Thursday, August 11, 2011

FL Countdown - Day 15: Juice Fast

Well as many of you can tell from my Facebook status updates, me and the hubby are partaking in a juice fast. What this basically means is for 10 days we will drink nothing but water and fresh juice that we make consisting of fresh organic veggies and fruits. This is very much like a cleanse and even a jump start so to speak. We remove all the toxins from our bodies in a natural way. No pills or supplements of any kind.  Just fresh, organic, micronutrients.

Why are we doing this? Where did idea come from?

Last weekend after a night of drinking and eating to our hearts content at a wedding, we stumbled upon a documentary on Netflix, "Fat, Sick, and Nearly Dead." This documentary features Joe Cross, an Australian entrepreneur who is sick with a debilitating disease called Urticaria Vasculitis.  In simple terms, he get hives, rashes, and open sores that are painful with which he takes steroids among many other pills to keep the symptoms at bay.  Anyway,  he does a juice fast for 60 days. Yes, 60 days of ingesting only juice. No solid foods at all. Well at the end of his 60 days he lost 82 lbs and is pill free. His body healed itself from the inside out. In addition to Joe's story there were also a couple of other very inspirational featured stories.  This documentary really made it very clear that what we put into our bodies (i.e. the crap, junk food, processed foods, etc) can be just like poison.  But we can heal  ourselves from our ailments based solely on our diets. Check out the trailer and be inspired.




I have given alot of thought to the fact that Rueben and I both do crossfit 4-5 times a week. I have thought about how I'll perform during workouts, whether I'll be totally zapped of energy, and if it will increase my hunger. I can probably say yes to all of those things. I can try to recoup with more juice and I know I'll be very tired for a few days. According to the documentary many people, after the first few days feel a sense of euphoria, their energy levels increase, all around everything starts to clear up and improve.  One thing I have had to remind myself of is that this is only temporary.  10 days.  Possibly more if I choose to do so.

Counter top in our kitchen

Current state of our refrigerator

I realize there is always criticism in the decisions that others make.  Like I said before this is temporary and honestly, it will be a fun experiment.  I'll keep you all posted!

~kat  

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

FL Countdown - Day 29: Gram's 88th!

What is the secret to a long healthy life?  Well, in recent months I think I have a pretty good idea of what that answer might consist of.  Crossfit and Paleo.  However, I also have a shining example.  My grandma.

Today is my grandma's 88th birthday.  88 years and still going strong.  She is independent.  She cooks, cleans, rides the bus to places she wants to go (though not so often anymore), still has the energy to put on her cutest outfit and makeup when she is going somewhere special.. I guess my point is at 88 she is healthy and strong enough to take care of herself.


Happy 88th Gram!  To many more healthy, vibrant years!

   

Pork Sinigang, Pancit, Diniguan (Chocolate Meat), and Pinakbet

I would attribute her graceful aging first and foremost to her diet.  There is a pretty clear distinction from being raised in the Philippines versus being raised in the states.  There you cook just about every meal for the day.  You eat fresh fruits and vegetables from the farm, fresh meats and fish from the market, little to no processed food, and drink LOTS of water.  The market places back then were not filled with candy, soda, and fast fried food.  You delighted in lychee fruit, mangos, and papayas straight off the tree.  The caribou, goat, and chicken were raised on the farm and fed from the land, a land free of pesticides and harmful chemicals.  My grandma grew up on the Paleo Diet just didnt know what to call it :)  Goes to show that eating organic can really add years to your life.

My grandma came to the U.S. about 27 years ago.  She came over after my brother Michael was born to help my mom take care of us kids.  She also raised 8 children, ran a few businesses her and my grandpa had, and then went on to take care of us grandkids.  She clearly had an active lifestyle.  Up until two years ago she volunteered at a preschool four days a week.  Now she enjoys her family, reading, and watching TFC (The Filipino Channel).

An obvious favorite.. LUMPIA

Happy Birthday Gram!  To many more healthy years!  We love you!

~kat



Monday, July 25, 2011

FL Countdown - Day 30: That Damn Scale!


So first let me start this long overdue post to the tune of something like “I suck. And I can’t seem to find time to write every night”.  Apologies. 

Second, I am 30 days away from being in sunny Florida with my best girlfriends!  Whoo hoo!!  I’m super anxious because I really have to turn up the heat for these four weeks.  Time to get real strict on my diet and shoot for 5ish days in the gym. 

Third… let’s talk about the scale.  This is a very controversial topic in the crossfit world. The scale really doesn’t tell you everything you need to know when it comes to weight loss.  Here is a popular article that my gym posted to help us all understand that the scale can be very deceiving (courtesy of Everyday Paleo)  Attention Scale Addicts. So now that you get the idea, I will tell you this.. I decided I would not weigh myself for about 30 days.  Unfortunately, I had to get weighed for a physical and happened to peak at the scale.  I have GAINED weight!  2 lbs. I was mortified!!  I have been busting my @ss in the gym and in the kitchen and I’m gaining?!?!  I was pretty bummed for a day or so about it…until today.  I tried on a pair of jeans I haven’t worn in a while.  Wow.. not nearly as tight and no bulging anywhere.  Something has got to give..  Why do I obsess about what the scale says??  The answer really is because I always have.  The number has always been such a big deal.  Until now.  From now on, I’ll be focusing my attention to my measurements and how my clothes fit, rather than those three digit numbers.

~kat

Friday, July 15, 2011

FL Countdown - Day 42: You Can Be Re-Born!

