Organization is Not About Perfection......

It's about efficiency , reducing stress & clutter, saving time & money & improving your overall quality of life - Christina Scalise

As I was browsing Pinterest for inspiration to get my home in order for the New Year I came across this quote.  It was fitting for my new journey.  The New Year to me is like going back to school minus the new clothes.  The calendars, planners, color pens and fun organization tools.  If you are like me then you know how happy that stuff makes me!  As a wife, mother and business owner it is VITAL that I keep my goals, chores, day to day tasks and accomplishments in order.   I can honestly say the past few months I have gotten really lazy in staying organized.  Piles of paper, saving mail that I think I'm going to open (junk mail) and my planner was EMPTY for the month of December.  

This New Year brings a refresher and when I align my faith with it all it has been more enjoyable putting it all together. During my staycation I've spent time in prayer, mediating and writing all my goals down for 2014 (personal/business/fitness).  With that said I am sharing what has helped me get my act together - Organization tips and a few new ideas that I am trying.   Grab your pen/paper and let's get creative!

You'll need the following:

*Planner - I recently indulged in a Erin Condren Life Planner.  Check it out!   Prior I would use a Blue Sky weekly planner (can be found at any office store).  It worked great for me because each month is tabbed, there is plenty of space to write appointments, my TO DO list, really helped me stay on track and more affordable.  With the Erin Life Planner it's similar but has more details.   I'll post more when I receive it in the mail.  I CAN'T WAIT!!!!

In my planner I will have my daily, weekly and monthly reminders written down.   Every night before I go to bed I go over my TO DO list for the next day.  I use POST -ITS notes. 

*Journal - There are many journals out there but I am frugal shopper so I went to my local Dollar Tree and picked up a few composition notebooks.  I like to write stuff down on paper....I'm old school!   In your journal you can write your thoughts, ideas and goals.  I have a journal for work ideas, my blog ideas and my home ideas.   Think of it this way:   THINK IT, INK IT!  

*Focus - What is your focus?   Is it your family life?  Church?  School?  Business?  All!   For me I find that all my roles are my focus.  If I am more disciplined in staying on top of things, I feel more focused.   Things are not all over the place and causing me stress.  My suggestion would be to pray and visualise your focus.  We are all different. 

*Cleaning Schedule - We are blessed to have a housekeeper that comes every other week but with a baby crawling around I need to have my home much cleaner.   I have found that I would clean and do laundry all in one day which is fine but I was TIRED!   Again, I searched Pinterest and found this cleaning schedule that will fit perfectly in our home.   Simple and tackles what I need.   I have to say making my bed in the morning makes a HUGE difference.  Give it a try!  Also, encourage your kids to make their beds too.  

Since I don't have a printer, I wrote the cleaning schedule down on our main calendar in our kitchen.  Not only is it a reminder for me but also for Coach Alex.   I found my calendar at Big Lots for $5.00.  Lots of writing space and came with stickers too!  Next to it I have my running schedule for January - Goal is to run 75 miles ~ Strong & Fearless!

*Home Office - Since I don't have the space to have an actual office, my kitchen table is my main space.  I was that lady that had EVERYTHING on the table.  Drove me crazy, so I finally found a way to organize all my work stuff.  I have a simple black basket and I store all my day to day stuff in there (journals, planner, pens, highlighters, post its and leadership book).  Today I went to Ross and found this cute large storage tote for $9.99.  Now my office is mobile!   

If you have an actual home office invest in containers, wall shelving, bulletin board and designate a space for EVERYTHING!     This is my DREAM OFFICE but with a PINK desk!  

Now that I have overloaded you with my tips now you can take them and apply.  Of course add your own twist to it.   I would also suggest involving the family.  Maybe create a chore list for the children, discuss your budget with your spouse (very important) and just do your best at keep your home stress free!  I believe that when us women take pride in our homes whether it's making the bed, paying the bills or a clean kitchen it shows we honor our home.   

But all things should be done decently and in order - 1 Corinthians 14:40

Happy Organizing! 

Jesus is the Reason

We started this holiday season yesterday by getting our Christmas tree - Our first one as a family.   The sun was shining, our hearts were filled with a powerful message from church and I was just full of JOY!    We decided to head to our local Home Depot and we found the perfect tree.   Short, stubby and fit perfectly in our budget.  Of course Max slept through the whole process but thankfully I took photos to capture the moments.    As Alex was loading up the tree in our car I couldn't help but cry. It was pure joy! I longed for creating these type of memories with my family. And here I was...Max 1st Christmas (he was only 4 days old last year and I just had a c-section so I was not in full spirit) our first tree as a family, new traditions and most of all sharing the true meaning of Christmas.   Our day consisted of decorating, listening to Christmas music and watching Max get into everything HA!   Fun Moments!    But as the evening progressed I started to feel uneasy, started to get tired and Max just did not want to go down for a nap.   I guess you could say my patience was running low.  I just kept 

telling myself hang in there, enjoy these moments but the other side of me simply wanted quiet time.   

