A Size Healthier in 2011!

And Yet the Carrot Doth still Dangle...

2011-06-17T09:55:00.000-04:00

In this seemingly looooong weight loss journey of mine, I have been chasing after this carrot that has dangled before me for what seems like forever! I have found myself getting closer and closer, but yet to have reached it.

This carrot - ONE-derland - a land where the number "2" no longer precedes my weight and I am in "1" derful weightloss bliss!

After a long weekend of women bonding in the Poconos and trying to recover from a week of using a horrible weight-increasing steroid, I stepped on the scale to see how bad the "damage" was so that I could recalibrate my strategies for the week in order to get a decent number at this week's weigh-in.

I have to say, I stepped on the scale...then, I saw the carrot, dancing, tantalizing, taunting, teasing...

I could feel it brushing the tips of my fingers as I strained forward to grab it, but it was just out of reach that I could not grab it. BLAST IT ALL!

That darn scale was like "nanny nanny boo boo" to me...as my current weight flashed on the display...

200.00 lbs.

I checked again ... 200.00.

Man! The carrot is a tricky little thing! I hate it and love it all at the same time. Yes, I'm the closest I've ever been to hitting One-derland, but I might as well still be miles away! At least that's how it felt.

But as the journey continues, I will recalibrate, I will re-adjust. That blasted carrot is JUICE by this time next week! Mark my words.

But for now...

...the Carrot Doth still Dangle...

Drugs Suck!

2011-06-08T09:41:00.000-04:00

Last week, I landed myself in the local Emergency Room. I had some pressure in my chest and neck and was unable to get a deep breath. Reader's Digest Version - after several tests, cardiac was ruled out and I was treated for Bronchial Spasms (an inflammation of my bronchial tubes making it difficult to get air in my lungs). 1 Nebulizer and 5-days of steroids later, I am feeling 100%...with only 1 minor issue...those steroids caused me to have an insatiable appetite. All 6 1/2 lbs that I lost last week, well, they were back - QUICKLY! As much as I tried NOT to eat, my stomach was in such pain - I'm telling you, I was HUNGRY!

Well, I've been off the steroids since last Thursday and have been able to lose those 6 1/2 lbs and I'm back where I was when I last reported...

SO, that means I may hit that milestone by week-end! Let's make it happen!

Only 4 days!

2011-05-26T10:27:00.000-04:00

It's been only 4 days and already I've seen the scale jump down from 206.8 to 200.6...That's right - in 4 days! I know most of that was water weight, but hey, it's 6 lbs of water weight I am no longer carrying around.

Plus, I am only 0.7 lbs away from hitting One-Derland! I am so very excited and cannot wait.

For those who want to know my secret (shhh...don't tell):
1. I am counting every calorie that I consume (1700 is the goal amount).
2. I eat something every 2 hrs whether I'm hungry or not in order to avoid overeating.
3. I drink insane amounts of water...(at least 80 ozs - mostly more).
4. I am NOT drinking soda or carbonated beverages.
5. I sneak a little dark chocolate in the nut/fruit mix I snack on so that I don't crave it.
6. I'm doing Boot Camp every M/W/F (600+ calories burned per session); jogging/running on T/Th (300+ calories burned per run) and utilizing every opportunity to walk, garden and stay active.
7. SLEEP. I'm trying to get all the sleep I need.

There you go - those are my secrets!

My next post - I WILL BE IN ONE-DERLAND!!!

One-Derland or Bust!!!

2011-05-24T15:36:00.000-04:00

It's been too long since I've been there...to that wonderful place called One-derland! But I will get there gosh darnit. It will happen and it will happen in the next week or so.

I have started a new 8-week session of Boot Camp as of Monday. I measured, weighed and started counting. So far, I've lost 3.8 lbs of water weight...in 1 day! I'll take it. It's amazing how a lot of water, no sugary drinks and counting calories can change it up! I feel a thousand times better and I'm ready to roll.

Life circumstances have stunk lately (check out my other blog at http://www.faithin2011.blogspot.com/ for details) and caused me to basically slow / halt almost everything. I haven't gained any weight (minus the 3-5 lbs of water weight), but I haven't lost any either. But it's time to jump back on that darn wagon and haul some heinie!

My goals for the 8 weeks (May 23 - July 15):

Lose 10-12 lbs during the course of 8 weeks (starting point: 206.8 lbs) - goal under 195.
Successfully complete 10 manly push-ups, in a row.
Run 1-2 5k races under 36 minutes - maybe even under 35.
MWF Boot Camp attendance, Run an additional 2 days of the week (2-4 mis per shot).
Get into a Size 14 or less!

So there you have it. I'll post updates as I get an opportunity.

Resurrection of the Blog!

2011-02-03T10:41:00.000-05:00

I decided that I would resurrect my weightloss blog! Since, I am still in the pursuit of the healthier me.

I am currently on a Better Body Composition Challenge through the Boot Camp Program I participate in. Since I started the Challenge, I have lost 10 lbs. Unheard of for me. I have been in the Boot Camp Program since May 2010 and have lost a total of ... drum roll please ... 25 lbs. (and counting). I am going for that 30 lb goal and an even bigger milestone of hitting the 100's! I'm not that far away!

So, keep watching this blog in the next few days and weeks.

I will have more to say!

A New Year: A New You!

2010-01-05T09:13:00.000-05:00

Whatever!

It's January 5th and I'm already disillusioned with the thoughts of weight loss. In fact, I think I'll change my resolution to "I'm going to GAIN weight this year." And why not? We don't ever keep our resolutions...so maybe a little reverse psychology will work!

I just read another weight loss blogger's "blog" this morning and felt challenged. Here's a woman who is overweight that has been working very hard at her weight-loss and has gone from a size 24 to a size 14 in just over a year. It has been steady and consistent.

I find myself discouraged. I'm not sure what I've done (or am not doing) but I'm right where I started, no better (certainly no worse) than I was.

So, I resolve...

to live healthier in 2010
to make good choices
to not be discouraged when the scale is "broken" but to keep on the plan.

LET'S DO IT!

So it wasn't my running...

2009-11-11T16:49:00.002-05:00

So it wasn't my running that caused my lungs to feel like they need to be scraped with an ice scraper. Last night, I had a fever of over 100.5. This morning, it was over 101.3. My throat and lungs are wheezing and tightening.

As much as I really wanted to go running today (snicker...snicker), I decided I need to get the fever and breathing under control.

Hopefully, I'll be hitting the road in just a few short days!

Update on Today's Run

2009-11-10T14:55:00.002-05:00

So, I did what I set out to do.

I ran 2.33 miles in 30 minutes (I walked 2/10's of that). Made my goal of mile 1 in 12 minutes. Walked a minute, then ran mile 2 and walked for the remainder of the time. Then, I walked the 1/2 mile home (technically, I did 3 miles, but didn't track it).

I checked out my heart-rate monitor - maxed at 193 bpm's. Avg 168 for the 30 mins. Speaking of that...gotta take it off!

I didn't have any major issues. I did notice that I breathe really loud when I'm not in shape...just an observation!

Still in Training...

2009-11-10T11:11:00.005-05:00

Wow. When I wrote my last post, I was talking about running through all the doubts and fears that I've been struggling with. That same evening, I was confronted with some things that I didn't want to hear, but so needed to hear them. It broke me. I feel like I walk in complete ignorance and so oblivious to situations around me. How can I walk and not realize what I'm doing? That is what I've been wrestling with for the past week.

So, I run. I'm running to confront those things. I'm running to think through those things. I'm running to find peace in these situations. Ultimately, God is my source of strength and the sustainer of all things for me, but running, that's my outlet. It's my "physical" response to the spiritual going on around me.

That brings me to today. I have been in the beginning phases of training for a Thanksgiving Day 5k. I will be running with my sister and her husband. I'm not sure who else may be running, but the 3 of us are embarking on this task.

Treadmill - $725.00
Running Shoes and a heart-rate monitor - $130.00
Sustenance - Water Bottle
Motivation - Kutless on the IPod
Satisfaction of knowing that I can run 2 miles and not die - PRICELESS!

Today, I'm going outside. In a few minutes, I will don my running clothes, heart-rate monitor, RoadID bracelet and asthma inhaler and hit the road - literally. I'm going for 2 easy miles today. Just want to feel out these lungs - they've not been right since my run yesterday. I'll leave you with that!

Today...I Ran.

2009-11-02T12:04:00.004-05:00

Today...I ran.

It was only for half a mile, but I ran. I got up and decided ... today is the day I will run. I donned my running gear and took-off out the door, past the driveway and down the road. The goal - 1/2 mile. Run straight, run hard. No slowing. No complaining. No worrying about the burning tightening in my chest from my lungs. Just run. And that's what I did.

My heart was racing. My lungs were wheezing...my breathing, labored. But that's ok. Now that I'm at home typing this blog (and catching my breath), I realize "THAT WASN'T SO BAD!".

I've been fighting with some "demons" in my mind and in my body for way too long. It's time to stop allowing them to control me and take control.

Man's biggest fear is not heights or depths, not spiders or bees...it's what's inside them. My biggest fear is facing my own thoughts, my own fears, my own insufficiencies, my own incapacity to accomplish anything. Something about sitting in your home for hours, days, weeks, even months...there's no more running away...it's time to face my biggest fear - MYSELF.

That's what brings me to where I'm at today. I'm facing my fears and failures. I'm no longer allowing them to cage me inside my own self. It's time to get out - TO RUN - to push through the fears and even the pain...to find in the end, I am not a failure. I am not caged...

I AM FREE!

Running...Again.

2009-08-12T16:55:00.004-04:00

Today is the first day back of running since I injured my seismoids back in ... I don't know when. It's been a few months.

So, I decided this time, we'll do it right.

I went to the gym. Put on my running shoes with the orthotics (boooooo!) and got on the treadmill.

4 minutes walking at 3.5.
1 minute running at 6.0.
4 minutes walking at 3.5.
1 minute running at 6.0.
4 minutes walking at 3.5.
1 minute running at 6.0
4 minutes walking at 3.5.
1 minute running at 6.0.
2 minutes at 3.0

STRETCHING.

I checked my heart rate right after each 1-minute run - avg 168/169. 1 minute later - around 135/136. Not bad.

The 1 minute of running did not leave me winded or gasping (inhaler was at the ready, just in case). I didn't feel any pain anywhere. No soreness.

I will do this again, same pattern in 1-2 days. If all feels the same, then we'll increase the running and decrease the walking - slowly...

My tendency is just to jump right back in with both feet. That's probably why I've had so many injuries over these past few months/years. I don't ease into anything...so, I've decided I will follow the "experts" advice (those editors at Runner's World and various other resources) and ease back into running over a few weeks period of time. Of course, I will heed the warning of any trouble-spot in my body that is reminding me that I'm over 200 lbs and shouldn't be doing this...but, then again...

Over 650 Calories in 45 minutes!

2009-08-10T16:19:00.007-04:00

No, that is NOT the number of calories I consumed...

That's the total number of calories burned while using the Arc Trainer at the gym. I also added 60 stomach crunches on the ball with some stretching. I don't know the calories burned doing that, but 650 calories...that's everything I've eaten so far today!

I've been trying to add more cardio to my daily regimen. I'm attempting a 45-min cardio session daily, whether it just be walking, running or using one of the machines at the gym. I'm trying to boost my calories burned. I'm just trying to shake it up a little and see if it will make a difference. .
The scale says no. But,
...my pants are a little looser...
...my spandex are not hugging on so tightly anymore...
...and all those vericose veins in my one leg are sticking out more than I've ever seen them. (ok - so that's not so encouraging other than the fat that was hiding them is gone.)
...my legs are thinned out.
...my arms are starting to get some muscular definition (not a lot, but it's a start).
...I have a chin and a neck - 2 separate body parts :)

So, I'm feeling stronger and my body is getting stronger. Now, let's go blast some fat and see if we can't get some of that outta here!

Where Have I been?

2009-08-06T08:23:00.002-04:00

So that may be the question that some of you might be asking...

I'm unemployed!

As much as one might think, "Oh, she has so much time on her hands." But that's so not true. There's so much to do...house to clean, studying to do, hobbies to work on, shopping to do, organizing, budgeting, going to the gym, time with God, working on Farmtown...ok.

I don't know what to do with myself - to be honest. I have focused on getting all the requirements completed for my credentials. I finished all the studies and passed my exam. Now, I have some "Mentor" requirements that I need to work on. The question is: WHAT's NEXT?

My answer: "I HAVE NO CLUE!"

I'm taking it day by day at this point. I'm trying to focus on those things that are important to me..."exercising" my spiritual and physical muscles. That's pretty much my focus at this time.

I continue to look for employment, but not vigorously.

I want to look for a missions trip or internship to fill my time.

I want to keep hitting the gym and focusing on my physical strength.

I want to keep "hitting" the Bible and focusing on my spiritual strength.

Well, that's what I've been doing.

Maybe soon, I'll get into a routine and figure out what exactly this time is purposed for me to experience!

A lot of Changes...

2009-07-10T09:30:00.005-04:00

It's been a few weeks since I last posted. A lot of changes...major changes...have happened in my life.

First, my seismoids are back to normal. I have been "easing" back into a physical activity schedule (heehee - I don't ease into anything...)

Second, my vacation was wonderful. After a week of pop-tarts, sugary cereals, ham sandwiches, doritos, hot dogs and s'mores, paddle-boating, fishing/crabbing, swimming in the bay, walking...walking... walking...I have lost 3 lbs! I couldn't believe it either. Usually, I return from such trips and need to fast just to "clean-out" from all the junk I've consumed. This time, I did a dance of joy on the scale in disbelief. In fact, I've kept off those few pounds and added another just this week! For me, that's awesome. I haven't lost a pound since January. In fact, I've put a few (just a few) back on. I am ecstatic!

Third, I got laid-off earlier this week. One might think this would throw me into a deep-spiral of depression, sleeping, laziness and over-eating of junk-food...but quite the contrary my friend! After being let go (which I was so expecting it to happen and wasn't emotional about it at all), I went straight home, put on my gym clothes and hit the gym for 60 minutes of cardio. I came home and spent 2 hours studying for my final class and then set-up a schedule for my rest of the week. Now, I laugh at the people who schedule their days...at least, I used to. I understand - I UNDERSTAND NOW!

