Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Lacking motivation!

When I know that I can't get in 26 days of exercise for this month, it becomes hard to get myself to exercise every day!  I know I will hit 1000 minutes, particularily with my 10k on Thursday.  I figure that will take two hours to complete.  Maybe I will even go for a half marathon.  We'll see.

Menu for Thansgiving:
Turkey
mashed potatoe
calico beans
rolls
broccoli salad
sweet potatoes
stuffing?
cranberry sauce
pumpkin pie
brownies

I will definately not be eating everything on the menu.  Way too many carbs.  But I will eat a nutritious well balanced meal.  I will only eat until I am full (not stuffed). 

I am looking forward to having my family here for the weekend.  I wish my brother Jack would join us.  But I dare not even invite him.  He is still very angry with me.  I hope that someday he will quit being so angry.  Until then I will continue to pray for him and his happiness.  Maybe one day Mom can have her whole family together again.

Monday, November 22, 2010

Ugh, I hurt!

And not a good hurt either.  If I was hurting from working out, I'd feel great!  But I fell at my mom's house.  I have a humongous bruise on my hip.  My back and hip were doing better, but seem to be getting a little more sore this afternoon.  My muscles must need a rest. 

The fall means that I couldn't work out yesterday and will probably take today off also.  That means that I won't make 26/30 days of exercise this month.  But I will still meet my 1000 minutes of exercise goal.  I am feeling guilty because I could have worked out any of the other 3 days that I chose not to work out.  But sometimes life doesn't follow the plan we have set forth and we must adapt.  I think it is more important to take care of my body and let it heal than to worry about a goal I have set for myself.  It is also why I set a two part goal.  I didn't want to fail for the month.  This way I can still call the month a success! 

Now, what should my goal be for December?  The same or should I increase the minutes of working out?  I am going to give that some thought.  I am really enjoying working out at home with my DVDs.  But I think I need to incorporate some time at the YMCA.  After all I am paying for a membership there!

Sunday, November 21, 2010

I have been working out everyday!  Well I have taken off one day everyweek.  Thank goodness I didn't choose to workout all 30 days this month.  Giving myself 4 days off has been a life saver!  Although, if I am completely honest with myself I could have found time on those days to workout if even only for a few minutes.

Weight has been fluctuating, but the general trend is down.  But more importantly, I am feeling great.  I am able to do more.  I can reach my toes when I stretch, thanks to pilates.  My muscles are more toned.  My stomache is harder.  Super yeah!

I haven't done a lot of blogging lately because I finally got an iPhone!  Typing on the iPhone isn't a whole lot of fun.  But I promise to be better here at my blog.  The good news about the iPhone is I now have a food journal and exercise tracker right at my finger tips.  No more excuses for not writing anything down.  No more forgetting to what I eat at the end of the day when I finally get to my journal.  I think this will be a tremendous help in understanding my eating habits.

Friday, November 12, 2010

I have worked out everyday this week, except Tuesday.  For now, Tuesday may just have to be my day off from working out.  Erica has swimming lessons in the morning, then we play in the pool for a while, shower and go home for lunch.  I work form 3-5 then have to run all three of my girls to gymnastics lessons.  The older girls stay without me, but Erica has gymnastics from 6:15 to 7:15 and she would be very upset if I left!  So for now, Tuesdays are my rest day!

Wednesday, I took out my Fluidity bar for the first time in over a year.  I will be adding that to my weekly must do list.  Yesterday I did my resistance band pilates dvd then walked on the treadmill for 40 minutes.  Today, I did the resistance band dvd again then did my balletones floor work dvd then lifted weights for a total of 60 minutes of working out!  I have approximately 200 minutes of exercise this week.  I am sadly missing any cardio workout!  But I will go to the Y tomorrow and do the eliptical and then some biking.  I also will go to the Y on Sunday and do a cardio workout! 

I have to admitt that I like working out with my DVDs.  My little Erica joins me and we have so much fun.  Plus it sets a great example for her. She knows that when I am at the Y that I am working out, but for her to see me do it and her to try to do it is so very important.

I have not lost all the weight I gained last weekend, but it is coming off.  And I realize that I did a lot more cardio last week which burns many more calories.  I will find a balance.  I am looking for a way to get fit and remain healthy not necessarily the fastest way to lose weight. 

Monday, November 8, 2010

No plan yet

I haven't written down my plan for the week.  Having a hard time committing in writing to what I am going to do.  Since it forced me to work out last week, I can't believe that I am not yet doing it this week.  Maybe because I felt compelled to do what I wrote I was going to do.  And I felt double guilt for not doing it the day I said I was going to do it.  So I hereby say that my plan, which I am about to compose, is only a map.  I reserve the right to take a detour along the way.

I did do a full 60 minute pilates workout this morning.  Hard to do with my 3 year old wanting my attention, my 14 year old calling and saying she wasn't feeling good and needed to be picked up from gymnastics...  But I didn't let these speed bumps stop my workout! 


Monday: pilates 60 minuts
Tuesday: treadmill 30 minutes  pilates 20 min
Wednesday: Body by Mercedes 45 minutes  pilates 20 min
Thursday: Fluidity bar 30 min
Friday: Cardio 30 min
Saturday: 90 minutes at the Y
Sunday: pilates 20 min

Remember...this is only a map.   Although more than 250 minutes are scheduled that is my ultimate goal.  I plan to get 300+ minutes this week.

Sunday, November 7, 2010

20 minutes

Another day lacking motivation.  Procrastinated all morning.  Took the family to go see Megamind at 12:15 (don't recommend it) ate popcorn and whoppers.  Came home and procrastinated some more.  Then did dishes.  Then decided to get off my butt and work out.  Did a 20 minute workout on the treadmill.  Better than nothing.  Sweating up a storm too!  Really need to turn the thermostat down in the family room!

Yesterday, I had an awesome workout.  I used the eliptical for 30 minutes then biked for 20 then used the weight machines for 25 and stretched for 10!  I felt like I was back at Fitness Ridge!  Only thing missing was the 2 hour hike in the mountains!  Looking forward to doing those again.  I told my family I was going to the Y for a couple of hours so not to expect me back.  And I took the full two hours. 

I felt so great afterwards.  I came home and cleaned the kitchen from top to bottom (my room for the next couple of months).  Also, when i came home, the girls had done their chores without having been asked.  I came home to a clean house!  What a great day.

When Al came home from hunting he and I went out for a bump and then to watch Due Date (also don't recommend).  I ate a box of milk duds.

A couple of notes.  When I eat junk, I feel like junk the next day.  My weekends are filled with junk!  Need to make some changes.

Tomorrow is Monday.  I need to write out my workout schedule for next week...or I'll find every excuse in the book to not exercise. 

This week I worked out 287 minutes.  250 put me on my goal for 1000 minutes this month.  So I am 37 minutes ahead of plan!  Short 13 minutes of what I had set out to do this week.  But considering i didn't work out on Friday at all, I think I am doing pretty good.  I burned over 2000 calories working out!

Saturday, November 6, 2010

Yesterday was a bust!

I could not get motivated  yesterday.  And to top it off... I ate horribly!  Well I ate nutritious meals, choosing to eat healthy at meal times.  But in between, I couldn't stop eating candy, and cupcakes and chips & dip and I had two beers! 

Why is it when I start to feel success I sabotage myself?  I gained a whole pound from yesterday to today!  That is a lot of extra eating in one day. 

And I did not excise.  But I did put 4 days of no exercise in my monthly goal.  I guess yesterday was one of them.

I am not about to continue on this downward slope.  I am going to forgive myself for yesterday and move on to a smaller better me!

I am about to head to the Y to do a long workout!  I am going to bike for 1/2 hour then use the weight machines and then stretch for 5 to 10 minutes.  After which I will spend some time in the hot tub and sauna.  Or if the bikes are busy I will use the treadmill or eliptical.

I have lost 3.8 pounds this week! 

Thursday, November 4, 2010

20 minutes of swimming 9.5 laps.  That's just over a quarter mile.  I worked hard to not push off on each turn because that would make the swimming easier.  And in reality I want to be able to swim a quarter mile in open water next July for the Tall Timber Triathlon.  I finally conceded that next June I will have to take my swims to fresh water.  I hate swimming in lakes.  Just ask my kids.  I rarely go in with them.  But I can't do the tri without swimming in a lake.

I also swam 1.5 laps with my face in the water!  As much as I hate lakes double that for putting my face in the water.  I am making tremendous strides with puting my face in the water.  I need a pair of goggles now so that I can see and quit bumping into the side of the pool :)

My plan had been to swim for 30 minutes this week.  But I only did 20.  I was sore and wanted time to sit in the hot tub.  And since I am ahead in minutes of working out, I thought it would be okay to take a small break today.

