Currently Loving: FiveFingers

Chris and I have already started our Christmas list and the first items on it are FiveFingers shoes! I've always been intrigued by their appearance, but I am officially sold after first, doing some research on their benefits and then, trying them out at REI last weekend. To put it simply, they are awesome!

They have come out alongside the theory that it might be better to run barefoot, as it promotes better foot mechanics. And I found this tidbit from the FiveFingers website really fascinating:

"The benefits of running barefoot have long been supported by scientific research. And there is ample evidence that training without shoes allows you to run faster and farther with fewer injuries. No footwear comes closer to recreating this natural sensation than Vibram FiveFingers®. It allows you to land on your forefoot, directly below your center of gravity, resulting in optimum balance, increased stability, less impact and greater propulsion. Running in FiveFingers delivers sensory feedback that improves agility and equilibrium and allows immediate form correction. In addition it stimulates and strengthens muscles in the feet and lower legs."

They are a little strange at first, but just in the few minutes I walked around in them I could already feel different muscles in my feet working! Now the only trouble is deciding which pair to start with!

Anyone else own a pair? I would love to hear your thoughts!

Not for the Faint of Heart

Last week I mentioned I was taking a hot yoga class this weekend and I wanted to share a bit of my experience with you. If you have never done Bikram yoga before, let me assure you, it is not for the faint of heart! While I absolutely loved it, don't let me fool you-it was intense!

Upon arriving 20 minutes early with an empty stomach, I was told that my yoga for the day would be to stay in the room for the entire 90 minutes-um, yikes! I must admit that it was tough feat adjusting to the 105 degree room while getting through all 26 poses, but when all was said and done, I felt invigorated, challenged and totally exhausted! I would rank it up there with one of the single most challenging exercises I've ever done, and one I will certainly do again!

And did I mention that studies have shown you can burn up to 630 calories an hour? And keep in mind these are 90 minute classes! Just be prepared to be drenched from head to toe by the time you finish (think hot sauna for an extended period of time).

All in all, I would definitely recommend trying one out if you're looking for something fresh to throw in your workout routine. Classes can be pricey, but look for local specials and keep an eye out for groupon and livingsocial deals like the one I found. That way if you hate it, you aren't out much money and you still tried something new. Happy exercising!

image/via

Once a Day

Is it really June already!?! I am beside myself that this year is almost halfway over. To be honest, earlier today I had a mild mid-year crisis, feeling as if I needed to evaluate my 2010 goals and see how well I have done thus far. How are you doing on those New Year's resolutions?

If you're feeling the need for some fresh motivation, read on!

While finishing up a cardio session with my husband tonight, the light bulb went off. For the next 30 days I will be heading up a challenge to Sweat Once a Day. After all, everybody loves a challenge! It doesn't matter how you accomplish this, as long as it is an intentional act of physical exercise such as running, cycling, yoga, weight lifting, hiking, etc.

The point is to move! Regular sweat sessions are proven to help create a healthy mind and body, relieve stress and increase your overall mood. Why is it when life gets the best of us we shrug off the most important practices, like regular exercise?

So if you are looking for fresh motivation or just need to beat some daily stress, jump on board with me and sweat once a day through the month of June!

Every time you exercise, post what you did on the "Lose Weight With Kate" Facebook page. And if you're really feeling eager, post a photo!

Happy sweating!

Feeling Unmotivated?

Over four years ago, on a road trip home for Christmas, I picked up a copy of Oxygen magazines Fat Loss special issue. I think I read that thing cover-to-cover...at least three times (while Chris was driving, of course)! Since that day, I have been a devout reader of Oxygen. As a personal trainer and fitness enthusiast I think it is important to note that Oxygen is unlike every other cheesy, trendy "fitness" magazine, which is why I choose to make it a part of my regular reads.

The message is simple: eat clean, wholesome food and exercise regularly. They make it very clear that fad diets or miracle workouts are not realistic.

As much as I love and know about fitness, at times I find myself getting unmotivated and bored with a routine. But Oxygen is like my workout buddy who alway re-energizes me and gives me great tips to keep my workouts fresh!

If you are feeling in a fitness rut or maybe you just don't know where to begin, I encourage you to pick up a copy today!

Our Weekend Plus Some D-licious Cupcakes!

