The Big Sha-Bang!

As many of you know, on July 21st the competed in the race I had been training all year for, the Door County Half Ironman!

Going in to race weekend, I felt so many different emotions.  I knew people told me this would happen, but I didn't realize what an impact they would have on me.  Waking up on Sunday morning, I felt ready.  I was excited and nervous.  As I had my peanut butter thinwich, I began to cry.  Not because of nerves, but thinking of how far I have come since January.  Mentally and physically I had changed so much, mostly because of my desire to compete in this race. 


As we made our way down to transition, I was ready to get the show on the road!  With about 30 minutes until race start, I wiggled into my wet suit, gave hugs, and made my way toward Lake Michigan. 

My wave went off at 8:16am, and my heart rate immediately went through the roof.  With about 50 other women in my age group around me and s

mall swells in the water, I just couldn't get into a groove.  After side stroking my way to the turn buoy and letting my heart rate come down, I finally was able to swim like I had practiced for so many months. 

After 50 minutes and 38 seconds, I was on my way to T1 where I heard Amy cheering me on for doing the right thing with the wet suit stripper, saw Craig, Laura, Tim, Tracy, and Lauren! 

Nose Picking Swim Finish!

Quickly, I hopped on the bike for a 56 mile out and back through Door County.  Going into the bike, I was hopeful that I could complete it at a speed of 15 miles per hour.  After the first hour, I realized that I was going to exceed my goal.  This made me a little nervous, but I felt great the whole bike.  I maintained my nutrition, and rolled into T2 at a pace of 16.1 mph. 

Now, I was ready for the run!  I came out of transition to see Craig, Tim, and Laura waiting for me.  Craig ran the first quarter of a mile with me, and we went over how I was feeling.  Then, I headed out for my 13.1 mile journey.  For the first two miles, I felt great.  Then, into mile 3 my stomach really started to bother me.  I just felt glazed over.  I saw Amy S. and Amy MG around mile 4, and they reassured me to take it one step at a time.  From there I maintained a run/walk pace for about a mile.

As I came up on mile 5, I met a few guys who were going about my pace.  I thought I would pass the time by chatting with them about races, and it got to to mile 6.  At mile 6 I started to feel like myself again, and saw the first large climb of the run.  Here I made friends with a gentleman in his 70's who will be competing in his 19th Ironman and 9th Kona this fall.  He really helped me get through 6 & 7.

Craig and I climbing the bluff.

As I continued on, mile 8 was a walk/run pace. Then, at mile 9 I hit another wall, as I climbed the "bluff". About 2/3 of the way up the climb, I saw Craig running down the hill! He had come to push me through the next few miles. From miles 10-12 Craig and I stuck together. He asked me about the race and helped push me to pass the time. I was so grateful to have him with me.

With a little less than a mile to go, I told him to wait for me at the finish.  With a steep downhill ahead of me, I ran into the finish with a time of 7:27.  While this was about 27 minutes slower than I had hoped, I finished.  I ran into the shoot with all of my friends cheering me on.  Emotions were running through me, and I couldn't help but cry.  It felt amazing not only to have so much support, but also to do something that one year ago I could have never imagined. 

Thank you to everyone who stuck with me on this journey.  The triathlon family I have joined is amazing, and I look forward to many more races, friendships, and fun.  I have a new outlook mentally and physically, and I am proud to say I made all of these changes. 

FINISHER!

People always say, "I could never do that".  I used to be one of those people.  I truly believe with dedication and drive, anyone can achieve physical/mental/emotional goals.  I'm proud to say I made the changes that will stick with me as I face my next challenge. 

Cheers,

Samantha

Verona Triterium: Rain, Mud, and Hills

Coming out of the swim

A few weeks ago, I competed in my first olympic distance triathalon.  The Verona Triterium is a .93 mile swim, 25 mile bike, and 6.1 mile run known for it's three loops around around the quarry, steep hills on the bike, and shirt grinds on the run. 

This was the first race that Craig and I were both competing in, so I was very excited since this was his first tri since Ironman Louisville 2012.  As we both loaded our gear in to the car that morning, the clouds started rolling in, and I knew we were in for a rainy day.  Luckily, when we arrived at transition, the rained stopped, and we were able to get set up. 

