Can you believe it's been 3 weeks since I last posted? Honestly, I'm not quite sure what happened. I was trying out this new biweekly posting schedule, but I guess I just lost track of time. I could say I've been busy and had a lot going on, but to be real, that’s not entirely the case—I definitely could have squeaked in a post or two. Anyway, I have a bit of an update for you all, but I don't want this to turn into a super long post, so let’s just get to it!
Alright, folks, let me catch you up on my half-marathon journey! Last time we chatted, I had just wrapped up week 4 of my training, and now, drumroll please… I've officially completed week 7! That's right, I'm halfway through my half-marathon training, which means I'm on the path to conquering those 13.1 miles! Can you believe it?
Happy Tuesday, everyone! Did you miss me? I'm trying out this biweekly posting thing, and I have to say, the past weeks have been semi-eventful. They've been filled with fun, food, and of course, running! Can you believe I'm already on my 5th week of half-marathon training? It's wild to think that I'll be running my first half-marathon in less than 10 weeks! That's crazy!
Week 3 of my half-marathon training was both challenging and exciting! I tackled hill reps for the first time at Miller Hill in Herman Park, although I could only manage 30-second reps. As I progress, those reps will need to get longer, so I’m definitely on the lookout for a bigger hill – maybe signing up for a hilly half-marathon wasn’t the smartest move considering I live in such a flat area, right? To cap off the week, I completed a 5-mile long run, marking the longest distance I've ever run. From here on out, every distance will be a personal record! It was tough, but I powered through and was able to use my long run to complete my Independence Day 8K Virtual race to make up for the one I missed in June due to my knee injury (An 8K is just under 5 miles).
So, I recently got the news that I have PCOS, a hormonal condition that can throw a wrench in things like my cycle, weight, and insulin levels. Honestly, it felt like a lot to unpack, but I knew I had to pivot and make some changes. One major takeaway? Exercise can really give my body a boost! So, I took a good hard look at my training routine and decided to spice it up to align better with my health goals. As I explored this fitness journey alongside PCOS, I realized the magic of striking a balance between pushing my limits and letting my body recharge. It's been quite the revelation, and I'm super excited to share my insights with you. Let’s jump into how I customized my training to thrive with PCOS!
So, here I am, back with another Tuesday update—and on an actual Tuesday, no less! I’ve been a bit unsure about posting this week since I didn’t receive any feedback on the potential switch to a biweekly schedule. Additionally, I’m curious about what you all think regarding bringing the newsletter back. I’m not entirely sure how most of you are keeping up with my blog posts, so I’d love to hear how you’d prefer to be informed about new content. Your thoughts would be super helpful!
In a world brimming with chaos and demands, carving out moments of peace and rejuvenation is nothing short of essential. For me, running has evolved into more than just a physical activity; it's my sanctuary for nourishing my mind, body, and soul. Let’s dive into why running has become my ultimate self-care ritual and a source of profound serenity. Lace up those shoes and join me as we explore the transformative magic of this simple yet profound practice.
I know I missed last week's post, but I'm back now and ready to share two weeks' worth of updates. I've been thinking about switching my Tuesday updates to a biweekly schedule since I don't always have a lot happening each week. I want to keep my posts interesting for you all, and I realize you might get tired of hearing that I've just been running and going to work, but honestly, that's pretty much my routine every week!
Speaking of running, I wrapped up my post-injury recovery plan the week before last, and I’m happy to report that my knee is feeling good! Last week, I officially kicked off my half-marathon training—yup, you read that right! I’m running a half-marathon despite having only started running less than a year ago; I know, crazy, right?
Welcome back to another Tuesday update... on Wednesday! I know I'm a day late, but I'm here. I did manage to publish two blog posts last week though, so yay for small victories! If you haven't already, make sure to check out my birthday post. Moving forward, I'm aiming to increase my posting frequency to twice a week. I'm considering Tuesday and Friday as potential posting days, but I'd love to hear your thoughts on the matter. Additionally, I'm contemplating bringing back my newsletter. While I'm unsure about its content since I already provide weekly updates here, I recognize that not everyone follows me on social media and may miss out on new posts. Let me know your thoughts on the newsletter dilemma!
