From Fall to Falling into a New Year

From Fall to Falling into a New Year

A Faith Building Fall

It was the end of September when we found out we were expecting baby #2.... We were so excited and surprised that we joyously laughed at the little blue line! I had been into the school year a little over a month. I was teaching 6 different classes and working extra hours with DECA. My excitement about the pregnancy soon manifested itself in the form of morning sickness and shortness of breath. I was loving it  though because it meant I was getting to add another child to our forever family. 

October ended up being the craziest month I've ever had as a teacher. Between field trips, competitions, trainings, and a much needed vacation to Palmyra to visit Meg & Kent- I was hardly there. 

I loved loved LOVED Palmyra, New York. It was so wonderful to learn about the church's history there and to see the sites. My testimony was strengthened each day while we were there with Shane's parents. We did a session in the Palmyra temple which I will never forget. We walked through the Sacred Grove and stood on top of the Hill Cumorah. We drove to other significant sites and explored some of the history upstate New York has to offer. It was just beautiful with the old houses and the colored trees! I've officially decided that I want to live there- farmland, small towns, and big houses...

A week or so after this beloved trip, I had to leave to go to a training in Miami. I left early Halloween morning. My parents and Shane took Taylor out trick or treating. She was the cutest little Ute cheerleader! We skyped every night while I was gone. 

Upon returning, I had my first pregnancy appointment! Everything looked great and I was making plans for the new baby to arrive on June 7, 2015. We arranged for me to come back later that week for an ultra sound and blood work. Blood work turned out fine except that I was low in sunshine. I wasn't getting enough vitamin D. At the ultrasound, Taylor was by my side and excited to see the new baby with me. Without my midwife there because it was so late in the day, it was up to me to interpret what I was seeing. At first the tech kept changing her angles so she could get a better look. But then after awhile... I realized what was happening. She was trying to confirm that there was no baby. All we could see was the beginnings of a baby that never developed. I went home that night to Shane and cried my eyes out. I cried over not ever being able to meet or hold that baby. I cried over having to wait even longer for another child. 

Miscarriage

My body thought it was 10 weeks pregnant but the midwife later confirmed that the baby didn't make it past 6 weeks. My body wasn't doing anything about it though... it continued being pregnant. We waited a week and still nothing happened. The midwife gave me a prescription that would induce the miscarriage.

 Oh my crazy... I never want to do that again... I miscarried late Wednesday night and realized something was wrong at about 5 in the morning. I was bleeding too much. I was light headed and felt like I was constantly going to the bathroom in my pajamas. But I wasn't- it was just more blood. Shane woke Taylor up and we headed to the ER. They immediately started monitoring me and gave me an IV. They couldn't stop the bleeding and eventually sent me by ambulance up to the U of U Hospital. There, a D&C was completed. Super painful even with medication. It took several days for the pain to go away and then even another week or two to feel like pre-pregnancy self. 

I know that Heavenly Father has a plan for me and has a plan for that little baby. Whether I get to be with that spirit in this life or the next, that child is mine. I will never forget that we had a little baby on the way due June 7 and how excited Taylor was for a sibling. The miserable miscarriage actually was a distraction to the emotional pain I was feeling so I feel blessed. I resolved to move forward with hope to continue trying (with the permission from my midwife) and to look towards future healthy pregnancies. 

Holidays

We spent Thanksgiving at my parents' house in Bountiful with Grandma & Grandpa B, Aunt Natalie, and my mom & dad. Originally, my best friend Ashley was going to join us, but she ended up being able to take off work to go down and be with her family in Cedar City. It was crazy- there were two turkeys. We didn't even carve into the second one. Taylor was in heaven with pumpkin pie while she sat on old phone books because we forgot her booster seat.

Shane passed his 3rd CPA test! Wahoo!!! He only has one left to go before he's a CPA!!! We're hoping this will provide him with greater career opportunities in the future.

We went as a family to a Christmas tree lot by Shane's old work- Fairchild Semiconductors. We picked it out, carried it home, and decorate the tree and the entire house. It is always so fun even though Taylor has her own way of "decorating".

One of my favorite Christmas traditions is going to the Festival of Trees. This time we went early in the day so there was hardly no crowd and Taylor got to sit on Santa's lap! I love watching the cute little dance concerts up on the stage as well... it makes me excited to get Taylor into a dance class when she's old enough. The Festival of Trees also makes these delicious scones out of Rhodes roll dough. This year we made our own scones at home in our fryer and they were soooo gooooood! New tradition? YES!

The weekend before Christmas we celebrated Taylor turning 2! We had a Frozen Birthday party with the following menu: Costco's croissant sandwiches ("we finish each other's sandwiches"), garden salad ("Troll's Tossed Salad"), marshmallows/raisins/baby carrots/pretzel sticks ("Do you wanna build a snowman?"), and a hot chocolate bar ("I wanna stuff some chocolate in my face!").

It turned out really cute. To save money, I bought winter decor instead exclusively Frozen themed. That way I can use it through January. :) We gave Taylor a tent, tunnel, a new baby doll, and a nice Elsa dress. She also had fun with our family & friends that were able to come. Thanks for the nice gifts everyone!

For Christmas Eve, we spent the day with Krissanne's family making Christmas cookies and eating cookie dough. It was a lot of fun to see Claire and Taylor being crazy and running around together. For our new Christmas Eve tradition, I made italian food for dinner and then we hopped into our new Christmas jammies, packed some hot cocoa, and got into the car. We followed an online map of awesome Christmas lights in Riverton & Draper. So pretty... and a fun way to end the day.

Christmas morning, Taylor actually slept in which was her Christmas present to us. :) We walked down the stairs as a family and opened up our Christmas gifts. Shane- a pressure cooker (to make yummy rice and so I can start canning), Jim Gaffigan, and a RC helicopter. Me- vivofit, new makeup, and new dress. Taylor- games, a doll sized pack n play, and a train set. We skyped with the Broadbents and then played together the rest of the day.

That night we went to my parent's house for Christmas dinner and exchanging gifts. It was a nice Christmas and I am so grateful for my family, the gift of the Savior, and for my Heavenly Father.

