Your Journey is Your Journey

Ah!  It's here.  Our last week of 6FIT.  Typically, I get a little anxious this week because I know that by this time next week I will be on my own.  However, for the first time, I feel like I am going to be able to handle this new lifestyle without completely falling off the wagon.  If I do happen to fall off, I have a wonderful group of women who will help to get me back on.  Here we go!

Going into this last week, I wanted to remind you of something that I have been personally battling for a very long time.  I 100% stole the inspirational message below from Gina, but it's a good one for everyone to follow...and it provided me with a good blog topic! Thanks, Gina :)

Your Journey is YOUR journey...

For a very big part of my life, I have been consumed with comparing myself and my life to everyone else around me.  I am talking everything:  Family, occupation, workouts, weight, clothes, houses, towns we all live in....everything.  It is a terrible and unhealthy way to live and it's mentally exhausting.  I have been making a conscious effort over the past few years (especially since I had kids) to really start focusing on all the good things I have in life and everything I have accomplished.  I know a lot of people who will never be happy with what they have, what they look like, what type of house they live in.  They cannot see what I see and I just want to shake them and say "Look at what you have?  Look at your beautiful children, loving husband, amazing family, fabulous friends!"  So, I decided, I don't want to live like that anymore.  I want to be happy with what I have right now while simultaneously pursuing what I want. Does that make sense?

I find that there is a lot of negativity in this world and even though I DEFINITELY have days where I feel down on my luck and nothing is going my way, I try to stay as positive as I can.  Living in a time where Social Media pretty much runs everyone's lives, I see a lot of negative things flying around.  On Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, I post about the following:  My kids and my workouts.  Both of which annoy some people.  That's fine though...if you don't like it, don't read it! I post my workouts not to brag, but to hopefully inspire others to try a new class (which I have!), get out and run, or go for a walk with their kids.  I also find some sort of accountability and accomplishment when I post my workouts.  I am proud of my workouts!  Personally, I think seeing everyone's workouts on Facebook or Twitter is a positive.  Typically, my news feed is filled with MapMyRide, MapMyRun, Runkeeper screenshots, check-ins at the gym on the stairs or into a Virtual class.  Then there are maybe one or two Negative Nellies who post about how annoying it is to see updates about workouts. For a fleeting moment, I feel bad...I don't want to irritate people, but I quickly snap out of it.  I say whatever- hope you're enjoying your couch.

When it comes to 6FIT, there is a certain amount of competition...I prefer to call it motivation.  It's not a vicious competition though, and even if you're not on the same team you are still congratulated and cheered on by other 6FIT members.  That is the beauty of it.  We all want each other to succeed in this journey.  That said, there are days when I see the charts of my 6FIT friends and feel badly that I didn't rack up as many points as someone else or didn't take as many classes...they can do it, why can't I?  I have to tell myself to snap out of it.  I take 8 classes a week on top of other activities, working full time and caring for my family.  I am doing the best I can, and if can't physically manage the triple header I was planning (or double header for that matter), I need to accept that.  If I am burning the candle at both ends, it's not good for anyone.

Moral of the story... Have faith in yourself, in your family and in your life.  You're doing the best you can.  You will get there.  You will get to where you need to be.  Give yourself a break.  Be happy.

In The Now

When I was starting back to work, a friend of mine (who has a daughter the same age as mine and also just went back to work) told me that the number one thing she has learned is to 100% in the now.  When you're at work, be at work- give 100% and try not to think about what's going on at home without you (this seems impossible).  When you're at home with the kids, be there.  Get off your work email, put your phone away and just be there.  The time with the kids is precious.  I have about 2-3 hours with them a day (usually only 2 and the other hour is going in and out of my daughter's room trying to get her to stop throwing books out of her bed).

I learned this the hard way from my daughter when I was on my phone facebooking, tweeting, instagramming, texting--whatever I was doing ( Yes, I am addicted to my phone and social media).  Anyway, she got sick of my fake listening and came over and took my phone and said "no phone, Mama.  Play with me."  Uh DUH.  I felt like a jerk.

I get home from work around 4:45-5PM.  After they eat dinner, instead of scrolling through useless information on my phone, we go outside and play on the swing, I put Pandora on and we have a dance party, we read books, build block towers and watch 30 minutes of a movie of her choice before bed.

Monday-Wednesday I have classes at 7 or 7:30 and she is obsessed with exercising with me.  As a special treat, she gets to stay up and "excise" with me for 15 minutes and then it's bed time.  I don't know who is bribing who here, but it works and 2 years olds are extremely flexible!! She can also do 100's like a rock star!

When the weekends roll around, I make a concentrated effort to plan fun and active activities for my family.  My husband tends to work every other weekend, so on the weekends we are together we like to do something good.  Now that it is nice out, a lot of our activities revolve around being outside.  Both of my kids LOVE to be outside, especially my daughter.  She begs to go out as soon as she steps foot inside.  I am always looking for active things to do on the weekends, while at the same time avoiding major crowds because that just gives me anxiety :)

Here's a list of some fun and active things to do with kids and families on the weekend.  I am sorry this list is only a Boston list.  I don't leave the state ever haha, but it would be great if readers in other cities or countries could add their favorite outdoor activity on here as well!