Last week marked my return to running after a necessary break due to a knee injury. Taking it cautiously, my running program has been progressing at a slow and steady pace. The longest distance I covered last week was 2 miles, a far cry from my previous capabilities. While I acknowledge the need for patience, my main goal is to regain my running form. Despite my pace being significantly slower than before, I remain optimistic that my speed will gradually return. I am eagerly anticipating the completion of my post-injury plan so I can embark on training for a half-marathon.
As my 30th birthday approached, I found myself at a loss for how to celebrate this significant milestone. Usually brimming with ideas and excitement for birthday festivities, this time, the inspiration seemed to elude me. With the weight of the big 3-0 on the horizon, I knew I couldn't let this momentous occasion pass by without proper acknowledgment. Typically one to organize special activities or events for my birthdays, I had procrastinated too long to organize a trip or any elaborate plans. The question remained: what should I do?
Having just orchestrated a successful surprise celebration for my mother, whose birthday falls two weeks before mine, I found myself desiring a lowkey birthday affair where I could simply unwind and relish time with my family. Being the usual planner for events, I decided I didn't want to take on the responsibility of orchestrating my own celebration this time. In a light-hearted moment, I jokingly asked my mother what she had in store for my birthday, to which she cryptically replied that she was planning something. I didn't truly expect her to plan anything elaborate, especially when I lacked the energy to do so myself.
As the week of my birthday arrived, I decided I wanted to do something special, something I had never experienced before – Afternoon Tea or High Tea. Pairing this with a weekend stay at a luxurious hotel sounded like the perfect blend of relaxation and sophistication. I delved into researching various places that offered Afternoon Tea. Determined to combine both desires, I set out to find a hotel and tea spot in close proximity. After thorough investigation, the Lancaster Hotel emerged as the ideal choice to fulfill my birthday dreams.
Last week was all about Hurricane Beryl. The storm made its grand entrance on Monday morning, crashing in and disrupting our peaceful existence by knocking out the power at the cruel hour of 5:30 am. As fate would have it, I was wide awake to witness this chaotic event. The rest of Monday was a tedious affair, mostly spent lazing around, trying to keep boredom at bay while waiting for the power to mercifully return.
On Tuesday, the unbearable heat drove me to seek refuge in the office, where a generator powered one floor, providing a temporary sanctuary to cool off and recharge our devices. Despite not being productive in terms of work, those few hours of cool comfort were a welcome relief. Returning home, the heat was still unbearable, and within just half an hour, I found myself on the move again. Opting to visit the Star Cinema Grill, my brother and I watched Despicable Me 4, a movie I wasn't particularly keen on but served as a means to escape the heat for a couple of hours, even if the film turned out to be terribly ridiculous. Fortunately, upon arriving back home, the power had been restored, marking the end of our temporary ordeal.
Throughout the rest of the week, I worked from home as I was fortunate to have both power and internet connectivity. The new challenge I faced was sourcing food amidst the chaos. It became a task to locate a restaurant that was open or a store that actually had stocked shelves. Despite the hurdles, we managed to overcome the situation and ensure we had enough food supplies to get by.
My apologies for the radio silence over the past month. I really have no excuse, except that ‘life happens’. I think I needed to take a break, but June was an exciting month filled with memorable experiences.
Kicking off the month, I had an absolute blast at Fan Expo Dallas with my mom and brother, diving headfirst into all things fandom. It was a geek's paradise, and we soaked up every moment. David Tennant was the biggest name that came, so there was a lot of Doctor Who-related excitement, which was just fantastic. There were over 60,000 people there over the course of the weekend, and if you know me, you know I don’t like crowds. I plan on doing an entire post about navigating anxiety in a crowd like that, so stay tuned.
Hey there, remember me? I'm finally back in action after a brief hiatus. Apologies for leaving you hanging last time - I know I probably caused a bit of a stir among my loyal readers. But fear not, I didn't fall off the face of the earth, just needed a little breather.