Down another pound today.  I was amazed because I ate 1824 calories yesterday.  But I burned 600 working out which only gave me the 600 calorie defecit for the day.  I can just tell that my body is eager to remove this fat I gained last month.  It just keeps falling off.  I have 4 more to get down to what I weighed in September.  I hope it continues to slide off even then.

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

I could really use a nap right now!  Just needed to say that.

Went to step/kettlebell class today.  Oh, my knee hurt so bad in step class.  It hasn't hurt that bad in a long time.  But guess what?  By the end of class my knee did not hurt.  It was just my mind trying to get me to quit before I was done.  How often that happens.  We are eager to do something and our mind plays mean tricks on us trying to get us to stop doing the things we want to do.  I remember now why I always left after step class and skipped kettlebells.  I just don't enjoy kettlebells.  So in the future, I'll just go to the fitness center and do my own strength training.  I just don't like kettlebells.

I am down almost 3 pounds!  I guess the weight I gained in October really didn't want to be there.  It seems to just be jumping off!  But the weight loss also motivates me to keep to under 1900 calories and to keep exercising, even when my body hurts and my stomache says feed me junk food!

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

A small change in plans

My plan was to swim laps for 30 minutes today after my daughter's swimming lesson.  First we were 40 minutes early for swimming lessons so we sat in the hot tub for 30 minutes, she just putting her feet in.  Then when lessons were starting they were short a teacher.  I was asked to help out with Erica's class.  That was a lot of fun.  for most of the 30 minute class I was treading water in the deep end.  So I didn't feel like swimming laps after class.  I decided to switch Thursdays Pilates workout with today's swimming.

After swimming lessons I came home and did a 40 minute workout with my Windor Pilates DVD.  Didn't quite make the full hour of the DVD but didn't do the 20 minute DVD I had planned to do.  It was a great workout!  I have now completed 95 minutes of my November goal.  I am off to a good start! 

Yesterday I had a 900 calorie defecit with my workout and eating! 

Monday, November 1, 2010

Day One

The first day of my November challenge has been a success!  I went to my Body by Mercedes class at the YMCA.  She worked our upper body today.  I had a hard time changing my clothes after class my arms hurt so bad.  I was 10 minutes early to class so was able to get in 10 minutes of stretching!  So my total workout time for today was 55 minutes.  only 945 minutes to go for November :)

Tomorrow my daughter has swimming lessons, so I plan to swim laps after her class.  She'll be upset if I make her go to Y Weecare.  I may let her sit at the edge of the pool while I swim laps.  If that works she won't have to go to Weecare while I swim.  But I will have to give this some thought.  Do I want to worry about her while I am swimming or just concentrate on doing laps?  We'll see what tomorrow brings.

I have set a goal of consuming less than 1900 calories today.  so far I am at 729.  If I eat a sensible dinner and don't snack while I am at work, I should be well under my goal!

Sunday, October 31, 2010

November week 1 workout schedule

Monday: Body by Mercedes Tuesday: Swim
Wednesday: step, kettlebells
Thursday: pilates
friday: bike, weights
Saturday: treading
Sunday: 2 mile run
stretch everyday

My goal is to do 250 minutes of exercise this week. I have 300 minutes of exercise scheduled for the week.  If all goes as planned, I will be well on my way to completing my November goal of 1000 minutes of exercise. 

I am not feeling well today, but that will not keep me from starting tomorrow.  Resting today so that I can workout tomorrow.  



Saturday, October 30, 2010

October has been a bust...

I have had a very hard time working out for the month of October.  The scale agrees!  I have been searching for my next adventure and just haven't found one that motivates me.  Next summer is so far away that it is difficult to motivate for the triathlon in July or the Du in September.  I am even looking into a military 10K next fall and possibly doing the Susan Komen 3 day walk next year.  But none of these activities has motivated me to work out.  What to do?

Yesterday, I finally made it to Barnes and Noble and purchased a work out journal.  writing things down works wonders for me.  I have a food journal that has space for exercise, but I wanted a journal that focused on exercise with a space for food.  I don't want to focus on food.  I can loose a lot of weight by journaling my food.  But I really want to be healthier because I am exercising not because I am limiting calories.  So I wanted a journal for exercising.  I know there are plenty online.  And I am a gadget girl at heart.  But when it comes to health, I do much better with pen and paper.

This journal has had me do a fitness test and evaluate my starting point.  But it also talks about setting goals.  It talks about setting specific goals and not weight related goals.  So, now what?  This exercise was difficult for me.  But I decided to set a short term goal for November.  I am much more likely to work out if I worked out yesterday.  What I am saying is that 3 days a week doesn't cut it for me.  I need to work out everyday if I am going to beat the Lazies.  But I am realistic and know that I can't possibly make 30 out of 30 days for the month.  Once I missed a day, I'd have failed for the month.  So my November goal is 2 parts.  First how many days I will exercise: 26 out of 30.  But also how many minutes total for the month: 1000.  See, I might not make the first part, but could still make the second or vice versa.  Or make both parts of the goal for a super de duper month! 

This goal has me very motivated.  It is only one month so by December 1st I'll need a new goal, but I'll work on that one the closer we get to December.  For now, October is almost over and I am looking forward to a new month and my new adventure.  1000 minutes, that's 35 minutes a day if I work out every day.  I've given myself 4 days off, which means I need to average almost 40 minutes each day.  I know some days will be more than that and some less.  But now I have a means of tracking my success. 

Monday, September 27, 2010

I am an Irongirl!

Yesterday, I finished my first Irongirl Duathlon!  3 hours 14 minutes 19 seconds.  My biggest acheivement that occured during the race:  I ran my first 2 miles in 26 minutes.  I never thought I could do that.  Biking was much harder than I thought it was going to be.  My chain came off twice, whenever I tried to go into first gear which was on most hills :(   As a racer we had complete right of way of the route so there was no stopping for lights or stop signs.  Had not realized how those little stops were affecting my ability to bike farther!  I walked my last 2 miles.  I wanted to run but my legs would not let me.
On the bike route, I stopped to help another competitor put her chain on.  She was in near tears because she didn't know how to do it.  I know I would want someone to stop and help me.  Besides, my goal was to complete the race.  (My motto of the day was, "It's a great day to be last!") On the last hill going back to transition my legs quit.  I couldn't pedal to save my life.  I got off my bike and me knees cramped up.  It felt like I had two giants balls moving around on the inside of my leg.  Each step the ball moved and I couldn't.  After about 10 steps, my knees only cramped every other step.  Then it was every third step.  I knew then that I could walk to cramps out.  I just walked until the cramps were gone.  I got back on my bike and rode to transition.  I walked out of transition and walked up the first hill.  I knew I couldn't run yet.  At the top of the hill, I tried to run.  My legs just wouldn't let me.  I walked the last two miles.  I did attempt a few short jogs.

My family was there to support me the whole time.  Erica was so cute with her sign held high above her head.  I knew where they were and could look forward to their cheers as I went by.  I don't think I could have do it without them!  Thank you Al. Mia, Erica and Mom.

I am now taking today to rest.  Will begin my workouts again tomorrow morning.  Today, I will refect on what my next big adventure is going to be.

Monday, September 20, 2010

6 days to go!

Only 6 more days to prep for my first Duathlon!  I am very excited.  I am feeling better. I had a miserable cold last week with two sick girls at home so I could not do much training.  I was starting to get very nervous because I haven't been keeping up with my exercise program with all of my traveling.  Last Monday, I ran 2 miles in 33:15!  But then the rest of the week was a bust for exercise.

Today, I ran 1 mile in 15:59 then biked for 25 minutes with my daughter in the trailer behind me.  I couldn't figure out if I was struggling because of Erica, the run before or the horrific wind...  Or maybe all of the above.  I figure I'll do a brick tonight without Erica then do another one tomorrow morning. And maybe Wednesday morning before leaving for St. Louis for 3 days.  We come back on Friday.  I register on Saturday and the big race is Sunday!!!

I am really hoping for a great race.  Meaning that my chain does not come off and that I actually the finish the 2 mile run, 22.7 mile bike ride, and 2 mile run.  Wondering if the 2 1/2 hour time limit on the biking portion includes my transition time.  I don't think it will matter one way or the other.   I wish I could wear my head phones.  I love listening to music as I run/bike.  But the rules don't allow.

Remember, if you haven't donated,  I am still looking for donations at www.active.com/donations/choa2010/rrudeck.

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Fall is here...

I am finally home from my vacationing.  I spent a week in the Bahamas with my daughter, Mia, and then finished the summer with a weekend in Chicago with my girls, Kathy and ShirleyAnn.  It was a great ending to the summer.

