Wrapping up 2011

My living room is filled with wrapping paper, bows, and gifts for our family members (who we get to see in just a few more hours YAY!!!!) We are spending the evening wrapping up framed wedding pictures as gifts this year since everyone has been asking us for wedding pictures lately! With the semester finally over, Danny is finally kicking back to enjoy the holidays.

I CAN'T WAIT to see my family! It's been almost six months since I've seen my mom & dad! I know it's going to be a wonderful Christmas. We are lucky to have so much family surrounding us. Tomorrow we are heading up to Tupelo to Danny's older brother's house, where we are hosting a "Santa and friends" party out on the front lawn. YES, we will be dressed up as Santa, The Grinch, elves, the whole crew! It's going to be interesting to say the least. :)

Looking back on 2011, I can honestly say it has been the best year of my life. Marriage, even with all the ups and downs, has been such a blessing to me. I've also been blessed with my work...now doing what I LOVE, and my friends in our newlyweds small group, who show me how to live closer to God. Can 2012 possibly get better than this?! As we wrap up this year, I encourage you to reflect back on 2011. Count your blessings...we all have so much to be thankful for. Face your challenges in the new year with a positive outlook and there's no telling what you may conquer!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!!!

Taken at our Newlyweds Small Group's Dirty Santa Christmas Party. We got to took home some lovely shelves (actually loved these!) and a card shoe....anyone know what to do with that?!

Ready for 2012?

"When I was a young man, I wanted to change the world.
I found it was difficult to change the world, so I tried to change my nation.
When I found I couldn't change the nation, I began to focus on my town. I couldn't change the town and as an older man, I tried to change my family.

Now, as an old man, I realize the only thing I can change is myself, and suddenly I realize that if long ago I had changed myself, I could have made an impact on my family. My family and I could have made an impact on our town. Their impact could have changed the nation and I could indeed have changed the world." -Author Unknown

Have you started thinking about your New Year's Resolutions yet? Start by making small changes within yourself. Set short, realistic goals, but always work towards a higher goal. It's awesome to strive for something big (set high goals and standards for yourself!) and stay focused by taking it one step at a time. Be a role model to those around you! Eyes on the prize in 2012!!!!!!!!

Selfless for Christ

I am a medical student's widow tonight...my husband has been taken from me for a gross anatomy review as he crams for a major exam tomorrow, as well as a national board exam on Wednesday. It's our first night apart since we've been married. :( Although I feel a little lonely here with my Red Box rental, I completely understand he is pulling this all-nighter at school for a few VERY good reasons!

For starters, he is determined to learn everything he can for the sake of his future soldiers and patients. I admire his drive for aspiring to help those who are serving our country. As a future army doctor, his job will be to serve at a military base for active duty military. When he eventually deploys, he will likely be faced with several life or death situations...where every detail counts. He is applying that mentality to his study habits and learning everything he can in case he needs that crucial piece of information sometime in the future.

I also know that he is putting all this time and effort in for the sake of our family's future. How blessed we are to have job security awaiting us after medical school! We want to give our future family as many opportunities as possible and we know that the hard work we put in now will be worth it later.

How selfless! I thought to myself as he asked me "permission" before leaving for school at 8:00 pm for the next 24 hours. Not only is he sacrificing sleep and the comforts of home, but he is thinking about my desires & approval NOW?! Of course I encouraged him to go and I know he will be glad he did around 10 am tomorrow morning at test time. Selflessness is such a God given characteristic I see in my husband. I truly admire it when I see it in others. We could all be a little more selfless this Christmas and remember to celebrate CHRIST, the real reason for the season. The fact that our almighty God from heaven humbled himself in the form of baby born in a barn with a bunch of dirty animals and then went on to die an excruciating death given to criminals on the cross, all for YOU and ME is the ultimate act of selflessness. He was not ashamed for a second to put it all out there for the world see...all for His people. Give thanks by celebrating Jesus and by being selfless for Christ this season (and every season!).

Training Complete

I am finally feeling a little more pulled together this week as my training at Fitness Lady is almost complete! I have had the opportunity to train with a different employee each day and I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to meet all of these different women! There are lots of women on staff at Fitness Lady that I have had the pleasure of getting to know and one is just as unique as the next. One day I'm working with a girl in college, the next day with a mother of teenage girls, and the next with a sweet grandmother. One thing I'm learning about working at a "women's only" gym is that everyone LOVES to talk and share all the details of their personal lives. Well, maybe not everyone, but the fact of the matter is that as a personal trainer, people inherently trust you to fix their problems (physical and beyond) and in some cases you become their counselor. I love hearing stories about where people are in life and I really am starting to feel a connection with these new people here in Jackson. The women at Fitness Lady have welcomed me into their home...the gym is a second home for a lot of these people...and I am so grateful for that. While some come for the services at the Methodist Rehab or prayer support with our chaplain, some come for a social hour, and others come for a good old fashioned sweat session. Working with members on the gym floor and teaching my Wednesday spin classes are the best parts of this job! I can hardly believe I get PAID to do this! The next thing on my agenda is to complete my pilates reformer training and I am ready to start taking individual clients! Life is good!

