It's official....

(Oh hey.. are you new to me? My name is Lallenia and I am doing a 21 day challenge of no processed sugar in my diet... want to learn more about this challenge of mine? read this blog first)


Ever have those days where you have everything planned out and then nothing goes as planned?

Welcome. to. my. LIFE.

After taking that Midol PM last night... I could barely get out of bed this morning so missed that workout. I had intentions of going.... but of course the intention will only get you so far right?

**Side Note: I'm beginning to realize this blog is more or less my diary....
(you've been warned!! read at your own risk)


Breakfast: This was amazing!!!
2 eggs, left over meat from last night, 1/4 sweet potato... all mixed up! YUM!

oh yeah... and cheese on top!

I had planned after that to take Wyatt to his eye doctor appointment then go to my BNI meeting where I was going to eat lunch which would've been salmon, veggies and a salad.....

As it turns out.... Wyatt's appointment took a little longer than I anticipated. they had to dilate him and get his prescription figured out for..... glasses!!!! (ahhhhhhhhh)

Am I a bad mom to say I am slightly freaked out by this? I mean I know lots of little kids have glasses but no one in his class at preschool has them. And I hate thinking anything may be wrong with him.

Yes... I know.... Its great we find out now because if not he will have problems later in life and blah blah blah... right now I am just expressing my feelings that it's a little upsetting. Yes! thank goodness that's all that is wrong as some kids have it worse... I get it. Please don't send me some long email telling me its all going to be OK... I know it will be and he is healthy, that's all that matter. He may even grow out of them.

Now that's off my chest... he does look kind of cute with them on right??

Actually it's my fault he even has to wear them if it's a genetic thing which is why I probably feel so bad. I am supposed to be wearing glasses as well... and I do... when I'm working. I forget most of the time unless I'm at my desktop computer....

this selfie only took about 3 times =)

You'll probably learn something new about me everyday from this little challenge of mine huh? (Lucky ducks you!)

Anyways it was lunch time when we got done so I asked Wyatt what he wanted for lunch as he could barely see & I didn't want to take him back to school right away. He said sushi... totally my child!

We pull in to the sushi parking lot and he sees this place that he had his baby cousins birthday party at not too long ago... it happens to have Cotton Candy... yep he remembered.

So he talked me into going to this place called SALT.

How can I resist that face??? (glasses don't come for another week or so)

This menu is fairly pricey and I knew he wouldn't eat everything himself. So we shared.... it was his choice as this was a special mommy and me lunch...and i was still feeling guilty about the glasses.

He wanted avocado egg rolls and pizza.....

No worries I only ate 3/4 of the egg rolls and two slices of pizza.... It was THIN crusted.... I didn't touch the cotton candy... just licked his lips for the taste. (maybe a few times...hey it was banana flavored! Who has banana flavored cotton candy?)

I really didn't plan that.... I could've should've gotten a salad and let him eat the pizza... what fun would that be? I'm not training for a fitness show or anything and I didn't binge... (whoop)

There was probably added sugar to something here... it was funny as I did ask and of course the waiter said "oh no. sugar isn't added to our food unless it's a dessert".... (*sigh* pretty sure there is sugar added to dough... but maybe not... I'm going to go with not)

After this I dropped Wyatt off just in time for nap time... he was super excited... he loves his naps!! (who doesn't??)

Then I went to.....................................




I'm sitting here debating if I should tell you or not... no it's not food choices..... it's a little personal.

I suppose it won't hurt if you knew.

You are totally curious aren't you??

(Who are we kidding?? you know I will tell you.)


Then I went to my first......... counseling/therapist appointment since I've been an official "adult". (that can be argued)

Why??? You are wondering.... For what?

I mean can't you tell my life is so perfect..... (total sarcasm)

I have been doing a lot of self development lately. If you know me you know i am in LOVE with self development (aka Self HELP) books, podcasts, movies, blogs,... I love it all.

 I am a big believer that everyone can keep learning and getting better. Plus self help has helped me through a lot of rough times growing up.

I have a hard time reading fiction books or watching mindless TV.... I like to keep my mind busy and growing.... (OR I have ADD and haven't been given meds yet)

One thing I have noticed about these people that I admire and look up too... ALL of them talk about going to therapy.... yes! As in a therapist you sit there and tell all your issues too.

 I did some research with help from (Chalene Johnson) and found that EMDR therapy is a great type for people to use if they want to make it to different level in life or get passed barriers.

