*Baked Apples*

I want to share another tasty Fall treat from our Team Beachbody blog recipes! It's that time of year where everyone loves going apple picking. Do you often wonder what to do with all those apples? We all know we can make applesauce or apple crisp, but it's always great to have something that you can grab and go. These baked apple slices are a great alternative for potato chips, and they're healthy! They’re easy to make and don’t have any added sugar or preservatives. They're also great to add to that snack basket or snack drawer that I shared with you the other day :) 


Total Time:  2 hrs. 25 min. Prep Time:  10 min. Cooking Time:  2 hrs. 15 min. Yield: 4 servings

What You'll Need: 
 
Ingredients:
2 medium red apples, cored, sliced very thin
1 tsp. ground cinnamon

Let's Get Cookin! 
Preparation:
1. Preheat oven to 275° F.
2. Place apples in a medium bowl. Sprinkle evenly with cinnamon; toss to blend.
3. Place apples on parchment lined baking sheet. Bake for 45 minutes, turn, bake for an additional 45 minutes, turn, bake for 30 to 45 minutes, or until apples have dried and are starting to get crisp.
Note: Apples can be peeled if you prefer.

For My Team Beachbody Friends~ Here's your Meal plan info! 
 


*Check out this recipe and more at the Team Beachbody Blog at www.teambeachbody.com 
 

~ Living With A Purpose ~

We all often wonder why we're here. What's our purpose on this planet? What am I meant to do with my life? It's a thought that plagues so many of us...but how do we figure that out? How do we know that where we're headed and what we're working so hard for is really what we're meant to do?

Well I've been reading a book to  help me find out just that. To learn more about myself and find that deeper meaning of what my purpose is in life. What am I meant to do here on this planet? What am I meant to be? What's my purpose? "The Purpose Driven Life" by Rick Warren in just the first 3 days has already changed my way of thinking and outlook on my life. It's made me see things in a new light. I've decided that as I embark on this new journey into a deeper understanding of myself and my life's purpose over the next 40 days I'll share with you my thoughts and maybe in some way it can help change your life and way of thinking. Maybe you can find that deeper meaning and true purpose in your life. 

So far I've read the first three days. When reading I've underlined passages, starred parts of the text, and jotted notes on the pages. The words in this book are truly powerful and really dig to your soul. The first three words on Day one state "It's not about you.". That hit me hard. In our life we so often think of "what am I going to do with my life?"..."What am I going to be as a career woman."...or "What am I going to do to be successful?" However, we need to stop and think...it's not about me. Life is so much more than that. Life is about helping and serving others. Using our God given gifts and giving them to the world. We need to remember that yes we can work hard, we can put in hours to grow and be successful, but we can still feel empty inside. As Rick Warren states in his book "The most common myth about money (and success) is that having more will make me more secure. It won't. Wealth can be lost instantly through a variety of uncontrollable factors." Until people realize this, you won't feel completely whole. Success and money doesn't bring happiness. It's your relationship with family, friends, and God that make you truly happy. You have to work on happiness form the inside, before you can be truly happy in life. 

We were all put here on this earth for a reason. We all have a purpose that drives our life. It's just finding that purpose and bringing it to fruition. No on is here by mistake. "It is not fate, nor chance, nor luck,,  nor coincidence that you are breathing at this very moment." So keep that in mind as you move forward each day and live your best day and best life. You are here today, waking up, and seeing the sun because you have a purpose. Start today by deciding that you will do good for someone else. Think today about what can you do that will make God smile and make him proud. Many people don't through life and think that they don't need to grow spiritually. For me I have my Faith in our Heavenly Father, however some people believe differently. That's okay. You just have to BELIEVE in something, whatever that might be. 

I look forward to sharing with you more about this book, and how I'm finding it helps me grow. I hope that maybe a little something will help you too. 

Much Love, 

Chrissy 
xoxo

*Chocolate Dipped Banana Bites*

These are so yummy, and so very simple to make. You can easily make them with your little ones as a fun activity to do together, and they are healthy too! (I found this fun idea at www.ahealthysliceoflife.com)

Ingredients: 
*Banana's 
*Any form of all natural nut butter (almond, peanut, sun butter...ect.) 
*Chcolate fruit dip 

Steps: 
1. Slice up bananas into 1/2 inch slices 
2. Spread nut butter on one side of banana and sandwich the butter with another banana slice. 
3. Place on cookie sheet that is covered with wax paper. 
4. continue until all banana slices are used. 
5. Melt chocolate dip per container directions. 
6. Dip each banana sandwich in chocolate dip and place back on cookie sheet. 
7, Place in freezer until frozen. 
8. Eat and Enjoy!!! 

*Social Media Shaming-Why it's so wrong*

So since earlier this week I've had a topic I wanted to write about and share with you. I had gone running and had an over flowing feeling of emotions about how I've felt I was meant for bigger things. That my voice can be used in this world to make changes. I have various things that I'm truly passionate about in life, and I'm not completely sure yet where that will take me. One thing I do know, however, is that I love to write and share my passions with others. I wanted to share and ask you if you've ever felt that you were meant for more in life and if you've felt compelled to act on those feelings? However, that will have to be another day. Today I want to share something with you that just boiled my insides. Last night when I was on Facebook just before going to bed I saw this picture that someone had posted. My jaw dropped, and I was completely horrified when I saw the comment that had been posted above the picture. I was in disbelief. This person will remain un-named, however if he was to for any reason read this, he'd know that I'm discussing his horrid actions. He had posted a picture he had taken of two woman on the beach. These two women were of larger size, by today's health standards, they'd be considered over weight. They were both wearing bikinis at the beach. He proceeded to take a picture of them, without their knowledge, posted it to Facebook, and than wrote a comment that was very degrading. Now due to many comments from others on his post the picture has been taken down so I can't write exactly what he had typed, however that's not the point. The point is that what he did was so wrong. This is something that as a parent today I'm trying to teach my children to not do. Social media shaming, bullying, and degrading others is very wrong. The fact that an adult did this is sad.