School starts today.  My daughters are heading to a brick and mortar today.  I hope both girls are have a great year.  I am looking forward to having time to spend with Erica, something that I never get.  Our day consists of dropping the girls off at school, going to the chiropractor, grocery shopping, home to do some school, lunch, chores, then workout at the Y, then work from 3-5, home to pick up Hannah and Mia then all 3 have gymnastics tonight!  Good thing I am so relaxed from my vacationing...

I have been very bad at working out the month of August.  But that is all done.  No more slacking.  I am now going to work out 3 days a week at minimum.  1 run, 1 bike, 1 swim.  Anything more is icing on the cake.  I want to add my step classes back into my schedule this fall.  But got to start slow.  I no longer have my girls to babysit when I work out.  And Erica tends to get whiny about going to the Y.  So I need to find a balance.  Plus, I have a feeling Erica and I are going to be very busy.

Monday, August 9, 2010

Some people hate Mondays.  I see Mondays as the beginning of a new week.  All the mistakes of last week are gone and a new slate begins on Monday.  So Happy Monday everyone!

Last weeks mistakes:  Missed two workouts.  I was sick on Thursday.  I was traveling on Sunday and Hubby was just home from Alaska so we had a few beers and enjoyed our time together instead of biking and running as I should have!  Ugh. But new week today.  i will let go of those mistakes and start anew.

This weeks exercise plan:

Monday: run
Tuesday: bike
Wednesday:swim
Thursday:run
Friday:bike
Saturday:swim
Sunday:run

Sounds like a plan.  I will also journal my food and keep my calories to 1500 or less each day.  And starting today, no pop for the week.  That will be a challenge as we have a wedding Saturday night.  I'll have to come up with a plan for not drinking diet pepsi all night long!

I am getting excited.  16 days until I head to The Bahamas with my 12 yo daughter.  8 days of sun and fun with just the two of us!  We haven't spent that much alone time together ever.  it should be a lot of fun.  She just returned from Alaska with her dad and uncle.  She has gotten alot of time with each of her parents this summer.

My oldest is off and runnign to Italy is September for 2 1/2 weeks.  Without her parents.  She seems to do more traveling with the friends than us.  We are going to have to change that one.

I plan to continue my exercise while in The Bahamas.  I will have to work extra hard on calorie consumption because we are staying at an all inclusive resort.  So lots of food and lots of alcohol available.  But if we stay active enough we won't be eating our way through the resort.

Happy Monday everyone! 

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Food journaling has been so difficult for the last couple of months.  July was really bad.  I gained 4 pounds.  Ugh!  Do you know how much it hurts to write that down.  But now that I have, I think it will be easier to get rid of it.  No more hiding those pounds.  No more pretending that they don't exist.  I mean they won't exist shortly because I intend to get rid of them quickly.  And by quickly I mean by the end of this month.  It took me a month to gain the weight, it only stands to reason that it will take a month to get rid of it.  But that's okay.

I have been doing great with exercise this week.  I have finally found a training program that I can work with.  My running magazine had a train for a tri in 6 weeks program in it.  Now I don't intend to do a tri in 6 weeks,  But I do like the program.  Swim, bike, run, swim, bike, run, rest.  I can do that.  Though tomorrow is the run day and I still hate running.  When is that ever going to change?

I am going to have to get up early and run on the treadmill because i have to work tomorrow and then Erica has swim lessons.  But I suppose I can run in the evening, Hannah isn't going to gymnastics tomorrow so she can watch Erica then.  Either way it will get done.

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

I have a new adventure today.  I am going swim laps at the YMCA.  Just a couple of notes.  I love to swim, but I hate putting my face in water.  I mean I really hate putting my face in the water.  Water up the nose is the worst!

I have decided that completing my Duathlon this September is not going to be enough.  I am going to need a new challenge.  I have decided to compete a tri next summer.  To do that, I am going to start training now.  There is a short course tri right here in town each July.  So will do that one for sure. 

I find that I need to change things up to keep motivated.  I easily get bored doing the same thing over and over.  So now, I will run, swim, and bike each week.  That should hold off the doldrums until  winter when I add my classes back into my schedule.  But for summer, I want to be outside as much as possible.  Although I will swim at the Y.  I don't like swimming in lakes.  I guess I'll have to get over that because triathlons are not done in a pool :).

For those of you who have been following me, I am asking that you consider making a donation to Aflac's childrens cancer treatment and research center.  I am trying to raise $500.00 for the center.  I have so far raised $175.00.  please visit www.active.com/donation/choa2010 to donate.  To get to my donation page, just enter my name. 

Sunday, August 1, 2010

A new month

It's August 1st.  I feel as though I took all of July off.  This last week I have eaten so much junk my body is on strike!  But today is a new month with a new start.  I am back on program.  I will be training for my duathlon in September which is now only a few short weeks away!  I rode 13 miles today no problem.  So still not worried about the bike ride.  I am worried about the run.  I haven't run in weeks.  But I will start running again this week.

I am home today by myself.  It is time for lunch.  I want to eat bad food.  Ugh!  Why is it always a challenge to make good food choices.  I can make other good choices in my life.  But I want to eat bad food.  My body doesn't like it when I eat bad food and yet I still want to eat it.  Why?  It doesn't even taste good half the time. And yet it still goes in my mouth.  Enough rambling.

Sunday, July 11, 2010

Oops...

So much for a plan.  I didn't run today because my back hurt to much.  It was a wise move because it is feeling so much better tonight.  In fact, I haven't felt any pain since this morning :). 

I love prevention.com's food journal.  I love seeing that even though I didn't make the healthiest of food choices today (lg fries at McDonald's and a peice of Angel food cake), I still had a 300 calorie deficit today.  I really think this is what I needed to get back in the game.  Now I can get back to my calorie math and loosing those excess calories I am carrying around with me.

On another note....

I am so thankful for my husband.  He truly is a great daddy to our girls.  He is a wonderful husband.  He works so very hard for us, though sometimes we wish he didn't work quite so hard.  I just wanted to take a moment to think of this special man in my life.

Saturday, July 10, 2010

If I can do it...

ANYBODY CAN!!!  Let me repeat, if I can do it, anybody can.  I am not kidding when I say this.  My Aunt Patty said it best this past weekend, "you used to be kind of a couch potatoe."  I love you, Auntie.  those words were never so true. Used to be...  And I really was a couch potatoe.  "Honey could ya get me.." were spoken so often that I think every other sentence started that way.

Ask anyone who knew/knows me.  I hate sweating.  Feeling that salty liquid forming on my body, ewww.  Worse now it actually drips off of me.  And when I run and breathe heavy out my lips, sweat mists off my upper lip.  It's just plain gross!  And yet, I countinue to exercise and push my body to its limit.  Why?

Why? is really a great question.  I love the results.  I love how I feel afterwards.  And not just physically.  I feel great emotionally.  An added bonus, since I have fought depression for most of my life.  Diagnosed Manic-depressive at 16.  It's why I was such a couch potatoe in my past.  But running and exercise gives me such a high that I can push out those depressive thoughts.  So again, if I can do it anybody can.

And I am in love with http://www.prevention.com/.  Its My Health Tracker is totally awesome!  My GG member and friend just told me about it.  It is a food journal, exercise journal, weight tracker, measurement tracker, just about anything tracker.  It graphs all of this for you.  I am excited to start journaling again.  Check it out and let me know what you think.

Friday, July 9, 2010

A beautiful start to a beautiful day!

I rode with my husband to work this morning.  He has instigated "Fitness Fridays" where he works.  Those who ride to work (or workout before/after work) get to dress casually this summer.  I decided to join him on his ride to work.  We had a lot of fun.  Plus, I got to chat with some of my friends who work with him and who also peddled to work this morning.  19.3 miles round trip.  Pretty sure my odometer is off.  Because it was only 8.9 miles there. That's 17.8 miles round trip, right?  Plus mapmywalk.com puts the ride at 16.2 miles.  So somewhere between 16.2 and 19.3 miles is what I actually peddled.  Burned 939 calories, though.  Can't complain about that.

Now, I am just waiting to send my girls to Duluth for the afternoon.  Erica and I are going strawberry picking once we drop them off.  That should be a lot of fun.  My 3yo is really looking forward to it!  Perhaps I should bring my mom some strawberries this weekend, since she is unable to fulfill her promise to provide me with strawberries this year.

July was supposed to be journal my food month.  I have not been able to maintain my journal.  And I have been eating horribly.  But starting today, I am going to make healthy food choices.  If I make healthy food choices then I shouldn't have to worry about writing down what goes into my mouth.  So here are a few rules I live by:

no more than 5 ingredients in a food item
if I can't pronounce it, I can't eat it
whole foods first
90/10 (eat well 90% of the time, don't care 10%)
no more pop

Now that I have written it down, I have to live by these choices.  and along those lines here is my workout plan for the next week or so.  I would rest on Sunday but I have rested for far too many days lately.  So I will rest a week from Sunday.  Run is defined as a planned run but may walk part.

