tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48981969878230673842024-03-14T04:47:54.875-04:00mutterings of a middle-aged crossfitterWhoever said "you can't teach an old dog new tricks" never tried CrossFit!anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.comBlogger112125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-18507575344884059262016-12-20T08:35:00.000-05:002016-12-20T08:35:35.911-05:00blog title musingsThere've been topics weaving in and out of my thoughts all year, but by the time I get to my computer, I've lost the bulk of my musings. So, is that my age or just minimal desire to put my musings down? Hmmm.<br />
<br />
This brings me to this question: at what age do I need to change the title of my blog? Is 60 middle age?<br />
It SOUNDS like it's the high end of middle age. <br />
However, it doesn't FEEL middle age to me, so perhaps I can squeak out another couple years with the blog title.<br />
I guess I'll need to rely on the shoulder tap from a friend to let me know it's time to alter my blog title. After all, I may not notice when the eyebrows I draw in and the slightly rosy tinted chapstick that I put on start making me look like Baby Jane! ;) <br />
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(If you see a heartshaped beauty mark appear on my face, don't tap me, smack me. :) )<br /><br />In the meantime, I'll keep up my fitness through CrossFit and therefore not need to be of a certain age. I'll just be. <br />
anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-18909582385865664182016-02-24T16:34:00.001-05:002016-02-24T16:34:19.165-05:00#nevertooold<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieMf5aQ28URCA6Wab6_gp4qnPjQQenQ25s2EQOqbiSyc8a40r0BvItIO-NLQ6xCHfQVnaINXjmSxLvQgXUCluiXLSbNGheRI-DgQVXmjUB7O96YprRvdh2497cW_olTaWMi8ZvpDCHMwaL/s1600/CF+L1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieMf5aQ28URCA6Wab6_gp4qnPjQQenQ25s2EQOqbiSyc8a40r0BvItIO-NLQ6xCHfQVnaINXjmSxLvQgXUCluiXLSbNGheRI-DgQVXmjUB7O96YprRvdh2497cW_olTaWMi8ZvpDCHMwaL/s200/CF+L1.jpg" width="130" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...so I can do what I love: coach</td></tr>
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A few weekends ago I headed to Reebok CF One to revalidate my CF Level 1 coaching certificate. 5 years have passed since my first one. 5 years!<br />
It got me thinking about how fast 5yrs as gone by, and how much I've fit into that time.<br />
While my CF journey began over 5yrs ago (May '10), to have this definitive time frame brings my experiences into perspective. #nevertooold<br />
<br />
In 5 years:<br />
I've been very thankful to have been a 2x Games athlete, finishing 2nd and 8th respectively. I met the most amazing people at the Games who continue to inspire me through their FB posts revealing their tenaciousness at continuing to move into they later years with passion...and to move heavy shit and stay healthy in mind and body. Forever grateful for them!!<br />
#nevertooold<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSI5va5q6il6oL318YLuYz7JrNKENYZoDDgodS7Iaf0PjNqUnGGY8W802C_hDpfWyOJJNziUVw0QW8_xQ2yR3EQmzu6AWSQS8J4WBEjgAHaqB48lYj1uxcGZPXV-5AaoHk2foVjicQQOLG/s1600/untitled+%252863%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSI5va5q6il6oL318YLuYz7JrNKENYZoDDgodS7Iaf0PjNqUnGGY8W802C_hDpfWyOJJNziUVw0QW8_xQ2yR3EQmzu6AWSQS8J4WBEjgAHaqB48lYj1uxcGZPXV-5AaoHk2foVjicQQOLG/s200/untitled+%252863%2529.png" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hard work and amazing memories</td></tr>
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In 5 years:<br />
Those years of training hard as an athlete definitely transferred over to my coaching outlook and ability. Because of that, during the past 5yrs I continued to increase my knowledge base by getting many more certifications in both CF and other related health & fitness outside the CF community. Love of what you do organically creates the drive to learn more. That hasn't ended because I still love what I do. When it does end, then I'll know it's time to move on. #nevertooold<br />
<br />
In 5 years:<br />
Although my desire to compete has ended, my passion for coaching has not. My passion for working specifically with people who are looking for a better quality of life, however that may look for them, is what truly<br />
gets me excited! #nevertooold<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjb-M5MJLaJzEBXfeWI0ltAVJeEZUZ4l1aVouR49d3KsVmDxN7uk1CQInq9_FI_IrS3vAUC8ZzTRtBKVRVzaXbcGfECNTr_AkHh4U-CCBvfRiCcapJ22Lo8HxeqidOcdc1CJSPwUk-T48s/s1600/023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjb-M5MJLaJzEBXfeWI0ltAVJeEZUZ4l1aVouR49d3KsVmDxN7uk1CQInq9_FI_IrS3vAUC8ZzTRtBKVRVzaXbcGfECNTr_AkHh4U-CCBvfRiCcapJ22Lo8HxeqidOcdc1CJSPwUk-T48s/s200/023.JPG" width="149" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We all start somewhere. :)</td></tr>
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That is, after all, why I ventured into my first CF gym! I was 54. One of the oldest athletes in the gym, I just wanted to be there for me. My progress was on my own time frame. That's the goal. You may want to venture out of your comfort zone, but you don't need to look past your own body for the drive to live more functionally! #nevertooold<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLldF_ZaIMm1RIXTvmXDs3WemHhC1JgtfH5-pDPbVH2VuN4XkWgHDlYGc0efKN7-rCDxBSFirJpkgnHJnG6fd_r5AKjKhxd7SAyJf0xuz6kNc9UZkPlnScGS_OTTtfbDNTf_TJs1HJfCj8/s1600/11756491_912345352165497_1348571493_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLldF_ZaIMm1RIXTvmXDs3WemHhC1JgtfH5-pDPbVH2VuN4XkWgHDlYGc0efKN7-rCDxBSFirJpkgnHJnG6fd_r5AKjKhxd7SAyJf0xuz6kNc9UZkPlnScGS_OTTtfbDNTf_TJs1HJfCj8/s200/11756491_912345352165497_1348571493_n.jpg" width="131" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A first triathlon at 58? Sure, why not!</td></tr>
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Now knocking on the door of 60, I'm forever thankful that I didn't let the mentality of age get in the way of trying something new. CF, as my blog description states, has taught me more about myself than I ever knew existed within me. It's also opened up a life I never imagined! New directions in this journey are continually appearing and formulating. Linear paths are pretty much impossible if you stay open to options. #nevertooold<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZew_j1lhJ47-PrU_abiV_2ULOs4HZaMeHrHO6yfMuK7YQU-k0EKdXrfXGKsfiLcjVx1aPOzIrx1UoHZz1z8P6dN4msTCDnXxvcaPYCTcN_ANWrrnRYzqZVAeyXN0syPgKaf3qt4JUZr41/s1600/11855892_10206520214258495_4993360031259261411_n+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZew_j1lhJ47-PrU_abiV_2ULOs4HZaMeHrHO6yfMuK7YQU-k0EKdXrfXGKsfiLcjVx1aPOzIrx1UoHZz1z8P6dN4msTCDnXxvcaPYCTcN_ANWrrnRYzqZVAeyXN0syPgKaf3qt4JUZr41/s200/11855892_10206520214258495_4993360031259261411_n+%25282%2529.jpg" width="150" /></a>One of the biggest joys is that I know I can trust my body, even if it's not always working at capacity at times. I know there is always a way to do what I want to do. I can trust that I can figure that out.<br />
Because of that, as every new year turns over, what my annual intention has become is to try something new. It's pretty amazing what happens when age doesn't take on a primary role in your desire to lead an open life! #nevertooold<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIe8IYjHzpezaMpJRl3tqtiv1FOuJdcvpePzT7-H1DOHybv7_RO2XLLgl6-PjBQli3fO2myhWxjSZU_okJW1cDJTKBJlyw2wAt2XGL0hjcULUVtwDUVbJBfTeHWNLP0xGYSIq1xHQC5vM_/s1600/unnamed+%2528150%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIe8IYjHzpezaMpJRl3tqtiv1FOuJdcvpePzT7-H1DOHybv7_RO2XLLgl6-PjBQli3fO2myhWxjSZU_okJW1cDJTKBJlyw2wAt2XGL0hjcULUVtwDUVbJBfTeHWNLP0xGYSIq1xHQC5vM_/s320/unnamed+%2528150%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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<br />
<br />anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-47481976475478647652016-01-09T15:37:00.000-05:002016-01-09T15:37:25.401-05:00i'm not you, i'm mePeople with various philosophical and spiritual ideologies like to share the common thought,<br />
~~Find your passion and follow it. Your life will be more meaningful and purposeful.~~<br />
Agreed.<br />
That said, I've had more than one discussion surrounding this thought with people who clearly believe that their passion and path is the most fulfilling one possible. <br />
<br />
One common theme is 'travel the world'.<br />
That's great for them.<br />
I'm not you, I'm me.<br />
I have different passions. <br />
Traveling is an interest, not a passion.<br />
I'm not you, I'm me.<br />
<br />
