tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59192942932616073772024-03-14T08:48:15.242-04:002011: My Journey to a Healthier MeTerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.comBlogger56125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-35835063559738569642011-08-23T12:39:00.000-04:002011-08-23T12:39:29.049-04:00IT'S OFFICIAL!I just wanted to post a quick update letting you all know that I finally did it...<br />
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25 POUNDS IS OFFICIALLY GONE FOREVER! And I feel great!<br />
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My weigh-in was kind of impromptu, but I'm SO glad I decided to do it. I was feeling a little down and this was the pick-me-up that I needed to get me back on track for my goal by my birthday!<br />
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Another WooHoo Weigh-In Under My Belt!!!Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-61540930326655035182011-08-22T16:41:00.000-04:002011-08-22T16:41:58.511-04:00Good Days and Bad DaysI have great days. I have bad days. I have days when I feel fat. I have days when I feel skinny. I have days when I feel like the same 'ol person who never bothered to get off the couch and do something with herself. I have days when I can tell my clothes are too big. I have days when my clothes feel too tight. Some days I just want to quit. Other days I can't wait to get out and go on a run. Some days I get a lot of compliments from people, and some days I see people who I haven't seen in months and they don't say anything. <br />
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As you can see...this is all SO flip-floppy for me. I wish I knew how to feel. I mentioned in a previous post that losing weight has been a big adjustment. But then I have times where I feel that it shouldn't be a big adjustment because I really haven't lost that much, and the person next to me has lost a ton! My clothes feel different, yet I can't fit in the next size down yet. I have hit a major plateau and it's so frustrating, so some days I feel like this is it for me. Maybe I'm not meant to be smaller. Maybe I am?<br />
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Do you have days when you feel so blah that you really can't put it into words that make any sense? Clearly that's how I feel today. Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-10486579803135246532011-08-14T09:44:00.000-04:002011-08-14T09:44:24.939-04:00My New and Improved GoalsIt has been a while since I posted last and I want to bring you all up to speed on what has been happening in my life. The summer has been just nuts. With all of the activities and barbecues it seems we are busy all of the time. Also, the summer is generally a busy time at my job. Lots of extra time spent working in the evenings and it's really hard to find that balance between work, my family, exercise, and the blog. Unfortunately, the blog comes last and it has suffered a little bit. But I see the light, and I hope to be posting more now!<br />
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As far as my journey, I'm happy to report that I have almost lost 25 pounds. I have been losing merely ounces for the last couple of months and it stinks! Yes, 25 pounds is great, but not good enough for me. I never wanted it to be about a number, but I think a numeral goal makes me want it even more! I went back into my <a href="http://caloriecount.about.com/">weight tracking program</a> and looked at what I had originally entered as a goal. It's really funny because I wanted to lose a certain amount before my 34th birthday, and I am only 5 pounds away from that. I had totally forgotten about that goal! So, here I am, about 3 weeks away from that date, and I am totally ready! Time to get it together and shed that last 5 pounds!<br />
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Every day is a new day and every day is a chance to try again! Enjoy the rest of your weekend all!Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-13798223939824293552011-08-13T15:31:00.000-04:002011-08-13T15:31:14.418-04:00Are you a Diet Saboteur? How to be supportive or not...Welcome back to the blog. Yes, it's been a while. I have lots of excuses, but I don't plan to bore you. I do want to share something that has been on my mind lately. I realize that I have made a personal committment to myself to become an overall healthier person. I believe I have been relatively successful, although I have plateaued, which is totally annoying. But at any rate...<br />
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My thoughts evolve around the people I align myslef with on a daily basis and those I associate with from time to time. It's been very interesting in this journey to see how people react to me and the comments that I get and the general "I really don't understand why you are trying to do this?" kind of attitude. I suppose that I'm the one who decided to make this change in my life, and certainly I can't expect other people to jump on board simply because I think it's a great idea. I have to keep reminding myself, "I am the one who has made a change. Not everyone else."<br />
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Having said that, I think it's important to highlight things I have experienced since the beginning of the year, and I also wanted to touch on a few tips I think might be helpful to those of you out there who are already skinny, naturally beautiful, non-exercising, and overall perfect. Unfortunately, I have to try at all of those things, and I wish I couold report that I am always successful, but I guess that's the way the world goes around. So here we go. I'll start with the "don't and do's" of "What Not to Do and What to Do When You Have a Loved One Who Has Decided To Change His/Her Life." (Phew, that was long, wasn't it?) Disclaimer: I am going to speak in first person, although these are simply my thoughts, and not necesarily true occurrences. :-)<br />
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The Don'ts:<br />
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1. Please, please...do not invite me to a restaurant that you know will sabatoge my diet. People, I have addicting personality, and cannot tell you no. I just can't. So, please don't ask.<br />
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2. Do not give back-handed compliments. Those of us who have struggles are well aware that we have struggles. It isn't necessary for you to point out that I (or someone else) no longer has rolls on one's back like the Michelin man. Thanks, but no thanks.<br />
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3. Don't ask me to exercise with you, knowing that you always have and can still beat me. It isn't a race. I'm still going to let you win if it makes you feel better about yourself.<br />
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4. When you come into the same public bathroom and have a million stalls to choose from, DO NOT pick the one right next to mine. What does that have to do with weight loss? Nothing. I'm just sayin'.<br />
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5. Don't give unsolicited advice. I know we all think we are experts in this area, but we aren't. My body is different from your body and we operate differently. Enough said.<br />
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6. This one is huge! Do not make comments such as, "Wow, you are going to be awesome and skinny, and then you won't be my friend anymore." Read that again...it sounds really dumb, doesn't it?<br />