Saturday  Run
Sunday Run
Monday Run
Tuesday Run
Wednesday bike
Thursday run
Friday bike
Saturday run
sunday rest

I have kept off the scale.  I know it's only been 9 days, but I haven't even thought about the scale lately.  I am back to focusing on my overall health.  The scale is only one measurement of that health.  I love how my clothes are fitting.  I love hearing people tell me how good I look.  I love how my lungs feel after I exercise.  And I love looking at myself in the mirror.  I know that sounds horrible to say, but I look so different that I just can't get over it.

This weekend I am going bike shopping.  That sounds like a lot of fun.  Al says that MP has a 0% fitness loan available to employees/families.  So a new bike may just become a reality.  I don't plan to stop biking after the duathlon this fall.  I am seriously considering doing a tri next year.  A short course tri.  I just don't see me swimming not to mention in open water.  I just don't swim in lakes.  But 6 months ago I would have said, I just don't run.

In fact, 2 months ago I said that at Fitness Ridge.  I ran across the 10k finish line and was rewarded by the Carmen saying, "Wow, I saw you finish.  You really can run."  My response, "I can run, I just chose not to."  Why would anyone want to run?  For me, I run because I like the way my body is starting to look from running.  I can see shapely legs under all that fat.  They are dying to come out.  And the only exercise I have ever tried that is shaping my legs is running.  So, therefore, I will run.

I guess I am done blabbing on and on for now.

Thursday, July 1, 2010

July

Girl Gang has challenged its members to journal their food for the month of July.  I have been journaling off and on since December. More off than on lately.  So looking forward to having to journal again.  My plan is to post my daily counts here on my blog.  Not sure I can post the full journal.  Too much committment for that!

But I encourage everyone to journal their food for the next month and learn how easy it is to lose weight when you don't put food in your mouth because you don't want to have to write it down!  At least that's how it works for me. 

I've been on a plateau for a few weeks.  It's time to lose another 10 pounds.  So I will journal and keep my calories under 1800 each day.  I will work out either running or biking 4-5 days a week.  I am not going to get on the scale the whole month of July.  On August 1st, I will post my weight loss for the month of July following this plan.

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Biked almost 20 miles today!  I didn't walk up any hills.  I only stopped to put my chain back on and to return a call to my girls who wanted to go see the new Eclipse movie at 11:50 today and wanted me to pick up their friends, too!  I did 19.12 miles in 1:48 on rolling hills.  And loved every minute of it.  Next week, I want to do a 25 mile bike ride.  So now I have to figure out where to do that.

I ran 2.8 miles on Monday.  I still don't enjoy running, but I do love the results.  My legs are starting to look pretty darn good. Almost makes me want to run everday.  But I do need to get bike rides in, too.  So now I need to set up a training plan for Septembers Irongirl Duathlon.  I am really getting excited to participate and wish it was sooner.  But having 3 months to prepare will mean that not only will I be able to complete the Duathlon but also race to do my best.

When I originally signed up it was just to complete the race.  Now I want to actually set a goal for finishing.  Not sure what my time goal will be.  I need to train some more.  But completing is now a given so I want to focus on my run times and overall completion.  I have even begun to think about attempting a triathlon next year.  Do I dare?  I am not a strong swimmer.  I can't stand to put my face in water.  So I may never actually do a tri.  But I am thinking about adding swimming to my workouts.

Tomorrow the July Girl Gang challenge begins.  We are journaling our food for the month.  I have not been good for the month of June so this is a great challenge for me.  I will weigh myself tomorrow morning and then I am putting the scale away until August 1st.  My hope is that between journaling and exercising that I will loose weight.  I am working hard to not weigh myself several times a day.  And I have been doing quite well with not getting on the scale.  But I am afraid of what the scale will say tomorrow morning.  But I am not going to let it stop me from doing what I am doing.

Saturday, I am running a 5k.  I have yet to run a full 5k.  I know I can do it because I did 2.8 miles on Monday.  it's on .3 miles further.  So, my goal for this 5k is to run the whole time.  No walking.  Saturday will set my time for setting goals for future 5k runs.  I have another 5k on August 7th.  Never in my life did I think I would be participating in events like these.  But they give me something to work for.  It is so hard to exercise just for the sake of exercise.  But having a race to prepare for makes it so much easier for me to stay on track.

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

I can't believe it's been a month since I last wrote!  Over Memorial weekend, my family and I went on a twenty mile bikeride.  I went on several shorter rides.  By Monday I could not move.  My back hurt so bad.  I went to the chiropractor Tuesday morning.  That week I did interval taining, treading and Mountain plus ran/walked 5 miles.  Visited the chiropractor twice a week for the next two weeks.  Now down to once a month again.

also was dealing with sick children and not feeling well myself.  This week we are all back to good health.  I am back to working out today.  I have been eating horribly.  And when I say horribly I mean junk food like you wouldn't believe.  I figure I'll work on exercising for the next week and the jump back into my 90/10 healthy eating plan.

Whenever I eat unhealthy foods, I start to have negative thoughts about myself and my progress.  So I need to start eating healthy  again. 

The exciting news is that even though I haven't exercised in a week and half I was able to go out and have a great workout.  The sun came out this afternoon, I told the girls they were babysitting because I was going for a run.  I walked .6 miles then decided to run.  I ran 2.2 miles in 35 minutes.  I never stopped running.  I nver took a walking break.  And I felt like my legs were rubberbands by the time i was done.  I probably could have walked faster than I was jogging at the end but I did it.  I kept my eye on heart rate.  If it got up to 160 bpm I would slow my pace down.  I was able to maintain jogging just by keeping my heart rate at a reasonable rate.  Who knew!  I didn't worry about how fast I was running.  I wanted to run 2 miles but didn't really think I could do it.  But I did do it.  And I am going to do it again! and again! and again! 

I signed up to do a duathlon in September.  a 2 mile run, 22 mile bike ending with a 2 mile run.  I knew I could do the bike ride, and I could walk the runs if I needed to do that.  But I want to run the first 2 miles, bike the 22 miles and crawl the last two if I have to!  I got nervouse when I read that I had only 2 1/2 hours to bike the 22 miles.  But then I realized that I really won't have a problem iwth that.  Though I will need to start training with pacing myself on my bike.  I now know I can run 2 miles.  Now I have to train running two miles and then hopping on a bike.  I can do this.  And I am so excited to do it.

Duathlon...my next adventure begins now!

Sunday, May 23, 2010

20 miles and 50 mph winds...

My friends and I had decided to ride the Mesabi bike trail from Grand Rapids to Bovey on Saturday.  As the morning progressed I was hoping for a reprieve.  It looked like rain.  And a storm was scheduled to come through as when we would be on our ride.  No such luck in postponing the trip.  I packed rain gear and hoped for the best.  Mainly, that it wouldn't rain.

The ride was beautiful.  The bike path reminded me so much of my childhood where I spent my days riding the local bike paths from one neighborhood to another to the neighborhood gas station and the lake.  Kathy, Teri and I were all newbies to the trail.  It was a little frustrating because you would mentally and physically "push" up a hill only to round a curve and have an even bigger hill to climb.  It's difficult to push harder when you gave everything already.  I am all about pacing myself.  But some of those hills looked insignificant so I would peddle faster and harder thinking I would have flat surface to recover.  With no recovery between hills, I walked that bike up a few of the bigger hills.  No shame in that.

As we entered Coleraine, 8.5 miles into the trip and one mile left to our dining destination, the wind began to pick up.  The last mile of biking the wind got stronger and stronger.  The last few blocks the wind was so strong we couldn't even ride our bikes.  We hid in doorways and between buildings working our way to Annabelle's cafe for lunch.  Gusts of wind reaching 50 mph were blowing sand into our faces and against the bare skin of our legs and arms.  We finally reached Annabelle's and walked indoor only to have the electricty go out.  Half the menu was no longer available for consumption.  That's okay I wanted a salad anyway.

After lunch, we decided to head back to Rapids.  The sky was still gloomy, but not as bad, and the wind had definately died down.  Along the trail, Minnesota Power, was repairing the electrical wires.  It was upon seeing them that I figured there would probably be a big ass tree across the trail at some point.  And there was.  We actually encountered 5 trees that had falled across the trail.  The problem was that you couldn't go all out going down a hill because you never knew what would be around the bend for debris.  So the hills were difficult to climb again.  But I know that next time will be easier.

After our ride, we met at Kathy's house to make dinner and sit in the hot tub.  We made recipes from FR cookbook.  It really was fun drinking wine and making dinner.  The hot tub really helped relax the muscles so I really didn't have pain this morning.

All in all, a great ride, lots of laughs and i can't wait to do it again.