Pregnancy

Right before Taylor's birthday I was concerned that my body hadn't gone back to it's regular scheduled programming yet so I took a pregnancy test. Actually, I took 4. They were all positive. I was surprised since we hadn't been proactive about trying to time things, but it had just happened coincidentally. Of Course we were happy, but skeptical. I think it's safe to say that all women are skeptical when they get pregnant again after a miscarriage. They just don't want to be let down. A few days after I tested positive (about 5 weeks along) I miscarried. This was different than November though. If I hadn't taken a pregnancy test, I wouldn't have thought it was anything different than a really late monthly gift. I talked to my midwives and if I miscarry a third time in a row I will need to go in for some tests. We were told though to continue to be hopeful and to start trying the next month. 

Health & Fitness

It's been no secret that I worked really hard the first half of 2014 and was able to lose 30 lbs and a couple dress sizes. I worked out regularly and had completely adjusted our menu plans. I had helped several other people work towards their health and fitness goals and started my own business as a coach for Beach Body. I maintained my progress for the summer and thought I had a game plan for the start of the school year. I was going to continue my progress and continue coaching others as well all while being a mommy and working as a full time teacher. Hmmmm... I completely overwhelmed myself and couldn't figure out how to balance everything. I stopped working out. I stopped coaching. I stopped planning healthy meals. I was in survival mode. I slowly saw the pounds creep up and the clothes getting tighter. I noticed my lack of energy and loss of strength/endurance. UGGGGHHH!!!
After the second miscarriage I told myself- Christmas Break is going to be MY time. I'm going to get this figured out. I'm going to get organized and get myself back on track. I'm going to get back to nutrition, working out, and helping others!

I have a lot that I want to accomplish in 2015 so here are my New Year's Resolutions!

1. Lose 10 lbs in January. 10 more February. 5 more in March. 5 more in April. Maintain for the rest of the year.
2. Consistently have FHE every week in January. Add reading scriptures daily in February. Add daily family prayer in March. Add daily family scripture study in April. Maintain for the rest of the year.
3. Stay under $400 for weekly expenses in January. 350 in February. 300 in March. Maintain the rest of the year.
4. Save $150 month for Disneyland.
5. Attend the temple once a month.
6. Get pregnant!!!

Busy Mom- A Satisfying Saturday

Last night I totally went to bed at 8:30 and Shane made fun of me for it! Oh it felt so good though I don't care. I woke up early today and got my workout in- weights and cardio! 2 for 1 special!!! I checked in with my awesome challengers, showered, and started to make a grocery list.

Taylor and I cleaned after her breakfast while my awesome hubby cleaned all of the windows! It wasn't even 10 am and look at us go!

After drinking the healthiest thing of the day, Shakeology, I decided Taylor and I needed to  do a project. We were going to use up some of our saved toilet paper rolls to make pretend binoculars. I never throw them away. I just keep them in our art container until we use them for some type of craft like today. Taylor got a hold of the scissors while I wasn't looking and cut a hole in her shirt. Other than that and the fact that our binoculars turned out lopsided, we had fun!

I kept my grocery list under budget AND managed to get some additional fall decor for the house. Go me! This week's meal plan:

Tonight- chicken and veggie tin foil dinners
Sunday- steak/broth fondue
Monday- BBQ chicken & healthy coleslaw
Tuesday- panko chicken salad
Wednesday- Chicken Noodle Soup
Thursday- Tilapia, cooked veggies, rice

While Taylor napped, I started planning her birthday party! Yes, I'm crazy because it's not until December. I put up the rest of our fall decor right before it started raining! I may be the only house on my street ready for fall, but I don't care. "The cold never bothered me anyway"...

Now, how to spend our evening? A long walk, snuggles while we watch a movie, a museum maybe? It's always so nice to work first and then have the rest of the Saturday to play! Shout out to Melony Warner for the great tin-foil dinner recipe!!!

Day 25 & Day 26- Temple Service and 10K Training

Day 25- Service in the Temple

I love the temple! As a young girl, I really would dream about what the temple looked like on the inside and what it would be like, what I would I learn, and who I would marry in there some day. As a college student, I would take TRAX down to the SLC temple and would sit on the plaza staring up at the temple, read my scriptures, and write in my journal. As a wife and mother, I love to sit in the temple with my spouse holding hands and love to take Taylor to the temple grounds. The Primary song is still true for me- I love to see the temple!

When we lived in Centerville, there were one or two times when volunteers were needed from our ward to help clean the temple. Because it was during the school year, it would have been difficult to fulfill the service so early in the morning or so late at night. I had a strong desire though to serve the Lord and help clean the Lord's house.

My opportunity came last Sunday! A signup sheet was passed around during church to help clean the temple! I was so excited and signed up! I arrived at the temple in my Sunday best and walked in with a smile on my face and gratitude in my heart for the opportunity.

There were over 40 people there with me that had volunteered to spend their late evening helping to clean the temple. With reverence, we were given instructions and sent to complete our tasks. While cleaning, a very warm feeling came over my heart. I realized that some recent prayers of mine had been answered. I had been praying for opportunities to serve others for a week or two. In the temple, it became known to me all the ways I had been able to serve the last couple of weeks. I had received multiple opportunities to serve, had a heart desiring to serve, and took action to serve in the opportunities. I just didn't realize all of those acts were acts of service until I was in the temple. I know that Heavenly Father was teaching me about how my prayers WERE answered.

I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve and to be served by others. I am grateful for the temple and all of the blessings it has brought to my life. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the Lord and the members in my community by helping to keep the temple clean.

Oahu Temple- taken from our visit during our honeymoon

DAY 26- Training for a 10K

I'm so excited! I registered for a 10 K that will take place in 11 days!!!! I can't believe I am going to do it! It's at midnight and will be glow in the dark themed! I haven't ran in a race since before Taylor was born so probably 2011. I know I can currently run 2 miles, but I need to get up to six. With dedication I know I can do it. 

Shane and I (with Shane's best friend Paul in the background) right before I started running Leg 1 of Ragnar Las Vegas

Taken after completing the Salt Lake Half Marathon

In my early twenties, I participated in two Ragnar Races, one Half Marathon, and several 5ks. It's not a matter of if I can run a 10K, but if I'm willing to work and train for a 10k. I want to do this for multiple reasons, but the biggest reason is because I want to show myself that I CAN DO IT! I am in better shape than I've been thinking. I want that feeling of accomplishment again- that I killed a goal that I set for myself. I really love a quote I found the other day about being in your own way. My own fears and doubts are the only thing that can keep me from training for this 10K. Am I going to let them? I am not. I am not going to let fear and doubt stand between me and training for this 10K. There is no reason why I can't run, train, and complete a 10K on the night of the 18th! 

