12/30

Today was not a run day - Matt was gone so I decided I would do my wii fit yoga and strength work out, then I did some cardio. Then I decided to so a workout on my EA active game. That game kicks your butt. I like it.  I worked out for about 2 hours :-D

Tomorrow is the last day of 2009 - I hope to get a run in before we go off to a party, but there is a chance I will have to push it until 2010. We will see what time I get off work.

Have a great and safe New Years Eve!

2010 brings lots of firsts - MILES and MILES of running, a few races and the BIG KAHUNA!! I also hope it brings continued health and weight loss!!

12/29

Today run was alright - the 3.25 was pretty hard for me. I need to get back to going to the gym right after work I am less tired and those runs seem to be better.

Wii fit yoga tomorrow :-D

Thursday I need to run as soon as I get home so I can go get my laterade to the decade/Amanda Wass is 25 party on! :-D

I also need to find something to wear. Poop.

Night - failing on the bed thing - well. half. I got in bed at 10:30 and read until 11:15 - then came out here to talk to Matt about something and here I am. HA!

12/28

I ran today - and I didn't cry! Success!!

I have to say that even with all the cookies I ate over Christmas I managed to lose 1.5 lbs. Only because I was running that is for sure. It would have been interesting to see how much I would have lost if I ran all week before and all week after exactly to plan, or even if I didn't eat so many darn cookies.

Tonight I ran yesterday's run. 3.25 miles and then another .75 miles. I ran the 3.25 at normal pace, but the last .75 I just went for it, and ran it at a 9:41 min mile pace. Not bad. I was really tired for this run, I stayed up way too late last night, I actually fell asleep on the floor after my run. Sad. Tomorrow I am running again. I am also planning to get more sleep (yea right I know I say it all the time)

I am starting a new routine. See the twins have trouble napping and we have a whole routine we go through before they get in their beds to nap so that they learn that this is nap time and it isn't play time. So I have decided I will be in bed by 10:30 every night. I will read until 11 if I don't feel tired. But lights out at 11. I am also going to try and break my habit of staying up super late and sleeping in super late on weekends. But one thing at a time. Off to bed!

Feel better Aubrey! I know you are missing running!  You will be able to soon enough, be patient.

Merry Christmas!!!

I know I am a few days late wishing that to everyone but Christmas day was a busy day. Lucky for me it was also a rest day.

Saturday I ran - but I didn't get the full 4 miles in, after about 2.5 I started to feel like I was going to puke, and by mile 3 I was pretty sure I was going to. I stopped and promised to wait longer after lunch before running.

Today I didn't run - I am in a funk. Last night we found out that good friends of ours are getting married on Oct 2, the day of my race. When they told us they were getting married they said it would be a Nov or Dec wedding so I didn't think twice about signing up. I sat through dinner, a movie, and 2 hours of Mario on wii on the edge of busting out crying. I called my mom and had a long cry about this. I have decided I am going to run the race. It is something that I really want to do, I am invested mentally, physically and monetarily and I just can't give it up. My mom told me that sometimes we have to follow our dreams or we may never get another chance. That is sort of how I feel about this. My biggest problem is that I really want Matt to be at the finish line when I am done. This is not something that is going to be easy for me, 13 miles is a very long distance and a great accomplishment for me. My mom said she would be there, and I would love her to be there, but I really feel like I would be super sad without him here. My problem is that I feel very selfish wanting that. It is a race, and I would be asking him to miss the wedding of one of his high school friends just to WATCH me run. I really need to wrap my head around the fact that even if he isn't there I still am able to do this and it will still mean the same to me because I trained to hard and I ran the race and I finished the race. He will still be proud of me, even if he isn't there to see it. I will be sad that I will miss their wedding, and miss getting to dance and party with them, but I need this for me. I have been mopey and sad about this all day. I just couldn't go run today because I was bumming. Lame I know.

Tonight I did do 30 mins of yoga, and 30 mins of strength and 20ish mins of cardio on the Wii Fit. Super fun. I really like the yoga, even though it is really hard. I got Wii Fit and Wii Fit Plus, plus 4 other workout games for Christmas. I won't be using my 30 day shred for a while, and that's good cuz I was sick of it!!! I am going to do the wii fit plus for a few weeks then try a different game. I will maybe post some reviews of them if people are interested to see what I think. So far I like wii fit plus.

However I will run tomorrow! Tomorrow I will not be upset about this. I am going to run my race and fulfill a dream of mine!

Matt and I have time to figure out what to do about this, he said he would come to my race, but I feel like a jerk for doing that. So who knows. Why does this always happen?!

12/21

I ran today - 4 miles total. It blows my mind. I remember only a few weeks ago running 1.5 and 2 miles was a struggle. :-D

Finished all my baking and getting the cookies and treats out of the house. I am pretty good about not eating much of them. But those peanut butter kisses cookies really get me sometimes!!!

Running again tomorrow and then I can stop feeling guilty for skipping Saturday!

12/20 - Week 10

Well Saturday it snowed, and snowed and then snowed some more! We got 19+ inches! Shew. I spent the day baking and it was late and I was tired, and so I didn't run :(

But I ran today! I added my normal .25 and also upped my pace! I ran 3 miles and walked my 5 mins and then ran another mile.

I am working a short day tomorrow - the whole area has a snow day - but not me. Just a delay. Sigh. Hopefully I will get home and run and then finish the last little bit of baking I have left to do ( yes I am baking a lot - gifts mostly and then taking the rest to family on Christmas)

I will run Monday to make up for sucking Saturday (but at my 4 mile a day amt) run Tues and then run Thurs am before going to Frederick for Christmas! Thank goodness Christmas falls on a rest day because Christmas day is SO BUSY!

Starting next week I start working towards putting my 4 miles together. Next Sunday I will run 3.25 walk 5 mins and then only run .75.

I am really excited that I have been able to stick with this for so long.  9 weeks down!

12/18

I didn't run yesterday - I made cookies and wrapped presents. So Friday night after we retreated to the apartment to hide from the snow I went down and ran my 3.75. I ran all of it and it was a great run.

Tomorrow I plan to run it at a faster pace. 

Tonight I didn't drink at happy hour, but I was so thirsty when we left. I really wanted a soda, so I had one. It was great! :-D

We are currently getting slammed with snow - I am planning to spend tomorrow baking cookies. :-D I won't eat too much! Promise!

Ways to stay motivated

I found a list of the top 10 questions asked by new runners , one of them had to do with staying motivated.

You can find the whole question list here

I do some of the things on the list

Question: I’m afraid I won’t be able to stick with the plan – how do I stay motivated?
Answer:

1. Sign up for a race. Do it now! Having a race goal (and race fees!) on the line will be a powerful source of motivation. I guarantee it. Done! :-D
   
2. Run with a partner. And promise to get each other through the rough patches. Neither of you will want to let the other down. I don't run with a partner but Aubrey and I are doing a good job making sure the other one is running.
   
3. Focus strongly on getting through the first three weeks. It takes roughly three weeks to establish a habit. If you can get past the first three weeks, your mind and body will find it much easier after that.This is very true - now running is less of a chore and more something that I want to get done - I get pretty bummed when I can't get a run in.
   
4. Don’t overdo it. Running too fast, too far or too often in the beginning can burn you out, make you sore or get you injured and none of those things are very motivating.
5. If you are taking up running to lose pounds, try not to focus solely on weight loss. This is because especially in the beginning of your running career you will likely gain some weight due to muscle growth – a very good thing because muscles burn fat. To get your attention away from the scale, take tape measurements and photos of your body every few weeks. You’ll be happy to see the inches dropping even if the pounds don’t initially follow suit.  I only weigh myself 1 time a week - but I try to always make it at the same time everyday - typically first thing. I also take  pictures every couple weeks. It feels awkward but I do it.
   
6. Journal your experiences in a running blog or on a forum and connect with other runners for support. You’ll be amazed at just how much support you’ll get!
7. Remind yourself often that at the end of the program you’ll be fitter, thinner and will be able to run for non-stop for an hour!

12/13-12/15

So remember that hurdle I was talking about? I ran right at it, and didn't jump. Ok - so by the time I went to bed Saturday I knew there was no heading this cold off. When I got up on Sunday I felt horrible. I went back to sleep, then got up and did a couple household things and felt like I was going to pass out. I had to take another nap, for 2 hours. Then I got up and laid around took a hot shower and Nyquil and went to bed smelling of Vicks. Monday was a really rough day, the girls, me and their dad were all sick. We went on a little walk and I got so exhausted. There was no way I was going to be able to run Monday night.

Tuesday I was feeling much better, a little stuffy in my head, but not much more. So I went to run. I decided that I would still up the mileage but slow my pace a little. I ran my 2.75 pretty easily, walked my 5, ran .5 of my last mile and then had a coughing fit and had to stop. Pretty good for being a sicky.

