minutes)
* Tomorrow's Workout: Yoga Class or 20-minute Yoga download
* in bed by 10pm and lights out by 10:30pm
* repeated the daily affirmations throughout the day
* noted my workouts and meals in my journal
* eats were totally on.

post workout photo

eats:
View Daily Eats

healthy, vibrant and beautiful

workout
Week 1 Thursday
Strong is Sexy Fitness Challenge  
REST DAY. Easy Walk or Yoga
Get outside, breathe some fresh air, play with friends and family, and enjoy your down time.  Meditation would be a great choice today.

I went thought some of exercises DVDs to pick out a Yoga workout for today.  The only one I had was a Gaiam Yoga Dance Fusion.  I wasn't sure what to expect, but thought it would be a good choice.  Though after completing a 30-minute workout wasn't to impressed with the DVD.  It's  not one I would do again.  I think this workout would have been better in a studio where I could better see the instructor or if I had a projection screen using the wall.  She wasn't very good at giving instruction on when to move to the next position.

* completed a 30-minute Yoga workout.
* bowled 3 games after work between 9:30-midnight.

daily affirmation
I am radiantly alive. I am strong, healthy, vibrant and beautiful

daily review:
* read Scale Down part of ch. 7 pg 79-86 (22 minutes)
* Tomorrow's Workout: Tone, Trim & Tight + 10 minute weight loss Yoga video 
* in bed by 12:15am and lights out by 12:30am
* repeated the daily affirmations throughout the day
* noted my workouts and meals in my journal
* eats were mostly on.  Splurged and ate a powdered cream filled donut
   and split a plate of supreme nachos with 2 friends

eats:
View Daily Eats

norish, support...be your best

workout
Week 1 Wednesday
Strong is Sexy Fitness Challenge  

I wasn't' sure if I would have enough time to get everything in this morning since I was late again getting up and about.  I completed my workout on the porch and it was definitely another killer workout.  My arms and shoulders were still sore from yesterday and my legs followed shortly in the afternoon.  I can understand how Zuzana stays in such amazing shape.  The routines require your full attention and focus in order to complete them properly and truly build on your strength.

I only managed 4 of the 9 rounds for part 1 and 2 and by then it was 7am.  I should have hit the showers, but I decided to go for a 10 minute run.  Though to be honest after that workout I'm surprised I was even able to run for that long. 

I found this really neat online timer last night and used it this morning. It's super easy and portable, because you can also download it to your pc and use it offline. I like it because it's very basic and gives you 3 voice options (man, woman & fight bell) so you can focus on your workout, but the screen also changes color depending on if your on (green), off (red) and resting (yellow).

* Fat Fighter Workout: 12 minute Bodyrock interval workout
- completed Part 1 & 2 - 4 rounds each part w a few modifications
- the side lunge jumps were confusing me more than they really should have
- the push-ups in part 2 were mini's, but not modified girl style.
  I've still not worked up to a full push-up.
- My pike jumps didn't have much jump/kick to them.

* 10 to 30 minute brisk walk/easy jog/hike  
- completed 10-minute jog
- after the fat fighter workout my legs were so exhausted and tight.  

view daily workout

daily affirmation
I choose to eat foods that nourish and support me to be my best.

daily review:
* read ch. 6 pg 68-86 (50 minutes)
* Reviewed + set up workout for tomorrow
* in bed by 10pm and lights out by 10:50pm
* repeated the daily affirmations throughout the day
* noted my workouts and meals in my journal
* eats were pretty on. 
  Did have 2 cups of coffee (I think I felt less energetic after my afternoon cup)

eats:
View Daily Eats

move, play, create

workout
Week 1 Monday
Strong is Sexy Fitness Challenge  

Yesterday I a cute russell+hazel beige spiral notebook at Target and I'll be logging all my workouts and eats in for this challenge.  It's always exciting to start a new challenge, but the challenge really for me is sticking to it and staying focused for the entire 4 weeks.  This week is definitely going to add an additional challenge with everything I have going so I'm going to really need to stay focused  and motivated, oh yes and we can't forget getting up early, so I can be in great shape.

