Beautiful Skin

Beautiful Skin

One of the many fortunate gifts that come along with being Mrs. Colorado is the amazing sponsorships.  Since I was crowned in February of 2012, I have been making monthly trips to visit Dr. TerKonda’s office.  Traveling for over an hour each way is well worth it as my skin has never looked this good.  Growing up, I was the kid who constantly battled acne and as an adult never really had great skin.  At the age of 36, I can honestly say, my skin has never looked this good.

My latest discovery is Clear and Brilliant.  Clear and Brilliant is a gentle laser that refreshes your skin from the inside out.  The laser energy creates millions of microscopic treatment zones in your skin, replacing damaged skin with healthy, younger looking tissue.  I have had three treatments so far (I’ll need a total of 4 to 6) and the improvement is subtle, natural and overall impressive.

Dr. TerKonda performs many of the services himself and has an assistant Heather who is fabulous.  Heather and has been performing the Clear and Brilliant treatments on my face for a few months now and the experience has been fabulous.   Heather is the kind of person who is your instant friend.  She makes me feel so comfortable talking about my areas of concern and is so educated on all the products and services that they provide.  I am always excited to see the team that works with Dr. TerKonda because they really treat you like family.

As you prepare for Mrs. Colorado, I encourage you to visit Dr. TerKonda and team because they are amazing.  They will work with your budget and help you create a plan to enhance your beautiful skin.

To learn more about Dr. TerKonda and his team, visit the link below.

http://www.cosmeticsurgery.com/find/cosmetic-surgeons/Colorado/r~135/dr~mission

At the Morning Show with Dr. TerKonda and Team

Making Time for Relaxation

Making Time for Relaxation

This week my family and I vacationed at the beautiful Pagosa Springs Resort and Spa and it was amazing!!! After a year of appearances, volunteer work, and a new full time job this R&R was well needed.  In fact, my husband jokingly stated that this was a prize for him and the boys, a reward for putting up with me these past four years when I was competing! (Smile) He was very happy to have his wife’s undivided attention for an extended amount of time and I have to say, it was fun giving it.

My family and I were greeted upon check-in with our photo framed in the lobby saying “Welcome Mrs. Colorado to the Pagosa Springs Resort and Spa.”  I was so overwhelmed with gratitude. That welcome frame was just a taste of the hospitality that we received throughout our stay.  The grounds were beautiful, the 23 mineral pools were amazing, and the service was phenomenal. 

We were lucky enough to have stayed in the “O Suite” named after Oprah Winfrey when she visited the resort and claimed it as one of her favorite places to stay in Colorado. My kids squealed with delight as we entered the 600 square foot room that contained a master bedroom, fireplace, living room, kitchen, and sauna.  My oldest son said, “Mom, I bet we are never going to stay in a place this nice ever again!” 

Thank you Pagosa Springs for a fabulous time.  Your sponsorship is something that I will remember and cherish for a life time!!! 

To learn more about the Pagosa Springs Resort and Spa, please visit:

http://www.pagosahotsprings.com/

Note:  As soon as I download the photos from our vacation, I will be sure to update this post!  

Creating Time for the People You Love

Creating Time for the People You Love

 We all need a reminder to take care of your mind, body and soul.   During my year as Mrs. Colorado, I realized the importance of taking time out to spend with the people you love.  These “people” for me are my family.  This past week I turned off the electronics, stepped away from work, and spent much needed time with my husband of 13 years and two fantastic little boys.  With that said, I hope you understand and appreciate the lateness of my blog entries. 

This past week, over a road trip, I rediscovered the little joys in life.  From silly car games to talent shows performed by my family, I was reminded of the importance of carving out time to spend with the people I love.

This past week, I forgot about the daily chaos of things like baseball practice, homework and rush hour traffic.  I forgot about managing schedules and preparing for business meetings.  This past week felt amazing and invigorating because I removed all the stressful things in life and surrounded myself with the people who need me most.  These are the same people that I need most too!  I know vacations can’t always be frequent but they are so important.  Even if it’s a “stay-cation” for a single day, I urge you create time for the people and things you love.  It really will fill your spirit with joy.