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OK, enough of the negative and sarcastic. I would like to highlight some positive things and give some helpful hints that I (and people like me) need from people like you!<br />
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1. When I tell you that I really don't want to exercise, encourage me to go anyway! By now you know how it makes me feel and I need your support! <br />
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2. If it really is important to you, ask me what you can do to help me. No, the world does not revolve around me, but throw me a bone, and ask anyway!<br />
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3. Let me talk about it! This is all new territory for me and it is exciting. For once, I am successful at something. Even if you don't care, pretend that you do.<br />
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4. Treat me the same as you always have. I am the same. But now, I have just a little less to love.<br />
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5. Compliment me when you see a positive change. I really need the reinforcement. I am having a lot of trouble accepting the changes that are happening (as weird as that sounds), so your thoughts are much appreciated. <br />
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6. If you are going to ask me to go with you to a really fab restaurant, be a dear and look at the menu ahead of time. If you are invested in our relationship, then help me out. Maybe you could suggest some things that you know would work for me?<br />
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Those are just some of the thoughts that I have on this subject. My mind swirls around it all of the time. Part of that is because I, myself, am being judgmental. Part of it is because some of these things have really happened to me. It's a daily struggle. I have to admit that sometimes I really hate it. Being healthy IS NOT easy. I digress all of the time. Because I feel like I'm living this life, I have to try and point out things that I know will help me and others in this very same fight to be healthier and happier.<br />
Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-35961594968832715612011-07-16T15:22:00.000-04:002011-07-16T15:22:25.878-04:00Frankie says "Relax"But don't relax too much. Because clearly that is what I have done. I weighed in on Friday, and I have only lost .4 pounds in the last three weeks. And while I continue to run three times a week, I have clearly blown my good eating habits over the weekends. I can honestly say that is what happened. I tend to relax a little too much and throw everything I have done down the drain on the weekends. Like I "deserve" to eat. I have to switch that mentality quickly! This is a lifestyle change and food rewards are just no good! <br />
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I think everyone struggles when they commit to a change in their life and food issues really are no different. And while, no, I won't gain back the weight overnight, I have to remember that I didn't gain it overnight to begin with. It was a series of years in the making and a long path of poor choices. One bad weekend leads to two bad weekends, and on and on...<br />
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So, with that, I plan to totally get back on track. I'm ready to move to the next step which is to lose the final 2.8 pounds to put myself into a new decade! <br />
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I sincerely appreciate all of your encouragement!Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-74662077577943144082011-07-12T12:44:00.000-04:002011-07-12T12:44:13.292-04:00My 5k Comeback!Hello all! It has been awhile, and so much has happened in the last month! I continue to "joggle" 3 days a week and also continue to fight the good healthy food fight. I have a weigh-in this Friday and I'm hopeful that I will enter a new decade this time. It has actually been 3 weeks since I weighed myself.<br />
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This past Saturday, I ran in a 5k race to benefit the youth group at my church. It was in my neighborhood, so I couldn't reasonably say no. It was at 8:00 in the morning, so it wasn't too hot, but the humidity in Ohio is just unbearable sometimes, so it was definitely sticky! I couldn't be more ecstatic about my results because I finished it in 37:50! That is just amazing compared to some of the past races I have done. My last 5k was in October, 2010, and I beat that time by 12 minutes. The kicker is that I actually walked the first 5 minutes to warm up, so I was really putting a lot of effort into this run. If I would have kept up that pace for a 10k, I would have beat my results of the <a href="http://2011myjourneyhealthierme.blogspot.com/2011/05/rockin-10k.html">10k race I ran in April</a> by almost 10 minutes. Just awesome for me! <br />
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I began using a new training program on my iPhone called <a href="http://www.djsteveboy.com/gw28k.html">Podrunner:Intervals Gateway to 8k</a>, and I love it as much as the <a href="http://www.djsteveboy.com/1day25k.html">5k training program</a> I previously used. I am a little embarrassed to admit that I am still on week one, but I have been doing it for almost 3 weeks. It is really tough, and again, the heat and humidity has been exhausting, so it's all I can do to run 3-4 times a week! At any rate, I'm still exercising and gettin' my sweat on!<br />
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I am trying to reassess my plans to run a Half-Marathon in October. At this point, I just don't know if I'm ready for that large of a goal. Yes, I'm wimping out a little, but I'm also trying to be realistic. I don't want to end up hating exercise. I am really comfortable with running 3-4 miles at a time right now, but at the same time, I know I need to push the envelope a little. So, we shall see. I may make my next goal a 10k and hope to run most of it. I really think that is a better goal for me right now.<br />
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I hope all is well with everyone and that you are taking the time to get out and enjoy some of this blistering sun!Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-42781871076418595582011-06-13T21:27:00.000-04:002011-06-13T21:27:01.892-04:00I was Runnin'!And runnin' I was! Last night I went for a run and I'm proud to say that I ran for two miles straight! This is a huge deal for me folks. I am loving the Podrunner:Intervals program so much! I never, EVER thought I would be able to run the way I used to, so I am definitely thrilled with that. I did it in 25 minutes, with a 5 minute walking warm-up and cool-down on each side. And the best part was that I was not really too winded. So, I am making strides people!<br />
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As for my Weigh-In last week, I only lost 1 additional pound over a two-week period. I have slowed WAY down in this department and I would really like to pick that part back up. I have become a little relaxed on my eating habits and I really need to re-focus on this. I have come way too far to quit at this point. I really don't think that the healthy changes I have made are ever going to change, but it has become way too easy to slip in the no-no's every once in a while. I think in my head that one little thing isn't going to hurt me, but I simply cannot live with that attitude. That is what got me into trouble to begin with!<br />
