A yogi's Christmas poem

The folks over at YogaDownload shared this with me, and I couldn't help but pass it along ..

Twas the week before Christmas and all through the home,

Not a yogi was stirring, not even an OM.

The yoga mats were rolled by the chimney with care,

In hopes there would be 20 minutes to spare.

The children were nagging, not going to bed,

While visions of Wanderlust danced in my head.

With mama in her yoga pants and I in mine too,

We were deeply in need of our inner guru. 

When up on the roof there arose such a blast,

You’d think Shiva Rea was giving a free class.

And what to my wondering third eye should I see,

But Santa himself, breathing in ujjayi.

His hands placed in mudra, he looked so serene,

Sitting in lotus, right under the tree.

“Santa!” I exclaimed, “how can this be?”

“I came to align your chakras,” said he.

He rose up to standing (and his pants were see-through,

He must have bought them last year at lulu).

We rolled out our Mandukas and lit our inner flame,

And he whistled and shouted each yoga pose name.

“Now up dog, now down dog, now to chaturanga!

On cobra, on cat/cow, on parsva bakasana!”

The prana was flowing, my worries were gone,

My mantra, “I am grateful,” carried me on.

Santa, it seemed, was a wonderful mentor,

The yoga was helping me come back to center.

“Your practice need never be out of your sight,

YogaDownload is with you, all day or all night.”

And I heard him exclaim as he drove off in his sleigh,

“Merry Christmas to all, and to all Namaste!”

Be brave, be Boulder

I'd like to think I've been a lot of places but the truth is that I haven't. I've just been very lucky to pick very great cities when I do get to venture outside of Indiana.

However, even in my limited travels, I feel confident saying that Boulder is by far one of the most active cities in the country. Everywhere we went, there were people on the move. Cyclists clad in team jerseys pedaled up gargantuan hills, and incredible runners navigated the trails at swift paces with coaches trailing behind. (I'm pretty sure I saw an actual Kenyan running during my 11-miler with Jess.)

And while that run definitely took a toll on me, I couldn't help but be filled with a sense of Boulderness and the urge to stay active my entire trip.

On Sunday, after waking up early, Mark and I commandeered a BOB and went for a family run on the nearby Davidson Mesa Trail.

The trails were amazing - a fine gravel - that wound through a field with the mountains in the background. 

We took our time over the course of the three miles, catching our breath when necessary and grabbing every photo we could. It just felt like a run to remember, and I didn't want to squander it by obsessing about pace or mileage.

It was by far my slowest run in MONTHS but I couldn't help but smile. I was in (my) paradise.

After our run, I took a shower and got ready for my second workout of the day.

When planning our trip to Boulder to visit my sister-in-law and her new baby, I made it my mission to make sure Mom got her own time. 

I didn't know what she would want it to be - eating breakfast with two hands, a home-cooked meal or pedicures - but I was glad she agreed to get her downward dog on at one of the places I had only heard about - lululemon!

The free community class at the Boulder storefront was taught by the folks behind a new studio in Boulder, Radiance Power Yoga. It was a Baptiste style class and although I don't really know what that means, I do know I did plenty of chatarungas and poses that awakened this runner's tight hips.

The class was the first one I've taken since I was about 20 weeks pregnant, and I was very much reminded of the challenge and benefits that yoga provides. It can be pricey but I'm hoping that I can try to squeeze in a session here and there as my BODYPUMP instructor training winds down and marathon training ramps up. 

While we were flipping our dog, the dads pushed around the strollers and drank Starbucks.

Miles enjoyed his taste of the Strawberries & Creme but I think he enjoyed the idea of being a yogi even more :) 

Put a stick in me, we’re done

The morning, in pictures.

30 minutes of my favorite winter cardio: shoveling 4 inches of snow. (I also did 20 minutes of “Joy of Yoga” until it got to the lie on your belly part and then I did five sun salutations.)

Denali found a giant branch in the yard and chewed at it with manic determination.

He also dug a hole with furious determination because he is so over winter … and he likes to eat bugs.

It was such a bummer that this was how we spent the morning but at least the snow should keep me occupied until I can get to the library and pick up the two prenatal yoga videos I have on hold. AND, in sort of related news, I saw on Facebook that my yoga studio is doing a 6-week prenatal workshop. I am not sure if I am going to do it yet. What do you think?

I hear you, universe

Workout: 30 minutes strength, courtesy of OnDemand

Do you ever wonder what the universe is telling you? I swear this morning that it was telling me to stay home, skip yoga and eat pizza. I'm serious.

And this message after yesterday? UNIVERSE!