challenge goals
* know what motivates me
* finish reading & implement new habits from the book I'm reading
* review the workouts a week ahead & have a plan of action
* get sleep - lights out by 10pm
* increase arm and ab definition
* visualize myself toned and thin; NO MORE self-sabotage
* say the daily affirmations
* journal my workouts and meals

daily affirmation (actually Tuesdays)
I feel blessed to be able to move, play & create.

today's workout (actually Tuesdays)
I swapped Monday and Tuesday this week since Fit Foodies are meeting for our bi-weekly walk  tonight so I'll do the Booty Firm up video tomorrow morning. 
1.5 mile Walk w Fit Foodies
2 loops each on the blue trail
* 30 minute walk 
* 20 minute run

current read: Scale down
A Realistic Guide to Balancing Body, Soul, & Spirit

I stopped by Ollies yesterday and picked up Scale Down for $4.99.  I'd never heard of it before today, but was intrigued by the title and felt like I was supposed to buy it.   It's not a normal thing for me to buy a book since I typically get bored either half way or 3/4 into the book and don't finish.  I get bored  to quickly and end up giving up on the book, but last night when I started I was still reading over an hour and a half later.  I found this book to be very inspirational and emotional and I can't wait till I get home tonight to read more.

daily review:
* didn't get to reading my book. 
* Reviewed workout for tomorrow + added workouts for the week to my journal 
* in bed by 10pm and lights out by 10:30pm
* repeated the daily affirmations throughout the day
* noted my workouts and meals in my journal
* eats were pretty on.

eats:
View Daily Eats

Dinner/post-workout I had a chocolate protein shake and an apple.
I did also walk past some donuts in our administration office when I went to pick up the mail.  I almost grabbed one and am very proud that I didn't.  Around 9:30pm my belly was grumbling so I opened up a bag of animal crackers.  I ate two handfuls + a full glass of water.  Normally I would have eaten the entire contents of the bag, but I forced myself to put away the bag.  I still ate more then I should, but progress is still progress no matter how small.  The fact that I didn't eat the entire bag is a major step.  NO MORE self sabotage.  

GOAL: put animal crackers in snack bags so when I'm craving them I only eat a healthy amount versus mindlessly munching on an entire bag.

ready, set, goal

It still seems unreal how things are unfolding in my life. It was only last week I was wondering if buying a house was even an option for me and now I'm super excited to say IT IS! Just Tuesday a friend recommended a real estate agent, who then referred me to a broker who worked his magic. I almost fell off my seat when he told me I was pre-qualified for a 100k.  I know it's not much, but it's all I need for what I'm looking for.  I'm not looking for a family home, just a 2 bedroom with all the modern features. and it's more then I thought I would qualify for.  I  don't much a year, especially working for a non-profit then tack on my student loans and credit card debt and I thought for sure I wouldn't be able to qualify for anything especially on my own. Luckily, I've been paying down my debt, which in turn has been creating a better credit report/score (now 666), which has definitely been a huge benefit. God knows your path even when you don't. I would never have qualified if I hadn't paid off as I did this last year.

The broker gave me 2 requirements before I can actually buy a home.
1) pay down all my credit cards to $0 and DO NOT close them.
2) have 3% in cash, whether by gift or savings

After paying a few bills and zeroing out 2 credit cards with my tax return I still had some left over, which I decided to use as a buffer, since my evening job wasn't producing any hours.  When we began searching for an apartment I knew it would come in handy for a security deposit.  Then when my mom and I started talking about buying she felt it would be best used for part of the down payment.  I had in mind what I wanted to do, but wanted to see what my broker felt would be the best way to use my savings.  He advised me to zero out my cards now that way while I'm saving for my down payment my credit report/score can be repairing itself.  He strongly advised me NOT TO CLOSE my cards, as it would hurt my score.  I took his advise and used the $800 I had left over to pay off  my larger and older cards and what I had left over I used to make a payment on my newer ones (see table below).  Once our hours begin up again in August I'll be  working extra hard to raise enough money in the next few months for my down payment and selling a few things to help add up the balance. 

