tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73180983348223692992024-02-21T00:21:47.162-05:00Stilettos on the StreetcarBella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-43100413087178966242010-07-26T12:09:00.001-04:002010-07-26T12:11:40.289-04:00Race recap - first 5K<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Here at <a href="http://www.stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/">SOTS</a> I generally ponder something for a while and then write a post. I rarely give you a day-to-day moment-to-moment account of my world. However, you get to read <em>exactly</em> what I experienced during my first race. The times are close, but let's be real here, it's not like I was checking my watch the whole time, so they may be off a bit.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">5 AM - wake up. Feelin' nervous first race energy.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">6:30 AM - alarm goes off. Get out of bed.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">7:15 AM - consume massive bowl of steel cut outs.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">8:15 AM - out the door.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">9 AM - arrive at race.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">9:01 AM - notice bouncy castle. Wonder if adults are allowed to play, too.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">9:05 AM - register for race. Realize there is no chip timing or bibs despite what the website said. Boyfriend writes number 24 on my arm in provided dry erase marker.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">9:10 AM - meet up with <a href="http://stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/2010/07/little-friendly-competition.html">Sole Mate</a> and wait for other Running Room Learn to Runners to arrive.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">10:20 AM - check route. Locate water stations. Decide not to wear fuel belt.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">10:25 AM - set Garmin for 2 x 15:1 intervals. That should put my 1 minute walk at the water station and keep me on track to finish under 30 minutes.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">10:28 AM - Sole Mate and I toe the line.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">10:30 AM - 5k start!!!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">10:32 AM - arrive at stoplight where volunteers will ensure we can easily cross and direct us on the next leg of the race. Except... volunteers are MIA. Wait until light changes and make educated guess re: course.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">10:34 AM - Sole Mate and I realize we started WAY to fast and adjust our pace.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">10:36 AM - Sole Mate falls a few steps behind.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">10:38 AM - Sole Mate falls further back. Suspect that ridiculously fast start killed her. Am only surviving due to genetic stubbornness (thanks, Dad!).</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">10:40 AM - assess situation. Am comfortable at current pace. Am running in a group of men. Can see one female running a few paces ahead of me.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">10:42 AM - fairly certain the humidity has now reached 40 degrees.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">10:43 AM - notice trail is very beautiful. Make note to run here again.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">10:45 AM - walk break. Where's the freakin' water station? Check Garmin - am past 2.5K. What the heck?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">10:47 AM - arrive at water station. They don't have water ready. Cups are empty. Bottles are in unopened 24 packs. I grab what I can and curse myself for leaving my fuel belt in the car.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">10:48 AM - assure myself that even though it's 30 plus degrees outside it's okay that I don't have water because I'm more than 1/2 done.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">10:49 AM - pass 2.5K sign. Check Garmin - have gone more than 3K. Curse like a sailor.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">10:52 AM - pass female from earlier.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">10:55 AM - fairly certain am melting. Humidity is causing breathing issues. Consider using inhaler.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">10:56 AM - remember inhaler is in pocket of fuel belt... in the car.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">10:57 AM - continue cursing myself for leaving fuel belt behind.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">10:58 AM - begin losing a mental battle. Have no idea how long this race actually is. No </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">clue how to pace myself. Desperately miss Sole Mate.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">11:00 AM - if finish line is not around next corner I will 1) have asthma attack 2) cry or 3) scream profanities. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">11:01 AM - round corner. See boyfriend taking photos. Realize finish is close. Sprint.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">11:02 AM - finish!!!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">11:03 AM - head directly to water tent and chug a bottle of water. Learn that route is </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">actually 6.3K, not 5. Wonder why no one thought to mention that.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">11:04 AM - cheer face off as Sole Mate crosses finish line.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">11:05 AM - learn that finish times were not recorded. Whatever. Very proud of us.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">11:06 AM - chug two more bottles of water while cheering on the rest of the Running Room team. Take many sweaty happy photos to commemorate the event.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">11:35 AM - drive back to start point.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">11:50 AM - stretch it out.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">11:55 AM - winners are announced, but more importantly runners are encouraged to enjoy the bouncy castle.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">11:56 AM - played in bouncy castle. Come on, what else did you think would happen?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">12:00 PM - 1st race experience complete. Let's eat!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">There were a few organizational bumps along the way, but all in all I’m happy with my first race experience. According to Garmin, I finished in just over 32 minutes, which means I didn’t quite make my 30 minute race goal. Given that it was sweltering out and the route was an extra 1.3K, I’m happy with 32. I was 5th overall and the first female to finish. Not too shabby.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>SOTS wonders... what was your first race like?</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>Bella</em></strong></span>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-27071584607851454382010-07-23T07:42:00.001-04:002010-07-23T07:43:46.304-04:00A little friendly competition<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">On the first night of my </span><a href="http://www.events.runningroom.com/hm2/"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Running Room Learn to Run</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> clinic, I met my Sole Mate. We fell into pace during the first run and have stuck together ever since. We’re both running newbies. We're the same age. We get along, but don't know much about each other outside of running. She is a perfect training partner for me. We are so in sync that our RR instructor thought we knew each other before the clinic.