Success is a journey, not a destination.

NEW YEAR.... NEW ME!

2011-01-16T19:42:00.002-07:00

This year, I have a few goals for myself.

Lose 50 lbs
Run a marathon
Run a few other races 10k's/ half marathons
Conquer my addiction to food-specifically sweets!

I have started off the year great so far! My first weeks back in the game, I lost 6 lbs(or more, I weighin tomorrow) and I am working out 4-6 times a week. I want this year to be a great year. My main goal when starting this journey was to get pregnant. But I am going to try to shift that... and just want to be healthy for me. I feel crappy when I eat the junk and so I want to feel good, want to have fuel for my body, and I want food not to be a struggle for me, especially the sweets. So here we go... 2011: New Year, New Me!

Back in the Game

2010-12-21T21:14:00.002-07:00

Well, what a year it has been. As you can see, I have not kept this blog up very good, but want to start journaling again about my running. I had shoulder surgery in October and was just barely released to start running again, so I did 3 miles -walk/run tonight. It felt pretty good and I am just happy to be running. It has been a tough 3 months of no physical activity. I gained a little weight back and just have not been doing very good with anything. So I am determined to get back on the wagon of eating healthy and exercising! If anyone is with me and would like to contribute, feel free! Otherwise, I am going to track my progress on here because I am determined to run a FULL MARATHON!!!! That is my goal! If biggest loser contestants can do it after 3 months, I can do it!! So here it goes....

6 miles

2010-02-06T22:22:00.002-07:00

Today it was my goal to run 6 miles... and I did it! It was really tough after 4 miles but I talked myself through it and did it. I was pretty excited because I took off so long from running but each week I have a goal for my long run and it is pretty exciting when I finally meet that goal. I am running a 10 k March 13th and want to be up to 8 miles the week before that, so I am well on my way.

This week also, I changed up my workouts and they have being going pretty good. I am trying not to just run everytime I workout and it went well this week. I am trying to lift weights, lunges, bike, jump rope, crunches, and of course run. If anybody has some fun workouts, let me know. i want to change it every week.

How did you guys do this week?

My January

2010-02-03T20:20:00.003-07:00

Aubrey,.... good for you for completing your goals for January! You are amazing! And working out 6 days?!?! Holy cow girlie! You are awesome! Good for you and keep it up!

As for me... I haven't had a great january. Not a bad one but just not a great one. I have lost weigh teach week but not as much as I have wanted to. But I have to not beat myself up about it and just keep going. I have started working out 4 times a week and am really starting to love it. I was in a little bit of slump for a week and a half and that effected me but I am better and trying to just be positive everyday.

I am running 3 times a week plus weight training and then on the fourth day I try not to run. I am getting a little burnt out and so I want to keep loving it so I needed to cut out a running day. And it has helped me so much.

As for eating, it is going pretty good. Just trying to eat less sugar and white flours and it has helped so far.

So that is all of my january. Hopefully Feb. will be better. I have a 10k coming up in March so I am excited about that!

I hope you guys are achieving your goals! let us know!

January Goals Met

2010-02-02T06:59:00.003-07:00

So how did everyone do last month? I hope you did amazing and that you are feeling good and sticking with whatever goals you put into place.

Here are my stats for last month: I did a total of 42 miles with 11 days of strength training.

I am going to try to increase my miles this month but we'll see what happens. Just knowing that I am working out 6 days a week is good enough for me. It has brought so many benefits into my life. I've noticed my stress level is down, I feel more confident about myself and I just feel amazing overall.

What's been working for you guys? Have you come across any good books, blogs or recipes that you have found to be helpful?

Recipes

2010-01-27T06:23:00.005-07:00

Yummilicius Apple Almond Muffins

Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp baking soda
2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp nutmeg
2 eggs
1/2 cup applesauce (no sugar added)

5 cups apples, cored, peeled and coarsely chopped

1 cup chopped almonds

1/2 cup craisins (or raisins)

Directions:

Mix together dry ingredients in a medium bowl and set aside. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and applesauce. Fold in apples, almonds and craisins; add to flour mixture and stir until moistened. Fill greased muffin cups 2/3 full; bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes.

Makes 2 dozen

Cinnamon-Apple Oatmeal

Ingredients:
1/2 cup applesauce (no sugar added)
3/4 cup sugar (Next time I will only add 1/2 cup or less since it was a little on the sweet side for us)
2 eggs
3 cups quick-cooking oats, uncooked
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 cup milk
1 cup apples, cored, peeled and chopped

Directions:
Combine applesauce, sugar and eggs with an electric mixer on low speed until well blended. Add remaining ingredients except apples and beat well. Fold in apples; pour into greased 8"x8" baking pan. Bake at 400 degrees for 30 minutes. Serve Warm

Makes 4 - 6 servings

Smoothies Galore

2010-01-23T14:47:00.003-07:00

Just wanted to share this great find from the Library I found. The smoothies are AMAZING and she explains all the great nutrients you are getting from the fruit and added protein you can add. The book has 16 different sections for specific ways of living. From Wellness, to Brain Boosters, to Sleep Enhancers, to Blood Sugar Stabilizers.

I've added some of the recipes we've enjoyed already to my cooking blog so check them out. This book will for sure be one I will be adding to my cookbook collection.

Since others have added what is helping them to stay motivated I made this sign and have it hanging up in my kitchen where I can see it all the time:

It definitely helps when I don't feel like working out or wanting to eat something I shouldn't.

Jam substitute and shopping excursion!

2010-01-23T11:45:00.004-07:00

Donald always makes fun of me because I literally eat eggs and toast like 3-4 times a week! I love eggs! When I need some protein after working out or just don't feel like cooking much, this is what I eat. Well.. I was eating jam on my toast which has tons of sugar but I hate sugar free jam or jelly! I was watching Dr Oz and he suggested slicing up fruit and putting that on for PB and J sandwiches or toast instead of jam. I tried it last night, and I have to tell you... I LOVED IT!! I buy frozen fruit for my shakes and so I just defrosted a few, crushed them up and spread it like jam! It was Delish! And the sugar in it was all natural! That is definetly my new jam-fresh fruit with no added sugar!

