Before I start writing my WIR posts, I like to look back over my Instagram photos from the past week and pick a few to share that will shape my post.  Apparently, I posted a lot of food pictures recently!  Nutrition and fitness have definitely been on my mind for this past week since I have fully immersed myself in the Tone It Up Bikini Series.  Spring is a great time to amp up your fitness, especially with the arrival of warmer weather.  Although I wish I could be running right now, I’m working hard in Physical Therapy and at home to get my knee healthy in time for summer training.  *Fingers crossed*

Healthy Eats + Some Treats

I’m the kind of person who likes to eat the same thing for breakfast and lunch for months at a time.  I’m even a fan of themed day-of-the-week style dinners (like Sushi Monday).  I think I have developed this inclination towards repeated meals due to my sensitive tummy and digestive system.  There are things I know I can eat and process well that I enjoy, so I keep coming back to them over and over again.  I tend to switch up my preferred breakfast and lunch meals seasonally.  Now that we’re fully immersed in spring, I’ve been craving protein smoothies and yogurt with berries and granola for breakfast.  I’ve also been trying to up my protein intake with one serving of my favorite Perfect Fit protein powder once a day since I have been training more and am not a huge meat eater.  I’ve always been able to process this particular protein powder easily.  I even made healthy donuts with it!  My lunchtime option still leans towards hummus with raw veggies.  I know that Don will start grilling more as summer approaches.  There’s nothing quite like a simple grilled chicken breast, shrimp, or fish and yummy grilled veggies as a healthy summer dinner option!  Of course, even with a lighter, cleaner diet, I still allow for the occasional treat or two.  Whole Foods cupcakes are too cute and too delectable to resist every once in awhile!

FIERCE!

Did I mention I’ve been on a huge circuit training kick lately?  I sadly injured my left knee during the Disney Princess Half Marathon back in late February and have not been able to run since.  I am currently in Physical Therapy in my healing journey.  Fortunately, I’ve been able to do most every other kind of physical activity.  I’ve been diligently putting in 30-60 minutes of cardio on the elliptical in addition to 30-60 minutes of circuit training six times per week.  It’s hard for me to take a day off exercise, since I genuinely like it so much, but I’ve implemented a mandatory day of rest on Sundays (until the return of Sunday Run Day!).  My number one priority it to take care of my body and mind, number two is to be able to run again (sooner than later, I hope!), number three is to work every muscle group for overall toning, and number four is to maintain my aerobic activity with the safest cardio option readily available (hence all of the time spent on the elliptical machine).  I mention mental health in regards to exercise, because exercise is my drug of choice in combatting and keeping a lid on my anxiety.  There’s nothing quite like kicking your own butt to take your mind off your mind and focus on your body instead.  The endorphins are the icing on the cake.  I also just like feeling strong.  It makes me feel fierce, even though I definitely fail at making a fierce face, as evidenced below (#FierceFaceFail)!

Warmer Weather = Wardrobe Changes

Another thing that happens come spring is a welcome change of wardrobe.  There’s something so refreshing about spring.  With everything in bloom and longer, warmer days, it’s hard not to want to match the weather, literally.  As much as I love the cozy sweaters and boots of winter, by May I am ready to rock some cropped jeans, lighter clothes, and brighter colors.  My new(ish) Sperry’s have been getting lots of attention from me in the past couple of weeks, as well.  I’ve also enjoyed jazzing up my makeup with brighter looks using purples and blues.  I wake up earlier and feel more energized , which is reflected in how I chose to present myself.  I always look forward to the change of seasons!

This is such a great time of year to start fresh since nature is doing the same!  I thoroughly enjoy sharing my spring delights with you here and on YouTube.  I’d love to know what changes spring has brought for you this year, if you care to share.

* I am not affiliated with any brands mentioned in this post.  I am a Sigma Beauty affiliate, which I mention because you can see some Sigma Beauty products in the last photo set.  All opinions are my own.*