So you say you want to sell your house (part 3)

So, you sold your house...you found one you like and it isn't falling into the ground and you agreed on a number.  Next up on the list is starting your loan!

We started at our local bank but when our paperwork wasn't correct, we decided to go with a friend of mine.  This honestly has been the easiest part of the whole process!  We brought the paperwork he needed to work up everything and that was it!

Now we are waiting for the appraisals to get done.  Until those are done, we can't get the lone completed!  AHHHHHH!

For once this is all I have to type!  No novel to read :)  You're welcome!

~ <3 ~
Me

So you say you want to sell your house (part 2)

So last I posted, I left you at the point in our journey where we had received an offer on our home.  Let's just save you the frustration and anxiety of the "haggling" :)  After some back and forth, we finally came to an agreement with the buyer.  YAY!

OH.....now the fun stuff....what stays and what goes.  We were pretty lucky with this aspect in that the buyer wasn't too demanding.  So next step was having our home inspected!  They came, they left, all was well.  We are very blessed and lucky that my husband is handy and everything since we have moved in was updated or replaced.

So....that is all done....so now what?  OH, the best part!  Now you find a home in the process of all this mess.

WELL, we found one!  I walked in and felt peace.  I felt like I was home.  I could see our family growing up there.  So, we made an offer.  Now, we were thinking that we would have some "haggling" and be done....like our house.  OH NO!  The seller wanted nothing to do with our offer (which by the way was very fair for the area).  So, we came back again with a better offer.  OH NO!  Again wanted nothing to do with it.  Is it us?  Do we smell funny?

We make one final offer....laid it all out on the table.  FINALLY!  The seller accepted with terms we laid out.  So, now what?  Inspection time!  A few safety concerns, but its small enough that the seller should be able to take care of it.  Now onto the loan.

We sat down to sign off our loan and the agreement paperwork wasn't written up the way we intended it to.  SO, back to square one and we resubmit the offer (no less money to the seller) and we wait.  This whole process has been a waiting game....the seller taking their good ole time getting back to us.  Almost two days go buy and we get a call from our realtor.

Here is the best part!  The seller came back accepting our offer but then taking back things that they agreed would stay when we first agreed!!!!  GASP!  At this point we were so fed up and angry we said we were done.  Skipping past the painful details, we ended up signing an agreement to cancel the entire agreement.  Then the seller changed their tone.....to the point of doing repairs that we didn't even ask to be done that the inspector noted in his report.

We waited and gave ourselves time to really think things over.....and decided to continue with the buying of this house.

Thanks for reading today!  Next up is the loan and appraisal process....OH YAY!  Stay tuned!

~ <3 ~
Me

So you say you want to sell your house? (part 1)

No, this isn't fitness related, but this is what my life entails right now, so I want to share it!

So you decided to sell your house did you??  Thought it would be simple, fun, and easy did you? 

It took us almost 2 years to finally decide to list our home.  We decided to list with a Realtor who we were confident with and who (through friends) got the job done and fast. 

Someone came to take pictures.  I will tell you that if you EVER want to feel like you are living in a strangers home, prep your house for showings.  We moved furniture to our Aunt's house and we cleared all counters and clutter.  I am still looking for things that we have put away.  SO, you get the photos taken....a few days later....BAM!!!!  Your house is officially listed online for thousands of people to see.

So not only am I paranoid wondering what people think about the photos.  I am wondering if they like them enough.....will anyone come and see our house....did we list it too high....what if we miss out on a house we love because ours isn't sold yet.  My brain has been in overdrive.

So our home gets listed on a Tuesday.  Tuesday afternoon my phone goes off and someone wants to see it already the following day.  SO, we have a plan....get home from work....organize a bit and vacuum....pack up the two kids and two dogs.  We head out and grab some dinner and take the kids to the park. 

When you show your house you are given an hour time window.  This means the potential buyer can come 10 minutes before the time or 10 minutes after the end of the hour and stay until they are done.  Now, having two young children and two dogs with you, you hope they come early and leave ASAP so you can just get back home :)

Then you walk back through your door and see that little business card sitting on your counter and all you can think about is "What did they think?!"  "Will they make an offer?!".  So, you just basically have to wait and see!  We are lucky that our Realtor sends a survey which lets you know what the potential buyer thought.  The survey came back great!  So great that they came in and made an offer.....a very low offer.  We were disappointed, but started the "haggling" process and fingers crossed that it would come to an agreement.

That is where I will leave you today...this was a long one.  I will continue within the next few days of part 2!  Thanks for reading!

~ <3 ~
Me

Hit The Bottom

I have officially hit my rock bottom point since starting my journey.  Not everything I do and everything I post is positive.  Sometimes I have to keep it real and be honest with myself and others and let you know that it isn't always a glamorous fitness life.