Also... I went shopping last night with my Jillian book in hand. She says to read the labels and see how much hidden sugar and fake ingredients are in EVERYTHING! I really want to try her way of eating because she talks about PCOS-which I have, and it scared me a little about how much sugar and added hormones we consume that will make my PCOS worse or could lead to other major issues. So I had the time lsat night to read all my labels, and it was AMAZING what they put sugar(or high fructose corn syrup or cor sytrup, glucose, fruit juice, etc) in! Did you know they put high fructose corn syrup in some cans of beans?!? WHAT! I was shocked! Anyways... so I took the time and really read the labels and chose the best foods! Mostly organic, fresh and natural. One thing I can't find too much of is no hormone added milk products. we don't have a lot to choose from here but i will have to go check out the other local stores. She said that alone can get rid of some of the acne!

Anyways... read your labels! Holy cow, you will be amazed! NO wonder Americans are overweight and have diabetes problems-including me and donald! This has opened my eyes to what we put in our bodies and how it affects us!

Donald told me a couple weeks ago, that he sometimes doesn't like my "holistic" things I am adding into our lives, but the more we learn about it, the more we want to try to do better!! ANd he will even admit he even like my "holistic" aka health foods and that he is feeling a lot better also!

My healthy lifestyle

2010-01-21T19:31:00.004-07:00

I just wanted to show some things that are helping me to lose weight, be healthy, and more aware of what I am doing to my body!

First... Master your Metabolism by Jillian Michaels! This book has opened my eyes to everything that I put into my body(or not putting into my body). I would recommend it to all of you! You will be suprised of what you will learn about the metabolism! My running shoes-love them! My knees and feet don't hurt and that makes all the difference in working out! The Dr Oz show! If you don't watch it... start! He is AmAZiNG!!!! Everyday he shows and tells things of our bodies that are unbelievable! I have learned so much and it has helped me to eat healthy and exercise!!

SNAP fitness... I joined a gym and I love this gym! I love running on a treadmill and now I love going to the gym! It helps me to go when I don't want to!

And last but NOT least....

My shaklee shakes and vitamins!!! I love the shakes! They give me what I need and I have so much more energy! And of course my vitamins help me so much also! And the best part... it is all made from natural ingredients! If any of you want more info, let me know!

Soooo...... What are you doing to help you lose weight and live a healthy lifestyle???

Fitness Blog Bum

2010-01-21T15:13:00.003-07:00

Hey Girls! Sorry I'm a fitness blog bum. I was all pumped and then, well, life happened. Just wanted to check in and jot down how things are going for me...

Not so good. I was so excited at the new year to make some little changes to start getting back to "me" again. I was doing awesome- especially with the help of the treadmill my wonderful Santa brought me for Christmas. Where I live it gets light way later than it should and gets dark way earlier than it should (like about 4:30) in the winter, so running outside has been next to impossible (not to say anything of the torrential rain, snow, cold, cold, and cold.) Anyway, I was running each night. It felt awesome. I was eating really well. Again, it felt awesome. I lost a couple pounds and was so pumped.

Then one night I went to nurse my wee babe Wes to sleep and, to my horror- NO MILK. Fortunately I had an emergency can of formula, which I had to use. He nursed and then cried for more, then ate a SIX ounce bottle. He was so, so hungry. He had been more grouchy than usual the few days before that, and I was heart broken to find that all the exercise and reduced calories had caused my milk supply to slowly go down. He had been so hungry! I felt terrible. I had similar problems when I was nursing Jarom, but I didn't start exercising until he was about 7 months old, so it was different.

So. This week I have tried not to think at all about calories (I have eaten A LOT!) and have run less often and a little slower. My milk has mostly come back- I still have to supplement for Wes's nighttime feed, but I think I'll be totally nursing again soon. It is so sad- I will absolutely do what is best for my baby, but it's hard to put my goals on hold. I am still running (just got done with two and a half miles) and I am trying to eat "healthy calories", but it's a little discouraging. We'll see how this next week goes!

That's it for me. I have a few recipes I want to post- hopefully I'll get to it soon. I hope you like Gumbo and Cornbread! :)

So glad it is the weekend!

2010-01-15T21:37:00.003-07:00

I don't know about you, but I am so glad it is the weekend!! This last week was pretty horrible but today I woke up in a good mood and just felt better altogether! I am almost caught up at work and I know that has helped my mood and stress level.

Last night at weight loss class, I only lost 1 lb... but at least I lost! So that was a success! It was amazing how well everybody did at class! We have about 40 people and most of them lost more than 3 lbs!!! That was very motivating to me!

Also, we talked about affirmations and how we need to repeat an affirmation everyday to help with being positive. If you tell yourself... "I am losing weight" then more than likely, you will lose weight. So in my food journal I write one everyday and try to repeat it to myself. Try it, it helps! Don't use words like I will, I am going to, etc. Use I am, I do!

Today, I ran 3 miles and then did some cruches. I felt good tonight and could have gone more but I want to run about 5 miles tomorrow so I didn't want to kill myself.

If you don't like something change it; if you can't change it, change the way you think about it.

~Mary Engelbreit

Today... success

2010-01-13T20:58:00.001-07:00

Little by little! I told myself I was going to easily run 4 miles tonight, and I did. Well, it wasn't easy but I did it. And I feel better now that I did!

How are you guys doing with workouts?

Stand a Little Taller

2010-01-13T12:58:00.002-07:00

I came across this last night in my daily affirmations book by Pres. Hinckley for January 12th....

"Daily Choices"

By small and simple things are great things brought to pass -- Alma 37:6.

The course of our lives is seldom determined by great, life-altering decisions. Our direction is often set by the small, day-to-day choices that chart the track on which we run. This is the substance of our lives -- making choices.

Soooooo....Hang in there everyone! It's the little things that can make us or break us. So chin up, and remember that we are doing great things right now with our daily choices to live a healthy lifestyle. Keep it up gang!!!

Lets Do This!