I'm so proud of the progress I've made only in the span of 1 day and it's so beautiful to finally see my lasik balance zero'd out and eliminate the $40 a month I was paying the consolidation company that I can now put in my own pocket.   Here is my current progress and the pay down date I have scheduled.

card	balance	payment	new balance	date of payment
best buy	$181.44	$181.44	$0	08/01/11
bill me later	$120.36	$60	$60.36	07/28/11
TJ Maxx	$133.53	$0	$133.53	-
lasik	$715.21	$715.21	$0	08/02/11
totals	$1150.54	$956.65	$193.89

My TJ Maxx card I sadly just got.  I saw a patio set there that I sooo wanted and it would have been perfect for the apartment we were looking at off Trindle, but now that I'm looking at buying I'm most likely going to just return it.  Though depending on how many hours I can get I may just pay if off and keep it.  Still undecided on that one.  I'll try to post a pick soon so you can understand why.

a plan not my own

I feel disheartened, but I know that things are lining up with God.  Today I found out that an apartment that made me feel alive, like I knew there was no other place for me was rented out before I was able to turn in my application.  

(the apartment via googlemaps w the cars blacked out)

I had the opportunity to view the apartment on Friday with my mom, and I was even more excited when I saw the interior and how beautiful and perfect it was.  I was even  more delighted when she gave me an application, but there were so many papers to fill out and requirements that I felt like I was buying a house.  I understand and respect her desire to fill the occupancy with a tenant who fits in with her current tenants., but I felt like the expectation level on me would have been unattainable and I would constantly be on my guard not to mess up and I knew that was no way to live.   

After taking a few days to think about the commitment and gathering all the paperwork I felt at peace knowing that this was not a direction I was going to be taking.  I love how God slowly changes your heart  to accept plans that are not your own even when only a few days have past.  He's amazing that way.  He has  directed me in a slightly different direction that I'm loving and  truly feel at peace with and I can't wait to see what else  He opens my heart to in this adventure called my life. 

(the cute little cottage in camp hill)

Last week I saw a yellow cottage in Camp Hill that I thought was adorable and since hen I've seen 2 other places that I would consider buying and are even less than the cottage and include hardwood floors..  I'm not sure with my income bracket and my credit history (even thought it's improved) that  buying a house would  be a viable option, but at least I'm taking a chance to find out.  I've never been so at peace then I do now about buying a place.

yoga brain

This weekend has been so crazy and I spent most of yesterday running around, then once I finished made it to church and Texas Road House afterward with some friends.  Today I slept in, which was so nice, and once I was ready I headed to the shed to clean out.  I really needed to go through everything and make a new list of items I have in the shed so today was the day I took the bull by the horns and cleaned house.  I was surprised at how much I actaully was able to take out and get cleaned up for our yardsale.  I even managed to pick a few things from my room to add to the pile.

It took longer than it should, but it was super hot outside and once I came inside to clean up my things and price everything I turned on the TV, which slowed me down a bit and I stopped while drop dead diva came on at 9pm.  My room is still in a small chaotic mess, but hopefully it will look better shortly.

After my show ended I worked on my meal plan for the week.  I wont be able to do much for tomorrow, but I'll have to head for groceries tomorrow.  I'm trying to keep from having to cook to much, just because it's been so hot and I really haven't felt like cooking. 

planned weekly eats
breakfast: banana + honey smoothie 
snacks: peanut butter & banana
lunch:  Turkey, Pear Sandwich w cherry tomatoes
post workout: tone it up protein pancakes
snack: protein bar + carrots
dinner: tbd

yoga brain

I've been wanting to do Yoga lately, but just haven't had the funds to enjoy the studio I prefer and after reading a post from Heather Eats Almond Butter I was reminded to do a google search for other options in my area; as well as some other short workouts to add to my running workout.  One of the studios offers a free class Sunday's at 11am {tips}, so I hope to be able to attend that class soon.