My world changes on a daily basis. I don't need to be in a different environment everyday to be challenged. Growth, joy, passion, enlightenment can all show itself in the most seemingly mundane experiences. It's always so wondrous when that happens. <br />
You could say my passion is staying happy in the pursuit to be open to everything. <br />
Certainly, some days I take 'off', and yet those are still days that feed my passion of living in joy. <br />
Certainly, some days I need to travel toward the joy, but thankfully it's a scenic trip!<br />
<br />
You travel how you see fit.<br />
I'll travel how I see fit.<br />
I'm not you, I'm me.<br />
<br />
anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-40776190311243634282016-01-07T14:20:00.001-05:002016-01-07T14:20:15.629-05:00rereboot <br />
reset<br />
rethink<br />
review<br />
redirect<br />
restructure<br />
reconnect<br />
resolve<br />
reenact<br />
reemerge <br />
reawaken every single dayanniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-68565513018135198822014-12-17T08:44:00.000-05:002014-12-17T08:58:15.830-05:00no<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Z03WojEsBkBiMl161LaoCQY7WQqNo2UbDgh7wUOYgBzstyz_V0E-SmgDEPBEzP2_YckdolQlR7q10Pj4F-eIjjvTAu-QtDtHwaaTZgFd_iCl5EfexN6zAlmjZSju2Pce4x_nA5Nv9ARs/s1600/images+(39).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Z03WojEsBkBiMl161LaoCQY7WQqNo2UbDgh7wUOYgBzstyz_V0E-SmgDEPBEzP2_YckdolQlR7q10Pj4F-eIjjvTAu-QtDtHwaaTZgFd_iCl5EfexN6zAlmjZSju2Pce4x_nA5Nv9ARs/s1600/images+(39).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Z03WojEsBkBiMl161LaoCQY7WQqNo2UbDgh7wUOYgBzstyz_V0E-SmgDEPBEzP2_YckdolQlR7q10Pj4F-eIjjvTAu-QtDtHwaaTZgFd_iCl5EfexN6zAlmjZSju2Pce4x_nA5Nv9ARs/s1600/images+(39).jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a>A few days ago I read an article on <a href="http://elitedaily.com/life/toxic-people-new-year/879975/">toxic people</a> you should let go of as you head into the new year.<br />
<br />
The clear realization as I was reading was that to every one of the toxic personalities mentioned, you can just say "no".<br />
What do we owe people who are toxic to us? Nothing. We can be kindly indifferent by not engaging. This idea that the only way to be <em>nice</em> is to put yourself aside for the sake of someone else is ridiculous. We are not all going to be compatible. Our energies often let us know that long before we are able to kindly and calmly disengage. That is a *you* behavior to change, not a *them* behavior to change. Because you may not enjoy being around their energy doesn't mean anything other than they feel toxic to you. <br />
Be on your way. Move along. <br />
<br />
The truth is it's not up to the other person to change, it's up to you to be true to yourself. Another's personality might be toxic to you but not to someone else. Period. End of story. No big deal.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOK-JK57vGHpjf179vnTXU9ACPr-ejb08jb4SAaj_OV26VeY1IHDob0gGuga4bqyOLKr_oTFGkc9hZ9mhvZ9q-ihVogKz1h6pF2MUmPvLNmc8QUG_gp_WBYQnDJCcMihWfM2H8wePjL0ol/s1600/untitled+(20).png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOK-JK57vGHpjf179vnTXU9ACPr-ejb08jb4SAaj_OV26VeY1IHDob0gGuga4bqyOLKr_oTFGkc9hZ9mhvZ9q-ihVogKz1h6pF2MUmPvLNmc8QUG_gp_WBYQnDJCcMihWfM2H8wePjL0ol/s1600/untitled+(20).png" /></a>Learning to say "no" is a sign of self-respect. <br />
You're important to you. You value your beliefs, your outlook, your time. It's not about the other person at all. It's about what feeds you, your life, your soul. I know how hard this can be. I've come a long way, but still struggle with it at times. That's okay. Like any behavior modification process, the practice of saying "no" becomes easier and more meaningful. Being in practice is better than being stuck!<br />
<br />
As we head into the new year, learn to say "no" without self-judgment. Reread my post on friendship (<a href="http://mutteringsofamiddleagedcrossfitter.blogspot.com/2013/01/be-friend.html">be a friend</a> ) and rid yourself of toxicity even from yourself this new year!<br />
Cheers!!<br />
<br />
**I'll share one of my favorite lines related to this (20ish seconds at the beginning of the clip) ...just add "to me" after the judgment in the statement and it's spot on! <a href="http://youtu.be/9hvvMHvWK-w?t=1m58s">"just shoot me" line</a> I wish I had the balls to say this sometimes! :)**anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-22160990114874840532014-11-26T10:41:00.002-05:002014-11-26T10:41:40.091-05:00 when new habits become old habits<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Congratulations!<br />
You changed your old habits that were getting in your way of good health and happiness. <br />
<br />
It's been over 4 years since I've been living my "new" habits. <br />
Better nutrition. Regular and effective workouts. Learning to include 'me' in my prioritization near or at the top of the list, which has been one of the tougher new habits to practice.<br />
<br />
I needed to take a few days off from the gym recently. The first day I pretty much sat around and grazed all day. When Laurence got home I told him that and, without skipping a beat, he said, "At least you've been eating good food." <br />
Hmmm. True. But it was still just mindless grazing.<br />
<br />
My new habits have become old habits. <br />
Too many taro chips are still counterproductive to my overall health despite being a <em>better choice</em> than potato chips. <br />
Too much snacking later in the day on <em>better choices</em> is still too much snacking later in the day.<br />
<br />
When new habits become old habits, it's once again time to shake yourself up. It might mean one little shift here and there, but those little changes keep our bodies and minds awake. <br />
anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-84909324397211373992014-11-09T20:26:00.000-05:002014-11-09T21:26:21.836-05:00no time...erMy hubster and I took a long walk yesterday and a long drive/short walk today.<br />
<br />
No reason.<br />
No training for anything.<br />
No timer.<br />
<br />
It's been a long time since we've <strike>had</strike> made the time to do this. Our weekends are short, with things to do. Um, okay...so...<br />
<br />
Every day because of my job:<br />
I move with intent.<br />
I live training for life.<br />
I depend on the clock.<br />
<br />
Laurence and I went biking a few times this summer, but since I'm not a biker and needed to train a little for a sprint triathlon, I would get annoyed we weren't going faster. I had to make the outing count toward training! HA <br />
I finally let that go and knew when we biked, it was just to bike...but I didn't love it...it didn't count.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIBo9-y9-XNPJOOQeoXzot8GZQecgRkpIwi8fseWMd44aYwMlzZdN8T17-lz5idnMcPw55z9gCoLjzmZ_tNgH9_BddBHvNzAqKN5LJ9e-wCuIlKhoNQKhOtUaz2lesg3ZxjXVPB7m2vwn7/s1600/10013856_641930105873691_514165589_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIBo9-y9-XNPJOOQeoXzot8GZQecgRkpIwi8fseWMd44aYwMlzZdN8T17-lz5idnMcPw55z9gCoLjzmZ_tNgH9_BddBHvNzAqKN5LJ9e-wCuIlKhoNQKhOtUaz2lesg3ZxjXVPB7m2vwn7/s1600/10013856_641930105873691_514165589_n.jpg" height="196" width="400" /></a>Cut to this weekend....months later. <br />
No reason.<br />
No training for anything.<br />
No timer.<br />
<br />
This time I loved it. <br />
Thank you Universe shift!<br />
<br />
<br />anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-55747085440703076522014-10-30T11:59:00.000-04:002014-10-30T11:59:08.041-04:00practice the intangible<br />
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<br />
I practice to become proficient at _______________.<br />
<br />
This is easy, right? <br />
To practice something tangible is indeed easy. <br />
You make the time to do it. <br />
CrossFitters do it every time we walk up to a barbell. <br />
<br />
To practice something intangible is hard.<br />
You practice breaking through comfort zone patterns. <br />
You practice digging internally to compartmentalize fears and allow the possibilities of your real truths in.<br />
You practice steeling yourself against reactions.<br />
You practice word choices in your head to become proficient at saying ________________.<br />
<br />
Practice the intangible. <br />
Become proficient with your words.<br />
Words are the tools for your truth.<br />
anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-66545515066042023972014-10-28T22:18:00.000-04:002014-10-28T22:18:24.072-04:00giving notice<br />
Giving notice: as individuals, how we notice things that occur in our lives. <br />
<br />
This is not a new idea. Of course we all notice our lives based on our backgrounds. Those shape our view. The simplicity of the word resonates with me. We complicate things by feeling we need to detail/define/declare everything we talk about. Not true...at least from my perspective. ;)<br />
