I'm back. It's been a month, to the day since my race.
I haven't been out for a run since. My blisters have finally healed... but really,
I didn't have the time or space to run as Jeff moved to Texas right after the race,
and the kids were still on summer break.
So now that they're back in school we're getting back into our routines.
Including eating right again, juicing, and running! Today I put in 3.5 miles in 28 minutes.
Not too bad... considering it's been a month since my last run. I felt great out there,
a lot better then I was expecting to feel taking so much time off!
In addition, I took my iodine that I mentioned in an earlier post!
It's kind of gross and chemically tasting going down, but WOW!
What a difference in my energy level and overall health! I feel SO much better!
I've got a 15 year old girl that contacted me requesting vocal lessons and so I'm
BARTERing a swap for childcare for my youngest on Tuesday and Thursday mornings,
while the boys are in school.
This way I can run solo, and/or work without interruption on packing and cleaning!
In addition, we have new neighbors across the street now and one of them just happens
to be a fabulous gay man, who has many talents!
Including (but not limited to) housecleaning, laundry, doing make-up,
making me laugh until I pee... and sorting out life!
We've become fast friends, Alex and I!
The universe always provides just who and or what you need when you need it, don't you think so!?
So while I didn't BEG Alex for help cleaning my kitchen today... as the title might suggest... I did accept
his offer to help! If you know me, you know how bad I am at asking for or even accepting help!
But like he said "Girl, you need the help, I'm offering the help... accept it!"
So I did.
And I'm so glad I did... because it turned out to be just what I needed in more ways than one!
I haven't laughed until I cried in I don't know how long!?
Other than that, I've been STEALing my moments to myself whenever I can gettem!
I'm technically a single Mom here now with absolutely NO family near by.... so I need to get creative with this!
But what I have learned from the last month off, is that I can't possibly accomplish this great feat before me
if I am not, first and foremost continuing to take care of myself!!
A common sense lesson, but really something I need to constantly remind myself of!
I thought I might put this post out there today in case you too, needed the reminder? ;)
Now get offline and go baby youself a bit!
Me? I've got a bubble bath with my name on it! ;)
There isn't much in life that can't be eased with the 3 B's I always say...
Bath, Bubbles and a Beer!
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Saturday, July 21, 2012
DOIN' IT!
I saw a shirt by Nike of course that said "Doin' It!" and I had to get it for race day!
No matter what, today,... I was DOIN' IT!
15K Baby!
I just did it! :) (Sighhhhhh) relief. It's been a long 18 weeks of ups and downs,
while trying to train for this race!
I can barely walk, I pulled my hamstring... and I have blisters on my feet.
BUT I DID IT! :)
I wasn't the fastest, not even close!! BUT I DID IT!
I had 60 year olds passing me (they were ripped and in excellent shape... but still) I DID IT!
My walkman, got NO reception forcing me to run with out music, which I have no doubt added at least 30 minutes to my overall time... BUT I DID IT!
It was hot, humid, long and painful... BUT I DID IT!
I did it!
And I still can't believe it!
I averaged a 15 minute mile... not very good at all... BUT I DID IT!
Here's how it went...
As we lined up on the starting line the race director said
"raise your hand if you're running this race for the 1st time!"
I and many others raised their hands... people clapped. Then she said...
"Raise your hand if this is your first race?"
I kid you not, I was the only one to raise my hand.
I received a round of applause at which I promptly bowed while the race director said,
"oh, you're brave!" I said... "or stupid!?" we all laughed and got on our marks! GO!
I was off and running!
The first 2 miles, fine... easy peasy pudding pie!
at 2 1/2, BIG BERTHA... the big, quarter mile of hill was under foot and she brought me to a walk a few times...
Mile 3 through 5... pretty smooth, can't complain....
Mile 6... Holy Jolly Ranchers, WTF?!
Mile 6 for some reason was the hardest mile!! I think I walked most of mile 6.
This was about where I pulled my hamstring on the left side! I gimped along letting people pass me....
Mile 7... I decided Mile 7 should be lucky and I should pick it up! Started with some short intervals.
8 counts of power walk, 8 counts of run, back and forth for the next 2 miles.
Mile 9, homestretch.... I could hear the cheering, I could hear the cow bells, I could hear the music...
I am almost home!
I run... as if I have no injuries, I run as if I have no pain... I run, as if I have a steak on my back and a bear is chasing me! I RUN!
Mile 9.75.... I see my babies!! I see my husband! YAY!! I made it! I wanted to fall down right there in their arms and cry.
Nope, still another quarter mile to go.... the longest part of the entire race and in the grass no less!
I hate you grass. I hate you, you last quarter mile.
But as I'm cursing the ground... next to me appears my oldest son, running along side of me!
"You did it Mom! You did it! I'm so proud of you! Look, I found you a 4 leaf clover, take it for good luck!"
On the other side of me comes my middle son... "Mom, can we run with you?!"
YES!! Let's finish this race!
And that's just what we did!
The race officials were kind enough to put medals around my kids necks as they crossed the finish line with their ol' Ma and you should have seen their faces!
They won! I won! We all won, in their little hearts... and no doubt we did!
Together! I wouldn't have had it any other way!
This was more than a race for me.
It was a challenge. It was a reminder, that I'm alive and that I am still an individual...
with race number 232 to be exact.
Today, I wasn't just a Momma, or a wife, a daughter or a friend....
I was a badass runner... as my friend Lacey would say! ;)
And even though I wasn't the best, or the fastest... I finished.
I did what I set out to do!
And in my kids eyes, I am a winner, and they are winners... and that means the world to me!
Thank you all for following along on this long, painful, educational and motivational journey!
I've learned so much from my friends and readers and this has honestly been one of the greatest experiences I have ever had! I'm really glad I put myself out there!
My goal, as soon as the dust settles here... and we arrive in Texas... is to finish losing the next 20 to 30 pounds and to get on my way to making and saving 15k $$$ .... same title, new adventure!
Stay tuned! ;)
No matter what, today,... I was DOIN' IT!
15K Baby!
I just did it! :) (Sighhhhhh) relief. It's been a long 18 weeks of ups and downs,
while trying to train for this race!
I can barely walk, I pulled my hamstring... and I have blisters on my feet.
BUT I DID IT! :)
I wasn't the fastest, not even close!! BUT I DID IT!
I had 60 year olds passing me (they were ripped and in excellent shape... but still) I DID IT!
My walkman, got NO reception forcing me to run with out music, which I have no doubt added at least 30 minutes to my overall time... BUT I DID IT!
It was hot, humid, long and painful... BUT I DID IT!
I did it!
And I still can't believe it!
I averaged a 15 minute mile... not very good at all... BUT I DID IT!
Here's how it went...
As we lined up on the starting line the race director said
"raise your hand if you're running this race for the 1st time!"
I and many others raised their hands... people clapped. Then she said...
"Raise your hand if this is your first race?"
I kid you not, I was the only one to raise my hand.
I received a round of applause at which I promptly bowed while the race director said,
"oh, you're brave!" I said... "or stupid!?" we all laughed and got on our marks! GO!
I was off and running!
The first 2 miles, fine... easy peasy pudding pie!
at 2 1/2, BIG BERTHA... the big, quarter mile of hill was under foot and she brought me to a walk a few times...
Mile 3 through 5... pretty smooth, can't complain....
