No excuses.

Cheese and rice... it's been a while since I last posted. And honestly, I don't even want to try and make excuses. I'm a big girl and understand that having a blog is a commitment. Unfortunately, it has been very low on my totem pole of commitments. I turned looking for a full-time job (or internship) into my top priority. So between that, the holidays and my new workout commitment - I just haven't had the time.

So what's new with you guys? Have any new year resolutions that you've stuck to or have been slacking on? I usually don't make resolutions, but I guess this year was different. I've made it a resolution to become a healthier person. So really, it's more of a lifestyle change. And let me tell you, even though it's been a month, I can definitely feel a difference. I have been making more organic choices, have given up fast food (for 99% of the time) and have been going to the gym 6 days a week. Because of this, I have 10x the energy that I used to have.

The best part of my "resolution" is that I've accepted the fact that if I mess up, I don't have to wait until December 31, 2010 to start over - tomorrow is a new day.

Also, today was the first day of my half-marathon training. I believe I had once mentioned that I would like to run the Chicago Marathon. Well, I plan on running a half-marathon in the near future, just to see where I'm at. Baby steps.

I'm going to work on my other blog (http://theprhopeful.blogspot.com) but I promise I will be writing again soon. Love, V

A different kind of Hot Have...

While reading over non-profit blogs for my Literacy Chicago (@LiteracyChicago) Internship, I stumbled upon a very worthy list of “Hot Haves.” The list was that of non-profit donations, gifts, etc that would work perfectly for loved ones who “don’t want anything” for the holidays, all the while going toward the cause.

I asked my parents to get me the Susan G. Komen New Balance Heart Rate Monitor Watch, not only because I need one, but because 25% of the profits go toward the foundation. I also picked up some items for family members, but since a few of them read this post, you are just going to have to wait to hear what they are… and they’re really good.

So, there you go, a list of 11 very broad suggestions to go toward your holiday shopping that I found worthy of mentioning. Next week, I will try to make a quality list of Hot Have Christmas items. Also, if you would like me to assist in finding a deal on something your loved ones want, be free to comment or directly email me: vemccoy.blogspot@gmail.com. I always love the hunt of a good find!

Wish adding "5k runner" would boost my resume...

Well, didn't make a hot list this past week, so I guess I'll be cranking out a good one for Sunday.

Anywho, let's get down to business. Today, I accomplished something, and I'm damn proud of myself.

A few weeks ago at yoga I heard about the Snowflake Shuffle which raised money for TriCity Family Services. I hopped online Sunday night and registered to run the said 5k. I'd been running for a while and thought I could handle it. You have to understand, I have not been running long. I usually pop out about 2 miles... but I just wasn't sure if I could do it.

I woke up at 7am (5k was at 9) to stretch and whatnot and got very nervous. What if I don't run as fast as the others? What if I have to stop and walk? I've always been very competitive, and not with others, but with myself and my abilities. I didn't want to let myself down.

I got to the Shuffle at about 8:45 and was incredibly intimidated by the other runners. Many of them had Chicago Marathon jackets on (You get a jacket??) and generally appeared to be VERY hardcore.

When the gun went off at 9am, I started off well and set my pace. It was fantastic! All of my worry melted off and I thought about taking the race one step at a time. There were times when I felt like I couldn't run, but I pumped my arms and made it through those weak points. I finished the 5k in 33:53 - not the best time ever, but definitely okay for a first time 5k-er! But better yet, I proved to myself that I can do anything I set my mind too. This has indeed been a very empowering year.

My next goal? I'd like to do a 10k within the next 6 months... I'll let you know how that's going ;)

Hot THX: What V is thankful for this year.

1. My family - Sure, they may not answer their phones sometimes (all the time) but they're supportive and very loving.
2. My boyfriend - He is beyond patient with me and I am truly blessed to have such a wonderful man love me.
3. My friends - Sure, 99% of them live 200+ miles away from me, but they're always a phone call away. (Love you, Carri!)
4. My boyfriend's family - They took me into their home so that I could go after my dream in the big city.
5. Yoga - I have found something I can be healthy with and teaches me about the human body and how mysterious it can be.
6. APDA and Literacy Chicago - The two non-profits I work with. They've given me a greater appreciation of my mind and body.
7. Running - I've fallen in love with it again and it is my #2 outlet for stress.
8. My skin - It is my first layer of protection, and I did it a favor this year by quitting my tanning habit (I know, tsk tsk).
9. Human interaction - I appreciate time in life that isn't spent in front of electronics (Ironic that I say it on a computer, but no one's awake, I swear!). I love face-to-face connections with others.
10. Beautiful days - Days like today (it's in the 50s) are gorgeous and I appreciate the ability to go outside and bask in the sunshine. And shouldn't everyday be beautiful because it is a new day?
Namaste.