Apologies for the lack of an update last week, as there wasn't much to report. I was absent from work for the entire week before last due to being unwell, which led me to attend two doctor's appointments. Although feeling sick is never enjoyable, I am grateful for the time off and the medical consultations as they provided clarity on the issues bothering me. Stay tuned for an upcoming post diving into my recent diagnosis of PCOS and how I plan to tackle it head-on.
During my recovery period, I hit pause on my usual training routine, but I'm thrilled to announce that I've officially kicked off my 10K training plan again. It feels great to be back on the grind, striving towards my fitness aspirations.
On Monday, I had the office all to myself as the sole member from my team present, creating a peaceful and productive atmosphere that allowed me to accomplish a lot of work. To kick off the week on a strong note, I embarked on a 3K Tempo Run, sporting my vibrant new yellow highlighter set from Hey Girl Run. Additionally, I was finally early enough to order one of the mystery Monday sets from Hey Girl Run, which arrived on Saturday. Anticipating a top and bottom duo, I was delighted to find that the package actually contained 2 tops and 2 shorts, resulting in a double dose of excitement and satisfaction. A definite win for the start of the week!
Happy Tuesday!
First things first, before we get into anything else, I'm just gonna come out and say it. I didn't do my long run last weekend. Truth be told, my training efforts were lackluster last week; I only hit the pavement once on Tuesday. But fear not, this week, I shall endeavor to do better.
Happy Tuesday!
Can you believe it's already the last day of my 30-day wellness challenge? Time really flew by, and we're about to step into May! Reflecting on these past 30 days, I'm feeling pretty satisfied with how the challenge went. It wasn't flawless, but I believe I achieved what I set out to do. Considering doing it again sometime soon. If you haven't given it a shot yet, I highly recommend challenging yourself. You might just surprise yourself with what you can accomplish.
Escape embodies the essence of taking a breather, carving out a haven where I can just exist, away from the noise of daily life. When it comes to Escape, I prioritize creating moments of tranquility amidst the chaos of everyday life. It involves disconnecting from the frenzy, reconnecting with my inner self through activities like immersing myself in a captivating book, journaling, or simply embracing a quiet moment of reflection. I cherish these opportunities to reconnect with my inner self and recharge my spirit.
Happy Tuesday!
Reflecting on last week, it started off a bit lackluster, but things took a turn for the better towards the end. A last-minute online early screening of The Idea of You on Wednesday night brought unexpected joy to my day – Anne Hatha-slay truly never fails to impress! The resurgence of romantic comedies has me excited! Speaking of, I've got my sights set on catching Anyone But You when it hits Netflix this weekend.
Embracing the marathon mentality means shifting our mindset from quick fixes to sustainable habits. It's about setting goals that are challenging yet achievable, keeping our eyes on the prize even when the road gets rocky. While short-term goals may provide instant gratification, the marathon mentality offers lasting fulfillment. It's about building a strong foundation for long-term success, knowing that each step we take brings us closer to our ultimate destination.
Speaking of sleep, I've been popping these melatonin gummies like they're candy. They're like a little slice of sleep heaven, but I'm trying not to get too hooked. I mean, who wants to be dependent on gummies for shut-eye, right? They've been a comfort, though, and I feel like they've been doing wonders for my rest. Last week, I actually surpassed my sleep goal, averaging a solid 7 hours per night! As I gear up for the sleep phase of my 30-day challenge, I'm realizing the importance of establishing a more consistent bedtime routine.
Happy Tuesday!
So, here I am, 9 days deep into my 30-day wellness challenge, and I must say, things have been going well – pun totally intended! The physical health challenges were a piece of cake, and now we've transitioned to focusing on nutrition. Admittedly, I did have a little slip-up already. The goal yesterday was to incorporate a serving of fruits or vegetables with every meal. While I managed to have a hearty serving of cabbage during lunch yesterday, I fell short because I didn't eat breakfast and dinner. Nevertheless, it's all about progress, not perfection, right?
I got back into the swing of things with my training last week. Four runs, two killer training sessions for both upper and lower body, and even squeezed in a 30-minute mobility session. Ah, it felt so good to be consistent again! On the running front, I conquered my longest distance yet - a 7K, which is equal to just under 4.5 miles. Surprisingly, I completed it in nearly an hour, surpassing my own expectations. Who knew I had it in me? Just gotta triple that distance, and boom, I'll be ready for a half-marathon!
