walk...

we went for a walk last night {and even found something spooky}

Total Distance:  2.8 miles

New trails...

Went for a run this evening.  The new trails are open near our house, so I got to experience some new scenery! 

Today's Distance:  2.8 miles
{2.4 run, .4 walk}

Pilates...

Did the hour long Windsor Pilates video this evening...scared of what my butt's going to feel like tomorrow!  They make it look so easy, but it is not!

Pumpkin Run...

Just got home from the Jared Coones Pumpkin run, and I feel great!  It's always such a fun event, and the weather was absolutely perfect this year!  Hooray for 5k's and hooray for fall!  Now, off to get showered up and go to the pumpkin patch....whhhhhheeeeeeeeee! 

Run Distance:  3.1 miles
Time:  35:08

run...

ran this morning....dark...cool....awesome....

today's distance:  2.2 miles

...

ran 3.2 miles yesterday
walked 1.3 miles at lunch today

the end

bike ride...

I asked Jon if he might want to go on a walk yesterday, and he suggested going on a bike ride instead.  Neither of us intended on going as far as we did, but we hopped on the Indian Creek Trail, and ended up going 9.7 miles round trip!  It was really fun, and I can see us doing it again.  We're so lucky that our area has such a cool trail system that winds throughout the city, and the best part is, you'd hardly ever know it's there if you don't seek it out.  It blends right in behind houses, through the woods, following along the creek.  So pretty, and so nice!  Yay for bike rides!

The guilt finally caught up with me.  Just got back from a run....my legs feel heeeeaaaavy!  Glad I did it though!

Today's Distance:  2.7 miles

walked over my lunchbreak....steamy!

Today's distance:  2 miles

It's really hard to come up with post titles for these!  So, I'm just not gonna.

Since I didn't get my lazy buns up this morning, I decided to go for a run after work.  Set out to do 2 miles, but after yesterday, I knew I could do better, so I ran for 25 minutes (2.3 miles) and then walked the rest of the way for a total of 3.1 miles.  I probably should have ran the whole way, but nope, not gonna make excuses.  I wish I'd ran the whole way.  Next time! 

Today's distance:  3.1 miles

inspired...

This morning was DARK, and I set out to just get in 2 miles.  I thought, just at least get that in, so you can say you did something!  Then, I saw Tom out running.  I'm actually not certain it was him, but I think it was.  My stepdad has known him for a long time, and I met him when Jon ran his marathon.  This man lost his son to leukemia and his wife to breast cancer.  I thought, I bet there are alot of mornings that it's really hard for him to get up and run.  If he can do it, why on earth can't I? 

Then, I started thinking of Nie Nie.  I remember reading on her blog the other day that before her accident she was running every day.  I bet she wishes she could get up and run!  She wouldn't be concerned with a tweak in her heel, or the slight feeling of muscle fatigue.  She'd be focused on the feeling of the cool morning breeze on her face, and the sound of the cicadas.  She'd be joyful at every step she took.  I tried to focus on those things, for Nie Nie.  Every time I started feeling tired, I'd think, what if something happened today and this is the last run I ever got to go on?  I better make it count! 

So, because of these two inspiring people, this old girl ran 3 miles this morning!  Now, I know it's not all that much in the whole scheme of things, but it felt really good!  I'm certainly glad I did it, and I look forward to pushing myself further. 


Today's Distance:  3.33 miles

p.s. Nie, I'm praying that someday you'll get to run again.  Thanks for inspiring me.

Beautiful day...not so beautiful run!

I got out there and went for a run, but it was not a good one.  My body was fighting back the whole way.  I've been having some tightness in my right heel, and that was pretty uncomfortable today too.  Ice and stretching!  Just wasn't feelin' it today, but that's okay.  It was absolutely gorgeous out there, so that made up for it.  ;) 

Today's distance:  2.3 miles

It is beautiful outside!

and my hubby and I just went for a walk!

Today's distance:  2.6 miles

50 mile hump...

it's been a long time comin'...seriously! it's actually a bit sad how long it's taken me to get here, but WHATEVER!!! I'M HERE!!!! & it feels oh so good! met my friend at the gym..planning to make it at least 4 times this week...next week maybe five...getting crazy up in here!
happy 50th mile mark to me!
xoxoxo,
a

Got up and got in a run this morning.  It's staying darker later, and it's cramping my morning running style.  It's so hard to get out of bed!  Better something than nothing I suppose. 

Today's distance:  2.1 miles

back again...

to the gym! met my friend jennifer and we lasted an hour! a whole hour! awesome! always fun to have someone to chat with, makes the time fly by! i'm so glad she goes to my gym now...every night around 6 i get a text from her saying when she'll be there...and i try my hardest to be there! it's great motivation when you know someone is hoping you'll show up!

Monday...oh, Monday...

Remember last week, when Monday rocked?  Well, no such luck this morning.  I did not want to get out of bed.  Good news, I did it anyway.  However, it was a struggle for the first mile.  The last 1.4 wasn't as bad, but wasn't fun either.  Hey, at least I did it, right?  It is a good feeling when you don't want to work out, but make yourself anyway.  Totally worth it.  Painful, but worth it! 

Today's distance:  2.4 miles

apparently...

they're getting more popular.  wtf???

Dud..

this morning was kind of a dud.  I woke up with a strong adversion to running.  Well, actually a strong adversion to going outside.  It was really, really foggy, and I decided to listen to my instincts and stay in.  I contemplated doing some pilates, but decided against it.  Then, I tried doing some weights, but that just wasn't flowing.  So, as time ran out I panicked and decided to go for a fast 10 minute run.  {by this time it was lighter out and not as scary....yes, i'm a baby} I went for 1:30 before my body said screw it, and I walked.  Yep, walked.  I guess it's better than nothing.  At least that's what I'm telling myself. 

Today's Distance:  1 mile. 


oh, an update on the weight loss front:  this week, no gain, no loss.  I'm happy with that considering that the first week I lost 5.6 and that this week brought with it a certain womanly gift, if you will.  I say, maintaining in the face of that is a victory!  ;)

two times!

yep, twice so far this week i've made it to the gym! my friend Jen {the other jen} has been making sure i get there...i'm so thankful...and so is my booty! ha! yep, 4 miles tonight! waaahooooo! hopefully it burned off some of that burger i had for dinner! i have been working on making some changes to my diet, as well. baby steps in the right direction! feels good :)

Speed Demon...

haha!

I was a little crunched on time this morning so I decided to do a little challenge.  I ran 10 minutes out and 10 minutes back and wanted to see if I could get in 2 miles.  {I know that's not very fast to most people, but for me, it is.  I've been averaging about 11:30 minute miles.} 

Well....I did it!  Almost exactly 2 miles.  {2.0014}  I was quite proud of myself, and I'm hoping doing little challenges like this will help me improve on my distance as well.  ;)

Today's Distance:  2 miles

hittin' it...

and by that i mean, the gym :)
i saw a bunch of the people i used to teach with last saturday and one of my friends said she joined the gym by my house and i should join, too...well, i already have joined and just need to GO! we thought it would be cool to try and meet up there a few nights out of the week for some cardio and chatting! she texted me tonight and said she would be up there at 7...so i got the kids together, blew the dust off my gym shoes and got there just in time! we did 45 minutes on the elliptical! i couldn't believe i made it that long...serioulsy, i ate a roast beef sandwich right before she texted me and was so worried i was going to feel gross...i really was full! but the time flew by! it felt good to be at the gym, it felt great to visit with an old friend {we carpooled my last year of teaching}, and all around just felt good. soo, i'll be adding 3 miles to my ticker tonight...my sad little ticker...we're on our way up! yay!

Not too shabby for a Monday!