I have been going to the gym everyday about 11:00 a.m. I go for 1-2 hours and hit cardio hard. I have set-up a 1-hour personal training session twice a week (I already paid for them). So #2 this week is later this morning. I figured this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I have to focus on my goals and my goals only.

So here's how I'm using my time:

Daily Quiet times after a healthy breakfast and the Today Show.

Housekeeping (I mean the major furniture moving, touch-up paint and redo the caulking around the tub type of housekeeping).

The Gym (1-2 hours)

Completing my studies to become a licensed-minister (only 1 course left and a major exam that must be completed in the next few weeks).

Spending time on my much-neglected hobbies: gardening, learning bass guitar, photography and painting (see picture I took of the sunflower I am growing)

Alright, I've got a schedule to keep. New posts and continued updates forthcoming...

Seismoiditis!

2009-06-25T08:48:00.008-04:00

So I've left my faithful few (both of you) hanging over these past few days...

I have seismoiditis.

Basically - I have inflamed seismoids from overuse (running) and abuse (overweight). If your immediately going to thoughts of hemorrhoids or some other nasty disease - CEASE AND DESIST! I have added the token picture of the seismoids below - they are 2 pea-shaped bones at the bottom of your big toe (also known as the ball of your foot). They are embedded in the tendons that run the sole of your foot. Apparently, dancers, women (or men) who wear high-heeled shoes and runners (increasing their mileage too quick or running up hills) put a lot of pressure on this area of their foot. Once the tendons become inflamed (flaming mad at you for making them work so hard), the seismoids become tender and oftentimes, fracture.

Thankfully, I do not have a fracture (4 x-rays of various views of my seismoids have proven that fact). They are just inflamed.

So what does that mean? Well, for starters, no more running for awhile. In fact, I'm on limited weight-bearing activity until 7/7. I also have this fancy, snazzy foot pad that I wear when I'm awake that takes the pressure off the seismoids. It's nothing special, I have it taped to my foot in my sneakers - no one knows...

Thankfully, I don't have to wear any Dr. Scholl's-style orthopaedic shoes with velcro straps! That would just be wrong on so many levels...though, there's nothing wrong with them except that they make your feet look REALLY BIG!

For now, I'll faithfully attach my foot pad to the sole of my foot each morning and obey the Dr's orders - no running! (or any other weight-bearing activity). I can walk - which I do, because I don't yet own a segway, but then again, I wonder if I can get my insurance company to foot the bill on a segway!

WATCH OUT PAUL BLART!

Seriously though - can I be real for a moment? It seems that I keep getting these ailments in my knees, tendons and seismoids. Why? The doctors are trying to be P.C. and say it's my increased mileage over the past few months to prepare for some of the runs I have participated in. They have said it's the high-mileage I've put in. They've even said it's the short-time that I've ramped up the mileage. But you and I...Yeah, you and I know that it's more than that. Those may be true, but there's a lot of people doing just what I've done - and they're fine. They have no specialist visits or knee drains or special foot pads to show...And they're not overweight.

That's it. Maybe I've struck gold there. America, I'm overweight.

I've been running off and on over the past 10 years in order to lose weight. I've ran 100's of miles, maybe even 1000's on a regular basis to get healthy. Maybe I am healthy. My cholesterol is 171. My blood pressure is normal. All my other numbers are normal...except the number on the scale. It's not budging.

I've changed my diet, increased my activity, prayed ... yet the numbers don't lie - I'M OVERWEIGHT.

Here's my problem - I run to lose weight. I get injured running because I'm overweight. I can't lose weight without running (so I've decided). So I keep running - to lose weight - to get injured because I need to lose weight...and the cycle continues!

So where to next? I wait patiently for 7/7. That's the date of my follow-up with the Dr. Until then...I am going on vacation for the next week and my follow-up is on 7/7. I will report back then on where it's at!

Strained, Cracked or Broken - That is the question.

2009-06-22T09:20:00.002-04:00

Is it strained, cracked or Broken? That's the question I want to ask the podiatrist.

It seems I've done "something" to the bone on my right foot where the big toe connects to my foot. It started last week after completing the 5-mile run. I seemed to be fine most of the week until I went running yesterday. I didn't get but a half-mile into my run before it started hurting.

I continued running a little longer to see if it was a pain that I should run through or discontinue. I realized it wasn't going away, so I started walking a little. It REALLY hurt to push off my big toe. SO, I tried some biomechanical changes (technical speak for changed the way I was walking) to see if I could alleviate any of the pain. It seemed to help, so I started running again.

That didn't last long. SO I determined to walk the remainder of the 2 miles and head home. It's the next day and I still hurt. It's a nagging pain that my whole body is compensating for. So, I am waiting for 1:00 p.m. to roll around to see if I can get in with the local podiatrist for an x-ray and exam.

This is kind of a bummer. I've already ran in 3 races this season: a 5-miler, a 10k (6.2 mis) and the Broad Street (10 mis). I have a 5k (3.1 mis) scheduled for this Wednesday night. I don't think I'll be running in this one. In fact, I'm 99.9% sure that I won't, but since I already paid the pre-registration, I'm going to pick-up my packet. I'll "officially" run the 5k when I am cleared.

Pray that I can see the podiatrist immediately. The sooner this is diagnosed properly, the sooner I can get the right treatment, the sooner I can be running the streets again!

Blah to the Blahs!!!

2009-06-18T08:49:00.004-04:00

This week has been full of the Blahs!

The weather has been...blah.
If we go one more day without sunshine, I might turn nocturnal! I need to see and feel the sunshine warming my skin. Not only does it feel good, it changes my entire being. Please sunshine, come visit today - even if for only a moment.

My motivation has been...blah.
I went to the gym on Monday - walked on the treadmill. There was no energy in me. I cranked it to 3.7 and put it on an incline for 20 min. That's all she wrote. Tuesday - I had my appt with the personal trainer. She thought it'd be "fun" to add a cardio-circuit for my 1-hr. About half-way, I had nothin' left in the tank. It was empty. I had to dig deep and focus to get through the work-out. I left the gym feeling spent and exhausted. I didn't go at all yesterday. Today, well, we'll find out in a few hours!

Work has been...blah.
Just like every where else in America, we are feeling the slowdown in our business. It's not job-threatening or anything like that, but it's slow. I am the type of person who does things quickly and likes a "faster" pace in my work day. When it's slow, I tend to let things pile up so that I can sit down in a few hours and pound them out. It's been making for some long days!

My LIFE has been...blah.
Don't get me wrong, I've been really busy. Maybe that's what is drawing me into a state of blah-ness. Maybe I need to slow down and enjoy a night of 8-hours of sleep or maybe just an hour of TV, but I haven't had that opportunity. Sunday night - Q&A with the missionaries; Monday night - dessert night with the ladies; Tuesday night - Phillies game (with extra innings); Wednesday night - crash!

Maybe I just need some rest. I haven't slept 8 hours in close to a week. I need 8 hours of sleep. I normally get 8 hours of sleep. Maybe I just need to slow down my pace - enjoy some slow time. Enjoy some "me" time - not to be selfish or anything.

Life has it's ups and downs and can quickly get out of hand if you don't slap on a bridal and slow the darn thing down.

Let's focus now and spend a few days to put the train back on the tracks, slow down the pace and get everything back in it's proper place!

I say, "BLAH to the blahs! It's time for you to go!"

5 ...

2009-06-15T13:51:00.008-04:00

5 - the number of miles I ran on Saturday...

5 - the number of cups of water I drank while running 5 miles...

5 - the placement I achieved after running 5 miles - in my age group!

5 - the number of hours I slept on Saturday afternoon (not really, but it sounds good - I only slept 4 hours).

BEFORE... AFTER...

The red face tells it all...

It's NOT FAIR!

2009-06-12T08:56:00.003-04:00

Alright - I have gone into this week as a "Week of Optimism".

I participated in calorie burning activiy 4 times this week (and it's only Friday).

I consumed zero sugars all week - including, Diet beverages, candies, bread, etc.

I ate lean proteins and veggies every day. I had oatmeal for breakfast, ate raw nuts and veggies and fruits.

I read every stinkin' label.

I drank a TON of water all week.

I haven't hopped on the scale all week hoping for that "YES!" moment.

It was more like, "WHAT!!!!????" I gain .4 lbs.

How does that happen?

It's sooooo not fair!

Yet, I persist. I continue on. I press on...

I finally got it!

2009-06-11T15:49:00.004-04:00

This is my WORDLESS blog:

YEAH!

DO THE RUNNING MAN...

My Butt hurts!

2009-06-11T11:10:00.002-04:00

Usually the day after training, a lot of body parts are sore and tired.

But today - my butt hurts.
I thought my shoulders or upper back would be sore, but no, it's my rump, derriere, backside, heiny, butt, gluteus-maximus (emphasis on the maximus!). I haven't had soreness in that particular location in awhile. I guess that means I must have worked them good!

My trainer whooped me.

In my training session I did the following:

One-legged lunges (with the other one on a bench)
Lateral pull-downs
Straight arm pull-downs
Modified pull-ups
Dumbbell butterflies with benchpress
Squats with medicine ball lift
Crunches on ball
Sit-up crunches, balancing on heiny
Hamstring pulls on the ball
One-armed Kettle ball "rows"

Today is day 4 of "Week of Optimism". I'm optimistic that my butt's gonna hurt all day. I'm optimistic that it's going to rain all day. I'm optimistic that there's no energy in this tired ol' body! I'm optimistic that I've been doing fairly well in what I'm eating and those pounds are slowly melting of my body (probably more like ounces, but I'll take 'em!). I'm optimistic that water is good for you and that sucking on and spitting out sunflower seeds is good for you. I'm optimistic that if you set-up a popcorn maker in the lobby of your business and offer it for free the entire day - you will improve the morale of an entire company!

I'm optimistic that this weekends' 5-miler is going to be hard, but so worth it!

So far So Good!

2009-06-10T10:56:00.002-04:00

Today is Day 3 of my "Week of Optimism".

How have I been doing - you might ask.

GREAT!

I haven't touched anything (that I know of) that has any sugar (except fruit) for 3 days. I have not drank any carbonated beverages - Diet or other. I have been to the gym twice and ran 2.5 miles. I've been drinking a lot of water.

Today, I see the trainer at noon. I have the 5-miler scheduled for Saturday morning. I will need to run another 3 miles tonight.

Hmmm...might I get a surprise on the scale at the end of the week? Guess I have to wait to find out!

BTW - if you're looking for a great low-calorie snack, hop on over to Henning's for CocoPop's. They are made on-site from wheat, corn, rice and sea salt. They are only 16 calories each and are the size of a tortilla. I eat them plain, but you can add some salsa, guacamole or hummus. They are better tasting than most "rice cakes" because they are fresher.

Optimism - the Word of the Week

2009-06-08T08:30:00.002-04:00

I am going into this week with an Optimistic Outlook.

I am going to have a great week. I have my meals planned out for today. I'm cutting out all the sugars this week (the refined and even unrefined ones). I'm also cutting all the sodas and "extra" caffeine that I consume.

Breakfast: Organic Instant Oatmeal, Organic Coffee

AM Snack: Rice Cakes (homemade at the Henning's - awesome snack - 16 calories each!)

Lunch: Mandarin Orange and Grilled Chicken Salad

PM Snack: Raisin, Raw Cashew and Raw Almond combination (I mixed it myself)

Dinner: Sunshine Veggie Burger with veggies and a large salad with lettuce from my garden

There is a 5-miler on Saturday that I plan on running. I've already registered. I'm going to take some time this week to prepare and get psyched "out of my mind" to run 5-miles on a Saturday morning!

My gym bag is packed for some strength-training at the gym during my lunch hour: Push-ups, Lateral pull-downs, free-weight rows, squats, lunges, crunches/reverse crunches, shower...that's the activity for my lunch hour. Got to make it a good one!

I plan on putting my feet to the pavement and putting in 2-3 miles later this evening. I have to put some time in for this 5-miler! Hopefully I haven't lost too much of the conditioning from the Broad Street Run!

Well, I really should get back to work.

It's about time!

2009-06-04T09:01:00.003-04:00

I had my first training session yesterday.

And - it's about time! It felt great getting my fanny whooped!

I was quickly reminded how strong I really am. It was encouraging to see my fitness level and strength levels (except for the fact that I have weak shoulders) haven't failed since training almost a year ago.

I got in some walking lunges, crunches, push-ups, dead-weight rows, one-legged flamingos, overhead hammer lunges, partner leg/stomach crunches, squats, shoulder lifts, stretching. If you're wondering what some of these are - I named them myself. I have to remember what they are for when I do them on my own - so I give them names I'll remember.

I'm feeling every one of these today. My shoulders, arms, hands, gut, butt, hamstrings and lower legs - they all hurt!

The trainer and I got in some good laughs too. Makes it a little more bearable. Hopefully, I (as well as you) will see some tangible results from these sessions - cause It's About Time!

Encouragement in the DR's Office...

2009-05-28T12:45:00.001-04:00

"You've lost some weight since your last visit, Ms. Lucas." - Nurse

"I've been trying." - Ms. Lucas

"Good job - 4 lbs." - Nurse

It was only 4 lbs, but it's a weight loss and I'll take it!

(My last visit was on 1/2/09).

In case you're interested, I have Acute Sinusitis (a fancy term for sinus infection). All my vitals were good. I'm healthy, besides the acute sinusitis.

I've been "Shocked and Awed"!

2009-05-26T09:07:00.003-04:00

Last week, I set off to "shock and awe" my body, but my body decided to "shock and awe" me!

I started the week off with a stomach virus. I missed 2-days at work and only went to the gym once.

By the end of the week, I got hit with a minor sore throat, sinus build-up and a general feeling of increased lethargy. I'm still trying to kick that today!