As someone that works with others to help them reach their fitness goals, weight loss goals, and health goals through personal coaching, this greatly bothers me. When you don't know someone you have no idea of what their struggles are. You don't know what they are personally dealing with. For all we may know these women could be wearing these bikinis on the beach because they've recently lost 30 pounds or more and are very proud and confident in themselves because of their achievements. They may have been so afraid their whole lives about what others may say about them, but are finally confident enough to walk on that beach and "strut their stuff". They should feel that way. They should feel beautiful and confident no matter what size they are. We have enough social media, television ads, commercials, and magazines to make people feel less of themselves. We don't need more people degrading others online to add to the struggles that women already face.

Social media has created a platform for people to bash others and tear them apart because of their own insecurities behind a screen, when you may not have said it to their face. It has created a place for people to relentlessly hurt others and feel no wrong. I say that more of us need to stand up and not allow this. Don't laugh and go along with what others do, but stand up and speak up against this and what is wrong. I pray as a mother that as my boys grow and become men that they will treat others like people. Be kind and encouraging. I pray that they will speak out against what is wrong and stand up for treating people with decency and respect. No matter what weight, race, gender, or sexual orientation someone is, they should not be treated any differently. They should be loved and respected.


Much Love <3

*Mixed Berry Popsicles*

When you think of summertime what do you think of? Do you think of ice-cream, popsicles, summer beach days, laughing with friends, and running through sprinklers? Bare feet in the grass or sand, and juicy goodness dripping from your arms? Well I certainly do! Warm sunny summer days mean cool treats! When I was young our parents didn't know that those bright red, green, and orange popsicles were filled with colored chemicals. Today as I mom of two little boys I worry about the artificial colors, sweeteners, and preservatives that are put into our foods. The other day I had such a great turnout from sharing the fun recipe about pureeing fruits into ice-cube trays that I wanted to share some scrumptious homemade popsicle recipes with you! Today I'm sharing a yummy Mixed Berry recipe that I found on our wonderful Team Beachbody Blog! Stay tuned because I'll be sharing more yummy popsicle recipes for you and your little ones this week!

These are filled with yummy fresh fruits and lots of vitamins and nutrients. Much better than the store bought stuff!

Total Time: 4 hrs. 10 min.
Prep Time: 10 min.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: 4 servings, 1 pop each

Ingredients:
¾ cup unsweetened cranberry juice
½ cup fresh or unsweetened frozen raspberries
½ cup fresh or frozen blueberries
½ cup fresh or unsweetened frozen blackberries
1 scoop Tropical Strawberry Shakeology

Preparation:
1. Place cranberry juice, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, and Shakeology in blender; cover. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour mixture evenly into four ice pop molds; freeze for at least four hours, or until set

Enjoy!! And feel free to share!

*Disclaimer-this is not my original recipe-I enjoy sharing with you the delicious healthy recipes that I find on our Team Beachbody Blog. For more info you can check it out here -> (http://www.teambeachbody.com/teambeachbodyblog/nutrition/mixed-berry-popsicles )

*Things Aren't Always As They Seem*

#KeepingItReal

Take time each day to reflect on your goals and dreams

So the past few days this is something that has been on my heart and mind and I wanted to share my thoughts with you all. Maybe it's something that's been on your heart too, or maybe it's something you've been struggling with. So I wanted to have a heart to heart with you about it. People often compare themselves to others. You see on social media how "perfect" someone elses life looks and wish that your life could be that easy and you then beat yourself up over it wondering why do YOU have it so damn hard...You look at someone else and you see the nice clothes they have, the nice house they live in, the fancy job or car, or maybe you see that they're kids behave so perfectly and wish your children "just once" would listen to you. BUT do you remember that saying "the grass isn't always greener on the other side"? Yup....that is something that we all need to remember. Things might appear to look one way...but that's an evil trick that is often played on us. You might see how amazing someone looks, and how they've lost all this weight and wonder why you have been struggling and just can't seem to lose that stubborn 10 pounds...but the sneaky thing is...it wasn't "so easy" for that person either. See the thing is, you didn't see the blood, sweat, tears, and inner struggles they faced those last 7 months that they worked hard every day getting up early in the morning before the sun to go for a run or do their workout. You didn't see the inner struggle they faced to turn away that piece of pizza for a salad, or the soda for a class of lemon water. You didn't see the frustrating mornings they got on the scale or took their measurements and didn't lose a single pound or inch. You see, you miss all that. You miss seeing all those struggles because you're not living their life. You can't see inside their heart and mind to know what they are personally dealing with. 

When you grow on the inside, you can see what's beyond your eyes.

Lately my two boys have truly been giving my husband and I a run for our money. They've been stubborn, argumentative, demanding, and sometimes straight up rude. My husband and I have been truly pushed to our limits and feeling defeated. He has said, "why can't they just listen or behave? Why are they always fighting and arguing?" In these moments you compare your children to those of others and wonder, why do my friend's children listen, but mine don't? The thing is, we don't see the struggles the other parents have at home when they too fight with their children. We don't see when the other children are throwing a complete temper tantrum over having a chocolate fudgeicle before dinner when the parent says no. We don't see our friend's children fighting with one another, hitting each other with pillows, or screaming about who's turn it is to play the PS3. See, we have to remember that our lives are just like everyone elses. We need to remember that they too fight the same battles and struggles, we just don't always see it because it's not our life, it's theirs.