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">During our last day of Learn to Run, the instructor pulled us aside for a little chat about our first 5K race on Saturday. She told us to get our game faces on because during tomorrow's race Sole Mate and I are direct competition.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">We hadn't thought of that. It never crossed our minds. When visualizing the finish line, I imagined crossing it with Sole Mate; one of those hand-holding, high-fiving joint victory moments. But one of us will have to finish before the other. There's no avoiding it.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">This is my first race and I plan to finish in 30 minutes. I'm certainly not in it to win it, but I am competitive. It's one of my greatest strengths. My competitive nature motivates and drives me: to get the best grades; to do the best job; to do one more agonizing push up. I constantly try to one-up myself. My competitive nature is also a weakness. I am my own worst critic and expect perfection of myself. I also rarely take the time to acknowledge accomplishments because I'm already focused on the next goal (case in point – I’ve already signed up for Running Room’s 10K clinic).</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The more I thought about it, the less comfortable I was considering Sole Mate “the competition.” Perhaps I can simply shut of my competitive nature for one race. This race is about celebrating; celebrating a new found friend and being stronger than I was before the </span><a href="http://stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/2010/03/full-disclosure.html"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">accident</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">. Instead of obsessing over beating other runners, I’m focusing on running a good race and attaining my time goal. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Regardless of who crosses the finish line first, I plan to give Sole Mate a big hug and marvel at how far we’ve come over the past 10 weeks. In the next race we may be each other’s competition, but tomorrow is just like every other time we hit the pavement.</span><br />
<br />
<strong><em><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">SOTS wonders... what happens when your training partner becomes “the competition”? Is it possible to and should you try to turn off your competitive nature during a race?</span></em></strong><br />
<strong><em><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Bella</span></em></strong>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-85779581663796616772010-07-19T17:11:00.000-04:002010-07-19T17:11:15.365-04:00Defining yourself<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">How do you define yourself? I'm talking about the deep-down fundamentals at the core of who you are.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">A few months ago (yes, I've been pondering this for ages), I went for lunch with a mentor of mine. She's basically my Yoda. She wouldn't like that comparison and would much prefer I call her my <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Branch_Rickey">Branch Rickey</a>, but I'm trying to appeal to mass knowledge here. Anyhoo, we discussed my <a href="http://stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/2010/03/full-disclosure.html">concussion</a> and how it was screwing with my sense of self.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I had never taken the time to figure out what makes me tick. Luckily this extremely insightful woman had and her conclusions were spot on.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">She proposed that I define myself in the following way:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">1. I am tough and can handle anything on my own.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">2. I am a hard-worker who will go above and beyond the call of duty.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">3. I am an active and contributing member of society.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">No wonder I felt I was losing myself! The concussion proved that I was not as tough as I like to think I am. I had to quit my job and was no longer hard-working. I spent hours on the couch alone, so there goes my contribution to society. Okay, I realize I'm being a drama queen, but it's how I felt at the time.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I was terrified that I wouldn't be "me" again; that those core elements I used to define myself were gone. I wasn't entirely sure I liked the new "me." I was scared my friends and family would secretly wish I was who I used to be. I kept trying to get back to being the person I was before the accident.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Slowly but surely the "me-ness" returned: my sense of humour came back; my ability to express myself returned; my physical strength grew. I felt more and more like myself.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">And I stopped trying to be the "me" from before my accident. Luckily, with healing came wisdom. I learned from the accident and became a richer person for the experience. I wouldn’t go back to being the woman without this new wealth of knowledge.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I look at the way I defined myself pre-accident. I don't know for sure, but I suspect my core values have shifted in the past few months. Only time will tell, but I'm curious to see how I will define myself in the future.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>SOTS wonders... How do you define yourself? Can your core values change or are they an inherent part of you?</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>Bella</em></strong></span>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-8160788354799017112010-07-16T08:41:00.000-04:002010-07-16T08:41:04.989-04:00Eating safety net<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">After <a href="http://stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/2010/07/breaking-up-with-weight-watchers.html">breaking up with Weight Watchers</a>, counting Points bothers me. I have been calorie counting in one form or another for years. I'm sick of looking at food and seeing numbers. I need a mental break.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">As a child, I ate when I was hungry and stopped when I was full. I was very in tune with my body's needs and wants. When I didn't want to eat something, there was no making me consume it (there were many untouched broccoli florets in my childhood).</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Somewhere along the way I lost the connection to my body. I started eating what the latest fad told me to eat – low carb, fat free, no sugar added. I consumed a specific number of Points or calories regardless of my hunger. Some days I ate when I wasn't hungry just to meet my caloric goal. Other times I went hungry because I was out of Points for the day.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">When I started my <a href="http://stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/2010/04/food-for-thought.html">elimination diet</a>, the nutritionist wanted me to give up counting and start listening to my body. Over the two months, I was more aware of my body, but I still diligently counted WW Points. My brain couldn’t process the concept of eating without restrictions.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I may be sick of Points and counting, but I'm not sure I'm ready for full blown intuitive eating. Ultimately I'll get there, but I need a stepping stone. Truth be told, I actually need a safety net. I don't trust myself to honestly evaluate my eats if I can't see them in writing. No numbers or measurements - just the time of day, my hunger level, and what I eat in general terms.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">It’s scary to give up counting after so long. I’m afraid that without the self-imposed limitations my eating will get out of control. It’s ridiculous that I don’t trust myself to know when I’m full. It’s so simple in writing. Ask myself if I’m hungry. If the answer is no, put down the tasty treat. No problem in theory. Now let’s see how it goes in execution.