Newlywed Nutrition : fitfluential

1. Muscle Roller

This muscle roller can be completely customized. The independent disks allow you to remove or add as needed to get a better reach.

2. Ear Warmers

Everyone needs ear warmers this time of year! Two reasons I love these: 1, ear bud ready and 2, it lays on the neck.

3. Sports and Fitness Headbands

I have tried and tried to wear elastic headbands but, they always slip off of my head. These sparkly bands are special because they carry the anti-slip material all the way around opposed to the single elastic band in the back.

4. Dumbbells

Dumbbells are essential to anyone trying to get fit or maintaining fitness. Resistance builds muscle creating a leaner body while enhancing the metabolism. Lighter weights can be used in a variety of ways: To intensify workouts use light weights while walking, lunging, squatting, or try Small, isolated movements for toned arms.

5. Tory Burch Fit Bit Bracelet

What? Shut up! Fit Bit has exploded in popularity this year bringing on top names like Tory Burch. Why not, right? But, get ready to drop a few dollars. It's Tory Burch, what do you expect?

Whats on your list this year?? Don't forget to check out last years gift guide for more ideas for the health nut in your life.

This time last year I was celebrating my first half marathon finish. The pain and tears I went through was a marathon in itself. There were days when I didn't want to move let alone run 9+ miles in the Alabama sweltering heat. But, I did it. This year the story goes a bit differently. Before I talk the half marathon, I must talk "Whitney and Cindy Eat"-that's our imaginary food show. Friday night Whitney took me for an authentic Italian meal. Read my restaurant review in this weeks issue of The Planet Weekly. Yes, that is an 11 pound jar of Nutella. If you are curious about the caloric power, check out page 12 in The Planet Weekly Magazine. Enjoy looking at this beautiful food!!

BACK TO THE RACE

I feel off of my training about 2-3 weeks in and prepared mentally for the worst. I ran about once per week from 3-7 miles. But, that is not enough for those Nashville hills. The first mile in, my knees gave out and I became nauseated. With each hill, I lost a little distance from Whitney. Come mile two, I had to give in and walk.

The disappointment sunk in and my eyes began to swell. A small panic attack was building in my gut. As I waked, holding the tears of disappointment back, I began to pray. I let God know how thankful I was to be there in that very moment. I asked for Him to calm my nerves and ease my soul. I had 11 more miles to go, so I had better make the best of it. Before too long, my nerves were calm and a smile was plastered on my face. I still struggled a lot with allergies, stomach upset, dehydration, IT band pain. Jog some, walk some was my goal.

I wasn't going to sacrifice my health for a finish time.

What was so incredible was the crowds of people on the side of the road. Of course, I have seen many set on the side cheering for the ones they love but, this was a different crowd. They were there to support everyone. Cheer leading groups, sororities, church organizations and those who happened to live along the course, lined the sidewalks to shout words of encouragement. Yes, they probably were there cheering for someone specifically, but when someone yelled, "Go, Cindy", I felt empowered.

I can't help but believe God put me there for a reason. Mainly, I'm sure, to give me the hard learned lesson of humility. More so, to take the time to appreciate what is around me. The past few years of my life has been like a race. A race to finish college, a race to start my career, a race to have a baby, a race to accomplish it all. For so long, I searched to find my happiness in accomplishment. My mind was so focused on completing so many different things, Nothing was good enough for me, nothing. I never stopped to appreciate what was right in front of me and what I had already accomplished.

My mom always says, "Cindy, happiness is everyday."

And we all know, Mom is always right. Jesus had been practically dancing right in front of me trying to gain my attention. Yet, I still pilled more on my plate trying to find that one thing that made me content in life. The more I let go and focus on Gods Love the more I feel calm, happy, joyful, and above all content with who I am and where I am. Crossing that finish line was just as rewarding, if not more so, then last year.