After awhile Max took a bath and since this seems to be a time for me to sit in silence all I could do was cry!  I was exhausted, my head hurt and all these mixed emotions kept appearing in my mind.  The memories I had with my own mother during the holidays (earlier that day we came across pictures when things were "normal"),  the pressure of Christmas and the fear that maybe all moms go through:  Failure!    As I was praying I just kept asking God why does that fear keep coming back?  Why can't I just be normal?   What am I lacking?    It clicked!   I was not spending enough time in prayer, reading my bible and working on my spiritual side!!!    I have realized that I was spending time in other things: Being the best SAHM,  wife, coach and so forth.  Don't get me wrong all those things are great and should be taken care of BUT if I am not putting 100% in my relationship with God, I know I will start to hit a plateau.....and I have.   

I came across a blog and her words really ministered to me: 

Dear Mama of a Baby and a Toddler,

I know life may be very overwhelming right now. I know sometimes you just want to throw up your hands in the air and cry.
I know that you sometimes tell God that you don’t know what He was thinking when He made you a mother.
(I promise you…He knew exactly what He was doing when He picked you to mother your children!)
I know that sometimes you feel frumpy and lonely and at your wit’s end.
It will get better.

Go in grace, Mama. Go in grace. 

When I read those words all I could do is weep. These words were for me. Perfect timing.  It was my wake up call if you will. So, me spending 15 minutes with God is just not enough - at least for me anyway.  I need more. I want more of His everlasting grace.   I suddenly realized it was 2am in the morning and I was exhausted yet I was fired up!   I decided it's time to get some rest. I curled up next to Max and Alex and we had a sleepover in Max's room.  I was surrounded by two of my favorite boys.  I  knew I was safe. I was loved.  

I woke up this morning feeling so motivated and a big load has been lifted off of me.  I am NOT Super Mom. I am in control of my thoughts, actions and words.  It's up to me to stay on track spiritually.   Especially when life gets overwhelming.   As I was sharing with Alex this morning my number priority when I wake up is to take care of ME and that means by praying, reading my word and focusing on building my strength up.  I am not weak.  I am human who just needs more discipline.  If I can press play, run, eat clean then why can't I do better in my spiritual fitness?  

I am sharing this because I know God has big plans for my life.  My trials, my struggles are MY story.   I will overcome of all this. My life is to worship God in everything I do.   As I continue to work on myself, I pray that my story will inspire you.   Perhaps it'll bring someone peace, bring you closer to God and just knowing that we all have a story.   It doesn't mean we are not strong - in fact I personally think our struggles makes us stronger.  WHY?  Because we don't quit!   We love our children.  We love our husbands.   We love God.   And with that it's our purpose to strive for GREATNESS especially in our homes.  

Jesus is the reason I get up everyday.  He is the reason I am who I am today.   He is the reason for Christmas.     

"Rejoice in the Lord always, I will say it again: Rejoice!
Let your graciousness be known to everyone. The Lord is near.
Don't worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving; let your requests be made known to God.
And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your heartsand your minds in Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4:4-7

"Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her:"
Proverbs 31:28 NLT

Strong and Fearless <3 

Big Sur Half Marathon

What an AMAZING experience.   It all started Saturday morning waking up and my heart was filled with joy.   I was so relaxed and ready to hit the road with my boys.   As we arrived to Monterey the sun was shining, cool crisp of Fall air and many runners walking around.  The expo was very well organized, met up with a fellow runner/Pink Lady Krissy, met a mom who breastfed her daughter (we shared out stories) and the excitement really started to kick in!   We shopped, walked around, enjoyed the scenery and ended our day relaxing in our hotel room.   Through out the whole day all I could feel was PEACE!   I knew that there was nothing to be worried about.   So, when I laid my head down to go to bed the last thing I said was "It's all in your hands God - Your will will be done."

When Sunday morning came I just couldn't wait to get in my corral.   This was the day - All the training, challenges, growth, setbacks and hard work will be paid in full.  As Alex prayed over me I could just feel the presence of the Lord surrounding me.  After a few tears I was READY - I GOT THIS!  There was no going back and nothing was going to stop me.   I anxiously waited 30mins until my corral took off. During this point I am usually nervous, have butterflies in my belly and I'm encouraging all my Pink Ladies.  But I was not nervous.  I did not have butterflies.  This moment was MINE!    The gun went off - I gave Simone a big hug and off we went.  I can't describe the feeling other than it was a CELEBRATION!  

This might sound cheesy but all I could was smile.  Smile at other runners - some smiled back, some needed that smile, some needed a hug.  I understand that running a marathon can be scary but what I learned through this experience is if you trained for it then there is NOTHING to be afraid about.  It's about being FEARLESS!

I stopped at mile 3 to take a picture (My fellow running buddy Kelly encouraged that I do this - THANKS KELLY!).   The sky was gray but you can see the beauty in the ocean.  The calmness of the still waters.  The sun peaking through.  Just another sign from God that this is still my moment.  

I made it an effort to embrace each mile with a special moment of this year.  I often thought of my journey as a mother.  From the moment I held Max in my arms to the moment of kissing him goodbye as I left for this race.  In a sense motherhood is like a marathon - I am always running towards some sort of goal.  Improving my "stride" as a mother.  Breaking PR's as a mother.  Signing up for the next race - whether I am ready or not as a mother.   There were moments that I got choked up.  There were moments that I stopped to simply stare at the ocean and give God glory.  There were moments that my music stopped and I all I could hear was my breathing, the waves crashing and encouragement from my fellow runners.    Once I reached Mile 8 I thought OMG I am almost done!   For a brief second I didn't want it to end - I wanted to continue to run until my legs fall off LOL!    The course was simply beautiful with strong runners.   