Wellness is incredibly important to me because it encompasses all aspects of my well-being – physical, mental, and emotional. It is a holistic approach to living a balanced and fulfilling life. When I first embarked on my health journey, my main focus was on fitness and physical health. It all began with my decision to start weight training. At first, it was a simple desire to improve my physical strength and tone my body. Little did I know that this decision would have a profound impact on all aspects of my well-being.
During my fitness journey, I gradually transitioned into a more balanced approach to wellness. It all began with my decision to venture into weight training, a realm I was unfamiliar with. Starting from scratch, I found myself gradually developing newfound strength and seeing improvements in my endurance. As I became more committed to my training regimen, I realized that the benefits extended far beyond just building muscle.
One unexpected consequence of my weight training was a positive shift in my eating habits. I started to pay closer attention to the fuel I was putting into my body, recognizing that nourishing it with wholesome foods was essential for optimal performance and recovery. This newfound awareness led me to make healthier choices, embracing a balanced and nutritious approach to my meals. The impact was incredible. This change in my eating habits not only helped me reach my fitness goals faster, but it also made me feel better overall. I had more energy and was able to perform better during my workouts.
Welcome back to another edition of Tuesdays with Kerin! I know, I know, you've been eagerly awaiting my return, right? I'm thrilled to be reconnecting with all of you for our weekly catch-up session. For my loyal followers, you already know the drill, but for those new to the scene, this is where I spill the tea on what's been happening in my world each week.
I've been trying to get back into my running groove after taking a little hiatus. It feels like I'm starting from scratch, but hey, I'm determined to push through and get my endurance back. It's probably a good idea to reincorporate strength training into my routine to enhance my stamina for those long runs. Back when I achieved my personal best, I was diligently hitting the weights. Fortunately, my home gym is decked out with all the necessary gear, so I can sweat it out without stepping foot outside.
I've got about 4 weeks left in my 5k training block, and my goal is to conquer a 34-minute 5k. Then, it's on to 10k training. The grind never stops!
Have you ever felt like your relationship with makeup was more than just cosmetics? I certainly have. As a makeup enthusiast, my journey with cosmetics has been a rollercoaster of self-expression and self-doubt. It all started with a love for creativity and self-expression through makeup. But as time went on, my relationship with makeup became a crutch, a mask I couldn't take off. At one point, I found myself so entrenched in the world of makeup that I couldn't bear to face the world without it. The daily ritual of applying layers of foundation and mascara became more of a necessity than a choice, leading to a detrimental impact on both my skin and mental well-being.
I had to reevaluate my relationship with makeup and rediscover the joy of embracing my bare face. The breakup with makeup was necessary for my skin and mental health. And now, I have found the confidence to rock makeup again, not as a crutch but as a tool for creativity and expression.
Welcome to my little corner of the internet, where I, a proud introvert, am ready to spill the tea on what it's really like to live life on the quieter side. Let's face it, being an introvert in a world that favors the loud and the outgoing can be tough. We introverts often find ourselves labeled as shy, rude, or even snobbish – when really, we're just trying to navigate this extroverted world in our own quiet way.
Get ready to discover that us introverts aren't just antisocial hermits – we're complex, thoughtful individuals with a lot to offer the world. It's time to dive into the truths, unravel the mysteries, and celebrate the quirks of introverted life. Without further ado, here are 10 honest confessions about me as an introvert.
Hello there, future runner! Ready to lace up those shoes, take a deep breath, and embark on an extraordinary journey? You've landed in the right place! We'll delve into the fascinating world of running in this blog post and offer you all the necessary tools and tips to hit the ground running. Whether you're a complete novice or seeking to enhance your skills, I've got you covered. So, let’s embark on this exhilarating adventure together!
Running can be an immensely rewarding activity. It not only boosts your physical health but also offers ample mental benefits. Mental clarity is one of the unexpected joys I discovered on my running journey. There's something about hitting the pavement that helps shed the stress and worries of the day.
