Sometimes I love writing “How-To” posts for some extra motivation for myself and to learn more from you guys as well, so feel free to discuss!

Let’s just say I’ve done the “what NOT to do” so many times, that I’ve learned a few things and this is what works for me! Case in point: this morning I got a little too “snooze” happy and lost out on a quick run before work! Hopefully these tips will motivate you(and me) to get out the door even earlier to start the day off right.

First of all, why wake up early to work out?

• Increased energy for the rest of your day.
• Getting your workout of the way so you can focus on other things.
• Ability to stick with your plan/training/schedule. Unexpected things come up often and making sure I get my workout in early guarantees I’ll get it in!

We all can attest to the fact that waking up earlier for a run, bike, swim, etc. can be difficult(especially if you’re like me and think your bed feels the best first thing in the morning and leaving it seems like the worst idea ever). But it really does have its benefits! Here are some tips to help you get up and out the door!

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1. Set an alarm. Okay, you may be thinking “Duh, Katy!” but don’t just set it, be careful where you place it! My phone is my alarm and for a few weeks I’ve been setting it at the foot of the bed instead of right next to me. These last few nights I put it next to me and obviously, that’s made “snoozing” that much easier. Set your alarm across the room, yep, really..DO IT! If you have a hard time getting up this will help! Also, set it early enough for you to have time to hydrate and wake up!

2. Set everything out the night before. Your entire outfit, Spibelt, Camelbak, water bottle, snacks, etc. Anything and everything you will need! When I’m tired, getting all of this together takes an extra 10-15 minutes.

3. Set coffee timer. Whether you like your coffee before or after you run, setting a timer and having your coffee ready when you wake up can help you get an energy buzz for your run OR be a nice treat for after your run. A nice cup of coffee and the Today show is all the motivation I need to keep on trucking!

4. Create a morning run playlist. According to a recent article on Women’s Health Magazine’s website, studies have shown that music with an upbeat pace can help you feel more energized. I personally can run with more energy listening to Kesha over listening to a ballad any day! My favorite is Pandora on my iPhone. I have a Britney, Kesha, GaGa radio station and get lots of upbeat songs to keep me going.

5. Read Runner’s World. Or a book on running. I find these motivating enough, but reading them before a morning run gets me pumped to get out there. Here’s Amazon’s list for great running books! If you’re not a runner, I find fitness magazines really motivating as well. Of course reading your favorite blogs is an amazing (and free) way of getting motivated!

6. Run with a buddy. This is helpful in training, but especially on early runs! When you know that someone else is depending on you to ignore the snooze button, it makes it that much easier to head out. Find local running groups, I know Orlando has a few groups and I’m sure your area does too. Or just ask a friend to run with you! I’ve met so many local runners since blogging. You can check out the Healthy Living Blogs database(and sign up if you haven’t already) for local bloggers and training buddies!

7. Get some new gear. I get so excited over new running clothes! When I have enough to wear and don’t have to worry about washing my workout clothes everyday, it makes life just that easier. Also, having great workout clothes help me to feel my best when running so that all I have to worry about is the road in front of me.

8. Get to bed. When training for races, our bodies need more sleep according to this 2004 Runner’s World article. When you know you have to get up super early for a run, make sure to get to bed at a decent hour. That way your morning routine doesn’t just make you exhausted! A full night’s sleep and great morning workout usually set me up for a great day!

9. Tweet tweet. I’ve done quite a few S.O.S tweets early in the morning or even in the evening when I’ve needed motivation. If you need that extra kick, ask for some! A simple “I’m totally needing some motivation to run __ miles today!”. Even if you tweet your favorite twitter friends directly, they are usually more then willing to send a few motivating tweets to push you to move! It helps so much knowing you have that support and I feel even more proud announcing that I’ve finished my run.

Here are some more tips from YOU!:

1. Nichole says, “If you are nervous about starting early, I’d suggest giving it two or three days in a row and see how you do.”

2. Amy B. says, “I hear it takes 21 days to form a habit? I always say to myself, at least go- if I’m still not feeling it 5 minutes in, I can go home if I want (but that never happens). Sure, the first mile may be a rough one, but after that, you don’t even realize the concept of how early it is!”

3. Theresa says, “I definitely think the biggest tip that worked for me was giving it a few days before I decided I loved/hated it. The first week was HARD, but now it’s second nature to get up and get moving right away!”

4. Sana says, “My HLS roomie had her alarm set to a fire alarm tone. That really got me out of bed in a jiffy!”

5. Matt says, “I am up at five every day to run! What helps me the most is GET TO BED EARLY!”

6. Lauren says, “Many days I have that convo with myself to get me motivated. It goes a little something like this… “Lauren, it’s time to wake up and workout.” (lauren’s lazy conscious) “But I don’t want to move yet.” (Lauren’s healthy conscious) “You will feel a million times better once you start and even better when you finish.” (Lauren’s lazy conscious) “Okay, you’re right.” See, it works like a charm!” (Too funny Lauren! I’m going to try this for sure. )

7. Katelyn says, “My secret is to sleep in your workout clothes – I’m not kidding! It works so well, especially when I’ve been feeling unmotivated to work out. It gives you no excuse when you wake up”

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Most importantly, find what works for YOU! Sometimes you’re the only one having to kick yourself in the butt to get out there. Remember your goals, create your own motivation and get moving!