Feeling Beautiful

Mrs. Colorado’s 90 Day Challenge- Day 17

Topic: Feeling Beautiful

Beauty starts from within, shines through your heart, and pours out for the world to see.  No matter what beautiful garment I wear, new purse I carry, or perfume I spray on me, I only feel as beautiful as my mind allows me to.  During this process, please take care of your mind, body, and soul first and everything else will follow.  With that said, I am absolutely the first one to admit that I LOVE beautiful things especially fancy evening gowns.  There is just something amazing about beads, jewels, and lace.

I have been thinking a lot about evening gowns lately because that is one of the components of the competition where you get to share your creativity, fashion, and personal style.  Many of the contestants at shopping day asked for advice on what dress to wear for evening gown.    I firmly believe that “the dress” is not what is going to make you win or lose but I do think that it can make the difference in how you feel on stage. 

When you select your evening gown, pick something that makes you feel like a million dollars!  I wore the same dress twice and won in it the second time.  I would have never thought that I would wear the same dress twice but as I tried on many other gowns, my heart kept going back to “my” dress.  Pick something that when you put it on, you feel unquestionably beautiful.  This will be your moment, be fabulous, and be you.

This photo was taken after the 2011 Mrs. Colorado Pageant.  In 2012, I wore the same dress, just took off the sleeve and added more crystals.  Wear what makes you feel beautiful.

 

Stop looking for the magic. You are it.

Mrs. Colorado’s 90 Day Challenge- Day 16

Topic: Stop looking for the magic.  You are it.

It was so wonderful to meet so many of the contestants today at ticket sales.  It brought back so many great memories of my years competing but also reminded me that the magic, the sparkle, the beauty that shows on that stage absolutely comes from within.  So many of the contestants asked for advice today and my only real advice is, “from the moment you arrive at pageant week, let your heart shine.  When you get up on that stage, smile from the deepest part of your core and let your inner beauty shine so bright that it radiates on the outside.”

I am so honored and humbled to be Mrs. Colorado and am so excited to cheer for each and every one of you.  You all are so amazing!

 

Gather Support- Ticket Sales

Mrs. Colorado’s 90 Day Challenge- Day 15

Topic: Gathering Support- Ticket Sales

Tomorrow is ticket sale day for the Mrs. Colorado pageant that will be held on Saturday May 18^th 2013 at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House in the Denver Performing Arts Complex. As I anticipate seeing all of the lovely contestants tomorrow, I am reminded of my own journey last year. “Ticket” day was a fun part of that voyage because it is one of the first events leading up to the big night. This is also a time to be reminded of all the people who love you and want to support you by sitting in your section or as my Dad said, "my peanut gallery!"   

My dear friend Renee joined me last year at ticket sales when I was a contestant.  We waited in line for hours together and had so much fun!  I think we solved all of the important issues of the world sitting on that hotel hallway floor, waiting in line.  I am so excited that she will be by my side tomorrow as Mrs. Colorado. Last year, she even organized a poster making party for everyone to come and make signs, banners, etc. for the big night.  It was SO much fun!!!

 

I can’t wait to meet everyone, hear about your journey thus far, and watch the excitement as all of you embark on your own discovery. Please remember that this is your journey, your adventure, your opportunity to discover YOU! Enjoy the ride!





My bestie and her banner that says Team Courtney! I am so blessed to have such great friends!



My sweet Olivia at my poster making party.  This was a poster for Mrs. Colorado, maybe the sign helped me win?!!

Ticket Sale Contest! One state finalist will earn a trip Cancun for five days and four nights. Support your state finalist to purchase your tickets and help them earn a trip to Cancun.

https://www.facebook.com/#!/Mrs.Colorado?bookmark_t=page

Thank you to Peter Guccione with http://firestarter.rovia.com/ for the sponsored adventure!

