Family Vacation

A week of the sun, boardwalk, ocean, family time, and fun.  That is just a simple summary of our family vacation a few weeks ago.

This year we rented a beach house and it was absolutely awesome.  We were about 2 1/2 blocks from the beach which would have seemed a lot longer, but with beach buggies and rolling coolers it was a beautiful walk to and from the beach and boardwalk every day.  

Just about every morning, I ran.  Yes, on vacation.  And nothing made me happier than simply waking up, throwing on my clothes and  heading down to the boardwalk.  The view during this time was absolutely beautiful... the sun rising over the Atlantic Ocean, creating a beautiful orange glow was incredibly rejuvenating.  Such a peaceful way to start off the morning and set the tone for the rest of the day.

See? Absolutely beautiful.

Most days in Rehoboth were filled with the beach, ice cream, and wine.  Dave and I were able to escape one night for a date.  We had been planning this date night since our last date night in Rehoboth in 2011.  We went to the Cultured Pearl and stuffed ourselves silly with incredible sushi and sake sangria.  If you find yourself in Rehoboth/Dewey Beach, you must get to The Cultured Pearl, at least for a sushi roll or twelve.

Before our vacation I was in search of a place in NJ to learn how to Paddleboard.  It's been on my bucket list for a long time and ever since I lost weight, I have the courage (not to mention strength) to try it. 

We found East of Maui in Dewey Beach, DE.  They are a full surf shop that rents paddle boards, surf boards, and other water sport equipment.  We left paddle boarding for our last full day.  Not the brightest idea because paddle boarding is best when the winds are less than say, 20mph gusts.  And we picked probably just about the windiest day.   The nice gentlemen gave us a lecture on the winds and that another group came back pissed because it was too windy.  However, we took our chances and had one of the best times of the whole week.  

The sent us to Rehoboth Bay which is waist deep water and the warmest natural body of water I think I have ever been on the Atlantic coast.  Paddle boarding was freaking awesome!  I had an absolute blast on the board - it was thrilling.  In fact, I know what I hope Santa Claus brings me this year!  

East of Maui Surf Shop

My nephew and I on the paddle boards

It is hard to believe that a whole month has gone by since we were on vacation.  While we had an incredible time spending the whole week together, we were happy to get home to our own beds and routine and start planning next year's vacation!

Rugged Maniac Tri State

This past weekend, I participated in Rugged Maniac with my husband and his company.
This hasn't been our first rodeo, but it was by far our most favorite.  Last year we competed in Warrior Dash in Albrightsville, PA and Rugged Maniac in Brooklyn, NY, but this was by far our favorite mud run by far.

Rugged Maniac Tri State was held at Raceway Park, a venue near and dear to my heart.  I worked there once upon a time as a teenage parking attendant back when the parking lot was a dirt field.

So this 5k included mud, a water slide, cargo nets, wooden barricades, mud, hills, barbed wire, more mud, fire and mud.  It began on the racetrack and then quickly dropped us onto one of the motocross courses, which was chock full of rolling hills.  The best obstacle by far was this huge waterslide that ended with a huge puddle of mucky water.  Dave, two friends and myself all went down together, screaming and laughing on the way down.  Seriously I felt like I was 6 years old again.

Our finishing time was 59:36.  My goal was to have fun and enjoy the day with a great group of people.  You can see below that we accomplished that goal!

Taking on a TRI

Well, not yet.  But training has begun. Every Tuesday and Thursday through the end of August.  I gave myself exactly 1 hour to prep myself for this decision and pack a bag with a towel, bike shoes, bathing suit, as well as my children so they could hang out in the babysitting room.   Now's my chance to train and what better way than with a group of fabulous women at the Y with the Tri Fit class.

Running and biking aren't a problem.  My goal for running is to improve my 5k time overall and not feel like I am going to puke at the end of every run.  But I think I fixed that issue (more on that later).  And as for biking, well, I am not sure since, wait-for-it, I am not an outdoor cyclist.  Say what? Yes, you read that correctly.  I have not ridden a bike outdoors since I was probably 12 years old.  I guess I just figured out what my goal should be during training, huh?

My weakest area is by far swimming.  Although in 4 training sessions, my progress has been incredible.    I finally (!!!) can swim with my face in the water.  Yes, picture me, swimming laps and I don't know how to breathe correctly.  But the one point is that I wanted to learn and am committed to practicing even if that means showing up at the pool on non-swimming days.

I amaze myself.  At how strong I am and my mental discipline that has gotten me to this point so far.  When I first began my fitness journey, my goal was to complete a 5k in under 40 minutes.  I think that goal was blown way out of the water.

And I found this motivational saying that I think depicts my final sentiments.

it's been a long time...

