Way to Go

Separate

2010-04-08T11:21:00.000-07:00

In my quest to have my own life, I'm going to delete this blog in the not-so-near future (or maybe leave it here and use it only for history). I'm going to start a new one that's not connected to this one in anyway. Think "privacy", think "new start".

Those of you who know me will see me again. No worries. :-)

Responsibility

2010-04-08T06:29:00.000-07:00

When we make mistakes, we generally do what we can to fix them.
I don't expect other people to fix things for me. If I have to go out of my way or spend an extra $10 on my lunchbreak, I'll take care of it.

Someone asked me to fix something for them this morning and was shocked when I told them how selfish they are. I'm learning to draw boundaries with this person. He brought one, but not the other. How is it possible to not bring both? I need to just say no and let him take care of himself.

He says I'm overreacting... but in reality, this is a reaction to years of this person taking advantage of me. Everybody around me says - Learn to say no!

For a minute there, I actually let what he said make me feel bad. Whatever dude... grow up and take care of things for yourself.

Motivation

2010-04-07T06:42:00.000-07:00

How do you stay motivated?

I have accomplished a couple of my BIG goals for the year... and now I'm having a hard time staying motivated.

In other news:
The kiddo is in her second month of swim classes. Since she's only three, I get in with her (and her dad does it on alternating classes). I got a good little workout in last night. The first month of classes was much more organized and planned than last night's class. This one just seemed all over the place. Jules would get tired and just cling to me. Although she does a great job floating as long as I'm touching her. :-D

My friend and I are planning trips to her backyard pool on a regular basis this summer. That'll be a nice change of pace in the exercise department. :-)

Goodness and Light

2010-04-06T06:26:00.001-07:00

I like to think that I'm a nice person. I believe I am in general.

Problem is: if you cross me, or I feel wronged by you... you go to the dark side. I can be pretty darn bitchy. In the changes I have had in the past twelve months, there were a few people who I used to consider friends who had a hard time accepting the changes. I'm sorry that those people chose to judge me, but once you have decided to not be a good friend to me, I'm not going to go out of my way to beg you to be my friend.

I have plenty of wonderful people around me who support and love me... so good riddance to you.

I don't have room in my life for fake friends or people who can't support me in a tough time.

Is it horrible of me? Maybe... Feel free to chime in.

Blah

2010-04-04T19:03:00.001-07:00

I'm feeling kind of blah right now.
I'm ready for the school semester to be finished... and trying to keep my head wrapped around my healthy lifestyle (with some fails and misses along the way).

Today was Easter... great church service... and I LOVE my church family.
Sunday is Jules' day with her Daddy (she goes with him after church), and I had a little bummed feeling this afternoon since she wasn't with me. Don't get me wrong... we had a blast on Saturday for all the festivities (check family blog), but I missed her today. I had a little encounter this morning that reminded me of my disappointment in my former life... and that probably didn't help any either. On to greener pastures and positive supportive people though.

I'm glad I've built in a couple of motivational pieces for myself. This coming Saturday, I'm running in a 5k to aid our county's Women's Center... against domestic violence. My family has been heavily involved in this for years and I'm looking forward to the run. My sister, Mom and Jules are walking in the 1 mile fun run. (by the way... my sister is having a baby girl in September and we are SO excited!)

Next Saturday, I'm running in the Zoo Run 10k. (again Mom, Sister and Jules are walking in the 1 mile fun run) Afterward, we get to hang out at the zoo for a while.
So... those are good motivation. I need to find another way to stay motivated.

Any suggestions?

Hmmm...

2010-03-28T21:59:00.000-07:00

Is it just me?

Seems that with certain people... you let them know how something would be easier for you... and they do the exact opposite. Thanks for making the situation much more difficult than it has to be! Not once... but twice.

Other people...

When faced with difficult situations... rise to the occasion, put their own selfish desires aside and step up to the plate. I'm proud to know those people.

Post-Race Recovery

2010-03-17T07:11:00.000-07:00

I don't see many people talking about how they deal with the pains after a big run... so I thought I'd share.

I must say that I feel very lucky. As I was running the Half Marathon, I was very conscious of my body, it's cues and feelings. I didn't want to hurt myself semi-permanently or even permanently and I didn't want to get ill. I am very proud that I was able to run a 13 minute 41 second pace. (and that's including a 5-7 minute trip to the McDonald's bathroom including waiting in line.) Something to improve upon but not a bad beginning.

As I finished the race, I did a mental check looking for real pain and specifically for blisters. I don't know how, but miraculously I didn't have a blister. Maybe it was wearing two pairs of non-cotton socks, or my relatively new but well broken in running shoes... but no blisters!

What I was very conscious of was that the bottoms of my feet hurt... a lot. My muscles were sore... but that was expected. My friend (the wonderful Deb) gave me a couple of great suggestions throughout my (not quite up to par) training and she reiterated it after the race. Ice is best. I was talking about going to get into the hot tub... and she said "I know you don't want to hear this, but an ice bath is really what works." or something to that effect.

Sunday afternoon, I was up and down all day, not really sitting still. I think that did wonders for my muscles because I didn't let them sit too long with the lactic acid build up. I did yoga to stretch as well. I tried to take a nap, but about 30 minutes was the extent of it. I think I was just too wound up.

So I did it... looked up a runner's world article online about it... lukewarm water about 6 inches with a (32oz) cup of ice thrown in. I sat in it with just my legs in. OH JEEZ how that hurts! I had to count seconds to make myself stay in for minutes at a time. Total about 5 minutes... but it really did help the muscle aches and especially the bottoms of my feet.

I did get in the hot tub... it was a nice massage for my aching muscles, but the ice bath followed. Then, after the ice bath, I pulled out one of my Yoga DVDs and that helped me stretch my legs.

Tuesday (the second day after the race), the arch of my left foot really hurt. I made sure to wear some great arch support all day and keep off of my feet as much as possible. I also iced the bottoms of my feet the second evening with an ice pack. So here I am on Wednesday doing MUCH better. I'm planning a run for Friday... (since the work gym is closed this week for Spring Break and every other second is filled to the brim).

Half Stuff

2010-03-15T07:17:00.000-07:00

I can't say enough how glad I am that I completed this race. I don't have good pics and the few that I took were with my cell phone. I THINK I completed it in three hours. I am dying to see the official time... not that it really matters. I started the race with the goal of finishing it.

I'll definitely do it again. The different bands were so fun. I think I might sign up for the Rock 'n' Roll Half in San Antonio. It's in November.

I remembered reading so many people's blogs about running these long distances. The mind game... so I just kept talking myself up and moving forward. I got a text from my sister and a couple of friends, and then the facebook messages rooting me on. Each one put a smile on my face and encouraged me almost like they were there physically. :-)

Silly me didn't check my ipod before the race and it was completely dead before it even started. Disappointing. But I'm a people watcher, so it didn't make that much of a difference. Exhaustion is emotional and when I would see all of those people with signs on their shirt "In Memory of" or "In Honor of" etc... ugh... almost cried about ten times.

There was a mother and son running "in memory of" Mom and Grandma... Ugh the tears. I kept it to just a couple. I'm glad that it was a Susan G. Komen race.

The Longhorn band (a small portion of it) was along the homestretch of the race. It really pumped me up and helped me finish strong. Love my Longhorns. :-D

Edit: My race time was 2 hours 59 minutes and 12 seconds!

Wow

2010-03-14T16:24:00.000-07:00

I actually did it. Completed the Dallas Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon. :-D I'm so glad I did.

My good friend Deborah was such a help and motivation. I would have chickened out if it weren't for her. Happy not to be a chicken!

Love it

2010-03-12T14:56:00.001-08:00

"Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter, and those who matter don't mind." ~ Dr. Suess

I think this is my motto.

Privacy

2010-03-02T06:05:00.000-08:00

I've been absent for a while. I'm enjoying some privacy. Sometimes telling the world everything is what you feel the need to do, and sometimes you want to keep it to yourself. Well, obviously I've been keeping things to myself lately. I'm enjoying it actually.

I wish there was a way to share my life with out all people being able to see. So I'll settle for being private in general. :-D

Still working toward the half marathon! I'm sure there will be some walking in there, but I'm going to complete it. Less than two weeks!

No Pressure!

2010-02-10T09:56:00.001-08:00

My name just got thrown out in an "all company" e-mail. Ugh. I don't think that many people know me... but it was in the "names you might recognize" list of people runnin a 10k in a couple of weeks... encouraging people to come volunteer and cheer us on. Oh jeez.

I'm a slow runner... I don't want people to recognize me!

Assignment Help

2010-02-09T11:27:00.001-08:00

For my nutrition course, I need to write a small essay about a "diet". Can be weight watchers or the grapefruit diet or anything in between. Anyone have a suggestion?

