I'm Just Me...

My First Month of Homeschooling!

2011-10-10T13:55:00.004+08:00

We have officially finished 1 month of homeschooling! We have been doing the books Get Ready/Get Set/and Go for the Code which help your children learn to write the alphabet. Today I told Diego his schoolwork was to write the whole thing on the white board and this is what you see! The funny thing is we've spent the last month learning to write lower case letters and so he gets up and writes most of these in upper case. Which I have never gone over with him!

Diego's birthday is coming up next week and he wanted to use his new skills to make invitations for his friends. It's fun seeing his world expand and grow as he learns life skills.

We are also learning math and reading at home. Diego still goes to class 9 hrs. a week that is taught all in Chinese. There he is able to socialize with friends (which is ALL he wants to do at this age, anything without friends is 'BORING MOM'!), learn Chinese, do Art and crafts and read books.

I'm actually surprised at how much I have enjoyed homeschooling this month. I'm not saying that I will be a lifer, yet I'm also not saying I won't. I do like that I am able to see where he excels and also cater to his learning style. It's been bonding for both of us and Zachary usually colors and has us 'check' his work at the same time. One tip that was helpful was to make a schedule so that Diego could see it. This kept it from being me forcing him to do work but rather something I could point to so he could see if he was done yet or not!

My loves!

How many calories do you burn with the Shakeology 30 and 50 workouts?

2011-10-09T14:39:00.001+08:00

If you have been wondering how many calories you burn doing the workouts that came free with your Shakeology Home Direct order I hope this helps. Please know that we will all burn differently based on physical build and fitness level. Just for reference I am 5'10'' and 150 pounds.

Shakeology 30: 140 calories burned

Shakeology 50: 232 calories burned

My Review of the workouts:
When I first put the DVD in I was bracing myself because Turbo is my main love and I usually find other workouts boring. Now this workout did meet my expectations in that it wasn't as fun as Turbo but I was happy with how good of an all over body workout it was. Please note that this is primarily strength training which is why I saw such a low amount of calories burned. You do get some cardio work but not much. Muscle will pay off in the long run so don't think that these are a waste of time~ keep with them and you will see results.
(One thing that was hard for me is that I feel she moves fast during some reps so it's hard for me to keep good form. I'm used to doing ChaLEAN Extreme where you go extremely slow to eliminate momentum.)

My Review of Shakeology:
For me Shakeology is a way to stay on track with my eating and nutrition. It keeps me full and is my chocolate treat I look forward to each day. I definitely notice an increase in my cravings for sweets when skip it for a day or two.
My family also loves it. My husband is now on a gluten free diet and I have even more appreciation for this shake that helps him get protein, nutrients, and is GLUTEN FREE! And when it comes to the kids I'll admit that I've made it when they were pre-occupied on days I didn't want to share because they go nuts over it! I don't make them a full drink everyday but they do drink some of mine or my husband's.

My favorite way to mix it is:

8-12 oz ice cold water
2 T. PB2
1 Scoop chocolate Shakeology
(My husband always uses rice dream but I feel milk makes it too sweet for me. He almost always adds in a banana as well for more calories.)

Save 25%:
If you are indeed on Shakeology Home Direct and loving the results you may want to consider saving 25% each month. This would save you $330 yearly on your Shakeology. Contact your Beachbody Coach or myself if you want more information on how to save or about another workout program you may be interested in!

Are Gluten and Lactose/Dairy Issues Related?

2011-09-29T20:18:00.002+08:00

"By the way, lactase, which is the enzyme that breaks down the sugar lactose, is produced in the tip of the villi. When the villi get blunted, sometimes your ability to digest lactose decreases and you become lactose intolerant. When you quit eating gluten and the villi heal,you’re usually able to tolerate dairy foods again." - Living Gluten Free for Dummies

This was the last paragraph in the quick definition for 'dummies' (aka me!) explaining what Celiac is and how it effects your body. Gluten free seems to be such a common phrase in our society but beyond cutting out flour I didn't know much or what it actually does to the body. But before we left the States a Dr. told my man he needs to be low-gluten so hence I am currently researching the subject!

A quick explanation: If your body has a gluten intolerance the body sees gluten as a toxin. It then attacks it and at the same time it can attack the villi (like little hairs on your intestine that absorb nutrients). If you looked at the villi like hair imagine each time you eat gluten that it is cutting some of it off- eventually you would be bald. The same with your intestines- and if you have no villi left you have no way to absorb nutrients. (The book said that villi can grow back in time.)

So here I am trying to figure out what this looks like for our family to go gluten free for my man's health. The reason I found that first paragraph I quoted so interesting is that in the last few years his intolerance to lactose has been getting more severe. If he indeed has an issue with gluten then it would make perfect sense as to why that is happening.

I've only read the first chapter of this book but it's been really interesting. In some ways I'm wondering why wouldn't I have our whole family go gluten free? When it was talking about wheat/grains being something that we obviously base our food pyramid around yet it's only something that has been in our diets for the last 10,000 years I could see the argument for cutting back on it. I mean really my only objection is that I like certain foods.

I'm just researching and trying to get my head around this lifestyle. I'm not saying it's good or bad, but it's been an interesting read thus far.

Hope you all are having a great start to you week! I've got some Turbo scheduled for the morning! Just hoping the kids sleep through the night so I have the energy to get up! (They've not been feeling good!)

Can a new mom do TurboFIRE, Chalene Extreme or Turbo Jam?

2011-09-25T21:45:00.000+08:00

Many people ask me when they can start working out again after having a baby. My first disclaimer is talk to your doctor to make sure everything is ok.

Then I would have you consider these things:

1. Are you ready to workout? You did JUST have a baby. You are probably sleep deprived and trying to manage life changes. If working out will bring you sanity then ease back into it. If it will make you feel crazy by adding 1 more thing on your plate then be ok to wait a while. Re-evaluate every 3-4 weeks as life changes. (I know it's awful feeling the muffin top over your jeans, but also allow your body time to adjust. There were many mornings I skipped my workout bc I knew that me being rested was better for my family than me burning 400 calories. Sometimes it had nothing to do with me needing something~ I chose to stay lazy in bed with my boys because I knew those moments wouldn't last forever. It's all about seasons of life, know what is realistic for you right now.)

2. Are you breastfeeding? This doesn't indicate whether you can or cannot workout but I would keep it in mind as far as making sure you don't cut/burn calories at a rate that will hurt your milk supply. I've never had this issue with doing these programs but I have had some women complain that their milk seems to be affected. (I like to eat as well so probably why I've never had these issues.) One trick is to also try and time your workout to be right after you have fed the baby- nothing like trying to jump and get crazy when the 'girls' are ready to explode.

3. If you feel that Turbo is too intense then start with something easier or that you can do with the baby. Go for a walk, do a set of push-ups as you do tummy time with the baby, do standing crunches while you heat up food or a bottle, get creative!

4. Be gracious to yourself and your body. You just brought a child into the world and while it may have wrecked havoc on your body in time you can get back to where you once were. I'm smaller now than before I had my boys. Granted I have a few stretch mark scars but seriously~ in the grand scheme of life they are nothing to measure your beauty by.

5. If you would like to connect with a group of women also doing these programs then please contact me! There are many of us doing these programs at home so it's nice to be able to talk about the ups and downs of managing our busy lives as moms while also not neglecting to take care of ourselves!

Orphans, College and Workouts...

2011-09-24T18:52:00.001+08:00

Hey friends!

Company:
Life has been full since we've been back. We just had a team of 14 people here which is always fun but also time consuming. We had them volunteer and a few foster homes and also had them go stay at an orphanage in the country side to help take care of the kids and do any maintenance work that the staff needed done. It's always fun to see that students come thinking they will help others and yet they are changed as they see life through different eyes.

College:
I've starting my studies for the Personal Trainer Cirt. which has been really fun. Well, the working with people part that is fun for me to learn. Learning all the technical ways the body works will prove to be a little more time consuming. I'm also sending in my application to get my degree in Family Studies. Who knows how the 2 will mesh together someday but I've got a few ideas in my head. I think it would be fun to be a personal trainer but as part of the plan we meet as a group with everyone I was working with to discuss all the mental/emotional/family/confidence/etc... because they are all so intermixed.

Workouts?!
To be honest I've worked out 1 day all last week. I think with all we've had going on I've just mentally said I'll start back up in October. Why? No good reason but just a day. I'm usually one to just say start today but I think for now I'm doing what I can when it fits and then I'll mentally get myself ready to go in October. I also think this summer was a great time to step back and evaluate where I was being a little too hard on myself...I realized that when I was working out I had a picture of what my body should look like which was fine but I will start up again and be more forgiving when it's not exactly lining up with that picture I envision. And I'm going into it better balanced with eating/exercising. It's all a journey right?!

Everything else?
Life seems pretty busy that's for sure. I'm potty training Zachary and he's doing so well. Diego goes to school 9 hrs a week so I have to supplement reading/writing/math at home as he's officially in kindergarten now. (If we were in the States that is.) This is my first real run at following a schedule teaching him so it's been a trial system getting it all figured out. My man and I had a date last night- after a week of company and him being their translator it was nice to get time just the 2 of us.

I'm reminded as I enter into the fall to keep my priorities in line. (And be insanely organized to make them all happen.) Yes, I will get back in shape. Though I don't have a measurable goal as to what that 'looks' like aside from committing to get in at least 4 workouts a week. Yes, I will pass my cPT test. I'll have to study like a wild woman to make it happen. Yes, I will get Diego through all his assignments. Yes, I will figure out how to get my man on a low-gluten diet though China has no gluten free pre-made items. (Just means a total transformation of what we normally would eat.) Not sure where leisure reading fits in with all that's happening but I have a few books I want to get through as well.

Just a little update from me. It's fun to have dreams I'm working towards. It's crazy to manage it all but exciting nonetheless. I hope you all have a great weekend and are finding ways to make all your goals/dreams happen. Even if slowly and 1 at a time!

Organized MOM/WOMAN! (At least I'm trying!)

2011-09-14T20:50:00.002+08:00

Let me tell you friends I've been a wild woman this last week getting myself all organized and settled in back at home. (Home being China for those of you who don't know me that well yet!) So what does it mean for me to get organized?

1. I've made a schedule from now up until Diego's birthday of his homeschooling lessons. We're just doing reading and writing for now, I'll add in math next month.

2. I have been making a to-do list of what I need to be doing so I don't try to keep it all in my head and then forget half of it until the moment it's supposed to be done.

3. I've got food in the cubboards and am trying to find more gluten-low friendly options to incorporate into our diet. (Dr. says Chris needs this.) I know menu-planning is essential to my sanity and our budget.

Aside from getting organized I am also applying to start school this winter. I had to write a writing sample to send in with the application and let me tell you my grammar needs some serious work. (If you read my blog this is nothing new to you of course!) Chris read it and didn't even have words for how many errors it had! English is NOT my major- be not afraid!

I'm also studying to take the Certified Personal Trainer exam with ACSM. This book is no joke and after reading reviews from people who have taken it I sometimes wonder what I've committed myself to.

So there's a little of my world. Trying to make it possible for me to be the best Super-Sarah I can be!

Get fit before 2012!!!

2011-09-08T12:27:00.006+08:00

Get fit before 2012!!!

What do you need to do to get started?

1. Order your program. Like I said, email me if you are still not sure which one is best for you or write a comment below with your questions. If you already have your program and got it from Beachbody email your coach and ask what challenges they have going on. If you don't know who your free assigned coach is then contact me and I can get us connected.

2. Commit to at least 1 month of Shakeology. (If you sign up for Home Direct you don't pay for shipping and you can cancel at any time so it saves you money.)

3. Connect on my Facebook page and from there I will add you into the FB group! Just mention that you want in the group!

4. If you are ordering a new program and Shakeology and are interested in the 25% off that you get as a coach then contact me with those questions as well and I can let you know how to take care of that!

Preview TurboFIRE...ChaLEAN Extreme...or TurboJam now!

Curious about what's in Shakeology...

Camp DO More 2011 Review!

2011-07-26T01:32:00.009+08:00

I met the woman that inspires me in so many ways! Here I am with Chalene Johnson at Camp Do More 2011!

FRIENDS!!! Hey!!! Camp was so much fun and I wanted to share it with you! Sorry it's taken so long- the morning after I got back to CO we drove up to my dad's for 8 days and there is no internet or cell phone service. My boys had so much fun! 4-Wheelers, Smores, Diego caught his first fish and more!

Ok- so CAMP...

The opening workout was awesome~ this was my first live turbo class. I'll I've ever done are the workouts at home that she created for Beachbody but this is where it all came from- her being an instructor and teaching TurboKick at local gyms. I have to say that she is HOT! Her abs are to die for! It was also amazing to workout to current music! Everyday there were 2 workouts offered~ one in the morning and one in the afternoon. My favorite was a Blacklight Turbo workout! Glowing people and body paint were everywhere!

Jenelle was one of the team leaders for the team I was on. It was fun to meet her as she's also my mentor in the coaching that I do~ she's not short like Chalene but I was shocked at how tiny she is. You think they look fit in the videos but they are even more so in real life. And the whole thing we talk about with ChaLEAN Extreme and muscle not bulking you up is true- these girls are small. I think one of my favorite people to meet was Mindy- if you've done TurboJam she's the modifier to the right of Chalene. I used to always look at her when I was starting out and think- "I could actually look like that!" She was the MC for camp and is beautiful! She said she used to weigh 200 pounds...amazing progress as she looks no more than 120 now!

The fashion show was SO much fun and you can watch it on USTREAM!

It was fun meeting so many people from the videos. Ally is absolutely sweet and then on stage this hot beast of a woman! Toni (you know the one we all say- SHE has 7 kids?!?!) took time to chat with a friend and me. She's such a nice woman (with the hottest abs you've ever seen)! It was funny bc during the show I just kept thinking how do they walk in those shoes!? Seriously like 5-6 inch heels these ladies were wearing!

Below is Chalene welcoming us to the Red Carpet meet and greet time. She was beautiful and we all got our picture with her. The Red Carpet thing was interesting as it was the first year they've done it. I think if they do it again next year there will be some changes made and I'd have to see what those were to know if I'd recommend it to others.

Overall:
So yes, wild dance parties, the fashion show, lectures and meeting amazing people was fun at camp. But for me one of the most exciting things was the training I took on Sunday when it was over to become a Turbokick Instructor! Now it scares the daylights out of me but I really think I could do it and would love to help motivate others in this way! So to leave knowing that I now have the tools and training to do so was awesome. I told a few of my friends in China they will be my first guinea pigs for me teaching turbo! (If you don't know- Turbokick is what TurboFIRE/JAM is called in a live setting gym.)

The one thing that could have made camp better was to have had a big group of friends all there together. I met some amazing women but you know how it is to have a group you already know. I enjoyed sleeping in a big bed with no kids to wake me up. I spent time journaling and thinking about life and goals I have. I think I will make a point to do something like this at least once a year. It was so healthy for me to get away and just be Sarah! So much of my world is about being a mom and wife that this time away helped me be refreshed so I can be the best at those 2 other roles!

Camp Update #1!

2011-07-21T21:00:00.000+08:00

SO...It's July 20th, 2011 and I would like you all to know that I am traveling by MYSELF for the first time since March '03 when I flew home from my friend Diane's wedding which was the weekend before my own. Yes, this is a crazy feeling. Did you know that security can be done with 1 white tray? Did you know that ice cream can be bought and eaten in more than 10 minutes as I type/people watch/stair out the window? It's so hard for me to believe it's really been this long. I mean since March of '03 I've been everywhere~ Europe, Central and S.America, Australia, Asia...I've even done a 27 hour journey alone with Joshua while pregnant with Zachary coming to the USA from China...but nothing alone?!?!
So where am I going? What has got me excited enough to be away from my boys? CAMP DO MORE!!! You all know I love Turbo and this camp is put on by the instructor. It's going to be wild and I'm really excited. I will post updates as I can. I won't be as busy as most campers bc of my injury so I will use that time to journal and reflect. I'm expecting to come away super refreshed and with some new insights about myself.
Camp doesn't start until tomorrow but my journey first begins with staying the night at one of my most fav people's houses. My friend Jenn went with Chris and I to Africa (the trip we fell in love) and has been such an example to me of someone who lives life taking in every moment. She's taught me so much and I can't wait to see her and her preggo belly! (Her man is awesome too but he's a fireman and works crazy shifts so not sure if he'll be around or not!)
(Excitement bubbles are coming! Just found out my roommate for camp Shannon, is here at DIA! She's on a different concourse or I'd go meet her! Butterflies are coming! Tomorrow I'm going to just die with all the energy and fun!)
So there you go friends. Sarah Failla is on a journey all her own for 5 days. Give me a day or 2 and I will be missing my boys but honestly right now I'm relishing in the freedom! I took drugs so hoping I don't have too much hip pain on the plane! Will write more soon!