Cushing Memorial Park in Framingham:  We LOVE this place.  There's a 1.5-2 mile loop for walking, running, biking, rollerblading- whatever. It's situated on about 60 acres of pretty flat terrain and absolutely beautiful trees.  There's a small playground in the center of the park, with a train, so of course my daughter is obsessed. We take bikes, strollers, soccer balls and picnic lunches and spend a couple hours here.  They have swings too, which is all my little man needs!

Ashland State Park - Reservoir Hike: http://www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/trails/ashland.gif
This is a wonderful place for the entire family, including the pooches.  I prefer to park next to the tennis courts on Chestnut Street at the Warren Center and start the trail walk from there.  I used to hike around here with my dog and recently brought my 2 year old.  She loved it- loved the sticks, animals, water, everything!

Blue Hills:  I have yet to do this, but I plan to go during lunch next week my schedule isn't so insane.  Here's a link to the reservation.  http://www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/metroboston/blue.htm

Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary in Natick, MA:  Note to self, I must get a hiking backpack for the kids.  I have yet to be here, but we might try it out this weekend.  9 miles of varied trails with amazing views. This is not free (except for members, but it's only $5) http://www.massaudubon.org/Nature_Connection/Sanctuaries/Broadmoor/index.php

Going to the Cape for Memorial Day Weekend?  Be sure to check out the Cape Cod Rail Trail.  An amazing bike path that goes all over the Cape.  We've been in Chatham the past two weekens and they have one of their own called the Old Colony Rail Trail that goes through Harwich and Chatham.  http://www.chathaminfo.com/shared-files/File/Rail-Trail.pdf

Upper Charles Trail- Milford, MA:  This is a walking, biking, running train that is pretty much brand new.  There's a 5.5 mile section open so far, but proposed 20 mile trail through Ashland, Hopkinton, Milford, Sherborn and Holliston.  The Milford trail runs up rt 85.  We usually go to EMC Park in Hopkinton and then head to the trail for a walk/run after in the stroller. http://www.uppercharlestrail.org/

The Ecotarium, Worcester, MA:  This is probably out favorite place to go in the summer and in the winter.  However, you really only get the hiking in during the nice weather.  In the winter/rain we stay indoors. I have walked and hiked the outdoor museum area multiple times while pregnant.  It is NOT easy!  But, it's fun for the kids and there are lots of animals :) Added bonus- if you buy the membership, you can get into the majority of other museums in the city for free or a deep discount as well as museums around the country.
http://www.ecotarium.org/

Finally, here is a link to some great hiking in and around Boston: http://www.boston.com/travel/explorene/specials/outdoors/galleries/great_local_hiking_spots/

This Memorial Day, we remember our fallen heroes and their families and everything they have done for our country.

I hope everyone has a wonderful long weekend with lots of fun and healthy activities planned!

PS- try (as hard as it may be) to stay away from the potato salad :)

32

Well, I turned 32 yesterday.  Such an uneventful age.  I actually had to stop and think about how old I was this year a couple times because after the big 3-0, who really cares? Haha...not me! As uneventful as this age is for me, I was reflecting on all the things I am grateful for.  This last year has been both challenging and immensely happy.  Here is my sappy list of everything I am grateful for:

• This guy:  
  
  
  
  My amazing hubby and Daddy to my babies.  He works so hard for our family and never, ever complains about it.  Even though he does stuff like falls asleep after I have just given birth to a giant baby, I still love him.
  
  
  
  
  
• My sassy little lady.  She keeps me on my toes and has a heart of gold.  She is the best big sis a boy could ask for.   Love her to pieces. 

• My Little Big Man.  An unexpected miracle that I am eternally grateful for every single day.  He is the light of my life.

• My fam, obvs.  They are all mucho supportive and I don't know what I would do without them.  My parents opened their home to me, my 2 kids, my dog and my hubby while we get our feet back on the ground after a challenging year and start the house hunting process. 
• My sissy.  My bestest friend on the planet.  We have come a long, long way...  
  
  
  
• My friends!  After 32 years I am happy to say that I have a few really great relationships with old friends.  I don't see them often, but when I do I treasure the time.  <3 you ladies! 
• My sister from another mister.  We've grown up together, broken up together and gotten back together.  Our babies are best friends and 30 years later, we get to watch them grow up together too. Amazingly beautiful.  
• 
• Coffee and under-eye concealer.  As much as T is the light of my life during the day...at night I would like the light turned off!  He just wants to snuggle. 
  
