Exercise/ Fitness/ Lunch/ Product Reviews

Spinning Away And Making A Difference

Hi friends, hope your Thursday is treating you well!

I actually got my butt up this morning and went to a Spinning class at the Y. It felt GREAT and I burned 534 calories….I’ve done nothing but eat cookies and drink wine all week so it felt beyond wonderful to feel the burn today. It also was such a release from everything going on here. I’ve always used exercise to cope and now I find myself clinging to it more than ever. The class was at 12:15, so at 10:45 I had a light lunch of a hummus & cheese sandwich on Ezekiel bread

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I found this absolutely amazing 2 year old aged sharp cheddar in the fridge that someone must have brought over, so I shaved an ounce of that and combined it with creamy hummus. I swear, I’ve eaten more hummus in the past week than I ever have in my entire life! Thank God for chickpeas!

After the class, I showered and ran some errands before making a snack since I was still pretty full from the sandwich. I did, however, dive into the bag of raw macaroons that One Lucky Duck sent over for review—

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Outstanding. They tasted just like the macaroons that Gina makes…I think they use the same recipe! 😉 I can’t get enough of these and they are lighter than air. Thank goodness I have a dehydrator now so I can finally make my own to keep up with my addiction!

After showering and errands, I had a snack of a strawberry Chobani with a half cup of Go Lean Crunch:

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So, I wanted to mention that in John’s honor, my family has started the John T. Weber Memorial Fund. This fund has been set up at our bank here and we are going to use the money to really make a difference in John’s name. My parents and I have been throwing around ideas regarding gun violence and safety or a scholarship. I am in no means pressing you all for cash, but I just wanted to let you know that we ARE going to do something that I think will really, really make a difference so this will never happen again to an innocent teen. I know that I can’t bring back my brother, but I can do everything in my power to prevent this tragedy from happening to another family. If you feel so led, you may donate to this fund so that you know you are helping us make a difference in John’s name. I think John would be very proud.

Please make donations out to The John T. Weber Memorial Fund

And send them to:

The Palm Bank

2302 S. Macdill Ave

Tampa, FL 33629

Mikey is arriving at our house at 4 pm today! My mom and aunt just got back from PetCo with enough kitty toys to last a lifetime. I will post tons of pictures this evening of the new addition to our family!

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  • magicanderson
    April 30, 2009 at 1:02 pm

    Jenna~
    I’m sure I speak for many readers when I say how happy I am to hear of the fund. People want to help you make a difference, so thanks for putting the address and info. in. Can’t wait to see the pics of Mikey! You are definitely making your brother smile! God bless,
    Lisa

  • jessnyc
    April 30, 2009 at 1:08 pm

    i think setting up a fund in your brother’s name is a brilliant idea! he made such a difference in people lives while he was here, and he will continue to. 🙂 can’t wait to see mikey!

  • Rachel
    April 30, 2009 at 1:10 pm

    Ahh I want to go to a spinning class soon. I’m glad it’s helping you though this.
    I’m glad you are doing something under John’s name. I stand behind you 100% about the gun thing. There’s just no need.

    I can’t wait to see pictures of Mikey!!

  • Karen Teague
    April 30, 2009 at 1:11 pm

    Jenna, The celebration yesterday was so touching,and like you, I didnt cry but just took it all in. I was in awe of all the school kids that were there, the speeches were up-lifting and a wonderful tribute to your brother. I felt John all over the room, as having lost people in my life as well it’s just a feeling that comes over you, and I felt his presence yesterday. I mentioned a little bit of what happened on my facebook and already I have people writing me and telling me that they’ve shared this story with their kids and their kids friends, hopefully, this will be an on-going speech that we need to talk about. I know in some way you will make a difference and will be an advocate in your brothers honor.
    Karen

  • Katrina (gluten free gidget)
    April 30, 2009 at 1:29 pm

    The fund is an excellent idea.
    On a lighter note, doesn’t spinning bruise your “hu-ha”? I am scared to try it because of the horror stories I have heard!

  • Erica
    April 30, 2009 at 1:30 pm

    J~ The fund sounds like a wonderful way to honor John and make a difference all at once. Perfect.

    Sounds like a great spin class! I hope I get to go to one soon!

  • life coach jen
    April 30, 2009 at 1:32 pm

    The fund sounds terrific and I CANNOT wait to hear about your new baby!

  • Shannon (The Daily Balance)
    April 30, 2009 at 1:34 pm

    the fun is a great idea! What a great way to honor John, while making a difference.

  • Melissa (Nibbles and Wiggles)
    April 30, 2009 at 1:38 pm

    Yummy sandwich!

    I think the trust fund is a great way to honor your brother!

  • Yelli
    April 30, 2009 at 1:38 pm

    Thanks for letting us know about the memorial fund.
    Keep hanging in there girl! Sounds like you are taking care of yourself and that is a good thing.

