What’s a girl to do… Become a WOMAN!

Hello Blog – Hello Readers!

I have not been here as I should have been…Visiting you and checking in…

But I will be one year older tomorrow.  This means a new FACET to the jewel of life.  May it be shining and fully illuminated when I leave this earth and travel to the next dimension!  One new facet is sure to elevate the content NEW adventures and in turn this blog!

Here is a quick list and info session on what I have been up since I last posted…

1) I have completed a RAW 7 DAY CLEANSE.  This cleanse was very interesting.  It is a 3 part system you take daily.  In the Morning you take a probiotic powder.  Pur the powder in your mouth, swish it around for 45 seconds and swallow.  Follow up with some herbal supplements to cleanse your organs and in the evening a powdered elixir with water, and more herbal supplements. NEXT CLEANSE: A Liver Cleanse.  I pinned the cleanse on my clipboard via Pinetrest.

2) I have continued running, though I must say the frequency needs to change.  Sticking to one program is not in my forseeable future, but rather a nice rhythm.  I tend to work rhythmically rather rath by a strict schedule.  What about you?  Accountability to a general list is great, but I must face the fact that I will not live forever and I really need to have a better handle of that silly thing called TIME… I cannot believe I am going to be the ripe age of 38 and there is so much I feel I can still do!   I am hopeful and positive about the future.  I love people. I do

n’t want to harm anyone.  I only wish to spread love, yoga and running in the world with some delicious snacks and foodie kindness Which leads me into …

3)  I have been busy in the kitchen the last few weeks.  I have made both RAW and COOKED dishes while I was on the cleanse and even now.  Going out to eat is far to difficult at this point!  I wish I could share at the moment but alas…I am still without a camera and have not been able to find the time to get a new one. Which if you have any suggestions that would be great! (Thumbs up!)  I usually like to read reviews and make the best choice by both reviews and online shopping to maximize my dollar. But again..and happily there has not been a lot of time for internet surfing!

4) It always seemed like it was my Moms job to keep everything together. She managed a household around my sister, my father and I.  She was amazing and still is.  Everything was sooo organized ALL OF THE TIME.  I used to think that was because she was MOM and they all did that stuff. WRONG! The amount of planning she had to have had on her mind is CRAZY! And she had two children.  Actually THREE if you include my father…HA HA (Just kidding Daddy   Growing up and maintaining my own household with my tastetester without children (unless his are visiting which is always a JOY!) is hard enough! Of course I could reason it out like my business is a child, but really it isn’t.  I suppose these are things I hope to get better at as I age.  Things are not an ENTIRE MESS but they can be SO MUCH B.E.T.T.E.R! Kudos to all the MOMS out there who maintain the home and carry on with their careers! You guys are amazing! Especially when I see you guys in a race in shape and pushing a stroller and your pregnant!

5) I am looking for an ALL FEMALE race to complete this year. Woman are amazing to me and so beautiful for so many reasons.  Unfortunately I don;t always see the woman around me as impressed with each other.  I think woman need to be a little more supportive of each other…rather than hating or glaring at each other.  Woman have enough problems gaining equality in a bit of a chauvinistic world and we wast time and energy being mean to each other.  I also think that woman need to respect themselves a bit more when it comes to relationships.  If we are not happy within and have no plan for ourselves then we cannot have a successful relationship with anybody. Not our boyfriend’s, wives, significant other and most importantly OURSELVES…LOVE YOURSELF LADIES!  Sorry, I digress…I would like to find an all woman race that supports the empowerment of woman.  Not an illness but maybe a shelter or something. Any information out there would be much appreciated!

6) I would like to have better dialog with you.  Please leave comments or email me regarding anything you see on the blog or anything you would like to see on this blog!

And finally,

7) I have found myself reading more and more!  Falling in love with Sculpture, cooking, FOOD TRAVELS and most importantly food and health and their connection to each other! In the weeks I have last written I have read “THE AGONY AND THE ECSTASY” – biographical novel about Michelangelo, “A YEAR IN PROVENCE” – Peter Mayer’s journey to Provence, ” Naked Came I” – A biographical novel about Rodin, “FRENCH KIDS EAT EVERYTHING” – A womans journey to France for one year with her children and all of the FOOD FAUX PAS she encounters, “LOSING VIRGINITY” – Muellers journey to Italy and beyond in search of pure olive oil and what is actually being used here in the USA and beyond.  Love to read, love that there are FOODIES in the world and LOVE LIBRARIES AND BOOKS!

Thank you for reading this post and visiting this blog.  Whomever you are out there.  Just know that there are never any highs without lows, you will never be happy 100% of the time but you will find happiness is you love yourself within.

Namaste!

The – Veg 888 – Blogger

Running Mishaps, New Shoes and My Love for SUMOS!

Hello Readers – Hello Bloggers – Hello Runners and Yogis!

How does this fine day find you?  I hope you are well!  Remember to drink some fresh juice and take a series of long breathes!  It can do a world of good for your psyche and you blood!

How am I?  Alright.  I have this wonderful new season to make discoveries about myself and the world!

Races are WERE coming along fine….

I registred for a race, showed up on the wrong day and still ran the course.  I have no idea why I thought the March Mardi Gras Madness was on Sunday when it was on Saturday. 

