"What is your secret?'

When I started posting my journey on social media sites, I have been asked over and over "What is your secret?"

This question makes me stop and think. I really don't believe I have a special secret that no one knows about. In fact, I believe everyone knows what the secret is, but they don't want to hear it. No, they are hoping there is a special way to juggling mommy hood, working out, eating right and running a house (along with all my added activities and volunteer work).

But sadly, there isn't. At least not one that I am aware of. So back to the question at hand. What is my secret? Well here it is:

1. Prioritize my life. I have to stop and think what is more important. Of course my children come first, but it is more than that. My health is also important and so is my husband. If I don't clean the house but I'm having a fun filled family time, then that is what is important. If I have to stay up late to get a work out in, then that is what is important. I might not have the cleanest house on the block and I may always have baby toys all over the house all the time but that is alright with me. My children are loved, I am in the best shape of my life, and I support my husband in everything he does. Those are my priorities.



2. Support System. I have the most amazing support system. My husband is my biggest cheerleader; my friends keep me going; and my daughter is my biggest fan. With all of those put together I have a strong support system. They know what is important to me and not only allow me to be me, they celebrate it. I have put working out on the top of that list and they know I will move mountains once I put my mind to something. There is no stopping me so might as well support me!



3. Eating Right. This one is a big one. I not only eat right, I make sure my family does as well. If you are busting your rear end at the gym but eating Burger King everyday, you are defeating the purpose. I enjoy cooking, which helps, and I love trying out healthy recipes that taste amazing. I don't do fad diets where you eat very little, oh no. I love food! I make sure my recipes are healthy but have all the flavor. Fad diets are called "Fads" for a reason, because they don't last. However, a healthy lifestyle does last. I am a connoisseur of healthy cook books. In fact, I will do a blog on the cook books I have and what I like and dislike about them.



4. Feeling the Burn. This is my final "secret", though I do not think it is so much a secret. I put the hours into working out and "Feeling the burn". I run 5 days a week, anywhere from 2-5 miles each time. I also do circuit training, strength training, yoga and Pilates. When I go to the gym, I'm there for an average of 2 hours. Every workout is a chance to give it my all and let the sweat tell my story. I do not see the point in doing a half assed work out. Even if you can't do that much, still give it everything you have. Now, did I start doing this? HECK NO! I could barely walk 25 minutes without getting winded. But you know what. I didn't give up. That is the biggest secret of all. Never give up!



So, now you know my own personal secret to where I am today. Now, what are you going to do with that knowledge?

Picture taken today (24 Jan 2012)