Saturday, July 31, 2010

Fun fit friday

I had a great day yesterday. I slept in a bit and was slow to wake so I didn't make the morning gym routine. I had a lunch date with an old friend from high school. It was nice to catch up. Mariyn and I got fajitas for one and shared them. She ate as much as I did, so I'm optimistic I didn't over eat. I had water to drink. There is a natural foods store I wanted to check out in the same plaza. I'd never been in before but heard great things. I ended up buying Quinoa in bulk. It's the only rice alternative (including brown rice) Rich has liked or found tolerable. I've been buying it at our local store but I noticed it was nearly $5.00 for a 12 oz box. Yeah- that seems pricey to me too. So I bought it in bulk $3.75 per lbs. Good find!

Mariyn and I did some school clothes shopping. She still needs more stuff: shoes, backpack, clothes. She goes back to school in like 10 days. Not so exciting and it's still going to be warm here for a while. And well, there isn't much summer stuff left. It's all fall, and well fall doesn't really happen here until the end of October and even then, it's still warm.

Oh and the fun stuff. There was a Zumba "party" at the gym. Fun it friday they called it and guests were free. All 5 instructors taught about 3 sounds each, there were prizes and fruit treys. It was a lot of fun. A few of the instructors are new, and one, Julia I hadn't seen in a long time. She subbed for other instructors but didn't have her own class at our gym until recently. She asked a question about one of the new instructors and I told her she had taken over Adrianna's class. Then she says, "I think I remember you. Wow, you've really lost a lot of weight!" Yeah about 65lbs I told her. She was really amazed and well, yeah made me realize how fat I was. The first time she subbed was probably in October or November. I could barely keep up in her class, correction I wasn't keeping up with her class but trying my best. She is very fast paced and I swore she was a monster. A while later she came back and I could keep up, easily. She was friendly and we talked for a while. She was really shocked that I was the same person. I don't do zumba very often anymore but it really did help me get on the right track with fitness and exercise.

The girls and I came home and I got ready for a girls night out with my friends. It was a food fest and we played games complete with alcoholic beverages and lots of girl talk. My friend brought Strawberrys with this sweet cream. So delish. I totally over ate and am feeling bloated and gassy today. Nice, I know. . Oh and one of the best parts, I was kid free. My girls stayed with my siter and enjoyed time with their cousins.

I didn't get home until after 2 am. So of course, today, I'm tired but bound to do something productive.

Thursday, July 29, 2010

7/29

I slept in this morning until 9:30 am, when Mariyn came in and woke me up. I kinda wanted to get up early and get to body pump and cycle... but yeah that didn't happen. I was so warn out from swimming laps last night, I just couldn't get up and when I did, I was groggy. I swam until 11 o'clock last night. I did a lot of chatting to though but I think we did 70 laps. Zamara swam with me and helped me out a lot on my technique. I've never been taught to have proper form so apparently I waste a lot of energy and work a lot harder than necessary to get across the pool. Most of the time when I'm working on form or technique I don't really feel the difference but yeah this time I did.

70 laps x 40 feet = 2800 feet = 853.44 meters = 0.53 miles
I swam more than twice the difference I will have to for my tri. But I break it down into 10 lap segments.

It took me a long time to want to actually get moving. I got to the gym around noon and did an hour of weights. Daycare closes at 1 and like I said, my body was very warn out. I think someone was picking up on me at the gym. I noticed he was sort of following me from machine to machine, watching me, trying to make small talk. Then he asked me if I came here often. Uhh-- yeah nearly every day, lol. I was a little embarrassed and just kept working out. He so wasn't my type, even if I wasn't married.

I didn't do any cardio today at the gym. I knew I wanted to ride bikes with the girls this evening to the farmers market. We took along one of Mariyn's friends. I bought some plums and corn on the cob. We also bought tri-tip sandwiches for dinner. I feel so healthy just saying my girls and I rode our bikes to the farmers market. Exercise incorporated with fresh fruits and veggies - just makes me feel good like I'm giving my kids the skills they need to live a healthy lifestyle. We took the long way home on our bikes and road around the neighborhood. Of course we stopped at the park and I let the girls play a bit. Then I took Mariyn's friend home.

I talked to her mom for a while. We haven't chatted since the beginning of summer and school is going to start again soon. Her daughter was invited to go to the movies with a group of friends for the first time this week, parents drop off and pick up. She said she was so nervous. I completely understood. I remember being nervous like that back when Mariyn was in kindergarten, they invited her to go to Awana's with them. It was the first time she went somewhere with someone other than family. I shared about Mariyn spending the night with her friend the other day. She seemed just as protective as I am in regards to spending the night. So maybe, I'm not so crazy after all... ha ha

I can't believe summer is almost over. Next week really is our last week of summer before school starts. While I miss the routine of school, I really enjoy the time with my girls. Hopefully, I'll get to do something fun with them next week. :)

Sleep Over Policy

For Jen - and all other wondering minds!

It started with my father. I was never allowed to spend the night at friends. NEVER, no questions asked. I cried and begged and pleaded but the answer was always no. I hated it growing up, but as an adult I realize my father was just being protective. Also as a grown up, I realize my household was very different from "normal" families.

As a parent, I'm constantly second guessing whether or not I'm being protective or I am being over protective. My daughter is now 8 and I've noticed in the last year a lot of the kids have been having sleep overs. I've talked to other parents about their feelings towards this and noticed that I am probably on the extreme end of the not being allowed to spend the night w/ friends.

As a counselor, I've heard a lot of horror stories. People in general do not leave their kids with people they think might hurt them or they don't trust (family, step parent, friend, etc). I've really only allowed my children to spend the night with my family. My mil - is mentally ill and my fil is married to a women who doesn't like kids in general. I've always been so cautious with my kids and I've assumed that everyone else is this way too. It's just normal right?

I've always looked at it this way. My kid is a kid- there are going to be accidents, mistakes and injuries. I would not get mad if my kid got hurt at someone's house because of an accident. Provided there was a parent around and they were being supervised (in general). Accidents do happen. But the more I think about it and talked to parents, I've realized maybe I am a little too over protective. I've been observing others parent and like that hey - they are letting their kids play outside, in their front yard. I want my daughter to have some independence and be able to make decisions (good and bad) and mistakes.

I don't want to live in fear of the "What if..." and I need to trust that the lord is going to keep her safe. On the other hand, I don't want to be a complete absentee parent either. My husband and I have talked about sleep overs many times when Mariyn was younger. We talked about our experiences and have just had a no sleeping over at friends houses policy. Family is ok, friends no.