2010-01-13T09:10:00.003-07:00

Okay little sister... Lets do this! I am also highly unmotivated and letting these window lickers (that would be retards) over here mentally wear me out and make me not want to do anything. I'm tired of giving them so much control over my own happiness. I cannot help that they are the most selfish, egotistical, idiotic bunch of people I have ever been stuck with, but I can help the way I feel.

Tomorrow morning I WILL get up at 5:00 am to go run. I will do a 3 mile run! I need to get in shape so we can do these runs this year. This deployment will soon be over and I want to be ready for a year of running in races with you.

Today is a new Day!

2010-01-13T08:16:00.001-07:00

I have always loved this poem and thought about it today, so I thought I would share it! I have been frustrated and non motivated lately BUT today is a new day!!!

Don't Quit

When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
When the road you're trudging seems all uphill,
When the funds are low and the debts are high,
And you want to smile, but you have to sigh,
When care is pressing you down a bit,
Rest, if you must, but don't you quit.

Life is queer with its twists and turns,
As every one of us sometimes learns,
And many a failure turns about,
When he might have won had he stuck it out;
Don't give up though the pace seems slow--
You may succeed with another blow.

Often the goal is nearer than,
It seems to a faint and faltering man,
Often the struggler has given up,
When he might have captured the victor's cup,
And he learned too late when the night slipped down,
How close he was to the golden crown.

Success is failure turned inside out--
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
And you never can tell how close you are,
It may be near when it seems so far,
So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit--
It's when things seem worst that you must not quit.

- Author unknown

Bad week so far!

2010-01-12T21:25:00.003-07:00

Ok... I am not doing too good this week! I have been in a weird mood lately and just not that motivated! It is not necessarily a bad mood just not motivated to eat good and exercise.I have been pretty stressed about work(paperwork overload and my secretary quit last week), a little stressed about weightloss class, and then stressed with some other things in life. So pretty much just stressed! And it is giving me killer headaches! No fun!

Anyways.... I made myself go run tonight. I only did about 2 miles...pathetic I know! But at least I went! I did run a little harder than normal though and it took me about 23 minutes but I just wasn't feeling it. It was amazing I even did that.

I will run 4 miles tomorrow and then some cross training.I have to run 3 times a week and do one night of cross training. I want to run a half marathon this spring and then a full marathon in the fall! I need to get out of this slump!

So how are you guys doing????? Any tips or motivation? I need it!

Week in Review

2010-01-09T11:56:00.004-07:00

Ok... so my week was not that good all the way around. Stressfull week at work and some other things in life, I only ran 2 times, and weight loss class started and it was NOT pretty!And I have not slept the best these last 2 weeks-I am having nightmares and just very restless! SO... I was just not feeling very motivated to do much of anything and was not too excited about losing weight and having to concentrate on eating right and exercising all the time!

BUT... now the week is over and I am recomitting! We all have bad weeks and it was definetly my week. So I started off my saturday running outside! Yes... outside! It has been in the negatives and I hate to even step foot outside. But today the sun is shining and it was about 20 degrees! So I took full advantage and ran about 4 miles. It felt so good to be outside and to just run.

I have come to this conclusion... I am not a fast runner. I don't think I will ever be. I was not a sprinter in swimming(long distance all the way) and in running I am definetly not either. But I love to run and running at my own pace. I think that is why I like treadmills so much. Because I can run at my own pace and crank it when I need a little more. I just love running and love that anyone can do it! Really... if I can do it, anyone can!

Anyways... My goals for next week:

1. run 3 times and at least one other cross training workout.

2.Lose at least 1 lb.(a little at a time!)

This picture is motivation for me! My dad was a runner and I am so excited to follow in his footsteps! This is one of my favorite pictures of me and my dad!!

The start!

2010-01-06T19:36:00.004-07:00

I am so excited Aubrey and Liz are going to be my healthy-blogging buddies! Anyone else???

Anyways... this week starts my weight loss competition. I am so excited about it because I need something to hold me accountable. I was reading in Runner's World this month and it said for every pound you lose, it knocks off 2 seconds per mile when running! If I can lose 30-40 pounds by my 18 mile trail run, that is a whole minute or more per mile! That is huge! So I really have to do this for my body and for my running!

I ran a couple times last week and once this week-so far. I have done pretty well. I am running 3-4 miles straight and then add some sprinting and hills at the last of each run. Then I try to lift weights for a little bit. I need to get up to running 4 times a week. I only have 22.5 weeks until my trail run. And then I am not sure when my marathon is going to be.

So tomorrow I am starting no white flour and cutting down on my sugar intake-WAY down! I am going to try to get more fiber and eat the right amount of protein, veggies and fruits. Oh and also take my vitamins.I am so horrible about that!

Please-if you have any healthy recipes or ideas post them!!!

And remember... Don't give up! If you fail, just do better the next time!

I'm In.

2010-01-06T06:39:00.002-07:00

Hey Melissa and Aubrey! I'm excited the Getting Healthy blog is up and running again- I'll definitely be an active member this year!
I am so looking forward to 2010- it's going to be a great year, I can tell! I was as healthy and fit as I've ever been in my life in 2008 (weighed 20 lbs less than I did in high school, ran a marathon)... and I ran a different kind of "marathon" in 2009. I spent the year pregnant and moving my family around the world. Now I'm back to square one and looking forward to getting "myself" back again! So for 2010 I hope to:
1. Exercise at least 5 times a week
2. Run at least a half marathon
3. Shed these last 20 pounds my dear sweet Wesley gave me :)
4. Focus on healthy eating habits for myself and my family
I thought maybe some really healthy- and yummy- recipes might be good to add to the blog too if that's okay- I know Aubrey is an awesome cook! (I love your cooking blog!)

Girls, I love you both. I'm really excited to keep in touch and support each other this way!

2010 = A healthier Me

2010-01-04T12:49:00.003-07:00

I too have recommitted to not only exercising more this year, but to contribute to this blog as well. Melissa I am so grateful for this blog for the chance we have to be held accountable for not only working out but living a healthier lifestyle. For a chance to cheer each other on and help motivate one another to be healthy in 2010.

So here are my goals:
Work out 6 days a week
Eat 3 servings of Fruit and 3 servings of Vegetables each day
Watch less TV and move more
Write 3 things I am grateful for each day
Drink at least 48 ounces of water per day

A New Year...2010!