Ugh!  Santa Clarita/Valencia is about 45 minutes away from home!   I was a bit pissed!  A REAL BUMMER!  I still ran the course and clocked it in as a day of running rather than a day of racing.  The only regret about this is…I looked forward to this race ALL YEAR!  It was my fastest 5k time last year! UGH! So now I have to wait until NEXT year to see my performance on THAT course! Which breaks me into a PR time ramble

PR Times

I have an issue when I hear people say they hit a PR. 

My opinion —> You can really only have a PR per race/course. 

For example: If you have been running races that are hilly and clocking in @ let’s say 30 minutes…

You run another race and you clock in at 27 minutes.  Some may say this is their PR since it is the fastest time.  But what if the race was a flat straight course or you were able to take advantage of a downhill.  Then you really don’t have a PR, you just have a faster time based on the course.

However the next year you run the initial 30 minute race again and you do it in 22 minutes. Well then you have a PR for THAT SPECIFIC RACE.  Right?

Back to races… 

I also forfeited running the “Grunion Run” this year. While I did and do enjoy races at the beach, I just could not see driving an hour or more to Dana Point this year.  My taste tester has been on a bit of a roller coaster ride regarding his health, I stayed home with him and we had great meals, laughs and a surprising but restful time change this year.

NEW SHOES

I took a MUCH NEEDED day off from the shop on Monday!

After running some errands and attempting to figure out what move I needed to make about my digital camera at our local BEST BUY, I ended up with no camera and some new running shoes!

I was about to purchase the Lunar Eclipse Model by Nike, when my taste tester appeared with some pretty light (weight wise) and VERY Happening (color wise) shoes called the Saucouny Kinvara 2′s.  He also had a pair of the Shadow Gensis in his hand and told me to try them on. 

Now prior I had been VERY skeptical about Saucony as a brand.  I had a pair about 10+ years back and absolutly them.  Since then I haven’t even looked in the direction of a Saucony display. My mind changed on Monday.

Saucony Kinvara 2

These shoes are some nice light and comfortable shoes.  They feel like I can run right out the door!  No fussing with breaking them in, etc!  They feel fast!

The next pair of shoes I bought are called..

Saucony – Shadow Genesis

Although these are not the shoes I purchase re: COLOR, this is the style.  I chose these specificaly for hill work.  i am feeling the need to do hill work.  I notice that there are always hills in a race. Granted some more than others.  Anyway, as I was saying I notice that most people slow down in a race when the hills arise…so that seems the moment to take it to the next level in the race and come in strong! I feel that I need to take my running a bit more seriously.  Even if it means I need to wake up earlier.  (Cringe) 

I am sure if I was a an athelete and that is ALL I had to do I would be just fine.  But the reality is that I am a runner on the side and small business owner by day.  I am not complaining, just saying.  Got to organize my schedule and life for what arises. Just be better.  More mature! Adulthood comes with it’s own growing pains I think!

Latest Running Food…

The SUMO Tangerine!

This delectable treat had done wonders for me! Eating it makes me happy happy happy. It is so sweet and bright! ALL NATURAL and absolutely divine. These babies are only available until the end of March here in California! Enjoy them alone or in a Citurs and Avocado smoothie!

YUMMMMMM!

For more information about this WONDERFUL FRUIT visit sippitysup!

Thanks for Reading!

SHOUT OUT TO DESIREE DAVILA!  Desiree will be running the NYC Half Marathon this weekend! Send her WINNING ENERGY!  This wonderful woman is prepping for her Olympic Debut in London this summer!  Desiree if you ever read this – Remember: YOU ARE THE BOMB!

Namaste!

Races Coming Up: Santa Anita Derby Day 5k, CATS 10k @ Lake Balboa and hopefully 2 more are in my near future! Know of an LA based race?  Let me know!

Patience…

Patience is: the bearance of provocation, annoyance, misfortune, or pain, without complaint, loss of temper, irritation, or the like. and Yogic philosophy is always calm, present and aware. 

Although we practice the asanas/poses we don’t always practice the philosophy.  Staying in the moment , being calm and aware is not always the way we live.  It is so easy to forget being in the moment.  It is easy not to be calm.

There are times when I am in such earnest to reach a goal, that I forget to enjoy the journey of meeting the goal. 

This last week has been difficult and this week will be a very BIG TEST for me.  A test of patience and a week to truly practice AHIMSA.

I have spoken about Ahimsa -or- the love for all living beings.  I must remember that this includes myself. 

My taste tester suffers from migraines.  Usually they will last about 4 days and then pass.  Unfortunately not this time.  We are on day 28 of  a cluster-migraine episode.  At times it hits him and he is in bed for most of the day in pain.  Other times he is able to function normally.  He can get out of bed, he can do various things he usually does, and although he still has a headache, he is able to get through the day. 

The health of my taste tester is important, as is my own health.  It is difficult to be at the store all day and then go home and nurse a bit of a grouchy taste tester at night.  But this is what brings me back to realizing that all of this is a journey.  A journey to find a balance between sickness and wellness.  A journey to pack everything into a day that needs to get done and hoping that other things can wait.

Time for the mat to come out and really align my energy.  I have been working through poses the eve before a long morning run, or practicing poses to open my hips and stretch my hamstrings in preparation of a run.  I am totally afraid of an injury.

Maybe the injury I am worried about most are the injuries I carry in my mind.  The days have become difficult to ease through.  Most of the time I find myself wondering what I can do and what I can add to both my diet and my life to find peace and stillness. 