Plus, it's an effective way to explore the great outdoors and connect with a supportive community. Running has a unique way of fostering a sense of community. During races or running events, you get to meet like-minded individuals from all walks of life. The camaraderie and shared adrenaline are incredible.
With the right preparation and mindset, anyone can become a runner. I believe running isn’t just about the destination but also about the journey itself. Thus, it’s crucial for beginners to approach it with positivity and patience.
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| February 2024 |
I want to take you along on this journey of mine, sharing the good, the bad, and the ugly. I'll let you in on the tips and tricks I've picked up along the way, as well as the setbacks I've faced. It's been a journey of transformation, and I can't wait to spill all the details with you. So, are you ready to dive in with me? Let's do this!
Hello, savvy savers! Are you ready to take control of your personal finances and keep your wallet grinning from ear to ear? Well, you're in luck. Today, I'll be sharing my top ten tricks for saving money like a real professional. We'll delve into the world of savings, discussing why it's so vital and exploring various strategies to make it happen. We all understand the importance of saving cash. It could be for an emergency fund, a dream purchase, or to reach our financial goals. Let's get started!
It's like going on a journey. You wouldn't hit the road without knowing your destination, would you? The same goes for your financial journey. Setting clear financial goals forms the foundation of good money-saving habits. They give you a clear path, a sense of direction, and a finish line to aspire to.
So how do we set these goals? Well, it's crucial to keep them realistic and measurable. Don't aim to save a million bucks in a month if you're earning a fraction of that. Start small, and as your income grows, scale your goals upwards. Remember to put a timeline on your goals. It could be short-term, like saving for a vacation, or long-term, like saving for retirement. Having a timeframe in place helps maintain focus and motivation. Finally, your goals must align with your values. If you're passionate about travel, saving for a globetrotting adventure will feel less like a chore and more like an exciting endeavor.
To embark on this journey, first, we need to confront the enemy: our spending habits. Begin by tracking your expenses. This simple practice will provide a clear picture of where your money goes each month. Once you start, you might be shocked to discover how those seemingly small purchases can pile up.
Next, identify your problem areas. These are the sneaky purchases that creep into your spending without you realizing, such as regular takeout or those weekend online shopping sprees. Recognizing these areas is the first step towards taking control of them.
From now on, I'm stepping away from the crazy rat race of trying to grow my following on Instagram. It's become such an unnecessary source of stress, and, honestly, I’ve had enough. You might have noticed that my blog posts have been dwindling. That's because I've been spending an inordinate amount of time figuring out what to post on Instagram. What will attract more followers? What do they want to see from me? And the truth is, I don’t really know. But I've reached a point where I don't care anymore.
When I first launched Kerin's Korner in 2017, my goal was never to amass a huge following, especially not on Instagram. I wasn't even an Instagram user back then. I simply switched my personal account to a business one to promote my blog content. However, as my followers began to grow, so did the pressure to create Instagram-exclusive content. I remember hitting the 500 followers mark and feeling so thrilled. They were genuine followers, real people who truly cared about what I had to say.
Now, my follower count hovers around 1800, but it dips a little more each day. I question the authenticity of most of them. I reckon about 500 of them are genuinely interested in my content. I toyed with the idea of starting anew with a fresh Instagram account to better engage and grow my audience. I even did some research on how to go about it. But, after much contemplation, I realized that's not the real problem. The issue lies in my reluctance to create content purely for Instagram growth.
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| Photo by Peter Bravo de los Rios on Unsplash |
Okay, maybe that's a bit exaggerated. But the point remains, we love our pizza or cake or $5 Biggie Bag (if you know, you know😉). And why should we have to give it up in the name of fitness? The good news is, we don't have to. This blog post is devoted to showing you how you can maintain a fit and healthy lifestyle without bidding adieu to your beloved pizza. So, grab a slice (or two), sit back, and get ready to embark on your wellness journey without letting go of your favorite indulgence.
It's time for some real talk. Lately, I've been slipping up with my nutrition habits. Life has been hectic, and I've found myself reaching for convenient, unhealthy options more often than I'd like to admit. But hey, we're all human, right? The important thing is recognizing when we've veered off course and having a game plan to get back on track. That's exactly what I want to share with you today - my personal journey of slipping up on nutrition habits and my game plan for getting back on track. So, grab a cup of tea and let's dive in because we're in this together.