20 minute level 1-2 Yoga Class Podcast
Drop and Give me 10
Konkura
Just Plain yoga
be fit yoga

week 4 basic schedule
Monday: Tuesday: Wednesday: Thursday: Friday: Saturday: Sunday:	Evening Walk 2.25 mile Run 30-60 minute walk/run or rest 1.5mile run Rest 2.25 mile Run 45-60 min walk

the slug bug

The last few day's my energy level has reached a low point and I really don't like it.  I have added so many things onto my plate and then I have a few things coming up with family that I need to reschedule other events.  It's just going to be a crazy month of figuring things out and really seeing what I want to do.  I'll be doing a lot of processing, and none of it is going to be easy.  I know I already feel like my head is ready to explode.  I'll be happy once these things are done and I've had some time to make the right decision.

Working on this now was to allow enough time to make an informed and educated decision and not be forced to make a pressured decision I will regret.  Though I think because I'm already feeling a little pressure I'm going to need to step back, because I'm in no hurry and I shouldn't feel like I have to be.

My family is having a yard sale next weekend, which I'm so not ready for and then my dad is having gull stone surgary on the 14th and he and his wife and her kids will be moving to their new place, which I offered to help out since my dad wont be able to help out.

I was excited yesterday when I was out and about and found a really cute 3-drawer shabby chic dresser with art nouveau style mirror and all for FREE.  The base and structure are in good condition, but the paint needs to be refinished.  I'm really not a crafty person, nor have I ever stripped paint, but I'm looking forward to turning this into a really cute dressing table.  I'll use the bottom two drawers for my unmentionables and then the top drawer will contain my makeup, flat iron and other primping items that I don't really have room for in the bathroom.

the week +next weeks plan
* downsize
* go through shed and purge
* purge files
* clear out items in my bedroom that I'm not using
* create a sale sign for my dresser and IKEA couch
* post dresser and IKEA couch on craigslist.
* buy paint remover
* take photo of new/used dresser
* buy pretty yellow paint + a paint brush
* plan a better meal plan

fit n' the summer

the beginning.Despite only finishing my first month of the 12-week burning the fat program from bodybuilding.com I'm veering towards other avenues to keep in shape for the summer.  I know it's possible to keep in shape without spending my time working out at the gym.  It's way to nice for that.  Plus,  the sun is calling me to the outdoors.  

I think I would have kept going with the gym, but after talking to a co-worker last Thursday who has been working on the 5k training program, Advanced track by Hal Higden and a yogi I met at Om My Yoga on Saturday at their grand opening I think this is the perfect fit for the summer.   It will allow the change in routine and sun that my body is craving.  I've even gone as far as freezing my gym membership, which  starts at my next billing cycle on July 11th.    

stay fit summer plan:

- Hal Higden's 5k Training Program, novice

- Tone It Up Pyramid Workouts for body work.

- Biweekly Yoga classes at  Om My Yoga as a treat and because I really like the people and atmosphere.

the perfect fit:

If you've been reading my blog for a while you know that my goal is to run 10 miles by the end of the year.  I thought I was getting close, but like I said above most of my running has been via treadmill which is a far from running outdoors.    

day 1

The sun was out and the breeze felt good as I made my way across the City Island bridge.  I had started strong and really tried to focus on my breathing and stay at a steady pace.  It wasn't an easy run  and disheartening knowing that by mile one I was ready to stop; however, I wouldn't let myself.  I kept finding a new mark to push towards and then once I hit that mark found another one until I was truly done and when I finally finished I read 1.52 miles, which took me to Kelker.  You truly are rewarded when you push through  just a little bit further and achieve your mark no matter how small.  

Once I hit my mark I decided to post my time and restart for the walk back.  This way I would have a clear reading of my pace for each run and see how much improvement I've made.  Today my mile was at a 10 min pace, which I was ecstatic.  That's a whole minute shorter than my last 5k race.  Now I just have to keep hitting my mini goal markers until I finally reach  my ultimate goal for this year and that's run a 10 mile race at an 8min pace.