Thanks!

Perfect 10 Update #5

2010-02-05T06:46:00.000-08:00

1. Train for and Run in the Dallas Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon. (March 14th)
Training was not good this week. When you take a couple of days off, it's way too easy to take another.

2. Lose at least 10 pounds. (at least one pound per week)
It's just not happening.

3. Continue to work hard and do well in school.
I'm on track here. I think since school has ramped up, I'm having a hard time making the running a priority.

4. Take "Financial Peace University" and save money.
I'm looking forward to the class starting Sunday! I'm looking for accountability partners and creative ideas to save more money! :-D

Something a lot of people don't know about me...
I'm very spatially aware. I considered going into architecture during college, but chickened out. My sister had to do IQ tests during her graduate school days and she asked me to take one. She was shocked and said that I tested as a genius in the area of spatial awareness. I'm sure lots of people have skills that they don't use.

One funny thing that I rarely tell people is this: When I walk into a new room, my brain automatically rearranges the furniture for what I consider a better layout. If I'm there for several hours, sometimes I'll rearrange it 5 or 6 times in my brain.

Confession

2010-02-02T11:02:00.000-08:00

I haven't run for 4 days. Thursday, during my run, I felt my right hamstring pull. It nagged at me on Friday, so I decided to take a few days break during my "time out" weekend. I'll be back at it today as there's no lingering pain or irritation... so I'm looking forward to my run tonight. Yay!

In other real life news: I have an uncle who is an alcoholic. He's been a functioning alcoholic for a very long time. Recently, (he's 61 I think) it's gotten worse. He's asked my dad to help him check into a rehabilitation clinic. This is huge... as the last time he did this was 30 years ago. I sincerely pray that he's in for the long haul. It's going to be a long road.

Fab Weekend

2010-02-01T09:06:00.000-08:00

I had a fabulous weekend. Went out into the country for 48 hours with one of my really good, life long friends, and a friend of hers that has become a friend of mine. Great discussions, visited wineries, met new people, and just an overall relaxing weekend.

My friend and I have birthdays 5 days apart, so it was a wonderful celebration and time away. I am calling it my "time out" weekend. It was a fabulous time out from life.

We were doing a wine tasting at this beautiful place with wonderful scenery, getting the life story of the owner... when in came this raucous crowd of 6. (so many!;-) But we started chatting with them, they offered for us to join them with all the wonderful snacks they brought with them and we instantaneously made new friends! We hadn't eaten lunch, so it was great happenstance for us.

We MUST do it again!!!!

Perfect 10 Update #4

2010-01-29T08:00:00.000-08:00

Time is flying! I'm having a hard time believing that I only have 6 weeks until the Half Marathon!

1. Train for and Run in the Dallas Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon. (March 14th)
Training was just okay this week.... Mileage for the week is 17 miles. :-) I skipped a whole day of running.

2. Lose at least 10 pounds. (at least one pound per week)
Eats were off this week. I enjoyed food. Weigh in shows back up 1lb from last week. I'm going to have to do really well to make up for lost time in this department.

3. Continue to work hard and do well in school.
School is going well. It's taking a lot of work. Diligence is my theme word for this semester.

4. Take "Financial Peace University" and save money.
Financial Peace starts February 7. I still will be able to fit it in. :-D

Something a lot of people don't know about me...
I DO NOT like cheese. It's fine melted on a cheeseburger, on pizza or in macaroni and cheese... but I can not eat cheese in it's base form. I've tried it many times. Just. Don't. Like. It.

Taking a chance

2010-01-28T08:27:00.000-08:00

Over at "Oh She Glows" she was talking about how she really took a chance over a year ago to start her business and change the course of her life (this was a couple of days ago). This is a quote from her blog "I can choose a life that I will be happy with. I can make choices every single day to create happiness in myself. I can work my ass off at something I love and feel extremely rewarded. I never have to settle for something that isn’t a right fit for me."

This really hit home for me. For many years, I was living my life in a fruitless journey. I made many mistakes in that time period...didn't handle things well, and probably burned some bridges. I know that I half assed a lot of the things in my life because I wasn't completely on board with decisions that were made. I sort of passive aggressively protested... Healthy? No.

The great thing is that now that I've been through those struggles, I 've been able to really get in touch with who I am and what I can do to be happy. Because these goals are truly my goals, I AM working my ass off. It's truly rewarding. Plus, I'm in a situation where I feel supported and encouraged to do what makes me happy.

I've got some decisions to make in the coming months. Do I continue on the road I've begun in exactly the fashion that it was started? Or do I take a chance and maybe take a "road less traveled" to really enhance my life. It's certainly something to be praying about and looking into. More to come on this in the future!

When Good Days turn bad.

2010-01-27T06:22:00.000-08:00

It's really not that bad...
Monday - birthday - bad eats... but yummy, fun, and expected
Tuesday - good eats until about 4pm... got on a candy kick. And to make matters worse, the candy made me feel sluggish and I didn't end up getting my run in. I was within my calories (IF I HAD RUN... but I didn't).

Well, I'm turning things around. I got 4 miles in this morning. Healthy breakfast. Today is going to be a great day. Starting off feeling empowered with a run always helps!

The other thing is... that I'm beginning the weening process from coffee and sodas. Yesterday, only one cup of coffee and one 20oz Coke Zero. I haven't had coffee yet this morning, but thought I'd push it as long as I can before the caffeine headache begins. My friend gave me an awesome Longhorn water cup with lid for my birthday. That's helped me to drink water instead of soda and coffee. :-D

Good Days

2010-01-26T07:02:00.000-08:00

Class was good last night. The teacher has her decent moments, but is pretty witchy in general. But the content will be fine.

Eats were out of control yesterday... but I knew it would be... :-) Had a yummy crab fettucine alfredo for lunch and a decadent apple crisp instead of a cake. Today is back to the good "for you" stuffs. I am enjoying the good stuff more and more. I have fewer cravings for the junk. I think the running is helping that.

Celebration

2010-01-24T19:07:00.000-08:00

Monday, I turn 33. I work tomorrow and then go directly to my first night of class. So... family celebration was today. We had a fun dinner and my mom and Jules (the kiddo) made my favorite Red Velvet cake. She was so excited about making the cake for me and singing to me... she was busting at the seems! My sister got me a new pair of running shoes and my parents got me one of those fire safe lockboxes (safe?). Totally what I needed and asked for.

My mom took the kiddo shopping for my birthday yesterday. She had a choice to either get me knee pads and a helmet for our planned springtime roller blading adventures or a pretty necklace. She went with the bling... so sweet. Her daddy also let her pick out something for me. I'm looking forward to playing Eric Carle's ABC game with her. :-)

All in all, I feel loved. That's what birthdays are for... a day to celebrate our existence and know that we're loved.

The Way of Life

2010-01-24T06:56:00.000-08:00

I like my life to be full. I plan for things, participate in lots and am generally a busy person. The things that I fill my life with currently seem so fulfilling. I am working toward a better future, becoming a healthier person, and helping other people.

It's pretty funny when someone who has no experience with or about a subject makes judgements. Until you're there... never judge others... politics, government, education, parenting. It applies all over the place.

I like to think of myself as a nice person. At times, I'm brutally honest... but usually my brutal honesty is only said to people that I love and I attempt to deliver that honesty with love. Sometimes, brutal honesty delivered with love is A COMPLETE FAIL. Especially (for me) when I don't believe that person has good intent.

I'm not always nice. When I feel like a message needs to be delivered, I want to make sure the person understands. As a friend told me recently, "It's hard to be nice to a person when you not only don't love that person, but you also no longer like him/her. That makes a big difference. It's really hard to be nice to someone you just plain don't like!" I long for the simplicity that time will bring.

I have kind of overbooked myself for the next few months. I truly believe that God is making me slow down. Some things that I have volunteered for or offered to do have been altered, cancelled and moved around so that I COULDN'T participate. A few people were surprised that I wasn't upset about these changes/cancellations. I'm kind of relieved.

One of the comments on Friday's blog said something about me being consistent... LOL! That's not something people I know would have said about me two years ago. Maybe I really am making personal improvements! Diligence and Consistency are two things that have been necessary for me to step up and make qualities of my life in the last year.

Weekly Update #3

2010-01-22T05:00:00.000-08:00

1. Train for and Run in the Dallas Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon. (March 14th)
Training is going well... Strength on Monday... wow! Mileage for the week is 19 miles. :-) Today is a lovely rest day.

2. Lose at least 10 pounds. (at least one pound per week)
The eats are going well. I stepped on the scale today and I'm down 2.2 pounds since the beginning of the Challenge.