I got dressed this morning....looked in the mirror.  I saw it.  I felt it.  I looked squishier.  My smaller jeans are getting uncomfortable.  My face is getting rounder.

My eating has been out of control.  My fitness has been lacking.  Just because I am an online fitness coach doesn't mean I can't have moments of weakness.  I still struggle with my eating issues.

I have to do something.  I haven't gotten this far to lose it all.  I worked too hard to give up.  YES I am stressed.....YES I have a lot going on, but I CAN'T use these as excuses!  I WILL NOT GIVE UP!

I refuse to be that tired, lazy, exhausted Mom.  I refuse to be the woman ashamed of her body. 

I WILL be the wife I intended to always be
I WILL be the mother that runs and plays with her children
I WILL be the woman who walks with confidence
I WILL get back into a routine
I WILL start eating better
I WILL NOT........GIVE UP!!!!!

~ <3 ~
Me

Where Have I Been?

Wow......It has been since February since I have last posted an entry.  My trainer recently asked me if I still kept up with my blog.  I had to think about it and realized that I hadn't!  So many things have changed in my life.  A lot on our plate here at home, I started a new job (which has been amazing), I have been struggling in my journey, and I have definitely fallen off the wagon.

All my life I have a pattern.  Whether it was work, or relationships, hobbies, goals.  I start and throw myself into it but then slowly I cut back and taper off and cut things entirely.  I am looking into why I do this.....I am not lazy.....but there is something.  So, here I am getting ready to start all over again!

I am keeping up with my trainer once a week, but once a week isn't enough.  The at home DVD's make it so easy to slack or turn off or just avoid in general.  Ideally, I would win the lottery and hire my trainer daily and also hire a chef to prep and pack everything for me.  Oh.....dreams....they are wonderful :)

So, why have I returned with my blog?  I need to change my habits and I also felt like I was doing better in my journey when I WAS posting my blog entries.

Since my last post, I have run various races.  A 10k, a few 5k's and various workout programs.  My race times have been embarrassing and disappointing.  It is my own damn fault.  So, how convenient now that I want to start as the weather is turning cold and winter will be here before you know it.

In conclusion, here are my GOALS for the remainder of 2015.
-excercise more regularly
-healthier choices and tracking my food
-more personal development (helps stay positive)
-more time with family and friends
-more unplugging from social networking

What are YOUR goals to finish strong this year.  Have you accomplished any that you set in January?  Thanks for reading and love to you all!

~ <3 ~
Me

Happy 100!

Happy 100th Blog Post!!!

So, I have really come a long way.  I feel like I am on this hamster wheel of fitness and going nowhere.  However, on the same hand, I see pictures like THIS and think "Wow, that is a big difference!".

I started my journey (and this blog) back in May of 2013.  I started training with my trainer in April 2014.  I have run 5k's, 10k's, done full sit ups and some band supported chin ups.  Things that I thought would NEVER be possible are becoming a reality!

I come and go on this blog.  No, I have not been consistent, but it has been so therapeutic to write when I need to vent or when I need to find support to keep going in my journey.  Have I thought of giving up?  OH SURE!  But it is so easy to just give up.  That means I am lazy and really don't care one damn bit about myself, or for that matter those around me.

A few months back, I did become a Beachbody coach.  I stepped away from that because there was a lot going on in my life and I just wasn't ready to commit.  Recently I have gotten back into it and feel so satisfied in my life.  I honestly just wasn't ready last time!  It is so hard to explain, but it just feels right the second time around.

I started by ordering a workout program called Piyo.  I never did it.  Then I read about something called 21 Day Fix.  It is a food portion control program and it helps you to not only eat the RIGHT amount, but to eat the right foods to fuel your body!  At this point in my life, I decide to say "What

the hell!".  I mean really, what else do I have to lose, right?  I get it in the mail....read up and go grocery shopping.  My first week I dropped 1.5 lbs.  Week two I dropped 1lb.  Now this past week I wasn't doing so great with the eating, but amazing with working out.  SO, this is my third week and I cannot WAIT to see how well I do!

Now for me, this program is not just a 21 Day thing and done.  This for me is a lifestyle change to keep me healthy for my family and so I can enjoy life better!  I really noticed a difference.  I have more energy, I am happier and just all around less depressed.  Now, living in Ohio, our winters are dark and dreary, so to feel this good is AMAZING :)

I joined a free online support group during this 21 day challenge and the women have been just so wonderful and motivating.  When we have a bad day, we have support.  No judgement.  It is nice to know I am not alone when I slip up and have the support and the eyes watching me making sure I don't do it again.  My Coach has been great in putting this group together, and I have met some amazing women.