So here is what this weeks plan is:
hal higden novice training program week 1

Sunday: 1.5 mile Run
Monday: Rest
Tuesday: 1.5 mile morning Run
Wednesday: 30-60 minute evening walk
Thursday: Rest or run/walk + 5:30pm Hot Vinyasa
Friday: 1.5 mile evening Run
Saturday: Rest or run/walk

parden the dust

Feeling like I need a change in  my branding.  Not sure if Under the Apple Tree really is what I want.  You may see different  names-branding pop up at the header, but it's still Under the Apple Tree.

I'm going to take the next few weeks and really think about my goals and what I want to portray with this blog and then I'll make a final deciding factor. I just want it to be a fitness foodies place of bliss where you can find ways to live a healthier lifestyle.

Here's one of the names:
I love running and that's one of the ways I enjoy staying in shape.  Yellow has so many wonderful meaning, but I'll keep it to the following: It's such a bright and cheery color, so it has really been a color of inspiration lately and  it helps to stimulate your thinking and memory and encourages communication.

life smells good

Things have been coming up Roses for me this last week and I’m loving every minute of it.  It’s a combination of the new (gently used) cloths I bought last week from the thrifty store, the financial goodness, less stress, great hair days and staying true to my clean eating.  This is a very happy combination for me and it’s sparked a super confidence in me.  I feel super amazing, like I’m a model on the cover of Vogue Magazine.   That’s right I feel pretty & Strong!  You should have seen my arms this morning while I was doing my upper body workout.  They looked pretty ripped while I was doing my Triceps Kickbacks and Alternate Hammer Curls and I’m pretty sure a few of the guys were checking me out.  My outfit helped to, felt super confident in that.  It’s a new combination that I put together with a yellow a-tee that I used for another shirt that I added to a black sleeveless top so I had some color to my all black outfit.  I need color in my outfits.  I can’t stand wearing all back-so not me.   

This past week I’ve been doing well with my diet and even lost 2” in the last month.  After logging in a few meals, I realized how much I was really eating, about 1800 calories and that’s too much to lose anything.   This week I adjusted my meals so I’m eating differently on my weight training days and cardio-rest days so I’m not over eating on my lower intensity days.

I had an unspoken goal last week of walking every night along Riverside Park and I was glad when a friend of mine wanted to walk with me.  It gave us some time to hang out and catch up, plus he’s super close to the park so we can just walk from his place.  I really love having friends who want to get out and be active and I really hope at least during the summer they continue with that desire.  This week were getting together to workout outside twice a week.  He has a book he’s used before with some body strength workouts and then we’ll cool down with a walk.   I’m also going to keep my ears open to see if anyone wants to join us or workout with him on days when I’m not able.  I’m looking forward to it and it will be a nice change from my current workout.  Plus, I feel that I get better results working out at night so I should see a little more definition change.

I'm even excited about my new bathing suit.  I found a totally cute bikini halter top, but needed a bottom and when I was at TJ MAXX yesterday hoping to find bottoms to match I found a super cute green Roxxy Bikini that I can't wait to wear. 

The Suit from TJ MAXX is similar to this style, except mine is all green, instead of MEXICO on the butt it says ROXY and the Top also has a Roxy logo on it.  The bikini to the right is the one I bought trying to find a bottom to.  I'm much happier and feel far cuter in the ROXY suit. 

super coupon

image source

I started watching the extreme couponing show and I've really been inspired to try and begin to use them.  I never used them in the past, because they never had anything that I bought, but I've come to the conclusion that I can't be picky on everything if I want to save money.   Especially, with things being so tight and not having any hours in my evening job right now.

