A Fitness Fairytale

I have been working away at marking my Body Management reflections for the university course I taught a few weeks ago. I asked the teachers to give me a reflection on the course that included things like Yoga, Pilates, Skipping, Step, and Stationary Warm-Ups.

Isn't it funny how you concentrate on the ONE negative, even when there are MULTIPLE positives? I struggled with this last week- So far I've gone through about 100 reflections, of which about 80 were extremely positive and uplifting, 19 were positive and offered constructive feedback, and 1 was negative.

One.

Negative.

And it was all I could think about.

Never mind that this negative feedback came from a teacher completely uninterested in the course in the first place. I can't say much more but let's just say I was not surprised in the least when I received this reflection. So why couldn't I shake this?

I decided to walk away for the weekend. I enjoyed amazing food like sushi and indian- and this morning after Kickboxing I walked into the grocery store to find- ONTARIO PEACHES!!!!! I've been waiting all summer for these puppies and I immediately made a Peach/Cheerios/Greek Yogurt mix up.

Lentil Dal, Tikka Masala and Vindaloo. Woo Hoo.

FINALLY!!!!

Love.

Please note this was not all at once. Though, I'm thinking about it.

After stuffing my face, I came back to reading my class reflections. And this one was the ultimate.

In seven days, I taught 40 classes and met about 110 teachers. To get a reflection like this made my entire day. No, year... life.

A Fitness Fairytale

Once upon a time there was a girl who loved to exercise. She was young and carefree. She had all the time in the world to work out- at least two hours a day. Fast forward 16 years. Sure, she met her Prince Charming, but injured her back, got arthritis, had two kids, separated her pelvis, and gained more than 100 pounds. So what does she do? She signs up for a Phys Ed AQ, knowing that she is in the worst shape of her life and will likely be in a class with all young, athletic teachers. And that brings us right up to the present moment. 

You may have guessed by now that the girl is me, so let's dispense with the fairy tale talk for now. Here I am on my couch reflecting back on what has been at time intimidating, exhausting, and even downright humiliating. But ultimately, the last two weeks have been awakening. I've recaptured my love of exercise. Because of you. 

On that first day of class, I was excited and relieved to learn that yoga was part of the course curriculum. It was probably the only thing on the roster that was familiar to me and that I felt good about trying. I enjoyed learning poses that address so many aspects of fitness: strength, flexibility, agility, and endurance, to name a few. The classes were fun and informative. The atmosphere is inclusive. Instructions were clear and easy to follow. Your energy was infectious and made me rethink how I teach my students. The lower and higher options made it easy to adapt poses to my own personal ability. It was great to rediscover a fitness practice that I used to love. 

As a young teen I played sports like netball, field hockey, and softball. But I never really loved competitive sports. I supposed that's why I never had the athletic prowess of some of my teammates. That doesn't mean I don't like exercising and being fit- and you made it clear that I was not alone. There are tons of kids out there who feel the same way. Yoga, Pilates, and other personal fitness programs are great tools to reach those students who aren't necessarily athletes, but who want to be active. Every student deserves a chance to feel successful and fit- I loved that you focused on this. Create success. I think this mentality will help Phys Ed teachers get greater participation out of their student body. 

So, back to my personal fairytale: how does the fairytale end? I don't know yet, but I do know that I am determined to make Yoga part of my daily routine again. A journey of a thousand miles begins with one... stretch. 

Thanks for the inspiration and Namaste, Fairy Godteacher.

I am actually speechless. Which, doesn't happen often. When I said that yoga had forever changed my life, it was only my dream to make that part of others' lives. I feel fulfilled, happy, and joyous. It's actually strange to not be throwing in a sarcastic joke right about now.

To the teachers: thank you for giving me an amazing teaching opportunity, that has also been an incredible learning opportunity for me.

Have you ever lost touch with something that was such a big part of you, only to recapture it years later?

I have to say for me it's been kickboxing. I used to love love love it, and then I injured my shoulder playing lacrosse. My shoulder issues come and go, but I've been so thrilled to get back into it. I feel strong, powerful, and badass.

Does anyone else focus on one negative comment versus a zillion positive comments? Why do we do this?

A Day Spent with Family... and Lulu.

My yoga class was cancelled the other night so I was able to go watch my nephew play soccer!!! This is very exciting for me, as I usually work full time during the day plus three nights a week and never get the time to see my family enough. I knew it was going to be a good day when I got there and this car was in the parking lot:

My kind of ride.

I got to the park and my parents said "DID YOU SEE THAT CAR IN THE PARKING LOT??!" They know me too well. I embarrassingly told them that I had seen it, and I had also taken a photo of it. They did, too. Hahahaha. Note to self: Get eyelashes for car.

The soccer game was so cute. I enjoyed watching the coaches and the refs (mostly teens) work with the kids and try to keep them from looking like a swarm of bees while playing. "Make sure you spread out!" "Look for the pass!" It was awesome.

Mom and Dad with the pep talk. "Our future is relying on you becoming the next Becks. Just saying."