2010-01-02T12:24:00.003-07:00

I know I have slacked on this blog but it is a new year! And I have so many goals this year that I am making a resolution to blog more on this so I can keep track of my progress! If any of you would like to join me in this, please leave a comment and then I can add you! We can help eachother with our goals! If you have any good workout tips,quotes, recipes, races, or just want to journal, feel free! I would love to share this blog and hopefull I can help you and you can help me!

Here are my goals for 2010:

Run a half marathon.

Run the 18 mile trail run here in the Big Horns.

Run a FULL marathon-I think me and my sister are going to do the Denver Rock N Roll one in Ocotber.

Lose 40lbs and keep it off

Eat Healthy

So those are my goals for this year! I have a lot of training to do but it will be so worth it come October!

If any of you are in the Sheridan area, come join our weight loss challenge next week! It is going to be so much fun! We can help you meet your goals and motivate eachother!

I hope you have a HAPPY and HEALTHY New Year!!!

"The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in a person's determination."

Running update

2009-09-12T13:42:00.003-06:00

We have 2 weeks from today until the 1/2 marathon. I am still running with Lissa and for the most part, am still loving it. Some days I feel like I don't have much energy but then others I am full of all sorts of energy! But it has really helped to run with Lissa.

Today we are running 10 miles. We are not quite to the point where we run the whole way but are pretty close. She is doing a lot better and I try not to let her (or me) stop. I am excited about the race-mainly for it to be here. I have been getting a little burnt out of just running. So after this race I am going to start changing up the workouts-swimming, machines, maybe take some classes. I think it is good to change it up because it is wearing my body down. Anyways... 2 more weeks!

Also... I have lost 5 more lbs. I am in a competition right now and it ends at the end of October. So I am really trying hard to eat less 5 times a day and eating better. I have been taking some Shaklee pills and drinking a shake in the morning and it seems to be helping me. I have more energy, I am full, and it is helping me to get my nutrients. My goal is to lose 40 more lbs. Lissa is helping me with this. She is amazing and has lost like 40 lbs this year. So while we run, she helps me with what to eat.

Training

2009-08-20T18:48:00.003-06:00

I have been doing pretty good, thanks to my friend Lissa. It has been so nice to be able to run with a friend. it makes it so much eaiser to go on those days you just don't feel like doing anything.

We are 5 weeks out for our race. I have not been doing too good running for a long distance but it is getting better. We try to run 4 times a week. We did hills the other night and ran about 6.5 miles. Not straight but we ran most of it.

I also joined a weight loss class. It is kindof like a weight watcher program but put on my herbalife.We weigh in every week and the first week they measure us. At the end of 12 weeks, whoever loses the most weight and inches wins $$$. I am mainly doing it just to help me do a little better about weight loss. I still have about 45 lbs i want to lose and this is helping me to really keep at it. I lost 3 lbs this week. so I was excited about that. I am really trying to watch what I eat. I keep a daily log of it and it helps me to realize what I really eat throughout the day. I don't know why, but this is something I have struggled with my whole life and I am just sick of it. So... we will see after 12 weeks, how i do.

Half Marathon #2

2009-08-06T21:46:00.002-06:00

Well... I know it has been awhile but I have been a little bit of a slacker lately. Until last week! I am now in training for my 2nd half marathon. This time, I am training with a friend and it has been so much fun! This will be her first and I am excited to do it with her. And I love being back in training. It helps me to be more focused and dedicated with the way I eat and of course exercising! So... I will again keep this updated. Stay tuned !

Anybody else in training?!??!?!

Marathon

2009-05-15T22:00:00.003-06:00

So, before I actaully did my half marathon i was thinking...."there is no way I would do a full marathon." BUT.....I am thinking i might do one next year! I will see how my knees and feet hold up all year with running. And if all goes okay, come january I am going to start training for a full marathon. I am going to continue to keep running a long distance on saturdays and maybe change up so workouts during the week. But I am really thinking about doing a full marathon. 26 miles seem so far away but so did 13 miles a few months ago. Anybody else thinking they want to do one too? I want to travel somewhere and do it... maybe the Disneyland one or Alaska near where kari lives.

1/2 marathon

2009-05-05T13:07:00.002-06:00

I DID IT!! I actually ran a half marathon.

Click here to read full story.

I am here

2009-04-22T23:09:00.004-06:00

I know I haven't blogged in awhile but I am still here and running!

2 weeks ago, I ran 9 miles straight!!!! YES 9 Miles! I still can't believe it. I am feeling so good and I can't wait for my half marathon next week! I am nervous because this week I am only supposed to run 10 miles and then I jump up to 13 for the race but everybody tells me I will be just fine the day of the race. So, wish me luck! I have 3 runs to do this week-including my 10 miler. And then next week I taper.

And to date: I have lost 22 lbs! I am excited. I am down 2 sizes in pants.

7.5 miles

2009-04-04T21:13:00.002-06:00

Today was my long run day. I was planning on running 8 miles straight but I only could do 7 because the YMCA was closing and so they kicked me out. So, then I ran outside for 1/2 mile and decided to warm down. I was so bummed because I actually RAN the WHOLE thing and I felt so good!!! I could have done 8 miles! And I was trying so hard to get the 8 miles in but I didn't want to go too fast. After they told me that they were closing I wanted to run some more but at that point it was hard to get back into the rhythm. So, i was disappointed but I still did 7.5 miles! And I did not walk or stop(except for 10 seconds when the treadmill shut down at 1 hour and then when i got kicked off the treadmill). I could not believe that I ran the whole time! I felt so good. About mile 6 I started feeling the pain but just ran through it. I took it out at a good pace and just kept at that pace the whole time. My heart rate was good and never went over 170. I ate an energy bar before I ran and I know that helped a ton!

4 Weeks until Race day!

Trials

2009-03-28T12:43:00.002-06:00

I have been dealing with foot pain for about 3 weeks and so I finally broke down and tried a different shoe. And... it was heavenly! It was definetly the shoes! Now that my foot is getting better, my shin splints are the same! I got shin splints about 2 weeks ago and they have not gone away. I am eating bananas and trying to stretch as much as i can but they are still there.