I was just having a little chit chat with my step daughter tonight.. you know, discussing things like what shows she watched today, what she did, and more importantly what she ate today.  Needless to say, the list of items on that list weren't exactly what "primals" would consider healthy and wholesome.  I went on to tell her about how important it is to feed your body with healthy foods and take care of it since it is the only you got.  She said something to me that stuck and I thought it was really cool, she said, "You can be reborn."  I love this mindset and more so that it came from a 9 year old.  Pretty bright kid!!

But she is right, anyone can be reborn.  You can change your path, you can better yourself, and you will be proud of your accomplishments in the end.  I started out this little cruise to healthy living only a few short months ago.  I feel better, I feel stronger, and I have more energy to tackle the day.  I give myself some leeway to be human but make conscious efforts to stay on track.  My "ahh-ha" moment happened when I was talking with my best girlfriend, Lisa of Fallout Crossfit.  When I was having that mental battle of whether or not to join KCF, what Lisa said rings in my head "you'll like CF if you give it an honest try."  I took her advice, gave it an honest try, and as cliche as it sounds it's changed my life.  I actually enjoy working out.  I enjoy the people at the gym.  I think the coaches are great.  And the workouts are incredible.  I will never go back to a normal gym ever again.  If you want results quick, you will get them at crossfit, but know that it comes with hard work, alot of sweat, and sometimes blood.  Give yourself an honest try, you will feel the same.

Yesterday's WOD.

Meals for the Day:
Breakfast:  2 eggs with chicken sausage and mixed berries
Lunch:  Vietnamese Style Beef Salad
Dinner:  Steak with a small green salad and fried eggplant

~kat

Thursday, July 14, 2011

FL Countdown - Day 47 thru 43: Listen to Your Body

**Written last weekend**

It's been a long week, with WOD's that have left me feeling sore, bruised, and beaten. I really tried to push myself to get into the gym and made it 4 days this week. Now that I sit here on Saturday night, with my hands wrapped in bandaids (due to todays wod), I feel borderline exhausted. My hamstrings and biceps are tight. I think my complaining here is enough to say "I need a break."

Maybe it's because I've had a long month playing mommy and daddy, maybe I didn't get enough sleep, or maybe it is because I put in 100% at the gym this week, but whatever it is - I need to listen to my body and give it some rest. The next two days will be spent recuperating, relaxing, and reconnecting with my hubby.

Meals for the day:

Breakfast: protein shake after today's WOD, then 2 eggs & sausage
Lunch: fresh sockeye salmon burger at barbies cafe in sea beck, slice of mandarin cake
Dinner: Thai chicken curry soup and a small green salad

**Written today Thursday, July 14th**

I realize its been a minute since I've blogged but I have NOT fallen off the wagon.. just maybe the blogging wagon.  With my hubby home and me in school all week, my time in front of a computer has been limited.

Anyway, I wanted to make a sort of "update" to the subject of this blog.  Remember how I was talking about listening to your body??  Well, someone that I know very well happened to aggravate one of their injuries tonight.  Now the burning in their "joint" is really putting a damper on the evening.  When your body doesn't work the way its suppose to it can be incredibly frustrating.  More importantly, when your livelihood depends on it.

In addition, I would also like to stress how imperative it is to treat your injuries when they happen.  I know alot of people who just brush injuries off or "deal" with them.  Not what I would consider a good idea.  Get those injuries checked out by a physician so you can be diagnosed and start treatment.

Take care of your body, its the only one you have!!

~kat

Saturday, July 9, 2011

FL Countdown -Day 48: TGIF

Finally, Friday. Ahh.. I love days like today. Laid back work day, a little shopping, and my first Power Hour. A chance to work on getting stronger. Todays Power Hour consisted of:

6 Rounds For Time:
100 m sled drag at 60#
2 tire flips (no clue what the weight was)

Between wait times I think I finished somewhere along 14 minutes..

Meals for the day:
Breakfast: 2 eggs w/ chicken sausage and LOTS OF COFFEE
Lunch: Leftover spaghetti squash & meat sauce
Dinner: Pho w/ beef brisket (I had a weak moment)

Enjoy the weekend!

~kat

Friday, July 8, 2011

FL Countdown - Day 49: What Yo Mama Gave You!


Ain't this the truth?!?  =)
OK ladies, this one is for us..

I recently read a blog post from one of my fellow blogger's having to do with this subject and because yesterday was such a crappy day for me in terms of self-esteem, I thought I would touch on it a little. 

How often are we comparing ourselves to other women, more so, women in the media?  It seems like every television show, music video, movie, tabloid magazine (I could go on for days), has pictures of beautiful, slim, celebrities.  Many of the titles reading "How I Lost the Weight" or "Hottest Bikini Bodies of the Summer" etc and many of the pictures showing gorgeous skin-exposing ball gowns and swimsuit shots.  As women, we place a tremendous amount of pressure on ourselves to fit the celebrity stereotype.  Yo-yo dieting.. been there.. exercising 4 hours a day like a fiend... done that. 

Yesterday was an off day for me.  I can make a million excuses to why I didn't get to the gym and why I didn't eat very well.  But I'm not going to.  Plain and simply:  I just didn't feel like it.  Which is probably why the gym guilt set in and I began to critique and criticize everything I don't like about my body.  And though it's hard to accept sometimes, this is what my mama gave me.  These are my hips, these are my thighs, my arms, my stomach.  This is what I was given.  ACCEPT IT.  (Easier said than done, right?) 