Running helps tremendously.  Usually the realizations that come to mind while I am running make me happy and I am filled with thought and awareness.  Just then a bad behavior or a bad energy usually interjects at that moment and I allow it to hinder my growth.  That is where the definition of patience is.  Being able to not allow any hinderance of my life.  physically, Mentally and Spiritually. 

And then all at one I can hear the word “BREATHE” ring in!  Breathe and stay focus, calm and aware!

“C’mon ladies let’s get through this race!”  I yelled as we approached heart Rate Hill.  “Don’t give up! Keep it going!  Let’s do this!” I surprised myself as I heard my voice.  It was the first time I have ever done that  and I must say it felt great to encourage the ladies around me!

I ran the Brea 8k this weekend.  It was a delightful race!  That probably sounds crazy, but it is true!  I really enjoyed my experience, but I feel as though I could have and should have pushed myself!  I was so convinced that I would injure myself.  I feel stupid about it now, but lets hope this weekend will be even better!  It is time for the Mardi Gras 5k in Valencia again!

This year the course changed and I totally didn’t think Heart rate hill was as difficult as last year.  Sooo that is positive.  What is negative..I was 2 mins slower than last year which I really don’t understand, other than my own thoughts in my head.  My left groin has been tighter than usual so I am trying to be careful…maybe too careful.

I have recently been trying different supplements to aid my runs.  I tried the vega gel.  That only makes me feel like I want to go to the bathroom.  Something you definitely don’t want while you are in the middle of a 5 mile race and it is barely 2.2 miles in…Need I say More?  I think not!

By the time I came down the final stretch headed toward the finish line, I felt great.  The urgency to go to the bathroom faded to tolerable and I felt as though I probably could have run faster and about 3 or 4 more miles if not for that small issue…I felt great. Least until I saw my time.  But I will let than one go.  It’s just my ego messing with me anyway.

What does GI Joe say? “Knowing is half the battle?”

So how are things for you out there in the blog-o-sphere???

Thanks for reading!

Namaste!

Running, Eating and Racing…

There are a few races I am preparing for. 

The first is the Chinatown Firecracker Race…It is Year of the Dragon…seems as though this promises to be a year that is on FIRE!  This race is followed by the Brea 8k – February 26, 2012! The race that will present itself with HEART RATE HILL! Ugh!

Last year The Chinatown Firecracker race totally surprised me and took my wind the initial first mile and a half of the race!  You can read that experience HERE

Well not this year!  I am going to be ready!  I am soooo excited about it!  I keep visualizing it over and over again.  Let’s just hope they don’t change the course!  I had said that I wouldn’t do this race again.  All year I kept thinking about the race and how the hill was a challenging one!  I didn;t like the way that felt!  So as anyone who is happy to take a challenge, I am running this race AGAIN!  I am hoping to have a better time.  I think I should do a bit better.  I feel like my running is stronger this year.  But let’s see how this goes on Sunday…

Here is my bib and fancy Dragon T-shirt set for tomorrow!

All I have been running are hills for the last 7 days!  Up hill, Up hill, Up hill!  The new 2012 course my taste tester and I made has been working out wonderfully.  Quite honestly that hill kicked my butt last year!  All races that I am repeating in 2012 were all positive experiences, however the Firecracker race is more of a “I SHALL CONQUER!” type of race.

I completed 7 days in a row of more than a 5k distance uphill and I am happy. 

There are a few things I have changed this year!  1) I have been running during the day.  I have happily been able to experience the opportunity to see so much of the city I normally miss.  I see so many wonderful birds throughout my run and I love it.  I hope everyone has the opportunity to enjoy birds.  (Can you believe there is a company dedicated to having bird free zones?  How horrible is that!) With the onset of global warming and air pollution I worry about generations to come…

As I was running this last week, I kept thinking about the Pepperdine Coastal race.  I remember hitting mile 2 vividly!  The reason it was so vivid?  The 10kers were passing me at such an accelerated pace it was wild!  One day Veg Blogger…One day you will be faster!

I saw the most divine and gorgeous peacocks.  They were feeding and flying into pine trees all along the route!  One of the best things about living in Arcadia are the peacocks and the parrots!   They call out and are so alive.  It is amazing to see how much life can truly be a beautiful experience.  Sometimes as individuals we forget to be thankful for what we do have.

I am thankful for a roof over my head, a wonderful city to live in and the opportunity to experience my body and all that it is capable of each time I run, eat great food and am happy to say thank you for another day of being alive!

Depression can effect many people out there in this world of ours and there is FREEDOM from such a mind set.  Raw Foods, excercise and meditation can really make ALL the difference in the world.  How many of us actually take the time to do those things? I would imagaine the percentage is low! 

The revolution begins with what we put in our mouths and what we do with the opportunites we are given each day.  Each day we have the opportunity to be kind and loving. Each day we have the opportunity to live life to it’s fullest. 

Look at the moon the next time you feel depressed.  If it is full than you know, IF you have been hanging around here that the parasites are alive and well within!  Grt rid of them and I guarantee there will be a BIG CHANGE!  I write about parasites alot and have been doing more and more research regarding things horrible mongers!  If you are interested in what I am saying, then look up the posts Recipe for Illness Part 1, 2 and 3! or START HERE!

If you take care of your body..Your body will take care of you!