10K Map

I'm going to have my husband and parents there to cheer me on!!!! I don't care if I feel like collapsing afterwards or if I have to talk out loud to myself to keep my motivation up.... I'm going to finish!

Day 18- My Favorite Job of All...

So while I was busy at school today thinking about all the things I needed to do this week to get my classes ready for their final tests, what I needed to do to clean and organize my classroom, and what I needed to start doing to prepare for next year's classes- I started thinking about my FAVORITE JOB OF ALL!

I love being a mom and wife! I love grocery shopping, making dinner, giving Taylor a bath, the satisfaction of a clean house after a deep clean, going on walks with my family, reading with Taylor, family scripture reading on weekday mornings when I'm on a school break, folding laundry, planning meals, planning our week, planting flowers, watering the flowers, wiping Taylor's hands after a meal or snack, teaching her and showing her something new, hanging out with Shane, improving myself, educating myself, working out, inspiring others, taking pictures, and writing about my life and family.

Yes, I enjoy teaching and my students. I love business/marketing and DECA. My favorite job of all is being a mom and wife though. I am excited because I have found a new passion which combines teaching and nutrition/fitness- coaching! This summer I will get to stay at home and be a full time mommy while I continue to coach and help others reach their fitness and health goals.

I'm going to love what I do every day this summer! It also makes me look forward even more to when I switch to part time or completely leave teaching to raise my little ones.

I feel peace and comfort about this decision. I just can't wait!!!


Tonight's dinner was pretty good and would make a great dinner for a camp out!

Chicken Foil Dinners-
raw chicken breast, cut into strips
red pepper, chopped
onion, chopped
thyme
sea salt
black pepper

Wrap completely in foil! Bake or grill for 25 minutes!

Day 15-17: Everything has its opposite...

Day 15: Friday is My Favorite Day!

I love Fridays! Shane is always singing this song about the days of the week and how Friday is the favorite day. I honestly don't know if it's real or if he's made it up. He sings it with such confidence and pizazz! 

Today is our last activity for DECA. I am ordering pizza for the kids and we'll watch a slideshow of all of our pictures from the year. It's bitter sweet. I've loved the year, the students, and the fun memories we've made. I'm sad to see this year of DECA be over. But, I'm also excited for next year's presidency and competitions. Nationals will be in DisneyWorld! Woop woop! Can I feel the magic? Yes I can!!!

Tonight we helped our some of our neighbors pack up their truck to move up to Logan. I'm really going to miss their family! The mom and I really enjoyed talking and our kids had a lot of fun playing together! I got a good workout in with taking boxes out to the truck and back. Workin on the muscles!

I'm super excited though because our fence was put in today so we now can let Taylor run loose without fear of her running towards the alley or the street. We won't have random people walking through our yard as a shortcut or thinking it's community property. It looks so good and we're already spending a lot of our extra time out there! BBQ anyone????

I've also made the spontaneous decision that we're going to go camping on Memorial Day weekend with all the other crazy people who have the same great idea. We're going to go down to Moab and hike Arches National Park. I've never been! We've extended the invitation to our friends and some of them will be joining us as well! This will be our first campout with Taylor. Wish us luck!

Day 16: Everything Going Great to What Else Could Go Wrong? 

Shane woke up and headed to the basement to take his practice test (4 hours) for his first CPA exam he has next week. While he did that, I fed Taylor breakfast and worked out. AWESOME WORKOUT BTW!!! We're going to ready and head to the store I tell myself. We ended up going outside to peak at some of the yard sales that are going on. My neighborhood hosts a huge community yard sale. It was like Halloween out there. People going house to house for goodies. I heard about some awesome tamales down a couple of blocks so I went and bought what I could with my sad little $5 bill, stuck them in the fridge, and then headed out for our errands. 

First stop- Home Depot! I was in the search for shade flowers and no one seemed where they were. I finally found this awesome associate who looked younger than I am. She answered every question I had after I told her I was a yard virgin. I found shade flowers and all the things on my list. I even lifted four bags of mulch by myself into the car. Taylor was not a happy camper and needed a nap so we headed back. I stopped by at the tamale house now that I had more change. She was all out of the meat tamales so I couldn't get any for Shane. First Bummer. 

While Taylor slept, Shane and I went out to work in the yard. While Shane was digging up grass to start putting in the mulch around the perimeter of the fence he noticed that our sprinklers ended up on the outside of the fence... Uh oh! It's only by a couple of inches but the posts are cemented in. We called and left a message so we'll see what will happen. Second Bummer. BIG BUMMER.

After cleaning up and throwing stuff into the garbages, Shane went to close the garage door and it hit a piece of wood hanging out from one of the big cans. It made a grinding sound and wouldn't go all the way down even after Shane moved it. It took Shane and a friend both on ladders to get up there and fix the thing. I was scared we broke our garage door motor! Third Bummer. 

At the grocery store, Shane and I decided to divide and conquer. At this point we're just trying to survive the day. I was on a mission to buy all the things required to make the meals in the 5 Day Meal Plan for T25. It's meant to be used right when you start the program to get the best results. I'm determined to get the best results so I made a grocery list and that was what I was going to get! Shane took Taylor and went in search for half of the items. I did the other half occasionally checking in with each other. We're almost done when Shane comes up to me and whispers in my ear that Taylor dropped a glass jar of pesto sauce. It ended up all over his shoes, the floor, and Taylor. It smelled like pesto for aisles. I felt so bad that I was one of those people who spilled something and then had to have the employees clean it up. I would have done it myself but he insisted. Smelly Bummer. 

Finally, we were done for the day. I mean done. We mentally checked out. So we ordered take out from Olive Garden and I went to pick it up. They charged extra for bread sticks and the food didn't have the quality it consistently has when we go there. And they didn't include their delicious mints. Small, but Final Bummer. 

Yes, we went to bed early. 