So, I may be biased, but my nephew rocks. He scored 6 goals.

Sure, he may have knocked this girl over, but whatevs.

SUCCESS!!!

Soccer is soooo not my sport. I love all other forms, played hockey and lacrosse competitively. The foot thing just doesn't work for me. So, I took a photo instead.

My nephew looks in pain. My other nephew, above, looks like he's about to superman punch me. Aunt of the year.

The next day, my sister, Mom and I went shopping at Lulu Lemon. We are part of their research and development team, which means that we get 15% off purchases. Hells. To. The. Yes. I often mistake 15% for 50% because I often say "I should get this!" thinking it will be cheap.

Well, I did it again.

You've already heard about my love affair with the Astro Pant here. I went to the sale section and found a pair of Astro crops ON SALE!!!!!! YES!!!! This NEVER happens- my size, my favourite thing in the store- on sale. Plus 15% off.

Crop it like it's hot... Brill.

Can only wear the Astro Crops if you jump like this.

I love these pants/crops because of the waistband. I often find that workout clothes dig into me in very unflattering places (um, hello lovehandles). I don't think I'm fat by any means, but it doesn't help with the self esteem when you look like you've squeezed your handles into tights only to have them hang over the super tight waistband. And then I'm supposed to motivate others to work out. They look at me and notice my lovehandles bouncing up and down. Gross. The Astros cover this monstrosity so that others don't have to see. It really is a gift to everyone- you're welcome.

Because I had saved so much money, I decided to buy two skorts. My husband would be so proud of all the extra cash in our bank account.

Yes, these are my abs, too.

I bought this in black... and may wear it to the bar.

And I couldn't leave without buying a tank top. It would be just wrong otherwise.

I bought the Scoop Neck in baby blue. For my eyes. I'm hoping to pick up.

I really thought I was saving money because these tanks will do everything- including buying me dinner.

Awwww damn. You mean they won't?

I came home to see this in front of my house:

The roofers are here.

Our roof was leaking all winter and we couldn't do anything about it (um... because we live in Canada... in the winter). Spring was rainy so this had to be done in the summer. These guys are the HARDEST workers in the world. In fact, their boss told them today to take the day off- and they decided to work anyway. It's 45 degrees celsius here (113 F for my American friends). On a roof. Ri-dic.

Toronto Roofing Industries is where it's at. Not only because they work so hard, their logo looks like the Toronto Maple Leafs logo. Sold.

All in all, a family-friendly day with lots of money being saved.

1. What is your FAVOURITE piece of Lulu gear?

ASTRO anything. My students ask if I'm sponsored by them. I really should be. I'm extremely classy and would even wear the clothes to the bar. If that's not dedication, I don't know what is.

2. Do you have any old workout gear that you just can't part with?

I have a few t-shirts from my high school and university days. One of them has a big PERSONAL TRAINER on the back from my days at the university gym. I wore it to work once, and got made fun of endlessly. I felt sorry for myself. So I bought more Lulu.

Wedding and Bachelorette Etiquette from Yours Truly.

This weekend was a crazy mash up of love. Friday night, I had a wedding, Saturday night, a bachelorette, and Sunday, a bridal shower. I am at the point in my life where weddings and babies are happening all the time, so celebrations are plenty, and I love it!!! Here is my list of do's and don'ts when it comes to weddings and bachelorettes.

DO: Look perfect on your wedding day, a la Tony and Tash.

Perfection.

DON'T: Marry someone three times your age, and DON'T do that weird lip thing with your mouth to try to look sexy. Am I the only one who doesn't think this looks good? Perching lips as if you are about to sneeze? It does NOT make your upper lip look bigger, and it does NOT make you look sexy.

You look like a douche.

DO: Showcase your true feelings about being in a wedding party.

Hahahahahahaha I sleep with him.

DON'T: Embarrass said wedding party member.

I apologize.

DO: Stand at the bar and look HOT.

What's your name?

DON'T: Try to be cool. Otherwise, this happens.

DO: Serve AMAZING food at your wedding.

DON'T #1: Scarf it down so fast that you take a photo from Google instead of the real thing.
DON'T #2: Pronounce "Gnocchi" incorrectly, especially when saying "that Gnocchi (knock-ee) was amazing!!!". I am a moron.

DO: Get a Starbucks on the way to a cottage bachelorette, and take a photo of it.

DON'T: Flash the people behind you.

DO: Drink wine in the lake.

DON'T: Drink from a pitcher at a classy restaurant.

DO: Practice yoga at the cottage.

Nice form.

DON'T: Jump off the dock and expect your strapless bathing suit to hold up.

I need to work on my vertical.

DO: Work out at the cottage.

DON'T: Lead a group run after drinking.

Pretty sure I fell up the stairs.

DO: Get dressed up in heels to be picked up by a bus in cottage country. Girl needs her club.

DON'T: Forget your flip flops to actually WALK to the bus in.