When I approached the hills I remember the advise I read:  Run slowly, look up, shoulders back and stay on the ball of your foot.  But I couldn't do just that.  I had to sprint them!  HA!   As I sprinted those hills I had my two sole sisters with me:  Patricia and Yolanda.  I could hear them cheering me on and telling me to GO GO GO!!  Thank You Sisters.  Those hills were dedicated to you both.    The spectators were great!  I seen so many "GO MOM" signs and I just couldn't wait to see Max and Alex. Even though I knew they were going to be waiting for me at the end I still looked for them.   At one point I even started to cry because I knew how proud they were of me.  Alex has been such a great supporter through out this journey.   He pushed me when I didn't want get up to run.  He pushed me when I fell.  He encouraged me to finish the race.  He supported me in my other races.  He encouraged me to keep running with my jogging stroller.  He pushed me because he believes in me.  I long for the moment that Max says "GO MOMMY GO" and when I hear those sweet words they will be cherished.  Thank You Sweets for all that you've done for me. I love you with all my heart!    
Max, when you read this you'll fully understand why mommy loves running. Why I never gave up on you.  Why you inspire me every single day.  Why you heard me cry during our training runs.   Mommy is always running to give you the best life that God has set out for us.  I love you Maximus!

As Mile 11 approached I stop to catch my breath, text Alex and say a simple prayer.  My prayer was:  God give me the strength, don't let my pains affect me and please allow me to keep the faith during the last 2.1 miles!   Again, I smiled and off I went.  I literally sprinted to the finish line.  The moment I switch sides I saw Alex and Max.  I screamed so loud!  Gave him a big hug and kiss.  Max just gave me this look of Yeah Mommy you're crazy!  I kissed him and sprinted as if I was running the Olympics marathon.  I crossed that finish line with so much heart, so much gratitude and so much excitement! I could not feel my knees but I all I could so was SMILE!!  I was done!  I ran 13.1 miles - 11 months after my C-Section in a personal record of 2:07!   I've ran many marathons but this race was by far the BEST accomplishment and feeling ever!  

As I sit here typing this blog crying my eyes out the feeling of accomplishment is overwhelming!   I'm so grateful to be where I am today.  All that I have endured.  All the heartaches from past relationships.  The fears of not being a good mother.  It's all been left in the ocean, washed away and my heart is full with Gods everlasting love.  I know I am meant for this.  I am meant to share my testimonies, be the change and continue to strive to be the woman God has called me to be.  Whether it's running, sharing my blog, a piece of my marriage or a simple prayer.  That is what my journey is about - Embracing each mile with Gods love. 

Thank You for allowing me to share my story.  Never let anyone's opinion affect who you are.  Know that you are a great mommy.  You are made for greatness. God chose YOU!  Be STRONG and FEARLESS!  His love never fades! 

Blessings. 

Ending to a New Beginning

Tonight was my last taper run before my marathon on Sunday:  Big Sur Half.  

As I was driving to my girlfriend's house to meet up for our run I looked over to view the sunset.  It was so beautiful and breathtaking.  How amazing is it to see the sky RED!   Talk about appreciating the simple things in life.  All that came to my mind was - REJOICE!   Rejoice in the Lord, Rejoice in your hard work, Rejoice in the friendships you made, Rejoice in all that you have endured, Rejoice in this final run!  I couldn't help but shed some tears.   Truly this was a sign from God that on Sunday everything is going to go so well.  All my hard work will be paid off.  

These past few weeks have been full of challenges, healing, tears, laughter, many miles, countless nights awake with Maximus but most of all there have been many sweet memories.   Sweet memories as a mother, wife, friend and a coach.   It's like running.  Each mile represents something.  The first miles are always the hardest for me.  It's a time where my muscles are loosening up, adjusting to my stride, blocking out the negative thoughts and just finding my groove.   That is how life is...we are running towards that next mile in life.   So as I was running tonight I just kept thinking of everything I was thankful for during this journey.  Thankful for my two feet, thankful that God has allowed me to be strong enough, thankful for my sole mates Yolanda and Patricia, thankful for my husband Alex, thankful for Maximus, thankful for my grandma, thankful for PLBC and more!  

Life is too short to be unappreciative.  Too short to be worried about the negative people and their opinions.   Instead I need to continue to focus on the positive, embrace the opinionated people, continue to show love and just know who I am in Christ.   Ultimately that is the MOST important part. 

As I run my 13.1 miles on Sunday, it will be just more than a race.  It will be a CELEBRATION!   

Life is DEFINITELY a marathon and I will continue to embrace each mile.   That is the beauty of life and life of a runner girl.   

Proverbs 31 Woman

This morning I challenged my Pink Ladies to read the Proverbs 31 in their bible.  And then share what they gathered from it.   I've read this chapter over and over many times.  Each time I read I always learn something new.   Pure wisdom for us woman.  In my opinion it expresses the true meaning of a woman.  We should focus more on her rather than the girl on the fitness magazine.   Not saying that all women on magazines are wrong, what I am saying is when we look for inspiration we should look for something that has the traits of a Proverbs 31 woman.  

I strive daily to be a Proverbs 31 Wife.  I know that when I show Alex love and respect that blesses him.  When I prep his meals for lunch I know that makes him smile.  When he comes homes and the house is clean that makes him happy. I know not to fight against him but with him in anything that we many endure.  We are a TEAM - Team Zapien. 

Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.

~ Proverbs 31:11-12

I strive daily to be a Proverbs 31 mother.  I get many sleepless night especially when Maximus is at a growing spurt.  Waking up in the wee hours to nurse him, waking up early to pump for his milk and most importantly waking up early so I have time to gather myself for the day.   I'm not one to complain about this because I know I am honoring God.  He doesn't give me anything I can't handle.  Granted, there are moments where I do need a "mommy time out" and I feel like how I am going to get through this day!   I enjoy being a stay at home and able to raise my son.  But let's face it we all have crazy mom days! Moments where we want to pull our hair out or simple need a time out.    The flip side is staying home is a pure blessing that I never take for granted. 

She gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family and portions for her female servants. She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings, she plants a vineyard. She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.

~ Proverbs 31:15-17

I strive to be a Proverbs 31 woman.   As I mentioned earlier we often idolized woman on the magazine cover or someone on social media.  Mostly by their outer appearance.   But isn't being "fit" about the inside too?  Our character, the way we talk, the way we carry ourselves and most importantly having self-respect.   We are worthy.  We are beautiful.  We can speak with kindness.  We can walk with our head up.   As a Fitness Coach in my community my integrity is very important to me.  No matter where I am going or doing I have to be sure I do the right things.  Smile, show kindness (even to the rude) and embrace everyone.  For example, this past weekend I was faced with a big challenge.  If I didn't make the right choice I knew that my integrity could have been ruined in seconds.  But I held myself back, had composure and responded in the best way I could.   Each workout reflects my strength.  Being able to spend time for myself gears me up for my inner strength.  There are times that I have to shut my mind and just allow Gods voice to encourage me. He's my personal trainer when I am struggling.  

Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.

~ Proverbs 31:30

Whether you are a Christian woman or not I encourage you to read Proverbs 31 and allow God to speak to your heart.   As we continue to push through our runs, our daily exercises or our 100 tricep dips we also need to push through our spiritual fitness.  Spending time daily reading the word, surrounding yourself with uplifting women, smiling, personal development and being the woman that God created you to be!  

Strong and Fearless

Our meaning of Life

Boys are napping and I'm enjoying quiet time reading my word.  It's funny how God always leads you to the right book.  I happened to open Ecclesiastes and starting read chapter 11.  At the end of my teaching this got my attention: 

The funny thing is when I was talking to Alex this morning about our feelings and what not.  We were discussing our weaknesses, asked him to pray for me about a certain issue and how we can quickly let our flesh take over.  But we also shared how blessed we are - not referring to material things at all - being able to have God fully centered in our lives.  In our home.  Our fitness ministry. In our marriage and the raising of Maximus. Serving God has been our true meaning of LIFE!  Serving God wholeheartedly.  

Not many know our story of being saved - will share at a later time - but what I can share is we were lost.  Lost in the world - Partying every weekend, lost in debt, using fitness as vanity, arguing all the time, anger, insecurities and much more!   Yeah we had our home, shopped at expensive stores, traveled and enjoyed the finer things in life.  I'm not saying all those things are bad, but to us it didn't bring us meaning.  We can't take those things when we die.  

Looking back we weren't truly living life!  We were living a lie in our hearts.  Until we started serving God we started to learn the value of LIFE.  When Max was born we were really living life.  He's become our true meaning - our purpose.  

So, reading that section brought a smile to my heart.  I'm not perfect. But I know when I lay my head down at night I ask God for forgiveness, to continue to increase in me and help me see the true meaning of life ❤

Sow your seed in the morning, and at evening let not your hands be idle, for you do not know which will succeed. Whether this or that, or whether both will do equally well - Ecclesiastes 11:6

Body Image

Quit worrying about what other people see when they look at you. Start seeing yourself as God sees you; his beloved, priceless work of art.  I read those words this morning as I was reading my word.   It couldn't have come at a better time.  

Here's a little background on myself and my weight.   I've always been "skinny".  I used to get picked on all the time in my younger days.  No matter what my grandma used to cook for us I just couldn't gain any weight.  She even put me in martial arts to gain weight.  It got worst in High School when I was picked on because I was the girl with BIG BOOBS and a tiny waist.  I was called mean names and bullied.  There was a time that girls thought I liked their boyfriends and wanted to fight me over it.   It caused alot of pain and I even made some mistakes due to my low self esteem. 

Fast forward 15 years or so and as I sit here and type this I can honestly say hearing those words "You are skinny" "You look skinny" still affect me.  I truly know that when someone tells me that I know it's coming from a nice place.  But until this moment not many know my story.  Not many know my insecurities.  Not many know that I struggle just like them.   Being skinny is sometimes just as hard as someone that is overweight.  I too struggle with finding things that fit.  Sometimes an XS is big or just doesn't fit my body right.   I struggle finding a good sports bra.   I often have the thoughts of I can eat whatever I want!  LOL!  (That's my FAV excuse).  Since I am breastfeeding, working out and eating right I still find myself picking out my flaws.  For instance, I'm noticing that I can see my collar bones more and my chest bones are more visible (Alex says that's normal) HA!  Bless his heart!  But that ugly word stands out: SKINNY!!   All then all the insecurities arise!  WHY!!  Why are we so hard on ourselves?  Why do focus so much on the negative?  Why can't we see the masterpiece that we are?   Why can't we embrace our inner beauty more?   