Day 17: Sunday Is My REAL Favorite Day

This morning, I caught up on my training for BeachBody while Shane spent some time with Taylor playing. I'm not going to let myself get behind again on that because A) I don't want to do it on Sundays, and B) it would have helped to have that knowledge earlier last week. I started the T25 Five Day Meal Start today so I drank my fancy recipe for Shakeology and got my workout in. I love having Taylor near by while I work out. She claps for me and sometimes tries to do the moves. Also, it helps me not feel so silly when I shout out "yeah!" or "woo hoo!" or "We've got this!" or "Focus!". 

I played with my Tater Tot and read her some books. She's always finding books and bringing them to me! 

My AM snack: Nonfat Yogurt with grapefruit zest and honey

Taylor goes down for a morning nap (only on SUNDAYS...) and I rest or hang out with Shane. I took a bath today and read the Ensign. It was the General Conference edition so I was reading the Saturday morning sessions since that was the one that I missed. I love Elder Holland's talk. "Be strong", he says. He encourages us to continue to testify of Christ and to build our foundations on Christ. 

I get to dress nice on Sundays. On weekdays I'm normally looking for clothes in the dark because I don't want to wake Shane. I'm also trying to get ready in 5 minutes because I press snooze too many times on my alarm. 

Lunch: Veggie Burger (yes, that's what I said- but it was way good!) on whole grain bun, with avocado and salsa. Apples on the side. 

Get Taylor ready and give her lunch! Walk two minutes to church! 

I loved the talks today! Do I remember what they about now? Sadly no.  But I remember what I felt and how it motivated me to want to be better! I get the privilege of teaching the amazing three year olds. They are the cutest things ever and amaze me every Sunday! Today the lesson was on our hands and how Heavenly Father gave us our hands to do good! 

Taylor naps again... It is so needed and so appreciated by all. 

PM Snack: avocado, goat cheese, and walnuts wrapped in sliced turkey! THIS IS A KEEPER!

Relax with Shane. Taylor wakes up and plays with us while we fix dinner. 

Dinner: Grilled cod with cumin, sea salt, and lime juice. Shredded on a corn tortilla with cabbage, cilantro, and avocado. Taylor loved it! Shane rated it a 7!

We sat outside and enjoyed our flowers and wished our sprinklers were on the inside of our fence. We talked and were just at peace together.

I took Taylor on a walk to visit a friend. Taylor got out of her seat and got really wet in someone elses yard. I had to strip her down and do the rest of her walk in her knickers with her strapped in. 

We played more with Taylor then read her some books and put her down for the night. 

I just love Sundays. I feel peace, patience, and joy. Today, I was no longer bummed or upset about what happened yesterday. I just enjoyed the day, being at church, and being with my family. 

Day 13- I'm going to be a coach!!!

I'm so excited! Earlier this week I made the decision to become a coach! I will be trained by Beach Body to help others reach their fitness goals and to motivate progress towards a healthier lifestyle! Currently, I've lost 28 pounds and am still going! I am more active, energetic, and feel happier about body than I have since I started college! I love Turbo Fire and will be starting up T25 soon. Shakeology has seriously changed my appetite and my cravings for junk. Joining the Beach Body Challenge in January has changed my life by helping change how I take care of me!

Before picture... 215 lbs October 2014. 

10 Months Postpartum, Size 18, XXL

Progress Picture...28 lb LOSS. May 2014.
Week 17 of Beach Body Challenge.

Size 12, Large

Read my story on previous posts to learn about what I'm doing differently and my weight loss journey. This has been an amazing experience so far and I plan to continue working towards a healthier body and lifestyle- for myself and for my family!  I'll be starting my second challenge soon for T-25! 

If you want to do a Beach Body Challenge to kick off the summer you need to contact me so I can get you on board!!!

                                      -------------------------------------------------------------

I'm going to make some Shakeology and plan a workout this afternoon while I wait for my students to kill it at their competition! We're in Atlanta, Georgia for DECA and I am so proud of my students! I think if they've worked hard and prepared we could have some awards coming our way! 

We walked a lot today and yesterday. That's been awesome! Standing in line for Superman at Six Flags for 3 hours was not so awesome. We spent 6 hours at an amusement park and went on 2 rides! Woo hoo! But the time I've spent with my students and laughed was so much more fun. Today they're starting to compete, but we'll go tour the CNN Center later. 

I miss Taylor and Shane, but I know they're having their own "fun" this weekend as Shane flies solo with Taylor. 

Taylor and Shane having "Daddy/Daughter time" for breakfast!

Day 11- Why be afraid?

So confession time... when I went to the IMC midwives earlier this week they weighed me as part of their regular routine. I remember that when I weighed in with them while I was pregnant their scale was ALWAYS 5 pounds above what I was weighing at home. Even if I weighed myself with the same clothes on and not eating or going to the bathroom in between, their scale always gave me 5 extra pounds. Sadly, my scale could be giving me a 5 pound kindness. Either way, consistency is what matters.

Consistently, I've been hovering between 190 and 195 for weeks. At the IMC, their scale put me at 200!!! I'm going under the assumption that I was probably at a peak for the day of 195 and their scale was giving me the 5 extra. I'm not crazy. I know that either their scale is wrong or my scale is wrong, but the two scales are always 5 off.

It doesn't matter that the scales are off, but what hit me at the IMC was that I still haven't dipped below 190. So I started reflecting on some of what I've learned from Turbo Fire. I asked myself, "Have I worked my hardest? If you don't know your limits, then you haven't been there yet. Can you push harder? Can you jump higher?"  I may have been saying that I care and want to lose more weight, but have I been acting like it? Nope. I know without a doubt, if were still doing the Beach Body Challenge with the motivation and effort that I was putting in at the beginning, I could've taken myself farther. Why not then? Why get comfortable? Why be afraid? Is it overwhelming? Yes. But the great success and changes I saw earlier this year were because I didn't care if it was scary, uncomfortable, or overwhelming. It only made me stronger. I don't regret it AT ALL so I need to be stop being afraid.

Even though today was supposed to be my rest day for the challenge, I did Hiit 15 and will be doing it again tonight. I ate one of my favorite salads for lunch:

Sunrise Salad:

arugula and spinach

cuties, peeled and segmented

glazed walnuts

low fat feta, crumbled

2 slices of bacon, crumbled

balsamic vinaigrette dressing

I'm calculating my calories and will be fixing a new recipe for dinner. I'll post it if it's a keeper!  I will reach my goal to get below 190 before school starts next Monday! 