After saying "good luck" to all my friends, and giving Craig a good luck kiss, my wave was off!  We headed out on a 3 loops swim through the quarry.  The only part that threw me off was that between loops we had to exit the water, run around a tree, and re-enter the water for the next loop!  Once I got into a groove and settled my heart rate, I was just fine, besides the rain.  It was great practice to be swimming with a large group of people in preparation for Door County. 

I finished the swim in 38 minutes and was off to the bike.  By this time the ground was pretty wet, and I was running through mud on the way to T1.  Because the sky was so dark, I didn't wear any sunglasses, which resulted in lots of rain drops in my eyes!  As the rain slowed down, the hills picked up.  The bike was very tough, but I made it back into T2 to see lots of friends cheering me on through the slip n' slide of transition. 


Finishing up the Run!

As I started the run I knew there would be a few grinds, but I was okay with it because I was just happy to be off of the bike.  The first loop (2 miles) went just fine, and as I started the second loop, I saw that Craig had just finished.  Craig saw me and decided to run a loop with me.  We had a chance to talk about how his race went, and take my mind off the running.  Then, I went out for my last loop.  By this point I was feeling pretty fatigued, and ready to be done. 

I finished the final loop with an overall time of 3:49:01.

Next up, Door County Half Ironman.  I'm ready!

Cheers,

Samantha

The Land of Beer and Cheese!

Since Craig and I moved to Wisconsin, we have enjoyed craft beers and cheese curds a time or two, but never ventured to a Wisconsin Brewery. 

 When Groupon threw out an opportunity to go to Minhas Brewery, we were all over it! 

Craig and I decided that it would be fun to bike to Monroe, WI, since it was about 40 miles away.  We would leave on Saturday and come home on Sunday.  As we headed out of town on Saturday morning, the sky was looking a bit gloomy, and we hoped the rain would hold out.  After about 45 minutes on the bike, it began to downpour.  We found ourselves soaking wet, surrounded by steep hills and corn fields. 

 Needless to say, we were beyond ready to make it to Monroe!  As we got closer to the town, they sky started to clear.  We made it to our hotel with enough time to eat lunch before our brewery tour. 

 After seeing Baumgartner’s on the Food Network, we knew we needed to go to try their cheese! We went and had a cheese plate that was surprisingly mediocre compared to other Wisconsin cheese.  One cool thing we did get to experience there was the community table.  This was a long table where everyone sat together.  We chatted with locals, people from Iowa, and others from around the states who were visiting this small town. 

 Soon after, we headed over to Minhas Brewery for our tour.  As we walked inside it was PACKED!  The 1pm tour was just ending, and guests wanted to get the most of their “unlimited beer pours” before they were asked to leave.  As people cleared out, Craig and I sampled a Chocolate Bunny Stout and a Double IPA. 

 We watched a video about the “Oldest Brewery in the Midwest” and learned about their packaging and distributing.  We viewed all the bells and whistles of the brewery and headed back for more samples.  We left Minhas each with a 8 beers and 4 root beers!



Sunday's Ride Home!

 After an exhausting day of biking, walking, eating, and drinking, we finished the evening at Pancho and Lefty’s, a small local restaurant known to be the best in town. 

The quaint atmosphere of the town was great, we got up the next morning, and headed back to Madison…this time in the sunshine! 

 I can’t wait to explore more of Wisconsin’s hidden gems.  Next stop, New Glarus Brewery!

 Cheers,

 Samantha

The Chronicles of the Once Unathletic Triathelete

After much hesitation and pressure, I have decided I might as well share my first triathalon experience.

I'll call this the Chronicles of the Once Unathletic Triathelete.

While many of you know this, some of you may not...Just about 7 months ago, I was an unathletic yogi who attended Dragonfly frequently, and enjoyed the classes and the heat, but if you asked me to run a mile, it would take about 14 minutes (if I was lucky) and I would walk after about .5 miles.

Most of the time I considered myself to just be "unathletic", and accepted that I would never have the endurance or drive to be a triathlete. In 2012, my partner (Craig S.) was an Ironman Louisville finisher. I thought this was amazing and inspiring, but even still, I thought "That would never be me, it's Craig's thing".