So far, so good!  Got up and went for a run this morning.  I didn't think it was going to be all that great the way it started off, but as I went, I started feeling stronger and stronger.  I concentrated on keeping my form and my breathing, and "looking" like I was a serious runner.   I'm sure this is mostly in my head, but I try and imagine myself as a "real" runner.  Seems to help!  ha!
I ended up running the entire way 25 minutes and then deciding to go for another 5!  Felt good!  It probably helped that it was only 68 degrees out there....ahhhhh.

Today's distance:  2.8 miles

yowzer...

some days are easier than others.  today was not one of those days.  not only did i have to convince myself to even go, it was a struggle the whole way.  ugh.  but, I did it!

Today's distance:  2.1 miles

steamy...

oooo, it is steamy out there today!  I was one sweaty girl after my morning run! 

Today's distance:  2.2 miles

Up and at 'em...

I was able to get to bed early last night, and thus able to get up and go this morning!  It was one of those good runs.  You know, the ones where your body feels in rythym and you feel like you can keep going forever....well, almost forever.  I ran for a solid 25 minutes!  That's something I haven't been able to do in quite some time.  It makes me happy!  ;)

Oh, and I've lost 5.6 lbs since this time last week!  Holla! 

Today's distance:  2.4 miles

zig zag...

Got up AGAIN and ran this morning.  I have to keep up my momentum.  I have to admit I came this close to saying screw it this morning, but I decided it would be too hard to live with later.  Glad I made that choice! 

I did a little zig zag action through the neighborhood, which was actually quite nice.  I love looking at all the houses, and it was expecially nice this morning as it was nice and cool!  Almost chilly, really.  But there's a hot front coming through, and we're supposed to be in the 100's next week...ick!

Today's distance:  2.1 miles

day 2...I'm on a roll!

this morning it was much harder to get out of bed, but i did it! 

did a little run/walk action, knocked out 2.3 miles.  booyah.

today's distance:  2.3 miles

It's so hot, morning runs are the only option!

I got my lazy bones up this morning and went for a jog/walk.  I really, really, really have to get back at it!  I have to say it was really nice being up and out as the sun was coming up.  Such a great way to start the day.  Now, I just have to do it again tomorrow! 

p.s. I'm starving!  Morning exercise will do that to ya!  ;)

Today's distance:  2.4 miles

Walks...

Friday night, Jon and I took advantage of the cool weather after a storm rolled through.  We went on a nice long walk, and talked.  It was awesome!

Friday's distance:  3 miles

Last night, Amanda and I were lucky enough to be together for a walk!  yay!  We had to cut it a little short due to a creepy guy with a great dane, but we managed to get in 1.7 miles and a whole lotta girl talk!  ;)  {don't forget to add this to your total, Amanda!} 

Monday's distance:  1.7 miles

Total distance:  4.7 miles.

running woman...

Went for a 3 mile jog this evening.  Guess what...I ran the whole thing!  Not sure what got into me.  I just decided I was gonna do it, and did it!  Yay for me!  ;)

Still looking for another opportunity to ride my bike!

Today's Distance:  3 miles

Run/Walk

Saturday morning I went for a little run/walk.  Nice to be back out there...I'll have to do it again!
Run/Walk Distance:  3 miles

We also went for a little bike ride Saturday evening...does that count toward DBF?  Kinda seems like cheating.  I won't count it toward the distance! 
Bike Distance:  2.6 miles

Boot Camp Day 6...

Last boot camp class!  Well, at least the last class that I've payed for.  I think I may see what my sweet husband thinks about me going once a week.  I hate to give it up!  It's such a good workout, and I feel like I'm starting to see results!

Anyhoo, today we...

Run down and back on parking lot x 4
squat pyramid with whole class {everyone holds a squat, one at a time do one squat jump, then two, etc} x 10
One lap around entire park
Push ups with a partner, clapping hands in between {15, then 20, then 25} running down and back parking lot in between
25 jumping lunges, suicide run x 3
twisting lunges down parking lot and back
10 Sphinx pushups, 16 plank punches {each arm} x 3
hold plank 1 minute
crunches, bicycles, flutters
stretch

Great workout as usual!

Today's distance:  1.5 miles

Boot Camp Day 5...

Another bright and early morning!

10 minutes running
pyramid burpie, pushup, mountain climber, 1-10
sprint down parking lot and back x 3
with partner, one person jump rope one person run down parking lot and back with body bar, switch x 3
Alternating 10 lunges ea. leg, 25 squat jumps down parking lot, sprint back
25 pushups, horse down and back with partner, 3x each
5 in 30 sprints x3
crunches, hold x 3
bicycles, hold x 3
leg flutters, hold x3


Total Distance:  2.1 miles

One more class to go!  I'm actually kinda sad.  I would love to keep going, but at $10 a class, I just don't think it's in the budget.  Maybe I can recreate it on my own?  I'm not sure I'll be able to push myself as hard on my own though. :(

Beat the storm...

I got in a run yesterday morning just in time!  I knew there was a thunderstorm coming and had Jon on standby to come rescue me if it started before I could get home.  I made it just in time....it started raining when I was two houses from home!

Yesterday's distance:  2.1 miles

Boot Camp day 4...

Today's class was Bru.tal.

Yeah, remember how on tuesday I was questioning whether the class was easier, or I was making great progress?  The answer is:  class was easier!

Holy cow!  I can tell that I'm getting stronger, but she really kicked our behinds today!

Class was as follows:
10 minute run warmup
25 Bar Jacks, run to other side of parking lot, 25 Bar Jacks, run back x3
10 Lunges each leg, 10 jumping squats- Across parking lot and back
Sprint across parking lot and back
5 in 30 sprints {30 ft back and forth 5 lengths in 30 seconds} x3
25 pushups, run across parking lot, 25 biceps curls with band, run back x2
Run around track to shelter, 25 step ups on each leg, run back to start
50 crunches, 50 reverse crunches, 50 bicycles x2

Um, yeah!  Holy Cow!

Today's distance:  1.76 miles

Boot camp day 3...

Today was much easier than last week!  Not sure if the class was actually easier, or if I am getting better!  {maybe a little of both?} I did come away with a blister on the ball of my foot...no good!  Hopefully it will heal fast!

Class broke down as follows:

10 minute jog
Suicides with shuffles-one on each side
25 mountain climbers (on each leg) with forward/backward suicides x 3
Pyramid squat pushups 1-10
squat holds while going through each person running down and back with body bar
plank holds while going through each person running down and back with body bar
crunches
bicycles
straight leg crunches
stretching

3 more classes to go!  ;)

Today's distance:  1.8 miles

Sunday Runday....

Got up this morning and watered my new flowers!  I noticed that it was nice and cool and decided to go ahead and get my run in for the day.  I'm glad I did because by the time I got home it was warming up quite a bit...but then again, so was I!

I was thinking while I ran that I might just beat this ole body of mine into submission yet!  ;)

25 minutes of running. 1.5 walking.

Today's Distance:  2.22 miles

Evening run and Boot Camp day 2...

Man have I been sore!  Our boot camp instructor recommended that we get in some cardio yesterday, so that's exactly what I did.  I went for a run yesterday evening despite the fact that I was extremely sore.  I did the recommended 25 minutes and got in about 2.3 miles.  This morning it was back to boot camp.  Killer!  We did about 2.0 miles total with exercises in between.

10 minute run to start
Circuit {while carrying body bar}of 25 push ups, run, 25 step ups on each leg {on a picnic bench}, run, 25  jumping jacks {with bar}, run, 25 squats--3x all the way through
Jumping squat suicides--3x {although she had me stop at 2.
25 sit ups
25 leg flutters
stretch.

kicked. my. booty!

My shoulders are rediculous sore, I can barely hold my arms up to type.  So glad I have a few days to recover now!  This makes cardio look like a cake walk!  ;)

Yesterday's Distance:  2.3 miles
Today's Distance:  2.0

Boot Camp...