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So, I continue on. I plan to run again on Tuesday and Thursday. I need to incorporate my Polar HRM back into my exercise routine, but I found that it is a little cumbersome to have the watch, the monitor strapped around my chest, and my iPhone in my armband all at once. There are a billion programs out there for the iPhone to monitor heart rate and calories, but I just can't imagine how accurate they are if you aren't wearing the actual monitor around your chest. <br />
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Do you use any smartphone apps for running or exercise, and if so, what do you like?Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-52510681877733012882011-06-06T12:30:00.000-04:002011-06-06T12:30:12.838-04:00My Training Plan...or Not...Hello everyone! I have been so ridiculously busy over the past few weeks. My work has definitely been busier and when I come home in the evening I find myself wanting to just go outside and play with the kiddo. He absolutely loves being outside, so I try to take advantage whenever I can. Couple that with him falling ill with strep throat, let's just say life has been hectic.<br />
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At any rate, my running plan continues on and I struggle everyday with fighting this good fight. But alas, I still plan to conquer. I have a great friend that provided me with a new term to use in place of what I like to call, "running." It's called "joggling." So for now, I will call myslef a Joggler. A little mix of walking, skipping, hopping, and kind of picking my feet up off the ground in a faster-than-walking pace. There it is: Joggling!<br />
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So on my continued path of becoming the greatest Joggler known to mankind, I continue to exercise at a minimum of three days a week. I was thrown a little off track by my vacation a few weeks ago, so I am now on Week 6 Day 2 of the <a href="http://www.djsteveboy.com/1day25k.html">Podrunner:Intervals First Day to 5k Program</a>. And can I just say that I am loving it. It totally consumes my mind so I really don't think about my breathing technique at all. But obviously something is working because, well, I haven't passed out yet from not breathing. But as with anything, I do have two issues. One, I still don't really like water. I am trying really hard to over-hydrate on the days I know I am going to joggle, but I know I'm still not getting enough water. And two, I absolutely hate from the bottom of heart bumble bees. With the extremely hot and humid weather, they are inevitable. But, nonetheless, I hate them. They cause me to completely freeze and panic. They scare...me...to...death! And they insist on following me down the bike path every time I run. I am allergic to them, and am terrified I am going to get stung. I mean, seriously, what are you supposed to do when they start bouncing off of your head and swarming around you, ready to attack? Do you just keep running? Will they eventually go away? Ugh, if I could just figure that out, I really would be fine. I know I need to ask for a prescription for an <a href="http://www.epipen.com/">EpiPen</a>, just in case, but you know how that goes. I just haven't made the time to do it.<br />
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Anyway, I am still trying to find the perfect training plan for this <a href="http://www.columbusmarathon.com/">Half Marathon</a> that I am just crazy enough to participate in. I blame my husband's cousin for that. Thanks, Katy...<br />
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I have looked high and low for the right plan and I still haven't come up with the perfect plan for me. I still don't know if I am woman enough to actually think that I'm going to run the whole thing. AHHH, decisions, decisions!<br />
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As for a weigh-in update, I did have a successful WooHoo Weigh-In almost two weeks ago. I have not quite hit that 20 pound milestone, but I'm confident it is going to happen this week. It HAS to! I totally have "pants on the ground syndrome", so something has to give here! I need to go shopping!<br />
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Do any of you have the same fear of bees that I do? Do any of you recommend a Half-Marathon training plan for a Joggler like myself?Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-18258819403024142382011-05-25T13:08:00.000-04:002011-05-25T13:08:23.455-04:00Where you at?Well, here I am! After a short hiatus, I have re-entered reality. I haven't posted since Mother's Day because we have been just SO busy! My husband and I take a trip each year down to Charlotte, NC and we just got back. The trip serves two purposes: first to see one of my sisters and second to attend the NASCAR All-Star Race. Yes, I do have a little redneck in me (but please don't tell anyone). The truth is that I love NASCAR and my in-laws buy us tickets to go down to Charlotte every year to see the race. It's an awesome time of relaxation and extended family time. See, as proof, here we are:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q9u44MMW_34/Td0x4beYNkI/AAAAAAAAAEw/oHe4cr_42yU/s1600/Race.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q9u44MMW_34/Td0x4beYNkI/AAAAAAAAAEw/oHe4cr_42yU/s320/Race.jpg" t8="true" width="238px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>And yes, I also got my hair did last week. I have wanted to grow it out for some time, but since my hair is quite fine, the only way I could do it was by getting a perm. So far so good! My son took one look at me and said, "Mommy, why is your hair so silly?" :-)<br />
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I was a pretty good girl when we were out of town. I did indulge a little, but I am now past it and back on track. I even ran 2 miles on the morning of the race! And here's the proof of that:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lSiL01yJA3M/Td0y9en7mhI/AAAAAAAAAE0/DO6C9UA7dbA/s1600/Racerun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lSiL01yJA3M/Td0y9en7mhI/AAAAAAAAAE0/DO6C9UA7dbA/s320/Racerun.jpg" t8="true" width="320px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I plan to weigh-in this Friday. Fingers crossed for a "WooHoo Weigh-In!"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div>Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-41788992452079711352011-05-10T21:31:00.001-04:002011-05-10T21:31:49.080-04:00I'm melting...Or at least that's what I thought! Tonight was my sort of re-entry into running/walking, except this time I ran. And I was sweating buckets. I walked twice last week, but that celebration is over. If I am considering a Half-Marathon, it's time to get busy! But more on that later...<br />
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My Mother's Day was awesome! My son made some things for me at pre-school and he was SO proud to give them to me. Honestly, there are no better presents than the ones that come from your child's heart. And the sappy little poem that was attached to the picture of his hand print was absolutely amazing! He was just gleaming, and I couldn't have asked for a better gift. Having said that...my husband "helped" my son buy me an awesome Mother's Day gift. I have been toying around with buying an iPod for quite some time. At the same time, it was time for me to buy a new cell phone. Mine was quite outdated. I didn't even have texting capabilities! Mostly because I have been resistant, and not because I'm not "hip." So, my gift was the new iPhone 4 from Verizon. And can I say, it is unbelievable! The funny part is that I didn't even know how to answer a call at first. I work in technology for a living, but have sworn against modern technology for some time. Nonetheless, I now have a sweet phone. <br />