Mommy bragging moment! Taylor has approached me today at least 15 times to want me to read to her. Different books and different times of day. My little girly loves me to read her books. She never is asking to get down off my lap to go play, she is instead saying "more, more, more" for me to keep reading to her! LOVE HER!!!!

Day 9- sprinng break 2014 woo hoo!

I feel so productive today! We started out our morning with prayer and scripture reading! I worked out to Turbo Fire for 40 minutes and then Taylor and I got ready to go to the park! She loved it so much! She cried when we had to leave. We did laundry together, made an art project with buttons, made some freezer meals, cooked Hawaiian Haystacks, read many books, played, repaired some broken picture frames, and even practiced going to the potty (not me, Taylor)!

It was such a good day. After Shane got home we ate (he said my Hawaiian Haystacks were delicious!) and then headed back to the park! I've  noticed a real difference in our home since we've been regularly reading scriptures and praying individually and together. The Spirit is stronger in our home and we are loving each other with a more Christ Centered love.

Above- Taylor relaxing after a long hard day of fun!

Day 10- We went to a park up north to meet up with some old friends of ours from where we used to live. Those moms are wonderful friends and I've really missed them! It was nice to see how their kids are growing and what they're up to! One of the friends at the park is my Beach Body Coach. She too has plateaued. For me, I think it's because I haven't been advancing in my workouts or in my nutrition. Change makes change. What I'm doing is maintaining. I don't want to maintain though. I want to change and continue to lose. Back to tracking calories tomorrow and working out hard even though it's supposed to be my rest day in the program.

I went back to IMC today about the IUD. Thankfully they were able to take it out... with a lot of yelling on my part. It really hurt! Hopefully my body will heal quickly and will be back to its regular scheduled programming in a month or two. My good neighbor watched Taylor while I had the appointment. When I went to pick her up she was all dressed up. Turns out her own little girl loves to dress up and had quite a fun time dressing up Taylor. I love having a girl because I too loved to dress up when I was younger.

I made cheeseburgers for dinner and should have made a salad with it but I didn't because of time. I should always prep a salad and eat it while I wait for dinner to finish. That used to work really well for me but I became complacent  and didn't think that it was necessary to continue that habit. I was wrong... I love learning lessons along this journey!

Days 6, 7, 8

Day 6- Girls Night!

I did my Turbo Fire workout right when I got home from work. Shane watched Taylor while I went with my best friend to meet up with our old friends that we lived with in college. We went to my favorite place- "Red Iguana" I ordered the same thing that I order every time. I know that it is a lot of calories but it's worth it! That's how I look at food now... some food definitely is not worth it. We had a lot of fun catching up and laughing!

 Day 7-  I love Saturdays!

We started our day right! Playing with Taylor, Shakeology, and working out to Turbo Fire! I made a budget and health friendly grocery list and then headed off to Costco with Taylor. I love Costco! We stocked up on canned fruit for our food storage, items for freezer meals, and lots of fruits and vegetables for the week! That evening, Taylor took a long drive up to Evanston WY to join my brother-in-law and his family for a BBQ. Shane stayed home to study for his CPA. He's working towards taking his first test later this May. It's a lot of work so we've been trying to make time for him to study.

Taylor and I loved seeing her cousins and spending time with their family. When it comes to cheeseburgers, I've learned to have just have one bun. I use the  same bun for one cheeseburger and one hot dog. Salad on the side, yes please! Water to drink, yes please! It was delicious and fun! My sister-in-law and I talked about making freezer jam sometime this summer! We both haven't done it before so I'm excited! In the fall, I want to learn how to make grape juice with my grandma.

Day 8- Sunday is a Special Day!

I've decided that I love working out in the morning and I end up being in a better mood the rest of the day. I'm wondering if I'll be able to wake up early enough to work out in the morning before Taylor wakes up...

I love going to church and feeling the Spirit. I love being able to hear the testimonies of others and to partake of the sacrament. Taylor is starting to run away now at church so that's a new adventure for us.  It's hard too because we have 1pm church and so we're there during the time that Taylor would take her afternoon nap.

I made a delicious dinner for tonight! It's a recipe from "Our Best Bites". I've made their Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas before, but tonight's was definitely my best version of it! Yes, I love mexican food and anything spicy. I know Taylor is my daughter because she ate half of one the spicy enchiladas! She's only one! She kept saying "more! more! more!".

Day 5- I figured it out!!!

I figured it out!!!! Today while I was at work I decided that I'd work out right when I got home. It worked! I worked out while Taylor played in her high chair. Hit 25 is my favorite! Then Taylor and I went to a fundraiser at the Which Wich sandwich shop in Midvale to support Hillcrest DECA. A lot of my students were there! They are so amazing! I'm so lucky to know and them and to get to work with them! I met with the owner and thanked him for working with us. Taylor was practicing saying "por favor" in the car on the way home.

After we ate our delicious sandwiches I took Taylor upstairs for a bath and bed time. She still tasted like pb&j when I kissed her goodnight. I realized though that tonight I wasn't tired. I still had energy to play, clean, or do anything my heart desired ( or that hanging out in my pajamas would allow).

I'm so happy that I figured out a better way to schedule my day though! Work, read scriptures at lunch, work, pick up Taylor, work out while Taylor eats a snack and plays, dinner, play, family prayer, Taylor's bed time, time with Shane and blog. So maybe my sink is full of dishes, but I'm happy and my family is happy!

Today when I prayed with Taylor I can honestly say that I know my prayers are being heard. I know that I feel closer to my Heavenly Father and that I feel humbled when I recognize all that He has done for me. I am so grateful for the Holy Ghost and know that when I listen and follow the Holy Ghost, I am able to recognize His voice more easily and more frequently in my day to day life.

Day 4- Listening to my body

I mentioned this before, but I AM SO TIRED!!! I don't know if I need to go to bed earlier or actually wear my contacts like I'm supposed to but I feel like I'm dragging. My eyes are tired and body is tired. The last couple of nights I have been so tired and it's only 8pm. Tonight, I fell asleep on the couch after I put Taylor to bed. Then I woke up at 8:15 and tried to do Fire 45 with what little energy I had. I Probably did about 10 minutes of it yawning the whole way through and decided- Hey! My body is trying to tell me I need to go to sleep.