So far I've collected a few papers and have began the process of cutting and sorting my coupons and have a few adjustments to the binder I am temporary using.  I'm keeping my eye out for a pretty+functional zipper binder that I can store everything in. Last week I was able to use 2 coupons for some yogurt so hopefully as I learn more about this I will be able to save more and elimate a few stores with my price comparison guide.  Yep, I've started going to the grocers and pricing just about everything i buy and comparing the base price to each store so I know NOT where to buy the product.  This is like the invisible coupon, because by buying it at a store I will already be near or heading to makes more sense, especially if I'm saving anywhere from $.20 to $2.00 each item.  I have a pretty hefty list and so far I've priced out Target, Wegmans and Weis and am working on Giant.  once I get those figured out I'll be checking out Walgreens and Rite Aid to see how they price on toiletries and beauty products.  I'm only adding those, because a few people say they have better luck there with those products and they typically have lots of sales and coupons to use.

so far I've learned:
* Weis has better pricing on their produce and pb and eggs
* Weis is not good with , Organic-Whole Foods, espeically Silk Milk
* Target is the lowest at $3.09 for Silk Milk.
* Weis carries sugar free syrup at a good price.
* Target is lower then Weis on Toiletries

Since sales come and go about every 3-4 months I'm looking at only buying 1 or 2 of each item since I'm only needing these for me, unless it's free and it's a product I really like and then I'll try to get more.  I don't really have space to store things, so I don't want to have tons of papers or extra things lying around my small space.

smells like a healthy choice

I had an itch to go running today, especially with it being such a beautiful day that I couldn't help even at the evening hour of 7:30 driving to city island so I could run along riverfront Park.  I couldn't help but smile when I came across the entry sign that greeted me with "Free Parking Today! Have a Great Day!."  There were so many people there, so I hoped that this was a good sign that the weather would hold up.

I didn't want to go to far, especially since I had already gone to the gym this morning, so I set my run keeper and decided that I would only do 2 miles as I made my way toward the bridge. 

I surprisingly followed my plan in which turned out to be a great way to see some of my friends as on my way back to the park I was surprised to see a friend of mine walking toward me.  He and his roomie were just heading out for a nice evening walk. We chatted for a few and then went on our way.

image source

I ran for most of the trail, but did take some time to just walk and catch my breath.  I'm really trying to get myself outside to run so I can work up my endurance, because it's just not the same when your running on the treadmill.  I would love to work up to my 10 mile goal this year and know I've really worked for it, but challenging myself with running outside.

I was glad to see the bridge and knew that I was almost to my 2 mile mark.  I stopped at the bottom of the stairs to stretch my calves, especially since they were feeling a little tight and then headed toward my car where I finished my stretches.  Halfway through my stretches a runner passes by and it was someone I knew.  I love the fact that I decided to go out running late and still managed to see my friends also making the decision to make healthy choices.  It really does make my heart happy.  Once my friend stopped at his car to grab his post-workout drink he made his way over where we chatted for a good while about running and our other social actives.

It was a very fantastic night and I'm super dupper glad that I decided to run tonight and I even ran into two more friends when I stopped at the gym to clean up.

Project: Food Budget - Week three

Goal: $50

Actual: $62.02 (Giant) 

Bonus Card Savings: $13.68

This was another challenging meal prep with trying to balance everything out (45P/45C/10HF).  I need to find an easier way to do this and save money so I can begin to buy supplements.  Then things escalated when I got to the grocer and realized I wasn't going to have enough time to cook any of my meals, so I had to think of some alternatives.  Luckily, I still have a ton of leftovers from last week that I was able to use.

Original Plan: * Breakfast:      Overnight Oat Berries+Cereal     * Post-Workout     Protein Cookie * 10am Post-Workout Meal     Black Bean Oat Burger * 1pm Snack     Yogurt Bowl * 4pm Snack     banana + pb * 7pm Dinner    Teriyaki Tempeh + Brown Rice

Adjusted Plan * Breakfast:      Overnight Oat Berries + Cereal * Post-Workout     Protein Shake * 10am Post-Workout Meal      Cottage Cheese      Cherry tomatoes (leftovers) * 1pm Snack     Yogurt Bowl * 4pm Snack     Power Toast (leftovers) * 7pm Dinner      Tuna + Cucumber + ww WASA      + Red Wine Vinegar + Carrots

Staples Purchased:

#1 Sugar in the Raw $2.89
#1 Giant Vinegar $0.85
#2 Strawberries (32oz for 3.89) Going to freeze one package
#1 Burt's Bees Lip Gloss $2.69
#1 Sports Creme $6.49
#1 Antibiotic Creme $3.66
#1 large Quaker Oats 1-min oats $3.69
#1 Bobs Red Mills Wheat Berries $2.99

Total Staples: $23.26 (not including the strawberries)

Project: Food Budget

Read about Project: Food Budget challenge.