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One of my friends from work just finished the C25K program, and she told me about a podcast that she downloaded for free. So, Terri, meet <a href="http://www.djsteveboy.com/1day25k.html">Podrunner:Intervals</a>. And let me just say, this program is amazing! It keeps your stride, bpm's (beats per minute), and breathing totally under control. Because I just finished a 10k, I decided to start with Week 4. I want to be able to run most of the Half, so I really thought it would be wise for me to go back and re-visit a running training program to get my running under control. I just loved it. And 3 miles was done and over in no time! I'm a dance-party music type of girl, and the music for this program is techno-like. Honestly, I didn't think about my breathing patterns one time. I was so focused on getting in sync with the beat of the music that it just flowed naturally. I am really looking forward to doing it again on Thursday!<br />
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As for Mother's Day, I wanted to share a pic of me and my baby boy!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0bn3TNpybwM/TcnltCAllII/AAAAAAAAAD8/hwZEsAr7SQ8/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0bn3TNpybwM/TcnltCAllII/AAAAAAAAAD8/hwZEsAr7SQ8/s320/005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-67101133263024873552011-05-06T14:39:00.000-04:002011-05-06T14:39:37.149-04:00Just a quick check-in...I don't know why I felt compelled to weigh myself this morning, but I did it anyway. And no, it wasn't bad news, but it wasn't great news. It has been 10 days and I have only lost .8 pounds. I mean, GOOD GRIEF, can a girl get an extra .2 pounds for an even 1 pound???<br />
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I swear I stepped on that thing and it actually giggled. I know that I haven't done as well as I should this week because I have had this mentality that consisted of rewarding myself with food since I did so well at the 10k last week.<br />
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Nonetheless, it's time to get over it and move on. Onto the next thing...trying to figure out how I'm actually going to train for this Half-Marathon! Please help me!Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-80512107564835063142011-05-03T21:21:00.000-04:002011-05-03T21:21:55.318-04:00Rockin' the 10k!The 10k build up finally ended on Saturday. We woke up bright and early and headed out for the 8am race. I was really excited and nervous all at the same time. I ended up running a lot of the first mile, just to get away from the pack of people. And right around mile two we had to cross a huge bridge into Kentucky and that's when I thought I could totally quit! Road races seem so LONG compared to exercising near known courses and paths close to home. But, I continued on, with the help of my sister. Honestly, I have no idea how much we ran. She was pacing me the entire time and would tell me when to go and when to stop. Thank goodness for her, because otherwise I don't think I would have done nearly as good as I did. In the end, my goal was to finish in 1:30, which would have been close to a 15 minute mile. Heck, I could walk that. But I did beat my goal and I finished in 1:25! ROCKSTAR!<br />
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But to speak of the build-up...it is so exciting to train and actually do the race. But once it was over I felt a little empty. Proud, but empty. What's next for me? Will I keep going? I certainly can't give up at this point?<br />
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My cousin ran in the Half Marathon the following day, and she began her training last September. She is a full-time working mother just like myself, yet she didn't let excuses get in the way of her goals. So, she started the C25K program in September, ran her first 5k in January, and rocked it all the way to the Half in May! When she was done, she sent me a very simple message through Facebook..."Want to run the Columbus Half in October?" Um...YES!<br />
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So, here I am. Wondering what on earth I am thinking. Trying to figure out how I am ever going to fit in this training. Why I am even considering such a thing? Well, it's because I'm not finished yet! I CAN do this! I WILL do this! I am a ROCKSTAR!!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIzIwgOhi-_taPZTagygAhbRNUAdmlNRrEhVNhWtDdNSpmyn7YGGApzMZFH21baRqouxmTftNgD0cqJpiDFjttM3h0O7Oix5Q8L6qlEADYiSeBNc9UOBbQpdGCNaljEvvKxBjSf1-Vk9MH/s1600/untitled.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIzIwgOhi-_taPZTagygAhbRNUAdmlNRrEhVNhWtDdNSpmyn7YGGApzMZFH21baRqouxmTftNgD0cqJpiDFjttM3h0O7Oix5Q8L6qlEADYiSeBNc9UOBbQpdGCNaljEvvKxBjSf1-Vk9MH/s320/untitled.bmp" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just before "GO" time</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs4f0pwrnnYg0M1Ls7XtUX9pHsBgz81qTXggUqGmDTpbG8Z2s9c6AGCp64AU96jiNbPePGwh1_CRYdrSbjGZIT0gBeQLcq1YE6pKInzhM7rmzEPDwa1mVdxiyADxO8LbMPCV1WUzcoxwIQ/s1600/race2.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs4f0pwrnnYg0M1Ls7XtUX9pHsBgz81qTXggUqGmDTpbG8Z2s9c6AGCp64AU96jiNbPePGwh1_CRYdrSbjGZIT0gBeQLcq1YE6pKInzhM7rmzEPDwa1mVdxiyADxO8LbMPCV1WUzcoxwIQ/s320/race2.bmp" width="175" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading to the Finish</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg10SZtK8nTWsz78-mIdR_PifMwVWP35hVaJuWPphAp-YMwNJpHtP7yd6be9uvnFz0gr65b4Bhitb4RuzTRJOZqsgsWJkm87XHshBJVWC7zrF6L3x0ASXXRHo6HXrUYfn0NN-pjC82Jzvt-/s1600/race5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg10SZtK8nTWsz78-mIdR_PifMwVWP35hVaJuWPphAp-YMwNJpHtP7yd6be9uvnFz0gr65b4Bhitb4RuzTRJOZqsgsWJkm87XHshBJVWC7zrF6L3x0ASXXRHo6HXrUYfn0NN-pjC82Jzvt-/s320/race5.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "Finish Swine!"</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic1YSEmJFTYd8WrufinV1oCVk2ztW0JL0H-mn2TEG-LFiTAyFrGgPl4uOIyIR1TVsx_vE7xVAMuNpcTLljEIMWJIuVmwMZgGoS11bqyq95u6O0htKyJyc74-Upm_4yrKiQde_UY-y7wpfi/s1600/race3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic1YSEmJFTYd8WrufinV1oCVk2ztW0JL0H-mn2TEG-LFiTAyFrGgPl4uOIyIR1TVsx_vE7xVAMuNpcTLljEIMWJIuVmwMZgGoS11bqyq95u6O0htKyJyc74-Upm_4yrKiQde_UY-y7wpfi/s320/race3.jpg" width="179" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDgkkFe0A0OP4DFQpF_FGq8ryAAO28tjrCSG7AXLvI2qk-C1keWRPuahdqpeE46j-Fi0Ma0UNwsJBWN1UwwTZh6j0kMuG4I6CG40qT4Y4SjUKwMiRoHPAre0ulbOhSKPYKv4g4s83Rw9st/s1600/race4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDgkkFe0A0OP4DFQpF_FGq8ryAAO28tjrCSG7AXLvI2qk-C1keWRPuahdqpeE46j-Fi0Ma0UNwsJBWN1UwwTZh6j0kMuG4I6CG40qT4Y4SjUKwMiRoHPAre0ulbOhSKPYKv4g4s83Rw9st/s320/race4.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-20951823654889708572011-04-27T12:52:00.000-04:002011-04-27T12:52:10.032-04:00T-Minus 5 days and counting...The Flying Pig 10k is looming. My goal is to finish it in 1:30, and I really think that's an attainable goal. Lately, my average pace has been right around 14 minutes, and that's with some jogging thrown in. I'm hopeful that the adrenaline and excitement of the race atmosphere combined with my sister pushing me along will make me prosper. I'm really excited, and yet my stomach has a pit just thinking about it. I tend to psyche myself out about this stuff for some reason (a little OCD perhaps?) I don't know why it is such a big deal to me mentally...it isn't going to be the first time that I go 6.2 miles. I guess the whole goal part is what has me freaked out. So...we shall see. I walked 3 miles last night and Thursday night I'm supposed to walk 1 mile. <br />