3. Continue to work hard and do well in school.
Wowee! School is going to be a beast this semester. Saturday was going to be a "Day of Amy" to celebrate my birthday (movie, relaxing, pampering, etc)... but it's looks like that's going to turn into "day of the library"... gotta start the semester off right! Darn priorities!

4. Take "Financial Peace University" and save money.
Financial Peace starts in February. Scheduling for it seems to have changed... so it remains to be seen whether I'll be able to fit it in. TBD... :-(

Something a lot of people don't know about me...
I taught high school and coached high school softball for one year. I am also currently going to school to become a teacher (and future librarian).

Long story short: I had my daughter while I was teaching and had a hard time finishing my alternative certification program. My principal wanted to hire me back, but couldn't because I didn't get it all done.
So now, I'm going about it the old fashioned way... student teaching and all. :-)

Ouch!

2010-01-20T08:42:00.000-08:00

I am beginning to add strength training to my routine. I've not done much of it in the past, but apparently there are lots of benefits. Plus... let's be honest... I. AM. WEAK! I could use it.

I did abs and arms Monday evening. My left arm was a little sore yesterday... but I woke up when I rolled over at 3 o'clock this morning... and my arms HURT!!!! Like pain hurt. Like... got up and grabbed two aspirin and the heating pad kind of hurt. This tells me that I SERIOUSLY need to persevere and get my strength training butt in gear.

Any suggestions? I'm thinking about speaking with a trainer about it. Maybe I can put some kind of system in place. Tips? Help direct me please!

Running has been great. 5 miles on Sunday, 4 miles yesterday... will have a short run at lunch today. (LOVE having a gym at my office!) I'm feeling empowered by the lengths that I can run.

In other news, I'm thinking about adding one more thing to my very crowded schedule. They're putting together a softball team at work and if they can get enough women, it might be co-ed. I have missed playing softball for the last 3 years! Hopefully it'll work out.

Busy, Busy

2010-01-18T20:06:00.000-08:00

Honestly, it remains to be seen... but I'm beginning to be worried that I've bitten off a little more than I can chew this semester. Taking a full 12 hours of classes (took 9 last semester), working full time, the priority of my sweet daughter, training for a half marathon, Financial Peace University starts February 7th, as well as my Disciple class ramping up sometime in February. Eek! That's a long list.

A syllabus for one of my courses says to expect 7-10 hours of reading requirements per week. Yikes! I'm sure I can do this... I just have to keep my priorities in line. Hopefully, all the fun I'm having this month (birthday stuff, girls trip, just visited girlfriends) will last through the semester!

Weekly Update - Jan. 15th.

2010-01-15T06:00:00.000-08:00

1. Train for and Run in the Dallas Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon. (March 14th)
Training is going well... I did a strength day on Wednesday and feel good for it. Mileage for the week will be 18 miles. :-)

2. Lose at least 10 pounds. (at least one pound per week)
In an effort to make progress toward this goal, I have started counting calories. It will probably help with my Half training as well. More energy, etc. I'm also making a lot more effort at eating more vegetables and fruits.

3. Continue to work hard and do well in school.
Because of MLK day, school starts on Tuesday. I rented the majority of my books (Chegg.com... highly recommend this! Saved me a few hundred dollars) and have one of them on order to purchase. That helps with number 4 as well!

4. Take "Financial Peace University" and save money.
Financial Peace starts in February. I feel I am doing better at prioritizing. :-)

Something a lot of people don't know about me...
Taking a cue from someone else... I once won an Independence Day Watermelon Eating contest. I was this skinny little ten year old girl... apparently I skipped breakfast and was really hungry by the time we got to the event. I figured, hey, free food! I won a $30 gift card to Walmart. LOL

Treat your body right...

2010-01-14T07:41:00.000-08:00

I am learning how to treat my body right. Getting proper exercise, healthy fuel, clean living.

One thing that I have done to abuse my body for the last six years... is that I have been on the depo-provera shot throughout most of that time. (barring a short time before pregnancy, pregnancy and a short time afterward) I'll tell you that not having a period for the majority of six years has been convenient. But I sincerely hope that I don't suffer long term consequences for this abuse. I have been lucky that I haven't had the adverse side affects that many people suffer from "the shot".

I have decided to let my body get back to normal. Now that the hormone is finally starting to wear off of my system... I am HORMONAL! I feel like crying about everything and am frustrated easily. Yesterday, I took offense at several things that were probably harmless comments. I can not wait until my body regulates itself again and I can just be me.

PS- I really hate it when people (in general) blame things on hormones... but I'm giving myself an exception this time.

What kinds of things do you regret having done in the past?
What are you doing to change abuses done to your body?

Motivation...

2010-01-11T18:06:00.000-08:00

Where do you get your motivation?

I'm very motivated to train for and complete this Half Marathon. It's a goal a made very little attempt at completing a few years ago. I feel that I'm in better shape than I have been since before then... so now's the time.

I'm not motivated to count calories at the moment. I need to and I think about it often... but I'm having a hard time getting there.

The other thing that I'm working on getting motivation for is giving up coffee and sodas. It will improve my overall health and will probably greatly improve my teeth... the problem... I just LOVE coffee and diet coke.
My plan for the moment is to cut down to one coffee and one soda per day after my birthday in two weeks. Then, a few weeks from that is lent... and I can surely give up both for 6.5 weeks. The plan is to not pick it back up afterward.

Once you get motivation, how do you stay motivated?

Perfect 10 Update

2010-01-07T07:04:00.000-08:00

Goals followed by update:

1. Train for and Run in the Dallas Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon. (March 14th)
Training is going well... today is a weather imposed rest day... but I probably need it. I do have extra time to run Saturday morning now. :-)

2. Lose at least 10 pounds. (at least one pound per week)
Have not lost this week... but I'm sure it will happen.

3. Continue to work hard and do well in school.
School starts a week from Monday.

4. Take "Financial Peace University" and save money.
Financial Peace starts in February. But I do have some money in my savings account and it's staying there. :-)

Something a lot of people don't know about me...
I have rarely mentioned it on my blog, so some people know...
but I'm recently divorced... like almost 2 months divorced. It seemed for a while like it would be a pretty amicable divorce. It hasn't really turned out that way. But since we have a daughter and he's a good dad... I'm sure it will get better. That's all I can ask of him... is to be a good dad.

Good Stuff

2010-01-06T18:55:00.000-08:00

I did some speed intervals at lunch today. What a great, quick run! Lunchtime at the gym is much busier than 6am. I like the 6am when I can get there. Solitude is wonderful. Plus it gives me plenty of time do work out as I need.

For some reason I HATE the color red. Yes, there are all the shades of college rival teams... but I don't think that's it. Someone that I know is in the midst of painting their living areas red. I saw it tonight. It made me angry to see it. I SO could not live in a red room. I have a temper as it is. I would probably go nuts. Red in the background everywhere you look. *shudder* Plus, red is very difficult to do on walls correctly.

Okay... so I'm a Longhorn. Big day tomorrow! I'm currently watching the GMAC (???) bowl... Why are they analyzing Texas receivers during this game? Yes, we're all excited about tomorrow... but I'm sure that Central Michigan and Troy want their time in the light. By the way... Hook 'em!

Week 1

2010-01-05T10:47:00.000-08:00

It's funny how when you push yourself, your body fights back. The weekend after Christmas, I had an earache and sinus headach... now, I've been fighting a headache for 24 hours. It's like anytime I increase mileage, my body says - wait! hold up! Luckily, my friend gave me some migraine medicine... so I've kicked the headache for about an hour now.

I don't mean to complain... but it's a definite observation.

Training is going okay. This morning's run was short, but it was my first pre-work workout of the year. As well as an immediate run after last night's long run.

I'm considering how to add strength training to my repertoire. Maybe take a couple of yoga classes? Pull out Jillian's strength training dvd's? What do you do for strength training?

Challenge for the New Year!

2009-12-31T07:11:00.000-08:00

I've been keeping an eye out for a challenge to keep the motivation moving for the new year. Amazon Runner linked to a great one.

It's Called the Perfect 10.
Find out about it or sign up at Log my Loss.

10 weeks to work toward or master goals in 2010!

My Goals:
1. Train for and Run in the Dallas Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon. (March 14th)
2. Lose at least 10 pounds. (at least one pound per week)
3. Continue to work hard and do well in school.
4. Take "Financial Peace University" and save money.

Sorry... not all of mine are health goals. These line up pretty well with my resolutions... so you may see them again. :-)

Reflections on Reality from 2009

2009-12-30T13:00:00.000-08:00

Questions posed about 2009:

1- How much better off are you?

2- Are you more at peace?

3- Are you in a better place?