IM Louisville 2012

 

At this time we lived in a small town in Ohio, attended grad school, and had very few friends because they had all jet setted, while we remained with our noses in books in a town of 20,000 people. Training became Craig's outlet, mine was sleep. At this time, I was my highest weight ever, and my lowest self esteem ever.

Fast forward to June 2012, when we packed our bags to move to Madison, Wisconsin! This is when I joined Dragonfly Hot Yoga, and soon after met Amy. I immediately connected with her because she often discussed triathalons and I was learning the lingo from Craig, 2 months away from IM Louisville.

Amy invited Craig and I to attend the APG class at Dragonfly that winter, and we hesitantly attened. Afterward, we went to Buffalo Wild Wings with many of you. I remember everyone being so friendly, and Craig discussing training. Chris Lopez asked me, "so, what do you do?" and I responded, "yoga", and he immediately flipped the conversation from bikes, wet suits, and nutrition to something I could relate to. From that moment on, I started to feel that I was around people who were so encouraging and non-judgemental.

I went home that night and thought to myself, "I'm going to do a triathalon".

Several weeks passed, and I was secretly doing research, without ever mentioning it to anyone. Then, one evening, I told Craig, "I am going to do Door County Half Ironman in July".

Shocked, as I had never ran a 5K, Craig said "okay, let;s do it."

I still don't think he believed me (for about 5 months).

Fast forward to May-

APG mates' have become our Madison family. I had competed in my first 5K, 10K, half marathon, OWS, Key West Trip. I was 20 pounds lighter, my confidence has sky rocketed, and I felt like I was becoming more of a better person everyday.

The time had come to compete in my first tri...Lake Mills.

We arrived on race day, and I was nervous, yet excited. I through on my borrowed wet suit (thanks, Karla!), sprayed on some lube type substance that is an over priced WD-40 that swore it would help me pull that thing off faster, and headed to the water.

Everyone around me seemed so nervous. "Those are big waves", "They reversed the swim course", "Do you see all those people panicking in the water?".

 

 

For some reason, all that didn't matter to me. All I knew was that I was getting in that water! The horn went off, and myself and all the other novice women took off. I think I saw 5 women being pulled out of the water, and about 10 men. Mr. Lopez taught me when I began to panic, just to take deep breaths, and "don't kick so damn hard".

Exiting the Water

Surprisingly, I started passing people (how did that happen?), and made my way out of the water in just over 10 minutes.

I saw Emily Lopez, Craig, Amy, and The Serraults on my way to transition, threw off my wet suit, and away I went.

The bike was very cold and windy, but hey, I made it through. Little did I know, I have a big ring on my bike! So, I rode about 15.5mph all in the small ring. (Thanks Tracy and Jessi, next time tell me these things before the race :))

 

Starting the bike

I transitioned to the run, where I saw all my favorite people cheering me on.

I headed off on the run (where I felt like I was moving like a snail), and saw Mr. Lopez. He yelled, "You're my hero!" So, it gave me a little boost to the finish.

I crossed the finish line to receive hugs from everyone. Tears from Amy, hidden tears from Craig, and a 9:12 pace on the run.

 

Heading in to the finish!

 

Overall, I'll take a 1:46 for my first triathalon ever. Next up, Verona!

Thank you for making me stronger (mentally and physically), more light hearted, more confident, and a better friend/partner. I am happy to say I am no longer the slightly overweight girl who was on the sidelines cheering for her Ironman boyfriend.

Soon, Craig and I will be out there doing one together. I couldn't have done it without all of you! I look forward to many more races, workouts, parties, and continued friendships. For those of you I haven't had a chance to chat with yet, I'm excited to be apart of the crew.

Cheers to an awesome summer ahead of us-

Samantha

Just Keep Running: Madison Half Marathon

So, I have to admit, I am a little behind on my posts!

On May 26, I ran my first half marathon here in Madison.  I had spent the last 5 months working on my running endurance and speed.  My longest run before the event was 10 miles, and I went into the event feeling good about being able to complete 13.1 miles, but I didn't know how fast I would be able to do it. 

Last fall I was running a 14 minute mile.  That's right, you could walk faster than I could run.  I couldn't run more than about 1/2 a mile without feeling winded and cramped.  Over the course of running more frequently, I could sustain a 10:45 minute mile for the duration of 10 miles, although I was apprehensive I could do this on race day. 