  • Moran (The Running Addict)
    April 30, 2009 at 1:39 pm

    I am sure that wherever he is, John is ecstatic to see you bring Mikey home!

  • brandi
    April 30, 2009 at 1:41 pm

    that’s awesome about the memorial fund, and I’m so glad you got to work up a good sweat this morning! Sometimes, that just makes you feel so much better to just release.

    I can’t wait to see Mikey!

  • Janna
    April 30, 2009 at 1:41 pm

    You are an AMAZING person. In the face of such horrible tragedy you are so positive and uplifting and I just want you to know…that you and your family have a place in my heart. Thank you for showing us that there is a better way to get through the rough times in life! Keep your head up…because he is in a much better place now!

  • Amy
    April 30, 2009 at 1:46 pm

    Jenna – you are so strong and I feel honored to “know” you and your family even if it’s just through the internet. I’m so glad to hear of the fund as your story and experiences have really touched me. I too will be making sure that people know about the danger of guns – I know that your brother’s life will make an impact. Hang in there! We are all thinking of you.

  • fitforfree
    April 30, 2009 at 1:46 pm

    The fund is such a wonderful idea!
    My high school does a 5K run/walk every year for a student that passed away — perhaps John’s high school could do this to? And the proceeds could go to the fund? That would be a way to spread the gun control message to lots and lots of people every year.
    I can’t wait to see pictures of the kitty 🙂

  • Danielle
    April 30, 2009 at 1:49 pm

    What a great way to honor your brother! I’ll definitely be donating once I have the money!
    Can’t wait to see pics of Mikey!

  • Leah @ Simply Fabulous
    April 30, 2009 at 1:57 pm

    Jenna, I am so proud of you for how you are coping… I didn’t comment on the last post (because just as I was reading it you posted this one!) but I wanted to say how I think it was GOOD that you had a real good cry. I think it’s good that you let it out and cry.
    Anyway, I can’t wait to see photos of Mikey and I am so happy that your family has set up a fund in John’s name. Also, the tattoo that you are getting sounds so beautiful! I can’t wait to see it.
    One more thing- congrats for making the huge step and quitting your job. I’m sorry you weren’t enjoying it there (you sure did a good job hiding it!) but at least you won’t have to go back and you can concentrate on doing things that you love now!!
    You are an inspiration to many people out there!

  • Monica
    April 30, 2009 at 1:58 pm

    oh i can’t wait to see more pics of mikey!

    thanks for letting us know about the fund. It is such a wonderful idea. jenna, you are so passionate about the things you care about. I know you and your family WILL make a difference.

  • Courtney (The Hungry Yogini)
    April 30, 2009 at 2:05 pm

    I’m so glad that Spin was so great! Now that you have “normal” hours ( no more 3am shift!) maybe we could catch a yoga class together? I’m here alllllllll summer. Ready when you are =)

    Can’t wait to see Mikey!

  • Gina G
    April 30, 2009 at 2:11 pm

    Hey Jenna! i didn’t get a chance to comment your last post but i wanted to say that i am so proud of you for listening to your heart and following your dreams. You are going to succeed and from everything you have provided for us in your beautiful posts shows you have beyond the potential to accomplish any dream you desire. Your brother would be so proud of you as well! keep your head up girl, your so incredibly strong!

  • runeatrepeat
    April 30, 2009 at 2:11 pm

    The fund is a great idea to do in John’s honor. Let me know if I can help in any way.

  • Colleen
    April 30, 2009 at 2:13 pm

    You have so many good things to focus on right now, that’s exactly what you need. I’m so happy for you taking that giant leap and quitting your job, that takes guts! You are so bright and passionate, you are going to make a huge impact on anything you do!

    I just got two kitties about 5 weeks ago – check out my facebook page to see pictures! They have brought us so much joy!

  • Stef
    April 30, 2009 at 2:16 pm

    So great to hear about the memorial foundation, I’ll definitely be sending whatever contribution I can later this month! I’ll also post the link to the fund on my blog, I hope that’s ok with you?! Those macaroons sound SO GOOD, I’m glad you get to enjoy them! Can’t wait to see the Mikey pics!

  • Melanie
    April 30, 2009 at 2:19 pm

    I just started reading your blog yesterday,and I can only say, “Wow.” I’ve gone back through February thus far. My heart goes out to your family in the loss of your brother, but it’s so good to know that he’s a Christian, so you know you’ll see him again. You’ve gained another faithful reader in me, Jenna. thank you.

  • Katrina (gluten free gidget)
    April 30, 2009 at 2:29 pm

    Jenna: I posted a link to your page on my blog. I hope you and your family’s cause are blessed beyond all that you could ever ask or think.

  • Shelby
    April 30, 2009 at 2:34 pm

    I can polish off a 1 lb tub of hummus in less than a week…it’s awesome =)

    Brilliant idea for the fund Jenna!

