Think You Can OR Think You Can't

You've heard it before -

Think you can or Think you can't - either way you are RIGHT.

My brother was the 1st person to say this quote to me. I love it. Our minds are powerful beyond words. They can make or break virtually every situation.

I am an extremely positive person now, but I remember a time when I did not have this "mental edge."

I played ice hockey all 4 years of High School. My Sophomore year I became a Goalie. I really didn't know what I was doing that 1st game in the net. The opposing team scored once, twice, seven then eight times. Instead of getting mentally strong, confident and thinking I could finish the game, I got weak, sad, depressed and thought there was no way I could. And with that "thinking-I-can't" mind frame, I was so right! The game ended 19-0.

I have learned to get tough - physically and (mostly) mentally over the years. As a matter of fact, one of my PowerSongs currently is "Fight Like a Girl." Refer to yesterday's posting on this!

I have loved knowing I could when they thought I couldn't. One time sticks out vividly in my mind:

• The Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota in the Twin Cities turned me down for acceptance into their school in 2001. I ended up at the University in a different school. I worked hard my first 2 years at the University, designing my own degree in Marketing/Advertising/English. I even had to write a 20+ page paper explaining why I should be able to obtain this degree. I got in! In 2005, I graduated having all of my Marketing from the Carlson School of Management. Additionally, I was offered a job from a company that Carlson said, "only their students could work with during the interview process."

I made sure I thought I could. And I did.

I could go on and on with examples of both. BUT, the most important one at hand is what happened today when I thought I could. Today, I DID!

I had every intention of running 10 miles today for my long run. But when I started running, I realized that perhaps today I would challenge myself - so I decided to try 11. And then I started running with 3 ladies who made me pace very well! They told me they were going 12. My initial thought was,

12? Are you kidding? That's basically the 1/2 Marathon!

And no more than 5 seconds later, I thought,

12? Who am I kidding? I can totally do this! I've been training. I'm strong in my body and in mind! (And not to mention, even 2 extra miles will help my Pied Pipers!)

So I told myself I was going to do it. I thought I could. And I did. And to top it off, I made great time! It was a flat course, but I still did it and paced about 8:30 minute/mile.

Think you can or Think you can't - either way you are RIGHT.

Fight Like A Girl

I'm heading into another weekend long run. I'm ready! And to help me get through it (and the upcoming week of running) I've got my perfect PowerSong.

So what is a PowerSong? A PowerSong was created by Dr. PowerSong. A PowerSong is a "cut worthy of pushing the button for when a run needs an adrenaline injection."

My PowerSong this week, though, is not to the beat/tempo of my typical "Boom Boom Pow." This week, it happens to be a song that I connect with - but it's not very fast. The "adrenaline injection" comes from the PowerMessage it provides.

Fight Like a Girl

Little girl alone on the playground
Tired of gettin' teased and gettin' pushed around
Wishin' she was invisible
To them

She ran home cryin'
"Why do they hate me?"
And Mama wiped the tears and said
"Baby, you're brave and you're beautiful.
So, hold your head high.
Don't ever let 'em define
The light in your eyes.
Love yourself, give them Hell
You can take on this world.
You just stand and be strong
And then fight
Like a Girl.

At 31 she was wheelin' and dealin'
Kept on hittin' that same glass ceilin'
She was never gonna be one of the boys, no
She could've gave up on her ambition
And spent the rest of her life just wishin'
Instead she listened to her mama's voice sayin'

"Hold your head high.
Don't ever let 'em define
The light in your eyes.
Love yourself, give them Hell.
You can take on this world.
You just stand and be strong
And then fight
Like a Girl."

Oh, with style and grace
Kick ass and take names

Ten years of climbin' that ladder
Oh, but money and power don't matter
When the doctor said "the cancer spread"
She holds on tight to her husband and babies
And says, "this is just another test God gave me.
And I know just how to handle this."

I'll hold my hight
I'll never let this define
The light in my eyes
Love myself, give it Hell
I'll take on this world
If I stand and be strong
No, I'll never give up
I will conquer with love
And I'll fight like
A Girl.

-Bomshel

Click HERE to hear the song.

Every single time I am running and I hear that song I am inspired. The song takes me to a "new place." This is a place with more meaning and running and living vibrantly than many songs do to me. My 2 favorite parts of the song:

1. "Ten years of climbin' that ladder - oh, but money and power don't matter..." - You can take that line and apply it to anything in your life. But you need to know that even if it's not something as severe as cancer or death looking you in the eye, still money and power (when it all comes down) really don't matter. Life is so much more than that. We are given so much. We truly need to appreciate each and every single day because you just never know what the next day might hold.
   
2. "Oh, with style and grace - kick ass and take names...." - That line is what it is. I love the "class" of style and grace, but I love the "sass" of kick ass and take names. (Because, ps., I was at one time a hockey goalie. I liked to think I "kicked ass -took names" and fought like a "boy" back then!) This line says, "I can do anything. I can be anything. If you don't like it, that's okay. I am me. I have style - I am graceful. But I never go down without a fight."

Tomorrow morning, I will wake up early. I will go to Danville to train with my Nike Running Group for the upcoming Run Like a Girl 1/2 Marathon. This is the perfect race name to match my PowerSong "Fight Like a Girl."

I am running strong, confident and (mostly) with Passion. I am training for this 1/2, while trying to "Fight Like a Girl" in leading/inspiring/motivating my fabulous Pied Piper team. You know you want to join! So what are you waiting for? Get your Nike gear, join the Pied Piper team and most importantly, "Fight Like a Girl" (or a boy)!

Go Big or Go Home.

Today's Motto: "Go Big or Go Home."

