I'm a Master at Something!

This little piece of expensive paper came in the mail today! 

Sent from my iPhone.

Thank You Meijer

There are so many reasons to love Meijer. They are based in Michigan. They are everywhere. They are open 24 hours. And most importantly, they are NOT Wal-Mart (bullies!)

Since July of 07, I have been trying my hardest to make better healthy living choices, including changes in my diet and exercise. Overall, I'd give myself a B--doing okay, but there is some room for improvement. During that time frame, our friends at Meijer have been making their food healthier, too.

Although I'm not entirely sure how long they've been doing it, Meijer has their own store brand of organic products cleverly called "Meijer Organics." In the past, I've always been a bit of a food snob and steered clear of "value" brands. I'm convinced--in part by reading labels--that it is not possible for store brands to be exactly like their commercial counterparts. Something...it may be small...but something, is different.

However, I have sampled dozens of Meijer Organics products and they are all great. Meijer Organics are our preferred brands, unless we find something cheaper. And, I think that is a major difference. I feel like the company is not trying to make all their organic products "value" products as well. For example, tonight I bought a different brand of organic cane sugar because it was over $1 cheaper than the Meijer brand.

For those of you that live near a Meijer, try out their Organic line. Yes, I know it costs more than other brands, but remember it's your body and so far you only get one of those. And, once you've tried a jam, jelly, ketchup or other treat that is not made with high fructose corn syrup, you will have a hard time going back.

The picture shows a few of our regular Meijer Organics purchases.

Two Weeks and Counting

Jennie and I left mid-morning for a 10 mile run. As we struggled to finish 10 miles, it hit me: Chicago 2008 is only two weeks away! I'm actually pretty excited about doing the marathon October 12th. I spent my childhood watching my father leave early on weekends to run races of all sorts...5k...10K...half marathon...marathon...24 hour races (what's up with those?) I ran a little track in high school, but certainly never fancied myself a serious runner. Once, my dad bribed be into running 13 miles in exchange for a pair of speakers. I think he was a little disappointed in my performance, and I learned how far 13 miles really was.

I ran on and off in college, but taking a full load of classes and working (almost) full time made it hard to find time to run. I was really two summers ago, when I was in Geneva and had no other obligations besides going to class from 9-5 that I found time to take up the sport.

Today, I'm far from pro, but I have found that running can be enjoyable. The key is that you have to do it at least 3 times a week. Otherwise, you lose your running fitness. In other words, half the battle in running is form and breathing. Your body has to get used to these two things in order to keep going. When I was going to the gym, I would work out my leg muscles. So, my legs were strong, but my respiratory system was not trained for 2-3 hours of non-stop exercise. So, that has been the biggest difference.

These next two weeks are set up as tapering time. Our longest run is about 8 miles and during the week is 4. I want to also work on eating better. This is always a goal for me, but now that the big day is nearing, I would love to drop off another 2-4 pounds (really, 10 would be great.)

Wish me luck.