With that being said, I wanted to give myself a half marathon goal time.  I told myself that if I ran the half marathon in less than 2 hours and 30 minutes, I would be happy. I told myself that if I could run my half marathon in less than 2 hours and 15 minutes, I would be ecstatic. 

On race day Craig and I made it downtown around 6:15am, to meet our APG crew.  I was very nervous yet excited.  We made our way down to the start, and off I went. 

APG Runners!

There were moments when I thought, oh I totally got this!  Then, moments would hit when I thought holy cow! Can I make it any further?  Craig and Amy Mosher- Garvey were there for me all along the way.  They gave me encouragement when I needed it, and pushed me through to Mile 10. 

The last 3 miles, I was on my own.  I knew I had begun to slow down, but I wanted to keep a steady pace.  I went a little fast out of the gate, so I was hopeful I had some flexibility to still meet my 2:15 goal. 

I ran the last few miles with a man from Milwaukee, and he helped pass the time when my toes weren't so happy.  Once I reached Capital Square, I got my medal and saw Craig glowing with pride.  It was an awesome moment.  I went from the girl who couldn't run .5 miles, to someone who just ran 13.1. 



Craig and I Post-Race

WAHOO!

Then, I went to the tent to get my official time...2 hours and 12 minutes!  I ran at a 10:08 min/mile pace! I am still in awe at how much once can accomplish with perseverance.  I am looking forward to this summer!

Cheers,

Samantha

Key West or Bust!

 

This past week, Craig and I ventured with some friends to the Florida Keys for the Keys 100 Ultramarathon. 

A few months ago, Craig got this crazy idea to run 50 miles through the heat of Florida from Marathon Key to Key West.  Craig completed several training runs, some breaking personal records in speed and distance.  Not only were were excited about the race, but also about an awesome vacation with great friends. 

 

The night of arrival, we stayed in Key Largo, where we went to Wahoo's Restaurant with the APG crew.  The place had a great view of the ocean and some amazing key lime pie. 

 

Wahoos, Key Largo

The next day, we took a snorkeling excursion into Molasses Reef.  Here, we were able to get up close and person with fish, coral, and all kinds of sea creatures!  Needless to say, it was a great time, besides the bout of sea sickness after about 45 minutes in the water! 

Saturday was the big race!  Craig and a few other APG members started in Marathon, FL on their 50 mile adventure.  To make a long story short, they did amazing and pushed through every challenge they encountered! Craig even placed first in his age group! 

Finisher!

That evening, we checked into La Te Da, a quaint hotel in Key West on Duvall St.  Since we were all exhausted, we ate a nice meal, and went to bed early. 

 

The next day, we enjoyed an early breakfast, and went to the awards ceremony to celebrate all of the APG crew's accomplishments, then headed to the beach for some R & R.  The beaches in Key West are small, but beautiful.  The water is clear, the waves are mild, and the sun is hot.  We were in paradise. 

That evening, we headed to Duvall St. and Mallory Square, where we cut loose, enjoyed lots of laughter and fun. If you have the opportunity to go to Key West, there are two locations I would recommend checking out:

- Sunset at Mallory Square (be sure to watch the "cat man" performance!)

- Flying Monkey Bar, here they have the best frozen drinks! 

 

Mallory Square Sunset

After such a great week, I have never been so proud of both Craig (my hero!) and my awesome friends.  Each of them are such an inspiration to the type of person I am striving to be.  They say, you are the company you keep, and I keep awesome company! 

 

On Monday, we headed back to Ft. Lauderdale and enjoyed sometime with an old friend.  Now, we are back in the groove of our routine.  Next up, Sunday's Half Marathon! Updates to come!

 

Cheers,

 

Samantha

 

 

 

Your Daily Dose of Stillness

 

 

 

 

I am constantly on the go. Wake up, work, volunteer, workout, dinner, friends, family, boyfriend, dog, and life in general each have their own demands. Typically, by Wednesday or Thursday of each week, I am on overload and need some sort of rejuvination.