But over the last 3 years, I've gotten to know more of my daughter's friends families. I've noticed the kids spending the night or having play dates and I knew the time was going to come when someone actually asked if Mariyn could spend the night. I talked to Mariyn about my concerns and she knows how we feel and why. But the sleep over topic came up again between my husband and I when about 4 months ago one of Mariyn's very best friend's moms told me she was going to have a slumber party for her daughter this summer. Of course, I knew that was going to mean Mariyn would be invited. I told her she was brave and that we've never allowed Mariyn to spend the night at friends before. Mariyn's friend obviously told Mariyn. This is a family I know over the last 3 years. This Spring, I coached their daughter in softball and our girls are always playing together. So we've had many conversations and been to each homes many times. They have 3 girls and 2 of the 3 are the exact same age as my daughters (within 3 weeks).

I talked to Rich how he would feel about Mariyn staying over there. We know them well, it's close to home and I trust them and they have trusted me with their children. I feel as if I have actually become friends with the parents and not just our kids are friends. I asked my husband if he would allow our daughter to spend the night at one of his friend's house ( I picked one that he is very close with and has a daughter the same age as ours). He said, "Of course, I would. I've known him and his family since I was a little boy."

With that, I figured maybe it is time we trust Mariyn to spend that night at her friends this time. That maybe it's just a corky thing I have about me because I wasn't allowed to stay over. (My father also didn't allow us in his bedroom, so I have a very hard time going into someone's bedroom without feeling weird). I explained to my daughter that just because we are allowing her to spend the night at her friends house this time doesn't mean she gets to if another friend asks. It will be a case by case basis and I will have to know the parent VERY VERY well. So many times, parents meet other parents and allow their kids to spend the night over. That will not be the case with our children. I might even revoke spending the night privileges come a certain age and give her a curfew instead. I wouldn't want my kid to be involved in teenage stuff that results from thinking they're doing something innocent like spending the night at a friends when in fact they are not.

Thoughts? Would you allow your child to spend the night at a friends?

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

7/28

Mariyn had her first sleep over at her friends last night. I had a hard time letting her go, we have had a no spending the night at friends policy but it was a slumber party for one of her very best friends. I know the family very well and I didn't want Mariyn to feel left out. So Rich and I let her.

Amelia got up early, as usual and came and woke me up with Chocolate syrup. She had been in the fridge poored herself a glass of milk and wanted her morning chocolate milk. Mind you, she is 3 had to climb to get the milk and the chocolate from the fridge. It was cute. Groggy, I felt she had spilled milk but even attempted her own mess. She is so dang cute.

After the milk incident, I got up and going. We made it to the gym for the 9:30 spin class. My body was extra tired this morning but I wasn't really sore. Now my legs are not only tired but sore. Especially my hips.

Amelia had speech and I think she is showing improvement. Tonight she said, "Dad it's time to eat" at dinner time. Huge progress for her! I bought the girls and I smoothies from Juice it Up today. So yummy. Then we went to the park and met up with my sister and nieces and nephews. My oldest niece told me, Auntie you're looking smaller. You lost weight; you look good." It's only been a few weeks since she's seen me. So sweet of her to compliment me even if the scale isn't showing weight loss at least I'm looking better.


For dinner, I made baked It was filling and good.Tonight, instead of running, I'm going to swim laps. I think it's best to give my legs a little break.


You are what you eat

Breakfast
Protein w/ Soy milk
Lunch
Baked Fries, 4 Chicken nuggets
Dinner
terriyaki chicken, quinoa, and zucchini w/ mushrooms.

Snacks:
Almonds
Smoothie
Nectarine

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

7/27 - Weigh In

I'm having all sorts of thoughts about dieting and where I'm going in my weight loss journey. I thought today was going to be a really good weigh in. I feel thinner this week: my clothes are getting bigger and Rich even commented on how much skinnier I look. But at last no change on the scale again, still sitting in at 195.

I looked back at my blog and I really haven't lost much weight at all lately. Very discouraging especially when you consider how much I'm working out. Last week, I got strict with my diet again so I was really hoping to see a change on the scale. I'm going to give it a few more weeks of strict diet and exercise and if nothing changes -- somethings changing. Even though I'm fit, I do not want to be 195lbs. I still have plenty of fat to lose.

I have a friend (real life) who is doing great in her weight loss journey. She is doing a medically managed weight loss program. It sound promising but it's expensive so I'm going to look into all my options if and only IF I can't get past this plateau naturally on my own.

I got up and did body pump and cycle. We were running late so I forgot to eat breakfast. Not smart. I picked up the girls breakfast from MacDonalds and that is when I realized I hadn't eaten myself. They have these fruit smoothies. I figured it sounded healthy enough and so I got myself one. Not even half way through body pump I had the jitters and was feeling light headed. The smoothie wasn't cutting it nutritionally to get me through my needs. After body pump, I grabbed a protein bar ($4.30) to eat before cycle. Crazy price I know but I felt so much better and more alert. The gym is looking to train body pump instructors, I'm thinking about it. It just might be a good fit for me. :)


ETA: Rich didn't have to work tonight and so I decided to run again tonight (in addition to the regular Tuesday morning body pump and cycle). I didn't want to over do it because I ran so much yesterday, but I got in another 4 miles running outside tonight! Woo Woo

Monday, July 26, 2010

Running Machine

:::singing:: I'm just a running machine... and I won't work for nobody but you! hahaha

Ok so, I'm a dork and maybe a bit obsessive with blogging today. I missed the gym today. I had company over and just lost track of time, didn't feel like rushing them out and off to the gym for cardio kickboxing. The kids were having fun in the pool, so I decided whatever. I'll try to get in a run later or something.

Rich was on call, so I knew I couldn't run *far* necessarily. My friend Zumara met me at my house and we basically ran up and down my street and one loop of the neighborhood. We ran for about an hour or so. When I got home I went to mapmyrun.com we ran just over 6 miles! Woo Woo. Unbelievable! I never thought I would be able to run *THAT* far. Well, I sort of knew I could run farther but 6 miles! WOW!

Honestly, when we got back I was thirsty but I wasn't exhausted. I feel so good, and oh so proud of myself and of Zumara. That was the furthest, I've ran and I think her too. Did I mention I feel great? 1/2 marathon here we come!

I think this route worked out well to get a good long run in while my hubby is on call. :)

Clothes clothes clothes

As promised earlier, I wanted to come and talk about clothes. You know you would think that since I've lost so much weight I'd have a completely new wardrobe by now. The fact of the matter is money is so tight, I've felt guilty spending any on clothes. Especially since I'm not at my goal weight yet. I'd rather spend any extra money on activities. But I'm getting to a point where my old clothes are falling off of me and not going to work much longer. Especially my tank tops. I decided that even my gym clothes are getting to big.

About two weeks ago, I bought this cute little red ribbed tank top for Target. I wanted something new and well, it was only $8. I was in a hurry and didn't have time to try it on, we were leaving to go camping and I thought it would work out great. I grabbed a size large. I've been an XL or bigger most of my adult life. I'm big busted and so I've figured a large is probably the smallest top size I'll ever be. Well, sure enough I got it home and loved the style and color (Red is my absolutely fav). Unlike most ribbed tanks, this one has some stretch to it but goes back into shape. Most of mine have always stretched but never return to hug your figure. Unfortunately, it was a bit too big up top. Did you hear that? A large tank is TOO big for me. ha ha I would have returned it but they didn't have any mediums and I really wanted something new and we were leaving to go camping anyways.