Did you know?

The Ellie Caulkins Opera House, colloquially known as “the Ellie,” is the premier venue inside of the historic Quigg Newton Denver Municipal Auditorium. The Ellie, a world-class acoustical hall designed in the lyric style, encompasses four levels. This magnificent space is humidified and provides state-of-the-art technical support as well as acoustical excellence and clean sight lines. The Ellie is one of only three opera houses in the United States, one of nine world-wide, with seatback titling at every seat in the house. The Ellie designed to attract top artists to the Mile High City and to make their performances unforgettable including the 2013 Mrs. Colorado Pageant. You can be part of Mrs. Colorado history and attend both the preliminary and final event. Tickets go on sale through state finalists on March 1, 2013 and March 3, 2013 via the website.

Finding Your Motivation

Mrs. Colorado’s 90 Day Challenge- Day 14

Topic: Finding Motivation

One of my favorite websites to look at for motivation is Oprah.com Living Your Best Life.  I love the articles on this site because they are so inspirational.  This particular article caught my eye because I love the author Daniel Pink, particularly the book DRIVE. Take a look!

Sometimes the key to being more inspired is feeling more in control. Daniel Pink, author of Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us, reports that four aspects of daily life affect our sense of self-direction; he refers to them as time, team, tasks, and technique.

 Pink recommends doing an "autonomy audit" by asking yourself how much control you have over...

1. How you spend your day (time)
2. The people you spend it with (team)
3. Your main responsibilities (tasks)
4. The strategies you use to fulfill them (technique)

When you rate each area on a scale of one to ten, typically one area will rank considerably lower than the others, and that's the one you want to address.

It's okay to think small: Pink, a proponent of the Rome-wasn't-built-in-a-day school, believes that human progress is a matter of slow, steady advancements. At the end of each day, ask yourself, "Did I make progress in my weakest area today?"

Some days the answer will be no—and that's okay, too. The next morning you'll find that you wake up with more resolve.

Read more: http://www.oprah.com/spirit/Daniel-Pinks-Plan-to-Get-Motivated-at-Work#ixzz2MFjItvwc

Motivational Blogs and Soul Sisters

Mrs. Colorado's 90 Day Challenge- Day 13

Topic: Motivational Blogs and Soul Sisters

 

I am so lucky to have amazing friends in my life and today I received an email from one of my best girlfriends and it made my day. We have been friends since the third grade and she is my soul sister!  I love her emails because she is always exploring new things and sharing them with me. Here is an excerpt from her most recent email.

 This blog is so inspiring http://www.thesimplyluxuriouslife.com/

I've wanted something...a life make over sounds too drastic...but something tweaked to make things beautiful, super fun and just really enjoy life as much as possible. So this weekend I cleaned out my closet to start a time capsule wardrobe and made a list of items I really want to complete the look I love. The whole approach is less stuff and only getting the best you can afford. So you feel surrounded in beautiful, quality things.

 I checked out The Simple Luxurious Life website/blog and it is so fun and motivational, I just had to share it with you all.   She also surprised me with a birthday gift card to Lulu Lemon, one of my favorite stores.  My resourceful sister also included the below link to a pair of pants from Lulu Lemon that are supposed to be outstanding!  I will be purchasing them with her gift card and will plan to write a review so stay tuned….

 http://www.eatingbirdfood.com/2011/01/things-im-loving-right-now/

 My Lululemon Wunder Under Crop pants

 

Who ever knew blogs could be so entertaining and resourceful at the same time?

Sisterhood

Mrs. Colorado's Challenge- Day 12 and 13
Topic: Sisterhood

Hi ladies! I’m sorry, but, life got in the way so I have to do two days in one blog. I hope you understand. Saturday, at the Mrs. Colorado Shopping Day, I had the time of my life.  Not only were we advocating for preventative healthcare by offering a free mammogram to every women over 40 but we were supporting and creating a sisterhood between women. Pageantry is competitive but it also does this amazing thing, it brings women of all backgrounds together for one goal.  To me, that is the gift of the Mrs. Colorado Pageant.

