I’ve lived in Los Angeles for two years now, and this week marks my two-year anniversary as a member of Crossfit High Voltage in Burbank, CA. I don’t know what most people do when they move to a new city, but after having an extraordinary experience at Crossfit West in Santa Cruz, CA, I knew that my first order of business was finding my new community of crossfitters in LA.

There was no shortage of gyms to check out. I searched high and low, having a positive experience at most places, but always left feeling like they were missing something. Then I drove to Burbank…

Disneyland for crossfitters

Regionals!

My 27th Birthday

Barbells for Boobs

80’s Party

My first WOD at CFHV

Love the wall balls

Waffle Wodder morning feast

Saturday team WOD with Geoff

Crossfit High Voltage was a God-send from the first workout, till the last. The basics were all there. Great programming, wonderful facility, intelligent and concerned coaches, encouraging and helpful members. Things that you should hope for in a crossfit gym. What makes this a truly great gym is not the basics. Anyone can buy a bunch of workout equipment, an empty  warehouse, and get their level 1 certification as a coach. And let’s be honest, many of the “boxes” popping up these days have little more than that going for them. High Voltage exceeded my expectations. It has enhanced my life physically, professionally, and relationally.

Physical-

I’m stronger. I’m safer. I appreciate skilled and intelligent coaching and I recognize when it’s missing. I know that I will never be a games competitor, it’s just not in my nature. Nor will I ever be the girl who shows up for 6 am workouts everyday. Crossfit taught me that I need balance in my life. That being adaptable to change is a valuable skill in life. That life is better when you feel strong, not just “fit” or “skinny”, but actually strong.

Professional-

Through High Voltage, I had the fortune of meeting Chef Stefan… who not only blows minds with his fire-breathing physical capacity (this guy crushed it at the 2012 regionals), but also with his culinary skills as the founder and owner of EliteEATS. I was honored to be a part of the beginning of this business venture and enjoyed contributing to the early growth of this awesome paleo meal delivery service. Stefan is an incredible business man and even more amazing chef. He invited me into his dream, allowing me share my knowledge about health and nutrition. He always valued my opinions and was appreciative of my help.  I feel so blessed to have worked alongside him and I anticipate great things for the future of this business.

Relational-

There are too many wonderful, vibrant faces in my mind. The Waffle WODders of 6 am, Mayor Jeff, Nick, Vani, Omar, Nick, Rob, Norma, Lori, Frank, Andrew, Marla… the list goes on. My past friends of the 9:30 class and the 12:30 class…. Sarah, Brooke, Brian, Nick, Sioban, Curt. WODing daily with Hayley and Stefan. The kick-ass coaches: Josh B., Simon, Tyler, Josh, Jose, Dan, Katie. Let’s not forget the amazing owners: Tim and Carly.

Other friendly faces include the vixen class with Dizzle, Katie, Carly, Desi, Nicole…

The Saturday team WODS were especially great when my husband would come and be my partner.

There are seriously too many fun activities to mention; Like Waffle WOD breakfasts, holiday parties, BBQ’s, birthdays, a trip to Disneyland, goodbye parties, etc.

This place has given me such a valuable sense of community over the last two years.

That is why I am sad to say goodbye to this remarkable gym and community of friends. Moving to Orange County leaves me with little choice than to end my time at Crossfit High Voltage. I’ll miss you all a lot! (cue sobbing uncontrollably…)

Alright, well enough of that (hidong my tissue box). I will soothe my broken heart with  delicious food!

Skillet Hash Breakfast

1 yam, chopped
1/4 red onion, diced
1/2 red pepper, chopped
2 eggs
1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
salt and pepper to taste

coconut oil for skillet

1. Add oil to a cast iron or oven safe skillet.
2. Preheat oven to 375.
3. Add veggies and spices to the skillet and let cook until the yams begin to brown on the sides, stir occasionally.
4. Crack eggs over the top of the veggies and transfer the skillet to the oven for 5-7 mins. Check the eggs and remove when the white is cooked but the yolk is still a bit runny. If you prefer a fully cooked yolk, leave the skillet in the oven until the yolk is firm.