I feel better today and I hope that Thursday's goes well so I can get back on plan. I went 9 weeks before I missed a day running that I haven't made up. Not bad.

How to Breathe

Many people don't realize how they are breathing when working out - I often don't pay attention. Honestly when I am doing a workout video I do because they tell me when I should be breathing, but when I am running sometimes I notice that I am huffing and focus on my breathing to chill out a little. I found this article and thought it could be useful to share.

There are 7 tips to good breathing - I think I am going to try harder to work on proper breathing.

Article from Completerunning.com

7 Key Breathing Tips

1. Try slowing down before attempting to change your breathing.
2. Focus on longer, deeper breaths.
3. Breath more from your diaphragm (belly) than your chest (chest breathing is more shallow).
4. Focus on exhaling more fully. This will remove more CO₂ (Carbon Dioxide) and allow for deeper inhalations of O₂ (Oxygen).
5. Allow air to enter through both the nose and mouth. This will allow for maximum O₂ intake.
6. Aim to take three footsteps for every inhale, and two footsteps for every exhale (3:2 ratio). A good descriptions of this can be found on Military.com:
   

   Many experts will say that to fully oxygenate the muscles and clear the body of carbon dioxide you should breathe a 3:2 inhale-to-exhale ratio; full inhales and full exhales. This means you INHALE on the LEFT, RIGHT, LEFT foot strikes and EXHALE fully on the RIGHT, LEFT foot strikes. This pattern is not that hard to turn into a habit, but it may require you to slow your pace down for a few runs to master the technique. You will notice a lower heart rate as you are able to get more oxygen in and more importantly push all the carbon dioxide out of your body. You may notice that you naturally drop to a 2:1 ratio when you are really pushing it to the finish. That is OK. But realize it is difficult to maintain a pace that requires you to breathe at a 2:1 ratio.
   

   For those wanting more explanation about step to breath ratios, another article – based on the Daniel’s Running Formula – can be found at this link on proper breathing while running
   
7. One last thing – try not to over-think your breathing! It’s best to try to slow down, relax, and let yourself fall into your body’s natural rhythm.

I am not exactly sure about number 5 - I can't breathe in from both at the same time.

Hopefully this article helps you - even if it is just to refresh your memory.

12/12

I got a card in the mail today :-D The back of the envelope showed me beating Aubrey. I loved it - but that will never happen. That girl runs further and faster than me on any given day and makes it look so easy. ( ok maybe not look easy - because I haven't seen her run, but she makes it sound easy) Nice to get a little pat on the back and kick in the butt at the same time.

I got up early today and went to Tysons Corner to see Carol. I tried to talk her into starting to run, she wants to but just doesn't have time. I get that. If I had any other commitments I think my commitment level to this training would be a lot less. She also asked what made me start doing this, and it is funny because I don't really know. I have always wanted to run a half marathon, and I have always enjoyed running, but it was never something that came super easy for me. But I looked in the mirror, and even worse, in pictures tagged of me on facebook and I didn't recognize the person there. How did my weight and overall fitness get so out of hand? I couldn't take it anymore. Something had to give. So why not work on something I have wanted to do for a long time. She makes a very good point, the desire to run has to come from inside. It doesn't matter who wants you to run with them, if you don't want to do it, you won't stick with it. It is hard at first, and even when it gets easier it is still hard somedays. I am glad something has clicked because I am enjoying it more than ever.

Today I ran my 3.5 miles. I ran at faster paces from before. My first 2.5 miles was at 11:32 and my last mile was at 10:45. My goal is to be at a 10 min mile when I get to 4 miles at one time.

My first big hurdle is on the horizon - this am I was feeling a little stuffy, while I was running this afternoon I could feel the snot and sinus gunk building up, by the time I was babysitting my throat was killing me, and now 7 hours later I feel horrible. How is this going to effect my running? As long as it stays in my head I am going to still run, just take tissues with me. If it moved to my chest I may have to take a day or 2 off - maybe some light walking. I am going to bed and hope this goes away. :-D

Happy Hanukkah!!

Today is Friday - my rest day. I did that. I took a nap then did holiday traditions with Matt. We are still creating them and it is so fun! We made latkes - which were so good, but good thing I have to run Sat and Sun. Shew - not exactly healthy, but SO GOOD

Anyway - I don't have anything to tell you about my working out, but I wanted to share a little secret. I love ice cream but in trying to lose weight ice cream isn't really part of the diet. This wouldn't be horrible except Matt likes to have ice cream in the evenings sometimes. This makes me want some too. When we went grocery shopping I was looking at weight watchers popsicle and all the other healthier for you ice cream snacks. They looked good, but their price tags weren't so good. $5-7 for like 6 popsicles. Not paying that. Then I saw these - they were 10 for 10. I ate a chocolate one the other night - it was big enough that I got 2 servings out of them. So I basically got ice cream for $0.50  Nice. Giant brand makes them. I suggest you try them. The ice cream is good and it isn't as bad for you as regular ice cream.

 

I suggest you try them.

Tomorrow I am running - and running at a faster pace. :-D

12/10

Today we took a tour of the White House! SO fun!

I ate lunch at 3:30 - so dinner was after my run tonight at 9:30. poop.

My run was good. I need to shower and go to bed so this is a short post.

YAY.

12/8

Somedays I love running - LOVE IT.

Some recent changes in our routines means my sleep schedule is majorly disrupted. I am getting 3 and 4 hours of sleep every night and I am DYING. So of course I passed out after work, then we sat and debated dinner, and by debate I mean A- What do you want for dinner? M- whatever you want A- No that isn't what I asked, do you want x, y, or z? M - I don't care A- fine I'm ordering Chinese. Best dinner ever - cuz I didn't cook it. But it didn't come until almost 8 - so now its 8 and I have not run and I need to eat dinner still. So at 9:30 feeling super fat and full I drug myself to the gym, expecting the worst. But I got the best run in a while. :-D

I am loving that the miles and the speed is coming easier. I am also loving that I am starting to crave the runs. I will find the time for them now. 8 weeks ago, there was no way I'd get up early to go run so I could do something all day on a Saturday. Maybe by the end of all this I say I am an actual runner.

Today I lugged the babies to playgroup and to run a couple errands ( I say lugged because I feel like I am running an uphill  marathon to get from the house to the car with 2 heavy carseats, the diaper bag, my purse and anything else that needs to go with us) I should weigh those things and see how heavy they are. I packed a lunch and ate it in the car on the way to playgroup so I wouldn't need to stop and get food, and if there was snacks provided I wouldn't eat any cuz I'd be full - So smart.
Chinese food isn't the most healthy dinner- but it could be worse
I dont drink
I may have had a couple sour patch kids a couple mins ago. Sorry.
I ran 3.5 miles at my fastest pace.
no soda
3 nalgenes
crap for sleeping, hopefully that changes tonight - I hope, maybe some benadryl could assist me.

Oh hey Jillian I remember you...

I also remember why I don't like you. You make me do mean things to my muscles.

Ok - so I haven't don't a Jillian Michael's workout since before Thanksgiving - why? well - umm... I allowed myself to be too busy. I made excuses, and just didn't do it. While I haven't been letting my running slide- I have let my strength workouts slide. But starting this week - NO MORE. Why you ask? Well honestly, because it makes it worse, I feel like I did when I first started. I hurt and I don't like hurting. When I was doing it regularly, it would be uncomfortable but livable- now it just sucks.

I am seeing too many results by running to not work on toning up as I lose the weight. I am really hoping I get a wii fit for Christmas so I can get a little variety to the workouts.

I had a good day rule wise. Followed them all so far :-D

I am working on my last nalgene now and will be showering and going to bed in the next 30 mins. I got very little sleep last night and I have too much going on tomorrow to be as exhausted as I was today.

12/6

Today's run was a wonderful run. I added my typical .25 that I add on Sundays I also decided that I would go ahead and keep my 12 min mile pace. Now there is no running under the 12 min mile pace - and on thurs I will up it again. It is getting easier and easier to add miles and speed - so I feel like I am finally making progress. I am starting too see a weight difference besides in my clothes. My mom noticed it today and then Matt said something about it later that day too - and when I was wearing a tee-shirt which isn't exactly figure flattering (yet i love wearing them)

So the rules -
1- welp we had Wendy's for dinner...womp womp. But it was basically all I had to eat for the day minus a bowl of cereal and a piece of cornbread
2- no alcohol
3- no eating after 9
4-today was a run day :-D
5 - no soda
6- finishing my 3rd nalgene
7- slept in this am. getting ready to go to bed.

I promise tomorrow I will do Jillian's workout tomorrow. It has been a while and I bet I am whining about it tues. Boo ME!