I deeply enjoyed meeting each and every one of you on Saturday and feel so honored to have shared a small part of your journey with you. I encourage you to enjoy every moment, journal your experiences and feelings because soon it will be a distant memory and you will wish you had.  Unfortunately there can only be one winner on May 18^th 2013 but my hope for each of you is that you win something much more than the crown.  My wish is that you win whatever it is that you are trying to accomplish.   Each year that I competed I learned something new about myself.  As much as I wanted to win on my first try, I thank God that he made me work for the goal three times before achieving it.  My words of adive to you is, “Enjoy the ride and take note of the journey!”

Please remember that I am here for you.  I have been in your shoes and know what it’s like to have this dream.  Please do not hesitate to reach out to me for support.  I can’t wait to see each and every one of you shine on that stage.  Good luck my sisters!

Mrs. Colorado's Challenge- Day 11

Topic: Willpower

Today was a challenging day for me food wise.  Sometimes it’s hard for me not to give into the urge of taking a big hunk of cheese out and whacking a big piece off.  Yum!!  Cheese is my weakness along with wine.  (smile) Today was a hard day for me when it comes to willpower but then I remembered all of you out there working hard to earn the crown of Mrs. Colorado. I was reminded of this when I came across this photograph that I keep on my desk. I am so proud of each and every one of you for sticking to your goal and working hard to achieve it.   You are amazing.  You might smile to know that instead of getting out the cheese, I sliced up an apple.  I hope to see you all tomorrow at Shopping Day!!!

Royal Image Boutique

9- 5pm

See you soon!!!!

xoxox

Significant Foods

Mrs. Colorado's 90 Day Challenge- Day 10

Topic: Significant Foods

 2013 can mean a new beginning for many of us. As I know well, not all foods are created equal. Tiffany Yee, from Body Statement Gym has taught me that the foods we decide to eat can have a significant impact on the speed of your metabolism.

One thing I have learned is the importance of lean proteins such as turkey, chicken and fish. According to the magazine Muscle and Fitness Hers lean protein requires extra energy to digest and metabolize them, so more calories are burned. Plus, protein also helps to maintain lean muscle mass. More muscle means more calories burned, even while at rest.

In addition to protein, fibrous foods aid in digestion. When you digest food, your body extracts nutrients and breaks down the food which produces heat. So the more you digest, the faster your metabolism becomes. When your body becomes more efficient at breaking down nutrients for energy, your metabolism will speed up all the while helping in keeping you regular.

The following are good food choices to help keep your metabolism humming along:

Grapefruit is rich in fiber and helps to lowers the insulin levels in your body that trigger your system to store fat.

Apples, like grapefruit, are also high in fiber and they help you stay feeling full for longer.

Green Tea contains powerful antioxidants that speeds up your brain and nervous system, enabling your body to burn more calories.

Yogurt not only contains high levels of protein, it also contains probiotic cultures that help regulate your digestion.

Spinach is packed with nutrients that enhance muscle performance and the transmission of energy in the body, which means your metabolism works harder. It’s a great source of antioxidants, magnesium, potassium, iron and vitamin C.

Jalapenos contain a chemical called capsaicin. Capsaicin stimulates your metabolism to release more calories in the form of heat (thermogenesis), which lasts for hours after ingestion.

Curry, like jalapenos, speeds up your metabolism by increasing the amount of calories your body burns.

Cinnamon believe it or not helps metabolize sugars more effectively, maintain steadier blood sugar levels and can also help lower your cholesterol. Add this tasty spice to your morning cup of tea or bowl of oatmeal.

Giving your metabolism a boost and burning more fat doesn’t have mean spending hours upon hours on a treadmill, and eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring! Add these foods to your diet and you’ll be on your way to a slimmer, shapelier you.