Yes, I'm getting close to breaking my plateau and I want to work out regularly. But today my body is telling me something. I need to be going to bed earlier in order for my desired scheduled to be successful. In order for me to spend time with Taylor after work instead of working out, then doing dinner, and then playing with her/Shane and getting chores done... and waiting to work out until after she's gone to bed- I have to go to  bed earlier so I'm not wiped out by 8pm like I'm 80 years old. Even though I know an 80 year old wouldn't be able to keep up with Taylor, my point is made.

I am loving reading the Bible. Right now, I'm learning about Sarah. She had such an interesting life. I'm excited to learn more about the women in the Bible and the role they played in the life of the prophets. Speaking of women in the scriptures, when I was in Junior High I had really low self esteem. Well, not just in Junior High, but that was when I really didn't know my worth to Heavenly Father. My friend Shanda told me once that she wouldn't believe any of the bad things that I would say about myself. She said if I could find it in the Bible she'd believe me. Coming from a family who didn't read scriptures, I was confused. She then opened up the Bible to Genesis 29:17 about Rachel being beautiful and well favored. I'll never forget her showing me that. Later on in college, our Relief Society president introduced me to Proverbs chapter 3 about a righteous and virtuous woman being having far more worth than rubies.

I want Taylor to know her worth. I want her to know that she is a daughter of God.

Day 2- Making the time

I learned today that I have to make the time for fitness. I have to make the time to read my scriptures. I can't just go throughout my day and hope that this magical window of time will appear where I have NOTHING else that is tempting me to spend my time with. I could always find excuses why now is not the best time to meet these important goals. They have to be more important than a TV show, checking Yahoo News on my lunch break, or surfing Pinterest. 

I wanted to have enough time in the morning before I left to work to read my scriptures and have personal prayer. I was dragging though... with the Monday blues. So I placed my scriptures in bag and told myself I would find the time during the work day. During the precious 30 minutes of my lunch break, I pulled out my scriptures. I didn't want to get my orange hands (I eat Cuties every day for lunch) on my scriptures. So, I hopped onto LDS.org and read where I left off from yesterday. I read chapters 2-6 of Genesis. " Therefore shall a ^aman leave his ^bfather and his mother, and shall ^ccleave unto his ^dwife: and they shall be ^eone flesh."  I love this verse! Having read my scriptures and saying a personal prayer really helped to kick the Monday blues!

My chicken patty and fruit lunch was good, but left me starving when I got home. I'm going to have make some changes there. Also, I want to drink more water tomorrow. I am going to try to go through two refills of my giant water bottle. Maybe that will help. 

Shane and I spent our evening with Taylor going out for ice cream. Seriously, ever since I've been counting calories, I've really come to appreciate GOOD food. The ice cream I had was so not worth it. Which makes it easier to say no thanks for the next time. I had the smallest bowl they had, but for $5 and probably 400 calories... um NOT WORTH IT! I could make a salad that tasted better for cheaper and probably 150 calories!

I put off my workout because I was tired. I need to remember, that I get more energy when I work out! Even on the Turbo Fire workouts, they joke about how people complain that they're too tired to work out, but that working out is what gives you the energy. It is so true! I feel so much better after! So tomorrow I'm going to do 3 things:

1. Drink 2 refills of my giant water bottle at work
2. Work out BEFORE 8pm
3. Go to bed by 10pm.

Also, I received a phone call today about the IUD. Yep- it's completely in the wrong place. They wanted to remove it tomorrow, but it's too hard to get a sub on short notice and more work than it's worth for something that might only take 2 hours. I have an appointment for next week during Spring Break. They're hoping they'll be able to remove it, but it might require surgery because it is damaging my insides. Either way, I'm hoping it will heal by the time Shane and I are ready to grow our little family. 

30 Days of FAITH & FITNESS

Thirty Days... Strengthening my FAITH & my FITNESS

Last night, I went to bed wondering why I always come up with goals and to do lists and always say to myself "I need to wait until X to start". Like when I decided to finally do the work to get healthy, I told myself to wait until the new year. But, even though my Beach Body Challenge didn't start until January 20th, I started working out every day. I just spontaneously started and kept going. I challenged myself to see how far I could go and what kind of results I could get in a set time frame. (With Turbo Fire it's 90 days) I recently bought new pants for work by the way. I'm down from a size 18 to a size 12!!!

So last night, I spontaneously told myself to set a challenge to not only increase my faith but my fitness as well. All the time you read or hear about how writing down your goals, what you eat, etc, helps you to be more accountable. I also know that sharing your testimony strengthens it. Whether it's writing something down or saying it out loud, you become more committed. Invested. It becomes more than a dream or a goal. It becomes an action. 

I WANT to have a stronger spirit in my home. I WANT my husband and I to look at and treat one another with Christlike love. I WANT to have daily personal and family prayer (which I currently don't do). I WANT to continue to pray with my daughter and for her to recognize Jesus Christ. I WANT to follow the commandments and follow the the guidance of the prophets and apostles. I WANT to attend the temple weekly. I WANT to read my scriptures daily. I WANT to read scriptures with my husband and daughter. I WANT those that are around me to know Heavenly Father's love. 

I WANT to end my plateau and get below 190 lbs. I WANT to stick to the Turbo Fire schedule. I WANT to track my calories and exercise. I WANT to make healthier meals for my family that are also budget friendly. I WANT to be able to run 2 miles without stopping. 

My goals and dreams for my faith and fitness are written out and said out loud. I'm committed. I'm invested. I'm taking action. 

This morning, I woke up to my cute toddler and played with her as usual. This time though, I did something different. I pulled out the iPad and showed her the LDS.org video "I am a Child of God". We watched it three times. She loved it! I then, opened up my scriptures and read a chapter with her. I told her we were going to say a prayer together before we started our day. She folded her little arms and cuddled on my lap while I said a prayer. I cannot recall the last time I said a morning prayer... I then proceeded to give her breakfast and I worked out. 

Why have I not been doing this every day? I don't know if I have an answer or if I do and I just don't want to admit the answer. It doesn't matter though. Just like on making the spontaneous change to just start a new habit and commit to working out, I'm making a change. Change will make change. I had a long list of wants written down. If I want those things to change, I have to change what I'm doing. 

For 30 days, I will be writing down my testimony and progress towards these changes. Every day. Thirty days. I have to jump in. No saying that I have to wait for spring break or next month. It's now. It's today. 