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>SOTS wonders… does intuitive eating scare or exhilarate you?</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>Bella</em></strong></span>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-51319354054151857682010-07-14T09:39:00.000-04:002010-07-14T09:39:10.905-04:002010 goal update<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>1. Try yoga.</strong></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">UPDATE: Done. I started practicing yoga in January and haven’t looked back. I used to avoid yoga because I didn’t think I could quiet my mind. Plus, I’m not very flexible. Now I take an hour each week to focus on restoring and rejuvenating my body and mind.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>2. Reach/maintain a healthy body weight.</strong></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">UPDATE: Half way there. I’ve reached goal. Hooray! Now for the maintaining part…</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>3. Stop biting my hands.</strong></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">UPDATE: So far no good. Any advice is welcome. This is proving to be a tough one for me.I’ve realized that I’m less likely to bite and pick my hands if my nails are polished so I’ll be giving myself more manicures in the future. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>4. Go to spin class.</strong></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">UPDATE: Not yet. I don’t have a gym membership right now and won’t until I’m employed. This will happen as soon as I’m back living the Goodlife.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>5. Learn to run.</strong></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">UPDATE: Heck yes! I run my first 5K on July 24. Eep, that’s next weekend.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>6. Find a better life/work balance.</strong></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">UPDATE: Well, I can’t really do this one yet since I don’t have a job. My doctors have approved my return to the workforce so I’m currently job hunting. I am looking at job opportunities very carefully to ensure the positions I apply to will allow for a healthy life/work balance.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">2.5 out of 6. I better get a move on! Half the year is already gone.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>SOTS wonders… how are you doing with your goals? </em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>Bella</em></strong></span>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-32645228247247803462010-07-09T16:55:00.003-04:002010-07-19T17:12:06.278-04:00Run like a horse<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I've decided to tackle something that's been bugging me for years. I want to be a runner.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Back in public school, I ran track and field. I have a box of red ribbons to show that I was a decent sprinter. My tiny stick legs were speedy and I loved being one of the fastest girls in class.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Then it all changed one fateful afternoon. I was running the 400 metre race at the local track and field meet. As I crossed the finish line, I heard one of the coolest boys in class say "she runs like a horse." In my pre-pubescent self-conscious mind that meant "she looks ugly when she runs." I'm ashamed to admit that I stopped running. I would only run during organized sports and even then I worried about how I looked. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Years passed and I spent a good deal of time on the elliptical and my bike. Once or twice I even ventured out to try running, but never made it past 5 minutes. Jealousy raged whenever I saw someone out for a jog. I wanted to do that.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">A few months ago, I’d had enough wishing so I signed up for <a href="http://www.runningroom.com/hm/inside.php?id=2425">The Running Room's Learn to Run</a> program. I'm not a runner yet, but I'm getting there. I have my first 5K race on July 24.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I’m horrified that one comment and my own insecurity kept me from running. Although at the time I thought the cool boy was insulting me, I think it was actually a compliment. I mean, have you watched a horse run? It’s damn impressive. They’re fast and graceful. I hope I still run like a horse.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>SOTS wonders... what aren't you doing that you could be? What's holding you back?</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>Bella</em></strong></span>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-51032816593881422032010-07-08T15:45:00.001-04:002010-07-10T00:11:45.793-04:00Breaking up with Weight Watchers<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">At first, I was so in love. Weight Watchers seemed like a perfect fit. Once the honeymoon period was over, it turned into a bad relationship. WW and I simply weren't seeing eye-to-eye. I tried to make it work, but we had different goals. It was hard to admit, but the relationship was over and it was time to say goodbye.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I joined WW to lose those last few really stubborn pounds. At first, all was going well and I figured I'd be rocking Lifetime in a few short months. Then I stalled. Then I gained. Then I lost. Then I stalled. Then I gained. Then I lost. Then I stalled. You get the picture.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I finally realized that my body was telling me it was done. I was at my happy, healthy, natural body weight. Yippee! I decided to call Goal.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Unfortunately WW wouldn't let me because I hadn't lost enough weight since joining. I pondered that. First, I came up with some crazy ways I could lose the weight and officially call goal. Luckily I was reminded that this is about health not a number on the scale (Thanks, <a href="http://www.trulyjess.com/">Jess</a>!). I decided not to let an international company dictate my body. So, WW and I broke up.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">It's been about a month and, I have to tell you, I feel great. This has been a three-year, 46-pound weight loss journey. There have been ups and downs; six-month plateaus; entire Deep 'n' Delicious cakes consumed; and many nutrition books read. The result? I haven't had such a healthy relationship with my body in years.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>SOTS wonders... if you've lost weight, how did you know when you were done? Was it a number on the scale, how your jeans fit, or simply a feeling?</em></strong></span>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-28776565590868848582010-07-07T22:33:00.000-04:002010-07-07T22:33:55.111-04:00Isn't that sweet<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Big thanks to Michelle over at </span><a href="http://www.thegarlicchronicles.com/"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Garlic Chronicles</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">. She presented me with my first blogger award. I'm very honoured (especially since I've been slacking on my posts lately). </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_4gJ2gnXRxVE/TDE1tawjIcI/AAAAAAAAAGM/sTJNPgB5WLw/s1600/sugar+doll.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_4gJ2gnXRxVE/TDE1tawjIcI/AAAAAAAAAGM/sTJNPgB5WLw/s1600/sugar+doll.png" /></span></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The rules of the award state that I need to link back to the person who honoured me, list 10 little known things about myself, and share the award with five bloggers I admire. Here we go:</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">1. I've broken both ankles, but not at the same time.