I woke up this morning, ate my breakfast, read blogs and mentally prepared myself for yoga. I was going to go. But first, I wanted to check the schedule to make sure our arctic temps didn't cause cancellations. I logged in and saw class was on. Phew!

Then ... then, I noticed something. I wasn't paid up. I couldn't take the class. You see, I thought I signed up for an automatic month-to-month membership. Not so much. Signed up for just a month and since last month, the cost has gone up 10 percent. Ouch. Let's just say I might not be a studio yogi anymore.

But I moved on. I did a heart-pumping OnDemand selection that focused on strength moves with bursts of cardio. I sweat. I felt my muscles. Life was good.

After taking a shower, I went in the kitchen to prep my lunch. One problem: My faux crab mysteriously disappeared from the fridge. How can I do a Cali wrap with no crab? Not gonna happen. But I moved on, scoured the fridge for possibilities and made myself a pizza quesadilla with a light tortilla, mozzarella cheese and turkey pepperoni with pizza sauce on the side for dipping. Yes, all of those things are in my fridge. And yes, it tasted good.

So let's check in ... today, I've managed to divert to crises AND I also received a Stylish Blogger nod from Amber.

Stylish Award rules:
*Link back to the awarder
*Share seven things about myself
*Award 5 great bloggers

1. I went to an all-girls Catholic high school and secretly loved having to wear a uniform and not having boys around.
2. I talk to my grandma every day. She's pretty awesome, and I like her. After all, she was nice enough to let me live with her from age 15 until I got a job and an apartment.
3. I have a sick obsession with Angry Birds.
4. I've always loved to bake and, pre-Healthy Strides, had dreams of opening up my own bakery. Sadly, my mind doesn't conjure up cupcakes the way it used to and it now thinks of running.
5. I hope to run a marathon in 2012.
6. I have the most horrible singing voice on the planet. If I auditioned for "American Idol," I'd be the one who made it to the judges just so I could be made fun of on live television.
7. I love "junk" candy - conversation hearts, Peeps, marshmallow santas. Last night, I asked Mark for a ring pop.

Awardees: Any 5 who want to do it and comment on this post letting me know :)

The good, the bad and the straight up hideous

Workout: 75-minute Restorative Flow Yoga class

Six houses, two hunters and one Realtor made for quite an interesting day.

We had the house that was even too old lady for my grandma.

Do you like the blue tub and sinks? And, yes in case you were wondering, the toilet was also blue. But check out the treadmill in front of the fireplace! And the owners also had a stair stepper blocking the front door (we used a side entrance). I wonder if we could have negotiated the equipment with the house …

I will give the old lady house some brownie points for the best kitchen of the day and a big, fenced in yard.

More brownie points go to the house for not being the worst of the day. That honor went to a four-bedroom that overwhelmed me with the smell of smoke and pure nastiness that the Realtor assured us that we didn’t even have to walk through. And we didn’t.

The best house of the day was also a bit of a surprise. The house doesn’t have some of our main criteria – a big kitchen, a fenced yard or a basement. But it was in one of our top neighborhoods, and was the only one besides the old lady house that wouldn’t need cabinets replaced in the next two years. Plus, there was just something about it.

It had built-ins in the living room and the second bedroom, and the dining room/family room had a wood-burning stove and beadboard on the wall. The appliances weren’t brand new but new enough and we liked the hardware on the cabinets. The yard also had a swing set, which would be nice for the sea monkey in a couple years.

There was another home that we liked but didn’t put on the list. Sure, it was updated with (some) stainless-steel appliances and new tile in the bathroom. It had a living room and a family room, which had a fireplace. It had a fenced yard, separate dog run and a pool!

But it was missing a fridge,washer and dryer. There was also no dishwasher and no place to hook one up. The kitchen was small, and we were sure we couldn’t work with it. Plus, it was on the top end of our price range. It was hard not to be tempted by the new paint and pretty stove but Mark knows he doesn’t want to wash dishes every day – especially when he has to add bottles into the mix.

So, in conclusion, day one of house hunting was good. Informative. And we’re left with one possibility and four houses on our slate for next weekend.

What features in a home could you not live without?

The weekly check-up: Bump it up

Workout: Walk with Denali and 60-minute Vinyasa Flow yoga class

Two people at work - count them 1-2 - this week have said something to the effect, "Look at you! You're getting a belly."

Well, gee, thanks. I appreciate you pointing out that I'm a little rounder these days. It makes me feel oh so good. By the way, have I told you that you look like you packed on a few pounds? Maybe you shouldn't have gotten that Snickers bar from the vending machine. Just sayin'.