I forced myself to go hiking at Bushkill Falls, which felt great at the time, but by the time I got home, I was completely drained and exhausted. I did enjoy the remainder of the 3-day weekend, but none of it included going to the gym or excessive physical activity.

Today is a new day. This is a new week.

Today is my "NEW" Monday!

It's Finally "MONDAY"!

2009-05-20T08:50:00.003-04:00

Ok - so it's really not Monday (as in the actual day - Monday), but it's my Monday.

You know what I mean...

"I'll start my diet on Monday."
"I'll go to the gym on Monday."

This is my "SHOCK AND AWE" MONDAY!!!

If I didn't pack it or prepare it myself, I am not going to eat it.

If it's not wholesome and nutritious (and hopefully low-calorie), I'm not going to eat it.

If my calorie intake exceeds the prescribe/set limits I've imposed, then I must work harder at the gym. Today is the day I take back control of whatever it is I've lost and hopefully, we can start to see something happen on that dang scale.

This is not only my Monday, it's my "I'M FED UP with being where I'm at" DAY!

I am taking back control and will finally defeat this monster (this dang monster that's set it's claws so deeply into my core being).

I'm not getting anywhere...

2009-05-19T09:03:00.004-04:00

Well, it seems that I am just plain' ol' not getting anywhere.

I am in a routine, a gym "rut" per se...

I go to the gym at lunchtime. I watch (mostly) what I'm eating. But the scale, it's also routine. It's the same ol', same ol'.

It's time for some shock and awe!

I have been in the same place since practically January. It's time for a change.

You know the saying - if you keep doing what you've always done - you'll get the same results. If you like the results you're getting, then keep doing what you're doing, but if you don't...then, it's time for a change!

But saying it and doing it are 2 different things!

Now I need to find my "get up and go". I've hired Sue back as my personal trainer. We start next week. I'm hoping that's a fire that will light my "get up and go". I need to make some changes and they need to start soon.

I don't like plateaus. I don't like sitting still. I don't like same ol', same ol'!

So, I'm gonna "get up and go"...well, at lunchtime that is.

Treadmill Mania!

2009-05-14T09:11:00.005-04:00

I've got a new passion - one I never thought would happen.

I love the TREADMILL.

I know, I know. How could I possibly love running on a treadmill. All you do is basically run in place. Your surroundings never change. The only "air" flow you get is from the mini fan located on the treadmill.

Catch this - the gym has cable. Yep, so while I'm running my 10-11 min/mile, I can flip over to the Travel Channel and explore the sites and sounds of Prague or Rome. I get to see the local food-faires or activities. It's educational.

I have been enjoying listening to my I-Pod while watching (with subtitles), the Travel Channel. I have been running harder and longer than when I run outside. Now don't get me wrong, nothing can replace the joys of running outdoors, but if you gotta be in the gym and sweat off some calories, you might as well be doing it on a treadmill.

Plus, I have been sweating unlike I've ever sweated. I never sweat that much during a run outside. I'm not sure if it's because I run harder on a treadmill or that the outside is cooler, but either way, sweat is good.

So, I plan on another 2 miles during lunch today. That's 6 total miles for this week - so far!

If you're looking for me - somewhere between 12 and 1 - follow the smoke that's wafting in the air over the Hatfield Athletic Club. That's the smoke coming from a smokin' hot treadmill. And the person running on that smokin' hot treadmill - that's me - one smokin' hot Treadmill Maniac!

A New Post...

2009-05-12T16:46:00.003-04:00

A new post is coming - I promise!

I've been enjoying some "down-time" after 8 weeks of intense training. I am getting back in the grind and working on getting into a normal routine this week.

Today, I ran 2 miles on the treadmill at an average of 11 min/mile. Not bad for me.

I'm working on running 10-min miles, but I get winded so, I only run that for 1/2 mile intervals, slow to 12-min and then back and forth.

I'll keep you updated.

Top 10 reasons to Run 10-miles

2009-05-07T08:53:00.017-04:00

Here's my Top Ten reasons to run 10-miles

10. New Running Shoes...

9. Ice Cream! And lots of it!

8. Getting out of "household duties" (ie: cooking, dishes, etc...) - "uh, gotta run 5-miles today" :)

7. Excuse for "Extra" Nap-time

6. Getting to run with 27,000 of your closest friends

5. Post-Run Massage...

4. "Free" T-Shirt...

3. That "feel good" feeling that you donated money for a good cause...

2. You get a FINISHER'S MEDAL! (eventually...)

...and the NUMBER ONE reason...

1. A sense of accomplishment that you can't buy or acquire - you only EARN!

"The miracle is not that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start." - John Bingham

"It doesn't matter what's ahead of you or behind you, what matters is what's inside of you." - anonymous

A Governor, one mayor and hundreds of Port-A-Potties!

2009-05-04T11:50:00.013-04:00

The Broad Street Run - 30th Year Anniversary.

Over 26,000 runners participated in this year's event. A handful of participants had run in all 30 events. It was my first time! Every skill level, every shape, size and color - they participated. Fast, slow, tall, short, thin, fat - we were all there ready to test our endurance.

Some were there to win. Others, to better their records. Then, there were others, like me - we just want to finish, and receive the reward for our time, the placing of a medal around our neck!

I awoke minutes before the alarm was to go off at 4:45 a.m., hopped in the shower and dressed for the run. It was drizzling outside, but felt warm. So, I opted for spandex shorts and a sleeveless running shirt. I downed a 16-oz water bottle, grabbed my gear and headed out the door to meet my ride. I had my "typical" pre-race breakfast of Plain donuts and a Pepsi (don't ask, you don't mess with history here).

Not knowing what the drive or "drop-off" situation would be like, we left at 6:00 a.m. to head to Philly. The drive only took about 30-min from start to finish. We arrived really early. We sat in the car, talking logistics and post-race meet-ups. Afterwards, we headed outside for a quick run to the porta-potties and some warm-up time.

The pottie line took close to 20-minutes. It's a good thing I didn't have to go - really bad. Afterwards, we headed to the track for a warm-up lap and some stretching. They had an organized crew leading us in some aerobic activity and stretching. It felt good and it was fun!

Now it was time for the line-up.

I didn't have any of those pre-race jitters or nervousness that I typically have. I felt good. I was ready to run 10-miles. Other than the dreary gray skies, this was turning out to be a good race. The starting guns went off for the first heat at 8:30 a.m. 22 minutes later - our heat was released to start running. There was a mass of over 26,000 runners - most before me - some behind me all headed in a straight 10-mile pass to the finish line. I saw Mayor Nutter at the starting line. He was waving at the runners as we began our race.

For the first mile, it was just a sea of people. I knew I was running faster than my "practiced" pace, but the pace felt good. So, I held it. The "sea" was dispersing ever so slowly. I started passing people. My pace felt really good. My legs felt good. My breathing was good. I was ready to roll.

I felt great.

The first few miles were rather "uneventful". Somewhere around mile 4, my stomach started feeling a little "off". No problem, just keep running. By mile 5, I was running with an impending need to find a port-a-pottie without a line! I finally found one. Phew! When I started running again (no pottie-humor intended), I realized, I needed to find another pottie - QUICKLY! Whatever I ate for dinner or maybe it was my pre-race breakfast, my stomach was rebelling. I needed another PORT-A-POTTIE time-out. I slowed my pace as I realized how DIRE my situation was. I was not disappointed when I saw the next row of potties.

About 6 minutes later...

I was back in the race, with a feeling of relief and ready to run another 5 miles. As we passed city hall, there was so much excitement. There were hundreds, maybe thousands of spectators cheering and high-fiving the runners as they were passing by. It was the best part of the race. On the other side of city hall, I saw Governor Rendell in a brown "athletic" suit - high-fiving and shaking hands with the runners. Amazing!

That's when it started to rain - harder. My hat was keeping the rain off my face. My clothes and my body were soaked. I felt the urge to pick-up the pace, so that's what I did. Not having my Ipod or a watch, I had no idea how my pace was, how long I'd been running or how long I had to go. I had to depend on the mile markers and estimating the time when I saw the mile splits (I assumed it was a 22-minute delay in crossing the start line).

I knew if I continued at my current pace, I would meet my goal. That's exactly what I did.

As we got closer to the finish-line, I remembered to smile and "look good" for the cameras as I came to the finish. I crossed the finish line feeling accomplished, strong and proud.

I ran a race that I was proud of. I would have been more excited had I beat it by the time I spent in the port-a-potties, but I still met my goal even with those necessary time-outs. My body felt great. I felt strong. I knew I had run a good race.

After the race, I walked the finishers' path to find my medal, get refreshments and meet up with my ride.

But wait...where's my medal???!!!

There was no one there to hand-out medals. There were kids handing out cold waters, but no medals. I figured, "oh, they must be in the refreshment bags at the end." So, I went to the refreshment tent and got my bag - no medal. I walked back to the finish line, but I did not see anyone giving out medals. I kept asking until finally, a volunteer stated, "we ran out of medals. You'll get one in the mail."

IN THE MAIL???

I don't get to proudly wear a medal post-race? I don't get the post-race picture with the medal around my sweaty, rain-soaked neck? I don't get to stare at the medal all the way home as I recall what a wonderful race this was or how well I ran?

No, the whole reason for running the

race is not receiving the medal. But, it is expected. It's a tangible reward for finishing. Mind you, the exhiliration and the accomplishment should be enough, but...I am an achievement-oriented person and love the tangible rewards for my accomplishments.

So, I eagerly await the arrival of my medal by mail. I will stand by, no walk by, no run to that mailbox at the end of each work day looking for the arrival of my medal.

And then, I will rip it from the packaging, place it around my neck and bask in the final glow of my victory as a "finisher" in the 2009 Broad Street Run!

Only 5 more days 'til Broad Street

2009-04-28T08:20:00.003-04:00

It's only 5 days away. I've trained. I've drained. And I've trained some more.

My legs are ready. My body is ready. I'm ready.

The weather should be in the 50's for the run - which is PERFECT! The humidity that's been plaguing us will be gone. The sun will be shining - it's going to be a beautiful day for a 10-miler.

Today is light running day. I'll hit the gym at lunchtime to strength-train. Because of the knees and the running, I've been focusing on my upper-body and core. I believe that is what's carried me through this training season. I have a 3-miler to do tonight - between work, dinner and prayer meeting and The Biggest Loser. Maybe I'll skip dinner. :)

I love these training seasons, don't get me wrong, but...I will be glad when it's over. During a training season, all focus is put on the schedule.

"Can't miss a run!"

Other things are put aside. Granted, this hasn't been as bad as previous training seasons. At least I've had time and have been able to accomplish many other things. I do have other interests...gardening, completing my coursework for credentialing, sleeping, learning Bass (just to name a few). But the schedule comes before all else.

I do plan on continuing a regular routine of running, but those distances will be 2-3 miles, 2-3 times a week. No mega-runs (unless I feel like it). I can complete those distances on the treadmill during my lunch-hour.

Alright - time to focus...only 5 more days.

SQUATS OR RUNNING, but not BOTH!

2009-04-24T09:22:00.004-04:00

That's what the doctor said.

Tough choice (not!). Who in their right mind would choose squats???!!!???

Sointenly (think Bugs Bunny) - not I!

I say this specifically because I am once again signing up for personal training at ye olde gym and my trainer's favorite form of torture for this specimen is SQUAT THRUSTS! I absolutely abhor the squat thrust. It's more like beached whale on carpet. At least that's what I feel like as my body stretches out in the push-up position. I know she's cooking these up in her gym kitchen for an appetizer on day one.

But nana nana booboo - I don't do squats for no one no more! YEAH!!!

Ok. I should be just a little disappointed or frustrated at the thought of growing old and finallly having 12 years of playing catcher in fast-pitch softball "catch-up" to me. I should be just a teensy wheency saddened by my lack of being able to do all things, but alas, there's no sadness. Maybe I'm suppressing it. Maybe I am just a slight bit happy that my future does not include squats or squat thrusts, or lunges!

But it does include RUNNING (or jogging as the doctor put it).

That takes me on a ranting tangent that I will save for another day. Ok - no, let's address it today.

At what speed do I finally go from a JOGGER to a RUNNER??? I go outside with Running Shoes, wearing Running Gear to RUN. Jogging sounds more like a hobby or something to do while wearing a full sweat-suit.

I may not be skinny and/or muscular. I may not run sub-10 minutes, but nonetheless...

I AM A RUNNER!

Ok - I've digressed. It's now out of me...ahhhh, I feel better now.

Back to where I was...Oh yeah...squats or running.

Although I left the doctor's office feeling a little more confused then when I came in (I felt like they were rushing and basically just doing the routine and I didn't get to ask all the questions I wanted to ask), I knew a few things.

1. My knee will not get better - it's filling with fluid due to overuse/abuse (years of catching and running while overweight don't help).
2. I cannot run and do squats/lunges - he basically said it's one or the other.
3. Stair-Climbing, using the stepper, etc...they are out too.
4. Use Ibuprofen when it swells.
5. He didn't say not to continue my training for the Broad Street.

At least - that's what I concluded from the full 10-minutes I had with the doctor.

I walked away with these thoughts:
1. I don't plan on slowing or stopping the running anytime soon.
2. Maybe if I lose some weight, I will see increased improvement in the form/function of my knee.
3. My God is a BIG GOD and He can heal my knee to pre-catching, pre-abuse/overuse status.
4. I'm glad I don't have to do squats!

Alright, that's my rant for the day. I feel much better.

Thanks for your patience and your prayers over these past few days/weeks.

I have to focus now. Broad Street is in 9 days.

The Moment of Truth (added below)...

2009-04-23T08:21:00.005-04:00

Today I will have my moment of truth...I see the Orthopaedic Specialist (a.k.a. Sports Dr) at 10:45 a.m. Both of my knees are still filled with fluid and feeling slightly stiff. I have been using them (it's difficult to walk without them) quite frequently.

I've also continued to run, keeping with my training schedule for the Broad Street.

I'm hoping that I will get the OK to continue to train (Broad Street is a week from Sunday). I'm also hoping that there's a simple explanation / fix that does not involve needles or scalpels.