Happy Monday! While I'm sad to see our fun weekend come to an end, at least I can say it was a delightful one!

Our Friday started earlier than usual because Chris left work a few hours early, giving us a chance at a fun afternoon! We ended up going to see Edge of Darkness, the new Mel Gibson movie. We would definitely recommend for an edge-of-your-seat flick. Very good!

Saturday morning I took a bootcamp class at my new work and besides kicking my butt, it was fantastic! I had an opportunity to meet the two part time trainers and also some regulars to the class. Let me just say, I love the whole environment and the people and am so excited I get to work with them!

We also had some yummy sushi with our friends, the Hookers, cleaned a lot, ran a lot of errands, Chris cleaned our cars, and we ended up having our friends Brad and Laura over for the Superbowl.

And that brings me to the one thing I was actually looking forward to about the game, making these delectable Dark Chocolate Stout Cupcakes!

I found this recipe several weeks ago on my fave food blog, Pinch my Salt, and have been stowing it away especially for the Superbowl. I just knew Chris would love them!

They are ridiculously moist and not super sweet, but the cream cheese frosting takes care of your sweet tooth for an amazing combination that is just oh-so-scrumptious!

Chocolate Stout Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

2 large eggs, at room temperature
1/2 cup plain, thick yogurt, at room temperature
6 oz. dark stout (I used Guinness), at room temperature
2 t. vanilla extract
1/2 cup dutch processed cocoa powder
1 cup sugar
1 1/4 cups all purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
6 tablespoons butter, melted
1 tub cream cheese frosting

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Line a 12-cup cupcake pan with cupcake papers; spray the whole thing, cupcake papers and all, with nonstick spray. Set aside.
Melt butter in microwave or on stovetop, then set aside.
In a large bowl, preferably with a pouring spout, whisk together eggs and yogurt. Add beer and vanilla whisk until well combined.
Sift all the dry ingredients together (cocoa powder, sugar, flour, baking soda, and cinnamon) into a separate bowl.
Add about a third of the flour mixture into the wet ingredients and using a hand mixer, blend well. Add the rest of the flour mixture, a third at a time, mixing well after each addition. When all ingredients are blended, add the melted butter then continue mixing until very well combined.
Pour batter into the twelve cups, filling each only about 3/4 full.
Bake on center rack of the preheated 350 degree oven and for approximately 25 minutes.
When cupcakes are done (toothpick inserted in center of a cupcake will come out clean), remove the pan to a wire rack. Let cool for ten minutes then remove cupcakes from pan and let them cool completely on wire rack.
Frost cupcakes once completely cooled.

Dream Job Made a Reality

Happy Friday sweet friends!

I have some extra exciting news to share today! Yesterday afternooon I was offered a personal training position at a place my "job dreams" are made of!! We have been praying that a wonderful opportunity like this would come up and I am beyond grateful it is finally a reality. I am so ready to get started!

Without going into too much detail just yet, I will be training at a personal training studio where I can offer private sessions on my own schedule without the hassle of having to sell products, work floor hours or fight for clients like I would in a gym setting. The studio is amazing and full of the best equiptment! I'll definitely keep you updated as I make this wonderful transition and put my degree back to work!

This weekend I am looking forward to celebrating a lot, getting my business cards made and even a boot camp class tomorrow morning! Although Chris and I had talked about having a little Super Bowl thing, it is honestly the farthest thing from my mind right now...we'll see how that plays out.

Have a lovely and exceptionally grand weekend!

Happy News!

I've got very happy news to share today! Yesterday I took (and passed!) the ACSM Personal Trainer Certification Exam! I knew that if I didn't take it before Thanksgiving it would get pushed back to January, but nevertheless it's done! I feel such a deep sense of relief having that over with! Now I just have to put it to use!

And in other exciting happenings, last night Chris got his first birthday present! I've decided that each day has a theme and yesterday was favorite edibles! I gave him a six pack of Guiness and Sierra Nevada to make a black and tan (well, a few black and tans) and a delicious piece of tiramisu that we shared for dessert! I think he enjoyed it very much!




And today we both have appointments to get our teeth cleaned so we are leaving work early together! Having my hubby home a few hours early is like a present in itself!

I hope your week has started off brilliantly!