My Favorite Recipe of the Week

lueberry Cheesecake Greek Yogurt

Makes 1 serving

Ingredients:

• 1 cup nonfat Greek Yogurt

• 1/4 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

• stevia or other sweetener to taste

• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

• 1/2 tbsp fat-free, sugar-free cheesecake pudding mix

 

Directions
Using a blender mix everything in a small bowl and serve.

 Nutrition Facts (per serving): 187 calories, 0g fat, 19g carbs, 24g protein

 

 

 

Shopping and Mammograms- Could Life Get Any Better?

Mrs. Colorado's 90 day Challenge- Day 9

Topic: Shopping and Mammograms

 

My motivation to compete in the Mrs. Colorado pageant this past year was to chase my dream of becoming Mrs. Colorado after my sister’s diagnosis with breast cancer.  After my sister’s diagnosis, I realized that life is precious, we are blessed to have every day here on earth, and our dreams matter.   I was ecstatic when Emily Stark, my director, told me the Exempla St. Joseph Mammogram Bus will be at the Mrs. Colorado Shopping Day!  A mammogram saved my sister’s life at the age of 36 and I will be forever grateful for that technology.

So with that in mind, what could be better than shopping and a mammogram? The Mrs. Colorado Shopping Day is a fabulous day when all the contestants come to shop, plan their wardrobe for pageant week, and have the opportunity to have one on one time with me and other queens who may attend. Shopping day will be held this Saturday the 23^rd at the Royal Image Boutique between the hours of 9-5pm.  I will be there waiting for you and am so excited to reconnect with old friends that I once competed with and meet new friends/contestants. Please remember that this is your time and you have an amazing journey ahead of you.  I urge you to leave the kiddos and hubbies at home and come have fun with the girls. I can’t wait to meet you and am so honored to be part of your journey. 

Mrs. Colorado contestants, remember you can schedule an appointment with us to ensure one on one time to review your wardrobe, share hopes, and just have a little time to catch up.  Of course, I have to leave you with a fun and accurate quote. (smile)

“Whoever said money can't buy happiness simply didn't know where to go shopping.”

- Bo Derek

Amazing Hair, Amazing People

Mrs. Colorado’s Challenge- Day 8

Topic- Amazing Hair, Amazing People

 

The hair is the richest ornament of women. ~Martin Luther

Me and My Hair Master at Mrs America 2012

Oh, I love that quote.  As women, we all know the magnificent feeling of having a good hair day and understand the negative moods that can be associated with a bad hair day!  For those of you who are participating in my 90 day challenge, I encourage you think about your “total package” and a part of that is your hair.  The good news is, if you don’t like your hair, we now live in a time and age where you transform your hair into literately anything you want.  Want longer hair, you got it.  Want thicker hair, you got it.  Want to wear a variety of lengths of hair in a week, you got it.  How you might ask?  Just visit Timothy D’s A Salon.

Today I had the privilege of visiting my favorite hair salon Timothy D’s A Salon and my favorite hair stylist, the dazzling DJ whom I refer to as “My Hair Master.” DJ is not only one of the nicest people I know but also one of the most talented hair stylists in Denver, particularly in the pageant world. From reality hair shows to writing his own book Updo-ology, this man has done it all.   

I first met DJ when I moved to Colorado (five years ago) and decided to compete in the Mrs. Colorado pageant. One of the fun perks about participating in Mrs. Colorado  is that you get the scoop on the cream de la cream of the styling world. I mean, who doesn’t want the cream de la cream working them over?  From elaborate updos to intricate hair extensions, DJ knows how to work his magic- and he does! Trust me, I know. This man (bless his heart) has been with me for three years competing in Mrs. Colorado and came with me to Mrs. America. Did I mention, he is patient? (smile)

The thing I love most about Timothy D’s A Salon is the people who work there. Owned by Timothy and DJ, their staff is kind, talented and passionate about what they do every day.  One of their values is giving back to the community which I admire and love. Please see the below to learn more about one of their upcoming event's Self Esteem Through Style.