All right. Breathe.

Now that the snark is out - for now - I can revel in the humor that is people telling me I'm getting a belly. I know they are only doing it because I'm knocked up but I'd never tell a friend that it looked as if she put on a few pounds.

I would, however, tell Mark. I mean look at him.

From our 2008 honeymoon in Cancun

Just kidding. Here's the picture you really wanted to see ...

Where did this come from? I must have had a big dinner!

Pregnancy status: 16 weeks

Weight gain: 8 pounds (I'm not sure what happened this week but 3 pounds of my worrisome 11 just disappeared.)

Cravings: Cantaloupe, V8 and grape soda

Crazy dreams: Last night, it was that I had a baby girl who had very feline features. Every time I tried to pick her up, she scratched me.

Sea monkey size: Avocado (I'll never look at guacamole the same way!) - 4.5 inches and 3.5 ounces

Sea monkey features: Tiny bones forming in baby's ears mean he can now pick up your voice. A few more minuscule changes: Eyebrows, lashes and hair are starting to fill in, and taste buds are forming. (From TheBump.com)

General feelings: I don't really have time to notice anything between my every 45-minute bathroom trips. Generally, I'm good - less tired, less ravenous and fewer headaches.

And, in case you were curious, I've added a new page (under the header) where I talk about my efforts to have a healthy pregnancy. It's a work in progress and will be updated.

Also, if you hate preggo updates - let me know. I bore myself with talking about pregnancy sometimes and would hate to do it to you.

The punisher

Workout: 75-minute Restorative Yoga class

Hands down, my Sunday yoga class is the toughest. It’s the class where I’ve been introduced to poses such as crow and headstand. It’s the class where you go through sun salutation A … and sun salutation B … and sun salutation C. My arms quiver in chaturangas in this class, my legs burn in warrior.

The Sunday class also is, on a regular basis, the most crowded of the sessions I go to. This morning, it was the most full that it has been – in fact I was worried that we weren’t all going to fit in the studio space.

And as I caught a glimpse of all the participants in triangle pose, I wondered what we were all doing there. Were we fond of this particular instructor? Is this the only session we could fit in this weekend? Did we just need to get out of the house?

Or, or did we like the punishment, so to say? Do we like the pain?

On the surface, we all would say that we would rather pay for something that felt good than something that felt bad. Yet, we are exhilarated to register for races, stare at a training plan, feel sweat pour down our faces. The agony that comes with just a mile left (or a few miles left, depending on the day).

For me, my favorite workouts are/were the ones where I wanted to die. Tempo runs in the 90-degree heat, 12-mile long runs, Jackie Warner strength sessions. I liked them because in their difficulty there was a great reward. Progress. Accomplishment. The sense of empowerment. I'll admit the bragging rights are nice, too.

How about you? Do you like the pain?

***

Something to think about …

At the end of class, the instructor read off some affirmations, and there was one that sung to me.

Don’t punish yourself for things that you have done. You have suffered enough. Free yourself.

10 things I hate about ... well, not you

Workout: 75-minute Deep Stretch Flow yoga class and (planned) long walk with Denali

It's OK , you can call me "Kranky Kimberly" this weekend. "Krazy Kimberly" would work, too.

1. I hate this weather. Another 8-degree morning, another run postponed.
2. I hate people who do not shovel their sidewalks and make my runs more difficult - when I actually get out there.
3. I hate driving next to semis. It freaks me the fig out.
4. And speaking of driving, I also hate driving behind motorcycles.
5. I hate boring weekends. Relaxing weekends, all good. Boring weekends, bad.
6. I hate that the highlight of my weekend thus far was going to Target yesterday and buying hard-surface placemats on clearance.
7. I hate that no matter how high we set the thermostat, it always seems to be 62 degrees in our place.
8. I hate that Denali got up at 5 a.m. this morning for breakfast and potty trip as it was my turn to take care of him. Yesterday, on Mark's day, he waited until 6 a.m.
9. I hate too-picky people on "House Hunters" who complain about room colors and a 3,000-square-foot home being too small.
10. I hate that my lunch is not ready yet. Mark should have had it waiting for me, on the table, when I returned from yoga. He knows yoga, strangely, always makes me hungry.

In other, more positive things, my arms are burning from a million chaturangas in this morning's yoga class. The instructor always manages to kick my butt and make me feel better by the end of class.

Hope you're having a great weekend! Anyone planning to watch the Golden Globes tonight?