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So many things have transpired since my last post. Easter came and went. The rain has washed away many parts of Dayton. Oh, and I've lost another 2.6 pounds, pushing me into a new decade in this journey. I couldn't have been more shocked when I stepped on the scale a few days ago. I don't know if it is the new eating habits or the new exercise or what? But, I'll take it. One question remains, "When am I going to physically feel the change?" I still feel heavier. Even though people have given me compliments and even though one of my best friends told me, "Wow, you totally have saggy butt!" (Um...thanks?) I just can't wrap my head around the fact that I have done this, I have won the good fight, and I am almost to my first mini goal of a 20 pound weight loss. Even my husband gave me a very back-handed compliment last night. (Again...um...thanks?)<br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Here is a side-by side comparison of me at Christmas 2010 and me on Easter Sunday (no, I didn't slim myself down for the sake of the photo):</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xpcwnFv3ZIo/TbhHJAQ6ezI/AAAAAAAAACw/OYMcHA5R7_U/s1600/Easter+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320px" i8="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xpcwnFv3ZIo/TbhHJAQ6ezI/AAAAAAAAACw/OYMcHA5R7_U/s320/Easter+2011.jpg" width="152px" /></a> <img border="0" height="240px" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Y1mL-XJRz0GfMiPu5HrC-qkjn28vO5iyZQSoz9uliGrWjz-na5X2vePuxG6ttpDXphlNncynZ4Qor6k2nqc167mog7jhqehiw7TpQV72_MmSsNNunNqoLvLcTeEbu7xeU5ySq7PyWfZ_/s320/Christmas+2010.bmp" width="320px" /></div><br />
<br />
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And, of course, there's this guy (YUM!):<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6sax3vgaUKk/TbhIY-jDnjI/AAAAAAAAAC4/pOKPmdqMkZ8/s1600/Easter+2011+-+G.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320px" i8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6sax3vgaUKk/TbhIY-jDnjI/AAAAAAAAAC4/pOKPmdqMkZ8/s320/Easter+2011+-+G.jpg" width="225px" /></a></div><br />
At any rate, I am looking forward to the weekend. Looking forward to the race and looking forward to the race being over! I know that after the race, I want to go back and revisit the C25K program and I also plan to take up some Zumba classes at my church. It's free, so why not?<br />
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Enjoy the rest of the week everyone!Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-63398193858350481102011-04-17T21:32:00.000-04:002011-04-17T21:32:25.386-04:00Another one bites the dust!Another weekend that is...<br />
<br />
My weekend was kind of hectic, but I did manage to get my walk in on Saturday morning. But two adventures happened while I was out. At about 2 miles in, I came to an intersection on the bike trail and look to my right to see about a dozen police officers in swat uniforms with big guns and shields, heading into the woods. I say, "Self? Am I going to be shot...or better yet, murdered?" Turns out it was a police training exercise, but still. It was creepy scary. Once I got over that, I headed onward for what I thought would be another 4 miles. I was <em>shooting</em> for 6 miles (no pun intended). But of course, another hassle had to interrupt me. At around mile 4, the rain began to come down. And it POURED! Of course before I left, I asked my husband if we had a waterproof jacket I could wear just in case it started to rain, and he gave me one, assuring me it was indeed waterproof. He could not have been more wrong! I got soaked from head to toe and my shoes were then rubbing my feet. So...I gave up at 5 miles. I was cold, drenched, and mad. I guess the good news is that I was more mad about not finishing than I was about the downpour!<br />
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Sunday lent itself to more adventure when my husband ended up having to go to work. So, no walk. BOO!<br />
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I hope to get it together this week and get back on track. Less than two weeks until the <a href="http://www.flyingpigmarathon.com/">Flying Pig 10k</a>! My original hope was to be able to jog, but at this point, I just don't think it is going to happen. I can walk very fast, but honestly my jogging capabilities are slower than my fastest walk. And when I say jogging, I mean hopping really because I am certainly not a very good runner. <br />
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After the Pig is over, I am going back to the basics. I plan to use the <a href="http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml">Couch-to-5K ® Running Plan</a> so that I can get it together by September. I am hoping to be able to run the entire <a href="http://www.usafmarathon.com/">Air Force 5k</a> by that time. I have a few friends who are registering for that one and I REFUSE to let these smaller girls take me down!Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-23200838950765448582011-04-15T08:39:00.000-04:002011-04-15T08:39:29.621-04:00TGIF!Ah, it's Friday, and I have the Spring itchies like no other! I feel like I need to take a day off work and clean my house from top to bottom. I have been so thrilled that I have been able to open my windows in the evening and let the breeze freshen up my house. What a wonderful feeling!<br />
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I'm kind of bummed because tomorrow is my 6 mile day and it is supposed to rain. Honestly, I'll be really irritated if I can't go. I suppose I could just suck it up and exercise in the rain, but that doesn't really sound like my idea of a good time...<br />
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Other than that, things have been going along relatively smoothly. Work is steady and the kiddo is doing wonderful after his surgery. He has been such a trooper. He had his follow-up appointment with the ENT yesterday and the ENT told me that everything looked clear. And pretty much, that's all he said. (It's pretty obvious that those folks don't attend any kind of bedside manner classes in med school.)<br />
<br />
I decided to weigh myself yesterday and I am down another 1.2 pounds. And while that sounds great, it really isn't that good to me because that is only a .6 pound loss per week. I've really had some struggles over the past few weeks with all of the Easter candy laying around and just a general need to snack due to stress. You see, it never stops. I don't think I will ever have a point in my life where the temptation goes away. I suppose it is an addiction like any other addiction. I understand, to a very small degree, why people continuously "fall off the wagon" when it comes to drugs and alcohol. And for that matter, I have suffered a different addiction in my own personal life that I also continue to struggle with everyday. Vices and habits are VERY hard to break!<br />
<br />
So, I think it's time for me to really kick it up a notch. I still have yet to sit down and really think about what my goals are. Both in the short-term and the long-term. I think it's a good time to start dealing with this since I feel pretty comfortable in my workout and weight-loss routine. I just don't want to be unrealistic with my new journey.<br />