Update #2 from the USA

2011-07-19T21:42:00.002+08:00

Time seems to be flying by so fast here in the States. As my last post said Chris had an awesome time in Europe. He was then with us for 2.5 days until he flew to Denver to do his first intensive week with Fuller in the Springs. He's taken so much away from it in such a short time and I'm sure he will be processing for a while to come. Talks with professors and other students have been very refreshing for him.

I drove from Idaho out here last Friday along with Chris mom and sister. Zac did horrible in the car and screamed most of the way. This made Diego go crazy bc Zac was "hurting my ears". Glad that's over!

This week Chris is back in class and I am leaving tomorrow night for Cali. Camp Do More starts on Thursday and goes through Sunday. I'll be able to spend tomorrow night and Monday with my friend Jenn so that is going to be fun. I've never left my boys so this will be interesting. I have to say I'm exhausted from our trip so far so I will appreciate the down time. My mom, stepdad and Chris sister will have the boys from Wed. night until Friday night when Chris is done with class for the week.

My hip is still messed up so I've had to process what that means for me and camp. I've been keeping perspective but have also let myself be real and process what a let down that is. Thinking about 'hanging' with all the girls at camp was my sanity and motivation for the last 2 months when I was going crazy in China and so now to not have done that for over 3 weeks and see all the times on the schedule for camp I will have to sit out is a bummer. And as you know working out helps you be alive and deal with stress so not having that release the last 3 weeks it's hard not to feel blah. I think what I will do for camp is show up for the Turbo workouts and just watch~ it's my fav how could I not? But for HipHopHustle and PiYo I may just use that time to journal and reflect.

Luckily camp is about more than workouts so I will totally have fun with meeting new friends, team competition, the afternoon with Chalene and Brett, her lectures, and my time with Jenn.

This feels more like an update than a blog entry but there you have it!

First week in States recap...

2011-07-07T11:07:00.003+08:00

Wow- to see I haven't written for a few weeks is a reality as to how busy and fast these weeks have been flying by.

We arrived in the States a week ago yesterday, Chris left the following day for Europe and will be coming home tomorrow night. He's been to London, Paris, Barcelona, and Amsterdam! My mom flew out the day after he left and I just dropped her off at the airport tonight. We spent lots of time in the backyard and just hanging out. It was so fun to see her and the boys be together.

As for the mental/emotional side of this whole trip it's been interesting for me and I haven't even really had time to think about it though I know everything is spinning in my head. I was MORE than ready to get out of China and get to the USA~ it had been 15 months and I was maxed out. I was tired of being stared at, tired of taxis/buses, tired of speaking like a 2 year old, tired of being a foreigner...

So now I have had a week in the States and thoroughly enjoy having a car, food that is familiar, stores that are my favorites, and I am obviously not being called 'foreigner' 4x a day. I take Diego to the pool and we play in the backyard like 'Americans' do in the summer and it's great.

But something is missing still. (And not just Chris!)

We don't fully fit in here either. I watch Diego at the pool and he doesn't know all the games the kids are playing and has told me "it's weird" that they all speak English. I've had more people open the door for me in the last week than in the last 3 months in China. I find myself out of practice of making casual conversation with people I meet as I go about my day because in China many days I avoid eye contact with others bc I'm always being stared at or asked to take a picture with someone.

They write books about 3rd culture kids- meaning parents are from 1 country and they live in another country which creates a 3rd sort of culture/family dynamic. I feel like I am a 3rd culture adult. I don't know what all the latest local news is but I know the general exchange rate for the US $ to about 4 other countries off the top of my head. I don't own a house with a back yard for my kids to run free in but they speak 2 languages.

I don't even know if this all makes sense of if you are even still reading...but I just have a lot in my head. I talked to Heather on skype tonight and it's Caleb's first birthday- I got emotional because we are missing it. I feel like I don't know the feeling of being 'grounded' physically but I know this insane level of love and commitment within our team. The friends that know exactly what I am talking about as I try to put this into words~ that when in China ache for things missed out on in the States with family and familiar stuff but also are never fully whole in the States after having lived in China and it becoming a part of them. The friends that I see at least once every other day. The friends that are my family.

So there you have it. A taste of what's in my head at the moment. I am enjoying myself, having the 4th of July in the first few days of being here was also something to process. As I listened to all the songs on the radio of freedom and independence it was a vast contrast to the communist country that I just flew here from.

I have more thoughts on life and a great book I am reading but will save that for another day. Night friends.

Bodybugg Reality Check!!! Are you eating too much, too little?

2011-06-22T10:29:00.001+08:00

Hey all! So I've had the Bugg for 23 days now! My average calorie burn is 2400! My highest burn is 2827 and my lowest was 1983. I do ChaLEAN Extreme/TurboFIRE hybrid 5-6x a week. (I'm 5'10'', 152 pounds just to give you an idea of my build.)

The thing that I have found shocking this week is that when I don't workout and have a super chill day in the house with the kids I burn such a low number! That 1983 you see there was from Sunday when we watched a movie for Father's Day and just hung out as a family inside because it was raining. It does include a 15 min bike ride to and from the grocery store. You may be thinking that's an amazing number. And I do agree~ that for doing nothing most the day inside it's not bad.

But...

It's given me a reality check as to how wide the range can be for what I burn day to day. And why I can eat good 4-5 days a week and then go a little crazy and have it all balance it out. I mean that Sunday we got together with 2 other couples and all the kids to order pizza for dinner. It was 5pm and I remember seeing on my watch that I had only burned like 1500-1600 cals for the day at that point. Contrast that with today where I am writing this at 10am and I have burned 1103 calories!

For me the conclusion is just keep doing Turbo/CLX and even if I just did a little better with eating- nothing major I would easily lose those last 5 pounds. It's not my focus at the moment as I'm just ok with maintaining but I see that I really do eat a ton of food! All those times I used to think- maybe I'm not eating enough??? Oh Sarah, not the case with you sweet woman! For some of you that truly is the case and you need to up your calories to see the breakthrough you want. But for me I see that just a minor tweaking in that area would result in me dropping the last 5 pounds quickly. I mean to stay where I am I'm eating 2400 cals a day~ I'm sure I could handle just doing 2000-2100 when I get serious about the last 5 pounds!

How to manage your FITNESS goals when life gets CRAZY BUSY!

2011-06-17T08:36:00.002+08:00

I wanted to share this with you in light of summer coming and kids out of school, vacations, hot weather, and many other things that I'm sure will come between you and your schedule. (And this doesn't just apply to summer~ Nov/Dec holiday fun also seem to be a crazy time for people to stick with a schedule due to parties, traveling and food!)

1. Know that it's ok to change things up for the season. If it's summer do something outside with your friends or kids. Bike rides, swimming, tag, gardening, the list is endless. A weekend camping is well worth missing or delaying your time-line for your program for the memories you will come away with.

2. If you aren't getting in as much exercise as normal you will need to modify your eating. If you're not burning those extra 300-500 calories a day don't eat that much extra! If a meal replacement shake will help you cut back then get one. You all know Shakeology is top on my list.

3. Maintain current weight!!! Don't always worry about losing or gaining- when life gets crazy focus on just staying where you are! We can be tempted to think since I can't do XYZ then let's just forget it all until life gets normal again...DON'T do that! You will feel so discouraged. I've done it- and my body just feels so gross when I do, from the inside out.

4. If you want to do your workout and not replace it with another activity that fits the current situation you are in you have to be willing to get up early or stay up late to do it so. But remember sleep is also an important component to your health~ get too little and it will not only affect your body but also your attitude.

You will always have challenges when it comes to eating and workouts. Our lives are busy and complex. When it comes down to it evaluate your priorities. Example...the last few weeks we have had so many visitors and that means we eat more local food (Chinese) than normal. If I am following my plan it does not include Chinese food every meal- but I value hospitality over eating X amount of calories a day. So I go and I enjoy the wonderful food, in moderation, and I don't stress about the extra calories because it was part of a joyous event of sharing Chinese culture/food with those visiting. Sometimes goals have to be delayed for the sake of current circumstances. You can get creative and make them happen anyway (I could have added in extra cardio to burn those cals) or just readjust them for the moment and get back to them.

It's all about balance. There are times I can workout 6x a week and track every calorie (though I never enjoy tracking calories), then there are times that I just tell myself get in at least 3-4 workouts this week at 30min. each. Just get through the season I'm in and then re-evaluate what my schedule can look like. It's about making it work for your life!

Enjoy your season of life friends! Our getting healthy is so that we can enjoy life, not so that we are restricted from living it. Figure out a balance that works for you!

An Ocean Between Us...

2011-06-13T21:17:00.005+08:00

It's been to long since I've held your hand or seen you face to face. An ocean between us and too much time I sometimes ache at the memories which were never made. But living in the past I won't do, we know this is where we belong. So I hold out my hand to the future and my heart bursts with joy at the new song of summer beginning to be written.

To sit. To chat. To laugh. To be silent. These are a few of the things my heart longs for.

To see you roll your eyes the way you do when I get a little silly or say something completely inappropriate.

To share my heart freely with no fear of being judged.

To see you love my boys the way that I feel only Chris and I do. To catch glimpses of how much you gave to me as I see you give yourself to them.

I love you momma~ 16 days and counting...my heart is overwhelmed...

Nana, we're coming to see you soon!

Bodybugg Calories Burned in TurboFIRE, HIIT's, & ChaLEAN Extreme!

2011-06-04T14:22:00.020+08:00

(**9/9/11~ New group starting Oct 1st, 2011...check for details!)

You are all going to see my inner nerd come out now that I have this sweet little Bodybugg!!! Seriously numbers and more numbers! I LOVE it! You've seen my other page with the calories I burn for various workouts so I wanted to add this in based of my Bodybugg readings which are more thourough and accurate then my Polar f4! (Not knocking the f4- that has been my baby for years, this is just a more advanced device!)

To start I am 5'10'' and weigh 152 so you have an idea as to my bodies make-up. I did TurboJam for 2 years and then completed ChaLEAN Extreme. I followed that with 8 weeks of TurboFIRE before I started missing Extreme so much I had to start doing a hybrid! So I am currently doing Extreme and FIRE!

Here are some numbers for you for my first week with the Bodybugg!

Day 1:

FIRE 30~ Burned 275 calories. (Lower than I expected bc Polar usually read more like 325.) Averaged 9 calories burned a minute and took 3093 steps.

(CORE 20 didn't record info)

Total steps for the day~ 8978

Total calorie burn for the day~ 2506

Day 2:

Push Circuit 2~ Burned 173 calories. Averaged 5 calories per minute. (If you don't know CLX this was a 35 min weight training session.) Took 276 steps.

HIIT 25 ~ Burned 211 calories. Averaged 8.44 calories a minute and took 1928 steps.

Total steps for the day~ 5638

Total calorie burn for the day~ 2497

Day 3:

FIRE 45~ 389 calories burned. (Note: ankle was acting up so modified moves. No jumping.) Averaged 8.6 calories a minute and took 4300 steps.

(Stretch 10 and Abs 10- didn't record info...)

Total steps for the day~ 8779

Total calorie burn for the day~ 2650

Day 4:

Push Circuit 3~ Burned 132 calories. Averaged 3.6 cals a minute and took 235 steps.

Total steps for the day~ 3992

Total calorie burn for the day~ 2335

Day 5:

FIRE 55ez~ Burned 470 calories. (Polar f4 usually said more like 550-600 and I pushed hard today so that's a big difference in the report.) Averaged 8.5 calories a minute and took 5258 steps.

Total steps for the day~ 12,643

Total calorie burn for the day~ 2827

Day 6:

HIIT 25~ Burned 200 calories. Averaged 8 calories a minute and took 1808 steps. (Funny that it's different from Day 2!)

Abs 10~ Burned 30 calories.

Total steps for the day~ 6230

Total calorie burn for the day~ 2609

Day 7:

LEAN 1~ Burned 177 calories. Averaged 3.9 per minute and took 361 steps.

Total steps for the day~ 5498

Total calories burned for the day~ 2442

I started the week at 152 and today I weighed 151.5. The numbers don't reflect the calorie deficit I actually had each day but when you are adding in muscle and losing inches I know the scale will not always reflect it. Plus, I am sore from doing LEAN 1 and know that means I am most likely carrying extra water weight.

(I also just had my free coaching session! Take it! I almost blew it off but I asked her how I was concerned that a deficit of 750 was too hard for me and my reasons being that I just feel exhausted. I thought it being because I'm not eating enough but when looking at my food log she pointed out that my carbs are so low each day and that may be playing a huge factor in my energy levels!)

Conclusion:

The Bodybugg is an amazing device that can really help you get to know your body. Do you need one to reach your goal? No. Is it helpful? Yes, if you USE it! I had to be diliegent in tracking my food because what good does it do to know how much I am burning if I don't know how much I am eating? The Bodybugg isn't a magic band on your arm that makes you lose or maintain your current weight. But I love the motivation it offers me when I see how many calories I am burning during a workout and as a whole for the day.

The main drawback to the Bugg is that it's ugly and has to be worn on your arm where people can see it. Many people bling theirs out to make it look better and now I can see why. It can also draw unwanted attention if that bothers you- I've had several people ask me what it is and when I explain they've proceeded to tell me I don't need to lose weight or to not get too 'extreme' about things. Said in love and with good intentions but they just don't know where I am in my fitness journey. At this point I am more like an athlete in training and I want to know if I can lose more pounds or if 150 is where my body wants to stay. And I want to make sure I get enough food to keep increasing my strength and cardio abilities while seeing if I can lose those last 5 pounds. If all that makes sense? I know we don't live our lives ruled by what others think~ I'm just saying that if you are wearing it you may get some unwanted opinions. But on the other hand you may encourage someone on their journey. :-)

Five days being 2 = Lego stuck on tooth!

2011-06-03T21:27:00.004+08:00

Looks cute and innocent right?

How about now?!

Leave it to my sweet boy to get this Lego snowboard helmet stuck on his tooth! Seriously it clamped down and there was no way to get it off!

So off to the dentist we go...He screamed and went wild at the thought of her just looking at his mouth so as you can imagine it was quite a crazy adventure. Finally with Chris holding him down and me holding his hands she was able to use scissors to cut it off. She said there would have been no way for it to come off any other way so I'm glad I didn't keep pulling like I had tried to do a few times at the house!

And this is my souvenir. Thanks Zachary boy!

Happy Birthday Baby Boy...

2011-05-28T09:56:00.000+08:00

My sweet Zachary boy is turning 2 on Sunday! Seriously I have no idea where the time has gone. I can still remember like yesterday going to the Dr.'s office and waiting/hoping to see a tiny little heartbeat. We had miscarried 4 babies between Diego and Zachary so as you can imagine I was more than a little nervous.

This time did not happen like the times before sweet Zachary boy. Your heartbeat was strong and you allowed Daddy and I to dream again. With your life you have erased the pain from our hearts. If we look back and remember we will see the scars, but they have faded into the life you bring.

So on this very special day for you sweet boy this is what I would want you to know. I love you with every fiber of my being. You represent the best of me a 100 times over. You have my determination, stubbornness, independence. Then mix it in with having your Daddy's passion for life, love of laugher and being silly, and sensitivity, and we have one powerful man in that cute little body of yours. And just like your brother your intelligence and grasp of language amaze me. (Of course one of your Daddy's highest values is communication so that shouldn't surprise me!)

I love you baby boy. (Yes, I will always call you that.)

A few of my favorite memories of our year...

Your first trip to the Great Wall last summer!

Fun at the playground!

A million popcorn w/M&M's dates!

My loves!

Christmas 2010

At the hotel in Thailand! Love that smile!

Elephant rides in Thailand~ a family tradition...last time you were in my tummy still!

Bubbles!!!

Joining me for some stretching!

Mommy's make-up! A whole blogpost of pictures for this one!

A Warrior for Xi'an! You've lived here 21 of your 24 months of life! :-)

You are full of life and joy!

Pandas in Xi'an, China

2011-05-26T21:17:00.000+08:00

I have no pics of the PANDAS!!! I'm such a loser! There is a panda in the back of the picture of Diego looking through the fence but you can't see it. And they had a brown panda which is said to be the last living one in the world. For me the pandas were a side note- what was beautiful was to get out of the city and get some fresh air. There are a few other animals at the {zoo} ~ not sure what to call it. They had about 25 animals I'd say. Diego loved running around and seeing the animals while Zachary enjoyed playing the dirt, picking up sticks and jumping in the water puddles.

Beachbody Coaching...Not just about money...

2011-05-24T18:06:00.006+08:00

Tony Horton was on the Monday call for Beachbody. You know him best from the #1 best selling workout series P90x. He talks about the coaching opportunity, how is current injury has really helped him step it up in his own fitness, and how to keep motivated for the long haul of living a healthy life. I would encourage you to listen to his thoughts.