This week was very difficult for me. I ran tuesday... and was only able to run about 4 miles. My foot and shin splints were KilLiNg me! I had to walk back. Then, I bought the new shoes and tried them the next day. I ran about 4 miles that night with the new shoes. It was so much better!

Today... was my long run day. I ran 7 miles and it was tough! The first 3 miles-I had the worst shin splints. Oh man. I was having a tough time but after that they went away and I was fine. The 2nd half for me is always easier though. I felt good and was trying to keep at a good pace even going up the hills.

I still have a long way to go though. 13 miles is going to be tough for me but I am determined to run it. I need to kick the training up a notch. I only have 5 weeks left!

10k

2009-03-14T13:03:00.001-06:00

I ran my first 10k Race today! I can't believe it! I actaully ran 6.2 miles! it just seems so surreal that I would actually run that far and still like to run!

Breakdown of the race and how I felt:(this might be boring to you but I am writing this for future reference)

First 3 miles: Uphill-I struggled with this part. It was pretty tough to keep running and keep my heart rate down. I had to walk/run for this half of the race. I tried not to walk more than 30 secs. It helped to just keep going and I definetly was having to talk myself through the race-"You can do it!You can do it!" After about the first 2 miles, I lost everybody except 2 girls that were behind me. My goal was to stay ahead of them and to just keep going.
I think I took out the first mile too fast. I didn't get much of a warmup which killed me. Next time... make sure to warm up!!

2nd half: Pretty flat and downhill-Once I got to the top of the hill, I felt pretty good. I knew I had the hard part over with and that I could really start concentrating on my running and not worry so much about my heartrate. It was pretty smooth sailing from here. I was on schedule with what time I wanted to get and felt good. I had to walk a little bit but not as much as the first half. I finished in 1:13.38. Averaged about a 12:15/mile. And I was not last! Those were my goals-to finish, get under 1hr 20mins, and to not be last!

Coming across the finish line was very invigorating! I could hear Donald saying " Good job! You can do it!" And I did do it! I felt like jumping up and down but I was way to sore! I didn't get much of a cool down and that was a big mistake. Next time... stretch and cool down better!

Overall-I felt pretty good and did better than I thought! It was a tough run but I pulled through and finished.

Now on to my 1/2 marathon. I finally found a friend who wants to run with me and help me train. She is a pretty avid runner so it will be good for me to push myself a little more.

"The important thing is not being afraid to take a chance. Remember, the greatest failure is to not try. Once you find something you love to do, be the best at doing it."

INJURED

2009-03-04T07:32:00.000-07:00

Yep... you read it right... I am injured and can't run this week!

Well, last week was a good run week for me. I ran 3 days-4-5 miles per day. Saturday was my long run and it was so gorgeous outside, I just had to run outside. Oh side note... I bought some new shoes and this was my first time wearing them. ANyways, so I had a great run on Saturday. I even felt like I could have done a little more but needed to get home. Well, later that night my right foot was killing me-right between my arch and heel and my left foot was swollen. So immediately I thought it was the shoes because i have not had any knee or foot pain since I have started running. I am thinking..." Oh great! I spend quite a bit of money on good shoes and they are not even going to work." So I tried to rest it on sunday, but then Monday morning my right foot is still just killing me. Stupid me... monday I was starting my 9 week training program and so I just had to go run and that made my foot hurt even worse and now my knee is swollen and I can hardly bend it! Yes... stupid I know but I was so excited to actually start my training and now I am paying for not just resting it.

Last night, I did ice/heat on my foot and knee and then soaked my feet in Epson salt and took some Motrin. it is a little better today but still not to the point where I should run on it. I hope it gets better because i am anxious to get running again. And the days are now ticking down to May 2nd!

I am still not sure if it was the shoes, or outside running through the dirt and snow... but something was wrong while I ran. And then my knee proably swelled up because the way i was running on a hurt foot! Yeah.. I am a mess!

Anyways, I am still going to do the 1/2 marathon though. I know I just need to let this all heal and then I will be good to go. I am trying to do some exercising each night but I can't do a ton with a hurt foot and knee.

ANybody else have these kind of problems? what did you do to help it?

Challenge

2009-02-17T09:39:00.005-07:00

I ran 4 miles last night. It is getting easier for me to keep running but man, I am getting bored! I have asked and asked around for anybody that is training for the 1/2 marathon or just wants to run with me but most of the ladies run in the morning and I can't. So, I think this is going to be my biggest challenge is to keep the motivation to just keep going. I really do like to run and it is so invigorating to reach a new goal. But there is only so much music that I can listen to. Maybe once I can run outside it will be better. I am still going to just keep going! If anybody has any tips, let me know? or what do you like to run to on your IPOD?

What a breeze....

2009-02-13T20:42:00.003-07:00

...3 miles!

I can't believe I can say that, but 3 miles is pretty easy now! I ran 3 miles tonight, then lifted some weights. TOmorrow is going to be a longer run... maybe 4.5 or 5 miles!

When I got home tonight, Donald had suprised me with roses and cooked a Valentines Dinner for me. Mostly healthy! We had steak, shrimp, salad, and some bread. And the dessert is waiting in the fridge! Luckily I ran today and yesterday! Thank you honey! It was delish!

Tough night

2009-02-12T21:10:00.001-07:00

Tonight was a tough run for me. After being sick, it has been hard for me to get back in the swing of things... especially running.

I started on the track... did 1 mile. My knees and feet were hurting because the angle of the track. i know that sounds stupid but sometimes when I run the track, since it is a circle, my knees and sides of my feet start to hurt. And I just felt like I had no energy. I felt like quitting at one mile but knew I needed to do more. So since I was having a hard time keeping pace and keeping motivated, I decided to go back to the treadmill. I then ran 3 miles. I did have to stop twice in between miles because my heartrate was getting way too high but I only walked for about .10 of a mile then started running again. Overall, I felt pretty good after I finished the 4 miles. It was a struggle for me to get started but it became a little easier as I kept running and telling myself "You can do it!".