I wanted to get a new tank top for the race. So Friday, I wondered into Kohls, they usually have good prices and sales on cute active wear. I must admit, I'm a bit of a label snob. I really only want to wear Nike or Adidas. In my mind they are the best and I know there are plenty of other cute stuff out there but I don't want to spend my money on it unless it has that cute little Nike Swoosh or Adidas logo. Snob - I know. I looked around, looking specifically for a tank top but also am secretly wanting a pair of booty shorts or capri's. I only have two pairs of capri's and they are both getting kinda big. Plus, it's been too hot to wear my pants comfortably. I checked the clearance and didn't see anything. Last time, I got a cute pink Nike top for less than $10. I was kind of sad but I left empty handed. Rich and the girls were next door at Target so I left to meet up with them. While looking for them I walked past the tank tops again, the same cute little ones I had looked at two weeks prior but they had a lot more in and in size Medium. I decided I was going to pick two up because hey what's $8 for a great looking tank. I got a pretty turquoise blue and bright yellow. I tried them on when I got home and they fit -- they looked hot! ha ha I felt so good about myself that I was in a medium top.

Saturday morning, my little sister had her baby boy around 8 am. I wanted to go visit them and I needed to go to the bank. The baby is adorable, but walking through L & D at the hospital and seeing all those uncomfortable women fixed any baby urge I might have gotten. On my way home, I decided to hit up Sports Authority to look again for more tank tops. I ended up trying on a ton of clothes and really was scoping out the booty shorts. I tried a pair on - and yeah while I could get them on they didn't exactly look like I had imagined. My legs have been shaping up nicely (for me anyways), when I look at them I see tone, definition, muscles and tan. You could see my, my EVERYTHING, cottage cheese, my lard, rolls of fat being pushed down and out through the leg holes. I was so dissappointed. I tried on a pair of fitted adidas capri's. They were on clearance, size small. Hearing the seams scream, I could barely squeeze myself into them. Wasn't a good look or feel. I figured I was stuck with my two pairs of capri's at least for now. I really want this fab booty and leg look, you know I want to look like I've spent 5 days a week in the gym for the last 9 months! I want to look athletic and hot. Is that too much to ask?

I tried on several tanks but found a cute light pink Adidas one on clearance for like $13. size MEDIUM!!! Pink isn't my favorite color but you couldn't beat the price and the fit was good too. I decided it was the top I needed for the 5K. It had a built in sports bra that actually held up so well that I want to go back and try to find more. It was great. Normally I wear tank tops with a bra, sports bra and built in bra to get enough support. I loved the fit, have I said that yet? Hopefull, I'll get to go back and pick more up from clearance. This top is going to be my regular running top the fit is that good! So happy!

Sunday, July 25, 2010

My little athlete

At last nights event, flyers for other activities were placed on my car. One of them was for the California kid's triathlon on August 8th. I cleaned out my car today bringing in several flyers. Mariyn picked them up and was looking at them talking to me about racing. I told her one of the flyers was for a kids race where you swim, bike and run in the same race. Immediately, she said, Cool, can I do it? Ahh warms my heart, my little athlete.

I asked her if she was sure she wanted to do it and talked to her about the distances. For her age it's a 50 yard swim, 1 mile bike and half mile run. I explained to her how many laps in our pool that would be then how far on the bike then how far she would have to run in terms (to places) she would understand like biking to school and back and running to her school. Of course, she would have to practice but I'm already training for my tri. She could easily tag along and train with me. Plus, her distances shouldn't be too fun. All participants get a medal and I know she thinks that is really cool.

I'm going to talk to her more about it and her dad but it looks like I have a future triathlete on my hands. After dinner, we went swimming and before I even got in the pool she swam 5 laps. I think she ended up swimming about 15 laps total. Soon, we will going biking as soon as we are done swimming just so she can see how it feels. I love my little athlete.

On a personal note, even though I slept most of the day, I swam 60 laps. 50 free style 10 back stroke.

Davis Moo-nlight 5K

Running last night in the Davis 5K was so much fun! The atmosphere was great.

Although, Davis isn't that far I'm not sure I've ever had a reason to go there before. The race was downtown and at night. Simultaneously as the 5K was a half marathon (13 miles)there were a lot of spectators and participants. Jamba Juice was out there giving away free smoothies to EVERYONE. They were small, maybe 8-12oz but you could come back and get as many as you like. My family loves smoothies lately so the girls were in for a treat!

My friend Zumara ended up running with me. My other friend decided last minute not to go. My sister in law and her friends were running the half marathon. I really wanted to run it too because I knew I could do the 5K relatively easily. I want to try to push myself harder but I doubt I'm ready to run a half marathon either. I think I can run further than what I am but it is a little hard to believe that I might ever be able to run 13 miles, a 1/2 marathon. It was so neat to watch these true runners come in. One of them finished right around an hour. Can you believe that, running 13 miles in an hour! Crazy. The first woman came in around 1 hour and 20 minutes! My sister in law and her friends finished in about 2.5 hours but she said they took a short cut because one of her friends were hurt and probably only finished 11 or so miles. It was great running with so much family there cheering us on. Such a good fun event.

The main reason I chose to run the 5K was to be supportive of my friends. It was to be their first race and I wanted to support them and run with them. Unfortunately, one of my friends decided not to come. So Zumara and I ran together. It was fun.
My time actual finish time was 34 minutes 20 seconds! Not bad, but not fantastic. I was actually about 2 minutes slower this 5K than the last. Not my personal best but that's ok. The first mile and a half I wanted to give up, I wanted to walk. My stomach was aching and I thought I might have to stop and go to the bathroom. I thought about having Zumara go ahead with out me and I'd catch up. I didn't though, I pushed through and soon enough we were running toward the finish line as we rounded the last corner, we decided to sprint. She did great and at the end of the race both of us agreed next time, we're registering for the half marathon.

Oh and Pics - you'll will want to see pics!




and a photo finish thanks to my mom's Iphone :)


Saturday, July 24, 2010

Skipping Two Days

Skipped two day blogging - but don't worry. I still made it to the gym and ate how I should. Well, sort of. Thursday I did Zumba then took the girls on a bike ride. I was pretty warn out and I've worked out hard this week. I made the most delicious chicken kabobs for dinner and because it took longer than I had expected, we got a late start on our bike ride. I let Mariyn take her friends along, all the girls had fun. It's really neat to watch them in excitement because we are cruising the neighborhood and they have their own sense of freedom when riding the bikes. Going down the hills, the girls and I were hollaring - WWOOOO Hoooo. It was really fun.