It was just a great reminder of why I became a coach 7 months ago now. Having a workout program that actually works will change your life. It's changed mine and I want to share that with others. One by one I have been able to encourage others to get fit. To find a program that works for them. And what I love most is to see that as the physical transformation happens so does the mental and emotional. It may start out about wanting to be a size smaller but it will end up being about becoming a better parent, student, spouse, employee, friend, human, etc.

For those of you who are new to coaching there are times that we can get caught up in the 'productivity' of the business (aka-how much are we making). If you are in this business, especially as a new coach and you are only basing your success off of how much money you are making I would venture to say that 85% of you would maybe say it's not worth it. Sure you will see random checks coming in here and there but if you are wanting thousands monthly in your first few months I would say that may be a little unrealistic. If you were to average out what I've made since becoming a coach it's about $150 a month. (And is higher as most of that has been since Jan. as momentum builds but just in 7 straight months that's the average if you are looking for a real life number. I'm not saying you will make that much, more than, or less than that~ that's just what I have personally seen.) For us, $150 is a huge addition to our budget so I think part of it is also having perspective.

The bottom line for me is that it's about helping people, and I know that to be the same for the coaches in my team. Money will follow but it may not be at the rate you expect. There is nothing wrong with wanting to see money come from this- I can't see a better way to make money then promoting something you love and that has changed your life. But let's just always keep ourselves reminded of why we became a coach in the first place~ we found a program that changed our lives and we want to share that with others. (Or you wanted 25% off all products! Yes, that includes Shakeology!)

If you are interested in coaching you can also watch the video I made about my experience since becoming a coach. Let's work together to help others achieve their goals.

How do you teach your kids about health?

2011-05-19T18:17:00.003+08:00

My sweet boys decided to join me for TurboFIRE's Stretch 10 this morning! Diego did the whole thing with me and Zac joined in off and on! Before they were up I did ChaLEAN Extreme's Burn Circuit 2~ upping my weights by 10 pounds on 8 of the exercises! I really can't wait to get the select techs this fall as I need some heavier weights. Then I did TurboFIRE's HIIT 15 and sweated like a wild beast. :-) I needed to do a longer cardio but with kids waking up I went for a HIIT 15 and will get in FIRE 60 tomorrow!

I love my boys joining in this with me for many reasons...

First and foremost I like hanging out with them! But also I love that as we do this together we talk about the WHY...Why does mommy workout? Why is eating properly good for us? Why don't we have candy for breakfast?

I don't know if your kids like Transformers but my boys love them. (Husband included!) So we talk about health as Energon. We talk about things that give them Energon being sleep, exercise, good food, and water. They know a handful of foods that have high protein and why that is beneficial. Find something they love and explain it in a way they can relate to.

Finally, I never talk to my boys about me working out so that I don't get fat. I always used the words "healthy and strong". If I were to talk about all the reasons we take care of ourselves and the primary reason being so they don't get fat it would~

a) Form an opinion in their mind about those who are overweight (negatively).

b) In my opinion be less of a life long perspective for them. Working for something- to BE healthy is a much better motivating factor then working to NOT BE fat. That may sound like semantics but I know from experience when I get my head twisted around the wrong side of that it leads into a downword spiral...working to NOT BE fat all I can see is my fat in those moments and I can't even see the good. But if I focus on how strong and healthy I am, sure I see the tummy jiggle but it fades into the pride and confidence of how good I feel.

ACSM Certified Personal Training...

2011-05-17T21:50:00.002+08:00

Seriously who every would have thought that I, Sarah Failla, would be thinking about taking a test to certify myself as a personal trainer?

Well, I am. I just ordered my study materials and my books will be coming in a week or so. I won't really have time to study this summer but when we get back from traveling I will study and the ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine) has a testing center I can go to here in Xi'an, how perfect is that?!

You know I haven't been talking much about where I am at with Chalene's 30 day challenge but I have been keeping up with it and weekly writing out my goals for the next 12 months. This was one thing that has come from me being more proactive in dreaming and planning for the future.

Take one little step into something and see where it leads...

(I found this website really helpful if you are looking to train as well but not sure which company to go through.)

VIP with Chalene Johnson!

2011-05-15T10:04:00.002+08:00

So as most of you all know I am going to CampDoMore this summer and feel like I'm more excited about it than Christmas/Bday's/Anniversary's combined! (CampDoMore is put on by Chalene who is the instructor in all the TurboJam, TurboFIRE, ChaLEAN Extreme dvd's, or if you go to a gym she created Turbokick, HipHopHustle, and PiYo.)

Well, a few nights ago I got an email to make sure that we had ordered our team shirt for camp, (btw I am team Platinum with Jenelle leading the way!) and at the bottom it said that for 50 campers they were offering a VIP option. Now at first I was like uhhh, not really my style. I'm not really about 'special treatment', I just want to be with everyone and wonder if some people will feel left out and on and on my mind was spinning. So silly but I was like will people look at me differently if I'm a VIP? I'm really just a normal girl, don't need special treatment. Then the financial side of it was something to think about. My man wasn't home to process with. But then I thought, who knows if I will ever go to Camp again? This is a chance to get the front seats for all the lectures, workouts and share a special party for just the 50 VIP's with Chalene and Brett. This is a chance for me to say, 'Sarah, I believe that you deserve this!'.

And so I went for it. Because I want to meet her. I'm going to be a little school girl up front for all the lectures and take 100 pages of notes. If I'm going to camp I'm going to go all out, and make it a once in a lifetime experience. I've given up a lot to live in China and I feel this is also something as a treat for all that I don't get to do because of that choice.

So then I was up half the night bc I was so excited. I mean all the campers will meet her but this is guaranteed time. I couldn't stop thinking of what I would say or ask when I meet her for the first time. I mean what do you say to someone who has changed your life? It started out with TurboJam being the first workouts I ever enjoyed, then moved into FIRE and Extreme. It's opened my world to a huge new group of friends and a coaching opportunity that combines all of that. I've lost over 30 pounds. As I have gotten healthier it has pushed me to be a better wife and mom. Then you add in the respect I have for her as a woman, mom, wife, and business woman and I'm so grateful to be going. She's the whole package friends! (If you want to get a taste of her (not to do with workouts) you can do her 30 Day Challenge to organize and set your priorities for your life. It's totally free at 30daypush.com

So needless to say I am one happy camper today and I pushed a little harder when I did FIRE. Before all this I was content just to be in the back of class at camp. But now I will be up in the front- with all those 'crazy in shape women', and I will continue my journey to believe that I deserve to be there! (I know I deserve it as a person, just still believe that I am fit enough!)

I am leading my life rather than just letting it happen and this is just one small way that it is manifesting.

(And ps my man was totally supportive. When he got home I was like I did something...he smiled and was waiting for the spill of it all. So I told him and he thought it was an awesome opportunity and reminded me that I would totally make it work for him to do something like that so be happy that I get to do it for once!)

How many calories burned in TurboFIRE, HIIT's, and ChaLEAN Extreme

2011-05-13T10:41:00.017+08:00

(**9/9/11- New group starting October 2011...check out the details or connect with me on Facebook for all groups!)

So you've been doing Turbo for a while now and the big question is...How many calories am I burning?!?! This is a log of what I burn using the Polar f4 to track it. So you have perspective I am 5'10'', 150 pounds and in good shape. I say this because you will burn differently based on your build, fitness level, and how hard you work. If you don't see the workout you are looking for please come back as I will be adding to this list as I do the workouts. (I have done both programs before but didn't take notes on what I burned.) I have also included the calorie burn after a longer period of time because I want you to see that the after burn is amazing with Turbo!

(Pls. note that 5/11 I got a Bodybugg. The first numbers you see are from my Polar f4 which I have found to consistently run a little higher than with my Bugg. I will update numbers as I go along with workouts!)

TurboFIRE:

HIIT 15 - 159 cals

HIIT 20- 178 cals @ 1 hr I had burned 330 cals!

HIIT 25- 200 cals

HIIT 30- 342 cals @ 2 hrs I had burned 661 cals! (6/13-now have Bodybugg and it said 280 cals.)

FIRE 30- 321 cals. (Bodybugg= 248 once and then 275 the next time. )

FIRE 45ez- 400 cals @ 5 hrs I burned 1000 cals. (Note 45 ez has no FIRE drills and I think it's bc of that I took so long to break the 1000 calories burned for the day!)

FIRE 45- 543 cals @ 2hrs 45 min I had burned 1015 cals! (Bodybugg= 389 cals but modified moves bc of ankle being sore.)

FIRE 55ez- 527 cals @ 3 hrs I had burned 1018 cals! (6/15-Bodybugg averages 450 cals)

FIRE 60- 650 cals @ 2 hrs 8 min I burned 1000! (10/12- Bodybugg averages 480 cals)

Tone 30- 136 cals

Upper 20- 103 cals

Lower 20- 125 cals

Core 20 - 128 cals

Abs 10- 45 cals

Stretch 40- 175 cals (Bodybugg= 127 cals)

ChaLEAN Extreme:

Burn 1- 196 cals

Burn 2- 253 cals @ 1 hr burned 319 cals!

Burn 3- 223 cals @ 1 hr burned 339 cals!

Push 1- 159 cals

Push 2- 187 cals

Push 3- 153 cals

(Note:Push is lower reps at a higher weight, workouts are shorter so cals burned will reflect that. But let me tell you I am as sore as can be during this phase!)

Lean 1- 157 cals

Lean 2- 144 cals

Lean 3- 156 cals

Burn Intervals- 235 calories. (Intensity at about 7/10~ kids were running around so distracted!)

Burning this many calories you can see why you cannot starve yourself and succeed on this program! You body is burning so many calories and needs fuel! Also you will see on strength training days that I burned less calories- muscle burns fat so this will help in the long run! Don't skip it! Each program has a different purpose so do not neglect one for the other. With a HIIT you will not burn as much in the moment but you will burn more throughout the day!

Here is some real life FIRE 60! If you do not own these workouts but are thinking about it go ahead and get them today. I will contact you and we can discuss your goals! If you already have a BB account but do not know your coach let me know and I would love to work with you.

A bike and a dress...

2011-05-10T21:56:00.000+08:00

So seriously I am in love with my bike. It has opened up a whole new world living here~ exploring our city in a new way and also just giving me a sense of freedom. Not having to always rely on a bus, taxi, or 30 minute minimum walk just to get anything done.

BUT...

Let it be noted that riding a bike in a dress takes much skill and concentration. Add in some wind and it was quite the adventure!

No, I don't normally ride in a dress but we were going to a b-day party and I wanted to look cute! :-)

Mother's Day...

2011-05-08T23:39:00.000+08:00

Today I am reminded of our friends who struggle with infertility. My heart breaks for those who have dreamed the dream of becoming a mom but have yet to hold that dream in their arms. I have tasted the sorrow of losing that dream with each of my 5 miscarriages but I have no idea the depth of pain some of our friends face because I do have my 2 boys. Let's not forgot those friends today or the moms who have lost a child long before they should have.

For those of you moms I hope your day is blessed and you know you are invaluable!

Locked in the bathroom...

2011-05-05T18:43:00.005+08:00

Zachary locked himself in the bathroom...and it took us over an hour to get him out. Was he scared? Nope. He was playing and singing. I was scared because I knew that he knew he had full reign of the bathroom and all its contents and there was nothing we could do about it. I have to admit I was scared it was going to be so much worse. I heard stuff being thrown in the toilet and was afraid it was my make-up but it wasn't. When you live in China aside from the pure fact of not wanting to spend money to get more, I don't even have the option to get the brands I like. So yeah...here is the evidence of his cheeky ways...

The first moment of entry...

This face says...I know I'm busted...

Showing me how he put his makeup on...

And quite proud...

He actually did have mascara on his eyelashes

Oh sweet boy

And painting with some cream eyeshadow...

Shut that voice up...What do you really want?

2011-05-04T13:24:00.002+08:00

I love when Chalene tells us in one of the workouts- SHUT THAT VOICE UP AND START LISTENING TO THIS ONE! YOU ARE NOT TIRED!!!! YOU LOVE THIS!

I watched her live chat on ustream a few mornings ago with her mentor Brian Tracey and it just got me thinking how we have so much in us that we don't even know we are capable of. Since being introduced to Turbo I have not only pushed myself physically to step out look like I never thought I could but I also find myself taking more risks in life. This coming from someone who lives a wild life~ but still we all have areas that we know we could be better in, or step out and succeed in. Chalene has said the best way to build confidence is by DOING!

I would love to see myself and all my friends fully going for what we want in life and not holding back. Be it issues from our past, our self talk, our lack of motivation, our fear of failure, whatever it may be- we play these tapes in our heads that keep us from stepping out and going for what we want in life. Let's STOP those tapes and start listening to new ones.

What do you want but are afraid to actually hope could happen? Maybe it's a workout you are afraid to try. Maybe you want that promotion at work and are afraid to ask but you know you deserve it. Maybe you've had people tell you that you are smart enough to accomplish what you want. Maybe you don't know what your identity would be if not being the 'fat' friend. Maybe you haven't taken the time to sit down and actually figure out what you want because you just spend your time being what everyone else wants/expects you to be.

I don't know about you but I believe that with hard work, gleaned wisdom from others, and a little self-confidence there is nothing that I can't do...

What about you? What do you want but are hesitant to believe can actually happen for YOU?

Family Pics and New Blog look!

2011-05-02T12:50:00.001+08:00

Hey everyone! I hope you enjoy the new look of my blog! Here are some family pics taken in April 2011! Joshua is 5 1/2 and Zachary will be 2 May 29th!

Bubble fun!

2011-05-01T12:10:00.009+08:00

Got the boys out for a while to blow bubbles and play at the park. A little windy and then it started raining but it was fun! If your kids are anything like mine they start going crazy if inside for too long!

Life is homeschool...

2011-04-28T14:36:00.000+08:00

Living in China my boys get to see things most kids don't~ take this for instance...

We were walking home from eating one of our favorite meals~ kaorou and the boys saw this man who is out everyday mending people's shoes. Diego wanted to watch and so we let the boys hang out for a while and watch. After we were done watching we got to talk about the value of taking care of things and how the Chinese will use and re-use something until you just can't fix it anymore.

Life is school for our children, we just need to slow down enough to let the moments happen. :-)

TurboFIRE 60 calorie burn...

2011-04-27T12:55:00.002+08:00

Hey all! So you want a serious calorie burn? I just did FIRE 60 and in those 60 minutes I burned 650 calories. I would say I was working at about a 7-8 on a scale of 1-10. One day I will be strong enough to go full out at a 10 but I still get winded. Sometimes I feel like I really have no idea how fit Chalene and those girls are!!! I think that is one reason I love these workouts~ I've been doing Turbo for years now and it can still take me to a new level physically. The better I learn the routine the more I am able to focus on my form and also push my cardio endurance to new levels!

One thing I also want you to note is that I left my HRM on for 2 hrs...at the end of 2 hours I had burned 976 calores. It took my 2 hrs. and 8 minutes to break 1000. Not bad right?!

This video is for my Turbo girls! You know who you are and I think of you when I want to talk myself out of working out. And for those who want support let me know and we'd love to bring you into our Turbo FB family!

How many calories do you burn doing TurboFIRE?

2011-04-25T15:06:00.017+08:00

(**9/9/11- New group starting OCT 2011...check out the details or connect with me on FB for all groups! )

One of the top questions people ask me is how many calories will I burn during aTurboFIRE workout?

You know I'm going to say it's different for everyone, but just to give you an idea here are some numbers...

When I do an hour of Turbo (be it FIRE 60, FIRE 30+TONE 30, etc...) on average I burn about 400-600 calories (can be more or less depending on how much I put into it). This is just during the actual workout and not including the hour or so following where I also burn calories at a high rate. I have some friends that are new to TurboFIRE who are not in as good of shape as I am and they are burning as much as 1100-1200 cals in an hour workout. I did a complete breakdown of what I burned per workout here.

TurboFIRE also comes with HIIT workouts which stand for High Intensity Interval Training. These workouts are short bursts of crazy intensity followed by a rest period. These are actually my favorite part of FIRE and you will not get as high of a calorie burn as you will with the FIRE workouts in the moment. Hear me out though and do not think these HIIT workouts are not worth it. When I start my day out with a HIIT I see an increase in my calorie burn for the day as a whole! (And personally I love the HIIT's because they are fast and that's perfect for a busy mom. I feel like they are over before I even know what happened!)

TurboFIRE also comes with strength training workouts. If you are just looking to see how many calories you burn in a certain period of time you will not burn as much doing strength training as you would doing cardio. But... Adding muscle to your body will increase your metabolism, think long term! (If you are looking for a strength training program to focus on check out ChaLEAN Extreme.)

