here is where we get real – really real – some sarcasm included:

i felt self-conscious about seeing my beautiful friends and family. i wasn’t exercising, i was going out and drinking more than before, and food was simply a pleasure not a fuel. the waistband of my jeans dug in to my stomach, but when a boy is picking you up from the airport on the other side, you spend a four-hour flight in skinny jeans – even if they are a bit too skinny. i was seeing two great friends and their newborns, and feared that i would be the only one who looked like they just gave birth (then had my fear realized). why was i abusing my health? i was the only one suffering; i was the only one that would have to deal with the complications.

on the cusp of 28 i shouldn’t have worries at the back of my mind that if i continued my current lifestyle i’d have a heart attack by 40. though, every time i climbed a few flights of stairs and got winded, there it was.

i knew i needed a change. a big one. the day after i got back to Calgary i started Booty Camp Fitness, a boot camp designed for women to promote healthy, happy and active lives.

this was not an easy decision. i contemplated not going. i had to be measured. i had to prove just how out of shape i was. i had to do all of this in front of many other women who, in my mind, were all beautiful, fit, with perfectly coifed long flowing hair and wore sports bras and booty shorts. i wouldn’t fit in. it would be a hard dose of reality.

truth was, i was only right about one thing: i had to be measured.

women of all shapes and sizes rolled out their mats and looked around with the same fear in their eyes that i had. we were all in for the same four-week ride. after introducing myself to our instructor, Lauren, and getting my measurements (i didn’t look), i got ready for my first of eight one-hour sessions.

the class combined:

• circuit training
• agility drills
• sports conditioning
• hand-to-hand cardio combat (no contact)
• core strengthening
• body weight resistance training
• yoga

translation: jumping jacks till exhaustion, squats till exhaustion, lunges till exhaustion, pushups till exhaustion, planks to exhaustion,  burpees till exhaustion, then stretch.

when it ended my legs were jello and i was a new level of spent. i felt empowered. i worked at my own pace, took breaks if needed, but worked hard. Lauren pushed us and encouraged us; we encouraged each other.

while i relaxed in my epsom salt bath that night i reflected on my trip, my self-esteem, and thoughts of self-worth. i needed to be better and nicer to myself. i needed to care for myself. a return to fitness was going to be my treat to me. as i soaked, i made my new goal: for 365 days i would get at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily.

for seven more sessions i continued to challenge myself with the help of Lauren and fellow booty campers. on days off from sessions i did cardio, went to barre class and yoga.  and i ate mostly ‘clean’.

day 27 was judgement day. i was feeling defeated; i couldn’t see any results and was wondering why i even bothered pushing so hard. the last thing i wanted to do was get remeasured. i asked Lauren not to tell me the results, but as she wrapped the pink measuring tape around my body, she told me she had to. when i looked, i understood why.

in 27 days of exhausting work i lost 10.25 inches. most notably, 1.5 inches from both my stomach and hips, and 3.5 inches from my thighs combined.

why didn’t i see this? besides the fact i’m slightly a self-sadist? i look in the mirror daily, it’s hard to notice those changes.

i feel the changes each time i conquer new stair cases, go for a run, or slip on my jeans. it’s an understatement to say i’m incredibly proud of myself.

i’ll never sugarcoat things: it’s not easy and most of the time it isn’t fun, but there is some sick pleasure one gets from dripping in sweat. i worked my ass off. it is worth it.

now, on day 42, i feel amazing. when i check out my butt in the mirror, i thank Lauren for every lunge and squat she made us do. i’m still in the beginning of my journey, but i’ve made incredible progress and it all started with the decision to show up one wednesday.

the june sessions of Booty Camp are now open for registration. check it out, you won’t regret it.

–

have you ever tried Booty Camp? what’s your favourite workout?

i’ve brushed up on popular sports (read: i only really know lacrosse and baseball) to add hours of casual chit chat to my repertoire.

i’ve been working on my fitness to add confidence to my every step.

i’ve become reacquainted with rejection – never going to try kissing someone or have a serious conversation at 3:30 a.m. after a night of heavy drinking again.

i’ve reactivated my online dating account.

over the course of a few bad first – sometimes second – dates, i’ve learned many things about others and myself.

whatever their height says, reduce it by two inches. don’t rely on the photos they post. if they say they played NFL and now live in Canada, they most likely bench-warmed for special teams for one year aka didn’t play. if they often say they want a relationship, they want it with anyone available, it doesn’t matter who. the majority want you to come over ASAP and get undressed in their bed.