A year ago, I would have never seen this coming. I thank God for these continual blessings that I so do not deserve. Despite some sadness and personal struggles I've had in recent history, I am extremely happy with how my life is unfolding. I think the darker times have helped me appreciate these days even more. When I look into my husband's eyes I have nothing but gratitude for where I am today and excitement for what our future holds. I've quit trying to live up to someone else's definition of a successful woman and am trying to let God define who I am.

This weekend I had a moment...a self-centered moment, questioning my self-worth and wallowing....well of course it didn't help the way I was feeling dragging my husband into my pity party. Thoughts like this come in tides, they roll in sometimes and then later go back out to sea where they belong. I am trying to choose the better response to that kind of tide within me and just wait until it goes out. After my moment was over and I sat quietly, actually LISTENING to what my husband had to say, I had the perspective to address the issues I was feeling. When I cooled off enough to listen and think clearly, I realized I had been defining myself based on pre-conceived, silly expectations of which I was failing to meet. Make sense? Didn't think so!

Here's why I bring it up. Maybe you have someone who tries to define you, minimize you, hurt you, rattle you, and steal your peace. The funny thing is – no one can steal our peace. We can only give it away or keep ourselves from experiencing it.

Who defines you? I had to ask myself that question this weekend. And I had to let the answer to that question settle my moment. And then I moved on.

So if you are struggling with someone else's definition of YOU (or maybe even your own silly definition), remember that just as no one can steal your peace, no one has the power to define you. And you don't have to refute or respond or react- At. All. Their definition is just that, theirs. It has no impact whatsoever on who you are, or what you can do. Leave them to their bitterness and move on to something sweet.

Danny and I at Ballet Mississippi's performance of The Nutcracker this weekend:

Employed!!!

Happy Halloween!!

I am officially a spin instructor! After years of cycling, I'm finally sitting on the other side of the room, LEADING and MOTIVATING the class! Wow, never saw that coming!

I am so excited about teaching my first cycling class at Fitness Lady on Friday! I hope to be a fresh new source of motivation for these ladies by leading them in their group exercise classes at this awesome health club! I will begin adding more aerobics classes like kickboxing and bootcamp to my repertoire after I get comfortable teaching spin. I will also start taking on some of Fitness Lady's personal training clients!

This weekend was spent watching Andy Griffith re-runs on Netflix while Danny studied his behind off for Gross Anatomy. We also transferred my data to an external hard drive...sadly, Danny's convinced my MacBook is on it's last leg. It's been with me for several years and I'm really comfortable using it. I guess this is an instance where I've got to stop being so resistant to change and learn to get used to our Dell lap top. How blessed are we to have other computers at the ready when another one dies!? I'll stop complaining and be thankful to able to use such an awesome piece of technology...even when it takes some getting used to!

Speaking of being thankful, our holiday plans are starting to come together for Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks. We'll be spending Thanksgiving & Christmas in Water Valley, and the rest of the break (New Years, etc.) in Atlanta and South Carolina. I can't wait!!!!!!!

That about sums up the DNA news for now! Don't eat too much candy tonight!!!!!! BUT, if you do overindulge, join me for spin class Friday morning at Fitness Lady!!!!!!

Website: http://fitnesslady.com

(Beautiful facilities w/ local artists work displayed on walls around the club for sale!)

Fitness Lady on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fitnesslady.healthclubs

A Lazy Morning

Don’t you love those mornings when you don’t have to be anywhere and you can enjoy the little things, like sleeping extra late and then having scrambled eggs at lunchtime? My favorite is when Danny intentionally sleeps through his 4:30am alarm clock and stays in bed to snuggle!! I feel the most joy when we’re together, not really doing anything, just being together. Today was one of those days at our house!

As the morning slipped by I started thinking about how we’re going to be together longer than the number of years I’ve been alive, maybe even twice as long if we’re lucky! We are going to share so many of life’s experiences and I know he will be with me for every twist and turn along the way. This brings me so much peace. I believe it’s so important to let your spouse know that they will always be YOURS no matter what hurdles you have to jump. As we held hands, I tried to picture what they might look like 50 years from now. Will they be wrinkled and bruised? Whatever our old hands might look like, they will still fit together. Our bodies will wear down but our love does just the opposite. It will grow stronger through the years…just as it has gotten stronger since we first fell in love.