Here are my 3 reasons WHY:

1. HEALTH
I went BIG. When I first started working with Leah, we determined my 22 food intolerances. Cutting them out of diet was difficult at first. After almost 3 months of just avoiding those foods and not feeling as well (if well at all) as we'd hoped, we knew another change needed to take place. So, I went BIG - made BIG changes. And it worked. I've had to cut everything processed and virtually all sugars and carbs (in addition to everything I already had to refrain from). Someone asked me today, "But don't you miss it? Aren't you just craving those foods?" And the answer is - "No." I feel unbelievable. Amazing. I see life in color now. I have a new "lease on life."

I went BIG. I wasn't ready to quit or go home.
It's paid off.

2. FITNESS
3 1/2 years ago for Christmas, my parents got me a trainer when I lived in Minnesota. My trainer took my body fat percentage on the first day. I was all but satisfied with the number on that sheet of paper. I've kept it these past few years as a reminder of where I don't want to be. A few short months later we moved to California. Little-by-little, I started to lose weight and got in better shape. 7 months before my wedding I really "cleaned up." I ate better and got focused on fitness. Around this time, I was down 5% body fat. For the past year, I've really worked hard. When I workout, I do so with as much effort/energy as I have to expend for the day. I focus on the task at hand. And by the same token, I am just as serious about my diet. I have gone big with passion on this (mostly due to food restrictions). Because of it, I'm running my very 1st half marathon in less than 2 months, the Nike Women's Half Marathon in San Francisco. Furthermore, this morning, at 5am, I had another body fat analysis done. I am proud to say that I am now 10% body fat less than I was 3 1/2 years ago. I've made it into the "very lean" category.

I went BIG. I've worked hard. It's paid off.

3. PERSONAL
I recently said on my Nike Blog that I am, "Continuously re-inventing myself." I meant it. I love knowing that I have no idea what's coming next. BUT, knowing that my hard work, dedication, passion and work ethic is going to take me to a place with endless possibilities. I have FINALLY figured out what my "tick" is - what it is that makes me awake all hours of the night and eager to get up at 4:30am. It's a mix of things. But it's BIG in the sense that there is a little of this and a little of that - not all the eggs are in one basket. I put a little of my work in several places - trying to make it stick - and stick BIG in some way, shape or form.

I'm going BIG with endless possibilites. I won't stop until I make it. Not ready to go "home" - or stay complacent.

Happy Friday!

ps. Check out the Official Nike Human Race 2009 Ambassador Video. R/GA did a stunning job!

GAPS Diet Turned to Running Energy

It has been over 3 weeks since I started with GAPS. Time goes so quickly! It has already been such an amazing 3-week journey!

Since I made a few mistakes in Minnesota, I decided to keep it very simple this week, at least for a few days. I've been pretty bare bones with food choices. Perhaps I'll start adding back in a few (very) cooked vegetables this weekend. I'd like to see how I do with that. After all, I can't live on only meat for the rest of my life!

I have been so focused on the Nike+ Human Race these past couple of weeks. It has been so much fun to promote such a fabulous event! I have gotten absolutely addicted to my Nike+ SportBand!

I am crazy about this challenge and event. I think I've put my finger on "why," too. I love knowing that when I'm eating right and taking care of me, anything is possible! It is an absolute accomplishment in itself that I'm able to run. On top of it, I'm running FASTER - STRONGER - LONGER - AND HARDER than I ever could before! Some people can't believe it; I definitely can't believe it. But I love it! And I love knowing that it can be like this for the rest of my life now that know my food culprits!

I would really love it if you all would join me on 10.24.2009 for the Nike+ Human Race. It would mean so much to know that people who have as much belief in themselves as I do in myself, JOINED and RAN! It's just one day - 6.2 miles. You can walk. You can run. Or you can walk/run/etc. The bottom line is that you are putting forth effort in some way, shape or form for YOU! You can join the Human Race Here. You can find out more about me and the race Here.

Here is what I ate today (no new additions):

• Chicken
• Magic Mineral Broth
• Chicken Broth
  
• Ground Turkey - slowcooked
• Raw Sauerkraut, Raw Vegi-Delite, White Miso
• Artisana Raw Pecan/Cashew Butter
• Honey
• Banana * 2
  
• Wild Salmon Burger + Coconut Oil
  

I made sure to take my Probiotics, HCL and Enzymes. No Fish Oil today.

Minnesota Visit

I've decided to simplify this process even more. I won't be writing what day I'm on anymore! It's just one more "to do" that I'm done doing!

So I survived MN with GAPS. But, mistakes were made. I won't lie or sugarcoat it at all.

Friday night we went out - I ate and drank. Immediately upon eating, a huge, red dot appeared in my mouth. The next morning my left side hurt badly. I did well all day Saturday. Then, Saturday night I ate and drank again. And again on Sunday night in the airport I made a food mistake.

However, I made many less mistakes than I thought I would. Nonetheless, I made them.

I'm okay with it, though. I'm back on "task." I feel so much better when I go back to my normal.

It wasn't the most pleasant day today. My stomach was bad in the morning post-run. I did get sick. And my mouth annoyed me some. I was tired, too, but I also had a very busy weekend!

Being back in Minnesota made me so happy. Sure I love California. I love my life here, the wather, adverntures, friends and running. (I also love th eaccess to Whole Foods!) But, I really miss home. I miss family, friends and a more simple life. I miss time - time that seems to escape when we miss out on things. The kids grow up so fast and our friends and family build stronger relationships with each other.

But I know that this too shall pass.

I am focusing this week on my super-clean diet SO THAT I can be the Best Pied Piper Leader I can be!

Here is what I ate today (no new additions):

• Chicken
• Magic Mineral Broth
• Chicken Broth
  
• Ground Turkey - slowcooked
• Raw Sauerkraut, Raw Vegi-Delite, White Miso
• Artisana Raw Pecan/Cashew Butter
• Honey
• Banana * 2
  
• Wild Salmon Burger + Coconut Oil
  

I made sure to take my Probiotics, HCL and Enzymes. No Fish Oil today.