Allow me to elaborate on our topic of discussion. It's easy to fall into the trap of unhealthy eating habits, especially when life gets busy. Suddenly, before you know it, you're off the health wagon and into the fast-food drive-thru. It's something I've personally experienced recently. Having a game plan to get back on track is crucial. It's like a roadmap that guides you back to your health goals when you've taken a detour. With this in mind, my goal today is to shed some light on my journey and share my strategy for getting back to healthier habits. So, why is this necessary? It's simple. Our dietary habits significantly influence our health, energy levels, and overall quality of life. Regularly consuming unhealthy food can lead to issues like weight gain, fatigue, and even more severe health problems.
Hey there, fitness enthusiasts and soon-to-be fitness fanatics! Are you ready to embark on a journey that will transform your body and mind? Well, before you lace up those sneakers and start pumping iron like a maniac, let's take a moment to debunk some common fitness myths that might be holding you back. Trust me, separating fact from fiction will save you from a world of pain and confusion. So, grab a protein shake, sit back, and get ready to be enlightened!
Now, I could give you a long, boring lecture filled with scientific jargon and fancy fitness terms, but where's the fun in that? Instead, let's approach this with a sense of humor and a sprinkle of sarcasm, shall we? After all, laughter is the best ab workout, right? So, tighten those abs and let's dive into the hilarious world of fitness myths!
But before we jump into the myths, let me remind you of one crucial thing: fitness is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Everyone's body is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. So, listen to your body, be kind to yourself, and let's bust these myths together.
Ready? Let's go!
I'm thrilled to finally share my journey with you because, yes, you guessed it right! I did it! I ran a 5K and crushed my goal right out of the ballpark. I'm not going to lie, there were days filled with self-doubt where I questioned my ability to cross that finish line. But, guess what? I did it! And if I can do it, believe me, you can too. So buckle up as I take you on my journey from being a non-runner to a triumphant 5K finisher.
Hello World!
I'm so excited to share with you some of the new healthy habits I'm incorporating into my life this year, and I invite you to join me on this journey of growth and self-improvement. In this post, I'll be covering a range of topics, from prioritizing self-care and incorporating physical activity, to mindful eating, cultivating a positive mindset, getting enough sleep, setting realistic goals, and more. So let's dive in and explore these new habits together, shall we?
Leveling up—in essence, it means going a step above your current state. It's about seeking growth, embracing change, and striving to become a better version of oneself. This concept is not merely confined to video games or professional progression. It applies to our personal lives too, especially when it comes to our health and well-being. Healthy habits play a crucial role in our overall wellness. What we eat, how much we sleep, our physical activity levels, our mindset—each of these factors contributes to our health in significant ways. While we might not see immediate effects, consistent healthy habits help us level up our lives in the long run. Here are some healthy habits, I'll be incorporating this year.
Hello World!
Can you believe it's already 2024? As I sit here reflecting on the past year, I can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude and accomplishment. You see, 2023 was the year that transformed me into a healthier and wealthier individual, and I couldn't be more proud of the progress I've made. The concept of "becoming the best version of oneself" is often tossed around, but it wasn't until 2023 that I truly understood its power. Today, I want to take you on a journey through my personal transformation and share with you how I became the best version of myself. From prioritizing physical health to nurturing mental well-being, and from achieving financial growth to reflecting on personal growth, this blog post will cover it all. So grab a cozy blanket, a warm cup of tea, and let's dive in!
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| Photo by Estúdio Bloom on Unsplash |
My life before 2023 was comfortable, but it lacked direction and fulfillment. I was drifting along, living life on autopilot. I was physically unfit, mentally tired, and financially unstable. The dissatisfaction kept gnawing at me until one day, it dawned on me - I deserved better, and I was the only one who could make it happen. I decided to hit the reset button in 2023.
The year 2023 was a revelation! Through the course of the year, I made conscious, deliberate choices which had a significant impact on my life. From choosing to eat healthier, incorporating physical activities into my daily routine, prioritizing mental health – I realized that becoming the best version of oneself is an inside job.