Walks

I just got back from taking my sweet pooch for a walk and it was so invigorating! Walks have always been a favorite thing of mine. You just see things differently. There is nothing quite like strolling through the neighborhood and passing by the park on a crisp, Fall day, watching kids run around, getting the last of their energy out before the sun sets. And who doesn't love that pink shade your nose turns after a brisk 30 minutes outside? The trouble is, when things get busy, poor Abby is the first one to miss out on her exercise. I started thinking, she needs it as much as we do and I definitely have the time when I get home from work. So that is my new goal, to take at least 30 minutes out of my afternoon to walk my girl. I'm quite excited to take advantage of the great Autumn weather that has graced us with it's presence!

Fall Frenzy

Good morning and Happy September (the official month of the beginning of FALL!). I've got so much to talk about and very little time to talk about it...never a happy combination! I think after today things may slow down (fingers crossed!!).

Tonight I start training a friend of mine and I'm super excited about it! You should have seen me the past several days experimenting with new exercises and blasting loud music:) The distraction of personal training (including studying) is honestly getting me through these long days.

Funny story: because I knew I'd be really busy yesterday I planned a crock pot chicken and barley stew for dinner. Perfect way to save me time, right? Well I completely forgot about it until I walked in the house last night and inhaled the amazing aroma of my already finished dinner! It was such a giant relief! Silly that I forgot I put it together that morning. Guess that's what happens when you have a lot on your mind. It was a clean eating recipe and my husband couldn't stop going on about how tasty it was:) I'm so looking forward to the leftovers for lunch!!

Everyone wins when an easy dinner turns into an easy lunch, making me a very happy girl! Can I get an Amen?!

And did I already say we are 21 days from FALL?! I'm so giddy and already planning our wine tasting trip to Amador County and our annual trip to Apple Hill! And how could I forget our trip to see my adorable siblings in October?!

Wishing you a glorious day!

Since I've Been Gone

Hi friends! I'm back from a much needed and well, necessary blogging break. The truth is, I've missed it!

The last several days have been packed, mostly with work, and it doesn't feel like anything will be slowing down soon! This week I will be working some overtime, which is good and bad. But enough with the boring stuff!

I do have some very exciting news to share! I just paid for my ACSM personal training certification exam!! My current certification is not one I'm really impressed with and I finally decided to just get the one I really want! I am feeling so inspired to start training again:) It will definitely be a nice distraction from my current full time job! This will hopefully be the beginning of a very nice transition to doing something I am passionate about again:) Yay!

Last week was pretty much a blur of work, workouts, errands and just trying to get to the weekend. Not a feeling I am very fond of! Chris knew I had been feeling tired and just plain worn out so he surprised me with a really fun date Friday night to dinner at Bella Bru Cafe, where they had live music on the patio! It was exactly what the doctor ordered! We listened to Blues while we enjoyed a delicious meal:)

So here we are, it's Sunday night and I'm trying to prepare myself for another hectic week. Although, I am a little more ahead of the game than I was last week. Because my Aunt was here last week and we spent a lot of time with my family, I wasn't really home to catch up on laundry, grocery shopping, and cleaning, which made this week feel a bit more chaotic. Not that I'm complaining, as we has such a great time with my Aunt!! But now that I've had a whole weekend to catch up, I say "Bring it on Monday!".

Okay, my hubby just brought in my hot tea and reminded me of the time, which means we should probably decide on the movie we're going to watch before I turn into a pumpkin:)

I'll leave you with some photos of the week...

Our delicious wild mushroom bruschetta appetizer at Bella Bru!


Relaxed as can be with his 'Down Town Brown' :)


Look at that Goodness of Tiramisu!


It deserves it's own picture:)


I was out shopping this afternoon and snagged these cute plum colored flats for only $4.90!! Oh how I love good sales:)


I also made a trip to Trader Joe's and picked up some favorite goodies of ours:) This Pesto Torta is oh so good!


And so are these scrumptious treats...dark chocolate covered espresso beans and almond coconut chocolates:)


And finally, their Vodka past sauce...mmm, mmm good!



Stay tuned, I've got some good posts for the week!

Inspiration of the Month!