Many people let their past selves hold them back or other people... Many people play the victim in life blaming everything on everyone else and having a chip on their shoulder.

I don't want to be like everyone else. I don't want a life that's "normal". I want to perform at higher levels and reach my fullest potential in all areas of my life. (Again this is more of a diary today so forgive me.) I know the only way for me to do that is to figure out what exactly is holding me back from doing the things I have written for my goals in life....

I'm not just talking about making money... yes that's part of it because that takes a lot of stress off but I want to feel like I'm truly living the life God sent me here to live. (I'm sorry I'm getting all mushy on you)

My handsome hubby and I got into a "disagreement" last weekend (coincidentally right before my "friend" arrived for the month). We sat down and said let's fix ourselves so we don't end up having issues like many other people later in life and so we can have a deeper connection and even stronger relationship.

Our first therapist appointment was today. I can and probably will write another blog about this experience as a couple but can I just say.... I am SO blessed to have this man in my life....

I never want to lose this.

If you happen to be a married man/woman reading this.... one of the best things I think you can do is, if your spouse feels like you're not connecting or you want to connect on a deeper level get an outside perspective from a professional. Even if its just you... you will benefit.

Brad and I have a great relationship. I truly believe we are soul mates... our story of how we met proves it. But that doesn't mean we cannot connect on a deeper level and learn how to work better with each other. I am blessed that he is so willing to do this stuff with me and as manly as he appears (and IS) he's still very humble. And lets face it.. the marriages that last the longest all take work. You can't expect to marry someone then life is perfect... you have to work at understanding and growing together.

I think people are scared to admit they may need therapy .. I was AM! Yes it brings up uncomfortable feelings, yes it is kind of weird and Yes it costs money.... but imagine the money and progress you will make when you feel better about yourself and are able to get past your mental barriers!??

In a nut shell.... I have more issues than he does (does that REALLY shock you??) so I will be needing more sessions than he will but I am actually pretty freaking excited to see what this does to help me grow along with some other courses I am taking! I will keep you posted about the experience if you want!

This made me LOL!!

So now that we all know OFFICIALLY I'M CRAZY.... and it's confirmed by a professional.... lets move on to how my day went with my 21 day no processed sugar is going...

After I picked up my little man we went to pick up dog food and came across these beef sticks...

"Fatmans" lol...

They were yummy! no sugar added (bonus!)

Then yes I finally went to the gym and worked out my legs... it felt SO good. I really had to talk myself into it though!!! (i actually wrote this part <<-- before i went.... so I HAD no choice but to go)

Came home and ate left overs from yesterday and a pomegranate...  Have i told how much I love this fruit yet?? YUM!

I just have to tell you... I wasn't sure how this blog would be perceived... and as always I get a little nervous to just share my stories with the world as people perceive things so differently depending on what walk of life they come from....
 WOW!!

You all are awesome!!  I'm enjoying the emails & messages I've been receiving and support from you.

This does take time to write just as it takes time to read. I am so blessed to have such an awesome tribe that believes in me and I am hoping that by me sharing bits and pieces of my story & journey it is helping you, inspiring you. and adding value to your life in some way! If you have questions or something you want to know don't be afraid to ask... if you can't tell... I'm an open book (ta da!)

I really believe there will be a lot more coming from me so stay tuned even after I am done with these 21 days.... you all are MY inspiration!

Love you!

Keep yourself Healthy, Fit and Fabulous!! (and go schedule an appointment with a therapist so I don't feel like the only crazy one ;-))

XoXo,
Lallenia

PS Wish me luck as I have a Dr appt for my shoulder/bicep tomorrow.... I'm nervous!

Confessions.......

End of day 3! 18 more days of trying to stay away from the devil food... processed sugar...

I figured out why I almost died yesterday and feel so gross.... take a guess?

Nope not pregnant (really sad isn't it???).... quite the opposite....

yep! My "friend" came to play this month... (Oh hey, I'm really good at the whole TMI thing FYI.)

Side note: If you're a newbie... HIII!!!!! (that's me smiling and waving like a big dork!) you may want to start with this blog first to know what I'm doing... or you can keep reading and figure it out on your own. ;-) 

Anyways if you're a chick reading this you'll probably find this amusing and relatable. If you're a dude reading this.... good for you man! Don't go away! Keep reading... as it will give you some insight on the way women REALLY feel when their lovely red friend comes to town.