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

It's a great day to be alive!

My aunt Patty had that as her status of Facebook.  My response was that every day was a great day to be alive.  She then said she rode her Harley to work and enjoyed smelling the spring air on the way.  I certainly couldn't argue since I had just returned from biking (non-motorized) with my 3yo daughter. 

Today was a wonderful day in Minnesota.  And I was busy and worried about when I would get my exercise in today.  So, I rode my bike 2 miles each way to the Grand Rapids Gymnastics Acedemy, twice.  8 miles of exercise and I didn't even have to go to the gym!  No more excuses! 

The best part was not having to push my bike up a hill!  I made all the hills.  It really helped to wear my heart rate monitor.  Every time I wanted to give up I check my heart rate.  Only 150!  "Man you have much more to give than that" and away I would peddle. 

I made FR blueberry pancakes for lunch and turkey bacon.  Yumm.  My girls are slowly adjusting to whole grain healthy eating.  I really have made the leap.  I like whole grains.  I plan to eat this way the rest of my life.  So it's not a diet it really is a life change.

I have had to get rid of more clothes that don't fit.  They are way too big.  It's really a shame because the pants are really cute.  But I will have to go get new ones.  Such a problem.

Sunday, May 16, 2010

Autism 5K

I raced my first 5K.  My Mom and my daughter, Mia, did the race with me.  It was around Lake Calhoun in Minneapolis.  What a gorgeous day for a race.  Temperatures were low 70's.  I was torn between getting my best time and walking with my Mom.  My daughter ran the race with 30:42 time.  I walked the first 2+ miles with my mom but then asked if it was okay if I went ahead.  My heart rate was only 120 while I walked with her.  I wanted a work out.  So I ran ahead for a few tenths, then walked fast keeping my heart rate about 150.  Then ran the last bit to get ahead of the person in front of me.  My time was 49:49.  I wanted to be under 1 hour.  My next goal is to break 45:00.  Guess I better sign up for another 5K if I am going to do that! 

It was a very enjoyable experience all around.  My oldest daughter, Hannah, took my youngest, Erica, to a park on the route.  As we passed the park they, too, joined us. So the whole family (minus Al) did the 5k yesterday. 

After the 5k we went to the Mall of America. I had a vegetarian crepe for lunch.  It's my favorite MOA food.  I passed all the yucky foods, Toll House cookies, etc.  We walked the first level and the girls did many rides.

For dinner I had a Turkey burger, two onion rings, and a lime malt and Snuffy's malt shop near my mom's house.  I probably should have skipped the malt but it was so very good.  Erica drank a third of it! 

Today is my brother's birthday.  We're going to BBQ this afternoon.  Mom bought a pumpkin pie for desert, but I will pass on that. 

This morning, I made pancakes for the family.  I chose to eat a healthy cereal with almond milk.  I really like cereal with almond milk.  can't seem to get enough.  Plus, I tried Kashi's Autumn Wheat.  Now I don't have to eat Mini wheats which has high fructose corn syrup.

Saturday, May 8, 2010

happy Mother's Day!

I want to take this time to wish everyone a happy Mother's Day!  We mothers tend to take care of everyone else and having nothing left to spend on ourselves.  Please take this time to take care of yourself.  My one wish for tomorrow is to have the day to myself.  I know, most mothers want to spend the day with their children.  I get to do that every day.  So, for Mother's Day I always ask to have the day to myself.  I don't have any plans.  House is cleaned.  Exercise is done for the week. (I didn't get treading in, but will next week.)  Not sure what I will do, but I will enjoy the peace and quiet that is so rare in this household.

I did have a very successful trip to Duluth yesterday.  I tried on several dresses at Younkers.  I wanted something to show off my new waistline.  I wanted bright and cheery.  I wanted to shine.  The only thing I didn't want was black. 

I loved everyone's response as I came out of the dressing room with each dress.  Including other customers' responses.  I did end up with a black dress.  But it was the best one.  Al keeps asking me to put it on.  That's a very good indicator that I picked the right dress.  Today, I bought new shoes and a wrap.  I had the perfect necklace and earings.  I will have Al take pictures on Monday night.  I can't wait to show off my new bod. 

And Cat, I will use those pictures for my blog and facebook picture.  You weren't the only one to comment on how young I looked at Fitness Ridge compared to my pictures.  I have started getting carded again when I order a drink.  I am almost 40 for crying out loud!  Okay, so I love every second of it!

My family cooked crab legs and shrimp tonight.  We attempted Israeli couscous.  It didn't turn out like FR.  but I am not giving up.  We are all trying to eat much healthier.  With the FR cookbooks, I find getting in 24g of fiber is not a problem.  I used to struggle to get in 12g in the not so distant past.  At breakfast on Thursday, I had 13g of fiber without even trying. 

I am now only counting calories in and fiber grams (because I am curious).  I am back in the gym every day and loving it!  Today I did the mixx; step, turbo kick, and free weights in one class.  I have missed going to the Y.  As much as I loved April's Girl Gang challenge of walking/biking 100 miles, it kept me out of my very much loved Y.   I realize how much I need my friends at the Y.

I am anxious for Kathy to return home from Fitness Ridge.  I am jealous that she stayed for two weeks.  I wish that I had done that.  I also want to talk with her about her experience.  Was the second week easier or harder.  I know she pushed herself more this week.  And, I just plain miss her as well as all my friends that I made in Utah.

Enjoy the beautiful day and give your mom a great big hug!

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

What an awesome day :)

My daughter had testing in Hibbing this morning.  Instead of just sitting around, I decided to go shopping for a new dress.  I have a retirement dinner Tuesday night and I thought I would feel better in a new dress.  I tried on several, each one looking better than the last.  I even tried on a size smaller and it fit even better.  I stood looking at myself in the mirror with tears in my eyes.  I couldn't believe how fabulous I looked.  Cat, I didn't get it when you talked about this last week.  I get it now.  Boy do I get it.  And if I had had your number, I would have called you from the dressing room, lol.

Instead of buying all 5 dresses, I decided to take a trip to Duluth on Friday to go dress shopping.  I didn't want to settle.  I want to look spectacular when I reveal myself after my week at Fitness Ridge.

And I am more motivated than ever to complete and win the Get Healthy for Habitat weight loss challenge.  I have 6 weeks to go.  I know I can do this.  I just have to keep my eye on the prize.  That said, here's my plan for this afternoon.  I am going to the Y at 3 and doing Mountain on my own.  I bought a stop watch just for this!  And then I am going to Mercedes class.  Tomorrow, I am going to do treading.  Friday will be my day of rest.  Saturday the family is going for a bike ride.  Sunday, I will conquer when i get there.


Did my Mercedes class.  I take it back any nice thing I ever said about her!  Tonight was about endurance.  Using light weights we did 3 sets of 25 reps without stopping on every muscle group.  I did over 150 crunches!  Thank God, it was only a 45 min. class!

After Mercedes' class, I came home and had a Fitness Ridge Turkey club sanwich.  It was the best sandwich I have ever had.  I musta been hungry!  But really it was good.

Then I went back to the Y and did my own Mountain.  It was difficult to do on my own.  I had noone to cheer me one or to stop me from cheating.  I know that I will continue to do Mountain each week.  And I will improve and I will stop cheating, eventually!

All in all, I'd have to say today was one of the best days of my life.  My energy is explosive.  I am having fun exercising.  And I find I am so relaxed after pushing myself beyond my limits.

And guess what?  I'm not done yet!

Sunday, May 2, 2010

Leaving

Leaving this morning was probably one of the hardest things I have had to do in a long time.  And that's including all the mountains I climbed this week.  It is so hard to say goodbye to new friends and to leave others behind knowing what fun they will be having next week.

I want to thank all the trainers.  I know that I may not always have given a hundred percent but you gave so much more.  I didn't really have any specific goals for the week when I arrived.  But let me tell you that I couldn't have dreamed of doing the things I did.  Robyn, I want to thank you for Saturday's curcuit class.  I pushed myself beyond anything I have ever done before.  Having you workout right next to me was more motivation than I could have imagined.  Thank you all for being there for me and for everyone at the Ridge.

I want to thank my hiking buddies for pushing and supporting me all week.  I never imagined that hiking could be so much fun!  The laughs will last a lifetime.  Each and every one of you holds a special place in my heart.  Including Seth who pushed us all beyond our imaginations. 

Kathy, this was the best vacation of my life.  Thank you for including me in your plans.  Enjoy next week, a Rudeck free week

I do have to share some very exciting news.  I was not nervous for test out.  I think I was excited.  I knew I lost inches, because tshirts fell below my hips.  I lost 3.5 inches in my waist and .5 inches on my hips.  My weight loss was 8 pounds, though I weighed in at night and out in the morning.  But the measuring tape doesn't lie!  I am down to 188 pounds.  I look forward to rest of my journey.

