The Shrinking Me

Wow...where has the "Doer" in me gone to???

2011-07-22T18:15:00.002-04:00

SO, time has flown. But I'm back again. I have huge goals...and journalling helped me keep focus, so I'm going to do that again.
It's been too hot out...I've been too busy...I'm too tired...I have a sore back....blah blah blah. I would like to say they're valid reasons, and they are...but they are also excuses, and I don't like excuses. I want to be the doer I know I am, and put away that old habit of just thinking of doing.
Tomorrow I have to work at 9. It's going to be a long 9 hour shift standing on concrete floors. But I have a scheduled 6:15am 22k bike ride that I am going to do. I AM GOING TO DO...just doing a little repetition for emphasis. That means I have to load my bike up tonight. By doing that tonite I won't have to do it in the am...just hop in the van and away I go.
That's what a doer would do...so that's what I'm going to do.
And you know what? I'm going to feel great doing it...and my 9 hour shift won't feel as bad with the endorphins pumping thru me...Yep. That's what I'ma do.
:o)
I'm baaack baby

Beginner Triathlete

2011-04-10T10:33:00.009-04:00

That's what I am...a beginner triathlete. I am a 'young athlete' in this arena.

A couple of weeks ago I decided I needed something in my life to take my mind off my troubles...over active mind, ya know. I've always wanted to join the local triathlon club called The Nacho Average. But I wasn't at a level in life, a physical place where I was ready to actually be as active as I would need to be. I had thought about this a couple years ago. And since then I have lost 100 pounds and am now ready to give it a shot. So I went into Ontario Trysport and bought my first hybrid bike. It's a road bike but also can be rode on hard back trails.

I was so excited I txted my friend Loretta and told her she HAD to do it with me....and my wonderful friend is doing just that. She bought a new hybrid bike as well. We've been out pounding the pavement for the last week training.

Thurs. March 31/11 - 10 k bike ride

Friday April 1/11 - 5.4 walk/jog intervals plus 1K cool down walk, plus a walk to the park with kids later that night.

Sunday April 3/11 - .5 K swim (20 laps) 30 mins

Monday-Tues off

Wednesday April 6/11 - 5.4 walk/jog intervals plus 1k cool down walk

Thursday April 7/11 - 18.2 K bike plus 1K cool down walk

Friday April 8/11 - 1 K swim (40 laps/55 mins)

Saturday off

Sunday April 10/11 - X stretch....

planning for next week

Thoughts:

I have noticed a huge improvement in myself in just a week. The first walk/job was harder than the second one. The first bike ride I left my lungs on the hills that I rode up. The second one I rode up them and brought my lungs along for the ride. We really pushed ourselves and saw a noticeable difference. Our times were even cut on the walk/jog intervals by 12 minutes.

My hands were numb on the bike ride, must be gripping tighter than I need...and have to move arm positions to let the blood circulate properly again.

Lifes hiccups

2011-02-13T09:31:00.004-05:00

So since my last post life decided to get in the way again. I ended up with killer mouth pain, and have been once again put on antibiotics. I have a molar that needs a root canal and I have been suffering with it for a week and a half now. That's like 3 months in dog years, haha. Seriously tho, have you had to suffer with killer mouth pain for any length of time? Not fun!

When I went to the dentist, he gave me a prescription for tylenol 3's and antibiotics. 'Great' I thought, 'that should help with the pain'...wrong! All it did was make my head woosy because Tylenol 3 has no anti-infammatory benefits, which is what I need. I still had to go to the dental surgeon, but I had to make it through a weekend first. Almost did. I had one full night without sleep because I was in agony. I went to the surgeon, and he did his testing on me, which is not fun. Ever had an icecube put directly on teeth and held there to see the response of recovery time? Yeah, I don't recommend it, especially a molar that needs a root canal. I almost went through the roof when he did that one. I was given the date of the surgery....the following week...I had to get through another week!!! That night was another lost night. I was jolted awake at 1:30 with agonizing mouth pain, and I stayed awake until 9am, at which time I was lucky to have an hour of sleep.
I had to wait until that afternoon to get my new pain meds because my pharmacy didn't have it in stock.

My friend got my prescription for me around 2pm. I had to wait until around 4 to take any. I took another one around 8, and I never got relief until 11pm. I actually went to sleep around 6:30pm, but I had to sleep sitting up...my head felt like someone was stepping on it and impaling it at the same time. I woke up around 9, stayed up for an hour, went to bed, and actually slept the night through.
A new development occurred the next night. I had a snack after biology class, my mouth was calm-ish....as soon as food entered my mouth, agony. Intense freaking agony that lasted for hours. And I didn't even chew on that side! Frig! And that stupid reaction has happend every single time I have eaten anything since.

So, how does this all affect my weightloss journey? Well, I had started P90X, but had to put it off until my mouth is fixed. I mean, exercising with tooth agony is NOT a fun thing. That stupid tooth has given me a headache, literally, since half a week before it started to flare up. I have had a headache continuously since. Not fun when I have to read and study for biology. It's put kind of a funk on my life....constant pain, sometimes complete and utter agony.
Also, the antibiotics are messing with my body. I have gained 5-7 pounds since reaching my 100 lb mark...not because I am eating crappy, but because my body is dealing with HUGE stress. I'm certain my cortisol levels must be through the roof. So I'm not terribly worried about it. I know that once this tooth is taken care of, I will get back into P90X seriously, and go gluten-free, sugar-free and I will remain that way until this round of P90X is through. The gluten-free, sugar-free thing I will keep up. I really do feel better eating that way. Life has gotten a bit messy and when that happens, like everyone else I have been reaching for the easiest, quickest fix...but that won't continue. I know from experience that if I am prepared, having the right foods on hand, and cooked -ready for reheating, it's the best and healthiest form of quick-fix foods.

I have 2 more days to wait....and come Tuesday, all my mouth pain should be over. Here's hoping!
And then back to normal. :o)

100 POUNDS LOST!

2011-01-22T12:32:00.002-05:00

It is official. I have lost 100 pounds!

WOOHOO!!! FOREVER purposely removed pounds, never to be seen again!

Onederland!!! WOOHOO!!!

2011-01-15T10:29:00.003-05:00

So, lots of things have changed/happened since my last post....seems to be a common theme with me these days. I guess that's good. At least life isn't stagnant.

Where to start???

Okay, well, I had a tummy tuck in December. Yep, I did! And I'm healing well. I will upload pictures once I get my laptop here.
And, I am also in Onederland. I am at 192! I have lost 98 pounds!!!! NINETY EIGHT POUNDS!

I cannot exercise vigourously yet...I probably could start walking, and I will this week. I am still tired.

Educationally....I withdrew from my PSW course. I decided the 'scope of practice' wasn't for me. Instead, I am going right to the nursing course for September. It just makes way more sense in so many ways for me.
My final chemistry mark wass 85%, which I'm pleased with. And in February, biology starts. Also I have one more surgery, hopefully at the beginning of Feb. That will give me plenty of time to heal, and then take care of some things before my course starts in September.

Trying to still do the gluten-free/refined sugar-free thing. I'm not 100% strict on that yet, but I will get there again because I feel better eating that way.
It's all in the mind. That's where the power comes from. If you believe you can do something, you will. If you doubt yourself, those doubts add up, and end up being counter-productive.

Anyway, thats where it is for me right now.
:o)

And So It Begins.....

2010-11-22T19:46:00.003-05:00

I know, I know. I haven't been on since August. I couldn't get in to blog on my iTouch...grrr. And our computers were down. But here I am.
Things have changed since my last post. Lost of things on my plate...happily, some things are falling off now and I can breathe again.
Anyhoo...
A new beginning....Today I started my second round of P90X. Plus I did the Ab Ripper. And then I carried my inversion table upstairs to my bedroom, figured out how to use it again, and hung for a little bit. Then I had a hot bath with Dead Sea bath salts which are supposed to be higher in Magnesium content.
I am hoping that with the inversion table, hot bath with jets, massage therapy and muscle relaxants I can get thru this round of P90X.
I had pneumonia in October and I also had a car accident which threw my back into a frenzy. But I cannot afford to wait until I'm healed. Too much precious time will be wasted. I NEED to exercise. I NEED the endorphins. And my weight loss progress has stalled...so that's a huge motivation for me to get this show on the road.

UPDATE:
I got into college. My Personal Support Worker course starts in January. In the meantime I'm taking Chemistry...and it's proving to be challenging, yet rewarding. I love how my brain doesn't think about anything EXCEPT chemistry for 3 hours a nite x2/wk.

I WILL update from time to time, checking in with some of my P9oX workouts and experiences. But I won't be on every day.

Shouting out to my blogger friends that I haven't been on to say hello to in a while. *Hey all*
Pammy, Pitbull....miss reading about your journey.

Lisa

FINALLY got in to blog!

2010-08-12T16:26:00.006-04:00

Our main computer has been down for 6-8 weeks, not sure exactly. Time blurrs when u can't get online...haha. kidding. I AM able to get online with my iPod touch, but can't get in here to blog. It won't let me past the title section. And Pammy, I've tried to comment on your blog several times....just never worked.

So what's new with me?
Well my weight is between 206 and 209, so I'm not that far from ONEderland. Yay me. hehe.
My tendonitis is getting better I'd say. Not allowed to run. At all. And that frustrates me. So my 10K and my half marathon are officially out. Sad about that. Sorry Greg, Jan, Mary :o(

In 5 days we are going camping for 2 weeks. Or at least we are going to attempt it. :oD
I will do some water exercises and I THINK we're taking our bikes, so I anticipate some nice solo rides. Maybe a little hike or two. It's going to be fun. I'm not sweating it anymore. Just going to go with the flow.

I've been stressed out and sick, but I THINK I'm finally coming around, calming down. Just waiting on my back and stomach to catch up and settle down.

September 1st I'm starting back with another round of P90X, and I'm going to give it my best shot, tendonitis or not. I have the rest of this weight to lose and I WILL be in the 160's by December. That leaves til spring to get to goal weight, and I think that's fine by me considering I had some setbacks with health. So yeah. Totally on track to a new me. WooFreakinhoo Baby!

Life Changes

2010-06-21T10:16:00.004-04:00

"Times they are a changin"
So I've been sort of just going through the motions. I haven't been living. I am making changes and this is likely going to be my last 'carefree' summer for a long time. I am going back to school. In September, I'm going to be taking courses that are prerequisites to the courses I will be taking in the winter. In January, I will be taking the Personal Support Worker course which runs until August. Then in September 2011, I will be taking Nursing courses. Life will be hectic and a bit scary, but I'm up for the challenge.

I have to rethink the half marathon now tho. My foot isn't getting any better, and time will be hugely encroached upon. If I don't do it now, now worries, I WILL do one before I'm 45!

I'm in huge need of endorphins, so I have also decided to give P90X another go, for real, and bust out what I can. I was feeling really good on it the last time. I have no doubt that this time I will lose 30 pounds, if not more.

I'm also going to be really busy around the house this summer, decluttering, summer-cleaning, etc. And the youngest girls will have swimming lessons every day for 3 weeks. This time, I'm going to really enjoy that beach time, especially since I'm 60+ pounds lighter! :o)
I have a rock garden to make for the girls, with the girls. That's going to be nice for them. It's going to be therapeutic for me too.

So, thats what is on my plate for the summer and the next 2 years. I say bring it. Bring it all!

(Pammy and Pitz xoxo)

Changed my mind...

2010-06-08T20:28:00.002-04:00

So I've been thinking. I really actually liked doing P90X every day. For some reason it kept me on the 'straight and narrow', kept me feeling like I was a rock star, and frankly those endorphins were the bomb. So, I'm switching it up,....yet again. I have decided that starting NEXT week, I'm going to DO another round of P90X AND use it in conjuction with the gym. So on days that I do chest and back, I'll stay home. On days that I do Plyo, I might go to the gym and just do some leg stuff...give the ole tendonitis a break. I'm thinking that if I go to the gym 2-3 days a week that should be good enough to keep my face there, and frankly, I LOVE the leg press, so opting out of some of the things that might tweak my foot and subbing in other leg exercises..just might be the way to go for me.
I'm in a weird spot these days. I'm in my head a lot. I need to get a job or something. Plus I could really use the money. I've made some goals in my personal journal and as they come to fruition I will share them.

OH YEAH!!! We had such a fun time with Pam and Kevin on Friday night and Saturday morning...Jays vs Yankees...walking around in the rain (Sorry Kevin) dancing our booties off...brunch the next morning,...walking around...It was a lot of fun. Even tho my foot was killing me.

I adore my girls...but every once and a while it's nice to get away.

New Bathing Suit....