Please check out these wonderful blogs, and give them support as they take on this challenge.

Participating blogs:

• Emily Levenson
• Veggie Converter
• Dairy-Free Cooking
• Motor City Girl In the Steel City
• Veggie Burgher
• The Happy Cactus
• Test Kitchen Tuesday
• Newly Vegan
• Veggie on the Cheap
• MeloMeals: Vegan For $3.33 A Day
• A Guy, A Girl, And a Dinner Plate
• The Veggie Life
• Caroline Cain Holistic Health
• Going Veggie
• Be the Change

it's become second nature

Do I sleep in, or workout, sleep in or workout............ahhhhh..................
I kept going over these two options last night for a good 20 minutes.  Sleep I definitely lost trying to determine what to do for my rest day.  It's kind of funny considering over a year ago I would have easily chosen to sleep in.  However, now a days it's a challenge, because I love working out so it's become second nature to set my alarm early for a workout.  It's an addicting drug I don't ever want a cure for, but I do need to learn to take a break so I did finally decide to sleep in. Plus, I knew if I'd gone it wouldn't have been a rest day.


I  need to keep repeating over and over again until it finally sinks in:
Rest Day = a day for my muscles to recover from all the abuse I put them through at the gym.


So far this challenge has been helpful in other areas that I'm weak in; like consuming enough protein.  I'm pretty sure that's why I've had D.O.M.S. so often, because those are the days I forgot my protean shakes and wasn't able to eat anything until 4-5 hours after my workout.    Consuming enough protein is a huge struggle for me, mainly because it's harder to have amount of protein you can get in a small amount of meat.  I  know that if I was more educated in Vegan-Vegetarian Protein this wouldn't be an issue., but I'm not there yet.  So this week, I've made sure to incorporate a lot of meat; Chicken Breast and tTlapia  Do you have any suggestions for ways to consume more protein without throwing off my carbs and not having to eat so much meat?


My goal is to be between 1550-1650 calories on days that I'm working out with a 40/40/20 ration (152g of Carbs and Protein + 32g of fat).  I also have come to realize that I need to lower that number on my rest days since I wont be as active.  Though I find it frustrating, because it seems like the only way to achieve this balance is with meat and veggies and it doesn't leave much room for incorporating recipe meal, which tend to jump my carbs far more than my protein killing the balance.


I was looking forward to 4:30pm when I would meet my hairdresser.  ahhh, now I feel better and my hair is manageable again.  I've been blessed with super thick hair, but it makes it hard to keep styled so I purposely  have it thinned out and styled very similar to the picture below.   However, I really have been liking how my hair looks with the help of the flatiron that I'm curious to see what it would look like longer, so today I just opted to just go with a basic trim and a major thin out. 

I really did accomplish a lot today, even a trip to ashcomb farms so I can get an idea of the financial impact to start a garden.  Now that I have a yard I really want to take advantage of being able to grow some of my favorite fruits and veggies.  I want to keep it simple,  so I'll be planting cauliflower, cherry tomatoes, blueberries and strawberries.  Though I may be tempted to add heirloom peppers if they're available.  At only 1.99 a plant it's not going to be a huge impact on my budget.

cauliflower plants at Ashcomb.  I really wanted to pick up a few.

I even made it home before dark and managed to get some cooking done.
* Cooked pasta and brown rice
* Marinated and baked my tempeh
* Grilled Chicken breast and tilapia seasoned with Caribbean Citrus& from
  Mrs. Dash on my George foreman

Goals this week:
* Adjust meal plan-calorie intake on rest days.
* Actually REST on my rest day
* Buy 4 more sets of the divided Tupperware (pictured above) for my meals as
  they are super handy.