Though I am working towards a goal and I am eating right (most of the time) and "cross fitting", I still want to be the best I can be.  I will never be 5'7 and 110 lbs.  Instead, I will forever hem my pants and wear heels with every possible outfit (to fool everyone of my actual height, a mere 5'3).  I will dream all day long about having skinny "girly" arms and legs for days but the truth is.. no matter how much I work out and diet, I will never look like Brooke Burke.  I'm coming to terms with it :) but it's ok.  This is what God (and my mama) gave me!

So.. after that being said, I'll disclose my meals for the day... EEkkK! 

Breakfast:  2 Over easy Eggs (cage free) with Chicken & Apple Sausage, Coffee as usual
Lunch:  Leftover Spaghetti Squash w/ Marinara
Snack:  AmyLu's Chicken Burger with a small salad  (What?!?  I was still hungry!)
Dinner:  Korean Beef Bulgogi w/ Rice  (This is where I disappointed myself)

Now I remember why I have been trying to stay away from rice.. it's like instant bloat! 

In closing, be happy ladies - with what you are and who you are!  Accept the things you cannot change.  Take care of your bodies (this is the only one you've got).  Surround yourself with positive, supportive people who love you JUST AS YOU ARE!

~kat

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

FL Countdown - Day 50: Technique vs. Heavy Weight

This is a topic that came up more than once yesterday while trying to do a 4 set deadlift max.  Being fairly new to crossfit, I find it incredibly rewarding to move up in weight.  It feels awesome to know that through the sweat, soreness, and (damn near) muscle failure I am getting stronger and improving everyday.  With that said, I am making a new commitment to myself today.  Technique is priority.  Weight will come later. 

Too many times we injure ourselves trying to lift the heavier weight because well, let's be honest, being strong is pretty cool.  Add to that the motivation from our peers, our own personal records, gym records, or even just the reaction from others "You lifted how much?  That's amazing! " or "Holy smokes, you're a powerhouse!" etc.. (I'll stop at my dumb attempts to sound motivating).  Anyways, it feels good to increase the weight and really see that progress we yearn for.  However, what I've noticed in the gym is that heavy weight usually means your technique tends to struggle.  Hence the potential for injuries.

Thank goodness for KCF Coaches who help keep us in line when our form is less than perfect.  Brandi kept me honest yesterday.  :)

Today I took full advantage of my commitment to form and technique.  I did not lift as much as I would have liked to, however, I got my ass kicked (in true crossfit nature) and "felt" my workout.  It's not an easy task to keep good form through an entire workout but I did my darndest to do so!

Wednesday's WOD in 19:17.  It was tough and I really struggled on those front squats.

Meals for the day:
Breakfast:  2 Eggs w/ Chicken & Apple Sausage, 2 cups of coffee
Lunch:  AmyLu Chicken Burger w/ greens, Watermelon
Dinner:  Marinara Meat Sauce w/ Spaghetti Squash
Dessert:  Paleo Brownie


Spaghetti Squash (excuse the lighting, darn energy efficient bulbs)


FL Countdown - Day 51: Kids will be... kids!

Having a child is always a challenge.  They are babies, so sweet and tender.  Then they're crawling, cooing, walking, running and saying the cutest things.  But when that child takes a flying leap off the bed and happens to bite through her lip causing her to get 3 stitches, it tends to get a little stressful.  Yesterday was one of those days.  For her.  And me. 

Despite the stitches and 3 nurses holding her down to put the stitches in - Miss Jordan is doing fine, showing off her new "owwie" to everyone she sees.  Definitely Rueben's child, battle scars are the coolest thing!  Anyway, my meals struggled yesterday for sure!   So did Jordan's. 

Meals for the day:
Breakfast:  Stomach growling sitting in the ER
Lunch:  Leftover Salmon, greens and watermelon
Snack:  Two yummy paleo brownies I made the day before
Dinner:  Pork Ribs, mixed veggies, and even a little rice (I told you it struggled)

Hit the gym, worked on deadlift and here was the WOD.  My time was 7:37. 

Gotta keep chipping away... 50 days to go!!

~kat

FL Countdown - Day 52: Happy 4th Everyone!!

The 4th was spent with friends.. and children laughing and playing while throwing pop-it's.  It was relaxing, fairly quiet, and a beautiful day (for once). :)

I had no clue what to bring to the BBQ we attended so I decided to hit my friends with some paleo brownies, recipe courtesy of Paleo Mama

I think they tasted great (in a "wow, pretty good for being healthy" way) but I'm sure they were hard to swallow for my non-paleo friends ;)  Sorry guys. 

Paleo Brownies.. a healthy take on dessert

Weird not spending the 4th with my hubby... one week to go til he's home!! 

Meals for the day:
Breakfast:  Eggs with Asparagus & Onions, Leftover Flank Steak
Lunch:  A bowl of fresh gazpacho
Dinner:  Oh geez... chips and homemade salsa (courtesy of Ashley) Steak, Ribs, and Asparagus.

My workout consisted of perfecting my push-ups and stink bugs while watching the 2010 Strongest Man on ESPN. 
~kat

Monday, July 4, 2011

FL Countdown - Day 53: Cooking Finally!!

Wow, me and Jordan were pretty zapped of energy yesterday so I can actually say we stayed home and enjoyed the peace and quiet (with a nice long nap).  Anyway, I was finally able to do some cooking so I'm back to feeling slightly domesticated since my husband has been away.

