25 Years Ago...

I was born. It's extremely weird to think of myself at that age because I don't feel older. I always thought I'd feel 25, have my life in order, and know what I want, and even though I'm definitely more mature than I have ever been, everything hasn't set in place, and I think I'm realizing that my life won't ever feel set in stone, and I'm okay with that. When I was in high school,  I had all these (false) expectations of where I'd be when I turned 25. I thought I would have moved out of my childhood home, married, and on my way to having a baby. I can't imagine me being any of those things right now... okay, except living on my own... that'd be nice. But that's not the point. The point is, with every year that I've grown a little more, I've realized that I'm exactly where I need to be, and that all of those things will happen, when they're meant to happen. 

Last year, when I turned 24, I vowed that I would complete 25 things on my bucket list before I turned 25. 25 before 25. Well, it turns out that a year goes by quite fast. I wasn't able to accomplish everything on my list, but I accomplished what I made important, what I pushed myself to accomplish, and what I had control over. 

1. I read 1 book a month. 

2. I became certified to be a personal trainer.

3. I bought a new vehicle.

4. I went zip lining.

5. I took a spontaneous trip with Sal. 

6. I presented at a child life conference.

7. I started and finished a project life album (2007-2008). 

8. I traveled to a new state. 

9. I did a 5 minute plank. 

10. I SAVED money! 

Even though I was only able to cross off ten things on my list, they were HUGE things, things I'm proud of. Many, many more things happened during my 24th year, and I wouldn't have traded any one of those things in, even if it would have helped me cross off something else on my list. And now that I'm 25, I find myself living more and more in the moment. Time slips by so fast, and if I've learned anything in this past year, it's that life is precious, more precious than any of us realize, and it can be taken away or changed in an instant, with one decision, with one tick of the clock. 

Not only did I turn 25 this year, but Sal did as well... 22 days before me, to be exact. For his birthday, he decided, he wanted to keep it low key and simple. I took the day off to spend with him, and we spent the whole day together, doing what he wanted! We woke up early and headed off to kickboxing to get in a killer workout, and then headed to a fancy brunch afterwards, where we enjoyed plates and plates of food, as well as mimosas! There he opened his fit presents, including a C4 and Cellucor weight loss powder, and a heart rate monitor (all of which he has since become addicted to- whoops!). We ended the day in our Green Bay jerseys, cuddling up on the couch for the football game. Yes, we changed our outfits three times that day, going from sweaty messes, to a classy couple, to bums, all in a matter of hours. 

Twenty-two days later, and I had quite different plans for my birthday. Every year I try and do something spectacular, something with a bunch of friends, that usually ends up costing Sal more money than anyone else. This year, I chose to do something a little low-key, but still really fun, and something that included all of my friends and loved ones. We went out on the 21st, instead of my actual birthday on the 22nd. I took the weekend off, and made reservations for a fancy brunch with my closest friends, at the same place that Sal and I went for his birthday, because I loved it that much. The only thing that was required was ugly christmas sweaters. I didn't think it'd be such a hit, but everyone that walked through the door showed up in an ugly sweater, and it was hilarious. We sat and enjoyed plate after plate of food, and I made the waiter and waitresses keep bringing us rounds and rounds of mimosas. I honestly can't even remember how many I drank, I just remember having two in my hands at all times. They were good, you can't blame a girl for drinking on her 25th birthday, now can you? The party wasn't over after we left though, considering that it was Sunday and football was on TV, we headed to the bar, where we enjoyed more drinks (since we had already been drinking since 12, what did it matter that it wasn't 5 o'clock yet? It's 5 o'clock somewhere, they say! Half time brought on free pizza, and we were the happiest people in there, we eventually cleared the place out, and headed home. The day could not have been more perfect. I think it was one of my best birthdays ever. 

On my actual birthday, I woke up and opened my amazing gifts from my family, in bed. Once I was dressed and able to be seen in public, my brother and I headed to get the world's best breakfast sandwich - taylor ham, egg, and cheese on a bagel. We sat in the small bagel shop, talking so long that when we left we smelt like grease, which is always great to smell like, especially on your birthday. We went home, and Sal came over, and that's when we relaxed and popped in a movie. We eventually had to drag ourselves off the couch so that I could go and teach at CKO Kickboxing that night, because I was not about to take off of teaching, it was only an hour. Afterwards, we headed to Applebees for half price apps with my family, and it was such a perfect way to end the celebratory weekend. 