I was up this morning at 5 for my first day of Boot Camp!  It was exactly as excruciating as I expected!  The instructor was super nice though, no yelling.  ;)

The class consisted of:
10 minutes of running
jumping jacks with a weight bar, run, squats with a weight bar x 3
burpies or mountain climbers and suicide runs x 4
1 push up, 1 dip, 2 push ups, 2 dips, etc up to ten on a park bench
lunges
plank for 30 sec, crunches for 30 sec x 4
reverse crunches
stretching

In case you hadn't guessed, it kicked my ass!  All in all I really liked it!  The first one is always the hardest, so I'm glad to have it out of the way!

I've been instructed to drink lots of water today, and get in some cardio tomorrow.  Then we'll do it again on Saturday!

Now, all I have to do is stay awake for the rest of the day!  Good times!

Total Distance:  1.8 miles {of running/walking}

quick lunch walk...

took a lap around the track at lunch...

distance:  .7 miles

Pilates...

sweet!  i just scored a Windsor Pilates 7 dvd set for $5 on my work's trading post!  can't wait to try it out!  ;)

Counterintuitive...

My back has been hurting again all day today.  I couldn't stand up straight, and felt like my bum was sticking out!  I knew only one thing was going to make it better.  Jon and I went for a nice long walk and I cannot tell you how much better I feel!  It's so counterintuitive, but exercise makes the back pain go away!  I always think I'm in too much pain to do anything, but really, that's exactly what I need.  I'm pretty sure that there is a link to the back pain and sitting for long periods of time.  Not a good combo with a desk job. That's exactly why I need to get moving!  I feel like I've been saying that for months, and I'm ready to do something about it!  No more excuses.  I'm going to work on consistency.  Not worrying about how far, or how fast, just that I get some activity in every day.  Once I master that, I'll move on to the others.  

Oh, we also saw where they've staked out a trail near our house!  I'm so excited and can't wait to see where it leads to!  :)

Today's Distance:  3 miles

Dr....

I have to go to the doctor this morning for my yearly exam...boo.  But, since I had extra time this morning, I got up and put in 2.5 miles!  I ran 10, walked 5, ran 5, walked 5, ran 5, walked 2.5.  I didn't have much steam this morning, but I'm glad I got it in anyway.  Now, off to the new Dr.  I had to change doctors due to an insurance change.  I hope I like the new one!  :|

Today's distance:  2.5 miles

Perfect weather for a run!

It's 59 degrees and sunny...perfect weather for a run.  I got home from work and hit the road.  I thought I was going to need some long sleeves, but I'm glad I left them at home!  My sleeveless top and capris were just right!  ;)

Today's Distance:  2.4 miles {2.0 run/0.4 walk}

*********************************************
oh, and I forgot, yesterday I put in a 2/3 mile walk at lunch....not much, but every little bit counts, right!?

Yesterday's Distance:  .66 miles

Got my new shoes on...

That's right!  I finally got some new running shoes!  

via.

I'm not crazy about how they look {they look a little too much like they came from a certain rival school}, but they are super comfy!  {probably the first time I've ever bought a shoe solely based on fit...kinda important for running!}

Of course zappos has them in a cute charcoal/fuchsia color combo...but, I got mine for $40 bucks instead of $65!  woo hoo!  Off Broadway had them at $49.50 and I got a $5 off coupon from signing up on their website here, and I had $8.67 in discount points from previous purchases.  Holla!

I just put in a run on the treadmill, which was a total shame, because it's beautiful outside and the rest of the week's forecast is almost entirely rain.  But, I wanted to make sure I didn't have any problems with the new kicks before I took to the road with them.  I'm pleased to announce that they were a dream! 

Today's distance:  2.25 miles

************************************************

OMG!   I just discovered that there were 3 walks that I forgot to post on here!  I'm thinking that means I didn't put it on my ticker either, cause I always post and then tick...ha!  hooray!  bonus ticking!  

4/2:  1.7 miles

4/3   1.8 miles

4/5   2.0 miles

Total Bonus:  5.5 miles   ;)

back to it...

so this weekend is mother's day! i usually don't insist on a specific present, but this year i decided i NEED a gym membership. talked the husband into it {i mean, how could he say "no"...it is my mother's day present after all...and of course he didn't already have something stashed away!} so after calling around and checking out deals, i'm joining the 24 hour fitness a few miles from our house and i am super excited! i made an appointment to get all signed up tomorrow morning {that way i make sure i get there} and will start with the elliptical for 30 minutes. have to get the kids used to the kids club and figure a 30 minute stay will be good for us! they also have the les mills classes that got me into the best shape of my life, so i am excited to get back into those! {not for a few weeks though...gonna stick with some consistent cardio and then hop back on that train! they are killer and there is no way i could hang right now!}

so, ecxited to get back to it and find my inner gym rat! it is what worked for me last time, so here we go again! wish me luck!

Morning run...

So, I finally got my lazy buns out of bed this morning to go for a run.  The wind was blowing pretty good, and it was a little chilly!  I couldn't bring myself to do the 2 miles around on the main roads.  I was craving something different, so I ran through the neighborhoods out and back.  I wasn't sure how far I'd gone.  It wasn't excruciating, but it wasn't easy either.  I'm starting my boot camp classes next week, and I really need to get the initial shock out of my system before then.  I'm sure they'll be hard enough without starting from scratch! Also, my back has been hurting for the last couple of weeks. I was a little scared of what running would do to it.  Surprisingly, my back feels better now than it has in a really long time!  Yay for running!  {can't use that as an excuse anymore!}

Today's total:  1.4 miles  {I'll need to up that if I want to make a difference, but it's a start!}

"Healthy Goals List"-Free Printable from Baca Creative

Check out this super adorable free printable from Baca Creative!  You can download it here.

This seems fun enough and stylish enough to possibly just work!  You can set your workout goals, how many indulgences you're allowed, and keep track of your fruits and veggies!  You know how I love marking things off lists, so I'm going to give this a go!  {it doesn't hurt that it's superbly designed!}

Evening Walk....

Jon and I went for a walk this evening.  I just love long walks with my sweetie!  Of course, when we got home we promptly went to the store to get stuff to make lava flows.  Good thing we walked!

Total Distance:  2.6 miles

yesterday's walk...

I forgot to post my walk from lunch yesterday!  I did 2.3 miles on my break again!  Hopefully I'll get more in this weekend!

Today's total:  2.3 miles

lunch walking again...

i took another walk today over lunch.  {this time solo}  it felt so good to be out in the sunshine and fresh air!  i was thinking while i walked about what a shame it is that there is such a short window of time to take advantage of walking at lunch.  During the winter it's just too darn cold, and then once it gets too warm, you get all sweaty and would be unfit to return to the office.  Right now, it's just right!

Today's distance:  2 miles

It's been a while!

Wow!  It has been a while.  I guess you could say that I've fallen off the horse yet again!

Today, I walked 3 miles with a friend over lunch, and let me tell you, I am exhausted!  I'm not sure if it's from the walk, or just from trying to get back into the swing of things after vacation, but I can hardly keep my eyes open today!

It does feel good to have gotten some exercise though!  Yay!

Today's Distance:  3 miles

hey!  look at that!  I just went over the 100 mile mark!  Only 431.1 to go!  {only}

Hiya...

Hello, yes, it's me.  I'm here.  I have not been completely inactive, and I've snuck on and added to my slider, but not posted.  I know!  Shame on me!
Anyhow, I'm back.  I'm going to do my best to be better at posting again.  Promise.

Friday, I came home from work and went for a run.  It was absolutely gorgeous outside!  {in fact it has been all weekend!}  I set out on a path that I haven't run before, so I wasn't sure what the distance would be, but I decided to just run for 20 minutes.  At the end of 20, I decided to do 5 more, cause I was almost home anyway.  In all I ran 2.3 miles and and walked another tenth.  Not bad!