  • a reader
    April 30, 2009 at 2:42 pm

    I left one comment earlier this week, expressing my sorrow for your loss. I don’t know what to say, but I have never believed that that should stop someone from trying to say SOMETHING, even if it’s not the perfectly “right” thing (whatever that is!). As long as I convey my deep sympathy, I know you’ll understand.

    I am touched by you (I always have been; I’m an avid reader of your blog), terribly saddened by your loss, and inspired by your strength and by your dedication to not having this loss be in vain.

    I have to tell you a story.

    My brother was at a friend’s house many, many years ago (my god, it’s about twenty years now; I was a young teen myself) when he and his friends were all still young and impetuous, unaware of the sometimes painful reality (and finality) of life.

    This story is not exactly your brother’s story, but in some ways it is, as the end result was the identical accident.

    There was a gun in the house (the friend’s father was a police officer) and because they were just a bunch of kids who had been drinking a bit and were not thinking clearly, they were fooling around with it, just joking around, and it went off. The boy who had been holding it at the time died.

    It was not, thank god, my brother.

    This was a long time ago, and my brother is now a successful professional in his forties. I know he is still plagued by it, though he never speaks of it. I am very well aware of the fact that it could have ended just as tragically, but with MY brother dying. I have never thought about it as often as I have in these last few days, reading your story.

    I mourn for the loss of the boy that died that night in my brother’s presence, and for what his family experienced. I have always been so grateful my brother is still with me. I mourn for your brother, and that you were not spared as I was.

    I’M SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS.

  • Kristine
    April 30, 2009 at 2:45 pm

    Jenna, I just want to let you know again how you and your family are still in my thoughts and prayers consistently throughout the day. You are SO strong though and such a beautiful writer. Just remember, stick to what you believe in and stay true to yourself. I know from your words about John that that is what he would have wanted for you. Life is too short. Do what makes you happy! 🙂 MUCH LOVE! <3

  • Candi
    April 30, 2009 at 2:47 pm

    Jenna,

    I’m so happy to read that it seems like you are emerging from this stronger. I’m proud that you’ve found the courage to leave a job that you didn’t like and that you’re finally following your true dreams.

    I’ve been brought to tears reading your posts lately and today I’m very joyful that it seems like a part of the you we’ve read and love is starting to shine through. Nothing will ever be the same, but slowly things will come back to normal. Today it seems like you’re coming back to us.

    I just realized how corny this seems coming from someone you’ve never met, but your writing really tells your story so well I feel that I know you!

  • Kailey (SnackFace)
    April 30, 2009 at 3:03 pm

    It’s awesome that you were able to detach and sweat it out for a while! I definitely use working out to cope with things, too.
    The macaroons look divine, by the way.

    This fund is absolutely brilliant. I know that it will not be money wasted. I can’t wait to see pics of Mikey!

  • Kelly Olexa
    April 30, 2009 at 3:05 pm

    Jenna
    I’m so moved by how you are handling this. I’d love to help in any way that I can to spread the word. I’m praying for you, and your family. I asked my mom to pray for you as well. We are thinking of you. XOXO
    Kelly O

    P.S. the link on the dehydrator – goes to Excalibur? I’m interested in a dehydrator….. FYI

  • Bec
    April 30, 2009 at 3:22 pm

    That will be a great way to honor your brother!

  • Beadie @ What I Ate Yesterday
    April 30, 2009 at 3:31 pm

    What a nice way to honor your brother’s memory. He would be so proud of what you and your family are doing.

    I look forward to seeing the fun with Mikey.

  • Kristilyn (The Food Journey)
    April 30, 2009 at 3:33 pm

    Jenna, I’m so happy to hear your family set up a trust fund in memory of John!

    Those macaroons look delicious! I wish I could find more food like that here in Alberta (Canada). I’m sure you’re going to be a dehydrating machine soon!

    I can’t wait to hear how Mikey does in his new home! It’s funny, you’ll find that he’ll want to play with a paper ball more than the toys – at least that’s how our cats are. Our one cat is sneaky though – she takes my potpourri out of containers and carries it all over the house. That little brat. At least she’s good for a laugh.

    Have a great night!

    K

  • Michelle @ Find Your Balance
    April 30, 2009 at 3:39 pm

    Kitty! That’s fantastic. I have 3 cats and love them more than anything. A touch on the cat lady side, I sure am!

    That’s a wonderful idea to set up a memorial fund. My thoughts and best wishes are with you and your family.

  • K
    April 30, 2009 at 3:40 pm

    Since I’m a foodie, I have to comment on your eats! Everything you had is insanely delicious!

    In all seriousness though, thank you for keeping us updated about the fund. I know you and your family will come up with a fantastic way to commemorate John.