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">2. I treasured <a href="http://www.google.ca/search?hl=en&source=hp&q=popples">Popples</a> when I was a kid.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">3. I blast show tunes while cleaning the apartment.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">4. I've read every <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sweet_Valley_High">Sweet Valley High</a> book ever written.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">5. I was prom queen.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">6. My childhood idol was <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0126171/">She-ra</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">7. I subscribe to <a href="http://www.nationalgeographic.com/">National Geographic</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">8. I rarely reply to event invitations on Facebook.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">9. I eat a jar of almond butter each week. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">10. I'm a morning person.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">For more random fact about me, check out this <a href="http://stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/2010/01/10-things-about-me-completely-unrelated.html">post</a>. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Now the five bloggers I admire. I look forward to reading each and every one of their posts.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Jess at <a href="http://jessissinging.blogspot.com/">Truly into Fitness</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Allie at <a href="http://inmynuddypants.blogspot.com/">Dancing in My Nuddy Pants</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Julie at <a href="http://peanutbutterfingers.wordpress.com/">Peanut Butter Fingers</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Jamie at <a href="http://www.embracingbalance.com/">Embracing Balance</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Angela at <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/">Oh She Glows</a></span>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-9000196154046562492010-06-23T22:13:00.001-04:002010-07-10T00:10:38.468-04:00Food for thought: wrap up<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Way back on April 24 I began an <a href="http://stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/2010/04/food-for-thought.html">elimination diet</a>. I cut out dairy, gluten, soy, and processed sugar. After a detox phase, I added each back one at a time and monitored my body’s reaction. <a href="http://stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/2010/06/food-for-thought-return-of-dairy.html">Dairy</a> went poorly. <a href="http://stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/2010/06/food-for-thought-ahhh-gluten.html">Gluten</a> was fine, although I’ll be eating less of it moving forward. Soy was so uneventful I didn’t even blog about it. I can’t say I’ve added processed sugar back to my diet. I stopped craving it weeks ago, so I didn’t feel the need to re-introduce it. I’m satisfying my sweet tooth with tones of fruit and the occasional maple syrup dollop. When I tell people about the elimination diet they immediately ask if it was worth it. In a word, yes. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">In addition to learning which foods my body likes and doesn’t like, I gleaned a few other things.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-Fruit is delicious.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-Dried fruit is too delicious to keep in the cupboards. Portion control is a bit of an issue.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-Roasted almond butter should be its own food group. Holy yum wow.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-My weight didn’t change, but my body didn’t feel as jiggly and my muscles looked more defined. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-Eating clean means you don’t need Tums.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">- Food guilt is a waste of time. Make smart choices. Treat yourself. Enjoy every bite.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">And so the elimination diet ends. On to the next challenge… more on that later.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>SOTS wonders… would you try an elimination diet?</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>Bella</em></strong></span>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-71566350138921516932010-06-15T14:55:00.001-04:002010-07-10T00:09:59.869-04:00Food for thought: ahhh, gluten<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Gluten returns! It’s been too many weeks to count since I’d had gluten thanks to my <a href="http://stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/2010/04/food-for-thought.html">elimination diet</a>. I recently got the gluten go-ahead and have now satisfied my <a href="http://stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/2010/06/food-for-thought-return-of-dairy.html">avocado sandwich craving</a>. Confession – I actually satisfied this craving multiple times in one day. My body rejoiced! There were no negative gluten reactions. Sadly, this only makes me more aware of how <a href="http://stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/2010/06/food-for-thought-return-of-dairy.html">poorly my system handles dairy</a>.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">As hard as this is to type, I have decided to take a break from dairy. I’m not saying I’ll never eat cheese/yogurt again (that’s too much for my poor brain to handle), but I’m listening to my body and cutting it out for the time being. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Next up, soy makes a comeback.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>SOTS wonders… what would be the most difficult food for you to give up?</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>Bella</em></strong></span>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-31293351258239073982010-06-09T18:34:00.001-04:002010-07-10T00:09:34.847-04:00Returning to life as I knew it<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">It’s been a long time since I’ve done a proper <a href="http://stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/2010/03/full-disclosure.html">recovery update</a>. I’m happy to report that I’m doing much better. I have a few lingering symptoms – headaches with pressure changes and occasional dizziness. My head is less squishy. I realize that sounds weird, but it’s a very good sign. I’ve also had days without headaches. Hugely exciting! I had an MRI and all was clear, which means I’ll eventually make a full recovery. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Gone are the activity restrictions! The deal is that I can do whatever I want, but I have to stop if I get a headache. So far, I’ve been to the movies (caused a headache, but only a minor one) and a Jays game (major headache, but totally worth it). I’ve been more physically active and started strength training. My body is thrilled to be active again. If muscles could smile, believe me, mine would.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">My doctors even gave me the go-ahead to search for a job. Frankly, I needed this. I’m going a bit nutty without a job. I feel like I don’t do anything all day long, which is frustrating for a Type A personality. I’ve promised myself that I won’t go back to being the <a href="http://stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/2010/01/hi-heels.html">work-obsessed blackberry-addicted crazy person</a> I was before. After all, this is my quest for a balanced life.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>SOTS wonders… how would you fill the days?