Friday's distance:  2.4 miles

park

took the kids to the park today. after ava played, we walked around it a few times. i even let her walk in front of me, behind me, beside me for a while. until she fell behind and in her sweetest whiney voice asked "mommy, carry me?!" so i did for a few minutes and then into the stroller she went to ride the rest of the way! i had fun walking with her {even though she got distracted adn ended up picking flowers most of the walk!} i went about 2 miles and she probobly walked about 3/4 of a mile {after she had spent about 45 minutes running around like a wild woman on the playground!}
the weather here has been gorgeous {a little windy, but okay.}. enjoying every sunny second of it!
~a

routine

so i've been doing better each and every day with the exercise...really trying to make it a part of my routine! walked the past few nights and today went to the zoo {walked for 3+ hours} and then tonight did physique 57 arms/abs workout! {killah!} soooo, really gonna try and hold onto this...i think i can, i think i can, i think i can!
xo
a

lunch walk...

my friend and i went walking over lunch today.  it is so beautiful outside!  We put in 2 miles, which is great, but now i'm all sweaty and gross at my desk.  it does feel good to be moving again!

today's distance:  2 miles

"Success is getting up just one more time than you fall down."

~unknown {i think}

working on getting up again...

{jen} food log 03/18/10...

• 2 hard boiled eggs--140
• Green Monster smoothie {1 cup skim milk, 1/4 cup oats, 1 T peanut butter, spinach, 1 T honey, 1 frozen banana--449
• Dried apricots--120
• Wrap with Hummus, turkey pepperoni, spinach and tomato--234
• Cherry Sprite--230  {I know!  stupid!  never drink your calories!!}
• Nutz over chocolate Luna Bar--180  {I think Luna Bars are my favorite!}
• Meatball open faced sandwich on sandwich thin--485
• Mango chunks--90
• fiber one crackers--280

I went way over today!  I blame it on the sprite.  very stupid!

Today's total:  2208  {that's 633 calories over my goal...bleh}

I'm still here!

I haven't posted in the last few days, but don't worry, I have not fallen off the wagon!

I did have a little bit  of a glitch on Saturday, but I'm good now.  for some reason, beyond my comprehension, I have gained all {or at least nearly all} my weight back.  I was doing so well too!  I'm very perplexed and frustrated by this, but I'm going to press on.  I did splurge on Saturday.  We were watching the Big 12 Tournament with friends, and yes, I had some adult beverages and lots of snacks, but that was one day!  Not to mention that I weighed in before the festivities began.

I have no idea what to expect this week.  I know I'm getting stronger, but I am not seeing it on the scale, or in my clothes.  I figure if I just keep going, I'll see results eventually.  I'm also going to start incorporating running back into my routine.  It's the only thing that's ever consistently worked for me, so it needs to be in the lineup!


Week One:  Lost 3.6 lbs. / 0.4% body fat
Week Two:  Lost 3.8 lbs.  /  1.6% body fat
Week Three:  Gained 5.8 lbs. / 1.1 % body fat


Overall:  Lost 1.6 lbs / 0.9% body fat

epiphanie....

like i said, i have been sick...since monday, sick, sick, sick! as i laid my sick self on the couch and in the bed all week long, feeling sorry for myself, unable to even really play with my kids because i felt so hellacious, i had an epiphanie. why in the world am i {a very able bodied and capable person} finding it so hard to fit in exercise and basically turning into a lazy lump? yes, i said it...l.a.z.y. if you lived with me, you would see it with clarity, too! i love sitting on the couch, watching my shows, watching movies with ava, {yes, we do our fair share of playing outside...don't go thinking i am totally lost}, holding the baby, all those things...all that sitting! well, as i was sick for a week all i wanted to do was get up and run and chase my daughter and go walking in the beautiful sunshine...so why in the world don't i do this on any normal day?



today we spent the majority of the day outside in the beautiful sunshine and fresh air and then after the kids went to bed tonight, i did my 30 day shred dvd. i am hoping that this desire to get physical stays with me for a while. i know i could probobly link you back to several posts that all are hoping for change and new routines in my life. i am not making any promises this go round. i got in some exercise today and it felt good. i am hopeful that tomorrow i'll do the same. for me. because i can. because i am lucky.

m.i.a.

yes, i know i've been m.i.a on the blog lately...with good reason! all four of us have been sick! yes....ALL four! that includes me....the mama! now, it's not pretty when the mama gets sick...especially when everyone else is sick...because everyone wants the mama, especially when they are sick! no good! i had strep. today was the first day since monday i have felt good at all. took the kids to the park, was going to walk there, but decided to drive in case i started feeling crummy again. back on the wagon again tomorrow!

{jen} food log 03/11/10...

• 2 hard boiled eggs--140
• 1 cup Kashi Go Lean, 1/2 banana, 1/2 cup skim milk--230

ouch!

these shoes were not made for walking.  but, i made them walk at lunch.  i now have a bloody heel and a mile under my belt for the day.  i did somehow manage to come away without blisters!

here's to warm spring days and walks at lunch!  {and remembering to pack sneakers!}

{jen} food log 03/10/10...

• 2 hard boiled eggs---140
• 1/2 cup Kashi Go Lean with 1/2 banana and 1/2 c skim milk--230
• dried apricots---120
• wrap with turkey, tomato, spinach and hummus--225
• pink lady apple--100
• banana bread lara bar--220
• burrito bowl--461

Today's calories--1501

{jen} food log 03/09/10...

• 2 hard boiled eggs---140
• 1/2 cup Kashi Go Lean with 1/2 banana and 1/2 c skim milk--230
• Med. Iced Vanilla Coffee from McDonalds---190  {I know!  But I have a weakness , and my friend made me do it....really!  It's the best one I've ever had, too!}
• Burrito Bowl---380
• Cashew Cookie Lara Bar---230
• Chicken & Asparagus---106
• Dried Apple slices---110
• Smart Start Cereal {dry}---190

Today's total:  1576

{jen} food log 03/08/10...

I was fairly lax on tracking my calories this weekend.  This doesn't mean I didn't eat well, I just didn't keep track of everything.

Today:

• 2 hard boiled eggs---140
• 1 cup Kashi Go Lean, 1/2 banana, 1/2 cup skim milk---230
• 20 raw almonds---120
• Dried Apricots---120
• Salad with spinach, artichokes, tomato, grilled chicken and balsamic vinaigrette--135
• Pecan Pie Lara Bar---220
• Clementine---37
• Dried Apricots---60
• Chocolates---100
• Burrito Bowl with 1/2 c brown rice, 2 oz chicken, 1/4 c black beans, 2.5 oz avocado, 1 oz tomato, salsa and green tobasco sauce---380

Today's total:  1542

Week 2 Weigh-In...

Saturday concluded week 2 of Making the Cut.  I didn't get all my workouts in during week 2, due to a packed social schedule, so I was a little worried about my weigh in on Saturday.  I was pleasantly surprised that I lost an additional 3.8 pounds!  Yipee!

Week One:  Lost 3.6 lbs. / 0.4% body fat
Week Two:  Lost 3.8 lbs.  /  1.6% body fat

Total:  7.4 lbs / 2% body fat

From my calculations I have somewhere between 12-24 pounds to go!  :)

My girl wants to be a Glam R Baby! My favorite local boutique recently began a model search for their upcoming line. I entered Ava and have been so excited to find out she has made it to the “fan pick” round of the contest! So now we need your help! We need your votes...there are sooooo many darling girls!
Head on over to Glam R Baby on Facebook and become a fan. Under photos you will find an album that says “fan pick model contest – fall 2010”. Click on that, find ava’s picture and all you have to do is click “like”. No comments or anything, just “like”! Easy enough right?! Please, please, please if you get a chance check out her site, you will love everything you see, and vote for Ava while you are there. {you can only vote once for it to count!}. The contest starts 3/3 @ 10pm and ends 3/10 @10pm!My favorite Boutique
+ My favorite local photographer
+ my sweet girl
________________________
awesomeness! {& one elated mommy}
Thanks so much for your help! I so appreciate it!