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I do want to share one of the new little products that I found that really helps me with my water consumption. Why someone didn't think of this before, I'll never know. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MiO">MiO liquid water enhancer</a> has been one of the greatest little creations I have seen lately. This stuff is mega concentrated so it really one takes a squirt or two to make your beverage a delightful fruity concoction! I love it! <br />
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I hope everyone has a fantastic weekend!Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-75877673172772327532011-04-08T09:13:00.000-04:002011-04-08T09:13:17.614-04:00Fantastic Article!One of my favorite blogs is <a href="http://foodtrainers.blogspot.com/">Foodtrainers</a>. Throughout this journey, I have learned to be very careful of what kind of advice or tips that I consider "valid", and this particular blog is absolutely fantastic for providing valid and real advice. Advice about healthy living, weight loss, being a mommy who is trying to do it all, and many other items of interest. When I looked at the <a href="http://foodtrainers.blogspot.com/2011/04/dont-be-so-hard-on-yourself-doesnt.html">most recent blog post</a> I was really stunned at how it was a picture perfect replica of my life. Not just prior to this new journey, but even now.<br />
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Over the past few weeks, and in particular since my son had his surgery, I have found myself being a lot more lenient in regards to grazing and having a bite of this or that each day. And what I have come to realize is this: "You are still in the beginning stages of this new lifestyle, and you simply cannot cheat." I am not at the point where <a href="http://foodtrainers.blogspot.com/2011/04/dont-be-so-hard-on-yourself-doesnt.html">"Don't be so hard on yourself"</a> is applicable. This might sound really harsh and it might seem like I am setting myself up for a disaster in the long-term, but I don't really think so. I NEED to be harder on myself when it comes to snacking on the wrong things because I have not reached my goal. And I am not going to attain that goal if I live in such a way that allows me to backslide into old habits. Those are the very habits that got me to where I was in the first place. Now, I'm not saying that you can't indulge. In fact, I wrote a previous blog post about this very thing. But what I am saying is that those 10 M&M's that I am eating every single day in the blink of an eye are going to add up! <br />
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However, I absolutely love the end of the blog that talks about your Victory List. I'm not really into all of the Psycho-Babble that goes on in today's culture, but I do believe that rewarding yourself in a positive manner creates significant strides in your self-confidence and allows you to move that tiny small step ahead towards your personal goals. I am also a person who loves a challenge, so I think it would be helpful for me to set a small goal for each day, and then celebrate at the end of the day with a much needed pat on the back!<br />
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Having said that, my husband should be thrilled when our closet space begins to slowly disappear due to my new DSW shopping habit. I deserve it, right? :-) Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-17366356718859917422011-04-01T19:41:00.000-04:002011-04-01T19:41:25.321-04:00Surgery was a success and a WooHoo Weigh-In!I want to first tell you that my son's surgery went very well! It was not without issue, however, because he had some ill effects from the anesthesia. It made him really sick! But his recovery has been fast and he bounced back very quickly. Now, to work on my own recovery...<br />
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I haven't exercised since last Sunday, which makes me feel really bad. It really couldn't be helped considering we were preparing for his surgery and watching over him during recovery. But, nonetheless, I feel weak and tired. I need to get back to this very soon! My eating habits have also slacked over the past week. I haven't been horrible, but I found myself slipping back into choosing bad things to eat, and I want to get over that. It is SO easy to pick horrible food because it is too convenient and I was also stress eating...A LOT.<br />
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Having said that, I finally weighed myself this morning on a total whim. I actually wasn't going to, but it was killing me. I am happy to report that over the last few weeks, I have lost another 3.2 pounds. Most of that was because I continued to make good food choices as well as pound out some serious foot movement on the pavement. Part of me can't help but think I've also lost some muscle mass because I didn't work out for several days. Who knows? Regardless, it's time to get busy and back on track to my overall weight loss goals!<br />
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What kinds of things do you do to get back on track after falling off the weight loss wagon?Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-65145390432062236102011-03-26T15:28:00.000-04:002011-03-26T15:28:49.300-04:00It's Saturday!I had another great exercise day, although I have to admit, I didn't run or jog at all. It was 28 degrees when I went out this morning and my legs were just not letting me go any faster. But, I had to get the mileage in. I almost feel really strange lately if I don't exercise. I was supposed to jog this past Thursday, but ended up going to a friend's <a href="http://www.thirtyonegifts.com/">Thirty-One</a> party and eating some seriously yummy snacks.<br />
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At any rate, here are my stats for today:<br />
<br />
Distance: 4 Miles<br />
Duration: 56 minutes<br />
Calories burned: 717<br />
Average Heart Rate: 170<br />
Maximum Heart Rate: 180 (A little better than last Saturday)<br />
In Heart Rate Zone: Not very long...<br />
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I was supposed to go for 4.5 miles, but I just didn't have it in me. I was absolutely freezing and my hip started to bother me.<br />
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I wish I could say that I have a weigh-in update, but I don't. I haven't weighed myself in a few weeks because I just don't want to see the scale go up or stay even. That would be completely irritating. I plan to weigh-in sometime mid next week.<br />
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My husband and I have been preparing our son for his surgery this coming Tuesday. He is going to have ear tubes put in and his adenoids removed. I have been praying for a speedy recovery as well as some kind of remedy to his near constant sinus and nasal problems. This week he started yet another cold. It is so ironic to me that as soon as he completed his last course of antibiotics that his nose began to run once again. I am convinced that his adenoids are causing the problems, at least I hope.<br />
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So for the next couple of days I plan to hang out with him as much as I can and will post another report after his surgery on Tuesday.<br />
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If you pray (or even if you don't), will you consider saying a little prayer for us as we go into surgery Tuesday morning?Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-2884188927108606442011-03-22T21:16:00.000-04:002011-03-22T21:16:50.712-04:00It's OfficialYep, it's official. Well, by my non-medical standards anyway, but my hip bursitis has returned. I began my bout with bursitis many, many years ago. It has come and gone over the years, but for whatever reason, it has decided to rear its ugly head at me. And darn it hurts! I imagine it is from all of this crazy exercising I have been doing, but it isn't going to stop me!<br />