Don’t let your family wonder whether or not they will always be loved…even in the most heated arguments or through the biggest trials. Let them know you are thinking about them, even if they are hundreds of miles away. Even if it’s awkward or uncomfortable, reassure them that you care & that they are a part of YOU!

Tonight I am going to my first spin instructor training session! I am so excited to begin teaching group exercise classes!!! Fitness Lady is a women’s only gym, featuring some of the best classes and facilities in Mississippi! They offer everything from reformer pilates training, TONS of group exercise classes, bootcamps :), a Methodist rehabilitation center with on-staff physical therapists, and much more! You can check out their website here : http://www.fitnesslady.com

I’ll constantly be on the lookout for new music for my classes so send me your favorite tunes/suggestions for spin class! Ashley@dnafitnessllc.com

Benefits of Multivitamins

Do you remember when Mom used to make you take those Fred Flintsones vitamins? I do! I hated the purple ones…still do! Yes, at the age of 25, I still try to take my Flintstones multivitamin everyday. Do you take a daily multivitamin?

This weekend Danny is studying for a biochemistry exam and I’ve been hearing ALL about the functions of essential vitamins…and the affects of vitamin deficiency. Vitamins and minerals help maintain cellular efficiency by activating enzyme systems that are essential to cellular function. Unfortunately, most Americans are not getting the Recommended Daily Allowance of vitamins and minerals necessary from foods. I bet you didn’t know that due to current farming practices, mass food production, processing, and cooking, our foods are less nutrient dense than they were in previous years. In fact, The U.S. Department of Agriculture says that it takes SEVEN CUPS of today’s spinach to equal the nutrition that a single cup provided in 1960! Foods today are also lacking in nutrient density due to farming practices like burning crops rather than tilling residuals back into the soil. Also, when vegetables are picked prior to being ripe, it does not allow the anitoxidants in the skin and pulp come to full completion, leaving some foods lacking in all their potential vitamin benefits.

Ideally, we would be able to get all of our vitamins through our diet, but realistically that probably isn’t going to happen. There are SO many benefits to getting all of your vitamins! New scientific research suggests that dieters who take a multiviamin may be able to better control their appetite while still getting all their essential vitamins when cutting back their caloric intake. I also think it’s interesting that clinical trials have shown that consuming 1,200 milligrams of calcium a day can boost weight loss in dieters by up to 60 percent, possibly by binding to fat in the gastrointestinal tract, which reduces how much fat the body absorbs.

So, ladies and gentleman, take those multivitamins every morning!!! After seeing all these important reasons for getting my proper vitamins and minerals, maybe I’ll trade in my Flintstones for an adult version like Centrum or One-A-Day.

Here's a list of essential vitamins, minerals, and their functions:

Functions of Vitamins and Minerals

VITAMIN A: Promotes skeletal growth, normal tooth structure, healthy mucous membranes, healthy skin, eyes and hair; essential for night vision. NATURAL SOURCES: Fish liver oils, liver, carrots, green and yellow vegetables, dairy products.

VITAMIN D: Promotes bone and tooth development and normal growth; aids utilization of phosphorus and calcium; maintains nervous system and heart action; prevents rickets.

VITAMIN E: Protects body's store of Vitamin A, tissues and fat from destructive oxidation, and breakdown of red corpuscles; strengthens capillary walls; regulates menstrual rhythm; prevents loss of other vitamins; aids blood flow to heart; lowers blood cholesterol and fatty acids; vital to cell health; regulates protein and calcium metabolism. NATURAL SOURCES: Soybeans, vegetable oils, broccoli, brussels sprouts, leafy greens, enriched flour, whole wheat, wheat germ, whole grain cereals, eggs.

VITAMIN C: Essential for the formation of collagen; needed for absorption of iron, some proteins and folic acid; prevents oxidation of other vitamins; aids in metabolism of amino acids and calcium; stops internal bleeding; strengthens blood vessels maintains hard bones and teeth; promotes stamina; holds body cells together prevents infections, colds, fatigue and stress; reduces allergies; heals wounds and burns. NATURAL SOURCES: Citrus fruits, berries, green and leafy vegetables, tomatoes, cauliflower, potatoes, sweet potatoes.

NIACIN: (as Niacinamide): Aids normal functioning of tissues, particularly skin, gastrointestinal tract and nervous system; used with other vitamins in converting carbohydrates to energy. NATURAL SOURCES: Liver, lean meat, whole wheat, brewer's yeast, wheat germ, fish, eggs, roasted peanuts, poultry, sesame seeds, nuts.