Not Always Ideal

Day 129.

Day 17 with GAPS.

I felt great today. However, it was just "one of those days" in "other ways."

I got home around 3pm. I knew that a good run had to be in my plans. I also knew that I was not feeling being inside at the gym. Why would I want to be inside when I could burn my energy out in the sun?! WRONG! It was 95 degrees out.

I started out okay. It was hot, but I could handle that. Around mile 1.5 I was faced to be running towards the wind. We live in Mountain House, CA. If you've never been here before you wouldn't understand, but it's windy here. This is the "mini-windy-city!" So it was hot and then it was super windy. I kept going.

Due to the heat, I figured I should stop after just a few miles. But then, I looked at my Nike+ SportBand and that dang addiction set in! (But yes, it's a great addiction to have!) I just wanted to go longer and cover more distance. And so I did.



And again, due to the heat (and the tank I was wearing), my right arm started to really chafe around mile 4. Not a pleasant feeling, but at that point, I was almost done with my run. I kept moving. (And yeah, I should have worn my 2009 Nike+ 10K Human Race Shirt.)



I finished my run at 4.6 miles. Hot. Dripping with sweat. Stinging arm. Not a single ounce of "sex appeal" to me. But really, I couldn't have cared less. And why? Because I believe in LEADING BY EXAMPLE. I want the Pied Pipers to be strong. I want the Pied Pipers to go a little faster and a little longer than they thought they would/could. And I wanted to contribute in any way I could today. That's what a Leader is supposed to do!



Are you ready to join Team Pied Pipers yet? We would love to have you!

1. Register for the Nike+ Human Race
2. Join Team Pied Pipers

Here is what I ate today (no new additions):

• Chicken
• Avocado
  
• Magic Mineral Broth
• Chicken Broth
  
• Ground Turkey - slowcooked
• Raw Sauerkraut, Raw Vegi-Delite, White Miso
• Artisana Raw Pecan/Cashew Butter
• 100% Pure Coconut Water
  
• Honey
• Banana * 1.5
• Wild Salmon Burger
• Red Wine
  

I made sure to take my Probiotics, HCL, Enzymes and Fish Oil today.

Pied Pipers of SKH

Day 128.

Day 16 with Gaps.

It wasn't too long ago when I did a Blog post on a question Leah posed to me, "What are you going to do/think about when you're healed?"

I knew exactly what I was going to think about, but I never imagined it could come to me so quickly. The time for me to stop being obsessed with what I can/cannot eat and to start this BRAND NEW chapter in my life has come. (At least I'm very confident it has.)

It occurred to me this morning that I have been 2 weeks symptom-free, stress-free and so happy! I have begun to focus all my attention in new directions. And here's my "best secret:" In 2 weeks, I have not written down one single thing I've eaten. This used to consume my energy, thoughts and life. It has for the past 4 years. I have literally "broken up with it!"

It comes at the most perfect time, too. One thing I said I was going to focus on was the "Run Like a Girl 1/2 Marathon in San Francisco." And I am proud to say that not only this, but more importantly the Nike+ 10K Human Race is top-of-mind and The Pied Pipers of SKH are top-of-heart.

So who are you....Mrs. or Mr. Pied Piper?

YOU are my Best Friends. YOU are my Inspiration. YOU are people just like me or maybe completely opposite of me. YOU are my Family. YOU run or you walk, but either way you move. YOU set goals for yourself because you like the sense of accomplishment. YOU are a fierce competitor, but you'll only "play" with dignity and respect. YOU might work full-time or work even harder as a full-time parent or go to school or do a combination of them all, but you live a busy life. YOU have huge hearts. YOU have a mind of your own; you think and speak for whatever it is you believe in. YOU are YOU and that is the best person YOU can be. But most of all, YOU have PASSION with something - anything - in your life and with/because of that PASSION YOU will be able to do ANYTHING at ANYTIME that you put your beautiful mind to.

Here is what I ate today (no new additions):

• Chicken
• Avocado
  
• Magic Mineral Broth
• Ground Turkey - slowcooked
• Raw Sauerkraut, Raw Vegi-Delite, White Miso
• Artisana Raw Pecan/Cashew Butter
• 100% Pure Coconut Water
  
• Honey
• Banana * 1.5
  

I made sure to take my Probiotics, HCL, Enzymes and Fish Oil today.

That's Just Bananas

Day 126.

Day 14 with Gaps.

I had a GREAT run today in Danville with my Nike Running Group. It felt amazing.

My stats for today were:
Total Miles - 10.4 miles
Total Time - 1:29 and 59 seconds
Pace - 8:39

It is so much fun to track this all with my Nike+ SportBand and then uploading to my Nike+ Webpage. It's super addicting, actually! It's one continuous competition with yourself - keeps me on my toes!

And so I had a great run today. Fabulous! BUT....the reason I think I did is twofold:

1. Bananas
2. My 6.5 mile-point PowerSong

Bananas - By now I'm sure you probably all know that I'm on the GAPS Diet. Two weeks in and I'm still feeling fabulous; completely on top of my "food/tummy game!" The only problem with this is that the lack of carbs can make my running a little more challenging. Cleaning out my gut and feeling better put me ahead, but being able to have a little carb would help out even more. So I turned to Mr. Banana! And Mr. Banana has come to my rescue! So here's the deal with Bananas for me. They are not all created equal.



According to Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride MD and the GAPS Diet, "Fruit should be ripe as unripe fruit has too much starch. For example, bananas have to have brown spots on their skins." And when it comes to food for the GAPS Diet, I heed her advice. I eat a level 6 or 7 banana.