If you've followed me or know me personally you know I struggled with an eating disorder for a long time (bulimia... yes the one where you throw up your food... no it didn't make me skinny so don't do it). During the time of that struggle I also worked out... a lot... like ridiculous amount of cardio.

This caused me to  never have a "regular" menstrual cycle because my body was entirely confused on what to do with me... basically it hated me and is taking it ALL out on me now that I am starting to have a "regular" menstrual cycle. But it's not "normal" it's VERY painful now due to a few disorders I've developed. I believe my ED (eating disorder) is the reason I have what is called PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome ) and Mittelschmerz (This is a very painful ovulation).

 I could be wrong, but I strongly believe if I was taught how to take care of myself when I was younger, told I was beautiful, and learned how to eat to fuel my body not just because it tasted good I would not have resorted to the ED and not struggle with self confidence issues therefor wouldn't be having these woman issues.
(But then what would you read to feel good about your life and happy that you don't deal with all these "issues" like me? ;-)) 

If you have a daughter, seriously, teach her at a very young age about eating to fuel & nourish her body, tell her she is beautiful, smart and important. Even if you have a boy make sure to tell him he's handsome, smart, important and teach him about the foods that fuel his body and the ones that will make him sick later in life... (remember what you eat today will affect you tomorrow.)

Trust me! They listen!! My 4 yr old son isn't perfect (pretty close though) yet he knows to only have a little bit of "bad food" because a lot is bad for his body and he will tell you that. (No I'm not that crazy mom that won't let him have ANY "bad" stuff) He has cod liver oil every night, drinks tons of water and even refuses to eat ice cream sometimes because it's "bad" for his body.... trust me they listen!!!

This is a VERY powerful yet extremely accurate quote I remember daily when I am with my son:

Onward with my day of trying not to eat my entire fridge and pantry... yes this is true.... When it's that time of month some of us women really do just want to stuff our faces because it just seems appropriate and oh! so comforting.

Sooooo ..... I have a Confession.....

When I was a trainer and didn't have this "normal" time of the month (due to my over exercising) I always thought this was just an excuse to eat. I never understood my clients emotional and physical battle with this. I would just think... "Man that sucks to feel that way.... are you SURE it's not just because you don't have enough self discipline?".... Don't worry... I am getting paid back PLUS interest for not fully realizing this reality for so many women.

Yes, there is a kind of discipline but I have learned you also need to recognize and know your body so you know how to approach this situation and be ready for it. (like removing all tempting foods and scheduling out workout dates)

Moral to you males reading this (if you made it this far): When it's "that" time of the month.... buy her her favorite chocolate, some cute workout shoes, and rub her back to sleep for comfort... well maybe not that last one.. I've never met a man that would only "rub" a back for comfort... Be nice and don't get mad when she freaks out for no reason.... is that too much to ask??


Diary for the day:
Breakfast: 2 Eggs & Sweet Potato... don't worry I didn't dare attempt a picture of that again... your welcome.

Snack: I came upstairs from working and was like I NEED chocolate.... So i tried to ease my craving with this savvy little coffee drink....

I made coffee then used coconut milk and sugar free chocolate sauce to resemble a Mocha from Starbucks.... not even close to being the same... but i used my imagination!

Lunch: 10 minutes later I realize I'm STILL hungry!!! Nothing sounds good... I. JUST. WANT. A. BROWNIE. SUNDAY.... instead i literally FORCED myself to eat something healthy... because of you guys.... seriously if it weren't because of this commitment I made to the WWW I totally would've gone and sat at E-Creamery and ate a HUGE brownie Sunday to myself. I settled for a cheese stick and a cucumber salad.... BARF.

SEE! I can't even handle it..... 

But it looks pretty!

Even the cucumber didn't even want to go in my mouth!

I have ANOTHER confession to make here.... so it took me like a thousand times to take a selfie of my "barf" face.... no joke! How in the heck are people so good at taking selfies all the time to post up on social media and look flawless???

I mean check it out... in one i have a HUGE nose... in another my eyes are crossed, yet another I look like I have mental issues (not that there's anything wrong with that) but really... this is a lot of work....

Please don't zoom in this isn't filtered! 

Maybe I need some selfie lessons along with taking pictures of my food??

Snack: After a while I come back upstairs because I still want to eat my house....