Mile 6... Holy Jolly Ranchers, WTF?!
Mile 6 for some reason was the hardest mile!! I think I walked most of mile 6.
This was about where I pulled my hamstring on the left side! I gimped along letting people pass me....
Mile 7... I decided Mile 7 should be lucky and I should pick it up! Started with some short intervals.
8 counts of power walk, 8 counts of run, back and forth for the next 2 miles.
Mile 9, homestretch.... I could hear the cheering, I could hear the cow bells, I could hear the music...
I am almost home!
I run... as if I have no injuries, I run as if I have no pain... I run, as if I have a steak on my back and a bear is chasing me! I RUN!
Mile 9.75.... I see my babies!! I see my husband! YAY!! I made it! I wanted to fall down right there in their arms and cry.
Nope, still another quarter mile to go.... the longest part of the entire race and in the grass no less!
I hate you grass. I hate you, you last quarter mile.
But as I'm cursing the ground... next to me appears my oldest son, running along side of me!
"You did it Mom! You did it! I'm so proud of you! Look, I found you a 4 leaf clover, take it for good luck!"
On the other side of me comes my middle son... "Mom, can we run with you?!"
YES!! Let's finish this race!
And that's just what we did!
The race officials were kind enough to put medals around my kids necks as they crossed the finish line with their ol' Ma and you should have seen their faces!
They won! I won! We all won, in their little hearts... and no doubt we did!
Together! I wouldn't have had it any other way!
This was more than a race for me.
It was a challenge. It was a reminder, that I'm alive and that I am still an individual...
with race number 232 to be exact.
Today, I wasn't just a Momma, or a wife, a daughter or a friend....
I was a badass runner... as my friend Lacey would say! ;)
And even though I wasn't the best, or the fastest... I finished.
I did what I set out to do!
And in my kids eyes, I am a winner, and they are winners... and that means the world to me!
Thank you all for following along on this long, painful, educational and motivational journey!
I've learned so much from my friends and readers and this has honestly been one of the greatest experiences I have ever had! I'm really glad I put myself out there!
My goal, as soon as the dust settles here... and we arrive in Texas... is to finish losing the next 20 to 30 pounds and to get on my way to making and saving 15k $$$ .... same title, new adventure!
Stay tuned! ;)
Ready to Run!
And I'm off, me and the other 600+ crazy people! ;)
That last quarter mile... ^
My boys... finishing the race with their Mama!
Their 1st Medals!
The Finish Line!
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Holistic Healing
~ Today I want to talk about something that I feel is important as it pertains to our overall health but before I do I need to make it clear that I am in no way advising nor am I fit to advise anyone on their particular health concerns. I am simply sharing my own experience along with the research I've found.
I am aware that my view points are on the holistic side of the spectrum.
I feel modern medicine has it's place, but for me personally it will always be my last resort.
I am interested in treating problems not the symptoms... that being said, please read the following with that in mind. Thank you!
In my early 20's I was diagnosed with fibrocystic breast disease and high cholesterol.
In my late 20's (during my 2nd pregnancy) I was diagnosed with a benign solid mass that was growing in my thyroid. I am supposed to be having a biopsy done on it every 6 months, however I have not been back since my initial biopsy. If you've ever experienced one, you'd understand. I prefer to act as if I have cancer instead and treat my body holistically.
Just this last year I was diagnosed with chronic dry eye, ovarian cysts and depression.
All of these things are fairly common and not necessarily life threatening... so I've given them very little thought and have lived with it. Also, you wouldn't think that they could be related at all, but in fact, it would seem they may be the result of one single problem.
My step Dad was just diagnosed with Thyroid Cancer... and my husbands uncle is a thyroid cancer survivor. In addition, I know many friends who have been diagnosed with goiters, hypo or hyperthyroidism. Statistics are showing that many people are experiencing hormonal imbalances and issues with their thyroid. But why the sudden spike?
I decided after my step Dad's recent diagnosis that I needed to do some research.
This is what I found:
Iodine Deficiency.
Iodine? But isn't it bad?
Ummm, according to modern medicine, yes... but according to clinical data and history. NO!
95% of the population is actually Iodine Deficient... and the symptoms include all of the ailments I listed above and then some!
Dr. David Brownstein of Minnesota specializes in Holistic Family Medicine and he has published some very interesting information regarding the Thyroid and Iodine!
But before you reach for your Iodized Salt... hold up!
Did you know that salt actually inhibits the absorption of Iodine?!
Seems sort of counterproductive huh?
And according to Dr. Brownstein the amount of iodine needed per day is actually much higher then the FDA suggests. Shocker huh?!
Back in the 60's there used to be enough iodine in one slice of bread to get your daily dose of Iodine.
But they stopped adding Iodine, which we need and started adding Bromine. Bromine is toxic.
But that shouldn't be surprising, so is Aspartame, Nitrates, High Fructose Corn Syrup and so many other 'additives' they put in our food.
From the CDC website on Bromine:
http://www.bt.cdc.gov/agent/bromine/basics/facts.asp
Immediate signs and symptoms of exposure to bromine
Back in the 60's there used to be enough iodine in one slice of bread to get your daily dose of Iodine.
But they stopped adding Iodine, which we need and started adding Bromine. Bromine is toxic.
But that shouldn't be surprising, so is Aspartame, Nitrates, High Fructose Corn Syrup and so many other 'additives' they put in our food.
From the CDC website on Bromine:
http://www.bt.cdc.gov/agent/bromine/basics/facts.asp
Immediate signs and symptoms of exposure to bromine
- Breathing bromine gas could cause you to cough, have trouble breathing, get a headache, have irritation of your mucous membranes (inside your mouth, nose, etc.), be dizzy, or have watery eyes.
- Getting bromine liquid or gas on your skin could cause skin irritation and burns. Liquid bromine that touches your skin may first cause a cooling sensation that is closely followed by a burning feeling.
- Swallowing bromine-containing compounds (combinations of bromine with other chemicals) would cause different effects depending on the compound. Swallowing a large amount of bromine in a short period of time would be likely to cause symptoms such as nausea and vomiting (gastrointestinal symptoms).
- Showing these signs and symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has been exposed to bromine.
So anyhoooo....
I just got on Amazon this morning and started researching Iodine supplements and ordered one for my family and my Mom and Step Dad.... this is the one I purchased:
And while we're on the subject of holistic healing, I've discovered via Youtube (I love the Internet)... a video about curing cancer with baking soda and maple syrup or molasses.
In a pot, dissolve 2 tbsp. of baking soda in 8 oz. of water, then stir in a tbsp. of molasses and drink it, once a day. You can also drink this cold too... but the baking soda will be a bit gritty.
The healing properties have to do with PH Balancing.
In a pot, dissolve 2 tbsp. of baking soda in 8 oz. of water, then stir in a tbsp. of molasses and drink it, once a day. You can also drink this cold too... but the baking soda will be a bit gritty.
The healing properties have to do with PH Balancing.
I figure that's safe, cheap and easy enough to try... I did this for just under a year and it shrunk my tumor from the size of a baseball to the size a small bouncy ball.
This has allowed me to breath easier and speak easier... with out my thyroid nodule pressing against my voice box and airway.
For those of you that know me you know I am a singer.