Friday I ended up babysitting for my husbands friend. His three kids got here just before 6 am bright eyed and bushey tailed. Let me tell you, I am NOT a morning person and getting up with those kids was really hard. Around 10 am, I took the kids to the park. Some guy, drove by and hollered at me - not once but twice. Mind you, I'm in a small neighborhood park with 4 kids in my warm ups and a tee shirt. After about 20 minutes the kids were bored w/ playing at the park. Until, we decided to play duck duck goose. Yeah I said we, I played too. ha ha I got a few strange looks from other parents but you know, I'm just glad I CAN run around and play with the kids, even if I do look a little silly. ha ha

After, I picked Mariyn up from VBS we spent the rest of the afternoon swimming. My nieces and nephews came over and at one time I had 10 kids here! It really was a crazy day. I didn't end up making it to the gym but I'm sure I got my exercise in for the day.

Tonight I am looking forward to my next 5K. It's in about 5 hours and I'm excited. I got a new tank top today. More to come regarding thoughts on clothes and shorts....

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Weds 7/21/10

So just when I think my unemployment is fixed -- it's not. But I think it might work out for the better. More details to come -- after I hopefully get a hold of them again tomorrow. It's a little frustrating but I think I actually qualify for a new claim. Whiich would take me off of the extension that I am currently on. We all hear about the delays in the extensions and whether or not congress is going to extend them. I hate being unemployed. I really wish I could find a job BUT I am so thankful for the income unemployment has provided my family. It really does give us peace of mind in paying our monthly obligations. I don't know how we would make it financially without it. God always provides for us though -- he knows the desires of my heart and provides for them.

Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.” – Psalms 37:4 KJV

Clare and I worked out today but we didn't do our usual weights and running. Clare actually had the day off, so we got to enjoy a spin class together, Dana's spin class. Totally kicked my butt - like always. Then I worked on my abs. Did 100 crunches w/ 10lbs weights on each side (obliques) and the center. So total of 300 crunches, plus about 2 and a half minutes of hovers. I was physically exhausted leaving them gym. Completely done and Clare was too.

Amelia had speech today. It went well, she can say all the words she just needs help combining them. She can say all her fruits and veggies, animals but will struggle saying "I see a cow!" or "I want a grape!" Those are the type of things she needs help with. We go back next Weds and I'm excited to see her progress.

Mariyn is really enjoying vacation bible school. The theme is (God's)Army of One. She really is taking to all the army talk -- Ohh-Rah, Attention, Salute, Fall in. LOL I'm really glad our friends invited her to VBS and that she is learning about the lord. I remember going to my Aunts as a kid and going to VBS was so much fun. We weren't raised in the church like my cousins. So VBS was really memorable for me. I even remember a really liking a song about Charity church mouse. It brings me a lot of joy knowing Mariyn is experiencing and learning about God in a fun atmosphere in a great church. I really need to start going back to church.

Back on the dieting note -- I've eaten well today. Protein shake for breakfast, PB&J w/ Cherries for lunch. I've snacked on a Fiber One yogurt (they are Good) and nectarines. I'm not sure what we are going to do for dinner. I forgot to defrost meat :X Opps! Hubby isn't home yet though and I know I should cook... what to cook what to cook.

ETA: Dinner terriyaki chicken, rice, mixed veggies (broccoli, cauliflower, carrots). A healthy choice!

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Sweat Tea & Swimming

Had a really good day. Have I ever mentioned how much I love sweet tea? Yeah, I know it loaded with sugar and with calories. But it's so delish! I'm sure it contributed to my weight gain. I remember going to Micky-D's and getting sweet teas almost daily (sometimes multiple trips were made per day) because I loved them so much. Lately I've been wanting to drink something other than water and I'm burnt out on crystal light. I've really been craving Sweet tea. Naturally, I've been fighting the craving because I know how loaded with sugar it is. But then I got this grand idea to try something new. Instead of sugar, I thought why not use splenda? It's a 0 calorie sweetener. I eat it in so many other things, why not sweet tea? I bought tea bags and today brewed some tea and poored in Splenda and stired it up while it was still warm. Then refrigerated. Now it's not the same as Mickey-D's but it is satisfying the craving and well probably a better choice, calorie wise.

The girls wanted to go swimming. So after dinner (bison burgers) I took them. I finally broke down and bought a swim cap. So I decided to try it out and do some laps. Well 50 laps to be exact (40 freestyle 10 backstroke). The swim cap = GREAT investment! I'm not fighting my long hair or getting tangled up in it. I am smoothly gliding through the water, well as smooth as I know how, ha ha. It was so much easier to swim my laps. My next swimming investment: Goggles and a swimmers swimsuit (possibly a tri suit). Goggles first sooner than later.

Oh and I registered for my next 5K Davis Moo-nlight run. I've got two friends who are going to run with me. It's Saturday night. I'm excited - not as much for me as I am for my friends. It's both of their first 5Ks and it's a really big fun event. I wanted to do the half marathon, but it's their first race and I just don't have that much extra money. Plus, I know 13 miles is a bit of a stretch for me - a really long possibly impossible at this time stretch. I would probably end up walking a lot of it. So, the 5K it is for me. I know it's still going to be a great event. :) I'm excited.

Killer workout - weigh in

I'm not sure what it was but today was killer. There was a sub in body pump today and she wasn't as hard as Dana. Still I pushed myself to lift heavy weights but when doing so I noticed that my body felt very fatigued. What was I doing wrong? Am I doing something different I wondered? At certain points in the routine, I really felt dizzy and light headed as if I was going to pass out. So I put the weights down and took a break as needed. The only things I could come up with that were really different was A) I ran 3 miles after 9 pm last night and B) I had a light dinner - chicken salad and my regular protein shake for breakfast. I really think my body probably burnt off dinner quickly and the protein shake wasn't enough to get me through the fatigue and through the class. I'm always careful about what I have for breakfast Tuesday morning because I don't want to weigh in with a full tummy. It's just not fair in my eyes. Luckily, I brought a nectarine with me today and I had that between classes. I perked up my energy levels a lot and took away the dizziness.

Also between classes, I weighed in. I have about 10-15 minutes between classes that I use the restroom, weigh in, check on the kids and set up my bike. Today, I weighed in at 195 on the trainers scale! Back to 195 so a pound down from last week! As long as if I stay good with my foods, I should be losing again, in no time. Weigh in today proved to me how much my at home scale fluctuates. I know I didn't gain 2 lbs yesterday. Just my scale is inconsistent and well, my weight probably fluctuates too. Here is to losing more next week!!!

Cycle was very challenging today as well, which is why I thought maybe the running late last night wasn't enough time for my body to fully recover. I think running is something I can add to my routine at night, when I can, it will just take a couple of weeks for my body to adjust and not feel so tired in the morning. Guess we will see. Proper nutrition is really important though. I know if i exert my body that way again, I'll have to treat it better in the morning with a better breakfast.