So, you can join as a coach to get the amazing discounted price off Shakeology (which is ugghhhhh  so amazing) or a fitness program, but I signed up for another reason.  For that man or woman sitting there not knowing what to do with their life.  Feeling helpless and lost.  Feeling anxiety and nervousness and apprehension of joining a gym or a fitness group.  I was there!  I started running at 200 plus lbs!  My body ached.  I couldn't breathe!  But you know what?  I did it dammit!

I hate when veteran gym rats say "Oh it'll die down after a month.....no one is going to stay".  SCREW THAT!  You go up to them and say hello.  You put a smile on their face knowing that you aren't staring at them in disgust and shame and full of judgement.  That you are there to support their journey no matter what they weigh or what their goals are.  They need people in their lives that will support them and hold them up when they feel like giving up. 

SO, as I am coming up on two years into my journey now (so hard to believe) I am looking back and remembering why I am doing this and trying to stay focused.  I feel more energized and I feel more fit.  Here is to those who are just getting started!  Don't be afraid to ask for help or support.  The people around you who care for you and believe in you will back you up 100%!

My Reason

~ <3 ~

Me

Sick of Being Sick

I will tell you what.  This, hands down, has been my worst end of year yet.  Fitness wise, health wise.  I for some reason keep getting sick.  I have been doing my best keeping up with fitness which I WAS doing decently until this week!

This weekend I have been MISERABLE!  Fevers, coughing, losing my voice, sinus infection.  It never ends!

I am literally SICK of being sick.  I am doing some healthy smoothies, taking my amazing vitamins.  All I have done this weekend has been lay on the couch and sleep.  I have changed over some laundry though LoL.

My body is sore and tired and weak.  Lots of water for me!

My next blog post will be #100!  I want it to be something big and special if I can.  We shall see :) 

Sorry that I haven't been around much.  I am trying to keep everything all in line and together!

~ <3 ~
Me

Back From The Dead

So I had to post this.  I did a blog post awhile back called RIP Fitbit One .  So My husband was letting me use his Fitbit Zip (which I didn't really like) and I got off track from using it.  SO, I browse eBay and find a used one for $30!  That is a steal for a $100 step counter brand new!

So, I buy it and it says I should get it in just a few days.  So, while I am completing my order, I go and find my old one to get it's accessories together.  I decided to give it one more go at working and BAM.  It turns on!  I couldn't believe it!!!!  I kid you not I had tried just a few weeks prior to turn it on again and nothing happened.

I charge it up and it works just fine!  SO, I decided to give this new (used) fitbit one to my husband.  I FINALLY got it today!  It took 2 weeks from Texas to get here...ridiculous!!  So I am charging it up for my husband so he can use it, and I am giving the Fitbit Zip to a friend who I know will love it and use it daily like I am now doing again.

I missed my Fitbit One.  I don't know what about it makes me use it more, but I enjoy it and I did miss it.  Just a quick post to share!

I  plan on running with Toby tonight since the weather is so gorgeous.  I can't wait to get home!

~ <3 ~
Me

The Inner Crossfit Struggle and Other Struggles

**Warning - Rant Near The End**

Ok, so recently I started researching Crossfit.  My trainer doesn't like it so much, doctors don't seem to support it, and article upon article I read tells me I will become hospitalized and just fall to pieces.

On the other side, I have friends that are avid "Crossfitters" and some that go every once and awhile.  I also know people who are hard core into it and everything else sucks.

I am so confused!  There are two "Boxes" near my home.  Probably the same distance, however they have different hours.  One has later hours for WOD time and the other has them in the morning/afternoon.  Both have mandatory newbie type classes to learn technique and such so that you DON'T fall to pieces.

I feel like as much time as I put into researching, I can't find anything that makes me decide one way or the other.

On top of that I have the financial struggle.  I want so bad to start the Piyo program through BeachBody and train with my friend who has become a coach.  It's so expensive and I just can't swing it right now but I want to so bad!  OH the struggles LOL

It is so frustrating that almost daily we are bombarded with these "options" for us.  WHICH, by the way, none of them are cheap or feesable.  Why should I have to sit and say "Hmmm groceries this week or a new fitness routine?".  The one that aggravates me the most is the "Hmmm $100 for groceries, or $300 for organic pesticide free so my family can grow healthy and disease free."

WHY SHOULD WE HAVE TO MAKE THAT DECISION?!?!?!?!?!

It should be organic or bust.  We don't need bananas the size of a squirrel or watermelons the side of my 3 year old son.  I will take organic over not ANY day.  BUT.....why does it have to be so expensive.  They are making it too easy to choose the disease causing foods because it's affordable.  Because in today's times you need a double income to aid in child care, mortgages, and other expenses.  SO when it comes to your monthly expenses you have to save money.  After cutting tv, phone....you start looking elsewhere and it is TOO easy to do it to the food.