I have eaten more fruit this week than I have in awhile and i can really feel a difference in my sleep, running, and yoga.  I can place my body into various asanas (positions) a bit easier and I am quite thankful for that!  Yoga is my saving grace when it comes to running!  The more alkaline, the easier it should be for me to reach my goals!

I have also been enjoying quite a bit of these…

Thanks for Reading!

Wish me luck.  By this time tomorrow I will be celebrating my sisters birthday at her favorite Indian Restaurant!

Namaste!

Sugar and Cookies and Cakes..OH MY!

It has been a long process to get to this point in my postings.

This blog is dedicated to LONGEVITY, RUNNING, YOGA & THE EXPLORATION of HEALING OUR BODIES.

That being said…I sometimes wonder if the name VEG888 keeps viewers from finding this blog, if the subject matter keeps people from commenting, or maybe people just don’t like it…

I am hoping you have arrived here because you are on a journey to heal  your body or maybe looking for some healthy options and/or information.  However you ended up here at the VEG888 Blog I welcome you!

I will however continue to dedicate my time to ALL SUBJECT MATTER ABOVE!

On to health…

I have said it before and I will say it again. If you talk to people about their diet or their God you will receive some level of hostility.

The internet is alive with all of the stories and commentaries regarding Paula Deen and her Type 2 diabetes.  

Ok Yeah the woman is going to become ill with her general menu she shares with everyone.  However, no one is a victim here.  Each time she took in a sweet butter cake, each time she ate whatever it is she cooks and shares with the public she made a deal with disease.  She made this deal WAY BEFORE her unscrupulous deal with the pharmaceutical company she is supporting! 

This woman is literally full of… well I think you know what the next word was going to be!  Taking a pill for a problem is not the solution.  I tweeted the other day a quote I had found while researching Kombucha.  “The prevention of disease is better than the cure.”  And that is sooo true. 

Lots of delectable treats out there with refined sugars, eggs and dairy.

Whatever refined Sugar is mixed with becomes ONE of the secret killers in society.  

I’m not talking about dates, fruits, honey, etc.  I am talking about soda, candy, juices from concentrate and colored and sweetened waters, cakes, pies, cookies, breads, and anything manufactured with chemicals.

Holidays are infamous for extra pounds and feeling full along with feeling bloated. I suppose at times the psyche of “It’s a celebration!” or “It is just around the holidays and then I will start new over the new year!” set in.

Truth be told.  It is a killer.  90% of diseases begin in the belly! 

Work ethic and physical laziness are two very different modes.  I think society confuses them at times.  Simply Paul Deen is lazy.  Taking a pharmaceutical pill for her type 2 diabetes is lazy! 

Now, the woman has built an empire selling her delectable treats and all her other “products”.  In order for her to have built this empire, she has some form of work ethic.  My question is: Will she take the Peta Vegan Challenge to heal her body?  As much as I hate to see someone ill, if you have been informed of a kinder road to follow and you totally dismiss it…

There are so many instances at this point which would show her there are options.  Don’t be lazy Paula! Fix it with food, fix it with herbs and definitely EXERCISE!  Come on!  You don’t wake up with weight gain and disease.  It occurs over time!

I cannot say that anyone should place too much condemnation on the woman for having Diabetes.  We are all guilty of various bad behaviors.  We are all guilty of not always making the best call for our bodies.

My taste tester always says…”Don’t point fingers at anyone, because there will be 3 pointing right back at you!”  I found that to be true!  So I will not condemn her.  Some say she should have been more honest.  Some say she should have said something earlier. But realistically is it anyones business?  

All in all her health is her business…and much more of a business than ever before!  I think the only way to fall into positive grace with the public would be to do the vegan challenge and heal herself!  Return the money and LIVE A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE!  Drop the butter and the fat Paul Deen! Embrace vegetables.  Embrace all of the different forms of information out there.  See the RAW for 30 days video! 

Can I have someones opinion out there? That is all I would like to say about Paula Deen.  I just had to get that out there!

Onto Race Day Morning Treats…

The evening before the race I had broccoli and mushrooms with some spicy tomato sauce and a good 5 hours of sleep.  I admit I would have liked to have slept longer, but I wasn’t able to since we had company.  I must say having the kids at the house is a delight so it was well worth it! (Thumbs up)

Before we got to the race I drank water and a Blackberry Chia.

After the race I enjoyed a wonderful Coconut Mango Mama Chia, a Yoga Bar and a RAW Spirulina Bar!  They were great!  I also tried the new Kombucha Chia Drink by GT’s.  That was absolutely DIVINE!

 Have you tried a great energy bar you think I should try?

Well it is 10 days until the Chinese Firecracker Race and I am totally excited!!! The hill leading up to Dodger Stadium is my goal to conquer!

Thanks for reading!

Love and Light!

Namaste!

Pepperdine Coastal Run 5k & Goals

Each week I make 1 simple goal to meet.  

I figure the more goals I meet, the more successful I will be in the long run. 

There are factors in my life I want to change and factors in my life I would like to encourage.  

Of course there are LONG TERM goals for the year and then there are the simple ones for the day.

Today’s goal…The PEPPERDINE COASTAL 5k

It was a beautiful day in Playa Del Rey today.  The ocean was a breathtaking sight as we drove into the parking lot. 