I have recently fallen in love with eggplant but have been scouring the internet for paleo friendly dishes and came upon this yummy fried eggplant dish courtesy of  Paleo Girls. Sleep. Love. Eat.  I'll add the picture once my less-than-smartphone decides to cooperate with me.  Since I did not have almond flour or coconut flour, I went ahead and used almond meal instead for the paleo breadcrumbs. 

My dad was also having a hankering for some gazpacho, so we tested out a recipe we found online.  Gazpacho is a Spanish cold soup that is usually made in the summer months.  It is refreshing and flavorful during those warm summer days (in Spain, obviously not here in the PNW).

Shrimp Gazpacho:
- 30 shrimp, cooked, peeled, and deveined
- 1 small yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cucumber, remove seeds
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbs. olive oil
- 1/2 water
- 2 cans of diced tomatoes
- 1 jalapeno
- cilantro, we used about 1/2 c packed (or so)
- 2 tbs. Sherry Vinegar
- salt and pepper
- avocado (for topping)

Directions:  Put 1 can of tomatoes, water, and olive oil in food processor and blend.  Add all chopped veggies, shrimp, vinegar, salt and pepper.  Place in refrigerator for a few hours before serving.  Tastes the best the next day after the soup has had a chance to sit.
Good. Refreshing.  Best of all. Healthy :)
Meals for the Day:
Breakfast:  2 Eggs w/ Avocado and Trader Joe's Chicken & Apple Sausage
Lunch:  Uhh.. I slept through it :)
Snack:  Cherries, Blueberries, and Strawberries
Dinner:  Baked Salmon, Fried Eggplant, Corn on the Cob, and a little Flank Steak
Dessert:  Halo-Halo..  Filipino ice-cream dish with black beans and fruits.  Omg, let me just tell you that going dairy-free and finally eating dairy really upset my stomach and add the sugar to that mix - ugh!  It'll be while before I decide to "cheat" again!!

Saturday, July 2, 2011

FL Countdown - Day 54: Easy Saturday

Me and my brother Billy hit KCF this morning, here was our workout of the day.  My time - 32:48.  I have yet to master the art of double unders, but I'm sure getting to it could help my times.  Anyway, killer WOD before the holiday weekend!!  
Lil Missy hammin' it up at the Oak Table


Breakfast:  2 Eggs with an Aidell's Chicken and Apple Sausage
Post-WOD:  Protein Shake - Coconut milk, banana, strawberries, blueberries, & chocolate protein powder
Lunch:  BBQ Chicken Salad from the "Paleo Friendly" Menu at The Oak Table
Snack:  Some of Jordan's frozen yogurt

My mom has been super supportive with what I am trying to accomplish here so she picked up some gluten-free hamburger buns today at the Poulsbo Farmer's Market.  Thanks mom!!

Pre-Dinner Appetizer:  Homemade Guacamole with Corn Chips
Dinner:  Hamburger with a gluten-free bun from The Gluten-Free Bakery & Market in Poulsbo
               Watermelon
               Berry Acai Lemonade

Well, I made up for my lack of nutrition yesterday.. Summer holidays can be tough trying to stay on track :)

~kat

FL Countdown - Day 55: FACTS


My favorite treat!

10 facts about me:

1. I feel guilty when I don't get to the gym [KCF]. Especially now that I have been blogging.
2. I use honesty when posting my meals. Criticism or not. I will not fib regardless of how bad I think I ate for the day.
3. I am busy. And I mean really busy. My day starts at 5am and does not stop until 9pm (if I can make it to bed that early).
4. I work better when my plate is full. Sitting around watching tv does nothing for me. I think the only times I've had the tv on since Rueben has been gone is: 1) Zumba Dvd's or 2) Barney.
5. I wish I had more time everyday to focus on the things I like to do: cooking and photography.
6. I'm a closet gangster.  Drake is my all time fave.   I will challenge anyone 8-mile style and you will get served!
7. I come from a tight-knit family.  And that's how it will stay.
Just say NO!
8. I have a terrible sweet tooth.  I fight the sugar cravings everyday!!
9. I do not drink soda (pop, for you Washingtonians).  Neither does my husband.  Sorry Jordan... you'll get to experience it when you can pay for it on your own. 
10. I will NEVER go back to an ordinary gym.  Crossfit has really changed my opinion of "stereotypical" workouts.  Though I'll pop in a beachbody dvd from time to time if I miss a workout, I still feel my absolute best when I walk out of KCF after a brutal workout.  Okay, just a workout.  Every workout is pretty brutal. 

Indian chicken curry

Meals of the Day:
Breakfast:  Apple Pie Larabar
                 Coffee out the ying-yang
Lunch:  Berry Acai Lemonade
Late Lunch: Tinola w/ a cup of rice
Dinner:  I experimented with an Indian curry dish.  Chicken, onions, red peppers.  It turned out pretty good and had some heat on it.  Just how I like it!




~kat

Friday, July 1, 2011

Florida Countdown - Day 56: Sleep... or lack there of..

Britney Spears was amazing last night!!  One of the best shows I've seen by far.  Got home at midnight and woke at 6am.  With that said, can you imagine how tired I am today?  I even felt a little queasy this morning (no, I did not drink last night), but the lack of sleep always makes me a little sick. 