4- How can you position yourself for a better tomorrow?

My answers: I have improved myself and my situation in 2009. I AM more at peace. I am mentally and physically in a much better place than one month ago or even twelve months ago.

Positioning myself for a better tomorrow: Personal peace is like physical fitness... a continual journey. I will continually work at keeping my personal peace, like working at keeping and improving my physical fitness. Self reflection and self improvement are a perpetual journey.

Measurable positioning for the future: going back to school and saving money for the future
training for and running in a half marathon... look for races for later in the year

Contentment and joy are two values that I have found recently. There are fun things that I'd like to do and things I'd like to buy, but my personal contentment and inner joy are not measured by those things. Changes made in 2009 can be built upon and help me move in the right direction for my future. I experience peace, hope, joy, love and contentment in my present reality. I'm learning to focus on what really matters.

Someone recently said "it's in the letting go of certain things that we find what we truly want". :-D

2009 Resolutions

2009-12-28T13:26:00.000-08:00

From last year:

Before I go into my day, I thought I'd share my New Year's Resolutions.

1- Take the 2 flights of stairs to my floor at work and the 1 flight to my car in the garage.
I did not do this one for very long at all. I started running soon after this and dropped the stairs. :-)

2- Wear cute shoes! I don't want to buy new clothes until after I've lost the weight... so cute shoes it is... an attempt to boost the self esteem
Pass... I'm more about comfort, but cuteness enters in as well.

3- Get a better job. I've been under employed for about 6 months. Time to step the search up a few notches.
Funny story... but pass kind of. And now I'm back at the old job, but going back to school to do what I really want to do.

4 - Personal, having to do with my family...
I must give myself a pass on this one. I worked really hard at things at the beginning of the year... although it fell apart anyway. That's okay and I'm blessed for the way things have ended up.

Not bad! I lost 40 pounds the first half of the year, put a few back on and am at a very comfortable weight now. It's a continual journey that I'm not stopping.

Reflection and 2010 resolutions to come

On a roll... and then...

2009-12-27T17:28:00.000-08:00

get sick. I have had an earache for a couple of days... hoping it was just a sore throat or sinuses... Maybe not. I'm going to call the doctor in the morning if it's still hurting. It's kind of moving to the other ear at times as well. I do not want to be sick this week.

This holiday has been wonderful. I'm looking forward to a new year. 2009 was rough and full of learning experiences. 2010 is looking up!

Lovely Christmas Eve

2009-12-24T12:21:00.000-08:00

It's snowing in Fort Worth, Texas today and apparently, it might even accumulate. Beautiful. We had a quick, fun shopping trip this morning, followed by baking breakfast cookies for tomorrow morning. While the kiddo napped, I got a good 4 mile run in. That's my longest run in a long time... and it feels great.

Update: The snow turned into a lovely winter wonderland. I'm so lucky to have experienced today. Church was great. It's my wonderful extended family. The kiddo had a lot of fun putting out cookies for Santa and reading "The Night Before Christmas". And there's a whole other day of celebrations to go!

Peace On Earth

2009-12-21T06:09:00.000-08:00

Or at least in my heart... Somehow the events of the weekend have made me feel better about the situation with my ex. I'm sure that it's a miracle... I feel so much more at peace with things. I know that there are things that I don't agree with, but we all live through those situations. I'm not going to allow myself to be railroaded or walked over, but I feel at peace.

I still hadn't downloaded any music to my ipod when I was running this week, so I had a lot of reflection and "me" time. It felt good. I like who I am... I can be me without worrying about what others think. And the thing is... the people who matter like me for who I am. :-)

I did download music last night, finally. Got an hour of recommended workout tunes. I'm sure I'll add to it over time.

Another great accomplishment of this weekend is that I put together the kiddo's toy chest from "Santa". I rock! I also finished the rest of the Holiday shopping and wrapped almost everything. Woo Hoo! Bring it on! I'm going to be able to really enjoy the next couple of weeks.

UPDATE:
I just checked my grades for my classes... 3 A's!!!!!!
I am really rockin it! I FEEL FABULOUS!

Holiday Bake Fest

2009-12-16T18:45:00.000-08:00

I love to give presents. My co-workers have been wonderful friends for me this year... and to show my appreciation, I decided to do a little baking as gifts. Jules and I made sugar cookies tonight. We had lots of fun.

I attempted to make cake balls as well. To keep them festive, I attempted red velvet cake with white chocolate coating and green sprinkles. I didn't even start the cake until Jules was in the bath, so it was a bit of a late night! and then ... bust. I couldn't get the balls to stay together, much less not fall apart in the white chocolate. I think my issue is mostly patience. :-)

I know that everyone will really enjoy the holiday treats.

Success!

2009-12-15T20:10:00.000-08:00

I just turned in my final paper! One (post-bac) semester complete! I am so looking forward to getting this grade back. The other two classes, I easily have A's. This one could be close. Definitely a possibility though!

This month off is going to be so fun!
-Working toward a better world
-Texas is playing in the National Championship game!
-Christmas is so fun this year because the kiddo "gets it".
-New, fun traditions
-Wonderful friends having a lot of fun
-Great family who enjoys each other without drama
-Truly loving relationships without conditions
-Preparing for the Half Marathon :-)

Food for thought:
No matter what you wish, the world does not revolve around you. That's scientific.

It has begun...

2009-12-14T19:20:00.000-08:00

Half Marathon Training! :-) Starts slow. That allows me to believe I can do it. Good stuff. Slow and steady wins the race, right?! I'll settle for just finishing the race! I have a good friend who completed the Dallas White Rock Half Marathon yesterday. I am so proud of her. She is an inspiration!

Jules and I had a wonderful weekend... did all the stuff in the previous post and just had a lot of fun. This time of year is great.

I took my last final tonight. A Christmas gift is that I get a month break from driving 40 miles to school! I have to finish my Final Paper for my English class, and then my semester will be complete! It is quite possible that I will have a 4.0.

I'm proud of myself. With all the drama that the past four months have held, I have kept my priorities straight ... and had a successful semester. I have made great progress thanks to my wonderful family and friends.

Quote of the Day:
Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. Phil. 2:4

Fun Times

2009-12-11T06:38:00.000-08:00

We're going to have a great weekend.
Family Christmas Party, Dinner with friends... and maybe a cocktail party??? :-)
Grammy is taking us to dinner after we visit with Santa tonight.
Tomorrow morning, we're going with friends to see the new Disney Movie "The Princess and the Frog" The local Movie Tavern has Saturday morning Flapjacks and Flicks. It's geared toward kids... and should be lots of fun.

I joined the local rec center last night. My half marathon training begins Sunday. :-) You won't get me out there running in 20-30 degree weather! The gym at work will be closed from the 15th- January 3rd due to the community college's holidays, so this is my backup.

I'm reading a really good book about boundaries. I realize that in certain situations, I don't voice my opinions... and if I would voice my opinions, they might be heard. But in reality... if I would voice my opinions, I wouldn't hold them in until I blow up. :-D
The funny thing about this is that the people that I'm closest to, I feel comfortable with and I don't hold my opinions in. I know that those people love me for who I am and although they don't have to agree with me, they respect my opinions. SO Valuable! I need to get over the idea that I'm being judged and just voice my opinions and set my boundaries before it becomes one of those blowup situations.

Quote of the Day:
The misfortune of the wise is better than the prosperity of the fool.
Epicurus

Interested?

2009-12-08T13:06:00.000-08:00

Is anyone interested in participating in the Dallas Half Marathon for the Cure? http://www.marathonforthecure.org/

It's March 14, 2010.
It's part of the Rock and Roll Half Marathon. There are bands at every mile! :-)
If we put together a team of 3 or more people, our registration fees are waived. Let me know by December 31st, and I'll put the team together! I'm starting to train for it next week.

Relief

2009-12-06T18:12:00.000-08:00

Friday, we finally got an antibiotic for the kiddo that was strong enough to kick the crap. Saturday, she really started to feel better. Whew. Third time was thankfully a charm.

I'm doing well. Last week of classes this week and finals the following week. :-) Looking forward to a month with some extra time.

Got to go to the Big 12 Championship game last night. I had a blast... even though it was a squeaker! Being there in person is such an exhilarating experience.

Frustration

2009-12-03T16:36:00.000-08:00

Poor kiddo is still sick. I pray that she gets better soon. These 102 and 104 temperatures are scary. I've spoken with the doctor's office almost every day this week.

It's frustrating when people lie to you. These people who want to be trusted lie to you and wonder why there's a lack of trust. Huh. Maybe it's best if there's no relationship there instead of a bad one.

Ugh...