I've come to the realization that I should have blogged more about my journey and taken more pictures. But blogging takes a lot of time.  However, I decided now more than ever to get posting and help inspire those around me to jump on the health and fitness bandwagon if not for anyone but themselves and to feel good.

It's not that I will forget this journey, but being able to look back to see my progress in stages would have been awesome.  I tell everyone when they start their journey to take pictures & measurements.  I should learn to practice what I preach.

Speaking of PRs.  I ran two 5ks in the late Spring.  My goal was to run a sub 33 minute 5k which I had no problem doing.  Currently, my PR is 31:34 which was set at the Hillsborough Hop on June 2nd, 2012.  And that, of course, has led me to wanting to run a sub 30 minute 5k, which I know I can do.

A few weeks ago, I was featured on the Philly Blurb's Biggest Loser's blog as part of the "Losing It On Their Own" series which features real life people who lost weight, but gained a healthy lifestyle in return.  Being interviewed by Jen was a complete honor as I look forward to her articles on the current episodes of The Biggest Loser.  It felt more like a conversation than an interview.  My story can be read here.

Spinning Instructor certification:: post 2

Accomplishing this certification has been a goal of mine for the last year and finally the day arrived.

The first part of the day was learning the background of Spinning, Johnny G, and other basic fundamentals such as setting up a bike for a first time student.  We spent a good deal of time partnered up setting up each other's bikes.  From watching spin instructors whose classes I take I already had the basic knowledge, but the why's behind it are so important to know.  After setting up our bikes for our "students", we got on and did a form ride.  The purpose of this ride was to go through all the different positions.  The best part of this ride was learning the cadence ranges and then using our cadence sensors to monitor our rpms at the consistent rates that we were instructed to.  After about 25 miles & 90 minutes on the bike, we broke for our lunch break.

After lunch we discussed the five different energy zones.  Who knew that Spinning was based around heart rate training?  Honestly, I had no idea.  After discussing each one in depth, we worked to create a class profile.  I wish we had spent more time on this topic because designing a class seems so overwhelming and is the epitome of your class.  However, it was time to get back on the bike for our final ride of the day.

Our Master Spinning Instructor led the class again.  In the beginning of the ride, she led us through a reflective exercise where we had to think back on what brought us to this day.  This really struck me and I could totally feel my eyes welling up with tears.  As she said, "A goal. A dream...", and here I am fulfilling a dream that I never in a million years thought I would.  The final ride was awesome.  We went through a piece of each of the energy zone rides and then finished up with what is possibly one of the most intense pieces of Spinning, SPRINTS!  And just like that the day was over.  And my journey as a Spinning instructor was just beginning.

Spinning instructor certification, post 1.

Spinning has helped me lose the almost 80 pounds that I am up to over the course of this last year. Last year, I decided that I wanted to get my certification to be a spinning instructor and share my passion for this exercise with others.

I am a bit anxious about the day; it's a full day from 8am-5pm, including two rides led by a Master. But I am very excited about the opportunities and doors this will open for me.

YMCA Member Spotlight

I am incredibly proud to share that I was picked as the YMCA member for the Member Spotlight for my family's Y's January 2011 newsletter!  

It has been ONE year since I started this journey so to be picked to share my story & (hopefully) inspire others to change their lives in 2012 is awesome.  Throughout the last year I have been asked "how did you do it?" or "please tell me your secret!", and here I shared how I was able to do it.  And now, being recognized by others at the Y, I guess you could say that I am famous in a small town.    

Since writing this story for the YMCA, I have lost a total of 76 pounds to date.