It digusts me that we live in a country so in bed with pharmaceutical companies and the government that SOMEHOW they have brainwashed a large percentage of people that live here.  Look around....how many fit people do you see?  Not as many as I would like.  When you go out to eat, why do they give you food for 4 people on your plate?

Ok, seriously I could go on and on and on.

My squirrel moment brought to you via: Our son announcing he is swinging by himself.....and he is.  Pumping his legs.  All by himself.  

Ok, so any who.  I guess I am just so overwhelmed that I don't know what to do, where to start, and what to believe.  My sensory issues are on overload and I think I am losing my mind.

If you have made it this far, I applaud you and thank you.  If you didn't, I totally get it :)

~ <3 ~
Me

BUSTED!

I had to laugh today.  I had my PT (Personal Training) today and as it got started my trainer says "Anything hurting or sore today?"  I then say "Yes my legs, but I ran Monday and did my workout sheet you gave me last night."  He then proceeds with "I thought you didn't do your workout sheet I gave you??  That is what you said in your blog!"

BUSTED!!!!

I had to laugh because he was right!  See what happens when you share your blog with your trainer???  You get BUSTED!  But I knew I would get in trouble some day!  Maybe I sabotaged myself? HaHaHa

Today was a good day....lots of core and upper body work.  I think he tried to kill me today.  In a good way!  I always love my PT days.  I feel rejuvenated and awakened! 

I had such an amazing response to my Why I Chose A Personal Trainer blog.  Thank you all so much!  I had so many people contacting me asking me about my Trainer, Tommy, at YDM Fitness.  How often to I go, and what do I do when I go.  I was so honored for such a great response, but also proud of my trainer for helping me to inspire others to possibly seek help in their own journey. 

So I have to take a moment and mention two huge things!

1) My best friend Yurisa has been keeping with her own healthy lifestyle and has been KILLING it!  She has lost like 30lbs and is looking like one hot Mama!  Way to go girlie!  You are now MY inspiration! 

2) I have talked about a My Fitness Pal friend named BeingKevin before in my posts and how he has so inspired me in my own journey.  I realized (a month later) that after my 10k that I hadn't seen any posts from him!  I search for his name and he has been deactivated.  I panicked!!  I found a thread that stated he got overwhelmed by social connections and had to start fresh and has joined a new calorie counting site.  I am glad for his journey and that he is keeping up with it, but I will miss him!

Ok my friends....I am done for the night.  I don't have much to say but I hope you stick with me because I am planning on getting another good blog up! 

~ <3 ~
Me

Why I Chose A Personal Trainer

I hear so many different things from so many different people.

"I know what I need to do...why should I pay for it?"
"I can just do this at home"
"What can they possibly tell you that you don't already know?"
"I can just look it up online and find routines."

Here is the thing.  I tried working out at home.  I tried the DVD's.  No matter how much I research online, I feel overwhelmed.  There is SO much stuff out there.  Arms, legs, back, chest....HOOOOOOOLD on a minute.  I mean how much weight should I be using....how many times should I do it?  I will tell you what.  I can't take it!

You know what?  Go.  Right now.  Get on Google and search fitness routines or strength training routines.  How many did you find?  I found over 20,000,000.  That's MILLION in case you didn't notice.  Who has time to sift through all of that garbage?!

When I was at my old gym, I did one free training session.  You know, the usual.  "This is what this machine does....give it a try".  BLEH.  Anywho, I had dropped 20lbs by this point and knew I needed to start building up muscle to take care of my "flappy skin".  It was starting to hang on me and I needed to do something and something fast.  So, I signed up for training with a trainer (let's just call him Bob).  As I am talking to "Bob" I am trying to get to know him.

I ask him where he went to school to get his degree.  His response was "Oh I didn't go to school for this, but I went through certification."  (granted I am sure there are certified trainers who are amazing at their jobs and are very passionate, so please don't take offense) Why this didn't stop me in my tracks....I just figured that this was ok for me.  From there we went right to mainly leg machines as he talked to other members on and off the whole time.  I had training with Bob once a week.  My concern was my knee because after running I was in so much pain.  So he said we needed to strengthen my thigh and my inner thigh to protect my knee.  That was the end of that.  No weigh in.  No measurements.  I had no idea where I started and where I was headed or what my goals were.

I can honestly tell you that when I went for those training sessions....I was in SO much pain!  I couldn't sit down on a toilet without support for AT LEAST 3-4 days.  I do this routine on a weekly basis for 2 months.  No results.  Just miserable times being so sore and uncomfortable and just burnt out because I was so discouraged.