This diagnosis was rough on me as removing the thyroid in addition to putting me on lifelong medication and synthetic hormones would also risk damage to my vocal chords.
Neither of which I was interested in doing unless it was absolutely necessary to survive.
Neither of which I was interested in doing unless it was absolutely necessary to survive.
So as it is, I will continue with my baking soda, molasses concoction and I'm excited to introduce the additional Iodine I am so obviously lacking, and see how it affects me!
I'll give you all an update as soon as I do!
Just thought you might like to know that Iodine, even though it has gotten a bad rap...
isn't that bad afterall! Who knew?!
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
3 Days Left...
Only 3 days left until the race! Aghhhhhhhhh! :)
And guess what I have!? Sciatica! Yippee! (Sarcasm)
For those who are not aware of Sciatic pain... you're lucky!
I have struggled with it off and on ever since my 1st pregnancy. It hurts!
It's a nerve near the top of your buttock that sends shooting pains all the way down your leg and even into your foot!
I have been icing, using the tennis ball, stretching... all to temporarily feel better but it always comes back! Some days I am so stiff, I can barely move! I really need to get in to the chiropractor, not sure how I'll do that now with my husband in Texas.
But the race is in 3 days and I'm nervously going into it with low expectations.
Really, my only expectation at this point is to finish the race.
I don't care if I need to stop and walk, or crawl. I don't care if the only people still standing there at the end are my family members... I just want to cross the finish line.
Recently, we took the kids out to Veteran Acres, where I've been training... we hiked about 2 miles with them and took them to the park and splash pad for a picnic. They did great, all except my 2 year old who needed a lift on the hills. My husband was carrying the backpack, so I got to carry little sis.
Here is what I realized from this experience:
She weighs just over 20 pounds.
Since I started this journey, I have lost... just over 20 pounds.
Carrying her on my back while I walked up the hills I felt every joint in my body, most particularly my knees screaming at me! I have no idea how I was able to run with all the extra weight 20+ pounds ago.
Then I started thinking, I STILL have 20 to 30 more pounds to lose!!
Should I even be running with this much extra weight?
No wonder I am in so much pain!
So I cringe to say it because I love to run.... but I think once the race is over, if I'm still able to walk, I'm going to cut back on running for a while, give my joints a rest while I power walk like the old lady that I've become and shed some more weight!
Metatarsalitis, pain in both knees and shins, sprained ankle and now Sciatica... are convincing me that I need to take it back a notch and as much as I hate to do it, I need to walk. :(
Walking when you're a runner feels a lot like being grounded when you're a teenager. Not fun.
But I'm hoping that one day I can run, once again!
I need to step the juicing up a notch too and I just got two new books that I think will help me do that!
One has a ton of great recipes while the other one has holistic healing type recipes! Both are awesome!
And guess what I have!? Sciatica! Yippee! (Sarcasm)
For those who are not aware of Sciatic pain... you're lucky!
I have struggled with it off and on ever since my 1st pregnancy. It hurts!
It's a nerve near the top of your buttock that sends shooting pains all the way down your leg and even into your foot!
I have been icing, using the tennis ball, stretching... all to temporarily feel better but it always comes back! Some days I am so stiff, I can barely move! I really need to get in to the chiropractor, not sure how I'll do that now with my husband in Texas.
But the race is in 3 days and I'm nervously going into it with low expectations.
Really, my only expectation at this point is to finish the race.
I don't care if I need to stop and walk, or crawl. I don't care if the only people still standing there at the end are my family members... I just want to cross the finish line.
Recently, we took the kids out to Veteran Acres, where I've been training... we hiked about 2 miles with them and took them to the park and splash pad for a picnic. They did great, all except my 2 year old who needed a lift on the hills. My husband was carrying the backpack, so I got to carry little sis.
Here is what I realized from this experience:
She weighs just over 20 pounds.
Since I started this journey, I have lost... just over 20 pounds.
Carrying her on my back while I walked up the hills I felt every joint in my body, most particularly my knees screaming at me! I have no idea how I was able to run with all the extra weight 20+ pounds ago.
Then I started thinking, I STILL have 20 to 30 more pounds to lose!!
Should I even be running with this much extra weight?
No wonder I am in so much pain!
So I cringe to say it because I love to run.... but I think once the race is over, if I'm still able to walk, I'm going to cut back on running for a while, give my joints a rest while I power walk like the old lady that I've become and shed some more weight!
Metatarsalitis, pain in both knees and shins, sprained ankle and now Sciatica... are convincing me that I need to take it back a notch and as much as I hate to do it, I need to walk. :(
Walking when you're a runner feels a lot like being grounded when you're a teenager. Not fun.
But I'm hoping that one day I can run, once again!
I need to step the juicing up a notch too and I just got two new books that I think will help me do that!
One has a ton of great recipes while the other one has holistic healing type recipes! Both are awesome!
Monday, July 9, 2012
Happy Trails
So I have been trying to get out there at least once a day since it's crunch time now and I honestly don't feel ready for this race. Like, at all.
I even tossed around the idea of blowing it off. Not because I don't want to do it... but because the hubs will have a 3 day weekend between the two jobs and we haven't yet taken our annual trip to Michigan to visit my family up there (and the beautiful beaches, of course)... I'm thinking that might be our last chance and maybe our last visit... as a family! Man, that makes me sad!! :(
And I'm scared because I lost so much of my training with the sprained ankle and pregnancy/miscarriage... I really don't feel ready for this race at all.
So I decided to put it to a family vote! (The beauty of a Party of 5 is that there is always a majority rule!)
AJ, do you want to go to Michigan or watch Mom run her race? Answer: "MICHIGAN!"
JB, same question.... Answer: "I've been to Michigan, but I've never seen Mom run a race... so I say, watch Mom run. Can we go to Michigan after you run Mom?" (Not a bad idea, but it's 10 hours driving rountrip for 1 night... followed by an 18 hour drive to TX.? hmmmm)
Sissy, Michigan or Mommy Run? Answer: "Mommy Run!"
So if we're just going off the kids votes (as the Brave Husband, was not brave enough to weigh in) ;) It looks like I'm running the race. Or walking. Or crawling. Whatever my tired old body allows me to do.
I went back out to Veteran Acres yesterday, I really am going to miss it there when we move!
It is such a mix of prairie, woods and wetlands! Gorgeous, seriously!
And it's possible to run a completely different run each time you go, there's so many different trails!
This time I took a camera/phone to capture a little bit of what I'm describing here.
Not my own of course, cause I can't seem to keep my phone charged to save my life!
But the Brave Husband was brave enough to loan me his right arm... I mean his phone. :)
Thanks honey.
For your viewing pleasure:
I even tossed around the idea of blowing it off. Not because I don't want to do it... but because the hubs will have a 3 day weekend between the two jobs and we haven't yet taken our annual trip to Michigan to visit my family up there (and the beautiful beaches, of course)... I'm thinking that might be our last chance and maybe our last visit... as a family! Man, that makes me sad!! :(
And I'm scared because I lost so much of my training with the sprained ankle and pregnancy/miscarriage... I really don't feel ready for this race at all.
So I decided to put it to a family vote! (The beauty of a Party of 5 is that there is always a majority rule!)
AJ, do you want to go to Michigan or watch Mom run her race? Answer: "MICHIGAN!"