We were a bit fuzzy about the directions when we initially began driving toward the race, but thankfully I had written down the directions and we were soon on our way!  We got lost for about 5 minutes it ended well with us at the beach by 7:30. 

I started the 5k a bit late since I had to use the bathroom and drop off my race t-shirt at the car.  But all was well.  Since I have my Garmin I am able to keep better track than the race is.  This race is a BIB ONLY - NO CHIP race.  The course is a flat fast course for both the 5k and the 10k.  Enjoyable and since I did not do the 10k I didn’t have to worry about the smelly waste station!

I opted for the 5k since my taste tester’s children are here visiting and we didn’t want to get back too late.  We figured a 1/2 hour 5k run was better than an hour 10k for our schedule today.

I will do this race next year as well.  Throughout 2011 I found it much easier to support a race when I was behind the cause the race is raising money for!

And for my other Goals?

Well, simply put I would also like to work on my patience level…

There are 2 quotes I have on my board where I list my goals.

1) Practice grace under fire

2)Be about it…Don’t just talk about it!

Part of life is recognizing bad behaviors, habits, attitudes, etc.  

Once we recognize them we can conquer them and move on.  However, I do believe if you are not on guard ALL of the time, these bad behaviors can slip back into your life but for now let us continue…

This blog spends much of the time writing about yoga, running, vegan/vegetarian food, and overall health issues.  Today I would like to talk about hitting the RESET button to take control and begin again.

Sometimes life catches up with us on the track of life!  There are times when we think we are on track and we realize that life has looped around us!  We may be thinking that we are running together, when in fact we are ONE LAP BEHIND! Not a good scene!

When this happens, it usually means you haven’t taken a moment to just BREATHE & remember your inner self.  This is dangerous!  For you and those around you…as any new mommy will know, a sole proprietor, a secretary, an officer of the court, whomever is out there!

I recently found myself there and was really happy to find a Mantra to overcome this obstacle in life. 

I also have been burning special incense and taking in certain foods to adjust my calibration.  Sound stupid?  I don’t think so. 

When we eat LIVE RAW food we are accepting the earth and all its bounty of vitamins and minerals into our bodies. 

When we stretch and practice yoga we are moving energy around that may be stuck. 

Various breathing techniques help us liven the fire within.

When we run we are able to feel sensations of happiness, or pain.  We are able to release stress and possibly come to a decision that has been bothering us.  But more than anything we are able to take some moments to ourself and breathe!

Take at least 10 minutes a day to yourself!  If you don’t you will surely suffer from stress, high cholesterol, stomach issues, and other health problems.

Remember what makes you unique and truly a gift on this earth.  If you are having trouble knowing what those gifts are..then take the time to discover yourself and all of the miraculous things you are capable of!

Love and Light!

Namaste!

Day 3, RUNNING & Counting!

It is hard to believe it is only the 6th day of 2012!

How are you? Did you have a good time this New Years Eve?  It seems as though the holidays were upon us as quickly as they were over…

A FEW THINGS…

This was the second year my taste tester and I literally ran into the new year.   We decided on a new route for a new year.  Happily a good course to prepare for ANY hilly 5k/10k and the option of tearing it up on a flat course!  My times should show an improvement…

The run was absolutely exhilarating! It was however VERY QUIET!

No bhangra or dancehall music in the distance, no house parties with their 80′s/90′s music anywhere!  Absolutely quiet! EVERYWHERE!

The economic downturn is my reasoning as to why there wasn’t much of a celebration.  Things seem to be hard on everyone these days.  Many people are affected financially right now.

It is displayed at simple places you would normally see loads of people!  Many retailers are suffering and closing large stores.  Blockbuster has been closing stores for awhile, as well as Kodak possibly having a downturn.  People just don’t have extra money to spend!

I have NEVER seen so many people on bikes, commuting here and there and quite honestly everywhere.  Sometimes the need to be more frugal can actually be healthier!

My taste tester and I were discussing riding our bikes to and from the shop when the weather gets better….

RUNNING

2012 will happily result in running races for the SECOND time! Clap Clap Clap and a big smile for races coming up!

The Pepperdine Coastal 5k 10k is approaching.  The last time we ran that race we also had International Vegan Pizza Night!  I think I will have the events on different days!  It was too crazy that night to do it again!

Races to follow: Chinatown Firecracker Race and the Brea 8K.  These are some hilly courses!  I have committed to better times AND to make those hills my B_TCH!

I have learned so much from my commitment to 12 races this last year.

Here are the HARD LESSONS from my first year of running and races…

Lesson #1 – DRINK WATER!

DRINK LOTS OF WATER!  I know it probably sounds simple…maybe even stupid but it is the truth.

At any given moment during a run you may be confronted with feeling that your legs are as heavy as two concrete blocks!  For me and many the feeling is generally in your thighs! This is definitely dehydration.  Also, when it is difficult to take hold of your breathing pattern and break into your endurance mode it is usually water related.  (That’s not to say nutrition isn’t a variable but that is further on down the list!)

MY ANSWER FOR ME: Make sure to drink more thank 64 oz a day if not more!  Drink most of your water within a 12 hour period PRIOR to your run.  Don’t jam on water trying to get it all in before a run! I repeat DON’T DO IT! You will definitely make yourself ill and that defeats the purpose! Just be aware of your water intake! And PURE water! None of this colored tinted or flavor hinted nonsense out there! PURE WATER!