VITAMIN B-6: (Pyridoxine HCl) Aids metabolism of protein carbohydrates and fats; controls cholesterol level; aids chemical balance between blood and tissue; prevents water retention; builds hemoglobin. NATURAL SOURCES: Brewer's yeast, wheat bran, wheat germ, organ meats, beef, avocados, bananas, milk, eggs.

VITAMIN B-1: (Thiamine): Helps convert sugar and starches into energy; promotes digestion, strong heart muscle, child growth; prevents fatigue, fat deposits in arteries. NATURAL SOURCES: Whole wheat, dried yeast, oatmeal, peanuts, pork, bran, enriched rice, sunflower seeds, soybean sprouts.

VITAMIN B-2: (Riboflavin): Aids in releasing energy to body cells; enables utilization of fats, proteins and sugars. NATURAL SOURCES: Dairy products, liver, kidney, yeast, leafy greens, fish, eggs.

VITAMIN B-12: Promotes utilization of protein, fats and carbohydrates; essential for formation of red blood cells; builds nucleic acid; prevents pernicious anemia; helps nervous system. NATURAL SOURCES: Liver, beef, pork, eggs, dairy products, shellfish.

FOLIC ACID: Essential for function of Vitamins A, D, E, and K, forms red blood cells and nucleic acid; improves circulation; aids digestion of proteins. May help prevent neuro tube defects (pina bifida), and some cancers. Reduces the risk of coronary heart disease. NATURAL SOURCES: Dark-green leafy vegetables, carrots, liver, eggs, soybeans, avocados, oranges, beans whole wheat.

CALCIUM: Builds bones and teeth; aids in proper function of muscles, heart, nerves, and iron utilization; helps blood coagulation; regulates the passage of nutrients in and out of cells; relieves pain and cramps; eases insomnia. NATURAL SOURCES: Dairy products, soybeans, sunflower seeds, legumes, sardines.

MAGNESIUM: Reduces blood cholesterol; forms hard tooth enamel and fights tooth decay; aids in converting blood sugar into energy; helps regulate body temperature; aids nerve function and bone growth; helps utilize Vitamins B, C, E; promotes absorption and metabolism of other minerals; activates enzymes for metabolism of carbohydrates and amino acids; prevents calcium deposits in the bladder, heart attacks, depression, polio. NATURAL RESOURCES: Nuts, figs, seeds, dark-green vegetables, wheat bran, avocados, bananas.

IRON: Present in all cells; one of the constituents of hemoglobin which carries oxygen to the tissues by blood circulation. NATURAL RESOURCES: Liver, meat, raw clams, oysters, oatmeal, nuts, beans, wheat germ.

IODINE: Aids thyroid gland and prevents goiter; helps burn fat; converts carotene into Vitamin A; aids absorption of carbohydrates from small intestine; promotes growth; regulates energy production; maintains hair, nails skin and teeth. NATURAL SOURCES: Kelp, seafood, vegetables.

COPPER: Facilitates iron absorption; synthesizes enzymes and skin pigments; promotes protein metabolism; aids Vitamin C oxidation; produces RNA; forms hemoglobin, red blood cells, and hair color. NATURAL SOURCES: Shrimp, beef liver, whole wheat, prunes, nuts, raw oysters.

ZINC: Eliminates cholesterol deposits; aids in absorption of B-Vitamins, manufacture of enzymes and insulin, and metabolism of carbohydrates; essential for growth; aids healing essential for proper function of prostate gland; prevents prostate cancer and sterility; keeps hair glossy and smooth. NATURAL RESOURCES: Eggs, cheese, beef, pork, wheat germ, brewer's yeast, pumpkin seeds, popcorn.

SODIUM FLUORIDE: Acts systemically to strengthen developing teeth. For the prevention of dental caries by increasing tooth resistance to acid dissolution. Promotes remineralization and inhibits the cariogenic microbial process.

Finding Encouragement & Gratitude in Relationships

As a fitness trainer, part of my job is to be an unlimited source of encouragement. I teach and support others through exercise, but I am also learning from them!

I am so fortunate to be working with an amazing client right now who encourages me at each and every session. There is nothing like hearing someone say that they truly appreciate your efforts and that you are genuinely helping them make positive changes in their lives. It really sets my heart on fire to hear such an encouraging compliment. I love this feeling! Every time I leave her house, Danny gets a text from me that says, “I love my job!” She has given me new a new perspective on dealing with the circumstances that life might throw at you. On a personal level, I continue to pray that I may let go and let God carry out his plan for me and realize that my plan is merely dust in the wind. We should be grateful for any challenge or experience that God may bless us with now, whether or not it is momentarily convenient or even seems disappointing. I've learned that disappointments and challenges are blessings in disguise. There is never a better time to embrace God's plan than the present, because what we are able to act in is the present."Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift." We can plan for the future, but it is never certain what may happen…except that we will certainly be thrown some curve balls! It's probably going to surprise us.