2010-06-03T08:36:00.002-04:00

Well, I didn't plan on it, but I ended up trying on a couple bathing suits last night and I bought one. I might add, I look F.I.N.E...haha. Okay, mabye a bit exaggerated. But I was pleased. I txted Pammy and told her because we're going away with them this weekend and the hotel has a pool. Initially I said, 'uh, I don't think I'll be going in any pool'...but then I thought 'what the hell?!' I worked hard to lose 73 pounds, 60 since last summer. Thats a HUGE difference. I was actually kinda pleased with how it looks, for me, for now. Obviously NEXT summer will be the time I do my little happy dance. But for now, I'm feeling better about my body than I did a year ago, so why not?! Sorry folks, no pics...I'm not THAT brave. Well, maybe a torso shot, the girls look good in it, ah ha ha, but yeah, the legs..uh. no.

Switch Up

2010-06-02T10:05:00.002-04:00

So with some consideration, and the sheer lack of P90X motivation right now, I've decided to forgo round 2, the round that I keep falling of the P90X wagon with, and wait until the fall, when I've lost quite a bit more weight. I think I will adopt some of the workouts, but I won't be doing the every day thing. I'll keep some strength training workouts, the kenpo and the X stretch. I MIGHT even keep part of the Yoga. MIGHT!
I have to find a better balance with it all. I have outside work to do, and lets face it, that's a workout in itself. I have to move piles of top soil, which will require digging, moving it with a wheel barrow and emptying. I also have my rock garden to make, which means moving heavy rocks, and finding more. And I want to split my wood now that I know the bowl turning project is on hold. AND I still have hard wood floors.
I will hold off on the jogging for a little while. Maybe next month get back into it to prepare for my 10K in August.
It's balance.
I just have to remember one thing. I NEED those endorphins. Trouble is sometimes unless you have a set schedule to get them, you end up not feeling like it. And not feeling like it is what got me in this predicament in the first place. So, school is ending this month. Kids have swimming lessons. I have to figure out a good routine for working out, AND for balancing all the projects I want to accomplish. This will take some brain power. Its challenging, but I'm looking forward to it.

Time to Post.

2010-05-31T09:32:00.002-04:00

Wow. Where did the time go? I haven't posted since that productive day I had 2 weeks ago. Whats up with that?! Well, lets catch up shall we...
So I got some moles frozen. The next day, they all blistered up. Talk about hurting in various places. That derailed any working out. But, I did become Master Nail Air Gun Woman! Yep, I was THE stapler for our hardwood floor we layed in the dining room, which isn't done yet...but will be soon. Also, we went and got 3 loads of rocks/boulders from along the highway for my rock garden. THAT was hard work! Rolling them, or carrying them up the bank, then throwing them into the truck/throwing them out of the truck. Trust me, THAT was a workout. And before all that, my sister and I emptied the dining room (hubby helped with the table and china cabinet...HEAVY stuff) and then we painted the room. 2 coats.
I feel every part of my body from the things I have accomplished last week. But I also ended up with a migraine on Wednesday, a bad headache Thursday, and then I drove my sister home, visited for the weekend and came back around 9:30 last night. I'm tired. But through all of this, I ate well, took my vitamins, supplements. The only thing is I was short on water. I always am when I have a long drive. Hate making pit stops. So all in all, I think I did pretty good. I DID kinda go dark for a bit, SORRY LADIES...too much on the go...and then with not feeling well I was a little anti-social.

Game plan for this week. Since I have caught up weight wise (lost what I gained back) my goal is to drink a few oceans of water. Today I have my consultation with my surgeon for my tummy tuck! Ahhhhh! And I've already told my daughter that I need her to babysit so I can go to the gym. I've decided to alter my P90X experience this time. Since the guy at the gym wants to see me there working out (especially since I asked for a job...) I'm going to take the strength days there at the gym. On cardio days, I'm toying with doing something there, as well as the regular P90X workout. Today it's supposed to be chest and back...so we'll see. I'm not too comfortable trying to do pushups in public, so I might break the workout up...do the pushups at home, do the weights there. Gonna go with the flow.

I AM wondering what to do about the 5K tho. I THINK I will just tape my foot up and do it...and hope beyond hope that it doesn't throw me off for too long. Stupid tendonitis!

OH, I'm ALSO looking forward to the JAYS game with Pammy and her hubby Fri. nite. (We've got to talk girl, arrange meeting up etc ) EXCITING!!!

Basically, I'm on a mission. And I'm not allowing anything stop me.
:o)

Productive Day

2010-05-17T19:46:00.003-04:00

Today, I went and got a membership at the gym I applied to work at. He doesn't have anything in the way of work, just yet. But he did tell me to ask him in a couple of months. Getting the membership there affords me a great opportunity. I can get to know the people who go there, as well as how all the machines work....and ya never know...he might need someone sooner than later.
I also went to the doctor today, and I got a couple things achieved there too. First, he gave me a requisition for physio on my ankle, I have tendonitus. Yay me. So he wants me to get a couple ultrasound physio visits before my 5K in June. If the physio happens after the 5K, then he told me to make sure I get my ankle taped up to do the run.
AND....he is referring me to a surgeon for a tummy tuck! WOOHOO! After I told him why I needed one, he says "you're preaching to the converted" LOL. I will have a scar there, but I'd rather have a scar that fades in time than what I have now. He says the belly/apron-thingy will not go away. It will get smaller, but won't disappear. That is due to my short waist, my big babies, and all the weight I have gained. So, yeah. I've lost 73 pounds, so far. I'm getting this done, and OHIP will cover it. YAY again! Then I'll be stoked and it will give me that boost I need to remove the rest of my weight. I cannot wait! Imagine....running without that pouchy bulgey skin...riding my bike without it...wearing jeans without it...looking at myself and finally feeling proud of all my hard work because it's gone!

P90X Chest & Back. I AM struggling to do this work out tonight. I was on the go all day, and I'm exhausted. We'll see. I'm still going to try to do it. But if I can't because I'm going to bed, I'm not going to freak out about it. There's always tomorrow.

:o)

Kenpo X...Killed it! :o).....UPDATED

2010-05-16T12:56:00.005-04:00

I was supposed to do Kenpo yesterday, didn't happen. So I decided to do it today, AND X Stretch too.
Did the Kenpo. Man, did I ever improve, and I was pretty good before, just sayin. ;oP
I did ALL the jumping jacks, and ALL the X jumps in ALL the breaks. I did everything, and I didn't end up on the floor, dead.
I feel strong. I AM strong. I WILL get my hot body...THIS YEAR! Ha, so boofknyah baby!

Just came back from a 1.8 km (1.12 m) jog. Not too far, but far enough for my foot tonight. I'm tired, but I WILL do X Stretch!

Stay tuned for the X Stretch update later tonight!! It WILL happen!

And it DID happen. X STRETCH, just what the doctor ordered. YAY ME! Yay my muscles. I cannot believe how much my body needed that stretching. Flexibility and looseness is essential...whew, feel better.

Chest and Back tomorrow...should be interesting with a tiny pull in my bicep. Until then :oD

3 Missed days...NOT giving up

2010-05-16T10:38:00.002-04:00

Okay, so....Thursday turned into Friday which turned into Sat. And I missed my workouts for all three days, AND ate crappy! Totally off my wagon again. It started with a cafe mocha and a donut on Friday morning, and then went to hell in a handbag. Sure, I could have refused. I could have not allowed it to turn into a weekend of.....whatever. But that was then, this is now. I am not fkng around any more. I HAVE to do this! Today, I'm hoping I can do Kenpo in the morning, AND X stretch in the evening. One problem, my 6 yr old isn't feeling well today. But that's not going to stop me. I'm going to make a proclamation that at some point I need to do this, and hopefully the household will cooperate. LOL. Yep, Queen Lisa has spoken. Ahhh.

Pitz...I really hope you start to feel better soon. I'm pullin for ya baby. Stay strong!
XO

Missed Day 4 Yoga X...but it's ok.

2010-05-14T14:59:00.002-04:00

So, I totally missed yesterdays workout. Things just didn't jive for me. Physically I am SORE! The first week of P90X is killer..and my body is going "yeah, right! Yoga X my....insert expletives here<>" Emotionally, well it is what it is right now. Mentally, I fought with myself..but the emotional and physical tiredness won. Oh well. Moving on.

Today I WILL do Legs and Back.

And I'm excited. I went to one of our small town gyms to apply for a job. I don't even know if they're hiring, one of the guys there gave me the owners number. While I have no clue if a job is available, it felt right. The guy there was not fit. So, I could fit right in since I've lost 73 pounds from my highest, and I'm losing the rest. I'm hoping I could work there, and get a shoe in for when I take my personal training course in the fall. Maybe he'll take me under his wing.... oh a girl can dream. And if that doesn't work, if he's not hiring, there are a couple more options in this town. I think I'm ready tho to go with this now. If this town doesn't pan out, maybe I'll head out of town...maybe I can get a job in another town gym, and when the time comes have them mentor me. Time to stop thinking about some-day, and make things happen now!

AC/DC - Back In Black (Live At Donnington) High Quality!!!

2010-05-12T17:39:00.001-04:00

This is the song that revs me up to do P90X...I'm baaack in black baby!

P90X (R2) Day 3, Shoulders & Arms

2010-05-12T17:11:00.002-04:00

I did half of my work out today. Time slipped away, and then I had kids distracting me. But I worked my butt off for the 36 minutes that I did do.

Took my supplements, and probiotic this morning. Working on the water.

Had a me day, took some mental time to think up plans...muah ha ha. Now to just implement everything.

Tomorrow...YOGA X..oh my!

P90X is going to give me my nice ass back :o)

2010-05-11T14:47:00.003-04:00

P90X (R2) Day 2 Plyometrics: LOVE it! I'm so much stronger, even tho I was exhausted. I did skip Hot Foot, because lets face it, my foot is already burning...haha. Seriously, that one would NOT be good for my injured foot. But I did do squatting jacks! WhooEeee! I was so impressed. My legs are strong and I am so confident that I will get that hot ass back I had way back when. There is NO reason why not. And I'm determined that I will have hot buns, buns of steel and a POW butt that younger girls will envy. And why not! Between my hard work, P90X, Jon Gabriel, and my gluten-free/refined-sugar-free there's no way I won't achieve all I set out to. So take that! Yep, I'ma gonna have some junk in my trunk, and it won't include the junk yard. ahhhahhha. Gotta love endorphins!

A Promise IS A Promise...

2010-05-10T23:01:00.004-04:00

...especially when u make it to yourself. I promised myself that I would do P90X today. And I made myself keep it. I didn't start until 10:10pm, which is NOT the best idea on the planet, but I did it...well what I COULD do tonight. I completed 1.5 of the 2 rounds tonight. But in my defense, inspite of the time, and the fact that I was already exhausted and a bit bummed out, I kicked my own ass. Instead of sticking strictly to the exercise bands for the pull-ups, I did actual pull-ups, plus the bands. It's a LOT harder than one would think. I loved it. My muscles were screaming. Trouble is, it wears you out faster than just the bands. By time I hit the 1.5 mark (40 mins approx) I was toast...like weak, nauseaus and just wiped out. I brought my A game and I'm proud of it. Totally going to soak in the jacuzzi bath right now. I need it.

Eating...gluten free- check...sugar-free-not so much. I made ribs and home made BBQ sauce which included sugar. Water-not enough. Supplements-some. Vitamins- nope. Digestive enzymes-nope.

One thing I notice..my joints hurt. I'm pretty sure it's because of the sugar. When I'm sugar-free, I'm not in pain. The last time I did P90X, I was sugar-free and gluten-free for almost 4 months before I started. I'm noticing the difference. All the more reason to smarten up and get off that poison. Tomorrow, zero refined-sugar!

Goals for tomorrow: EVERYTHING I DIDN'T DO TODAY!

I mean business here. I'm on a mission, and I WILL NOT fail myself. This means TOO much to me...and I CANNOT wait to succeed...which I totally will! :o)

Bring on tomorrow! Ha. I'm ready for u!

Ok, here we go.

2010-05-10T09:30:00.006-04:00

So after a weekend totally OFF the wagon...yep, even tho I had good intentions, I totally went off the wagon...but it's ok. I'm not regretting it, I'm not crying over it, I'm not getting all boohoohoo over it...I made the choice and now I'm making another choice to move on and get back into the groove. Today is P90X day, I had this plan all along, ! Whooshaw baby! Yep. I also have a lot of house work to do, but one thing I do know is that today starts my round 2. Not an "attempt" at round 2...I'm going to DO it. And I WILL do it every day/night unless I'm out of town, but then if I'm out of town, I'll go for a jog or a walk.

Today is also gluten-free/refined-sugar-free day. I know it's going to be a bit of a struggle today. That happens when I've been eating sugar. But you know what?? My body is ready. My body aches and I'm not moving as fluidly, as effortlessly as I was on this eating regimen. So, it's back at it today, because I have goals and I know they will be difficult for MY body to achieve if I'm eating gluten and sugar.

Plan of attack: DRINK TONS OF WATER! Supplements! When I'm hungry, eat what I want with the exception of anything with GLUTEN and Refined SUGAR!