Underneath it all

Workout: 1.5-mile walk with Denali and 60-minute Slow Flow yoga class

It's official, folks. I had my first dream about yoga. And let me tell you, it wasn't a good one.

I was late. Very late for my 9 a.m. yoga class - like 2.5 hours - and the instructor/owner was none too pleased with me. She told me that she wasn't sure that I should be welcome in her yoga studio. It might not be the right "fit."

Anxious to prove her wrong, I joined a class about to begin. I unrolled my mat and began to stretch, soon realizing that I was not dressed appropriately for class. I was wearing a short, tight T-shirt dress (like this one here) ... and nothing else. Picturing myself giving a free show, I managed to procure a pair of '80s printed shorts via theft.

I was excited to get started but the drama didn't end there. Ten minutes into the class, someone stole my mat. I tried to convince her that it was mine, the brown stains evidence from a poor paint job in an old apartment but my efforts were unsuccessful. I stormed out in tears, and I was greeted by a yogi master. He asked me what was wrong and as I began to tell him, he walked away to talk "business" with someone else. I was left crying on the step.

So ... yeah ... I'm not sure what all that means. I'm thinking it was a sign to start carrying a pair of underthings in the event that I'm so preoccupied that I find myself going commando.

Or maybe it was just a feeling being foreshadowed, like how I felt when I discovered that I got hit with a parking ticket outside the yoga studio. My inability to find an extra nickel for 12 minutes cost me $5. Boo!

Do you dream about workouts ... running, yoga, biking? I had race anxiety nightmares before my half marathon in September that often involved me DNFing.

Out of balance

Workout: 75-minute Deep Stretch Flow yoga class

Yoga kicked my butt today. No. I’m sorry. That’s a lie. It kicked my arms. Seemingly five straight minutes in down dog, a bajillion chaturangas and arm balances that were beyond reach.

My arms were literally sweating. That’s good … right?

And my quads … well, they were screaming. Almost literally, as we took the screaming pigeon pose. We were instructed to find a wall and fold our mat in half.  Get into all fours and then bend one leg so that the front of calf is vertical and up against the wall. Unlike the photo on the right, we put the foot of the opposite leg on the floor and raised up. I had to stay on my forearms, bent over at the waist, to be comfortable, though the instructor placed her hands on the front knees. We held it for a good long while … but my legs were screaming so it could have been just 10 seconds. Holy bejeebus! If you are training for anything, say the Boston Marathon (the day after my birthday this year, by the way) and ever need to stretch your quads, this is the yoga pose for you! 

***

As we were packing up after class, the instructor, Mary, told us that next week we would have the chance to work on headstands.

Cue feigned excitement

I know that I’m not going to have any shot at doing one of those, and that’s not me being self deprecating or fearful. I don’t have it in me. I don’t. And as I thought about it walking to my car, I talked myself out of being discouraged. After all, I’ve only been going to the studio for two weeks now – I cannot expect myself to do things that took others years  to master. It took me a good while to run a 10-minute mile, then a 9-minute mile and then a sub 2:00 half.

I will limber up, strengthen myself. It might take me a while and some time post partum but I’ll get there.

How do you keep yourself from getting discouraged? As I alluded to above, looking back at my journey and seeing how far I’ve come helps me to look at the little stops on the path forward and not the destination.

A perfect 10?

Pre-workout eats: PB&J oats

Workout: 2.2-mile walk with Denali and 60-minute Vinyasa Flow class

10 days of yoga …

It’s done.

   

I've tested my body with yogic squats and one-legged chaturangas.

My mind, which is so used to leaving problems behind when out for a run, has been forced to confront things in savasana.

It’s been an experience far more than I ever anticipated, opening a new door of wellness - both physical and mental.

And, after a fantastic New Year’s class, I was anxious to see what lies beyond that door … but I knew it wasn’t as simple as telling Mark, “I love yoga and want to go all the time.” There were things to consider - like how long I can physically practice yoga; the cost (twice of what a gym runs); and whether I really wanted it, as opposed to a stationary bike or gym membership. And then there’s running – how much did I want to run, if at all.

The last question was easy to answer. Of course, I wanted to run – just not 20 miles a week. As far as the gym, there’s not much there that I couldn’t do at home. How long I’ll be able to do it is anyone’s guess but I have a good two or three months before I get BIG.

So the money … Mark, my forever-awesome husband, said if it’s something that works for me, we’ll work it out.

And it works for me – the social aspect, having a schedule (it reminds me of training for a race!),the sense of nurturing I feel and the pace suits tired ole me just fine.

I’ll be incorporating yoga three to four times a week and running three times a week, hopefully at least 10 miles (for the week – not at a time).