If you would like another list of 10 I'd considered posting, visit the Fitness magazine Web site for their list of 10 Healthy Holiday Superfoods. I know you want to.

My Suicide Mission

11/20: So, as I continue to strive toward being a healthier person, I find that I need to try new exercises & foods to keep my motivation going.
Thus, tomorrow, I am going to attend a Bikram Yoga class.

For those of you who don't know, Bikram yoga is all the poses and flexibility you know, but the room is kept at a very high temperature. I have heard of some classrooms being kept at 100 degrees! The classes run 90 minutes each and in essence, it is a 90 minute full body massage.

I don't know a whole lot about it at this time, but I will for sure put up a Part 2 tomorrow after the class. And if you're wondering why I'm doing this, I feel the detoxification will be empowering and leave me glowing and renewed.

See you tomorrow!

11/21: WOW! I read over the things to expect from the Naperville Bikram Yoga class, but I'm not sure anything could have prepared me for that! My first warning sign was walking into the buildingwhile some very sweaty messes were walking out. I bought my 30 day pass (Yes, I'm going back) and headed in to the 100+ degree studio. I found a place in the middle right side and set up my towel and mat like the others had done.

The instructor walked into the room and explained that there would be a breathing exercise, a series of 29 poses, and a closing breathing exercise (it was a 90 minute class). By this point, I was already sweating, but I pushed through. Sure, I had to lay down and just breathe a few times, but I made my goal which was to not leave the room at any point. A very sweaty 90 minutes later I realized I had made it through the entire class, at times feeling nauseous, and left feeling very proud.

As I write this now, I am a little sore, but will surely go back for more. I'm proud of myself and anyone else who can challenge themselves to make it through such a task. Our pats on the back are well deserved. Namaste.

Hot Accessories: Use 'em or Lose 'em

Hot Accessories
1. OPI Nail Polish – used at most salons because of its stay tough attitude (will last through the washing of the dirtiest dishes).
2. Garnier Fructis leave in conditioner – my hair is a frizzy, hot mess when it’s humid out… unless I’m using this.
3. Jergens Gradual Tan facial moisturizer – approved by the Skin Cancer Foundation and gives you a lovely glow.
4. Neutrogena Deep Clean Relaxing Nightly Cleanser – Delish lavender scent and leaves your skin feeling fresh before you hit the hay.
5. Neutrogena Anti-Oxidant Cleanser – It’s never too early to prevent wrinkles!
6. Elastic headbands – Great for exercising and although they stay tight, they’re not tight enough to leave you with a headache.
7. Bath and Body Works Midnight Pomegranate body wash – Looove this scent.
8. Crest White Strips – Work very well, especially in comparison to Listerine Whitening Strips, no offense!
9. Garnier Fructis Body Boost shampoo/conditioner – Love the smell and leaves your hair feeling fuller.
10. C.O. Bigelow Rose Petal lip balm – Can be used on dry lips, knuckles, elbows, etc. AND smells like rose petals!

Hot Haves - Hot Pants (etc.)

Oh, poop. Only been a couple weeks and I already missed a Sunday posting of Hot Haves. Please forgive this busy, busy girl.

1. Victoria’s Secret sports bra – Very sturdy, complete with an adjustable clasp! Even great for bigger puppies.
2. Hard Wear fleece headband – Super warm and is shaped to cover the ears without slippage.
3. Minnetonka moccasins – Mine are pink, but they sell them in several other colors too! Very comfy and durable… I’ve had mine for 2+ years and they’re still in mint condition.
4. Old Navy yoga pants – Great for a pair of long gams. I have 3 pairs…
5. The North Face "Momentum" jacket – Great weight, perfect for runners!
6. Anne Klein black flats – They go with everything. Literally everything.
7. Dresses from Forever21 – Yeah, this is very general. But I have worn their clothes to the ground, and they are of great quality, at a reasonable price!
8. Victoria’s Secret Long Janes – Wow, so cute… with a hint of holiday coziness.
9. Joe’s Jeans – I didn’t know how to describe them, so I’ll just say that your new nickname will be “Hot Ass.” *Splurge*
10. Ralph Lauren basic black pumps – These shoes are not yet in my possession, but they are def on my wish list and I’ve worn them around the store enough to call them mind. Delicious. *Splurge*

So, there you have it. Great ideas of closet additions. Enjoy.