For those ladies competing in Mrs. Colorado 2013, a little birdie told me DJ’s availability is filling up so be sure to call today.   As their tag line says, "It’s all about hair, heels and a great attitude!"

S.E.T.S. (Self Esteem Through Style) Event

---

About
S.E.T.S. is Timothy D's Youth Outreach Program, focused on children and young teens who have been bullied and broken down in schools and in turn have lost their own self-worth.

Our goal is to assist in giving back to them! We will be creating an entire makeover suited JUST for them! (Hair Styles and Color, Professional Make Up Artists, Photographers) If they can see themselves as beautiful as they REALLY are, that is the first step!

Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity, ITS ALL FREE!!

If you know of a child or teen between the ages of 9 and 21 that is experiencing this negativity, please fill out the form located on their website. (see below)

Date
April 6th, 1:00pm - 5:00pm

Address
5500 East Yale Avenue
Suite #400
Denver, CO 80222

(303) 744-6444

http://www.timothydsasalon.com

Support Is All Around Us

Mrs. Colorado's Challenge- Day 7
Topic- Support

Tiffany Yee, my son Dane, Me, and my son Hunter- working out at the Body Statement Gym

Support is all around us. One thing I have learned from competing in the Mrs. Colorado pageant is that although support is all around us, it has to start from your heart.  I have learned that once you love yourself and open your world up to those who love you, the support flows to you and it is incredible.

The first year I competed in Mrs. Colorado, I was so scared to tell people because  I was worried that either they wouldn’t think I was pretty enough or they would think I was coincident because I was entering a beauty pageant, etc.  I mean the list “of doubt” went on and on.  Then slowly, the word got out and all the people that loved me came out to support me.  I was overwhelmed by the kind words of encouragement and support that poured out not only from friends and family, but, from my community.

As Mrs. Colorado, I continue to be overcome with gratitude for all the people that are here for me.  Tonight I attended the Body Statement Gym and saw one of biggest cheerleaders Tiffany Yee.  When I was training for Mrs. Colorado and Mrs. America, she was that little voice in my ear saying, “come on, you can do this.” 

 

 

This last week, I heard that little voice again when Tiffany invited me to attend her seminar to learn more about the Rocky Mountain National Championships competition that will occur on April 28^th.  Now, I will be honest, this girl (me) has tacked on some poundage since Mrs. America and when Tiffany asked me to come down and consider competing in a fitness competition it had me in serious self-doubt.  I also had to put my vanity aside, strip down, and let her pinch my fat (there’s plenty of it) so she could get a full assessment.  Trust me; it wasn’t pretty however Tiffany still left me feeling like a million bucks. Tiffany’s positive energy is infectious as all of her trainers make you feel like you can overcome any obstacle.

As I sat and listened to Tiffany share tips and tricks at her workshop tonight, I pondered about the idea of competing in my first ever fitness show.  I looked around the room and not only felt so inspired by Tiffany and staff, but, by all the people who sat beside me.  From mom’s wanting to get back into shape to people who have dreamed about fitness from the time they were a child.  In that moment, we all held the same dream, the dream of knocking down barriers, being the best we can physically be, and achieving a rigorous goal of stepping out onto that stage.

Is this something that's on your bucket list? If so, what are you waiting for?

So, you may be wondering if this Mrs. Colorado will be competing on April 28^th? Well, you’ll just have to wait and see. In the meantime, join me at the Body Statement Gym for Semi-private training sessions! Just contact the Body Statement Gym for more details.  Remember, support is all around you, you just have to let it in.

http://bodystatementgym.com/

The BODY Statement Gym
609 E. Speer (between Washington & Pearl)
Denver, Co 80203

Phone: 303-715-0496 (0GYM)

Eating Clean Is So Yummy

Mrs. Colorado's Challenge- Day 6

Topic: Eating Clean Is So Yummy

One of the most precious things about being Mrs. Colorado and attending the Mrs. America competition is all the friendships that you make.  Now with social media, staying in touch could never be easier. As you know, I have recently committed to a Clean diet and am constantly looking for new recipes. Well, I found a winner!!!