My father-in-law used to call this unnecessary verbiage "suet". <br />
Truth!<br />
<br />
Not all interactions require response. Not all interactions mean there's a connection with each other deep enough to want to respond. That's okay.<br />
It's just beneficial to give notice to how another person notices life. <br />
It's just beneficial to give notice to how you yourself notices life, and how you choose your words to support your life.<br />
<br />
A favorite quote from John Demartini:<br />
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anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-60449750953813846302014-02-27T16:08:00.001-05:002014-02-27T16:18:55.702-05:00use the Sunday mugMy father, with whom I had many discussions about financials regarding both real and imaginary dollars, gave me a mug years ago. <br />
<br />
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Need I really give any reason why I love this mug? <br />
I mean, come on! <br />
My father and I shared both constructive conversations and laughs...usually the bawdier the better. <br />
<br />
I find myself being so protective of this mug. The 'spinner' with YES/NO/? is on a little metal pin. Dishwasher? I think not! I'd get a little twisted when I'd see it there. How many times have I quietly removed it to hand wash it...passive/aggressive doesn't work. No one really ever 'hears' you!<br />
<br />
<br />
I also have a newer mug that I bought for myself a couple years ago.<br />
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I call this my Sunday mug. It has great colors, a good size and the lip of it, as you can see, splays out in a perfect way to cradle my lips as I sip my Sunday coffee. As for Sunday? It's a one of my favorite mornings. <br />
The Sunday paper is delivered.<br />
I usually don't have any plans for the day outside the house.<br />
I'm up early enough to enjoy some time alone.<br />
My Sunday mug (clearly connected to my emotional attachment to my relaxed Sunday mornings) is awaiting the first pour from the carafe while I await my first few sips. (I start thinking about it Sat night before I go to bed....sad, I know!)<br />
The paper is mine until Laurence gets up. muahahahaha <br />
After we've both been up for a while I make a big breakfast and as Laurence continues to read through the paper, I work on one of the crossword puzzles over breakfast while sipping on more coffee out of my perfectly 'lipped' mug. <br />
It's part of the Sunday package.<br />
<br />
Until recently.<br />
Now I'm using the Sunday mug on Tuesday and not getting so tweaked when I find my Wall Street mug in the dishwasher.<br />
I mean, WTF?<br />
THINGS...just things. <br />
My conversations...and jokes...with my father are with me all the time, whenever I want to reference one.<br />
My Sunday mornings are not the only mornings that deserve a relaxed sigh with a special mug. <br />
If anything gets broken and I no longer have it, my memories and my Sunday mornings will still be intact. Shocking, I know.<br />
So I'm going to keep playing with the 'spinner' on my Wall Street mug while it continues to work and I'm going to use the Sunday mug any day I damn well please.<br />
Just know that if you want any financial advise, you'd better ask before the 'spinner' breaks. anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-32434829475970340462014-02-23T17:17:00.000-05:002014-02-27T15:14:28.191-05:00today<em>Today</em> is where you are.<br />
<em>Today</em> is where you begin anew.<br />
<em>Today</em> is a good day!<br />
<br />
I am a human. Yes.<br />
I am a woman. Yes.<br />
I am a CrossFitter. Yes.<br />
<br />
CrossFit is all about <em>today</em>. <br />
It's not 'just' about staying fit and get fitter.<br />
It teaches us that every day is new. <br />
It teaches us that every day is an opportunity to be kind to ourselves by either pushing ourselves beyond where we thought we could go or to be kind to ourselves by modifying a workout to get the most out of what we have <em>today.</em><br />
It teaches us about who we are through mental strength as well as physical strength.<br />
It teaches us that because every day and every workout is different, we can only do the best we can <em>today.</em><br />
It teaches us that if we fail <em>today</em>, we can start anew tomorrow.<br />
It teaches us to think about a plan in order to achieve more.<br />
It teaches us to believe in own abilities.<br />
It teaches us to just keep moving forward. <br />
<br />
You were an athlete.<br />
You were more active.<br />
You were lighter.<br />
Those are all *so what*s.<br />
<br />
<em>Today</em> is where you are. <br />
You have sore shoulders. <br />
You have tight calves.<br />
You have wonky knees.<br />
You broke a bone.<br />
You have a disease.<br />
You have recovery time from surgery.<br />
You have nerve damage from a surgery. <br />
Those are also *so what*s.<br />
<br />
We are all the same in that we all have something 'off-kilter' that could be a life blocker or a crutch. The difference is what a person does with those things. <br />
CrossFit teaches you that nothing has to stop you. <br />
If you pay attention, CrossFit teaches you to pay closer attention to yourself. <br />
<em>Today</em> is the day on which you base your efforts, whether they be rest, modifications, or all-out effort. That's it. <br />
It's that simple.<br />
It's also that deep. <br />
The depths of how CrossFit's lessons permeate the rest of your life is both surprising and profound. <br />
The confidence to get through anything is what's profound. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQFX71eTzofc5Rm4NH_ya0U45QWvU_vByOrTxMUaBpQTHOrERAt-GEvbSMNUCDvKjTXZf0kBInBiTED9cXLqgXdN1QyxU6jyUUwOF5etOKNGs0n_DrsRKZSNjOQpRzoBRxy3eezC0a0o7p/s1600/untitled+%25288%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQFX71eTzofc5Rm4NH_ya0U45QWvU_vByOrTxMUaBpQTHOrERAt-GEvbSMNUCDvKjTXZf0kBInBiTED9cXLqgXdN1QyxU6jyUUwOF5etOKNGs0n_DrsRKZSNjOQpRzoBRxy3eezC0a0o7p/s1600/untitled+%25288%2529.png" height="200" width="200" /></a><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>Today</em> is where you are.<br />
<em>Today</em> is where you being anew.<br />
<em>Today</em> is a good day!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-2970199543313176182014-02-06T07:23:00.000-05:002014-02-06T07:23:33.813-05:00who would you be?The Five People You Meet In Heaven<br />
~~Mitch Albom~~<br />
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I read this long ago and consistently find my mind wandering to its concept. There have been many people who've come in and out of my life, exponentially so since I began CrossFit. That's one of the many perks of CrossFit for which I am grateful. The community of CF is talked about all the time and to those on the 'outside' it may seem phony. To those of us on the 'inside' it's powerfully true. The community is as diverse as the numbers of people in it. By diverse I'm referring to energies. As with any group, not all energies are rosy and gentle, but the mix of everyone is important. I know I wouldn't be who or where I am now without meeting many of the people I have met through CrossFit.<br />
<br />
Sometimes the 'why' of an energy in my life, rosy or blue, is a mystery, but <strike>begrudgingly</strike> eventually I'll take the time to dig because I'll want to find a balanced place for it within me. Some require heavy work, some just a quick look then a nod of "thank you". <br />
<br />
Seconds change minutes that change days that change life directions.<br />
The second I met my husband opened up a life that led to four more amazing people in my life...our daughters.<br />
The second I was encouraged to try CrossFit opened up a life that has me living with my eyes wide open, not just in a foggy haze of growing old.<br />
<br />
If you haven't read Albom's quick, interesting book, I recommend it.<br />
If you have, then do you, also, ever think about:<br />
Who would you be if you had never met __________?<br />
Where would you be if you had never met ___________?<br />
<br />
<br />
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anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-45904932886909309452014-02-02T19:34:00.001-05:002014-02-02T19:34:35.792-05:00your yin/yangNever underestimate the power of stillness. <br />
Never underestimate the power of quietness.<br />
Never underestimate the power of being alone.<br />
<br />
The boisterous, fun, joyous energy experienced at <a href="http://www.crossfitbeacon.com/">CrossFit Beacon</a> is beyond wonderful.<br />
