Getting in Shape - UFC Style

One of the most common questions that Jamaal and I have been asked over the last few months is, "So, what have you been up to since your move?"

After we moved, we wanted gym memberships to go along with our fresh start. Nothing too involved, something easy that fit along with our natural routines that we could utilize when we needed and stay generally healthy. So, the answer to this question is, "L.A. Boxing."

It couldn't be farther from "easy" or "not too involved" but we have nonetheless fallen in love with it. Imagine UFC training in a group for an hour and more sweat than you know what to do with, three to four times a week. We are focused more on Mixed Martial Arts and have gotten our yellow belts (No worries, we're nowhere near black belt status). Jamaal has also been training in Krav Maga. (Google it - it's kinda intense.)

It was a much needed change after a month or so of brunches, lunches, dinners, drinks and appetizers from our "impending move" celebrations with family and friends. Outside of dropping pounds and developing healthier, non-restrictive eating habits, it has become a part of our natural routine (it's still not easy though) and the people we have met along the way have become a part of our new DC network. We'll be on this road for a while and I'll keep you posted on our accomplishments.

Want to try it? You'll be happy to know that they have more than 70 locations nationwide (2 of which are in Chicago in the South Loop and Wrigleyville). If you have time, stop by and take a trial class and think of us while you're dying in the corner!

~S

Wow, it's 2010....

Can you believe it's been a whole year?! Exactly one year ago I started my blog and although I wasn't able to commit to it as much as I envisioned, I don't regret it. When I wasn't blogging, life was happening and it brought about some pretty cool things.

Jamaal and I have relocated and are adjusting to our new life fairly well. 2009 was full of many unexpected things that if you had asked me about them on January 1, 2009, I probably would have laughed in your face and kindly responded, "I don't think so."

So, now it's a whole new year with a whole new set of goals. I don't like to get too caught up in the New Year's resolution business because I generally feel that the only promise I'll make to myself is that if something didn't go well last year, either I won't do it again or I will make it a point to do it even better the next time. I am working on a general list of things I want and need to accomplish this year and I will share this list with you over time.

I do, however, aim to blog more and keep in touch. But I won't promise it will be everyday (I've learned, it's too much pressure!) - unless someone takes such a great interest in what I have to say and asks to sponsor my blog! LOL

Here's to a great 2009 and an even better 2010!

~S

P.S. - I'd love to hear about your resolutions, goals, etc. for the New Year - leave it in a comment!

High Class Problem

The news, two newspapers, going to work, people on the train, my morning coffee, meetings, the work day, things I'm writing, things I'm reading, things I want to be writing or reading, great lunches, more meetings, the bus, going home, TV shows, recipes, Jamaal, the gym, Mixed Martial Arts, family, friends, DC, Chicago, etc. etc. etc.



I have what some like to call a "high class problem." As I'm sure you've noticed, I haven't blogged in a really long time- not because I haven't thought about it. I think about it all the time. Not because I'm not inspired either-the merciless list above are all the things that inspire thoughts or feelings that I want to write about every day. Time is, unfortunately, an issue at the moment but l'm trying to work smarter not harder and squeeze in some mobile blogging in during the day!



Just to update-Jamaal and I are great! The move proved positive for the both of us. We're acclimating well to DC. It has a progressive charm to it - but it can't and won't ever replace Chicago.



I successfully cooked my first real Thanksgiving dinner, something I've never had to do by myself before. I had some great recipes and it was actually a lot of fun. I feel so grownup now!!!
This year has provided me with some challenges and some amazing new opportunities. I am eternally thankful for the friends and family that supported me through both. I hope you had a safe and happy Thanksgiving - time for Christmas!!

~S