I find this Trek Mix... I reach in thinking ok I can totally eat the cashews, chia clusters and almonds out of here and just taste the chocolate chips and dried cranberries on my tongue since they are mixed together... that's not technically eating the sugar right?.... That's like a husband saying "but Honey! we only snuggled together I didn't cheat!".... RIIIGHT.... I totally had a few pieces of chocolate chips and dried cranberries.... Please don't get mad at me!! I didn't have the whole bag!! I wont do it again!

For real though... I didn't over do it.... like at all.... and I feel guilty I even thought I could get away with smelling the chocolate chips...

The cool thing... this didn't make me give up and say FINE I blew it I quit and be done or binge.... Usually that's the pattern I would follow... this time I forgave myself and said hey get back on track.

I STILL wanted chocolate 30 minutes later!! SO I came up with this....

I ONLY had 1 TBLSP of PB because 2 TBLSP has 3g sugar... I know the container would look otherwise but that's because it's almost gone anyways! (I SWEAR!!!) I was hoping the chocolate stuff would taste better later in the day... yeah... it was ok... it tasted good on the PB!! (What DOESN'T taste good with PB on it.... (if you're my close friend reading this you're dying laughing right now!)
Overall this snack curved my craving.... not too bad!!!

Can you guess I was STILL hungry an hour later.... WTF?! I am thinking... this is crazy! I hate hormones! I thought I'll eat something kind of salty to persuade my sweet tooth away. I ate about 20 of these

Dinner: Now this was delicious!!!!

corn tortilla, cheese, grass fed beef, black beans, & taco sauce... low sugar and super yummy!! 

Bedtime snack: That chocolate tea I told you about yesterday my son picked out... SOOOO amazing!!!

mmmmmm I am sipping it right now... be jealous! 

I'd give today an A-.... an A because I didn't even touch the Halloween candy no matter how bad my evil side was telling me you all would never know! That's a pretty BIG deal!

As for working out... I was super lazy today... well actually I planned to go running over lunch but I had A TON of work to get done for this system we are implementing... ok and i didn't want to... who am I kidding.

Don't worry I plan on getting up early tomorrow to go! I desperately need to force myself since i ALWAYS  feel better after I do!

No I didn't do my measurements AGAIN! and no... no picture yet...  maybe tomorrow....

Ok I'm going to take a Midol PM and go to bed... (because you wanted to know that!)

Keep yourself Healthy, Fit and Fabulous one step at a time!!

Love you all!

XoXo,
Lallenia

PS If you want some awesome recipes to use and inspiration for overcoming an ED check out one of my friends blogs here... it's totally awesome!

near death experience

It's so late!! But I promised I would do this every day for 21 days so here I am!
(if you're lost start with this blog HERE first and hi!!!!! (this is a big SMILE & wave from me to you))

My husband and I do this Smart Success course together Tuesday evenings so that came first. =)

 DAY 2 of the no processed sugar in the books... well except for my husband telling me to try this new coffee flavor.... he put Baileys in it.... I was so mad at him! Not only because that is probably one of, if not my very favorite drink but also because it's only day 2 and he goes and does that! Alcohol has so much sugar!

But don't worry as soon as i sipped it I stopped and punched him in the stomach making it spill all over him.... true story.

I also had a near death experience this morning here is what I wrote spoke to my phone as soon as I came home while I was shaking like crazy and trying to catch my breath:

I think I might die right now. I can barely breathe my heart is ponding so hard.
I just ran a half a mile then 10 hill sprints.

WHY you ask.... 

I asked my son what workout I should do this morning out of squats, hills or go run 4 miles. 

He said, "well mommy you "WILLY" need to run the hills like a million times."

Me, "but Wyatt that's an awful lot of times! I don't know if mommy can do that."

"Well ok mommy, how about a hundred?"

I just looked at him with an evil glare. 

Then he held up his hands and said,"ok . fine.....than THIS many!" (10)

"Deal!"

Man I'm out of shape! (<--- Did you totally picture Olaf when you read that? If not then clearly I've seen that movie WAY too many times!)

 I can't even tell you how exhausted I felt from that workout... however... I loved it secretly even if I really thought I was about to die... like really die.... it was that hard for me. 

I hope your morning was better than mine ;-)

Breakfast: Was in a rush after almost dying that I didn't have time to eat my eggs before a business meeting so instead I ate a Quest bar and coffee on the go!

I can't believe these bars only have 1g sugar in them! (YAY!!!)