I'm on track with my foods. Protein shake for breakfast, nectarine for snack, tuna sandwich on Orowheat thin with a side of strawberries, blueberries and blackberries for lunch. I think we're either going to have chicken kabobs for dinner or a bison burger. Not sure, but I know it will be healthy.

Monday, July 19, 2010

Today was a good day

Today was a good day ::imagain Ice Cube::: lol. It was a really good day though - very busy. I got up early, Mariyn started vacation bible school today. She seemed to really like it and I'm glad. It's not our church because I haven't been committeed enough to go to church regularly but it is the church we tend to do activities with and consider our church. I really need to start going back to church, I feel like my life goes so much better when I'm attending church, learning and living God's word.
I had to drop Mariyn off and register her at 7:30 am. Yeah very early for us!

After Mariyn was off to VBS, I needed to go take care of Richard's ticket by 8am. Took care of it - got a postponement. I wanted to pay the fine and get traffic school for him but he has to actually do that himself and go before the judge. Not something I could do for him.

I also hit up Costco,Walmart and a regular grocery store. We needed food and household stuff. I ended up spending a lot of money but like I said, it was needed. One reason, I ate out so much last week as because we NEEDED food. I got lots of good FRESH foods: fruits, vegtables, chicken and bison. I told Rich there would be no eating out this week, I'm going to cook.

Tonight, I made a rottisserie chicken salad for dinner. I had California Rolls for lunch, yogurt w/ blueberries for snack, and honey bunches of oats w. light soy milk for breakfast. So, I'm thinking I did pretty well - today.

I got in my fair share of exercise in tonight. Cardio kickboxing was good. Then I came home made dinner. After dinner, I went for a run with my gym friend Zumara. We ran 3 miles, we're both looking forward to our next 5K on Sat night. I almost talked myself out of running tonight because I was so tired from running around but my competitive drive kicked in. I want to lose my 20lbs before Richard. He called me today just to taunt me, saying he already lost a pound. Ughh! Men - it's so easy for them. Of course, I weighed myself after that too and the scale was down for me too. Who knows though, his scale is so inconsistant. I am looking forward to weigh in tomorrow. Hopefully it's a good one :)

Sunday, July 18, 2010

Cheating and the big bet

As I sat down at Farmer Boys for dinner last night, slurping my raspberry tea I got to thinking. A lot of my old habbits are back. We've eaten out every night this week. Not only that, but I've noticed I've ordered a drink instead of just having water. I've eaten whatever I want and finished just about all of my food. Until I was stuffed - and I mean stuffed full. How did this start? How did I get so off track? Little by little, I started cheating. I started wanting to eat more normal. Then, I ate a little bit more or tried something else, I haven't had in a while. I'm still exercising like crazy, so I haven't gained weight back but I am not living the healthy lifestyle I should be. Why? I noticed I've been feeling like I always eat the same thing, tired of salad - wanting more variety. I've been making excuses that it's ok I haven't been lossing weight as quickly. I'm not gaining and I've got this going on or that. Not an excuse if I am dieting. I should be doing much better.

Richard hasn't been going to the gym. He still hasn't been lossing any weight. If anything I think he helps sabatoge my dieting. I know he is supportive and wants me to lose weight but his actions are different than his words. I know he also wants to lose weight but his job is making it difficult and he doesn't have much motivation for himself either. So this morning, I was laying in bed thinking. I could hear Richard got up and was in the bathroom weighing himself. I'm pretty sure we have about the same amount of weight to lose. I asked him how much he weighs --243. I know he wants to weigh between 200-220. He is 6'2". I really want him to be healthier for himself and for our family.

I got to thinking, how can I get re-motivated and get back on track with my diet? How can I help Richard be more successful in his weight loss? Richard and I agreed to a little contest or bet if you would say. We are competing in weight loss. Who will lose 20lbs first? If he wins, he will get husband favors....I'm sure you can use your imagination. If I win, I get a real date. Yes,I know I am crazy to compete with a guy. Not really fair, I know but I want him to be motivated. And I really think that if he wins, we both win anyways because he is going to be SO much hotter ;-) Don't get me wrong though, I am one competitive girl, I do not like to lose at all - so I will be doing my best to lose that 20lbs. In order to be fair, he asked me how much I weighed -- 195, I told him. He made me weigh myself at home in front of him --194 lbs. I know that appears to be weight loss from last week. Amazing I thought, I ate like crap all week. I didn't exercise on Friday either. But I know my scale at home is inconsistent. That's why I normally don't use it. My goal, to lose 20lbs before the hubby... The race is on...

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Emo

Yeah - I was very emotional all day. I just sort of needed to be left alone to deal with my thoughts and emotions. I took a lot of them out on food... -ugh! Just when I thought I was doing better with my emotional eating. Old habits kick in again.

We had taco bell for dinner. Yeah I know, I know ::hangs head::: I'm cooking tomorrow night, I swear. Good news, I made it to the gym tonight. I did Zumba, it's a fun sort of pick me up kind of class. I figured it would get my exercise in and hopefully my mood will improve too. I believe in my heart that even though I'm down and out, God is really good. Things could be worse, a whole lot worse and I am truly blessed. It's just shaking the human part, the emotional part of rejection and having unfortunate things (trials if you will)happen. They say things come in threes and well, in the last two days I've had 3 negative things happen. So hopefully, I'm over it for a while.

After Zumba, I talked to one of my gym friends and we decided to go running together tonight. Rich was off so it happened to work out perfectly. It's been a while since I've gone running outside. Probably since my last 5K. The Valley heat is insane and unbearable to run, during the days at least. Who wants to run when it's 100 degrees outside. Umm no thank you! LOL I needed the time alone (by that Iu mean away from the kids and hubby) to reflect and just get this emotional bagage out of my heart and off my mind. Anyways, we got in a full 3 miles! I feel a lot better too. Maybe it will counter balance the junk food I ate earlier? Maybe, lol. Maybe, not!

My next running event has been decided. June 24th the Davisvillle Moo-nlight Half Mararthon and 5K. I really want to do the half marathon, but it's $50. The 5K is only $25. A few of my friends say that want to run it too, so we are probably going to do the 5K together. It looks like a really good -and fun- event! Something to look forward too.

Philippians 4:6-20
6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. 9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you. 10 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity. 11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. 12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. 13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. 14 Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction. 15 Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only. 16 For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity. 17 Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account. 18 But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God. 19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. 20 Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Rejected

I got an email notification this morning -- I didn't get the job. Even though, I know it must not be God's plan for me, I'm upset and dissappointed. I'm really tired of not working - not being able to find a job - and the stress of this on my family and marriage. I've taken it out on a bag of Doritos. Probably not the best idea. I'm feeding the kids lunch now then, I'm going to take a nap.

I'm going to pray about it later. God knows my heart and has my best interest in mind. I know I'm learning a lesson or there is a reason. It's just hard to accept and really know what direction I should be going.