JB, same question.... Answer: "I've been to Michigan, but I've never seen Mom run a race... so I say, watch Mom run. Can we go to Michigan after you run Mom?" (Not a bad idea, but it's 10 hours driving rountrip for 1 night... followed by an 18 hour drive to TX.? hmmmm)
Sissy, Michigan or Mommy Run? Answer: "Mommy Run!"
So if we're just going off the kids votes (as the Brave Husband, was not brave enough to weigh in) ;) It looks like I'm running the race. Or walking. Or crawling. Whatever my tired old body allows me to do.
I went back out to Veteran Acres yesterday, I really am going to miss it there when we move!
It is such a mix of prairie, woods and wetlands! Gorgeous, seriously!
And it's possible to run a completely different run each time you go, there's so many different trails!
This time I took a camera/phone to capture a little bit of what I'm describing here.
Not my own of course, cause I can't seem to keep my phone charged to save my life!
But the Brave Husband was brave enough to loan me his right arm... I mean his phone. :)
Thanks honey.
For your viewing pleasure:
Amen! ;)
Tree roots for a staircase, anyone?
THIS is the downhill turn that took me down! My dang ankle, STILL hurts! :/
The Mighty Pines
A Fork in the Road!
The view from the top...^
Where it connects to the GIT (Grand Illinois Trail)... ^
The sound of the leaves blowing... sounds just like running water... so relaxing!
Pictures really don't do it justice! This has easily become my favorite place to run!
In other news:
I would like to have a moment of silence for my I Pod. :(
It died.
I had to run with out it, and let me tell you... music makes a difference!
I'm really tired of the whole downloading, purchasing, syncing stuff... told the hubs, I really want an old school walkman! Remember?!
How totally rad would that be?! I could just listen to the radio... for FREE! So much easier... as long as I could shrink it to ipod size so I don't have to sport the fanny pack with it! THAT is where I draw the line!
OH, what's that you say? They make it? STOP IT!
No! They do! LOOK what I found!
YUP! :)
And since Amazon takes Discover rewards, I was able to redeem mine and get this already affordable little puppy for nothing! YAY! See that, already on my way to 15K... on the trails and in the bank, baby! ;)
Thursday, July 5, 2012
When One Door Closes, Another One Opens...
The race is in 16 days! Eeek!
I was further along in my training 2 months ago than I am in this present moment.
Vacation and mostly the surprise pregnancy and miscarriage really set me back!
Se la vie... that's life right?! You win some, you lose some!
I can't do anything about it now other than my best to get it done!
The day before yesterday I was up before the sun... trying to beat the crazy, humid heat!
I headed back out to Veteran Acres (where I sprained my ankle last time).
It has been my first time back since the injury... and my first time running on unpaved path since the injury.
Needless to say I was much slower and a lot more cautious this time around!
I only put in 5 miles this time and it was tough! A far cry from the 8+ I put in nearly effortlessly on my last visit. So it was a good assessment of where I'm at and how much I've lost in training.
While it's very frustrating, I'm hopeful that I can get it back quicker this time around since it hasn't been that long since I've had it.
In other news... my husband got the position he was applying for, in Dallas Texas!
He is quitting his current company after 9 long (and frustrating) years... and happily starting up his new position the 23rd of this month!
He will literally be watching me run my race and then driving down to Texas to begin his new journey. The kids and I will hang back to get the house rented out or sold... whichever comes first.
Then I'll be making the move down south as well!
A very full plate these days! Bitter sweet this move. We will miss our friends! We will miss the home we brought two babies home from the hospital to. We will miss our annual trips to Michigan and my family up there. We will miss Chicago... and it's energy.
BUT, we are very excited and hopeful for the future. I feel, it is time... to move on!
I pray it all goes smoothly and that our expectations for a better way of life are realized.
I'm considering keeping this blog going... once I've reached my goal of running 15k.
I will continue to eat right and exercise... and hopefully lose more weight... but I'm also thinking of ways I can earn and save 15K.
On my way to 15k will transform into a new venture that will be all about cutting costs, budgeting, couponing, selling, saving, and all other creative ways of resourcefulness!
I am interested, like most people in America... in getting out of debt and living a simpler, happier and more secure future!
Same title,... new journey! I hope you'll come along!
I was further along in my training 2 months ago than I am in this present moment.
Vacation and mostly the surprise pregnancy and miscarriage really set me back!
Se la vie... that's life right?! You win some, you lose some!
I can't do anything about it now other than my best to get it done!
The day before yesterday I was up before the sun... trying to beat the crazy, humid heat!
I headed back out to Veteran Acres (where I sprained my ankle last time).
It has been my first time back since the injury... and my first time running on unpaved path since the injury.
Needless to say I was much slower and a lot more cautious this time around!
I only put in 5 miles this time and it was tough! A far cry from the 8+ I put in nearly effortlessly on my last visit. So it was a good assessment of where I'm at and how much I've lost in training.
While it's very frustrating, I'm hopeful that I can get it back quicker this time around since it hasn't been that long since I've had it.
In other news... my husband got the position he was applying for, in Dallas Texas!
He is quitting his current company after 9 long (and frustrating) years... and happily starting up his new position the 23rd of this month!
He will literally be watching me run my race and then driving down to Texas to begin his new journey. The kids and I will hang back to get the house rented out or sold... whichever comes first.
Then I'll be making the move down south as well!
A very full plate these days! Bitter sweet this move. We will miss our friends! We will miss the home we brought two babies home from the hospital to. We will miss our annual trips to Michigan and my family up there. We will miss Chicago... and it's energy.
BUT, we are very excited and hopeful for the future. I feel, it is time... to move on!
I pray it all goes smoothly and that our expectations for a better way of life are realized.
I'm considering keeping this blog going... once I've reached my goal of running 15k.
I will continue to eat right and exercise... and hopefully lose more weight... but I'm also thinking of ways I can earn and save 15K.
On my way to 15k will transform into a new venture that will be all about cutting costs, budgeting, couponing, selling, saving, and all other creative ways of resourcefulness!
I am interested, like most people in America... in getting out of debt and living a simpler, happier and more secure future!
Same title,... new journey! I hope you'll come along!
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Hello Kayano
So, I'm totally a fan of supporting local Ma and Pop's... such as Eric's Running Unlimited store in Palatine Illinois. But if you don't have a local running store where you can get the expertise you need, your best bet is to figure out your own gate, arch, pronation, etc... go at least a half a size bigger... and try to buy from a place with a good return policy since most the time it takes a run or two to figure out the shoe is not the right fit!
If you've been reading my blog you know I bought my Newton's (which ended up being not so great) from Road Runner Sports. http://www.roadrunnersports.com
I love their 90 day return policy and free shipping, (with VIP) both ways!
Course my procrastinating self took 96 days to return them... and I was a little nervous that they would send my shoes back saying sorry... but it wouldn't cost me anything to try... so I did!
With my credit I decided to order the Asic Gel Kayano 18's and some arch and ankle support dry fit socks. A friend told me that the Kayano's are a lot like my Asic Gel 2160's that they no longer make, so I figured I'd give them a try.
Road Runner Sports didn't even hesitate! They sent me the new shoes and socks with out even slapping my wrist for it being after the 90 days! I'm seriously impressed and grateful for their exceptional customer service!
Here's the Kayano:
And here's my review on it:
OK, let's take a few things into consideration.