I love General Conference. I love hearing messages from my Heavenly Father. I know that when I pray with my daughter that she feels the spirit. I know that my family is sealed forever because of the priesthood we have here on earth and the covenants that we were able to make in God's Holy Temple. I know the scriptures are true. I know that when I read them this morning my testimony was strengthened and my mind was enlightened. I know that the prophet and apostles are called of God and are his messengers here on earth. Their messages today were inspired and their guidance will lead me back to the arms of my Father in Heaven. I know that I am not alone. The Savior knows me and my family. He knows my concerns and my heart. I am so grateful for this testimony.  

Feeling Accomplished Today

First, in regards to weight loss I'm now down to 190!!! I've lost 25 lbs since the beginning of January. I love my Beach Body Challenge, Turbo Fire, and Shakeology! I did go through a couple of weeks where I lost my groove. Throwing up and having diarrhea at the same time will definitely take away your desire to jump around and sweat. But I didn't realize how even just 3 days of not working out will throw off my motivation and good habits. 

I'm back on track now and have plateaued at 190. I'm recommitting to track my calories on My Fitness Pal and am back into my regular schedule of Turbo Fire! With change... comes change!

Right after I woke up and played with my daughter this morning, I did my HIT 20 workout from Turbo Fire. It felt wonderful to start my day this way! 

Today was the first of the two day LDS General Conference. I love being able to listen to the prophet and apostles of the church. Last night Shane and I went to the Jordan Temple to better prepare spiritually for Conference weekend. It was our first time going since we've moved to our new house. We don't have any family near by so we had some good friends watch Taylor. I want to go at least monthly. When I am in the temple I feel so close to my Savior and my Heavenly Father. I am reminded of who I am and the woman that I can become. Going to the temple with my husband also sparks feelings that I felt when we were married and promised a forever together. 

During the first session of General Conference, I had to attend an ultrasound appointment. No, I'm not pregnant. Before I had Taylor, I used the Nuva Ring for birth control and loved it. I was like clock work and that was really helpful when we started to try to get pregnant. We're not planning to grow our family until later this fall, but what I'm currently using for birth control has been causing problems since day one. About 6 weeks after I had Taylor, I had my doctor insert the Mirena IUD after I heard a lot of benefits from research and friends. While it was being implanted, I was seeing spots and was lightheaded. It almost hurt worse than giving birth. We continued on with placing the IUD. No follow up appointments were made. Over the last year I've noticed discomfort and bleeding at random times. Knowing this wasn't normal, I asked a midwife about it and she ordered me an ultrasound so we could see what was going on. Sure enough at today's appointment, the ultrasound tech clarified that there was something wrong and that my midwife would be in touch with me at the beginning of the week. I don't know how bad, but I do appreciate the ultrasound tech being up front with me. I'm not scared, but know that it's not time yet for us to have another baby. Once we know I'm safe and it's taken out, we'll go back to the Nuva Ring until we feel ready!

On my way back home, I was able to listen to the last of the morning session that I missed. It was so nice and calming. Once I got home, I was happily surprised to find my husband busy cleaning the house while our daughter was down for a nap. We weren't able to spend that much together though since I had to leave soon after to go meet my mom, sister, and grandma for lunch. I hate a small side salad and half of steak sandwich! Go me! I headed back home in time for the afternoon sessions. 

I LOVED the afternoon session of General Conference. Here are some thoughts that I took away from it:

• Linda Reeves- commitment between spouses, spouse should always come first, support your spouses, don't suffer alone if your spouse is struggling with pornography, daily scripture study & prayer are more important than cleaning, be faithful & obedient in inviting the Spirit into our home, protection through temple attendance
• Neil Andersen- it will not be calm leading up to the Second Coming, challenges strengthen us, Helaman 5:12, Christ is my rock and safety, be in the world- not of the world. 
• Russell M. Nelson- Where is my faith? Faith is always safe in God. Look unto Him in every though. Doubt not. Fear not. Am I tied to God or man? All truth is a part of God. Read scriptures will help us make daily decisions. Liken the scriptures unto us. Popular opinion doesn't justify wrong. Have the courage to not compromise what you know to be right. Proclaim your faith. Let your faith show. 
• Richard G Scott- His wife's convictions and faith made all the difference in their life. Love people so they can know God's love. Focus life on Basic parts of the plan of salvation (conversion & strengthening families). Keep your sharing of the Gospel simple. The atonement makes it possible for us to become more like our Heavenly Father & to be with our families forever. We best serve God by being a righteous influence to others. 
• Robert D Hales- The greatest lesson Jesus taught was obedience. We have a sacred obligation to uphold our covenants and to obey God's laws. Obedience brings blessings. Obedience is taught by example. 
• W. Craig Zwick- Only good communication, no corrupt communication. Love, kindness, and civility. A soft answer. Own the truth. Address loved one's fears. Include empathy first. What is the other person thinking? Understand and listen to someone else's perspective. Administer grace. 

After General Conference today, I planned to do two things through my weekly grocery trip. I was going to SAVE MONEY and work on my EMERGENCY FOOD STORAGE. I made a grocery list like always that included 2 new recipes that I'm going to try this week. I wanted to stay focused on healthy meal choices as well. I ended up buying about $30 worth of food storage! I saved some money by buying my needed items on sale or store brands (usually don't buy store brand). 

Besides, grocery shopping I went to a book store and bought to pictures of Jesus Christ. One picture is to go down in our family room, by our computer. It's a painting of Jesus Christ holding a lamb. The other painting is for Taylor. It will go up in the hall leading to her room. It is a painting of Jesus Christ with a little girl holding an oil lamp. I love it and the feelings that it evokes. I also bought Taylor a little board book. 

After putting away groceries and welcoming my sweet husband home from his evening Priesthood Session, I am so happy today. I feel accomplished. I feel that today was a good day. I worked on goals that I've set for myself. I started the day with playing with my daughter and working out. I ended the day with pondering on the inspired messages from General Conference, chores done, an updated food storage, and an invitation to remember the Savior in our home. 

No longer someday... it's today!

I've thought about this post for quite some time. I've thought about why I wanted to write it and what I wanted to write. Finally, with courage and no excuses- I'm sharing my health journey and my goals to hold myself accountable and hopefully to inspire.