Lunch: I ate my eggs with a sweet potato... I really need to learn how to take food pictures because well.... just look this was my lunch... its looks like vomit but it's seriously awesome!

yeah....it looks nasty.... sorry about that. 

Snack: Big handful of Almonds (raw) and blueberries

Dinner: These awesome crackers from Costco & tuna w/ mayo & mustard

again with the horrible food pics.... 

Then my beautiful cousin talks me into going to take a spin class with her tonight... my old one I used to teach.... I did it. 

I miss teaching spin SOOO bad!! 

Anyways I was burping up tuna the whole time... possibly not the best pre workout meal.... yuck! (TMI??) 

Dinner #2- Tyson Panko Chicken tenders, broccoli & baby carrots... yes I know the chicken is processed BUT remember I said if its has 2g or less of sugar then it's not off limits just yet.... well this had only 1g and it was yummy!!

Except... I was so sad....BBQ Sauce was not happening! Sweet Baby Rays, That stuff has 16g sugar in a serving! No thank you! Pass the mustard please!

I only ate 2 tenders

I finished the night with a half pomegranate.... I seriously wonder if anyone loves this fruit as much as I do... I love love love it!!!

I am falling asleep writing this so please excuse the misspelled words and run on sentences.

All in all a pretty solid day sticking to this..... 19 days left!! (whoop!)

Oh about those measurements... I forgot!

However i DID take the body pictures... I don't think those will make an appearance just yet... I may be a little bit nervous to show those babies to you... Maybe tomorrow....

Ok bedtime!
love you all and your support!!! Remember it's never to late to turn your life into a healthy fit and fabulous life... if you take it one small step at a time,

XoXo,
Lallenia

Back again with a challenge =)

Hi.... It's me! Lallenia!

I am back here...

Why?

Well... 1st of all several people asked me about my Plumbers Wife blog.
2nd I want to talk about my little challenge I am doing for the next 21 days.

If you are new to my blog welcome!! I am sorry if some of this may confuse you but you'll catch on or go read other posts because you're so confused....

To answer the questions about A Plumbers Wife:
 I know in my last blog I said I was going to be blogging at aplumberswife.com and YES! I am soon... the reason it is taking me a little bit is because I am going through a learning curve. I was totally in the mindset when I wrote that blog I would be able to just dive in and everything would be so perfect and easy... false.

I didn't want to put up just an "OK" blog or site. I know many people will say but just START or you won't get anywhere.... behind the scenes I have. I invested in a few amazing courses from a few people I absolutely admire and they all say the same thing.... if you're going to put something out into the world make sure it's your best effort and adds value to people life and doesn't waste their time.

Going through these courses I have realized I needed to push back my vision for A Plumbers Wife and dig a little bit deeper into what I want to do with it. I will keep you posted!

I do have a quick question before I get into my blog today:
Which logo do you like more? A or B? I like them both in their own way. I'm curious to get some feedback.

A.  B. 

The reason I am back to my healthy, fit fabulous... and have a 21 day challenge is....

I feel GROSS!!!!!! Like really gross. 

I see all these awesome blogs, instagram accounts, facebook posts, twitter, (and whatever other platforms I'm missing here) with all these cute fun fitness models showing off their rock hard abs, bootylicious booty, poppin muscles, crazy workouts and super clean meals. 

These people are all talking about how awesome they are, how hard they work in the gym, how easy it is for them to keep their bodies in tip top shape all year round, telling us don't eat this, don't eat that, don't go running or you'll get fat... (haha that totally rhymed!) I'm easily amused =) 

Anyways don't get me wrong or sit there and call me a hater... I think they are awesome too!!! 

(and I may be slightly jealous)

What I DON'T see is their struggles.... until AFTER they figured out how to fix it or after they already have that six pack and went though the transformation. Not the REAL live struggle of what it takes to get there or if they've ever struggled at all to get healthy and fit. 

I get it. Some that DID struggle were self conscious and didn't want to talk to people until they felt confident in themselves and felt like they have been there done that "now I can talk about it and tell people what to do." 

I am sure there are many blogs, and social media accounts where people do share their struggle (and i am sure many people will be emailing me to let me know) but it's no one I follow or know of that does. I figured I would step out of the box like I did with my fitness competition journey and share my struggles from the start of my new challenge. 

As you know, if you know me I LOVE to workout... yes I REALLY LOVE it!!! Weird right? 