{jen} food log 03/05/10...

Hey girlie!  Where'd you go? ....come back to me!!!!!!!

Friday breakfasts with the team at work are bad!  Next week is my week though, so I can control the calories then!  mwahahahahaha!

• Gooey Cinnamon Roll---240  {estimation}
• Banana---100
• OJ  {took a couple of sips of some low sugar orange juice...gross}--13
• 1/2 lavash wrap with turkey, spinach, tomato, hummus, & avocado--249
• Ginger Snap Lara Bar---240
• 1/2 cup milk---40
• 2 Wasa Crackers and one wedge Laughing Cow cheese---125
• Homemade stir fry with chicken, shrimp and veggies---400?  {not sure on exact}

{jen} food log 03/04/10...

• 2 hard boiled eggs---140
• 1/2 cup Kashi Go Lean, 1/2 cup Smart Start, 1/2 cup skim milk and blueberries---240
• 1/2 lavash wrap with avocado, roast beef, spinach, tomato and hummus---198
• Peanut Butter Cookie Lara Bar---220
• Clementine---37
• Dried Apricots---120
• 4 hershey's kisses {i caved}---88

I had dinner with my friend April.  We shared a few items from the small plates menu at Houlihans.  The following amounts are based on their nutrition info and some estimations on my part....

• 1/2 BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza--174
• 1/2 Chinese Dumpling Kabobs---274
• 1/3 of the Hummus and 1/2 Pitas---375  {eek}

Today's calorie total--1986

All in all I went over by 411 calories!  Definitely not ideal, but it is encouraging to see that I still fell under 2000 calories for the day!  Maybe all isn't lost....

{jen} food log 03/03/10...

• 2 hard boiled eggs---140
• 1 cup Go Lean Cereal with 1/4 cup soymilk, 1/4 cup skim milk, and fresh blueberries---220  {yay!  the soymilk is officially gone!}
• Burrito Bowl!---412
• 20 raw almonds---120

This is where it gets tricky.  We went out with some friends to watch the KU vs. K-State game, so I had bar food to choose from...not pretty.

• 1 Miller Light Draft---???  {Jillian says no alcohol, but I just couldn't help but have one...just one!}
• Grilled chicken salad with oil and balsamic vinegar---???  {totally disgusting.  I ate the chicken, that was about it.  Note to self:  Don't order salads at a bar}

When we got home I was still hungry, so I had:

• Pita and Hummus
• Smart Start Cereal and skim milk.  

Not sure where I ended up calorie-wise, but I think I did okay considering I was surrounded with fried bar food and pizza all night!  

p.s.  Rock Chalk!!

amanda {food log 3/2}

banana
clementine {x several throughout the day...such a yummy snack!}
{yep...i need to get to the grocery store!}
sweet potatoe
diet coke
tea
hamburger
a few french fries {shakes head}
a small pack of ava's fruit snacks
60 cal jello pudding

....yep, it's been a day of snacking...got to get to the store so i can return to some better choices!
xo,
a

Chia Seed Giveaway!!

Kristin@Iowa Girl Eats is giving away a 2 lb. bag of chia seeds!  Go here to sign up!

{jen} food log 03/02/10...

• 2 hard boiled eggs---140
• 1 cup Kashi Go Lean, 1/2 banana, 1/2 cup soymilk---239
• 20 raw almonds---120
• Wrap with turkey, roast beef, spinach, black beans, tomato, avocado and fat free cream cheese---331
• 5 dried apricots---120
• PB&J Cliff Mojo Bar---220
• Burrito Bowl with grilled chicken, rice, avocado, tomato, black beans, salsa, lots of cilantro and green tobasco---431

I cannot tell you how much I love these Burrito Bowls!  Inspired by this lovely lady.  I think I could eat them every day, seriously.  so good.

Today's calorie total:  1601  {26 calories over!  eek!}

{jen} food log 03/01/10...

I'd just like to state right here on Monday morning that this week is going to be a bit challenging for me.  I have social dinner plans 3 nights this week...yikes!  I am going to have to make sure that I really watch what I eat and workout as hard as possible to ensure that I make progress in the midst of this.

Today's food:

• 2 hard boiled eggs with sprinkle of salt/pepper---140
• Kashi Go Lean Cereal with 1.5 oz fresh blueberries and 1/2 cup soymilk---217
• 20 raw almonds---120
• 5 dried apricots---120
• Lavash wrap with turkey, spinach, tomato, black beans and fat free cream cheese--255
• Avacado--76  {my friend shared, it was the perfect add on to the wrap..mmmm}

this is where the evening out begins:

• Approx. 1 cup pasta with cheese, sausage, etc---???
• Salad with fat free italian dressing---???
• Brownie---???

Not really sure where I ended up calorie-wise.  Before dinner I was at 928.  I'd like to think I wasn't too far off my 1575, but I probably went a little over.  We had a great night with friends though!  I think it was worth it!

{jen} weekend food...

I didn't log in and record everything from the weekend.  I did keep track in my handy-dandy food log, so I could record it all here now, but that seems kinda silly.  Instead I think I'll just fill you in on the gist.

First of all, I had my first weekly weigh in on Saturday!  I'm down 3.6 pounds!  According to my scale, my body fat % only went down by .4%, but I'm not sure how accurate that is anyway.  I do know that I'm feeling stronger everyday and I can tell my clothes are starting to feel a little looser!

I did pretty well with my food this weekend.  Nothing threw me off course.  Saturday I totaled 1553 calories {shooting for 1575} and Sunday came in at 1267.  I just wasn't that hungry yesterday.

The workouts are going well!  You can read about them here.

Here's to another week!  Happy Monday!

food log...

so i have been bad....
we had family in town and i spent the entire weekend stuffing my face with food, delicious, unnutritious, sweet-a-lot food. back on track tomorrow....& i know i said i would keep track and fill you all in on my food log while they were here, but...I LIED! no way can i even remember everything i ate....yes, it was that good.....& bad....so, starting fresh tomorrow.

{jen} food log 02/26/10

• Smart Start Cereal with 2 oz blueberries and 1/2 cup soymilk--275
• 2 breakfast burritos---576  {yikes!  We had a morning breakfast meeting.  i guess i should have stopped at one!}

**update:  feeling rather yuck from the burritos.  what was i thinking?!  I'm trying to drink lots of water to flush it out.  bleh.

• Mixed Salad---116
• Cutie---40
• Wasa cracker---45
• 20 raw almonds---120
• Pizza made from a pita bread, 1//8 cup marinara sauce, 1/2 oz shredded mozzarella cheese, 7 turkey pepperonis, 1 oz feta cheese, 5 cloves roasted garlic, and basil---268  {this was seriously so delicious!  hit the spot!}
• Cutie--37
• Kashi Go Lean Cereal with 1/2 cup soymilk---190

Today's total:  1540 cal

{jen} food log 02/25/10

• 2 scrambled eggs with green tobasco sauce---140
• Kashi Go-Lean cereal with 2 oz fresh blueberries and 1/2 cup soymilk---225
• Wrap with turkey, spinach, tomato, black beans and low fat cream cheese---255
• Navel Orange--40
• Mandarin Orange Cutie--37  {yes, two oranges in a row. I just bought the Cuties and couldn't resist trying one!} 
• 3 Dried Apricots---72  {the afternoon snack attack is starting again}
• Peanut Butter Cookie Luna Bar---180  {yummy!  seriously, so good.  should boost my energy just enough to get me through my workout!}
• 2 T Roasted Garlic Hummus---70
• 1 Pita bread---60
• Apricot Chicken---278  {recipe from Making the Cut.  a little sweet for my taste.  Thinking about adding red pepper flakes to the next batch.  Then it would be more spicy sweet!}
• Roasted Asparagus--50
• Cutie---37

Today's total calories--1564

amanda's food log {2-24

breakfast:

• fruit yogurt parfait with oats and strawberries

lunch:

• roast beef sandwich
• orange

{jen} food log 2/24/10

• 2 scrambled eggs with green tobasco sauce  {totally delish!}--140
• 1 cup Kashi Go lean, 2 oz fresh blueberries, and 1/2 cup soymilk--225 {fyi  i'm not a huge fan of the soymilk, but i decided to try it, so now i have to use it up!}
• Roast Beef Wrap with spinach and tomato---192
• Orange--50
• 20 Raw Almonds---120
• Dried Apricots---120
• Pink Lady Apple---100  {i've been really snacky this afternoon!  eek!}
• Odwalla Sweet & Salty Almond Bar--220
• 4oz Salmon fillet with 1/4 t citrus grille seasoning and olive oil---145
• 1/4 cup wild rice---150
• Asparagus---28
• Brussells Sprouts---88

Today's Total out of 1575:  1572 {that's about as close as you can get!!}

{jen} tuesday's food...

