Make Tomorrow Count!

Day 29

I had a successful day of being active and eating healthy! Tomorrow is the last day of September, so make it count. Don't go into October feeling defeated. Make tomorrow the most exciting day of the last 30 days. Be proud of your accomplishments and be brave enough to make new goals. Yes, it's the end of the month, but it's also the beginning of a new month. Start thinking about what you want to achieve in October and how you plan on making it happen.

Push Yourself!

Day 28

It's almost the end of the month and I am finally feeling better. I have had a horrible cold for over a week and it has seriously affected my workout schedule! Now that I feel much better, I am going all out for the last few days of the month. If you really want to finish the month well, act like these are your last days of existence. Yes, it seems extreme but trust me you will see some really exciting results. You will be more positive, work harder and achieve more. Tomorrow I am going for a long walk/run and I am going to push myself. You should do the same! 

Couch Potato Exercising!

Day 27

It's that time of year again. All of your favourite shows are back on television! Yes it's exciting, but it also means that you will start to become a couch potato again. To stop this from happening, I like to do various exercises while watching the tube.

1. Squats. I like to do up to 50 regular squats and sumo squats.

2. Leg Lifts. While sitting on the edge of the couch, put your legs straight out in front of you and move them up and down while engaging your abs. Do this about 30 times.

3. Push Ups. Do your regular push ups but put your feet up on the couch for added difficulty.

You can always fit in time for exercise!

How to Adjust

Day 26

Going from summer to fall can be a challenge, especially when you live in Canada. The flu goes around, the weather keeps you from getting motivated, and you start to get into a slump. It's time to focus and learn how to adjust! 

Go Shopping!
As soon as the temperature dropped, I stopped going for a walk or run regularly. To get me inspired to start again, I plan on buying the proper clothing that will keep me warm while exercising. By doing this, I will get excited about getting back in the game because who doesn't love buying new clothes?! But stay on a budget of course. You don't need to create problems while solving others.

Make your Home Cozy! 
Change up your decor. Bring in harvest colours in your accessories. Decorate your mantel and dining room table.

Brainstorm!
One of my favourite things about fall is being able to start up the fireplace and sit by the fire with a blanket and hot cup of cocoa. Write down all of your favourite things about fall to really get you in the autumn mood. You can even make a picture board or screen saver on your computer!


Eat Whats in Season! 
Make a pumpkin pie, autumn themed cookies, or hardy soup. These eats will be sure to warm you up and get you excited about fall:)

Get the Wheels Turning!

Day 25

Today I went to a really beautiful home decor store in downtown Ottawa called Marie Antoinette. The name says it all. It is full of pieces that have an ornate feel. They have crystal chandeliers, Paris themed objects, and all the fine furnishings I have been dreaming of! They also have an entire room dedicated to Christmas decor. As soon as I walked into the room I was in heaven! It was like walking into the end of It's a Wonderful Life. There were amazing ornaments that took you back to the 1920's and Christmas trees that were decorated immaculately. They even had my favourite classic Christmas songs playing. I would love to bring a chair next time I visit and plant myself in that room for hours. It was that beautiful.

The reason why I bring this up is because the store inspired me! It got my wheels turning. I got so many wonderful ideas for decorating my home just by walking in the door. If you're ever in a rut and can't seem to generate new ideas, get out and about. It takes a lot of imagination to put together a store like Marie Antoinette and by visiting today I was able to appreciate it and come up with some of my own ideas!

Thanksgiving Table Centerpiece!

Day 24

I realize that it's not even October yet but Thanksgiving in Canada is fast approaching! Today I went to the dollar store and picked up some paint, glitter, and rhinestones. What was I planning on doing with these items? Make a Thanksgiving centerpiece of course! After the dollar store I took a trip to the grocery store to buy 3 small pumpkins. Instead of carving the pumpkins I decided to paint them. That way they will keep a lot longer and I can have them around for Halloween as well. After I painted them three different colours, I used the great rhinestone patters I found to really make them shine! I even included the pumpkin stems by painting them gold and adding glitter glue around the base. As a bonus I painted traditional jack-o-lantern faces on the backs of them to tie the two holidays together. The pumpkins were then placed on three different candelabras that are at different heights (like a spiral staircase). To finish it off you can add either a ribbon or some fabric at the base of the centerpiece. Gold would look beautiful! And there you have it a beautiful centerpiece that will last you the whole month of October:)

Try using red, orange, and brown to give it more of an autumn feel! 