Even during my birthday weekend, I found lessons in life's moments, and have never felt more sure of myself. Sure, I've gained materialistic things in the past year, but more importantly I've gained more confidence, closer friends, and more love than I ever thought was possible. This year has taught me all about balance. I used to be so focused on doing it all - working out like a maniac, working to make money, trying to see all of my friends and family, and it was tiring, and I ended up burnt out and exhausted. I refocused this past year, and have been really able to balance, find my passion again, and bring it to life. Twenty-five is looking like a good year, already. 

On Becoming a NASM Certified Personal Trainer

I had been researching how to become a certified personal trainer for months. I looked at websites of different certification programs, and fell in love with the National Academy of Sports Medicine mission. It seemed a lot more challenging than the other certifications, but it was based on the science aspect of fitness and nutrition, had the OPT model, and nothing but good reviews. Most of the gyms look for NASM certified personal trainers, above all others. 

When I found my passion for working out, fitness, and nutrition, the thought passed through my mind to share my passion and positively influence friends, family, and even strangers. The thought only passed through, and even though it passed through often, I never made the plunge. I kept saying how expensive it was, and how I wasn't sure I could fully commit to it - I did have a full time job, and a long commute. Sal mentioned time and time again that I should just do it because I'd be so great at it. I was already giving advice to my friends and family, but with a certification, it only made me more knowledgable and professional. It wasn't until, weeks and weeks later, when I found myself on Instagram every night, looking at the NASM hashtag, and feeling jealous of everyone who received their NASM backpacks and textbook, that I knew I needed to enroll. I asked my followers on Instagram, most of who were either personal trainers or fitness friends, which NASM package was the best. Most of them suggested the self-study, I thought I'd do better with the CPT online classroom, and Sal wanted me to purchase the most expensive to ensure a job in 60 days. In the end, I decided on the CPT Self Study because I knew this wasn't going to be a full time job for me, at least not yet, and it was the cheapest. 

When my backpack and book arrived, I quickly tore open the box that looked exactly like a locker. I felt like a little kid again on the first day of school, I was ready to give it my all. I had my binder filled with paper, my pen and highlighters by my side. The program allows 180 days (6 months) to study for the exam. The first few days were relatively easy, but as I kept reading, the chapters seemed to get harder. I followed the syllabus that was provided, which helped provide a guideline to follow that would enable me to study for 70 days and be ready for the test. However, I did about a chapter a week, and it was difficult. There was so much information, and I found myself more worried about what I needed to know than actually learning the information. I found another study guide online in the middle of my studying, and found that it highlighted information from each chapter that was necessary to know for the test. Instead of writing down everything in my notes, I found that I could highlight the important information easier. 

Over the summer, Sal and I headed to our friend's house on the lake. While he fished, I studied. I would write out flashcards, take notes, and perform the moves of exercises, stretches, and assessments. It worked out well. I was able to breathe in the clear air, and have a clear mind as I studied.  I found out quickly that that wasn't enough though. I honestly tried to study more, and carried my notes with me everywhere, but I rarely looked at them. I brought the flashcards with me on vacation, but found that I was just too overwhelmed to even glance at them. 

It wasn't until the last month that I became super motivated to study. I finished reading the book, and created a study guide of my own. I took this study guide with me, and highlighted key terms, and I even went over the flashcards in small sections at a time. I assessed Sal's exercises, and practiced moving each muscle as I went over it in my head. Before I knew it, it was the weekend before the test, so I took the practice exam twice. The first time around I didn't do great, and I was upset, but quickly reassured by Sal that it was the first time I had seen what their test was going to be like, so he pushed me to try it again after reviewing what I had gotten wrong. I did and scored much, much better. I reviewed some information that I was struggling with, and went to be feeling somewhat calm. Whatever was going to happen would happen. The morning of, I had a healthy, energizing breakfast, and then drove to the testing center early. I sat in my truck for a little bit, going over more flashcards, but only the ones that I was struggling with. I walked into the building with my head held high. 

I took the certification exam, and felt extremely confident. There were one or two questions that had been on the practice exam that I knew immediately, and I felt like I knew most of the answers to the rest of the 120 questions. There were a few that I was stuck between two answers, so I flagged them, and went back to them at the end. I submitted my exam, and went out to the lobby area where the man would print my results. I was nervous when he didn't look at me as he handed me my paper, but as soon as I looked at it, I smiled. I HAD PASSED! I was shaking I was so excited. I left, and called everyone that I couldn't wait to share the news with, and then I announced it on social media. I was so proud of myself at that moment, and knew right then and there that I could do anything that I set my mind to. 