Have you ever tried yoga? What’s your fave class?

Full intention

Pre-workout eats: Egg white thin and yogurt parfait
Workout: 2.2-mile walk with Denali and 60-minute Slow Flow yoga class

I've been spoiled. For two weeks, Mark was home when I left for work and home when I returned. He was there to do dishes, do laundry and, most importantly, walk Denali.

But winter break is now over ... for both of us.

Mark returned to the classroom today, and I returned to my regular morning routine of breakfast for one and dog walking. A bit sad and a bit refreshing - especially when 20-degree weather smacks you right in the face.

◊ ◊ ◊

Sore. Everything. Sore. Triceps, back, shoulders. Even the upper hamstrings where my legs meet my butt. This 10 days of yoga thing is no joke.

Today was day 8, and a return to my first class of the "challenge" - Slow Flow. I was really hinging my hopes on the slow part but was up and ready for (almost) anything Dani threw our way.

Class started sitting down and a stretch for the hips. We were reminded to set our intention, one we stated in class New Year's Day. What did we want to do this year? How did we want to improve? It's so easy to pick a health-related goal - get fit, eat less sugar, eat more cleanly, etc. - but she urged us to look a little deeper. After all, she said, we often have what we already want. We do. The only thing blocking us is the obstacles we put in our path.

It's a bit crazy to think about but important, too. How many times do we set goals only to tell ourselves that we can't do them? Maybe you want to run a mile but then you tell yourself that you are too slow, too old, too overweight. You want to go to the gym and get fit but you don't go to the gym. People like you don't go to the gym. You want to eat better but, really, what's the point. You are who you are and will always be that person.

You get in your own way.

You have to stop thinking like that, start allowing yourself to believe that you are worth the measures required. Once you do that, things fall into place. With a little hard work, of course.

Stepping off soapbox.

For me, it's pretty obvious that my intention was going to be a little less, ummm, physical. I have so many things to be grateful for: a husband who loves me despite violent, hormonal mood swings; a family who is always there for me; fantastic friends; a dog who makes sure I get off my butt; and the most special thing of all, a sea monkey. Yet, I often myself cranky and unhappy. Even depressed, maybe. Why? I let myself get caught up on the little things, to be a nag, to get defensive. And for no reason.

So my intention for 2011 is to allow myself to be happy. I deserve to be happy.

And so do you.

Sunday, lazy Sunday

Workout: Ran 4.27 miles (average pace, 9:23) and a 75-minute Deep Stretch Flow Yoga class.

My day started off so well - a run, postponed from yesterday because someone (ahem, Mark) wasn't feeling so good after New Year's Eve, and my hardest yoga class yet. Challenging. Active. Fulfilling. Definitely a great morning.

And then it got kind of lazy.

"House Hunters," "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" and "Wedding Date" on ABC Family. An overflowing basket of laundry went neglected. Too many games of Spider Solitaire.

Thank goodness I had a pot of chili on the stove that needed to simmer for three hours. It guaranteed my bum that it would get off the couch at least once every 15 minutes. And it guaranteed my belly that I'd have something warm and comforting on this chilly winter Sunday.

Old-School Cincinnati-Style Chili

1 quart water

2 pounds ground beef (the recipe calls for ground chuck but you can use a leaner cut)

3 bay leaves

15 whole allspice

5 whole cloves (optional)

2 (8-ounce) cans tomato sauce

2 medium onions, finely diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

2 tablespoons white vinegar

4 tablespoons chili powder

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1.5 teaspoons salt

1/2 ounce unsweetened chocolate

Add ground chuck to water; boil for half-hour, breaking up meat with wooden spoon. Put bay leaves, allspice and cloves into a tea ball or cheesecloth. Add remaining ingredients and tea ball/cheesecloth of spices to the pot. Simmer for three hours. Serve over a bed of spaghetti (I prefer Ronzoni SmartTaste) and top with cheddar cheese (we use 2% in this house) for a Cincinnati 3-way. Add onions or kidney beans for a 4-way – both for a 5-way. You can also use the chili as a coney sauce.

I will tell you this, guys and dolls, Cincinnati chili can be an acquired taste and many unfamiliar with it balk at the whole pasta and cheese thing. Let me tell you, though, if you go in with an open mind, you will be pleasantly surprised.

Enjoy!

P.S. Thank you everyone for the kind words on our big announcement. Mark and I are thrilled, and I’m excited to navigate this adventure as healthfully as I can. I do hope you continue to follow it as well.