WORRIES:I have a few worries about this upcoming 5K in June. My foot is still injured. I don't know what it is, but I do suspect a crack somewhere. I don't know. When I jog, I'm in agony for a couple of days which subsides to just pain and aching, but it's still there. I haven't jogged since...Wednesday, which I should have waited and done on Thursday. Wednesday night I was in so much foot pain, the freaking thing was on fire and I couldn't lay it on the bed in any position without incredible pain. SO, this is going to be tricky. What am I supposed to do, NOT jog, NOT get some training in and get ready for the 5K and then be disappointed if I cannot do it? Or Train, jog 2-3 times a week in preparation, and not let it heal, but get some training and some conditioning in? Sort of a catch 22 for me. I guess I'll have to play it by ear. That bugs me.

Okay, this is a great day...going to be a DOER, not a non-doer. I watched a movie the other night, and the first monologue really hit home for me. He said "there are two types of people in this world. Those who do, and those who do not. Those who do are the ones who get things done and change the world, those who do not, don't"...something like that. Anyway, for a long time I was a dreamer, a 'doer-in my mind.' I had potential, but I never lived up to it. I know a large part of it was the sugar & gluten cloud in my brain, the body that felt too fat and sick to do anything. I hated not living up to my potential. I used to call myself an 'under-achieving over-achiever'. A total oxy-moron...but that's what I was. WAS. I've been on a journey to change that. To change from a wisher-doer, a hoper-doer, a dreamer-doer and started actually DOING. That's what has been circling around in this brain of mine for a while now, and when I heard that line from the movie, it was a total "aha" moment. And yes, that's what I'm going to do, that's what I'm doing. I'm DOING from now on. No more waiting for others to do things for me! No more waiting for this weight to miraculously fall of me! No more NOT DOING! This is the era of Lisa, The Doer. Ha. Look out everything that needs to get done around here, and my body. Lisa's comin for ya! HA!

Another gluten-free/refined sugar-free day.

2010-05-06T18:29:00.004-04:00

This afternoon was sort of stressful. I unbandaged Emilys knee, and was preparing her for a shower, when I hear "mom, I'm feeling kinda dizzy." I get there just in time to grab her as she grabbed for me, and she goes down like a sac of potatoes. The "I feel dizzy" turned into a full out fainting spell, complete with eyes rolling up and everything. It only lasted like 30 seconds but it was enough to scare the crap outta me. When she 'came to' she goes "mom I can't hear"....great. I put a pillow under her head and calm her down...her hearing was only out for a few seconds too, but her head was killing her, and her hand was shaking, shock likely. Next it was "I'm going to be sick!" Nausea, she was white as a ghost. Okay, panick was setting in.
I call my husband and he arranges to meet me in town at the hospital. After she was feeling better, I get my youngest ready and help Emily into the van. We spend 3.5 hours in emerg. Happily, they let her go lay down after triage, because of her knee surgery that she had on Monday, and likely because she could faint again, it was anyones guess. We wait...she recovers. They do an Electrocardiogram (ECG) just to make sure, but the Doctors diagnosis was fainting because of leg pain, getting up from a laying position the blood pools, not enough food, and likely left over codeine in her system from the night before. Her ECG was good. I'm happy he did that test. Now I can rest easily tonight...but it was pretty scary there for a while.
So now food.....well, I had an angus burger...and I was soooo tempted to just eat the bun. But I didn't. That makes day number 2 successful as well...and it was a higher stress day to boot.

I do have a girl evening planned with a close friend of mine, and I already know it's going to entail a blizzard from DQ...she already warned me. So I'm going to go with the flow, and instead of counting it as a failure day, or a streak being broken, I'm going to allow for it, and then get back on the wagon immediately after...not the next day, immediately! And you know...that's one thing most of us do wrong...we think we have to wait until the sun sets and rises in order to start fresh. Well, who made that rule? Why can't we have an 'exception' and then get right back up and start with the water, and keep on the right path, right then and there. If we all did that, there would be a lot less binges, a lot less 'to hell with it' moments. So that's my plan.

Two-fer!

2010-05-05T20:40:00.004-04:00

Ha! What are the chances that I'm blogging twice in ONE DAY! WOW.

Some status updates. Day 1 of gluten-free/sugar-free is a success!

I also went for a jog...but I walked more on the way home...my legs hurt. It works better if I leave 2 days in between jogs...and I also went farther tonight, up more steep, rocky hills. I followed the trail...likely wasn't that smart at dusk, what with bears and other wild life around here...I survived. And I didn't even get eaten alive by black flies. After the rainy day we had here, it cooled off some. I still sweated my booty off...but no picking wings out of my teeth. Haha. Ahhh...gotta love those endorphins eh. Love'em!

Living in the Moment.

2010-05-05T09:30:00.003-04:00

So yeah,....I've let life stop my progress, and that's the last thing I wanted to do. I'm not doing that any more. I have goals and I cannot let anything..ANYTHING impede my progress. SO when stress crops up, and I know it will, I'm going to do the opposite of what my initial reaction would be...which is hide, cower in a corner, turn to junky food, withdraw from interaction with friends. I'm going to go after these goals with all the umph I can muster. Funny how in anyones blog you'll find these up beat posts followed by the "I'm in a slump" posts followed by the recovery post. That's the human spirit. You just can't break the human spirit in someone who is a strong passionate person.
I do have a renewed zest and zeal and passion. I don't think I will 'experiment' with going off my gluten-free/sugar-free thing for a looong time. I may have a little sumthin sumthin here and there, but to forgo it all together, that's when I run into trouble.
I'm at a weird place in life. I'm going to be 40 this year. I'm yearning for more. It's time I actively go after the things I want, so that I can be my best, feel my best and look my best that I can in this life, right now. No more looking backwards. Time to live in the now. Yes my future will be amazing, but only if I keep working towards it in the now.
I think most people become complacent. Most people get themselves feeling great, they do what works for them, and for some reason, they temporarily forget why and how they got to that wonderful place, where there is a balance between health and fitness and life. We cannot forget the thing that allows us to be our best, to feel our best, to achieve our best, just because we have a measure of comfort. It's that one thing that will ensure we continue to feel our best, be our best, achieve our best.
So, for me, there is only now. What can I do "NOW", in THIS moment, to ensure I'm on the right path towards fulfilling my goals? It's not only one day at a time, it's one moment at a time. And really, shouldn't we be doing that anyway? Living in the moment! If we're not, we're missing out on so many wonderful moments that we're letting slip by us. Yes, our eyes can be on the future, but we cannot be fixated on future things. Breathe in now. Breathe in this moment. Live life to the fullest now. It's the only way to ensure we actually have a future to look forward to.

Stressed? Then WORK OUT! Not rocket science ;o)

2010-05-04T13:48:00.004-04:00

Getting ready to jog

So I've had a stressful...well, it's been stressful for a while. Emily, my 12 year old had her knee surgery yesterday. I was a bundle of nerves. My stomach didn't settle down for a while....After we got her all settled, I went for a run. And it felt great. I mean, thankyou endorphins! I have decided that the next time I'm having one of those days, where I can't get out of my head, or life is throwing me a whole whack of curve balls, I'm going to go and run. Sure, I'm not the best runner with the best form, and I think I may even be doing the breathing wrong...but I'm out there and I'm doing it. I can go farther and longer before I need my walking/recovery moments....and I LOVE the challenge of running up the hills...kind of a weirdo when it comes to that. And I even braved the black flies. And if you knew me and black flies....you'd understand why that is a big thing for me. Bottom line, stress needs to be relieved and sometimes you just have to get the endorphins flowing.

Eating::::: well, the eating has been....well it could be better. For some reason I'm having a hard time hitting it. Today, I finished the left over pizza. Well, can't have it going to waste, right? WRONG! Who needs it on their hips? I certainly don't. And my body hurts. I know my body will perform much better if I get the eating back on the gluten-free/sugar-free band wagon. Seriously. I feel so much better. So, tomorrow for sure. If I start out first thing doing the right thing, it's easier for me to continue.
Tomorrow will start my gluten-free/sugar-free streak.
Today, I didn't get much sleep, so I'm going to forgo the exercising...and I WILL do something tomorrow. But come Monday, I WILL do P90X! I need it. I need to stop wasting time. Life is moving on and I can move along with it, or get left behind. I chose to participate and enjoy life...and the only way I can do that is if I'm healthy and fit and that will contribute to my over all sense of joy and happiness.

Decided enough was enough...

2010-04-30T12:21:00.004-04:00

I cannot lose weight if I don't DO something about it. Wednesday night I went for a jog over to the Provincial Park by my house. It did jog/walk intervals...jogging til my lungs were going to burst, walking til I recovered, repeat. I jogged down the beach and back...that was interesting. Felt it in my booty and legs for sure. I crossed the hwy, and headed onto the trail. There are 2 steep hills that are freshly graveled...and since I like a challenge, I ran up them. That was tough, but loved it. I walked down them tho...knowing me, I would break an ankle or fall on my face, ha...When all was said and done, (and I ran up my driveway) I was toast, but I felt great. 55 minutes of something I did just for myself, by myself. And I enjoyed every minute of it. It was exhilarating. I decided that it is something that I'm going to do for myself a few times a week, and I will find more ways to do solo exercise excursions the other days. It's exactly what I needed.

Yesterday was a write off. I ran around town all day and then had company over for dinner last night. I had a funny little thing, I felt sort of like I was heading for a pass out ...little waves sort of came over me. And my back flared up, felt like it does if you have pneumonia. I had to go to bed. By body shouted at me, and I listened. So at 8:30, I went to bed. Greg puts the kids to bed at night so he can spend a little more time with them, and I appreciate it, especially last night.

Today, I WILL do something. It's been a bit stressful and I've been extra tired because of it. I think I need to just let my body recouperate. My goal is to get my eating back to gluten-free/sugar-free. I think I will start that this weekend. Make a new beginning of it. May 1st sounds like a good day to start an eating streak. Yep, it's formulated, and will be put into practise.

Looking forward to watching the rest of my weight go. oooh baby!

Okay, that just won't do!

2010-04-27T14:44:00.003-04:00

It's been over 2 weeks since I posted. Can you believe that? I certainly can't! And it dawned on me just now that I guess I am no longer eligible for the competition. Oh well, not like I was going to win money anyway.
So, now what? Well, getting my booty back in gear, that's what. I cannot afford to take any more time nursing wounds and getting lost in lifes shuffle. I have goals to meet, dammit. And that isn't going to happen by sitting around waiting for....what exactly? There is NO TIME like the present, and you know what, my head could use the endorphins anyway. And my body could use the detox, and the clean eating. No more of this nonsense. No more wasting time. After all, I'm not getting any younger am I? :oD

Lots of Whacking...

2010-04-11T20:08:00.002-04:00

I sort of felt like the Sopranos this afternoon. I went out there and chopped the heck out of a huge stumpy hunk of wood, using the splitting axe to help unstick my axe and crack the wood too...LOTS OF WHACKING! I did only about 30 minutes total, but let me tell you, I felt a certain amount of pleasure out of conquering that hunk of wood.
Life can sometimes resemble a huge stumpy hunk of wood...spongey and the axe sticks...and you can whack and wail on that thing and not budge it an inch. Sometimes that's life. Sometimes you try your hardest and don't get a whole hellova lot out of it.
On the upside...keep whacking away, and eventually you can bend the wood to your will, or in this case, crack it and get the axe unstuck.

Don't Mess With An Axe Wheeling Momma!

2010-04-04T20:29:00.004-04:00

How's THIS for a Primal Picture?

Another great day outdoors! Today I spent 2 hours splitting wood, and another 30 minutes wheeling huge hunks of wood that need to be split into 4's from the front of the house to the back where my pile is. Yes, I said "MY" pile because I took on that job as my own personal challenge/project. My hubby called me "He-woman" and I said "don'tcha mean 'She-ra!'" LOL. That was a huge job, wheeling that wood...I felt every muscle I had already worked by splitting the wood earlier. I wheeled over a dozen huge hunks which really works the whole body. Wheel barrows suck! Just sayin'.
Anyway, I am a whole different person this year than I was last year. I love the hard work, and am amazed at what my body can even accomplish. I've always been a hard worker, but right now, my body is keeping up with my brain...and that's a scary proposition. haha. I've always taken on more than I could chew which usually would end in my being put out of commission for a while...but not any more. I love being outside where the wind is reminding me how wonderful a nice little breeze can be after working up a huge sweat and using my whole body splitting wood. My little kids were out there piling wood, and loving it. We have spent the majority of the last 3 days outside, and we're all better for it.
This is exactly the push I needed, and I'm so happy I found it. April WILL see me losing 20 pounds bringing me to Onederland.

UGH! GUH!..."Primal Is Good"...