Many people don't... but I do. It's my relief, therapy, strength, it's kind of my guilty pleasure if I may. 

I had my 2nd shoulder surgery on my right side in February of 2014. This one REALLY knocked me down. For a long time. 

I actually am still am having issues so have quit doing any kind of strength training that may cause more damage to it. I could keep going on about how much this has affected me in more ways than just my body but I know you are busy so I will just tell you this SUCKS bad and I'm not myself.

After realizing seeing all these posts and blogs it made me think... ok... so what about someone like me? I know I have a fitness background and all but right now I cannot do a push up because of my shoulder injury (as in physically can't... and boy do i despise the word can't)... I LOVE PUSH UPS!! Really I do. I am very limited right now as to what my body will let me do without pain or strain so lifting weights even body weight has me limited. Yes there are things i CAN do... it's just not the same. I do go to cycle and run... will also train legs 1-2times a week.... but it's hard for me to get into it knowing I have to be careful and knowing what i used to do.

I also DREAD eating salads & vegetables right now.... no joke. Like, I have been avoiding them at ALL costs...super weird for me because I used to be obsessed with vegetables!

Basically I am just a complete fitness failure right now... I'd get an F- on my report card. (and DETENTION!) 

I'm just not on top of my fitness game. I can give you a million other excuses OR... I can do something about it. 

This weekend I asked myself....

Lallenia, what is it that you are REALLY struggling with that is making you feel so gross physically? 

Is it the fact you can't push yourself at the gym and feel strong? (why yes.. yes it is)

Is it the fact that you sit more because of the transition from working on your feet all day to running the office work of a business? (urgh gag me!)

Is it your food choices? (sooo... ice cream bars before bed is a bad thing??)

BINGO! 

It's TOTALLY my food choices... I am eating a lot of .. (brace yourself) SUGAR! (gasp)

After doing some deep digging (into the B&J's Americone Dream container)... I came to realize.... I feel gross because I am not fueling my tank with the appropriate nutrition my body needs to excel in life. I may not be able to push myself like I want at the gym but if I was eating to fuel my brain & body I wouldn't be so negative and feel so gross about myself. 

*Side note: If you follow me you know I also struggle with PCOS and insulin resistance so nutrition is even more vital for me to be on top of to feel good...

Today I am starting a 21 day (processed) sugar free diet. (but what about all of Wyatt's Halloween candy??)

No I didn't buy a program or anything. I am going to try to do it on my own. Picking foods I want just knowing what to look for and what is realistic for me. 

 I will blog every day for 21 days and let you know the outcome as far as how mentally, physically and emotionally. (This is your fair warning right now)

I am not going to limit my fruit intake or carbs, or any of that stuff that many diets want you to when starting a detox or diet. I am going to eliminate processed sugar.  I will read the labels and if there is processed sugar higher than 1-2g on there it's out. 

The reason why I say 1-2g is ok because that's hardly any and I know a few foods might have a trace. Again I am being realistic and starting small. (so you people that are perfectionist... go eat a gluten free sugar free cocoa nib paleo cookie and leave me alone)

Haven't we all gone all out on a diet only for it to fail 90% of the time?? It makes it so hard to turn it into a lifestyle change because we have this all or nothing thinking. I think it takes trial and error... and it's ok to fail or find what does and doesn't work for you as long as you don't give up trying. 

That's why this is by my rules, not a shake challenge, whole 30 challenge, or some kind of 0 carb challenge.  I am the only one that knows my body and I want to make this transition and painless as possible. 

OK I am not dragging this on anymore..... Here's what I ate today: 

Breakfast: 1 cup berries, 2 eggs, 1 cup broccoli (it's SOOO good with eggs! at least I tell myself that) and some coffee

Lunch: Pomegranate ... yep ate the WHOLE dang thing! I tried not too but I couldn't stop! Someone once asked how I could eat the seeds just by themselves.... well.... here's the proof: 

SOOO good!!!! Except when they get stuck in your teeth.... that is rather annoying and the whole thing has a large amount of carbs.... whoops. But it's natural right? 

Then i had a cheese stick... ok maybe 2 but 0g sugar.

Snack: Baby carrots and my 4 & 3/4 year old son, Wyatt,  totally talked me into buying a few flavors of tea from the Teavana store at the mall this past weekend... true story... (Wyatt is a little weird but don't tell his parents i told you that =) ) 

.