The times that we often compare ourselves to others come because we are frustrated with our own battles. We get tired, run down, stressed, over worked, and frustrated and wish that sometimes things would just be easier. However, we often forget in those moments that everyone faces their own battles and struggles. That everyone deals with those ups and downs just like us. We'll see others that are successful and think "Man do they have it easy", however what we don't see is the mornings they wake up at 4:30 am to do work before they send their children off to school, or the late nights that they work until 1 am because they spend time with their children after school and than want to read them stories before bed. They then still have work to do after they put their children to bed so they than sit down and pull the laptop out until all hours. You don't see the sacrifices that they give to work their way to being successful.You think they have it so easy, but what you don't see is all the work that goes into that success behind the scenes when you're not around. We all do it. We all want success, weight loss, and family to "just be easier" but the thing is, nothing worth having isn't worth fighting for. You see, through life God teaches us lessons. He teaches us that what we are given is earned. He teaches us that having success in life is something that we need to appreciate and if it's just given to us it's not worth having. To appreciate the beauties of life you have to go through struggles, ups and downs, and hard work to appreciate it. Isn't that what we tell our children? You see everything in life has a journey and that journey is going to be a struggle until you reach the top, but once you get their, it's full of beauty and wonder. Think of all the work that a tiny seed has to go through to become a beautiful flower. Or how a caterpillar goes through those amazing transformations to become a beautiful butterfly. We all have a journey we have to go through. We have ups and downs and doors slammed in our faces, however one day those doors will open and on the other side you'll have risen to the top and you'll look down and see the most amazing sight. 

As parents we have one of the most difficult and tiring jobs their is, but it's definitely one of the most rewarding isn't it?  We always want to set the best example for our children and show them how to make the right choices in life. We have to show them how to work through the struggles in life and not give up. We have to show them how to persevere through the tough times. You may not always realize it, but they're always watching. So when times get tough and things get frustrating in your journey, you always want to look beside you and see who's watching. You don't want to give up in that moment when they might just be thinking how they want to be "just like you." 

Much Love <3 
xoxo  

Colorful Bell Pepper Eggs

Bell Pepper Eggs

With us growing our own veggies again this year I have a lot of peppers that are close to being ready to pick. I said to my husband we'll have to find some yummy new recipes to try to use them up :). When I saw this recipe it was a definite to put on the menu for a weekend breakfast! This will certainly Add a little color to your morning!. They would also be an easy brunch dish, too! Garnish with fresh herbs, like basil, dill, chives, if desired.

Total Time: 31 min.
Prep Time: 10 min.
Cooking Time: 21 min.
Servings: 6 

Ingredients:
Nonstick cooking spray
1 large bell pepper, cored, sliced into 6 rings
6 large eggs
Sea salt (or Himalayan salt) and ground black pepper (to taste; optional)

Preparation:
1. Heat large nonstick skillet, lightly coated with spray, over medium-low heat.
2. Place bell pepper rings in skillet. Crack an egg into the center of each ring. Season with salt and pepper if desired; cook for 2 to 4 minutes, or until egg are cooked to desired doneness.

*Enjoy!* 

*Recipe from the Team Beachbody Blog* 

Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Recipe

Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream! 
*Fixate Style*

Do you love chocolate covered cherries like me? Well than this ice-cream recipe is just perfect for you! With some frozen pitted cherries, you could make this amazing ice-cream all year long! If you get your hands on some fresh cherries, just pit them and freeze them to make this recipe absolutely delectable! The total time to make this amazing dessert is only 4 hours and 10 minutes. Prep time is just a short 10 minutes. This recipe yields 2 servings. If you want more, just double the recipe. 

Ingredients:
1-medium banana cut into chunks 
1/4 cup-unsweetened almond milk 
1/4-cup frozen pitted cherries chopped 
2 Tbsp dark chocolate chunks coarsely chopped

Preparation:
1. Place sliced banana in a freezer bag, freeze for 4 hours, or until completely frozen. 
*After banana is frozen*
2. Place almond milk, 1/2 cup cherries, and frozen banana in blender; cover. Blend until smooth.
3.  Add remaining ½ cup cherries and chocolate; mix well with a spoon or rubber spatula.
4.  Pour into a freezer-safe container; freeze until set.

Enjoy!  

*More info and nutrition information found on the Team Beachbody Blog*

Homemade Fresh Fruit Sorbet

With this month being national ice-cream month I've been sharing healthier versions of one of summers favorite treats on my Facebook Fitness page. However, I thought I'd start sharing the recipes here for others to see as well. Making your own homemade ice-cream is actually very easy, and so much healthier because you're not getting all the added "stuff" that really isn't good for you at all. Making your own foods allows you to know exactly what you're putting into your body. So here is today's ice-cream recipe for you. 

Fresh Fruit Sorbet!

Total Time: 4 hrs. 10 min. Prep Time: 10 min. Cooking Time: None Yield: 4 servings, about ¾ cup each
Ingredients:
3 cups fresh fruit (like bananas, peaches, pears, or strawberries)
¾ cup unsweetened almond milk (or soy milk or nonfat milk)
4 strawberries, sliced (for garnish; optional)
Preparation:
1. Place fruit and almond milk in blender; cover. Blend until smooth.
2. Place blended mixture in a shallow bowl; cover. Freeze for 2 to 4 hours, mixing with a fork every 30 minutes to break ice crystals.
3. Garnish each serving with a strawberry if desired.