Because my adventure doesn't end at the end of my stay at the Ridge, I will continue to blog about my journey.  Join me and celebrate with me as I continue to improve my health.

Saturday, May 1, 2010

My first 10K

What an exciting end to my week here in Utah.  At 6:30 this morning I participated in my first race ever.  I walked the course, well maybe even lollygagged at a few spots.  We visited with the water people.  Stopped and had our picture taken.  And even said hi to a dog or two along the way.  I did run through the finish line!  Not sure of my time, didn't really care to check.  But had fun walking with Kathy and John.

After the race, Kathy and I came back to our room and rested.  She slept, I read.  At 11:15 we had our last class of the week.  I choose curcuit instead of pool or begging to get into stretch.  At first, I was the only person in class.  It was Robyn, the trainer, and me.  She worked out next to me, which really pushed me today.  I got that elliptical up to 10 mph.  and ran all three of my treadmill stations getting up to 5.3 mph!  What a magnificent end to the week.  3 other people did eventually join us in class.  And one gentleman who followed me on the weight machines kept telling how strong I was.  he had to lowere the weights when it was his turn!  God, I love Fitness Ridge!

After class, Kathy, John and I went into St. George.  We drove for an hour looking for somewhere other than fastfood to eat.  We went to Chili's.  I had grilled salmon with steamed broccoli and a rice dish.  The rice dish was yucko, so I didn't eat it.  I only at 1/2 the salmon and all the broccoli.  According to the internet that meal was 700 calories; so I'll count 350, though I probably consumed less.  I did have a diet coke, and it was really good.  It was difficult turning down a burger or ribs.  But I do like Salmon, so I am glad I made the choice I did.

After lunch we went to Target.  That Target smelled so bad, I thought I was going to puke.  Horrible, horrible smelling Target.  Didn't spend much,  I don't think I have ever spent so little in a Target, :)

This afternoon we went to the Fitness Festiva at Unity park.  No sooner had we arrived and someone was trying to shove a hotdog down our face.  Both Kathy and I declined, politely.  We walked around the booths and purchased a couple of items.  It was fun visiting with the trainers and BL contestants at the booth.  Then we cheered them on as the linedanced.  Wish I had brought my camera for that one!

Graduation was tonight!  First they showed a DVD of the week and then pictures that they had taken.  I am so glad that I have copies.  I will treasure these forever.  After the video presentation, we all were given an opportunity to speak.  It was so wonderful to hear about everyone's positive experiences and Fitness Ridge.  But the most prevelent was the love of van 2!  My peeps, I love you guys.  I couldn't have gotten through the week without them.  And I got my tshirt!  I made it to every class and every lecture so I got my tshirt.  I will wear it proudly!

I just want you to know that I am not done yet!  my blog will continue as my adventure will always be beginning.  Know that as I struggle I will look to my friends for support.  Tomorrow I go home, but I will never leave Fitness Ridge!

Almost forgot:
Calories consumed 1200
calories burned 3028
calorie deficit 1800  161,900 calories to go!  thats 13,100 calories removed from my body this week alone!

Friday, April 30, 2010

Friday!

Today was a totally awesome day.  And because it was totally awesome I am very tired right now.  I'll do my best to describe my day.

We hiked Volcanoe today which started at an elevation of about 4400 ft to a hieght of 7100 ft.  It was a grueling hike again today, but I loved every moment.  Although there were times I thought I might get lost and be left behind.  I managed to get to the top.  The hike down was again much easier.

After lunch I did Total toning again.  It was easier today and I even had a 15 lb bar instead of a 12 lb bar. Then I had curcuit, which again was easier.  I even finishe with a 2 1/2 minute run! Yippee, me.  The Cardio Disco Jam.  We danced for 45 minutes.  Very fun way to end the week. 

Today's lecture at lunch was about calorie budget again and tonight was a question and answer session.  Nothing too exciting.

Tomorrow is the Ironmna 10K and one last class.  Then we are officially done.

The view out my room is particularly gorgeous tonight. The sun is shining on the red rocks, and clouds are covering Pine Valley Mtn.  It seems unreal that my week is about to end.  I look forward to returning someday with my husband.

Calories burned: 3165, put on after breakfast
calories consumed: 1200
calorie deficit: 2000    163,700 to go! 

Thursday, April 29, 2010

The Best Day Ever!

This picture was taken in Fern Gully.  In the picture from left to right, Jon (Miami police officer), Kathy (my friend who talked me into coming here),  Seth (Biggest Loser), Jim (NY police officer and Biggest Loser and a gentleman), Jeff (pharmacutical attorney and suffers from guilt), Deanna (the quiet one and former marine), Bud (Doc), Shirley (most motivational group member), me, Mary (the cool one).

Today we hiked Saddle, which includes a steep hike up a mountain, a steep hike back down the other side and a mile and a half through sandy desert.  The hike up reminded me of Camelback in AZ.  The hike down was like playing on a playground, we climbed through holes and went down imaginary water slides.  We had to watch our language on the playground though.  The "oh fuck" I muttered at the top of the climb was not appropriate playground language.  Of course, I didn't intend anyone to hear me when I said that, but everyone laughed and agreed it was appropriate.

After the hike we had open gym.  I walked on the treadmill and even ran for a minute or two, though I didn't want to because the hike was so grueling.  It was nice to be able to do what I wanted during open gym.  Sometimes I get tired being told what to do all the time.

After lunch I had pool.  Only 6 people bothered to show up for class because it was so cold and windy.  But we had a great class and we spent 10 minutes stretching in the hot tub after.  Ball works was next and I do not like that class.  We had to hold the exercise ball in our arms for about 20 minutes while lifting it up and down.  Then we sat, well hovered really, over the ball.  When we finally got to sit on the ball, we used weights to exercise.  Pain, then more pain and then even more pain.  Treading was last.  And I loved every second of treading.  you bike (walk, elliptical, etc.) for 5 minutes really really really fast, then recover for 5 minutes, then you do it again for 4 minutes only faster, repeat, 3, 2, 1, then 30 sec rest 10 sec 30 sec rest 10 seconds and finish with a 30 second sprint.  I loved it.  I plan to do treading once a week at home.

After dinner the lecture was meant for guests staying over more than one week, but I went anyway since I paid to be here.  It was about taking care of ourselves first.  We can't take care of anyone else unless we take care of ourselves.  It was a very good class.  Sharon, the trainer, told us we needed to continue to do cardio 5x week for 1 hour not including warm up and cool down.  Really puts into perspective all the classes I used to take.  I need much more cardio in my exercise diet.  She also told us to write a goal everyday and use a sticky paper to put it up on the mirror and at the end of the day to write down what you actually accomplished.  That was a WOW moment for me.  I really liked that idea.

Calories burned:  3728 not worn in pool.
calories consumed: 1200
calorie deficit: 2500   165,700 to go!  That's almost 10,000 fat calories burned from my body this week already!  Gotta love that.

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

I hate wind!

It is so very windy today.  Desert sand in the eyes with contacts, not so much fun.  Pool class with wind can be very chilly.  Thank goodness the hot tub is just feet away.  After class it was a mad dash to the hot tub.  Walking to my room is a challenge because the wind is tunneled through the building.  Though, it makes me feel skinny because I feel like I am going to be blown away.

I have had an awesome time here.  The people are great.  I feel like I have been blessed with meeting so many people.  The lectures today were really informative.  We talked about barriers to a healthy lifestyle this afternoon.  Each barrier is a brick wall and you have to ask yourself, how badly do you want it.  Tonight we talked about intuitive eating and other types or eating (emotional, chaotic, etc).  Emily, the dietitian is a big advocate of the 90/10 rule.  Make healthy food choices 90% of the time and eat what ever you want 10% of the time.  I can live with that one!

Today we hiked the stop sign hike.  I now know why everyone complains about stop sign.  It is a paved hike, but you climb 1,000 feet in 4 miles.  It gets steeper the closer to the top you get.  My feet felt like I was lifting a piece of lead with each step.  I wanted to quit, but knew I could finish and so I did it!  It took my an hour and 10 minutes, but I did it.  After arriving at the stop sign, I had 50 minutes of walking that I still needed to do.  I could walk back down the hill, boring.  Or I could walk the flat trail that I had not yet traversed.  So I took the easy route and went flat.  It was a boring walk.  Going back down the hill would have been prettier, but I was alone on the trail with my headphones so I danced my way down the trail.

After hiking, we could do pool or curcuit in the gym.  I choose pool because I thought it would let my legs relax.  Marjorie, the trainer, had other ideas.  I don't know why I keep thinking pool is easy.  Maybe because it looks easy until you actually do it.