And here's another thing about Bananas:
"Bananas provide an energy boost. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy. Bananas contain more digestible carbohydrates than any other fruit. Carbohydrates replace glycogen (stored glucose), which is used as fuel for the muscles. It is important to replenish the muscle glycogen after exercising to prevent fatigue. Both the fructose and glucose in bananas are easily converted to muscle glycogen. Bananas are grouped with foods that have the highest glycemic index, meaning their carbohydrates are among the quickest to move into the system."

Thus, because of this great "stored energy" I ate one yesterday around 3pm and another before bed and then finally one before my run.

I am so excited that I have found my first way to manage the GAPS Diet with my running for more energy, heart and soul!

Rollin' - My PowerSong at mile 6.5 today! I just "kept rollin', rollin', rollin', rollin'." Add it to your list and watch how the beat in your step becomes amped!

Here is what I ate today (no new additions):

• Chicken
• Avocado
  
• Magic Mineral Broth
• Ground Turkey - slowcooked
• Raw Sauerkraut, Raw Vegi-Delite, White Miso
• Artisana Raw Walnut/Cashew Butter
• Coconut Milk Tonic (100% Pure Coconut Water - Vita Coco, Coconut Milk & 1 tsp Organic Vanilla Extract)
• Cooked Carrots (then mashed) with Ghee & Honey (probably only 1/2 c. or less)
• Banana * 2
• Broiled Wild Salmon + Lemon
• Red Wine
  

I made sure to take my Probiotics, HCL, Enzymes and Fish Oil today.

Tomorrow is the begging to a brand new week!

Quiet Day

Day 125.

Day 13 with Gaps.

I had myself a nice, beautiful, quiet and then active beginning part of the day. I took my time waking up this morning and hung out with Reagan and Fiona. Then, I went to Baristas and spent time there drinking coffee, thinking and just being. I just love that feeling. I was all alone, too, as Ryan is in Utah until tomorrow. The silence has been okay for me. (But I am so glad he's coming home tomorrow!) After Baristas, I went to the gym and lifted a little and then headed to the Tracy West High track, where I ran a quick and easy mile to calibrate my Nike+ SportBand.

I spent a few hours this afternoon in peacefullness as well. Sometimes it's just the best and only option.

I worked in the late afternoon/night at the Club.

I have a 10-mile run in the morning with my Nike Running Group in Danville. I'm excited, but a little nervous. I haven't done this many in a long time. I can do it!

I felt great today. My mouth really annoyed me at times, though. I obviously wasn't perfect while in Oregon, so it could be that or perhaps the nut butter as the book says? I had 2 bananas today, ripe ones, because I need to make sure that I have enough good energy for the 10 miles tomorrow. Cutting down on the carbs is difficult when it comes to a ton of cardio. I'll have another one before the run as well. (Along with some coffee for a little extra help:)

Here is what I ate today (no new additions):

• Chicken
• Avocado
  
• Magic Mineral Broth
• Ground Turkey - slowcooked
• Raw Sauerkraut, Raw Vegi-Delite, White Miso
• Artisana Raw Walnut/Cashew Butter
• Coconut Milk Tonic (100% Pure Coconut Water - Vita Coco, Coconut Milk & 1 tsp Organic Vanilla Extract)
• Cooked Carrots (then mashed) with Ghee & Honey (probably only 1/2 c. or less)
• Turkey breast cooked with Coconut Oil (probably only 1/2 c. or less)
• Banana * 2
  

I made sure to take my Probiotics, HCL and Enzymes. No Fish Oil today.

Nike.

Nike. WHQ. Beaverton, Oregon.

I spent 2 absolutely amazing days at the Nike WHQ this past Wednesday and Thursday!

I received a message from Nike just a few short weeks ago saying, "Be a Nike+ Human Race Ambassador!" So I applied. I thought my chances were slim. Typically they are with those "contests." About a week later I got an email that said, "Congratulations, you've been chosen to be a Nike+ Human Race Ambassador."

This is where it started.

Our day started at 8:30am on Wednesday, August 12th. We had breakfast, welcome and an introduction video. We then had our Ambassador Program Overview, where we learned all about "the tasks at hand." After that, we got to run with Olympic Runner, Jonathan Riley. We went for a short 3.1 mile run, outside where mud and chips splashed beneath our Nike-painted feet.

After our run, we were introduced to the Nike+ and Nike+ SportBand. This piece of equipment (or any Nike+ for that matter) will be essential for the 10.24.2009 Human Race. This device is fabulous. It's a trendy "watch" that basically tells you how many calories you've burned, miles you've run, pace you've traveled at and distance you've gone. It's waterproof. It's small and gracious. It's a tool to "get you ahead" of both your competitor's game, as well as your own game!

We had lunch, and then learned more about what we going to actually be doing in the next few months. We were given our brand new LunarGlide+ Shoes, along with an HD Flip Cam that was customized for the Nike+ 10K Human Race. Nike discussed with us how the 10 of us in that room were the "US Ambassadors for this event," which is the World's Largest Running Event celebrating runners and their sport. Amazing!

We then were taken to the Nike Employee Store, where I bought too much and had much too much fun!

We ended our day by going to the Grand Central Bowling in downtown Portland. We bowled, had drinks and were catered food.

That night I could not sleep. My heart was beating so fast because I was so excited. I was thrilled to be at Nike. I was thrilled to be a part o all of this. I was having so many ideas pop into my head. My energy was out of control! I slept from 11pm-2am. I woke up at 2am and could not fall back asleep. So I watched TV until 3:30am. I became more restless. So I decided to just get up. I went to the Business Area of the hotel and got on the computer. I did that until 5:30am. I still had so much energy, so I decided to run. I ran until some after 6am, when I decided I wanted to run 1.2 miles to Starbucks. I sat at Starbucks, drank my coffee and enjoyed my time. I then ran back to the hotel. It was 7:20am - my day was about to start again.