</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>Bella</em></strong></span>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-46361837013254837002010-06-07T10:24:00.002-04:002010-07-10T00:08:57.248-04:00Food for thought: the return of dairy<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">It’s baaaaack. After five weeks without dairy, I’m working it back in to my diet. I was so excited. I bought my favourite yogurt - Liberte Plain Greek Yogurt. I added fresh raspberries. My mouth watered in anticipation. I carefully spooned out a perfect yogurt to berry ratio. AND…</span> <br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">It didn’t taste as good as I remember. HUH? I love this stuff. I know I do. I used to eat it every single day. Okay, mouthful two... good, but not the little slice of heaven I remember. Well, that’s strange.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I finished the bowl. I had another serving the next day. It started to taste better. I rekindled my love of yogurt. I thought to myself, “Whew. Thank goodness I can digest yogurt.” </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Sadly the following day I had a very upset stomach. I’m really hoping it wasn’t the yogurt. I’m waiting a few days and giving my beloved Liberte another try. Please, please, please don’t let yogurt upset my stomach. I’m already saying so long, farewell to cheese. Must I also give up yogurt? </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I have to admit it’s tough to tell exactly what caused the upset stomach. It could easily have been the dairy since it was the only unusual thing I ate that day, but I don’t want to write off yogurt before I’m certain it was the culprit. That said, it’s very tough to motivate yourself to eat more dairy when you suspect dairy is making you sick. Hmmm, I thought the hardest part of the elimination diet would be cutting things out. Turns out the hardest part is adding food back in. Who would have thought?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Also, I miss bread in a major way. I really want to eat an avocado sandwich. I’ve been thinking about it for days. Fingers-crossed the nutritionist tells me gluten is next.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>SOTS wonders… BREAD! Seriously, it’s all I can think about right now.</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>Bella</em></strong></span>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-16031006120106832282010-05-23T11:37:00.001-04:002010-07-10T00:07:59.038-04:00Food for thought: weeks three and four update<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Time got away from me. I ended up doing an extra week of my elimination diet. Four weeks without soy, gluten, dairy, sugar, and heavily processed food. It’s supposed to be time to start adding foods back into my diet, but things have been thrown for a loop. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">By loop, I mean I attended a wedding yesterday and didn’t have control over what I ate. The vegetarian option was a plate of cheese-stuffed ravioli. That’s gluten, dairy, and likely some sugar (in the sauce). I know I should’ve asked for a plate of veggies or a second salad, but I hate to make a big deal about food at weddings.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Today I feel sick. Really sick. My stomach is upset. My whole body aches. I don’t know which of the eliminated foods is the culprit, but my guess is cheese. I’ve learned a valuable lesson – it’s better to make a special request than it is to eat something you know will make you sick. Seems so logical now. Ahhh, hindsight.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Sooooooo, I consulted with my nutritionist and I’m eating clean for 10 more days. At day 10, I’ll add dairy to my diet. Here we go again!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>SOTS wonders…do you feel bad making special dietary requests at fancy events? </em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>Bella</em></strong></span>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-83061109395431267752010-05-11T16:30:00.001-04:002010-07-10T00:06:33.469-04:00Food for thought: week two update<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Okay, I’m done week two and well into week three of my elimination diet. I’ve said so long farewell (at least for now) to soy, gluten, dairy, sugar, and heavily processed food.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">During the first week, I went through a detox phase where I was lethargic and every muscle in my body ached. Week two was a different story. I’ve had more energy and don’t suffer from the food highs and lows I used to. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I’m yet to have a serious craving for any of the eliminated foods. I’m actually shocked I haven’t had an insane sugar craving given that my sweet tooth is out of control. Dried fruit has been my go to when I need a little something sweet.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I continue to be more aware of my physical hunger. Also, I can feel how hunger affects my body. I can’t wait until my stomach is growling: by then I’m a cranky individual. I need to eat when I first feel the hunger rumbles. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">My favourite thing about the elimination diet? No food guilt! I don’t think I realized how much time I wasted worrying about what I was going to eat, when I was going to eat it, and what it was doing to my body. I’ve been feeling guilty about food for years. And I’m not just talking about guilt when I’m half way through a Deep ‘n’ Delicious cake. I’d also feel guilty about eating too much, not eating enough, and what I was choosing to eating. I managed to feel guilty for everything about food. Talk about a waste of time. But I’m letting go of my food guilt. I eat good food until I’m satisfied… and I don’t feel bad about it. It’s liberating!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>SOTS wonders… do you have food guilt?</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>Bella</em></strong></span>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-31980083741584665112010-05-08T14:07:00.001-04:002010-07-10T00:05:26.529-04:00Six months ago today<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Six months ago today I was hit in the head with a softball. Maybe it’s my glass-half-full attitude, but I wouldn’t change what happened. I’ve discovered a lot about myself because of the accident, and I’ve taken time to evaluate my life. Here are six lessons from the past six months:</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>1. Wear a helmet.</strong> I was playing in a Sunday beer league that doesn’t require batters to wear helmets. Regardless of the league’s policy about helmets, I should’ve had one on my head. From now on, I’ll take responsibility for my own safety.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>2. Surround yourself with generous loving people.</strong> Boyfriend, family, and friends got me through this. They take better care of me than I do, and I appreciate each and every one of them.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>3. Respect your mind and body.</strong> During the first few weeks – okay, fine, months – I tried to force my recovery. I pushed myself too hard too fast. Just because you can push through the pain doesn’t mean you should. Listen to your body and respect what it tells you. Take the time you need to fully recover from an injury.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>4. Recognize there’s more to life than your career.</strong> I was a blackberry-addicted career-aholic who couldn’t leave work at the office. I can see now that there’s more to life and more to me than my job.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>5. Be a priority in your own life.</strong> I’ll return to the workforce with new found perspective. I will put me first. I won’t sacrifice healthy eating, exercise, and sleep the way I used to. I will make my health a priority.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>6. Don’t let an accident keep you from what you love.</strong> Yes, I was hit in the head. Yes, the past few months have been difficult. But I love softball. I’ve been playing since I was a kid and this is the first major injury I’ve had. I will play again as soon as I’m able.