Another recent source of encouragement was my aunt saying how much she enjoys reading my blog posts! This brings a great big smile to my face! My hope is that by writing about things I am working on in my life, that some part of what I say reaches you or enables you to send my message to someone who may need/is desperate to hear it.

I am so GRATEFUL for this encouragement. It gives me a renewed focus and energy that what I am doing REALLY IS working to serve it’s purpose. I KNOW there are people out there I can help, I just need the focus, energy, and inspiration to find ways to reach out to them. My short-term goal is to spread the word on my bootcamp, so next month I am trying a new marketing plan: GET AS MANY PEOPLE OUT TO TRY BOOTCAMP AS POSSIBLE-FOR FREE!!!!! Get out and have fun! Meet me at Freedom Ridge Park to try bootcamp for FREE during the month of November! *Please note, time has changed to Tuesday & Thursday mornings* All I ask is that you please shoot me an email to let me know when you are coming!

ashley@dnafitnessllc.com www.dnafitnessllc.com

It's amazing what gratitude for your circumstances and relationships can bring you. Joy, encouragement, and lots of love. I get to wake up everyday to an amazing husband and pursue my passion! Planning and preparation is exciting, but I’m praying for a boost in my life that will give me a chance to share my skills! I need these positive influences to keep on going even when times may get overwhelming. Find these people in your life. Friends, family, coworkers, stories in books/magazines/online...when things are overwhelming I challenge you to immerse yourself in gratitude. Let your thoughts take you to family, friends, health, opportunity and stay for a while.

May you be covered with joy, consumed in encouragement, and flooded with love.

Keep yourself motivated through inspiration from others.

It’s a powerful thing. I am truly grateful for my relationships.

Do Your Words Hurt or Heal?

"Sticks and stones can break my bones, but words will never hurt me." FALSE.

Words can have the potential to kill on the inside. A sharp tongue can kill another's soul, trust, self confidence, motivation, and send them into a deep dark place. It could take years to reestablish those traits. Forgiving someone for their hurtful words is what Jesus would do and it's something I strive to do every day...and it's never easy. I believe that being self conscious is something you develop through experiences, largely in part to hurtful words of others whose opinions you generally take stock in, such as a parent, a spouse, or a "friend." I am convinced that a self conscious person is not born that way, but becomes eroded over time by internalizing hurtful words and seeing them as the truth.

As a woman, I can say that I've struggled with insecurity and sometimes let it eat away at me until it seeps into my daily thoughts, actions, and even relationships. At times it feels hard to just snap out of it. Why should I care what others think of me when I should be focusing on what God thinks of me?

How do you react to hurtful words? Do you get even, lash out at innocent bystanders, tuck your tail & retreat, or choose forgiveness? Never be afraid to ask God for help in choosing the latter. Although I struggle with it, I find comfort when I ask Him for the STRENGTH to let it go, and the COURAGE to believe in myself and what I know is right. "Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.” -Deuteronomy 31:6

I encourage you to speak kindly TO and ABOUT others. Refrain from giving your "two cents" when it's not going to help and only hurt. Your contentious statements can have profound affects on others and is quite frankly unattractive. Don't ever forget that what goes around comes around. "Therefore do not fear them. For there is nothing covered that will not be revealed, and hidden that will not be known." - Matthew 10:26

Be a LIGHT to others! Encourage, support, and speak with a good heart. <3

Accountability is Key

This morning on the TODAY SHOW there was a special on the power of accountability in fitness!!!

You don't need a gym membership to achieve your health & fitness goals. Group workouts are motivating! Check out this awesome video with Jenna Wolfe.

Kim Pearson on Accountability

Interested in getting a group together for challenging, personalized workouts? Email me at ashley@dnafitnessllc.com to organize a group training session!

Aloha!!!!!

2.4 mile SWIM

112 mile BIKE RIDE

26.2 mile RUN (that’s a full marathon!)

That is what 1,800 participants in the Ford Ironman World Championship will undertake as they push through tough ocean waves and tread over lava-covered terrain in Kona, Hawaii tomorrow, October 8. This is one of the highest achievements an athlete can reach. Tens of thousands of triathletes share the dream: to earn the right to compete in Kona. It's the ultimate quest, a lifelong ambition for many. The best of the best vie for these coveted slots by meeting the strict age group qualifying times.