2010-04-03T17:45:00.006-04:00

I say as I beat my chest in triumph! KIDDING...but seriously tho, I am loving this so much. The idea that I can DO real hard work instead of a typical 'workout' of some type is awesome. Sure I knew it was beneficial before, but now, I'm thinking more in terms of what actual 'benefit' I am getting, and that's largely due to the Primal Blueprint, by Mark Sisson which has inspired many other blogs especially one of my favorites run by my friend Jeff, called Primal Chat.
I love the whole back to basics premise of the Primal life...I believe in the evolution of man, in the sense of how much we have progressed as people, or evolved, and also in the 'devolution' of man, from how far we've fallen with regards to health and fitness. I totally agree with the logic of everything I've read thus far. It just makes plain sense. Logical!

What it's done for me, is it's made me more aware of my movements, of being purposeful with everything I do. The awareness is freeing. Yes, I have weight to lose, but right now I am actually enjoying myself. I can almost not believe it. It's such a far departure from last year, you have no idea. Today, I split wood. At first it was laughable. Seriously. I actually laughed at myself. It was soooo funny. I raised that ax and well, missed the wood. Then I nicked the wood. Pathetic. You know what it was? Fear. I have power, I am powerful and I was afraid of that power, of using my abilities, and also of looking stupid. Well, stupid looking I was. But I laughed at it, and then because I'm a competitive person, I had a challenge now before me. I was going to split that wood or die trying...not literally, since I was holding an ax, and as much as that was a real possibility if I didn't trust my power, I obviously mean I wasn't giving up. And I didn't. You know what? I got into the swing of things, and I split that wood. I got a real good rhythm going. I got a good swing. I used my power. At first I realised that I was holding my breath when the ax met the wood. And then it dawned on me...in working out, when you're strength training, you exhale on the exertion. So, as the ax met the wood, I exhaled, and I had more power. Now instead of taking a few whacks at one piece of wood, I was able to split the wood in one swing. Of course some wood pieces are spongey and require more attempts. But for the most part, this primal girl killed that wood. And I couldn't feel more proud. I even got a little foot trick going...kind of like hackey sack. Once the wood was split, I held it with one hand, tipped it up, put my foot under it, and tossed it with my foot to the pile. I am woman, baby, hear my primal roar!

AAAAAND...The Primal Blueprint talks about playing....I bounced on the trampoline today...even doing a couple flips (for which I was rewarded by giving myself rug burn on my elbows) It was so much fun. Ha!

I might pay for it tomorrow, my body might be sore, but I tell you, I had a great day today. And I felt so...back to nature, back to basics, simple enjoyment. Even the breeze gave me a thrill.

One happy girl tonight.
:o)

Can't Get More Primal Than This...

2010-04-02T13:07:00.004-04:00

Today the weather is insanely gorgeous! All the windows are open, ceiling fans are on, kids are outside in shorts, and occasionally bare feet! My hubby and father-in-law just spent 2 hours chopping wood and loading it into the back of pickup trucks. Then they came here, and I hopped in the back and unloaded it with my hubby. The hunks of wood were between 25-40 lbs of poplar wood, which will be split this afternoon. Two birds with one stone. I get an awesome PRIMAL workout in, AND get some work done at the same time. Love the feeling of muscles (thankyou P90X) being pumped....but dirt down the cleavage, yeah, that I can do without. Ha! ;o)

Day 1 Re-rebooting.

2010-03-30T08:51:00.006-04:00

Backing away from the bagel! I really want one. I know it's going to taste yummy. But you know what? I'm tired of my nose being stuffed, and I'm tired of my stomach aching, and I'm tired of my joints and back hurting. So, easy solution. Staying away from the gluten today! I called this day, DAY1 because while I made good choices for the most part yesterday, I DID have gluten. This is my new new beginning. I'm doing this to feel good. Losing weight will just be a side effect, one that I'm more than stoked to live with ;o)

Will this be easy? Nope, it never is when I go back on this. I've only been off my gluten-free/sugar-free for 3 weeks, but that's how quickly it grabs a hold of you. It's insidious, I tell you! Evil evil sugar, evil evil gluten!!

New beginning

2010-03-28T17:40:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow is a new beginning and I'm totally stoked. I'm considering working towards converting our whole family over to The Primal Way of life. I know everyone would be a lot healthier. The only one I truly have issues or concerns with is Emily. She is a finicky eater. She doesn't like trying anything. But she's at that age now where her body is changing (13 ish) and she is so self conscious right now that I think she'll be more than willing to try things that will make her healthier and help with the transition from tween to teen.

Tomorrow starts with me doing all my morning health routines, drinking my water, P90X-ing, and working on the primal way of eating. I may not get it all worked out tomorrow, but I'm definitely working on implementing it very soon. Tomorrow is my new beginning and this time it WILL stick!

And life gets in the way.....

2010-03-27T10:05:00.011-04:00

Wow, I cannot believe I did it again, and haven't blogged in a week.
I have had company all week. My sister has been here visiting, and one of my closest friends is going through some turmoil so she and her daughter are staying with us for a while. One busy house and a LOT of estrogen (poor hubby) The regular swing of things food and fitness-wise hasn't been seen around here for a while now, and I actually miss it.
It's funny as I read my last post where I proclaim "MONDAY" as my reboot...haha. Well, Guess what? I'm about to make that proclamation again.
REALISATIONS:
I have been tired lately. More tired than usual. My body is sluggish, my back hurts, and my joints ache. It dawned on me that it is likely due to the fact that I've been off my gluten-free, sugar-free eating since the 5K. That night on the way home I was famished so we went to Boston Pizza for dinner, and I ate a Stromboli. YUM! It was divine. AND I shared a Chocolate Explosion with Greg and Emily. It was rich and chocolatey and ooey gooey good. I never felt anything out of the ordinary with that meal as regards my body tho. SO I thought that maybe I had licked the food allergy thing. And YES, the timing was way weird. And I don't know exactly why I chose to do that after such a proud day and a great achievement for me. Anyway, since then I've let it slip. I am still hovering at the same weight, but I COULD HAVE LOST WEIGHT! I've been drinking regular coffee, and I've even had chips and dips *gasp* WHY? Not sure exactly. I think I was testing my body, seeing how far I could go before I felt like crap, sort of like an experiment. Well, I'm here now. I feel like crap on a stick. My stomach hurts. Pain. I feel like I'm 15 pounds heavier. I'm even walking differently, because I feel so bloated. I'm sneezy, bloated and tired and achey! All very good reasons to get my booty in gear! I've got HUGE goals, and they won't come to fruition unless I get started. I cannot waste any more time!

I hereby designate MONDAY as my official return to health and fitness, to P90X, and to starting a Primal way of life. I WILL fulfil this promise to myself to become fit and hot and 'cougar-ish'! Look out, Lisa's comin for ya!

Ahhh, now that I got THAT out of the way, I guess I'd better write about my goals again.

1. P90X, Y, Z haha. That just means I'm going to add some other stuff in like, jogging, hiking the back bush, getting some yard work done...all active stuff.
2. Primal baby. Back to the basics of eating: quality sources of animal protein, colorful vegetables and fresh fruit, nuts and seeds. AND I will be blogging about The Primal Blueprint and how things are going in relation to that. I am certain it's going to make the difference for me! It's Jon Gabriel meets Mark Sisson...and it's brilliant!
3. WATER! WATER! WATER...like between 96-120 oz of water.
4. All my vitamins and minerals and nutrients.
5. Getting out in the sunshine and fresh air.
6. Mental Secrets cd.

With this plan in tact, there is absolutely NO WAY I will not only meet my goals, but exceed them. My future starts NOW!

New Goals

2010-03-20T08:54:00.011-04:00

I actually can't believe that I haven't blogged in a week! What's up with that? Apparently I've let a couple things slip, and I aim to rectify that ASAP. So, here are a few of things I NEED to do:

1. Drink my 96 oz of water/daily
2. Mental Secrets (Gabriel Method) nightly
3. P90X-Officially re-rebooting on Monday
4. couch 2 5k
5. declutter
6. vitamins REGULARILY
7. Phytonutrients (phytoberry)
8. Read "The Primal Blueprint"

The weather is nice now, even tho it's threatening to snow...but since most of it has melted already, I don't care. What it has done for me, it has given me the itch to do spring cleaning. I want to get to some yard work. I'm going to paint the living room and dining room next week. I'm decluttering the house so I can have a healthy uncluttered mind, and can devote my mental energies to fulfilling my fitness goals, and believe me, I have big ones!

Plus with the weather being so nice, I'm going to spend time out doors, maybe start my couch 2 5k training on the road as opposed to the treadmill. My foot is still tender, so I'm not sure how much jogging I can do..we'll see. And this year I'm kind of excited to get on my bike.

There's nothing like a beautiful sunny spring to get a person moving. I say a wholehearted "bring it on, baby" Watch me morph, watch me fly, watch me soar!

RENEWED ZEAL

2010-03-13T09:15:00.013-05:00

Tuesday March 16/10

Yesterday we went shopping. I wasn't planning on buying clothes, in fact I don't actually know why I went into Tommy Hilfiger. Maybe I was feeling kind of sassy, maybe I was feeling kind of hot. I don't know. I remember that years ago when I was larger I went shopping in one of these stores and they had a larger person section. So I thought, why not. Well, I never even looked to see if they had a larger section. This time as I was walking in I kept telling myself about the new jacket I bought, and the little nighties, how they were in the regular size section, and just XL. So I went in there and I looked at a few things, and decided to try some on. And I was so happy. I bought clothes in Tommy Hilfiger, in the regular size section. You have NO idea how much that has sparked me! I cannot wait to be thinner. And NOW while I am getting there, I don't have to go into larger people stores any more, I can shop at name brand retail shops AND buy clothes that actually look good on me. Talk about a boost! With Spring in full swing, the snow melting, the sun shining, renewed energy, life in bloom, it only reinvigorates me. I am like Spring. I am being reborn. I am being renewed. The old me has passed on and the 'new improved' me is here. I am better than I have ever been. I am woman, hear me roar! This is my year, this cougar has been born. Watch out for me, I'm a comin! :o)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Since the 5K, I've had some issues with my foot that I tweaked during Plyometrics a few weeks ago. In fact, there hasn't been a moment it doesn't hurt. I also have a pull in my arm/shoulder, my back is in knots, aaaand I've been sooo tired, so that's sort of put my working out on hold. I decided to take last week and rest up, see if those things that are bothering me will calm down. I've done some thinking and with this nice weather spurring my desire for thinness and my drive for fitness, I've been re-evaluating things.

I had a busy weekend away, and I did eat off my gluten-free restriction. What I've noticed that even tho my weight didn't go up, my body didn't feel as good as it usually feels. While I find it a relief to know that I'm not going to balloon by going off every once and a while, I am also certain that in order to FEEL good, I need to stay on. The difference for me is that I no longer feel stress or pressure if I can't find gluten-free to eat. I will tweak when I need to, and I will make the best choices at the moment, but it does not rule my life. I have found the balance again regarding food.

Now for the exercise. I was away until late yesterday so no working out. I will get P90X in today. I've decided that until my foot actually heals up, I will sub the workouts involving legs out for other less foot invasive P90X workouts. I may be doing more X Stretch these next couple of weeks than other workouts, but I'm totally fine with that.

CORRECTION!!!

2010-03-08T16:20:00.003-05:00

It's even better than I thought! Last 5K my chip time was 55:43, this 5K my chip time was 46:20! That's 9:23!! I cut my time by 9+ minutes!!! WOOHOO baby!

Frosty 5K, March 7/10

2010-03-08T11:00:00.010-05:00

So this weekend started out great. My family went down on Friday night and stayed at Marys. Then Saturday, Mary and I went to Burlington to get our race kits. We're there, and lo and behold, SO IS JACQUI!!! WHAT?! She and Pam planned to surprise me at the race, and to go even farther than that, they arranged to run it with me. THEY WERE THERE PICKING UP THEIR RACE KITS! So after I hugged out Jacqui, I turn, and there walking in was Pam and Kevin and Becca! I look at them IN SHOCK! And of course, the hugging started all over again. That was the Single nicest surprise I've had in a while. Thanks Ladies. That meant the world to me! It was so nice to meet Pam and Kevin and Becca. What lovely people. :o) And so much fun! Pam is a laugher, she loves to laugh, and so do Jacqui and I. We definitely make the perfect 3 Amigo team. Team Pitz, Spitfire and Spunky! xoxo

Waiting for the ladies to get here...how can I NOT goof around?! LOL

The 3 Amigos.................plus my Mary(she is an honorary Amigo)...waiting to run

Yay Pitz!!!..........And Yay Mary....SO proud of you two! XO!

Pitbull and Mary hung around with us until between 1-2K , but they're much faster so happily they went on ahead. GO GIRLS!