Simple, easy, and Oh So Tasty! Check back tomorrow for more tasty ice cream recipes! 

Trying To Accept I Can't "Fix Him"...and That's Okay

We've all had those times that we've wanted to say something to someone, or express how we're feeling, but we just didn't know how to put it all into words. This past month my husband and I have been going through something in our life that is really changing a lot for us and I've not been sure how to express all the feelings and emotions that have been running through me. In a previous post I shared with you how it truly frustrated me when a man at my son's gymnastics facility made a rude comment about my youngest son...well we've been going through the process of having assessments done through the school as well as having them done privately. The emotions that I've gone through in this process have been exhausting to say the least. I've wondered why at night I'm just crashing when I put my boys to bed. I've wondered lately why I've felt as though I'm walking through a fog most of the time or why my head feels as though 90% of the day it's not attached to my body. To say I've been busy is a big understatement, but that's not where I've struggled the most. What's been the toughest thing for me is accepting that I can't "fix" my son. Yup I said it...I just wish I could fix it all for him so he doesn't have to struggle. As Mother's this is in our nature. This is what we're ingrained to do right? As a mother, wife, daughter, friend we always feel the urge or need to fix "it" for those we love. We want to take away the pain, the struggles, and those things in the lives of those we love that cause them pain and suffering. Growing up I always knew that I wanted to be a teacher and a Mom. I've always had this urge to help others and work with children. I've had a passion to teach children with special needs and help them realize their full potential despite the struggles in life that they may face. However, I never knew just how personal that dream was going to be for me. I didn't know just how much I'd be able to relate to the parents of the children I'm going to teach.

Last week I sat with my son's teacher, the special education teacher, the school OT, the school Psychologist, and the school Speech Language Pathologist. We discussed the results of his evaluations that had just been completed. I had asked to have a draft of everything ahead of time so that I could review it and wasn't a deer caught in the headlights when I went into this meeting. I looked everything over and wasn't really surprised about the results. It was very true to how my little guy is. When I arrived at the meeting we had to wait a few minutes for some of the teachers to arrive. They had told me ahead of time that they had a prior meeting that day and that they'd probably run a few minutes behind schedule. While we waited I was talking with the Speech Language Pathologist, the school Psychologist, and the OT graduate student that was attending as well. We were discussing my son and how he had "performed" on his evaluations. They mentioned that they were happy he wasn't too withdrawn in the sessions and that it took him a while to warm up but that he did well answering questions and completing the given tasks. He was very wiggly during the evaluations and that at times he'd fallen out of the chair. Again no surprise to me. 

Once everyone had arrived we got started and went through the assessments. I'm not going to share what everyone said, it's not important really. We discussed how he is very smart, but struggles with sitting still and focusing on tasks in the classroom. When he's alone with someone and one on one they are able to keep him on task. He may not seem like he's ever paying attention, however when asked a question he can typically answer it for you. Despite knowing all of this, it was still hard to hear. It's now there in front of me in black and white. The assessments show without a shadow of a doubt that my son will be diagnosed next week with ADHD. Tears started streaming down my face. I wasn't making this up...I wasn't imagining it...and all those times I tried to tell everyone, and they said "he's just a boy, he's fine" I was right. There, in black and white, it shows he struggles with processing sensory input and that he can often get over stimulated. He struggles in large groups focusing or staying on task unless redirected by a teacher. In one 10 minute period the OT observed that he had to be redirected 11 times to stay on task with his math assignment. I had to face the fact this day that my little boy is going to struggle in school. That I'm going to be fighting this fight every year to make sure he's getting his needs met. That I can't just "fix it" for him. That's the hardest part...Mommy can't "fix it" or "fix him" so that this is easy....for him...for us...it's ALWAYS going to be hard...

Next week we'll be seeing a private OT for him to get a second assessment and see what we can do to help him more at home as well as what can be done for him at school. We'll be heading back to the Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrician to get the actual diagnosis and see where we go from here. As I look ahead I know we have a long road as we make decisions about how we can help my little "wiggle fidget". However, I think the hardest thing for me and my husband, and I know other parents in similar situations have had to come to this acceptance....we can't just fix this or change it. This is something that we have to accept and move forward with. However, as parents we always want to make our children's challenges in life easier. We want to take away the things that are going to make them hurt, sad, angry, or frustrated. We don't ever want them to feel defeated or less of a person. I never realized that the dream I had as a child to teach children and work with children that have learning disabilities, developmental delays, or other special needs was going to hit so close to home. I didn't realize that the education I was receiving through college was preparing me for not only my career as a teacher, but my life as a Mom. It's funny how God's plan for you always turns out to be so much more than you ever planned it was going to be for yourself. My education has not only taught me how to help children that I teach, but it's helped me to prepare for the most important job God has given me, being a Mom to two truly amazing little boys. 

Over the past few months my little boy has cried to me because he says school is too hard. He's told me that his peers at school have teased him and made him sad. He's told me that he doesn't like having to sit in "take-a-breaks" because he is really trying hard to listen to directions but he can't. He's told me that he doesn't have friends (but he does). He's told me that school is too long...as a Mom this is so hard to hear and shatters my heart into a million pieces. This is not what we dream of for our children. With every fiber of our being we want them to love life, to be happy, to make friends, and to not face struggles like these. I just want to make it all better for him. I want to help him to understand. I want to sit beside him during school and make it all okay. But I can't. What I need to learn and realize is that my job is to give him the skills and tools to get through life. I need to teach him how to cope and deal with the situations that are hard for him. I need to help him learn to control some of his impulses and ways that will help him focus better and resist urges that he might have. It's not going to be easy. I'm learning it's going to be hard and it will always be harder for him than a child that doesn't deal with ADHD, SPD, or anxiety. It's going to take longer for him to learn these skills. I feel that as we move along there might be other things that start to appear for him that he struggles with. I feel he may have a language based learning disability as I see now he struggles with reading, expressing himself, and having conversations with others. We'll see as time goes, however I'm going to be ready. 