I made it so I can put it in the fridge so I can have a few servings throughout the next few days for us.

Dinner: Salad w/ oil & vinegar, Crusted Tilapia, & sweet potato w/ butter. 

I DID IT!! I had my first BIG salad in like 5 months. Celebrating the small successes.

 (I will get a small dinner one sometimes but those don't count)

It wasn't too bad..... Maybe I will do this more. 

Then I had this tilapia stuff that has 1g sugar in a serving. This stuff is super yummy but also really processed.... look: 

I will take all my measurements tomorrow and probably post them.. possibly a picture if I get enough courage to venture in to that... Again I am not really going to track my portions, carb count or protein... I am just eliminating pretty much all processed sugar for 21 days to see if i feel a difference or look any different from this one change...again yes I will still eat some processed foods but will have to be VERY conscious of the sugar.1-2g MAX and I will do my best to avoid it. 

I hope this helps you by either giving you the courage to join me, giving you a few ideas for meals, and/or make you celebrate the SMALL successes in living to be a healthier you!

Ok i am going to go grab a cup of this totally delicious chocolate peppermint flavored tea Wyatt made me buy and watch the Black List... seriously this is one of the FEW shows i actually watch because my husband makes me... it's his love language.... cuddling on the couch and watching mindless TV. 

Talk to ya tomorrow! Feel free to join me on this 21 day challenge!!! Let me know if you do... if there is enough people we can start our own secret group and give each other support and whatever else they do in secret groups =) 

oh and Don't forget to subscribe if you want to not miss a blog from yours truly (and her evil side who is the sarcastic one that makes her eat bad food) =) 

Keep yourself healthy, fit and fabulous!!

-XoXo-

Lallenia 

Never again.....

NEVER AGAIN

Have you heard the Kelly Clarkson song called Never Again? (If not check it out here!)

I was thinking this ALOT these last few months.... Never again!

HA!! No, this not about my ex-boyfriend... (juuuuust kidding... kinda...) 

I am so BLOWN away by the response I received from my last blog post!!!  I honestly did not expect that kind of response and a few who reached out really took me off guard. To those who reached out and shared a similar challenge THANK YOU! I no longer feel so alone and scared.

Really.... WOW!! 

So after that week I learned a few Never Agains (feel free to add them to the beat of the song like i did):

"Never again will I judge you,

Never again will I think less of you,

Never again will I believe what's said about you.....

Never again....." 

This struggle of mine has turned into a major life awakening. I learned I had people categorized, judged, or on a pedestal. After opening up about my issues; I had women from all shapes and sizes reach out and have some kind of struggle that is causing them issues with fertility, weight loss, weight gain, hormone imbalances, and other things. 

I remember in my early days as a trainer (honestly up until this) I would think it's not that hard to get in shape & be healthy! Just eat less and move more. 

That's not always the case, it is MUCH bigger than that when it comes to becoming healthy. I can't tell you how many women I see at the gym who are stronger & faster than me and yet a few sizes bigger or smaller than me. I also know many "skinny" or "fit" women that are VERY unhealthy and "heavier" women who are healthier (& happier) than I could ever be.

(Photo credit to Glamour Magazine)

I found this picture and it really resonated with me. We need to STOP judging people based on their size and shape because each person fights their own battle of some kind. It sounds so cliche but everyone has their own struggles and challenges no matter what they look like on the outside or via social media.  

I wish I could tell you after my last post I felt so empowered that I've been successful with controlling my dietary & exercise habits.... FALSE.

I've been in some kind of denial or rebellious mission.

Overview of shoulder progress:

My PT told me my shoulder was inflamed & stop running or do  anything that may affect my shoulder. So of course, reluctantly, I stop all activity AGAIN. At this point I am about 18 weeks out from my surgery... In my mind... that's a LONG time I should be able to workout again!

Then Tuesday May 13th at 5:12pm I reach to let my son out of his car seat (like I have been doing for a few weeks since I've had that range of motion) and SNAP! My shoulder makes a pop, my hand goes numb, and I just screamed and bursted into tears. (my poor soon now makes sure i don't reach behind me and asks me to get out of the car to let him out so I don't hurt myself... sweet little boy)

I've had a little bit of set back clearly. My shoulder is not healing as fast as I want it to (23 weeks now)... meaning I am unable to get back into working out hardcore. If you know me.... I NEED to workout. I need to sweat, I need to push myself. 