the best lesson i’ve learned from numerous men: don’t tell me you’re a gentleman.

don’t tell me you’re a gentleman then tell me what i’m supposed to be thinking or how i am supposed to be acting.

don’t tell me you’re a gentleman then send me dick pics after one date.

don’t tell me you’re a gentleman then never hold a door open.

don’t tell me you’re a gentleman then neglect to check in on me to make sure i made it home okay when you wouldn’t walk with me.

don’t tell me you’re a gentleman then talk about how great my boobs are to your friends.

don’t tell me you’re a gentleman then invite me over to hang out on our first ‘date’ in your dark living room.

don’t tell me you’re a gentleman then not pay attention to things i tell you are important to me.

don’t tell me you’re a gentleman then text me at the time your were supposed to be at my place to tell me you’re going to be an hour late.

don’t tell me you’re a gentleman then try to make out and grope me on a very public park bench.

don’t tell me you’re a gentleman then slip up mid-conversation to reveal you’re lying.

don’t tell me you’re a gentleman then ignore me and reschedule when my uncle dies and all i could use is a hug.

don’t tell me you’re a gentleman then tell me how hot my friends are and ask if certain ones are single.

don’t tell me you’re a gentleman then text me when i’ve asked you not to contact me any longer.

if i can’t come to the conclusion that you’re a gentleman without you telling me, sorry honey, but you’re no gentleman.

–

have you dated many ‘gentlemen’?

1. microgiardini – land and sea

i live in a sunless apartment, so keeping plants and flowers have been a bit challenging. it also means i have no garden. these canned plants are the perfect solution for concrete jungle dwellers.

2. chuck taylor all star, snorkel blue – converse

you can never have too many chucks, especially since they come in so many colours. These bright snorkel blue kicks will go great with all printed denim – so on trend.

3. bronzing powder, bronze – mac cosmetics

sun’s out, guns out. a little bronzer will fool others into thinking i didn’t turn into a ghost during the winter. false. i’m always a ghost.

4. bottle service – essie

out till dawn? not a problem these neon nails will light the way home.

5. hey batter batter tee – firedaughter clothing

nothing better than a little baseball on a sunny spring day. go jays! 

–

what’s on your spring love list?

Seven bloggers, seven prizes, seven winners! I think you just hit the jackpot.

We are: Katy from Fit in Heels, Tara from I’m Fit Possible, Davida from The Healthy Maven, Sarah from My Mostly Healthy Life, Michelle from Push Pump Progress, Suzi from Confessions of a Fitness Instructor, and ME! and we have teamed up to bring you the coolest giveaway. Ever.

Y’all ready fo’ this? You have to imagine Jock Jams Get Ready For This by 2 Unlimited playing in the background as you read the rest of this post!

Eat Clean Diet

Win one of two Eat-Clean Diet and Raw Elements Inc. sponsored goody bags! Goody bags include Tosca Reno’s favourite Sunwarrior supplements, a special recipe from Tosca and two titles from Tosca Reno’s bestselling Eat-Clean Diet series.

As well as a recipe from Tosca using the supplements in the goody bag.

Back in November, Michelle stumbled upon a local Toronto based company called Urban Running Girl. Urban Running Girl makes running shrugs…yes, that’s right…RUNNING SHRUGS! These shrugs are designed for active women. “The idea of a running shrug came about from the need to keep warm while warming up during and early morning run, particularly in the spring and fall. It’s too cool to start with only a tank top or t-shirt, but once you are warmed up and/or outside the temperature rises. Then it becomes too warm for a long sleeve shirt or jacket”. These shrugs come in a variety of colours: purple, black, pink, orange and turquoise. The shrugs are made of tech material that wicks away quickly, it also has fold over cuffs that you can use to cover your hands on cooler days!

Prize: One awesome running shrug in your choice of colours!

Allergic Solution

Omega Crunch Shelled Flax

Prize Includes: One 225g shaker bottle of Regular Shelled Flax.

Koge Vitamins

These ain’t your momma’s vitamins, but if you’re a nice kid you should get them for mom, anyway…it IS almost Mother’s Day! 

Koge takes the confusion out of buying vitamins, as simplicity is their
motto; there are only four options. Koge’s expert team of doctors and
nutritionists have put together multi-product vitamin packages designed to
ensure you receive the holistic benefits you desire. Each tub has 30 packs of
vitamins, so all you have to do is take one a day and enjoy the benefits. The best part about Koge (besides wicked vitamins and spirited, down-to-earth, cute founders)? For every purchase, they donate vitamins to children in Africa under the age of 5 suffering from malnutrition. It’s a win-win; improve your health and permanently improve the lives of others. 