I will update my blog later this afternoon with whatever is discovered.

Until then, please pray that there is nothing seriously wrong with the ol' knees.

And the verdict is...

I have excess fluid on my knee cap due to overuse and abuse. It seems all those years playing catcher in fast-pitch has finally caught up with me. He stuck a needle in under my knee cap (yes, it's as squeemishly gross as it sounds) and drained some of the fluid. It was a clear yellow color - which is good. So, I can continue to run.

But...

NO MORE SQUATS! I'm so heart-broken and torn about that .. hee hee .. I have to limit the range of motion on my knees in whatever activities I participate henceforth. I guess that means I'm getting old.

This old gray mare aint what she used to be.

So, I guess I'm putting in my 4-miles this evening - that is, if the stiffness from the "draining" goes away by then!

Good-Bye Kristen!

2009-04-22T09:16:00.003-04:00

Ok - a little diversion from what would be the norm on my blog...

I am a HUGE fan (literally and figuratively) of THE BIGGEST LOSER. It is the only program on television that I watch consistently. I love hearing the stories, watching the challenges and just generally getting into the "game play" of the program. But the biggest thing, I love watching people transform their lives (physically and emotionally) on national TV.

This season has had it's share of ups and downs, as all seasons, but this season seems different. There's not as much "on-screen" back-biting and just plain ol' nastiness. This group of people seem to genuinely care for one another and challenge one another to do better and work harder. Granted, this is a reality TV show and there is a $250k prize looming in the near future, so there is still the element of wanting to win, but generally, this season seems kinder.

My favorite player to this point is hands-down - Kristen. She has shown an immense amount of integrity and the determination to actually change her life. She hasn't gotten involved in the game play and all the "talk-talk" that happens (at least on-screen). She has just worked hard and done her best to lose the weight and stick around week-to-week.

I was as shocked as everyone else to see her gain a pound last night. It didn't even enter my mind that she would consider "game play" and throwing the weigh-in. I was shocked - just shocked!

Even though she was voted off last night, I don't think that's the last we'll hear from her. She has the potential to affect so many lives through her testimony and experiences. We'll be hearing more from her in the future.

We'll also be seeing her at the finale'. She has a pretty good chance of winning the 2nd prize - $100k. I wouldn't be surprised!

To Kristen I say, "thank you for being real over these past 16 weeks. Your example has inspired me and countless others in our journey to becoming healthier and thinner."

Don't STOP NOW!

2009-04-21T09:08:00.005-04:00

I have taken a quick video snapshot of my knee - to give you a visual to the egg-like bubble of fluid on my knee. There's no sound (other than me talking on the cell phone to a friend and the occasional "yeah" ).

I have a massage scheduled at noontime today. It's my first in a long time. I am hoping it's another step in getting my knees healed (and just because I know it will feel good!).

I am also scheduled for a 5-mile run today. The weather looks like it will cooperate, hopefully my knees will too. So, 5-miles, here I come!

I'm still going...

2009-04-20T15:10:00.003-04:00

Just because I had to make sure I had legitimate knee troubles, I went for a run on Saturday at ye olde middle school gravel track. I figured if I drove over there, I could quit as soon as my knees felt like they were giving me any trouble. Plus, the gravel track would be easier on the knees than macadam.

5.5 miles later...I decided it was too dark to continue (I had prescription sunglasses on and had forgotten to bring my regular sunglasses). I wrapped both knees carefully and went home. I did a pretty good stretch routine pre and post-run. I wanted to ensure that if there was injury happening to my knees, it wasn't because I wasn't stretching properly.

I actually felt pretty good the rest of the evening. I could still feel a little bit of swelling in the knees, they're definitely not normal, but there was no major stiffness or puffiness. Sunday, just for due diligence, I iced and elevated while I watched a movie.

Today, I went to the gym for a strength training workout. I did a few quad lifts that I saw online to help strengthen the muscles that support the knees. I focused mainly on upper body. As it is, my shoulders are sore from the lateral pull-downs. I should be feeling the muscles in my abs soon too.

I had some trouble getting on the floor mat for some of the ab exercises due to my knee. It's just an odd little growth or whatever sticking out of my knee. It's visibility is increased when the knee is bent - it literally looks and feels like this egg-sized bubble that's going to pop!

Alright, well, until I'm told otherwise (possibly during Thursday's appt), I will continue to workout and run (nursing the knees with some STRETCHING, ICE and COMPRESSION).

There's nothing to see here - keep moving.

2009-04-17T10:13:00.004-04:00

Ok - so there's no update. My knees feel better today, but the fluid bubbles are still there. I am not waddling like a penguin when I walk and there's not a lot of pain going up and down those blasted stairs.

I iced. I elevated.

SO, there's really nothing to see here today.

I might get a little "determined", "ambitious" or just plain ol' stupid and do some running tomorrow to see "what happens".

I guess there's no point in whining or complaining if my knees hurt on Sunday! I'll let you know what I decide and how it goes.

Speed Bump!

2009-04-16T12:17:00.003-04:00

Did you ever have that experience that as you're driving through a supermarket or some side street going pretty fast and all the sudden your passenger yells, "SPEED BUMP" - then, almost involuntarily, you slam on the brakes as your vehicle slams over the speed bump? There's the moment of "shock and awe" (what just happened) followed by "is my car alright" (assessing the damage)...

It seems that everytime I'm cruising along in my training or routine, a body part yells out, "SPEED BUMP" just before I get some "routine-altering" injury.

That's where I'm at right now!

I have just hit the SPEED BUMP and I'm in shock and awe as I assess if there's any damage.

Here's the deal. The last few times I've been on my training runs, the next day (and days after), my knees seemingly fill-up with fluid and feel like they're going to pop. If I bend them or try to squat - it feels even worse. I know it's not a tear or injury due to the fact that it's both knees.

After Tuesday nights run of 5-miles, I was feeling really good. The run went well, despite the weather (it was rainy and cold). I was able to keep my goal pace and even kick-it up a notch near the end. As the night progressed, my legs got stiff. I stretched post-run. Before I went to bed, I stretched a little more. 2 days later, I have this "bulge" of fluid just the outside of my knee cap that seemingly grows and pokes out when I bend my knee (I really should videotape it).

I tried to sleep with my legs elevated, but halfway through the night, I was done with that.

So, I've done what all good athletes should do - I went to WebMD for my diagnosis. According to WebMD, I either have Gout, RA, Lyme Disease or an Insect Bite. Hmmm... I did the next best thing, I called a sports doctor and made an appointment. I asked for their best sports doctor. They replied with a mid-May first possible appt. So, I asked for their 2nd best sports doctor. I get to see him next Thursday.

The Broad Street Run is just 3 weeks away. The doctor's appt is one week away. I don't want to be stupid, but I really want to run in the Broad Street.

So, I've decided to sit out today's run and wait for Saturday to see how the ol' knees are doing. I'm supposed to run 7 miles on Saturday. If you're an athlete or have ever trained for an event, you know the struggle I'm wrestling with. If you're not - you're now thinking I'm stupid and just need to give it up and go for it next year. I'm somewhere in between - I want to be wise and do the right thing with the hopes that I will still get to run! :)

Alright, well I'm off to finish my days work so I can go home and: REST, ICE, COMPRESS and ELEVATE the knees!

A Trainer each Day...

2009-04-14T11:05:00.003-04:00

A trainer each day...helps take the weight away!

That's my new mantra.

I am going to visit Trainer Sue today to set-up some training sessions for the next few months. It's been about 6 mos since I've had a personal trainer, due to financial constraints. I've decided that it's time...

I have been on-track with my 10-mile training schedule. Today, I hit the pavement for 5-miles. I'm out of breath just thinking about it.

I ran 4-miles on Saturday with my nephew (who does not run). I took it all out of him. Felt nice to "beat-up" on my 17-year old athletic nephew. Auntie still has some fire in her! I'm was also able to keep my goal pace of 12:30/mile.

I'm going to try again tonight - 12:30/mile for 5 miles = 62.5 mins of running bliss!

(BTW - I updated my picture on the 10k race - they posted race photos this week and I downloaded mine)

On the Road Again!

2009-04-09T16:00:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow - I'm on the road again. I am making the epic family trip - a stop in Tully, Geneseo and then Rochester - culminating in a family dinner on Easter Sunday. I love getting to spend time with all my family members, but the trip can be wearying. Plus, my schedule and routine are completely thrown off.

I NEED ROUTINE!

The good part is that it's only 4 days. I have my 3-mile training run tonight. Friday is my free day. Saturday is a 4-miler (light week). Sunday is cross - Monday is stretching and strength.
So as far as the workout schedule that will be fine.

...but...

What I will be eating - it's anybody's guess! I don't have a good track record when I go home. That's all I will say about that topic.

Let me just take a moment and say Happy Easter to everyone! I love Easter as we celebrate the Risen Christ! Consider finding a place of worship this weekend to celebrate His dying on the cross for your sins. And 3 days later - rising again!

He is risen ~ Just as He said!

Running through the Pain...WHAT PAIN??!!

2009-04-08T09:00:00.004-04:00

Last night, I forced myself to run the 3-miles on my training schedule.

The reason why is that I don't feel like running. My legs hurt. My knees feel like they are twice the size that they really are. I can barely bend them. My derriere hurts. The muscles are just plain and tired. My lungs hurt. It was cold outside. I even used my inhaler before running to prevent any asthmatic attacks induced by the cold air.

But guess what? A few minutes into the run, my knees didn't hurt as much. My butt hurt, but that's no big deal. My lungs - they functioned normal for me - thanks to albuterol.

In fact, today, I feel great. My legs feel great. I can even bend my knees without feeling like they're gonna pop. My butt is still sore (probably from riding bike the other day). The wheezing in my lungs is minimal. Interesting.

I ran when my body was screaming no and today my body is bowing in thankful adoration for me doing it anyway. I guess it's true that sometimes, you just have to run through the pain.

Oh, By the way, I remembered to pack my gym bag. That's the first crucial step to getting to the gym. I also carried it to my car - second step. Now, the third and final step - driving to the gym - keep your fingers crossed!

It's been just over a year now...

2009-04-07T08:37:00.003-04:00

It's been just over a year now that I've been actively trying to lose weight.

In March of 2008, I joined the gym and hired a trainer for 10 sessions.
I trained for and ran a half marathon in late April.
After those 10 sessions were over, I hired her for an additional 10 sessions.
I ran in a 5k over the summer.
Beginning in July, I started going to the gym practically everyday.
My fitness has increased, as well as my endurance.
I've lost a few pounds - around 17 to be exact. I am stronger.
I feel healthier.

If I had to gauge myself, I'm not where I'd like to be but I like where I'm at.

These past few weeks of training for the 10-miler (Broad Street Run) has caused my body an awful lot of stress. I've slowed, ok, practically stopped going to the gym. I've been following the training schedule, as far as running, but that's about it.

This was going to be the week that I started to go back to the gym - putting it back into my daily routine. Oops - I forgot my gym bag (again). That's twice this week and it's only Tuesday. I need to start incorporating some light lifting and cross-training into my schedule.

I brought the ol' dusty bike out of the basement into sunlight for the first time in 3 years. Pumped up the tires, washed and oiled it, took it for a test-drive. Works great! I also brought up the roller blades - also in the basement for about the same amount of time. I used to love roller-blading in my post-college days (in fact, they were my sole source of transportation for a few years). I haven't tried them out yet, maybe this weekend.

Considering most people gain a few pounds every year, I'm not doing all that bad. Honestly though, I didn't think losing weight would be all that difficult. I thought if I went to the gym and hired a trainer and changed up my diet - the pounds would melt off. At least, that's how it seems to work for those around me.

But no, I'm not like everyone else. I have to work harder. I have to push harder. It doesn't seem fair. But then again, I didn't just gain this weight over a period of time, I've been a big girl most of my life. I have a lifetime of weight to lose. When placed in that perspective - 17 pounds in a year doesn't seem all that bad now does it?

So, at my current rate, I have approximately 60 pounds to lose - I can expect to hit my goal weight on: September 7, 2012.

Yeah!

10k - Completed in Record Time!

2009-04-06T08:41:00.006-04:00

I finished my first 10k this weekend.

My goal - 1:20 (just under a 13-min pace per mile)
My actual - 1:17

I was darn excited! I have been pushing myself in my long runs to get around a 12:30 pace. I tend to do well the first few miles then slow way down for the middle and pick-up at the end.

There were a few times I wanted to stop and walk, but I made myself continue. I know that if I walked, I could have bettered my pace in the long run, but I decided to continue running, even if it resembled more of a slow crawl, because I was going for the endurance and completion - not speed. Between the wind and the hills, it was pretty grueling in my book!

Now I can honestly say I ran a 10k - the whole thing!

10k is Tomorrow.

2009-04-03T09:30:00.003-04:00

I put in another 3 miles yesterday. In fact, I programmed my I-Pod to a 5k - to see what I could do. But yesterday was not my day. When you head out on a run, it doesn't take that long into it (maybe a half-mile) and you know how it's going to go. I was sluggish. I knew it was a matter of just slogging through the 3-miles. That's how it felt - that's how it went. My time was average for me, but I felt sluggish and tired. I'm kind of glad today is a rest day, especially since tomorrow is the 10-k.

I've still had that odd pain in the back of my calf near the crease in my knee. I have no clue what it is. Just when I think it's gone, it comes back. It's just weird. I've been stretching pretty diligently in hopes that maybe it's just a tight muscle that just needs a little stretching. I've been wearing a neoprene calf sleeve to keep it warm when I run - hoping that will keep it warm and loose. It works while I'm running. Maybe I need to wear it all day too.

I'm ready for tomorrow's run. It's supposed to be windy and possibly chilly because of the wind. I'll be wearing shorts, but a long sleeve top. I'm kind of excited about the 6.2 miles. It's my first "official" 6.2 run. I can put it in the record books as a time to beat in the future. It will also be a good test for how I'm going to do on the 10-miler - though the 10-miler is completely downhill the entire way - now that's cool! No extra strain.