I just made these muffins recommended by my queen sister Beverly Hartle, Mrs. Idaho 2012.  Oh yeah, she won “best body” at Mrs. America!

Queen Sister Beverly Hartle Goes Banana’s for Banana Muffins

1/2 cup coconut oil
1 cup Splenda
3 egg whites
1 teas vanilla
1 cup quinoa flour
1/2 cup whole oats (blend to flour)
1 teas baking soda
1/2 teas salt
1/2 cup Greek yogurt (I used plain w/ honey)
2 ripe bananas
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional-I didn't use)

Preheat 350 oven
Mix oil and sugar. Add eggs and vanilla. Mix dry ingredients. Add yogurt and mashed bananas.
Scooped half cup into muffin tin or into baking cups. Bake 35 min Enjoy!!

 

How Full Is Your Bucket?

Mrs. Colorado’s Challenge- Day 5

Topic: Your Bucket

Tonight as I snuggled up to my first grader; we read one of our favorite books, How Full Is Your Bucket written by Tom Rath and Mary Reckmeyer.  This book reminded me of the importance of filling other’s buckets. There is a line in the book that I love and it is when the little boy in the book realizes the power of the “bucket” and he says, “The strange thing was that for every drop I put in someone else’s bucket, I  felt another drop in my own bucket.” 

We all know what it feels like to have an empty bucket and hopefully we all know what it feels like to have one that is full.  The interesting thing that I have realized is that we are all in control of our own buckets. We have the power to empty them or fill them based on how we treat and communicate with other people.  I feel so thankful tonight as I think about my own bucket and the people that have helped to fill it.  I’m going to make a conscious effort to fill buckets tomorrow and everyday going forward.

Valentine's Day at the VA Hospital

Mrs. Colorado's Challenge- Day 4
Topic: Courage

Today I was lucky enough to have been invited to attend the VA hospital for Valentine’s Day.  My queen pageant sister Erica Kumar attended with me and it was so much fun to experience the stories of courage with a friend. We met many veterans today and heard a few stories that were just incredible.  I left the hospital to return to my day job feeling very humbled and honored.  The experience this morning really has made me think a lot about my perspective on life, my goals that can sometimes seem impossible, and the simple things in life that I want to appreciate more often.  The experience this morning has left me thinking, if these men could fight for our country and survive horrific conditions, I can certainly achieve the goals I have set for myself.  I leave you with one of my favorite quotes…

Courage doesn't always roar.
Sometimes courage is the quiet voice
at the end of the day saying,
"I will try again tomorrow."
- Mary Anne Radmacher

Taking Baby Steps

Mrs. Colorado's Challenge- Day 3
Topic: Baby Steps


Me and My Running Partner

I was never a runner until I moved to Colorado. I had gained a bunch of weight after having baby #2 and wanted desperately to get back into shape.  I remembered seeing groups of women running and talking and it looked so fun.  On night, I had a friend over and we started talking about the balancing act of being married, working, etc.  We both really wanted more time to connect with girlfriends and exercise on a consistent basis.  Shortly after that conversation, we made a commitment to run a few times during the week.  In the beginning it was painful because it was hard and I was not in condition. Together, we encouraged each other to continue and we soon set a goal to run our first half marathon.  We created a nine week running plan and before we knew it, we were on the trail of the Highlands Ranch Back Country Half Marathon.   Completing that goal never felt so good.  Running now is our social hour but more importantly it has helped me to stay committed to taking care of myself and particularly my cardiovascular health. 



During these winter months, it can be challenging to run outside.  With this in mind, I have recently been running on the treadmill and have had to find creative ways to keep myself motivated. I came across an interesting running drill, tried it, and LOVE it!  Of course, I just have to share it.