  • Mara @ What's For Dinner?
    April 30, 2009 at 3:48 pm

    I’m so glad you got to go spin and release a bit… thats awesome! Just something to make you smile: the link you have for the dehydrator actually clicks through to a nightclub in Chicago I used to frequent!!

  • Nicole
    April 30, 2009 at 3:48 pm

    Hi Jenna,
    What a wonderful way to honor your brother – at his memorial today and with the trust fund. That’s wonderful that you wore a bright outfit, and truly celebrated (and continue to celebrate) his life.
    You remain in my thoughts and prayers.

    Nicole

  • Katherine
    April 30, 2009 at 4:07 pm

    I am so proud of you for choosing to follow your passion! I know you will be an amazing writer. I would buy anything written by you! I always enjoy reading your blog.

    I truly believe that when we follow our passions we will end up where we are meant to be.
    xo

    Oh and I LOVE your dress – it is so beautiful.

  • Melomeals: Vegan For $3.33 a Day
    April 30, 2009 at 4:11 pm

    I am so humbled reading what you and your family is going through and how you are handling it all. The fact that you still see the little joys and are taking steps to live your best life even though you are facing such tragedy is very inspiring.

    Your sharing John and your family has really touched my life and my heart breaks for you so much.

  • MLT
    April 30, 2009 at 4:16 pm

    Jenna,

    I’ve never commented all that much on this blog but I read it EVERY SINGLE DAY. Your writing always makes me come back for more. I check 6 or 7 blogs religiously but yours is always the one I turn to first. You make me smile, you inspire me to treat my body well, you make think of sunshine and getting outside and living life to the fullest. I don’t think I’ve ever thanked you for that, but I just wanted to do so today.
    I also wanted to say that I have been moved to tears every time I check your blog in the last week. Your honesty is so powerful. I really hope you pursue your dream and become a “real” writer. Your brother seems like he was a beautiful individual and I am so sorry for your loss. I hope you and your family find peace. Thank you for telling us about the fund.

  • emily
    April 30, 2009 at 4:50 pm

    I didn’t know your brother, but I do know that he would be so proud of his big sister. You have handled a terrible situation with such strenght and grace, and because you have a popular blog that is seen many I’m sure you are already making a bigger impact than you know.

  • Matt
    April 30, 2009 at 4:54 pm

    Running (or working out I guess) always helps me clear my mind. Hopefully you’ll get the same feeling when you start training!

  • laura
    April 30, 2009 at 4:57 pm

    i am very proud of you!! you are so strong and i hope mickey gives to you a great time!!

  • Jess
    April 30, 2009 at 4:58 pm

    I think the fund is a wonderful idea. Jenna, you are incredible! Beautiful eats and a fab workout. YAY! I will continue to pray for you girl.
    <3 jess
    xoxo

  • meg c
    April 30, 2009 at 5:03 pm

    Spoiler alert: you’re gonna get a shit ton of donations, Jenna!!

  • Graze With Me
    April 30, 2009 at 6:01 pm

    I am so glad your family started that memorial fund, I completely agree that something must be done. I think many people have tragic gun stories like John’s. My fiance’s sister had two best friends growing up, both boys. When they were 16 they were playing with a gun and one of them accidentally shot and killed the other boy. He then turned the gun on himself and both boys died that day- all this happened in front of my future sister-in-law. She has never gotten over it.

    I will proudly donate to this fund – in honor of your brother and everyone out there who has felt the tragedy of these types of accidents.

  • Rebecca
    April 30, 2009 at 6:15 pm

    I have no doubt you will do great things!! Can’t wait to see more pics of Mickey.

  • meg
    April 30, 2009 at 6:25 pm

    Can’t wait to see the pictures of Mikey.

  • Heather
    April 30, 2009 at 6:51 pm

    What a wonderful way to honor your brother’s life.

    Also, I didn’t comment on the last post but I feel like saying congrats for quitting your job. It must be a wonderful thing to finally quit doing whatever makes you miserable. Best of luck to you! xo

  • gina (fitnessista)
    April 30, 2009 at 7:49 pm

    so glad you had a great spin class and congrats on the new kitty- he is so cute.
    mmmm macaroons! i based the recipe off hers but have altered it quite a bit.
    have a great night <3

  • Nicole
    April 30, 2009 at 9:42 pm

    So glad you got to exercise. I am wasn’t able to exercise for a week + due to a stress fracture and it is totally destroying my ability to cope with stress. Good for you that you are taking care of yourself… so admirable chica. Everything is going to be great. I love the Memorial Fund idea. = )

  • A Solemn Derby Day | Eat, Live, Run
    May 2, 2009 at 6:09 am

    […] a favorite by any means, but if he DOES win, my family will receive about $7,000 straight to the John T. Weber Memorial Fund. How amazing would that be?! So we all have to cheer for Regal Ransom this evening……I […]