Casey + Kyle

I was really excited to do Casey and Kyle's engagement pictures.  We went out to her friend's house for an awesome backdrop and had a good time tossing and "catching" the football.  Kyle was a good sport, but don't ever point out a spider hanging in a tree to him or you just may get tossed into it.  EEK!  

Florida fans...

I want this dress, by the way...and check out her killer legs!!  

Clopper Family 2104

I was so excited when Shelly contacted me to do her family pictures...as you can see she has a beautiful family!!  We went out to her in-laws land and got some great shots!!  Shelly did a great job coordinating clothes and colors for this day!!  

Tynlea is 4 years old!

I have had the pleasure of photographing this beautiful girl a couple of times now and she, by far, is one of the most entertaining girls I know!!  She definitely gives me a run for my money, but the end product is soooo sweet!!  She loves Elsa from Frozen and she also loves to pose for the camera!

 ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

 This one has to be one of my favorites...she is so sassy!!

 Below are the out takes from our session...so stinkin' cute!!

Tips to get started and stay running...Part 1

Things that I have discovered can make or break a run, especially when you are training and working toward running longer and faster!

We all know a good pair of running shoes are a must, but have you ever considered a good pair of socks?  My friend Kim, suggested a brand of compression socks called "features" that she uses...OMG, I love them.  They wick the sweat away, they compress during your run...they are heaven!   www.feeturesrunning.com

For us ladies that need headbands, to find one that does not slip while we are working out or running can be hard.  I just bought this one yesterday, but considering it hasn't moved through my workout or my NAP today, I can say IT DOESN'T MOVE.  hahaha

www.sweatybands.com

Do you get shin splints?  Cramps in your legs?  I used to until I started foam rolling.  Huh? Yeah, a large thick version of a pool noodle can do wonders for those muscles.  You can get one almost anywhere.  Here are few examples, but you can google more.  http://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/foam-roller-exercises

Something that I also discovered that not only gives me a boost when running, but a boost in the early mornings when working out is E&E drink mix.  It's an Energy and Endurance drink that wakes ya up without any jitters or weird feelings.  My favorite thing is that it has less sugar than most "energy" type drinks or mixes...only 4g.  Perfect for not sabotaging your weight loss.

www.teambeachbody.com/shop/-/shopping/EandETub?/referringRepId=413737

For me, running in shorts are not fun or comfortable...I'm constantly pulling at them.  So my go to attire is compression capris.  My favorite brand is Under Amour, but recently found some decent ones at Walmart.  I like the compression feeling because you don't feel flabby while running...which truly helps when you've finally got enough guts to get out there and start running.   When shopping for them, I was surprised that the size I was getting was actually a size smaller than I thought...so be sure to try them on and make sure they are compressing!!

HRM and GPS devices to record calories burned and distance/pace.  I am looking at a Garmin Forerunner 220, of course I have to save some $ to get it.  Currently I use my phone with a GPS app...there are a ton that are free: mapmyrun, runtastic, etc.  I do have a Garmin Vivofit HRM that I use during runs.  It is not accurate as far as distance or pace, but it's great to watch to see if you need to push harder or if you are pushing too hard, plus it will give you a better calorie burn read. 

I used to use an app called Couch to 5K.  It's a free app that will tell you through your phone when to walk and when to run as it gradually works you up to longer runs.  It is very helpful!!

I'm sure I can come up with a lot more things, and I will...I will post more later.  Hope it helps you get on the way to running!!!

Audra McArthur - www.beachbodycoach.com/audram333

Working out at home vs. a gym

HOME vs. GYM in my world!! 

www.beachbodycoach.com/audram333

 

I used to LOVE going to the gym...not saying I will never go back, but there came a time when I couldn't get myself to go regularly.  When I worked 3-11pm I had no excuse not to go into work an hour early, go the work gym and then walk into work...it was EASY.  I got an opportunity to work 12 hour shifts, which gave me more full days off and more time with my family.  All of a sudden it was not that easy to get to the gym for me.  I didn't want to spend the time getting ready to go to the gym on my work days, or trying to go when I got off work.  On my days off, I would make excuse after excuse not to go.  I ended up gaining more weight than ever with my new schedule. 

 

Then I was introduced to Beachbody.  My first instinct was "no way, I would never do them at home."  I'm sure you are thinking the same thing.  But, my super friend and BB coach said to me "Audra, give it a month...one month, and if you can't stand it then go back to what you were doing."  One month.  I can do that...McD's and IHOP will be there in one month, right?  Sleeping in on my days off will still be available to me in one month, right?  So I took the challenge!!!

 

So I've now stopped counting days and weeks...but at least 3 months later, I am now LOVING my new lifestyle, down 25lbs and not missing the JUNK.   I've learned remarkable ways of looking at how foods work with my body and have found my love for fitness again!!

 

WHY I LOVE WORKING OUT AT HOME!!!

 

No monthly fee.  Nope, not paying a trainer or a gym once a month.  I put $ into a program that is MINE to keep and I have unlimited support from my BB friends and coaches.  YOU CAN TOO!

 

There are days I don't want to put my gym clothes on.  So I will not lie, getting out of bed can be hard in the mornings, so being at home allows me to put some rough looking stuff on and still get my workout in. 