LESSON #2 - KEEP IT CLEAN!

Any physical activity that places demands on your body like running, yoga, cycling and/or any other endurance sport should not occur after a cup of coffee!  If the caffeine effect is your desire then go for some sort of tea, energy bar and/or natural supplement. I have found both the Vega Supplement to be quite helpful!

Coffee is extremely acidic something you DO NOT WANT for your body  if you are going to race within a few hours.

You want to stay as ALKALINE as possible to curb injuries!

This year I read many articles on the internet, in running magazines and my beloved world of blogs about injuries  people sustained while running.

Keep your diet and liquids clean! Your body will thank you and you will be happy with your endurance levels and overall performance.

CLEAN FOODS = CLEAN BODY!

Lesson #3 – BEWARE OF YOUR INNER WHINER !

When embarking on a run invariably you I will feel various things.

My inner whiner will enter my mind and tell me all kinds of things! For some the whiner begins sooner rather than later.  It is the whiner that is often called “THE WALL”.  Well here at the Veg888 blog…we call it “your inner whiner”.

A few examples are:

I have to go to the bathroom you should stop and go back … (My reaction: What are you talking about you just went to the bathroom before you ran for this specific reason.  Keep running. )

My knee hurts…ouch my ankle…or some other type of pain… I can’t do it…i’m tired…it’s cold…(My reaction: Stop with the whining already just run.  That is all you have to do.  You just finished one hour of yoga madame..you are more than prepared!)

I think I will run a shorter distance than originally intended…(My reaction:  Do you have a goal? If you do meet.  Be about it…Don’t Just talk about it!)

There are many more examples but these usually hit me the first 1/4 mile.

Whenever that little nagging whiner rear it’s ugly head…I work through it! Shut the whiner down!

Lesson #4 – STRETCH IT OUT AND WALK IT OUT!

It is absolutely imperative to stretch!  In the long run, (no pun intended) you are far better off when you stretch than when you don’t!  Take the time to do it! If you don’t you will be sorry.

I pose this question to myself – Which would you rather do? Take the time to stretch and then run? -or- Get an injury because you didn’t stretch and then you can’t run for a few days/weeks/months and have loads of time nursing your injury?

 

Lesson #5 – PAY ATTENTION TO WHAT IS GOING IN

& WHAT IS COMING OUT!

Okay so this is where the uncomfortable moments begin in this posting…

1) Whatever your persuasion regarding what you choose as your general menu, make sure you are no less than 60% alkaline!  (I once read someone say “…there are two subjects that will make people not like you in any discussion.  Talk to someone about their diet or their god and you will definitely encounter hostility!) In all physical activities, the more alkaline your system is the better your body will perform, repair, and continue comfortably.  Experiment with your diet.  It is the best way to fine tune your fitness goals and your quality of life.

2) Pay attention to what is coming out and how often! You should be able to have 1 or more bowl movements a day.  If you skip a day drink more water, add more salad, add fruit, take a probiotic, something! Do not allow a day without a bowel movement!  This is where many of diseases will end up living!  Your colon, your digestive system and any of the filters our wonderful bodies have to assimilate food. I have been getting a colonic once a week since I first started.  I feel better, my “movements” are better and my entire life is changing.  Seriously.  I certainly am not telling you you have to get a colonic.  I am simply telling you to be aware of what is coming out. Be kind to your body and keep it clean!

This topic can be an uncomfortable subject, but I do feel it is important!  I think when we as humans realize that we are in control of our health we will grow by leaps and bounds!

Our bodies are miraculous machines.  Our bodies work better than any new technological gadget that can be imagined!  Anything going wrong with your body is like a crime.

We have an amazing healing system within and remember to use it!  We NEVER get sick for no reason!  There is always a reason!  Get CSI on the problem and I guarantee there is a natural cure! Anything you eat should not stay in your body for more than 8-12 hrs.  So just be aware and love your body!

I don’t want to have too long of a post so I will end here!

Thanks for reading!

Namaste!

 

What are your goals this year?    What goals did you meet last year?

Experience life and enjoy each adventure you find yourself in!

A Tale of 2 Cities…

Hello EVERYONE!

WOW 2011 is rapidly coming to a close!  Things here in the VEG888 world a great I must say. (Yes I realize it is almost her as it is approx. 1:44 pm in the afternoon on the EVE of 2012!

I truly did 12 races this year! YES!  Last year I ran into 2011 AND 2012 here we come!  We will be running again! Enjoying our bodies, enjoying the earth and being thankful for the opportunity to live!

How are you guys? Alright?  I hope so!  It has been ages since I last wrote a post it seems somewhat insane.

I am still cooking & uncooking here in the VEG888 kitchen and still exploring all I can about health!  So many new things I have learned and not quite shared…YET!

Both my city of residence and the wonderful city I conduct business in LOST  POWER for 4 days!

The San Gabriel Valley was hit with a wind storm in December.  The aftermath of winds which rose up to 97 mph was devasting to many!  I don’t think the news covered the severity of what happened!

Huge pine trees have been ripped out of the ground showing miraculous root structures.  Many of the old growth trees have fallen on cars and houses.

If there is one lesson to learn it is the following.  NEVER NEVER underestimate the POWER OF MOTHER NATURE!

We did not have power for a total of 5 days at home and only 1 day at the shop.  We did however have water, which was totally positive.  Here are some images of the destruction

A true statement that California was not prepared for such winds.