Prize: One month supply of Daily Essentials. They’ll provide you with
a complete set of healthy nutrients required for optimal day-to-day
wellness. Your body will be at its best, no matter what the day throws your
way.

Face of Hope

Located in Strathroy Ontario, Face of Hope is a skin care company that absolutely ROCKS! Why? I will totally tell you! Here are some legit reasons:

• 100% All Natural ~ 90% Certified Organic
• Simple yet very effective, containing highly active natural ingredients
• Handcrafted in small batches
• Amber glass packaging that is 100% recyclable
• Pure Organic Floral Waters are the only waters used
• Essential minerals – assists the health & vitality of the skin
• Vitamins A, E, F and C and Omega 3, 6 and 9 oils – offers support and nourishment for the skin

Prize: The Prevent & Repair System (travel size) has been formulated to create a state of well being and balance for the skin. This daily routine of cleansers, toner, treatment and moisturizers provide all the nutrition needed for healthy glowing skin. Ingredients containing pure vitamins, minerals and omega oils are all carefully combined to produce six powerful products that all play a role in reducing acne, redness, wrinkles and sun damage.

NoSweat Laundry

Need a recap? (I know I do!)

Here are the prizes up for grabs:

1. One of two Eat-Clean Diet and Raw Elements Inc sponsored goody bags.

2. One awesome running shrug in your choice of colours from Urban Running Girl.

3. Yeast Free Bread Mix, Pancake/Waffle Mix, Vanilla Cake Mix, Carob Cake Mix and a recipe book from Allergic Solutions.

4. One 225g shaker bottle of Regular Shelled Flax from Omega Crunch.

5. One month supply of Daily Essentials from Koge Vitamins.

6. The Prevent & Repair System (travel size) formulated to create a state of well being and balance for the skin from Face of Hope.

7. Two full-sized 500ml NoSweat laundry detergent (one in sweet freesia and one unscented), one travel size citrus rush laundry detergent and one mat spray in sweet freesia.

What do all of these products and companies have in common? They are Canadian and we absolutely love each and every one of them. Of course, they love us right back, too!

Can we get a round of applause for these ridiculously fabulous companies? Now it’s your turn! Simply enter using the Rafflecopter below for your chance to win of of the seven awesome products or prize packs. This giveaway is open to all residents of Canada and the US. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Do you have a case of the Mondays?

Well, do not fret my pet. I have something to cheer you right up! Have any plans for Friday night? Cancel them. You’re now going to The Banff Rocky Mountain Wine & Food Festival.

One lucky reader and a guest are getting entrance tickets to the festival that is sold out year after year. These hot little numbers are for the Friday, May 10  session from 7-10 p.m.

In February, Rebecca and I checked out the Winefest in Calgary and left a bit tipsy and a lot satisfied. I decided to find a red that I loved, and Rebecca caught up with the wine reps, speaking of trips to Napa and Kelowna – I have such cultured friends.

The Banff event invites guests to sample from a wide array of wine, scotch, beer and other libations, paired with delicious food samples. Wine and beverage experts will be available to share their knowledge and suggest tasting notes as attendees sample their way from booth to booth.

Not only is the hooch something to talk about, the Grand Tasting Hall will also feature the best cuisine that Banff restaurants and eateries have to offer.

Chefs from across the town will be serving up specialties such as:

• Wild Mushroom Arancini – Crisp and gooey risotto balls with rich red pepper and creamed Parmesan sauce from the Bear Hill Brewing Company
• Reuben Slider – Montreal smoked meat on a mini pretzel bun served with chardonnay Dijon and sauerkraut from the Eddie Burger & Bar
• Dark Mole Pulled Pork Spring Rolls - Fried spring rolls with honey sriracha drizzle and watermelon cubes from the Rimrock Resort Hotel
• Shrimp & Crawfish Etouffée  - Spicy Cajun stew served with dirty rice and cornbread from Touloulou’s

Are you drooling all over your keyboard yet? You should be!

So why not make a weekend out of it? Enjoy the beautiful Rocky Mountains, fantastic wine and delicious food, then sleep in and go hiking on Saturday – or just stay in town, shop the strip and have fondue for lunch at Grizzly House?

There are numerous ways to enter and the only mandatory one is to leave a comment below. Contest closes at 2:00 p.m. MT on Thursday, May 9. Winner will be contacted by email. Good luck!

How’s your Monday looking now?