 

A usual week night wind down would include talking with Craig, eating dinner, watching TV, and social networking.  Most would consider each of these things "relaxing".  What I have realized is that what I actually needed was to quiet my mind.  Each of these activities involve some type of stimulation, when in reality I needed stillness. 

Whether it be sitting on the patio with my eye closed listening to the birds, laying in the bathtub, stretching after a workout, or driving down the road with no music and the windows down, these activities are now becoming part of my daily routine.  I am finding that these few moments of stillness allow me to become more in tune with my needs and perspective.  My mind doesn't seem so scattered, and I am embracing each day (not just the weekend). 

This aspect of mental health is just as valuable as any physical activity.  As I continue training, I am learning more about mental strength.  Physical changes are those you can see and feel, while mental toughness can be more of an ebb and flow.  These moments of stillness serve as reminders to both my physical and mental abilities. 

I am in love with the person I am becoming, mentally and physically.  As I continue to evolve, I am learning more about my inner stregth and capability.  My daily dose of stillness is one way to appreciate myself and share this gratitute with those around me. 

Cheers to Continued Evolution,

Samantha

Cupcakes Galore!

Many of you have requested my recipe for the Orange Blueberry and Peanut Butter Banana...Enjoy!



Orange Blueberry Cupcakes



Preheat oven to 425 degrees

Add dry ingredients to a bowl:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
1/2 tablespoon of salt

Add these ingredients to your mixer:

2/3 cup softened butter
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 eggs
1 orange, in segments
1 cup blueberries

*if batter is too dry or thick, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of milk.
Mix Well

Gradually add dry ingredients into your mixer

When mixed well, pour into cupcake tins (about 2/3 full) and bake for 20-25 minutes

Cream Cheese Icing:

A few drops of food coloring, if you want a specific color
Mix until fluffy
4 oz cream cheese
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk

Remove cupcakes and move them to a drying rake to cool. After cooled, pipe icing and decorate to your liking!

Peanut Butter Banana



Preheat oven to 425 degrees

Add dry ingredients to a bowl:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
1/2 tablespoon of salt

Add these ingredients to your mixer:

2/3 cup softened butter
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 table spoons apple butter
1 banana
4 table spoons peanut butter

*if batter is too dry or thick, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of milk.
Mix Well

Gradually add dry ingredients into your mixer

When mixed well, pour into cupcake tins (about 2/3 full) and bake for 20-25 minutes

Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Icing:

A few drops of food coloring, if you want a specific color
Mix until fluffy
4 oz cream cheese
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
2 table spoons peanut butter

Remove cupcakes and move them to a drying rake to cool. After cooled, pipe icing, sprinkle with peanuts, and decorate to your liking!
 

Cheers,

Samantha

I should have been a Girl on the Run...

 

This is 8 year old me…

I was awkward, insecure, and nerdy in my teddy bear t-shirt. I struggled to fit in with the "athletic bunch", felt too cool for the "nerdy bunch", and feel somewhere in the middle of the two. I didn't have any particular talent that made me stand out, but I always was a leader.

No matter the age, I stood in front of people and felt comfortable. I celebrated other's successes and comforted them in their failures. I encouraged them to become better and do better. I challenged the status quo and tried to be a catalyst for change.

As I grew older, some of my insecurities evolved, and others diminished. Until now, I forgot a lot about the girl in the teddy bear sweater.

Now that I am "Girls on the Run" coach, I realize what an important age in a woman's development this is. Even in 3rd-5th grade, some girls do not consider themselves beautiful. Some do not life hearing compliments. Some struggle with family or friend issues.

These young women are like sponges, absorbing everything the other coaches and myself say. They look up to us. They are inspired to be like us. They lock arms with us, run with us, and laugh with us. They bring out a softer side in me. These young women don't care how silly I am. I can show emotion, good or bad. They value me as a mentor and person. In fact, adults could learn a lot by them.

I hope to inspire these beautiful young women to evolve into strong and capable adults, and show them that somehow the girl in the teddy bear sweater turned into the amazing woman I am today.

I'm looking forward to continuing the GOTR journey.

Cheers,

Samantha

Shamrock Shuffle!

Craig and I on Race Day

 

This past Sunday I competed in my first race/fun run ever! The Shamrock Shuffle is a 2K/5K/10K race took place in downtown Madison on St. Patrick's Day to benefit The Boys and Girls Club of Dane County.  I decided as apart of my training/ working toward my Half-Ironman in July, I would participate the 10K. 