There is a consistency to the movement and flow that surrounds me at Beacon.<br />
I love being challenged to become a better coach and athlete. What I learn for my job helps me to continue to grow as a person. It's a part of my life I've allowed to evolve. I never imagined.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqjyQgglMeJw19UdWYSx3E_YJNq2i50E1hZKsyYkUdnVxBS6hBXthSYD892WEN6wp4Sjj2woEyF8-tq1b_aagy5s9MDWUKeE9tVBllbk8Ux1p5_DV5CXehsGEoufCPYvs0xoPeWNUa7ZlP/s1600/imagesCAMMB43S.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqjyQgglMeJw19UdWYSx3E_YJNq2i50E1hZKsyYkUdnVxBS6hBXthSYD892WEN6wp4Sjj2woEyF8-tq1b_aagy5s9MDWUKeE9tVBllbk8Ux1p5_DV5CXehsGEoufCPYvs0xoPeWNUa7ZlP/s1600/imagesCAMMB43S.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a>Having the balance of stillness, quietness and alone time when I'm away from the gym is beyond important, it's necessary. <br />
It allows the best and worst of every experience to bubble up, to be seen and felt. <br />
Absorb, listen, feel. Don't shy away from it. Embrace it.<br />
<br />
Never underestimate the need for balance.<br />
Never underestimate the need to be alone.<br />
Never underestimate your yin/yang.<br />
<br />
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<br />anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-84962220802967134422014-01-05T19:46:00.000-05:002014-01-05T19:47:10.724-05:00the little thingsI bought a few oranges today.<br />
Nothing earth shattering, I know.<br />
<br />
I just felt like having a drink...basically a screwdriver with a little soda water. But we don't keep orange juice in the house, hence the purchase of a few oranges.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoqMfJttf6wD7LCwUyNxTcaoAhY77qv2T89AeEa35nz_e2e8xcuY6YM3wd17estJxmPz_G0zraxcwoyLX0s4Qn1OYLWEhZW-KOZSfR_QEJtfI1zSIVF6x6DITKUd0S-ExUGHWwv-7Cw3eB/s1600/unnamed+(9).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoqMfJttf6wD7LCwUyNxTcaoAhY77qv2T89AeEa35nz_e2e8xcuY6YM3wd17estJxmPz_G0zraxcwoyLX0s4Qn1OYLWEhZW-KOZSfR_QEJtfI1zSIVF6x6DITKUd0S-ExUGHWwv-7Cw3eB/s1600/unnamed+(9).jpg" height="200" width="149" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">fresh orange juice<br />
plenty of vodka</td></tr>
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As I was juicing my oranges a sudden and breathstopping awareness overcame me.<br />
Today is January 5th.<br />
My father crossed over on January 5th, 2005.<br />
January 5th.<br />
Leonard was well into his 88th year.<br />
He died from a massive heart attack which occurred while he was in the process of juicing oranges for his wife's breakfast. In their later years, Leonard juiced fresh oranges for Jane every morning.<br />
He left earth in the middle of a gesture of love. <br />
<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiLrU8Ih3Q3xlmBeq0unG8bMKL8IYGawLydu3_GI6Y3altOm0dkjCCZX_azqgXi3zgLcjfytCJF26lq82z2KIDdk8pOoKkla_dPQRLstfmkIPJNdaNGvOidZbU2fKyf6KUd70a48IIJ2HD/s1600/unnamed+(10).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiLrU8Ih3Q3xlmBeq0unG8bMKL8IYGawLydu3_GI6Y3altOm0dkjCCZX_azqgXi3zgLcjfytCJF26lq82z2KIDdk8pOoKkla_dPQRLstfmkIPJNdaNGvOidZbU2fKyf6KUd70a48IIJ2HD/s1600/unnamed+(10).jpg" height="320" width="241" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celebrating 50 years of marriage</td></tr>
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In the photo ----> , Len and Jane were renewing their vows in the presence of their 6 grown children. Slight alterations to their clothes, but the same hearts showed up. The same ones present when Len asked Jane to marry him three days after they met. Their marriage wasn't perfect, but they loved each other and that was enough for them to work hard together and keep loving each other. They were together for 60 years.<br />
<br />
By this picture, my mother had already begun her slide into Alzheimers, but Dad just kept loving her and kept juicing fresh oranges for her every morning. <br />
<br />
<strong>It's the little things we do for each other that speak the loudest and mean the most.</strong><br />
<br />
On this January 5th, with my vodka laced, freshly juiced oranges I say CHEERS to the most wonderful father who taught me, by example, how to love.<br />
<br />
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I've never been very serious. Dad didn't mind. <br />
Not sure about my girls. :)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Leonard W. Swett<br />
4/1916-1/2005<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I can't escape those squinty eyes<br />
and I'm okay with that!</td></tr>
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anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-88185870985337658382013-11-24T13:16:00.000-05:002013-11-24T16:22:14.836-05:00you chooseToday, the Sunday before Thanksgiving, a friend posted on FB, "Do I have to have to wait until Thursday to be thankful?" She was being cheeky. But her message was true. No one need wait to be told to be thankful, truly thankful. It's your choice.<br />
<br />
Life is on the move...flowing forward...yin/yang-ish all the time.<br />
My dad would say, "You're always faced with at least two choices. Make the best out of whichever one you choose." True. Give yourself chances to explore the results of your choice. Be aware that you can continue to choose again. I like to add two words to a choice: "...for now." <br />
Those words remind me that nothing is permanent unless you make it so. If it's a choice that works, that's pretty powerful for your energy. If not, then keep on moving toward another choice!<br />
<br />
Thanksgiving is bigger than just one day. <br />
I'm not waiting to be thankful. I'd burst!! :)<br />
<br />
**just for fun: ~~I'm pink~~<br />
<a href="http://www.quotev.com/quiz/1366538/What-is-Your-True-Color-Aura/">http://www.quotev.com/quiz/1366538/What-is-Your-True-Color-Aura/</a><br />
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<br />anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-39524063233422497282013-11-16T18:39:00.000-05:002013-11-24T12:35:04.771-05:00bruisesWe all bruise. <br />
Physically.<br />
Emotionally.<br />
<br />
Learn to read your bruises. <br />
They're honest reminders to moments in life. <br />
Well, most of them are. Some are a little trickier to read. The emotional bruises of the heart fall into that category. These, however, often manifest themselves with physical visuals: tear stained cheeks; red puffy eyes; forlorn looks.<br />
<br />
If you find yourself getting bruised in exactly the same way over and over again, then STOP doing/acting/searching in the same manner! <br />
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Change up your outlook/your behavior/your attitude/your assumptions that the world around you owes you anything. Your own willingness to work at all parts of your life will garner results that meet your efforts. The bruising may still come, but hopefully in new ways and places. That indicates you've changed something. That's good.<br />
<br />
Learn to read your bruises. <br />
In CrossFit, we bruise. It's a great way to <em>see</em> your technique, your successes, your failures. (Did you really think these mutterings would not turn to CrossFit? :) ) Bruises quietly coach you as you stare at them in the mirror to assess their meaning.<br />
Bruises on my clavicles tell me the catch of my clean is solid. Any lower and I wasn't getting under the bar low enough. <br />
Bruises just over my knees tell me I'm not opening up fully before getting under the bar. Wrong place to bruise...too low.<br />
Reading these helps me to change, to work on my technique, so I'll have better results. Being a visual person, I call up the visual of the bruises to help me as I work on my lifts. <br />
<br />
Learn to read your bruises.<br />
They're honest visual reminders to moments in life.<br />
Be willing to change your outlook/your behavior/your attitude/your assumptions that the world around you owes you anything without you putting in some effort.<br />
<br />
The bruise on my hip? <br />
Damn table jumped right out in front of me! <br />
No? Okay, read: I need to stop hurrying out the door. <br />
damn.<br />
<br />anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-81888867052025922242013-10-08T10:26:00.000-04:002013-10-08T10:26:06.124-04:00cliff divingI've been doing a lot of 'cliff diving' lately. <br />
I've also been inspired by seeing some people around me do some 'cliff diving' of their own. <br />
You know that kind of diving...standing on the edge of challenges, both physical and energetic in nature, mustering up the motivation to take the plunge into self-growth.<br />