12/5

Today was my rest day - and I did just that! It snowed today so we didn't go to Frederick. We watched a 3 hour movie, and had dinner.  It was a good thing I didn't have to run because I had a migraine for a few hours and I took meds and laid around. I also had a soda to try and help with the pain. Some combo of meds, food, soda and darkness worked cuz it went away. Oh and I napped too!

Seeing as I didn't do much today I didn't fail on the rules. :-D Except staying up so darn late - but I was FINALLY writing baking blog posts. :-D


Tomorrow I get to run 2.5 miles - :-D ok I am going to bed. I promise next week wont be such crappy blogs.

12/3 and 12/4

12/3 was a good day. I came home from work and ran - and I ran at my fastest pace!! Most of this week I haven't been getting a good night sleep for many different reasons. But other than that I have followed all the other rules

12/4 even though Friday is typically a rest day I ran my 3.25 miles. I was supposed to go to Frederick on Sat am and I didn't want to have to get up super early and run first - so Sat is my rest day, and it works because it is snowing. We didn't go to Frederick, but snow days are a rest day in my book :-D. Last night (friday night) we went out to a dueling piano bar! So fun - the downside - is that I ate dinner at 9:20. O well.

Sunday starts week 8 and 3.5 daily miles - wow!

11/30 , 12/1 and 12/2

Well - I am sucking at blogging right now- on this blog and my other one.

Monday I had a good day - but I didn't do Jillian's workout - I picked up Matt from the airport and we got dinner then we hung out until I went to bed. I followed the rules pretty well - tho we each had coupons for free chic-fil-a sandwiches that expired on the 30th so we went to chic-fil-a for dinner. But I planned for it and had green beans and string cheese for lunch. We shared a fry and drink - and I only had a couple. Dinner was $3.25 for 2 people. I can handle bending a rule for that price.
I really need to start doing JM again.
I haven't been getting much sleep - but that changes tonight.

Tuesday was a rough day all around. Got up to go to work and my car was dead, then some other difficult events just made my day one big ball of emotional stress. Good thing I had 3.25 miles to bang out. I drove Matt to work so I could have his car for the day to take the girls to playgroup and the dr, so I picked him up and we got groceries and then came home and had dinner. I didn't run until 10 but I ran, and I ran pissed. It worked and it felt good!! I did pig out on some sour patch kids in bed last night - I couldn't help it - and I don't now how I ate as many as I did. I love them and I am pretty sure I haven't had them since I gave them to Matt in his stocking last Christmas.

Today - my week of not sleeping at night has caught up to me, I came home and could barely muster up the energy to make a side dish for the steak Matt was making for dinner. JM didn't happen again.

This week even though I haven't been doing Jillian's workout I have been doing well with the other rules (not sleeping - but I did get a nap in with the girls this am) I have been working really hard on eating good things - and making smart choices.

I am going home Sat am to decorate the family Christmas tree - so I am switching my running on sat to Fri and using Sat as my rest day. I just don't see me getting up and running early - I don't want to, and so I won't.

I will try to suck less at working out and blogging. :-D

Runners World sends me a "daily kick in the butt" quote of the day - I liked today's, it is very fitting for many reasons.

	If one has determination, then things will get done. Chinese Proverb

11/29

Today was a good day. I actually got up early( ok not that early but earlier than other days this weekend) and got things done around the apartment. Then I went for my run.

I upped my mileage to 3.25 and I didn't really struggle today! I was running a little slower - but not super slow, and I ran my last mile at a fast speed.

I was telling Matt tonight that I am going to keep working on my base running, then get to where I can run a 10k no worries and after that I will work on my speed. By June I want to start working on my half marathon training. Scott is working on a plan for me, so hopefully I kick butt!

December is almost here! How did that happen?!?! I am posting my Dec running plan for you to see. Same format - though the last week I transition my 3 miles walk 5 min 1 mile to eventually running 4miles. Eeek.

December Plan

The Daily Mile

I want to share a great tool with you - Daily Mile is a website where you can track your training - see what your friends are doing , and even meet other runners in your area if you are so inclined. I use it to see how my runs go - and help Aubrey keep me honest and running when I should be. Plus I can talk some trash to her when she doesn't run. :-D

I like seeing my weekly and lifelong totals. If you join make sure you add me as a friend.

11/28

Hmmm - Matt being gone means I do NOTHING - Gosh - before I knew it, the time was 5pm and I had not really done much of anything. I did run though

I have officially moved up to a faster pace - :-D It is still slow though. I will get faster - I hope, but the fact that I have been keeping up with this for 6 weeks is great! I have lost 12 lbs!

Followed all the rules today going to bed earlier tonight and trying to not sleep too late to get back into work mode.

Upping the miles tomorrow and hopefully being less lazy

11/27

Friday I did NOT get up at 4 am and hit the stores - pretty much the opposite! I slept LATE, got up and cleaned and vegged on the couch. I did get my run in. Though it was a bit of a challenge. For some reason I decided to run the first 2 miles much faster than I have been. I made it a mile then wanted to die - and quit. Literally quit. Walked upstairs and fell on the couch. After a few mins I talked myself into going back down and finishing the other 2 miles I left out but at a much slower pace. I was glad I did though.

Didn't leave my apartment so I didn't eat fast food crap- though the healthy options in the apartment are running low - the bf and I need to go to the store when he gets home
No drinking
I don't think I ate after 9
I ran a mile, died then ran 2 miles
No soda
4 nalgenes
I have been staying up very late- but I sleep very late too! Def catching up on my sleep

10/25

Today was so-so

I ate soup for lunch and pasta for dinner
I didn't drink
I haven't eating after 9
I didn't do Jillian's workout today - that's a whole week no Jillian. It is going to suck when I start that back up- I had too much to do, I have been baking since I got home from work - and I am still not done (20 mins left)
I had a soda today because I felt a headache coming on - but my rule was 1 a day- so though I feel guilty for it - I didn't break the rules
I drank 4 nalgenes
I should get about 6.5-7 hours of sleep

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving - I will try not to hog out on all the yummy goodness that will be placed before me - however - I can't promise. This week is probably not a loosing week in terms of weight loss. But that's ok - Thanksgiving and all the grub that goes with it only comes 1 time a year. I can't wait to eat and then curl up on the couch with my dad and doggie and watch some football (and by watch I mean pass out :-D )

Happy Thanksgiving!!

10/24

Today was a good day - I am late reporting so details are foggy.

1-I know I ate decently
2-I didn't drink
3-I may have had some ritz crackers at 9:30after my run
4-I ran 2 miles walked 5 and ran another mile. The run went well and other than a cramp 17 mins in I didn't have to stop ( I stopped for 30 seconds because I was in crazy pain in my side)
5- no soda
6- 3 nalgenes
7 - 7.5 hours!!!

11/23

Man I almost thought today's run wasn't going to happen either. Matt had an appointment in Silver Spring at 4:30 - great time to be on the beltway. We went to the apt then hung out with my grandparents while traffic chilled out. We got home at like 8:40, and I had to really talk myself into running - but I knew if I didn't then I would get really behind and I didn't want to start that habit.

Today was not too bad.

I ate decent - had a pb sandwich for lunch, and some graham crackers, and granddaddy made hamburgers for dinner.
I didn't have alcohol
I haven't eaten after 9
I ran 2 miles, walked 5 mins and ran another mile. It sucked a little but I did it!
No sodas today
Had 2.5 nalgenes
7 slept ok, going to bed soon for about 6.5 hours. sigh.

Tomorrow I have to run again and get back on track. I am doing Jillian Michaels on Wed and then changing my rest day to Thurs because I am pretty sure my fat happy self isn't going to get up and run 3 miles after Thanksgiving dinner. Nope not happening! :-D Hope your Thanksgiving rocks!

11/22

Shew - today was a draining day - I got up and had to spend the day taking care of sick Matt. :(

We were being seen by drs all day and we got home late and I had a tension headache and was exhausted- there was no way I was getting a 3 mile run in.

The rules were ok -
1- no junk - had subway for dinner
2- no alcohol
3- I had a 100 cal pack at 9:20 because I needed to take more meds and I didn't want it on an empty tummy.
4- i didn't do anything :(
5- 2 sips of matt's soda
6- 2 nalgene :( the day just didn't play out for me yesterday
7- didn sleep well sat night because I was worried abt matt and kept waking up to check on him, last night slept a little better but not great. I need this 4 day weekend coming up!!

I will do Sunday's run on Monday and leave JM off - I just feel like the running needs to happen more than the strength training at this point.

11/21

Today I slept in- late, really late - because I could. :-D

I got up and played around on the computer (making this blog) and did some crafts for work. Then I went for my run. I am really enjoying 90% of my runs!

Today was also weigh in day- I have officially lost 10 lbs. I can't really see it, but I can tell my clothes fit differently. So much more to go.

Some weekends I have trouble drinking all my water - it isn't because I am drinking soda - I don't really know why it happens. Probably because I am just lazier on weekend.