This is a throw back picture to when I was  28 weeks out of my first surgery in 2011.  It's hard to believe I was able to workout and move so well that soon after my surgery! A side plank with one leg... SO much shoulder stability! AND on my right shoulder..... CRAZY I tell ya! 

i miss it

Saying these last few months have been hard would be an understatement. I can't tell you how many times I've cried myself to sleep or just screamed out of frustration because I just want to feel like myself again. (It doesn't help I work from my basement and my puppy (yes puppy... ) just looks at me like I'm crazy all day & chews up everything...)

"what do you mean I'm not supposed to chew up this bat...
and the pillow, and the blanket......" oh Zuek! 

I was talking to my handsome hubby about this and he said."I know this is hard for you but I love you no matter what. Besides, look at how great you are at this marketing & learning how to run a business. You're making things happen for us, I couldn't do this without you. If you didn't have this surgery and were so wrapped up in yourself, clients, and workouts we wouldn't be making such big strides with Big Birge Plumbing Co."

Of course he says that right??

 The more I have been reflecting on this journey the more I am realizing that life has a weird way of leading you where you need to be going. Yes. I feel like I am entirely out of shape.... bad. The good thing is I've not gained a lot of weight I just feel flabby and weak.... I hate it.

I do however LOVE how much time I have been putting towards learning, growing and developing a business and myself with my husband and our team! 

We even had an article published about us a month ago in the Omaha Magazines B2B summer issue about our Marketing. It really confirmed to me that yes this is where I need to be with my life. (but it's not all glitter and gold.....) 

(read the article HERE on page 13 & 14)

I HATE the picture they picked for page 14.... yuck...I look OLD and gross but whatever. I guess I can't complain too much as it is publicity for our business. I will post something about my experience with this in my NEW blog and my website called "A Plumbers Wife"..... THERE.... I said it!!!

So... I've been working on this idea and business model for a while. I have yet to put it out there because I don't feel ready BUT when will I EVER feel ready?? 

Here's my logo....(one of them)

eeeeeek!!!!!! What do you think??? 

I am smiling from ear to ear because I know I am so far from where I want to be but I am SO excited to go on this journey and share my experiences with you! From here out I will be blogging, making videos, and podcasts about my life as a plumbers wife! (how fun is that?) 

I am in the process of setting up my social media accounts for this. But you can "like" my FB page right now if you'd like... I'd love it if you did!! That will help me get going on it sooner! My website is also in the works! 

If you're wondering what exactly this will be: it will be about my experiences running a business with my husband and the ups and downs of it all. I feel like not many people really share all sides of the business or their lives in the process. 

As I start blogging and creating content who knows... maybe  eventually get into coaching & consulting! I am a crazy person about learning and growing and a coach by nature.... =) 

I really believe this is all happening because there is a point where you have to find balance and stop comparing yourself to the rest of the world and be the BEST you. I used to compare myself so much to other women and feel bad about myself image, my job, my family, my house, my car, ect. Well now I say screw ALL that! This struggle has shown me I need to be the BEST ME! Not the best fitness model, mom, wife, laundry folder, cook, bookkeeper... but ME! 

There is a quote I have been saying to myself lately I came up with.... Who you are today is NOT who you have to be tomorrow. 

You do NOT have to be who you were yesterday! If you don't like something about yourself or want a better life... the only person stopping you from becoming better is ... YOU!!!!

Yes! I am struggling with the fact I can't workout much but that doesn't mean I need to sit here and cry about it all day and eat Ben & Jerry's (oh but Americone Dream ... YUM!!) 

I know working out and eating healthy is what I do... it doesn't mean it's who I AM... it IS apart of me but that doesn't mean I can't grow and develop other parts of me as well to mold into the person I dream about becoming. 

I have learned life is REALLY, truly what you make of it and what you envision for yourself. 

I could keep going on and talk all about how I had to get a cortisone shot in my shoulder and passed out in the Dr. office but what fun would that be?? (Ha. True story. I am a WUSS)

Now that i have let it known to my peeps (that's YOU!) about A Plumbers Wife.... I better get over there and start working on my next adventure in life huh? If you could be so kind and "like" my facebook page or "follow" my tweets, I would be so giddy over it! And maybe even share it with someone you know who may want to be a part of the awesome community I'll be creating.

As always... Keep yourself healthy, fit and fabulous!
And don't forget to PLUNGE into the life of a plumbers wife =)

*Lallenia*