At 8:15 am on Thursday, August 13th, my second day at Nike began. We had breakfast and then began our Video Shoot in the Jerry Rice Filming Studio. (Talk about nerves!) The entire room was pitch black, except for the lights on you. Eissa would ask us questions and we had to stare at her, while answering them. I believe my heart raced so fast and my whole body was numb that I didn't come out of it for a few minutes afterwards. But nonetheless, I'm hoping I said some good things!

We were then taken to have a Gait Analysis done. I have never had one of these before. You basically run on the treadmill, while a computer records your leg/foot action/strike. I was always told that I over-pronate. Turned out, though, that I was pretty neutral. Interestingly enough, I also had the LunarGlide+ shoes on. Besides being super comfortable, I guess they also helped me to neutralize. This is a good thing for me!

After (an extremely quick) lunch, we went to the Nike+ Sports Music room. This was not scheduled - very improptu. We got to see "behind-the-scenes" of Dr. PowerSong. We saw an unedited version of LeBron James talking on video about what his "PowerSong" is. Working with Nike+ Sports Music could potentially be another aspect in working with Nike for us. I am thrilled at the idea. Nike understands that not everyone runs or works out to Hip-Hop or R&B. They understand that "everyone runs to their own beat." People would be surprised to know that when I run, I typically run to Hip-Hop, R&B or Country. When I lift, I typically lift to Alternative or Hip-Hop. Stay Tuned for my PowerSong List(s)!

Then, we got to take a tour of the Nike Research Shoe Lab. I could only wish we were allowed to take pictures inside of there. It was probably the coolest place I saw on the Nike Campus. We met the guy who made the LunarGlide+ and the guy who has done many of the "famous" shoes in the past 19 years. We saw everything in there, from the unique paintings on the walls, to their "Live" Winebago and "shoes with purpose" (ie. Military Boots that are saving lives). I do not have links or pictures or much more to share on the Nike Research Shoe Lab, as you can understand that Nike must hold that to the highest confidentiality. Honestly though, what they do, could never be replicated!

We finished up our day there with our Photo Shoot. This was much easier. I was just goofy and had fun "posing." My 10 seconds of fame - ha:)

We got in our car and our driver brought us back to the airport, where I waited (and my heart sank, not yet ready to leave Nike) to head home to Mountain House, CA.

Nike.

This is what I want to say about Nike - UNBELIEVABLE. There was never a time while on the Nike Campus that I did not feel 110% inspired. They "live" in the most creative and innovative environment. They are encouraged to think outside-the-box. They are encouraged to find all the creativity they can find. There are not many "walls" in between people. Everyone has their areas decorated to fit them, who they are, what inspires them and what will help them produce nothing less than the best. There are no stiff suits, ties and pretentious people. Jeans and a shirt and a pair of Nikes are what I found most people were in.

In these next few months, the 10 of us that were chosen to be Nike+ Human Race Ambassadors have a big responsibility. We have the responsibility to promote, educate and ultimately get runners/walkers in every walk of life to participate on 10.24.2009 in the Nike+ 10K Human Race. The individual goal is to make sure that when someone signs up for the Challenge, that they then also sign up to join our Ambassador Team. (You will be able to do this from nikerunning.com beginning on the evening of Tuesday, August 18th. You will be able to go to the site, see my name and join my team. I will post links as soon as they come out so you will know exactly where/how to join me.)

For me, though, this whole experience is more than just that. Of course I want to "win." Of course I want my team to log the most miles on 10.24.2009. But what this is really about for me is that I want everyone to have a Nike+ and to experience the feeling of "where is my run/walk taking me today" and "wow look at what I just accomplished." I want people to follow me and join my Ambassador group because I know that I will inspire you along the way. Running to me means being able to do something no matter what. It's not just for the ultra-athletic. "The Roads are Always Open." I want people to know that it wasn't too long ago when I couldn't even make it a few miles before I had stomach issues. But now I can. And whatever challenge you have to overcome, you can too!

With Nike, with my Ambassador Team - The Pied Pipers of S(swoosh) K(kinetic energy) H(human race 2009), with YOU and with ME......this is all done with nothing less than 110% PASSION!



ps.....You can Join my Fan Page by clicking on the top, right side where it has a badge for my Pied Pipers of SKH Fan Page! JUST DO IT.

Back from Beaverton and STILL Symptom-Free

Day 124.

Day 12 with Gaps.

I am back from an absolutely UNREAL couple of days in Beaverton, Oregon at the Nike WHQ! My blog post tomorrow will be all about Nike - so we let the suspense build!

It has been 12 days that I have virtually been without bloat. The immediate change in my stomach that has taken place has taken me by storm. I can't believe it each and every day I wake up! I was very good in Oregon, only eating a little fruit and sticking with meat the rest of the time. I never got bloated there, either!

Here is what I ate today (new additions):

• Chicken
• Chicken Broth
  
• Magic Mineral Broth
• Ground Turkey - slowcooked
• Raw Sauerkraut, Raw Vegi-Delite, White Miso
• Artisana Raw Walnut/Cashew Butter
• Coconut Milk Tonic (100% Pure Coconut Water - Vita Coco, Coconut Milk & 1 tsp Organic Vanilla Extract)
• Cooked Carrots (then mashed) with Ghee & Honey (probably only 1/2 c. or less)
• Turkey breast cooked with Coconut Oil (probably only 1/2 c. or less)
• Banana
• Artisana Raw Pecan/Cashew Butter
  

I made sure to take my Probiotics, HCL, Enzymes and Fish Oil.