Check out these root systems!!!! Talk about powerful!

Wild times we are living in.  The energy has been a bit intense and a bit of a whirlwind this week.  The energy of 2012 is amazing!  Very strong.  2011 seemed a bit timid.  I am hoping for positive things this next year.

Happy New Year Everyone!  Welcome the NEW YEAR with a thankful heart! Love everyone and practice GRACE under FIRE!  It is the best thing you can do for yourself.

You are amazing! You are alive!  You have wonderful gifts to add to this wonderful world we live in! So…SHARE THEM!

Thank you for the opportunity to see into my life and mind!  I love all bloggers and readers!  Be strong and carry on!

Namaste!

Chapters in Life

Chapter 1 - Tuesday – July 26,2011

It was 78 degrees last night during my run.  It did however seem more tolerable since the sun had long been gone and the beauty of night was glimmering!

Unfortunately, my taste tester is still dealing with an a slight injury and unable to run with me…or so I thought!

The run was a simple 4.5 mile run.

I recently have begun to really push myself the last mile or so of the run. I figure next month I will push at 1.5 miles prior to the end and continue until I am running at a faster pace each mile of the run!  This should help me on race day…

My mind was thinking about so many topics while I ran.

Things like: Fueling my body ALOT better.  - Making the “FUEL” commitment to my running is really important.  The fact is I haven’t taken THIS particular commitment seriously. BOOO for the Veg888 Blogger!

That’s not to say I am eating sugar, candy, soda, sweets, etc.  It’s just that I know I need to take my consumption up about 5 notches!  But I am aware and I will do something about it!

As I approached the end of my run, I saw my taste test jogging toward me.  He finished the last mile of the run with me.  Unfortunately he was in pain and sniffling like he had a cold! Hmmm….

Once we were inside and I looked at him, I knew it!  A cold had found him and I wanted NO PART OF IT!

Despite my diligent effort not to catch my taste tester’s cold – I GOT SICK! >:(  Very upset to say the least!  I tried cleaning everything after he used it with thyme and tea tree essential oil.  I sprayed the rooms and the bed with this same concoction…

Stop the Cold Bug Disinfectant Spray

10 oz Distilled Water

6 Drops Organic Thyme Oil

6 Drops Organic Tea Tree Oil

Fill a clean spray bottle with the distilled water.  (I use distilled since it won’t mold or smell after a few weeks time.)  Add the essential oil to the water and cover with spray nozzle.  Shake before each use.

NOTE: My taste tester and I generally use this spray on our bed in the a.m. when we are fixing it and getting ready to go.  This spray is also really good in the kitchen, however I add lemon essential oil to that spray.

Unfortunately, I didn’t think to get the light switches or the steering wheel to the car! UGH!

On Thursday I woke up sneezing and felt the germ coming on!  I was determined to fight it!

Chapter 2 – Sunday – July 31, 2011

By Sunday the cold had vanished and I was healthy again!  Luckily!

We had purchased tickets to see Ziggy Marley at the Hollywood Bowl that night and I was truly excited!

I made Jerk Tofu with Red Beans and Rice in honor of Jamaica!

We sat and enjoyed a truly moving, captivating and dynamic show by Ziggy!  A true professional and a true musician.

More often than not, I am ALWAYS disappointed when Bob Marley’s kids start singing their father’s songs! How many times is Damian, Stephen or even Ky-Mani for that matter going to sing “We’re Jammin”! Ugh! Bob did it – it was part of his repetoire! However, that was then – this is now!

Both Ziggy and Ky-mani have great works independently and DO NOT NEED TO SING BOB’S songs.  Anyone feel me on this one???

As the evening ended I was truly calm and serene.

I really enjoy having a meal and watching live music.  Note to self: I think I will host a function at the store as such.  It is REALLY calming and healing! I have the back yard area…why not?

Chapter 3 – Tuesday – August 9, 2011

Today marks a few symbolic goals I have decided to fulfill!  Things have been changing around here at the Veg888 Blog…Within, Without, Interior, Exterior…

First – Today is the 8th – ( that’s right 8 – Don’t I love 8′s!) day of a 14-day Organic Detox!  I am embarking on a DETOX FEST for the next 6 months! I will take you on my journey of these Detoxes and discuss what is happening as a cause of this cleansing fest.

Second – Today was the third – ahem – Colonic appointment I had.  Yes Readers you read that correctly.  Don’t worry, I won’t give you much more information than that.  I will however discuss why I am opting to have a colonic each week for the next few weeks.

Third – The realization of age and keeping your body in working order!  I noticed there were a few uncomfortable poses while practicing yoga.  Not uncomfortable because I couldn’t do them, but much more of an organ pain…if that makes sense???  I decided to listen to what my body was telling me and make some poignant changes to my life.  Yes it will be hard work and I will need dedication, but I have to do it.  I got one body at birth!  I need to take care of it from head to toe!

Chapter 3 – Tuesday – September 5, 2011

I successfully finished the 14 day detox!  Next is the kidney detox!

I have also reached #6 in my Hydrotherapy endeavor.

Have any of you ever had a colonic before???

It is quite an interesting experience.  But I would have to say this will add another chapter to the “Recipe for Illness” Series I have going on the blog!

The Hydrotherapist I have been working with is a wonderful woman.  She is truly a beam of light!  I am happy with the results I am feeling and experiencing.