WAITING

I had such a busy day yesterday by the time I got home I was exhausted. So yeah no blog time. I had my interview in the morning. We had to all get up, dressed and out of the house before 8:30 am. I think it went well and am hoping the opportunity is offered to me but it's in God's hands now. I'm trying to be patient and WAITing to hear back. It's hard though, I'm anxious and I just want to know so I can move on appropriately. It's so hard, the waiting process. I would be extatic to get the job and can even deal with the disappointment of rejection because I would know it's not what God wants for me. But the WAIT is the hardest part.

I got a lot of phone calls yesterday asking how my entire view went, if I got the job, when will I hear, etc. I know I am highly educated and have been out of work for the past year and am very qualified to work in a lot of different aspects BUT there really aren't that many jobs out there especially that can pay what I need to earn in order to pay my bills and help provide for the family. I'm not going to accept a low paying job and put my kid in daycare just for the sake of working. I know God gave me the time off to focus on myself and my family. When this time is no longer needed, a great job will be offered to me. He will let me know. I just need to keep reminding myself of this and not let everyone's "I really hope you get this job" get to me. It sort of makes me feel like I am letting everyone down if an opportunity isn't offered to me. Yesterday I was so nervous I woke up nauseous and felt that way all day. I have NEVER been like that before because of nerves.

Immediately after my interview, I picked up my girls and we headed to the gym. During my drive I got a call from Rich. Apparently his ATM card didn't work and I thought we had more than enough money in our account. Ahhh... Money stress I called the bank and dealt with that. Of course, I'm fuming mad because a check someone wrote to us bounced...which in turn caused us to not the money we thought we had in our account. Mistakes happen, it's life, just got to deal with it right? I know but immediately I was so angry. Good thing I was at the gym, because I got my anger and frustration out on my routine and running. I felt so much better after running and my line of thinking was re-framed. I ran the entire 30 mintues, except for the times I drank water. I can't run and drink water at the same time, lol, too messy.

I really went through so many emotions yesterday, excitment, anxious, nervous, angry.. I was an emotional wreck. I stuffed my face literally all afternoon because I was anxious. Darn it... not good for the diet! But good news is today is a new day, back on the wagon. Not sure when I'm going to go to the gym today or what I'm gong to do, but I know I'll go. I'm thinking about going tonight and doing Zumba and Yoga or Cycle... We shall see! In the meantime, I've got plenty of household stuff to keep me busy as I wait.

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Weigh In 7-13

Accountability, right? That's why I weigh in every Tuesday. I knew today wasn't going to be a great weigh in day. I had a more active vacation but it was just that, a vacation. I ate a bit more than I should have, birthday cake, anyone? With that said, I'm getting back on track with my diet and I didn't do as bad as I thought. Today's weigh in 196.1, still not my lowest but I'm almost back there and just about the same (a tad less) than last week. So not bad at all. Next week will be a true loss! I know it!

Body pump today was killer and I do mean killer. I've been doing a lot of weight - enough that the instructor called attention to me and said we all should be lifting heavy like me. I was actually lifting more than her and almost everyone else today. One other person was lifting the same as me, and I think it was sort of a competition to keep up. I didn't start that way, I was just lifting my weights and I looked behind me and my gym friend responded, "Don't worry, I'm gonna keep up!". Nothing wrong with a little friendly competition. HaHA Cycle was rough too. Well, maybe not so much on it's own BUT combined with pump it was HARD! I was shaking and exhausted when class was over.

Amelia's appointment went great. The speech pathologist agreed Amelia has a verbal delay in language acquisition. Probably a year or so behind, like I thought. We will be getting the report results next week AND her insurance has already approved 6 sessions. Not a lot but it's getting us started and it's progress. She said she usually doesn't have a hard time getting insurance to approve more visits either. Most importantly, Amelia is getting services she NEEDS. We start speech therapy next week and her official diagnosis and report will be ready then.

Monday, July 12, 2010

Monday 7-12

It's getting late and I'm tired. I did cardio kick tonight and swear I havent' sweat that much in YEARS! It was hot today and exercising it felt hotter. Can't wait until they get fans for the group exercise room. I'm not expecting a good weigh in tomorrow. I had an eat fest camping this weekend and less exercise than I would have liked. Thanks to my ankle! I took it easy on the jump kicks and power squats tonight, didn't want my ankle to give out on me.

I am looking forward to tomorrow. Good gym time, but more importantly Amelia has an evaluation with the Speech Pathologist. Can't wait to get through that. Also, no more excuses with the dieting. I'm getting back on track with eating. Tomorrow starts a new week and I am going to start training for another event. Originally, I was thinking we were going to go camping on Rich's next weekend off but since we went to Yosemite, we probably won't and I can hopefully do an event. There are two I have my eyes on. A night time 5K and half-marathon or a Sunday 5K at Lodi Lake. Either would be great but I am really tempted to do the half marathon. I know I couldn't run it all but it would push me further than I've currently gone.

Oh and on the job front - I have a second interview coming up! I'm optimistic about this opportunity. I went shopping today for a new outfit. Can't wear my other outfit again because it's a follow up interview. Just doesn't seem right. So, I'm returning to my previous outfit and just trying to dress it up more by adding a blazer. Shopping with 2 kids is NOT fun. I swear it took me forever and my kids were monsters. Especially my little Amelia, she gets so over stimulated. Then I have Mariyn chasing after and screaming for Amelia... all while I'm attempting to peacefully shop. NOT! I finally settled on a cropped black blazer with 3/4 sleeves.

Yosemite -Tuoulumne Meadows Pics

Camping Pics:

Happy 8th Birthday Mariyn!


Deer at our campsite


Deer


Camp fire


Roasted Marsh mellows and Smores




Dog lake hiking and views:











































Gaylor Lakes Hiking and Views






















Camping Yosemite - Tuolumne Meadows

We've spent the last 4 days camping in Yosemite National Park, specifically Tuolumne Meadows. We told Mariyn that we didn't want to have a big party this year for her birthday, instead we would like to take her somewhere or do something with her. She decided she would like to go camping with us and chose Yosemite. We have already been to Yosemite twice this year. It's insanely beautiful every time, such a divinely beautiful place that it is impossible to truly experience it all.

We arrived Thursday and hoped to get a first come first serve camp site. We were put on a waiting list and told to come back just before 2pm because they walk around the campsites then and count how many vacancies they have, then it's first come first serve. Well, we were number 10 on the list and they had 9 available. I was pretty nervous. Lucky for us, two people ahead of us on the list, weren't there. So we got a site. Mariyn was ecstatic. It took a while to set up camp, then we drove around and enjoyed some beautiful views. We actually drove all the way through Tioga Pass for the first time and too Mono lake. Then came back and made dinner. A herd of deer came through our campsite each night right around dinner time. So amazing!