In college, I was staying up way late and sleeping in until noon on the weekends. I wasn't exercising or caring that I was eating out for most of my dinners. Highly processed foods seemed economical to me so that's what I bought at the store. Growing up, my family didn't cook a large variety of fruits, vegetables, or proteins so I didn't know what other satisfying options were out there for meals. Within one year, I gained twenty pounds. Each year, even becoming more aware of my weight gain, I continued to gain. My first year of college,  at 5' 10" I wore a size 4 and wore a size 8 my second year.


I was nearing college graduation at about 175 and knew something had to change. First, I joined Weight Watchers so I could learn how to eat and live a more healthy life. This was such an eye opener to see how I was eating way more than I needed and how my food choices weren't healthy. I would stay on program for a couple weeks and lose a couple of pounds and then get discouraged because I wasn't seeing the results I wanted and wasn't even getting to a 5 lb loss! I was going to the gym a couple time a week but never really got into it or had accurate measurements of how many calories I was burning.

 I joined WW a couple different times between the age of 20 and 22. I only lost 5 pounds once. Yes, if I stuck to my points I saw small losses but I felt that I was starving myself to get there and depriving myself of the tasty food I loved and craved. I kept binge eating and the process would start all over. At this point, I was wearing a size 10/12.

In 2010, I married my wonderful husband and the weight kept adding on. We started eating more at home and spent less dinners eating out. I got into a Jilian Michael's workout DVD, but that lasted only one month. I started experimenting with recipes and learning how to incorporate different vegetables and proteins in our meals. I also started to experiment with different methods of cooking. I participated in two different ragnars and completed a half marathon. However, the weight kept adding on.

In May 2012, I found out I was expecting our little girl. Weighing about 180, I told myself not to go over the 200 lb mark. During the first trimester, I only ate "little kid" junk food such as macaroni and cheese, spagettios, and top ramen. Those were the only things that sounded good to me. By the end of my second trimester, I reached 200 lbs and people would look at me and ask if I was having twins. My feet were so swollen and I felt so heavy that I didn't have the energy to work out and didn't believe that working out would make me feel better.

My little girl was born on Christmas Eve. Even after warnings from the midwives, I was drinking half a gallon of eggnog per week all throughout December. I was craving liquids and sadly, that was beverage of my choice next to hot chocolate. I ended up at 240 lbs.

I didn't workout during my pregnancy so after I had my little girl I could figure out how to start working out again. My body was weak and I felt crummy. Looking at the pictures from my baby's blessing, I felt so embarrassed. There was a very special 4 generation picture that we took with my grandma, mother, and daughter... but I didn't want to get a nice print of it because of how I looked. During the summer, I would try and go on walks with the stroller or go on runs. My goal was to be able to run a mile without stopping. I never reached it.

Hovering at around 215 lbs throughout the rest of the year, I kept wondering how could I motivate myself enough to make the drastic changes that needed to be made. Obviously I wasn't at a healthy weight. I was wearing size 18 clothes, maternity pants, and a tired/old looking face. I started asking myself questions about the new year. What would keep me going? What food would I need to be eating? What kind of effort would be required? Would I be binge like I did before? Would I give up? If I ever reached my goals, would that mean giving up oreos and pizza forever? How quick would I see progress? What if I didn't see progress or I plateaued? How would I make time for the changes that needed to be made?

New Year's day came. I decided to buy some new jeans. Skinny jeans! I thought I looked funny, but I forced myself to stop wearing my maternity jeans.

Next, inspired by a post from my good friend Jessie Larson I sat down the chocolates at the grocery store and went straight to the DVD section and bought The Biggest Loser Cardio Blast DVD. Worked out to with Bob Harper and Dolvette Quince for the next several days.

Then, Jessie Larson invited me to join a Beach Body Challenge that she was going to coach. She sent me information via Facebook about it and while my motivation was high I decided to jump on it! It would be a 90 day challenge where I would follow a Beach Body fitness program of my choice (Turbo Fire), drink Shakeology daily, and give &receive support on our Facebook Challenge Group. It officially started on January 20th. Up until then I worked every day with The Biggest Loser Cardio Blast.

Once the challenge started, I was little scared if I'd be able to keep up, but I was ready! I learned the moves of the fitness program and got better each day. I've been tracking my calories and progress using myfitnesspal.com. I had my husband take a whole bunch of before shots so I can see the visual evidence of improvement. From all the hard work from the exercise plan, I only wanted to fuel my body with good things. I actually WANTED to eat more vegetables, less calories, more lean proteins, fruits, and less refined carbs. I WANTED to work out instead of watching my favorite show. I WANTED to push myself until my hair was wet with sweat. I started making challenges for myself and pushed myself to reach them. As of last week, I weigh 198.5 lbs which is a 7% loss and am looking forward to reaching a 20 lb weight loss soon.  On average I've lost 1-2 lbs a week.

What's changed? I'm about to start week 6 of the program and plan on getting as close as I can to 170 in the weeks that are left. I even brought my magic bullet with me on a 3 day trip that I took so I could have Shakeology. I have more energy, more stamina, and a love for working out! With TurboFire, I've been able to work out for anywhere from 10 minutes up 50 minutes here at home. I've been able to stay motivated and push through 2 different plateaus. Healthy, delicious meals are on my dinner table every night. I am constantly on the hunt for new recipes! I keep telling myself that I'm worth the change. I work out 6 nights a week and am fueling my body with healthy food.  NO MORE EXCUSES! NO GOING BACK!

What's next? When my 90 days are finished, I want to complete another 90 day challenge with either T25 or P90X3. This spring, I would like to be a Beach Body Coach to help others and to stay motivated!

Lessons learned so far:
1. Always stick to your workout plan even if you don't feel up to it. You will never regret it afterwards. Just push through.
2. Workout and stay active throughout pregnancy.
3. A lot of foods just aren't worth throwing away hard work. (Wendy's and Taco Time are not worth it!)
4. If you're going to eat a lot of calories make it worth it and be sure you won't regret it. (The Wild Rose, Red Iguana)
5. Drink lots of water and always early to bed- early to rise.
6. Stick to a schedule! Especially one that continues to progress and challenge you.

This is the only time in my life where I have stuck to my goals in regards to health and fitness. I feel wonderful and have loved the results so far!!!