In an effort to get to know our Reign Fitness Community better, we like to feature a member each month who showcases our core values...
"Being Coachable, Confident, Hungry, Positive, and Humble."
And for March 2019, I couldn't pick anyone more deserving of the spotlight then my long time friend and client Monica Dherin!
Monica is unbelievably caring and once you get into her "circle" you're family for life. She's always challenging herself to keep improving and continues to make health a priority in her life.
I've known Monica for almost 10 years now and she's been there for so much in my life… from being there at my wedding to even hosting the first ever Reign Summer BBQ at her home. Could not imagine the Reign Community without her and I truly hope others will get to know her a little like I do through this Member Spotlight!
Here is Monica…
1. What (who) brought you to Reign? How long have you been training with Reign?
I started with Albert before Reign was in existence. It was Holly’s BIG idea. “Hey, I saw this Groupon for a gym near my house.” After being traumatized by watching a class and going through orientation I knew that we would only be doing this nonsense for 30 days and not signing up for a day longer.
8 years later here I am still working out, learning new things about myself every day.
2. What is the most significant change - whether social, physical, mental…you have experienced since you have been here?
I was always wondering when I could stop exercising.. I now consider exercise a permanent and necessary part of my life. It makes me feel good!
3. Tell us a little about yourself. What's a Day In The Life of Monica?
So boring! I’m up early to get to work in Seattle.
Typically home 12-13 hours later. Evening meals are prepped ahead of time so Loren and I can eat well. I try to carve out some time for myself to do something that I enjoy every day. That is often going to Reign, dabbling in my hobbies, reading and spending time with Loren and the pups.
Off to bed by 10pm.
4. Share your favorite memory so far at Reign?
This so difficult!
So many fun memories. Rather than a specific memory I can stop and reflect on how so many people at Reign are supportive and encouraging-who make a difference without realizing it.
5. What are your goals or aspirations leading in 2019?
Mobility, mobility and mobility.
6. First CD you bought & Favorite Movie of all time...
I will do you one better, my first cassette tape was Eddie Money’s, Two Tickets to Paradise”.
If this is on TV I will always sit down and watch…. Grease.
It came out when I was in high school and I remember watching it at Southcenter theater when it was a single screen theater.
7. What are your hobbies outside of Reign?
Gardening—I love flowers, fresh veggies and fruit. I know Albert “loves it” when I bring zucchinis for Mesha. Crafting - I like to knit and for Christmas I usually sew some small gifts. Baking - when I have the luxury of time to make it fun.
8. What's your spirit animal?
Pandas. I admire their coordination, swiftness and agility.
9. Life words of wisdom you have for 20 year olds? 30 year olds? (We'll stop there.)
Love and respect yourself and find happiness within you.
"Take the time to live in the moment and do the things that you love regardless of what other people think. Don’t put off the things you want to do—-you don’t know how many tomorrow’s you have."
10. What advice would you give to anyone looking to start their fitness journey?
It’s much easier with a friend (thanks Holly!). The added accountability will get you through the times you want to quit.
You can celebrate your successes, lament the failures and encourage each other to find strengths you both have.
11. One interesting fact about yourself?
I took 3.5 months off and traveled the Western United States and Canada in a yellow VW camper van to visit National Parks .
This helped me develop a strong appreciation of indoor plumbing. Seriously, the United States has so many amazing parks that everyone should experience.
12. Share a training or nutrition strategy that is vital in your toolbox.
I protect my training days, schedule each month in advance and prep to make it happen. This is all made easier because Loren totally supports me!
13. I know you like to cook and create delicious heathy foods…. Can you share one of your favorite recipes?
Paleo pad thai from Well Fed.
I’ve made it countless times and never miss the noodles!
Check out the recipe here: Paleo Pad Thai
AND...
Fill In The Blank...
I Love..the Honeybee
I Am...happy with my life.
I Wish...my dog Harry tolerated other dogs.
I Eat…chicken wings