1.) I sprained my ankle pretty bad about 5 weeks ago and went through a pretty bad 6 weeks of pregnancy followed by a miscarriage... so my training runs have been few and far between!
2.) I just got back from two weeks of vacation in Las Vegas and California. And even though I didn't gain a pound, continued juicing and eating well... let's be real, fitness and weight are related but not the same thing. You can be skinny but not in shape. At the moment, I am neither... but working on it! ;)
This all adds up to 5 to 6 weeks of setback which had me feeling heavy, sluggish and slow this morning when I got up early to get a run in. Probably doesn't help that we've got 95 degrees with humidity making it like a 100+ degree sauna! I am hacking up crap like I have pneumonia again!
There really is something to humidity verses 'dry heat' as they call it in Vegas... I had an easier time running in 105 dry heat in Vegas then I did in 95 with humidity here!
All this to say that it may not be the Kayano's fault entirely that I wasn't feel'n it!
I thought the Kayano, while better then some of the other shoes I've tried... was a bit heavy and flat.
I like a more rounded front toe. And I had some pain in both feet/metatarsals and some pain under my left knee... that's new for me. So I'm not 100% sold or unsold yet... it's the first run on the shoe, and the first real run in a while... so to be fair, I'll give a it a couple more before I judge.
But at this point, I'd rather run on my Asic Gel 2160's. I only baught 3 extra pair since they no longer make them, and now I'm thinking I should have bought 5.
For me the saying goes "when the shoe fits, wear it and buy 5 more!"
The right running shoe and the perfect pair of jeans require more than one purchase, in my humble opinion!
So the race is in exactly one month. I'm a little worried, but not too bad... mostly getting excited!
The humidity has me worried a bit so I'm praying the weather is freakishly cooler on race day, but we shall see!
Gotta tell you about this dream I had that I think was really cool! My Birthday is the day after tomorrow... I had a dream recently that I saw my Grandma. She's been passed away 5 years now.
In my dream, we were at a party... I asked her what we were celebrating? She said her birthday... and mine too really!
I thought it was weird since my Grandma's Birthday is in July and mine is in June... I just shrugged it off as close enough, cool to see her!
But then I realized something... the race, is July 21st. My Grandma's birthday, is July 21st.
This race is no doubt a rebirth for me... and now a perfect way to celebrate her life as well!
I feel she was letting me know she's still with me and witnessing my growth.
It was nice to see her again, even if it was just in a dream.
If you've been reading my blog you know I bought my Newton's (which ended up being not so great) from Road Runner Sports. http://www.roadrunnersports.com
I love their 90 day return policy and free shipping, (with VIP) both ways!
Course my procrastinating self took 96 days to return them... and I was a little nervous that they would send my shoes back saying sorry... but it wouldn't cost me anything to try... so I did!
With my credit I decided to order the Asic Gel Kayano 18's and some arch and ankle support dry fit socks. A friend told me that the Kayano's are a lot like my Asic Gel 2160's that they no longer make, so I figured I'd give them a try.
Road Runner Sports didn't even hesitate! They sent me the new shoes and socks with out even slapping my wrist for it being after the 90 days! I'm seriously impressed and grateful for their exceptional customer service!
Here's the Kayano:
And here's my review on it:
OK, let's take a few things into consideration.
1.) I sprained my ankle pretty bad about 5 weeks ago and went through a pretty bad 6 weeks of pregnancy followed by a miscarriage... so my training runs have been few and far between!
2.) I just got back from two weeks of vacation in Las Vegas and California. And even though I didn't gain a pound, continued juicing and eating well... let's be real, fitness and weight are related but not the same thing. You can be skinny but not in shape. At the moment, I am neither... but working on it! ;)
This all adds up to 5 to 6 weeks of setback which had me feeling heavy, sluggish and slow this morning when I got up early to get a run in. Probably doesn't help that we've got 95 degrees with humidity making it like a 100+ degree sauna! I am hacking up crap like I have pneumonia again!
There really is something to humidity verses 'dry heat' as they call it in Vegas... I had an easier time running in 105 dry heat in Vegas then I did in 95 with humidity here!
All this to say that it may not be the Kayano's fault entirely that I wasn't feel'n it!
I thought the Kayano, while better then some of the other shoes I've tried... was a bit heavy and flat.
I like a more rounded front toe. And I had some pain in both feet/metatarsals and some pain under my left knee... that's new for me. So I'm not 100% sold or unsold yet... it's the first run on the shoe, and the first real run in a while... so to be fair, I'll give a it a couple more before I judge.
But at this point, I'd rather run on my Asic Gel 2160's. I only baught 3 extra pair since they no longer make them, and now I'm thinking I should have bought 5.
For me the saying goes "when the shoe fits, wear it and buy 5 more!"
The right running shoe and the perfect pair of jeans require more than one purchase, in my humble opinion!
So the race is in exactly one month. I'm a little worried, but not too bad... mostly getting excited!
The humidity has me worried a bit so I'm praying the weather is freakishly cooler on race day, but we shall see!
Gotta tell you about this dream I had that I think was really cool! My Birthday is the day after tomorrow... I had a dream recently that I saw my Grandma. She's been passed away 5 years now.
In my dream, we were at a party... I asked her what we were celebrating? She said her birthday... and mine too really!
I thought it was weird since my Grandma's Birthday is in July and mine is in June... I just shrugged it off as close enough, cool to see her!
But then I realized something... the race, is July 21st. My Grandma's birthday, is July 21st.
This race is no doubt a rebirth for me... and now a perfect way to celebrate her life as well!
I feel she was letting me know she's still with me and witnessing my growth.
It was nice to see her again, even if it was just in a dream.
Saturday, June 16, 2012
"If You Worried About Falling Off the Bike...
You'd Never Get On." - Lance Armstrong
So the suitcases are already unpacked and the laundry already done, not bad for my first 24 hours home!
Usually the suitcase will sit there for weeks! Tomorrow, I'm off to the grocery store to get my juicing produce and hope to squeeze in a good run before the hubs goes back to work!
It was a great, much needed trip! But it's good to be in our own beds again, and we're looking forward to getting back into our routines!
This was posted on the wall of the YMCA in Las Vegas where I was visiting and had the honor of watching my nephew and his basketball team take 3rd overall for the season! YAY Griffin!! Good job buddy, and HaPpY BiRtHdAy!!! We loved being there with you guys and swimming in your beautiful new pool!
I thought I ought to take a picture for the blog since worry is something I do all too often and all too well!
I worry about injury, I worry about not being able to run... or finish this race!
I worry about everything... running related or not! And it's really a bad thing, I need to get a grip and do like Nike says "Just Do It!" Or don't, whatever!
The only thing worse than not reaching your goal is not having one!
(Or worrying your hair 50 shades of Grey!) ;)
So I just need to have the goal and stop worrying and fearing it... holding myself back!
SO anyhoooooo.... I just got back from a 2 week vaca out in Las Vegas and Southern California.
Visiting family and friends, and taking the kids to set foot in Disneyland and the Ocean for the first time!
I think we enjoyed the ocean more! :)
I am very pleased with myself because even though I was on vacation and certainly allowed myself to cut loose a little bit on the 'eating right and training' thing... I didn't gain a single pound back!
I also did my fair share of juicing and even made it out for a run or two!