 

Arriving downtown, I was a bit nervous because I didn't know what to expect.  I had walked in 5K's in the past, but never ran or had been timed.  Once my partner and I got going, I was really enjoying myself.  The hills were tough, but surprisingly not too bad.  I realized that while these races are a personal goal, there is a community of runners who were supportive of others. 

 

I have been pleased with my progress thus far, and hope to continue improving.  I will beginning my official training plan in 12 days.  I am getting more and more excited for the next few months. 

 

Stay tuned for more information on my progress, workouts, and fun!

April
Mad City Relay

May
Madison Glow Run
Madison Half Marathon

June
Lake Mills Sprint Tri
Verona Olympic Tri

July
Door County Half-Iron!

I am really beginning to feel that I am changing my life for the better, to simply be a happier and healthier verison of myself!

Cheers,

Samantha

Kiss Me, I'm Irish!

Since moving to Madison, I have been baking more and more.  Surprisingly, the word of my cupcakes has gotten around to friends and co-workers and they have really enjoyed them. 

One of my co-workers had a brithday party, and his wife requested my cupcakes!  I couldn't believe it.  So, in honor of St. Patrick's Day, I baked an Andes Mint Cupcake. 

Enjoy!

Cupcake:
Preheat oven to 425 degrees

Add dry ingredients to a bowl:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
1/2 tablespoon of salt

Add these ingredients to your mixer:

2/3 cup softened butter
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 eggs
1/2 cup Andes mints (melted in a double boil)  

*if batter is too dry or thick, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of milk. 
Mix Well

Gradually add dry ingredients into your mixer

When mixed well, pour into cupcake tins (about 2/3 full) and bake for 20-25 minutes

Buttercream Icing:

A few drops of green food coloring
Mix until fluffy
1/2 cup softened butter
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk

Remove cupcakes and move them to a drying rake to cool. After cooled, pipe icing and decorate to your liking!  I recommend adding chocolate shavings (as pictured) as a garnish. 

Cheers,

Samantha

Swim, Bike, Run!

 

As I am continuing on my quest toward the Door County Half Ironman this July, each week I am noticing small but significant changes in my body. This past weekend was my biggest training weekend yet. 

 

Swim- Let’s be honest, I have never been a swimmer.  In fact, when I first got into the pool after signing up for Door County, I didn’t even know how to turn my head to breathe.  Over the past two months, I have been watching YouTube videos, doing drills, and spending 2-3 days a week doing pool workouts.  Two months ago, I couldn’t swim 50 meters without getting winded.  This past weekend, I swam 1,200 meters!  I am finding my time in the pool to be a stress reliever.  I am amazed by the amount of improvement I have made in such a short period of time.  I am actually very excited for summer’s open water swims!

Bike- Since training began; I have been riding my bike on the wind trainer at home and attending weekly spinning classes.  This weekend, my gym held a fundraiser for Gilda’s Club, a cancer support community here in Madison.  This fundraiser was a 2-hour spinning class that included hills, intervals, speed work, and flat road.  This was my longest ride to date, and I estimate I went about 30 miles.  It felt great!

Run- Each day that I put on my running shoes I feel like I am making progress.  I notice an increase in my endurance and speed.  This weekend, I ran 7 miles for the first time.  Not only was my pace almost 2 full minutes faster per mile than when I first started, but I felt like I could keep going! The idea that a workout in one discipline assists you in another is fascinating to me. 

This time last year if you would have told me that I would be where I am today, I would have laughed at you.  The beauty in this is that I’ve only just begun.  I love the physical, mental, and emotional changes that are happening! I’m looking forward to sharing more of this journey with you.

Cheers,

Samantha

Don't Forget To Celebrate The Ridiculous!

Girls on the Run!

I have always enjoyed volunteering. As I have become more acquainted with Madison, I decided to find an organization whose passions align with mine.

My co-worker, Christine, is a member of the Girls on the Run of Dane County, Board of Directors.  Christine took the time to sit down with me to discuss what Girls on the Run is all about.  GOTR is an international organization that works with young girls in 3rd-5th grade.  The 10 week curriculum works with these young women to build confidence, self-esteem, and happiness through activities with other girls, ultimately culminating with a 5k event held at the end of the season. 