• 2 hard boiled eggs with a sprinkling of salt and pepper----140 cal
• 1 cup Kashi Go Lean cereal w/ 2 oz fresh blueberries and 1/2 cup Soymilk---225 cal
• 20 raw almonds---120 cal
• Roast Beef, Spinach and Tomato Wrap--192 cal
• Small Navel Orange--40 cal
• Apple--100 cal
• Mushroom Jack Sandwich & a house salad with low fat ranch dressing {Texas Roadhouse}--496

We had dinner out with the family this evening for my sister's birthday.  This was the calorie count as found on the internet for Texas Roadhouse, but I am having a hard time believing it was that low.  The bun was smothered in butter.  In hindsight, I should have removed it and just eaten the inside, but I didn't.  

I did pass up ice cream and my boss' delicious sugar/reece's peanut butter cup cookies at work today though.  That's a feat in itself!  

I should also mention that I'm shooting for 1575 calories per day.  This is based on my BMR.  Don't want to go into starvation mode!  I have to say, when you start watching what you eat, you can really have a lot for 1600 calories!  

Today's calorie count:  1313

{amanda} tuesday's food...

• breakfast: fruit/yogurt parfait {with oats & strawberries...yum-o!} ~200
  glass of water
• roast beef sandwich {funny we both had roast beef...yours sounds more healthy than mine though...} {340}
• orange {60}
• nature valley oats n honey bar {190}
• 3 chicken strips, they were all pretty small {500}
• one portion mashed potatoe {210}
• 1 biscuit {178}

total: ~1,518

tonight was family night over at bo's nanny's. she bought chicken express and it was oh-so-delicious! it's crazy thought how i ate so much less than i usually do and it was still a gargantuan amount of calories for one meal...really eye opening. we have dinner over there every other tuesday so i know that will be a hard night for me and i'll need to adjust my eating so i can allow for a bit more depending on what she's servin' up!

& jen, i'm proud of you for passing up any sort of sweet...it is so hard!!!

xo,

a

change is gonna come...

so change is gonna come...

i am going to be making a few changes to how i have been posting on the blog. just like exercise/diet it has been half-a$$. well, that's all about to change. this 40 day challenge has really gotten me in gear and i am loving it. i can't remember the last time i actually exercised 5 days in a row {okay, even 2 days in a row}. i am feeling all committed and pumped about it. so now it's time to conquer the diet. i have been attempting to count calories, but every day, end up not writing something down, binging on a honey bun {or two...cringe}, totally undoing any good that a twenty minute workout can do. I have got to fix this, pronto! so every day i am going to post every thing that i eat. i know this will probobly be of little interest to anyone out in the blogosphere, but i know that it will help me stay focused and hopefully on a healthier {shrinking} path. the key to weight loss is diet and exercise and if i can conquer them both, i know i will see results. and let's face it, swimsuit season is coming...QUICKLY, change is gonna come! so starting tomorrow get ready for some food posts. & if you have any advice, or if you see me eating something that i should be running from, please, please, please let me know. i am going to try and keep my calories at 1500 max {i think that's a good number, i'm still nursing hollis, so i have to consider that along with my calorie intake}...if anyone has any advice on that number, i'm all ears! so thanks for tolerating the upcoming food log {which i think is appropriate to go with the 40 days log}, and hopefully i can get it together this time. i know you will all hold me accountable! {we do have company coming in town through the weekend, so i may not post for a few days, but i will keep up with food intake and do one "weekend diet" post to update the days i miss.}
xo,
a

Making the Cut-Day One

Yesterday {Sunday} I began the Making the Cut program.  Bru.tal.

I wasn't even through the first circuit before I was re-thinking this.  But really, what was I expecting?  It is Jillian Michaels!  Day One had me screaming in pain and willing my legs to move with no avail...multiple times.  I have to admit, I kinda lost my cool.  My husband was working out at the same time and witnessed my little hissy fit/ breakdown.  I'm not proud of it.  I was so frustrated at my lack of strength to do these exercises!  After a long talk with my hubby, I realized that it is supposed to be hard.  If it were easy or even somewhat easy, I wouldn't need the program.  As much as I wish that were the case, it's not.  It's gonna be hard, but anything worth doing is.

I've got a whole new attitude today.  I just have to remember it come workout time tonight!

I'm gonna make the cut!

I got out my copy of Jillian Michaels' Making the Cut today.  I pretty much read it cover to cover and am ready to kick some ass!  We made a trip to the store this evening and I got all the food I'll need for the next week.  I didn't buy everything that was on the list for Week One, because it just seemed like so much!  I think by repeating some meals I'll waste less food and save some money too!
I'm looking forward to getting started tomorrow.  The next 30 days are going to be hard, but if I can just get  through them, I know I'll be so much happier with myself.  And, It'll be spring by then, so that will be perfect!  So excited!

Today's Distance:  1.25 miles

late night walking...

We went straight to our neighbor friend's house as soon as I got home from work last night, and didn't get home til 10:00! But, I didn't let that stop me from getting in my 40 days workout!  I knew that I had to get at least 20 minutes, so I walked on the treadmill.  It was bare-minimum but at least I got moving and didn't let excuses keep me from it.  I mean, you really can always find 20 minutes, right?

follow my progress here .
and amanda's here .

Today's distance {well, yesterday's distance}:  1.25 miles

40 Day Challenge...

So, I've been in a bit of an exercise rut lately.  Oh, who am I kidding!?  I've come to a screeching halt!  I thought I was ready to get back at it...I really did.

You see, when I wrote my last post on the 9th, I had just had something happen that sent me into an emotional tailspin.  At the time, I wasn't aware of the toll it would take on me both physically and emotionally.  

Then, when I thought I was ready to get back at it this week, I was blindsided with something else entirely that got my sleep pattern all messed up and has had me exhausted every morning this week.  Let's just say some skeletons surfaced, and on top of the thing from the week before...i've been a little whacked. 

I've made excuse after excuse, and I'm not liking myself for it.  I know in my heart that all of this would have been easier to deal with if I had kept exercising.  But, I didn't.  Now, I just want to get back at it.  I know the longer I wait, the harder it's going to be.  

So, one of my absolute favorite bloggers, Kristin from Iowa Girl Eats , is hosting a 40 Day Challenge for Lent!  Instead of giving something up, she's committing to at minimum 20 minutes of exercise every day of lent.  

I have spoken to Amanda about this, and we both agree that this could be precisely the kick in the butt that we need to get back on track.  

So, over in the left sidebar  you will find a link to each of our 40 Days pages.  This is where we will keep track of our 40 Day challenges.  {I plan on blogging as usual in addition to these brief descriptions.}

Anyone who would like to join in, please do!  

You can find Kristin's 40 days page here along with links to other bloggers participating in the challenge.  