What are the changes?

1. Body odor has changed completely. Not that it was bad, just different.
2. Fatigue prior to menstruation TOTALLY gone.
3. Day1 or Day 2 Headache which usually comes with my menses – GONE!
4. My skin is clearer and my hair is growing a bit faster.
5. I am VERY aware of my chewing patterns.  Am I chewing enough, did I swallow that piece of food to fast, etc.
6. My desire for foods has changed.   I had already dropped the sweets thing, but now I don’t want anything that would “plug” my system up.
7. Although having a colonic once a week has effected my running a bit, I don’t think there is any need to worry.  Mostly my abdomen is sore the day after my appointment and I don’t run.
8. I have been CLEANING around my house.  Feeling the need to get rid of clothes, clean my fridge out and various other cleaning endeavors. Basically just get rid of JUNK!
9. Looking at everything I have in a new light.  A positive light!
10. I feel more in control of my body than I did a few weeks ago!

I could go on, but I will stop there for now.  If you have any questions about colonics feel free to email me or comment on the post!

The thing about my body is this.  I am willing to do whatever natural work I need to do!  The Detox, the herbs, the baths, Hydro-Therapy, Eating the Correct foods for my body, etc.  So I will keep you updated on any news, discoveries and findings.

Thank you for reading!  I have missed you!

Love and Light!

Namaste!

Running and Hill Survival!

Hello Readers!  Hello Bloggers!

Happy to say I have been challenging myself to harder runs! Running multiple hills each run.   Although I am attempting to be kind and patient to my psyche and my body…I have been running longer distances.

I was looking at my Garmin stats last night and was amazed to see that I have run over 200 miles! YES!

I went on a run without my Taste Tester last night and really enjoyed the run.  Although challenging for MANY reasons…I did it! It was quite a different run without him there.  Both are equally enjoyable.  However, there is nothing like the solitude and peace of a run alone!  Running is constantly testing your limits both physically and mentally!

Each time I run I add HILLS!  If we run the neighborhood around my store HILLS are a given!  There are some pretty intense hills at that! Whew! No matter which route – the home route or the shop route there are some hills that can make me feel like I want to “blow”  (throw up) once I reach the top!  But all in all, I know they make me a stronger runner. Working through the intensity of a hill is amazing!  A battle of the physical…a battle with the mind and more than anything…truly a battle with yourself!

There are key points I think about when I am feeling the intensity of a hill!

1) When feeling this pain and being in the moment it is truly a moment to BEHOLD!  Everything you are feeling – you are able to feel because you are ALIVE!  Enjoy this moment.  Feel everything occurring in this moment! Feel the muscles, breath and experience life!  RIGHT NOW!  BE IN THE MOMENT AND LIVE! This is what I tell myself.  Of course…

2) When somehow that thought process doesn’t work – I ask myself a question “Are you going to quit?”  Immediately the answer is “NO!”  I have done this before!  I can do this again!  Why wouldn’t I be able to finish?  What are you saying to yourself?  Quit? NO WAY! NOT AN OPTION! Just keep going!  Push it! Push it a bit harder! Your almost there!

3) And when that doesn’t work soundtrack music and song lyrics come to mind!  A key one is the song written by Bone Symphony – from the “Revenge of the Nerds” soundtrack.  ”You’ve got to put one foot in front of the other put the right foot down…down…down…. -or- Don Carlos “The road is long Oh yes it’s long, Got to reach the end…I just can’t stop! No I just can’t stop! Got to reach the line!” At any given moment my mind can break out into a soundtrack within!  Anyone else feel like that out there?

And before I know it, I can see the lights to our driveway and I know I am home! The run has been FINISHED & CONQUERED!

I must finish the run I set out to do.  Within organized races, I have only done the 5k, 8k, and 10k and cannot imagine stopping at this point!

I am hoping to find some 15k’s and ultimately the Half Marathon is looming.  It’s out there calling me.  It is waiting to be conquered by the Veg888 Blogger!  More than anything I would like to run the half just to prove it to myself! That I can do it! That I can conquer anything I set my mind to!

Besides, we are living an uncertain world these days.  As a whole, Mother Nature is being abused and somehow, in some ways a natural disaster seems to be something that NOBODY CAN GET AWAY FROM! Just depends on what part of the world we are in as to what we may or may not face!

This leads me to my next tidbit for the day.  Have any of you readers seen a magazine called “Outside”?  The other day, while searching for ORGANIC CORN ON THE COB I spotted an article called “Apocolypse Survival”.  As I scanned through the article, I began thinking.  If there is an earthquake, civil unrest, whatever matter…I will need to run! Run from the ocean waves if I am by a beach, run from a bunch of things falling in the event of an earthquake, run in case of civil unrest….

The article itself was not as great as the title, however,  it did set my mind the following thoughts.

1) BE PREPARED

2) Make a list of what is needed in case of an emergency

3) Start checking out Survival websites in the case of a Natural Disaster!

I am certainly not saying these things because I am being negative.  This is reality.  In the year 2011 we have seen tsunami devastation, unfortunate effects from an oil spill within the Gulf of Mexico, Flooding throughout the United States, Heat waves hitting the mid section of our country, the list can go on and on and on!

So stay tuned and I welcome any thoughts regarding today’s posting!

Love and Light!

Namaste!