If you are looking for a fun workout that will burn calories then TurboFIRE is definitely for you. If you have been doing TurboJam and are looking to push yourself to a new level go ahead and step out. Whether you have done Jam or haven't worked out in a while there is a modified schedule that TurboFIRE comes with to help you get started and I have also made several modified schedules for my customers and friends based on fitness level and amount of time they can put in each week.

If you own FIRE and are just looking to know how much you burn so that you can track workouts/calories eaten etc it's really hard to say what you are burning without using a HeartRateMonitor of some sort but I hope the numbers I shared will give you a rough idea.

If you have any questions about the program please contact me or leave a comment below!

(Proof that you will sweat!!!)

If you just got your program in the mail here are some good tips for starting out! And I also highly recommend Shakeology to fuel your workout and help you lose weight!

(How do I know what I'm burning? I have a Polar f4 heart-rate monitor watch that I wear during workouts. It's anywhere from $80-$100, I've had mine for 3 years and never had a problem with it. I'm getting a Body Bugg next month so am excited to see not only what I burn during a workout but all day. NOTE: After having my BodyBugg for a while I consistently found that the Polar ran higher than the Bugg by about 75 calories a workout.)

The Ladybug Game Review...

2011-04-25T09:11:00.000+08:00

Have you seen or played the Ladybug Game?

We've had this game for a few years now, it's for ages 3 and up and my son loves it. Object like most games is to get your person from start to home. Along the way you have to collect aphids to pay the ants and need a 'pass' to get by the praying mantas. Kids learn to count and read numbers. I would very highly recommend this game for anyone looking for a new one to add to your collection! My son is 5 and a half and it still keeps him engaged.

Team visits Xi'an...

2011-04-24T09:45:00.000+08:00

The last 3 weeks we had a group of 13 students here working with us. They came from our company in Denver where they did a 3 month Compassion D School and now are on a 7 week trip to put into practice what they learned. The other half of their school went to Africa! They were able to help Chinese students with their English, volunteer at a community center, spend a few days helping at an orphanage and many other things!

It was a breath of fresh air for me having 3 girls stay with us. We got to have late night chats and fun seeing the city. Maegan got up everyday and did Turbo with me, it was so fun as I always do it by myself. So aside from all they did in the city it was refreshing for our time here to have fellowship, worship and fun with this group.

They are now in another city and then will head to Hong Kong before returning to the States.

Meagan and I did the zip-line down from that tower over South Lake!

Beautiful Chinese buildings, this is at South Lake by the Big Goose Pagoda...

Sweet girls~ Meagan above and Tori below! Was so fun having them as part of our family for 3 weeks. I don't have a pic of Maddie :(

Strutting our stuff! Oh so cute! :-)

Sure Shakeology is the price of Starbucks...

2011-04-22T14:47:00.008+08:00

When I became an Independent Beachbody coach I didn't understand the hype of Shakeology. I saw the price tag and I saw my budget and the two didn't fit together so it was more reason for me not to believe the hype.

I continued to read about it, hear about it, and on and on but I just thought- $90 a month was too much. They (the Shakeology lovers!) would always say "you spend $3-4 a day at Starbucks so what's the problem spending that on a glass of 70 ingredients that will totally strengthen your body?" Honestly, I don't spend $3-4 a day at Starbucks. I maybe spend $10 a month there and that's because I'm paying for the social time with friends and don't care about the coffee. I'd go and drink water if I could.

Then my Beachbody coach sent me a sample...

I read the ingredients. I watched the videos over again. Is all that really in this little shake?

I tasted it and it was actually good. (I'm talking about the chocolate; greenberry still isn't my favorite. But the chocolate! No matter how I mix it I enjoy it.)

Now you are probably wondering~ what about your budget? Well, I've been an independent coach with Beachbody for 6 months now and I am making enough money to cover it. And honestly knowing all it is doing for my body~totally curbing my sweet tooth, keeping me regular (yeah, that kind of regular), helping me take care of my insides in a way that my exercise program can't do for me, and the list goes on--I am hooked.

Even if it wasn't being covered by what I make as a coach I would somehow finagle a way to fit this in our budget. I didn't realize how much it was helping my body until we went on a family trip to Thailand and I didn't bring it. The first few days were no big deal but by day 5 for sure I felt so heavy and found myself eating sweets that I hadn't touched for a while. It was then that I was fully convinced that my body needed the nutrients from this shake. (You may agree with that and think just go to the store and get it. Well, I have the taste buds of a 2 year old, I don't have time to chop and process all those veggies/wheatgrass/68 other ingredients, and besides I would end up spending way more than $3 a meal.)

One other thing that made me a believer in Shakeology is that my husband actually likes it. He's not a chocolate fan because it usually gives him a headache but Shakology doesn't do that. And he is lactose intolerant and it has never messed up his stomach.

So I've crossed over. I am now one of 'those' people. I feel better when I drink Shakeology and I can't put a price on that. As a Beachbody customer it is $4 a shake and as a coach it's $3. Many people become a coach just for the discount.

Have you tried Shakeology yet? What do you think about it?

Overweight or Skinny- both are hard...

2011-04-19T21:22:00.011+08:00

So you hate being fat. So you hate counting calories. So you love sugar. So you hate working out everyday. So you hate passing up a large fry. So you despise do anything active. So you hate looking in the mirror. So you hate doing the ab workout.

To be overweight is hard. You feel bad about yourself. You get frustrated with yourself because you know you set up 'diets' and fail. You don't have the energy to give yourself or friends/family that you want to.

To be healthy is hard. You have to change your diet. You have to make time to workout. You may have to give up an hour of sleep to get that workout in.

So I guess the choice is mine...they are both hard.

It's just which 'hard' will I choose?

...

I will choose to workout when I don't want to. Get my bum out of bed early when I need to. Say no to using food to deal with issues in life rather than facing them head on. I will treat my body with the respect it is due. I will thoroughly enjoy when I have a treat~ but not live life being consumed thinking about the next time I will have one.

This is what 3 years of small changes add up to look like...currently 148.5!

If you need some accountability along the way send me a message!

(No-I've not always been thin!...)

How I spent my birthday!

2011-04-17T16:11:00.008+08:00

(Flowers from my friends Kevin and Simone!)

I had a great birthday last week and more than anything I did I was blessed by so many notes from friends. Words are my love language- my man knows that notes are worth a million dollars to me. Thank you for all your kind words and wishes. When I look back at my life I am just amazed at how rich it has been.

I started my day out with Turbo~ you know I would have it no other way! Plus I knew that I would be getting ice cream so wanted to burn it off before it happened! We headed to the Big Goose Pagoda which is my favorite part of town and the boys got Baskin Robins~ they are one of the only places that have sorbet for my lactose intolerant boys. Then we got the boys some chicken nuggets and proceeded to DQ where I got a strawberry/banana blizzard in a waffle cone with added in walnuts!

Jenny brought me some flowers and strawberries~

We came home for Zac's nap and then Diego had HipHip class. I was thinking he should know how much I love him- it takes about 40-45 min on the bus to get there, then an hour class and then come all the way back home! It's totally worth it for him but I was pretty tired that day so I had to tell myself it was worth it. (Remember we'd been hosting a team for over 2 weeks at this point so our days were full.) While at hiphop Chris was teaching the Life Education course for the Red Cross of China or I may have skipped hiphop and opted for dinner out! When I got home pizza sounded amazing and I was so tired I didn't want to cook so we had a late night pizza.

After the boys were in bed I headed to Jenny's house and enjoyed the end of my day with her, Kristen, Heather, and Andrea. Women that I love and appreciate more than words can say. I am so grateful they are in my life and they make China more like home.

(First 3 are my boys getting their ice cream at BR)

(My boys in front of DQ~ if you didn't know Xi'an is home to the Terracotta Warriors)

(And pizza with birthday candles, Zac loves to sing Happy Birthday~ it was precious!)

And last but certainly not least...some very special people are getting me a Bodybugg. I was so shocked I wanted to cry because I've been saying I want one for almost 2 years now so to be getting it is so exciting. Chris would say just go for it and I would talk myself out of it~ but a gift, you can't talk yourself out of that! It's not really because I need to lose weight- it's more because I want to continue my workouts and am more nervous about not eating enough. This will show me what I am burning and that's important to me because I want to keep my metabolism as high as I can and not accidentally be under eating each day. I will definitely keep you posted on it! And thanks to the two people who did it for me! :-)

It was UGLY~ A mom's workout...

2011-04-15T14:38:00.004+08:00

Today was totally one of those 'mom' workout days! You know the ones I'm talking about, I've written about it before. My man is out of town so my workout looked like this:

Start...pause...start again...get zac off the table...start again...water guy came, get door...start again...zac brings me 3 books to read, move them from in front of me on floor and continue...start again...(wonder if this is really worth it and contemplate just turning it off)...zac steals my resistance band...keep going...zac pours water on the coffee table where my laptop is...start again...zac thinks the resistance band is a giant rubber band so as I'm doing lunges, bicep curls and such he pulls it out (maybe should thank him for extra resistance)~ keep going and manage to finish!

Burned 650 calories and felt great. (I've had my watch on for 6.5 hrs and I'm at 1633 cals burned!) I almost quit about 5 times bc I had enough reason to, but I shut that voice up and refused to stop. You know as I've written before I'm not all about making your kids 'deal' why you workout but some days it's just how it happens to be. With my man out of town it gets a little tricky!

So- sending love to all you other moms trying to workout with your kids in the house! It can be done, and even if it's an ugly mess it's still better than nothing! Oh- and right after I finished he decided to play with the legos I had set out for him to use while I was working out! HA!

Have a great weekend all!

My sweet Zachary boy! He'll be 2 May 29th!

Happy 32nd Birthday to me!

2011-04-10T14:50:00.012+08:00

April 11th is my birthday and I will be turning 32! I can feel things moving in my heart and I'm not sure what all this year has in store for me but I am excited. I feel the momentum building and know it will be a great ride. Since it's my B-day I wanted to take a moment and write out a few things I am proud of about myself. We are so good at telling others what we appreciate about them but sometimes forget to take a look in the mirror and do the same. (Or we often do look in the mirror but focus on what we should work on...) So if this was me telling this woman Sarah Failla what I thought about her here are a few things I would say~

~You are strong
~You are beautiful
~I love how your mind works to see past people's words and into the heart
~I think it's pretty amazing you've moved your family to China and been to 42 countries
~You are a dang good wife and your man is blessed to have you.
~You don't even yet know the depth of strength and purpose within you, keep exploring

~You can reach your BB goals
~You are a good mom, I would be proud to have my boys grow up and marry someone like you one day
~Your man can trust you with the 'mood' of the house, you are a joy to live with
~You are selfless yet have boundaries
~You are an inspiration with how you have chosen to live a healthier life
~You are so gifted in the realm of 'deliberative thinking'

~Your boys (all 3) know you believe in them

~Sometimes you think you need to be more outgoing but you are fine just the way you are

My final thought for you today Mrs. Sarah Failla would be this. Dare to dream. Push for what you want and see yourself achieve it. You've never been one to cower from a challenge and you know that you can do whatever you set your mind to. May you find yourself achieving goals and dreaming new dreams. May you love your boys (all three) more and cherish the moments with them that will pass so quickly. May you continue to enjoy Turbo and all the friends it has brought into your path. May China bring out pieces of your heart that are still hidden from you. May you fall more in love with your man and see him live his dreams.

"And, I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpases knowledge~that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God."

Happy Birthday to me! Here are a few pics from that kind of represent my year, if you know me you know I have a million pics so to only find a few was hard...

First~ the love of my life and man I live this crazy adventure with~

The second loves of my life! Joshua Diego and Zachary Drake...

I'm still in awe we have this little guy~ he is such a joy

I think elephants are magnificent creatures ~ our time in Thailand was so refreshing

Turbo isn't just fun cardio! She will make your muscles burn with those little bands!

A father who loves his boys and boys who adore their father = blessed

Handsome!

A fun trip to the Great Wall of China!

So Chris was gone for 2 weeks and I was desperate to keep the boys entertained...hence the yarn mess!

At Zachary's first Birthday party

My beautiful family that makes my life what it is...

Be Gracious to Your Body!

2011-04-03T21:14:00.001+08:00

So I was doing day 27 of Chalene's 30 Day Challenge (it's free so totally sign up if you love her!). Day 27 was talking about where you focus is where you will go. I was thinking to myself how I am SO hard on my tummy. Why is that all I see when I look at my progress? I am thinner than I have ever been in my life. I have hot biceps and legs. Yet when I try on clothes or look in the mirror I always look at my tummy. Well I'm deciding to be a little more gracious to myself. If the little 'pooch' stays with me for the next 50 years I will be ok with it. If it's my result of carrying 2 kids then so be it.

I will NOT negate the beauty of my body and how far I have progressed just because I still have that extra 3-5 pounds on my belly. I want to see the whole picture~ not even just physical, but everything that makes me beautiful. It's not like I walk around depressed about my tummy~ it's just that it's where I am hardest on myself in judging my body.

So what is it for you? Where are you not being gracious to yourself? Is it your arms? Your legs? (I still have some celulite on my thighs~ yep, it's true!) Maybe like me it's your belly?

I will still be wise and continue on my fitness journey~ I just want to extend some grace to myself and my abs! :-)

PROGRESS: So freinds you know that I've not been checking out the scale but today I took a shower before lunch and stepped on it...and to my shock I saw 148.5?!!? I was so surprised because I've been at 150 for over a month, plus I had already eaten breakfast and a snack, and this last week I did not log my food once because of being so busy. It was fun but even more than the fun of seeing below 150 was the feeling that it didn't define how good I felt. I have been feeling great all week from my workouts and love feeling sore from knowing I've pushed myself hard! Funny how the scale dropped when I was finally content that it may just stick at 150 for the rest of my days :-)

Have a great week!

WHY do you workout?

2011-03-01T14:54:00.010+08:00

Turbo friends I am so proud of you and how you are making this a part of your life. I am so inspired by you all and appreciate that we are in this together.

So why are you working out?

Today I was reminded that one of my biggest why's is that it keeps me sane. It's like a happy pill that helps me see clearly, not be drama to my man or family, and gives me motivation to do more with my time.

A few more reasons for me:

~I want to be an example to my boys of incorporating exercise into daily life

~I want to do what I can now to be healthy when I am 70. To be around for my grandkids, and keep living wild adventures with my man.

~ It brings me confidence and pride to push through a hard workout.

~ I love my cute little biceps and size 8 jeans!

~ I do this because it makes me a better woman, wife, mom and friend.

Yes, losing weight is also on my list. But it is not top on my list. If it was what happens when I reach my goal weight? I just stop? If you are only working out to lose weight and not making it into an overall lifestyle change I fear that you will lose weight and then gain it back. Or get 3 weeks into this and realize you can't lose 30 pounds in 3 weeks and quit.

(Here's that cute little bicep I'm talking about! LOL!)

Let's keep pushing each other towards our goals and offer support when it seems like we may never get there. Remember your 'why'...be it your kids, your future, your lower stress levels, your 50 pounds you want to lose, or all of the above.

When I have days I don't want to workout I think of my why (and you guys) and do it despite how I feel. My biggest reason being I owe it to myself, my boys, and my man to be the best Sarah Failla I can be.

Chalene's 30 Day Challenge~ March 1st!

2011-02-27T07:14:00.001+08:00

Post on your favoritate social media website and you get even more points! Just sign-in below and post!

Hey friends if you missed it in January lets do it now! Chalene Johnson has created at 30 day program to help us get organized and really evaluate our priorities and live our life accordingly. She will send you an email each day with a video of what to do!

American Idol and Validation...

2011-02-12T18:58:00.004+08:00

I've never really been a follower of the show American Idol. Until now. I downloaded the first 7 episodes of this current season and I think I have cried every show. I love that they added in Steven Tyler and JLo~ I have appreciated the class they bring.

I couldn't figure out what has had me so emotional about the show...and then tonight it hit me...

Validation.

When people pass through to Hollywood it's validation. Validation that their dreams are legit. That they are legit. To have someone who has walked the road you wish to walk tell you that you can do it is life changing. It goes deeper than words and will forever be imprinted on your heart.

Then it got me thinking. When was the last time I really validated someone I love? When was the last time I called out a gift or talent in a friend that maybe they didn't see?

When was the last time someone validated you? Told you that you can do whatever you set your mind to? Told you that their life would not be the same without you in it? Told you thank you for all you are? Maybe you hear this everyday. Maybe you've never heard it.

I hope you feel validated. I hope you feel the dreams in your heart are there for a purpose. They may seem silly or impossible to some but that is because they are yours to live.

For all of you moms changing diapers, cooking meals over and over, getting up in the night, driving kids to practice, putting your kid in timeout for the 100th time, sacrificing your stomach to stretch marks for carrying those babies into this world, and a million other things you do daily~ what you are doing is valid. It is worthwhile.