And if you haven't been to Iowa Girl Eats , do it.  Kristin is a doll and continues to inspire me and give me great ideas of healthy food choices.  She was where I learned of Overnight Oats as she calls them.  I wrote about them here as Yogurt Oatmeal Parfaits.  She has also turned me on to my new favorite thing in the whole world...Roasted Brussel Sprouts !  I know, sounds crazy, but they are sooooo delish.

Okay, ready.....set....go!!!

Nothing to report...

I have nothing to report.  I guess you could say I fell off the wagon.  I have my reasons.  They were valid, but I will say this....I'll be back on that wagon tomorrow morning.  I will.

walk in the park...

so tonight bo and i took ava and hollis to the park. we decided to walk around it a bit before we let the girl play! she rode her new tricycle, which you can see here! so we walked and then she played and we played monster and chased her all around! it was so much fun! then we walked around the park again. i love these moments we spend as a family. i wish that we could have them every day. they are so special and are moments that will be burned in my memory for a lifetime.
so, total i know we walked more than a mile, but i'm not sure of the exact distance, so i'm sticking with a flat mile for the ticker. i was hoping to jog again today, but i wouldn't have traded this time for anything. maybe a jog tomorrow? we'll see!
xo, amanda

Slow and steady...

This morning I was up at 5:45 ready to walk.  I {once again} thought I would just walk this morning.  I didn't think I had enough energy to run.  But, {once again} I decided to go for it.  I kept it slow and steady at a 5.2 mph pace for 2 miles with a .25 walking warm up and cool down.  I am constantly amazed at how much easier this gets so fast!  A few weeks ago, 2 miles at 5.0 mph was about more than I could handle.  This morning's run was just a nice jog.  Not too fast, but just soul satisfying and great!  Loving that it's feeling good these days.  I don't ever want to have to get it back again....let's just keep it like this!
Oh, and Jon tightened the belt on the treadmill for me on Sunday.  It seems to have worked!  No slippage today!  Hooray!

Today's total:  2.5 miles

Icing....

I forgot to post about my icing!  Saturday I got in a total of 3.75 miles.  2.5 of which was running, 1.25 walking.

.25 mile at 4.0 mph
1.0 mile starting at 5.0 mph and increasing by .1 mph every minute
.25 mile at 4.0 mph
.75 mile starting at 5.5 mph and increasing by .1 mph every minute
.25 mile at 4.0 mph
.5 mile starting at 6.0 mph and increasing by .1 mph every minute
.25 mile at 4.0 mph
.25 mile starting at 6.5 mph and increasing by .1 mph every minute
.25 mile at 4.0 mph

This was a great workout!  I was one sweaty girl by the end, and it felt great!

Total icing:  3.75 miles
Challenge week 2 new total:  10.9 miles

work that body baby.

tonight when my mom got off work she stopped by the house and sat with the kids so i could go out and woggle around the neighborhood! she must have known how much i needed some space for myself. i have been feeling pretty cooped up lately and getting some fresh air and exercise was just what i needed. i just started out jogging. it was nice, i just told myself that i didn't have to go fast, or far, just what felt right to me. i actually got father than i thought i would. i went about 2 miles half and half {walk. jog}. it felt so good i'm hoping to get out again tomorrow & see if i can go further. when i was jogging it was so nice to quiet my mind and just listen to some music and be free. i saw a glimmer of my old self {the girl that made exercise a priority & loved every second} & it was good to see her again...hopefully she'll come around more often!
jen, here's a song for you to check out...i used to do lunges to it at body pump and loved it...finally found it on itunes...i like to jog to it! {work that body (push it) featuring Luke by jason nevins}

work that body baby!

5 day challenge #2...mmmm, kind of!

Okay, well today ends week 2 of the 5 day challenge for me.  This week was not as successful as last.  But, 3 days is still so much better than I've been averaging for quite some time!  And, I rocked it on Monday!  Getting up early is getting easier and easier.  I have learned that the time I go to bed makes all the difference in the world!  That seems obvious enough, but I'm learning that I have to be in bed before 10 or I'm gonna have a bad time!  I'm also learning that running is never as bad as I think it will be, and that it actually feels really good once I get started!  It also helps that I'm getting used to the treadmill and learning ways to keep myself from going nuts.  {like changing up the speed every minute.  even if it's just by .1 mph it seems to break up the monotony.}  I think I'm almost ready to start looking for some treadmill workouts online.  I'll share when I do! 

This morning I got in 2.75 miles {2.25 running, .5 walking}  It was a pleasant run despite the slippery belt that I'm still dealing with.  I have got to figure out how to fix that!

I'm hoping to get in some running this weekend too, but for the purposes of the 5 Day Challenge {5DC}, I'm going to just call any weekend workouts icing from now on!

Todays Distance:  2.75 miles
5DC Distance:  7.15 miles

so, since last thursday, i have only walked three days...which is far less than i had planned. however, i am not going to be too down on myself because it sure beats the big "zero", right? it's a start...now to increase days this upcoming week. & once i get this little beauty, i'll have absolutly no more excuses..i can even jog with it! so excited about that! i am going to do one of my workout dvd's tonight since it is raining cats and dogs here...tomorrow isn't going to be much better. {snow and ice..you, now a texas wintery mix} i totally agree with jen, even if i have 20 minutes, do something! that really spoke to me & i'm so glad you shared that little tid bit! so, so wise!

Busy morning...

I only had 20 minutes to workout this morning.  {i had some personal stuff to do before work}  I was able to get in 1.75 miles total, 1.4 of which was running.  Not bad for a 20 minute workout, I guess!  I think the important thing is that even when I only have 20 minutes, that I do something.  I've always had the attitude that I had to devote a lot of time to working out.  It's probably more important to just be consistent.  

Happy hump day!

Todays distance:  1.75 miles

I rocked it this morning!

On sunday I decided that I would do the same 5 day challenge this week as I did last week.  {After all, at this point it's mostly about creating that habit of getting up and working out every morning.}  Well, yesterday came, my alarm went off and I hit snooze.  The next thing I knew, it was 6:15!  Not enough time to get in my workout.  Boo.

Well, I didn't want there to be a repeat today, so I made sure to get to bed early.  {even though my jayhawks were playing mizzou!  that's a major sacrifice my friends!}  I got up this morning and thought, I'm just going to walk, I don't think I can handle running.  Then, I got on the treadmill and decided to alternate every 1/4 mile between running and walking.  Then I got in the first 1/4 mile of running and thought, well, maybe I'll do 1/4 mile walk/1/2 mile run.  Then I got to 1/2 mile and thought, maybe I can do a mile.  Got to a mile, then went for 2.  Got to 2, then decided to just run it out to 30 minutes.  I ended up putting in 2.5 miles of running {all at once I might add} and 1/2 mile of walking.  I ROCKED IT!   I was so proud of myself.  It's amazing the difference in my attitude from the time I roll out of bed to the time I'm done with my workout!  

Now I've set the bar for the week...hope I can keep it up!  I'd like to get in at least 2.5 miles a day for the remainder of the work week and one workout this weekend.  That will make up for pooping out yesterday.

Todays distance:  3 miles

5 Day Challenge=Complete!

That's right!  I did it!  5 days of running in a row!  I have to say, I'm proud of myself.  I am also ready for a day off.  I'm actually hoping to get out for a walk with my hubby tomorrow, and then rest Sunday.  I haven't decided what the challenge will be for next week, but I'll let you know!

I finished off the challenge this morning with 2.3 miles on the treadmill.  (About  1.75 of that was running, and the rest a brisk walk)

I am also so happy that Amanda got back on the road!  It really is so much fun to see your numbers growing and your little counter moving along.  Addicting really.

Yay for Fridays and yay for running!
* also, yay for bosses who bring in fresh pineapple to share!  delish!