Friday love

Pre-workout eats: Cinnamon Chex-Banana Nut Cheerios mix with 1% milk and banana

Workout: ~60 minutes All-Levels Yoga (one class last night, one at 9 a.m. today)

I had nothing but love as I walked out of yoga last night. I had an enjoyable hour in the studio, the instructor was fantastic and there were a few challenging poses but nothing that made me want to leave. All in all, it was a fantastic class.

Except for that time I went toot-toot and, with three other students, it was obvious it was me.

But let's get back to the class. All Levels Yoga was pretty close to the class I thought it would be. We started with a gentle warm-up and moved into sun salutations, warriors, back work, ab work (boo!) and hip openers. There was a gentle flow as we moved through the poses - we were working but not sweating. There were poses for the more advanced (crow) and modifications for the beginners (cobra instead of up dog).

My favorite part of the class, though, was the instructor. I'm not sure what it was about her but I was enamored. She was young, cute and had a soothing (but not overly so) voice. When she came around to adjust down dogs, she put her hands on your back and with firm but gentle pressure moved them down to the sacrum. The placing of the eye pillow had a similar motion. It was fantastic.

And now that I've show love (maybe too much) for last night's yoga, here's some Friday love!

Food. The weeks leading up to and including Christmas were rough. Cookies, Cookie Dough Dip, Peppermint Bark Gelato, Hot Fudge Pudding Cake, Cinnamon Rolls … Lord. Have. Mercy. It was like sugar overload. Anxious to get back to my normal ways, I’ve been trying to cut back on the sugar. It hasn’t been easy, especially with treats scattering the office and cookies still in the freezer. Determined to make an improvement, though, I decided to start my efforts where I could best control things: at home. I allowed Mark to have the rest of “my” ice cream and my nightly treat for the past two days has been fresh pineapple with coconut cream. So good. All I did was chunk up a fresh pineapple, which have been $1 lately at Kroger, and add a drop or two of coconut extract to some light Cool Whip. It’s sweet but guilt-free. Love. It.

Fitness. This love isn’t about what I’ve been doing. Oh, no. It’s been about what I’ve been missing. When I embarked on my 10-day yoga challenge, I knew that there were parts of my fitness routine that would have to take a back seat. I would give up a day of running per week and I’d hold off on the strength training. Strength training seemed like a good place to start. I figured with all the downward-facing dogs and chaturangas that bicep curls and overhead presses wouldn’t be necessary. And maybe they aren’t … but I miss them. I picked up a new-to-me Jackie Warner DVD at the library and look forward to testing it out sometime next week.

Life. I’ll be honest. After removing my iPod from my workout necessities and opting to listen to audio books in the car (current selection “Girl with the Dragon Tattoo"), I’ve been completely out of it in terms of music. I have no idea who’s hot and who’s not, no inkling as to what artist I should be listening to. Now that my Pandora station is off Christmas music, I was able to find something new. Or new to me. “Almost Lover” from A Fine Frenzy.

Give it up for a hot redhead!

What are you fine folks up to this weekend? Exciting plans for the New Year?

Three Things Thursday

Pre-workout eats: Slice of whole-wheat toast with peanut butter and sliced banana
Workout: Ran 3.6 miles; average pace, 8:58

1. The last run of December .... the last run of 2010 ... it just had to be an eventful one. Before we even got started, I stepped in dog poo. Thanks, Denali. Thanks, cloudy weather. What would have been 15 minutes into the run, there was an earthquake in Indiana. So what if I didn't feel it (though others I work with did)? There was still an earthquake. I took a corner too fast and came thisclose to falling. Then, just near the end, a dog snapped the cable to his tie-out and came bounding toward Denali, Mark and I. I ended up getting wrapped up by Denali's leash as the two tried to sniff each other out. Super fun.

2. But even though I'm mildly whining about the run, it was a decent one at least. The weather took a 180 from yesterday. No 18-degree, bitter-cold air to breathe in; it was 37 degrees! It was also one of my faster runs in a few weeks, which was nice. It's good to know that I can still run sub-9:00 if I work for it.

3. We still kept the distance a bit light as day 4 of yoga is tonight. It's an all-levels yoga class, and it has a limited description on the studio's website. I think it will be a little more like what I'm used to from practicing at home so I'm feeling good about tonight. No dizzy girls here!

Dizzy up the girl

Day 3 of yoga didn't happen. At least not the way it was supposed to happen.

I was signed up for a lunch-time Kriya class. The studio description said the class would include "asanas," physical postures of relaxation; "bandahs," muscular locks; and "mudras," psycho-physical gestures, all of which bring about greater health, peace and the awakening of the principal energy channels, “the nadis,” and centers, the "chakras."