2009-12-02T05:45:00.000-08:00

Don't feel good. Stomach is bothering me. Didn't sleep well last night because of it and I don't even want coffee this morning.

The kiddo is supposed to start feeling better with her medication, but she's still under the weather as well. I hope she's not feeling the same stomach stuff I'm feeling. Lord knows she can't express herself and how her body is feeling very well.

It's snowing here in Fort Worth, Texas today. :-) It's not going to stick, but it's nice to see. It was 70 degrees plus last week during our Thanksgiving Holiday.

Protection

2009-11-30T18:20:00.000-08:00

I am probably way more protective of my daughter's emotions that I am of anything else having to do with her. I don't mind her physically attempting feats of amazement or being the smartest two year old I've ever seen. She's a kid... and I want her to be a kid for as long as possible. I just don't want her to be hurt... emotionally hurt. Hurting can mean many things. At this moment in time, I can't protect her from everything. People have to take chances in their lives. If she gets hurt in the sideshow of it, I'll be there to pick up the pieces.

She's got strep throat now. Poor sweetheart. I took the second half of the day off and was very thankful that I could be there to give her cuddles that she needed. She was amazing for the doctor... even when he gave her the "gag the back of your throat" strep test.

I participated fully in Thanksgiving. Thankful for my blessings and enjoying the goodies... but never being overstuffed. I was amazed when I stepped on the scale this morning after a week. Good stuff. I'm getting back into my running routine now as well. It's going to be good for me. The physical activity will help my anxiety.

I'm not a person who gets anxious... but this one thing gets me. This too shall pass... This too SHALL PASS.

Thanks

2009-11-28T17:37:00.000-08:00

I've got so many things to be thankful for.

I had a fun day with cousins and family... Began and ended the day with snuggles from my kiddo. Have so many blessings.

I have everything I need. I am blessed to not be married to the thoughtless person to whom I used to be married. Blessed to be able to take my life in the direction that I've always wanted to go. I am more than blessed at how much support I receive from the people around me. And I am super blessed to have a little girl who loves me SO MUCH! I am blessed by my family and friends who love me.

We have had a great couple of days... which will be chronicled on the kiddo's blog.

:-)

2009-11-24T20:01:00.001-08:00

I have wonderful friends... who when needed drop everything and are there for me. Thank you ladies. The best part is that you confirmed where I'm heading and how I feel and I know that I'm on the right track. Everything will be okay with perseverance.

I really appreciate the time that they spent with me... and hearing everybody's funny stories. It helps. You guys are great!

Too much time...

2009-11-24T05:39:00.000-08:00

I have too much time on my hands at the moment.
A little break at school... outside activities have slowed down for the holidays, and I'm thinking way too much.

Cliche's invade my brain from all sides...

What goes around comes around...
Treat people as you would have them treat you...
Men are respectable only as they respect - Ralph Waldo Emerson
It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice.
If a person could disrespect someone as much as they have, believe that they will do it to you as well.
Kindness is in our power, even when fondness is not.

I want to yell all of these at a couple of people... but it will do no good because people outside of the two of them don't matter and don't understand.

The good thing is that although they are an irritant in my life, that's all they are.

My Sweetie...

2009-11-22T18:22:00.000-08:00

So apparently... even though it isn't necessary... my daughter has my back completely. She is such a sweetheart!

She's only 2 and a half years old. She loves me and that's all that matters. We were crafting today during Sunday school and even though she wanted to make all teddy bear ornaments, she made a star just for me. That's not what all this sap is about... but it's an example I can share. :-)

I've had a great weekend. Good exercise, great eating. Jeans and shirts feeling loose again. :-D

SO EXCITED!!!!

2009-11-19T08:47:00.000-08:00

I graduated from Texas almost ten years ago.
I haven't been to a football game there since... well, a long time.

I JUST ACQUIRED tickets to the Big 12 Championship Game! It's here in the DFW metroplex at the new Cowboys Stadium... and it is going to rock! My friend and I are going to have a blast. Cowntdown to Kickoff: 16 days, 8 hours 11 minutes!

Target Salad

2009-11-18T11:48:00.001-08:00

That's right... salad from Target.

Has anyone ever tried it? There are two of them that I REALLY like. The southwest salad is currently my go-to salad. I also really like the salmon salad. They have a great selection... but I'm kind of picky... so I stick to one of these two, generally.

The southwest salad has grilled chicken, lettuce, black beans, corn, and bell pepper. It also comes with cheddar cheese and tortilla strips, but I always leave those off. YUMMY! I just filled my tummy with it... and am really feeling good!

I would eat this salad every day for lunch if Target was more convenient.

Doing well

2009-11-16T20:04:00.000-08:00

I've really been doing great on choices in food. Will be able to start at the gym again next week!!!! Just in time to recharge for my 5k on December 5th.

A cold front came in here this week. Chilly! It's lovely.

I spoke with an old, old friend tonight. He listened, argued a bit, listened and promised support. That's the way it is with him and me. Usually, I tend to let him go on and on without arguing... but I had to speak my mind this time. And (I was surprised, but) he actually listened to me. Sometimes it's great to speak with people that you haven't really touched base with in months.

Because of the distance of time, he thought that I was really down and depressed, and so I was really appreciative to be able to share with him that I am doing great. I may not agree with everything that goes on around me, but I am enjoying my life. And that, my friends, is a major accomplishment from 12 months ago. :-D

12 months ago, I was in the process of putting on 35 pounds or so. I felt trapped in my life and escaped the world around me. NOW! I'm living my life and participating in it! Time and change can be a great healer.

Family Pictures

2009-11-15T11:46:00.000-08:00

We had pictures taken. Over the last few years, I've tried to get pictures taken every 6 months or so. This is the first time we've gone to a studio to get them taken. Check out a couple! (There are more on my kiddo's blog.)

True Colors

2009-11-13T03:26:00.001-08:00

If you cross me, I'm going to be honest with you, and you might not like what I say. I am proud of myself and how I've acted during this transition. I have kept my integrity.

People show their true colors in times of change. True colors: How kind and graceful you can be, if you feel the need to manipulate people, or whether you need to rub things in really shows who you truly are. In times of transition, can you be proud of your actions? Will you be proud of yourself a year from now?

Integrity:
–noun
1. adherence to moral and ethical principles; soundness of moral character; honesty.
2. the state of being whole, entire, or undiminished: to preserve the integrity of the empire.
3. a sound or unimpaired condition: the integrity of a ship's hull.

I have fabulous friends and family for whom I am truly grateful.
I sent an e-mail to many of my friends yesterday letting them know that things were final and that I was treating it as my new beginning.

Today, I can take a deep breath and say that it is really true.

I need to run

2009-11-12T11:33:00.000-08:00

run run run run run...
Again... it's not about me and I don't want to be in that position. But couldn't they give it some time? The divorce was final today. But they're already talking about having babies. My daughter's future siblings.

I think I'll skip my meeting tonight and run.

Nonsense

2009-11-11T06:12:00.000-08:00

I am doing better about portion sizes, drinking water and choices.
I just keep making excuses for myself on exercise and tracking all the time.
I'm getting there... I'm just not consistent.

There are people in everybody's lives who are all talk...
I am just frustrated with one of those right now. Don't you dare contradict him or tell him that something is wrong. He talks a good game... but in reality is just same old same old. Oh well. That's his problem! Would you be proud of yourself two weeks from now for what you're saying? How you're acting?

I'm looking forward to a fun, relaxing weekend. I have no plans on Sunday... which is super nice.

Two Days... 48 Hours

2009-11-10T06:25:00.000-08:00

Trying to be nicey nicey is supremely difficult.
I wish I could sever ties. My daughter's best interest is more valuable than that though.

I will come to some calm middle ground sometime soon. I see it in the distance. I can feel that it's possible. It's just difficult at the moment.

On a different note... I registered for Spring Semester classes this morning! Got the ones I wanted... benefits of being post-bac/senior status. I think I'm going to have a 4.0 this semester. Yay!

Newbies

2009-11-09T14:17:00.000-08:00

I met a new friend this past weekend. We talked for a long time... encouraged each other, shared secrets, and (at least I) learned from each other.

She mentioned several things about following the Weight Watchers plan that I don't really consider when I have followed it in the past. Good Health guidelines... I'm not really consistent about making sure I get my dairy or oils... unless the dairy is in coffee... and that's CONSISTENT. I need to pay better attention to these things. Honestly... I'm not even sure what the good health guidelines are! How is THAT possible?!?

Thanks Janna for your insight... on WW, shopping, and life in general!

Some new goals

2009-11-06T14:35:00.000-08:00

I wanted to run the Turkey Trot 10K on Thanksgiving day, but I only have Kiddo for the first half of the day. Don't want to give up time with her. Plus, I've had a couple week lapse in running and don't think I'll feel ready to run a 10k at that point. So I went looking for alternative plans...