 

Calm before the storm.  I was always the person that set my alarm for the last minute and then just got up and started doing things I needed, and fast.  I've learned by getting up early enough to get my workout in and clean up a bit, that I ENJOY the quiet in the house while my son and husband are sleeping.  This can be applied in the evenings too...when kiddos are asleep and hubby is in the bedroom...ENJOY the silence and you "ME" time. 

 

Customize.  I can schedule my workout times better...around activities and events.  I don't have to worry about the "busy times" at the gym or in some cases, whether they are open or not.  MY workouts are always available. 

Can I mention money again...like seriously!!  My gym fee went straight to our vacation fund for next year and it's looking SWEEEET now. 

 

Equipment fear/confusion.  Yes, we've all been there..."how does this machine work?"  And the fear of getting on and totally screwing up, right?  Well guess who's going to notice if you mess up at home???  NO ONE.  haha. 

 

I thought I would miss the social aspect of the gym...but honestly, I feel like I've met more friends through Beachbody with our FREE fit clubs and LIVE workouts along with challenge groups on Facebook...SIGN UP!!

 

So here are several reasons I love Beachbody and working out at home.  In this FAST PACED world, you can not RUSH your health...NO QUICK FIXES!!

 

Don't hesitate to FB me any questions or check out some stuff at www.beachbodycoach.com/audram333

Fitness challenge with a Twist!

September Challenge Group with a Twist!

 

 

When I first heard about Beachbody workouts, I was didn't think I could do it.  I had been trying to go to the gym (not making it most days a week) and was convinced I couldn't and wouldn't workout at home.  My friend Kim said, GIVE IT 21 DAYS.  Go hard for 21 days!!  You can always go back to sleeping in, eating fast food, drinking tons of diet pepsis if you want to, but give it 21 days of your best work and see what happens.

 

So that is what I did...and WOW!  I was hooked!  Feeling great, feeling stronger and losing 10lbs in 3 weeks and 25lbs in 20 weeks...I knew I was addicted.  So can you...I challenge you to join us!

 

Get the 21 Day Fix or Piyo from Beachbody here www.beachbodycoach.com/audram333  Each have a very similar nutrition plan.  Piyo is a cross between pilates and yoga...but with a twist.  21 day fix is 30 minute workouts daily that are more like training with someone at the gym.  Each will give you amazing results...I do both right now! 

 

Shakeology is another thing I added to my routine.  It's a super dense, pack with nutrients and no chemicals, shake that keeps you full and gives you some amazing energy throughout the day.  My favorite part is that it has done WONDERS at curbing my sweet tooth! 

 

If Shakeology is something you would like to incorporate, order a Challenge Pack to get a great price along with the program.  Facebook me with questions!  (Audra McArthur on Facebook)

 

After Mason was born, I had promised myself by the time he was playing sports I would be in better shape and wearing shorts and tanks to his games and practices.  He turned 5 and this year he started T-ball...and well, I was in jeans and 3/4 sleeve shirts in the middle of the season, uncomfortable and miserable in the heat.  BUT, by his kindergarten open house last night, I was in a size small dress and down 25lbs.  MAKE YOUR CHANGE NOW.   Don't wait until your kiddos really need you to be active and keep up with them..do it for YOU, do it for your FAMILY!

 

So Facebook me and join our challenge group...we will start prepping on Labor Day and we also have a BONUS!!!  Join our group and I will be throwing in photography tips to help you get more creative, unique family photos!!  We will also be sharing recipes, tips and tons of support and motivation to help you reach your goals!!!!

 

 

 



Dawson is the BIG 1

This has to be one of my favorite cake smashes ever.  It went by so fast, but I had so many great shots of this little guy LOVING his cake.  I also go to snap shots at his fabulous sock monkey party!!!  What a fun time!!!  I'm so excited to be shipping this disk to Heather! 

 



12 Weeks Baby!!

Yesterday made 12 weeks of the 21 day fix...my soulmate workout/nutrition plan. After doing measurements and weighing, I've also officially hit a plateau.

Am I sad? NO WAY...it means that I kept from gaining, it means that my body is ready for a change...so I'm switching workout programs. I will still be doing the nutrition of the 21 day fix, but maybe adding a containter or too depending on how much more I work I do with Combat.  Combat was the program I ordered along with the 21DF because I expected the 21DF workouts to not challenge...BOY was I wrong. 21 Day Fix is my #1 suggestion for people starting a workout routine, even if you've been in shape in the past...me, I was a college athlete that let myself go, and the workouts WORKED ME.

 So I'm changing up my tank tops and taking my now BEFORE Combat pics to see what changes lie ahead for me. 

My official changes for 12 weeks of the 21 Day Fix is 20lbs and 20.5inches total. 

 

That's 3 months, guys...so think about where you want to be 3 month from now...tailgating, playing in the fall leaves with your kiddos, getting a new dress for a wedding coming up??? 

You can do it!!!  I can help ya, FB me or text me!!

 

Below is Day 1 vs Day 84, or 12 weeks:

 

Below is the beginning of Combat

 

www.beachbodycoach.com/audram333