To conquer Kona, it not only takes a huge time, physical and mental commitment from yourself, but also the support of friends, family, co-workers, bosses, mentors, coaches, and trainers, which becomes very important throughout the process. It literally takes a village. Who will you turn to when the going gets tough and you think you just don't have what it takes? Surrounding yourself with people who build you up can make all the difference in the world...and yes, I speak from personal experience. Not only is this true for running in a tri-race, but in ALL areas of life! One insurance agent described his journey to Kona and how he had to find a job where the corporate culture promoted the same values of Ironman, the importance of work life balance, striving towards continuous improvement and pushing ones own limits. You can see his passion and excitement when he writes,

“My passions in life were now coinciding with my career and every ounce of energy I had was firmly dedicated to the company. Outside of work, physical fitness and health was encouraged through an on-site training facility and sponsorship of everything from local 5k’s to the Philadelphia Insurance Triathlon – and Ironman."

Setting a goal like conquering Ironman and putting in the hard work, sweat, and tears it takes to get there can really give a person that zest for life. Is there something you want or NEED to conquer? GO and make it happen! Ask God for help and MAKE IT HAPPEN!

Here is some advice from one of the most inspiring Ironman athletes of all time, Jon Blais. Blais took a debilitating disease and showed the world what he was made of by becoming a VOICE of HOPE for people with Lou Gherig’s Disease. He used a sport that he loved in order to promote awareness for his disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Competing in triathlons for 20 years, Jon always wanted to compete in an Ironman, especially Kona. On October 15, 2005, only 5 months after being diagnosed, Jon became the only individual with ALS to complete an Ironman. He crossed the finish line by log-rolling over it, and since then, the "log roll" has been graciously performed by countless athletes as a symbol of hope, and more importantly, a means of raising awareness for ALS.

Jon “Blazeman” Blais knew how to live life and make every minute count, because after all, every minute we have is a gift. Here is Jon’s advice:

“Live more than your neighbors. Release yourself upon the world and go places. Go now, giggle, know, laugh, and bark at the moon like the wild dog that you are. Understand that this is not a dress rehearsal, this is it…YOUR LIFE. Face your fears and live your dreams. Take it all in, and every chance you get, come close.”

The natural beauty of Hawaii is so amazing.

Check out this tube! Hang 10!!!!!

Eat Right Mississippi!

Mississippi has the highest rate of obesity in America. So many excuses come to mind when I hear about people’s reasons for their poor diet. “It’s too expensive to eat right”, “it doesn’t taste good”, “it’s inconvenient”, and even “it’s not that bad for you”! Don’t get stuck in denial about what you are using to fuel your body. Your stomach is not a garbage dump! Be conscious of what you are putting in…the better the fuel, the better your performance.

Americans are overfed and undernourished. There is obviously a lack of understanding about what all those grams and percentages mean on food labels. It is an unfortunate fact that Americans depend so much on “convenience” foods that are actually putting their health at risk. Fast-food has become a sad part of our culture that is leading to higher and higher obesity rates. The food industry has become so clever as to market bad foods as “good for you,” which often times confuses consumers who are trying to make healthy choices. What does your diet consist of? It might be time to take a closer look.

Do you really know what is going into your body? When we eat pre-packaged foods we are subjecting ourselves to whatever the food company has used to help preserve the food and make it taste good. It is usually loaded with sodium, saturated fat, sugar, and other preservatives. Beware at restaurants as well…heavy entrees may taste good but realize that all that extra butter and oil are adding up. You can’t see how the food is being prepared- eat it at your own risk! It is ok to make special requests like having your entree steamed or grilled without butter or cheese, or ordering vegetables plain and a fresh salad with dressings on the side. Take control of your diet and be aware of what’s going in. Eating a variety of whole foods ensures that your body is getting all the vitamins and nutrients it needs for proper functioning. Food journals can be a helpful tool if you are trying to stay on top of your daily caloric intake.

We only get one body. If we do not take care of it by choosing foods that benefit how our bodies work rather than according to our taste or our mood, we will stay enslaved to the few big corporations that run our nation's food industry. Do you really want to serve your family sugar coated, fat-filled, bleached, refined, syrup-glazed, oily, artificially-flavored, genetically-mutated, chemically-altered, deep-fried, over-sauced, cream-covered meals? They may provide a temporary pleasurable experience, but the compounded internal damage over time puts your health at risk. Eat healthy foods for an extended amount of time and you will eventually crave that rather than junk food. Remember this: If it grows in the ground, it’s good! Next time you resist that doughnut, reward yourself! (but NOT with a Frosty!) Let’s show America that we can overcome this obesity epidemic!

Livestrong.com offers some great tools including recipes, food logs,

and more to help you keep your diet in check!

Remember, what you drink is also important, and unfortunately a large contributor to obesity. Read how sugary sodas, sports drinks, and more can have a huge impact on your daily diet.