Today, I signed up for the Jingle Bell Run for Arthritis on December 5!!! It's a 5k.

I think I'll also run in the New Years 5 Mile race. (10am... not bad) Thursday is Kiddo's night with her daddy, so I should be readily available.

Then, I'm going to run in the Cowtown Half Marathon... but I think I'm going to chicken out and run the 10k instead. It's February 28th.

THEN... I'll run the Race for the Cure Half Marathon on March 14th. Another of Daddy's days. So that should work out nicely.

Yay for new goals!

Am I weird?

2009-11-06T06:15:00.000-08:00

Someone is interested in me. Good looking, educated guy who's more of a gentleman than most men I've EVER met. Has many of my same interests. (sports, family, God - not necessarily in that same order) I'm even on a fantasy league with him. He's asked me out a couple of times. But I'm not interested in dating. Why waste his time if I'm just NOT there?

It's super flattering. Boost to the ego...
Am I strange?
to say no?
Any girl would be lucky to hook up with this guy... but I'm just not interested.

My divorce is final in 6 days. I'm pretty sure the the finalization and legalities aren't going to change my feelings.
It's not that I'm not interested in THIS guy... I'm just not interested. at all.

Hopefully, he can accept my friendship.
My life is very full at the moment. Full time job, full time school, full time mom. I'm enjoying being the best me that I can be.
Am I wierd?

GREAT NEWS!!!!!

2009-11-05T08:51:00.000-08:00

The gym at work, which has been purchased by the local community college is giving us a great deal to purchase a membership! I'm talking less than $10 per month. That's where I was working out the whole first half of the year until the community college took over.

This seriously rocks. Treadmills, ellypticals, weights (like I ever use those... ha!) I am so excited about this that I could literally jump for joy!

Hmmm

2009-11-04T21:06:00.000-08:00

The crazy part of my week is over. Now I have a few days to relax and enjoy myself. Today was much better than yesterday... much better.

On the horizon - Relaxed couple of days at work, and nothing overly high stress with my classes. I think the kiddo and I are going to go camping for a night with my sister and brother-in-law. We've had such beautiful weather. We'd better take advantage of it. Then, Saturday, I get to meet one of my fellow bloggers who lives in my favorite city!

Did Tae Bo tonight instead of the Shred. I forgot how fun those are! I'm going to try to pull those videos out more often.

Out of control... and not...

2009-11-04T06:09:00.000-08:00

Sometimes, when we're venting... things get out of control. This happened with me yesterday... basically getting some stuff off my chest with people who don't personally know the people I was talking about. It's nice that people will take your side and make you feel like you're in the right. Well... one of my coworkers stepped over the line and commented on a blog... apparently some rude stuff.

Sometimes people forget that these electronic gadgets are connected to real people!
I certainly didn't intend this to happen...

Lesson Learned...
Gossiping will always bite you in the butt... eventually.

On the other hand, eating has been pretty good. Will do Jillian's Shred tonight after the kiddo goes to bed. I'm feeling much more in control of the food stuffs. :-D

Fun?

2009-11-02T08:17:00.000-08:00

I was told this past Saturday that I'm a fun Mom.
I appreciate that, coming from the person who said it.

But in dwelling on that over the last couple of days (as I tend to do)... I fully intend to live that title to the fullest. FUN MOM. My daughter is only 2 and a half years old. But that means I have a lot of FUN MOM ahead.

I envision riding bikes with her, getting one of those scooters (skateboard on a stick?) to play with her on, sliding on bounce house slides with her, maybe at some point she'll ride her bike along while I run. She doesn't have a bike at this point, but that'll come in the future. :-D

Not to mention that I fully intend to brain wash her into the love of sports that keeps me occupied. Playing softball with your kid? Soccer? Football? I'm IN!

Being an active and fun Mom will be so rewarding. It's a title to live up to.

Getting it done...

2009-11-02T06:48:00.000-08:00

Did a yoga dvd last night...
Did the 2nd 2 parts of Cardio Max this morning.

So I'm feeling pretty good. Working out in the morning really seems to help me stay on track more throughout the day. Don't want to waste my efforts.

I must say that I am appreciating my freedom. I've been able to volunteer for things that I never would have had time or ability to make a priority before. I do what I think is best and don't have to worry about anybody else's opinions. It's lovely.

I'm reminded that I LIKE who I am... and I am appreciating that I can be who I am more than I ever have before.

Missed you!

2009-10-29T19:34:00.000-07:00

I missed Bob and Jillian! And I didn't realize how much until I pulled out my Biggest Loser Cardio Max DVD tonight. I can't seem to make myself run outside... so I'm attempting to get back into the dvds. I'm going to alternate between Cardio Max, the Biggest Loser Weight Loss Yoga and Jillian's 30 Day Shred. Plenty of possibilities to mix it up there. I had a great sweat tonight. :-D

Still

2009-10-25T17:14:00.001-07:00

feeling kind of under the weather. Had a great nap today. I'm going to take it easy until I'm feeling better, but take charge of the proper eating so that I don't get out of hand. I love the fall, but this weather seems to be wreaking havoc.

Stages

2009-10-23T07:51:00.001-07:00

A couple of my girlfriends and I were talking about what I'm going through last night. They mentioned the Stages of Grief, which was mentioned to me months ago as well. At that time, I was sure that I was peachy great and was going to coast through the changes in my life.

Time told a different story.

So I thought I'd look up the stages and see how I'm doing.
1. Denial and Isolation.
2. Anger.
3. Bargaining.
4. Depression.
5. Acceptance.

I think I went through stages 1, 3, and 4 up and down toward the last six months of the decision making process. I go back and forth between 2 and 5 now. Some days I feel like I've made it through... then memories catch me and I get angry all over again.
I was angry at myself for a while there at the beginning of the year, and I used that anger to propel myself to make changes... in myself (losing 40 pounds) and in the situation. I read lots of improvement books and tried to improve the situation for everybody involved. Then it came back home...

Hopefully I'll be moving toward a more consistent 5 once this thing is finalized in the next couple of weeks.

Sicky Poo

2009-10-23T06:42:00.000-07:00

Woke up yesterday morning with swollen tonsils and a runny nose. Seems the kiddo and I both have it. A decongestant seems to help. But the cold front that just came in doesn't. :-D The joys of fall weather!

huh

2009-10-22T14:42:00.000-07:00

Is it wrong that I'm insulted that I never ranked being on the blog list of somebody who should have cared about me? Other people... who seem periphery ranked enough. I seem to take every opportunity to be upset with this person... so I should get over it. I don't want it to matter to me... but somehow it does. Ugh.

on again, off again, on again...

2009-10-18T16:15:00.000-07:00

So I quit Weight Watchers... time with my daughter was taking priority over meetings. SO... back to calorie counting, and I have a running buddy. She's way ahead of me in mileage, so I've really got to get conditioned so that I can keep up with her. That's good motivation.

Ran 1.5 miles and walked a little today, then 20 minutes of yoga.

Plan to get up in the morning to run as well. Going to try to get to 2 miles.

UPDATE: I just picked up a 2nd running buddy! A coworker and I are going to run along the river before work twice a week. This will help me be more accountable to frequent runs! :-D

Learning Lessons...

2009-10-12T09:19:00.001-07:00

Remember the crash dummies? The guys who test drive the cars to prove how necessary it is to wear a seat belt? They bust their heads through windshields to show that a lack of seat belt is not a good idea… or break an arm… or bend their legs backward in a crash.

If a crash dummy had feelings, you wouldn't tell it that since you had hurt it, you'd use that experience to improve other people's lives would you? Feelings count... no matter who feels them. It's not going to make the crash dummy hurt any less. And maybe it would hurt their feelings in addition to their other pains.

Somebody told me recently that they are changing the way they do things based on experiences that we had. Well… that’s nice… glad I could be your crash dummy.

Not.

Starting Over... AGAIN

2009-10-12T06:21:00.000-07:00

Today is the day.

I just got back from a conference... and yesterday was a family birthday...
so today is the day.
Back to tracking and eating right!
I've got to figure out a way to make exercise a priority and make it fit into my routine... but one (or 2) steps at a time right?

The past 4 weeks have been nuts. Feeling better about the personal drama, and then not, and then up and down and up and down. Anybody who has been through it probably has an inkling what I'm talking about. I think the line graph of what the emotions are is a general uphill (better) line... but it's got ups and downs along the way.

Busy Busy

2009-09-15T04:14:00.000-07:00

Lost 1.8lbs last week. Yay! School is keeping me super busy as well as my cutie kiddo. I had a cheat day on Friday... we'll see how well that works out for me this week. :-D

kindness...