DO: Wear skirts and stop traffic if you have legs like these.

GOD DAMN.

DON'T: Forget to get yourself a drink from this FULL PAGE drink menu. AMEN.

GOR. GEOUS.

DO: Use your powers for good.

DON'T: Assume your leg power will keep this table from keeling over.

DO: Have a great time at your bachelorette, and make every man jealous that you're off the market.

F YEAHHHHHHHH!

DO: Hang up your dancing shoes in a creative manner.

DON'T: Forget your pants.

DO: Get your hair did.

DON'T: Do this. In general.

DO: Change into your ninja gear for your night shift.

DO: Not judge me.

1. Any wedding/bachelorette etiquette comments you want to add?

2. Tell me the best place to have a bachelorette party or wedding!

Burritos and Amazing Blogger Award!!!

Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!! Teaching the teachers- DONE! We finished a tough 2 week today with some skipping and step activities to bring into the classroom. We all sweat, we all laughed, we all got tangled in our ropes. It was awesome!!!

On the way home, Carter and I had a BURRITO DATE!!!!! I was dying to try Chino Locos at Greenwood and Queen based on some amazing reviews by a few friends of ours (You remember my BFF Edna, running partner galore- she is the mexican queen- girl can make the most AMAZING mexican food known to man). We walked in and a Tribe Called Quest was playing- score number 1. Who remembers this band??? They were ri-dic. The owner was so nice and attentive, explained to us the way and soon we walked out with burritos the size of our heads.

Don't think because this was the size of my head that I didn't demolish it.

Christina I can already see your drool for the Juicy Vegan burrito! I went with the Biggie Bean and Carter went with a special Chicken burrito. RI-DIC. Chino Locos was named one of 2010's Best Burritos in T.O. and I understand why!!! It was amazing, and I am SO full as I write this.

F yeah.

This is another reason I love Chino Locos:

So it's not the jeans? Damn.

In other news, Christina gave me an AMAZING BLOGGER AWARD!!! She tagged me at the beginning of the month and I feel like I've barely had time to breathe let alone think about this post. I have to THANK HER so much because not only am I in love with her, she is a fellow crazy canuck and she helped me to start blogging. Yay, The Athletarian! I only hope to be as popular as you!

Woooooooooooooo!!!!

 Here's how it works: I have to answer the questions that Christina was asked and then I have to add my own one at the end!!! Hope you like short stories, people!

1. My favourite cartoon character is (are):

SHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE-RAAAAAAAAAA

WONDER WOMANNNNNNNN (Check out those quads!!!!)

From the time I was a little girl I remember wanting these girls to kick some serious ASS. Though, I did wish that He-Man and She-Ra would get married. I didn't understand why they had to be brother and sister.

 

2. My favourite thing to photograph is: 

See question 4. 

 

3. My favourite thing to cook:

I love Indian Food and Quinoa/Lentil Stir-Frys!!! Usually I'll cook a huge batch to eat for lunch the next day!

One of my favourites- Thai-flavoured quinoa, roasted butternut squash and broccoli, with pesto salmon

4. My favourite way to exercise/my favourite thing to photograph:

Alright well this isn't fair. I am going to be hugely annoying here and say that there are very few forms of exercise that I don't like. I LOVE all types of sports (except soccer... My feet don't work that way), I LOVE going to choreographed classes like Body Attack and Zumba, I LOVE kickboxing, I LOVE Pump and Bootcamp classes, I LOVE TRX, I LOVE to run, I LOVE to skip, and of course, I LOVE Yoga. I'm sorry. You probably want to punch me. But what I have to tell you, is that I have a love for push ups. 

It is my goal in life to spread this love of push ups to bar floors all across Ontario. 

My love of exercise and personal coaching is apparent even during nights out.

These are my friends. At my wedding.

I'm surprised I even have a husband.

I could have kept posting photos. 

 

5. My favourite movie is:

Allllllllllllllrighty then.

6. My favourite article of clothing is:

I love my wedding dress, my LuluLemon Astro Pants (well.. anything from Lulu), and my yellow Rachel Roy dress!

Would it be appropriate to wear this to work? Great.

These pants hide the lovehandles well.

This does not do the dress justice.

 

7. My favourite breakfast is:

PLUS

= LOVE.

8. My favourite book I've read lately is:

YES, this counts.

9. My favourite place to be is: 

The Beaches. Carter proposed here, and Wickerhead Chocolate is here. 'Nuff said.

10. My favourite celebrity couple (after Jen & Brad, Emily & Brad, Nick & Jessica):

I know you feel me.

 I'm passing the AMAZING BLOGGER award to the following awesome chicks: 

Kristin @ Running to Somewhere

Hayley @ Oat Couture

Kristine @ Running On Hungry

Amy @ One Chic Chickpea

Carrie @ Confessions of a Dietitian

Go ladies go!!!!!

Answer any of the above questions, I want to know more about my bloggies!!!!! 

Side note- if I can get to 50 followers, I have a Swiss Naturals goody basket to give away!