I went home to an empty house, and texted Sal asking him what I was supposed to do now. He went on to tell me all of the people I should contact and how I should start my personal training business. It was great and all, but really all I wanted to know was what I should do with the rest of my day. 

I'm sure I'll be making another announcement about my future endeavors real soon, but for now - Go and Like my Facebook page - Get Fit with Kristyn - for the latest fitness and nutrition information, challenges, and motivation. 

DVACLP Conference Spring 2014

When I was hired as a child life specialist back in May of 2013, I never thought that I would be presenting at a Child Life Conference, especially not in my first year! That all changed one fall day when my boss told my coworkers and I that we would be hosting the Spring 2014 Delaware Valley Association of Child Life Professionals Conference. I was excited of course, and knew it would be my time to shine, so I had to volunteer to present. It only made sense for the hosts to present during the conference, but I wasn't doing it alone. I wasn't a great public speaker prior to landing this job, and to have to speak for an hour kind of scared me. My boss chose to present with me, and I breathed a sigh of relief! I had written a paper in college about Mindful Meditation, specifically for child life specialists, and decided to add in more about compassion fatigue, burnout, and other self-care tips. My boss and I put in many, many hours researching and preparing our presentation, adding in fun activities to get the audience involved.

In the end, we were happy with what we came up with. To think that putting together a conference is easy, is a joke. It took a ton of work on all of our parts - ordering thank you bags, setting up food orders, putting together folders, itinerary, and a poster board, typing up name tags, and creating a tour to hold. Our to-do list was endless. Thankfully we had the whole team working together {CCLSs, nurses, and other healthcare professionals} because I don't think everything would have gotten done. 

The day arrived faster than we all expected it, and I was on the road to the hospital while it was still dark out. I was too nervous to eat anything, but figured I could grab something when we were situated at the hospital. When I arrived we began setting up; thankfully aside from the registration table, nothing else needed to be done! We quickly set up and I grabbed a bite to eat to try and settle my stomach, that was still doing somersaults! Thoughts like, "why did I volunteer to present in front of all these people?" "Maybe I could leave and no one would notice!" To make matters worse, we were the last presentation of the day, so not only did we have to wait all day and sit through the other presentations, while the nerves were rising about ours, but we were presenting when everyone pretty much had enough information for the day, and they were all waiting for their cerificates to go home. 

We had a few minutes before our presentation started so I practiced breathing slowly, and controlled. I put my microphone on and felt professional. It was really happening and I wasn't going to run. My boss started with my introduction, and then I introduced her, and soon we were rolling through our presentation, and the audience was intrigued! I was still nervous, but it was over before I knew it! I could not have been more excited or proud at that moment. It was honestly an extremely important day in my life, and I'm so glad I did it!

Afterwards, myself, some coworkers, and a tone it up sister (who is an aspiring child life specialist) went and enjoyed dinner together! It was quite an early dinner considering it was only 4:30, but after my nerves ate at my stomach all day, I was glad to chow down on some chips and salsa, and the best steak quesadillas I've ever tasted! I loved being able to talk about my experience and help someone achieve their dreams! 

If I was asked to present again, I'd definitely say yes, nerves and all. 

My New Ride

It's funny, when you buy your first vehicle, you don't think too much about the kind of vehicle it is, the color, the year... You just try and get something that you can afford, at least that was my case. I was 16, and excited that I had saved up enough money to buy myself an SUV. When I got to the dealership, it was dark, but I was excited looking at all the vehicles in the lot. I was shown ones that I could afford, and though I wasn't 100% sold, I bought an SUV. I wasn't sold on the color, I wasn't sold on the year, but I was excited to make my first huge purchase after saving money from birthday after birthday, graduation, and working. It was a 99' and red... Two things I wasn't a fan of, but it was mine all mine. It was with me through my first kiss, my heartbreak, a couple of eggings, the love of my life, my high school graduation & my college graduation, and even my first real job after graduation. This truck had been with me for years, almost 8 years to be exact.