After lunch I had kickboxing which I loved.  We used the kickboxing bags which really helps you work your punches and kicks.  It is a great stress reliever.  I wish the Y had bags.  We then had the dreaded Mountain class.  In Mountain you ride, bike or walk on a machine and every 3 minutes you increase your intensity for 12 increases.  Everyday, there is a class that makes me want to cry and today it was Mountain.  But I did it.  And I am glad I don't have to do it again. Those 3 minutes are really long!

And then I had pool again.  It was easier this afternoon, but that was because I was so out of energy that I had nothing left to give so I didn't put in much effort.

The meals here have been amazing.  And, until today I have not felt hungry.  I was hungry while hiking because I had forgotten to take a break and eat my banana.  It was kinda funny.  I had to stop and think when the last time I had actually been hungry was.  And all on only 1200 calories.  Who knew 1200 calories could fill you up.

Todays totals:
Calories burned  2672, but I quit wearing my monitor at 4:30 pool class and didn't start it until actually hiking.
Calories consumed: 1200
Calorie deficit: 1400   168, 200 calories to go! 

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Camelback number two, check!

When groups for hikes were announced today, I found out I got to climb Camelback.  It is the one hike I really wanted to do.  I wanted to be able to say I had climbed two Camelbacks.  This hike was an actual hike not a vertical climb compared to AZ's Camelback.  But this hike was scarier.  I froze up at one point on the decent, I just couldn't figure out where to go.  I stood there and shook with fear.  Ky, the guide told me to go down on my butt.  Fear gone and away i went.  This hike really was about conquering fears and having faith in yourself and knowledge that the guides wouldn't take you someplace unsafe.  That said...

The hike began with crossing a raging river.   Then we hiked through desert sand and up sandstone to the top of Camelback mountain. 







Along the way we some interesting vegetation, including the tequila tree (well that's not its name but what it is used for). 




 At the top we stood around the "toilet bowl" and made our own petroglyphs







We were given the opportunity to climb down into the "toilet bowl."  I was the only one to do it. 



After the toilet bowl we climbed one of the camelback rocks.  I did not want to to it.  But the guides talked me into it. 

 Once at the top we had to climb down doing the butt and slide as we called it.  after that my camera batteries were dead, so no more pictures.






When we got back, we had a stretch class which was needed after that hike.  Lunch was tomato soup (best I ever had) and a turkey sandwich.

My afternoon classes were Total Toning, which was a Mercedes class on steroids.  Pool: I just love pool class.  Dont' let the name fool you, it is very hard.  And the Cardio Intervals.  I was on a bike where you pedal for 5 minutes to warm up then increase your intensity or speed every 30 seconds for 8 times.  At the highest you go for 1 minute then come down for 8 30 second intervals.  one minute of rest the pedal like hell for 2 minutes, two minutes of rest, then pedal like hell for 1 minute and then repeat.

Dinner was enchilada and chocolate coconut sorbet.  I love sorbet.  Even with chocolate.

Calories was approximately 1200
Calories burned was 3600 (not including pool)
gives me a 2400 calorie deficit, putting my total to loose at 169,600 to reach my goal.

Ta ta for now.  I am heading to the hot tub.




Monday, April 26, 2010

Monday at Biggest Loser Resort

I walked 5.7 miles today on Bull Run trail.  It was a much easier trail than what Kathy and I did yesterday on our own, but we still worked very hard.  Megan was our guide.  And both Kathy and I were in the front group along with Jim and then later Bud joined us.  At first, Kathy and I were not happy with Bud when he joined us.  He wanted to go faster.  I felt that we had been going faster from the first step out of the van and who was he to take control of our speed.  But in the end we enjoyed being pushed and managed to complete the trail 12 minutes ahead of schedule.  Well done!  I am happy that the four of us have ended up in the same hiking group for the remainder of the week.

After hiking Kathy and I both chose to attend pool instead of mountain class.  I thought I was taking the easy class.  Erin was tough and I have greater respect for those who do the pool class at the ymca.  Much greater respect.

We then had lunch, tilapia tacos.  After lunch there was a lecture for the newbies.  The lecture was talking about weight loss in comparision to financial planning.  Long story short, I am carrying 175,000 extra calories on my body.  Ouch!  It will take some time of saving calories (by not eating as much as I burn) to eliminate that weight.  Interesting way to look at my weight loss.

After lunch, my "green" group had pool class.  Yep two today.  Loved it.  Then I had curcuit training and step and pump.  My heart rate monitor quit during pool class and i couldn't figure out how to get it started again until after curcuit.  Bummer!

Dinner was chicken, wasabi potatoes, aparagus and pineapple sorbet.  Loved every bite.

I burned 4000 calories + what didn't register on my monitor.
I consumed roughly 1200 calories (I had some cucumber slices and pepper slices in addition)
so I removed approximately 3000 calories from my body today!

My calorie deficit is now 172,000 calories.  Just an interesting way to look at what I need to do.

Sunday, April 25, 2010

My Adventure begins now

Kathy and I decided to leave early to go to Zion National Park.  But first we had to detour play $10.00 of our friends money in the slots.  Kathy puts $10.00 in the machine and after a couple of rounds wins $205.00 for Peg.  I put in $10.00 and won $31.00 playing the penny slots, but then lost it again.  Cheap entertainment!

Zion was packed today.  I guess it's National Park week, so all National Parks were free to visit, that was good.  After lapping the parking lot, I finally found a prime spot to park :).  We picked a trail, Watchman Trail.  It was posted as a moderate hike with some inclines and 2.7 miles round trip.  Sounds good.  We head off down the trail.  Stop a gentleman to ask him to take our picture.  He asks if we're going to the top and points to a mountain "right over there."  I said no, I'd gotten suckered into climbing a mounting in Scottsdale and I didn't want a repeat of Camelback Mtn. 

We head down the trail which is fairly flat with some inclines in the beginning.  looks good.  Then we go up, and up and up and up.  At one point we thought we had to be at the end of the trail until an older couple comes around the corner.  They told us were were 20 minutes from the top and after one more switchback the trail leveled out.  So, once again I was tricked into climbing a mountain.  And Kathy wanted to skip Zion and shop in town, go figure!

We checked in, got weighed in and measured.  I like my scale and measuring tape at home better, but it was the end of the day and I had just drank a ton of water.  Kathy didn't think we need our Camelbacks at Zion, so we were without supplies while hiking.  We bought water bottles at the gift shop and proceeded to drink water the entire way to BLR, and hour drive.

Met briefly with the lifecoach with 3 other people.  For those Biggest Loser fans, one of them was Jim from a couple of seasons ago.  He won with his twin brother.  There are 3 BL formere contestants here this week.  Ivins is hosting the Ironman Triathalon on Saturday and BLR is participating in a Fitness Festival.  So the three former contestants are here to help with that.  But I do have the opportunity to participate in the 10k or 5k on Saturday as part of Ironman.  I'll definately do one, just not sure if I am up for a 10k, yet.

Dinner was a waldorf salad, yum.  And, chocolate pie made from tofu, yuck.  I don't like chocolate except in candy form to begin with.  After dinner we introduced ourselves to the group.  You know me, too shy to talk.  Then we had orientation. 

Now I am unpacked, showered and ready for bed.  Day one was awesome.  Can't wait for tomorrow. 

I do miss my girls and Al.  I hope they are having a good time.  Love you guys.

Saturday, April 24, 2010

My Adventure begins with a great big thud!

My flight from Minneapolis was delayed.  They never told us why or even informed us that it would be delayed.  Got to Denver to find that my flight was delayed there because of a loose bolt on a seat.  They worked on that bolt for 45 minutes!  Finally, we take off.  I meet Kathy at baggage claim.  We are upgraded at Hertz to a Prius.  But neither of us can figure out how to drive the damn thing!  Got to the hotel and couldn't figure out how to turn it off.  Checked in and found out there was only one bed for us to share.  Decided to go to dinner, Kathy was starving.  Ate at Mephis BBQ.  Worst BBQ in the history of the world.  Couldn't eat it. Went to McDonld's afterwards for ice cream.  Met  wonderful gentleman who wanted to share our ice cream.  When we didn't, he left and took an already smoked cigarette butt out of the ashtray.  When we left, I was reaching to open the door at the same moment another gentleman was reaching from outside to open the door, I nearly screamed. 

Kathy and I do tend to laugh a lot whenever we are together.  But I can't remember a time when we have laughed as much as we have tonight.  It's a good thing she is such a good sport. (Tho the Lord only knows what she is saying about my on her blog right now!)  We've decided to get up at 5 to get the hell outa Dodge, lol!

Looking forward to getting to the Ridge.  It can't be any worse than what we've already exerienced.  It is the light at the end of this tunnel.

But seriously we do intend to get up and drive to Zion National Park to hike before we give ourselves over to the Ridge.  And I can't wait to meet my friends who are there or arriving there tomorrow.  Until then...