• Gina Fay and her beautiful DanceFIT Studio creation.  It was her dream that got me out of my fitness rut and at the same time got me actually hooked on clean and healthy eating and hooked on fitness.  For that I will be eternally grateful. 
• 
• DanceFIT also created a program for teeny tiny ballerinas and helped to introduce my daughter to the wonderful world of dance.  
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• Scarves.  Trivial, yes, but my signature accessory.  I heart them.  
• Mount Auburn Hospital and the doctors and nurses that cared for me and my babies while we were there.  I think about them all the time...probably more than I should haha.  They are fabulous though and I was lucky to have the same delivery nurse who actually remembered me.  My nurses were my lifeline, especially when C had to stay a few extra days without me.  They hold a very special place in my heart. 
• A new job, a new beginning.  As much as I loved being home with the kiddos, I thrive when I am contributing outside the home as well.  I am very thankful to have started new opportunity.
• Spring, the last few weeks in general.  Of the entire year, they are my favorite.  The flowers are in bloom and everywhere I look I am reminded of my beautiful Gram with lilacs blowing in the wind. 

• Skype and Facetime.  Amazing technology that has allowed C+T's family in Ireland watch them grow, allowed us to watch our baby niece and nephew grow, When one of us is away, we can still say goodnight and read stories or sing songs and my sister can eat dinner with her niece when ever she wants...all the way from NYC.   
  
  
  
  That's enough of that.  So many other things too, but I need to get back to work!  
  
  
  I will leave you with this and hope you can somehow find the time to fit it into your day: 
  
  
  
  
  

You Are Not A Number

For the past 15 (+) years I have been a scale watching addict.  15 years of my life have been consumed and ruled by a number...how crazy is that?  Drop pounds, drop pounds, drop pounds.  That was the one and only thing I was ever concerned about when it came to any sort of health and fitness regimen.  I still struggle with this daily, I am sad to say.  However, I am slowly starting to realize that it is not the number on the scale I (or any of you) should be concerned with.  What we should all be focusing on is the way we feel.  Do you feel stronger today than yesterday?  Can you hold a plank like a pro for just a few more seconds?  Get to 30 bicycle crunches without going all sloppy at the end?

Weight has never ever just fallen off me.  Even when I work hard, it still sticks around.  I am tall and bigger boned so I definitely find it harder to maintain a weight I think is healthy.  Feeling a little discouraged the other day about being stuck in scale plateau, my best friend reminded me of how hard I have been working and even if the scale isn't moving, my strength and endurance is.  "I will never be as strong as you", she said.  And while I completely disagree with that (because I think she could be!), it was a wake up call and really nice to hear.  I went shopping for back to work clothes a couple weeks ago and no, I still wasn't the size I wanted to be, but I felt good in the clothes.  That's what matters right?

I feel really grateful that I have found a group of strong and healthy women that motivate me to be a better me every single day...whether I am in a 6FIT session or not.  The women of DanceFIT Studio are not concerned with a number on the scale (for the most part...I am sure everyone has their moments!) but rather the number of squats, burpees, tricep dips they can reach by the end of the day.  How AMAZING is that?
The women I surround myself with both in person and virtually take multiple DanceFIT classes a day, climb mass amounts of stairs with the November Project, do CrossFIT programs, run marathons.  The list goes on and on and on. They are strong and healthy and they motivate me to be the same.  I see most of these women through the computer via Skype.  I have been working out with them all for over a year and I am literally watching them transform before my eyes.  I do not think...woah, she is so skinny, but rather she has gotten incredibly muscular; look at her arms muscles, legs, etc.  It is amazing to see.


In our little 6FIT cult, if one person gets down about not achieving their weight loss goal, or if someone is having a bad day everyone is quick to pull that person up...and by quick, I mean within 5 minutes words of encouragement are flying:

• You are getting stronger
• Don't worry about the number on the scale, you are building muscle
• You are healthy
• You have made a healthy lifestyle change...there is kale coming out of your ears :)
• You're running your ass off
• You are taking a gazillion classes a week
• Focus on how your clothes fit and not on the scale
• YOU ARE NOT A NUMBER (Thank you, Leta)

Personally, those words of encouragement that fly around our 6FIT FB page need to be hammered into my brain on a daily basis, but I am getting there.  These are words that I want my daughter to hear, as I have said before.  I don't want her to grow up the way I did...consumed by a single number on the scale.  She has seen me weigh myself before and of course wanted to do the same.  Instead of telling her the number on the scale I said "It says you are beautiful, you are strong, you are healthy".  Now when she see the scale, she says "I am beautiful Mommy?" and that just make my heart happy.  

My friend and fellow 6FITTER, Nicole wrote it best here.  The babies are watching and hearing everything you say. Not only as parents, but as a society, I feel like we need to set a good example for these littles as they grow. Teach them the words healthy, strong and beautiful not skinny, size 0 and scale.  

One last thing to leave you with.  At the end of every yoga class, Gina has us curl into a little ball and stay still for a couple minutes.  Not being a seasoned yogi, I asked what the purpose of this was.  Her answer?  "Self Love".  What a concept.