By the end of the second month a patient of mine was telling me about a man she went to school with who opened his own gym.  He was passionate and intelligent.  This was his life calling and he embraced and loved being a personal trainer and fitness/health in general.  He made it a challenge, but made it enjoyable.  She told me that he gave her a workout plan to do when she wasn't at her training session.  He took all of her beginning measurements.  He gave her a daily food plan!  Seriously!?  A food plan!?

By the end of her appointment she gave me his number and I called right away.  He was personable and not pushy at all.  You know how sometimes the trainers push you into it like a sales pitch and they are guaranteed commission when you sign on the line?  He wasn't like that at all.

He explained to me that my first visit is a free consult.  He works with you to see where your limits are and how far you can currently go so that you can aim for a future goal.  I was PETRIFIED!  But I set up my free consult figuring the worst that could happen was that NOTHING would happen.

During my appointment, I did so many different things.  He really tested me and pushed the limits.  When we were done we got my current weight and measurements from head to toe.  He asked me what my goals were and what I wanted to accomplish and he told me what the plan was!  He was so genuine and you could just feel the passion oozing out of his pores.  He loved what he did and it showed!!  It made me feel so at ease and I signed up then and there.

At my next session he had a typed up sheet of a workout routine (very detailed) to do every other day.  He also gave me an eating routine!  Super easy foods (other than the fish that my husband is allergic to).  When I felt like my weight loss was at a stand still he recommended a protein supplement which has been amazing.  He is available when I have a question and doesn't make me feel stupid with questions I have.

It's like a light bulb went off in my head and I knew this was the right thing for me to do!  I can tell you that within a month of training with Tommy I have tightened and toned so much!  Such a huge improvement!  He always jokes and says "How was that compared to 'Bob'?".  I am working on the food thing and need to get back into my PT "Homework". 

Why did I choose a personal trainer?  Accountability.  Knowing I would disappoint someone because I am not willing to try harder and fight for the body and lifestyle I deserve!  I am lazy!  History proves that.  I don't care what DVD or YouTube video is out there....I don't do it.  I have a ton of them already collecting dust on a shelf.  I need the help!  I need the guidance!

So, people say they don't need a trainer and they won't get anything out of it.  You are wrong!  If you DO have the ability to do it all on your own, congratulations.  But having that strong base and knowledge...it's priceless.

So, again I say.... why did I choose a personal trainer?  It was what was best for me and I wouldn't change it for the world.  My fitness relationship with my trainer is great and he is supportive but still a firm trainer and it is what I need in MY life.  I have progressed so much in such a small amount of time and yes I have done this, but not without my trainers help and guidance.  I can do assisted chin ups!  HELLO!?!?  I think that's amazing and I can't wait to do my first full chin up by myself....it is a goal of mine!

So thank you to my trainer Tommy at YDM Fitness!  You truly inspire and it is so evident the passion and drive you have for your career.  It isn't just a job to you and I am sure I am not the only client who appreciates your work and dedication.  My husband thanks you too ;) I am looking quite fit these days HaHaHa

I hope this helps others who have been considering working with a trainer.  Please look into them and make sure they are qualified and experienced and care about their clients and to them you are not just another number to add to their list.  Don't be just a dollar sign to them....make sure you are important!

~ <3 ~
Me

A time you hate being a woman.....

I'll tell you what....when that "time of the month" is approaching I am just a big ball of bloaty blah-ness.  I have no motivation to exercise and all I want to do it eat!  And not just normal eating....junk food eating.  Chips, ice cream, chocolate.  You name it....I want to ingest it!

I have been feeling so out of sorts all week and this morning I didn't even look forward to my PT (personal training) session.  Those are the highlight of my week so that I can get back into the groove if I was slowing down.  So this morning I look at my handy little calendar and there it was.  BAM it starts next week.  I knew it.  Otherwise why the hell would I feel this way!?

Our kids have been FINALLY feeling better after being sick for almost 2 weeks.  I started giving them a Claritin every morning because our son keeps saying his head hurt and we have decided he has awful allergies and sinus issues.  It has helped him so much!  I hate taking medicine and I hate giving it to my kids, but in this instance it was worth it.

SO, now that they are starting to get better I can refocus and get back into the swing of being healthy.  I signed up for one 5k every month through september and I am so excited.  I am thrilled too because my husband has decided to train and run with me!  To be able to share this part of my life with him really makes me super happy.  We are together all the time but something like this really gives you a different connection.  To run with him will be so fun.  My heart is so full!

Our daughter graduated Pre-School since my last post and she is so excited to start kindergarten.  I am not as excited that this time has gone by so quickly, but here we are :)  Our son starts pre-school this fall as well.  Both of them starting school....where has the time gone!

This post is kind of all over the place, but I enjoy emptying my brain even if it isn't all fitness related.