Albeit, one of the runs was on the beach trying to fly a kite with my 3 kiddos... but hey, it counts!
Have you tried to run in sand? Not so easy!
While in Vegas, I picked up this Ninja blender at Wal Mart for just under a hundred. My mom's blender needed upgrading so I just got it for her and I got to use it while I was there! I introduced her to the green monster (kale, coconut water, pineapple, ice) concoction that's supposed to cure all that ails you and she actually liked it! Or at least she pretended to and sucked more than one down with me! My 2 year old daughter loves them too, and she's my picky eater... so juicing is about the only way I can get her greens and veggies in!
As a review on the Ninja... I loved the multiple blades inside up and down, makes a lot of sense! And love that they come out for easy more thorough cleansing! It didn't create as smooth of a juice as my Vitamix does, but hey, at a quarter of the price... I'd say it's a pretty good investment! I was impressed!
P.S. It made a real good frozen Margarita too! ;)
So the suitcases are already unpacked and the laundry already done, not bad for my first 24 hours home!
Usually the suitcase will sit there for weeks! Tomorrow, I'm off to the grocery store to get my juicing produce and hope to squeeze in a good run before the hubs goes back to work!
It was a great, much needed trip! But it's good to be in our own beds again, and we're looking forward to getting back into our routines!
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Evan Dollard a.k.a. "The Rocket!"
I'm tired of talking about me!
And if I'm tired of talking about me, I know you are tired of hearing/reading about me! HA! :)
I've never done anything so 'self absorbed' before for any such length of time, honestly...
I'm starting to become annoyed with myself! Do you ever feel that way? Weird, I know.
But really, I'm not doing much exciting right now in the ways of progress.
I feel like I've taken 10 giant steps backward with this pregnancy (surprise) and miscarriage.
And to top it off, the kids are out of school now so I've lost my 2 hour window to run with one kid.
In a week were going home to Las Vegas to visit family and friends for 2 to 3 weeks... so I'll update when I can but I think both I and you (my lovely readers) can probably use a break!
In the meantime I'll be doing all the right things, as often as possible and coming back strong in July (Race Month!)
For now, I want to talk about an inspiration of mine, Evan Dollard. A.K.A. "the Rocket!"
He's from our area here in IL. and my husband first met him at Lifetime Fitness (our gym) where he was teaching little kids how to rock climb.
Then, years ago we watched him on American Gladiators where he played with SO much heart and determination... he stood out from the crowd!
I'm not even a big fan of gladiator type stuff, but I am a big fan of Evan!
His mom had passed recent to American Gladiators and he no doubt played to win, for her!
It was amazing to witness! I rarely reach out to people but I was moved and so sent him a friend request on Facebook and an email telling him how much I appreciated how he played and how he was such a pleasure to watch! He is such a nice and down to earth guy, he took the time to write me back.
Recently I see him posting about this new show he's competing in, American Ninja Warrior. I tuned in just to see Evan compete again, and low and behold... there he is with all the same fire, conviction and dedication if not more than I witnessed the first time around in Gladiators!
Not only did he qualify in the top 15 out of 30 people to go to Vegas, but he holds the #1 spot with a time of 3:03!! I was on the edge of my bed watching 2 feet from the TV, it was so exciting!
We're very proud of him and hope he wins the whole thing!
Don't forget to tune in and cheer him on, NBC Monday at 9/8C GO EVAN!!!
Here's a video of his performance so far:
http://www.nbc.com/american-ninja-warrior/video/evan-dollard/1402809
And if I'm tired of talking about me, I know you are tired of hearing/reading about me! HA! :)
I've never done anything so 'self absorbed' before for any such length of time, honestly...
I'm starting to become annoyed with myself! Do you ever feel that way? Weird, I know.
But really, I'm not doing much exciting right now in the ways of progress.
I feel like I've taken 10 giant steps backward with this pregnancy (surprise) and miscarriage.
And to top it off, the kids are out of school now so I've lost my 2 hour window to run with one kid.
In a week were going home to Las Vegas to visit family and friends for 2 to 3 weeks... so I'll update when I can but I think both I and you (my lovely readers) can probably use a break!
In the meantime I'll be doing all the right things, as often as possible and coming back strong in July (Race Month!)
For now, I want to talk about an inspiration of mine, Evan Dollard. A.K.A. "the Rocket!"
He's from our area here in IL. and my husband first met him at Lifetime Fitness (our gym) where he was teaching little kids how to rock climb.
Then, years ago we watched him on American Gladiators where he played with SO much heart and determination... he stood out from the crowd!
I'm not even a big fan of gladiator type stuff, but I am a big fan of Evan!
His mom had passed recent to American Gladiators and he no doubt played to win, for her!
It was amazing to witness! I rarely reach out to people but I was moved and so sent him a friend request on Facebook and an email telling him how much I appreciated how he played and how he was such a pleasure to watch! He is such a nice and down to earth guy, he took the time to write me back.
Recently I see him posting about this new show he's competing in, American Ninja Warrior. I tuned in just to see Evan compete again, and low and behold... there he is with all the same fire, conviction and dedication if not more than I witnessed the first time around in Gladiators!
Not only did he qualify in the top 15 out of 30 people to go to Vegas, but he holds the #1 spot with a time of 3:03!! I was on the edge of my bed watching 2 feet from the TV, it was so exciting!
We're very proud of him and hope he wins the whole thing!
Don't forget to tune in and cheer him on, NBC Monday at 9/8C GO EVAN!!!
Here's a video of his performance so far:
http://www.nbc.com/american-ninja-warrior/video/evan-dollard/1402809
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Baby Steps...
Today is the last day of school for my kids!
I'm feeling lots better. My ankle is still stiff but not too bad... and my bleeding is very light... so I'm happy about that. The hormones are almost out of my system and I'm feeling a lot better!
Time to get back out there and hit the trails.
So I decided to take baby steps to ease back into it.
Crawl before I walk.... or walk before I run... again.
So the kids and I walked to school today!
It's a little under 3 miles round trip! The kids were troopers!
It was downright hot, but gorgeous out with a nice breeze.
We came home and made snow cones... they were nummy and hit the spot!
Sunday, May 20, 2012
Run With Your Heart!
I know it means that when you get tired, physically (while running) to push through and run with your heart! Which is great all on it's own!
But the way it resonates with me in this moment, is even though I can't physically run in this moment... I can still run with my heart! And I do! That's just it!
I dream, literally... I dream about running!
There's no doubt in my mind, if I should be so lucky to make it to an old woman status, like real old woman... not just the old that I feel now :) I will no doubt dream of running!
Last night I dreamed about running the race.
And not only did I finish the race, I didn't even come in last!
My exact time when I crossed the finish line was 100 minutes and 59 seconds.
I laughed in my dream and said to them, 'Wow, why not make it an even 1 minute... 101'
I was happy with that! It would equate to just a little over 10 minutes per mile.
Now the course, in my dream... was not at all the course in real life.
It was a mix of trails I've run around here and even some from High School.
There were High School friends there too in my dream... and at one point in the course I had to climb a tree... I highly doubt that will take place in real life.
But I'm curious to see if my time is correct... guess we'll see!
I just love that even when we can't do what we love, in the physical world... we can do what we love in the dream/spiritual world!
I know, kind of deep. HA! Sorry. Just humor me here...