Somerset Valley YMCA Newsletter Member News January 2012 Dear Y Members,   As we head into the New Year, I'd like to share with our members some of the Somerset Valley Y's accomplishments from 2011. Thanks to the generosity and support of our members and donors, the Y was able to provide over $450,000 in financial aid and in-kind assistance to families, individuals and community groups. We gave more than $225,000 in assistance to over 115 families, children, seniors and adults for daycare, summer camp, aquatics and reduced-price membership. And the Y contributed more than $250,000 in subsidies and services to thousands of members and nonmembers so our programs would be available to all. In these tough economic times, we are making a dramatic impact on the community through the money we raise. We are proud that our organization continues to be the focus in Somerset County for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Thank you for supporting us throughout the year in our mission of always being there for our community. Sincerely, Paul Kieltyka CEO In This Issue SVY launches Strong Kids Campaign Learn how this Y member found balance in her life January membership promotion Y calendar Somerville pool reopened Launching our Strong Kids Campaign    You're invited! We're excited about the start of our 2012 Strong Kids  campaign and would like to invite all members to join us at our kick-off at the Bridgewater Y on Feb. 1.   In 2011, we raised more than $169,000 for our Strong Kids campaign - 30 percent more than the previous year!  Through your generous gifts to the fund, the Y was able to offer Y membership, day care, summer camp, sports activities and health and wellness programs to more than 110 families, children and adults and seniors who otherwise couldn't afford it.   Our goal for 2012 is $250,000, and we're already well on our way, thanks to contributions totaling nearly $20,000 from staff at our three branches who believe in and support our mission.  To them, the Y is more than a job.  Our Strong Kids campaign is the cornerstone that helps us carry out our mission of ensuring everyone has the opportunity for a path to healthier living in a nurturing, positive environment.  Join us and show support for your community on Feb. 1, at 7 p.m. for refreshments and fun"Under the Bridgewater Big Top" as we celebrate the launch of our Strong Kids campaign. My Y Story "Between the YMCA staff and fellow members, I found a caring community committed to helping me reach my goals!" - Y member Pam V.   Somerset Valley Y member Pam  V,  a mother of two, describes how the the Y helped her manage her health and find balance in her life when she struggled with weight problems My family and I joined the Somerville Y in the spring of 2010. However, the demands of working full time, raising a 1-year old and expecting another baby did not allow me to make the gym a priority. After I had my second daughter, I was the heaviest I had ever been and incredibly unhappy with the way I looked. Tired of excuses, I dusted off my sneakers and my Y key tag and started my journey to better health. In January 2011, I set a goal to lose 40 pounds by my 30th birthday, 5 months from when I began my weight-loss endeavor.  One of the first classes I joined was Group Cycling with Ali. He has been an excellent mentor and motivator since the first time he helped set up my bike. Spin class, kickboxing and Zumba all provided great work-outs and helped me challenge myself as I worked toward my goal. One of the best services the Y offers for moms like me is Child Watch. I was comforted knowing the girls were in great hands while I got in my workout.  With a combination of spin classes, kickboxing, and running, I was able to celebrate both my birthday and losing 41 pounds! I then set my sights on losing a total of 60 pounds by our sixth wedding anniversary in August, another goal which I proudly hit!  After losing 72 pounds to date, I am committed to maintaining this healthy lifestyle. This would not have been possible without my "Y family."    At the Y, our supportive staff is here for you every day, making sure you know what you're capable of and encouraging you along the way. We welcome you to check out our fitness programs. We look forward to helping you making 2012 your healthiest year ever. January membership promotion: Refer a friend, win a chance at a prize!    During the month of January, if you refer a friend to the Y and the friend joins, we'd like to thank you by entering both of you in a raffle.     Each of our three branches will hold weekly raffles. We've had six winners so far among our three branches!  The prizes are: In Somerville, a free session with a personal trainer,  a youth gymnastics class or swimming classes for youth or adults. In Bridgewater, a free 30-minute, private swim lesson. In Hillsborough, a free personal training session, group swim lessons, youth sports class or birthday party At the end of the month, each branch will hold a Grand Prize drawing featuring the new Kindle Fire! Thank you for supporting us and we look forward to welcoming your friends as new Somerset Valley Y members    The Somerset Valley Y is committed to helping its members find balance in life, from managing their health to caring for their children. Whats happening at the  Y   Invite a friend to a swim lesson in  Somerville between Jan. 21-26. The Somerville Y Aquatics program is giving all swim students the opportunity to enjoy a lesson with a friend!    Learn how to eat healthier in 2012 with Shop Rite and the Hillsborough Y. We're partnering with ShopRite for two sessions on how to plan healthier meals. ShopRite's registered dietitian Rachel Simpers will be at the Hillsborough Y on Jan. 24 from 6:30 to 8 p.m., followed by a store tour of the Hillsborough ShopRite on Jan. 31 from 6:30 to 8p.m., concluding with healthy recipe demonstration. We'll help you fuel your workout routine with the right foods. Masters swimmers will have the option of swimming in Somerville starting Feb. 6. The SVY Masters program is for those 18 and older who miss the camaraderie of a swim team and want to work with professional coaches. Along with the Y team that practices at Raritan Valley Community College, the Somerville team will have the opportunity to compete in U.S. Masters Swimming events. Contact Frank Oliver at 908-722-4657 x 25 or atfoliver@ymcasomersetvalley.org. Our new offerings for mid-winter session include Pilates on Tuesday nights in Hillsborough. Somerville is offering a stop-smoking hypnosis class on Feb. 20 for an additional fee. We invite seniors to swim with us at the Hillsborough Y on Mondays and Fridays from noon to 1 p.m. and Wednesdays from 1-2 p.m. at a cost of just $3 per session. The program is for seniors age 62 and over. You do not have to be a member to join us.      On Feb. 15 at noon, the Somerville Family Y will host a program by Abbott Immunology entitled "How to Live with Arthritis and other Arthritic Conditions." Dr. Ahmed Abdel-Megid, adult rheumatologist, will conduct the program. All are welcome to attend the program and enjoy lunch. Please RSVP by Feb. 9 to Brenda Guilles at the Y at 908 722 4567 or Nilsa Morales-Arce from Abbott  at 908 507 3976. This event will be reprised at the Hillsborough Y on March 15 at 11 a.m. Invite a friend to a swim lesson in  Somerville between Jan. 21-26. The Somerville Y Aquatics program is giving all swim students the opportunity to enjoy a lesson with a friend!    The Hillsborough Family YMCA welcomes the opportunity to join with you in helping your child become a lifelong learner in our kindergarten program. Registration is open now for our program, which aims to provide a quality education in a positive and enjoyable classroom atmosphere. We explore language development, physical development, social, emotional and cognitive development along with character education initiatives. Call the Hillsborough Y at 908 369-0490 for more information.   Improved Somerville pool re-opened 1/15   Somerville Aquatics Director Frank Oliver works to fill the pool after repairs and improvements were completed. Merck volunteers helped to paint the Somerville pool Y swimmers on their winter training trip  The Somerset Valley Y swim team trained in Key Largo, Fla. over winter break. The team took 33 high-school-age swimmers and three coaches. The annual training trip keeps the team focused and practicing hard over the holiday break. Quick Links Register Now for the Y's mid-winter sessions programs which begin Feb. 6. Register Now for Y summer camp. See our complete listings online. Camp Open House at all three branches on Feb. 24, 5-7 p.m. Register Now for the Hillsborough after-school program. Call Jim Vaccarella at 908 369 0490 for more information. Featured Article   Please consider giving to our Strong Kids Campaign.We serve nearly 14,000 members and provide 1,000 with reduced membership offsetting their limited incomes and providing a path to healthier living.      Community donations allow us to offer swimming, daycare, sports activities and other programs to children & teens who, without help from our donors, would be unable to participate Contributions to our Strong Kids fund gives us the ability to make a meaningful difference to the children and families in our community.