I am going to run Friday and Saturday. My body is feeling out of shape and so I need to just keep going. I have to start running 4 times a week when I start training for the 1/2 marathon.

I know a couple of you are training for some races this spring! How are you doing? Let me know how it is going for you and if you have any tips! I can always use the advice!

Happy Running!

I'm Back

2009-02-09T23:23:00.003-07:00

After being sick for a week and a half I finally ran today. I tried to run once last week and it was so hard to breathe and I just felt awful so I rested all week. I am still not 100% better but I am better enough to run(with a cough drop in my mouth and lots of water).

ANyways, I found out today the 1/2 marathon is the first weekend in May... so as of today I have 11 weeks left. I am doing a 9 week training program so I won't officially start "training" until Feb 23rd. But until then I am trying to get back into my running.

Today I did:

2 mile-run

1 mile of 5x1:00 at a faster pace.

I walked a minute in between each of them to let my heartrate go back down.

1 mile of walk/ run.

I was feeling okay. I did notice my body was a little tired from being sick and just not being able to run for a week and a half. I am getting a little faster on my miles. I started at about 15 minutes/mile but now I am about 13:30-14:00 minutes/mile. So that is good.

Also, I have lost 15 pounds since I started running. And I am still losing!!! I am excited. When I see that I am losing it is easier to control what I eat! My pants are getting so big on me! But I don't want to buy anything new just yet.

Half Marathon

2009-01-27T11:03:00.002-07:00

So I have decided to train for a half marathon coming up in May. If anyone is interested click here to get a beginners training schedule. I am a little nervous but excited at the same time. I hope the weather gets a little warmer because I am supposed to train on some hills but with all the snow and ice... I would definetly be falling! Anyways, anybody else out there? How is it going for you?

Reality

2009-01-24T21:04:00.004-07:00

Today I decided to try to run the track instead of on the treadmill. I really didn't think I would be able to make 4 miles on the track. The couple times I have tried I didn't do so well. But I just kept thinking.... If I want to run some races this summer I have to be able to run on a track or outside. So, I tried it!

...And SUCCEEDED!

On the last lap (10 laps per mile) it hit me....I run 4 MiLEs straight!!! What?!?! I hate running! I am not a runner. But here I am running 4 miles! Now, I know to some of you that is not much but to me I never thought that I would EvER run that much and that I would actually like it! So, when this hit me I decided to sprint the last lap! And then.... I was done! WHEW! 10k here I come!

4 miles

58 mins

average-14:30 per mile

PS Anybody have a good suggestions for running shoes? I need some different shoes for pavement!I wear UnderArmors and LOVE them but they are aerobic shoes. So I need a good running shoe. Tell me what you like or don't like!

4.0 Miles!

2009-01-21T19:16:00.005-07:00

YEAH.... I ran 4 miles straight today!

Man, it was tough but I pulled through. At 2 miles, I thought about only doing 3.... but I had to talk myself in to just keep going. I did start out slower because I knew that I had to just slow it down a bit to make it! And I did!

Stats:

4 Miles

Time:56 mins

peed:4.2-4.5

Yesterday:

I forgot to blog about yesterdays workout. It was interesting. I went there thinking... I am going to work hard, do about 1.5 hrs. Well, i started out running and only got to .8 of a mile and my shins started burning and I couldn't not run much longer. So, I decided to ride the bike because I didn't want to completely hurt myself. I rode the bike for 5.5 miles, and then I got back on the treadmill and tried to run again. And my shins were okay so I ran 2.5 miles. Then I stretched and went home. It was a total of about 1 hr and 15 mins. From warm up to cooling down and stretching. It didn't go like I hoped but I still did quite a bit!

Stats:

Run 3.3 miles-with some walking in between

Speed: 4.5

Bike: 5.5 miles

Level: 9

Total time: 1hr 15 mins

I also just wanted to note: I warm up for 5 mins, about 5-10 warmdown and I always stretch quite a bit afterwards. Otherwise, I would be so sore the next day!

Hard Week

2009-01-19T21:28:00.002-07:00

I had a hard week last week. I had a hard week with eating good, feeling good, and some emotions came up recently.

First, I did go running for about 1.5 hrs on saturday. Not straight running but I probably did about 3.5 miles. It was such a gorgeous day that I ran outside on some paths through the town. It was nice weather, clear blue skys, and I just felt good running. It was a little harder running outside because the pavement is harder, there are hills, and it is not a steady pace. BUT I loved it! It felt good and it helped me to destress a little.

I am just having some hard times but I will be just fine and keep running! It has helped me so much to exercise-mind, body and spirit!

Tomorrow I have off of work because I worked 12 hours today and so I will start my day with a hard workout! ANd I am so excited for it!

Pushed Through

2009-01-16T15:37:00.002-07:00

Well I have not been feeling the best this week but I still forced myself to go workout last night. I really wanted to do at least 3.1 miles or more. So, I got off work early, took a nap, and decided to go workout. I felt okay when I started, half way through I felt like I was going to die and almost stopped. I went to slow the treadmill down and I just thought.... "No! I have to do this!" So, I kept going and at about 2.9 miles I started feeling good and kept going until 3.4 miles! Now, I don't know if I should have done that but I did! And I was so proud to have run 3.4 miles. I was feeling good until about an hour after and then it hit me. But I did it and I felt good about that.

I found out there is a 10k here in September and so I am going to run that and I am trying to find a mini triathalon close but so far none have posted.

Stats:

3.4 Miles

Time: 45 mins

Speed 4.5-4.6

How are you doing with working out? Anybody......Anybody.....

Good workout and yummy dinner!

2009-01-14T18:15:00.004-07:00

Last night I ran 3.1 miles again and then added 2.5 miles on the bike! I felt so good and I am getting very addicted to working out! I love it and I feel that the hour that I am at the gym is my time! My goal for the end of this week 3.5 miles and 3 miles on the bike.

Stats: Run 3.1 miles

speed 4.6

Bike 2.5 miles

Total workout time: 60 mins.

Also, I wanted to share a yummy dinner I just ate! And it is so simple.