A Tad Bloat Tonight. It's OK.

Day 120.

Day 8 with Gaps.

Here is a sign that I know I'm moving in the right direction with my health - I don't want to think about it tonight! I am more concerned today with the fact that I get to fly to Portland tomorrow and be at Nike Headquarters until Thursday than I am about discussing any "problems." BUT, this also stems from the fact that I don't have problems right now for the most part! Love it!

My stomach was not bloated today, until a little bit tonight. I am a little concerned because I'm not going "to the bathroom" like I should be. I need things to start moving. It would really "seal this deal!" I think my night carrots/kombu could be the culprit to the bloat? Even though I didn't have much of them, I have had a little bloat since starting to eat these. My mouth was great, ~2/3 Level. My energy was great!

I had an unreal moment last night. I was reading the Gut and Psychology Syndrome book by the Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride MD last night. I am addicted to it and already almost finished with it! Anyways, I stumbled upon a piece that just may explain my mouth problems! She uses terms I've always used to describe this problem - chronic, mucosa, inflammation, etc. I am going to have a lot of stuff to talk about (between this finding AND Nike) when I return!

Until then, please pray that I make it with the food change. It will be virtually impossible to have broth and super clean meat while I'm away. I'm going to do my best. Nothing beats the feeling of no bloat!

Here is what I ate today (there were no new additions):

• Chicken
• Chicken Broth
  
• Magic Mineral Broth
• Ground Turkey - slowcooked
• Wild Salmon - slowcooked
  
• Raw Sauerkraut, Raw Vegi-Delite, White Miso
• Artisana Raw Walnut/Cashew Butter
• Coconut Milk Tonic (100% Pure Coconut Water - Vita Coco, Coconut Milk & 1 tsp Organic Vanilla Extract)
• Weak Coffee + Coconut Milk Light + Honey
• Cooked Carrots (then mashed) with Ghee & Cinnamon/Honey (probably only 1/2 c. or less)
• Cooked Kombu cooked with Coconut Oil (probably only 1/2 c. or less)

I made sure to take my Probiotics, HCL, Enzymes and Fish Oil. I also took one serving of the Magnesium Citrate.

Day 7 with GAPS

Day 119.

Day 7 with GAPS.

I "Ran Like a Girl" with my Nike Running Group in Danville this morning. I moved up (or rather down!) a group, to the 9 minute pace group vs. 9:30 minute pace group. We did 8 miles today.

It was extra challenging today for some reason. I am guessing it was a combination of the drop in time along with the fact that I have barely had any carbs this week! Next Sunday I may have to try a little coffee before the run.

Post-run, too, I was extremely hungry. I decided that that's probably the hardest thing for me right now - lack of food post-run. I realize that I just need to get creative and figure it out. It was nice to have a run with no side pain or bloat!

This week I'm going to Nike's Headquarters in Oregon. I got chosen to be a Nike+ Human Race Ambassador for the 2009 Race. I will have much more information coming soon on this. I will say this - I am so excited! I can barely wait to get there and learn all about it - and then to get out and promote!

The pain in my upper stomach went away this afternoon (I wonder if I was eating too much of the raw sauerkraut, etc? I went back to just the juice today). My stomach growled a couple of times, and I went to the bathroom, though it was fairly loose. I wonder about that flax from yesterday? I was not bloated in an uncomfortable way at all today, though perhaps a tiny, tiny bit upon waking (again, perhaps the flax?). My mouth was great, ~2/3 Level. My energy was great, once I kept eating and eating to regain strength after the run.

Here is what I ate today (new additions):

• Chicken
• Chicken Broth
  
• Magic Mineral Broth
• Ground Turkey - slowcooked
• Wild Salmon - slowcooked
  
• Raw Sauerkraut, Raw Vegi-Delite, White Miso
• Artisana Raw Walnut/Cashew Butter
• ~2oz Red Wine
• Coconut Milk Tonic (100% Pure Coconut Water - Vita Coco, Coconut Milk & 1 tsp Organic Vanilla Extract)
• Weak Coffee + Coconut Milk Light + Honey)
• Cooked Carrots (then mashed) with Ghee & Cinnamon/Honey
• Banana (fairly ripe) - post run
  
• Cooked Kombu cooked with Coconut Oil
  

I made sure to take my Probiotics, HCL, Enzymes and Fish Oil. I also took one serving of the Magnesium Citrate.

A Relaxing Day

Day 118 (still).

Ryan and I had a great, relaxing day today! It was what I needed; now I just need about 5 more like it!

My only complaint with today was that I was very thirsty (it was hot) and I have this pain way in my upper stomach (just beneath breast bone) that's unusual. It's kind of like a "flu" feeling, only I don't feel sick. I had it yesterday and it continued today. I'm not sure what it's all about. It doesn't hurt when I run, though? It's odd. I was not bloated at all today! My mouth was great, ~2/3 Level. My energy was great. The eye twitching has almost completely disappeared. All I can say again is "unreal!"

Here is what I ate today (new additions):

• Chicken
  
• Magic Mineral Broth
• Ground Turkey - slowcooked
• Raw Sauerkraut, Raw Vegi-Delite, White Miso
• Artisana Raw Walnut/Cashew Butter
• Broiled Ahi Tuna
• ~2oz Red Wine
• Coconut Milk Tonic (100% Pure Coconut Water - Vita Coco, Coconut Milk & 1tsp Organic Vanilla Extract)
  
• Breakfast Pancake (Flax, Zucchini, Artisana Raw Walnut/Cashew Butter + Honey)
  

I made sure to take my Probiotics, HCL, Enzymes and Fish Oil.

Today I got my GAPS Diet book in the mail. I already started reading it; I'm hooked! Time to get back to the book.....

Post-Friday Post

Day 118.