Here we are, Pammy and I...her long lets propelled her ahead. Hey Pam, next time you're going to turn on the gas, give me some warning, LOL. That way my little short legs will be prepared. Haha! We ran it together, beginning to end. LOVED IT! We made goals. Run to that point over there, walk from here to there, run again, and so on until we gave it all we had at the finish line. One thing I LOVED, coming up to the finish line, we had people saying, "finish strong" and "only 100 m left, give it all you have" and all the cheers. It doesn't matter what level you are, whether you ran the whole thing, or walked or jog/walk intervals, the support, the air of commradery was phenomenal. It felt like this little community of people who are conscious of health and fitness, regardless of their level of fitness.

We felt a real sense of pride, of accomplishment. All of us!

Pammy came in at 46:40, I came in at clock time of 46:42. (chip time is 46:20) For me, that was 8 minutes faster than my last 5k which was last year. EIGHT MINUTES FASTER is AWESOME!

Jacqui and Mary came in at 42:22/24ish...way to go ladies. They ran most of it. How awesome is that?! That will be us in JUNE, right Pam?!

The weather was phenomenal. Last year when Mary and I did this race, it was -21 C! That's not including wind chill. Let's just say, IT WAS COLD...aptly titled, eh. Frosty it was! This year, it was +10 C. We started out with jackets on and gloves. About 2 K, our jackets came off, and I actually ditched Marys hat and my gloves (sorry babe!) WE RAN IN OUR T-SHIRTS! It was awesome

There were 3,300- half marathoners, 300- 5K's, and some walking half marathoners. That's A LOT of people. There was this never ending sea of marathoners, it was so amazing to see. My husband and I will see what that feels like in October along with Mary and my friend Jan...can't wait...and terrified at the same time!

I forgot my heart rate monitor at home. That was a bummer. I was counting on using it to push myself. See, when people get tired out, or out of breath, the tendancy is to slow down. But when you use the heart rate monitor, it pushes you. It tells you, 'you know what, you can go longer' so I do. It worked out well tho. Pam had hers. We did great.

I was happy that I did my warming up and stretching before the run because last year, we didn't have time and we paid for it. Mary and I were so sore. This time, we were fine. I do have foot issues tho. The left foot that I tweaked during Plyo a few weeks ago held out until about 4K, and then I pushed through. By the time we were done, I was in agony. We got our water, piece of fruit and headed to get our bowl of chili, and by the time I got there, I had to sit and take my shoe off. The pain! WOW. My foot felt crushed. The pain lasted for about 6 hours. This morning, the only side effect I have is my feet are both tender, and I'm a little tight. I was going to do P90X Chest & Back today, but decided to do X Stretch instead...and I'm telling you, I am SO looking forward to doing it.

It was such a great event. It has us all stoked up for our next 5K in June. Pam, Jacqui and I are doing it. And then, we might do the Island Girl's 10K in August with Mary. This is the beginning of a wonderful things. Bring it on! I am so on my way to becoming 'fabulously fit by 40'!

March Weigh-In

2010-03-05T10:32:00.003-05:00

Okay, I just have to day this sucks. This weight is NOT an accurate reflection of where I am right now. I've been down 2 pounds less than this all week, with the scale flashing 2 pounds lower than that lower number. But because of sodium with a late dinner along with 2 hours of driving before settling down for an hour of TV where I actually feel asleep during the show (that never happens), and a really crappy sleep last night, here I am. So, I'm not going to freak out too much. I know that this month I will knock it out of the part, and I'm moving forward. Onward and upward!

Feb. 5 : 221

Mar 5: 219

-2

On the bright side...notice, my toes are all painted! LOL Like I totally wouldn't THAT again. :o)

A Temporary Departure From P90X

2010-03-02T09:48:00.002-05:00

I have decided that this week I will take a temporary leave from P90X and concentrate on the treadmill. I couldn't do the treadmill for a while now because of my heel. But now that my heel is healed I can do it again. This Sunday is the Frosty 5K. The weather has been nice, mild even, so just watch it be -30 C on Sunday. Ha. It's going to feel good doing the treadmill. Next Monday, my hubby and I will be back at P90X, we're going to count it as week 2 even tho we had some stops and starts. Last week was good, except that I made a conscious decision to forgo the workout on the weekend. I've been really tired lately...so last night, I chose to go to bed instead of working out. My kids have been sick..SO NOT FUN...which complicates the whole workout-in -the-day thing. I'm still in it mentally. I'm getting back in it physically. My body takes a hit when I'm stressed out or exhausted...so the goal is to build myself back up to keep this downward trend happening. Happily, I broke through a plateau, and I am only 18 pounds away from Onederland. I am SO STOKED. I'm hoping to be there by April 1. Ahhhhh! It is TOTALLY doable. Just gotta keep focused, and keep doin it.

Loving P90X

2010-02-26T17:18:00.009-05:00

Rocking out to Theory of a Deadman before P90X Legs & Back. I like to turn the music off on the DVD and play my favorites that match the work out that day.

P90X just makes you feel good. I'm loving it...and I can't wait til I'm at goal weight...I've got so much bottled up inside me that P90X is bringing out...there aint no stoppin me now, baby!

The workout: Well, I got half of it in today. Why? Ask the three little monsters that made me referree today. One child is sick, and that makes the bunch wild, wrangy, frustrated...etc. So, I'm happy with half. Half is a whole lot better than none...and it came this close <> to being none.

One thing I noticed is how tight my legs are. I realize how important daily exercise is, even when I AM totally fit, just to keep the body limber and loose. Today, I'm feeling Yoga.

Tomorrow, Kenpo X, and I'm really really looking forward to it.

Yogaahhhhhh X...Round 2 P90X

2010-02-25T11:28:00.002-05:00

I can't believe I'm saying this, but I actually enjoyed Yoga today. My back was bothered at first, but the more I went the better it felt. I did keep watching the clock around the 53 minute I briefly contemplated quitting. It's funny the excuses a person can come up with when they just don't feel like it. But I did most of it. I opted out a few moves that would tweak my neck since my neck has been out for a bit (chiropractor is on vacation). My head was in a good place today too, so that definitely helped with the determination and concentration. I did about 87 minutes.
Oh, and my heel is feeling better today. It's not quite healed, but it's a lot better than yesterday.
Tomorrow, Legs and Back. Hope the heel is even better.

Oh yeah, baby

2010-02-24T12:03:00.003-05:00

Now THAT's what I'm talkin about! I just finished my P90X Shoulders & Arms workout, and I just totally LOVE it. My arms are toast, and that's just the way I like it. I upped the weights in some things again today...I love pushing myself. Looking forward to tomorrow, even IF it IS YogaX....just a little leary about my foot, and all those poses. Oh well, I'll do my best and forget the rest, even if I have to improvise or modify. I'm back baby, and it feels sooo good!

SCREECH!

2010-02-23T16:50:00.002-05:00

That's the sound of my get up and go coming to a skidding stop! I had a rough weekend. It was rough on all accounts. Monday I was supposed to start working out and my hubby and I were going to do it together. But I'm just not feeling well. It usually takes me a few days for my body to recover from a hit, and yesterday and today, I'm toast. I feel so crappy. My hubby had the stomach flu last night, so he was home from work feeling like crap too. I got my heel injection today, and let me just say YOWIE! Holy Toledo batman! Did that sucker hurt! And the residual pain lingered....a lot longer than before. I went grocery shopping instead of coming home and putting my foot up, and let me just say how much of a mistake THAT was! The pain lasted for a few hours....and now it's really tender. On the upside, I got 6 months out of that last shot, which is really good. The doctor there is a busy busy specialist. He doesn't waste words. But today, he shook my hand and said "you should be commended! It's really difficult for women to lose weight because you're built for babies. So the weight you've lost (58 lbs) is comparable to 125 lbs for a man. You really need to be commended. Keep up the good work." That meant so much to me. For HIM to make a statement like that to me, oh he of little words, that felt great!
So I come home and hubby puts a ham in the oven to roast that I just bought. I HATE THE SMELL OF MEAT ROASTING! I am sick. The smell is making me even MORE nauseaus. I'm not sure what it is. Beef, Chicken, turkey, pork, YUCK when it's roasting! Like totally BLUCK! *shudders*
So, here's what's going to happen. I will start my P90X tomorrow. It doesn't matter that it's in the middle of the week. I will get 5 days in at least. And next week, I'm hitting it hard, back on track. I'm aching to see the weight coming down. I feel like crap again, physically, and I really want to get back to feeling good. So, this is it for me. I'm making a run for it. I'm back in my zone, even tho I feel so bad today. I've got major goals, and I'm adding to them all the time. It's go time!

Experiments

2010-02-22T08:11:00.002-05:00

This weekend I decided to do some experimentation. I'm glad I did, because it only reiterates for me the need to stay on THIS eating path. I had some alcohol Friday night, and I paid for it. Sunday, I decided to try some bread and pasta. I had THE WORST stomach ache followed by bathroom issues. Food shouldn't make you in pain, or make you feel so bloated you'd swear you were pregnant. And when I eat the way I have been eating since June, I don't feel any odd or painful reactions. I feel satisfied. That's it. Eating my way may be a little more restrictive, might require more planning, but you know what? It is SO worth it.

P90X starts again today. My hubby and I are hitting it at the same time tonight...we're going to try and see how it goes working together. Chest & Back. It's going to feeel sooo goood getting back on the bus. Time to get this weight loss moving again.

Fail...Round 2 P90X Reboot.

2010-02-18T09:02:00.002-05:00

Ok, so I am still gung-ho for my P90X. I love it. But I have to reboot the process on Monday. I went away for the weekend, but that had unforseen repercussions. First I had planned to be away Friday-Sunday. I had planned to do X Stretch on Sunday, making it only 2 days off. BUT, I ended up getting very little sleep Saturday nite (3 hours) and while I was on the road home, I crashed...not literally, no car accident...but my body said "whoa!" and threw my brakes on. I ended up pulling off into a parking lot and sleeping for a couple hours. I refuelled my van, and my body, and headed home with a bad headache....The next day, I was still toast, and it was "Family Day" the holiday...so no working out. Tuesday, still felt crappy...and now I'm busy around the house getting things cleaned and decluttered because we're having company tomorrow for the weekend. So, P90X will have to be rebooted on Monday...and let me just say, I'm so stoked for it. I WILL complete this next round with very little interruptions, and I will rock it! Hooshaw, baby!

Round 2- P90X Day 3, Shoulders & Arms...I Love Me Some Glamour Muscle Exercises!

2010-02-11T18:22:00.004-05:00

Okay, this has GOT to be my second favorite exercise (Kenpo always comes in first)! I LOVE IT! There is nothing like working your arms and shoulders out and feeling that pumped up feeling. I LOVE pushing myself. I LOVE competing with myself. I LOVE seeing how much farther I can go, how many more reps I can do, how much heavier I can lift. I LOVE IT. There's nothing like jelly arms...and I'm pretty sure I'm going to feel this tomorrow. I started where I left off on my last P90X workout of the same kind last round. Why start small? Might as well go for broke.

One thing I'm not too pleased with is the fact that I hurt my left foot yesterday during Hot Foot. I knew I shouldn't have done it...but I push myself...I always do. So I did it...and now...it almost feels cracked. I have a lot of pain when I put weight on it...oh well..good job I'm taking tomorrow and Saturday off...and guess what? I don't even feel the slightest bit bad about it. I'll be doing my X-Stretch Sunday, and gearing up for next week. I'm so happy that I got back into this. My body is going to transform, and I'm going to love every minute of it!

Btw, blogger friends, my husband Greg has decided to start his own blog, chronicling his very own P90X journey. He is "P90X-Me -Fit by 43" and I'm sure he'd love you to drop in and say hi. :o) Thankyouverymuch friends

Round 2 P90X, Day 2: PlyoOOOOO!

2010-02-10T14:22:00.004-05:00

Plyo...well, I got my booty kicked today! And I thoroughly loved it. I did MOST of it...didn't do the squat 180 switch-backs tho...felt too dizzy...next week, recovery drink WHILE I do plyo. And what about Dom? Dominic is CrAzY! It never ceases to amaze me how...jumpy...he is.

I really needed this endorphin boost today....been a bit...emotional. Feel great now and I am toast but in a good way! Looking forward to my recovery drink....
Incidentally....my legs are jello...lovely! :o)

Tomorrow Shoulders & Arms! Yay!

I'm BAAACK, BABY! Brought it and left it on the floor! Day 1 - Round 2 of P90X

2010-02-09T17:55:00.003-05:00

Well, I was apprehensive today....for some reason I couldn't make myself get going...in fact, I was SUPPOSED to start this yesterday, but I couldn't make myself start then either. Not sure why, exactly. Perhaps it's because I know how hard it is...LOL. At any rate, I FORCED myself to do it today. And within 5 minutes of the actual workout, I remembered why I love P90X! There is nothing like the adrenaline pumping, the blood flowing, the apprehension...and then doing it. Where I started today was right where I left off the first round. This time, I impressed myself...I did 14 standard pushups, then 10. All of my pushups were upped, and the weight I left off for heavy pants and lawnmowers was the weight I started with today (20lbs). How do I feel? Like throwing up, that's how. LOL. I am shaking, I am nauseaus, but I persevered and completed it. I love when you work hard and your body goes "um, HELLO!!" Ahhh....a nice recovery drink with some ice, and I'm good to go. Currently, as I type this, my hubby is doing P90X for the first time. YAY!