I know that I am fit especially after having Max.  I know I work hard in my workouts.  I know I am strong.  I know I am fearless.  I know that my body is made different.   I know all those things!  So, when I was reading Psalm 139:13-18 it showed me God made me this way.  Instead of trying to recreate what God created I need to start embracing it.  I need to walk with my head up.  I need to embrace my skinny-ness.   SKINNY is the NEW STRONG!!!    

As I closed out my prayer time with God I left all those insecurities at his feet.  I am no longer going to let that word affect me no more.  I am going to continue to work hard on the inside cause that is what truly matters.  If you are reading this and you are letting something affect you, I pray that you just let it go.  You are a masterpiece.  God designed you just the way you are.  Love Yourself.  Be Fearless.  Walk with your head up.  Keep pushing through your journey.   Be YOU!  

Happy 8 Months to Maximus

Today we celebrate another month with Maximus.  8 Months! 

Fun Facts About Me: 

I weight 17lbs

I have 6 teeth

I am Sitting up

I am attempting to crawl

I love eating scrambled eggs, avocado, strawberries and Plum pureed foods

I am still breastfed

I love drinking water out of my sippy cup

I am still sleeping in my crib but love to snuggle with Mommy and Daddy

I am always smiling

I love to read books with Mommy and Daddy

I love The Chica Show

I still run with Mommy

I love going on walks in my wagon with Daddy

Max brings me so much joy!  As he continues to grow I just fall more in love with him.  He has def stole my heart.  I'm proud of myself for breastfeeding this long.  It's a blessing!   In four months we will be celebrating his 1st birthday!  I just can't believe how fast time is going.   But for now I am going to continue to enjoy his slobbery kisses, his 4am feedings and seeing his excitement when daddy comes home.  

Mommy Loves You Max! 

Being Appreciative

Happy Tuesday!  What a beautiful Fall like morning.  Winds are blowing, leaves are falling and enjoying a nice cup of coffee on the deck.  Max is sleeping and I'm taking this time to lay my thoughts out. 

 

Past few days I've been doing a lot of thinking and praying about my family.  Growing our family and possibly relocating.   Our hopes are to try for another baby end of 2014 - praying for a little girl hehehe!  But of course she'll "need" her own room.....like how I said NEED!  That is where my talks with God have been coming in.  Does she really need her own room? Do I really need this? Need that? Get my drift?!   We recently paid off a chunk of debt and working on a few more things. Hopefully we can relocate to a bigger home with a backyard and more space.  Yesterday Alex and I took a look at possibly renting a house and WOW! Not what we expected.  We saw hundreds, more than what we pay in mortgage and not even that nice.  We went from EXCITED to DEFEATED!  Thinking why would we give up our nice condo, affordable payment for a run down high rent place?  Quickly the enemy was putting these bad thoughts into my mind, I tried to brush them off while exercising but it just wasn't working.  Finally Alex was like STOP! Let's Pray!  As we were praying I could still feel the bad spirit on me, mind was racing and I just couldn't grasp what Alex was saying.  We get back to our routine, he was pushing me in my squats, I kept laughing and then finally he said: Every Rep is Every Dollar Saved!  You want to expand our family? Then push it! You want to pay off the debt, stop buying.  You want a bigger home then you'll get it!  Before I knew I was crying and my last set was done!  Now talk about punching FEAR IN THE FACE! Gotta love a man that encourages his wife!   

Of course God wasn't done with me!  In between our sets we were setting new goals, revising our current ones and set out a 6 month plan.  I decided to check my IG and BAM! God hits me again with this beautiful photo from our shoot:

I immediately starting bawling and came to my knees!  Here I was being selfish and wanting more more more and in front of me was what exactly what I NEED!   I have a beautiful son, supportive hubby and the three of us make our HOME A HOME! 

Immediately I felt that bad spirit leave my heart and I was given peace from Gods comforting words and a push from Alex.  

It's perfectly OK to have goals and want more - but through it all I just need to appreciate what I do have.  Continue to count my blessing and enjoy my life every single day.  Make those memories, stick to our budget and let God take control. 

So, as I sit here on my deck I'm thankful for His new mercies. I'm blessed to be given another day of life.  Have peace in my heart and YES LADIES INAM SORE from my workout yesterday! LOL!

Alex: Thank You for pushing me, yelling at me and reminding me of our beautiful life.  

Max: Soon you'll have a brother or sister but I want you to know the true meaning of life.  Not about material things. Simply knowing Gods love and His plan for your beautiful life.

Thank You & God Bless ❤

Happy Friday

Can I just say I am so THANKFUL that this weekend consists of a whole lot of nothing.   A weekend where I will NOT be running around with my head cut off or doing a million things.  Yesterday I was hit with exhaustion.   All of a sudden I just felt tired and bleh.  That is not like me.  I didn't even have the energy to teach my bootcamp - Thank goodness Alex was able to fill in.   SORRY LADIES I wasn't there for the extra breaks!  HA!!!   But as I was relaxing God spoke to me on a few things but one that really stood out to me was:  Slow Down.  I can't always be busy.  Can't always say YES to everything/everyone.  Because if I do then I end up getting tired, headaches and feeling blue.   And that I don't like to feel.   So as I was praying I just keep crying and I kept asking is there more to this?  What is so heavy on my heart.  I kept getting:  Rest in Me.   Don't have fear my child.   You have all the time in the world to do it all. But for now I need you to rest. Stay in prayer, keep your eyes fixated on me and let me counsel you.  God never fails me and He always comes through when I need to be reminded.