As far as any weight loss, it seems I'm hanging onto this 209 lbs. It's just been a battle that I am getting tired of fighting. I'm continuing to watch what I eat and I've been following this run schedule pretty diligently. I havent' been going to the gym everyday, but that's because I don't want to wear myself down from this training schedule.

Any hints/ideas/suggestions or words of encouragement to get me from this plateau would be greatly appreciated!

I'll try to update tomorrow after the run to let you know how it goes. If I don't, just check out my Nike+ Mini. She'll update when I download my run.

Until later...happy running.

What's Changed?

2009-03-31T08:59:00.003-04:00

I don't know what's changed...the scale has been the same for a long time now, but for whatever reason, everyone's asking if I've lost weight. Wha????

Yes, my pants are baggy in the butt, but they've been that way for awhile. I'm still wearing the same clothes, but the scale has remained rock solid - almost as if it is a rock and the number will never change.

I'm glad for people noticing. It's a bit discouraging when you feel like you work hard and give it all you got, but there's nothing to show for it. Now that I'm in plateau-mode, everyone's noticing...interesting.

I'M NOT COMPLAINING - REALLY I'M NOT!

The encouraging words are nice. They're...encouraging.

This whole weightloss thing has been a mental struggle for me for awhile. I don't just eat a salad a few times and boom - 5 lbs lost. I have to eat less than 1600 calories and workout at the gym religiously - for months - FOR MONTHS - to see any weightloss. So to have someone notice the hard-work - it's nice.

Now, don't get all concerned that I'm going to breakout in the belly shirts and low-risers anytime soon. I still have some modesty about me. And plus, that would still be plain ol' gross to look at!

I don't know what's changed - but I'll TAKE IT!

Diagnosis - I don't know!

2009-03-30T10:29:00.004-04:00

Here's the deal...I went out running on Saturday to "test out" my leg. 5-miles later, both legs felt sore, but not any worse for the use.

I don't think it's anything major, just some soreness that I need to work through. I soaked in an epsom salt bath almost immediately following the 5-miler. My legs seemed to like it. I was sore the remainder of the day (like walking funny sore) and I was sore on Sunday, but I didn't walk funny. Today, if I flex or move the right way, I can feel them, but otherwise, I feel good.

I feel good.

I am not feeling as discouraged as I was on Friday (or even Saturday morning). I am just feeling cautious. I will treat my legs well for the next few days and see how they fare.

Saturday is the 10k race I signed-up for. (That's 6.2 miles for the layman). I have 2 runs scheduled this week: 4 miles on Tuesday, 3 miles on Thursday. I will take it easy and see how it goes.

I'll keep you posted!

Why me?!?!

2009-03-27T20:21:00.003-04:00

It seems that just when I start getting into a routine or in the midst of training, I get injured. I must attract the injury. I do all the right things. I stretch. I warm-up. I follow the training schedules. I don't know what it is.

Now, I'm not sure how bad it is, but I have the ache in my calf that seems to worsen when I run. It's fine otherwise, but after I run, it really hurts. At first, I thought it was just a tight muscle that wouldn't relax. I used Icy Hot and rubbed it down pretty good. It seemed to get better. I took a day off of running. But today, I thought I'd hit the treadmill and see how it feels. It started to ache.

I have a 5-mile training run tomorrow. I'm going to try and see how it goes. If it continues to persist, I guess it's safe to say that it's something more than a sore muscle (which I am praying against). The "something more" is more likely to be a muscle tear - which won't heal for a few weeks - so pray with me for a sore muscle that will be healed quickly!

I'll give an update later in the weekend to let you know how it's going!

A Little Update...

2009-03-25T10:07:00.002-04:00

To enliven the pupils of my meager following, I am working on updating my blog - visually.

Since I feel like there's not much to blog about lately, I thought I'd make some changes to the blog-site instead.

Don't get too worried, I am still hitting the gym and I'm on Week 4 of an 8-week training plan to run 10-miles (The Philadelphia Broad Street Run). I am sore and tired - there's not much more to say at this time.

So, for now, check-out my new Nike+ Mini-me to the left...it will update everytime I update my runs!

What the $%^&*!

2009-03-20T14:53:00.006-04:00

Starting Weight - 209.2 on 2/6
Week 1 Weight - Unknown
Week 2 Weight - 210.8 lbs. (2/27)
Week 3 Weight - 212.8 lbs. (3/6)
Week 4 Weight - 210.6 lbs (3/12)
Week 5 Weight - 212 lbs (3/20)

Maybe NEXT week - maybe we'll see a negative overall!!!

I registered for my first 10k

2009-03-18T10:50:00.003-04:00

This morning, I registered for my first 10k (6.2 miles). I have never raced that specific distance. I know it's completely doable. It's also placed perfectly on my training schedule. That Saturday, I have to run a 10k for training, so why not pay to run and get a free long-sleeve T-Shirt?!!!

I was watching THE BIGGEST LOSER last night. I love that show! And last night was the perfect reason why I love watching it. The challenge - run a half marathon (13.1 miles) with friends and family watching on. I loved it. There was so much inspiration and determination in that 2-hour program. I even shed a tear or two while watching.

I know the feeling and the pain and the pride and the frustration of running a 13.1 mile race. There's so much that you deal with. It was amazing to see illustrated in video and in their own words the struggles that they were dealing with.

I feel a resurgence of running power and adrenaline or maybe it's the decaf I drank this morning...

I have been on track with my running schedule, though I will be honest, I have had a few days that I didn't want to go out. Yesterday was one of them - yet, once I went out, I ran one of the fastest times I've ran in awhile. And my goal was just to put in the mileage - not speed. Who knew!!!

So, today is a cross-training day at the gym. Gonna just have some fun. Maybe, I'll sweat a little bit. Maybe I won't. I just need to burn enough calories to burn off the donut I just consumed.

Yep. I said it - I ate a donut. Not just any donut - a powdered Jelly donut. I know, I know. I'm supposed to be watching my calories and dieting and exercising and all that. But here's what I know about me (no excuses - just fact). If I deny...deny...deny...then I'll binge...binge...binge. I don't mean an all out food-fest, but I'll go days eating all these things that I shouldn't be eating.

There you go. The BIG LOSER truth.

Don't worry - I run 2-3 miles every other day. That's a 350-450 calorie burn for me. Saturdays - I burn over 1000 calories on my long runs. I think a mere donut (1 - 2-3 mile run) won't hurt or harm me !

4 miles down...

2009-03-16T15:31:00.005-04:00

Yesterday, I ran 4 miles.

Today, I feel like I ran 4 miles yesterday.

Tomorrow, I run another 4 miles.

Today's results...(week 4)

2009-03-12T13:34:00.006-04:00

woohoo!

I lost 2 lbs. exactly from last week's weigh-in.

Woohoo!

Maybe next week - I'll actually get a % of weight loss from the starting point.

Starting Weight - 209.2 on 2/6
Week 1 Weight - Unknown
Week 2 Weight - 210.8 lbs. (2/27) +0.76%
Week 3 Weight - 212.8 lbs. (3/6) +0.95% / +1.72%
Week 4 Weight - 210.6 lbs (3/12) - 1% / +0.67%

Next week - maybe we'll see a negative overall!!!

A Downward Fall...(on the scale that is).

2009-03-12T09:32:00.003-04:00

I am finally seeing the numbers on that blasted scale head in the right direction - downward. After the struggles I went through for the past 2 weeks with diet and a lack of desire to care, I've finally found myself where I need to be and feel good about it. It's nice when the scale reflects that hardwork.

I have been in training now for a 10-mile run that will happen on May 3rd. I did my first 3 miles the other day - no real soreness later (yeah!). Today, I will put in 2-miles with some strength training. I am looking forward to that run-time.

There's just something about being outside, running, alone...there's think-time. I imagine myself a racing machine - pressing on towards the finish-line. I feel strong. I feel powerful. I feel....ow, what the...my little toe is going numb. Maybe my sock is bunching...My lungs are screaming - I forgot my inhaler (again)...wait, this is all in my head - just keep running. Breath...Left foot. Right foot. Left...hey, look at that squirrel over there...he's racing me - i'll show hi...ooh, pretty butterfly. Focus.

I am weighing in today for the Biggest Loser Contest at the gym. I feel pretty good about the fact that I will finally see the number go down from last week - it would be great if it went down from day one. It would be a nice reward for the hard-work and diligence (and those daily 1500-calories).

I'll send an update after my visit at noon!

I'm "officially" IN-TRAINING!

2009-03-10T21:57:00.003-04:00

I am "officially" in-training for the Broad Street Run.

I have ran a few times over the past few weeks to start building up some of the endurance I need and tonight - I ran my first official 3 miles. I was very surprised at how well I did. I had run in a 5k in November that I tore my arch tendon just yards from the finish line (I tried to "kick-it" those last few yards and it popped).

I've basically just done a lot of cross-training since. No real running - until tonight.

And it feels great!

I don't know what it is about running, but I feel like a machine when I run. My whole body in tune with the motion forward. My core feels really strong. My legs were kicking - even my lungs were participating actively. I'm happy to be running again.

Maybe this is what I need. Maybe this is the kick in the rear that I need. Maybe the Endorphins will make a difference! Maybe just maybe!

Today's results...

2009-03-06T15:42:00.002-05:00

I logged in at 209.2 on 2/6.

My first weigh-in - 210.8 lbs. (2/27) +0.01%

Today's weigh-in - 212.8 lbs. (3/6) +0.02%

Hmmmm....I think I'm going the wrong way!

Time for A Change

2009-03-05T14:24:00.003-05:00

I guess it's time for a change!

After yesterday's blog entry - I got some challenging words "DO NOT QUIT!" Well, I don't plan on it. I was just having a moment - just keeping it real. I appreciate the encouragement.

I skipped out of work early yesterday for an evening of "full-contact" snowboarding (that's what it's called when I do it) and skiing (which is what I do when I've had enough getting my butt kicked by a wooden plank!). I spent almost 4 hours going up the lift, down the hill. Up the lift, down the hill. It was a well-needed break from "running in place" on the treadmill or "climbing" imaginary steps on the stairmaster. I guess I needed that.

Now I need to focus on getting my diet back in shape. That's an area that has slipped down a slippery slope throughout this whole week. I can use Jedi mind tricks to force myself to the gym, but I have been overdoing it on the 1500-calorie diet. Let's just be honest, there are times when a girl is just hungry and feels the need to eat. I've probably averaged 2000 calories over the past week. Not bad - except, I don't lose weight on a Normal calorie load and going to the gym. I only lose weight on a lower calorie diet and excessive exercise. If only 15 lbs over the period of 1-year isn't proof - I don't know what is.

So, I'll be doing a little "changing up" of the diet in order to get back on track. I'm definitely going to take the advice of one commenter and add some extra fiber into my diet. Hopefully, that will take care of the satiation issues I've been wrestling with over the past few days.

I'll let you know how it goes!

Tomorrow is weigh-in day for the Biggest Loser contest at the gym. Keep your fingers crossed that I actually lost weight this week instead of gaining it...

Can I Quit Yet?

2009-03-04T13:25:00.004-05:00

I have had a couple of days where I just want to quit. I realize much of it has to do with "being a female", but it has been very difficult.

I have been ravenous! I just want to eat. I am eating all the right foods and drinking lots of water, but I feel hungry ALL THE TIME.

I have been hitting the gym, but I'm tired and don't want to go. But, I do it anyway.

My sleep patterns have been irregular. I'm constantly tired.

I guess I just need to stop fighting the current and let it carry me for a moment...or two! Fighting it seems too difficult. Giving in is so much easier.

What to do? What to DO!???!

Well, I keep doing what I know is the right thing. I had a few bad days. I pick myself up and keep going. I didn't get overweight from a few bad days - it was a lifetime of decision. So, I guess I need to remind myself that I won't be thin and healthy overnight either.

So I had a bad day...I'm not a quitter.

I will rise from the remnants of these past few days and continue the journey laid out before me. I will continue to go forth - I WILL NOT QUIT!

(At least, that's what I'm telling myself). I'll let you know how it goes...

Physical Fitness never hurt so good!

2009-02-28T19:47:00.002-05:00

I've had a pretty rough week of physical fitness. I've done some running, some weight-lifting, some snowboarding.

Right now, I'm sore. My bottom hurts - from falling a lot. My hamstrings are ready to be plucked like a harp. My calf muscle is bruised from being hit by the chair lift at just hte right moment. My back is sore, my neck is sore...I feel the need to just go running....maybe tomorrow.

I got the new sneakers, the I-Pod Nano, some running tights - it's Run FatGirl Run. But let's sleep on it and see how I feel tomorrow.

:)

On Again - Off Again - On .. oh wait - where's the bandwagon?

2009-02-26T19:37:00.002-05:00

It has been a bumpy ride as of late. I was doing well for about 2 weeks before I left for vacation. I was counting my calories - consuming around 1550 per day. I was going to the gym at lunchtime. I was headed in the right direction.

Then...

I go home for a week on vacation. I start out right (at least for a day or so). I went to the gym with my sister-in-law, snowboarded for a few hours and ski'd all the next day. Then, the comfort food hit me. S.O.S., mac'n cheese, ribs dripping in BBQ sauce, pasta...it was my belly's heaven - the rest of my body's worst nightmare. By the time I made it back to my own home - I had consumed an insane amount of no-no foods and I was in desperate need of hitting the gym.

Here I am again. I started back to eating the 1550 calorie diet. I have been in the gym everyday so far. I even have started the training for the 10-mile Broad Street Run in May (it's only 10 weeks away!). I don't even want to tell you that my body packed on 6 lbs while I was home - YIKES! Luckily for me, it was a lot of water weight from all the extra sodium and "garbage" I consumed. As much as I can do this on my own - it's difficult to do it away from the home - especially when family is involved!

I have been able to take off 3 of those lbs so far. My hope/goal/dream is to have the other 3 gone by Sunday. Then, we can start the REAL weight-loss.

I am so close to my first landmark goal of 25 lbs loss and with 1 more pound, to be in the 100's. Yet, it seems that goal dances before me, like a sarcastic tease ... nana boobooing me all the way to the scale!