The beginning of a new challenge

It's day 2 of my 12-week transformation and I'm feeling pretty good and keeping focused. I did sway from my meal plan for Dinner last night as my roommate made dinner and it was just so yummy. Plus, it meant I didn't have to cook, but I really do need to prepare my Tempeh, but I think I will do that Wednesday night.

I've been logging my food at FitClick and finalizing my workout log.  Today I put together most of it, but I still need to add in my measurements: before + the picture and then transfer my Monday and Tuesday Workout to the notebook.  I simply used a comp book and then hand wrote some key notes from the plan for review and then printed out my daily logs and glued each day to a page in the comp book.  I tried gluing it, but the glue soaked through so tapping it was the cleaner method. 

Here are some sneak pics to show what I did and really how simple I kept it, which is a challenge for me to do.

Tomorrow is my rest day,so that's either planning a meal, cooking or doing yoga/stretching before the day ends.  I do have some light cooking I need to do with my Tempeh and I need to grill more chicken and Tilipia for the rest of the week, but other than that it will be an easy day.  I am thinking about talking an easy walk either on the Treadmill or if it's not raining during lunch and maybe spending some time in the sauna.

so close I can taste it

I love my life, but I never would have imagined that when I turned 30 I would be working half a month to pay on student loans and credit cards (and that's only the minimum payment).....YIKES!.  Though I'm proud to say that this last year has been a driving force in my finances.  I've been taking charge and clearing out the negatives on my card balances and it feels so fantastic because I'm so close I can taste.  It will be wonderfully to finally be card free, so I can really focus on clearing out my student loans.  This however, wont be so easy to knock out, but at least I'll be able to start.  

The last few weeks I've lost track at really how close I am and haven't really made any goals on knocking out my debt, until tonight.  The funny thing is that I really need to give thanks to the pompous ass I was ranting about the other week in my post from my gym.  Though I do have to give him ups as his social skills are improving.  I happened to run into him Wednesday night after my workout since I decided to sleep in Wednesday morning to give my legs a little more recovery time.  He came over and informed me of a new promo that ended Friday.  He mentioned $27 a session and I was ready to pounce then, but after further discussion it turned out to be a package deal of 3 visits a month at $96.  It's a slight savings since a normal 1 hour session is $40, but once you add in the $96 contract fee it brings it back up.   I did tell him I would check my finances and get back to him tomorrow.  

 Once I got home and unpacked all my gear and prepped for breakfast I reviewed my finances.  I knew that there wasn't going to be any give as my day job only covers my basis bills.  However, after doing a little math and seeing what extra funds I would have if-when my evening job has hours again I was a little giddy.  After playing with the numbers I concluded that if I can work a minimum of 3 shifts a week I would be able to pay off my debt by December while still being able to take advantage of the personal trainer promo, and have a little extra.  

As much as I was excited about this, I knew that I didn't want to sign any contract before I actually had a steady income of extra hours so I decided to pass on the training for now.  It really doesn't matter how much I would like to take advantage of the training services at my gym I really can't until I have paid off my card debt.  Once that's done I can focus on my creating an amazingly toned body.  I just need to stay focused in clearing out my debt and not take on any new financial additions that would distract me from clearing it out sooner.  Plus, I can't think of a better treat after clearing out your financial debt then treating yourself to a personal trainer to begin your body transformation. 

Since it will take a few months before I can really enjoy treating myself to personal training I"m going to stick with the 12-week program that I'll be starting next week.  It's a great program and once I gather my goals and create deadlines for my progress, which will help me to stay focused I know I'll be rewarded by changes in my body definition.  I also really really need to take progress photos.  I'm so bad at this and I know if I just take them, I will be more positive and less likely to have the feeling of why bother, because I'm just going to fail.  The goal is to take them this weekend and then update each month for the next 3 months.