Okay, so I say inspiration of the month, but I actually think I will stay excited about this for a long time to come! I have known about Lululemon for a while now, but because we don't have one close, I've never actually shopped there, besides online. That is until very soon, since we have one coming to the Galleria in a few short months!!

I truly am inspired by the company as a whole! Their mission, the culture and values each employee seems to embrace and most of all, the fact that they really seem to inspire others to the very lifestyle I aspire to engulf every single day! (I've been doing some research!)

It's true, I love fitness and everything that seems to go along with it: the training, the pain, the reward when you accomplish something you've been training for and, well, the clothes:) I think it's safe to say that Lululemon will quickly become a favorite place to furnish my workout wardrobe!

This is their manifesto. Tell me that doesn't inspire you!


And how cute is this gym bag?!


Happy Tuesday!

All In Good Health

So, I've got a few things on my mind today. All related to health of course, but more what I'm thinking than anything else.

First of all, I just realized that after tomorrow, I will have 6 straight weeks of work until I have another day off. Oh Labor Day, I am impatiently waiting for you to arrive! So, I would like to propose something. I think that 4 day work weeks have the best balance. I mean really, that extra day off gives you so much time to accomplish what you need to and still get the rest needed to give it your all at work. So there it is, 4 days on and 3 days off:) Sounds like a good, healthy plan to me!

And the other thing, why is that when you seem to get on a great workout or eating routine, life sort of happens and throws a wrench in it? Seriously, so many people say this to me and I never want to admit it, but it happens to me too! For instance, I can be at the peak of a workout cycle and then suddenly get sick and be out of commission for a few days, or fail to plan my meals well and be starving at work when my coworker brings in doughnuts...ahh! You have to laugh about it and pick back up where you left off because friends, that's life for ya!

It's all about balance!

Happy Thursday!

All In Good Health

Good morning! Guess what? I'm off work tomorrow! Wait, have I already told you that;)

I am in a great mood this morning, but you know what could have made my mood even better? Being able to exercise this morning. According to a study I found on ACSM's website (originally written in USA Today), the good feeling you experience after moderate to heavy exercise can last up to 12 hours post-workout. How great is that? This is a very big reason it is so productive to get a workout in at the beginning of the day;the better you feel after exercising, the more motivated you will be to make it a habit. Obviously any time of the day is good to exercise and some of us aren't able to fit it in the morning, but if possible I definitely recommend it! Some of my favorite workouts are done on Saturday mornings, when the good feeling seems to last all day! So get out there and put yourself in a good mood:)

I thought this was really cute and appropriate:)


And after you've completed your exercise, make sure to nourish yourself! And why not do that with a deicious piece of healthy banana bread, lightly toasted with some natural peanut butter?

I had every intention of making this new banana bread recipe I found, but I got a little wrapped up in painting last night:) I'm still going to give you the recipe because it just sounds like such a great, healthy version of the classic. I will try to make it this weekend and let you know how it turns out!

So here it is: Light-n-Luscious Banana Bread

Wishing you good health always!

Workouts, Wine and Cute Sisters

This week has continued to be busy at work. In fact, we're so busy, I am actually craving my daily workouts as a means to relieve some tension! The other night I was running and I literally did not want to stop! I even decided to weight train even though I hadn't planned on it. Can I just say how much I love that a good workout can totally clear your head and restore your energy! It helps that I have the absolute BEST playlist to keep me going! My workout mix is complete with several RPM tracks, Pink and of course U2's Beautiful Day to cool me down:) Ah...I am getting revved up just thinking about it!

So yesterday we received our first shipment of wine from Chandon:) While we were in Napa, we joined their wine club:) You have to understand how much I adore their sparkling wine selection! Amazing!!

Last thing, I just had to post this YouTube video of my little sister, Ava. She is so stinkin' cute! Watch it, I promise you won't be disappointed! Notice how she shakes her shoulders around minute 1:50.



Hope your day is lovely!

Patience, Perseverance and Balance

Can you believe it is already Friday?! Hooray!

I think the Friday excitement gets my brain juices flowing because I have a lot on my mind today.

First of all, this whole 3 day work week is fantastic! I definitely could, I SHOULDN'T, but I could get used to this!

Secondly, I was cleaning the apartment last night...