I was really looking forward to hiking and being active with the family. Friday, was Mariyn's birthday. We got up early, sang her Happy Birthday and had cake. Then went and gathered firewood in the forest. Once we got back to camp, it was lunch time. I made lunch for the family and was cutting melon up and fell in a hole, twisting my ankle. Immediately, it started swelling, and brusing. I couldn't put any pressure on it and had to sit down. I was nearly in tears, it was so painful. Rich quickly got me ice and I started to elevate it. Amelia was getting moody and really needed a nap. So hiking for us was out of the question. I told Rich to take Mariyn, I would rest my ankle and nap with Amelia and hopefully, I'd feel better later. Mariyn was very worried about me but I told her I would be fine. Amelia and I naped and when I got up, my swelling had gone down greatly and I could use my ankle again. It wasn't 100% but hey, I could walk. We went to Tenaya Lake. I watch my girls play in the water and later played catch with Mariyn. It was so beautiful there, I really wish we had spent more time there. And, I really want to go back and practice open water swimming there. No boats are allowed on the lake, and is high in elevation so I think it would be a good training place for Tahoe. The water is cold too and fairly remote so not too many people. Good thing we have an annual pass, I already want to go back!

Saturday was our big day for exploration. My ankle was still swollen but no longer too sore. Mariyn had wanted to hike to Dog lake, it's a shorter hike 2.8 miles and rated moderately strenuous because it starts off steep. To be honest tough, it felt really easy. Amelia happily hiked the entire thing needing minimal help but that could be just the type of kid she is, VERY active. Mariyn complained a little and well, that's just the type of kid she is. LOL But we all made it and the views were beautiful. Being physically active as a family, AWESOME! God is so good! We came back to camp, made lunch. Let Amelia rest a bit, 2.8 miles is A LOT for a 3 year old! Then headed out for our next hike, Gaylor Lakes. The map said this had some of the most stunning views on Tioga Pass and of the High Sierra's and described the hike as moderately strenuous, the elevation gain and distance were similar to our earlier hike (actually less). So I figured no big deal, right? Yeah, it felt A LOT steeper. Which wasn't too hard for me or Rich but a little more challenging for Mariyn and a lot more challenging for Amelia. Good news- we all made it to the top of the summit, which had the most beautiful views. Mariyn even wanted to hike down to the lake, so I took her. Rich and Amelia stayed behind at the top to give Amelia a break. I carried Amelia about 1/2 way back down, she was getting tired and it was steep. Plus, bonus exercise for me, right? lol I tell myself, it really shouldn't be anything carrying an extra 30lbs around because I used to carry 65 but I wouldn't have been able to go hiking like this 65lbs ago and if I did, I would have been huffing and puffing until I passed out. About 5 miles of moderately strenuous hiking, not bad for a day on vacation right? I even felt a little sore the next day!

Sunday was our day to pack up and come home. I enjoyed the time with our family, with Rich. We really need to spend more time together as a couple. This trip was a little extra special for us. 10 years ago, when we were dating we took one of our first camping trip to Tuolumne Meadows. It was Richard's first time ever going to Yosemite so we tried to squeeze in so much in such little time. That trip was almost exactly 10 years ago this month. Yosemite is one of those places you could easily spend a month and not be able to see everything, or go in a different season and it will look totally different but none the less amazing it's one of God's most amazing creations. I'm so glad it's in our backyard, so is Rich. It's one of the few times I've ever heard him say how much he loves California. The natural beauty here and recreation in unsurpassed.


Pics to come :)

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Realistic Weight loss

I happened to stumble across this article that talked about the biggest loser yesterday. Let me start off by saying I've never watched a full episode of the biggest loser, but have seen bits and pieces. I don't watch much TV at all, we don't have cable or any network television. So I've only seen it in passing or other people's homes but I've seen it enough to know that contestants lose an insane amount of weight in a VERY short period of time. It seems like the biggest loser is a topic of conversation anytime someone talks about weight loss (mine, theirs, products, etc).

My original goal was to lose 100lbs. I'm over half way to meeting my goal. Originally, I wanted to be done dieting by my birthday in September. Almost a year since I started going back to the gym. That is still my goal and at first, I was on track losing about 10 lbs a month. Since April, my weight loss hasn't been as rapid. I'm sustaining my weight losing here and there and having an active and healthy life style. I knew I would eventually struggle with the weight loss and felt that time period would be when warmer weather hit. I love summer and I love my family. Dieting and Exercising take up a lot of time, money and planning. It's hard to diet and enjoy simple pleasures like BBQ with your family. I still exercise and have been maintaining my weight, that is not hard. It's losing weight that is harder. Losing weight is hard anytime because let's face it. It's easy to sabotage, easy to fall into old habits and there is a reason most people gain weight. I really enjoy food. I eat when I'm emo, I eat when I'm gathering with family and friends, I gained so much weight because I didn't eat healthy and I didn't exercise. My lifestyle was out of control. I've since found balance.

My goal is still to lose 100 lbs by the middle of September. Which is basically 35 more lbs in 10 weeks. That's 3.5lbs per week, a healthy amount BUT not what I've been losing for the last couple of months. If I dedicated and progressing like I was, this goal would be attainable. I'll be happy even if I'm close to the 100lbs mark, as long as if it all comes off. Once I hit 158, I will re-evaluate my goals. I may decide to maintain, I may decide to lose. I don't want FAST weight loss, I want realistic maintainable weight loss. I like that my body is recouping from the years of abuse I put it through. My skin isn't flabby. I have stretch marks, but they too are fading. The human body is really one of God's most fascinating creations. I am so blessed that he is allowing me to lose this weight and become a better me despite the abuse I've done to my body.

Let me be clear, healthy is a life style. There will be no magic number on the scale that I am going to see and think, oh ok, I don't have to go to the gym anymore, I can eat as much as I want. I know that I will always have to balance calories in and calories out. I will always have to be mindful of my choices but these healthier choices are becoming more and more natural to me. Otherwise, I too would gain back the weight. It really isn't how much weight you lose but how well you maintain what you've lost. That to me would make you the biggest loser.


FYI: Weigh in today 196. Down 2lbs from last week, still up 1lbs from my 2 weeks ago. Things that I see hindering my progress: snacking (camping, holiday, bbq foods left over), less time at the gym because of holidays and camping. We're going camping again this week. My plan to combat these hurdles: better food planning and activities outside of the gym. Friday is MAriyn's birthday - she asked to go camping in Yosemite - so we're planning on taking her. Shhhh.... it's a secret!