 - Contest now closed -

• Leave a comment below telling me why you should have a night out in Banff
• Optional: Follow Rocky Mountain Wine & Food Festival on Twitter:  @RockyWineFood and tell me that you did
• Optional: Follow me on Twitter: @laurabridgman and tell me that you did
• Optional: Like scribbles&sass on Facebook and tell me that you did

If you’re not the winner, tickets are available online at rockymountainwine.com.

Disclaimer: The comp tickets are for the Friday, May 10 from 7-10 p.m. When presented at the door, these tickets will allow for complimentary access into the Grand Tasting Hall.  Tickets are not transferable to Saturday’s session. This is an adult only event. All attendees must be 18 years or older. Minors (including infants) are not permitted to attend.  Sampling coupons can be purchased separately.

Yup, after two years of writing here, I’ve started a scribbles&sass Facebook page….. and the search for someone to like me continues.

It’s where we’ll keep in touch between post (which have been lacking lately..ugh), but also I wanted to give you a jumpstart on something special coming on Monday. If you like the FB page, you’re one step ahead of the game.

So go on and like me.

Now, if you’ll excuse me I’m going to make kissy faces at my bathroom mirror. xx

sister gave me some great advice to get through today:

it’s hard not to think about it. do something that makes you happy; listen to a great song, have a treat at one of those yummy bakeries.

today my happiness will come from Otis Redding and Bruno Mars, cups of strong and milky tea, email conversations with sister, my sixth Booty Camp session, the possibility of wine and dessert later, and looking at all of the beautiful and uplifting photos on Pinterest.

hug your loved ones for me. i’m not close enough to wrap my arms around anyone today, but they all have their hands in my heart.

I’ve been on the search for a healthier snack and came across Simply Protein Chips.

They come in herb and chili – I’m partial to a little heat, love the chili – and have 15g of protein, 140 calories, and only 2g of sugar and 4g of fat! Pea protein…who would have thought?! Now that’s a snack you won’t have to plan gym time around. I’m not going to lie, these won’t fool anyone into thinking you’re eating potato chips, but they are tasty and a much better option. Best news? They have a BBQ flavoured protein chip coming out in September which has one full serving of vegetables.

Simply Choices are also bar stars.

The Simply Bars are vegan, and come in six different flavours. I’d suggest the Cocoa Raspberry for any chocolate lovers. They have only a handful of ingredients and you can pronounce them all, which means no chemical, artificial or junk ingredients. These puppies are all natural.

The newest item to join the family are the Simply Whey bars; an exciting addition as they have the most protein with the least calories of any natural food snack. Made from all natural ingredients, the products are vegetarian, free of peanuts, dairy, gluten and soy, high in calcium and even kosher. They are perfect for people with dietary restrictions, and a great alternative to high glycemic snacks. I die over the coconut; it’s delicious.

I’m definitely giving the line of Simply products a “yay”; they make my What I’m Lovin’ Wednesday list and have been a recent addition to my gym bag for a post-workout snack.

–

Have you ever tried Simply Protein Chips or Bars? What’s your protein bar of choice?

Swag, champagne and manicures all rock my socks, but the part I love the most is meeting new people and learning their stories. I am a true journalist at heart: ask questions, questions, questions.

It’s even more fun when I get to tell their stories. Recently, I got to speak with two Cirque de Soleil performers about Amaluna’s run in Calgary. Max and Lindsey were so interesting and the intensity in their voices as they spoke about living their passion was inspiring.

Read the article on CLUBLIFE Magazine.

As a thank-you for writing the article (which was 100% my pleasure) I was invited to see the show under the Big Top.

As always, Cirque did not disappoint. On numerous occasions, I found myself turning to my companion to offer a disbelieved, “whhhhhhaaaaaattttt?!”

Are our bodies really supposed to move that way? I didn’t even know it was possible. How does that tiny girl have so much strength? Check out the back and shoulder muscles on the Peacock Goddess! Did Cali just pet my hair and rub up against me? And why wasn’t a surprised a stranger is touching me so forcefully? Wait, look at his body, that’s why.

Thank you for inviting me into your world of magic and wonder, Cirque…and thanks for the wonderful photos.

Another airport, another post.

I’m heading back to Calgary this morning. My heart aches as it hasn’t been this full in a while. Visits with family, friends, and two new little babes having me missing Toronto before I’ve even left it.

Here’s hoping I can get some sleep on the plane so I don’t head into the office looking like I’ve only slept 4 hours….like I do now. Viola:

That selfie was for you, Em. xo