Ok, I need to shove off here.  Thanks for stopping by!  My next race is June 29th in the Danny Parmertor Memorial Run to raise money for scholarships in our cousin Danny's name.  I can't wait for it in just a few short weeks!

Enjoy your day and stay active!!

~ <3 ~
Me

My 1 Year Journey Through Photos

I figured I would post my journey through photography so you can all see what I have tried to accomplish in 12 months!  I hit my lowest weight of 174 lbs in September.  I gained 6 lbs over Thanksgiving and Christmas.  I was with a trainer at Fitness 19 for over a month but wasn't really seeing any results.  I switched to Tommy Salvatore at YDM Fitness in April and in just a short period of time I have gained 10 lbs since my lowest weight, but I noticed going through my photos today that I am really starting to slim down quite a bit.

It was a hard decision to post these personal photos of myself, but people needed to see what can be accomplished!!

November 2011 - 200 ++ lbs

May 2013 - 203 lbs

June 2013

July 2013

August 2013

September 2013 - 174 lbs

May 2014 - 183 lbs

Side By Side Comparison!

The sports bra I am wearing is the SAME in both pictures, so you can see the difference!  I am still shocked!

~ <3 ~
Me

Ahhhhhhh....Smell That Sunshine

I was SO excited when a friend of mine asked me to go running with her today!  The sun was out, it was cold, but warm enough to pump the blood through my body!  I ran home and got into my outside cold running clothes and drove to the local metropark!

Now I am sure while we were running I felt as though I looked like the women to the right there.  The first mile for me is ALWAYS the hardest!  I always know when I go over 1 mile because it just gets so easy to run!  We had decided to run 4 and walk the last mile JUST in case my knee decided to become a literal pain.

Two miles go by and I am fairly close to my running buddy!  I have to say for not running past the 3 mile mark since November I felt like I did fairly well for myself!  We get to the end of the road and start back up again heading back to our cars.  We hit mile 3 and I give a hearty "YEAAAAAH".  The gentleman passing us thought it was amusing and laughed at me, but HEY!  I was so excited!

Now, by this point I felt like I looked like this guy to the left here LoL.  I was getting tired and my knee was feeling sore as was my shin!  WHAT THE HECK!  It was always past that 3mi mark that my knee bothered me before Thanksgiving.  BUT, I kept going!

Finally we got to the 4 mi mark and I was glad because my knee was screaming!  SO, we walked the last mile back to the cars and that was it!  I felt AMAZING!  I did 4 miles pretty much non stop with just a few seconds of a walking break.  We went up hills and down hills!  I am sure I am going to be sore tomorrow, but what are you gonna do?  Right?

I can't wait to keep going with my 5k-10k training because right now it seems impossible to run 6 miles!  I know by the end of my 9 weeks I will have it down, but it makes me nervous!  What if I can't do it!  I don't want to hit the time limit and just be done!  I know this all sounds so negative, but it's what I have been thinking of lately!

Ok, I have karate class tonight depending on how my knee feels and then it's home to relax and sleep :)  Thanks for reading and thank you to my barefoot shuffling friend who made my run possible today!  So much better than the gym!!

~ <3 ~
Me

6 Pounds Heavier

So, in the process of the holidays along with injuring my knee, I gained 6lbs.  To be honest I really thought it was more than that. I looked in the mirror and felt fat. I saw fat. My jeans weren't loose anymore. They were tight around my stomach and my hips. I was feeling tired and depressed again and didn't want to do much of anything.

I don't know what got me re-motivated. I kept up with a once a week karate workout and then maybe I'd run a few miles once a week. I had decided to cancel my gym membership and submitted my letter. I stepped on the scale and saw that 6lbs and I cried.  This was maybe 3-4 days after I cancelled my membership. I called them up and the nice woman on the phone said she could stop the cancellation. I was so relieved. I guess that 6lbs pissed me off enough to get me moving. 

A friend of mine got ahold of me and said she was doing a big 10k this summer and asked me to join her. I signed up immediately. So I dusted off the apps on my phone and got my 5k-10k app up and going. I started it on a Friday and finished my first week Wednesday and Friday. I started week 2 today. I have been a little tired because my body hasn't been used to all of the extra activity. But I've been feeling amazing!

As a side note, I have dropped 5 of those lbs so far!  I can't believe it but it has happened. I've been trying so hard to watch what I eat. I do need to get more protein in my diet to help since I started incorporating some strength training. 

I ran 3.17 miles Friday morning. That was the first time I've ran that far since before thanksgiving. It felt amazing and I was so glad I did it. Today per my training app, my pace was just a few seconds over 12:00/mile. I'm getting back down to where I was thank goodness. I was at 11:30/mile so hopefully I can even improve on that time. 

Well, off to make an egg sandwich for lunch. Thanks for reading!