I never thought that I'd have as hard of a time with this as I have. I'm a teacher and I've helped other parents to get help for their children and directed them to the resources they'd need. I have sat in meetings and told parents that their child is delayed in their development and that they should seek early intervention services. I've worked with them on seeking out the right services, on putting together IEP's, and understanding their child's struggles. When they haven't moved forward with the suggestions given I've thought why don't they want to help their child? Why are they putting this off. However, I'm now the one that is doing this for my son and it's been so hard. I now have a better understanding of what these parents have felt. I've sat in the meetings and cried. I've thought about it non-stop and wondered how can I fix it? I've read book after book and tried to find information on what to do and how to do it...but all those things aren't going to change what we're dealing with. They're not going to take away the hurt, pain, and sadness I feel for my child because I know the battles he'll face every day. It's not going to change the way his brain works and how it processes information. I've already seen how cruel people can be when they don't understand him and why he behaves the way that he does. I've had to drag him out of public places kicking and screaming. I've had to ask  him repeatedly when at a restaurant or gymnastics meet to sit quietly and not climb all over the seats, railings, stairs, or people. I've had people stare when in a grocery store because he's having a meltdown over something so little that he just doesn't understand and because he's on sensory overload. Strangers however just think he's being a bratty kid. I've had to drag him away at a birthday party for my best friends 1 year old daughter because he had a meltdown. It is tiring. It is hard. It is emotionally draining. It is a struggle for my son to meet the expectations of his teachers and his peers. It is completely exhausting for us at home on a daily basis. I wish I didn't have to evaluate every scenario and wonder if he'll be able to handle it before we make plans. However, this is my life. This is how it's going to be for us and I'm starting to be okay with that. I feel that now knowing what is going on with my son, learning how we're going to deal with it all, and having a better understanding of how to get through each day is helping. Our life may be crazy. It may be tiring. But...it's our life, and I wouldn't change it for anything. This experience is not only teaching me about my son and his struggles. It's teaching me about how to be a better mother. It's teaching me about life. It's teaching me about my faith and trusting in the bigger plan God has for me. My son is teaching me more than I ever could have thought and I'm so beyond thankful for that. I'm proud to be his mother. I'm thankful that he is teaching me so much about myself, teaching his father so much about life, and teaching his brother how to be more accepting. I started off wishing I could "fix him" and make his life easier...but truthfully he's fixing me xoxo

It's More Than The Finish Line

It's Mother's Day today. It's 6 am and I'm sitting here with my coffee, toast, and peace and quiet (for a little bit anyways). I'm reflecting on yesterdays race, and how much I've changed as a runner and person over the past four years. I didn't realize it until running my second half marathon yesterday. I felt strong, calm, my breathing was even the whole race, and I didn't stop at all in the 13.1 miles. I still don't believe it and how well the whole race went. 

The night before the race I had stayed at my Mom and Dad's house in Alton. We had a yummy dinner of tortellini, mixed veggies, ravioli's, and grilled chicken. The dinner was delicious and just perfect for fueling up for the race the next day. We got all our running "swag" that night as well. I was feeling excited and really good about the race the next day. We went to bed early and made sure to get lots of rest. We planned to wake up bright and early so that we could have plenty of time in the morning to get things together, the kids fed, and off to the starting line. We made sure we had taken a few bathroom breaks as well so we didn't have to go during the race.

Race day morning we were up at 5:45-6:00. I had my coffee, black, and a piece of wheat toast with peanut butter for some protein and energy. I knew I didn't want to eat too much, and was planning on having my picky bar on the way to the race start. I got ready in my running clothes, did my hair, and did a little stretching. I felt I was in a good mind set...calm, but excited...and eager to get going. We were ready to leave the house about 7:40, it was only a few minutes away to get to the start of the race from my Mom's, and we knew we wanted to be in the back of the group when starting. We didn't want to feel pushed and knew we were not the fastest runners. When we arrived at the race there were lots of other people just getting there as well. We left our sweatshirts in the car, even though it was about 40 out, we didn't want to worry about finding them later at the end. The walk to the start was cold, I jogged a little to warm up my legs and get my blood flowing. I got my endomondo ready and my music and as we got closer to the start line. As we approached we could hear the National Anthem playing and then the gun went off. As the runners started heading across the start line my Mom, sister, and I got our music playing, and then moved into a jog as we crossed the start. It was the perfect way to start the race. We weren't standing waiting for the gun to go off and getting anxious or nervous. We moved right across the start line and into the long run ahead. We were smiling. We were moving at a good pace, together. We ran the first four miles at a steady pace of 10:20 to 10:40 minutes per mile. We felt strong and steady. The three of us moved together as one. We kept together step by step, stride by stride. We talked. We smiled. We laughed. As I ran with my Mom and sister I felt strong. I knew that I was going to make it through these 13.1 miles without difficulty. I felt the best I ever have in a race. I knew that all my training and hard work was going to get me to that finish line. 

