What Are We Teaching Our Daughters?

I was reading a great article in Self Magazine last night while cuddled up in bed.  One of my favorite things to do at night.  No television, Mac, or Iphone.  Just something good to read.  The article titled, "Your Mother, Your Weight" talks about "thanking your mom, in part for your body and your attitude toward it."  I absolutely agree with that! 
When I think about being a young, chunky little girl, the one thing I never heard my mom do - comment about it!  I was, to say the least, the youngest of three but never the smallest.  My mom never fussed over our weight or how we ate.  Realizing back then, we lived in the country and most of our meat came from hunting trips from Dad.  We had a huge garden which I remember being hoed on a regular basis (yes, we had to pull weeds to help.)  So trips out to eat and fast food were not a regular! 
I don't ever remember Mom standing in front of the mirror fussing over her weight.  Saying negative things about the way she looked or how her clothes fit her.  If she was thinking it, she NEVER said it.  I believe that has shaped all three of her girls in a way she has never thought about.  Raising a daughter myself, I was always very careful not to do the same.  Times have changed and society has placed such pressure on the girls today.  I never wanted my daughter to hear, or see me, put myself down about my body.  I don't believe in "dieting" but I do believe in living a well balanced, healthy life.  Now, as a young adult, my daughter talks to me about fitness and eating.  We joke about muffing tops and poke at ourselves at times.  But I am so happy to know she does it now out of her own desire - not because she was raised being criticized or compared. 
I guess what I want us all to ask ourselves is this - "What are we saying about ourselves in front of young, impressionable daughters/girls?"  We are raising them up in our likeness so how do you want them to view themselves?  Just a thought to ponder. 

Me? A TRIATHLETE?

I woke up this morning with butterflies in my stomach.  I can't believe that I am going to become a TRIATHLETE this year!  I have always been competitive, willing to try new things, love to sweat, work out, run, need I go on?  But this?  WOW!  I  have obligated myself by signing up (and paying the fee - no one likes to waste money, right? So I have to do it now) and am starting to hit training mode.  I guess the excitement really hit me this morning!

My biggest fear isn't running, biking, or even completing.  Honestly, it is the swim.  I have always been afraid of open water.  Yes, childhood trauma, as a counselor would most likely pinpoint as the cause.  My dad would swim under water and grab our ankles in the creek, lake, or whatever body of water you couldn't see the bottom of!  Silly, I know.  But it happens.  So, this week I start swim lessons (the competitive comes out - I can't just show up and swim.)  When the weather breaks, I will hit the open water ready to tackle that demon and kick some booty!

Whatever is standing in the way of your dreams, you too can tackle it!  Take small steps, get involved in local activities that offer support and training.  Connect with people that have similar interests.  It is never too late!

Through My Mouth?

Now there is a new concept!  As a runner, you typically hear the phrase "in your nose, out your mouth."  While attending the recent Triathlon Clinic held at Tri-N-Run, our coach said the complete opposite.  "Breath in your mouth, out of your mouth."  Why?  If you train this way, it will become natural,  so if you wake the morning of your event with a sinus problem - you can still compete!  Makes complete sense!! 

So during my treadmill run this morning I was practicing my new technique!  Lord knows I do not want to train for days, weeks, and months to wake up with THAT problem!  Give it a try :)

A Great Neutral Shoe to Add!

If you haven't been to the Tri-n-Run store in Lafayette, put it on your must do list!  I recently attended a Triathlon Clinic held in their store, and have been in the store for essentials.  As you know, I am a huge fan of the Nike Free and Nike Company.  At a recent visit, they introduced me to another neutral shoe: Saucony Kinvara.  It is a great addition to my shoe collection, offering all a neutral shoe has to offer, plus a slight bit of stability.  They have a treadmill set up to fit you properly for shoes - don't be embarrassed - it will change your world if you are running in the wrong shoes!  Happy trails - I am off for a morning run!

Just Saying Hello!

I feel inspired to write so much but find myself with zero time at this moment.  I will be back to tell you all about the Triathlon Clinic we attended this weekend.  What is coming this year and just basically fill you in!  I hope you are taking care of yourself - it has been a cold, long winter already!  Be inspired, be safe and be fit!