Plyo tomorrow....oh boy, is that gonna kill me! But I'm soooo looking forward to it!

2010-02-05T11:41:00.002-05:00

Jan: 226.5

Feb: 221

-5.5 lbs

I'll take it. I had a rough month with not a lot of exercise because my body decided it had a mind of it's own. SO, I'll take this, happily. Watch out though...I fully expect February to rock! Starting my second round of P90X on Monday...and I'm itching to do it.

p.s. sorry about the toes...totally forgot about them...in a hurry to get kids ready...and never actually noticed them until I uploaded the pix. LOL. Nice!

P90X Tank Picture.

2010-02-02T11:27:00.005-05:00

Well, I finally felt decent enough to take a picture of myself in my new P90X tank. Obviously I still have work to do, and when I get to where I'm going, I'm going to have this tank taken in. Since it cost me $50. to have my tank SHIPPED, here, making my tank worth a fortune, I'm not going to buy another one. LOL. Lesson learned...But I really like my shirt, and so, for this one time, I'm not sweating the extra money.

I won't be starting my second round of P90X until Monday, Feb. 15th because I was told to take some time and let my body recover, and after that, I'm going away for a weekend....so, I'm going to hit it fresh and ready to kick some booty. Looking forward to it too.

Another streak comes to an end...and I'm not even upset!

2010-02-01T10:30:00.002-05:00

Well, I ended another streak. Even tho I didn't go weird on my eating, (the worst I did was have a little piece of deep fried banana) I had some drinks. My husband and I went to Niagara Falls for a much needed escape, and we went out for dinner and to a club. I had some drinks...the first time this mouth had anything with sugar/gluten in it since last June. It's okay tho. One weekend away, one evening with drinks did not break me. I don't regret it at all. One thing I will say is, even tho I did that, it doesn't feel like a free be to go crazy. I still consider my lifestyle refined-sugar-free/gluten-free. All of my choices after my drinks are still sound. I have absolutely NO compunction to eat badly, which just reaffirms to me that this is a lifestyle CHOICE, I've made. My body went kinda haywire afterwards, which just reiterates to me MY NEED of this lifestyle choice, a self imposed one to maintain a healthy body. So I'm good with that. If I go out and decide to have a drink or something, it does not need to translate into a complete departure from my chosen path. The past almost 7.5 months have taught me what is good for my body, it's taught me discipline and self control and more importantly the fact that I am strong enough to make a conscious decision without going haywire, out of control, gluttonous, and crazy. I am proud of myself.

I was going to start my P90X today, but I think I'd better postpone it. My back is out from the base of my skull, all down my spine to my tail bone. My head hurts so much from the pressure...my whole back feels bruised. Why? 10 Pin bowling! LOL. Those balls are heavy. I played it for an hour with my hubby, and it was a lot of fun...but with the weights of the balls, and the twisting....not a good thing....thank goodness I have a chiropractors appointment this afternoon!

Listening to my body...this is getting easier.

2010-01-26T17:58:00.002-05:00

I was supposed to do Plyometrics today...but I have 3 sick kids, and I'm fighting my own head/chest cold, so I made a decision today. Since I'm not feeling well, and since I'm going out of town Friday-Sunday, I have decided to take the rest of this week off as well, and start the second round of P90X on Monday. It just so happens that Monday is Feb. 1st too, so what better way to start a new month than starting a new routine?! Yep, that's what I'm going to do, and I'm feeling good about it. I can foresee a wonderful 3 months of P90X with more strength, more toning, and lots of weight-loss.

Listening to my body....

2010-01-25T21:05:00.004-05:00

Today was supposed to be day one of my second round of P90X. BUT, Bridget had an eye specialist appointment out of town, so it was a looooong day. We were on the road at 9am, and we just got back. Since we were out of town, we stopped at my friends house which was only 20 minutes from the city where the appointment was....so we visited for a few hours, the kids all played together. Then we went to the mall in another city by Toronto....which was actually fun. But, I'm tired! 4 plus hours of driving does that to you. And since I'm having a clearer, newer understanding of my body and what it needs, I've decided to take tomorrow as my first day of my second round of P90X, but I'm starting on day 2. Sorry Pitz, but a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do. I'm fighting off what everyone around me has, which is a sore throat and stuffed schnoz...plus my back is aching...so, my decision is to rest. Ha. See, I've learned a lot, and I've come a long way. Giving myself permission, guilt-free permission feels freeing.

Plyometrics tomorrow! Gonna bring what I have.

What I've Learned

2010-01-21T11:00:00.005-05:00

So, after I made the decision to break my streak, I felt a few things. I felt disappointment. I felt relief. I felt pride. Now, I'm good. After thinking about it, I realise that I wasn't actually being balanced. I know all the opinions about consecutive working out....about what your muscles need to build, about how your body needs rest. I know all about that stuff. I'm not an uneducated newbie. I DO read, lol. However, I kept the streak going for a few reasons...not entirely based on the physical end of things. Sure, one major reason is weight loss, and firming up this body that I've let go. But the main reason is mentally. I was training myself. I was training myself to go the distance whatever come what may. See, a friend that I've met on WLW and now in the blogosphere started her journey to 'Finish what she started' well, I'm a person who used to run away from things. I ran! I ran away and didn't face situations. I ran away instead of using the situation at hand to help me grow, instead of digging deep and finding my inner strength. So for some reason, I figured that if I could do daily consecutive exercising and NOT LET THINGS come between us, if I didn't run away and bury my head in the sand, but stood my ground and worked out in spite of whatever situation/event/occurance happend, it would make me strong. And to a degree it did. I now have a respect for working out that I never had before. I know it will be a lifelong thing, a commitment to myself, something that challenges me that I LOVE doing. But it will not be my crutch. It will not have this negative connotation attached to it, like the feeling that I would be a loser if I didn't do it, if I broke my streak. I KNOW I'm not a loser, I'm actually a winner. I've won my 'self' back. I've earned the right to take a break, let my body recover, and when I hit the P90X hard again on Monday, there won't be any negative resentful feelings attached. I will be training for my 5K, and I will be commited to the next 90 days of working out, and I will do it because I want to...because it's good for me, not because I have this thing attached to my pride, this looming thing that is held over my head. I now feel free. I have the freedom to workout and if something comes up, sickness/events/ time constraints, I won't have to feel like I'm letting myself down. There is no room for vanity on this healthy lifestyle...at least not the kind that is damaging. Pride comes before a fall, dontcha know. I know. And now I also know when to say when, when to listen to my body, and I no longer have the fear that it will be something I run away from. I have longevity. I have discipline. I have determination. No streak will make or break any of those things any more. So I did learn a lot. I am fully appreciative of what I've learned during this time. And now, I'm great. It's all good baby. Watch me soar now that I've unfettered my own wings!

Decisions...Decisions

2010-01-20T08:23:00.005-05:00

THE STREAK IS OVER!
Yep, you heard it here, folks. Last night I was forced to make a choice...a conscious decision, and I ended my 193 day run. I was hoping to make it a year, I was hoping to at least make it 200 days. But, my body had other ideas. I've been going through some...stuff....some stress, and that's why my body got run down, and why I got sick the past few weeks, why I had lowered my exercising minutes, why I never pushed super hard. I was pushing hard enough for what my body can withstand right now. See with me, the first place my body takes a hit is in my back, and then it just spreads from there. So, with lack of sleep being the final straw that broke this camels back, last night I was SICK! I mean, move and throw up-sick. I had 3 hours of sleep Saturday night, and I knew it would hit me like a ton of bricks this week. At dinner last night, I sat there and looked at my food. I didn't really want to eat, but I knew I should, so I ate. It tasted good....but soon, I was swooning. I layed my head on the table and said 'you know I think I need to go to bed.' But I sat there, thinking...what can I do in the exercise department? Which one can I accomplish without killing myself? Which one could I tolerate? And the answer was....nothing. I couldn't even dream of anything. My husband told me that I was strong, that I COULD accomplish it if I wanted to....but my body...it said 'uh, I don't think so'. So, with that, I chose to end my streak. I sat in for my girls bedtime story, but I was hurtin....I needed bed. At 8:30, I lay there in bed, still as I could with my head spinning, and the room spinning, trying not to vomit...similar to the feeling as if I were completely out of my mind drunk...except without a drop of alcohol...and I decided right then and there that perhaps my body needs a break. I'm going through some tough stuff, and my body is taking the hit...so...I've decided to take the rest of the week off. No working out...unless I do X Stretch. And then on Monday, I will start P90X. I cannot force myself to do a half-assed workout this week, mentally, emotionally, physically, and expect to recover from this run-down, overstressed body, mind, spirit. I feel really bad for Pitbull...we were supposed to be doing this week together...starting this second round together, finishing together. {{{ PITBULL: I WILL however just be a week behind ya girl.}}}
You know that saying, "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger?" Well, I intend to be iron woman! Strong as steel! I am Woman, hear me roar!

Today, I'm feeling still out of sorts physically. I'm tired, my stomach is swirling still...got a slight headache....and right now, even tho part of me is disappointed in the streak being broken, another part of me knows that I have to take a mini break...recoup, so I can go strong again. I sense another streak coming on....Monday, January 25, 2010 marks the beginning of "THE STREAK, pt 2" LOL

Couch 25K...and NO P90X!

2010-01-18T21:01:00.002-05:00

I did my couch25K around 5, and it took every last ounce of energy I had. The lack of sleep I had yesterday is affecting me today, obviously. I'm tired. I'm really really tired! So, I've made an executive decision...LOL...and I will start my 2nd round of P90X tomorrow...I will start with the second day...and continue with the rest of the program as is...and you know what...I don't even feel guilty or bad because I worked my butt off on the treadmill...

Tomorrow...Plyo

Sunday, Jan. 18..some X stretch...

2010-01-18T11:14:00.001-05:00

SO I had 3 hours of sleep Sat. night. I was dead on my feet Sunday. Literally. It was all I could do to stay vertical-ish to get some X stretch in. 20 minutes keeps my streak going strong...

Tomorrow...P90X + Couch25K

Sat. Jan. 17/10 A little X Stretch goes a long way...

2010-01-17T01:54:00.003-05:00

I almost forgot to workout today. We were gone or busy all day, and I remembered at 9...too tired for couch25K, already did strength last night...so X stretch it was again. I chose the ones that were good for arms and legs, neck...much needed stretches.

Looks like couch25K tomorrow.

June 5th ~ 5K

2010-01-15T14:09:00.002-05:00

I just registered for another 5K...this time it's with Jacqui (YAY) and Pammy (can't wait to meet you in person!) This is going to be fun!

strength 20 minutes

Thurs. Jan. 14/10...X Stretch

2010-01-15T07:23:00.007-05:00

I did 30 minutes of X Stretch. I find that because I'm not doing the program until next week, I don't feel obligated to do the whole thing...so I pick the ones that work for my current program...the arms, the legs, the glutes...I steer clear of the back stuff, for now. Getting some in feels good.

A Little Side Competition with Cindy.

2010-01-14T20:49:00.008-05:00

yeah, the flash on the camera is a LOVELY thing when wearing all black, especially TIGHT black. If your eyes need help, I'm sure the E.R isn't too far away, LOL

So a gal from weightloss wars challenged me today....she threw the gauntlet down, and I accepted it. The race is on....Cindy, if you're reading this (which I know you are) I'm bringin all I have baby! LOL. The race is the first one to 200 lbs wins. I am currently at 224.5. There is no cash prize...there is no trophy, there is however bragging rights....ha..kidding...there is PRIDE! So, between the Losing competition, and my P90X with Pitbull and Pammy...and my training doing the couch25K, I'll be plenty active. All's fair in...weightloss! ;O)

Btw, the funny look on my face, the way I'm holding my mouth...yeah, that's because I have Crest WhiteStrips in..LOL....Whats up with the little blotches too? Gotta clean the lens...TIP: if you're going to wear TIGHT BLACK, make sure the lens is CLEAN! I CANNOT wait to have THESE clothes on (which are the same ones for the LOSING comp too)..in a month, in 2 months... I'm going to ROCK them! ha...Def Leppard...ROCK...hehe.

Week 2, Day 2...Couch25K

2010-01-13T19:00:00.004-05:00

I was tired tonight...but I kept telling myself 'you can do anything for 30 seconds'...everytime my energy dropped, that's what I told myself....and you know, it's true. Tony says it in P90X...if you TELL your brain you CAN do it...your body will listen. Man, I'll be happy when this cold is gone!