Often times we get so caught up that we forget to focus on the important things.   We are juggling multiple tasks, wearing multiple hats and always wearing our Superwoman capes.   Yeah that is all dandy until you get hit with tiredness, fatigue and even a slight dose of depression.  All women go through this especially us mothers.   I don't know one woman that doesn't go through this - shoot if you are reading this and this is YOU please let us know your secret!   Let's just keep it real being a Mom is one of the hardest job we will ever endure.  We no longer get a good nights rest, we are constantly on the go, our children always need us.   BUT!  In order to give our best we have to be sure to rest and let certain things go.  I was told yesterday that I make being a mom easy.  I told her my secret was being organized.  I've found that works well with me being a Stay at Home mom and a Work from Home mom.   I'm constantly using my planner, writing To Do Lists and having structure.   With organization, accepting help, praying and daily exercise it makes Motherhood rewarding.   I always feel PROUD knowing I did my best.  I gave Max everything he needed (not material things) and ending my day spending time with Alex.   Just requires balance and rest.  We can all do this - we are capable.  Just have to take it one day at a time.

With that said I finally got some good nights rest - aside from Max sleeping with us and the 2am feeding.   My spirit feels rested and I am looking forward to a relaxing weekend.  It's a go with the flow type of weekend.  My pictures came in so I can plan on working on Max's baby book.   Reading my book.  Enjoying an evening with some Fit Mamas and Sunday spending the day unplugging from social media and just hanging out with my boys - Making Memories.

What exciting plans do you have?

Be sure to rest, smile, spend quality time with your family and most of all ENJOY LIFE!

6 Months Later

6 Months ago - February - I stepped back into my workouts FULL FORCE!  I remember going to the gym with my Bestie and I felt great!  I knew I had to modify because I had a C-Section.  I came home and all of a sudden I felt sad.    I had myself a pity party of all the things that I "used" to be able to do - Such as running, lifting weights, box jumps and so forth.  But I was very limited.  I decided to take my BEFORE picture so I can move forward.  I remember texting it to my Bestie crying because I never seen my body look like that. She encouraged me and told me "Bestie, Calm down! You just had a baby!!" HA!  Yeah talk about a reality check!  I knew from that moment I was going to break all the chains of being a lazy mom or not having time to get my body back in shape.  Plus I looked super tired and just not the Angela I knew.

I'm not sure what my weight was since I don't get on the scale but you can see I'm bloated, flabby, tired and not smiling: 

Feb 2013

Now what did I do?  I attended the gym 2x a week. Did weight training, yoga and plyo. I also started running again and taking Maximus out with me.  I cleaned up my eating, drank my Shakeology, breastfed and prayed daily.  I started to see changes in my body and on the inside.  I was finding my groove again.  Of course somedays I wanted to not exercise or eat that extra cupcake but I knew in order to break the chains I needed to set the example - Be the example. 

Fast forward to today and I feel AMAZING both body and mind!   I'm blessed to be surrounded by other Fit Mamas, I'm eating new foods, staying accountable to a group of ladies, living in balance and most importantly I feel FEARLESS!   Right now I'm in Week 5 of T25 and I have to say this workout program has helped me so much.  I'm able to exercise at home for 25 minutes.  It's great because Max is more active and requires me of my attention. The workouts challenge me. I'm stronger in my Core - I dislike doing ABS! And I have to say  in the best shape ever!!!!   Plus with Shakeology it's perfect for a post workout shake.  I don't use protein powered because I can't due to breastfeeding.   

As you can in my AFTER picture I look EXCITED! Excited about life!  Excited to be a Fit Mama!  Excited to have ABS - 7 months after a C-Section!   

Anything is possible Mamas!  We don't have to be overweight, depressed, tired, run down and unhappy about ourselves. We can be STRONG, Toned and feel GOOD about ourselves!  Plus our kids need us to run after them. Enjoy walks. Enjoy healthy foods together. Laugh together.  Have a home with love and happiness!   Plus our hubbies love it when we feel good about ourselves.  

So, it's not just what we look like on the outside....it's about our overall lifestyle ~ HEALTH & HAPPINESS!!!!!

Don't give up. Take one day at a time. Find a support group. Pray. Be Fearless. 

House or Home

Twice a month Alex and I participate in a marriage Home Group from our church, Jubilee.   We've been in a group for the past year and a half.  How we got started was by attending a 6 - week class called: Love and Respect last February.   From there we have been fully engaged in our Home Group.   It has truly helped our marriages especially now with Maximus.  It has shown us that just because we have a child doesn't mean our marriage ends.  Doesn't mean the romance stops.  Doesn't mean we can't have date nights.   To us having a child just means it's going to require more work but it's also going to be rewarding.   We want Max to learn the true meaning of marriage - Marriage that is a covenant made before God.  Not just a piece of paper.  Not about the size of my diamond.  It's about the years spent together.  The times we've come together in prayer.  The memories we've created.  Being an inspiration to other married couples.  Most importantly:  Showing Love and Respect to one another.   Not arguing in front of Max.  Always letting Max know how much I love his Daddy.  