Thanks for the reminder American Idol. The reminder that sometimes all someone needs is to have the gift deep inside them validated. To appreciate other's talents and let the beauty of it touch our hearts. And in that watch dreams come true.

Want to SEE My Weight-loss?

2011-02-07T13:47:00.016+08:00

So for those of you who have asked to see some of my before pics here they are~ I'm averaging 170-180 in most of these until now where I am 148-152. Remember that I am 5'10'' so I can carry a lot of weight before you really see it in my body but you can definitely see it in my face...

This is before I had kids...so no it wasn't just baby weight...this was us in Argentina in '03~

And in Thailand '06

Joshua Diego is about 9 months old here...'07

Joshua is almost one and I have not been introduced to Turbo Jam...so I'm still 175'ish

Before I got pregnant with Zachary (Sept.'08) I was down to 153-155 doing TurboJam. Fat Blaster, Ab Jam and Lower Body Jam were my favs at the time. I gained over 50 pounds with him because I made poor eating choices so this is me when he is a few weeks old~ you can see the nice 'baby belly' area!

After having Zachary I did ChaLEAN Extreme where I lost so many inches~ losing it off my hips and waist felt the best! Then I did 8 weeks of TurboFIRE before I combined FIRE and Extreme to do the hybrid. In the below pictures I am 148-152...

Above is Zac's 1 year birthday May 29th, 2010. Below is Thailand '11.

It's not very often that you look through your pictures trying to find the 'reality check' ones that don't show your most flattering sides. I share these though so you can see that a normal person can lose weight and even if that is after you've had a baby. I think I look more beautiful than ever so it is never too late to get healthy. I also love that I'm not just skinny, I'm healthy and strong. It's one thing to starve yourself and get skinny, that was not my plan. With Turbo and watching my calories I was able to do it in a way that changed my lifestyle which will outlast any 'fad' diet I could have tried.

Do it for you. Do it for your family and loved ones.

February FIRE challenge prep!

2011-02-03T14:58:00.007+08:00

Let's get ready! A few thoughts for you as we begin this! Most of us are doing TurboFIRE but we now also have a few doing TurboJam and ChaLEAN Extreme! We will start on the same week of February 13th, 2011. Please watch this video before we start the challenge! :-)

1. Read through the handbook that comes with your DVD's. This will help explain the workouts and in there is where you will find the schedule.

2. Take your before photo and also write down your measurements. I never did before pics and I so wished I had. Even if no one will ever see them do it for you. (I will do them this time). And with your measurements I know when I was doing ChaLEAN Extreme if it wasn't for knowing I was losing inches I would have been frustrated at times before the scale moved.

3. In my mind most IMPORTANT: Let's take this program 1 week at a time. Even just thinking myself about 20 weeks seems so crazy and I'm like uhhhh I don't know about doing this. Obviously we all have goals be it lose 30 pounds, improve our cardio, tone up, etc... When I say lets take it one week at time I'm not saying forget about the big picture but I am saying lets just focus on getting the workouts in each week. It will take time to see results so until we get to that point lets just be proud of getting through a weeks worth of workouts. I hope that makes sense.

4. If you are not involved yet and want to be let me know. I would love to be your Beachbody coach and do this together!

TurboFIRE! Let's do it Feburary 2011!

2011-01-31T20:49:00.009+08:00

2/02 change: Because so many friends want to join I am changing the starting date to the week of Feb 13th so that we can still all start together. There is still time to get yours by then so let me know if you want in!

Alright here we go again! I'm taking pics and measurements and going to start the 20 weeks of TurboFIRE next week! So that would be the week of Feburary 6th, 2011! This will put us being finished the week of June 19th, 2011! Just in time for some summer sun and fun! (You could also do the first 12 weeks with us if 20 seems too long!)

If you have been thinking of doing FIRE now is the time. It will help you to know that there are others doing the same schedule with you and keeping you accountable. Go to my website and take the step to totally changing your body and pushing yourself to a level of cardiovascular fitness you didn't know you could attain or have not been at for a while.

This isn't just about your body! Believe me when I tell you this will push you mentally as much as it does physically. It's a commitment, a choice. To push harder than you thought you could, to discipline your time to fit in your workout, to let yourself embrace the fact that you can do this. You are worth it!

I'm so excited about this. I wasn't sure what my plan was going to be for the next few months and this sounds so great not only because of the workouts but because we can do it together! Coming back from Thailand I was in a slump of not knowing what I wanted to do workout wise so this will be amazing. So far we have China, Colorado, and South Dakota covered for this specific start. (I have 2 other friends that started about 3-4 weeks ago so that is Holland and Texas!) We may be far in distance but we are not far in heart! We can keep up with each other in the Turbo group I have created on Facebook.

Crafting my TO-DO list...

2011-01-29T20:23:00.005+08:00

Chalene's 30 Day Challenge (Day 6-10)

It's so funny because when I first 'liked' Chalene on Facebook she was always talking about her 'to-do' list in her status updates and asking if we had ours done. Of course I love her but I have to admit I was like, 'Ok already~ just talk about something else'. Oh me and my lack of understanding right? :-)

I then found a planner that I love and started scheduling more like I had in the past. I found it so amazing and helpful. Now Chalene says to use your phone so I'll need to transfer it onto there but I'll still use my busybodybook as well! After watching her video again though I have to admit that this will probably replace my cute little book at some point!

I'm checking out the app she likes~ awesome note and I think I will really like it. I'm still in the process of getting everything out of my head and onto my list! Now the deal is to actually make the list and CHECK it throughout the day.

I have to say I laughed so hard at day 10's video. I lover her 'Mailbag Fridays' she used to put up on youtube so it was fun to recap on some of them.

I hope you are doing well with your challenge! I am so excited about this and I know that these skills will help me push forward and be better in so many areas of my life!

Goals...

2011-01-28T20:54:00.007+08:00

Chalene's 30 Day Challenge (Days 3 & 4 combined...)

Today was the day to write down 10 wild and crazy goals you want to achieve in the next 12 months. Be it financial, spiritual, relational, or business. Dream big and think wild. No limits. No financial boundaries. It's funny because I thought I'd be able to rattle off 20 things but really after 6-7 I had to start thinking hard...

Here are a few (in a random order):

~I have continued to teach Diego to read and he is at a good level for his age

~Keep weight between 145-149 (don't want to see the 150's anymore!)

~Raise our monthly support (we're volunteers)

~Be making $1k a month with my Beachbody business

~Get Invisilign

~Get Chris to Auz in October

~Get my whole family on Shakeology (moms, dads, sisters, everyone!)

Just a few to get an idea of where my head is. In so many ways I feel like my life is a dream already and I am spoiled beyond belief. This was a time to write things that are not already planned or I would have added:

~See family this summer (happening July and August)

~Go do Camp Do More (happening July)

~Get TurboKick Instructor trained (happening July)

~Chris started his masters last Oct which was a huge dream for us

~Take the boys on elephant rides in Thailand (did last week!)

And of course there are a few that I'll just keep to myself and we'll see how they all play out! ;-)

Then you are to find one goal that helps make all the others possible- your 'push' goal. Mine would be to be making $1k monthly with my Beachbody business. This would help allow other things to fall into place on my list~ not all but I feel it's a great start with the business. It would also be awesome on other levels knowing that if I am growing my business it means I am helping others get healthier. And as I do better it means my team below me will be doing better and earning more money.

Life's Priorities...

2011-01-28T19:57:00.006+08:00

Coming home from vacation I think is crazier than planning to go. Laundry, kids not sleeping and getting sick. On and on!

We got home late Monday night and I think today was one of the first days I took a breath to chill. With Zac being sick all he wants is me and has been refusing to sleep. This afternoon Chris took the boys to the park and I was able to pick up again with Chalene's 30 day challenge. Because it's the 28th of January they are on day 28 of 31 but I am still on day 5 so I just listened/watched the first 5 days all over again. I have to say I totally missed Chalene. She is such a role model in my life. It started out by falling in love with Turbo but then as I got to learn about who she is as a woman and how she lives her life she really has become a mentor for me- even if from afar.

So today I re-visited my top 3 life priorities...(I need to make my statement for each one still but this is my quick list.)

1. My man and my boys.

2. My health and fitness. And by health I mean emotional, physical, and spiritual.

3. Helping women find themselves and be confident in who they are.

I think I'm going to blog as I go on this process of 30 days with her, if you are doing it too or want to do it let me know so we can talk as we go through the different tasks.

Beachbody Coaching...Show me the numbers...

2011-01-26T18:24:00.005+08:00

I joined Beachbody as an Independant Coach in October last year ('10) and I wanted to give an update of how it has been for me. This is for those of you who like the numbers like I do! :-)

So~ as of the week ending on Jan. 19th (our business week ends on Wed. nights) I have made $358.02. This is almost 4 months into being a coach. And all but $51 of that was since December 1st and after. Now if you are looking into this business to make the millions you may see that number and laugh- but I am totally thrilled with it. The reason I became a coach was because Turbo has totally transformed my body and I wanted a platform to tell more people about it, and I wanted to see if I could bring in some income on the side.

My next step once I had one active coach under me was to get one more so I could become Emerald and qualify for the customer lead program and also the team bonus cycles. So to do this I waited until I had one person on my left leg that was active and then I signed my husband up as a coach on my right leg and that's who we ordered our Shakeology through to keep him active. This got me to emerald. To qualify for customer leads you have to have the club membership which for one year was $160. My man's year as a coach fees would be $165 as I got him in while the start up fee was waived so at this point for one year I was at spending $530 (my coach fees, club membership, and my man's year of coaching fees). In almost 4 months I have almost covered that and my original goal was to just get it done in one year.

As an Emerald coach I have 'cycled' 5 times already so of that $358.02, $70 was just from cycling. (What is a cycle? Read # 3 on the second portion.)

This post would be for the 'give me the facts' people wondering if this company is a scam. It's totally not and there are people who are making 6 figure incomes with it. My thoughts are even if I just break even every year the whole point in me starting it was just because I love Turbo, now get discounts on it and Shakeology, and am helping people also find a program that can get them the results I never knew were possible. I think I am totally off to a great start and I have had so much fun meeting so many new people on the similar path to find a healthier lifestyle that money aside I have been so blessed already in my 4 months with Beachbody. I'm not going to stop where I am and I can't wait to write a post a year from now with a number that is off the wall crazy that I am bringing in every month with this business. It's fun because I also know the better I work, the better it will benefit the coaches I have under me and we will all see our hard work pay off as we work as a team.

I just wanted to share that as an encouragement to all of you new coaches. Give it time and it will start to work. Just be real and share your story. On the platinum presenters website there is a call by Craig Holiday called The Eye of the Tiger about seeing this as a long term business and not giving up after 6 months. To really see the results we must believe in the system they have put in place and watch the team bonus cycles really start to add up. If you would like to join my team of coaches please leave me a message below and I will contact you or you can do it now directly through my Beachbody page.

ChaLEAN Extreme is on SALE!!!

2011-01-17T22:34:00.004+08:00

IF you want a personal trainer at home do not wait any longer. This program has totally transformed my body and is on SALE until January 31, 2011. Originally $120 you will save $30 and only pay $89.85. If you are a coach you get your discount on top of that so you only pay $67.39!!! Get it for youself and even one for a friend so you can do it together. (Or an early birthday or Christmas present for someone!)

If you are not yet a coach but are using Beachbody products regularly you may want to check it out even if just for the 25% off of all products. There is a monthly fee of $15 for your websites and back office but even if you are just doing Shakeology that still saves you $15 a month after the fee. I would love to have you join my team as we work to stay healthy and inspire others to do the same. You can also take it to the next level and run the business and start earning some extra income!

(Don't forget that any product you do on Home Direct comes with free shipping! The savings adds up fast!)

Heading to Thailand!

2011-01-08T20:47:00.005+08:00

(Above is a pic of 2 years ago! Zachary was in my belly, I think I was about 18-20 weeks pregnant!)

Hey friends we are off in the morning for Thailand! Chris and Diego are going one route and

Zachary and I on another. We used miles for Chris/Diego tickets and it saved a ton of $$. We will end up arriving within 40 minutes of each other. Andrea, our friend, is traveling with me so that will help with keeping Zachary entertained. We have 3 flights and one layover that is 5 hours.

I'm really excited for our trip. Usually we try and get out of China every 6 months just to be refreshed but we've been here since April so it's a trip well over do! We have about 9 days of meetings and the rest of the time will be enjoying the sunshine. They usually plan our meetings for the morning and evening so we can enjoy the afternoon outside.

We will make sure to take the boys on an elephant ride! It's a tradition that I want to keep alive and well! It will be Zachary's first time on one outside of my belly :-) We will definitely post some pictures.

(Below are 2 other pics from our last trip~ my man loves tigers so this was a dream. That one fell asleep in his lap!)

For the family- a few pics...

2011-01-05T11:57:00.005+08:00

Here you go family~ a few pics of how we spent Christmas Eve and Christmas Day!

Shakeology 3-day Cleanse!

2011-01-02T12:04:00.005+08:00

SHAKEOLOGY 3-DAY CLEANSE- Chocolate or Greenberry Shakeology

* For maximum results NO additives.

The basics are as follows

3 SHAKEOLOGY Shakes a day
2 Cups of Green Tea a Day (with no additives)
1 or 2 pieces of fruit a day
1 salad for dinner (as many veggies as you like)
Only White Grilled Protein in salad (poultry or fish)
Only Low Fat Dressings on salad

NO:
DAIRY, ALMOND, SOY or RICE milk or EXTRA SUGARS

You can put your 2 snacks before/after any of the MAJOR MEALS -Breakfast Lunch & Dinner

Fruit is optional- (Super Conditioned- not the weight challenged) are recommended the greater calories.

REPEAT all 3 Days

1 cup of green tea or a Detox Tea

BREAKFAST:
Shakeology 140 calories
1 scoop
½ cup of fruit (60-90 calories)-optional
add ice
8-10 oz of water

SNACK (85 calories)
1 piece of fruit
- Apple, pear, orange, banana, etc

LUNCH:
Shakeology (140 calories)
1 scoop
Add Ice
10 oz of water

1 cup of green tea or a Detox Tea

SNACK:
(either snack here or after dinner one or the other)
Shakeology (140 calories)
1 scoop
Add ice
8-10 oz of water

DINNER:
Salad Grilled white fish or poultry (roughly 340 calories)

SNACK:
(either snack here or after dinner one or the other)
Shakeology (140 calories)
1 scoop
Add ice
8-10 oz of water

NOTE: you can eat your salad for lunch instead of dinner if you prefer
DRINK LOTS OF WATER
NO DAIRY!!!

If you do not have Shakeology you can only order it through Beachbody! Even if you are not looking to do a cleanse this is an amazing meal replacement or protein shake to add into your diet! With over 70 ingredients it's incredible. The chocolate is my favorite!

DIET is a Nasty 4-Letter Word!

2011-01-01T20:50:00.003+08:00

(A copied post from my Sparkpage Dec.28th!)

Seriously! A NASTY 4 letter word. You know I know better by now, I'm in the best shape of my life and yet this weekend thinking of all I had eaten and a trip coming up in 2 weeks that 4 letter word crept back up into my head...DIET...and you know what happened???

I went on an eating rampage! I'm not even kidding you. I don't even know the last time I ate so much sugary junk. I'm not one to deprive myself- this getting fit thing has been a 3 year journey for me and it didn't happen by saying I'll NEVER do this or that again. It's been everything in moderation. So what happened in my head...

The minute I told myself DIET~ I began to revolt. My crazy self fighting being told what I can and can't eat decided to fight back. And how? By losing control and in my 'fear' of what I wasn't going to be able to eat I ate it all. Did I even enjoy it? Nope. Felt guilty the whole time, felt gross because I had too much sugar in my system, and then I was frustrated because my hard work working out was just to counteract the calories rather than take me to a new level of fitness.

Anyway, back on track after my 3 day episode of eating like a wild woman at the mere thought of a DIET. I'm back on track and am continuing my fitness plan of TurboFIRE mixed with ChaLEAN Extreme~ I burned 550 cals this morning in my 45 min cardio. Tomorrow have weights and it will feel great to work these muscles. As for the DIET~ it's not for me. But I will simply log my food and continue on with everything in moderation!

Snowboarding in Xi'an, China! Happy B-day Cito!

2010-12-24T20:59:00.000+08:00

Yesterday was my man's birthday and so we went up to the mountains to get some snowboarding in! It's more of a hill than a mountain but we will take what we can get. My man got to do one of his favorite things and taught some friends how to snowboard. Our oldest also skied for the first time! It was such a good day!

I may be missing my family at Christmas but I am always reminded that life is what I make it. I can go out and make new fun memories or I can just sit and think of how much I'd like to be with them for the holidays. It's the same with everything we do- weight loss included. Make this your time friends- go for it. Let's not just think about how we want our lives to be or wish they could be, but live in the present and make today the best day yet!