Everyone I know in the fitness and nutrition industries tend to really harp on the importance of sleep.  Its obvious why we should get an adequate amount of sleep, 1) Our bodies need the rest to function, 2) Our brain needs it too, 3) To provide us with energy, etc..

How peaceful is baby Jordan?
I have always been an advocate for sleep. 
Some facts about me and sleep: 

 -   Going to bed at 9pm is late.  "Early to bed, early to rise". 
 -   I'm a morning person.  I can't stay up late for anything.
 -   I can fall asleep just about anywhere.  Really.
 -   A night of consuming alcoholic beverages usually means a sleepless night for me.  :(
 -   My toddler has been sleeping in my bed interrupting my "rules" of sleep. 

Since Jordan has boycotted her bed, my healthy sleep patterns have been struggling.  But what does lack of sleep do to you when you're hitting the gym hard and eating right?

1.  It does not allow your muscles time to recover and repair from a workout.  Your body needs about 8-9 hours to do so.

2.  It increases hormonal stress levels which equals negative impact on performance, mood swings, and depression.

3.  It is a contributing factor in obesity, diabetes, hypertension and heart disease.  Something about not managing glucose levels because your cells become insulin resistant... You know, technical stuff.  I get it though.

Sufficient sleep plays a major role in who we are.  We are better people when we are well-rested.  How great do you feel after a good nights sleep??  You feel ready to tackle the day!  As far as Jordan goes, I know it will be a battle, but one we are going to put a stop to very soon.  Momma is tired!!



Breakfast:  Larabar
                    2 cups coffee

Lunch:   Chicken Salad
Dinner:  A Heaping Spinach Salad w/ Bacon, Red Onions, Eggs, and Tomatoes, oh and I had a roll that came with it.  :\

Yeah, I know I didn't eat much but it wasn't intentional.  I wasn't feeling myself today, must have been the lack of sleep!

Got to bed at 7:30pm.  Perfect.

~kat

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Countdown to FL, Day 57: Girls Night!!!

Oh yeah, a long awaited "Girl's Night Out" is tonight!  Me and all my lovely girlfriends are going to see Britney Spears & Nicki Minaj (you're NEVER too old for Britney contrary to what my little brother thinks).  Therefore, no workouts for me today.  I'm pretty sure all the dancing tonight will make up for it somwehow (wishful thinking).  I'll get back on the grind tomorrow.

Breakfast:  Half of a smoothie (gave me a stomach ache so I had to stop drinking it)
                  2 eggs
                  2 cups of coffee with coconut creamer

Pork Sinigang
Morning Snack:  Apple

Lunch: A Filipino favorite in our house - Pork Sinigang, no rice

There are several variations you can make to this dish.  You can go wild with veggies if you like or instead of pork, use fish or shrimp. 

  • 1-2 lbs of meat of your choice (depending on how many you are feeding)
  • Tamarind Soup Base or Tamarind Root (if you go with root, be sure to add a little fish sauce for taste) I like mine really sour!
  • 2 small tomatoes
  • 1 large onion
  • Daikon radish
  • A small bunch of chinese long beans
  • 2-3 baby bok choy bunches
  • 2 cups Eggplant (just eye the amount)
  • 1 anaheim chile pepper (optional)
  • 5-6 cups water
Fill a pot with water and bring to a boil.  Throw in pork, let boil until cooked, add tomatoes and tamarind.  Turn down heat and simmer (I simmer for an hour or so, I like the meat very tender).  Throw in veggies and cook to desired firmness.  I like my veggies a little crisp so I dont simmer them too long. 

Sinigang is so good with rice, but I've given that up.  So just a bowl of meat and veggies for me today :)  However, very filling! 

Afternoon Snack:  Larabar

Dinner:  I've already done my research.. The girls decided on the Old Spaghetti Factory for dinner before the concert so I took a look at their online menu to see what they had for healthier options.  I will be having the baked chicken w/ the spaghetti squash.  I promise. :)

Another day down... 56 to go!

~kat

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Florida countdown begins.. Day 58.

I'm a pretty lucky girl.  I get to spend 6 days with my two best friends in FLORIDA!  They are both (of course) gorgeous and beach body ready... so, its time for me to turn up the heat when it comes to working out and eating right.
Michelle, Lisa and I on my wedding day (obviously)!  I only cropped my two beautiful friends out of the pic for the purposes of this post, I don't love you girls any less!! It was the last pic I have of us together.

Now that I actually have something to look forward to and an actual time frame to work with (not just me taking my sweet time and cheating on the weekends), I think I can finally be held accountable for how I treat my body in the next 58 days.  I will record my meals and workouts everyday.  I will not disclose weight (come on now, what woman would) but I will take measurements and record weight loss on a periodic basis.  KCF did a Spring Clean-up Challenge that I showed up half way through so this will be my own little clean-up challenge, "Kat's 'work-it-twerk-it' Summer Challenge".

I started my morning out pretty good.  Went to bed at 8pm last night because I promised myself I would get up and workout at 5am.  And I sure did!  I popped in a Zumba dvd and went all kinds of "Latin" on my poor living room carpet with my Nike's on.  I'm sure it will be trashed by the time I get to Day 1.  Anyway, not only did I get a decent cardio workout this morning but I also learned some new dance moves!  All in the hips girrrrrllll!!