Right now we are reading the book: House or Home by Chip Ingram.  It's been a good lesson so far.   This past Sunday we discussed marriage being a Holy Covenant. We've made a vow together. Our  vows are serious.  Divorce is NOT an option. Adultery is serious and many other deep topics.   But the one thing that really stood out to me was adultery.  Why?  Because it just saddens me when you hear couples cheating, make lewd comments about their spouses or thinking it's OK to say that the opposite sex is cute, hot or whatever.   For instance Alex to this day thinks NO OTHER WOMAN is attractive.  Esp in Hollywood.  For years I used to think Yeah Right!  HA!!!  But overtime I've come to realize that he is genuinely honest about that.   But when we were going over our scripture:  Proverbs 6:20-29 I got total conviction.  The reason being is yeah I may joke around that some guy in Hollywood is cute or whatever but in reality I'm not respecting Alex.   Yes I am human and others might think that is a justification but it's not - Not in Gods eyes. So, as the scripture was being read I got teary eyed and had to quickly apologize to him.  Now that wasn't easy to do but when I looked at him and said I am sorry for disrespecting you, I knew exactly how he felt all these years. He's right  - He doesn't think no other woman is attractive. I finally understood.  I thank God for that.   

The lesson that we both learned was even a slight comment can lead into something BIG such as adultery.  We know that sacrificing our Sundays to be in Home Group pays off.   We can manage a child and still keep our LOVE alive.   Why should we conform to what the world thinks or does?  Why don't we break the chains of divorce?  Why not be the couple that Max aspires to me?   I know that our marriage isn't perfect.  We have our daily struggles but what I can tell you is that I am Truly Madly Deeply in Love with Alex.   We've gone to hell and back but standing here today I am PROUD to be his wife.   I take pride in our home, marriage and family life.   All the effort is our marriage pays off.   

I encourage you to get involved in your local church's marriage ministry.  Plan weekly date nights.   Engage as a family.  Always show Love and Respect.  Say I'm Sorry.   Always tell your spouse I LOVE YOU.   Encourage.  Pray for him.  Stand up for him.  Never go to bed mad.   

When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow. It is better not to make a vow than to make one and not fulfill it - Ecclesiastes 5:4-5

Hello August

It's been way to long since I last blogged.  Summer has been keeping me busy creating memories with my family and good friends.  But my new goal for this month is to keep up with my blog and keep you all posted.  I'll TRY to keep this post short and sweet!  

I'm sure most of you are aware that I am a Team Beachbody Coach - makers of P90X, Insanity, T25, Shakeology and many other great workout programs.  I have been with the company for about 3 years. What started out a personal journey for me has lead me to incorporate TBB with my bootcamp, The Pink Ladies.   I first started TBB with Shakeology and wanting to jump start my fitness goals.  I was doing kickboxing, running and started to go to the gym but it just wasn't doing it for me.  My eating was clean but I knew that my body was still missing the extra nutrients.   I won't bore you with all the details....instead click in the link to learn more about how I started with TBB -----> My Story.

From there the rest is history.  Fast forward to today - Well I participated in what we call a Team Cup Challenge.  You team up with fellow Beachbody Coaches and you work your butt off in helping people get started on a new fitness challenge.   T25 and Shakeology was a HIT!  The promo pack was prob the BEST ever.  The newest workout T25 is 25 minutes of HARD WORK and you sweat 5x a week.  Perfect for this FIT MAMA!   I'm PROUD to say I have reached my ULTIMATE GOAL!!!  I never worked so hard in this business to reach such a goal.  I learned alot about myself, PLBC, TBB and many other things.  I'm very thankful to all my ladies who supported me and are now doing T25 with me.  When I woke up this morning I knew that I could take my business with TBB to a new level.    Meaning I can help ladies all over my community, California and across the states.   I've become a "Product of the Product".  The bonus is I am able to incorporate PLBC Strong and Fearless.  I'm able to help ladies feel good about themselves physically and mentally.  I'm able to share my story.  Share my trials, triumphs and crazy workouts.   The sky is the limit and with my determination and faith I CAN DO ANYTHING!   I'm just really EXCITED to take my career to a new level.  I believe in the Company and what it stands for.  Shakeology has changed my life and I want to see more lives changed.   It's going to require hard work but I know I can do it!

So, with that all said and done.....I've set out my goals for this month.  I usually focus on the physically aspects but this month I am really going to focus on self development, spend more time in prayer, complete my marriage course and embrace all the knowledge.   Our Pastor suggested that I start a Life Journal for the next year.  Since I love to journal I knew this was right up my alley for me.   I been waiting for a good time to start and with a new month approaching and how things are turning out in my life I wanted to start in August.   I can't wait to see what God has in store for me.  What lessons I am going to learn.  The beauty of it is I will be able to document it all and have it as a reference for later in life.  Or save it for a rainy day where I can go back and see my growth.