Merry Christmas!

It's Almost Christmas!

2010-12-22T21:54:00.003+08:00

Sure I am partial- but here are 2 of the cutest boys around! Joshua is 5 and Zachary is 18 months old. It's hard to believe that this is Joshua's 3rd China Christmas and Zachary's 2nd. Where has time gone? But before we celebrate Christmas, tomorrow is Chris' birthday so we will head to the mountains for a day in the snow. The inner-tube hill isn't ready yet but we will pull the boys around on tubes and get some snowboarding in.

Missing family back in the States and sending you all my love. I've shed a few tears already, know that I love and miss you.

Beachbody Coach Rank Qualifications!

2010-12-18T20:45:00.001+08:00

RANK DEFINITIONS for Beachbody Coaches!

Emerald Rank - $14 per cycle
=You + 2 Coaches, one on each side, are all active w/50pv in the last 35 days

Ruby Rank - $16 per cycle
=You + 2 Emerald Coaches + 1 additional active on each side
(You have to be active with at least 75 pv every 35 days, 25 of which from customer orders. If you’ve been accumulating customers via Customer Ld Program, pv’s are EASY to meet)

Diamond Rank - $18 per cycle
=Same as above, PLUS, 3 additional active coaches on each side
(You have to be active with at least 100 pv every 35 days, 50 of which are from customer orders.)

1 Star **Diamond** Rank
YOU + 1 qualified Diamond Coach + 10 add’l active on each side but your Diamond Coach counts as well; 200 PV for you; 100 of that pv coming from customer orders;

2 Star **Diamond** Rank
You +2 qualified Diamond Coaches; 1 each in your Right and Left legs + 12 add’l actives on each side but your Diamond coaches count as well; 200 PV for you; 100 of that coming from customer orders.

5 Star ***Diamond** Rank
You + 5 qualified Diamond Coaches; 3 in one Leg and 2 in the other + 3 add’l actives on each side; 200pv for you; 100 of which are coming from customers;

Cycle- is in reference to the amount you make on your team cycle...

INSANITY~ Get Fit or Get Out

2010-12-15T11:09:00.004+08:00

Get ready for the most intense workout program. INSANITY is the 60 day total-body conditioning program that will push your limits. Want to find out what you're made of? Get ready to dig deep. Get ready for Insanity.

Many people ask what the difference between INSANITY and TurboFIRE is so I will share my thoughts on it.

~Both are intense cardio conditioning and have great trainers.

~I feel like INSANITY is more like boot camp and FIRE is more like a workout party. With INSANITY you get drills and with FIRE you get short choreographed routines. (Don't let the word choreographed scare you as there is a 'New To Class' option where she breaks down all the moves and they build on each other so even a rhythm challenged person like myself can get it figured out.)

~TurboFIRE has better music if that motivating factor for you

~INSANITY comes with a 60 day schedule and FIRE comes with a 20 week schedule. Obviously people do the programs more than once or go one time through and then mix it up with other programs. It's all up to you.

While both are amazing I would have to say my heart belongs with Chalene Johnson the trainer in all the Turbo workouts. I love the fun, like I'm at a party with friends dynamic that she brings. I'll throw an INSANITY DVD in every now and then but usually I'm doing Turbo. I hope this helps with a few questions you may have had!

What's in Shakeology?

2010-12-14T20:40:00.008+08:00

Many people wonder what is in this shake and if it's worth the $4 a meal? (If you are a coach it's $3 a meal.) Watch and decide! For me I know there are not many meals I can get for $3 that include all of the above~ considering that it also serves as my protein shake and I (even at 31 years old) still despise most vegetables. If you want more information you can also check out my Shakeology website!

(Personal opinion but the chocolate is by far my favorite! You can't really go wrong with how you mix it up. Plus, it cures my sweet tooth! Greenberry I feel needs to be helped out a little (orange juice, bananas, raspberries, etc...) and then you still may end up with an after taste that is a little strong. I told a friend it tastes 'healthy'! It does grow on you over time but starting out I'd just go with the chocolate.)

How To Pick Your Goal Weight (and Stay Sane)

2010-12-12T12:53:00.016+08:00

I was chatting with a friend on Sparkpeople today and she asked how I came up with 148 as my goal weight number. Let me tell you...

I didn't. It came with time. I started out being 175-180 and so my first goal was to see 169 on the scale. Then it was 165. Then 159. If you think I passed out with joy the first time I saw 169 you should have seen me freak out at seeing 159.

I plateaued around 152-155 for over a year. Knowing I had come from 175+ I was content being where I was. I was able to just workout 3x a week and eat pretty much whatever the family was eating and stay there.

148 didn't come into the picture until this year and after I had done CLX/TurboFIRE. I was challenged to push my body to new limits in strength training and also in my cardio endurance. It was a choice to take my fitness to the next level and not really about losing weight. Yet, I happened to lose another 5 pounds in the process.

I think what has worked for me is to evaluate what my lifestyle must look like in order to maintain my current weight or drop the next few pounds. Sure I could shoot for 140, but that would require such a strict diet and time counting calories that it's just not where I am at mentally right now. I have a healthy BMI, can eat treats that I bake with the boys (within reason), and get away working out 4-5x a week usually for 15-45min. Right now I am focused on being able to finish several of the FIRE workouts without wanting to puke at the end!

By not having a goal of 148 while still at 178 I was able to appreciate every small achievement along the way. I can tell you that I fully embraced the joy and sense of accomplishment with every small victory. I realize that if I had picked 140 as my goal- not knowing what it would look like for me to actually get to and then maintain that weight- I would be a seriously frustrated woman right now rather than ecstatic that I am at 148! This doesn't mean I think having a big goal is bad- I just didn't start out with one. It was like I learned how to live MY life at each of those weight measurements. So losing another 5 didn't really seem like much of a change. Whereas just looking at the difference in maintaining a weight of 175 compared to 148 is a huge lifestyle change that isn't easy to sustain.

But the most important part is this: I was happy with myself at 175. I loved my life and chased my dreams. I never had the thought of, "If I was just 148 I'd be happy." Maybe that's why I was able to appreciate each 5 pound drop- it was like, "Wow, I actually did that." Rather than- "That was great, you only have 30 more to go, Loser." I was looking at a better body, which came with some internal changes (mainly greater self-discipline that spilled over into other areas of my life), but I already loved the person inside the body.

I'm not sure where you're at in your journey or what your plan is. This isn't an "I've found the only way to success" blog post, but rather a "this is how it happened for me" post. May you celebrate the small victories. Who knows, you just might look at the scale one day see that "impossible" weight!

Where I get my veggies!

2010-12-12T10:52:00.002+08:00

This is the best veggie market- about a 5 to 10 minute walk from our house. (Depends on whether I have kids with me or not!) Rows and rows of fresh veggies. Below you can be reminded that the Chinese in Xi'an like their 'la'- or hot spice. Get it whole, crushed, ground~ whatever your choice you can get it!

Get any type of bean you want above and below is a sweet lady making noodles!

Shakeology: From the Fields

2010-12-10T20:47:00.001+08:00

"Nature in a bag" isn't just a cute phrase. It's what we do. Follow the Ingredient Hunter as he brings Shakeology from the highest cliffs and the densest jungles of Peru to you.

As a world traveler myself this makes me smile to see where some of the ingredients of this shake are coming from. For more info please contact me!

(Also if you are looking for new recipes and ways to enjoy your meal check out the Beachbody Main Page and there are recipes all listed by how many calorie content.)

No More 'Mo-Mo'...

2010-12-04T19:29:00.014+08:00

Zachary, as I held you in my arms tonight this is what I want you to know...

The time has come that we will no longer be bonding this way. For the last 18 months or about 550 days we have done this at minimum twice a day. Usually 15x's a day you come up to me and ask for 'mo-mo'~ your version of milk. It's been such a blessing to be able to nourish and bond with you this way. To watch you play with your hair and wonder what you are thinking about. Please know that this is in no way means I will not continue to nourish you~ it will just no longer come in this form. The tears fall from my cheeks now because I know I need to let you go. To grow and mature. I know this is just the first of many 'letting go' tear sessions I will have over you. You are my baby. You are the dream I chased within my heart. When all looked dark around me and my heart wondered if I could even try again~ it was you that I dreamed of and knew would be worth the risk of heartbreak if yet another dream was once again left unfulfilled. Your story did not end in tears though sweet boy. You were worth every risk and fulfilled every dream beyond what I could have imagined~ I love you.

Now it will look different my boy- but we are still the same. I will still nourish you- in heart, mind, and spirit. I know you understand this, when I told you tonight that this was going to end you understood every word. You looked at me and I know you understood the tears, and I also know that you know it's time. After we were done and before bed you came over and whispered in my ear..."I love you." "I love you." It was the first time you've said those words~ so I hold onto that and know that as we end this phase of life- a new one is beginning.

Sweet Zachary boy, please know that you have captured my heart and I love you.

~Mommy

It's been interesting to see myself process this. I don't know how it even came to be 18 months and I've never once been nursing and thought 'oh this is such a beautiful experience'. But when I told Chris I was done nursing, that it was time, I was fine. Until 10 minutes later when the tears starting falling. What? HUH? I was totally caught off guard.

Maybe I'm softer than I let on.

Maybe it's because he's my baby and it will always feel a little different with him than it did with Diego.

Maybe it's because I dreamed, begged, pleaded, prayed for years that we could have him~ and from Sept. '08 when he was conceived until now I have been a part of nourishing him physically.

Maybe it's because any season that comes to an end comes with a few tears~ and that's ok.

A million miles an hour!

2010-12-04T13:39:00.005+08:00

My head is spinning...It's all good stuff!

~ I have like 10 books I want to read! (Eat that Frog, The Successful Child, DragonFly Effect, Power of Full Engagement, The Way We're Working Isn't Working, Well Being, just to name a few of them...)

~ About 10 goals I want to get down on paper and write out action steps for!

~ Oh right, I have a language to learn so I don't communicate with those around me like a 2 year old :-)

~ I'm excited about how much I am learning from the Beachbody Coaching experience.

~ Need to get the final tickets for our Thailand trip next month bought!

~ Happy I got my first youtube video up about my weight loss and now am thinking of others to create to share with you all!

But right now I have an 18 month old who is napping and I need to wake up so he will sleep tonight. Then I will chase him around the rest of the day so all of the above will have to be done at strategic times! LOL! This was a random post but just a few insights into my head today! :-)

What does Emerald Coach mean...

2010-12-03T14:19:00.002+08:00

What do you have to do to become an Emerald Coach with Beachbody and why do you want to?

1. You must be an active coach- meaning you have sold or purchased 50 PV (personal volume points) in the last 35 days.

2. You must have ONE active coach (a coach under you meeting the 50pv requirement) under you in each your right and you left leg! I would set your preferred placement in your back office. Make sure if you have a coach in your left leg that the next person to sign up under you is scheduled to be in your right leg. Otherwise you will have 2 coaches in your left leg, which is fine for the future but will not get you immediately to the Emerald status you are looking for! (If you mistakenly placed someone in the wrong leg I believe you have 72 hours to contact customer relations and get them switched.)

Once your team looks like this~ you are active along with an active coach in each your right and left leg~ at the end of the business week you will become EMERALD!

What now?

1. IF you want to qualify for the customer lead program you must be a club member, have at least a before photo uploaded, and also have 8 LIVE (not scheduled) workouts every 35 days. What is the program? When new customers order from Beachbody they are assigned a coach. That goes to anyone Emerald or above that meets the qualifications I mentioned above. Beachbody gives you FREE customers. Take care of them!

2. Watch the status of yourself and your coaches- if any of you become inactive (not meeting 50pv for the 35 day period) you will lose your Emerald status until whichever party that was inactive becomes active again. Easiest way to avoid this for you and your coaches to be on home direct for the supplements you are using- as long as they equal 50pv. Shakeology is 90pv! (Home Direct also comes with free shipping which is a huge savings.)

3. You now qualify for team bonus cycles. When you accumulate 100pv in one leg and 200pv in the other leg as an Emerald coach you will 'cycle' which means you make $14. This is for each cycle and unused points carry over as long as you stay Emerald. If you drop from Emerald for just one week you will lose the points you are carrying over. (Example- Coach Sally in your left leg sold 220pv and Coach Bob in your right leg sold 100pv- you will now cycle and earn $14 with the remaining 20pv points in your left leg carrying over until you add up enough points to again cycle.)

4. Take care of your coaches, help them the way you would like to be helped. Continue to take care of your customers. Continue to be growing yourself. Are you listening to webinars, using the products, reading books on leadership?

Thinking of becoming a coach? Ask any questions below and leave your email and I will get the answers to you. Ready to join my team and become a coach? Sign up!

Un-Thanksgiving and then Back Around...

2010-11-22T20:11:00.013+08:00

I know this is the time of year to count your blessings, even name them if you will. I have so much in my life to be grateful for and I am. I could bore you with hundreds of things I could list just off the top of my head.

But tonight something else hit me. I miss the holiday 'buzz'. I miss the music and lights everywhere. I miss driving around and seeing houses all lit up. I miss my family. I will miss my mom's Christmas morning casserole. I will miss seeing my boys make memories with their grandparents. I will miss the utter contentment that comes when all are gathered together and time stands still, yet it somehow still manages to end before we've had enough.

You know that I love my life and what I get to do. I am in no way complaining.

Sometimes I think it's healthy to let ourselves have a moment of 'feeling' what's going on inside. If we don't how else will we be able to process and move forward? Moving forward sounds weird in this context, I mean if I ever get to the point I don't miss my family I will have an entirely different issue to deal with. But, for me tonight, I was able to go from my feelings of sadness and missing my family to thinking about all the great memories I have with them. After sharing my feelings with my man he went and got some Christmas music uploaded on my computer. The very first song made the tears flow and I was able to release the emotion inside. I can say that now my heart is warm once again. I think memories are life's gift to us when distance tries to steal our joy.

~I am grateful for a wonderful family and holiday memories that are rich and full.

~Of sleigh-rides, popcorn stringing, lefsa, long car rides, Colorado snow, and of course my little sisters.

~Of grandma being the one to wake everyone up on Christmas morning because she was the most excited to see all the goodies.

~I am grateful for the rich abundance of joy that my memories bring me and for the new ones I am making.

Have a great holiday season my friends!

CAMP DO MORE 2011

2010-11-19T13:13:00.010+08:00

July 2011 I am going to Camp Do More which is put on by Chalene Johnson! I really can't believe it and could just cry I am so excited!

Why?

Chalene Johnson is the creator of TurboJam which is the first workout videos I have ever done and actually liked! So at least I would say she has been the catalyst for me beginning and sticking with changes that have got me to the healthy place I am now. She has also created ChaLEAN Extreme, TurboFIRE, Turbokick, Piyo, and Hustle workouts. She is an inspiration to me not only in the area of fitness but in all areas of life. She's very much into making priorities and sticking with them, giving life your all, being a genuine and nice person, going for the gold with your business. Meeting, working out with, and listening to lectures from her will be very rewarding for me. And I am doing this with 500 other people!

I am going to do the training and test to become a TurboKick Instructor (this is what they call TurboJam when done in a local gym setting.)

I am going to have my first vacation alone in 8 years! Yes, you read that right. Chris has traveled a few times b4 we had the boys for teaching reasons but I have not been on a trip with out him or the boys EVER! I am really looking forward to a time of fun, learning, and relaxing!

Just hopefully, I will get to take one extra night and stay with one of my most favorite people in the world, Jen Beatty! (Used to be Rooney). Since the camp is so close to her house I am hoping I'll get to visit!!!

Lastly, and maybe most importantly~ I am excited because this is a step for me doing something just for me. Living and helping others live a fit and healthy life is something I am passionate about. I am so good at supporting my man and my boys so sometimes I don't stop to think about or even know what I want to do. Chalene has said on facebook posts before- do something that is scary or intimating to you. Just step out and go for it. This was one of the pushes that helped me step out start my business as a Beachbody Coach. And from that I am now going to step out of my comfort zone and attend this camp, and also become an instructor of the program that has transformed my body and mind. (Fitness is as much about your mind as it is your body!)

The one thing I am nervous about is this....

What's our favorite SNACK???

2010-11-18T20:46:00.001+08:00

(Burnt) Popcorn with M&M's!!!

My mom must have passed this love down because I remember her making popcorn all the time! (She still does too!) It's just one of many fun family memories I know I will have as my boys grow up. Chris doesn't like it but my boys and I could (and usually do) eat it everyday!

Quitting my workout schedule to get MORE fit!

2010-11-15T21:27:00.006+08:00

So I completely switched up my workout routine this week...I was in week 8 of TurboFIRE which is an amazing cardio conditioning program and decided start the hybrid of it with another program more focused on weight training called ChaLEAN Extreme. SImple, right?