2009-09-11T05:49:00.000-07:00

The scale is being kind to me... I was in a whole different 10's case this morning. Actually, I'm being kind to me. My body is showing appreciation for my good choices. :-D

Work has heated up this week. It's strange how suddenly, supervisors decide to micromanage. Surely, it will pass. So I haven't been able to look at and read blogs like I normally do. Thank goodness it's a short week! I can make it through today...

Everybody - have a fab weekend!

Lovely, Long Weekend

2009-09-07T20:01:00.001-07:00

I had a really good weekend.
I was able to come to peace with some changes that have happened in my daughter's life. It really doesn't affect me, but her (and I was very upset on her behalf). I got some extra time with her this weekend and we had a blast. She is such a smart little girl. We made WW recipe cupcakes tonight (I let her ice 6 of them) , she and I got some great cuddling in and we just had a lot of fun. Painting, coloring, Play-Do, playing outside, chasing each other and wrestling a lot. It was a good time.

My first WW weigh in was yucky, but the 2nd was much better. I've lost 5.8 pounds in the first week. My parents gave me several hours to study (taking 3 classes this semester to go toward my Master's Degree and teaching certification) on Saturday... and while I took every minute I told them it would take me, I actually feel good about where I am in my classes right now. I thought 9 hours might be a bit much while working full time, but I can handle it. Thanks to my parents. They're super awesome.

Anyway, doing great on the food. Very on track today. I find myself not hungry very frequently... or grabbing veggies instead of whatever else is on hand. I can do this!

I love my WW leader. He gave me a great little pep talk to talk about getting to lifetime Saturday (very vague... don't worry, not out of their bounds)... and it's only my 2nd week back in 2 years!

Give it up

2009-09-04T13:25:00.000-07:00

Michelle at www.secretsofaformerfatgirl.com shared a bit about a struggle she's been having. She said it helped that she gave it up to Jesus before she went to bed and in the morning she woke up with renewed hope.

I NEED to do this. I'm not sure if I can give it up right now. I'm certainly going to try. This is going to be a really hard weekend for me. I wanted things to change. I can't have cake and throw it away too. (my own version of the analogy) I need to give my burdens up to the Lord. He can handle it.

I want boots!

2009-09-03T14:08:00.000-07:00

Eats have gone well today.
Emotions are up and down. I'm planning to really enjoy my weekend. Maybe go to a water park with the kiddo and some friends. The 'rents are going to cook out on Monday.

I have been shopping for boots for the past two weeks. I am so frustrated! Where are all the cute boots that I have seen in years past??? Hopes for the help of shopping therapy have been frustrating. :-D

I hope that everyone has a wonder Labor Day weekend!
Don't Labor too much!

Anxiety & ? for Mommies

2009-09-02T05:55:00.001-07:00

This feeling of constant and complete anxiety can not be healthy. I feel like I'm being taunted and that information I don't want to know about and don't NEED to know about is being pushed in my face.

My classes are going well. Although I'm not behind, I feel behind already and I'm not sure when I'll be able to sit down for 4 or 6 hours to do what I need to do for next week. I'm sure I can figure something out.

Eating is going well. I didn't feel like preparing my veggies this morning, but I did it anyway. Luckily, I still have some taco salad makings left, so I'm having that for lunch. Yummy.

My ? for Mommies...
Explanation first - my 2.5 year old is going to daycare for the first time. (3rd week this week) Previously she has been with family.
She cries when we drop her off. It's gotten worse this week. But, she's fine once we leave. Last Friday, she even told me that she wanted to stay at school when I picked her up in the afternoon. Should I worry? Is this normal?

Busy Busy!

2009-09-01T06:06:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was a long day! I left my house at 5:45 am and returned at 9:30pm. It will be worth it in the end. Blessedly, Monday night's math class should be a breeze.

My online English class is a different story! It will test me! I have a lot of reading to do! And WILL have a lot of writing to do.

Eating is going well. Packing lunch and dinner(when I have class).

my lovely taco salad

Good news is that I emotionally feel much more normal today. I think I was able to get some stuff off my chest yesterday and now it seems I can move on. Yay!

It's not about me.

2009-08-31T05:56:00.000-07:00

There are some things that ARE about me... health, fitness, personal improvement.

-Started Weight Watchers on Sunday. A couple of trips to the grocery store and a weekend of good choices. It's Monday morning and I already feel better.
-I got up this morning and ran 3.5 miles. yay!
-I start class tonight... going towards a master's degree.

So there you are... check, check, check... health, fitness, personal improvement. That's about me.

Emotional health is also about me. But sometimes we (I) let outside situations affect emotional health. I know LOGICALLY that it's not about me, but it still hurts. I'm getting divorced. I have known and been friends with this man since I was 14 years old. A LONG time. We dated for a year, were engaged for almost a year and to date, have been married for more than five and a half years. To me, that's more than 7 years of being with a person.

The idea that he couldn't wait the 7 months that it might take to have the papers fully complete to move on tears me up. I KNOW that it's not about me. But I'm still angry. 7 years! Give me the respect of 7 months.

I've been supportive of him through a terrible tragedy this summer. I was a GOOD FRIEND to him. But he couldn't give me that respect that I DESERVE. I could go on and on. There are many details that just fuel the fire of anger... but I won't go into that here.

Not sure how to calm myself down about this. I had a good opportunity to mull things over while I ran this morning. I guess I'll just continue to improve myself and know that THIS TOO SHALL PASS.

Feel it... Get through it

2009-08-18T13:51:00.000-07:00

Somehow I'm going to have to get through to the other side of this emotional mountain. A coworker noticed today (or decided to speak up) and related some stuff she's been through. It helped like a splash of cold water.

I thought I was doing a good job of covering up to the people around me. I thought I seemed normal. I'm not as good of an actress as I thought I was.

I'm going to start weight watchers next week. I'm looking forward to learning about their "new" Momentum plan. It's been about 2 years since I've done weight watchers. I was good at the points.

Moving On - Emotional Baggage

2009-08-10T07:42:00.000-07:00

Has anybody seen Roni's post at: http://ronisweigh.com/2009/08/core-hurt-eating-those-that-overeat.html (sorry I can't seem to figure out how to add a link)

Hits on a lot of spots that I'm dealing with right now.
Divorce
Loss of a loved one

A Cake for A Wife really hit home with me this morning as well.
http://acakeforawife.blogspot.com/2009/08/puzzle.html

I don't know where I fit in with my friends. How does being separated (soon to be divorced) affect how I relate to my married friends? My single friends?
Who am I going to watch football with this fall? I actually posted on facebook this weekend "name wonders at my disposability." after a friend cancelled plans with me. Talk about WOE IS ME...

Is this why I keep putting off changing my lifestyle/eating habits? Why I bought a frickin bag of CHEETOS last Friday before leaving work? I wasn't even remotely hungry. I've got to get a grip.

Physically and financially I'm in a good place. I've just got to get my emotions to catch up.

Back to the Real World

2009-08-06T07:00:00.000-07:00

Well, the funeral was well done. And now everybody has to act like the world's the same. It's not, but we'll all adjust. Ugh.

I've done well with running this week.
3.5 miles Monday
3 miles Tuesday and 30 minutes on the stationary bike
4.2 miles Today (Thursday)

Eating is something I'm still talking myself into. I'm making good choices about 80% of the time, but oreos and ice cream are just so darned comforting!
I tried one of those Vivano Smoothies from Starbucks yesterday. I think I'll stick with my homemade smoothies. I didn't like the look of the syrup she was pouring into the blender. It tasted okay... but real strawberries, please???

Oh... and I have a question about Amazing Grass! What's the point? I read the whole label (bought a small jar yesterday of the superfood) and it doesn't tell me servings of veggies. How does it benefit me? Yeah, I get all the fiber and protein, etc... but what is the point FOR ME?

Yesterday I did some really productive things... like signing up for life insurance and an Education Savings Account for my daughter. I hope she appreciates that 16 years from now.

Oh... and somebody at my house purchased a used stationary bike this week. That'll be nice to have around. Maybe 30 min or 1 hour each night while watching a show. It'll be convenient!

Here's a picture of Cory reading to my little girl. This was probably about 6 months ago.

Cory

2009-08-02T17:59:00.000-07:00

My Brother-In-Law passed away unexpectedly last week. He was only 19 years old.