Friday, April 23, 2010

The end of the beginning

I am packing for my Adventure today.  Work out clothes...check, camera...check, underwear...oops not on the list, time to revise my list.  Ughh... This is why I procrastinate.  I hate having to deal with all this stuff. But enough of that.

I drive 4 hours to my mom's house tonight and then fly from Minneapolis to Vegas tomorrow afternoon.  from there, Kathy and I are driving to Zion park on Sunday morning to hike before we check into Fitness Ridge.  (I gotta get my miles in for the month.  I still need 18.6 miles to walk/bike for the month.)

I am full of anxiety.  Am I getting nervous? About what?  I don't know.  All i know is my heart is pounding and I can't stop moving.  Can't wait to get to Utah and meet my friends.  My Girl Gang.  I think i really must be nervous because I haven't blogged since the beginning of the month or read any other blogs for that matter. 

I can do it!  I CAN do it!  I can DO it!  I AM DOING IT!

Thursday, April 8, 2010

I'm off to Kansas City

My two older girls compete in the Region IV gymnastics Championships on Sunday in Overland Park, KS.  They are both very talented gymnasts and will do very well this weekend.  But that means 10 hours of driving each way.  I have purchased some protein bars to help curb the munchies.  Driving usually means munching on chips and candy bars and lots of pop.  That will not happen this weekend.  I continue to make healthy choices each day and traveling does not change that.

I completed w2d1 of C 2 5K.  I loved running for 90 second intervals.  It seemed so much easier than the 60 seconds last week.  I hope that continues to be the case as I progress each week.  Less shin pain today but more knee pain.  But then I have had knee pain all my life.  I figure once I lose all the weight I want and keep it off for a year then I will finally consider surgery.  For now, the pain is minor and I can live with it. 

My Girl Gang April challenge is going quite well.  100 miles walking/biking is going to be a breeze and I may even complete it before heading to Fitness Ridge.  But if not, I will definately finish it there! 

Yesterday was a Carb overload day.  I was craving all the unhealthy foods and I gave into them.  I even had a DQ Blizzard.  But I feel good.  I didn't allow myself to feel guilty and enjoyed what I was eating.  My boby obviously wanted carbs.  Could I have choosen better carbs?  Sure but I'm not going to worry about one day of poor choices.  I have a lifetime ahead of healthy choices ahead of me.  Yea, Me!

Sunday, April 4, 2010

I'm so excited!

I'm so excited because there's only 20 days till Fitness Ridge.  I can't wait!  Every time I think about my up coming trip, my heart starts to pound faster and I get fidgety.  I just get so excited.  It is going to be such a wonderful experience.  I get to hike everyday.  Which I have done this week (except today).  I get to try a variety of classes.  And I get instructors who will push me to do more (let's face it, on my own I give up much faster!). 

I'm excited because I have walked 19 miles this week and biked 17.  Wow.  I feel ready to take on the world.

I'm so excited because I have started a running program that is so totally awesome.  I can't believe that I am running.  Okay so only for 60 seconds at a time, but still I'm doing it.

I'm excited because I didn't overeat this weekend.  I wasn't a calorie counter, but ate healthy choices in a healthy quanity.  Maybe a little too much champagne, but come on it was Easter.  And I haven't totally devoured my daughters' Easter basket candy. 

Friday, April 2, 2010

Easter is upon us.  But the good new is that I am in control of the menu.  I have choosen Turkey this year with yams, salad, squash and a blueberry jello desert.  But just because it is there in front of me, or even on my plate, doesn't mean I have to consume every last bite.  I will choose to let my food go to waste rather than my waist! 

Today, I biked for 4 miles.  Really, I did.  Once I got out of the neighborhood (I live at the bottom of several hills) it was very easy.  I'd forgotten how much I like riding bike.  I still hate the hills in my neighborhood.  And they are a tremendous mental hurdle to get over.  But my Mom was riding bike with me and i figured if she could do it at 63, I could do it at 39.  So I did, we did.   I love that I am doing things I wouldn't do a year ago.  I love that I want to do those things.

Things are really going good right now.  I am choosing to ignore those Negative Nellies in my life who want to rain on my parade or stop the party.  Nope, I won't listen to them.  It is spring and I have a spring in my step.  Besides, I love what I am doing.  And I love what I am attempting.

By the way, I got on the scale this morning.  190.4, yipee.  Only 4/10th of  pound to meet my second Fitness Ridge goal.  When I first started, I wanted to be under 200 by the time I went.  Then when I met that goal in January, I set a new goal of being under 190.  February didn't get my anywhere.  And March started much the same.  But the last week and half the pounds have been falling off again! 

But even more than that.  When I look in the mirror, I see a fit woman. I love what I am seeing.  about 8 years ago I was down to 163 pounds.  But when I looked in the mirror I still saw how much fat I had to lose.  Now I just like looking at how healthy I look.  I'm not so concerned about the scale (though I still stand on it every morning).  I love taking my measurments each week.  It's so fun to see how many inches I have lost.

So my adventure which started as a means to lose weight has really changed.  I still want to weigh 145 pounds, but what large woman wouldn't.  I am more focused on enjoying the process and the end result will be a healthier more active me. 

Go Me!

Thursday, April 1, 2010

Who am I?

We ask ourselves this question many times in our lives.  Who am I?, What do I want with my life?, etc.  But, today I ask myself: Who am I? because I am going to start a running program.  Thanks to a fellow blogger, Annalise, I am going to start the program called Couch to 5k.  Ugh, I hate running.  Why am I doing this?  Because, while I hate running, my body is asking me to do it.  And I have to learn to listen to my body.  So today, I am putting on my running shoes and actually going to use them to run.  I'll be back afterwards to let you know how I do!


I DID IT!  The program is a great one.  I downloaded a podcast that took me through my first attempt at running since, well I can't remember the last time I ran.  The podcast warms you up for 5 minutes, lets you know when to run for 60 seconds, walk for 90 seconds, repeat for 8 times, then cool down for 5 minutes.  You do this 3 times in week one.  By the fourth repetition I was ready to give up.  My shins were killing me, I could hardly breathe, and I didn't know why I was doing this in the first place.  But then the guy would remind me it was for only 60 seconds and I could do it.  And you know what...I did do it!  By the last 60 second interval, I found it much easier.  Of course that interval was down hill.  And I swear all the others were uphill.  Well number 4 was flat, but it wasn't that easy.  I am actually looking forward to do this again on Saturday morning.  Which bring me back to...

Who am I?  I keep doing things that I never thought I would do.  But more importantly, I keep wanting to do things I've never wanted to do before.  So, am I changing?  Am I becoming a different person?  Or am I finally becoming the "real" me?  Maybe that not so active woman wasn't really me.  And, maybe, just maybe that's why I wasn't so very happy.  I know I am happier when I exercise.  And not just because it burns calories and makes me skinny.  I am just plain happy when I exercise.  I am looking forward to exploring new forms of exercise in this adventure of mine.

I am not done yet...

Wednesday, March 31, 2010

It Feels Great!

Last night was another weightloss challenge class.  The wellness class was hosted by my chiropractor, Dr. Davis.  I have been unable to attend his wellness classes in the past, always too busy.  Because of the weightloss challenge I decided to make it a priority.  I walked to the class, 3 miles.  Then ordered a Greek Salad to eat during the class.  As I was ordering, Dr. Davis commented on seeing me walking to the class.  But more importantly than that, he noticed the weight I'd already loss since the beginning of the challenge.  It feels so good to be back on a downward slope.

I know I would have moved beyond my 198 at some point, but it seemed to have been hanging on for so long that I almost wanted to give up.  But Fitness Ridge kept me going and the weightloss challenge has now motivated me even more.  And the plateau no longer exists.  And I know we all hit plateaus and that we just have to keep going and that eventually you will lose again. 

I was looking at my data since I began this adventure 15 weeks ago.  here's what I will never see again:

17.6 pounds
4.25 inches on my chest
5 inches on my waist
4 inches on my waist
2.25 inches on my legs


so 17.6 pounds and 15.5 inches gone forever!  Not bad for 15 weeks of work.  And for those fights the plateau blues.  Measure with a measuring tape and not a scale.  Even when the scale refused to budge, the measuring tape got smaller and smaller.  So that's a pound and an inch a week lost.  I have to feel good about that.

My plan today is to walk while my girls are at piano. I have orentation at Anytime Fitness tonight and will do strength training then.

Tomorrow starts the Girl Gang April challenge.  Then challenge is to walk 100 miles in April.  I don't think it will be a problem.  3-4 miles each day should cover it.

Oh, and after class last night I walked another mile to Target to get my Easter shopping done.  Al picked me up at Target, it was too dark to walk home at that point.