Feeling Down?

Day 23

Feeling down today? Search for inspirational videos! Other people's life stories can really inspire you to get going with your own life.

Here is a video that is pretty popular on youtube about a man who had given up on life. He was over weight and disabled. For most, this would feel like the end of the road. It would feel like there is no hope. Yet, this man decided to push for a better life and he succeeded! You can too! This is his story:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qX9FSZJu448

Fear of the Unknown

Day 22

Today I had an interesting conversation with a customer. Somehow we began talking about fear. How fear can control your life. It you can get over the fear of failure you will be able to achieve anything. If you continue to live with the fear of failure you will never experience anything new and therefore never be able to truly be happy.

In order to get over this fear of new experiences, you need to start small and work your way up.
- Make a list of things you have always wanted to do but have been too afraid to, whether it be as crazy as sky diving or as simple as riding a bike.
- Circle the "smaller" or easier tasks
- Pick one of them to do every month
- Once you run out of the "smaller" tasks move up to the bigger ones

The world is out there for you to experience and enjoy. Don't deny yourself this. 

Handling Life's Challenges!

Day 21

Well, today was something else. I am still sick and had to decide whether or not to go into work today. I chose to suck it up and go to work. Big mistake! The whole system at work crashed and today happens to be our busiest day of the week. It was a mess. There could not have been a more inconvenient day to be sick. BUT I got through it...we all did. My boss was very impressed with the way we all handled the situation so he gave us ice cream! It seems like a small gesture but I really appreciated it. We were all quite proud of ourselves afterwards. The only thing you can do in these situations is to stay positive. Even when the day seems like it will drag on forever, it's important to remember that it will all work out in the end. You're not going to die, you just have to handle these challenges to the best of your ability.

Unfortunately, there will always be someone or something out there trying to break you down. Would you give in to a bully? No, you're a mature human being with a fire burning inside of you. You fight back! (in a non-violent way of course). If you continue to fight for what you believe in, what you want, and what you care for, you will succeed. Patience is key. If you don't have patience you better find some or you're in for a world of unhappiness.

DIY

Day 20

I'm sick! After finally getting motivated to finish this month strong, I get a nasty cold. Life's a bitch sometimes. However, It's not the end of the world. I am staying positive and watching The Ellen Show! You can't help but smile when you watch her show. I'm feeling better already:)

I have been using Pinterest a lot lately and I have started a DIY board for crafts and fun decor ideas. You can find it here. Since we are now in the fall season, I have been pinning Halloween crafts. I realize it's a bit early but I love being festive! I can't wait to decorate the house, but I will be patient for a few more weeks. I think using Pinterest to organize ideas is a great. You can categorize your favourite things and view them whenever you want. I will be getting more creative this season!

Determination!

Day 18+19

I forgot to post yesterday! I can't believe I did that. But I'm human. It happens. Now I am even more determined to post everyday until the end of the month.

I find it fitting to now talk about lack of determination. Everyone finds themselves slipping from their goals now and then. We get lazy and figure we can put responsibilities off until tomorrow but when tomorrow comes, sometimes we repeat this process again. Anything we can do tomorrow we can do today. Stop procrastinating and do it. I almost have no recollection of the last year because I have been sitting on the couch watching T.V. about 75% of the time. It is one big blur. This is my second year out of college and it is now time to start doing something with my life. Despite my lack of determination yesterday, I am quite proud of what I have done so far this month. I am much more active, confident, and positive. I am going to step it up and work even harder before the month ends!

Stay strong and don't give up!

Have Confidence!

Day 17

Today I passed my last road test! I now have my full G license and I am so excited:) I was a little nervous this morning but once I arrived at the test centre and was waiting for my instructor to approach my car, I calmed down. I have been driving for 5 years and I realized that I had no reason to be worried. I just had to do my best and believe that I could pass.

It was not about luck or divine intervention, it was about focus and determination. You have to believe that you can achieve anything you put your mind to! If you tell yourself that you can do something, chances are you can and you will. So next time you find yourself in doubt, try to think more positively and use the word "can" instead of "can't". By simply removing "can't" from your vocabulary, you will open a world of possibilities.