Obituary:
Cory Allen Young left this life Thursday, July 30, 2009.
Memorial service: 10 a.m. Tuesday at Davis Memorial United Methodist Church in North Richland Hills.
Cory was was born Aug. 15, 1990. He was always an avid collector and a heartfelt companion. Many will remember Cory for his resourcefulness, his clever humor, as an avid reader, a generous cook and a giver of amazing hugs. During the time we had the pleasure of his company, Cory would leap at the chance to be there for a struggling friend or a sick family member. He cherished relationships, made multitudes of lists, read more books than you may ever read in your life, and relentlessly studied many topics that grabbed his attention, including religious philosophy, zombies, utopian and dystopian worlds, and body language. Cory loved spending time at the beach and camping.
Survivors: Mother, Frances; father, Jerry; brothers, Jeff, Ben and Jerry; sister, Jennifer Kiser and husband, Craig; niece, Juliana; grandparents, Harrell and Carolee Young and Ed and Nancy Sapp; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

I've known Cory since he was 5 years old. Although I'm separated from his brother, I've been a part of this family for a long time. He will be missed.

Curve Balls

2009-07-30T07:44:00.000-07:00

Life throws everybody curve balls. We become adept at dealing with them and coping.

Unfortunately, there are people that we love that aren't so good at coping. We've lost somebody very wonderful in our lives. It's going to be hard to move on from this. I'm praying that everybody involved can cope with this loss. Too young for life to be cut so short.

will power, willpower, willpower...

2009-07-29T11:20:00.000-07:00

Arghahaghghaghag!!!!!!!

Our wonderful boss (actually boss's boss) brought in 18 of these lovely goodies from Central Market.

Oh, how hard it is to not take one.
Looking up nutritional values, it seems that it's probably more than 500 calories! Butter cream icing.

I'm doing so well today... lunch of broccoli, cauliflower and carrots... after a lovely omelette breakfast. I will not sabotage myself.

Conscious Food Decisions

2009-07-28T08:31:00.000-07:00

So, in general... I don't allow myself to get hungry... I just eat when I think I need to eat, because the food's available... and attempt to stay within my calorie allowance.

Today, I'm attempting to break this bad habit. I'm only going to eat when I'm (shocked gasp!) HUNGRY!

I was great about this when I was in high school. But in college, food became comfort. So hopefully, I can RE-TRAIN myself on how to eat.

Good choices are available... packed yogurt with flax whole grain cereal, smart ones lunch, apple and carrots... but shockingly, I haven't yet opened any of it up! I've thought about it... but then I've forced myself to really acknowledge that I'm NOT HUNGRY!

On a normal day, I would have at least plowed through the yogurt and cereal by now.

Back to Business

2009-07-27T05:42:00.000-07:00

Had a really fun weekend... but did not eat so well.
My sister had a wedding reception in San Antonio Saturday evening and we took a quick trip down there to participate in the festivities.

Saturday, I made decent choices... but Sunday... not so good. Dairy Queen indulgence for lunch. :-D

I forgot (subconscious?) to weigh in this morning, so I'll weigh in tomorrow.

I did run 4 miles this morning plus a cool down. Felt good.

San Antonio is SWELTERING right now! I feel for the people down there.

Special Ops Mission: My Nemesis

2009-07-24T04:36:00.001-07:00

Well...
Easily said with 2 pictures

at home

at work:
(chocolate, chocolate everywhere!)

My goal to avoid these:
Coffee instead of ice cream at home. (doesn't keep me from sleeping and I love it... )
Just say NO at work.

Operation Blast the Fat!

2009-07-21T14:08:00.000-07:00

I just joined... link in my blog list!

These are my goals.

I want:
lose 20 pounds
run a 10k and a half marathon by next spring

How:
train, train, train! Run, Amy, Run!
Count Calories and allocate special treats in my calorie budget

Some other ladies are doing some rewards for meeting goals... and I think I'm going to add that as well.

Rewards:
5 iTunes songs for each week that I run 15 miles. (I just got my first ipod.)
For each 10 pounds lost, buy 1 new outfit. (I'm frugal, so this is less than $50.)
Once I reach my goal, each 3 months that I stay there, 1 new outfit.

Once I stay at my goal for 6 months, book a tropical vacation!

Loving the Rain!

2009-07-21T05:50:00.001-07:00

For those of you who don't live in Texas, the situation is this... Triple digit days for weeks at a time! Yes, 100 degrees up to 106 (that I know of). Yesterday, it rained on and off all day. It was LOVELY. Highs this week only in the mid-nineties. Again... Lovely. We need this before the torture of August. ;-D

Ran 4.5 miles this morning plus a 5 minute cool down walk, stretching, and then a few tricep dips and push ups.

Still working on the food stuff. Trying to choose the good stuff.

Monday Monday...

2009-07-20T07:33:00.001-07:00

Lots of thoughts...
probably going to run a 10k Thanksgiving morning.
Then the half Marathon 2/27
and find a sprint tri for late spring/early summer.
I'm thinking that I'll join a gym in February or March next year to be able to have access to the pool.

I ran 3.5 miles + cool down this morning. Decided not to push too much.
Have some good snacks today. A sandwich left over from my sister's wedding reception that was Saturday. :-D

WI: 184.
I'm lucky it hasn't gotten much worse. I'm not being very accountable to myself.
My living arrangement at the moment includes access to lots of junk foods (ice creams, cookies, etc.) I've got to start making the right decision!

Training Programs...

2009-07-15T14:53:00.000-07:00

I'm starting pre-training for the half marathon now (as of this past Monday)... but Michelle has inspired me.

I figure after I recover from the half marathon (last weekend in February), I can start training for a Sprint Triathlon for early summer/late spring.

My question for all of you is this:
How do you prepare for the swimming portion?
I'm not a member of a gym that has a pool...

Another Day!

2009-07-14T06:05:00.000-07:00

I had a fab green monster last night. And made another for enjoyment at work today.
frozen mango
half a banana
1/4 cup milk
some water
2 handfuls of spinach.

The mango made it awesome!!!!
Question for all those green monster lovers out there:
If you make extra for later, how do you store it?
Do you freeze it? just refrigerate?

I ran/walked 3.25 miles this morning. I just took a slower pace today because I can feel the soreness coming on from yesterday's run. The pedicure that I got last night with hot stones and a lovely massage chair also helped!

I have to do a lunchtime work out tomorrow. Not sure how that's going to work out... probably be a short quick 2 miles or so.

Have a great day everybody!

Bragging

2009-07-13T05:55:00.000-07:00

Do you know how when you do something that you're proud of, you want to tell everyone that you see how well you did? Problem is, I doubt my coworkers really care about how early I got up this morning, how little coffee I had or how far I ran today... all before I got to work at 7:30 this morning.

But I can tell blogland! I ran over 4 miles today! With my cooldown, it was 4.32 miles... and burned something like 540 calories in 54 minutes. Woot! So, pre-training to get ready for half marathon training has begun.

I was very conscious of my back, therefore laid off the inclines too much. Yay!

I brought lots of filling veggies and high fiber crackers with hummus today to munch on during work. And an apple and a boiled egg. I'm prepared! Munchies - bring it on! I'll fight you!

I couldn't wear one of my favorite new pair of jeans yesterday, so I must get back on track with the eating. :-D

Oh... btw... weigh in this morning was 184.4
I've got a lot of work to do!

My GM Smoothie

2009-07-09T05:49:00.000-07:00

I only had about half as much frozen fruit as I really needed for my green monster today. We had some watermelon and cantaloupe chunks in the fridge, so I added those. Wow, the melon taste came through strong!

recipe - 1/2 cup 2% milk, 1/4 cup water, 1/4 cup frozen fruits, 1 cup melons, 1 scoop protein powder and 2 handfuls of spinach.

I feel full now and it's been about an hour and a half. Good stuff!

Question: In an effort to get good fats (check out Jillian Michael's podcast for this wee)... Would you add olive oil or canola oil to your smoothie?

Good Day

2009-07-08T06:17:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling quite a bit better. Back barely has a twinge. Still, I took it easy and did the stationary bike for 33 minutes this morning and walked to cool my legs down for 10 minutes.

I guess I need to start training to prepare for 1/2 Marathon training! I've been reading that I need to be able to run 4 miles at a time. I think the only think that's keeping me from that is time constraints... that I only give myself about 40-45 minutes for workouts before work in the morning. The gym opens at 6... so if I can get there right when it opens a couple of days, I can allow myself a 60 minute workout. Should be good.

Eats have been better lately. I'm trying to make sure that I'm not starving at lunch so that all the hunger doesn't last so long.

Ouch Ouch Ouch!

2009-07-07T05:57:00.000-07:00

While I was running (interval inclines) this morning at the gym, I pulled a muscle on the left side, sort of middle of my back.

Any suggestions on what I could do to help it?
Alternative exercises? Should I stick with the bike tomorrow?

How long does it take something like this to heal?