Because this dream couldn't have come at a better time as I really was feeling down yesterday about everything else.
It was almost as if God was whispering in my ear... "don't forget your dream!"
Dreams are what remind us we are alive, when we feel like we are not living.
So I'm not sure how, or if I'll even still be living here at the time of the race.
But for once in my life, I will finish something I start.
Even if it means flying in for it!
If I break a leg, dammit I will finish the race in my wheel chair!
I am just, so over letting stuff get in my way!
What I'm learning is that life is full of roadblocks.
Full of people telling you, you can't do things!
There are setbacks and often times, things will look impossible!
But no matter friggin what, if you REALLY, really want something... you will find a way to make it happen!
Friday, May 18, 2012
This Too Shall Pass...
This is my 6 week old Blighted Ovum (empty sack with egg yolk).
I passed it last night.
A blessing in disguise really since I had no idea how I would manage with 4 children 6 years old and under! Proof Positive, for me at least... that God really doesn't give us anything we can't handle!
The good Lord must have known that I can not handle it. Not now at least, maybe not ever.
So this was the 'medical situation' that I mentioned earlier. For those that are curious.
I figured, I may as well write about it!?
Why not... I mean it's just one more hurdle I'm jumping over, on my way to 15k!
I had no idea when I started this short journey how action packed it would be, did you!?
Sheesh...
I can't wait to stop bleeding, heal up and hit the trails again!
It's a little sad. I'm not completely heartless. But I'd be lying if I said I wasn't more relieved than sad.
What I do take from it though, is how grateful I am for the 3 healthy children I DO have!
I'm starting to really comprehend what a true miracle that is in itself!
Saturday, May 12, 2012
Perfect Conditions Don't Exist
So the past week or so was rough. There are many uncertainties in my life right now and more on my plate than I could ever process... but, that's life right!?
There isn't really a whole lot I can do about any of it right now, since it's all a wait and see game at the moment, but what I can do... (now that I've had time to wrap my head around it all) is to not let it keep me down!
If you wait for Perfect Conditions... you'll never get anything done!
So while I have no idea if I'll even be in town for my race in July or if I'll medically be able to continue with it... I do know that I can keep eating the right things and making an effort to keep healthy that way. I do know that I can always walk, even if I can't run! I don't have to give it ALL up just because of setbacks beyond my control. And when my life settles back down,which it will have to do eventually right?!
Then it will be that much easier to progress and continue on.
Because afterall, this isn't a goal as much as a lifestyle change... so why should my lifestyle change with lifes changes?!
It shouldn't.
Another good find I found on Pinterest (about food) is which foods should be refrigerated and which should not.... interesting!
Enjoy the weekend and Big Ol' Happy Mother's Day to all you Mother's out there!
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Curve Balls & Crossroads
I understand in life there are curve balls.
I understand in life there are crossroads.
Image credit: ©2001, ays3@cornell.edu
What I don't understand, in my life at least... is why they both seem to always happen at the same time!?
I'm beginning to realize that maybe the reason I have had such an issue with 'finishing things' is because 'things' keep happening in my life that alter the outcome of my goals. It's not as much that I can never set my mind to something and see it through, but that life keeps throwing me curve balls and crossroads in which my goals become dare I say, impossible?
I don't believe in the word impossible. The very word itself says "I'm Possible."
So maybe what I mean, is they truly become back burner, less important in the whole big picture.
This goal... will be finished. I will achieve it.
Only now due to a possible move across country and career change for my husband and some personal health concerns... it may not be this year. :(
We'll see... a lot is yet to be seen...
I'm frustrated, to say the least.
I've spent a lot of time in deep thought and prayer. And I'm realizing that maybe On My Way to 15k is not going to be done in just 18 weeks. And maybe my transformation to a healthier happier me ... may take a bit more time then I had thought also. I suppose that makes sense considering it took me nearly a decade to arrive where I'm at.
So if you're interested in sticking with me on this journey that will no doubt be longer than expected... you are welcome to come along!
My updates may be less frequent as my focus and energy will be shifting from running and eating right to packing, cleaning and selling my house possibly... while figuring out my personal health issues too.
Mind you, it's probably more important now to be eating right and exercising... so keeping this blog going will serve as my reminder of that too.
God is teaching me the definition of keeping the faith... letting go, letting God.
I am learning patience.
I am learning grace.
I am learning resilience.
And as frustrating as it is, we don't get to choose when we learn life's lessons.
Or when we arrive at crossroads. We don't get to decide or prepare for curve balls.
All we can do is adapt, bend, learn, grow... and do the best we can with what comes our way!
Monday, May 7, 2012
A Shot In The Dark
"An arrow can be shot only by pulling it backward.
So when life is pulling you back with difficulties,
it means that it's going to launch you into something great!"
The quote gives me hope!
And what better image comes to mind for it then the fierce and incredible Katniss!
I feel like since I started this journey a little over 2 months ago... it's been one set back after another!
I've taken it all in stride, no puns intended... and one hurdle at a time... but I have to say, it's getting tiresome!
I wont give up! I'm not a quitter.
But I can't help but look up now and again and ask God "Reeeeally!? I thought you weren't supposed to give me anything I can't handle?! Tell'n you now Lord, I can't handle all this!"
There are so many personal things going on with me that I wont get into here... mostly because this is not the purpose of the blog or the place for it.
You've known of my struggles as it pertains to my running endeavors but very few people know what is really going on in my life behind the scenes. I suppose, none of us really know what's going on with others... even when we think we do.
So rather than recluse with it all which is what my instincts are telling me to do when there is more going on then I can process... I'm just going to put it out there that if you believe in the power of prayer, positive chi, meditation, mojo... whatever it is... if you wouldn't mind sending some on over to your runner girl here, I would greatly appreciate it!
I am down.
I am not out.
I may be scarce as my life is about to spin here pretty quickly...
but I'm hanging on and hanging in there... and somehow, by the grace of God...
This too, shall pass!
And like that arrow, may these difficulties that are pulling me back only launch me further into greatness!
Amen!
P.S. I've got God on speed dial lately so if you'd like me to send up a prayer on your behalf as well, feel free to let me know! ;) Love!
Sunday, May 6, 2012
Pinspiration
Today is a day of Pinspiration!!
Pinterest is my guilty pleasure!
If I could just get off of it long enough to apply my 'pins' to my life... ;)
Here are some of my favorite... Inspiring pins!
Happy Sunday... day of rest! Ahhhhhhhh ;)
Pinterest is my guilty pleasure!
If I could just get off of it long enough to apply my 'pins' to my life... ;)
Here are some of my favorite... Inspiring pins!
Happy Sunday... day of rest! Ahhhhhhhh ;)
How fun are these shoes!?
Friday, May 4, 2012
I'm Down 20 Pounds Total Now!! :)
Yipppppeeeeee!! :)
I'm 20 pounds lighter... (30 to go!)
Let's take a quick look at the then and now... shall we?!
When I started my measurements were as such:
I feel like a new person! I look and feel so different already! It's really exciting!! :)
Overall I have much more energy and I'm much more happy!
I sleep better, handle stress better, think more clearly, my skin and hair look better... everything is improving! I can hardly imagine how much better I'll feel when I lose the next 20!
Loving the juicing! Since I increased the amount I haven't even had headaches or felt tired! It's been great!!