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I guess I have to ice it every once in a while and just move on. <br />
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Does anyone else have this problem, or do you have aches and pains that just nag you?Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-88620673527988974072011-03-20T21:21:00.001-04:002011-03-20T21:23:34.787-04:00A much better end to the week!After my sort of fail earlier this week, I decided to simply move on. All I can do is better, so better I did. I did very well with my food choices and never went overboard, not even this weekend!<br />
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I might add that Chili's restaurant has a FABULOUS dinner called Margarita chicken. It comes with a grilled chicken breast over a small amount of rice and the most fabulous black beans! According to <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Eat-This-That-2011-pounds-/dp/160529313X?ie=UTF8&tag=widgetsamazon-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Eat This, Not That</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=widgetsamazon-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=160529313X" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px! important; padding-left: 0px! important; padding-right: 0px! important; padding-top: 0px! important;" width="1" /> is has 580 calories. Which for a large dinner is really great! Not only that, black beans are SO good for you. According to <a href="http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2003/12/031205053236.htm">one study</a>, black beans have more antioxidant activity, gram for gram, than other beans. And no, I suffered no indelicate side effects.<br />
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On Saturday, I went for one of my infamous jog/walks and managed to exercise for a distance of 4 miles with the following stats:<br />
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Duration: 54 minutes<br />
Calories burned: 708<br />
Average Heart Rate: 170<br />
Maximum Heart Rate: 180 (A little better than last Saturday)<br />
In Heart Rate Zone: Not very long...<br />
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All in all, my mile average was 13.5 minutes. I say that's not too shabby for someone who doesn't really run. Actually, I have no idea how far I ran, but I ran when I could until I just couldn't do it any more. And then I walked in between. I realize this really isn't a 'proper' way to train, but it's working for me.<br />
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Then today, I went on a shorter jog/walk for 2.5 miles. Sunday is generally a more relaxed exercise day as far as mileage, and then I build during the week. But, I finished it in 34 minutes and still burned almost 400 calories, so I'll take it.<br />
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My son and I have come up with one awesome fruit smoothie, so when I got back from exercising this evening, he helped me make smoothies for the family. Here is my favorite version:<br />
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1 banana, sliced by a 3 1/2 year old (if you don't have one of those, you can cut it yourself; it just won't be as cute.)<br />
1/2 bag of frozen strawberries (I think the bag was 16 oz.)<br />
1/2 cup 100% apple juice (this helps the sweetness factor)<br />
1 5.3 oz. container of whatever Greek yogurt you like. We used <a href="http://www.fageusa.com/products/fage-total-0-percent/#">Fage</a> with honey.<br />
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Whip that bad boy in the blender and you have an awesome treat for you and one that your kid will even drink! I choose Greek yogurt because of the really high protein content and lower sugar count than regular yogurt. I also read that it helps your muscles recover after a workout. I'll let you know tomorrow if that's true.<br />
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I'm supposed to weigh-in tomorrow, but I am absolutely scared to death. I may wait until later in the week and try to get on a new weigh-in schedule. Weighing in on Friday seems so much better than Monday. I always have a 'case of the Mondays' anyway...who wants to add a weigh-in to that?Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-32587492381503191872011-03-15T20:53:00.000-04:002011-03-15T20:53:47.442-04:00Keep on keepin' on!I wish I had a WooHoo Weigh-In to report, but unfortunately I was up .6 pounds this week. BOO! But, I actually am well aware of what happened (at least I think), and old habits do not die fast for me. It really takes one day of bad eating to throw things off. In my case, I ate kind of crappy all weekend. So, I suppose this is what happens.<br />
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I have definitely realized that I have to be very disciplined at this point in my journey, because I am not in maintenance phase. I am in the beginner phase, and being very strict is key! I don't like it, but as they say, "It Is What It Is."<br />
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I did do my training jog/walk on Sunday evening and I also managed to get in a Leslie Sansone workout tonight. It has been really rainy and dark here today and I almost talked myself out of exercising, but I put those big girl panties on and worked out anyway. And in the end, I feel better for it!<br />
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With that, I'll keep on keepin' on this week and hopefully I'll have a better weigh-in next Monday. Or maybe I'll switch it to Friday so I can weigh-in before the weekend? :-)Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-55576310966612886002011-03-12T14:32:00.000-05:002011-03-12T14:32:48.308-05:00And we're off!I had my last jog/walk this week from my training plan for the 10k that I am participating in on April 30th. Today's walk (and I am saying walk because I would be lying if I said I actually ran) was 3.5 miles. Using my new <span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Polar-Womens-Heart-Monitor-Bronze/dp/B001U0OFD2?ie=UTF8&tag=widgetsamazon-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Polar FT4</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=widgetsamazon-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B001U0OFD2" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span>, I was able to determine the following stats:<br />
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Duration: 50 minutes 30 seconds<br />
Calories burned: 665 (WooHoo!)<br />
Average Heart Rate: 170<br />
Maximum Heart Rate: 183 (Yikes!)<br />
In Heart Rate Zone: 6 minutes 58 seconds<br />
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Now, I'm guessing the last part is bad. I was only "in my zone" for right around 7 minutes. When you initially set-up the heart rate monitor, it asks you to enter all of your stats like sex, height, weight, etc. I assume that it determines your appropriate heart rate zone for the duration of your exercise activity based on your stats. I'm guessing mine was too high. Guess I have to work on that...and read what that actually means.<br />
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Otherwise, I feel great!<br />
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Next week's plan is as follows:<br />
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Sunday (yep tomorrow): 2 Miles<br />
Tuesday: 3 Miles<br />