I have done well so far with the rules - but I haven't left the apartment other than to go to the gym.

1- No fast food - I ate pretty healthy today- and only snack was a 100 cal pack rice krispie treat.
2- no alcohol
3- its 9 now - so I promise I wont eat again
4- I ran my 1.75 miles walked 5 mins and ran another mile. It felt good and I enjoyed it!
5- no soda
6- 1.5 nalgenes... I will get another 1.5 down - promise.
7- I got 10 hours sleep last night.... 10. WOW.

Tomorrows run is - 2 miles walk 5 min run 1 mile. Shew! I can't believe 6 weeks ago I was only running 1 mile and then another half mile. :-D 13 miles still seems very far away though.

11/20

Today was typical.

I worked - and then worked on my other blog most of the night.

For the rules-
1- I ate lunch out at Panera with Meredith - and I tired their mac and cheese- but I got the you pick 2 so it was a small portion. It was very good - def a bad thing I loved it. Dinner was leftovers
2- no alcohol
3- I had a snack at 9:30 but that was it
4- I didn't do Jillian even tho I was supposed to - I just didn't have the energy. I did do some ab workouts when I got home
5- no soda
6- 4 nalgenes
7- I got 8hours last night :-D

11/19

Today I ran errands - I carried one baby in the Baby Bjorn the whole time and lugged the other around either in the car seat or in the shopping cart. It sucked all of my energy out -shew, I have no idea what I am going to do when they are older and I can't wear one and only one will fit in the cart. Oy.

Anyway - I ran errands after work - and got stuck in traffic so I actually got home after Matt. I have been tired all day but I made myself go run.

The leasing agent was working out beside me - and she started running about a min before me, and at a slower pace. My goal was to run longer than her. Haha but then she stopped 2 mins into my run. So it didn't really work. After about 15 mins of me running she kept looking at me. Maybe because I was huffing and puffing. Either way when I started running again - she was like you go girl! Haha! She was walking crazy hills though - I look for flat routes when I run! Anyway having someone there who seemed to be paying attention to my workout made me not slack!

I ate pretty well today - though I did have pizza for dinner - but Matt already ate  and I wanted it out of the fridge - however, I had a very light lunch.

no alcohol

no eating after 9

I ran 1.75 miles today then walked then ran another mile - I stuck to the 12:45 pace - I just don't do well at the faster pace - maybe Sat.

no soda

3 nalgenes

going to bed soon and sleeping in - plus tomorrow is Friday!!! nap time and sleeping in on Sat!!!

11/18

Life happened after work today and next thing I knew it was 10pm. So again this week I am switching days with friday. I will do my Jillian workout after work on Friday. Promise

At least I didn't sabotage myself today. In fact I took the girls on a long walk this afternoon and I just finished some ab exercises.

As for the rules - I had a good day minus not working out.

1- no crap

2- no alcohol

3- no eating after 9

4- rest day

5- no soda

6- 3 nalgenes

7- I am going to bed now :-D

 

I have found a bunch of articles - I haven't read them yet  - but I will and I will make posts and schedule them so that every once in a while you get something other than my boring repetitive rundown.

A good article

I get random emails from Runners World, and now active.com - I don't always pay attention to them, but today I did. I liked this one. Here is a link to it.

I am also including the article here so I can highlight things I like - Mainly for me to come back to and look at- but you might like them too dear reader.

How to Push Past Those Last Few Miles

By Jenny Hadfield
For Active.com

It's often said that the race is won or lost in the last few miles.

Although the natural instinct is to run faster early in the race for insurance, that strategy can leave you fatigued and unable to push when it counts.

A strong finish is the outcome of a wise start. Learn how to plot your strategy to push through the final few miles.

Run Patiently

Racing is all about energy management. If you expend too much energy early in the race, you're left with nothing for the finish. It's easy to hammer out fast miles from the start.

However it takes discipline to pace yourself from the start. Especially when there is entertainment at the start, fans cheering for you along the sidelines, and you're well rested and ready to rip!

Whether you're running your first 5K or your fifth marathon, the key to finishing strong is in controlling your effort level early in the race. Line up according to your realistic planned pace at the start area to avoid getting caught up with faster runners.

Cut the race in half and aim to run the second half slightly faster than the first half (negative split). Conserving your energy early on will leave you with enough gas to push through the most demanding part of the race--the end.

Run Mindfully

Think your way through the race by keeping your mind actively engaged every step of the way. Review the course ahead of time and break it into smaller, more digestible pieces. When you toe-the-line, you'll have a mental strategic plan for the race.

Perform a head-to-inventory as you pass every mile marker to stay in tune with how efficiently your body is moving. Focus on running with short, quick strides, especially in the later stages of the race when fatigue plays a factor. Doing so, will maintain efficient running economy and avoid wasting precious energy.

When you pace yourself wisely from the start, you end up with plenty of energy to go fishing in the last few miles of the race. And that's when racing really gets fun! Focus on a runner ahead and slowly reel them in.

Then catch another, and another...there is nothing more motivating than to have the stamina to pass runners (nicely) in the final few miles. It keeps your mind actively engaged in reaching for a specific short-term target and allows your body to push hard to get there.

Happy Trails...

I really like some of these ideas and I hope to use them in some upcoming races. I also hope I keep getting good articles so I can share with you.

11/17

First things first- Widdling my Middle by following this plan will not be happening. I could not do half of the exercises with the dang ball... I will keep practicing and see what happens. But for now. I need to come up with a different core workout.

Today I hurt- my muscles are very sore. The top of my left foot hurts when I flex up. It is very frustrating. I am icing it now.

I ate well for lunch - I just had soup and no snacking. We had pizza for dinner because it was free. Can't pass up free .

No alcohol

no eating after 9

I ran today - it sucked. My legs were tight the whole time. I ran over a mile at 12 min mile pace and had to stop and try to stretch it out. Then I finished the last .75 mile. I walked 5 mins and started my last mile. I slowed it to 12:45 mile pace because my legs hurt so much I finished as much as I could but in the end I only ran 2.5 miles of my 2.75. I was tired, hungry, grumpy, and sore. No reason to have a horrible run - but everything added up to a constant struggle.

5- no soda

6- 4 nalgenes

7- i am exhausted. I am showering and going to sleep. Matt said last night that because I am not getting enough sleep I am not giving my body time to recover from all the abuse. Probably true.

 

Goodnight.

11/16

You are officially on my Half marathon Journey. I signed up.

Today was a good day - I walked around downtown Alexandria with the babies - and had lunch in the park.

1- I ate out- but I had a burrito bowl with veggies and no sour cream. Basically a little rice, some beans and veggies and some cheese. Not my favorite, but it works. I packed a lunch- but  I packed soup and I couldn't heat up soup in the park. Subway was a 20 min walk 1 way to get there and another 20 mins back to the car - and the girls feeding time was in 30 mins. So I had to pick something closer - it was chipotle or Popeyes. I had breakfast for dinner.

2- no alcohol

3- no eating after 9

4- I did JM level 2. I hate the walking push ups - and I had to do some of the level 1 cardio because I was doing it at 10pm and I didn't want to jump too much with the neighbors below me. I don't know if that is a bedroom or an office.

5- no soda (well, honestly I did take a swing of matt's - this is a theme, but it seems to satisfy me when I want it)

6- 3 nalgenes today.

7- last night I slept like poopy, tonight I am still up and not showered.

I did nap today tho, for like an hour.

 

I am not doing weekly pictures, maybe every other or every 3 weeks. I was lazy last night and I didn't want to .

I also weighed in yesterday and only lost 1 lb. I am blaming Wendy's.

My knee is hurting again - I am icing it as we speak.

Tomorrow Aubrey and I are starting this Widdle My Middle 30-Day Challenge - I will share that tomorrow. I will not share measurements, but I will share changes in the measurements if there happen to be some.

I think I have a running partner tomorrow....Maybe. Matt said he would run with me tomorrow. :-D

 

I am really excited about the race now. I have pushed away all negative thoughts and nerves. The plane ride to FL I may freak out, but I have a while for that.

OH SH**

I DID IT! I signed up!!! YIKES

 

October 2 at 10pm I will be running around 3 Disney parks. I am a ball of feelings right now. I am excited, scared,nervous, but mostly excited.

 

The map of the route isn't up yet - but when it is I will post it until read the description:

Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Course Description
Start at the newly re-imagined ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex running down Victory Way and then west on Osceola Parkway toward Disney's Animal Kingdom® Park.  Make your way past the Tree of Life, Expedition Everest™, Dinosaur® and then race back to Osceola Parkway and head toward Disney's Hollywood Studios™.  You will enter the park in the shadow of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™, run down Sunset Boulevard through Pixar Place, past Toy Story Mania!, then through the Costuming Tunnel in the Backlot on your way to Lights Motor Action! for your big debut!  Race through the Streets of America, past Star Tours and Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular on your way to Epcot®!  The course will wind through the idyllic village of Disney's Yacht & Beach Club Resorts and lead you through the international gateway entrance to Epcot®, where you will pass United Kingdom and Canada before finishing on World Showcase!