I'm 20 pounds lighter... (30 to go!)
Let's take a quick look at the then and now... shall we?!
When I started my measurements were as such:
Measurements across the breasts 40"
around the waist 38"
below the belly button 41"
around the butt? LOL 44"
Around the upper, fatty part of the thigh...obviously I have no idea how I'm supposed to be measuring here it's 25"
around the upper fatty part of the arm 13"
Now they are as follows:
Across the breasts 39"
around the waist 35"
below the belly button 39 1/2 "
around the buttocks :) LOL 43"
around the thigh 24"
arm is still 13", looks like I need to work my arms out more, it's the only place I haven't lost at least an inch.
I feel like a new person! I look and feel so different already! It's really exciting!! :)
Overall I have much more energy and I'm much more happy!
I sleep better, handle stress better, think more clearly, my skin and hair look better... everything is improving! I can hardly imagine how much better I'll feel when I lose the next 20!
Loving the juicing! Since I increased the amount I haven't even had headaches or felt tired! It's been great!!
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Dirty Dozen, Clean 15
So yesterday, my 1st day of juicing was rough! I had to throw in some cauliflower puree soup after dinner because I was still hungry. I had a headache and no energy. I was dragging butt all day long!
I guess if I'm going to do this I picked the right time to start while I'm down and out with a bum ankle anyhow! The ankle is still sore by the way, but getting better every day! :)
I've read this to be typical when getting started on juicing and that it will get easier!
I'm not even juicing exclusively! Just using it as a meal replacement for 2 meals a day!
So, for now on, If I get a headache or start to feel weak, I'm just going to make MORE juice.... forget twice a day... eat one healthy meal and juice whenever needed is my new philosophy!
It's all good stuff anyhow!
But FYI, my son turns 5 this month and I WILL be having a slice of his pineapple banana cake with cool whip/pudding frosting! Yum! And in the whole mix of things, he could have picked a much unhealthier cake option... so I am grateful, he did not! :)
OH and I have a Mom's Night Out coming up where a slice of pizza and a glass or two of beer will be consumed! ;) I don't believe in depriving myself in special situations! Puts such a damper on the overall mood of the people around you also! I want to be happy and live it up, in moderation!
Besides, calories don't count when they're shared with friends, right!? ;)
Now that I'm getting into juicing... I've been researching recipes and looking for good combinations.
Upon my search I found this list of clean and dirty fruits and vegetables.
Have you heard of this, Dirty Dozen, Clean 15?
Very interesting! I had never heard of this before! Good to know!
I think I'm going to print it up to take to the grocery store with me,
so I know which produce I should be buying organic!
In my search, I also found a hot tip on how to clean your fruit and veggies!
Soak them in a clean, disinfected sink full of luke warm
(why luke anyway, why not Paul or Sam? Just wonder'n?)
anyhow, luke warm water with 1 cup of white vinegar.
Soak for 10 minutes, rinse, dry and arrange in your fruit bowl or fridge.... voila!
And the weather, has been crap! I'm hoping the sun decides to come out soon and stay out for a while.
This fluorescent happy light isn't cut'n it! I need SUN! :)
Just say'n... (don't you hate it when people say that!?) :) HA!
I guess if I'm going to do this I picked the right time to start while I'm down and out with a bum ankle anyhow! The ankle is still sore by the way, but getting better every day! :)
I've read this to be typical when getting started on juicing and that it will get easier!
I'm not even juicing exclusively! Just using it as a meal replacement for 2 meals a day!
So, for now on, If I get a headache or start to feel weak, I'm just going to make MORE juice.... forget twice a day... eat one healthy meal and juice whenever needed is my new philosophy!
It's all good stuff anyhow!
But FYI, my son turns 5 this month and I WILL be having a slice of his pineapple banana cake with cool whip/pudding frosting! Yum! And in the whole mix of things, he could have picked a much unhealthier cake option... so I am grateful, he did not! :)
OH and I have a Mom's Night Out coming up where a slice of pizza and a glass or two of beer will be consumed! ;) I don't believe in depriving myself in special situations! Puts such a damper on the overall mood of the people around you also! I want to be happy and live it up, in moderation!
Besides, calories don't count when they're shared with friends, right!? ;)
Now that I'm getting into juicing... I've been researching recipes and looking for good combinations.
Upon my search I found this list of clean and dirty fruits and vegetables.
Have you heard of this, Dirty Dozen, Clean 15?
Very interesting! I had never heard of this before! Good to know!
I think I'm going to print it up to take to the grocery store with me,
so I know which produce I should be buying organic!
In my search, I also found a hot tip on how to clean your fruit and veggies!
Soak them in a clean, disinfected sink full of luke warm
(why luke anyway, why not Paul or Sam? Just wonder'n?)
anyhow, luke warm water with 1 cup of white vinegar.
Soak for 10 minutes, rinse, dry and arrange in your fruit bowl or fridge.... voila!
And the weather, has been crap! I'm hoping the sun decides to come out soon and stay out for a while.
This fluorescent happy light isn't cut'n it! I need SUN! :)
Just say'n... (don't you hate it when people say that!?) :) HA!
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Disclaimer:
Holy Hotdogs!?
Seriously, not to get all political here... but what is happening to our rights as American Citizen's?!
Freedom of Speech, the First Amendment right... like all the other rights we have are under attack.
I've really been trying (hard) to stop paying attention to it all because quite frankly, it puts me in a constant state of panic.
But upon opening my email this morning I find this article:
http://www.wnd.com/2012/04/blogger-threatened-with-jail-for-writing-on-health/
This guy is being sued by the state of North Carolina for keeping a public blog.
He's a diabetic who embraced the Paleo/Caveman diet and lost 45 pounds doing so...
and got off of all meds!
Good for him right?! People are interested when you have something that works... so he decided to blog about his experience (much like I'm doing here, I might add)... only the state sued him for not being a licensed dietician and sharing information publicly.
Hmmmmm.....
I think anyone with common sense knows, when they read a blog... to take it with a grain of salt, right?!
This is one person's experience and/or opinions... no one thing is right for every person!
So, not that I'm famous here by any means... but seeing as this is a public blog... humor me, and allow me to make this disclaimer:
****I am not a licensed dietician, personal trainer, or otherwise... nor am I any kind of guru on anything running or otherwise!
This blog is merely the documentation of my journey to a healthier, happier me!
Nothing more, nothing less.
I wish to inspire others to live a happy, healthy life as well...
by whatever means they see fit!****
That is all.
Thank you very much! :)
Bwahahahaha.
So anyhow, now that we got that outta the way... Happy May Day! :)
Happy first day of juicing for me (and Jeff... he's on board too!)
Started the day with a watermellon, grapefruit, pineapple, carrot juice with a tbsp. of flax seed... Juice!
It was beautiful, delicious, nutritious-ness! The kids even loved it!
Middle of the day... it was all about the greens! Celery, broccoli, kale, a whole apple, more flax seed, Vega One Supplement and some Coconut Water. Not bad! Tasted very clean and refreshing... ice helped too. Surprisingly, very filling... I could hardly drink it all! Bottoms up....
Not gonna lie... I'm looking forward to dinner... Salmon with my homemade tzatziki sauce, steamed asparagus, tomato and mozzarella with basil and balsamic vinegar. Mmmmm.... Bon appetito!
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