Remember that we all have our moments in time where we back slide or let things go. But you can always get back to it and keep achieving your goal!

~ <3 ~

Me

The Journey To 10K

Wait....so......what is this running thing again?

So, I have been "working out" maybe two days a week....it has been enough to maintain only a 6lb weight gain.  I also have been eating like I was starving to death and haven't seen or tasted food in years.  Whatever....it's been bad and that is that.

I have kept up with my once a week karate group class that my Dad teaches, and then maybe one day after work of running?  That part only started recently.  So, i decided that last week was THE week!  I have a 10k in May my friends and that scares the CRAP out of me!

So, I got my 5k-10k App ready ( Download Here ).  I really do miss my Zombie trainer though....I had him with their Couch to 5k App.  I would be laughing out loud while I was running.  It broke some stresses when I almost gave up and it kept me moving.  Off topic, however I recommend that app to EVERYONE!

I started on Friday and did day 1.  The way I function though it put me off for a week.  The app/program itself actually trains you three days a week.

 
So ideally when we don't have THIS weather.....I can run in the evenings and keep with that schedule!

ANYWHO!  I can't stop babbling in circles today!  Back on track here.

Ok, so THIS week I did my Week 1 Day 2 on Wednesday morning...which was really a bad idea because I then had a 770 calorie burn at karate group class.  I not only was a bit sore at my class.  I was also sore in the AM!  Feel the burn right!?

So Thursday morning is a strength training day and it has been kicking my butt!  However I do notice my upper body strength improving so I can't complain.  My Thursday mornings are brought to me courtesy of Jay.  He is a personal trainer at my gym.  He is young with a young family.  AGAIN off topic LoL  He has been working on strengthening my hips and thighs because I have been having some knee pressure while running.  It's been really great!

I went today at 7am and did week 1 day 3!  My knee started to get that air bubble feeling again that hit me in November.  UGGGHHHH!  I did realize that my running shoes are almost a year old and have been used 3 times a week.  I can't NOT do this!

I called Second Sole and talked to Doug?  He always answers the phone.  He looked up my records and said "WOW!  Yeah bring the shoes in and I will check the wear, but you may need some new shoes".  Now, these shoes are SUPER expensive, but they made my feet so happy!  So I am going on Sunday during the kids nap time to hang with Doug and my running shoes...maybe we will bury them and find my back up pair.

I just re-read through what I have typed so far....this has nothing to do with my title...such a jumbled mess!  What is wrong with me today!  FULL MOON!!!!

Ok so I started my 5k-10k App and have completed week 1....there are 8 weeks more and then my 10k in May.  BAM there ya go :)  If you have managed to stick through all of that and get to this end BLESS YOU MY FRIENDS!!!  I apologize for rambling on and posting such a confusing mush of typing.  I will keep you posted on my training and let you know how it goes!

~ <3 ~
Me

A light at the end of the tunnel

My mother-in-law got a hoodie for herself....it is a size XL.  Too big for her, but she knows I love hoodies so she gave it to me!  Normally an XL would be snug fitting and just slightly uncomfortable.

BAM Here it is folks!  BIG!  An XL is BIG!

That is really all I wanted to post.  It made me smile and keeps me motivated to maintain until spring time when I can get back out and run!

~ <3 ~
Me

Seduced By Fitness

I told them that I wouldn't forget them.  I told them that "One day when the mood strikes....I WILL have my way with you".  Today....was....that....day....

It was a decent day.  The sun was shining and it was finally warmer than 38*F.  I got out of work; ran an errand; came home.  The whole way home, the sun was teasing me with it's warm caress.  The wind died down almost begging me to enjoy it. 

I couldn't see them at first, but when I got home I heard them calling my name.

I walked over and gently touched the laces....they giggled a bit.  I said "Today I am in the mood and I hope you are ready".  They were aroused at the thought of what we would do and where we would go.  I left them panting while I changed.  I got my coat on.  I put my ear warmers on (which I got for christmas and also double as headphones!  THANKS MOM AND DAD!!).  I slipped my coat on and got my GPS and music ready.

They were last.  They knew they would be.  I loosed the laces and slowly slipped into them.  It was a snug fit, but it felt amazing.  I tightened up the laces and took a quick walk around the house.  I missed that feeling.  I was awakened by it and felt my inner need to start what I had set out to do.


RUN!

Yeah, I am the next E.L. James right???  BAHAHAHAHAHA

So, off I went.  I was so nervous to run since I haven't gone since what, before Thanksgiving!?  So as I am running I almost talk myself out of it.  "It's too cold" "My feet feel funny" "My legs are already sore" "My arms feel awkward".  However, as quickly as I thought those things, they drifted away while I listened to my playlist, kept my head up, hands relaxed and started to run.