I was ready for something new... well not exactly... It was slowly breaking down on me and I knew that if I didn't sell it now, I wasn't going to get any money for it. I took it for one last drive to the dealership and looked at all the vehicles. I originally wanted something brand new, but soon realized that I probably couldn't afford down thing brand new, but I thought even a few years newer than my current vehicle would be good. Money has a good way of slapping reality in your face. So, after looking at the preowned vehicles, I walked into the showroom, and saw a beautiful, beautiful truck, and I had to sit in it. It had everything that I wanted and more, everything you could think of and more. I still wasn't sold. I needed to test drive it, and my brother came along with me. He knew it was the truck for me, so did my dad. I still wasn't sold. I was nervous. This was another big decision in my life. I wasn't sure if I was making the right one, but when I said I'd take it, I felt confident. As soon as I sat in the chair to discuss it and sign paperwork, I looked at the clock and it was 11:11, that's when I knew it was the right decision. The angels were aligning my thoughts (see: May Cause Miracles) and I was where I should be. 

My brother and I took a Starbucks break, and came back later with a check and a pen, and I signed away my life... Kidding, but only after a minor breakdown, and by breakdown I mean a crying episode in the bathroom (decisions do that to me). I drove my new truck off the lot, and waved to my old truck. It's an odd feeling, to be giving away something that held so many memories, but it felt good to have something new to have new memories in. I was excited and felt completely comfortable driving it. I wanted to show everyone, to drive everywhere, and that's big for me since I'm not a huge fan of driving... says the girl who drives an hour to and from work. 

It's been a few weeks now, and I still smile when I see my truck in the driveway. I'm proud of that beauty sitting there, and it's just another thing off my 25 before 25 list! 

On Becoming a Certified Personal Trainer

Ever since I started working out, seeing results, and sharing them with every other person I meet, I have had the thought of becoming a personal trainer in the back of my mind. In the beginning, I thought this was a far away dream - I mean what did I know about working out and training other people to get fit? I was focused on my own journey, and while I was happy to share what worked for me, I didn't know if I had it in me to take other's on their own fitness journey. Each month that would go by, the feeling would get stronger... you know, that feeling of watching everyone else attain and accomplish what you so badly want. I started to really picture it, and eventually became a BeachBody coach, until I realized that I had to sell products in order to make money, and I didn't like the way it went about helping people. Instead, I wanted to design my own programs and bootcamps to help people get fit, and provide them with grocery lists and meal plans daily to help them get and stay healthy. I didn't want to sell anything, but health... their own health... to show others that their health is important, what they do now, what they eat now, and what they think now will affect them tomorrow and next year!

When I was able to score a stable job as a Child Life Specialist, I knew I could afford to be taught everything I needed to be taught by the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). You might be thinking how does she work with children, and yet want to become a personal trainer too? Ultimately, I want to help people - whether it's children or adults. If I can go about doing so in multiple ways, I'm going to. When I decided in my mind that this was my next step, I took a look at the clock and it was 11:11... now I don't know if anyone's read May Cause Miracles by Gabby Bernstein, but 11:11 is a sign that the angels are manifesting one's thoughts into form; in that instant I knew, I just knew. I was still nervous to press that order button, but when the mailman came with my NASM package - I was ecstatic, and slowly felt the nerves disappearing. It was what I was meant to do. 

I didn't open the book right away, things got busy at work, and I didn't feel as if I had the energy to really commit. However, with the support of my family, friends, and Sal, especially, I was able to start - to reserve time during the day, either after work or on my days off, and focus on what I wanted to accomplish. Sure, I have 180 days to take the test, but I'd rather not be cramming in those last two weeks. I didn't major in anything fitness or science related in college, so most of this stuff is new to me, but I'm willing to learn and determined to pass. It's not easy, I'll admit it, but it's what I want. I'm watching the online presentations, reading the chapters, taking notes, making flashcards, and reviewing at the end of each chapter - going over the flashcards, doing the crosswords and practice quizzes. I've got this. 

I created a Facebook group quite recently to let people that I mean business; I will become a personal trainer by the end of the summer, and I will be there for anyone that needs advice, meal plans, workout plans, or a personal trainer. I'm hoping to make something big out of this. My dreams actually might be bigger than my own head right now. You can check out my page - Get Fit with Kristyn - & like it! I post recipes, inspirational quotes, fitness advice, and soon I'll be posting workout videos and nutrition advice. 

Meanwhile, I'm posting regularly on my Instagram - kristynnicole1 - with my daily meals and workouts!

I will keep you updated with my studying, as well as when I take the test - look out 25 before 25, I'm going to check another thing off soon enough! 

Any advice about studying, the NASM test, or being a personal trainer is always welcome!