Breakfast:  Two cage-free eggs  
                 Two cups of coffee with coconut creamer

Lunch:       5oz grass-fed steak
                 1.5 cups of mixed veggies (asparagus, zucchini, onions) sauteed in olive oil

Snack:      A handful of sunflower seeds from Trader Joe's on the drive home

I hit the 5pm Crossfit class.  Here was the workout of the day.  I did a 55# snatch and 20'' box jumps in 12:05.  Brandi, one of the coaches at KCF took my measurements so now I will be able to really track progress.

Dinner:  Well, it was a quick meal night.  So I threw together a romaine salad and topped it with an  AmyLu's Sweet Caramelized Chicken Burger with avocado vinaigrette.

So, now that you are all reading this and I've managed to gain the courage to post it online... its time for follow thru.  Looking forward to the next 57 days, maybe.

~kat

Monday, June 27, 2011

Peanut Booty

Peanut Booty.  One of Rueben's many nicknames.  :) 

My hubby has been gone for a couple of weeks now for work and I have really been missing him.  The house is quiet (for the most part) and life is a little more hectic running around doing it all alone so the heart is growing a little fond right now.  So... since I'm feeling so in love, I'll go ahead and gush about my husband today :)

Rueben grew up playing sports.  He played pee-wee football and soccer and as young teens him and his best friend ended up bonding in the weight room.  There is definitely something to be said about getting your kids playing sports at an early age.  They maintain fitness throughout their life and eventually pass it on to their kids.  (Not to mention all of the other pro's to student athletes; good grades, staying out of trouble, less possibility of drug use, etc).   Jordan is going to be a busy little girl.


Peanut Butter and Killa Cade
 Since I have known Rueben he has had this serious commitment to the gym.  When we first started dating back in 2005 it was required for him to workout.  He was a linebacker on CWU's football team.  I remember the grueling summer two-a-days and the 5am winter season workouts.  He was the lame one who wouldn't want to go out on $1 Corona nights because he had to get up for winter ball workouts (now I wouldn't blame him one bit!) the next morning.  And even when he did go out and get a little loose, first thing he did in the morning to cure his hangover was hit the gym!  I always thought the guy was either obsessed or crazy.  Now that our college days are over, he still hits the gym everyday like clockwork.  Whether its PTing with his unit or doing it solo - the man does not slack on his fitness. 


2008-09 Deployment
 Rueben does not work out for purposes of vanity.  He is not looking to be the sexiest guy in the gym with the wash board abs.  A good time for him is not running 3 miles or dead lifting 505 lbs.  Working out is simply not a hobby for him.  However, working out and maintaining functionality is incredibly important to him.  I know because we've had several conversations about this.  Being in the Army has it's pluses when you look at its physical requirements.  He has to keep his body in tiptop shape because, quite frankly, he is getting paid to and it is required.  He needs to be functional, quick, and agile on the battle field.  He needs to be physically ready to go to war at a moments notice [so to speak]. 

I admire his commitment to fitness and wish I were more like him.  He does not obsess over his imperfections, like I do.  He does not feel guilty if he decides to eat a burger and fries, like I do.  He does not compare himself to other guys, like all us women do.  He simply wants to be in the best shape possible if he were to be deploy tomorrow.  He does this all FOR HIMSELF.  To be his personal best. 

Courtesy of KCF: Rueben's KCF record of 505# deadlift on his 3rd day.

Rueben is so supportive of my new adventures at KCF.  He has always been that way.  When I have a goal I want to reach, he helps push me to it.  He asks everyday how my workout went and cheers me on when I reach new goals.  Can't wait for him to join me in the box when he gets home! 

Love you babe. 

~kat

Friday, June 24, 2011

PNW Spring/Summer (so far) has been a drag.. Vitamin D please?

Those of you who live here in the Pacific Northwest know exactly where I am going with this..  This Spring/beginnings of Summer have been such a drag!!!  I've never really been to a point where I have been so sick of the weather that I am just dying to get away, but this year has been an all time low in terms of Vitamin D intake.  

I think I saw someone post it on facebook or something but "we shouldn't feel lucky to have nice sunny days, alot of other places get the sunshine everyday for free".  I couldn't agree more.  There is something about a sunny day that brings smiles, positive attitudes, motivation, and best of all jacket-less days in the backyard bbqing and drinking cocktails.  Us, PNW'ers, live for summer!!  We get 3 months a year to bask in the glory and beauty of Western Washington WHILE THE SUN IS OUT!  Years like this just take a toll on people (or me, as you can tell by this rant). 

While working out and eating right does help with my attitude, I do add a little pick-me-up in pill form.  Yes, I try to take my Vitamin D every morning.  Its my personal decision, and so far it has helped give me the motivation and outlook I need to get through this painfully sun-less year.  Its other benefits include regulating calcium and phosphorus, preventing vitamin D deficiency (Rickets), treating skin conditions, and PMS (to name a few). 

An excellent source Vitamin D can also be found in fatty fish, like tuna, salmon and mackerel.  It is also found in dairy products and cereal (both of which are "paleo no-no's").  If you are against supplements, look to these foods for that "sunshine" vitamin.  Oh, and add free range eggs to that list.  Not the best source, but a good source.

I want the REAL thing, don't get me wrong - but until I see that sun shining and I'm out soaking it up through my skin, I'll stick to the pill form. 

Happy Summer everyone in the Southern Latitude! :\

~kat

Thursday, June 23, 2011

Going Dairy-Free..

So one of the "rules" of going Paleo is going dairy-free.  Because, let's be honest, what caveman could have possibly been pounding a glass of milk in his hey-day?!? 