 

If anyone wants to go to Orlando with me and run it please sign up and train with me. If you don't want to run, come cheer me on. Air Tran always has cheap flights to Orlando - especially from BWI. If you are reading this blog - and you notice that I am sucking at training - remind me of this moment and tell me to go and get my butt at the gym.

 

 

AHHHHHHH FLORIDA HERE I COME!!!!!

 

11/15

Wow today was so pretty outside - a nice 72 degree treat for the typically cold November weather in this area.  Wish I had run outside - but I don't have a route set out and by the time I got around to it , it was getting dark out and I don't want to run alone at night.

1- no crap :-D

2- no alcohol

3- no eating after 9

4- I upped my miles today, I did 1.75 miles at a 12:45 mile pace, walked 5 mins and did another mile. :-D

5- no soda

6- 3 nalgenes

7- Well, I got a ton of sleep last night, but tonight I fail. I stayed up til 1130 and decided to stay up til 12 to see if the race opened. It didn't. I will sign up tomorrow.

 

I am not going to lie - I am scared to sign up. I worry that I will pay the money and get hurt, or burn out, or not be able to get there in Oct. But I am still determined to do this. Even if I do it alone. I hope. Right? Sigh. I am having doubts.

 

11/14

Shew - I am not going to lie - I didn't get out of bed until almost noon.  I also was up until 2:30ish. We went out for a friend's birthday and the boys can't seem to understand why 4 shots in 1 hour or so would be a bad idea. I mean come on- we aren't in college anymore. :-D I got the better end of the deal though. Sorry Jill! I love you!

I didn't drink last night, which wasn't hard - but saying no to the yummy looking cheese fries at 11:30 pm was. I had 1 fry with no cheese on it. The biggest success of the night was saying no to the Krispe Kreme that sits right next to the metro. Typically when we go out in Dupont we pick up a box of donuts and eat them on the LOOONNNGGGG escalator ride down. This time only 1 donut was purchased (not for me) and I had my last 20 oz of water for the night. :-D Go me.

I got up this am- and farted around for an hour then forced myself to go to the gym. I had to be showered and out the door by 340 so I had to be finished my workout by 245.

Today I ran at a faster pace for my whole run.

The first 1.5 miles wasn't bad - but the 2nd mile I had to jump off for 30 seconds and catch my breath because I was dying and I still had 5 mins left. But I made it. Soaking with sweat and super tired I made it.

I also think I have talked 2 people into running the race with me in Oct. I hope so at least. Monday is sign up. EEK.

 

Rules-

1- I haven't eaten much today - but what I have has been healthy - I think Matt and I are going out tonight so hopefully I can keep it that way.

2-  no alcohol. duh.

3- no eating after 9... Seeing as it is 715 and I am babysitting until 830 and I still haven't had dinner I may be eating dinner a little after 9 but I will try to keep it decent and light.

4- I ran today. :-D

5- no soda

6- starting my 3rd nalgene now

7- I got like 8.5 to 9 hours of sleep last night and hope to do the same tonight. I know you shouldn't catch up on your sleep on the weekends, but that is what I do.

 

Tomorrow is a longer run...1.75 miles then 1 mile. I am going to back down to Thursday's pace for Sunday and Tuesday, then on thursday bump it back up to todays pace - I think, if I feel good then I will kick butt and go all out :-D

 

11/13

Fridays are supposed to be a rest day for me - they are also supposed to be my half day at work. But I worked a full day today, and decided that since I sucked it up on Wed and didn't do Jillian I would do her tonight.

SO - Friday evening I did Jillian's shred- and though I was told I would feel good about it later- I really just wish I had napped instead. :-D

1- so far I ate pretty good - and the only snack I had was a 100 cal pack.

2- no alcohol, and even though I am going out tonight I will not be drinking

3- I hope to not eat after 9 tonight, but since we are going out I may have to extend the deadline a little

4- I did JM - it was good, a nice painful workout

5- no soda

6- on my 2nd nalgene,will try to down 1 more

7- I am not getting up early tomorrow so I am sure I will get 8 hours.

 

11/12

This is late getting up - I worked late, ran, made dinner and cleaned last  night- then went to bed - no computer for me

the rules -

1- I hate pretty well last night. No fast food

2- No alcohol.

3- I did not eat after 9pm

4- I ran - 1.5 miles walked 5 mins ran 1 mile and walked 5 mins. I did it at a faster pace- but not any faster than Tuesday's run. Sat I will up the speed again.

5- no soda

6- 4 nalgenes

7- I got 7 hours of sleep the night before

11/11

A day of EPIC FAIL.

OK - so not everything was a fail, but a lot was.

I went to work later than normal - and it was raining  - by about 11 I had a slight headache, so I took some Excedrin migraine and went about my day.

I also had to work later than normal - and by the end of the day I was in tears. I had a full-blown migraine, and the girls were screaming because it is their crabby time of day (thank goodness I don't have to go through it everyday!)

I wasn't even sure I could drive home, but I made it and curled up on the couch and haven't moved.

I haven't had a migraine since I started working out -so when this hit all I wanted was a soda, and a big one at that.

I couldn't move from the couch so I put Matt in charge of dinner- he cooked Wendy's, and I ate it. And it was so good. But now I feel like crap. :( I SUCK

So the rules... poop

1- I ate Wendy's spicy chicken sandwich, some fries and a Large dr. pepper.

2-no alcohol

3- no eating after 9 - mostly because I haven't gotten the strength to get up, I am sure if I went into the kitchen I would sabotage myself there too

4- JM - NOPE. I can't move. Sigh. Maybe tomorrow I will run and do Jillian...maybe, or I will just call this day a loss and move on

5- no soda - NOPE... BIG soda, and not diet. POOOP

6- 3 nalgenes... NOPE 2.5 and I am getting ready to go to bed so I am not drinking the rest of it or I will be up 5 times to pee

7- SUCCESS!!! I slept 8.5 hours last night and it was the best ever. I am on track for some good sleep tonight, if I can fall asleep and stay asleep.

 

Lets hope this migraine was hormonal or something and not a result of the rain that we got today because it isn't going anywhere for the next few days and I can't handle this again. I promise to not suck so much tomorrow. Even if I have a headache I will not completely throw it all away and sabotage myself.

11/10

OH MAN! Today' s run was AWESOME! (besides when I was trying to text and run and almost ate it - hahhaha)

So Sunday I upped my miles to 1.5 walk 5 and run 1. (with upping the speed by .5 mph) It was hard and too much too soon I think.

Today I upped both runs by .2 MPH and it was great. It hurt - and I watched that last min and a half of both runs like a hawk because I thought I was gonna die  - but no pain no gain right? My knee started to feel like it was gonna hurt,  infact at some points of the run it was hurtting - but nothing a little ice didn't help.

I have kicked butt with the rules today! And I am shocked by my self control this past hour.

1- no fast food - no junk, I did have a starburts - but just one.

2- no alcohol

3- no eating after 9 - even though I made chocolate chip cookies at 9:15 - I didn't have any cooked - I did lick the spoon, but just the spoon - Matt got the bowl.

4- I ran today - no JM THANK GOD. GOSH I don't like her

5- no soda

6- 4 nalgenes

7- omg i slept like crap last night - I think I am 80. At least I get to sleep in tomorrow!!!

 

I created an excel sheet that helps me know how long I need to run at each pace to get to the miles I need for the day. I am still finishing the sub 10 min mile list but this is for those who run slow ( not for you aubrey! I will get your list soon)

CLICK HERE

11/9

Shew I was exhausted today - today was my Friday which meant I only worked a half day - and instead of coming home at 1 and doing productive things- I napped for 2 hours- FAIL.

1- Matt and I had quizznos for lunch - and dinner is pretty healthy, baked chicken and rice

2- no alcohol

3- no food after 9

4- I did Jillian Level 2. It was hard, and I was very tired. I struggled through it. Maybe Wed will be a better experience. I really think I may start doing some of the arm exercises at night on days I run.

5- no soda today!!

6-3 nalgenes....weak. I will be better tomorrow.

7- I slept like crap last night. Maybe tonight will be better.

11/8

Week 4.

I got up this am - and I expected that we were going to leave soon for the mall so I didn't run in the am. I wish I had - we ended up not leaving til 2... by the time we got home I was tired and hungry.

I had a HUGE fight with myself tonight. I was hungry and whined the whole way back from the mall 25 mins. We decided that it was too late to go home and thaw out chicken or beef- so Matt was going to have Wendy's and I was going to Subway - but I didn't want subway. I wanted a spicy chicken sandwich and to be honest- fries like no other. I knew that if Matt went to Wendy's there was NO WAY I was going to Subway. So I suggested we just go to the store and get raw meat so we can just cook it and be healthier. So we did! YAY I survived.