Photography!

Day 16

I had a great photography opportunity yesterday. I live very close to the Ottawa river that separates Ontario from Quebec so when the Gatineau airport had its Air Show yesterday, I was able to see it from my backyard. The planes flew right over my house! I ran to get my camera/video camera and here is some of the content that I got:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oHxv2NbAkPw&feature=plcp

I find it important to capture the fun and exciting moments in my life. That's why I love to take pictures and video. I will now have this moment with me for the rest of my life, and looking back on it, inspires me to get out the camera more often!

Bye Bye Saddlebags: Bridges!

Day 15

The only part of my body I really struggle to keep toned is between my glute and thigh. It is called a saddlebag and here is my favourite exercise to do to get rid of it.

Bridges:
Lye on your back with your feet planted on the ground and hip width apart. Lift you bum off the ground so that your torso and thighs are at a 40 degree angle. Squeeze your glutes tightly. Lower your bum and repeat 20 times. Afterwards, hold at the top for 20 seconds.

Next, do the same motion but with one leg straight up in the air with your foot flexed. Do twenty repetitions. Switch legs and do twenty more repetitions.

For a more advanced workout, place one leg on a raised surface (such as a table or the arm of a couch) and the other leg straight up in the air with your foot flexed. Pulse up and down while squeezing your glutes tightly for 20 repetitions for each leg.

To get rid of the excess fat on the outer thigh, place both feet on the ground (or raised) farther than hip width apart and angled outwards slightly. Pulse up and down for 20 repetitions. Remember to keep your glutes tight!

Inspirational Quotes!

Day 14

Here are some Inspirational Quotes:

- "Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, you're right" -Henry Ford
- "No one needs a smile as much as someone who fails to give one" -Unknown
- "The crisis of yesterday is the joke of tomorrow" -H. G. Wells
- "Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results" -Albert Einstein 
- "A person who never made a mistake never tried something new" -Albert Einstein
- "Happiness depends upon ourselves" -Aristotle
- "This is my simple religion. There is no need for temples; no need for complicated philosophy. Our own brain, our own heart is our temple; the philosophy is kindness." -Dalai Lama
- "Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible" -Dalai Lama
- "An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind" -M. K. Gandhi
- "You must be the change you want to see in the world" -M. K. Gandhi
- "Never leave that till tomorrow which you can do today" -Benjamin Franklin 
- "People who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do" -Apple Computers
- "You miss 100% of the shots you don't take" -Wayne Gretzky 
- "I am always doing that which I cannot do, in order that I may learn how to do it." - Pablo Picasso

Reflect. These are the people that changed the world.

Buttermilk Waffles!

Day 13

Do you often skip breakfast because you don't have time to make it in the morning? Well then this is the perfect recipe for you. These buttermilk waffles are super light and fluffy! You can make them on the weekend and store them in the freezer until needed. All you have to do is pop them in the toaster for a couple minutes and BAM instant homemade breakfast! Simple steps like making breakfast ahead, can really free up time for yourself and reduce your stress load.

What you'll need:

- 2 cups flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
- 6 tablespoons melted butter

Method:

Mix flour, baking soda, baking powder, and sugar together. Set Aside.
Separate egg yolks from whites. Beat egg yolks in another bowl until they are light yellow. Add buttermilk and butter to the egg yolks.
Gently stir the wet ingredients into the dry just until blended. Do not overmix.
Beat egg whites until stiff peeks appear.
Fold egg whites into batter.

Follow the instructions  on your waffle maker for perfect waffles!

*You can add anything you'd like to this waffle batter such as blueberries, strawberries, or cinnamon. 

Make a Promise to Yourself

Day 12

I did it! I went for a run this morning and I feel great. I told a few of my family members that I was going for a run today and doing that simple action got me motivated. When they called me later in the day to ask me how my run was, I was able to say "great!". I couldn't bare the thought of having to answer "I didn't end up going today", so I went and I'm glad I did.

Going for a walk or jog on your own is a nice way to clear your head and get in touch with your soul. It gives you a sense of freedom. It builds your confidence. It connects you with your surroundings. It just makes you feel good, so go out and try it yourself!

*Tomorrow I need to practice for my driving test on monday. Wish me luck:)

Just Do It!