25 minutes Couch25K plus stretching

Tues, Jan. 12/10...Strength

2010-01-13T09:19:00.004-05:00

I don't know, I'm not getting much out in the 70 lbs yet...LOL

35minutes strength and stretching:

Bench press:
10 reps @ 50 lbs/ 10 reps @ 60 lbs/ 5.5 reps @ 70 lbs/10 reps @ 60 lbs

Overhead Extensions:
3 sets of 12 @ 25 lbs

Laying Flys:
3 sets of 15 @ 12 lbs

Stretches: swimmers, arm circles, bicep/tricep stretch, neck rolls, neck stretch

Can-Fit-Pro Membership

2010-01-12T14:05:00.004-05:00

Today, I started the ball rolling. I became a Canadian Fitness Professional member. This summer, I will be taking the Personal Training Specialist Course...and begin down a new path, one that I am already passionate about. Think about it. What better person to train people to lose weight and become healthy than someone who took that journey already, by herself. I have every intention...I WILL be in the 160's by June...and at goal weight by Fall. Then doors will start to open for me. After I take the course this summer, I have 4-6 weeks before the exam to get practical experience. I hope to go to the gym in the neighbouring town and ask for someone to mentor me so that I can learn, and get the experience needed to take the exam. I am so stoked about this! I think in the meantime, I'm going to take a course or two that will be recognized too...just for fun, for knowledge and to keep this goal first and foremost. I had to pay a fee to become a member...you just don't 'join'. So having that first step taken...that feels so good. This is MY year, people. Watch me soar.

Couch 25K,week 2, Day 1

2010-01-11T21:38:00.005-05:00

I did it! If that sounds like I'm thrilled, well, I am! I accomplished todays training despite the fact that I am coughing up a lung. At this particular time, my lungs are on fire, my throat feels like you rammed a hot poker down it. At this present time, I'm hurtin...my stomach hurts...or is it my back? Can't tell...but not feeling so great now! I AM happy that I didn't keel over while jogging though. Ha! Feels good to be sorta back...well, back at it, anyway.

25 minutes: couch25K plus stretching.

Sunday Jan. 10/10, X Stretch

2010-01-11T10:58:00.004-05:00

So I did 30 minutes tonight. I'm feeling a bit better. My back is feeling a bit better too...the stomach flu exacerbated it....and now that that's clearing up, I feel a bit of relief that I can start working out harder...once my cold clears up more. Still coughing up a lung...so we'll see how Couch25K is tomorrow.

Barely Enough Strength For Strength

2010-01-09T20:09:00.005-05:00

So it seems that I may have had a stomach flu on top of my inflamed back and cold. My stomach was killing me...which I contributed to the out of control fire in my back. Apparently, it's going around. Lovely. Anyway...tonight I did strength...and now I'll be going and getting some muscle relaxants :oS

BenchPress:
10reps @ 50 lbs/10 reps@ 60 lbs/5 reps @ 70lbs/10 reps @ 60lbs

Overhead Extensions:
3 sets of 15 reps @ 15 lbs

Laying down Flys:
3 sets of 10 reps @ 12 lbs...

Stomach and back both hurting! But I cannot NOT do stuff...So...
My plan for tomorrow is to get lots of rest...and maybe some couch25K. If that doesn't pan out due to pain...then X Stretch it is.
Anyway, glad to be back...ish.

Friday, Jan. 8/10...Double Whammy

2010-01-09T07:31:00.004-05:00

Well, on top of my back being inflamed, I now have a cold. Managed to do my 20 min of X Stretch, but barely. Going to try and get some extra rest this weekend...hopefully help the recovery process along.

Day 3 of Couch 25K

2010-01-07T16:30:00.002-05:00

Well, feeling a bit better...but also lots going on in my head...so, instead of sit there thinking, I got up and did my 3rd day of Couch 25K. Um...it went well...while I was doing it...but then my back went on fire. And my lungs feel extra crispy. LOL

When I cannot do a FULL workout because of being ill, or injured, I still give my all...even if my all is only 20 minutes worth. Today, I gave it...and now I deserve to chill out (with some muscle relaxants) and know that tonight when I'm tired...(a lot lately, run down I think) I won't have a workout looming over my head.

Wednesday.....X Stretch...Again

2010-01-07T12:56:00.002-05:00

Well, I really toyed with the idea of taking a day off...breaking my streak. I know my body would have benefited from it. But, what about my mind? I thought what if I stop? Will it click a switch in my mind, in my head and start up that whole 'it's okay to stop' mentality...the whole, 'I don't feel like it today' when in reality, I could totally do it? So I guess for the sake of my brain, I put the X Stretch in again, and did 20 minutes. That's all I could do. My back is calming down...but everything else...my stomach hurts, my ribs feel bruised, I'm nauseaus, I feel sort of....like I have pneumonia. I don't. It just feels like that because of the inflammation. I know that the vulnerability of my back makes my whole system vulnerable. Now, I have a bit of a cold too. I got sent for a loop, and my immune system took a hit. I say, 20 minutes is way better than no minutes!

Holy Toledo Batman!

2010-01-05T22:07:00.003-05:00

Well, my back is toast! I totally had a major flare up tonight, brought on by some stressful news. See, I aggravated my back by doing the Hyper-extension bench...which I thought would strengthen it...and under normal conditions, with a normal back, it would. But mine, I suffer from chronic back pain caused by a snowmobile accident 14 years ago...so mine is different. I should have left well enough alone...but Nooooo, I had to go and do that exercise, repeatedly. Well, tonight, I had such an attack, it affected my stomach, my digestive system, as well as the back. I had to go lay down. When it gets that bad, I can't tell if it's my stomach or my back until I lay still...and eventually, I feel it. I am so out of it, so ill, that I couldn't do my treadmill tonight. In fact, I struggled big time to get 20 minutes of X Stretch in...but I did it. I cannot break my streak. Just moving makes me want to be sick, and starts things rolling and just feel like a bag of crap. I'm a major hurtin unit tonight. Someone shoot me and put me out of my misery!

Losing To Win...First Weigh In

2010-01-05T13:33:00.002-05:00

Okay, well, here goes! I fully expect to see this number drastically reduced by the end of this competition. I'm going for....hmmm....lets say 175! Watch me shrink!

Please Give Me The Strength To Do Strength!

2010-01-04T21:41:00.004-05:00

I am tired. I could have just went to bed as soon as the kids were in bed, alas, I still had to work out. See, today, all day I thought I was supposed to be doing my couch 2 5k training. But it didn't dawn on me until after dinner that it was actually strength training. So, after the kids were in bed, I ventured downstairs for my strength workout. It's funny...after my first set of 10 reps @ 40 lbs, I said to my husband "I feel tired tonight" meaning, I didn't have much strength. He goes "that's because you ARE tired" lol.
My back is not being friendly to me today/tonight. I should have known not to try the hyper-extension bench...I should have known it was going to flare everything up...but I did it anyway. Sometimes it takes getting hit over the head with a hammer to figure things out, I'm 'strong-willed' like that. Ha! So, wisely I opted out of both the Hyper-extension bench, AND the Ab RipperX. It's going to take a while to calm the old back back down....

Warm-Up:
Swimmers, Arm Circles, Bicep/Tricep Stretch, Chest/Back/Shoulder Stretch

Bench Press:
10 reps @ 40 lbs/10 reps @ 50 lbs/10 reps @ 60 lbs/4.5 reps @ 70 lbs/5 reps @ 60 lbs

Over Head Extension:
3 sets of 15 reps @ 15 lbs

Lying Down Flys:
3 sets of 15 reps @ 12 lbs

Back/Bicep Stretch

30 minutes.

Sunday night X-Stretch

2010-01-04T09:13:00.002-05:00

I did 30 minutes of X Stretch. I figured just because I'm not currently doing P90X, it doesn't mean I should give up some things that are essential...and after doing the strength training I'm doing, as well as the couch 2 5K thing, this was just what I needed. Funny how tight your muscles get without you even knowing it.

Day 2 of Couch 2 5k

2010-01-02T20:52:00.003-05:00

Well, I adhered to the program. I did it the exact way I was supposed to. I even upped the brisk walk...but I also upped the speed of which I jogged as well. I jogged at 5.0. Maybe I should go slower a bit...like 4.7 or so. I could feel my shins, likely from the whole entire 5K from the last program day. I'll do some of the toe flexor stretches to ward off shin splints. I'm opting out of Ab Ripper X. Gotta let that settle for a bit.

25 minute workout.

Powering Through

2010-01-01T19:32:00.006-05:00

I warmed up with some of the exercises from P90X, then I hit the Hyper-Extension Bench. As I'm doing it, I realized that yep, this is really disturbing my back. I asked my hubby how he felt when he did this one...and it differs from how I feel...almost spasmy, and burning pain. So I decided that I'm going to alternate Hyper-extension bench and Ab Ripper X days. I cannot do both on the same day, but I can power through one or the other. I can't overdo it all at once, or else I will be junk, in agony, and unable to do anything.
I've upped my reps for the bench press, and my weight for the overhead extension...I love pushing myself and feeling strong. When I start my second round of P90X, I'm going to be ready.

Warm Up: swimmers, arm circles x4, chest & tri stretch.

Hyper-Extension Bench: 3 sets of 15
Bench Press: 15 reps @ 40lbs/15 reps @ 50 lbs/ 12 reps @ 60 lbs/ 15 reps @ 50 lbs
Overhead Extensions: 4 sets of 15 reps @ 15 lbs

42 minutes

Biggest Loser Competition Final Weigh In

2010-01-01T09:48:00.007-05:00

SW: 259

LW: 236

FW: 229

Loss: -30

This is my final weigh in for the Biggest Loser Competition. It's frustrating because I am up 3.5 pounds from yesterday. That's due to the fact that I did a 5K last night finishing at 11pm, then had my recovery drink and something to eat....I was hungry. The 3.5 pounds will be gone later today, early tomorrow. It is what it is, and I don't care either. Ha! It's not actual weight. But for this competition, I'm not worried about it either. I worked my tushy off, and I feel better than I ever have. I'll take it.

Mixed Emotions....Couch to 5K

2009-12-31T22:40:00.004-05:00

Well, tonight I started my Couch to 5K training. It took me 53:25 to do 3.1 miles. Sure, that may be ok for a beginner. Last year, I walked my 5K, and did it in 55:+ ish. I'm frustrated right now because I walked for 5, then jogged for 60 sec, walked for 90 sec, jogged for 60 sec, walked for 90 etc, as per the program...perhaps my 'brisk walk' should be faster. I walked at a 3.0-3.1. I only beat my last year time by what, 2 minutes? And I'm 52 pounds lighter!!! Grrrr. My hubby is trying hard to make me feel pleased with myself..."did you just do a 5K? Isn't that fantastic? How can you feel disappointed with yourself, you just did 5K!"
The logical part of me IS pleased. Some other part of myself,...the competitive side, perhaps, feels let down. How can I have jogged all that time, and only cut 2 minutes off? Okay, okay....I give. I AM pleased. Okay, hubby! Sheesh. He says to me..' it's 10 pm, and you just decided, 'hmm, I'll do a 5k,' and off you went. Last year you had to psyche yourself up to do it"...as he walks away laughing. So, I guess I see his point. Point taken, honey! LOL. So, booyah to me...I did a 5k tonight. Better? LOL

total workout: 55 minutes.

Another Late Night...

2009-12-31T15:37:00.004-05:00

Last night my hubby and I went out of town. We did a little shopping, had a nice dinner, and went to the movies...Sherlock Holmes beckoned us. We had a really nice evening. But by the time we got home, it was almost 10:30. Another late night! I wasn't about to let that get in my way though. So here's what I did.

Hyper-Extension Bench:
3 sets of 10...really felt my back

Bench Press:
12 reps @ 40 lbs/ 12 reps @ 50 lbs/ 11 reps @ 60 lbs/12 reps @ 50 lbs

Overhead Extensions:
3 sets of 15 reps @ 12 lbs

30 minutes.
I didn't feel 'tired' from working out, that is to say, I could have done more, physically. But I was so tired because it was after 11...make sense? LOL

I skipped the Ab Ripper X. My back and sides ache, they feel bruised. That's a product of my snowmobile accident from 14 years ago...whenever I use my back, it becomes inflamed, and then I feel sick. My abs are strong...my back has serious issues. That's why I'm using the Hyper-Extension bench...to try and strengthen my back. So, I'm going to give a few days off between Ab Ripper X's, and hopefully that will help. Chronic back pain sucks...but letting it stop me, that would suck worse, and frankly, thats not going to happen!!

The Little Engine That Could....