Yeah, I don't know what that means either. I have no idea what the class was about or what the goal was ... because I left after 15 minutes. Shocker, I know.

But here's the real shockers:

No. 1: The instructor arrived a few minutes shy of starting time wearing all black - from his lululemon top (bastard) to his sweats to his dern fanny pack. He was probably in his mid-50s (at least) and a short little bald fella. He sort of reminded me of Mark's uncle.

No. 2: The words that were coming out of the instructor's mouth. This guy is a real yogi, and he was throwing out yoga term after yoga term as if he was chatting about the weather with some fella he bumped into at the gym.

No. 3: I am easily embarrassed/shy in front of other people. When we were asked to chant, I closed up like a little ball. Not only because I didn't know how to pronounce the verses but I have the worst voice in history. Seriously, ask Mark. He can recount a dreadful night of karaoke on my 26th birthday. Love rock 'n' roll? Not after my performance. Anyway, chanting is not for me.

No. 4: It was 32 degrees outside when I walked into class. The instructor, though, said the optimum temperature for yoga practice is 98.6 and he proceeded to increase the heat in the room. Standing in front of a window, with sunshine pouring through, and a heat vent nearby, I felt like I was in hell. Literally.

No. 5: 15 minutes into class, we had not done one pose. The only thing we had been asked to do - besides listen, chant and breathe - was stand up in mountain.

It was at this point where things feel apart. It wasn't that I was disappointed in the class. I mean, I was but that wasn't the problem. I was standing there, breathing, with heat enveloping me, when I felt an overwhelming urge to vomit. The feeling seemed to radiate to the point where I felt like I was going to pass out. I wish I could describe that feeling but you know it when you have it.

I took a moment, kneeling down, but didn't feel relief. I was going to have to leave. I put away my props, rolled up my mat and apologized to my instructor. I walked into the reception area, grabbed my shoes and threw on my hoodie. The receptionist asked if I was OK and offered me water or a back way to the bathroom. Negative on all accounts. I just needed to get outside.

The cool winter air never felt so good as it did walking to my car. The color of my cheeks began to lighten, my legs felt stronger and the pangs of disappointment had yet to swallow me on the one-block jaunt.

There will be another day, another class, though. Tomorrow. All-levels yoga. It will be better.

Taking it slow

Pre-workout eats: Peanut Butter-Banana Oatmeal Muffin (make these!) and a banana
Workout: Slow Flow yoga class, ~60 minutes.

I was really hoping not to sweat.

I wasn't hoping to display great balance or flexibility or strength in poses. I wasn't hoping that I would make it 60 minutes without embarrassing myself. I wasn't hoping to challenge myself. I just didn't want to sweat.

My first class at the yoga studio downtown with my Groupon was from 9 to 10 a.m. and from there it would be straight to work. Sweat = Make Co-Workers Mad.

◊ ◊ ◊

This is Dream Yoga Kim.

I walked into the studio at 8:45 a.m. , feeling a bit late and unsure - I wasn't certain I could actually take the class as I hadn't registered. My anxiety seemed to melt a bit as I was greeted by the owner, who would also teach the class. She had the voice of a yoga teacher and was welcoming me to the studio and the practice. She inquired about the holidays, my history with yoga and then gave me the rundown of the place - all with a warm glow about her. I was happy to learn that there were lockers for purses, blocks and mats available and a bathroom. I can always use the bathroom.

I set up my mat, went to the bathroom (see, I told you) and sat down. My eyes darted around the room, checking out the hip decor (tin roof, calming colors, big windows) and "sizing up" the class. There were some ladies older than myself. I decided they were stay-at-home moms and retirees. There were some gals younger than myself. I decided they were college kids home at break. There was a woman who reminded me of Natalie Portman except prettier. I decided that she made me jealous.

But I soon had to push that side as it was time for class to start. This was Slow Flow, "a slower paced vinyasa practice that allows for alignment principals and breath synchronized movements with deep hip openers. Helps increase strength and flexibility. " We started lying down, connecting to the breath before moving into salutations, which included lunges, warrior poses, chatarungas and downward-facing dogs.

I was surprised throughout the class that I didn't feel lost. The poses were all things that I had see at least once if not many times before. I was even more surprised (and grateful) that I didn't have any corrections from the instructor. Go me!

What did surprise me was just how "tight" I felt. My hips felt like toffee rather than taffy and forward bends were more like "bend your knees and hope your fingers brush the floor." I think these 10 days should help with that and, God willing, maybe even help with the running.