BUT WAIT - my time is coming and it will be here soon!

Vacation VS. THE BIG LOSER!

2009-02-18T17:22:00.003-05:00

The BIG LOSER has not been doing as well as planned. I came home with good intentions, but they've gotten me no-where. Today is the first day that I've actually watched everything I ate. It's also the first day I've been away from my parents' home too.

Granted, on the caffeine front, I've drank no coke/pepsi, no coffee. I drank a ton of water and orange juice. I've done a ton of activity, snowboarding and skiing, walking, etc...

I ate a nice helping of Dad's infamous S.O.S., homemade mac'n cheese and ribs, pizza, etc...Not good. But a few bad days will now be overridden by a few good days :)

I have 4 more days at my family's - I stopped at the grocery store and picked up a few helpful snacks - nut mixes, yogurt, apples...I'm having asparagus, brown rice and riblets for dinner...lots of water.

I walked the mall for like an hour today with an old friend from college.

So that's where it's at so far. The scale will tell all when I return...until then...

I'm only 5 pounds from "ONE"-der-land...

2009-02-13T13:06:00.003-05:00

I'm only 5 pounds away from "ONE"-der-land (stolen from another weight-loss blog). 5 lbs. Wow! And, I'm doing it the right way.

It's a great motivation to keep going. I don't feel the necessity to "reward" myself with some dietary treat (that will only serve to reverse the reason for the reward), but I feel happy. Just genuinely happy. That is reward in itself.

I am headed to NNY this afternoon for a week. I am a bit concerned. Granted, I've been very good about all that I've accomplished these past 2 weeks, but they were easy in the sense that I ate portioned meals out of a can or box. I measured every bowl of cereal or oatmeal. I ate canned organic soup for lunch and every dinner included a Kashi frozen meal. I plan (at the risk of offending my familial hosts) on purchasing my own meals for the week. Without really knowing what they are cooking (and I'm going to my parents house and they can cook some unbelievable rib-sticking type of meals), I can't go unprepared. I've only been at this for a few weeks seriously and I am concerned I wouldn't know a portion size from a pot-hole (much less the caloric content of whatever they are making).

Maybe the 2 lb additional weight-loss will be the added motivation I need to say "no thank you" and to pass on the homemade mac-n-cheese, scalloped potatoes or dad's infamous S.O.S. with boiled potatoes (no way I'm saying no to that - I will indulge but only after a day of skiing with the family).

Most likely I will pass on the blogging over the next 9 days while I'm out of town. If I get an opportunity, I might add an update on how I'm doing, but otherwise...

...See you in 9 days!

A BIG LOSER Contest!

2009-02-12T15:12:00.005-05:00

My gym is hosting a BIGGEST LOSER Contest - beginning on 2/16.

I won't be making it out to the gym next week due to the fact that I will be vacationing in Northern New York the entire week.

I got weighed today "officially" by the Ass't Mgr - 209.2 lbs with shoes on!

Whoohoo! So that's where it all starts.

For the next 10 weeks, I will continue to update on my status and progress - just as I am doing now - only more for the purpose of the contest.

Ok - so the game player in me has already wanted to rear it's ugly head. I had considered "bulking" up this week on Chinese buffets, fast food and anything containing sodium - all for the purpose of puttin' on a few pounds. But alas, the righteous side of me said, "EARN IT!" So what if I can gain 5-10 in water weight in just a few days (totally possible for me). I might lose it in one week, but I've gained, or rather lost, nothing in the long run.

There's more to come...

What am I eating?

2009-02-11T08:51:00.003-05:00

So maybe you're wondering, "hmm, I wonder what the BIG LOSER eats and still stays around 1500 calories?".

Ok - so you're probably not thinking that, but just for kicks, I'll list yesterdays menu:

FOOD
Instant, Quick, and Regular Oats Cereal, 0.5 cup, dry, yields 148
Blueberries, frozen (unsweetened), 0.25 cup, unthawed 20
Health Valley 14 Garden Vegetable Fat Free Soup, 2 cup 160
Lays Potato Chips, Classic, 1 oz 150
Skinny Cow Chocolate Ice Cream Sandwich, 1 serving 140
Black Olives, 1 jumbo 7
Kashi Mayan Harvest Bake, 1 serving 340
Raisins, 1 small box (1.5 oz) 129
Girl Scout Thin Mints, 1 serving 160
Apples, fresh, 1 medium (2-3/4in. dia) (approx 3 per lb) 81
Organic Valley Stringles, 1 oz 90
Organic Probiotic Fat Free Yogurt - Strawberry, 1 serving 90

That makes for a grand total of 1515 calories! So that's how I do it. AS you can see, I don't deny myself those little pleasures (chips, GS cookies). I just count them!

My shortfall though, if you were to dig deeper, is that I need more protein and a few less carbs. I'm working on it. Today, instead of raisins, I am adding a handful of mixed nuts with cranberries. That adds another 7g of protein and reduces carbs by 16g.

In case you're wondering (again I don't expect you to), I have still been going to the gym. Tuesdays and Thursdays are strength-training days. Yesterday, I did a pretty intense strength-training circuit that is leaving me very sore today in my back and upper legs. Today, I am in for some cardio. 20-30 minutes of intense, pulse-racing, sweat-producing, lung capicity increasing, cardio. I should burn close to 300 calories!

I did notice a decrease in the scale today. It was modest, but nonetheless a decrease. I made the change in my ruler above.

Hey, thanks for reading. Maybe you'll find some encouragement in my wordy-words today!

5 days and still counting

2009-02-10T09:35:00.003-05:00

I've been tracking my calorie intake now for 5 days. If you don't count Sunday, I've been doing very well.

2/5 - 1551
2/6 - 1795
2/7 - 1540
2/8 - 2862
2/9 - 1531
2/10 - 1500 (estimated)

Ok - so you're wondering what went wrong on Sunday - well, I'll tell you. It was breakfast - almost 1000 calories (2 eggs, 3 turkey sausage, 1 cup of hash brown potatoes and a few silver dollar sized pieces of fried bread dough). It was lunch - Applebee's Nacho Nuevos and a dessert shooter (approximately 1700 calories). Need I say more?!?!

I did notice this though - this online food diary is holding me accountable. I have been rethinking my Sunday habits and see an area that needs work!

So, if anything, 2 days of calories in 1-day has taught me - that's 1-days calories too many! It's also a good visual reminder that I cannot do that. I'm trying to go help myself see the value in being accountable "everyday" - not just during the week. It may be just one day, but one day here and one day there - it adds up!

Dear Diary...

2009-02-07T20:34:00.003-05:00

...today, I ate 1,540 calories.

I have been tracking my diet for 3 days now.

Thursday - 1,551
Friday - 1,795
Saturday - 1,540

My goal is to stay around 1,560 calories. I'm sure trying! I'm hoping the effort will get me 1-2 lbs off the scale in a few days. I'm looking for 2 lbs a week. That should be obtainable.

I'll let you know how it goes ...

My new challenge...

2009-02-06T09:04:00.002-05:00

So I signed up at sparkpeople.com for my own web-tracking for exercise, diet, weight, etc... I'm still very new to the site, but it's a very cool thing.

I can set weight loss goals and it tells me how many calories to consume. I go in and list out the foods and portions that I ate, it tells me how many calories I've consumed. And, it also tells me how many calories I have left to consume. There is a function where it can set-up your meal plan for the day - if you choose.

I can set-up cardio and strength-training goals. I haven't used that function yet. Can't say much more...

Anyway, this helps with one of my weaknesses, tracking what I eat and being careful about what I eat. In fact, knowing I only had a certain number of calories left for last night, I debated for like 5 minutes on whether to eat blue corn chips with my dinner or have 2 girl scout cookies. I chose the chips - like I said, I like crunchy, salty things. (I saved the GS cookies for today).

Another Big Loser...

2009-02-05T09:44:00.003-05:00

So, the Big Loser signed up to be a BIG LOSER at the contest being hosted by my gym. I'm not sure what the rules are, but the contest begins February 16th and runs for 10 weeks.

I like competition. Maybe this will be exactly what I need to get focused. The competitor in me will rise and take over the hunger inside of me for anything salty, crunchy or chocolaty. Plus, I am thinking it will give me a new focus for those 10 weeks.

I was talking with my friend about going in at 5:30 a.m. for an hour of cardio and then hitting the gym again at lunch-time for some strength-training. It's just 10 weeks. It will be a great jump-start for training for the Broad Street Run in May (10-miler). I'll be healthier and hopefully A BIG LOSER!

I'll also put a strong (and I mean STRONG) emphasis on my diet. It's time to make a change. I'm going to become a counter of calories and a journaler of everything I eat. Starting now.

I went over to sparkpeople.com and registered for my own tracking site. I can track my weight loss goals, exercise (calories burned) and the amount of calories I consume on a daily basis. It also helps you set-up the number of calories your need to eat in order to get to your desired weight. I will see if this will help me track my calories (intake) better.

It's February - ALREADY!

2009-02-04T11:01:00.003-05:00

It seems that the past month has basically just flown by...I started out sick...went on a 2-week spiritual fast...and now, I'm back in the game!

I have been working out strongly over the past week and a half. I lost 20+ lbs during my time of fasting. I gained 10 of those back, but now I'm losing again. I lost a lb. in the past 2 days.

As it stands now, I have lost 18 official lbs since I started tracking. I have been very diligent about getting my butt in the gym and ensuring that the time spent is well-spent. My gym buddies can vouch for that.

I haven't drank any coffee, coke or diet coke in almost a month now. I'm sleeping around 8-9 hours a night. I go to the gym 4 times a week. I've been watching what I'm eating - most of the time...

Here's the deal - just being honest. I usually will fail. At some point, I'll give in to a craving for some fries or a coke or some chips. And, it's not that I give in just once, it will become a week-long obsession. That's my downfall. I need more consistency in my diet.

So, I'll be brutally honest and say, HELP!

I'm not a big eater. I'm just a bad eater. I eat well most of the time, but it's the some of the time that is hurting me.

I think I'll start a food diary just to hold myself accountable. Maybe that is what's necessary. Keeping track of what I eat and when. Then maybe, just maybe, I can see some sort of trend or pattern that I can work with. I like analyzing numbers, maybe this is a way to analyze my own eating patterns.

If you have any suggestions, please feel free to throw them my way - they will be WELCOMED!

The Spin Cycle!

2009-01-26T16:58:00.003-05:00

During my time of fasting and prayer, I had a lot of time to think about my workouts for when I would be done with the fast and back at the gym. Today, I fulfilled one of those workouts.

I had dreamt about riding the bike and just sweatin' from the workout. Today, I hit the bike and gave it all I had for 20 minutes. And my legs were like Jell-o afterwords. Even now, I'm starting to feel the soreness in my rear!

To top off today's "welcome back to eating and going to the gym", I did some crunches and reverse crunches on the bench.

Tomorrow, I start with strength training. I am putting together a plan tonight to maximize my lunch hour at the gym.

Thanks for hanging in over these past few weeks.

A season of renewal...

2009-01-16T12:02:00.002-05:00

The new year always comes with the promises of new beginnings and refreshing for our physical and emotional bodies. We should not neglect the Spiritual.

So, in lieu of blogging about weight loss and the activities that go about doing that, I want to blog about what God is doing in my life. Because, as much as we might strive to meet some number goal on the scale, counting calories burned vs. calories consumed or striving for physical fitness, if we neglect the spiritual side of our lives - we've gained (or loss) nothing!

For as long as I can remember, I have always taken the beginning of the year to set some goals to connect with God on a deeper level. One of the goals has been to begin the year with some sort of a fast. For the past 2 years, our church has been participating in a corporate time of 14-days of fasting and prayer. This year, I'm fasting the entire 14-days.

Today is day 5.

I have been taking time to slow down, sleep more, pray more, read my Bible and just plain ol' connect with God. It doesn't take long to realize how much I've neglected just spending time with God - connecting with Him on a heart level. I've just put some worship music on and just rested before HIM. My middle of the night - wide awake moments have become times of prayer and communion. My lunch hour time in my car has become my sanctuary - reading my Bible and listening to worship music or just quietly praying before God (right before I take a power nap).

I've gone to the gym a couple of times, but I've just casually walked on the treadmill. I've been going to bed much earlier and enjoying more rest and quiet in my home. The TV has basically been off all week. I've been enjoying the break from most of the world (except for the work aspect - which is a whole other blog!).

So, when the fast is over, I'll be back on track with the gym and dieting and all the other good stuff for weight loss, but in the meanwhile, I will be "working out" my spiritual muscles and spending sometime in God's Gym!

A New Year - A Size healthier!

2009-01-08T09:40:00.005-05:00

I'm back!

Bigger and better than ever (metaphorically speaking).

I was able to maintain the weightloss that I have obtained throughout this holiday season that included a cruise to the Bahamas (see the obligatory dolphin-hugging photo), a trip home to eat lots of my mom's homemade goodies and a week of sickness (maybe bronchitis). I didn't make it to any gyms, but did a lot of walking on the cruise and some very good food choices.

Since I am now somewhat back into the routine of doing LIFE (you know, working, sleeping on a schedule, etc...), I am also back into the routine of going to the gym during my lunch hour. I have been taking it a bit easy over this week - just doing the cardio thing. The goal - burn 300 calories. Starting next week, I will incorporate strength training into the routine. I've actually been dreaming of doing crunches and anything that would have to do with the abs. I don't know what it is...

I am going to adopt Queen Latifah's slogan, "A size healthier!" That's my 2009 goal - a size healthier!

Christmas is Coming...the BigLoser's getting fat...

2008-12-20T14:38:00.003-05:00

...please put a penny in the old man's hat!

It's Christmastime! A time of plenty - plenty of holiday parties, cookies, snacks, home-baked goodies...

I can hardly stand it!

I had been doing so well to get rid of the holiday weight from Thanksgiving off my body and shed a few more pounds...but now, I'm headed in the wrong direction. I have tried to be good, but the past few days have started out slowly, but are snowballing downward. Thursday was the holiday lunch at work - a lot of stress...lots of bad food. I wasn't even thinking of what I ate as I was grabbing something quickly to get back to work.