My other goals are to continue to create making memories with Max.  Yesterday we went to Happy Hollow with our Mommy and Me group.  Even thought Max is still kinda small for the rides we were able to get on the Carousel.  I wasn't sure how he was going to react but he was just full of smiles and cooing the whole time.   It's those special moments that melt my heart.  It truly makes me appreciate Alex so much because I am able to stay home with Max.  He gets up everyday and goes to work with gratitude.   Even though I wish we could be rich (Kidding LOL) and not have him work so he can have fun with us, I always make sure I send him pictures of us.  We are currently in the stages of teaching him baby sign language.  It's so cute!  He just smiles!   But it blesses me knowing we are laying the foundation of education for him.   Being a SAHM is a blessing - hard work because I do work from home but I wouldn't have it any other way.  If you are reading this Alex I just want you to know that I APPRECIATE all that you do for us.  Working overtime, sacrificing by getting up early to exercise and going to work for more than just a paycheck.   WE LOVE YOU!!!!

August, I am READY for you!   Lord knows my heart and I leave all my dream and worries in His hands.  What will be done will be done.  God is in full control.  I'm just here for the ride.  I pray that you all continue to follow my journey.  Again, THANK YOU for allowing to be your Fitness Coach and let's continue to be STRONG & FEARLESS in all areas of our lives.  

God Bless <3 

Keep Pressing Forward

Happy Anniversary

Sitting here drinking my coffee and SMILING!   12 years ago I met Alex in a night club - Polly Esthers in San Francisco.   I was in a dark place in my life.  Just got out of an abusive relationship.  I was insecure, super emotional and a WRECK!  But my girlfriends at that time insisted that I get dressed up and head out for girls night.  Even my grandma forced me to go!  LOL!   The last thing I wanted to do is being around BOYS!  I got dressed and off I went.  Never knew that God had a plan for my life.   

When I first laid eyes on Alex I thought he was a weirdo!  The reason being he just keep staring and staring.....Smiled at me but that was it.  I kept telling my girlfriend "Who is this guy!".  He finally said something!  But not to me, to my friend.  And I know oh great here we go!  He has told her that I was cute and he liked the way I danced.  I smiled at him and made my way to him and said "Do you have something you want to tell me?" (I was pretty bold back then!).  We then preceded to flirt back and forth and FINALLY he asked me to dance.   We danced and talked the night away.  It was like a fairy tale - Here's some nice, handsome man whisking me away in La La Land.   Our conversations were very interesting.   We both tried to impress each other knowing it was more funny than anything.  We talked about our past relationships, placed we've traveled - The funny thing is two weeks prior we were both in Vegas AT THE SAME TIME!   We were definitely meant for each other.  And we talked about our future (marriage, kids, you know the basics).   After a few hours we were sitting in this bus in the basement of the club and it hit us:  Where are our friends!  We had ditched them to hang out together!   Sadly all good things must come to an end.  We found our friends and we were all going in different directions.  I did not want to leave.  I just wanted to stay and continue our talks....it was like it was just him and I in the club.  What attracted me was his personality.  He was funny, smart and could carry a conversation.  Mind you I was NOT looking for anything but something kept tugging at me.  We exchanged number, hugs and off we went.  Part of me knew that I would never see him again - That was the fear kicking in.  But my girlfriend kept saying that I would.  Fast forward 12 years and we are still together, in love, still have interesting conversations and we can still dance the night away.  

Our eight years of marriage hasn't always been peachy.  We've hit some rough patches along the way.  We both came from messed up relationships and we carried those issues into our relationship.   We disrespected each other, said ugly words and even got to the point of DIVORCE.  We've had financial issues, communication issues and personal issues.   We went thru counseling, drank to our problems, threw our issues under the rug and what not.   Of course during our rough patches we have many fun memories together.   We know how to have fun.  We know how to make each other laugh.  We know what makes each other happy.  I truly believe that is what has kept us together.  We knew there was more to our life than all the bickering.  But in order to grow together we had to fix things.  That is when we gave our life to the Lord three years ago.  By that time we were tired and it was our last chance at saving our marriage.  Earlier when I said God had a plan - Oh he did and always does.    Now that doesn't mean that day all our issues were swept away.  If anything it was harder.  But we knew that centering God in our marriage it was going to be more peaceful when we argued.   We've worked our butts off these past few years.  Letting go of the past, being able to forgive each other, truly understanding that marriage is NOT just a piece of paper (Can't stand when people say that!) and knowing that God knew exactly what He was doing 12 years ago.   We've been able to re-new our vows, participate in marriage courses, be a testimony to others and the best gift so far is having Maximus.   

Marriage is about Love and Respect.  Without those two it won't work.   You have to be willing to work together as husband and wife - not against each other.  When I told Alex that I would marry him I told him that I'm only getting married once so if we have to go to hell and back I'll do it.   We been thru hell and back and let me tell you it's been worth it.  He's my best friend, my partner, my husband and the father of my son.  I look forward to another eight years of hard work, laughter, tears, memories  and children.  

Maximus, when you read this and you wonder how Mommy and Daddy met you will know that we couldn't keep our eyes off each other.   We knew that someday you would come along and we will tell you the funny story of how we met.  But aside from that we will teach you what marriage is about in Gods eyes.  You will Love and Respect your wife.  Just like we love and respect each other.  

My best friend read this at my wedding and to this day we live by it

We love taking pictures - We love smiling - We enjoy LIFE together.  Thank You Lord <3 

When I become the mother of your child I simply fall in love with you all over again.  My life was complete.  Seeing you as a father now blesses me everyday.  You're more handsome and loving than ever.  I'm PROUD to be your WIFE!