Thursday: 2 Miles<br />
Saturday: 4 Miles<br />
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I really don't have a particular running pattern yet. I basically just try to warm up by walking and then run as far as I can without passing out. Today I probably ran a total of .75 miles. I guess that isn't bad for someone who "isn't a runner." But we shall see how this goes!<br />
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Oh, and to relate back to <a href="http://2011myjourneyhealthierme.blogspot.com/2011/03/foodtrainers-secret-ingredient-for.html">my post from earlier this week</a>; I plan to have some Texas Sheet Cake to celebrate my step-son's birthday this evening. At least I planned it and already know what I'm going to eat, right? Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-40777440013146897992011-03-12T14:21:00.000-05:002011-03-12T14:21:40.143-05:00A few lessons learned<span class="messageBody">“Most people who fail in their dreams fail not from lack of ability but from lack of commitment” ~ Zig Ziglar</span><br />
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I found this quote on another blog and I really love it! It's so true and certainly applies to my life. I looked back on my blog posts from the beginning of this journey and I have really learned quite a few things. But, I have SO far to go! Not really as far as actual "pounds lost", but my mentality is so immature. I learn new things every single day about health, food, weight loss, and about myself. One thing is certain, I do not have the lack of ability to make this happen. But do I have the commitment?<br />
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I like to think that I am committed. But it is really hard! I have found through this process that I am not a Superwoman, nor will I ever be. I have weaknesses. I like food that is bad (well, to the contrary, it is really good.) I have a lot going on during the week. I am a mother of a very rambunctious three year old. I am trying to be a good wife. I am trying to faithfully serve my God. And on and on and on.<br />
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But thus far, I have learned many things and it only reinforces why I am committed to fulfilling my dreams of being healthy and feeling good! Let me share a few of those realizations with you:<br />
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1. I have to consistently exercise. I have led a lifestyle that didn't incorporate exercise and it is way to easy for me to slip right back onto the couch and watch television.<br />
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2. I really love finding and trying whole and healthy foods to eat. Who knew that fruits and veggies could be so tasty? And might I add, I make a really mean fruit smoothie!<br />
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3. I cannot do it all at once. I am the kind of person that becomes obsessed with things almost to the point of insanity. I realize this about myself, yet I continue to do it anyway! This is exactly what the title of the blog states: a journey. A journey is a lifetime of change, not a one day turnaround.<br />
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4. I feel really good in my own skin. I haven't felt this way in a long time.<br />
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5. My son has taken notice of the changes I have made. This simply amazes me that I can make such a significant impact in his young little life. He asks me all the time, "Mommy, are you going to do your ets-ercise?"<br />
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6. I really love Greek yogurt! Why didn't we have this sooner???<br />
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7. I have the ability to do this and the commitment continues to burn inside of me. It's awesome!<br />
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8. I love to blog. It does take time, but it is so important in my self-accountability. <br />
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These are just a few things that I can name off the top of my head. I am certain there are more exciting lessons to be learned!Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-41954301223731816102011-03-07T12:27:00.001-05:002011-03-07T12:27:39.598-05:00Foodtrainers: The Secret Ingredient for Weight LossI am loving this article. I really believe it is true. Now, if I could only convince myself of that, I'd be all set!<br />
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<a href="http://foodtrainers.blogspot.com/2011/03/secret-ingredient-for-weight-loss.html?spref=bl">Foodtrainers: The Secret Ingredient for Weight Loss</a>Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5919294293261607377.post-23484894039806495522011-03-07T09:14:00.001-05:002011-03-07T09:16:03.515-05:00My new gadget and a WooHoo Weigh InWell, it really wasn't a WooHoo Weigh In, but I'll take it. I'm only down .6 pounds, but I know exactly what happened. It all started Friday afternoon and went down hill from there. I went to a really awesome deli/sandwich shop and I'm sure that didn't help...and neither did the Laura's iced cookie that I had for dessert. Oh, and then came the biscuits and sausage gravy for breakfast on Saturday morning (which might I add that I will never have store bought frozen buttermilk biscuits again, so lesson learned. Those things are little heart attacks in a bag!) And then came the ultimate downfall of the weekend, the movie theater. And we all know what happens at the movie theater, right? Yep, you got it, popcorn. And lots of butter. But you know, it was fabulous and now I'm moving on. I am thankful that I didn't gain anything. But now I know what I can't do, otherwise the pounds will come back!<br />
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I am sad to say that my fabulous Omron pedometer is being shipped back to Amazon. In my last post, I told you about the jog/walk that I went on with my friend, and I used the pedometer. I was very, very disappointed when at the end of the walk, it only registered 1.91 miles. I know for a fact that we walked almost 3 miles and I wanted to throw the thing out in the field behind my house. Fortunately, Amazon has a fantastic return policy and I actually ended up purchasing something to replace it. After much research, I found the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Polar-Womens-Heart-Monitor-Bronze/dp/B001U0OFD2?ie=UTF8&tag=widgetsamazon-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Polar FT4 Women's Heart Rate Monitor Watch</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=widgetsamazon-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B001U0OFD2" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px! important; padding-left: 0px! important; padding-right: 0px! important; padding-top: 0px! important;" width="1" />. It truly has everything that I want in a gadget and I think this is going to be the device for me. I don't really need anything for distance because the bike paths behind my house are marked. I am going to use those as my training guide for my upcoming race. <br />
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If you are interested in seeing the trails that I use for training, you can find them <a href="http://www.miamivalleytrails.org/miami.htm">here</a>. I have a fantastic asset right in my back yard! I use "Xenia to Spring Valley" portion. <br />
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That's all I have for now. Have a fabulous week everyone!Terrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203558873259694566noreply@blogger.com1