Do you have any suggestions? What helps you get out of bed in the morning for a workout? I’d love to add them to this list!

This weekend we are hosting a very special house guest.

BO! The dog we’ve had since I was in 8th grade.

He also happened to make a special appearance in the first few posts that I wrote for my blog!

He gets really, really excited when you say the word “walk”. He loves his walks!

All right guys, ready for my walk. Let’s go let’s go let’s go!

I love that dog!

Breakfast this morning..

Two eggs, over medium with whole wheat toast.

As well as some plain Oikos with Udi’s cranberry granola and a handful of fresh blueberries. Mmmm! I’m really loving fresh blueberries right now.

This meal was so satisfying!

I’m off for lunch with the in-laws, celebrating Adam’s grandmother’s birthday, and a show tonight with great friends. Enjoy your weekend!

Whew! What a long, but AWESOME day! This morning I woke up feeling pretty groggy but knew a two mile run was on my schedule and that running it in the morning would be a lot more pleasant then running it in the evening! It’s difficult, but getting it done and starting off the day with some sweat really helps boost my energy more then a cup of coffee does. Although I did have some coffee, let’s be honest. I also knew I had a delicious breakfast waiting for me afterwards!

My mom came into town for the day before flying to North Carolina. It was so nice to have time with her. My mom and I are super close so any time together, just us two, is a treat!

We both love going out for breakfast, but I find I rarely indulge. It was nice to be treated. We headed to Keke’s Breakfast Cafe for a delicious meal to start the day. Keke’s used to be Florida Waffle House but do to some naming issues (Waffle House) they had to change the name. They also added a location near me which was very exciting.

Mom and I couldn’t decide if we wanted to go sweet or savory. I’m the biggest fan of sharing meals and she agreed! We ordered the Greek omelet made with Athenos feta (love the shout out to Athenos).

We also shared the granola crunch waffle.

We also started the morning with a little more coffee..

The granola crunch waffle was delicious! light, fluffy with chunks of granola baked right in. Such a treat! This would be amazing topped with greek yogrut!

This omelet was SO GOOD! The feta was plentiful and delicious. I also ate half of the potatoes and a piece of toast.

We then headed to nearby Park Avenue and walked around. We also did a little shopping, my fall wardrobe has begun! I now have a great interview outfit for the fall!

I dropped off my mom a few hours later and realized I was a bit hungry. Breakfast was more like brunch, time wise so I didn’t want to indulge in a full on lunch..

I snacked on this Larabar before running to Publix for groceries. Number one rule for saving money: don’t shop on an empty stomach.

Pizza night!

Some much needed wine.

It’s been such a busy week that a date night, at home, with the hubs was just what the doctor ordered. I even passed out cold for 45 minutes at one point. My body is ready for sleep and I will definitely be sleeping in tomorrow! Enjoy your weekend.

Yesterday, after work, I rushed home to get ready for my friend, Jamie’s, bridal shower. Jamie and I have been friends since my sophomore year of college. She’s been there for so many moments and has helped me through so much. She’s such an amazing friend and I couldn’t wait to celebrate her and her future marriage!

When I got home Adam, thankfully, picked up some chicken pad thai. SO GOOD!

I was home for about an hour before rushing off to the bridal shower. The hosts did an amazing job!

That’s not melted chocolate there people..

That’s NUTELLA!

Isn’t this cake amazing? My former roommate, Tristen’s, boyfriend made this. He’s super talented, isn’t it?

Check out that spread! My sweet tooth was super happy.

My first plate. I went back for a little more fruit and pretzel sticks(and, let’s be honest, more Nutella).

We played some fun games. The purse game(I, unfortunately, left my big purse at home and lost miserably). We also did a wedding MadLibs which was SO funny!

“Past tense verb, please.”

We also made our own TP dresses. Mandy and I “dressed” our friend Mina.

All of the beautiful brides..

We didn’t win, but I think we still have a future in clothing design.

Then Jamie cut her cake! Just some practice before the big day.

My friend Rachel and I split this monstrous slice and couldn’t even finish it.

I think I had a bit too much sugar. Sugar coma anyone?

Our last activity was opening presents, which is the best one!

I’ve never seen anyone so excited by oven mitts, she’s too cute!

We then had quite a bit of fun with my camera.

Apparently, purple was the color of the night. I didn’t mean to match but it was a happy accident.

It was a great night with amazing friends. I’m truly blessed!

This was the group of girls that got me through college..

I don’t know what I would have done without them!

Congratulations Jamie! I can’t wait to watch you and Tyler tie the knot next month. You deserve all the happiness in the world.