Sing a new song

Pre-workout eats: Slice of whole-wheat toast with Peanut Butter & Co. Dark Chocolate Dreams and sliced banana
Workout: 40 minutes of yoga

Mark woke up singing "Boom Boom Pow" by the Black Eyed Peas this morning because, apparently, he was a black belt in karate last night's dream.

I was singing "Boom Boom Pow" this morning as I made my toast because my husband can't keep things to himself.

I was singing "Boom Boom Pow" as I did yoga ... made my real breakfast ... as I was searching for a last-minute Christmas gift Old Navy before work. Crap, I'm still singing it.

It sort of makes me want to strangle Mark ... but then I might mess up his game of "Donkey Kong."

Of course there are worse songs he could get stuck in my head, especially at this time of year. By the way, does anyone wonder whether Grandpa was really behind Grandma's death and not a reindeer? I don't think a grieving widower would be content watching football. Just sayin ...

Friday love

Pre-workout breakfast: Mish-mash of cereal with skim milk and a banana
Workout: Ran 3.62 miles (average pace, 8:33) and 30 minutes of yoga

This morning, I got out of bed, stretched and prepared to hobble to the bathroom. Much to my surprise, I really didn't have to hobble. My legs were nearly pain-free - the first time in a week! It was so glorious to walk around the house, pouring my bowl of cereal (my newest obsession) and making my cup of coffee without creaking and crying.

Of course, the day's workout plan - run and Jackie Warner - threatened to make that glory just a thing of the past. So I made a decision. A good decision. I decided to take it easy. I did a short run and stretched out my legs with yoga.

Oh, rest. I love you. Almost as much as Friday.


Food. I have something wonderful going on. Very, very wonderful going on. Too bad I'm not going to give it away just yet ;)


Fitness. I complained about my blister. I've complained about sore legs. However, I have to say that things could have been a lot worse after the W.O.O.F. Who do I have to thank? The folks at Recovery Socks. I bought the pair at the RnR Chicago expo and since then, the pair have been a post-long run recovery miracle. I rarely gimp around after big runs and only complain that my "butt" hurts. (It's really the very top of my hamstring where my thigh meets my booty.) If you don't have these - or other compression socks - you need them.


Life. You might hate me when I tell you this. Really, you might. I don't do laundry - at least not often. I also do about a third of the dishes and touch the vacuum once every other month. Why? Because I don't have to. Mark picks up a huge amount of my slack around the house as long as I provide him with tasty, tasty meals. This morning, for instance, he unloaded the dishwasher and started a load of laundry. He did ask me to put the wash in the dryer but it's a small price to pay for such a lovely husband.

To thank him, I'm going to drag myself (ha!) to "Due Date" this weekend and possibly the Indian buffet. Whose doing something fun?

A Labor Day's labor

A little catch-up from Monday ...

Pre-workout fuel: Slice of whole-wheat toast with banana
Workout: 30 minutes yoga and 2.25-ish mile walk with dog in the a.m. Upper body strength in the p.m. (while catching up with "Dexter").

I had my coffee, my peanut butter toast and a couple blogs to read. The clock - it read 7:05 a.m. Normally, I'd be rushing around, frazzled that I had yet to start my workout. Oh, but this day was Labor Day and all I had on the schedule was a 1 p.m. lunch with a gal pal.

Sip away, Kim. Sip away.

Once I finally got motivated to start my day, I found myself also motivated to try a new yoga workout on OnDemand. Or what I thought was a new workout on OnDemand.

"Body Slim" is "an active series of yoga postures that flow together to build long, lean muscles; improves your flexibility; and makes you drip with sweat."

Tell me about it. The workout started off with core (ugh) and went through a cardio sequence then a slow burn sequence. Once the second cardio sequence began, I became keenly aware that I had done this workout before ... and quit.

Reason No. 1:

Reason No. 2:

As much as I'd like to practice yoga, I am more of a do-er. And I only do yoga when my head allows me to believe that I can do the given poses. My head usually doesn't like me to think that I can do downward dog splits and then bring my knee to my chest ... my knee to my tricep ... my knee to, well, just about anywhere.

That brain - it's so funny. It tells you that you can't do something but if you are motivated enough (or don't want to embarrass yourself in front of your husband, who is eating frozen waffles on the couch), you can do things thought impossible.

Like the downward dog split.

I won't say that it was easy. It wasn't - at least for me. And I definitely struggled through the third and fourth salutations, which featured the poses. But I allowed myself to do it, and I'm thankful for that. Maybe I'll even try it again next week. Maybe.

How do you keep your mind from defeating you?