Last weekend, I attended training, where I met other women who will be coaching in the Madison area.  Each of their stories were inspiring, as everyone has such a variety of reasons for helping young women. 

As part of GOTR, I will be coaching about 15 girls twice weekly.  I hope that I am able to help show these young women all the beautiful qualities that they have to offer.  I am looking forward to making a positive impact in their lives. 

If you are interested in being apart of GOTR in your city, visit Girls on the Run here.

Cheers,

Samantha

Have a Peachy Valentine's Day!

I find baking to be very relaxing.  I throw on my apron, crank up my Regina Spektor Pandora channel, and get in the zone.  I enjoy creating something that doesn't have to be perfect, because it will be eaten anyway.  You can be creative in taste, texture, color, and appearance. 

I had a can of peaches in the pantry, so I decided to go with a "peachy valentine's day" theme. 

Cupcake:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Add dry ingredients to a bowl:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
1/2 tablespoon of salt

Add these ingredients to your mixer:

1/3 cup softened butter
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 egg
1 can peaches (do not drain) puree'd or chopped finely
1/2 cup milk (I use unsweetened almond milk)
Mix Well

Gradually add dry ingredients into your mixer

When mixed well, pour into cupcake tins and bake for 18-20 minutes

Cream Cheese Icing:
Mix until fluffy
8oz. cream cheese
1/4 cup softened butter
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk

Remove cupcakes and move them to a drying rake to cool.  After cooled, pipe icing and decorate to your liking!

HAVE A PEACHY VALENTINE'S DAY!

Cheers,

Samantha

We're All The Same

I have always loved to travel.  It's the feeling you get when you hop onto a plane to go somewhere new, or the opportunity to taste and see a new culture or area of the world.  I find meeting people and discovering new places as thrilling.  While I can't pick up and travel all the time, I have realized that there is often beautiful people with diversity all around me.

Science is a topic that knows no language, race, or cultural background.  So, when my partner began his PhD, we were opened to the opportunity to befriend people from all over the globe.

Recently, I have found myself spending time with people from Chile, The Netherlands, Japan, Puerto Rico, Brazil, and China.  I have learned about Dutch Christmas traditions, Chilean appetizers, Puerto Rican desserts, and even hand-rolled my own sushi and finished the meal with traditional Japanese tea.

While language can sometimes limit communication, there are no barriers for goodness in human nature.  Too often, we are worried about our own problems, and forget that there is this big beautiful world with millions of people and stories to share.  Many of the people that have helped Madison feel like home, are those who are not from Madison, or the United States!

I plan to continue my intrigue for all things beautiful, no matter the language, race, religion, or background. And while I plan to travel more in the future, Madison is offering a amazing array of diversity in the mean time :)

Cheers,

Samantha

Mind Over Matter

Let's be honest, I have never considered myself an athlete...until now. Over the past serveral weeks, I have been slowly gaining momentum in training for the Door County Half Ironman.  I have been dedicating several hours each week to becoming a better version of me, physically and mentally. 

Each week, I am noticing positive changes in my body.  I am using muscles swimming that I never use in other workouts, I am getting faster on the bike, and my endurance is increasing for longer runs.  I feel that while my progress is small, these small improvements are starting to build on one another, creating a ripple effect, snowballing my achievements.   

When I hear the term, "Mind Over Matter", I always thought it was partly true, but that physical limitations may not be overcome.  Each day of completing another workout, I am realizing I am not only gaining physical strength, but also mental strength.  I am feeling more confident, prepared, and worthy of my accomplishments. 

Therefore, as I continue through the "Year of Me", I am finding more reasons to celebrate small successes in my physical capabilities, but also my happiness.  I encourage each of you to find a challenge in 2013.  By setting a goal, sticking to it, and applauding oneself along the way, we will transform ourselves. 

Push yourself to change. 

Cheers,

Samantha

Florida Fun!

This past week I went to Ft. Lauderdale, FL to visit my dear friend Lindsay.  After a two hour flight to Atlanta, and a one hour flight to Ft. Lauderdale, I had arrived. 