I got some homemade fried rice from a lady at work. YUMMY! Shrimp, rice and veggies...doesn't seem too bad. But then I had some Triscuits with it. I had pancakes for breakfast, a coke, some fried rice...a biscotti with my coffee...it's way too crazy!

My parents will be here in about 2 hours. I will be leaving for a cruise on Monday and the family holiday celebration is on the 28th. It's going to be a long, hard 2 weeks if I don't get on a plan here right away.

I won't be blogging until I return - hopefully it will be a good 2 weeks and not bad. Keep me in your prayers!

2008-12-11T19:57:00.012-05:00

A HEALTHY BREAKFAST!

I have been able to drop over 12 lbs. since Thanksgiving by sticking very diligently to the "You...On a Diet" plan. So, in order to help others, I'll share some of the wonderful foods that I have been eating.

Here's my favorite (and most common) breakfast: a bowl of oatmeal with blueberries and skim milk, a cup of coffee and a glass of orange juice.

Another breakfast favorite: scrambled eggs, two turkey sausage links, coffee and juice.
.
Either breakfast is a great way to start off your day. There are some whole wheat toast options with peanut butter, but I'm more of a "filling" breakfast type of person. I like my breakfast!
.
On the weekends, I add a piece of whole wheat toast and make sunny-side eggs, instead of scrambled - that is my favorite breakfast in the whole world!

In a couple days, I'll give you some of my favorite lunch options.
.
Until then, don't forget your breakfast - it's the most important meal of the day!

Another 2...

2008-12-11T09:40:00.003-05:00

It seems that this "You...On A Diet" is working for me. I cannot believe the numbers on the scale. Everyday - a few more ounces - a pound here, a pound there. I am completely and utterly amazed.

I have been trying for over 9 months to lose weight unsuccessfully and now, it's like melting off of me - and all without excessive exercising (don't tell my trainer).

I was so frustrated when I injured myself 3 weeks ago that I decided I was going to go whole-heartedly on this diet and hold to it - no matter what. And that is what I have done. The one time I was thinking I was straying, I actually made some really good choices and it didn't affect me.

Now, I can start going to the gym again. I plan on it today. Nothing too strenuous. I still have to let my foot heel the remainder of the way, but there's a lot that I can do that won't put a lot of strain on the foot.

I am very excited! I lost another 2 lbs - just since yesterday. I'm not sure how this is working, but I'm not complaining and will take every pound I can get. The number on the scale is absolutely the lowest that has been on this scale in 2008. I'm hoping it will be the highest number on the scale for the remainder of the year.

So, if I had to throw out some thoughtful wisdom for you today - I'd say this, "DON'T QUIT!" More than just a cliche', it should be a mantra to push you through, no matter how bleak the circumstances or how slow the results!

I'm FREE!!!

2008-12-10T11:13:00.004-05:00

I got a release - I'm free from the aircast walker !!!

The doctor is ruling out any major tears or damage and is now leaning towards the fact that I just bruised my heel (plantar fascia). So, I now have a fancy pair of orthotics to insert into my sneakers that I should have with all my shoes from this day forth to prevent this repetitive injury from getting out of control.

I can start going back to the gym and doing physical activity - but I have to limit the impact for the next 2 weeks. So, I will start some walking and some strength-training - tomorrow!!! Yeah.

I feel pretty good with those fancy orthotics. I've been running up and down the stairs at work and feeling as light as a feather!

Also, with 11 less pounds on my body (yes, 11 since Thanksgiving) - I feel even lighter.

This is a good direction I'm headed in. Look forward to the New Year. I will roll into the New Year with some good momentum and with the prospect of new year's resolutions and the slow-down of "life" in general, I'm setting myself up to be ain a great place come January 1st!

I'm hoping you'll continue to walk (or maybe run) this journey with me as I continue!

Today is the Day!

2008-12-09T11:32:00.003-05:00

Today I have my follow-up with the foot doctor.

Pray that I get an OK to resume normal activity - of course, at a "start slow" pace.

I'll try to update this afternoon!

Foot Follies continue...

2008-12-08T09:15:00.003-05:00

It seems that just because your foot feels fine that maybe you're not as healed as you think you are!

I went all weekend with a tape job (that I modelled from the internet). It did well, if I was wearing sneakers. But yesterday, I decided to wear some dressier shoes to church. They weren't high heels or anything like that, but they were a pair of dress loafers with a bit of a heel. Ok. SO that hurt!

By the end of church, I was limping again. I spent the rest of the day with my heel feeling sore. Even this morning, I decided I was going to put the walking boot back on until my appointment tomorrow.

I would really like to be done with this walking boot so that I can focus on some fun things, like running and preparing for some winter sports (ie: Skiing, snowboarding, sledding, etc...). So pray that I get a good report tomorrow and that the doctor will allow me to go 100% without the boot and to start exercising again.

On the other hand, this time of limited activity has caused me to really focus in on my diet. I have done very well. Even the one day that I thought I was cheating slightly on lunch, I realized that I made some really good choices on that cheat and didn't really cheat...

So, what have been the results you might ask???? Look up at my running back, he's moved ahead a few yards and he finally got the first-down!

Only 2 more days!

2008-12-06T23:44:00.004-05:00

As an addition to the Foot Chronicles...

I have only 2 more days until my follow-up appointment with the Podiatrist. I'm hoping he says I can do whatever...like, going to the gym!

I taped my foot up today to walk around while I was shopping and stuff...it didn't hurt. I didn't limp. I think it is doing pretty well on it's own.

I've been following the diet really well. I have been on a roll. I think it's only a matter of 2-3 days before I finally hit that elusive 10 lb. mark that I've been aiming for over the past few months...

So, this has gotten to be pretty boring. So, I'll stop.

Only 2 more days!

The Foot Chronicles...

2008-12-05T09:15:00.003-05:00

I have been very diligent over this week of sticking to the "You Diet" plan. In doing so, I have lost the 7 lbs I gained over the past few weeks - putting me back at my original 9 lbs worth of weight loss since March.

Because I am still waiting for the "all clear" from the doctor - I have not ventured into the gym yet. But that hopefully comes on Tuesday - PRAY PRAY PRAY!!! I have been bad and took that aircast off the last two days. My foot is a bit tired, but it feels and walks fine - no pain. Though, I might be good and throw it on if I have to keep running up and down the stairs at work. Maybe...

So, only a few more days...

It's Time for Plan B!

2008-12-01T16:07:00.005-05:00

Plan A: Go to gym at lunchtime everyday and burn around 300 calories in 30-40 minutes and watch what I eat (moderately).

Ok. Scratch that. With an injury to my foot that I'm told needs to be immobilized - cardio as I currently know it is out - at least until December 9th. So...

Plan B: Go to the gym every other day for some strength training and modified cardio (go hand-bike!) and go on a strict diet.

BOOOOOO! I don't like Plan B. I like to cheat every once-in-awhile. I can't do that anymore. I can't afford the calories. So, it's time to go all out and watch every calorie that I consume.

So, today is day one.

Water
Breakfast: Oatmeal with blueberries and skim milk, coffee and 8 oz of orange juice
Water
AM Snack: Fat-free yogurt with raisins
Peppermint herbal tea
Lunch: Veggie burger with tomato on whole wheat flatbread
Diet Coke
PM Snack: Banana and hand-full of sunflower seeds
Water
Dinner: Asian Salmon with brown rice pilaf
Water
Dessert: 1 oz. dark chocolate with orange slices

That's day one. Tomorrow - we start and again! And then, we'll do some strength training at the gym. Maybe I'll focus on the arms and abs...

What am I missing???

2008-11-24T15:22:00.002-05:00

OK - so my postings have been scarce lately. For good reason, there's been nothing to post.

I took a week off to give my body a well-needed rest.

I got the "Flu-Shot Flu".

Now, I have an injured arch tendon.

I ran the first of two holiday 5k's this weekend. It was stinking cold outside! The wind was blowing...I felt in a great mood for a run. AS I was warming up, I felt a slight stretch in my right heel. So, I did what I thought was the right thing - I stretched it out really good. I stretched my achilles and my calf - wanted to be all stretched and warmed-up for the start.

AS the ran started, I could feel that slight "stretch" in my heel, thought maybe I just needed to get it warmed up and it would go away as I continued to run. So that 's what I did - continued to run. I felt good. I was walking / running. I was using my Nike + / IPod to determine that I was running a pretty good pace (for me). So, as I got within a quarter-mile of the finish, I was feeling really good, felt like I had it in the tank to finish-up with a little sprint, went to push off my right foot and ""POP"".

At least that's the sound I heard and definitely felt as I jog-stumbled across the finish line.

Not a pleasant feeling. Having heard a similar ""POP"" when I tore my calf muscle years ago, I knew that sound was not a good thing.

So needless to say, I won't be running in the T-day Run in NNY. I will be sitting on a couch - with my legs up - resting...sucks!

I am headed to the specialist tonight for x-rays and an "official" diagnosis and a treatment plan. I guess PT is probably in order. Too bad PT means Physical Therapy and not Physical Trainer...though they could be one in the same!

I was supposed to leave for my parents yesterday. I won't be leaving until at least tomorrow. The quiet time at home today has been nice, but I'm ready to do something...anything...only 2 1/2 hours until my appt....

Ho-hum...another injury for the BIG LOSER! Hopefully, I'll bounce back stronger and more educated about what ever it is that I need to be educated about in order to continue to prevent these stupid injuries that keep happening to me...

Until then, enjoy your holiday week. Don't eat too much of the bad stuff on Thanksgiving day (or the days leading up to or following...).

I'll give an update in a few days.

I like Chips!

2008-11-20T13:12:00.003-05:00

I admit it - I like chips. I like the crunch - I like the salt - I just like them.

I ate some this morning. I looked at the calorie content and said, "hmmm, 2 snack bags of chips is 300 calories. That's about 30 minutes on the glider."

So, now I'm back from the gym and burned 324 calories - thank you very much - on the glider.

Now I'm even.

I just have to watch what I eat the rest of the day...ho hum...

Let's Move On!

2008-11-19T13:25:00.003-05:00

Now that I've gone through that horrible week of weariness, chills and headaches, it's time to Move...on!

I headed back to the gym today for a run on the treadmill. I have been dreaming of this for a few days now...I know, it's sick. But when I start dreaming of it, I just have to do it. I will be running in a 5k on Saturday - in the FREEZING COLD!!! I also have another 5k on Thanksgiving Day. That's plenty of motivation to keep moving through what can be a long, holiday week.

Since I have the week off, I'm trying to plan ahead so as not to thwart what little progress I am making...

... I pre-registered for the T-day run with my family - there's no
backing down now!
... I plan on grocery shopping first thing when I arrive home on Sunday
afternoon. I'll buy the staples that will keep me from losing
footing.

... I am putting together a couple of exercise routines that will keep me
focused for those days home...
... I am mentally preparing my plate for Thanksgiving Day so that I
don't overdue it. I hate that overwhelmingly full feeling that accompanies overeating - I don't want to go there!

Just for Fun!

2008-11-17T12:50:00.009-05:00

Ok - so I saw this in one of the blogs I follow and thought I'd play along.

So, here's 7 random / weird facts about myself:

1. I follow the Dallas Cowboys - but I live near Philadelphia. When I moved here, I became more obsessed with following the Cowboys, including purchasing an authentic #9 jersey! And, I just love to say, "How 'bout them Cowboys?" on a Monday morning when they have won and the Eagles haven't!

2. I like to exercise. I like the burn you get the day after when you can barely move, walk, or stand. It's like that toothache that you just keep playing with - I just like it. I get sad when I work-out and feel nothing the next day.

3. Scarecrow and Mrs. King was my favorite show in high school. I would sneak a blanket over my head, put on headphones and turn on the little TV in my room to watch it - even though my bedtime was 9pm. Can you believe it - 9pm!!! That was my bedtime until I graduated high school, but then again, I rarely went to bed at 9pm. I had my little blanket and headphone routine after 9ish...don't know if my parents ever caught onto that. If they did, they never said anything.

4. I wanted to be "JO" from Facts of Life. I thought her character was spunky and tom-boyish - just like me. Though, sporting the female mullet was not a dream of mine! :)

5. I like ALL the seasons. I like fall in all it's autumnal splendor; I like winter for the snow and cold (think turtlenecks and hot coffee! mmmm); I like spring for all the newness - flowers, leaves budding, birds; summer for all the warmth and shorts and days at the beach!

6. All my high school and college crushes are my friends on FACEBOOK! HA - you figure out who's who!

7. I don't like to be bored. I like to do stuff or be busy. I don't think I would ever be a good unemployed person ... I would go crazy!!!

Stinking flu shot!

2008-11-17T08:37:00.004-05:00

Last Monday - got the flu shot.
Tuesday - I woke with a hugh headache.
By Wednesday - got the flu!

I spent the rest of the week with headaches, achy muscles and chills! So, needless to say, going to the gym did not happen. Going to bed - did!

So, it's been a week and I'm still not 100%, but I packed my bag and am headed to the gym at lunchtime today! I need to.

I signed up for a 5k on Saturday - eek! I also have the traditional Thanksgiving 5k that I do with my family in NY. I have to get some cardio and strength-training in to be able to consider doing well.

Wish me luck!

Where's the Pain Killers?

2008-11-12T11:20:00.004-05:00

I did my first strength training workout in over a week yesterday. Today, I'm feeling it!

It didn't seem like we did much, but I guess it was enough!

We started out by doing the longest walk - with hand weights (20 steps - 3times). I could feel the muscles in my butt by the second set. Today, I feel them even without moving them.

In between each set, we did 12-15 shoulder lifts. 10 lbs. That's it - and I could barely lift them. My shoulders were screaming.

Our second group of exercises included 15 push-ups and 15 dead-weight row lifts. I was able to do all 15 push-ups and the 15 lifts (45 lbs weight) for all 3 sets. But today, my chest is killing me.

Final activity - abs!. I did only 2 sets, 15 each of ball crunches and reverse crunches on the bench. My stomach was burning and still is!