Sometimes I just want to stomp my foot, pull the 'pout', and demand that the challenges alter for me instead of me having to alter for them. Too bad that's not possible! Womp womp.....<br />
<br />
Reality is that I'm thankful for the moments I'm forced to the edge.<br />
I'm thankful for being privy to other peoples' edges.<br />
The edge is the place to be in order to keep feeling truly alive. <br />
The edge clarifies what's important.<br />
The edge pushes against stagnancy.<br />
The edge is just another opportunity.<br />
<br />
There is no denying that CrossFit has shaped the "older" me. <br />
Because CrossFit creates a new 'edge' every day, it's taught me to live a bolder life than I ever thought I would, both physically and energetically. It's taught me to feel "comfortable being uncomfortable". This also means, of course, that I'm always aware when I am trying to shore up that edge so I don't have to take the dive into the challenge....enter the foot stomp and subsequent 'pout'. <br />
<br />
There's no hiding from oneself unless you believe in giving up. And there is no giving up in CrossFit. You see that damn workout through. You may dial yourself back a little, you may take a little longer to reach your edge, but if you want the most out of your workout/your life, you continue to muster the motivation to see each challenge through. Face it down and you have added strength to be open to the next challenge. Teeter on the edge of it and you're forever stuck in that frustrating place of feeling 'safe' but incomplete. <br />
<br />
Watching others dive off a cliff is a great reminder that some dives are graceful and some are belly flops, but they have mustered the motivation to take the dive. I may stomp and pout once in a while, but all that does is make the edge crumble so I am forced off the cliff! Whether a "10" or belly flop, the important thing is to take the dive to feel complete.<br />
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anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-69165176944718244192013-09-03T11:33:00.001-04:002013-09-03T14:18:03.436-04:00bars & plates & math, oh mySeptember means a new school year begins.<br />
It's been a long time...decades...plural...=10 x too many years...since I've been in school.<br />
It's been a decade...singular...plus or minus a couple years...since my girls have been in school.<br />
I wouldn't think about the new school year at all were it not for the banter of parents with young ones and the teachers in the CrossFit community.<br />
<br />
Those flutterings in stomachs that occur with kids and teachers alike on the first day of school are unavoidable. Some feel the flutters everyday. That's got to be exhausting. And yet kids show up and work their way through whatever they're feeling. Hopefully they have safe places to 'let go' and breathe at the end of the day.<br />
<br />
I never understood the whole "3 Rs" thing....reading/'riting/'rithmetic. WTF? Teaching the 3Rs that included 2 words NOT starting with R seemed counterproductive to the learning process. But then, I wasn't the greatest student. By-The-Book teaching plans and memorization were not my friends. I was and always have been a visual and hands-on student. These methods of teaching were not yet invented when I was a kid. <br />
I was born in between perfect eras for me: <br />
post-stone etching<br />
pre-multi dimensional teaching<br />
<br />
I enjoyed reading but was always slow...felt I had to r e a d e v e r y w o r d for my efforts to count. I don't have a clue why I thought that! Thankfully I grew to learn that was not the case and enjoy it much more now.<br />
<br />
I enjoyed 'riting but always felt my words did not delve deep enough to be of any meaning compared to some of my peers. Thankfully, I learned to just say 'fuck it' and appreciate the fact that my 'Hallmark-ish' prose are really like any artful venture...for me first. If you enjoy something and it's not hurting anyone, do it. If my 'riting "hurts" you (your sensibilities), you won't be reading this anyway! :)<br />
<br />
I hated 'rithmetic...sucked at it...except geometry, mercifully visual...and like many kids, never saw the future usefulness of the torture called "math". I never learned to like it.<br />
<br />
Then along came CrossFit with those barbells and plate loads and percentages and rep counts and time configurations. Damned if I didn't start to appreciate being able to 'do math' in my head. I was, after all, schooled during pre-calculator times. We had to learn to 'do math' in our heads...or on our fingers when no one was watching. Thankfully I have learned over the last three plus years as a CrossFitter to like 'rithmetic. <br />
<br />
Being completely realistic, CrossFit math is the hardest math of all to master. All of us CFers are effing math geniuses! We are able to do math even when all the blood has rushed from our brains to shore up our working muscles. Oh sure, sometimes we need four or five of us to figure out how much weight was actually loaded on a bar, or how many reps we could actually add together if one movement was a 4to1 count, or how many rounds of hell we just completed if we forgot to mark them during the WOD, but so what! Team building is an important practice in life.<br />
Plus, we love to test each other by <em>pretending</em> not to know how much the weight plates add up to so our buddy can solve that equation. We really are quite good to each other. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">true that!</td></tr>
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CrossFit:<br />
Flutterings are felt every day at the beginning of a WOD yet you continue to show up.<br />
The CF gym is a safe place to lie in a heap on the floor post-WOD, 'let go' and breathe.<br />
+<br />
The 3 Rs<br />
Reading: one must r e a d e v e r y w o r d of the daily WOD to get it right (Who knew my early reading method would come in handy!)<br />
'Riting: jotting down results in your log book (I don't have to get all 'deep' when I write things down...especially if I put them on my MyWOD app on my phone :) )<br />
'Rithmetic: being able to figure out all sorts of equations in your head while staring at the weighted barbell (Thankfully this is a visual process, although I can and often do use my fingers. Being a grown up, I no longer care who sees me counting on them. I can usually get to this answer by myself, but if I can't, I know I can rely on my fellow genius CrossFitters!)<br />
<br />
The moral of this blog: <br />
SCHOOL REALLY IS COOL...be a lifelong learner!anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-60422993178568062872013-08-13T11:51:00.000-04:002013-08-13T11:51:10.615-04:00adaptabilityadaptable: capable of being or becoming<br />
<br />
This word has been showing up in many different ways lately. The fact that is has been showing up multiple times is what caught my full attention and directed my thoughts toward what it really means.<br />
<br />
Being free enough to be adaptable....being 'capable' of becoming....is a benchmark of forward progress.<br />
Being open enough to be adaptable when a choice or decision you've made proves to be an inappropriate or wrong choice or decision at the moment is the benchmark of forward progress.<br />
Being relaxed enough to be adaptable in the face of discomfort is the benchmark of a person living intentionally with forward progress in mind.<br />
<br />
Never mistake adaptability with being fickle. <br />
Being fickle lends itself to the implication that one keeps choosing changes in order to stay in an emotional/physical state of comfort and order. <br />
Being adaptable implies a person is able to go wherever 'the flow' may take them in order to achieve the ultimate life experience.<br />
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Embrace life experience, no matter how messy it can be at times!<br />
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anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-89308281608299037032013-07-30T22:38:00.001-04:002013-07-30T22:45:15.727-04:00it's all GamesCrossFit Games.<br />
The Big Show.<br />
The Effin' HUGE Carrot at the end of another year of training.<br />
Done.<br />
<br />
I'm done my second year at the Games. <br />
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It was fanfrickintastic! <br />
<br />
Last year the Masters Comp went on at the same time as the Individuals and, being my first year, I was pretty star struck by all the elite names in CrossFit walking around everywhere.<br />
This year, 2013, the Masters Comp was before the Individual Comp started, so my focus was more on my fellow competitors. We had time to just hang out a little more, get better acquainted with old friends and meet more new ones. It was awesome. <br />