As we headed to mile four I could feel my legs tightening up. I had kept my stride with theirs for a while, but I knew it was time to stretch my stride and pick up my pace. I didn't want to leave them, because this race wasn't about beating a time or crossing the finish first, but about what we'd trained for together. It was about a passion that we share and a love for running. This race was about our bond as Mother and Daughters. However, I couldn't keep pace with them any longer. I knew if I did my legs may tighten up and cramp because I was holding back. So I slowly picked up my pace and moved ahead of my Mom and sister. It felt great. I felt comfortable. My breathing was even, and I felt a fire inside me ignite. As my pace slightly picked up I hit mile five, six, and seven. I couldn't believe how great I still felt. I wasn't tired, the cool morning air and wind kept my breathing steady and kept me cool. As I came to the end of Route 11 and turned onto 11D just before the mile seven marker I knew this is where the hills were coming. I remembered from four years ago when I hit this back road that the rolling hills were a struggle for me. I knew that this time I had trained more on hills and that I could run up them if I just kept calm and my pace stayed slow and steady. As the hills approached I was able to make it up them without walking. I hit the top and a huge smile came across my face. I knew I had this! I felt that I was floating on air. I felt that I had wings. 

As I started to moved towards the last few miles I couldn't believe how strong I still felt. My endomondo tracker rang in my ear that I was at mile 11. I had kept a steady pace throughout the race for the past four miles of around 10 minutes per mile. I knew that I still had it in me to pick up my pace for the last two miles and finish strong. I could feel myself getting tired, and as I hit mile 12 I started to hit that mental battle. I started to feel as though I wanted to walk, but I didn't let my head get in my way. I knew that all I had left was one mile. I could do this. I could run the whole race and not stop. I kept my feet moving. I kept my breathing even. Then the words that my husband Travis had said to me the night before flowed into my head....he said to me "when you hit mile 8 (but it was mile 11 at this point) remember what you've been working for. Remember all the hard work you've put in and why you're doing this. Know that you can do it and keep going. I love you babe. You've got this". I smiled and pushed through. I came around the corner in the last quarter mile and could see the finish line. I could hear the crowed cheering. Then as I hit the final turn I saw familiar faces. Standing at the beginning of the tunnel was my Dad, with my nephew, and my two boys. I hear them cheering. "Momma! Go Momma!" tears started flowing and I screamed from excitement. It was truly the best feeling that rushed over me. I said "come on!" and they ran up to me. Grabbed my hands and started running to the finish with me. I knew that I did it! I knew that all my hard work at that moment had payed off. 

This race wasn't about my time, or the pace that I was running. This race was so much more than that. This race was about the hard work. It was about sharing a love and passion for something with my Mother and Sister. It was about accomplishments that I achieved that I never thought I could. I didn't ever think I could run a half marathon without stopping. I used to struggle running hills, but I ran EVERY hill in this race without walking. I felt as though someone was with me carrying me every step. It was a feeling I've never felt before. 

This race taught me so many things about myself. It taught me that the struggles you face are worth it, because it's a step forward in your journey. Those struggles are what gets you to the finish and they make you stronger. Hearing my boys voices as I approached the final stretch of the race taught me that I'm setting an example for them. By my lead I'm teaching them to never give up. I'm teaching them that you can accomplish your dreams. I'm teaching them about health and fitness and that it's a part of your life and who you are. I am showing them through example that strength is so much more then being strong physically, but about being strong mentally. 

Know that the first time you try something new it may be hard and it may be a struggle, but that doesn't mean to give up. Keep working at it. Keep pushing and moving forward. Don't EVER give up because all that hard work you put in each day is one step closer to your end goal, whatever that may be. Each time you try you will learn something about yourself and each time the journey will become easier. Remember to keep your eyes open for the lessons you will learn along the way because that...that is what is most important. 

Much love, 

Chrissy 
Fit Mommy of 2 

The Hidden Truths: Don't Judge a Book by It's Cover

Yes we've all done it. We've all stood there and looked at someone and made a judgement on them based on their outer appearance. I've done it. I've stood their in a grocery store line or at a park and made a judgement on someone based on what they look like, or what I've seen them do in only a few minutes time. However, I've then thought to myself "why are you doing that? What gives you the right to pass judgement on someone you don't know?" I hate myself for it to be honest. The only one that has a right to judge ANYONE or ANYTHING is God, so who am I to stand here and judge this person by a few minute view at their life? Well, this is what I want to share today. My thoughts on judgement and how NO ONE has any right to think you know what someone is like or what their life is like unless you've walked even a few hours in their life, in their head, and in their shoes. 