Not so much. Here's what I realized- for whatever reason even though since day one of FIRE I have been thinking I should do the hybrid I just kept going solo with FIRE. Feeling like if I changed it up I was quitting. Like I was failing. Which was so weird because it wasn't like I wanted to say I quit working out. Or even saying I hate this FIRE program (I LOVE IT). All I wanted to do was switch it up because I had no idea how much I would miss the previous program I did. And I kept thinking how meshing the two would be the perfect workout routine for me.

So here's my thought for you....Maybe you said you were going to run a marathon as a goal to get back in shape, only to find that after running for a month you realize you really HATE running. Maybe you said you would join a kickboxing class only to find out after one month that you'd rather eat a plate of cat food than go back. Maybe you said you would give up ALL sweets until the end of the year only to realize maybe that was a little over the top and more than you can do right now (or ever?!?!?). Maybe like me you started a new program that you love just to find that you're missing the one you were formerly doing. My answer...SWITCH! STOP! ADD A TREAT ONCE A DAY!!!! IT'S OK!!!!

It's ok to modify or change your workout! As long as you don't stop moving but keep looking for something that you love it's fine. It's your prerogative. YOU ARE THE ONE DOING THE WORKOUT!!! Try yoga, sign up for a spin class, check out TurboJam, whatever you may want to do! Just keep going for it until you finally find your soulmate workout like I have with Turbo. Anyway, just a few thoughts inside my head around quitting my previous workout schedule. Now I am getting the best of both worlds~ FIRE's cardio conditioning which is off the charts and CLX weights training which feels like I get a personal trainer right at home! So I didn't complete the 20 weeks of just FIRE schedule, I did 8 and will now attempt to do the hybrid schedule! It will take me more than 20 weeks because I found with FIRE's 6x a week schedule I just can't manage that much with the kids and life responsibilities- so I'll go it 5x a week!

If you quit something you hate to find something you love~ you will find better fitness results!

Thanks for letting me process friends! If you want to learn more about the programs I am talking about here is my coach page!

(I'm all for sticking to your word and for me it was easy to change things up bc my working out just involves me at home alone. If you've made a plan with someone else to do something then you need to evaluate based those outside factors. You may just have to stick it out bc of the task you've chosen. (Next time you'll know better!) Share your heart- who is going to make you keep doing something you HATE? U gave it a shot, you tried. If you want the lifestyle changes to last you must find a program you actually enjoy (or at least tolerate in the beginning). I'm not talking about quitting bc you're tired or it's too hard mentally/physically. I am talking about quitting/changing because you really are not enjoying it. )

P90x Creator on becoming a Beachbody Coach...

2010-11-07T13:54:00.001+08:00

Written by Tony Horton~

"Boys and girls,

I'm unaware of your financial situation but I do believe that you're reading this page because you care about your health and fitness. If you have plenty of income and love your job then what I’m about to tell you might not be for you. If you're not thrilled with the way you make a living, would like extra income, love Beachbody products, like the way they make you look and feel, enjoy helping other people feel and look better, enjoy setting your own hours, get excited about being the captain of your own ship as opposed to working for the man - then listen up.

The reality is, your health and fitness moves beyond you. It impacts the people around you. You (whether you like it or not) have the power to change lives based solely on your own personal transformation. Inadvertently you become a catalyst for change. This is how I got started. I was clueless, asked a few questions based on my need to be strong and healthy, stayed with it and people in my life wanted to know what I was doing. Simple yet powerful.

If you want to share what you've learned with people in your life who want better health (and could use extra income in the process) then you should consider becoming a Team Beachbody Coach. I felt so strongly about this program that I’ve encouraged many of my friends to become coaches, even my own sister. She is doing great (even though my contract with Beachbody won’t let me help her). She is a perfect example of someone who had plenty of doubt and hesitation regarding the coaching opportunity and still found a way to make it work for her. A busy working wife and mother with three very active kids doesn't sound like a good candidate to start an in-home multi-level marketing company. Did you say multi level marketing? What? Ick! You mean pyramid scheme right? Okay chill out. All these fears would be true if BeachBody were selling hats or kitty liter, but this is Beachbody people! The number 1 in-home fitness company on the planet! P90X is steadily becoming the most popular fitness system in US history. Shakeology is the revolutionary replacement meal on the market today. We sell life-altering change - not soap. Tens of thousands of regular folk around this country are doing something they love because of this coach opportunity.

The unemployment rate still hovers around 10% but it doesn't have to be that way if more people were willing to see that new opportunities exist all around them. The Team Beachbody Coaching opportunity is one of them. Health care companies, pharmaceutical companies and our government are not capable of solving this obesity crisis and we can't wait around for them to do it. The crisis is now and the answer is YOU! I know that sounds a bit Rah Rah but it's true.

Cynics don't need to apply, but if you're sick and tired of the status quo and want to make a difference in your own life and in the lives of those around you, then open the door. The two major issues of our time - the health care issue and unemployment rate could be resolved if a million more people in this country decided to get healthy and share the wealth. This is a brand new industry waiting to explode. It's not happening in boardrooms or factories – it’s happening in the homes of tens of thousands of Team Beachbody Coaches and in the homes of their customers. With a tiny investment (actually the company is waiving the enrollment fee through the end of 2010) and a willingness to help people the sky's the limit."

TH-

Wondering about TurboJam vs. TurboFIRE?

2010-11-05T20:20:00.002+08:00

Let Chalene herself tell you the difference between the two programs! Feel free to ask me any questions as I have done both of them! I've been doing Turbo for over 3 years now and have seen amazing results.

Have a great day and enjoy your workout!

How are you working?

2010-11-04T11:36:00.005+08:00

"Because we mostly fail to recognize the fears that are inevitably associated with change, we often end up unconsciously sabotaging our own efforts to change."

~ Reading an amazing book called "The Way We're Working Isn't Working: The Four Forgotten Needs That Energize Great Performance"...

This book is so good. If you are looking to make changes that will last it has so many helpful insights into why we don't stick with new plans. With 25% of New Years resolutions dropped after 1 week and 60% within 6 months we can see we have so much to learn. They mention that 95% of those who lose weight on a diet regain it plus more. It's helping me see how to really set and stick with routines in my life.

They talk about how willpower will only last for so long and get us so far~ it's the daily routines we set into place that will take us the long journey to where we want to be....I know this is not new information to us, but when it comes to our health and eating how many of us go 'all or nothing', rather than making slow changes that become routine. After a while don't require a conscious effort but are just a part of our life.

Another quote~ "Honest self-observation is the antidote to unwitting self-deception." Time to get real with ourselves.

I'll probably need to read this book a few times to really take away all it has to say. I haven't even finished it yet and am so excited about it. My man read it a few months ago and told me how much I'd like it. He was definitely right about that! For now I'm setting in memory a few things...

1. If I want to see something change or happen I will write down/plan WHEN I am going to to it. Talk is cheap..

2. I will take small realistic steps, as they become a natural part of my life I will add more. I've made so many in the last 3 years of my fitness journey and I am excited to keep moving forward in progress to a healthier life!!! For example- just read an article yesterday about how bad chicken nuggets are. After this bag is done I will not buy anymore. Simple. One change at a time. (I know some are made better than others- but the ones I've been getting are not good).

I don't want you to fail, I want you to see the success you are longing for. What is just one small thing you can change this month? Small things add up to big things over time. Don't underestimate the power of little choices!!!

Finding my Zachary boy all over again!

2010-10-30T12:36:00.005+08:00

Last week I wrote how I was feeling so disconnected with Zachary. I took some time to process and think about what I could do to reconnect a little~ it's resulted in a renewed bond between the two of us :-)

What did I do? I became a human jungle gym. I stopped getting frustrated by him getting into everything but rather sat with him and explained what things were and how they worked. I had him help me make cookies- it was a mess but we had lots of laughs. I've made a point to listen to his cues of what he's saying and responding so he feels heard.

Basically I chilled out and relaxed with my boy. I stopped trying to get stuff done at the same time he wanted my attention. I know we have to do stuff throughout the day but I found stuff to do that he could do with me. (Like one day finally sorted through his summer clothes~ I was getting stuff done but was in his room and he thought we were playing with clothes!) Seems so simple but sometimes I can just get so busy or annoyed by him being so curious about everything.

It's resulted in:

Him offering way more hugs and kisses.

Lots of laughs and secret glances.

A new sense of appreciation that he's my baby and will soon be as big as his brother.

All because:

I met him in his world rather than be frustrated that he wasn't meeting me in mine.

I put my stuff to do away until he was napping or in bed. (They so know when we're half paying attention!)

I reminded myself~ I only have this time with him once, I better make the most of it.

Does he love me?

2010-10-21T09:52:00.009+08:00

So many things going on in my head~ the boys, my Chinese (or lack thereof), workouts, friends, books I want to read, my beachbody business~ just to name a few...

I woke up and was super grumpy and short with my words, not knowing why but knowing I needed to take some time to think about it b4 I freaked out on my family. I had 2 workouts to do and 5 min into the second one I just walked away from the tv. Was like I can't even think about doing this right now. With all that I have swirling in my head there's been one thing that I haven't really taken the time to let myself process...

You see Zachary boy is a Daddy's boy. Hands down no questions asked. He looks more like me than Diego does but inside he is all Chris. It makes sense that they would be so close~ besides the fact that Chris is an amazing Dad, they also think the same and love the same kinds of activities. The one way that Zachary is like me is in his independence. So mix those all together and you find a mom wondering how her boy feels about her, wondering if he needs her, wondering if she's a good mom to her boys.

I need to make sure I take time out to meet Zachary in his element~ he's always on the go and loves to be outside. I need to be a human jungle gym for an hour and connect how he likes it. I need to let him explore and make messes, he's fascinated with how things work. I need to be ok with only getting hugs and kisses when he's willing to give it. I need to cherish that all the ways he's different than me and is like his daddy are all the same things that attracted me to his daddy in the first place.

There's also the difference of life circumstances~ when Diego was little it was just us so much of the time. Chris worked from 9-5, I wasn't learning a new language, I didn't have another kid, and a million other things were different. I need to make sure I get that one on one time with Zachary now that I have to be more intentional about it.

Yes, I know he loves me. I know I'm a good mom. I'm just processing some feelings I'm having in my heart. I also know I need to make sure I don't let our differences make me feel distant from him.

There's my blah...have lots of other thoughts on the stuff I mentioned b4 but this was the one that was closest to my heart.

P90x- Why it works...

2010-10-20T14:27:00.001+08:00

Why P90X works
by Tony Horton on Tuesday, October 19, 2010

"I hear 20 times a week - "P90X has changed my life!" I heard it a hundred times in Dallas this weekend. P90X is NOT a workout program that focuses solely on weight lose (which still happens) like most programs. It's not a pill, potion or processed food program to help you look different. Lives are changed because P90X goes much much deeper than smaller dress sizes and lower numbers on a scale. It cuts right to the core of who we can be. Poor eating habits and lack of physical activity keeps us from learning, growing and thriving. P90X grads are complexly different people in every way - after 90 days. Physically, mentally, emotionally and even spiritually in many cases.

I'm trying to teach people that short term diets, gismos and gadgets cater to the lowest common denominator. P90X on the other hand, exposes our greatness. P90X grads have moved away from the archaic methods of the past. They know that the numbers on a scale and eating manufactured factory food to lose weight does NOT work and does NOT excite or motivate them. It never did. If it had, these things would have worked long term. Companies with big ad budgets and shinny media campaigns fooled them once, but after P90X they've learned the truth.

Change is hard for most people because of the lack of authenticity in things they've tried in the past. They bought into the quick fix plan and were disappointed so they make excuses to prevent further disappointment. Pre P90X, people didn't have time. After day 90 they continue to make time because their lives are better. They want to feel good every day. They want their health, strength, flexibility, coordination, balance, self esteem and energy go through the roof. They do NOT want the future to be filled with aches, pains, illness and disease. The P90X devotees around the world know that 6 days a week of muscle confusion and healthy food is the only way to get there. They see through the smoke and mirrors and refuse to be fooled again.

Do you want to look good in a dress at a wedding in front of a bunch of people who don't care, or do you want to change your life? If you said yes to the dress go buy somebody else's program. If you want to be super fit, healthy and at the top of your game (for the rest of your life) buy P90X!"

Diego's 5th Birthday!

2010-10-17T20:34:00.010+08:00

So my sweet boy turned 5 today and it was awesome! This morning we first opened a package from Nana and Papa which had fun books and new clothes. We ate breakfast and gave him his present from G Louise and G Duane~ Superion! 5 small transformer jets that form together to make one big one.

We then met up with his two favorite friends- Sydney and Kai. We went to the most gigantic play place u can image where they ran wild and had so much fun. I headed home to get Zac his nap while Chris stayed with the 3 kids to play some more and then headed to KFC for lunch. After lunch Kai and Diego hung out at the house- usually they'd play wii but today they were playing with the new transformer!

At 330pm our bigger family arrived bringing Diego's other friends he also wanted to spend the day with- Levi, Aubrey, Malia, and of course the babies. We had cake and he openend his presents. The next few hours were filled with kids running wild and enjoy the new toys. Papa Johns delivered us some dinner and we said good night to friends. Diego ended his night shooting his new dinosaurs with his new guns in his new dinosaur pjs! Oh what fun!

Chris, Zachary and I prayed for Diego as we put him to bed. I feel like 5 is such a big number and I am already seeing so many changes in my boy. None of them bad- he's just growing up. My only moment of teariness was when Chris said to Diego- 'Mommy did a good job making you'. It just reminded me of how once upon a time I carried this prince in my belly. Then I began looking at pics of when he came and they really started flowing. :-) He's more than I ever dreamed he could be.

I love you Joshua Diego. Happy Birthday sweet boy!

I'll post pics of our day tomorrow for you who want to see- I can't find the camera cord right now!!

Joshua Diego came 5 weeks early and his lungs were not developed enough to breathe on his own. He lived in the NICU for the first week of his life until we were able to bring him home. He continued to be on oxygen for 1 month at home.

I always loved when he made the 'pucker' lips while he slept...

I'm a COACH!!!

2010-10-11T12:06:00.002+08:00

I did it! I decided to take my new found love of fitness to the next level. After a few months of research and asking a ton of questions I decided to join Beachbody as an independent coach. Beachbody is the company that puts out many of the at home workout DVD's we've all heard of~ P90x, TurboFIRE, Slim in 6, Insanity and many more. My favorites of course being TurboJam, ChaLEAN Extreme, and now TurboFire. They also provide a vast array of supplements to help us nourish our bodies as we become healthy.

I decided to become a coach because using these programs over the last few years has radically changed my life and my body. I have never been a 'fitness freak' nor the healthiest person on the block. I've been known to eat ice cream for breakfast, lunch, and dinner!?!?! In high school I played sports and was in shape, but not necessarily healthy. In just 9 months after graduating I gained over 30 pounds and kept it on until about 3 years ago. I would try random videos, walking, biking, etc to lose the weight but it just wasn't happening. I either wouldn't see results or would get bored and quit. I also had no idea how to properly fuel my body to help the process. I've learned so much since then. I did a post a few weeks ago explaining some of my reasons for working out. I now want to be able to help others in a greater capacity than I have been before and by becoming a coach I am able to do that. I am not a certified nutritionist or trainer (next summer I'll work on that one) but I have done these programs and know they work. I know what its like to try and balance being a mom, friend, homeschooler, wife, student and still make the time for a workout. I know what it's like to have the 'after baby' belly and wonder if it will ever go away. I still enjoy a little chocolate everyday and fully appreciate good food~ I've just learned to control my portions.

At 31 years old and 2 kids later I look and feel better than I ever have before. What I want you to know is that I believe you can also be healthy, I believe you can also have the body you desire, and I believe I can help you in the process. Please let me know if I can help you on your journey. You can check out my Beachbody website to learn more.

My email is~ sarahlfailla at gmail dot com if you want to talk.

Diego learning to read...

2010-09-29T14:43:00.000+08:00

It's day 17 of teaching Diego to read and here are the 4 'stories' (more like sentences) he's read...

See me eat.

See me read.

Mad at me.

Read it.

I'm impressed so far with the book Teach your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons. It's simple and all I do is follow the script. Each lesson only takes about 15-20 minutes. At this point I haven't taken a day to review with him so he's really learned to read those sentences in 17 days. There are some letters he struggles with for a few days but I find that as we keep going it gets solidified in his mind. Maybe because I've just gone through learning the Chinese alphabet (pinyin) and feel like some days I just needed to move on. I knew in time it would sink in but no amount of repetition was going to make it 'stick' in the moment. Because Joshua really wants to learn to read after the first 7 lessons or so I decided to stop doing the letter writing part at the end of each lesson. I know that it can help enforce the letters in his mind but I'm ok with him just focusing on the reading at this point. He'll be 5 next month so he's not behind in anyway. I'll keep you posted on how it's going.

