Kami Macki, NP, cares for patients in gastroenterology at Altru. She is passionate about colon screening, and she organizes the annual Run for Your Buns 5K run/walk held each summer in Grand Forks. Outside of work, Kami is an avid runner, and she recently completed her first Ironman this year. Let’s take a behind-the-scenes look into Kami Macki’s secrets to success.
Give us a quick run-down of a day in your life. What does your typical Tuesday look like?
- 4:30 a.m. – Wake up to work out
- 6 a.m. – Eat breakfast and get ready for work
- 6:45 a.m. – Wake the family to get ready for the day
- 7 a.m. – Start the workday. Tuesdays happen to be Inflammatory Bowel Disease Clinic, so the days can be busy. I thoroughly enjoy my patients!
- 5:45-6 p.m. – Arrive home and have family supper
- 6-9 p.m. – Family time (sporting activities, schoolwork, etc.)
- 8-10 p.m. – Complete second workout
- 9:30-10:15 p.m. – Bedtime
How Do You Spend Your Downtime?
I like to surround myself with family and friends. They support, encourage and love me no matter what. I love going to movies, so often this will be a weekend family outing. I truly am able to relax during a movie and do not think about all the other responsibilities in life. I may also like to indulge in the unbuttered movie theater popcorn.
What Do You Keep In Your Car Just in Case You Have Extra Time?
I have a “ready-bag” for the gym that has dry shampoo, brush, makeup essentials and workout clothes. It is always available in the event that I have an unexpected gap in my schedule to squeeze in my second workout of the day. I also have magazines and GI journals in my car. Rolling through the carwash is a great time to catch up on some quick articles.
What Personal Development Goals Are You Working Toward Right Now?
Now that my Ironman is completed, I will be training once again for the Ironman distance, but this time it will be to support and encourage my husband as he is vying to become an Ironman.
This is also the time of year when I start the process of organizing and sponsorship of Run For Your Buns. This is a local 5K walk/run that is a perfect venue for families and racers alike. It is a fun environment to bring awareness of colon cancer and fitness at the same time. Mark your calendars for June 10, 2017! Race registration will open on January 1, 2017. Stay tuned for more information.
Fill in the blank:
- I’m going to ( drink ) less ( Diet Coke ).
- I’m going to ( sleep ) more.
- To get motivated, I ( make my bed ). There is the old quote, “The way you make your bed is the way you sleep in it.” I think it’s a metaphor for life. So, in essence, if you want a fresh beginning to each day, complete a positive task and make your bed.
What’s the Best Choice You Made Last Year?
The first was our family’s decision to move into town. The convenience of “city life” with easy access to work, the Greenway, shopping and friends has been priceless. The second decision was to face my self-doubt head on and sign up for a bucket list challenge, the Ironman triathlon.
What’s Your Mantra?
The only thing I can control in life is my attitude.
What’s Your Worst Habit?
I am a perfectionist.
Best Habit for a Healthy Life?
I am an avid water drinker.
Favorite Thing About Our Community?
Besides the people, it would be the Greenway.
What’s Your Best Life Advice?
Happiness is a choice. Everything else is perspective.
What Foods Do You Buy Most Often at the Grocery Store?
Milk, milk, milk and more milk!
Favorite Go-to Recipe?
Salsa Chicken
+ Can of drained whole corn
+ Can of drained black beans
+ Can of drained chickpeas
+ 2 cans shredded chicken
+ 2-3 cups homemade salsa
Heat in crockpot on low. Serve in tortillas with cheese and avocados.
How Do You Find Balance in Your Daily Life?
I strive to be an ever-present wife and mother, making my family time a priority. Meal planning is essential. I make basic, healthy foods that serve multiple purposes throughout the week. Also, doing little household tasks throughout the week means I do not have to spend hours on Saturday cleaning.
What Message Do You Have for Those Who Are Struggling With Their Health and Body Image?
Do not compare yourself to others. You are your own person. Love the body that you have, and if you truly love it, you will want to take care of it.
Full disclosure: I started racing triathlons a decade ago. My first triathlon I signed up on a whim because I saw a brochure that looked fun at Scheels and I figured I knew how to swim, bike and run. I realized within the first 100 meters of the 2/3 mile swim that I only knew how to doggy paddle. By the time I had to run the 5K, I was passed by an 80-year-old man power walking with a bowed-out bandaged knee. But, the experience was fun, and it stirred something inside to be better at it.
So for those who struggle to exercise, I say sign up for an event. Having a goal is essential. If you don’t have a goal, you will make excuses. Just know that the power of habit can transform your life.
What Is Your Favorite Indulgence?
Pizza and Toasted Frog deep fried pickles.