<br />
My age group, the Masters Women 55-59yrs were having a great time together from the start. Lots of goofing around while waiting in the 'corral' to be led onto the field, plenty of hugs and high fives, and just a general desire for everyone to do well. Truly wonderful.<br />
<br />
From the qualifying Open in March to the Games in July, I trained hard and was pushed farther by my coach, <a href="http://crossfitcraic.com/johnsblog/">John McEvoy</a>, than I thought possible. Yeah, I even cursed him out on more than one occasion. <br />
"WTF, he must think I'm 30 or something. <br />
I'm lifting too heavy.<br />
Too much volume.<br />
Yada yada yada."<br />
I not so secretly loved it all. :)<br />
I'm 57 and he had me doing WODs with 185# deadlifts. I mean, I LOVE that! The confidence I gained in myself as an athlete will stick with me long beyond this year's experience.<br />
<br />
The Games WODs were heavier and harder this year. <br />
The excitement and positivity were awesome.<br />
I left for CA and The Games wanting to enjoy the experience, giving all the WODs everything I had, and leave knowing I had done just that. Mission accomplished!<br />
A little snapshot:<br />
The one heat I won...and of course I'll show you this one :) ... is the link below:<br />
<a href="http://games.crossfit.com/video/push-drag-pull-women-55-59-heat-1-2">push-drag-pull: heat 1</a><br />
Overall, I ended up in 8th place. My goal was top 10, so I'm a happy competitor!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyOFMKpMf1TRzep2KTwrHG6VtFggafYtDgQZJ26KDcZgrY5yPMsRi_8576TzZzq8GP7Ddv_9rKuoRu_7ZYDUaens04S1-dZyIOLtwwqIEPsz0Yuy7LgMIDOONXtdBrDxm154irPs6lxvdy/s1600/2013+games.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyOFMKpMf1TRzep2KTwrHG6VtFggafYtDgQZJ26KDcZgrY5yPMsRi_8576TzZzq8GP7Ddv_9rKuoRu_7ZYDUaens04S1-dZyIOLtwwqIEPsz0Yuy7LgMIDOONXtdBrDxm154irPs6lxvdy/s320/2013+games.jpg" width="320" /></a>Not only was John with me in CA, but my daughter (and John's wife), <a href="http://saramcevoy.com/">Sara McEvoy,</a> was also there. It was great to have them both with me. If they were nervous for me, they hid it well, which benefited me. :) <br />
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Shout out has to go to my gym, <a href="http://www.crossfitbeacon.com/">CrossFit Beacon.</a> Their continued support and shared joy in this adventure we all call "life" is phenomenal!<br />
<br />
Feeling a little antsy after getting home to ME, (it was jokingly said by Chris Spealler, CrossFitter extraordinaire, "what do I do with all this fitness?") I spent almost 5 hours doing yardwork the next day. Mistake. My arms and hands were junk afterward. Didn't do much of anything the next couple of days. Then today, a little more functional fitness: only 9 holes of golf, but I was exhausted!<br />
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Easing back into everything, but not coming to a dead stop.<br />
<br />
Ultimately, the Games are a great venue for the sport side of CrossFit, but even without those to shoot for, there are so many goals to work toward. I still plan on keeping up my training blog despite having different goals for my training now. It all keeps me moving ahead!<br />
And hell, training to be kickass at life is no small task! :)<br />
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<br />anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-82335878323525531252013-07-02T09:37:00.001-04:002014-07-04T18:22:32.489-04:00mastering movementJust over three years ago I started my CrossFit "lifestyle".<br />
<br />
Day 1 WOD:<br />
Tabata air squats, holding the squat in the 10sec rest = trying to look casual walking to my car with rubber legs<br />
Day 2 WOD:<br />
Wallball/kettlebell/rowing triplet = completely hooked but holding onto my 'escape clause'<br />
Day 3 WOD:<br />
2K row = remember saying aloud "this will be so much easier when I don't have to reach over my belly!"<br />
<br />
Obvie loved it. <br />
Got used to icing my knee after every WOD until I realized I was no longer doing that. My knees got better because my rubber legs got stronger through movement.<br />
The thought of NOT moving around as a CrossFitter anymore became a foreign, almost scary thought.<br />
Rowing became noticeably smoother as my belly decreased in size.<br />
<br />
As a coach at <a href="http://www.crossfitbeacon.com/">CrossFit Beacon</a>, I have been able to help other people through the early stages of their own CrossFit lifestyle. I feel incredibly lucky to be able to watch athletes of all abilities light up when they begin mastering a movement that leads them to a PR (personal record) of any variety: faster or stronger or a new skill.<br />
<br />
Now, while I love working with all age groups and abilities, I really love working with 'my' Masters (45yrs+). Almost 6mths old now, the Masters Class began with three sisters, one of whom I kept popping in on at her job and asking not "if" but "when" she wanted to give it a try. She and her sisters started together in January and while one stopped due to various life circumstances, the other two have become the steadfast anchors to the Masters Class.<br />
We now have two Masters Classes (am and pm) that each meet three days/week. Along with fellow Beacon coach, Tyson, we work with Masters who show up each class to be able to master movement more comfortably each day.<br />
They have various levels of joint issues to work around, but they still show up because they know we will be able to modify and scale the workouts to accommodate their needs while still challenging their muscles to get stronger. They're getting fitter, losing weight, gaining strength, having fun!<br />
They share their PRs not just by the increases in weights they can lift, or how much faster their 500m row is, but by how much better they move outside of the gym....by how much better they move in life!<br />
After only a couple months in, one of the Masters shared, "I picked up my 55# dog for the first time last night." <br />
One of the Masters athletes did not like the thought of getting down on the ground for sit ups when she first started as she was worried she couldn't get up because of some wrist issues. Now she is up and down all the time because she has mastered how to modify her movements around her wrist issues.<br />
Some other "aha" moments of proof they are mastering movement are:<br />
"For the first time in years, I was able to not only put my own snow tires in the back of my car after they got changed out, but I just tossed them in!"<br />
"I walked up the stairs normally this weekend. I haven't done that in a long time. I always had to stop both feet on one stair."<br />
"I'm able to garden again."<br />
THIS is mastering movement for the pure and simple reason of enjoying a more functionally fulfilling life. <br />
It's great to see athletes PR on lifting and sprints and skills, but the ability to simply move, which most of us take for granted, is pure functionality brought to you by the practice of 'whole body' movement.<br />
It's absolutely inspiring to see what these Masters athletes do. They may bitch and moan about the WODs like we all do...in fun :) ...it's what CrossFitters do...but they show up, do the work, and are therefore able to notice these awesome changes in their daily lives. <br />
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As a side benefit, the Masters athletes are really inspiring to Beacon as a whole. I know they don't even realize this! <br />
The Beacon community of athletes often comment on how they love seeing the Masters athletes come in each week. They show this appreciation by being truly wonderful with them. They are encouraging and supportive, with one member, Scott, even holding up his iPhone for music for them during WODs before we had the speakers in the lower gym.<br />
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What these Masters athletes do weekly, despite whatever physical issues they may have, is awesome. They do it for themselves but others benefit from just seeing them work at mastering their own ability to move better! <br />
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<br />anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-6770174378195482832013-05-27T14:15:00.004-04:002013-05-27T14:15:59.866-04:00meaningful"Meaningful" is what all three Memorial Days I have experienced since beginning CrossFit are to me. I confess to not fully connecting with the day's truth prior to CF.<br />