Starting again!

2010-09-28T14:11:00.005+08:00

It can be so hard to start working out after a break- whether it's been 2 weeks or 6 months. Yesterday I was able to work out again after a 2 week break and it was so hard to make myself to it. I kept talking myself out of it, saying I could do it later, wondering if I could have it be my 'off' day instead of the one scheduled mid-week. SERIOUSLY??? Yes, I am totally telling the truth. So what did I do?

I got up off the couch, begrudgingly put my shoes on, pushed play and did the workout. I talked back to the instructor probably the first 10 min of the video. Stuff like~ "Yeah right, whatever, who cares," and much more coming out of my mouth to her encouraging words. My bad attitude aside what matters is that I did it. I didn't go all out crazy (frankly I couldn't keep up) but I still managed to burn 500 calories in a 45 minute workout. And even more than the calorie burn, I got things started again.

My challenge to you today is to do it. Mind over matter. You tell your body what to do, listen if your pushing to hard and relax a little. But we all know the difference between our bodies really saying 'slow down' and our minds saying 'slow down it's too hard'. They are two different beasts. Yesterday 95% of my struggle was mental.

Today it was easier. It really was. I knew how I felt yesterday after I did it. It gave me the push to do it today. Has it been a few days for you since your last workout? Has it been a few months? Start today. Even if, like me, your attitude is horrible the whole way through. Just do it. Do it for yourself~ to prove you can.

Zachary my stuntman...

2010-09-19T14:10:00.000+08:00

If left alone for more than 2 minutes this is one thing that happens. I feel like nothing in this house is safe!!!! Yes, I love him. Yes, he is fearless.

Ever Burst a Blood Vessel?

2010-09-17T13:20:00.005+08:00

If you haven't this is what it might look like...

It's not really painful. I am aware that it's there but nothing too bad. Dr. says it can just happen for no reason~ I've read some of the reasons online and none apply to me. Good news, it will heal on it's own. Bad news, will probably look worse before it gets better. I asked him about exercising and he said I should keep my blood pressure down which means I need to chill on my crazy workouts for the next 2 weeks. I asked him at what heart-rate he would recommend I stay close to and he said maybe keep it in the 120's. I laughed- when I do my videos I hover in the 150's and go up to the 160's. It's just a few weeks so no complaints~ I'll just modify and keep them more relaxed.

TurboFIRE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-09-13T13:14:00.004+08:00

So I got TurboFIRE this week and I don't even know the last time I was this excited. I was like a kid running down to see what Santa had left as I got the box and opened it. I did my first workout on Saturday night- Fire 30 and stretch 10- I am so in love with Chalene once again. I feel like this is mixing my initial love of Turbo Jam but taking it to a crazy new level. In those 2 workouts I burned 600 calories.
I'm excited to follow this 20-week plan and see how it pushes me mentally and physically. Working out is about so much more than how you look. Obviously that's a bonus~ but I find it brings so much more to my life:

Discipline~ Nothing but determination and digging deep can get you through a tough workout. Especially when you're doing it at home alone. Quit? Do it half-heartedly? Sure, no one will ever know. It's not only physically ability that will help you get through- but it's your mental resolve. I usually feel it's more like 60% mental and 40% physical. Once I lose the mind game of thinking I'm too tired, thinking it's too hard, it's over. You must discipline yourself to finish and push as hard as you can until the end.

Organization~ Chalene always says don't say I'll 'try' to workout. Set the time and make it happen. Yes, working out takes time out of an already busy schedule but if you value something you will make the time. I've actually found that in making time for working out I have made better use of the rest of my day as well. I have to set my priorities in my schedule.

Confidence~ Nothing like pushing yourself and doing something you thought you could not do to boost your confidence. Three years ago I thought the TurboJam workouts were pretty hard. Now I can do those and not even really get my heart rate up. So when I look at myself and my current fitness level I feel proud. Sure I have a ways to go~ I was dying this week with just the beginner workouts of TurboFire. The confidence comes from me knowing how far I've come and how hard I'm working just to get through each new workout. I don't compare myself to the other people in class. I let them inspire me, but not define my perception of how well or bad I am doing. Don't think if you can't run a marathon you have nothing to be proud of. I can't run a marathon. Walk around the block, do something new. Maybe you're content with your fitness level~ try a new sport, painting, read a book, volunteer to help someone. Do something you've never done before. You may be surprised how it makes you feel about yourself.

Energy~ Need I say more? We all could use some more energy in our lives.

Joy~ Releases those 'happy pills' we call endorphins! Who wouldn't want a happier wife, mom, friend, sister, daughter, neighbor, co-worker?

(If you have been thinking of getting TurboFIRE get it today! You will NOT be disappointed!)

What are we up to?

2010-09-03T12:32:00.001+08:00

This week marked the beginning of a new semester here. I have enjoyed the summer but I have to say I love the feeling of something new. Something pushing forward. Here's a little of what our fall looks like~

Chris. Got accepted to Fuller's MAGL program! I think we're both still trying to believe it's real. If there was a program my man could design for himself this would be it. There are no changes to our location- he will do all classes online and only has two 2-week on campus classes he needs to attend. The campus is now located in Colorado Springs so we can try and plan it alongside a trip to the States. He is also starting with a new Chinese college this semester and is ready for them to really challenge his Chinese. After meeting with the director and discussing where his language problems lie we really think their teaching method and books will help bridge the gap in his Chinese. He is also waiting to hear when he will be attending a training seminar in Beijing by the Red Cross of China and after will be waiting to be placed to teach the curriculum in a university here in Xi'an.

Diego. He will again be attending The Lighthouse. He has classes on Tues, Wed and Thursday from 9-12. He loves it so much and wishes it was everyday. Other time is spent with friends, playing Wii, playing with his Transformers, and wrestling with his brother and Daddy.

Zachary. Exploring every inch of the world! Learning more words~ right now he says: Mom, Dad, zaijian (bye), ayi (auntie), gei (give), mine, thank you, sorry, NO, diu le (if he loses/drops something), HI- to everyone, and that's all I can think of right now. He understands English and Chinese about the same.

Me. Let the games begin. I have Chinese language class on Tues. and Thurs. mornings. Mon-Wed-Fri mornings I am hanging out with my boys~ either at home, at the park, a local play place or with friends at my or their house. Other things keeping me busy are workouts 5x a week, grocery shopping, meal prep'ing, time with friends, more time with family, date with Chris, (I'll add studying but it rarely happens), skyping with Nana and Papa, homeschooling Diego (not full on but a few subjects), organizing the house, tracking our finances and the list goes on and on!

I ordered this new planner/calender because the thought of all that I just mentioned made my head spin. I'll let you know how I like it. I don't like the traditional ones because I don't feel there is enough room for how I like to write things so I'm hoping this one works better for me.

Happy Fall to everyone!

Kempinski Hotel Fun and Thoughts! Part 1

2010-08-29T13:20:00.008+08:00

My man won a tennis tournament at the beginning of summer and the prize was a free night at the Kempinski hotel here in Xi'an. Seriously, this hotel is so nice. The service is very friendly and helpful ~I left Zac's shoes in the taxi cab we came in~ they tracked down the drivers cell and tried as best they could to get his shoes (didn't happen but they tried.) The hotel is spotless, I had to point out to Chris that even the ashtray/trashcans by the elevators all had a Kempinski 'K' outlined in the sand. They upgraded our room for free so we were over looking the river. How refreshing to my heart to sit and look at the water, see trees and only a few high rise buildings. The grounds surrounding the hotel are well kept and perfect for a relaxing walk. The pool is beautiful. It was perfect for our kids~ there was an area that Diego (almost 5) could stand and play in, an area for Zachary (15 months) to walk around and play in, and then an area that Chris could swim laps. It's not very often that a hotel has a pool that suits all in the family. We also enjoyed playing tennis on the outdoor courts.

It was a very refreshing day as a family. Even more beautiful that we did it all for free! Thanks baby for winning the tennis tournament~ it was such a fun family adventure!

Best part of hotels are the big cozy beds~ me wrestling my Diego boy! Below Zachary and Diego playing tennis together.

Deigo enjoying the shallow end of the big pool and Zachary enjoying the fountain.

The meaning of Light

2010-08-23T21:03:00.001+08:00

Zachary boy is almost 15 months old and I busted out the finger paints for the first time a few days ago. (Thanks to a recent trip to Beijing I had some!) He dove right in just like he does in everything in life. No hesitation, no looking at me to see what to do, nothing. It was just another moment for me to marvel at this boy. I know my boys are different but everyday I see it more and more. Zachary is so uninhibited. Whatever he's doing he does it with no restrictions, fully immersed. It's one of his gifts I want to nurture, knowing I need to take special care of it. I think even more so because it's so opposite of me. I tend to play things safe. I'm cautious in decisions. I think about how everyone will perceive my actions or words. But not my sweet Zachary boy. I'm not saying he's rude, he's just not dictated by thinking about what you may be thinking. He's not afraid of getting hurt~ physically or emotionally. He freely gives and does not need in return. He is whole in a way that I admire. That I respect. When I was pregnant Diego said he wanted to name our baby 'Light'. I've wondered if/how Deigo being so set on that name would play into the picture Zachary's life (we didn't choose his names to include that meaning, Zachary means 'the Lord remembers'). I googled the definition of light and was in awe at how right our Diego boy was in knowing his little brother would be all of these things:

"Light"~ Something that makes things visible or affords illumination: All colors depend on light.

"Light" ~ an illuminating agent or source, as the sun, a lamp, or a beacon.

"Light"~ Daylight. Dawn.

"Light"~ a person who is an outstanding leader, celebrity, or example; luminary: He became one of the leading lights of Restoration drama.

Sweet Zachary boy may you continue to be all these things and more. You have already been a light into my heart and in my life. May I never let my insecurities or issues dampen your light.

(Definitions taken from~ http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/light)

Ropes Course and Carnival

2010-08-20T19:31:00.009+08:00

Today we decided to go to a park we hadn't been to before over by the Dayanta (Big Goose Pagoda)/South Lake. There is so much fun stuff to do in that area so we wanted to check out a cool ropes course for kids we heard about. On the way we spotted a small carnival that looked like fun so we hopped out of the cab to check it out. Diego went on a few rides, Zachary was the attention of all the Chinese people, and my man and I had so much fun walking around and watching the boys have fun. After a few hours there we opened up and ate the PBJ's I'd packed and walked up the street towards the lake and where we thought the ropes course would be. We found it and it definitely did not disappoint...

Days like today are the best! My boys had a blast at the carnival. Diego went on his first (mini) roller coaster, Zachary was free to run and explore, my man and I got to enjoy being outside and watch our boys have so much fun. We asked Diego about the day and he said, "It was like going to the States." Which translated means~ super fun and amazing! I love the area over by the South Lake- not sure why we don't go there more. With the temperatures finally cooling of a little I plan on being there more often. In Xi'an you have to take advantage of the Spring and Fall, as short as they may seem to be. The summers are insanely hot and the winters cold so you have to move most activities for kids indoors. (Except for tubing of course!)

Family Visit~ written during the middle of the trip

2010-08-18T13:41:00.003+08:00

Chris family has been here for almost a week now. Despite 2 18hr power outages in 100 degree weather and food orders being messed up I think it's going pretty well. I know for us it's been super refreshing to have family here. To have them in 'our' house makes it seem so normal that we live here. Joshua is in heaven having Chris' little brother and sister to hang out with. I do have to say it has got me missing my family more than ever though. In living the life we do it's not only us that make sacrifices~ but I see in so many ways that my parents have made one of the biggest ones. They've given up being able to see their grandkids regularly.

We want to get back to the States next summer so we can visit all the the grandparents. I dream of my boys walking around the Black Hills with my Dad. Seeing him in his element chopping wood and enjoying the fresh air. Getting a picture of the man who made me the strong woman I am today. To have my stepmom sing songs with them and come up with creative games for them to play, like pine cone baseball~ all you need is a stick, some pine cones and a few rocks for bases. I dream of my boys having popcorn movie dates with my mom. Diego asked my mom the other day to teach him how to fish~ she already said she'd buy him a pole. I want Papa to take the boys in his fishing boat- they search for elephants and other animals as they pretend they are on a safari.

I love my parents and wish we lived closer. Giving up the food and comforts of America to live in China are only minor sacrifices compared to the one of living so far from family we love so much. I'm grateful for their sacrifice and support in order for us to live here.

Family visits China!

2010-08-16T13:15:00.005+08:00

Chris' family came to China this last month and it was so much fun! In the next few days I'll post some more pics of our time together. Despite 2 long power outages here in Xi'an and the heat they survived and I think even had fun. They flew into Kunming, then went to Chengdu for a day where his mom got to hold a baby panda, then here to Xi'an for 10 days and we ended together in Beijing for 5 days. The picture above is Chris, his brother and Zachary playing in the water show at the Big Goose Pagoda. Below is Zachary and Chris on the Great Wall.

Chris' grandma joined us in Beijing. She is 86 years old and here she is sitting at the Great Wall!

Grandma finally got Zachary to sleep while the rest of us went up to take the slide down from the Wall.

Joshua and his favorite person~ Chris' little sister Joi-lin!

Introducing TurboFire

2010-08-15T11:05:00.002+08:00

Get ready for the best trainer, the best workout, the best music, and the best spot in class! Introducing TurboFire: the most effective High Intensity Interval Training program ever put on DVD.

Many people ask what the difference between INSANITY and TurboFire is so I will share my thoughts on it.

~Both are intense cardio conditioning and have great trainers.

~TurboFIRE has better music if that motivating factor for you

Detox?

2010-08-04T12:58:00.003+08:00

It's been a weird few days for me~ so much going on in my head but nothing really concrete to process. One thing I was thinking about today was food and my eating of it. Chris was in Kunming for 12 days this month and I stayed back with the boys. I took a week of that time to really get serious about my eating~ mainly focusing on my fat intake and keeping it between 35-55g a day. It did wonders for my mid-section and also felt good to be making good choices. So here I am now...

The last few days I've been eating whatever I want with his family that is here visiting. Last night I had a headache and felt so sick and knew it was bc I ate crap all day. But here's the thing I'm processing. One day I went with them to Baskin Robins and ate ice cream. Was I hungry? No. Was it the best tasting thing I've had in months? No. So why did I?

The more I've been thinking today the more I think I still need to detox my brain on this journey I am on to be healthy. I ate the ice cream bc "I LOVE ICE CREAM." That's what I was thinking in my head when I decided to do it. Of course I'd get some, I love it. But really when I sit here and think about it- I don't know if I LOVE ice cream anymore. Zachary has milk allergies so for the last 14 months I've had a seriously limited amount of dairy. At first it was so hard as that was my favorite food group- but I'm starting to think that's not true anymore.

I know I am rambling but this is good for me to process right now. I think what I'm realizing is that sometimes I hear these tapes in my head of who I am and really it's just not true anymore. Growing up I was known to eat ice cream for breakfast, lunch and dinner. To hate veggies and not be one of those 'health freaks'. To not be fat but also not be thin. I can take this into other areas like one day when Chris was gone and I was going crazy I went to a store and got a new shirt (which I later returned) bc spending money is one way I USED to cope with stress/boredom. But that's not me anymore. None of those things are.

I know this is not new to any of us, we all know about the tapes we play in our head. I'm rewriting my tapes. It may take a few tries but I will get there. A few of my new tapes are these:

~ I am healthy. I make food choices based on how they will fuel my body and allow me to function better as a mom, wife, woman, friend, human. (I still get treats, but they are within my daily food allowance.)
~ I exercise, journal, or chat w/a friend to deal with stress/boredom, rather than eat or spend $
~ I follow a budget and live within it so that we can enjoy things in the future and not just in the moment.

Just a few of the million things churning in my head right now. (Along with the thought that I'm going to beat the neighbors who are drilling upstairs and just woke Zac up from his nap?!?!!!)

What can entertain the kids?

2010-07-26T21:56:00.004+08:00

This was day 9 of 12 that Chris had been gone. I was desperate to entertain the kids just a few more hours before bed~ it worked. They loved it and it will probably take me a day to unravel the mess but was totally worth it for the fun they had. I'd probably let them do it again just to see Diego having so much fun!

Waterpark in Diego's room!

2010-07-19T21:07:00.004+08:00

Day 2 of Chris and Jeremy being gone Jenny and I left the boys with a babysitter and we went out for coffee. We came back to this...Diego's room was a total water park! The floor, rug, bed, and of course boys were soaked. I have to admit~ I was impressed by the creativity. Gives meaning to the phrase, "Boys will be boys."

Love my boys being silly with each other. Zachary mimics Joshua all the time. Below is a pic of Joshua and Levi looking out over the city~ such sweet friends.