HIKES & HAMSTRINGS

Coaching and Stepping It Up!

It's time to step it up! — It’s time to step it up!

Today was an exciting day! It marked the 45th day of the 90-Day Fitness and Accountability Challenge– so we’re halfway there! But today, something else happened. Something was delivered to my door. Something exciting!

Since the beginning of January, I have been a member of an incredibly motivating challenge group for P90X3 and other Beachbody programs. With the intensity of following a 90-Day Beachbody DVD program, I needed all the accountability I could get… and it’s been great. So great, in fact, that after contemplating for many many years, I decided Continue reading “Coaching and Stepping It Up!”

A Ski Weekend Getaway in Montana

I’ll be the first to admit that the winter season is not quite my thing. Don’t get me wrong: I do enjoy winter activities like skiing, both downhill and cross-country, snowshoeing, and winter hiking. But I just don’t enjoy the cold. There’s something about -20 degree weather that forces me indoors and cozy under a blanket. I know I’m not alone in this.

With that said, 2014 is a year of travel and adventures, irrespective of the season, and this past weekend was the first of several getaways planned for the year. Last fall, Robbie and I were at the Calgary Ski Swap in search of gear. Lo’ and behold, we found nothing, but we did manage to come across an awesome winter ski getaway package to Meadow Lake Resort in Columbia Falls, Montana! Continue reading “A Ski Weekend Getaway in Montana”

Why Winter at Lake Louise is Magical

Winter in Alberta can be brutal with -40 degree weather. But it’s not always that bad! In fact, this winter we’ve seen a few chinooks roll through causing the temperature to rise above zero. And then there are the mountains. Growing up in the Caribbean, I’m the first to admit that I’m not a fan of winter, but there is definitely something magical about driving west on Highway 1 and seeing the snow-covered peaks in the distance. Canmore and Banff turn into winter wonderlands: snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, and dogsledding (which is still on my list!). There’s also Lake Louise Ski Resort, which was just named the most scenic ski resort in the world by USA today and described as “unsurpassed with postcard perfect beauty“. What a great shout-out for Banff National Park and the resort!

This past weekend was the 20th anniversary of the Ice Magic Festival in Lake Louise. Speaking of anniversaries, I’m approaching 5 years of living in Alberta (omg…) and I had yet to attend this event. A few of us decided it would make a great day trip, so we drove out on Sunday. It dawned on me: I had not seen Lake Louise or visited the chateau in the winter before! I tried skiing at the resort once, but regarding the lake itself, I’m used to its emerald glacial glory. The festival did not disappoint with enough to see and do for anyone attending Continue reading “Why Winter at Lake Louise is Magical”

2014: Making Things Happen

I cannot believe that we’re already halfway through January! Usually this month feels tough with winter chills and short days, but between work, fitness groups, trip planning, snowboarding and reconnecting with people, the year has started strong with no signs of slowing down! It’s been busy, just the way I like it.

I recently discussed themes for the year. Before the excitement of life gets in the way, I’m finally dedicating some time to write down the goals I want to accomplish. Once they’re out there in the universe, I really should follow-up… Continue reading “2014: Making Things Happen”

90-Day Fitness & Accountability Challenge: Week 1

I knew I wanted to start 2014 strong. My blog posts have been lacking, but that’s because a lot has been going on. For one, the 90-Day Fitness & Accountability Challenge is in full swing with 30 energetic and enthusiastic individuals committing to a winter of fitness activity. Amazing!

It all started with P90X3. When it was announced that the newest Beachbody program would be available before Christmas, I was super excited! Actually, I don’t remember the last time I was that excited about a fitness program. “Complete P90X3” was added to the goal list and the task would begin right after the New Year. Continue reading “90-Day Fitness & Accountability Challenge: Week 1”