Recipe:: French Onion Soup

I know I have said this before but I don't like making soups.  And actually I don't even really like eating soup.  It's just not a type of dish I crave very often, but a few weeks ago, the weather was very wintry here in Jersey and I wanted soup.

As you probably know, I am a huge fan of Gina at Skinnytaste because her dishes are easy, but never lack on taste.  I found a recipe for French Onion soup, my husband's favorite!

I adapted it very slightly, but Dave loved the changes and said it was exactly what French Onion soup should taste like.  Score!  And it was even so delicious that it is on our menu for this week too.  Maybe this is a turning point for soup in my life.

Gina used swiss cheese for her soup, but we used a horseradish cheese from Cabot and it gave the soup a little extra kick.  We made grilled cheeses with that cheese too!

French Onion Soup
adapted from: Gina's Weight Watcher Recipes


Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds yellow onions, sliced thin
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/4 cup Cognac or brandy
• 1/4 cups white wine
• 4 cups beef stock
• kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

• 6 medium slices toasted Italian bread
• Horseradish Cheese (I used Cabot)

Directions: 

In a large pot, sauté the onions with the butter over medium heat, until the onions are soft and golden, about 20 minutes. Add flour, mixing well another 2-3 minutes. Add thyme, bay leaf, wine and brandy, and simmer uncovered for 10 more minutes.

Add the beef stock, salt & pepper to taste, reduce heat. Cover and simmer gently for about 20 minutes. Remove bay leaf and ladle 1-1/2 cups soup into 6 oven-proof bowls. Place bowls on a baking sheet. Place sliced toasted bread rounds into each bowl and top bread with cheese. Broil 2 to 3 minutes, until cheese melts.

Motivations:: Sweat vs. Tears

Rutgers Big Chill 2011

This race holds a special place in my heart. Last year, this was the first 5k I ran. The Big Chill is not only a fabulous and fun event, but it is for a great cause. The only entry "fee" is a donated toy for a child in need.

The only goal I set for myself pre-race was to be sub 39 min. Last year, I finished at 45 minutes. Having lost almost 75 pounds in the last 12 months and been running quite a bit, I knew I'd beat my time at least.

About a quarter mile in, I had to pull over and pull up my underwear that was falling. If it were the last quarter mile, I would have run through but it was so annoying that I just couldn't deal and certainly didn't want to have a wardrobe malfunction.

Mile 1 I hit 10:20- my fastest mile yet. This course is hilly after mile 1. I slowed down a bit before hitting the couple of big hills. I completely missed the mile 2 marker and in a way, I am glad I did.

Coming up to the finish line, I saw the clock turn from 34:59 to 35:00! I had said I wanna run sub 35 one day and this was almost that day, had I not stopped to adjust my attire. Nonetheless, I was absolutely thrilled with my performance!