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My dad and dad-in-law were both in the Navy. I had a few friends who had served in some capacity. But once I began CrossFit, I began meeting a large number of people who had served or are serving our country in any one of the branches of the military. More contact with the military via people I've met has, for me, helped deepen the meaning of Memorial Day.<br />
<br />
CrossFitters WOD. It's what we do. <br />
CrossFit's philanthropy as a community begins with a WOD.<br />
CrossFit thrives on honoring its military personnel and reaches far out in other ways, most of them surrounding a number of health issues, and some closer to each gym's home by helping someone in their own community in a multitude of ways. It's one of the hidden truths about CrossFit as a community and a truth that creates an unspoken greater connection to members of a gym. Community focus nurtures community strength. Regardless of what the target of the philanthropy is or to what the honor of a great WOD is being given, CrossFitters attack the WODs with a depth and intensity that is inspiring.<br />
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"Murph" is the Hero WOD that is synonymous with Memorial Day.<br />
Whether done scaled by reps to half, done with modified movements, or done 'as prescribed', it's always an amazing sense of accomplishment to finish it. It's a small tribute we, as CrossFitters, can do to honor fallen heroes, so we do it.<br />
<br />
Knowing it's impossible not to think of the fallen soldier, Michael Murphy, for whom CrossFitters WODded today, they've honored him and others in a most humbling way. <br />
Congratulations all who have ever completed "Murph", today or any other Memorial Day.<br />
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<b><span style="color: blue;"></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: blue;"></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: blue;">"Murph" </span></b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdOVdckudAm5DrBraKMmqDUoo2M35q6hLdczEziB9uxSNXXVrqtKNtXgjvlUDmUXgd4HIYsHzpb3lR-t41U6hnwmv6kqNe4WjvRLHTsLHnJTmDLHXLAsB53ZYFTeiqLKlxcg_MA4g86c6K/s1600/murph.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdOVdckudAm5DrBraKMmqDUoo2M35q6hLdczEziB9uxSNXXVrqtKNtXgjvlUDmUXgd4HIYsHzpb3lR-t41U6hnwmv6kqNe4WjvRLHTsLHnJTmDLHXLAsB53ZYFTeiqLKlxcg_MA4g86c6K/s200/murph.jpg" width="146" /></a><span style="color: blue;">For time: <br />1 mile Run<br />100 Pull-ups<br />200 Push-ups<br />300 Squats<br />1 mile Run</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">In memory of Navy Lieutenant Michael Murphy, 29, of Patchogue, N.Y., who was killed in Afghanistan June 28th, 2005. </span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">This workout was one of Mike's favorites and he'd named it "Body Armor". From here on it will be referred to as "Murph" in honor of the focused warrior and great American who wanted nothing more in life than to serve this great country and the beautiful people who make it what it is. </span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Partition the pull-ups, push-ups, and squats as needed. Start and finish with a mile run. If you've got a twenty pound vest or body armor, wear it. </span><br />
anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-53996874120097341502013-05-21T09:55:00.000-04:002013-05-21T17:50:25.577-04:00own your choicesMy gym, <a href="http://www.crossfitbeacon.com/">CrossFit Beacon</a>, is in the middle of its second nutrition challenge. We not only support each other with our fitness goals, we understand that nutrition is part of our overall health. And damn if we are going to let life's *free radicals* win over our bodies and our health! <br />
You've got to pay up to stay up!<br />
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Which leads me to this post...<br />
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I've been struggling with this post mainly because I've been struggling with my anger toward a friend of mine who refused to admit....for years....even after watching my own steady progress from 'general wellness, but fat' toward 'overall fitness' during my last three years as a CrossFitter...that she was physically falling apart but continued to honestly avoid doing anything about it. <br />
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What this means:</div>
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"Oh, I can figure this out myself. I've researched__________ (fill in the myriad of treatments/reasons for being overweight/unfit) on the internet and this is all I need to do."</div>
I heard that for years. For a while, like anything in the early stages of demise, things would work on a short term basis. Then BAM, something else would happen.<br />
So, even at the chance she'll read this post and feel betrayed, how do I stay quiet about this? My anger has been giving way to the reality that her situation is not mine to own. She asked for my help for a little while, but I couldn't make her do the work. I couldn't make her change her eating habits. I couldn't make her stick with anything. That is hers to own.<br />
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Part of the issue of not wanting to get to the bottom of things with outside help surrounded finances. Enter, update needed in the health care system of our country. Truth. <br />
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<span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">That said, let me just say,</span> we all make choices on how we spend our money. Spending money on our health before spending money on unneeded consumer products SHOULD be a no-brainer.</span> <br />
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Cut to now, life has irrevocably changed for my friend. Years of self-denial and fear of speaking the truth about just how bad things were inside her deteriorating body, life will now consist of adjusting to a world governed by a wheelchair. But more importantly, I'm still not seeing/hearing responsibility for this result. <br />
This is what I struggle with more than anything for her.<br />
The glaring lack of responsibility. <br />
<br />
We all need to own our choices. <br />
Do bad things happen? Yes. <br />
Can all bad things be avoided? No, not always. <br />
People can make all the right choices for themselves and still get sick, be in accidents, have setbacks. Ultimately, being responsible for the climb out of the 'setback' is choosing to fight for one's health, even if it's in a 'new normal' state, as opposed to just giving into it and expecting everyone else to be responsible for it.<br />
But to repeat what everyone should have heard a zillion times, all we really have is our health. If we don't choose to be responsible for our health because we are afraid of changing what we know, what we are comfortable with, what might be hard work, then just know that those are your choices.<br />
Own them.<br />
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I am forever grateful that I was willing to overcome my fear and self-consciousness about CrossFit.<br />
That was three years ago this month. It changed my outlook about myself, my abilities, my joy of life....and I didn't think I could feel more joyous about life before I started being more intensely pro-active about my health!<br />
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Living well and in a healthful state allows me the freedom to just be in the present in such a richer way. Honestly, just knowing that being in a state of fitness (refer to chart!) sets me ahead of the curve should I have any sort of health setback. I love that. I also appreciate that I can live well until I die. Period. That makes each day so damned good!<br />
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For me, CrossFit has been my perfect choice toward my own health. Do I think CrossFit is for everyone? Yes. But not everyone feels the same way (visualize annie scratching her head here), so those people still need to find what works for them.<br />
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Just frickin' find it. </div>
Do something. <br />
There is better than "wellness", there is "fitness".<br />
Own your choices!!<br />
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<br />anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-53807409469959946502013-04-25T09:16:00.000-04:002013-04-25T09:23:06.965-04:00balance<br />
So much has been happening in a seesaw like fashion lately. <br />
In my life.<br />
In my house.<br />
In my friends' lives.<br />
In the world.<br />
<br />
The energetic imbalance began just recently during the CrossFit Open.<br />