Rotelle Chicken

3 chicken breasts

1 can tomato green chile rotelle

1 can chick soup

1/2 can water

Combine in crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours

Spaghetti Squash

(thanks Liz for this way to cook it)

Cut squash in half, clean out seeds, cook in microwave with 1/2 cup water for 12 minutes.

I ate the chicken by itself and put a little butter and salt on the squash. It was so DELICIOUS and very filling. I love spaghetti squash but have never been able to cook it and this was so easy!

How are you doing on working out or do you have any easy, delicious, healthy recipes to share???

I did it!!

2009-01-10T19:04:00.004-07:00

FINALLY.....

I ran 3.1 miles!

WOOHOO! It has been 12 weeks since I started running. And I was getting a little frustrated not being able to make it to 3 miles but I just felt good tonight and just kept telling myself.."I can do it!Just keep going!" Running, just like a lot of things, is a big mental game. I knew my body could handle it but my mind kept going back and forth. But I just had to keep going. And I did!

After running, I had a huge salad and some string cheese. Because yesterday I cheated and had pizza and carrot cake for Donalds birthday. So I had to eat really healthy today. The hardest thing about my diet is that I can't seem to drink enough water and I just have to have something sweet each day. I found that if I eat sugar free pudding with a little bit of light cool whip it satisfies my craving for sugar and it doesn't put on pounds! I think I have now lost 12 pounds! yeah!

Stats: 3.1 miles

41:30 minutes

"Success is achieved and maintained by those who try-and keep trying."

Run/Walk

2009-01-08T22:50:00.002-07:00

Today was a hard day for me!

I started taking the medication for my PCOS last night and I felt so sick after taking it. Today when I woke up I still felt a little nauseated but decided to still workout today. I wanted to run 3 miles today, but once again I just didn't do it. I ran for 2 miles and couldn't go much more because I felt nauseous and so I started walking. I walked for a little bit and decided to do the bike for 10mins. Probably not a good idea to keep going but I just felt like i could do a little more. So, I biked for 10 mins-2.5 miles. I am having a hard time getting to my 5k! But I will just keep trying. Saturday is a new day.

Stats:
Run 2 miles
Bike 2.5 miles
Workout time 45 minutes

"Success is not a race, be patient."

Recipe

2009-01-07T10:01:00.003-07:00

I just found this on Southbeachdiet.com and am going to try it this weekend. It sounds easy and yummy! And it is healthy!

Broccoli Cheese Soup

Makes 2 servings

Ingredients
1 pound frozen winter-style veggies (broccoli and cauliflower)
1/2 10-ounce can of diced tomatoes or diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 1/2 cans low-sodium, fat-free chicken broth
4–5 ounces low-fat creamy cheese, such as Velveeta Light, cubed

Instructions Mash up veggies or leave them whole. Place the veggies, tomatoes, and broth in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 40 minutes. Add the cheese and let it melt as you stir it.

Nutritional Information
132 calories
12 g protein
4 g fat (2 g sat.)
13 g carbohydrates
5.5 g sugar
3.5 g fiber
732 mg sodium
12 mg cholesterol

Biggest Loser Begins!

2009-01-06T19:49:00.002-07:00

Ok, all of you that know me, know I LOVE the Biggest Loser! And tonight was the start of the season! This season is going to be soooo good. I am watching it as I type and I just am so excited! It helps me to focus on what I am trying to accomplish. To be healthy and lose weight! In the first hour they had a man fall to the ground and taken to the hospital. It was an eye opener to everyone on the show and to me. It is scary to know that, that could happen to me. Also, they said that 300,000 people die a year beacuse of obesity issues. How scary is that? Something as simple as exercising 3 times a week and eating less can prevent that. It sounds so simple, right? Well I know it is not for some of us... especially me. But it is possible!

This is why I started running 11 weeks ago! yeah! I am feeling good and I am getting better. Tonight I ran 2 miles on the track and then did 2 miles on the bike. I wanted to run 3 miles tonight but my heart rate was getting a little too high and so I decided to slow down and then do the bike. I worked out for 45 minutes straight. So, that is definetly an accomplishment for me.

Anybody else working out? How is it going? Please share.

Results

2009-01-02T11:16:00.003-07:00

So,I got a call from my doctor. They had run some tests on me the week before Christmas and the results finally came back. She told me I have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. And then to add to that, I am insulin resistant. It scared me just a bit because it just means I am on my way to pre diabetes and so it is time to be serious about eating better. As of today, I will not be eating sugar for 3 weeks and then I will add it in slowly. I am going to go on the South Beach diet because it will help with this. It concentrates on cutting out sugar, white flour, and processed foods. I am such a sugaraholic that it will be tough for me but I know it is time to just do it. Otherwise I will end up diabetic and/or not be able to get pregnant. With PCOS you can get pregnant but it is much harder.

I have had a hard time lately about having-or not having- children. It has now been 6 years since we started trying and I am just ready to be a mom. I have been told for 6 years that I am overweight and all I need to do is lose weight and then i would be able to get pregnant. Well, I kindof rebelled against those comments by the doctors and did not do anything. But about 3 months ago, right before I decided to start running, I just got so sad and upset about not getting pregnant that I finally knew it was time for me to try to do what I can to make my body healthy and then hopefully the Lord will step in and help with sending me a child. For 6 years I have looked at my family, friends and others... and just thought "how come they can get pregnant so easy? Why is it so hard for me?" I have never had harsh feelings towards others that have kids, but there has always been an aching in my heart for the chance to be blessed with a child. I long to be a mother and for Donald to be a father. So, this is it. I am going to try my hardest to eat better, exercise regularly and have faith that something will happen.

I know Heavenly Father watches over each of us and knows our hearts and desires. I just hope that we are blessed soon with a child.

If anybody, has info about PCOS or other helps with recipes, websites or info please share!

“Keep your dreams alive. Understand to achieve anything requires faith and belief in yourself, vision, hard work, determination, and dedication. Remember all things are possible for those who believe.”

2.5 Miles

2008-12-30T19:23:00.005-07:00

I just ran 2.5 miles straight! I was having a hard time these last 2 weeks trying to get there but tonight I finally did it.