I hit the first mile and started to slow down.  I was used to running 3+ days a week and I haven't ran in 2 months!  I kept pushing and at one point I was running at 13:02 and got pissed.  I picked up the pace and made it back home at 2.10 miles.   I knew I had to start off slow, so I stopped and walked another mile.  I could have ran, but I knew not to push it.  I ran a mile at work Tuesday and was a little sore Wednesday.  I don't even want to know how I will feel tomorrow :)

So I came home, put my shoes away again.  I looked back and reassured them that I would be more

gentle next time, but they needed to be prepared to go a little longer.  It may be months before I run outside again, but it felt amazing and I FEEL AMAZING!  It was what I needed to get back into it!

Tomorrow is 30 Day Shred with Jillian Michaels and I KNOW she is going to work me hard ;)

~ <3 ~
Me

Dusting Off and Starting Fresh!

Wow.....has it really been THAT long since my last blog post?  Has it really been THAT long since I have gone running?

YUP!!!

We have had some random nice days, but nothing consistent.  We had a CRAZY deep freeze last week and, well, that wasn't going to allow me any outdoor time.  SO, today the sun was shining and the wind was decent.  I ate my lunch at work and decided to do a quick run before my afternoon began.

I ran 0.8 miles and it felt AMAZING!  I think it was just what I needed.  I plan on going to the gym after work tomorrow and running 2 or 3 miles then hitting up the elliptical for the final few to get 5 miles.  I miss it.

My heart is aching from not running.  When I have a moment to sprint across a parking lot, it is the

most amazing feeling ever.  It brings back all that enjoyment and feeling of success and victory.

Surprisingly enough, I have maintained my weight since the whole "knee issue" before Thanksgiving.  I actually lost 0.8lbs which shocked me.  I start back at karate group class tomorrow night which I am super excited about.  I miss it.  The last class I went to my Dad KILLED us!  I literally couldn't sit down on the toilet without using my arms to brace myself for 3 days!  Lunges but they make your butt look nice and perky LOL

Another lady at work got herself a Fitbit and ALL HELL has broken loose! She is the ultimate competitor and has put my fitness friend Eva and I to the test.  Because I have basically given up on my lifestyle lately, I have been able to watch those two go at it!  It is awesome to have competition though because it makes you become more active and strive to be better every day.

Now THIS poor little guy right here represents my eating in every way possible.  I guess I feel like I am eating everything in site with no control at all like I was doing before.  Before my sabbatical I would have a HARD time hitting my calorie goal.  These days I just eat, and eat, and eat, and eat, and.....well, you get the point.

I don't know why, but I am a snacker.  If I can just find something to eat I will eat it and still feel hungry.  UUUUUGGGGGGHHHHH it is so frustrating!  I seriously may go insane, but I am hoping my burst of healthy energy starts my life back up because I wanted to be at my goal weight within a year.  I know that that is a pretty high goal, but it was what I thought was possible.

Maybe it still is, but I have one heck of a long road to travel before I reach the end and begin my maintenance journey.  I am sorry to you all that I haven't been around, and I really should get back with it. 

I feel it already.  I am starting to feel more tired.  I am not as energetic and happy.  I am feeling a little depression coming on.  I NEED THIS!  I need my exercise and running as my prescription for a happy life.  Fitness is my antidepressant and I miss my natural drug so much! 

I AM getting back in the swing of it.  I WILL continue to my goal.  I WILL DO IT!  Plus, all of you are watching me and if I don't do it......boy will I feel silly right????

I hope some of you stuck around to read this, and I am sorry, but this goes to show how easy it is to fall off the wagon, and how hard it is to get back on!  We can do this!!!

~ <3 ~
Me

Hello Monday and Good Bye Holiday

I can't wait for Monday.  Back into my routine!  The hardest thing about the holidays not only is controlling and making sure I don't eat every item displayed on the tables, but being able to stick with routine!  It's much easier to keep with it when work is the same and home life is the same.

Last week I took off from fitness due to a knee injury.  I did attend a Karate group class Wednesday which my Dad taught.  He kicked my butt, however I felt amazing!  My upper body was sure as hell sore!  We did 100 push ups and 100 sit ups.  My stomach and along my middle back and my arms were SO sore!!

It felt amazing!  I loved it!  I also realized how weak my upper body is compared to how strong my lower body is.  SO I am going to attend more karate group classes and start doing kick boxing.  All along side my running or elliptical use!  One of my patients said its most important to strengthen the core and back areas.  It helps with posture and any back pain associate with running.

I am excited to try it.  After this crazy holiday I feel like I am stuck in another rut that I need to get out of.  At least I have a game plan!  I do have to say that I tracked my food since last week and have been keeping up fairly well!  Thank goodness!!

~ <3 ~
Me