Monday, July 5, 2010

Rest and Recover

I got up and made the family breakfast: pancakes, eggs, and morningstar sausage. I found this blueberry compote at Walmart. I hadn't made the family a real breakfast in a while and knew they would love this. Of course, I made my pancakes healthier by making them from scratch using whole wheat flour. Most of the day, I didn't want to do anything, just rest and recover from the weekend. I noticed I was snacking on chips and stuff left over from the holiday too. Ugghh...Finally around 4pm, I forced myself to get up and get ready for the gym. Cardio kickboxing tonight - we were having a sub though but I still needed to go. I took a long enough vacation this weekend and I ate a lot. I didn't make it to the gym on Friday either. I didn't care for the instructor's style tonight. She wasn't a bad instructor but it was not a kickboxing class and was a lot more dance and aerobics than kickboxing. Clare and I do this class together otherwise, I probably would have left. No biggie though, I got a workout in and tried something new. Chicken, rice and asapargus for dinner tonight. Follow by watermelon because it's delish :)

Weekend

I started my long weekend early on Friday. I went to bed trying to figure out how my day was going to go and where I was going to fit in gym time. I was suppossed to watch my nieces and nephew,or at least that's what I thought. I figured I'd worry about it in the morning when they got here and figure it out. I ended up sleeping in until almost 10am! Crazy, I know. When I got up, my girls were quietly watching a movie and I checked my phone. Apparently, I was texted that I didn't need to watch the kids. I had a few errands and such to do and planned on watching Eclipse Friday night with my girlfriends. Plus, I wanted to wash my car, it was DIRRR-Ty. Normally, I take it to the car wash and have them do it. But I was feeling cheap money is tight and really the car wash never really gets it 100% clean, probably because I wait too long between washes ;-) The girls and I were on a mission to clean the car and I knew it was going to be WORK! But the girls had a blast. Mariyn said to me, "Mom have you EVER washed a car like this before?" HAHA HA Umm.. YES but it's been a while. I have a lot of memories of washing cars/trucks as a kid.

Eclipse was AMAZING and I've decided Emmett is really good eye candy! Good thing eye candy doesn't make you fat because I was drooling over him a lot! I did splurge and get a large soda (Dr. Pepper) and pop corn. Not because I needed a large but because it was cheaper to buy it as a combo. I can't believe snack prices at the theater! $12.50 for the soda and pop corn. Seriously! I hadn't had a soda in a long time, so I pretended it was worth it. Honestly though, I don't really miss soda. Crazy, I know. I'm happy with my water and crystal light. Sweet tea, I miss sweet tea but everything in moderation, right?

Saturday I went river rafting with my friends. My kids stayed with my brother, my nieces were babysitting in exchange I bought them Eclipse tickets, and Rich was on call. It was a beautiful warm day and very relaxing not having to worry about the fam. I love them, but I love me time too. I bought my food with me: seafood salad, almonds, nectarines and plums. I bought a 12 pack of Smirnoff ice, not because I would drink all 12. I figured I'd share, I rarely drink. I won't drink around my kids and I won't drink unless it's safe and really I don't drink because it's wasted calories. I had two drinks out of the 12 pack. I helped row all day in the heat and swam. I'm pretty sure I burnt off the extra calories. I had fun rafting. I really only knew 2 of the people in our group of 16. I was nervous about going and being that fat girl again. Lets face it, most people who are willing to swim in public are probably skinnies. While, I am looking skinny for me, I am not looking skinny. I am feeling confident with my body and in better shape. I think I look fit - except for my gutt. The funniest thing is I am really more self conscious about my body now that I ever was. Maybe it's more aware? I can easily see how obsessive someone can get about their weight and body now and could see how it could turn into a problem for some people i.e. Anorexia etc. I never really understood eating disorders before but I think I do now. Not that I have one or anything, I just see how easy it is to become obsessed. Good news: I got a ton of compliments on my suit and I had a GREAT time doing something active with friends. That is the goal right, to live a healthy ACTIVE life style!

Sunday - July 4th. Swimming, BBQ and Fireworks! American tradition, right. I did ok and planned healthier foods. My mom and step dad came over too. My mom tried her best to bring healthier stuff too. We did good until Rich sabotaged us by asking for potato salad and chips! I limited my portions though and tried to eat mostly healthy. Hopefully, I didn't eat too much. It's hard not too when the summer if filled with such delicious foods. Good thing is I LOVE fruit and veggies. I really do :) I just also love potatoes and deserts and well... FOOD! ha ha

Thursday, July 1, 2010

Catch up

I've had a busy week and I know it's been a couple of days since I blogged. So hmmm.. where to start? With the boring stuff, I guess, lol.

Wednesday I was sore! EVERY muscle in my body was sore. I don't care if I've been doing body pump for months, I don't think my body will ever get used to it. It's intense. This week, my arms were sore, my chest was sore, and you guessed it my legs were sore! My inner thighs, hamstrings/glut and quads - ALL sore! I was so sore I had a hard time decided what to do at the gym. I ended up doing the intimidator, my calves, abs and running. It hurt to run though, not so much in my legs but in my chest! EYe yii yii! I did a ton of ab work. One hundred ab crunches on the weighted machine with 60lbs. The on a yoga mat, I did 100 crunches each section of my tummy center, right and left obliques. Plus, I set the timer on my phone and held a hover for 2 minutes. That was HARD!

I could really feel it today though! The rest of my body no longer hurts, but today, my abs, oh yeah they are on FIRE. It's been months since my abs were sore. I really think I need to concentrate on them more often. I didn't have much time for the gym today, but I went. I ran over 2.5 miles (25 minutes on the tready) and called it a day. I was hoping to make it back tonight, for Zumba but I didn't.

This afternoon, I had a job interview. It was an awkward pres-creening 5 minute interview but I really think this job would be a good opportunity for me. But I think they probably interviewed 100 people. Seriously, every 5 minutes is crazy. I prayed about it though, I know God has a plan and I need to trust him. I'm just nervous, my unemployment will end soon. God has been so good and provided for us for so long, I know he will continue to do so. I'm trying not to worry about it, but it's difficult. I know if it's the right opportunity it will happen if not, something else will be there. I got all dressed up today and had Mariyn take a pic. For the last couple of interviews, I've been wearing a yellow button up business type shirt but since I haven't been successful, I decided to change up my outfit a bit. Today, I wore a skirt a jacket. The jacket I bought two years ago, it's big on me now. A lot bigger than it was two years ago but not so big that it looks funny, just not tailored looking.


I picked up a bike for Rich tonight. I found it on craigslist last week. It's a trek road bike. I'm not sure if he really likes it, but if not, I figured we could easily re-sell it. I got a good deal on it. My nephew and the girls went with me to pick it up. Then, we came back to the house and they got to swim. My nephew didn't want to go home. He was having too much fun with Mariyn.

Oh and the exciting news... Gotta share that! I rarely wear my wedding ring. I'm not really a jewelry person I wear it to important events and such but not everyday. It has a lot of sentimental value because it was my parents wedding ring, and well, my dad passed away 14 years ago. It used to fit me, I remember trying this ring, and it always being just my size. Well, that was until I got married. I was pregnant and my hands were fatter than they used to be. Richard and I had it sized up. I figured it was temporary but wanted it to fit when we got married. I gained so much weight after we were married that I never had it re-sized back down. Today, I put it on and it was very loose! For the first time in 10 years, I can honestly say my wedding ring it too big and that to me is EXCITING!!!