I also bought some motivation today (actually Matt did) In the form of 3 tanks from American Eagle. They were super cheap. So 1 was 6 bucks - I got it in a Large because I am pretty sure that will fit next summer. Then I got 2 shirts that were 3 bucks. In a Med. If they don't fit I will give them away, but I am pretty sure I will work it out and get in them. I hope



in a large - pretty

medium

my fav in a med


ok so today and the rules

1- fine - had a small lunch and rotisserie chicken for dinner

2- no alcohol

3- no eating after 9

4- I ran- today I upped the miles. I ran 1.5 miles walked 5 mins then ran 1 mile and walked a 7 min cool off. I decided to be super smart and not only up the miles on the 2nd run but up the speed. Cuz thats a great idea. right? RIGHT.. OY But as aubrey put it i was "thinking JM style! my body will change and adapt to the pain!" Oh ok... or I am just an idiot.

5-no soda - even though matt was reallly mean and bought a cherry coke for the drive home - I wanted it too! HUMPH!

6- 3 nalgenes

7 - I got a ton of sleep last night- I slept like a rock. :-D I am about to go to shower and bed now. Tomorrow is my friday so I will get off work at 12-1ish and I can nap if I want - but I have things to do so I am going to try to just go to bed early.

Sign up for that race is a week from Monday... oy. I have some doubts. But I REALLY want to do it.

11/7

In 3 weeks I have lost 7 lbs and I am running 2.25 miles and feeling good.

I got up this am and ran - it wasn't bad - but it sucked because there was nothing on tv  so I got bored.

But I did it.

1- I ate out today - but I had a salad with fat free ranch

2- no alcohol

3- I did eat after 9 - I didn't have much for dinner - and I was starving at 11.

4- I ran - 1.5 miles walked 5 mins ran .75 miles walked 5

5- no soda

6- 2 glasses of water at lunch and 2 nalgenes today

7- I got 8 hours of sleep last night. I will get a lot of sleep tongith becaue I am not setting an alarm :-D

I think I found a way to get my plan on here - lets see if it works.

 

Click HERE to see the google document of my Nov running plan

11/6

I love Fridays - I get off work early - and I don't have to do anything.

And that is what I did.

I laid on the couch and watched 4 weeks worth of Brothers and Sisters.

Then took a little nap and then Matt came home.

We went to dinner at 8:15 with some friends - I was worried that I would eat after 9 - but I finished right at 9 maybe a couple bites after 9.

I drank water at dinner :-D

1- I reaalllly wanted Wendy's today - but I drove my butt home and had a sandwich here instead.

2- No alcohol

3- not much eating after 9 - maybe a couple bites

4- REST DAY :-D

5- no soda - though I was tempted - but the whole no soda for almost 2 weeks keeps me from ordering it

6- 4 nalgenes

7- I could get 9.5 hours of sleep tonight.

 

Tomorrow I have to get up at 10 and go run - I have a lunch date with my mom, then I am getting my nails done and babysitting, then coming back to VA so if I don't run before I go I won't do it. This is the ultimate in dedication as Saturdays are supposed to be a day where I don't have to hear the beep beep beep of my alarm - sigh. Weigh in tomorrow - I hope it is nice to me considering I ate a big dinner at Japanese Hibachi. Lots of rice , and steak...hmmm best ever.

11/5

Today was good - I enjoyed my run and I didn't go kicking and screaming. I thought I broke my toe right before I went running - It killed at first but got better as I went- It has a huge bruise on it. Way to go Ang.

 

1- No fast food  - at pretty healthy

2- no alcohol

3- no eating after 9

4- I ran today and then I did some arm exercises. I ran my normal 1.5 then walked 5 ran .75 and walked 5. I felt good. Sunday I up it again

5- no soda

6- 4 nalgenes

7- I slept about 6 hours last night. Planning about 6 hours tonight. I will nap tomorrow though! YAY!

11/4

First let me say - I have the best bestest ever. I got a nice card in the mail congratulating me on getting in my smaller jeans.

It is hung up for inspiration to get into smaller jeans.

hehe and she is right above it.

Love her


So today was a rough day - I slept horribly last night - I saw every hour on my clock. So I woke up tired and wanting to cry. Then I forgot my lunch, which meant I forgot my water packets too. I really should like the taste of just water- but I only like it from our brita (or a brita) and they don't have one. So I had to meet her to get the girls their swine flu shots- but the line was around the building and she had to get to work and didn't want them waiting outside. No biggie, but the girls slept in the car - so they didn't nap at home. Sigh. I had 1 nalgene to get me through. I didn't have lunch - and I didn't have the energy to lug 2 car seats into subway. So I got a grilled chicken sandwich from BK. :( no fries or soda though. Not having my little packets meant I didn't have any caffeine, so I got a headache. I mentioned this to Meredith and she made me split a diet coke with her. :( I didn't want it, because I haven't had a soda in over a week. But I made good choices with the crap day I had.

1- Grilled chicken at BK - no fries

2- no alcohol

3- no food after 9 - though matt is torturing me right now eating Wendy's - it smell sooo good.

4- I did JM and some other ab exercises. Aubrey gave me a good idea to try next JM day. I am going to use my weights for some of the cardio for added workout

5- 1/2 a diet coke :(

6- 4 nalgenes ( yup I made up for no water during the day when I got home)

7- last night I got crap for sleep. I am going to sleep in 10 mins- and so I will get about 7ish.

Running tomorrow - I will not be a brat about it.

I am excited for Sat weigh in - not excited for Sunday pictures. HA

Constant reminders of why

This is my apartment right now:
Every AM on my way out the door



I see the starting line I want to be in

mickey and the rules by my training schedule

jogging mickey and minnie and the starting line

training central


yup thats my panties :-D I gotta see them everyday!!!! Jogging Mickey and Minnie and marathon mickey


I see this stuff everyday - and it makes me run....now if only it makes me shower and go to bed. OK OK I'M GOING.

11/3

Man- remember that last sentence from last night? You know the one about being excited to go run... yea.

I went to the gym kicking and screaming today ( not literally - but I did whine a good bit first)

However - I ran, and I ran my plan - and I felt good.  I am glad I did it.  I still iced my knee today even though I don't have anymore pain - just incase.

1- no fast food

2-no alcohol

3- no eating after 9

4- I ran 1.5 miles walked 5 ran .75 miles walked 5.   And I LOVED IT.  I should try to run faster - but that will come

5- no soda- though I wanted one - bad. I took a sip of Matt's and then finished my water.

6- I drank 4 nalgenes.

7- about to shower and go to bed.

 

So I was excited to run last night - I am not excited for Jillian tomorrow. I don't really like her. Hahaha.

11/2

Shew today was a long day at work!

 

I did wait until almost 9:30 to do my JM workout but it was for good reason. I was catching up with my Carol Dory. :-D

 

For the rules.

1- no fast food - but yes, another candy at work. Whatever I want it. I could eat a WHOLE SNICKERS thanks to Jillian - but I choose a little fun size candy.

2- no alcohol

3-  no eating after 9.

4- I did JM and I used a heavier weight and OMG - OH MY GOSH.....The last strength move you life the weights up right in front - I feel it in my arms, back shoulders. OUCH.

5- no soda

6- 4 nalgenes

7- i got 6.5 hours sleep - still not straight through the night. I always get up at 4 to pee. Sigh.

 

The best part of all of this - I am excited to run tomorrow. WHAT?!

11/1

The start of week 3 and it went better than expected.

I went for my run earlier than normal. My knees felt good. I was going to run 1.5 and walk 5 and then run .5 ( .25 miles less than normal) But after I ran my 1.5 and walked 5 mins I started running again and felt good. I decided I could do the normal .75. So I upped my mileage by .25 and ran 2.25 today. :-D Victory - except I have to re-plan my training schedule.

1- no fast food - I did have 2 pieces of candy - 1 after lunch and 1 after dinner - damn it.

2- no alcohol

3- no eating after 9 so far - but I am hungry

4- I ran today (depending on my knee I may do a different video tomorrow since those lunges in JM may hurt

5- no soda

6- I have drank 3 nalgenes

7 - that extra hour of sleep last night was nice. I slept 10 hours. I am going to bed soon tonight too. :-D

 

I cheated and weighed myself  this am - and I lost another pound. 5 lbs total, and my mom said she could tell! YAY!

 

Aubrey said she was going to start taking a weekly pic of herself in a bathing suit - and as unhappy as that makes me I like the idea - so I will too. But you wont be seeing those ever. Until the bathing suit looks good. :-D

10/31

Well - the good news is even though my knee is sore - I was able to run. The bad news is we had 3 trick or treaters - which means I have a bowl full of temptation sitting on my counter.