Role of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages in Obesity

It's important to stay hydrated...with PURE H2O!!!!! DRINK UP!!!!

What Do You Run For?

Remember yesterday when I asked, "What inspires you?" Well, if this doesn't inspire you, I don't know what will!

Danny and I have been tossing around the idea of possibly running the Mississippi Blues Half Marathon on January 7. Running has always been a favorite hobby of mine. I run for stress relief, to stay in shape, and that feeling of accomplishment I have when I finish an awesome run. Today, I found a new reason to run that outweighs all of the above. Today I saw a video about the mission of World Vision.

If we do end up running the half in January, you can bet I will be fundraising for this very worthy cause. Go to www.worldvision.org to learn more about running for a purpose...you can choose the option to run in any event as an individual even if it isn't on the list!

Bootcamp is Empowering!

ATTEN-SHUN!!!!!! Sit up tall and strong as you read this!

Exercise should be fun and empowering! This is bootcamp MINUS the intimidation! I want you to feel welcome and completely supported at Sunrise Bootcamp. Do not let the word “bootcamp” intimidate you…we are not screaming commands at our bootcampers! It is simply the name we give this challenging workout that incorporates military movements, pilates, plyometrics, and many other training styles. Bootcamp is designed to push you BEYOND the level where you would normally call it quits. We will safely guide you past your threshold to improve your overall fitness. I find an outdoor environment refreshing and energizing! Watching the sunrise after completing a tough workout is so INSPIRING! I want to connect with each bootcamper on a personal level and MOVE you towards your own individual potential. I strongly believe that a group setting provides us with additional support and motivation to push harder and get more from a workout. I have been given the time and resources to develop a training program that is unique and I am so eager to help others!

What inspires you? Are you working towards something bigger than yourself? At my small group meeting this week we talked about working for God and no matter what we are called to do, we should do it with our whole heart and do it for Him! He will give you the time to make it happen, if you use your inspiration to work towards making it happen!!!

Motivation Determines Success

I am SO EXCITED for our Sunrise Bootcamp promo day TOMORROW! Because I did not ask for an RSVP, I realize that there is the possibility for a small turnout. Even if that happens, I have already decided that I won’t let it get me down. I will continue promoting my bootcamp, even if I only have a couple of new recruits at first!! I TRULY believe this is a great fitness program and I am DETERMINED to spread the word in Jackson! It’s all about attitude, right!?

“It’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get up.” —-Vince Lombardi

Remember, you won't have a life until you start believing in yourself. This is how winning is done. When you get pushed down, even kicked, are you quick to blame someone else? As Rocky says, nothing or nobody hits harder than Life. Are you prepared to get hit...over and over again?

One thing marriage has taught me is that I always have a rock…someone who is strong and steady that is always there for me to lean on. That is what I will continue to be for my bootcampers…as well as all of my clients. The process of reaching your goals can be tough, but I assure you that I will be your ROCK throughout your program. I will be there for you every step of the way. I will keep working hard to MOTIVATE and ENCOURAGE those around me to make healthy living a priority! We are only given one body and we must take care of it so that we can use it to serve God and others! Let me help lead you to a healthier lifestyle!

Ashley@dnafitness.com

www.dnafitnessllc.com

Homecoming

This weekend we are headed to Starkville for the Mississippi State football game! Danny’s two best friends and college roommates are joining us from Fort Benning, Georgia and Fort Rucker, Alabama (one prepping for Army Ranger School and the other for Army Flight School). It will be the first time we’ve seen them since our wedding and Danny is stoked! A few months seems like a long time to go without seeing your best friends who you lived with and saw every single day, but the harsh reality is that it is actually a brief separation compared to what the future entails for these best buds. I know this will be a special weekend because these visits will become few and far between as these men get ready for their deployments and positions at international army posts.

To make the upcoming weekend even more special, it is a reunion weekend for former Mississippi State football players. Danny’s dad, Wayne Harris, was a football hero when he played Right Guard for the Bulldogs from 1979-1982. He is a very humble man for having been such an OUTSTANDING athlete! He received the Jacob’s Blocking Trophy two straight seasons, as well as playing professionally for the USFL New Jersey Generals and later the Buffalo Bills. Being a Georgia native, I thought it was the coolest thing ever that he was roommates with our Bulldogs' hometown hero, Herschel Walker, when they played pro together! That sort of put into perspective what kind of a player Mr. Wayne must have been in his day!

We are so blessed to be able to share a weekend with family and friends like this. The Lord is certainly looking out for us…three best friends from three completely different parts of the country, all able to get together for a Saturday afternoon football game in Mississippi. This will be a treasured family memory for sure.

