"Smart Girls Do Dumbbells"

Today, my coffee pot weighed 100 pounds. At least, that's what it felt like after trying out some exercise "recipes" found in a book I bought yesterday -- "Smart Girls Do Dumbbells" by Judith Sherman-Wolin.

First of all, what a clever title!

Secondly, it's a dummy-proof book. She writes out each exercise so clearly, and based on how I'm feeling this morning, they're incredibly effective!

Before getting to the exercises, she explains why building muscle is important for women and denounces the common myth that you'll end up looking like a man if you strength train. It's an informative, easy-to-read book, and I'm very happy I stumbled upon it!

Now, I'm expecting these guns to grow by the time I finish the book! ;)

Cinnamon Blueberry Banana Smoothie

I've been addicted to this smoothie the last couple weeks. You might think the cinnamon won't taste good, but it really just adds that little bit of something extra to a simple drink! All I did was blend a banana, handful of blueberries, about a half a cup or less of almond milk, cinnamon to taste, and a few ice cubes. Delicious! And less than 200 calories!

Cajun Cauliflower Steaks & Roasted Brussels Sprouts

I've been a vegetarian for a couple months now. The best part of it is branching out with new recipes. Tonight, I made these Cajun Cauliflower "Steaks" and roasted brussels sprouts. It was delicious!

February

About six months ago, I didn't have a gym membership. I only dreamed of getting a personal trainer. I didn't think I'd ever lose the 20 pounds. I didn't understand the purpose of strength training. I chose nights in front of the TV with pints of ice cream over going for a run and eating Greek yogurt. I wasn't concerned with the calories and the poison I was putting into my body. I'd wake up, not like how I felt and want to look better, but allow the same unhealthy habits to take over my day.

I've always been on diets. I've always been obsessed with the scale. I've always wanted immediate gratification.

Now, I'm living a healthier (not perfectly healthy, but healthier) lifestyle. It's not a diet. I don't feel like I'm depriving myself when I choose a handful of berries over a candy bar. I don't hate putting on my running shoes and putting down the remote. I have energy. I feel strong. I feel happy with where I'm headed with my health. I've become more educated about the ingredients in the foods I choose to eat. I'm seeing results.

Why? I had a personal trainer. I invested time and money for a priceless change in myself -- body AND mind. It's changed not only my outlook on health, but on life. It's made me want to make a difference and make other people feel as good as I feel now.

Moving toward a truly healthy lifestyle is a constant journey, and I'm finally taking the ride. I still have some weight I'd like to lose, some muscle I'd like to gain and some changes in my diet I'd like to make -- but I'm getting there. It won't happen overnight and that's okay, because any positive, permanent changes takes time, determination and dedication.

So, that's why I'm starting this blog... to track my journey toward good health and happiness.