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>Bella</em></strong></span>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-10492600878061842812010-05-04T19:19:00.004-04:002010-07-10T00:13:21.816-04:00Food for thought: week one update<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">It’s been a week since I eliminated soy, gluten, dairy, sugar, and heavily processed food from my diet. This is not a permanent change, but will last for two more weeks to see if I have any food intolerances. Some random thoughts from my first week:</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-I’m more aware of my physical hunger.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-I don’t feel guilty about the food I eat.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-I eat when I’m hungry; not when I’m emotional.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-I love roasted chick peas.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-I eat to “satisfied” instead of “full.”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">- I felt very lethargic on day four, but now I’m bursting with energy.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-I haven’t found good gluten-free bread.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">- I’m compelled to finish everything on my plate, even when I’m satisfied.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-I don’t spend the whole day thinking about when/what I’m going to eat next. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-I’m less concerned with WW Point values.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-I haven’t had any cravings yet.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-I may be eating too many nuts and dried fruit.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><em>SOTS wonders… do you know any good gluten-free bread?</em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><em>Bella</em></span>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-76329534696418691932010-04-23T16:04:00.003-04:002010-07-10T00:07:01.153-04:00Food for thought<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Over the last few years, I’ve been trying to learn more about nutrition. What I should eat. What I should avoid. Sounds easy, right? It turns out learning about nutrition is no simple task. You have to wade through a ton of marketing, gimmicks, and tag lines to find out what should actually end up on your plate.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Thanks to Michael Pollan, Dr. Oz, and a variety of bloggers, I have a much better sense of what’s healthy. Now I need to know what works specifically for my body. I met with a nutritionist this week to review my eating habits. I’m an octo-lavo vegetarian who relies heavily on soy and carbs. Oh, and my diet is chock-full of sugar.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The nutritionist issued a challenge: eliminate soy, dairy, gluten, and sugar (fruit is fine) for the next three weeks. Then I’ll add each food group back in one at a time to see if I have any intolerance. I’m also supposed to add protein smoothies into my life and start eating whole eggs instead of just whites.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The challenge starts tomorrow. I’ve stocked my cupboards. I’m working on a meal plan (well, I will be as soon as I’m done this post). Despite being outwardly prepared, I’m scared. I love yogurt and muesli and tofu and SUGAR! I can’t believe I’m going to give them up. I haven’t tried a challenge like this before, but I realize that if I want to understand my body (and I do) I need to give this a shot. Plus, I’d like to prove to myself that I can make choices based on my body’s needs: not my emotional wants. I’m curious to see the results.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I need to make myself accountable, so I'll be posting updates on <strong><em><a href="http://www.stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/">SOTS</a></em></strong>. Deep breath, and here we go! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>SOTS wonders… have you done an elimination diet? What did you learn about yourself?</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>Bella</em></strong></span>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-29564227196901556492010-04-19T17:43:00.004-04:002010-07-19T17:12:43.487-04:00Wanted: Role Model<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I have a friend… whoa, I must be channeling <a href="http://www.priorfatgirl.com/">Jen</a>. This friend is one of the healthiest people I know. He eats well, exercises, has a good life/work balance, and indulges in occasional treats. A few months ago, I mentioned I wanted to adopt a healthier lifestyle and he offered two pieces of advice. They’ve really helped me, so I’m going to share them with you. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>1. Do one active thing at the start of each day that doesn’t count as a workout.</strong> This activity can be anything you’d like: push-ups; jumping jacks; or a walk. I like this because it keeps you active even on your rest days and it starts the day off right. His morning activity sounded like so much fun that I stole it. Each morning, I crank up my favourite tunes and dance around the apartment for 15 minutes. Talk about a great way to start the day!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>2. Choose a healthy living role model.</strong> Someone who embodies the health ideals you’re aiming for. Someone who inspires you. Someone you can emulate on your tough days. His role model is Madonna, because she’s hella in shape and has been for years. I don’t have one healthy living role model: I have a couple. First of all, I like Kate Winslet because she curvy, healthy, and hasn’t given in to Hollywood pressures to be size 0. I also like Ellen Degeneres’ take on fitness and healthy living (check out her <a href="http://www.shape.com/">SHAPE</a> cover this month). <a href="http://jessissinging.blogspot.com/">Jess</a> inspires me through her blog and every week at my WW meeting. <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/">Angela</a>’s moving journey and thoughtful posts get me thinking about my food/life choices and challenge me to face my eating demons. Those are just a few of the people currently inspiring me.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">There you have it. I hope my friend’s wise words are as helpful for you as they’ve been for me.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>SOTS wonders… who’s your role model?</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>Bella</em></strong></span>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-7269173277850329742010-04-16T14:02:00.002-04:002010-07-10T00:02:06.233-04:00What if<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><em>First of all, my apologies to those who weren’t able to comment yesterday. Blogger was acting up, but I’ve made some changes to <strong><a href="http://www.stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/">SOTS</a></strong>’s layout and hopefully the problem is fixed.</em></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Lately I’ve had a serious case of the what ifs. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-What if I hadn’t been <a href="http://stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/2010/03/full-disclosure.html">hit by the softball</a>?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-What if my sense of humour doesn’t come back?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-What if I can’t return to my previous career?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-What if I put the weight back on?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-What if I lose my newfound perspective once I return to the workforce?