Today's distance:  2.3 miles
Total 5 day challenge distance:  10.1 miles

+2...

so, i did it! 2 miles today! yay! serioulsy, it needed to happen!
xoxo,
a

Thursday...

awe, you're sweet. I wish you the best of luck with your 7 day challenge! I'm almost to the end of my 5 day-er! Truthfully, I'm ready for a day off. But I am already feeling slimmer and so much better about myself!


I had the hardest time getting out of bed again this morning. I got plenty of sleep last night. I fell asleep on the couch at 9 and got up and went to bed at 10, so I should have been just fine getting up at 5:30. Once I'm up, I'm good, it just the getting up part that sucks.


Anyway, got in 2 miles this morning. One more day of my 5 day challenge! Yipee!


Today's distance: 2 miles

goals...

for the next seven days i will walk, woggle, whatever 2 miles. I WILL!!!! my number is going to increase and i am going to get back on track. the weather looks fabulous {no excuses there}, the kids love being outside....it is going to happen {because, let's face it, 12.5 is a bit rediculous!}! jen, you have inspired me again, just when i needed it so badly! your commitment and drive is inspiring! love you girl!
xoxo,
amanda

15 minutes...

Due to staying up too late last night, I had difficulty getting up this morning.  I only had 15 minutes to work out, but I did it!  I have to say, without having committed to the 5 day challenge, I probably would have stayed in bed for that 15 minutes.   I wasn't able to get in 2 miles, but as long as I have 10 in 5 days, I'll be happy.

According to the scale this morning, I've lost 6 pounds since Monday! I'm sure it's all water weight, but it made me feel better anyway.  At least it dropped me under that number.

Two days to go!

Today's distance: 1.3 miles

more energy...

day two was a success!  It was actually easier to get up and easier to run today.  There might be something to this consistency thing!  Nothing too exciting.  I did a run/walk alternating thing on the treadmill.  I cannot wait to get out in the fresh air again.

Today's distance: 2.3 miles

you go girl! i know you'll succeed in your goal this week! you are so awesome!
sorry for being so absent on the blog lately...you know, life has been crazy. blah, blah, blah. ha! i have been doing my yoga video or physique 57 video 3-4 times a week, so that's something, but it has been pretty cold here lately...well, until today :) yep, nice weather for us this week {i'm talkin' 70's people!} bo is off work tomorrow and wednesday so i'm hoping to get in some running...this potty training mama could use a bit of a break & i would consider being able to go jog by my little lonesome on a gorgeous day a break, wouldn't you?! and crossing my fingers i can get my hands on one of these...oh phil & ted how i love you! found one on craigslist, but haven't heard back from the seller yet...probobly already gone, but i am still hoping! it would be so much easier, if i could go out with both kids {the single jogger just doesn't do the job, ha! }

xoxo,

a

5 day challenge...

8 weeks til daylight savings!  Translation: 8 weeks til it won't be so freakin' hard to get out of bed!  I swear the last couple of weeks have been killer. 

I did make it out of bed this morning and put in 2.2 miles on the treadmill.  There was still some slippage happening, but not as bad as last time.  

I am bound and determined to make this week count!  I am sick and tired of being this out of shape, and I'm not going to take it any more!  I will be up EVERY morning this week to put in a minimum of 2 miles each day.  I have to.  

I have surpassed that number on the scale.  You know the one.  The one you always swear you'll never see.  yep.  I see it.  I'm done.  

I know, I know, "don't pay attention to the scale.  just go by how your clothes fit."  Well, that won't work for me either.  The clothes are tight and uncomfortable.  

The time has come.  5 days in a row....here I go!  

Seriously, if I don't stick to this, you need to yell at me.  

Today's distance:  2.2

Arms & Abs...

Last night while watching the Biggest Loser, I did some arms.  I just did some simple bicep curls, tricep curls, shoulders, etc with my resistance band.  I thought I did pretty well, but I'm not as sore as I expected to be today, so maybe not. 

This evening I had my hubby play trainer and make me do some ab workouts.  I told him I wanted him to make me cry.  Well, no tears were actually shed, but I'm not sure if I'll be able to sit up tomorrow!

That is one thing I told myself I would do more of this year...weight training.  I've never stuck with it long enough to really see results.  I'd really like to!

slippery belt...

I didn't realize how long it had been since I got in a workout until I went to log this morning's!  8 days passed without anything!  No wonder I've been feeling so blah.
I was up early this morning and despite a dead ipod and a slipping treadmill belt, I got in 2.1 miles.  I'm not sure what was going on with the belt.  I'm hoping it just needed to warm up.  I wasn't sure at first that I was going to be able to use it.  About every 3 steps the belt would jerk and almost make me fall down!  Then, I found the happy speed of 5.5 mph.  For whatever reason it didn't slip at 5.5.  I would really have liked to go faster, but it wasn't worth falling down.  I really, really hope there's not something wrong with it....that would not be good!

Today's distance:  2.1 miles

Oatmeal Yogurt Parfait...

You have to try this breakfast!  It is not only delicious, and easy, but it will satisfy you for hours!   I eat it in the morning, and have to pay attention so that I don't forget to go to lunch at 12:30. And let me tell you , I am the biggest snacker ever, so that's saying something! 

I adapted my "recipe" from here. {well, I probably got it from an earlier post actually, but I'm not exactly sure which one.  I know I've been in love for a while!} If you haven't checked out Iowa Girl Eats yet...you must!  Kristin is not only darling, she gives great advice on healthy eating and exercise.  She has been a major source of inspiration for me over the last 6 months or so.  You can find out more about her philosophy here.

I was a little skeptical at first because I've had some cold yogurt/oatmeal things before and wasn't impressed.  Seriously, this is the most delicious breakfast ever!  It is completely versatile too!  You can put whatever you like on it!

Combine:

• 1-8 oz. cup of yogurt (any flavor you want)
• 1/4 cup old fashioned oats

Kristin suggests letting these first two ingredients meld in the fridge overnight.  I do this when I remember, but I've found it to be just as delicious when you mix right before eating!

• top with fruit of your choice, nuts, granola, etc.

My current favorite is:

• 8 oz. vanilla yogurt  (I buy the large container and use an old 8 oz yogurt cup as a measuring cup)
• 1/4 cup old fashioned oats
• 1/2 banana sliced
• 1/2 apple chopped
• sprinkling of pomgranate seeds

I feel like the 1/2 banana is essential to the texture somehow, but maybe not! 

Other topping options that would be delicious: 

• berries
• mandarin oranges
• dried cranberries
• raisins
• almond slices
• granola

The possibilities are endless.  Let me know if you come up with any delicious combinations!  I'm sure I'll have to switch it up at some point! 

This quote...

just rocked my world:

IF YOU AREN'T HUNGRY ENOUGH TO EAT AN APPLE, YOU AREN'T HUNGRY.

found here .  originally from here .

yoga darling!

I got Mandy Ingber's Yogalosophy video and am soooooo in love with it! i have only done it a few times, but it is defeinitly something i can stick with! It's a combination of yoga poses that then go into toning exercises! {this girl needs some toning!} anyway, since the miles don't seem to be happening {i could give excuses, but not even going to go there!}, i need to do something. So i have vowed to do one work out video a day...this is the one i keep coming back to! love it! So proud of you jen! you hit the 50 mile mark...it is getting so cold here {not as cold as where you are, but still cold!} & i don't even want to think about going outside!...might be a while before my miles start to climb. trying to talk bo into getting me a double jogger...that would be so nice!
xoxo,
a

Back in the swing of things...

Today it's back to work, and back to my routine.  I got up at 5:30 this morning and walked 2 miles.  I actually have extra time that I've been trying to figure out what to do with.  {it was very tempting to take a snooze, but I was scared that I might not get back up to go to work!}  Now I must venture out into the 4 degree tempuratures.  Boo.  But, on the up side...got my workout in today, have a yogurt oatmeal parfait packed for breakfast, and a salad for lunch.  Now if I can only stay awake all day!

Today's distance:  2 miles