There’s sure to be some tailgate action going on this weekend! Here are some HEALTHY side dishes to take to your tailgate!

Cucumber & Black-Eyed Pea Salad

6 servings, about 1 cup each

Active Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

INGREDIENTS

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons lemon juice

2 teaspoons chopped fresh oregano, or 1 teaspoon dried

Freshly ground pepper to taste

4 cups peeled and diced cucumbers

1 14-ounce can black-eyed peas, rinsed

2/3 cup diced red bell pepper

1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

1/4 cup slivered red onion

2 tablespoons chopped black olives

PREPARATION

1. Whisk oil, lemon juice, oregano and pepper in a large bowl until combined. Add cucumber, black-eyed peas, bell pepper, feta, onion and olives; toss to coat. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

NUTRITION

Per serving: 160 calories; 10 g fat ( 3 g sat , 6 g mono ); 11 mg cholesterol; 12 g carbohydrates; 5 g protein; 3 g fiber; 270 mg sodium; 273 mg potassium.

Black Bean and Corn Salad

Prep Time:

10 min

Inactive Prep Time:

15 min

4 servings

Ingredients

1 can, 14 ounces, black beans, rinsed and drained

2 cups frozen corn kernels

1 small red bell pepper, seeded and chopped

1/2 red onion, chopped

1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin, half a palm full

2 teaspoons hot sauce, just eyeball the amount (recommended: Tabasco)

1 lime, juiced

2 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil, eyeball it

Salt and pepper

Directions

Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Let stand at least 15 minutes for corn to fully defrost and flavors to combine, then toss and serve. The corn will also place a quick-chill on this easy side-salad as it defrosts -- no need to refrigerate!

*Another tip: Grill up some shrimp and veggies (Think grilled onions, peppers, mushrooms, tomatoes, zucchini…etc.)! These are LOTS better for you than a burger and high-calorie potato chips! Remember to go easy with the oil!

Never Forget

This Sunday marks the 10th anniversary of the worst terrorist attack in American history. Many people could hardly believe their eyes as they watched it happen. Hundreds of World Trade Center employees lost their lives that day. Others lost their lives trying to save those caught in the midst of the tragic events as they unfolded. We also remember those victimized on the hijacked flights and those at the Pentagon. Our soldiers have been risking their lives since that day to protect us from terrorists.

I wipe away tears when I listen to interviews from surviving family members. The legacies of these fallen Americans and heroes have learned to not take their families for granted. Some kids are growing up without Mom or Dad, sister, brother, or a best friend. We lost many of our fellow Americans in that attack. Mayor Giuliani describes watching a man jump from the 101st floor of the World Trade Center as the most prominent memory he has of September 11, 2001. Each of these numbers had a face, a name, a life, that was taken on 9/11.

• Total number killed in attacks (official figure as of 9/5/02): 2,819
• Number of firefighters and paramedics killed: 343
• Number of NYPD officers: 23
• Number of Port Authority police officers: 37
• Number of WTC companies that lost people: 60
• Number of employees who died in Tower One: 1,402
• Number of employees who died in Tower Two: 614
• Number of employees lost at Cantor Fitzgerald: 658
• Number of U.S. troops killed in Operation Enduring Freedom: 22

1,609 people lost a spouse or partner that day. Please take a few minutes to remember and pray for them. There are no words to express the gratefulness I have for the NYPD, the unnamed heroes who rushed in to help without a single hesitation, and the United States Armed Forces who are actively risking their lives on a daily basis to see that this does not ever happen again. I am so blessed to have my husband, my family, and my friends and I am so thankful for them all. They too are my heroes. Some may never know theirs.

We disagree and fight in politics, but we should not take our elected officials for granted either...because just like family, (who must also work through their differences) they pulled together and united in a time of need. This makes our great country like a family. It's healthy to disagree and work through arguments, however we must always remember to support one another through the tough times too. When we are willing to risk everything for another person, that is what makes us someone else's hero. Through thick and thin, hard times, and all of life's struggles, be a hero to those around you...and Never Forget.

"The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” -Mark 12:31

Memorial Fountain at Ground Zero

Memorial Run from West Point to Ground Zero. Dedicate your workout on 9/11.

http://www.universalsports.com/news-blogs/article/newsid=554934.html

"God is our refuge and strength. An ever present help in trouble." Psalm 46:1

Even though there was much hesitation regarding the word of God at the 9/11 Memorial, President Obama read Psalm 46. This is a great reminder that our physical strength and power over this world is very limited. We have to rely

on the ultimate strength that comes from something much bigger than ourselves.

What motivates you to push beyond your limits? Have you challenged yourself today? If not, what are you waiting for?! Get up, get out, and get MOVING!