Day 11

I find it much easier to keep my word and do what I say I'm going to do if I make it public. That is why tonight I am making a promise to myself that tomorrow I will go for a run (or at the very least, a jog).

Sometimes your goals need to be shared if they are going to be achieved. Putting them out into the universe will give you a better change of proceeding with them.

Here is Why:
- You will get support from the people you share your goals with
- Others may give you insight into how to improve or achieve your goals
- You may help inspire others and in the process motivate yourself

So, tomorrow is the day. I am finally going to stop worrying about trying it, and just run!

Meditation

Day 10

I just had a stressful day of painting the house and was trying to figure out a way to calm my muscles and mind. As I walked upstairs away from the madness on the main level, I could feel a stillness and it inspired me to meditate. I don't usually do this, but it really does sooth your soul.

Steps For Pre-Meditation:
- Find a quiet, clean, clutter free room
- Wear comfortable clothes
- You may put a "calming sounds" cd on in the background if you wish
- Find a comfortable cushion/chair to sit on

How To Meditate:
- Take a seat cross legged in the comfortable area you have set up for yourself
- Sit up straight with your spine aligned and your head looking forward
- Close your eyes
- Relax your arms and legs
- Begin to find parts throughout your body that are still tense and relax them
- Breath slowly, in and out
- Focus on your breath and nothing else; clear your mind
- Once you have the ability to focus on your breathe, the last step is to eventually think of nothing at all

Most people find it incredibly difficult to clear their head so don't worry you're not alone! Start off meditating for 5-10 minutes at a time and then move up as you go along.

How Movies Inspire

Day 9

A great movie can inspire you to become a better person. It can change the way you look at the world. For me, that movie is Pay It Forward. This movie tugs at your emotions. It motivates you to do something extraordinary that will impact society in a positive way. If you are stuck on the couch with no desire to get up and do something with your life, watch this movie. It will definitely give you that spark you need.

Everyone is connected. If we all took the same action that Trevor did, can you imagine how different the world would look today?

Killer Buns and Thighs!

Day 8

Today's weather has been miserable. It has been raining all day so I decided to get some exercise indoors. My all time favourite exercise DVD is Jillian Michaels Killer Buns and Thighs. If you need to work on your thighs and glutes, this is the only video you will need. I began to see results very quickly. But be warned, this is not a workout for beginners. It's tough! There are three levels and I still struggle on level 1 at times. However, doing even half of this workout will give you results. Most of the moves are done without weights but they can be added for more difficulty. The weight of your own body should be enough to sculpt and tone without bulk. Try it yourself! 

This DVD is a keeper!

My Inspirational Dog!

Day 7

Pets can be a great inspiration. They look up to you as their owner and are always there when you get home from a bad day at the office.

I made a video a few months ago explaining the life of my dog Allie. She has had a brain tumour since the age of 2 and has managed to beat the odds and live a happy normal life despite her obstacles. Her story is what really inspires me to love life and live it to its full potential.

You can check out her video here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RGzlsP50bc0&feature=plcp

What Inspires you?

Exotic Fruit Salad!

Day 6

Ever want to try the exotic fruit you see at the supermarket but not sure how to use it? Here is a great healthy recipe to try before the end of the summer. It's perfect for a snack or to impress your friends at your next dinner party!

Exotic Fruit Salad

Dressing:
3 Tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar
2 Tablespoons Honey
Miniscule Pinch of Ground Cardamom
Salt and Pepper

A Few or All of the Following Fruits:
1 Star Fruit, sliced
1 Kiwi, sliced
1 Pound Raspberries
1 Dragon Fruit, diced into cubes
1 Pound of Strawberries, hulled and quartered
1 Pint Blackberries

For Garnish:
1 Large Sprig of Mint, Leaves Roughly Torn

Method:
1. Whisk balsamic vinegar, honey, cardamom, a pinch of salt and pepper in medium bowl.
2. Tumble in strawberries, blackberries and other fruits you have chosen from the list. Sprinkle the mint over them and gently toss.

Yoga Meltdown

Day 5

I just finished doing yoga Jillian Michaels style. I love her workout DVDs! If you want results fast, you definitely need to try her workouts. Her yoga DVD involves traditional yoga positions but with added power and movement. You do 10 repetitions in each position and then hold them for 15 seconds. This kind of yoga will definitely burn more calories and get your heart rate up!