Yesterday was Day 5 with the GAPS Diet. I didn't post, but I want to make sure to let everyone know about the day.

Here is what I ate yesterday (new additions):

• Chicken
  
• Homemade Chicken Broth
• Magic Mineral Broth
• Broiled Salmon + Lemon
  
• Ground Turkey - slowcooked
• Raw Sauerkraut, Raw Vegi-Delite, White Miso
• Artisana Raw Walnut/Cashew Butter
• Coconut Milk (more than usual) w/ ~ 1/2 c. weak coffee
• Broiled Ahi Tuna
• ~ 4oz Red Wine
• 100% Pure Coconut Water (Vita Coco)
  

I made sure to take my Probiotics, HCL, Enzymes and Fish Oil.

My day was fabulous again! No bloating! (Side Note: I was trying to push my stomach out and it would not budge. It was purely comical to me!) Now that is PRICELESS! My mouth annoyed me some yesterday. It was probably a level 5/6. I had good energy. No fatigue.

Day 5 was a success. I'm happy to see how Day 6 goes today!

Thank You Stubborn Persistence

Day 116.

Day 4 for the GAPS Diet for me. I am happy to report that, again, I felt great today! Finally! I moved down from 4 (to 3) HCL's starting at my second meal (4 was too much 1st meal); this is great!

I had energy. I woke up with the dogs at 6am. I hung out, finished making my broth, worked out, hung out more and then worked all afternoon/night. My throat is still hurting a little. I can deal with that. (Our Director of Operations had Strep before leaving for vacation last Friday. I might guess that I was getting it or had a touch of it, but then due to the detox, I was able to recover. OR, my "die off" symptoms are "dying off!") My mouth was about a 3/4 today. A few times of annoyance; nothing significant.

And here is something all you ladies out there will appreciate like no man can: I got my "female monthly friend tonight," and yet, NO BLOATING! None. Not even a little. At all!

Here is what I ate today (new additions):

• Chicken
  
• Homemade Chicken Broth
• Magic Mineral Broth
• Broiled Salmon + Lemon + Coconut Oil
• Ground Turkey - slowcooked
• Raw Sauerkraut, Raw Vegi-Delite, White Miso
• Artisana Raw Walnut/Cashew Butter
  
• Coconut Milk (more than usual) w/ ~1/4-1/2 c. weak coffee
  
• (Extremely well-cooked) mashed garlic (which I added to my broths)
  

I made sure to take my Probiotics, HCL (went down to 3 from 4 for 2nd meal), Enzymes and Fish Oil.

I do believe I'm floating on a cloud with happiness right now. I can't help but wonder what's going to come next in my discovery? I've never taken it this slow with re-introducing foods. My next step will be the extremely well-cooked, skinned and de-seeded veggies and (maybe) one type of (well-cooked) fruit. I will stay there for awhile, trying new and different ones. I will catch these culprits if it's the last thing on earth I do:)

I am absolutely optimistic now. I've never had this many stomach symptom-free days! And I do believe I have my "stubborn persistence" to thank for this! Thank you! I love you.

Probiotics (in many Forms)

Day 115.

I made it through the 3rd day.

I had to be to work at 4am, which means I had to get up at 2:50am today. Not fun! Especially not fun when my body is still clearly detoxing. But, mind over matter. I made it!

I added some new things into the diet today. Trust me, nothing of which you will look at and say, "Oh wow, how soon can I get me some of that?" The reason I add these in and take them is for their Probiotic Power! They heal naturally.

I added:

• Raw Sauerkraut Juice
• Raw Vegi-Delite Juice
  
• White Miso (added to my broth, which, I'm not sure I'm supposed to do because of the broth's heat?)
  
• Artisana Raw Walnut/Cashew Butter (in a very small quantity)
  

The "taste" of the Artisana Raw Walnut/Cashew Butter was all I needed for a little "treat." When it comes to the Raw Nut Butters, I'm absolutely sold on the Artisana brand. They make them so well. This is my 2nd jar I've purchased of theirs.

I felt okay today. My throat still burned. I was still very tired. But, I did go to the bathroom today. It was even fairly normal. Funny thing is that I'm still passing quinoa and "those" carbs. My body must still be detoxing. My mouth was good again today. 2/3 all day. No bloat again today. None. Not even a little. At all:)

Leah says I'm progressing so well with this that I'll only need to stay on this "introduction portion" for 5 days. And yes, that means only 2 days left! I ordered the Gut & Psychology Syndrome Book today. I can't wait to get it in the mail!

Here is what I ate today (new additions):

• Chicken
  
• Homemade Chicken Broth
• Magic Mineral Broth
• Broiled Salmon + Lemon + Coconut Oil
• Raw Sauerkrat, Raw Vegi-Delite, White Miso
• Artisana Raw Walnut/Cashew Butter
  

I made sure to take my Probiotics, HCL, Enzymes and Fish Oil. I also took a serving of the Mag/Citrate tonight.

Signing off for tonight...it's Epsom Salt Bath time!

Mind over Matter

Day 114.

Day 2 of the GAPS; still in Stage 1. Leah said to stay in Stage 1 for 1-2 days. I decided to extend it out to 2 days.

I woke up at 6am today; I actually got up and started my day then, as I wanted to hit the gym before work. Talk about Cardio on an empty stomach! (I ate just a few pieces of chicken before I left, though, since I knew I'd lift a little as well.) So I ran my Nike workout for the day; 4 miles. I pushed myself all the way to 7.6 for a mile! I was so proud! I lifted a little post-run. My workout gave me energy; it felt great.

Fast forward to post-workout, though. Extreme drop in energy. I drank water, had broth and chicken. But I crashed. And I got hungry again around 11am. I ate. And then shortly after I was still hungry. This did not happen yesterday, but I did not workout yesterday either.