I think I am going to put heat on my knee before I run - it really felt fine after I got going- I forgot it hurt.

1- tonight my parents came for dinner and I made crockpot chili. Super yummy, and semi healthy.

2- no alcohol

3- sigh - I ate after 9 - I had some bagel chips at 10:45. I guess its better than the bowl of candy I could have snacked on.

4- I ran today - 1.25 walk 5 run 3/4th walk 5. Felt good I think bumping up tomorrow will be no problem

5- no soda

6- 4 or 5 - I can't remember either way I had my 3!

7- I got 9 hours of sleep last night!!! and I will get an extra hour tonight! YAY.

10/30

Today was a rest day and I needed it - my knee started to hurt today. I typically just ride it out and deal with it - but I also am not running then. So I decided to chill out today and ice the knees. I will run tomorrow - and hopefully it wont hurt too much. I am taking an anti-inflammatory with my breakfast to take the edge off. I really hope this little flare up doesn't stop my training. I am going to start icing my knee after running too - Just like my dad - I need to get a bag of frozen peas. They conform much better :-D Plus if it's how my daddy does it, its good enough for me.

So the rules

1- no fast food - we had frozen pizza for dinner because I was lazy - but I didn't eat much.

2- no alcohol. I am pretty sure I will only report when I do drink. Which will probably be New Years Eve

3- the problem with Fridays and Saturdays is that I stay up much later - so I am hungry. I also didn't have much for dinner. So at 10:30 I had an apple - Aubrey said it was ok because it was a water food. At least I picked an apple and not a piece of the Halloween candy we bought for the kiddies

4- rest day

5- no soda - easy peasy

6- 4 nalgenes

7- going to bed now - will probably sleep until 10 :-D I love Saturdays ( I napped today too!!)

Some success so far

This am 10/30 I got up, and I didn't do laundry last night - and I had formula on my jeans from yesterday, so I didn't really want to wear them.  SO I decided to try a pair of my old jeans on just to see. To my surprise THEY FIT!! A little tight But they fit comfortably!! I have 3 goals - I just met one by being able to put these on and wear them. I have another pair that are even smaller that I would like to get into and one day I have a pair of pants from High school and if I can get back in those I will be super happy- however I know that may not be possible, but I will run my butt, and hips, and thighs off to try!!!

10/29

Today was a good day

1 - I didn't eat crap - and when I snacked it was a 100 cal pack.

2- no alcohol

3- no eating after 9 - it was reallly hard - I wanted a gummie snack that matt had when he came to bed but ive been good! Its so hard though

4- I ran today 1.25 miles walk 5 run .75 then 5 min cool down walk (actually like 7 min bc i was watching tv and wanted to wait til a commercial) It felt really good.

5- no soda- i haven't had soda since tues night and I don't plan on starting again

6- I drank 5 nalgenes... YAY

7- bed - sigh - 11:45

10/28

Shew! Today I was T-I-R-E-D.

I came home and fell asleep - then I sat around reading blogs and designing my pumpkin.I finally did my Jillian workout at 10 pm - it made an already hard workout even harder.YIKES

 

Anyway - I counted my calories until dinner but then dinner was homemade and I didn't really know how to figure it out. But I had 840 by dinner - that includes cereal for breakfast, a lean pocket for lunch with a pudding, crackers for a snack and a 100 calorie brownie when I got home. I find that counting calories made me crazy- I won't be doing often.

 

As for the rules:

1- no fast food

2- no alcohol

3- no eating after 9 tonight

4- I did Jillian Michaels and it hurt

5- no soda ( actually - I had a sip of Matt's soda with dinner)

6- finishing up my 4th nalgene now!!! And the lids with the straws came today so I can run without pouring half of it on my shirt.

7- sleep - last night was a late night- and an early am. Tonight is going to be late too since I haven't even showered. Unless I have to I refuse to get in the shower right after working out. I am already super hot and no matter how cool I make the water I just get hotter - I like to cool off a little - so I am blogging then showering then sleeping. I will catch up on sleep this weekend. Good way to be right? Sigh - maybe tomorrow I will go to bed.

 

Tomorrow is a run then Friday is rest day! Sat is another run and Sunday I bump up the mileage again. I can't get this stupid thing to let me post a calendar - so now I am working on a way to link to my calendar. We will see. If not I will spend a day writing it out for you to read. There really wasn't a method to my madness when I created it and it is subject to change but only to decrease amount of time walking or increasing running. We shall see - I will get it up eventually.

10/27

Today I had a little over an hour and a half from the time I normally get home until the time we had to leave to go to College Park for a birthday dinner with some friends. I decided that I HAD to run after work or I wouldn't and boy am I glad I did. Of course I left work late so I didn't get to the gym until 5:15, but I ran my 1.25 miles walked 5 mins ran another 3/4 a mile and walked 5 mins to cool down. I came back to the apartment and stretched and then showered fast and ran out the door. Yes, we left late, and yes we were a little late to dinner- but I got my run in. Of course we stayed there until late, then hit traffic on the way home. I was exhausted and came in and went right to bed.

I ate alright - I tired to make an ok choice at dinner - and I gave away most of my fries.

No alcohol

I didn't eat after 9 - but I was close. Our dinner came at like 8:40.

I drank 3 nalgenes of water before dinner, and 2 glasses with dinner

I had one soda at dinner

Sleep - the night before I got about 6 hours.  Tonight I went to be at midnight, but I passed out right away (until someone woke me up to come to bed grrr)

 

Tomorrow I am counting my calories. I typically don't do this, and I am not going to start on a regular basis but I think it is good to know occasionally how well you eat. Dinner might get tricky if I make something from scratch.

I measured out 1 serving of cereal before I went to bed - 3/4 a cup of cheerios. It was nothing!!! NOTHING! So I gave myself 2 servings and it was enough. I figured at 110 cals a serving I can handle 2 servings. I am sure that if I measured out serving sizes for everything I would be completely shocked. I see this as a flaw of our products. They make the serving sizes so small so they nutrition numbers aren't as big. But in reality if u only ate that you would be starving. I don't think eating 2 servings of cereal was over eating. Also- the box that my water flavoring comes in boasts only 5 calories a serving. One would think one packet is a serving right - NOPE. 1/2 of a packet is a serving. Nice thanks for tricking me. O well I will give up 20-30  cals inorder to make getting water down much more enjoyable. Target has sugar free lemonade packets that are actually 0 cals. I should get more of those.  Until tomorrow (or later tonight since I wrote this Wed am)

10/26

Today was my birthday, even though Aubrey said I could do whatever I wanted I tried to be good.

I still worked out after work- I didn't hate Jillian as much as I did after the first time - we will see about tomorrow.

I ate well for lunch and only snacked on 1/2 of an apple. However, we went out for mexican for my birthday dinner and I was starving so I pigged out on chips and salsa.

I didn't have alcohol

I have not eaten after 9pm

I had a soda with my dinner, but I finished 3 nalgenes today.

Last night I only got 6.5 ish hours of sleep and I woke up at least 1 time. I was in bed at a good time - but I didn't fall asleep until after midnight because I knew I would get texts, and Matt sang to me :-D

It is almost 11 and I am heading to bed soon so I am looking at 7 hours - if I go to sleep by 1130 - thats the problem

 

For the record - I only had a tiny piece of cake this afternoon. Meredith made me a cake and it was super yummy.

 

I have decided that I am going to get bored with Jillian Michaels- but I will stick with it for now. I am asking for a Wii fit for Christmas and some games to go with it - then I will work those in. I am staying motivated and I put up pictures of Mickey Mouse and the Disney Marathon start line around the house so I can stay motivated. Not to mention I want to lose weight and look like I did before.

 

10/25

Happy Birthday to me!! ( well tomorrow!) but I got my presents today!

Matt took me to Pacers today after we took his mom to the airport and bought me new running shoes since my feet hurt very badly last night.

It was cool  the girl watched me walk then gave me a pair to try on and took me outside to watch me run down the street. Her exact words were "wow you over pronate a lot!"

I tried on 3 or 4 pairs but decided on some Sauconys. It was a good thing all the ones she brought out were blue becaues if there had been a pink one I would have wanted that over what was best for my feet. Haha I am a loser.

I think today may be my first day without soda- I haven't had one yet, and I don't see the need to have one.

I have only had 2 nalgenes but I will have another with dinner.

I hope to go to bed early - there isn't much reason not too!

I am not excited with my date with Jillian Michaels tomorrow on my birthday - but I will ruin it with dinner at Chevy's - and I honestly don't care! It is my birthday and I want mexican food!

I am not ready to post my weight online - I don't know if I ever will be - but I weighed my self last Sat and yesterday and I was down 2 lbs. That's good - I will take it.

10/24

Today was a busy day (which is why I am blogging a day late)

We got up and went into DC and toured the Capitol and wandered around the Library of Congress. After that since it was raining we headed home - which made me very happy since I would be able to run before going to dinner with my family instead of after.