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Yeesh. Talk about a pity party and worry fest. In general, I’m a glass half full type of person, but lately I’ve been getting stuck in cycles of negative thinking. Frankly, I don’t like this new habit of mine. It’s time to turn these negative what ifs around and see the positive side of things. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-What if I hadn’t taken the time to heal properly? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-What if I hadn’t chosen to eat healthier? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-What if I didn’t have this time to evaluate my life? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-What if I treated my mind and body with respect every day?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Oh, hey. I think I just found my <a href="http://stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/2010/04/missing-mantra.html">missing mantra</a>. Today I will treat my mind and body with respect.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>SOTS wonders… what’s your positive what if?</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>Bella</em></strong></span>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-29062003944180058842010-04-15T11:07:00.004-04:002010-04-15T12:36:54.435-04:00Food bloggers make it look so easy<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I arrived home from my </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">“<a href="http://stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/2010/04/tick-tick-tick.html">me time</a>”</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> yesterday to find a package waiting on my doorstep. I </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">LOVE getting mail: especially packages that contain goodies! I wish I could say I took a photo, but I didn’t. I tore right into the box as soon as I realized it was from <a href="http://www.whitsgettingfit.com/about-2/">Whit</a> at <a href="http://www.whitsgettingfit.com/">Whit's Getting Fit</a>. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Check out the amazing treats <a href="http://www.whitsgettingfit.com/about-2/">Whit</a> sent my way!</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI38Nm1wX54rnnubMufv7ttICgrtH7k2Yh9ndP5jN2iyNAyCFZ4jIPZUG6bLo7e8EGTPKFN7WoH2-g3WBz8qtf6AbIqi7g3_SgiqznFqw1e1JDY1FfXl9GbUKi4o25TsBhJrKQMjzOOh03/s1600/DSC01204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI38Nm1wX54rnnubMufv7ttICgrtH7k2Yh9ndP5jN2iyNAyCFZ4jIPZUG6bLo7e8EGTPKFN7WoH2-g3WBz8qtf6AbIqi7g3_SgiqznFqw1e1JDY1FfXl9GbUKi4o25TsBhJrKQMjzOOh03/s320/DSC01204.JPG" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Okay, food bloggers make food photos look so easy. First, I couldn’t figure out how to properly display the treats. Then I spent 30-minutes trying to take decent photos and all I got was blurry shots. I definitely didn’t do this fantastic swag justice. </span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpnzDkmYUNcBTQz7ireVsL2ypZfbXdmD4rxeXNTSm0DzkFKhhsaAPFdS9gDV-3wlereZmaNLctZCUJ1HBcTchSunpx_4FCiQ8UXCb60-jnZKt4KLIfgL1SlpsUzP0OJHr41EHNlTvU-CSV/s1600/DSC01205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpnzDkmYUNcBTQz7ireVsL2ypZfbXdmD4rxeXNTSm0DzkFKhhsaAPFdS9gDV-3wlereZmaNLctZCUJ1HBcTchSunpx_4FCiQ8UXCb60-jnZKt4KLIfgL1SlpsUzP0OJHr41EHNlTvU-CSV/s320/DSC01205.JPG" wt="true" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">This is my first taste of <a href="http://sites.target.com/site/en/supertarget/page.jsp?title=brands&brand=archerFarms">Archer Farms</a> and <a href="http://www.traderjoes.com/">Trader Joe’s</a> since I’m a Canadian girl and neither are available here. I can’t wait to crack into the Mango Peach salsa. Sounds dee-lish! Plus, I’ve never had edamame. I can’t think of a better way to taste it than dipped in dark chocolate. AND there’s a Chocolate Peppermint Stick Luna bar I’ve been drooling over. Check out that cool cup (which I’m drinking from as I type this).</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Boyfriend was also excited about the goodies. He called dibs on a few things right away as we both began sampling. It’s possible the dill pickle cashews, caramel cashews, and two crème eggs didn’t make it through the night.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Big thank you, <a href="http://www.whitsgettingfit.com/about-2/">Whit</a>! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>SOTS wonders… what are your favourite Archer Farms or TJ treats? </em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>Bella</em></strong></span>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-29621523669106837522010-04-14T09:53:00.002-04:002010-07-10T00:00:14.259-04:00Tick, tick, tick<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">“It must be so nice to have all that time.”</span> <br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">That’s a common response when people find out I’m on sick leave. I have to tell you, this time off is a mixed blessing. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Yes, it’s great to have time to evaluate my life. I certainly needed to take a break from my high-stress career-driven world and re-visit my priorities. To be honest, nothing short of a <a href="http://stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/2010/03/full-disclosure.html">softball to the head</a> could’ve slowed me down so this accident may have been a blessing in disguise. I’m lucky to have a chance to pause and reflect on how my goals and priorities have changed over the last few years.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The flip side of this time off is that it isn’t a vacation. That list of things I’d do if “I only had the time” isn’t getting shorter. Cars, trains, and planes aggravate my symptoms so travelling is out. My computer time is limited so writing a book isn’t an option (although I do love writing blog posts). That’s not to say I’m doing nothing. I’ve cleaned out the kitchen cupboards. I’ve reorganized my closet. I’ve tried new recipes. But most importantly, I’m healing.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Before the accident I used time as an excuse. I skipped the gym because I didn’t have enough time for a good work out. I grabbed unhealthy food on the go because I didn’t have time to grocery shop and prepare my own meals. Heck, I even skipped annual physicals because I didn’t have time for a doctor’s appointment.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I didn’t take the time to treat myself with respect. I filled my days with excuses and put other people’s priorities before my mental, emotional, and physical well-being. I fooled myself into thinking I didn’t have time for me, but I know I wasted at least 30 minutes each day. Was it absolutely necessary for me to give up my lunch hour to get in that extra bit of work? Was it imperative I beat that next level of Lego Indiana Jones on my DS? Did I really need to re-watch that episode of <em>The Simpsons</em> for the eighth time?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I’m giving myself 30 minutes of guilt-free “me time” every day. This isn’t a huge challenge while on sick leave, but it’s something that I need to start now so that it’s a habit when I re-enter the workforce. I will make myself and my health a priority.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Today my “me time” will be a 30-minute walk to my <a href="http://www.davidstea.com/">favourite tea shop</a>.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>SOTS wonders… how will you find 30 minutes today and what will you use your “me time” for?</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>Bella</em></strong></span>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-20732910414763114782010-04-11T17:24:00.001-04:002010-07-09T23:58:44.355-04:00Celebrate good times<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I received excellent news from the doctors this week. First of all, I was misdiagnosed with <a href="http://stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/2010/03/pcs-and-ptsd.html">Post Traumatic Stress Disorder</a>. The symptoms of PTSD I’m suffering from also occur in cases of Post Concussion Syndrome. One thing to deal with is much better than two. That’s celebration number one!