The CrossFit Open is five weeks devoted to living, breathing, planning around 5WODs that will get you to the Regionals or, for us Masters, directly to the Games in July. It's hard not to get thrown off balance during this time. It's hard not to remember there is more than this going on around you. Basically, as much fun as this five week period can be, it's a long time to be forced out of a regularly scheduled time at the gym, which is about the only part of CrossFit that is rarely 'varied'. That, in turn, throws everything else off just enough to feel 'out of sorts'.....a little snarky.<br />
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CrossFit, on a normal day, is all about what you CAN do.<br />
The Open ends up being what you CAN'T do.<br />
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The good news is, the CAN do outlook is what encourages thousands of CrossFitters to put themselves and their fitness levels on the line for 5 weeks to test their hard work.<br />
The even better news is, finding out what they CAN'T <u>yet</u> do is what encourages those thousands of CrossFitters to go after new goals and conquer their weaknesses. <br />
They renew their quest for balance.<br />
During those 5 weeks, however, it's a little hard to remember that feeling of balance!<br />
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Balance is peaceful. It doesn't mean you've reached perfection in every area and become static. It means that you are working on parts of your whole being and, for me at least, it creates a feeling of peacefulness...the balance between moving around physically and mentally creates a forward flow of energy. When that flow is interrupted, everything becomes an exhausting effort.<br />
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Being able to balance out the interruptions and keep them in perspective is a behavior worth practicing. Sometimes things that happen around you (the Boston Marathon bombings) are less tangible...mental balance. Other things that happen to you (an illness/injury) are immediate...physical balance. Practicing balance keeps so much in perspective.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnzd7CnmjF1ecZRh_B3NFneeKA9hu074G-xgt-8YyIPbnH7B0DENtpCTvgmbHo51eiSfDS5kYS354GVuOEQK14l4uDkIiqYrMP8vvbDsfzA-0X7Hha8OaPrLrfxzjrMUadvIV6_n8rlQY2/s1600/bongo1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnzd7CnmjF1ecZRh_B3NFneeKA9hu074G-xgt-8YyIPbnH7B0DENtpCTvgmbHo51eiSfDS5kYS354GVuOEQK14l4uDkIiqYrMP8vvbDsfzA-0X7Hha8OaPrLrfxzjrMUadvIV6_n8rlQY2/s320/bongo1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nothing like a 40yr old Bongo Board to remind you of balance!</td></tr>
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<br />anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898196987823067384.post-57724573424847366642013-03-26T11:05:00.000-04:002013-03-26T12:21:12.002-04:00dames v dudes<span style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Really? There are differences between dames and dudes? Shocker!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Sometimes I envy the ability of guys to detach from their emotional/dame side. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">I'm on the periphery of drama on a day to day basis in large part because enough years separate me from most of the people I'm around. It's a natural distance. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">That said, being a woman, I can still let certain moments/happenings affect me too much at times. Usually what affects me are 'issues' that require more maturity from someone or that require a person be in less need of being stroked by others. I believe "bitch slap" is what comes to mind when I'm around another person playing out those issues. Not very compassionate, I know. I dislike in myself that I can't always just let these moments go...kind of makes me want to "bitch slap" myself! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Men don't even <em>see</em> 'issues'. If they do, they are lucky enough to have mastered the fine art of <em><strike>glazing over</strike></em> detachment! :) </span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Some differences of perspective in the dames v dudes worlds, however, are just seemingly innate and with little chance of change. Yes, even for those dames who like to think they are carefree and low maintenance!! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">The post below is one I originally posted a year ago, and with the onset of Spring and the reduction of the layers of clothing that we CrossFitters are wearing to our gyms, I thought it an appropriate re-post. Dames and dudes become one unified group in a WOD, but that only happens once inside the doors of the gym!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS;">the gender gap</span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">I certainly hope I'm not disclosing any deep secrets coveted by my sisterhood,
but...<br /><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">men </span></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">and women enter into each day of their
CrossFit experience with such different outlooks.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Men throw on some clothes, grab a water bottle
of some sort, and show up. Sure, some of you guys might give a thought or two
to what shirt you want to wear. If you do, it's likely because it's some bright
color, a bawdy saying that you are SURE will get the conversation flowing toward
provocative innuendos, or it's a new one you just got for your escapades outside
of CF. If, however, that shirt is hangin' out in the laundry pile, you'll shrug
your shoulders, grab another shirt, and go.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Women, on the other hand, plan. We think
about comfort and function. We think about our asses...aka, *Do
these pants make my butt look big?* [Of course, we all know CF
women <strong>want</strong> big butts, but not because of a poor cut of their
pants. :) ] We think about what bra to wear...especially those women who know
they'll rip off their shirts in the middle of a WOD. We think about what shirt
to wear based on what goes well with the pants chosen for the day. We think
about the WOD (for those of us lucky enough to know ahead of time) and how the
choice of clothes will move during that WOD. Oh yeah, it's tough not to plan.
It's COD before the WOD. [I'm guessing you can figure out what COD means! ;)
]</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Then, men and women
alike go to their respective boxes. Men, as I said, show up. Women walk in,
tug at their clothes, adjust their bra straps, and go look at the whiteboard to
double check their outfit choice. </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKUFWs3pkCBWdLrTXqFEBZq9kuTz437-5C7itJ7Hcv587Scox2awvcdLoQeLLLbIj1oF0ZGoMnkB6Jof_f9ePpNbuk64pClhALn-Eh88BXpdz-kzCMGXzbo9rgE7tZphuqPtnkOE1NlZ9-/s1600/sweat+angel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="color: blue;"><img border="0" closure_uid_729981401="2" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKUFWs3pkCBWdLrTXqFEBZq9kuTz437-5C7itJ7Hcv587Scox2awvcdLoQeLLLbIj1oF0ZGoMnkB6Jof_f9ePpNbuk64pClhALn-Eh88BXpdz-kzCMGXzbo9rgE7tZphuqPtnkOE1NlZ9-/s320/sweat+angel.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">3-2-1 GOOO. Rowers start humming, equipment
gets tossed around, burpees get done, chalk dust flies through the air, weight
plates clunk onto the floor, and the time clock shows an end to the WOD. Men
and women alike lay a few sweat angels down on the mats, chalk grime pools in
the creases in everyones' hands or end up as handprints all over clothes, hair
reverts to *bed-head* status with a sheen of well-earned moisture, chatter and
laughter rise up over the music, and all these post-WOD people who are on the
floor have become just that, people. Not men, not women in their CF *outfit* of
the day, just people who all got a little fitter and a little happier for doing
so. This is where the gender gap closes. </span></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"><span style="color: blue;">In the end, I suppose women could learn a lot
from our male CF counterparts....pick something and go. It won't matter after
an hour anyway. It's just material to prevent us from being arrested for
indecent exposure and sop up a little sweat. But still, if there are burpees in
the WOD, there will always be some thought put into the pants a woman chooses
that day.</span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"><span style="color: blue;"> originally posted: 4-12</span></span>anniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10536163004473122132noreply@blogger.com0