Only a few exercises and my body is paying the toll!

So, where are those pain killers?

A Time for NEW Beginnings...

2008-11-10T08:49:00.003-05:00

It's a new day of a new week...and I'm back in the groove!

It's time.

The week off was nice. I enjoyed lunches off and the leisure pace of an hour - I even went to the mall once. It was nice, but I missed my daily schedule of going to the gym.

I'm ready.

I have my gym bag in the back seat of my car...my mind is focused on getting to the 12 o'clock hour so I can run over to the gym for a time of cardio bliss! I packed my lunch and am mentally preparing my meals for the week (for that holistic approach). I even bought an expensive health drink (just one) to get me in the mood.

Whatever it takes!

It's on my calendar for the week. No exceptions - no excuses. I have extra socks and extra other things to ensure I have no excuse!

Taking it off!

It's time - gonna take off a few more of those stubborn pounds. Gonna get lean and ripped. Gonna...ok, so I'm going to sweat a little and work a little more on toning my arm and leg muscles...maybe, lean out the abs a bit more...

Either way - it's Time!

Taking some time...

2008-10-29T08:46:00.003-04:00

I spoke with my personal trainer yesterday about my body just not responding to the workouts lately. In fact, I've been so exhausted before and then worse after, that I'm not really feeling or seeing the benefits of the workout. Some of it is a lack of motivation. A majority of it is just the fact that my body is tired. It needs a break.

At least that's what Trainer Sue said. So, here's the plan. I'm taking a week off.

Yep. That's it - it's that simple. I'm taking Wed to Wed off - starting today. There's no need to delay what I need - I'm not getting anything out of my recent workouts.

I was afraid I'd forget to go back after that much time off. Trainer Sue said she'd hold me accountable to get my bootie back into that place. And, in an effort to trick my mind into believing that I'm not missing an entire week, I'm doing it mid-week so that I already have Monday and Tuesday under my belt this week and can put in for Thursday and Friday next week.

Works for me.

So, I'll also be taking a week off from posting...hopefully not in losing weight. I'm hoping to make a strong comeback after this short respit.

Until then, ...

Going through the motions

2008-10-28T08:50:00.004-04:00

There's a time in any routine in life where one must go through the motions in order not to lose any ground. That's sort of where I'm at.

Maybe it's the changing of the seasons or the slow (and I mean extremely slow) results that I'm getting from my workouts, but I am just not feeling the motivation. In fact, I'm not feeling ANY motivation!

What should I do?

I'm thinking a little change-up is in order. Since Daylight Savings is this weekend, maybe I could try:

Going to the gym earlier in the day, like before work (say 6:00 am-ish)....
Re-hiring my trainer (gotta figure out the financial part for that to work)...
Changing up the routine...going all-out on cardio on a daily basis and specific strength training targets each day...
Seeing a nutritionist to help with the diet (again, figuring out finances)
Renewing my determination (we all know it's a mental game - gotta focus!)

How about you? Got any advice for me?

Send me your ideas, suggestions, criticisms, whatever...Help me get out of this slump that I'm slowly falling into...I don't want to lose any ground and I HATE just going through the motions!

One of those days (take 2)...

2008-10-27T14:38:00.003-04:00

It was one of those days at the gym.

I had it altogether. I went to the gym. Got the machine of my choice. Worked a hard 20-min on the cardio and sweated to several sets of ab exercises. It felt good. My T-shirt had those rewarding marks of someone who has worked hard at the gym. So off to the locker room I go.

That's when it all went downhill...

I threw off my sneakers and socks to grab my flip-flops. Pulled them out, put them on. I reached in my bag for my towel - wha? No towel. I forgot a towel. OK. We've done this once before, grab 8-10 super-absorbant papertowels - we're good. Get in the shower, get a good rinse in, turn off the shower. Dry off with all 10 of those super-absorbant towels...Reach in my bag for those ever-important pair of clean undies...where did I...check the side pockets...oh boy, guess what I forgot....CLEAN, DRY UNDIES! To top it off, I dropped my dress socks out of the bag into the small puddle at the bottom of the shower. So, picture with me if you will, no clean, dry undies, wet dress socks and a patted-dry body ...

I guess it's just one of those days!

Late night at the gym.

2008-10-24T08:24:00.003-04:00

It's been a long time since I've gone to the gym in the evening.

In fact, I think I've only done that once or twice. But, with the schedule I've had, I couldn't go during lunch and early morning was definitely out of the question. The evening crowd is much different than any other time during the day.

When I've gone early morning, the folks that are there are just rolling out of bed (evident by the nappy-heads and eye-crusties). They are usually more serious about their workouts and, by my observation, are mostly females.

Ok. Fast forward to the lunch crowd. The CAR SENSE mechanics are all there (in their CAR SENSE uniforms). There are trainers and their trainees. There's a good mix of young, old, men, women...it's crowded, but not too bad.

Then, there's the night crowd. These are your standard GYM RATS. Mostly men. The kickboxers fill the free weight area (evident by their "special" shorts and bare feet). The young men staring at themselves constantly in the mirror whilst flexing their biceps or making their pecs dance... Almost always - MEN! And not just any men, but men you know have been working out - they have the huge biceps and the weight-lifting belts and the muscle shirts...

Then, there's me. I'm big, I'm bad, I'm wearing all RED. I'm a woman. I'm pretty much the only woman. Hey, I don't care, I'm there to workout, not stare at or be stared at. I'm going to do my own thing. One of the best benefits I received from having a personal trainer is the confidence I need to know what I'm doing and how to do it. So, watch-out for the woman in red flinging the kettle ball!

I like the evening for one reason: TIME. I'm not rushed. I could warm-up with 10-minutes on the ARC trainer and give it all I have and then go through a full strength training routine. It takes just over an hour. I don't have that time at lunch.

Although, I don't have the time to go most evenings. By the time I reach home (about 7pm), I'm rushing through my dinner routine, check my mail and settling in just in time to go to bed. I don't like that either.

So, for those who've been biting their nails (or clipping them into their eyeballs), yes, I'm finding the motivation to get myself to the gym. I can't go too many days without going....As it is, I'll probably go again tonight due to the PHILLIES PEP RALLY at my work where Jamie Moyer's first and second cousins will be at the autograph tent in our parking lot - signing stuff.

Falling into Fall...

2008-10-23T09:32:00.003-04:00

I didn't make it to the gym yesterday. I was planning on going to a football game of some of the JR. High boys in my church. I was going to run home during lunch and pick-up my North Penn Sweatshirt to cheer them on. On the way to my home, I called the mom of two of the boys to confirm the game only to find out they weren't able to play due to a school project.

Alright, so no football game and no need for a sweatshirt from home.

Then the mom asked where I was and if I wanted to meet her for lunch. Well, of course! I love eating lunch. Since she is babysitting a set of twins, she wanted to go to a lunch place with play tubes = inside. The only place that has that is McD's. Subway and Saladworks don't have play tubes. And since I was already feeling lethargic and functioning on almost 4 hours of sleep, my willpower to make good decisions (or even a faint feeling of caring), I ordered the #7 - Southern Chicken Sandwich, medium fries and a diet coke.

I know, I know. What was I thinking...well, frankly, I wasn't thinking - I DIDN'T CARE! I was going to eat and enjoy this sandwich. And besides, I was working on my Monopoly Millions! It was so worth it! (OK, maybe my next time at the gym will work it all off).

I will be missing the gym at lunch today too. I have a lunch appointment. My goal (and I am pushing for it) is to go after work.

I don't know what it is - maybe it's the change in seasons, but I just don't feel like the extra effort of going to the gym. It's sad, but it's true. I think I'm just going to keep pressing in and going after it - it is exactly what I need!

Maybe Today is THE DAY!

2008-10-22T10:56:00.001-04:00

Today just may be the day I hit that elusive 10 pounds.

You may be tiring of hearing about it, but I am only tired from working so hard to hit that number!

I hit a new low on the home scale (lowest in 2008) - so I'm expecting a similar "low" at the gym scale (the "official" scale).

Wish me luck!

Ho hum...

2008-10-21T11:32:00.003-04:00

Ho Hum...

Going to the gym

I don't feel like going

Something I must do

Ho Hum...

Gonna lose that pound

Whether I like it or Not

Don't like it, but

Ho Hum...

Basking in the Glow...

2008-10-20T08:39:00.005-04:00

It's been 2 days since the 5k - I'm still basking in the glow of my victory!

Ok - so maybe I didn't win the run or even place in my age group, but it was a personal victory to have ran almost 4 minutes faster than I have run in over 10 years! It goes to show that the training and working out is really "working" out.

So, I've decided that I'm running in another 5k on 11/22. I had already decided it was time to jump back on the 5k wagon. I have always loved the 5k, simply, it's only 3.1 miles. I don't have to commit to weeks or months of training and strategizing...I just go out and run and hopefully stop running in just over a half hour. Easy enough...

Today, I'm going to the gym to put in some serious cardio time. I'm thinking a slight jog on the treadmill or a time of gliding on the Arc trainer ... I guess it depends on how I feel when I hit the gym at lunchtime.

I'm also basking in the glow of the choices I made last week...

Last week, I was fighting a losing battle with salt and a lack of preparation - let's just say I have set-up a strong foundation in the McD's Monopoly Game!

This week, I'm playing a new game! I'm setting a strong foundation to get me through this week, meal by meal. I have the instant oatmeals, fruit, yogurts, nuts, raisins. I picked-up some low calorie, Healthy kashi meals on the clearance rack (awesome deal) for those nights where I don't feel like cooking. There are plenty of options to keep me from feeling out of control or to help when I'm feeling lazy.

By the end of this week, maybe I'll be basking in a new glow - the glow of FINALLY hitting that elusive (and I mean stealth-like elusive) 10 lb mark!

Wish me luck!

I ran a 5k!

2008-10-18T13:26:00.006-04:00

It has been a very LOOOOOONGGGGG time since I last ran a 5k. I believe it's been over a year. I just have not had the interest in running since I completed the half in April. Well, I did it!

I woke up at 6:00 this morning to begin prepping. I had a bowl of Organic Cheerios-like cereal with 1% and some honey. Yummy! I got dressed in my running tights and half marathon technical shirt (it was cold outside), put on my UA running gloves and headed out the door to go get registered. I got there really early.

So, I did the registration thing and sat in my car for 20 minutes with the heat on, all while eating a PowerBar that came in the Goodie Bag (one of the fringe benefits of running). After I finished the bar, I decided to take my gym bag and head inside the gym for some stretching and pre-run strategy (which for me is just putting on my Ipod and doing some stretching, all while wondering why I signed up to do this!).

I headed back outside to the registration area to pick-up a free cup of hot Black Coffee - mostly just to warm-up and get a little caffeine-boost. Then, the Master's Master walked up. I didn't know she was going to run this race, but was glad to see a face I recognized.

Race Time - headed to the starting line-up, got the National Anthem sang to us by the NPHS choir and we were off! I had my Nike+ with me to track the run and provide a little motivational music. There's nothing like Shania Twain singing, "I feel like a Woman" to get you in the mood for running 3.1 miles!

The race course was flat. There were absolutely no hills. PERFECT! I ran pretty fast for the first mile - stayed with the Master's Master almost the first mile, but it wasn't my pace and I couldn't get in a rhythm, so I slowed up ever so slightly and found my race-pace. My breathing followed...

I RAN THE ENTIRE RACE - only walking to grab water and sip it - AND THEN RAN AGAIN!

I also finished 4 minutes faster than my average pace for a 5k. I haven't ran that fast in over 10 years. I am so happy. I was going to be happy to hit my average pace - considering I haven't ran in months.

Other than my lungs screaming out for mercy, this was an awesome run. Now, I've got a fever. Wait, not just a fever - THE FEVER - RACE FEVER.

I want to run again. Maybe it's time to get the ol' running journal out and start some goals for the next few weeks and months. Or maybe...nah. I'll just sit here, sipping on my McD's coffee and bask in the glow of this morning's accomplishment!

Gonna Run a 5k tomorrow...

2008-10-17T08:34:00.003-04:00

Yeah, so, the gym I'm a member of is hosting a 5k tomorrow. I've seen the signs and postings for months now, but never even considered running in it. Well, that was until yesterday. I ran into my trainer in the locker room and she asked if I was running in it.

I said, "no".

She said, "why not?"

I said, "I really don't have a good reason..."

She said, "Registration starts at 7:30 - see you there!"

I said, "ok."

Whaaaa? How did I agree to that so easily. And not only the running part, but getting up on a Saturday to register at 7:30 - that's AM! I have to get up at 6:00 to dress, eat breakfast and drive over there. Oh boy!

I haven't ran in weeks. I've been working out and doing the treadmill and ellipticals and the stairs, but not really running.

I'm in for some fun!

Salt is my enemy...

2008-10-16T08:31:00.005-04:00

I haven't been telling you everything...

I have a dirty little secret - maybe not as dirty as others, but still, my deep, dark secret. I LOVE salt!

I usually cook all my food raw. I hardly use any canned product. When I do, I read the label and ensure there are only wholesome ingredients in the food. I also check for the sodium content. Low sodium is the goal. So, I can assure you there's no hidden sodium in the foods I consume, but...

I love salt.

Lately, I feel the need, the necessity...to add salt. Not just any salt - GARLIC SALT. It's like my body is craving the salt. Maybe I do need it, maybe I don't. But I can tell you this, that whole retaining water thingy - it's true!

In the last week, I've had an unusually high craving for salt. What I've been noticing is the swings in my daily weight (some days as high as 4 lbs). It's been a little frustrating. I have noticed the swings have not been there for months. But then again, neither has the salt consumption. But lately, the swings are there - and so is the salt consumption.

Does anyone out there have any good advice on the whole salt thing? I don't think I use a lot, but then again, the scale does not lie. I want to make sure my body gets the sodium it needs, but I don't want to be going overboard and becoming a salt-a-holic.

So for now, I must take control over this sodium beast within that is hungering for more...it's time to start the revolution and put this beast to rest.

My anti-salt revolution now begins!