Stats: 2.5 miles

Time: 33:25

Speed: 4.5

Last week, I only ran twice. Tuesday I ran 2.2 miles and could not make it any farther. Then, while I was in Utah I went to the rec center and ran but did not do so well. The altitude was killing me. It is 1200 ft higher there and I definetly felt it. So, that day was a walk/run day. I did about 2.5 miles but not straight running. Which was very frustrating. I also ate a ton of candy, pasta, and breads that week so that did not help the weight loss. Last monday, I had loss 10 lbs but this week I am only down 7 lbs.

Good thing New Years is this Thursday! Because that means that there is no more holidays for awhile. Not that I don't LOVE the holidays, it just is so hard for me during them because I love all the goodies!!!

So here are my Healthy New Years Resolutions:

1. Run/Exercise at least 3 times a week

2. Portion Control-need I say more

3. Eat less sugar, white breads and pastas. And MORE veggies and fruits.

4. Become Healthy(hopefully so I can become pregnant)

5. And sometime during the year, I would love to run a 10k race and maybe try a mini-triathalon.

There you have it! New Years is always a good starting point and luckily I have already kick started my goals. I feel invigorated when I finish my runs each night. Even when I have not been able to finish my run, I try not to beat myself up over it because sometimes your body just needs a rest.

What are you goals for 2009?

Have a HAPPY and HEALTHY New Year!!

Success

2008-12-19T18:24:00.005-07:00

I ran 25 mintues straight... again. After Wednesday's run I was a little worried about running today. But I didn't have any trouble breathing and my heart rate did not reach 180. And I felt great.

Now for my eating habits.... well we still need to work on those. I am just trying to get through the holidays.

Stats:

Week 7

Ran 25 minutes

2 miles

Speed 4.5

Next week my goal is to run 2.5 miles instead of going by time. At this point I should be running 2.5 miles in 25 mins but I am not quite there yet. So I am going to try to run 2.5 miles straight.

Anybody else want to join in on this blog? let me know. I would love to have a few more people so we can help motivate eachother.

"Being defeated is often a temporary condition. Giving up is what makes it permanent."

Not a good day

2008-12-17T18:13:00.002-07:00

Today was not a good run day for me. I was supposed to do a 25 minute run again today.

When I was doing my warm up walk I kindof felt out of breath the whole time but shurgged it off. Then I started running. The first 5 minutes were okay but then I could not catch my breathe. So I tested my heart rate and it was already up to 180 so at 10 minutes I decided to walk for 3 minutes. I still felt like I could not catch my breathe and my heart rate was just racing. I was a little worried at this point. It finally slowed down and I ran 6 more minutes and it was the same thing. So needless to say, I did a walk/run tonight of a total of 30 minutes/2 miles. Not a good night. But I konw that if you heart rate gets too high you should not over due it. I haven't had this happen through the last 7 weeks so maybe my body is finally saying-slow down a bit. Which is ok. It happens, right? Please tell me that you all have had this same problem.

...... I will try it again on Friday.

I found this article about conditioning your lungs.

Quitting is NOT an option

25 minutes

2008-12-15T18:06:00.003-07:00

I did it! I ran 25 minutes straight! And man it was tough!

THe first 10 minutes is always hard for me.

10-20 seemed like it was much eaiser and went by quickly

But 20-25 mins.... I had to keep talking myself through it. And it didn't help that at 21 minutes I hit my IPOD and it fell. SO I left it on the ground because if I stopped I wouldn't be able to finish. It was a struggle but I succeeded!

STATs:

25 minutes

2 miles

Speed:4.3-4.5

IPOD: Dave Ramsey:Financial Peace Podcast- I know some might think I am crazy but it actually was so much better than music. I just might have to download more podcasts and books. It went by much faster with that than music for me.

I still have 3 more runs this week. I told myself I have to run 4 times since I missed saturday.

It comes down to a simple question: what do you want out of life, and what are you willing to do to get it?

Couch to 5k

2008-12-13T22:47:00.001-07:00

6 weeks ago-October 27th, I started the Couch to 5k program. My friend Liz introduced me to it and told me to just try it for 9 weeks and see how I like it. First of all, I hate to run. Second, I hate to run! I would much rather swim or do the eliptical. But I decided to just try it. It was so hard for me to start because it is learning how to run and in 9 weeks you should be able to run 30 minutes or a 5k straight! 6 weeks into it, I can honestly say I am learning to like running! SHOCKER! I know. Somedays are harder for me than others but that is with any work out program. I actually look forward now to my runs at night.

Last saturday I ran my first 20 minute run and I thought I could never do it. But I did! I felt like shouting for joy when 20 minutes were up! Now, I know that may not be much for many of you but for me that was a big accomplishment!

This week though, I have to say I did not complete my 25 minute run. I was supposed to go today, but it was like -1 and windy outside and I just could not get myself to the gym! But come Monday, I will run that 25 minutes because today I was very disappointed in myself. The weather was just an excuse and that is why I am overweight...excuses not to exercise!

"Rather than aiming for being perfect, just aim to be a little bit better today than you were yesterday."

Starting

2008-12-13T21:53:00.000-07:00

Ok, So I stole this idea for a blog from my friend Kera. I hope she doesn't mind but I had to do something to help me along! I have been trying to lose weight for the past... well my whole life really. But lately I have been told many times that to have a better chance to get pregnant I needed to lose weight. So, last month I finally started on a regular exercise program. I haven't done too well with eating better but at least I am exercising! Around the holidays, is not the time to start eating better! But I have tried to cut back and eat not as many sweets.

Anyways, this is a more a blog for my own accountability-to track my weight loss and exercise program. But if anyone that is reading this has good websites, healthy recipes, inspiration, quotes, or advise...PLEASE share with me! Or if anybody would like to join in on the blog for their own accountablity, I would love to share the blog! (It might get boring with just me!) I know.. the last thing we all need is another blog to look at or write on but I never write in a journal so these are my journals.

I am also going to have Goals every week and then will see how I do!

My OVERALL GOALS:
1. Lose 48 pounds
2. Exercise 3 or more times a week
3. Get pregnant
4. Change my eating habits for life!

"Everyday is a good day to SUCCEED!"