So why do I want to share this with you today? Well i want to give you a little insight in my life for a bit and the life of other parents that have children with disabilities...seen or unseen. I usually share here on my blog about my journey with healthy living and fitness and the passion I have for helping others reach their goals. However, if you're going to work with me I want you to know more about me and what my life is like and what passions I have. I've always had a love for helping others. This is why I've gone into teaching and back to school for my Masters in elementary education and special education, because I like to help others work towards and reach their goals in life, whatever that may be. So with that, back to my topic today....last week I was having a conversation with my mother about my younger son, we'll call him Z (my wiggle fidget). He is a very busy boy, always on the move. He has a VERY hard time sitting still at any moment and enjoys talking nonstop! He has difficulty with following conversation and will often go off topic if you're talking to him. He'll start discussing something that may have happened a week ago when you're talking about the TV show you were watching when having a dinner conversation. So this year he's struggled in school with being so busy. He's in full day kindergarten. We're currently going through the process of having him evaluated for services. I've been talking with Behavioral Specialists, his pediatrician, his teacher, the special Ed. Teacher, school psychologist, school OT, a private OT, the school speech language pathologist, and so on. So needless to say I've been busy in trying to find out just what my little wiggle fidget is dealing with and how to  help him better focus at school and make it through the day without feeling defeated. Which he often does. However, when looking at him you wouldn't know that he deals with all these difficulties, hence the passing judgement when you don't know....not all people or children that have learning disabilities, or struggles are seen to the naked eye. Even when they are visible to you, you still don't know what that child or their family deals with on a daily basis. The other day I was talking with my Mom about my son and his recent appointments and she mentioned to me how one of the parents at my Son's gymnastics made a statement to another parent (in ear shot of my mother) that my son Z is "the rudest child he's ever met". Yup, this parent said it. Not to mention he doesn't actually "know" my child. He's seen him at the gymnastics center, maybe observed him in an hour class, and on this particular day that this parent made this statement, my son was being VERY good! He's was playing with another child and they were not running around the upstairs area, they were not yelling, screaming, or being "rude". He was BEING A KID! So this brings me to my point. This parent has NO IDEA what my child struggles with on a daily basis. This parent doesn't know that he cries to me at night saying that he had to "take a break" at school many times and that he was trying so hard to listen but he just can't. This parent has no idea that my son is being assessed for multiple learning disabilities and that he has an unending urge to run, jump, swing, play, climb, flip, and talk beyond control. That his body wants him to constantly move and he has difficulty controlling that urge. He has NO IDEA that my son has difficulty following multi-step directions and that when I call him or talk to him it sometimes doesn't register until I walk over to him and look him in the eye. This parent has no idea that my son has difficulty processing input through sight, sound, touch, and taste. He doesn't know that my son deals with anxiety on a daily basis. So why...why does he think that he can make such a bold statement about my child, or anyone's child, when he doesn't know them? And this guy is a PARENT! He's basing a judgement on what he has seen a few times without having a conversation with me or my son. I find it so appalling. 

This brings me to this blog post today. Before you pass judgement on someone stop and think for a minute. Do you know this person. Do you know what they deal with on a daily basis? Do you know what their life is like? Do you know what they've gone through in their life? Do you know what challenges they've faced? Unless they are your close family or friend you don't know. So before you make such bold statements, judgements, or accusations about their life or their choices stop, say hello, and get their story. Maybe, just maybe you'll learn something. You'll understand. You'll get to know them and be inspired, touched, or changed. People every day deal with struggles with their weight, their health, their confidence. They've battled things that you don't know. Many struggles that people have are unseen to the naked eye. Mental disabilities, eating disorders, learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, health issues are all things that when looking at someone, you wont know their daily battle. So why? Why do we think that we can make a judgement on a tiny snippet of their life? Please next time you think you're going to make a judgement stop yourself. Think to yourself is this right? Is this fair? What are they dealing with and why are they making these choices or acting this way? Stop and think that God has made us all perfect and beautiful in his eye, so we have no right to judge. Then, and only then maybe walk up to them and say hello. Maybe lend a helping hand. Maybe even say to them "hang in there, you're doing great." 

 Much Love <3 

Chrissy 
Chrissy Locke Health & Fitness 
Fit Mommy of 2 
chrissylockehealth.fitness@Gmail.com

Society's View on Body Image Is NOT okay..

So I wanted to do a quick blog addressing the view that society has on body image and how distorted it is. Yesterday a fellow Team Beachbody Coach posted a link to her blog to share with us. Writing this blog wasn't something that was easy for her, but she realized it was because she was so worried about what others would think of her. So she bit the bullet, shared her feelings, and posted. Well since she did it's gotten a lot of attention. Yesterday I read her post and it really hit me hard. One because I wonder often why we care so much about what others think of us. And two because I thought a lot about why do others opinions matter so much to our feeling of self worth? They shouldn't! How we feel about ourselves and our bodies should not rely on others thoughts. We shouldn't value ourselves on others opinions. Our self worth and self value should only be based on how we feel about ourselves and if we're comfortable and confident in that. Today there are so many diet plans, programs, and workouts marketed every day. The industry is booming on how to help people "lose weight quick". They're always marketing on "feel your best" and "look your best". Yes I am a Fitness and Health Coach, but I've never told anyone that it's to help them "lose weight quickly". When I talk to my customers and work with them it's because I want to help them realize that they matter. That there is more for them in this life. That they are worth changing their life to feel their best and build up that confidence in themselves to know that they are "worth" changing their life and living healthy. I don't ever claim that what I help them do is going to happen quickly. It's going to take time, effort, and there will be ups and downs, but that's because nothing worth having is easy. Living a healthy life is a lifestyle change. You're breaking habits and making new ones. You're accomplishing goals that you may never have thought possible. In return it all builds confidence, strength, and self discipline. That is what I LOVE about Team Beachbody and what we do. We work together and lift one another up. We help each other realize that we matter. It truly changes your life and we come together because living a healthy life takes support, encouragement, and strength and all that doesn't come easy. We support one another through challenge groups where we are educated on healthy eating, fitness, personal development, and self worth. We GROW together. Society today isn't happy with anything...it's never "enough"...people are told you're too fat, you're too thin, you're too short, you're too tall and to me...that's NOT okay. Together we're here to say don't listen. What is important is knowing that you feel good about yourself. That the accomplishments you've made are YOURS and it's not for anyone else. That your health and fitness matters. That your setting goals and CRUSHING them with the support from family, friends, and your team. That it's not just about the weight you've lost or that you've gone down in clothing size, but that you've built yourself up. That you've grown to LOVE yourself and how you feel. That you're growing inside as a person spiritually. And that you're comfortable in your skin. Know that. Remember that. And move forward today in believing that you're doing this for YOU and no one else!