For those of you who have not been to the Ft. Lauderdale/Miami area, this is a place to add to your list.  Downtown Ft. Lauderdale boats a variety of small restaurants, boutiques, and shops.  If you are a beer lover, I would recommend trying American Social Bar, where restaurant-goers can try over fourty tap beers, including "pour it yourself" taps. 

The Ft. Lauderdale public beach is not too crazy, lined with bars, shops, and restuarants, and is great for a low key and fun vacation. 

Lindsay and I also spent a few afternoons venturing to Miami, FL, about 30 minutes from Ft. Lauderdale.  We spent one afternoon exploring Collins Avenue, the main strip of South Beach.  Here we found high end retailers, restuarants, and people from all walks of life. 

As we made our way to Ocean Drive, we found that it was Art Deco Weekend, this is where vendors from the area display and sell jewelry, art, clothing, etc.  Ocean Drive was lined with street performers, shop keepers, and locals and tourists exploring each booth. 

If you get a chance, make your way down to South Florida.  The art, people, and culture is worth the trip.  Thanks to Lindsay for a great vacation!

Cheers,

Samantha

Sweet Potato Cupcakes

 

 

 



 

In the mood for something sweet and savory?  This weekend, we attended a sushi making party, and decided to bring cupcakes to share.  Many of you know that over the past several months, I have been baking and decorating sweet creations.  Last week, I came across a receipe for Sweet Potato Cupcakes with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting and Candied Pecans.
For those of you looking for a crowd pleaser, this is the cupcake for you!  While it does take a while to prepare, the homemade cream cheese icing and from scratch pecan brittle will leave everyone talking. 

Enjoy!

Trying Something New..

In June, my partner and I took the 9 hour journey north to move to Madison, Wisconsin. The day after we arrived, I decided I would spend some time searching for a yoga studio to begin my practice.  I was driving through town, when I saw Dragonfly Hot Yoga.  Dragonfly is a studio that offers traditional yoga classes and also fitness based courses for members to build a strong fitness base.  For me, this is what I needed. 

After going inside, and getting a tour from the owner, I decided to sign up for a trial month with the studio.  Little did I know that joining this studio would open me up to a network of people within Madison that would begin to make it feel like home. 

After the first month of learning the "yoga lingo", and feeling comfortable in 95 degree heat, I decided to become a member of the studio.  My body was slowly beginning to change.  I had a greater endurance, felt stronger, clearer, and healthier. 

Dragonfly was encouraging members to join them for a "30 Day Challenge".  In this challenge you are tasked with completing 30 classes in 30 days.  The month came and went, and I had completed 30 classes!  My confidence level was increasing, I was making friends, and getting in shape while doing it! 

So, what does all this mean for you? 

I found that by trying something new and completely outside my comfort zone, I was put in a situation that encouraged vulnerability.  When I walked into Dragonfly for the first time, I didn't know a single person, or any pose besides downward dog.  Now, I show off to my friends that I can land crow.

I'm encouraging each of you to find something that makes you vulnerable and give it a try.  This could be a yoga class, running club, or even a lunch time walking group.  I found that through my vulnerability, I was open to new people, ideas, and lifestyle changes that I had not embraced before. 

Cheers to Change!

Samantha

Here's to 2013!

Happy New Year! 

As we begin the new year, there is always buzz around new year's resolutions.  I was recently encouraged by another yogi not to refer to these changes as resoutions, rather as intentions. 

Then, I started to jog my brain...what is the difference?  I came to a few conclusions about the hustle and bustle of new year's "changes"...

Resolutions: I feel that this implies to us that there is something in our life that we must resolve.  Too often, when I find an issue that needs resolution, it involves conflict.  This attaches a negative emotion to something that should be a positive experience. 

Intentions: When a person "intends" to do something, he or she makes an internal decision to accomplish a goal.  Rather than attaching the idea of "resolve", one can set an intention.  By setting intentions, one can then focus on the things he or she intends to do, rather than the conflict involved in the things they cannot do. 

This year I intend to:

Take a holistic approach to my health, physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Explore.

Find valuable time to spend with my partner, family, and friends.

Breathe more, worry less.

Feel free to share your intentions for 2013!

Cheers to turning "can't's" into "cans" in 2013!

Samantha