Here is a link to Level 1 of Jillian Michaels Yoga Meltdown:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5nyrD4eM64

So you have no excuses! Just try it. You may love it:)

Songs You Can Dance To!

Day 4

It's the end of day 4 and I had a great day! I hope you did too:) Nothing crazy happened at work and I was able to resolve many issues that were going on in my life.

* I am currently completing my daily task, which is dancing to my favourite songs for an hour. Try it yourself! Make a playlist of your favourite songs to dance to. You may look silly but it's a great way to get in a positive, happy mood while getting some exercise as well. So crank up the tunes and let loose!

Here are some of the songs I like to dance to:

- Hypnotize   >  The White Stripes
- Flathead   >  The Fratellis
- Born This Way   >  Lady Gaga
- Party Rock Anthem   >  LMFAO
- Good Feeling   >  Flow Rida
- Groove is in the Heart   >  Deee-Lite
- Bust a Move  >  Young MC
- Jump Around  >  House of Pain
- Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough  >  Michael Jackson
- Hot N Cold  >  Katy Perry
- 3  >  Britney Spears
- Walk Away  >  Kelly Clarkson
- Raise Your Glass  >  P!nk
- Moves Like Jagger  >  Maroon 5
- I Got a Feeling  >  Black Eyed Peas
- Danger! High Voltage  >  Electric Six
- Here It Goes Again  >  OK Go
- Walkie Talkie Man  >  Steriogram
- Ride  >  The Vines
- Funplex  >  B-52's

You're Awesome!

Day 3

Everyone needs a motivator in there life. Someone that will be proud of your accomplishments and stay with you by your side through your journey. Many people unfortunately, don't have this person in their life. Friends and family will always be around but they may not be understanding or encouraging enough to get you through this process. That is why I am here. I will be that person. If you need a boost of confidence I will give it to you. All you have to do is ask!

*I just finished an hour long walk and I feel great! I got up early today and noticed how beautiful it was outside so I decided to take a walk by the river. The path was packed with bikers, runners, and walkers all with the same idea. I was excited to see so many active people! When I got home I did some stretches to work out some of the tension in my muscles. I might even do some yoga later in the day.

Do something you've been aching to accomplish and you'll feel amazing at the end of the day!

Daaaay 2!

Day 2

It's the end of day 2 and I have conquered my daily challenge. It was tough but I managed to make a Tiramisu birthday cake for my dad. It has been a dream of mine to learn how to make this amazing dessert and I hope I did the Italians proud. It wasn't perfect but it wasn't bad for my first try!

I got the recipe from Anna Olson's Back to Baking. 

This cookbook (or I should say baking book) is incredible! So far every dessert I've tried has produced amazing results. Although I should warn you, they are very rich. She uses lots of eggs and heavy cream. She does however, have many egg free, dairy free, and gluten free recipes in the book you can try as well.

It was fun to finally try this recipe but it's now time to start thinking healthy again! By the end of the month I want to be fit and in shape, so Anna Olson will have to go back on the shelf until the next occasion.

*Yesterday I got busy unexpectedly and had to run some errands after work during the time set aside to take a walk. I almost gave up but instead I parked a fair distance away from the store so I was able to get some exercise in! Remember, life will try to break down your routine but you have to stay strong and find a creative way to compromise.

Remember don't give up! Yes, it's hard but if you keep your mind in the game, you will succeed. 

It's September 1st!

Day 1 

It's here! September is here and I am pumped. It's time to really focus and strive for greatness. No excuses! I will be posting everyday to make sure everyone stays on track. I will also let you know how I'm doing with my goals. If anyone has any questions or needs help leave me a comment and ill do my best to pick you up and help you continue on your journey.

Here is one of the main reasons why I started this blog:  http://www.youtube.com/user/ShayLoss
He is a partner with youtube and an incredibly inspirational person. He started out with a goal of losing weight and he has officially lost over 100 pounds! He has now moved on to motivate and inspire others. Losing weight is not one of my goals but I find listening to what he has to say really helps me  strive for the best in my life. He has great tips for keeping a healthy lifestyle. Check him out if you need an extra push!

*Today I will be taking a walk after work and having a healthy dinner.

Don't forget that you are an amazing human being! Everyone was put on this earth with a purpose so go out there and find out what yours is:)