My whole day was fairly unpleasant. The fatigue was miserable. My throat hurt. I feel like I have a cold, but (as of now) I don't. My head hurt on and off, too. BUT....again today, no bloat. No stomach problems. It was an A+ stomach day. My mouth is even doing pretty well. I had about a level 3/4 yesterday and today.

Here is what I ate today (new additions):

• Chicken
  
• Homemade Chicken Broth
• Magic Mineral Broth
• Broiled Salmon + Lemon + Coconut Oil
  

And that was it. That's all I ate the entire day. I made sure to take my Probiotics, HCL, Enzymes and Fish Oil.

What I realized from my day today was that everything is truly Mind over Matter. We learned at my Nike Running Group in Danville last week the Psychology of Running and how important it is for those long runs. They called it, "Mind over Muscle." I believe these are very important. I am working on it. It's hard, though, especially when all I want is some fruit or my fruit fusion bars or just simply something to make me feel like I'm eating more to trick my mind into energy. But, I know that it must just come from within me.

Going to bed before 7pm tonight. I'm so tired, and I have to get up at 3am to go to work. Oh the joys!

Day 1 GAPS Diet

Day 113.

Today began my first day with the GAPS Diet. I am so proud of myself that I got through the day!

I woke up tired. I didn't have to work until 11am today. I typically hit the gym before work. But when I woke up at 6:40 am and felt like a zombie, I decided that was not in the plans for today! My body was sore and achy from my 9 mi run yesterday. So, I went downstairs, grabbed a big glass of water and jumped back in bed. I called my mom, read a little and enjoyed the cool breeze coming through our windows, while my dogs slept by me. I fell asleep again. I woke up at 9am ready to start the day for real:)

I had the worst headache for most of the day. It went away late afternoon. I was very tired all day as well. BUT, NO BLOAT! None. Zero. Nada. I believe if I can get past the headaches and fatigues, I'll be set free!

Here is what I ate today:

• Chicken (from the slow-cooked chicken I made Saturday - more on this amazing discovery later!)
• Homemade Chicken Broth
• Magic Mineral Broth
• Broiled Salmon + Lemon + Coconut Oil
  

And that was it. That's all I ate the entire day. I made sure to take my Probiotics, HCL and Enzymes.

I found some more resources on the GAPS Diet today that I thought I'd share:

• Thinking Outside the Box - Blog
• GAPS Guide - Blog
• one girl's journey on GAPS - Blog

More from me tomorrow!

GAPS Diet

Day 111.

Today marks Day 111. Let me tell you about what is next for me, diet/health-wise: GAPS Diet.

I have improved a lot from where I started, but I should probably be farther along than I am. I still have such reactions and we are unsure why. The answer may lie in the fact that my body can't process carbohydrates and sugars properly. After my major reaction(s) a couple of weeks ago, I began to think a lot about what could be going on. The SCD was brought to my attention. You can find out all about SCD HERE. SCD stands for "Specific Carbohydrate Diet." The website I directed you to was a website geared more towards children, but can be applied to anyone. The SCD helps with gut issues, including Colitis, which I have a form of. It's also helpful for those with allergies. After I spent a lot of time on this site, I brought it to Leah's attention. Then, we met on Wednesday and she said, "how ironic - I was going to talk to you about this."

What Leah wanted to discuss with me wasn't necessarily the SCD, but definitely a form of it - perhaps an even more strict version of it. And so here I sit, mentally preparing to begin the GAPS (Gut & Psychology Syndrome) Diet. The GAPS Diet was created by Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride. You can learn all about the GAPS Diet HERE.

I believe this is just what I need. I believe that this is going to help me and that perhaps, just perhaps, this was my missing link. Directly from the website:

"Food Allergies and Intolerances

People with food allergies and intolerances should go through the Introduction Diet in order to heal and seal their gut lining. The reason for allergies and food intolerances is so-called "leaky gut" when the gut lining is damaged by abnormal micro flora. Foods do not get the chance to be digested properly before they get absorbed through this damaged wall and cause the immune system to react to them. Many people try to identify which foods they react to. However, with damaged gut wall they are likely to absorb most of their foods partially digested, which may cause an immediate reaction or a delayed reaction (a day, a few days or even a couple of weeks later). As these reactions overlap with each other, you can never be sure what exactly you are reacting to on any given day. Testing for food allergies in notoriously unreliable: if one had enough resources to test twice a day for two weeks, they would find that they are "allergic" to everything they eat. As long as the gut wall is damaged and stays damaged, you can be juggling your diet forever removing different foods and never get anywhere. From my clinical experience it is best to concentrate on healing the gut wall with the Introduction Diet. Once the gut wall is healed, the foods will be digested properly before being absorbed, which will remove most food intolerances and allergies."

There is no better reason than that paragraph for how I justify this working for me. I believe that this is exactly what's going on with me. And I think she was talking to me when she said, "Many people try to identify which foods they react to." So has been my life. It wasn't all a complete waste because it has solidified for me the concept that my gut is just yucky right now, and until it's healed anything and everything at any given moment could make me react now, in 10 minutes, 2 days or a week.

I will say this, though, these past 111 days have not gone to waste. What can be more satisfying than treating your body well through Organic, fresh and non-preservative foods? Nothing, except, for the idea that we stick to these same exact principles but we tweak it.

So you've gone to the website and you've seen the "Introduction Diet" and its "Stages" and then perhaps you've read "The Full GAPS Diet." You're thinking, "Wow - no way could anyone do this." But I will promise you one thing....I WILL! And furthermore, after I get through the Introduction portion, I will be able to keep it fresh, fun and interesting. I will come up with things that I didn't know existed. And I guarantee that not only will it be good for me, it will taste fabulous!