Wait-let me insert something quickly. I cleaned before we left for Napa and somehow, being home one day, our house is a disaster! Seriously, did clowns invade the place?? Somebody explain to me how this happens! I am pretty sure it has to do with us being crazed and not able to unpack, but still, it is ridiculous!

Anyway, as I was cleaning and putting away birthday presents, it became quite clear to me that we have officially outgrown our apartment! I should clarify, we have outgrown the kitchen. It's not like we have a small place. It is 1100sf, but the kitchen is the only room that is comparatively small. It also happens to be the room I need the most space in! Figures:) I could also be getting very ansy to move into a house...

So we have offers on two houses and have been waiting for the bank to accept one of them forever!! We knew it would be like this, but I am getting so impatient! I want cabinet space and a big pantry:) Ahh! Patience...

I know that it will happen when it is suppose to, but I am not a very patient person:) You would think I would have learned to be. After all, Chris and I did get married on the week of our 5 year anniversary:)

On another note, my Dad has agreed to run the marathon with me in December! Yay, I am so excited to have someone to race with! Although this means that I can't wimp out. Not that I planned on it but, eek!

While we're on exercise, I want to share my current enthusiasm. As many of you know, I absolutely LOVE everything about fitness, nutrition and good health. After all, I did spend 4 years studying it:)

This last weekend was a reminder of balance. I am a firm believer in the importance of exercise and healthy meals, but throughout the last few years, I have also come to realize how important it is to enjoy food! I am a very goal-oriented person and can be very hard on myself, but while I believe being disciplined is a very important thing, finding a balance is equally important. While we were vacationing, Chris and I enjoyed some incredibly delicious and, well, "indulgent" food. But ask yourself, how fun would a trip to Napa be if you couldn't enjoy the delicious foods they have to offer (a good glass of wine or a wonderful cheese). The key is portions. I don't make it a normal practice to eat these things on a daily, or even weekly basis, but there is definitely a time and a place:) Just wanted to remind us all to enjoy life and savor every last moment(and incredible bite!).

Lastly, fitness has got me thinking about a person whom I greatly admire for his philosophy and incredible passion for health and balance. This person is Dr. Kenneth Cooper and he happens to be a phenomenal example of these things. I was so fortunate to have the opportunity to intern at the Cooper Aerobics Center last year and see first hand what this means!
http://www.cooperaerobics.com/home.aspx

“Fitness is a journey, not a destination. It must be continued for the rest of your life.” Dr. Kenneth Cooper

“It is easier to maintain good health through proper exercise, diet, and emotional balance than to regain it once it is lost,” Dr. Kenneth Cooper

Wishing you love, happiness and good health always!

Rafiki

Happy April!! I am thrilled about so many happenings this month. This is probably no news to you if you have been keeping up with our blog:) However, instead of repeating the things I have already shared, I am going to tell you about how we will start my birthday (which is April 11, BTW).

Chris was looking around for fun things going on that weekend and stumbled upon a 5k we have signed up for. The thing is, the day after my Birthday is Easter so there isn't a ton of stuff going on. So, this morning Chris sent me some info about the run and I am super excited to be taking part in something so cool! It is called the Redeemer Run and sponsored by Koinonia Foster Homes. The proceeds from the race go to a foundation for an Orphanage and School in Uganda. I will let their website explain the details to you. Please take a look at it. Their heart for the Lord and His purpose really touched me. http://www.kfitness.org/Rafiki.htm


"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." James 1:27

Love

How time flies!

Wow! I am actually teaching my first class tomorrow! I am nervous and excited all at the same time. I am putting some finishing touches on my choreography and really hoping everything goes perfectly! Of course my mind has been in a whole other place the last few days. This past weekend was my RPM training. I had a blast, despite being extremely tired and a bit sore:) I am really starting to appreciate how much effort goes into teaching group fitness!

I just realized how giddy I am this morning and can only credit it to the wonderful changes that are happening with the coming of real Fall weather! I took last week to completely turn our house into a Fall haven and bake my first pumpkin pie of the season:) Oh yeah, and at the store yesterday, Chris talked me into buying a seasonal coffee creamer. I was a little hesitant because it has more sugar than what I usually buy, but it was worth the splurge! Anyone looking to greet the season with a cup of cheer should try Coffee-Mate's Peppermint Mocha creamer-YUMMY!

That's all for now!

Kate