THE DRILL

·         Start on the treadmill at a speed of 4.5 for 2 minutes

·         After the first two minutes, increase your speed by .5 for one minute (you should be running at 5.0)

·         Keep increasing your speed in increments of .5 until you get to a speed of 8.0.

·         Then drop your speed back down to 4.5 for 2 minutes.  This allows your heart rate to rest.

·         Repeat this routine five times.

This is a brutal run but is so much fun because it is super challenging and at the same time it forces you to focus on one level at a time- just like taking baby steps.  When I do this drill, I keep telling myself, “Come on, you can do anything for one minute!” If you run outside, you can apply this same strategy by setting your stop watch and increasing your speed each minute.

This running drill reminds me of preparing for the Mrs. Colorado pageant.  It can be overwhelming to think about the end goal of running a race or being in a swimsuit on stage. From running to preparing for Mrs. Colorado, it really helped me to switch gears and just focus on taking it one day at a time- take baby steps.  You can do this!

 

Creating A More Confident You

Mrs. Colorado’s Challenge: Day Two

Topic: Confidence

Some friends and I decided to climb our first 14er this past fall. I remember having conversations about all the things that could go wrong. We talked about not having enough water and food. We socialized being too cold and hot. We even discussed the possibility of one of us getting sick and/or injured and not being able to finish the hike. Being a group of optimistic gals, we quickly switched gears and started thinking of ways we could mitigate those potential problems. We then collectively started creating a list of things we would need to plan for and bring on our hike.  We even decided to “train” for the 14er by starting to take the stairs leading up to our office (6 flights of stairs) as much as possible so that we could get used to climbing.  Together we lifted each other’s worries and built confidence.

I love to read articles and search the internet for meaningful messages.  This morning, during my 5am run on the treadmill, I came across a fabulous article that really resonated with me because it reminded me of the story I just shared with you.
According to my favorite sports psychologist JoAnn Dahlkoetter, you can boost your confidence in five minutes.  Try this mental exercise:

Step #1- Take a piece of paper and draw a vertical line down the middle.

Step#2- Write down all your negative thoughts about yourself or the goal you are trying to achieve- I’m too fat, I’m not strong enough to that workout, etc.  Write them down on the left hand side of the page.

Step#3- Look at the first negative sentence and ask yourself, “How can I coach myself through that?”  On the right hand side, write down a positive way to think about that fear.  If you’re afraid you’re not strong enough write, “There are people of all abilities and I get stronger every day.”

Step#4- Continue pairing every negative thought with a positive one until you’ve finished the list.  You’ll immediately feel better.  Save this paper to look at whenever doubts creep in.

As you prepare for Mrs. Colorado, it can feel overwhleming.  When you get these feelings, I urge you to try this mental exercise.  If I would have given up (it took me three times) I would never have had the opportunity to be Mrs. Colorado. You can do this!

At the top of my first 14er with friends Katie and Catherine. We did it!

Mind Games

Mrs. Colorado's Challenge "Day One"
Topic: Mind Games

If you’re an athlete (or a pageant gal), you may have heard the saying that competition is 90 percent mental, 10 percent physical. Do you agree with that percentage breakdown?  According to Dr. JoAnn Dahlkoetter, this ratio is definitely true.  According to a study on competitive runners, most athletes focus on the opposite ration.  They put 90 percent of their time and effort into the physical training and often neglect the mental aspect.  It is proven that developing your confidence and focusing on your ability to handle pressure is really critical to performing your best.

This not only applies to runners but to anyone who sets their mind to a goal.  According to the study, there are a few different traits that can make a huge difference in your success.  First of all, you need to love what you do and have a desire to make your goals a reality.  It also takes courage to succeed and to seek out challenges. I believe that the most important thing is to believe and trust yourself. Self-confidence will give you the ability to handle the challenge and stick to your game plan even when you encounter challenges. 

Come on ladies, you can do this!!!