I ran1.25 miles , walked 5 mins ran .5 mile and then walked  5 mins.

I ate pretty well - during the day, I did split birthday cheesecake with my mom and Matt's mom. But whatever! It is my birthday!!!! I do what I want

The alcohol and eating after 9 thing is pretty easy! Though my dessert came out at 8:45 so I had to hurry! haha!

I did a good job with the soda - I only had 1 with dinner. This rule I thought I was going to have issues with but as long as I have my little crystal light packets I am pretty money.

I went to bed at about midnight and I got up at 8:30!  8 hours!!! YAY I think this is the first time I haven't sucked at this one! Ha!

My feet were killing me Saturday night - so Matt and I had a talk about my birthday present - lets just say I am glad he waits til the last min for everything - you will find out why.

10/23

Today is a rest day - and an actual rest day - no running and no JM - just not being a lazy bum. My workouts are hard- and my body was starting to hurt so a day off is good for it.

I was alright with the rules - I had a burger for lunch at work, but no fries.

No alcohol

no eating after 9

only 1 soda

3 nalgenes and crystal light lemonade with dinner

and  as soon as I finish this I am going to bed - and looking to get 8 hours of sleep!

Tomorrow we are walking around DC a little - and then going to dinner for my birthday. I will get my run in tomorrow. Maybe Sunday I will get my plan up - I have it planned through Dec - maybe Jan.

Night! I am almost 25

10/22

First things first - I don't hate Jillian as much as I thought I would. However, my boob muscles (pecks? haha I suck) hurt soo bad. My legs are a little sore but all in all I feel alright.

Matt's mom came into town and we went and walked around Old Town Alexandria I mapped it on Map my run.com and it was a little over 2 miles.

We went to dinner and came home - I let my food settle and then went to the gym at 9.

My one complaint is that the gym is much hotter at night than in the day - I guess they set it higher to save money. Shew - at least I sweat a lot.

I ran 1 and 1/4 mile tonight - 16 mins 40 seconds. (SLOW - I will work on speed later- I am sticking to a 13:20 mile pace). I was really tired so I was worried I wouldn't be able to do it - but I did it. That last 1/4 mile before I walked was rough - but Matt and his mom came in and she cheered me on a little. That totally helped. I walked 5 mins and then ran another half mile. That was easy peasy. I hope my endurance gets better.  I think I have a plan worked out to share- but I am currently sucking at rule 7 ( I am still SICK from running and need to shower)

1- I had steak for dinner - but fries - but not as many as normally come with the food. I am gonna say the extra 2 miles walking balance this out -- right? uh huh... ok whatever

2- no alcohol... this is the easiest step for me honestly

3- no food - I am hungry and my awesome cookie cake is calling my name- but I am gonna resist its awesomeness and go shower and go to bed, breakfast will be here soon

4- not a JM day - thank God

5- I had a soda with dinner - and then he brought a refill before I could order a water - and he didn't come back for a while so I could request a water instead, I had to give in - but then i had a glass of water

6- 4 nalgenes wooo

7-  I SUCK enough said.  OK moving on

tomorrow I work, go to the doctor and then home to make dinner - I will run after work even if my cheerleaders are out playing in DC.  The best part about tomorrow will be that I reward my good week with my favorite nonfat frozen yogurt. YESSSSSSSSS.

Night. Keep running.

Jillian Michaels 30 day shred - day 1

I was really tired after work  - so lets just say that it is a miracle that I even turned on the DVD player.

This was hard - I can't do a push up, and I think my neighbors hate me for all the jumping.  But I am glad to say that I did it all and I didn't cheat.

My arms already hurt, and I hope I can still pick up the babies tomorrow not to mention run.

I will let you know how I feel tomorrow.

Today was a good day. I didn't eat horribly - and when I had a snack at work it was just a few pretzels.

Last night I didn't eat after  9 - I think during the week that will be easy - it is the weekend when I go out, and stay up later that it may be hard.

1 soda today - and it was the last soda. Tomorrow I am going to only have a crystal light packet in my am water that has caffeine and see how that does me.

I have had 3 nalgenes today - and I am about to get another to get me through this cleaning spree I am about to go on.

I suck at sleeping. I went to bed at midnight again - and for no good reason. :( I only woke up once though, thats good. 6.5 hours. I will get into a better habit- I have too!

I have to stay motivated and keep up with this - my first test flies in tomorrow at 2:30. Matt's mom is coming to town and we are going to be doing a lot of things. I have to force myself to make time to go run.

I started working on my workout plan. I am taking getting back into running pretty slow. By Jan 1 I will start a half marathon training schedule - this is just a training schedule to get me up to par. I need to run 3-4 miles easily to start training for a half and right now I couldn't do that if I wanted.  When I hash it all out I will upload it on here.

Now off to clean so I can go to bed at a decent time and not fail at Rule 7 again.

Motivation

I want to get fit - but honestly I want to run a half mile. I trained for one in college and I hurt my knee and didn't get to run it. Big bummer. I reallly want my first half to be a disney half. They just created a new one - and it is at night! HOW COOL!!!

So I think come Nov 16 I am going to sign up for the Disney Wine and Dine half marathon. Aubrey may do it with me if I can talk her into it. If I invest probably $120 bucks then I can't quit!

10/20

How I did on the rules today?

1- no crap fast food- Success! I packed my lunch for work and we ate at home. I snacked healthy too!

2- no alcohol today

3- it is almost 9pm - but I am done eating for the day - water only for the rest of the night

4- I ran today - 1 mile walked 5 mins ran another half mile and walked 5 more mins. All for a total of 2 miles. I went right after work - and it felt good!

5- 1 soda a day - yes and no- I had 1 regular soda - and I had a diet cherry 7up in a moment of dire need for  flavor and sugar - I honestly don't even know if it has enough sugar to help but it was all mental and it worked

6-  Finishing up my 3rd nalgene now YAY

7- sleep- I went to bed at midnight - got up at 6am. 6 hours. could be better but it could be worse.

Tomorrow is Jillian workout and Thurs I plan to run 1.25 miles before walking.

Rules

1- No crap fast food - I think there are acceptable things to be eaten if you have to eat out - Subway is a fav choice

2- Minimal Alcohol - 1-2 glasses wine a week (typically I drink less than this and often I don't drink at all and I almost always volunteer to be D.D.)

3- No eating after 9pm (this will be really hard as Matt always has a snack in bed before we go to sleep)

4- On days I don't run I will be doing Jillian Michaels 30 day shred

5- 1 soda a day - many would say give this up - but I can't. Like many who need their AM coffee - I need my AM soda and when I don't get it my day is rough.

6- WATER, WATER, WATER - I take a camelbak to work everyday and I try to drink 2 while at work, and then 1 during and after my workout - I am pretty sure it is a .75 L - I am guessing I will drink 75 oz a day.

7- Sleep - this one I fail at daily - and I am failing at it now to write this. I want to get 7 hours sleep MIN a night. The problem is I have trouble staying asleep at night. I wake up 3 and 4 times a night. I am going to talk to my dr. about this Friday.

If I can keep 1-6 in check then maybe 7 will naturally get better.

I will post a schedule when I figure it out. Until then I am just running 1-1.5 miles then walking at a fast pace for the rest of the time sometimes running again later for 30-45 mins.

Mon 10/19

FAIL

Saturday night did me in - we went out for a birthday party - and I D.D.ed and we ended up getting home at 3:30 am bed like 4am. Then I was up early Sunday am. I am officially old because college angela would have bounced right back - current angela laid on the couch half asleep all day. Good thing I didn't have to drag my butt to the gym.

Today was a rough day too - I did some walking with the girls, and I carried those car seats around some stores (MAN they are HEAVY) I came home from work and got caught up doing some paperwork and figuring out my issues with my cell phone. I have found that I typically enjoy going to the gym after work around 430-530. Plus I don't get the chance to get tired and not go - like tonight.

We ate dinner at 8:20pm. We never eat this late. At 9:30 (my 2nd choice for gym b/c no one is there) I still felt full. I am pretty sure if I went I would have puked. So here it is: 11:30 my bed time and I didn't run. Yes - I am disappointed. Yes - Aubrey is yelling at me YES - I WILL go tomorrow right after work - even before checking my email. I will make up for my lazy booty tonight. Goodnight

Sat 10/17

I ran today - a mile and a half - tho I was only planning a mile. I was feeling sluggish because of the 3 days of rain and it was a miracle I even went to the gym. I ran a mile in 13:20 which is pretty slow, but I am taking it easy getting back into the running game. I walked for 5 mins and then got inspired to run again - so I ran a half mile. My legs were very tight and I wish I had stretched better, but now I know. I walked another 5 mins all together worked out for 30 mins. Sundays are a rest day for me.