Anyway, I have found a few alternatives to dairy.  Some that may be okay in the "Paleo" world and some probably not, but as I have said before, we start out easy... 

Coconut Milk (unflavored) has been part of my morning routine now.  Instead of the usual smoothie with non-fat milk, I use So Delicious Coconut Milk.  The conisitancy is alot like cows milk, it does not have the typical coconut flavor to it, and since I really only drink milk in my liquid breakfasts I have not noticed a difference in taste at all. 

I have also began using coconut creamer instead of what I used to use (Coffee Mate, Fat Free French Vanilla creamer).  It is also made by So Delicious and it is also French Vanilla flavored (ingredients may include some things not so "Paleo") but like we said before, baby steps help make the transition.  Or, at least.. my transition.  And speaking of things not so paleo, let me just throw it out there that Trader Joe's has a chocolate coconut ice cream, not that I've bought a pint of it or anything..

One coconut product I will say that I do not particularly care for would be coconut water.  I was walking through Central Market one day and saw cans of coconut water on sale so I thought I would try it out.  Not really sure what I was expecting, but the flavor was not for me.  It went down smooth but left me with a grassy after taste.  It tastes how you would expect the brown hair on a mature coconut to taste like if you were to ball it up and attempt to chew it.  Yah, I know.  Not the best description but I'm not really sure how else to describe the flavor.  Maybe I just got a bad coconut or something :p

We wont talk about cheese right now... let's just say I haven't eaten cheese in about a week.  So far so good (in my book). 

Off to KCF... Enjoy the rain on this TYPICAL Washington Summer Day!

~kat

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Everyday Paleo

I'm sitting here jamming out to Pandora on this beautiful 1st day of Summer trying to decide what todays blog post will be about...

Last week I made mention about a book I recently ordered from Amazon, Everyday Paleo by Sarah Fragoso.  I had a case of "analysis paralysis" and read tons of reviews on books that would help me and my family learn about living "primal".  Based on consumer reviews, I chose this book.  Unfortunately, I spilled water all over it so I had to wait for it to dry to finally peel the pages apart to actually get in a good read. 

Anyway, here is my opinion of the book.  An all encompassing, easy guide to eating well and getting your family on board.  She lists what foods you should eat, like.. in an actual list!  She has two lists: what to have in the fridge and what to have in the pantry.  She explains macronutrients, the myths about certain foods, she describes the importance of sleep, exercise, and how to start out easy.  And if you decide to give Paleo a go, she even gives you a 30 day shopping list with the months meal plan so you can plan ahead, stay committed, and give it an honest try. 

Recipes galore:  She covers everything, beef, chicken, seafood, sides, and even my personal favorite; dessert. We all know what a sweet tooth I have!  :)

This educational journey I have been taking has lead me to an epiphany.. eating Paleo is really pretty easy.  You can create your meals on the fly or simply look into your fridge and slap together a bunch of veggies with a meat dish.  Last night for dinner, I had chicken breast seasoned with cumin, garlic powder, chili powder and cayenne pepper on a bed of romaine with avocado, onions, and red peppers.  It was plenty filling and actually pretty tasty.  Jordan loved the chicken (or course not the greens) but that will be a work in progress.

If you're new to Paleo (as I am), I would recommend this book.

Enjoy!

~kat

Monday, June 20, 2011

Got a picky eater at home? Yeah, me too.

So, if you're a mom (or a dad) like me who has a picky eater at home, then you can probably relate to this topic. 

My toddler, who is not yet 2 years old, who has not had enough experience in her short life with food to be picky, is completely against eating anything green.  I try to sneak anything green I can into her diet and she will somehow find it and pick it out and tell me "Mommy, not dat one."  She loves corn, onions, carrots, red peppers, but if its GREEN, forget about it!!
This has caused me to become a sneaky mother.  I have started blending spinach and avocado into her morning smoothies just to try to get some fiber and nutrients into her diet.  Her and I will usually split a smoothie and  here it is:
  • 1/2 to 3/4 cup coconut milk (just eye it)
  • 3 large frozen strawberries (to give it that creamy frozen consistancy)
  • small handful of blueberries (antioxidants, yes!)
  • a couple slices of avocado (20 some-odd nutrients)
  • a handful of fresh spinach  (fiber and folic acid)

*sometimes I'll throw in a banana or some almond butter (potassium and tasty)

Its usually my breakfast, but more like an appetizer for her before she arrives at daycare.  I know its not much in terms of her daily nutrients, but every little bit helps.  And thankfully she prefers meats over starches so I think we have a good base so far.

Tips or secrets to getting those little ones to eat their veggies?  Leave a comment and share! :)

~kat

Be-lated Father's Day

So I have a little catching up to do.. 

Since my hubby is out of town, Father's day was spent hanging out at my parents house.  It was a quiet day - okay, I take that back - any day with Jordan running around rampant is never a quiet day, but nonetheless, relaxing

My dad is probably the best man I know.  He loves his family with all his heart and has given us some of the most important tools who have molded us [me & my brothers] into the people we are today.  He has taught us integrity, loyalty, the benefits of hard work, and the importance of family.  To top it all off, he is a wonderful "gampa" to our little Miss Jordan.  He is a man she will always look up to. 





And of course there is Jordan's daddy :)  This man will - no doubt - instill in this child his very gentle nature, his "tell-it-like-it-is" attitude, his love and affection, his wild and funny personality, and his "keep the boys away" mentality.  She already exhibits so much of him and she has yet to reach the ripe age of 2 years old :). 