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Secondly, the docs say I can do more physical activity. As of late, my exercise has been limited to a daily 30-minute walk and yoga. Well, the docs have doubled it. I can go for two 30-minute walks, but I have to make sure to rest between them. This works out perfectly because <a href="http://davidstea.com/">David’s Tea</a> (which I am obsessed with) is exactly a 30-minute walk from my apartment. More exercise? That’s celebration number two!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I’m feeling better each and every day. That’s celebration number three!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>SOTS wonders… what are you celebrating today?</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>Bella</em></strong></span>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-71162885224547031012010-04-06T16:52:00.001-04:002010-07-09T23:58:02.665-04:00I'm two-timing<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Yesterday I had my first date with a new physiotherapist, but I haven’t broken up with my other physiotherapist. It turns out I’m just not a one-therapist kind of girl. From now on I’ll be seeing both of them. Never on the same day, of course.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">All kidding aside, they’re actually working together to help alleviate my headaches and dizzy spells. The new physiotherapist explained to me what’s physically happening with my head. I will now recap that info for you. Please keep in mind that this info has been processed through my damaged brain and may come out slightly garbled. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">You know that soft squishy stuff that surrounds your skull? Well, when you get hit in the head with a softball that stuff shifts. I think of it as memory foam. The softball pushed the memory foam to the right side of my skull and it hasn’t returned to where it belongs. So, I have a lopsided head.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Since there’s more memory foam on one side of my skull that means there’s more blood flowing through it. This is part of the reason why I get dizzy and have headaches. Too much blood on one side, not enough on the other. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">My lopsided head also means that I’m holding my body off-centre. I’ve been joking that I have Bobble-head syndrome (which is something I made up, but I imagine you know what I mean) because my head feels like it’s bobbing all over the place. My head never feels like it’s sitting comfortably on my neck. Well, turns out it isn’t sitting comfortably because of the lopsided memory foam. My body doesn’t know how to account for the extra weight and overcompensates. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">At this point in the explanation I began to wonder how they’d fix this. Am I destined to be lopsided forever? No, not to worry. The physiotherapists can straighten me out. Physiotherapy for <a href="http://stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/2010/03/pcs-and-ptsd.html">Post Concussion Syndrome</a> consists of the most painful head massage ever. The physiotherapist very gently massages my head and shifts the memory foam back into position. This alleviates pressure in my head, and allows nerves and veins to function normally. Oh yeah, it also causes mind-numbing headaches that knock me out for a solid 24 hours. Once that initial headache subsides the rest of my week is better. Yay for improvement!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>SOTS wonders… are you loyal to one physiotherapist?</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>Bella</em></strong></span>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-9026735754684708212010-04-01T15:52:00.001-04:002010-07-09T23:57:16.406-04:00Missing Mantra<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">When I was trying to lose weight I had a mantra: <em>be as strong physically as you are mentally</em>. I kept this little saying on a cue card in my wallet. If I considered ordering a dessert or skipping a workout, I’d whip out the card, read the mantra, and remember my goal. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">This was all fine and dandy until my <a href="http://stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/2010/03/full-disclosure.html">accident</a>. I’m not so mentally strong any more. Plus, the mantra focuses on getting fit and I need to focus on getting healthy (similar, but different goals).</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">My doctors suggested I write a mantra about “active healing.” They’ve correctly determined that I consider healing passive and inactive. Essentially I feel lazy. Whenever I feel <a href="http://stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/2010/03/am-i-addicted-to-guilt.html">guilty</a> about the hours spent in front of the television, I’m supposed to heal actively by visualizing the repairs my brain is making to itself. They charged me with the task of writing a new mantra about putting my physical and mental health first. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Hmmm, this is the type of task I love and yet… no mantra. No ideas. No drafts. No works in progress. Just an empty word document. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">My fitness mantra came naturally. It just kept popping into my head. This new mantra feels forced. The creative juices haven’t been flowing and I wonder if it’s because I’m trying too hard.</span><br />
<br />
<strong><em><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">SOTS wonders… do you have a mantra? Did you sit down and write it or did it come naturally to you?</span></em></strong><br />
<strong><em><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Bella</span></em></strong>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7318098334822369299.post-18608483823787219232010-03-27T20:12:00.003-04:002010-07-09T23:56:26.069-04:00Putting the "occasion" back in occasional<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I have a serious sweet tooth. At this moment, there is ice cream, chocolate, cookies, and Mini Eggs (which are so tempting that they are their own category) lurking in my cupboards. Generally this isn’t a problem for me. I have willpower and can resist temptation. But lately I’ve been an emotional eating machine. I shovel junk food into my mouth so fast that I don’t even know what I’m eating. I certain don’t enjoy or even taste the sweet treats crossing my lips. What’s the point of Mini Eggs if you don’t taste them?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">It doesn’t happen every day, but I’ve certainly noticed that lately the “occasion” has left my occasional treats. Instead of savouring a delicious “worth-it” treat at a special event, I’m consuming mass quantities of quasi-yummy treats on my couch, alone, when no one will see. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Obviously this type of eating has nothing to do with physical hunger. Clearly I’m using food as medication. Instead of dealing with what’s bothering me, I try to placate myself with sugar. The result? I feel <a href="http://stilettosonthestreetcar.blogspot.com/2010/03/am-i-addicted-to-guilt.html">guilty</a> for overeating and I still haven’t dealt with the real problem. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The next time I’m on the verge of a binge, I’ll ask myself “am I physically hungry?” If the answer is no, I’ll follow up with “then why am I reaching for the mint chocolate chip ice cream?” The first question will be an easy answer. The second will hopefully force me to delve into what’s causing these out of character cravings.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>SOTS wonders… how do you handle emotional eating?</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><em>Bella</em></strong></span>Bella (Stilettos on the Streetcar)http://www.blogger.com/profile/12697994826732963715noreply@blogger.com5