Here's the link to her blog post. I hope that this helps you today in knowing that you matter. That it's not the number on the scale or the number on your clothing tag. It's about you growing in who you are. It's about you knowing that you are beautiful inside and out and that you're doing this for you.

http://taratrulytransformed.blogspot.com/2015/04/living-after-myth.html

Much Love,

Chrissy
Fit Mommy of 2 Health & Fitness
xoxoxo

It's a Marathon, Not a Sprint so Dig Deep!

Hi everyone! So it's been quite a while since I've posted and shared with you my thoughts. I will say that things for a while got very hectic and crazy in my life with finishing up my classes for my Master's Degree, being with family during the loss of both my grandparents in a 6 months time, and meeting with my sons teachers and doctors trying to figure out what he's dealing with and helping him. I'll say, being a Mom is a very busy job! However, with all the things in life that I've been going through the experiences are certainly teaching me a lot about myself as well as life. I've been doing a lot of soul searching and reflecting through these experiences and I feel it's teaching me a lot and I'm growing from each one. I truly think that's the most important piece of it. Reflecting on ourselves and learning from whatever trials, tribulations, and fortunes that come our way. Today that is what I want to share with you and reflect on. 

I am training for my second half marathon that I'll be running with my sister and mother on May 9th (it's so close!). As I run I always think to myself about life and reflect on it. I try to use this time as "Me time" to work through whatever I'm struggling with personally. Yesterday as I was running on my lunch break (yes only time during the week I can run, sorry to coworkers if I'm sweaty and stinky lol) I started thinking about how life isn't a sprint to the finish line, it's a long slow marathon where you have ups and downs, moments of strength and weakness, and times that you think you want to quit, but you don't because you know if you keep pushing through you'll reach that goal that you've been working your butt off for. Through life you have these moments, A LOT OF THEM! You face moments of weakness where you want to give up and throw in the towel and say I don't want to do it anymore, but you don't, because you know just around that corner and over that final hill you will see the finish line within your grasp. So why give up when you know that you can push through that burning in your legs to reach that finish line you've been busting your ass off to get to. 

Over the years I've had SO MANY doors slam in my face and so many times that I thought, why is this happening to me. I've wanted to give up. I've cried. I've had moments where I said is this all really worth it? I know it is though, because I know in the end where all this hard work, sleepless nights, and sweat and tears will get me. I'll share with you a little bit...When I went to undergraduate school at UMass Amherst I got my Bachelors Degree in English. I had thought of applying to the School of Education because I've always known I've wanted to be a teacher. I decided however to not apply and just graduate with my degree and go on to finish my certification later. The reason I didn't apply to the school is because I was afraid of Failing. I didn't want to be that girl in my Sorority house that didn't get accepted. There were many other girls that were applying to the same program and I was afraid of being that 1 girl that didn't get accepted and being a failure and be embarassed. So I just didn't do it. After graduation I went on to be an Early Childhood Teacher for 9 years before getting up the courage to apply to graduate school and finish my certification. Now through out those 9 years I've learned a lot and had experiences that have definitely taught me a lot about being a teacher. Every experience you have is one to learn and grow from. The point is, I didn't go for my dreams because I was too afraid of failure. I didn't even want to try, I just took the easy way out. So many people do this, and then they never find their true potential because you are too afraid of what others might think of you. But WHY?!?! Why are you basing YOUR life on what others will think about you when in the end you're only hurting yourself and YOUR dreams. 

Believe in yourself, you're your biggest Fan!

Fast forward now to today. I applied and 3 1/2 years ago I was accepted to the Masters program at Southern New Hampshire University for Elementary Education and Special Education and I just finished my LAST course for the program. I'm going to be student teaching in the Fall. I set all my fears aside and went for it and I'm graduating with High Honors as a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success. A dream I've always had to be a National Honor Society student, and I did it in GRAD SCHOOL as a mother of 2 young boys working full time and running a part time health coaching business! A lot harder this time around than when I was a young 20 something Undergraduate student. I just had to believe in myself and know that I can do anything I set my mind to. I've failed so many times. I've had doors shut in my face when I've applied for public school teaching jobs as an assistant or aide. I've taken the state tests and had to take them again, and again, and again because I've missed passing by only 1 to 3 points (yes that was frustrating). But, I've not given up. I've kept pushing along when I've just wanted to quit again. I know that in the end I'm going to make it over that final hill and I'm going to see that finish line in the distance and I'm going to cross it. I'm going to reach my goals and my dreams. I'm going to look back and know that all the sleepless nights of studying and homework and endless hours that I've put in is going to pay off. I look at my husband and my children and know that there is a better life for us. I know God has a plan for our future, and I can feel it, I just have to believe in him that what I'm doing is right. A future where I'm going to have time home with my kids and be able to not stress about what to do with them on vacations. I'm going to have more time to focus on my health coaching business to help others start living a healthier life, which is a true passion of mine. We all face struggles. We all feel at times that what we're doing isn't worth it because we don't see the results quick enough. But it is worth it. Every single little thing you do each day culminates into the end result. It ALL MATTERS! You just need to think of why you started. What was your reason for taking that first step, and don't forget that. You will get there. It's not going to happen in the blink of an eye. You're not going to lose 10 pounds in one day. You're not going to earn that degree over night. You're not going to make a million dollars in a year, BUT if you keep pushing forward every day. You keep growing personally. You learn from each experience good or bad. You will grow. You will make a change. You will eventually see that all your hard work is 100% worth it and you'll be successful in whatever it is you dream of. Don't give up! Don't quit! Don't walk off of that road. Focus on that finish line, hold it in your sights, and keep pushing through that burning feeling. Dig Deep, Hold on, and enjoy the ride. Because you will get there, I PROMISE!!! 

Much Love, 

Chrissy <3