Jordan is a lucky little girl to have these two postive male influences in her life.  Two men that love her and want the absolute best for her.  Thank you Dad, and thank you hunny.  Happy "be-lated" Father's Day!

Thursday, June 16, 2011

For a few good reads..

So if I may reiterate the whole "non-expert" thing...  I'm not going to fall into the hype of blogging about eating primal.  I am no shining example.  In fact, I am still on the road to learning about primal living.  Thanks to Sarah Fragoso's book "Everyday Paleo" I am taking the road cautiously and gently.  For now, I still take creamer in my coffee, I sneak ice cream when no one is looking, and I shop at Costco for bulk fruits and veggies because it agrees with my wallet.

Some blogs I find to be interesting, inciteful, fun, and entertaining is what you'll find in today's post. 

1.  Closet Cooking - This blog features seasonal faire and creative recipes.  LOTS of fresh foods and beautiful pictures and while it may seem you have to be a somewhat experienced cook, anyone is certainly capable of mimicking these tasty dishes on their own.  If you're looking for Paleo or Zone type recipes, this may not always be the site for you, but it can definitely help give you ideas in creating your perfect primal foods.

2.  Ivory Hut - Filipino foods brings me back to my roots.  I love white rice, I love the salty and sweet flavors of filipino cuisine, the unique tropical fruits and vegetables, and I love cooking filipino food at home (which has been scarce lately).  Unfortunately, I do not indulge in white rice quite as much as I used to but when I do, I go straight to the comfort foods.  The author of this blog does not focus solely on Filipino cuisine but does feature her favorites.

3.  Make Up Geek - Okay, so this blog has NOTHING to do with food, but thats okay!  While I have been enjoying my recent work out routine, I still have to put my face on for the work day.  I tend to get lots of crap about having makeup on at the gym, but its not like I'm a "re-applier" :)  Anyway, great site for tutorials, makeup reviews, and they have even began hair tutorials. 

4.  Pura Vida Nutrition - A high school classmate created this blog and its really a great read!  She covers a wide array of topics, from nutrition - to working out - to fad diets.  She emphasizes the importance of eating clean by educating her readers on the benefits of "quality" nutrition.   

5. Crossfit Mom - I love this site!  Mostly because I love seeing pictures of basketball-bellied moms doing snatchs, cleans, pull-ups etc.  I am inspired by these women because I know that sometime in the near future I will be just like them.  We are planning on expanding our family soon and I think its important for me, personally, to focus on exercise and nutrition before that time comes.  I know the struggles I had during the first child and while I tried my very best to stay active - I did not focus on nutrition.  I gained weight I didnt even know was possible.  It took about as long as I was pregnant to lose that weight.  I want to bounce back quickly this time.  I'll cover the benefits of working out during pregnancy in another post, but until then, enjoy this site all you moms and moms-to-be!

5.  The Foodee Project - RECIPES!!  Most of the time easy, quick recipes to living primal!  I learned about this site through my bff Lisa's hubby, Ben.  They are crossfit owners, Paleo enthuisiasts (sometimes thru marriage :)) and the people who inspired me to give crossfit an honest try.  So far, their advice has been on point! 

These are just a few that I enjoy reading, mostly because I have some sort of personal connection to them.  Anyhow, I'll be making a list of blogs I follow shortly. 

~Kat

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Here we go again..

My last attempt at blogging really failed, so I'm going to give it one more try.  Considering its been almost two years, I have a clean slate, right?  Anyway, new year, new interests, new way of living.  Nothing - might I add - that I am any kind of expert on, but I'm sure you're all dying to hear my opinion :)

Since I do have a new set of interests, I guess I'll start my first blog telling you about it.  I recently joined a new gym.  Its a crossfit gym.  Yes, I joined the craze but I will tell you.. as much as it is an ass kicker, it has also been pretty rewarding in just the few months that I have been a member. 

To start, let me tell you about Crossfit.  Its bascially a strength and conditioning program that is scalable but that incorporates weightlifting, endurance, gymnastics, agility, etc..THE WELL ROUNDED athlete!  Most crossfit gyms are anything but your stereotypical athletic clubs.  You wont see any elipticals there and you definitely will not be sweating to the oldies.  You will, however, learn to power lift, get stronger, feel better, and build great relationships with others who are just as dedicated to fitness as you are. 

Typical Athletic Club:
-Weight Machines
-Treadmills/Elipticals
-Aerobic Classes

Crossfit Gym:
-Medicine Balls
-Kettle Bells
-Jump Ropes
-Pull up Bar
-Bar Bells
-Weight Plates
-Weight Sleds
-Boxes
-Ropes
-Rowers (the only "machine" in a CF gym)



Here's my disclaimer:  I am your average girl.  I have some extra pounds I could lose, I have been pregnant, gained all the weight that came with it plus some, and I am incredibly BUSY!  All the same excuses that I know most of us moms have.  I can tell you honestly, that although it makes for a "quick dinner" kind of night, getting that exercise that your body needs will help you to combat the challenges of daily life and help you deal with them better than before. 

The progress I have made has been very surprising and QUICK!  When I started I couldnt do a pull up unassisted without the heaviest band strapped around my feet and now I have the luxury of doing them without any assitance at all.  2 months max, going only 3 times a week.  You do the math.  I'm not going to write a novel about my experience so instead, I'll keep you posted! 

Otherwise, check out Kitsap Crossfit for more info!

Stay busy!
~Kat