2009-12-29T17:38:00.002-05:00

Today, I'm not feeling well. I've barely eaten ...and I went for a few hour nap this afternoon. I made myself get up, and after drinking a recovery drink...which I would need to get me through the workout, I got on that treadmill. I walked for 8 minutes, then jogged for 4. After getting that initial adrenaline rush, I decided that I was going to push my max...and so I did. I walked for 3 minutes, then RAN at 5.0 for 2 minutes. Hmmm...seems I'm stronger than I thought. So after walking for 3 minutes, I RAN at 6.0 for 1 minute, then walked the remainder to make it a 25 minute workout. I surprised myself. My heartrate was through the roof, but it recovers quickly. This little engine that could...did...and I feel sooo happy about that, because I really really needed it today.

Day 1 of P90X Hiatus.....

2009-12-28T21:05:00.004-05:00

Day 173 of consecutive daily exercise.

Okay, so I was interested how this post P90X stuff would work...being used to doing a certain routine, or workout system daily, and now, on my own. Fortunately for me, I'm a good self starter. I was going to do the treadmill tonight, but it was hot down there from a good roaring fire. My hubby suggested doing my other plan, which is : hyper extension bench + bench press + exaggerated overhead extension + ab work. So that's what I did.

1) Hyper extension bench: I did 3 sets of 10...making sure I went up slowly to allow the abs to work. Felt the booty and legs too!
2) Bench press: 40 lbs @ 10 reps/ 50 lbs @ 10 reps/ 60 lbs@ 9 reps/ 50 lbs @ 10 reps/
3) Overhead extension: 12 lbs @ 10 reps/12 lbs @ 15reps/12 lbs @ 15 reps

Ab Ripper X: WOW...349 ab/core exercises. I'm so happy Tony says "if you need a break, TAKE them!" Because, man! Did I ever need a break. Happily though, I completed the whole thing. Thank goodness we don't do THAT every day!

Todays workout was 66 minutes and I feel great.

Tomorrow - treadmill.

P90X Grad!

2009-12-27T22:27:00.002-05:00

Week 13, Day 7...X Stretch! I did it. I completed the full 90 days, zero days off! I actually enjoyed tonights X Stretch. I wanted to make sure I went out with full potential met. Frankly, I felt like I was hit by a truck for a couple hours before I attempted it...and had to force myself to do it. In fact, I wasn't sure I'd stay vertical...like maybe I'd fall over. But, I did it, and actually did a good job of it too. My body needed it. I was very proud of my efforts tonight. Three weeks doing other workouts...and then round 2 of P90X!

Week 13, Day 6 Yoga X

2009-12-27T00:00:00.003-05:00

Ok, so I said I'd do my best with the Yoga tonight....and it turns out my best was only 33 minutes worth. But that's ok. The 33 minutes I DID do was actually good...I actually enjoyed it. Who'd a thunk it? LOL. My 12 year old daughter came down and was talking with me and watching me...and I got distracted...but 33 minutes is not bad.

K, X Stretch tomorrow. THIS I WILL finish strong, and send my first round of P90X out with a bang!

Week 13, Day 5, Core

2009-12-25T22:38:00.003-05:00

Only did half tonight again. I am just too tired! Went out of town, got back late...finished 30 minutes at 10:40...again, better than nothing. I'm a bit disappointed with this past week. I think I've only managed to finish Cardio X, and Kenpo. Going to finish the week strong, even tho Yoga is slated for tomorrow. I will do a good job with it. Then X Stretch...and I'm a P90X grad! Oh btw, I did 15 staggered hand- stacked foot pushups tonight!

Week 13, Day 4, X Stretch

2009-12-24T21:21:00.002-05:00

K, so I did half of X Stretch tonight. Again, I'm going with 30 minutes is better than not. It's 10 pm...the day got away from me again...only this time it was because of choices...I chose to do other stuff, can't blame it on the kids, ;oP
But, I did some and I feel good. I'm tired and I just don't feel like doing any more.

Tomorrow...Core Synergistics. GOING TO DO IT EARLY! Right, Lisa!!

The Primal Blueprint....yeah baby!

2009-12-24T14:41:00.004-05:00

I am SO excited! I just ordered "The Primal Blueprint" from Amazon.ca. Hopefully I'll get it next week...
I think this book is going to be amazing...from what I've read thus far. And I think it will be easily adapted into my lifestyle since I'm about 95 % of the way there anyway. Anything that will make me healthier, help me lose weight easier, and help me become more fit...I'm totally IN!

http//www.marksdailyapple.com/the-book/the-primal-blueprint/

Week 13, Day 3, Kenpo X

2009-12-23T22:17:00.002-05:00

Once again, I'm finishing a workout after 10 pm. My husband didn't get home early like we thought...in fact he was late, so, it had to be after the kids were in bed. I didn't have much steam tonight, but I brought all that I had. My heart rate was up tonight too, but that's ok. I worked hard.

X Strech tomorrow is going to feel amazing!

Week 13, Day 2...Cardio X

2009-12-22T22:59:00.002-05:00

Today was supposed to be Core Synergistics...but I just couldn't do it with my kids today, and then, after I put them in bed, I dozed out for half an hour...so, here it is 10 pm AGAIN, and I didn't have an hour in me. But I chose Cardio X...that workout is golden for when you just don't even feel like exercising, even if you happen to LOVE P90X! I LOVE this workout. I turned the music off of the DVD, so I just heard Tony talking, and I listened to my own music. I feel awesome. The workout goes so fast, and you still sweat like a pig.

Tomorrow...Kenpo. I think my hubby will be home earlier, so I will definitely get this in before 10 pm.

Week 13, Recovery and Abs....subbed X Stretch

2009-12-22T08:33:00.004-05:00

Monday, Dec. 21/09 Well, I got in late last night, and I was gone early, so I didn't have the time, stamina or energy to do Yoga today. I did sub X Stretch tho...but I only did 33 minutes of it. I was just too tired, it was 10:15 pm...and I had to go to bed. Kept the streak alive, got a little stretching in after LOTS of driving. Felt good, and I needed the sleep.

Week 12, Day 7...X Stretch..In The Home Stretch

2009-12-20T19:20:00.001-05:00

Today was the last of the week 12 workouts...ushering in the recovery and ab week. THEN, I will officially be a P90X grad. The workout was ok tonight...I had many many distractions...from...ahem...the hubby. Apparently, he likes watching X Stretch. I issued a 'NO TOUCH' rule for X Stretch...and I may just have to order a "no watch" rule too...Men! LOL. Very flattering though.

Tomorrow...is supposed to be Yoga X...but I'm out of town all day...I may have to sub it for something else...awww...what a shame. hehe.

In Between P90X Rounds (Workout Plan)

2009-12-20T13:45:00.003-05:00

Well, I've been thinking about what I will do for my 3 weeks post round one of P90X. After this next week of Recovery and Abs....I am officially a P90X Grad...need to buy me that TShirt!
So, what to do.....
Here's what I've come up with so far:

Mon, Wed, Fri. - Treadmill...walk/jog intervals. Begin Couch to 5K.

Tues, Thurs, Sat. - Ab and back workout (hyper extension bench, Ab ripper X, ball)

Sunday - X Stretch. (I see no reason why I cannot keep this in my program)

I'm going to start with this...but I may change things up...IF I buy some Kettle Bells...we'll see tho.

I think doing this for 3 weeks will keep me active, keep my streak alive, and prepare me to kick it up a bunch of notches for my next round of P90X.

Week 12, Day 6, Kenpo X

2009-12-19T12:10:00.002-05:00

This morning, I did a sort of locked/yawn/stretch and pulled something in my neck. Lovely, right? Well, I wasn't letting that stop my Kenpo today...so I went ahead and worked up a fabulous stretch. The only thing I had a bit of trouble on with neck pain is the side kick for that side. However, having said that, I also noticed how much progress I actually made with my kicks. I went from 'shin' kicks to making belly kicks. That's how much height I've gained with my kicks on both sides. I'm happy to have my workout done for the day as well.

X Stretch tomorrow...boy, that's going to feel really goooood!

Week 12, Day 5, Legs & Back

2009-12-18T21:02:00.002-05:00

Well, I killed the last leg & back workout of this round. Although, I have come to the realisation that Jillian would indeed kick my ass when it comes to the wall squat sequence. Man, that stuff is hard! On the goal list to improve for the next round, for sure. My legs are exhausted...but feel awesome. And yes, I'm finishing this workout at 9pm. I know I keep saying that I've got to get the workouts in earlier...this week for sure. My hubby is off Thurs for 12 days...and I'm hoping to use that time to establish a good workout while I'm on hiatus from P90X.

My favorite, Kenpo X tomorrow... TO BE COMPLETED BY NOON!

Friday, Dec. 17th...Week 12, Day 4...Yoga X...or not...maybe

2009-12-18T08:59:00.004-05:00

I was sooo tired last night. The whole night slipped by. With Bridget being sick, and miserable...and making supper....and just feeling drained, by the time I got to YogaX, it was 10pm. I started it...but you know, I only got 30 minutes into it, and then I threw my towel in. I had to give it up. I did give it the last ounces of steam I had tho...so 30 minutes is better than zero minutes....and my streak is still in tact. Today, Emily is home..being the last day of school before holidays. I'm going to count on her to help with the kids so I can get this working out done earlier in the day....I cannot keep doing late night workouts!

Legs & Back today.

2010 Goals

2009-12-17T10:18:00.004-05:00

So Steve-o asked what our goals were for the new year...and that made me think a bit. I have been planning this next year out in my head...so I thought it was appropriate to state them, put them out into the universe.

My 2010 Fitness Goals:

1. Join Karilynn's new competition...excited about this because Pitz is doing it with me....YAY!
2. I have my first 5 k of 2010 already registered and paid for, March 7, Burlington, Ontario....it's aptly called The Frosty 5K!
3. I will likely do another 5K in May, before it gets too warm out.
4. I want to join the local Triathalon team here, called The Nacho Average, and begin training.
5. I will be about 165 lbs by June.
6. By Fall 2010, I will be at my goal weight.
7. Fall 2010, I have my first half marathon!!!
8. Fall 2010, I want to enrol in some Personal Training courses....and get that ball rolling.
9. Winter 2010...I AM GOING TO LEARN TO SKI, AND SNOW BOARD.

I am sooo stoked about my goals. They are not only goals, they are going to be accomplished!

What will you accomplish in 2010?

Isn't it exciting...the world of possiblilities that await now that health and fitness is being achieved?

Week 12, Day 3, Back & Biceps...oooh baby!

2009-12-16T21:48:00.002-05:00

I am so pUmPeD uP! I love this workout. One day you're all getting free tickets to the show...the gun show! LOL. Seriously, my arms are so pumped and strong. I UPPED all my weights...some of the moves I'll be into 25 pounds next round...and almost all of the others will be edging out of the 15's into the 20's, with one or two into the 15's. So far, I've upped them all, and can still kick out high reps...I love it!

Yoga X tomorrow...well, whatever. LOL. I'm sure one day I'll like this one...right?!

Week 12, Day 2, Plyometrics...

2009-12-15T22:14:00.002-05:00

It's been a while since I did that workout, because of my right knee. I forgot how much I actually enjoy it....if a person could enjoy torture. LOL. Seriously though, it's awesome! And you know what? This time, I was sooo much stronger..it was like an entirely different person doing it. My legs...man! Have they ever gotten stronger. I did tweak my left knee a bit *shrugs* but, whatcha gonna do about that, eh. So, instead of doing 59 minutes, I did 52...and I'm completely drenched in sweat. I'm very proud of this last Plyo...and it just makes me eager with anticipation for round 2, to see my progress from the beginning to the end of round 2!

Tomorrow, Back & Biceps...sooo looking forward to that one. I love Bicep workouts!

Week 12, Day 1, Chest, Shoulders & Triceps

2009-12-14T21:43:00.002-05:00

My arms are toast! A lot of things I improved upon...a couple I didn't. I'm proud of my last Chest, Shoulders & Tricep workout for this round tho. I gave it my all...and then some. On the One-Arm Balance Push-Ups, I came down hard, like a red headed tree. LOL. My arms were so tired from the rest of the workout, and the fact that I pushed hard, they didn't have it in them to hold me up. But that's ok. At least I tried. I ended up doing this workout at 8:45pm..which is just too late for me to have to push so hard with strength...and this house is HOT...my hubby has a fire on, and let me just say it's a good job I work out in the Family room where the TV is, because there's a ceiling fan to cool me down....or I may just be reduced to a puddle of mush. Man! Too hot!

Plyo tomorrow! Gotta get this done earlier....and I want to do a treadmill in the morning. Hopefully that will pan out.

Week 11, Day 7...X Stretch...Ahhhhhh!

2009-12-13T22:14:00.002-05:00

I am SOOO tired, but I'm glad I did the X Stretch. Now I'm also relaxed. My hams really needed the stretching after Legs and Kenpo...they felt tight.
Today I've been extraordinarily tired. It could be because I've been getting to sleep late all week...which I will not do this up coming week. Seems this gal needs her beauty sleep more than ever, just ask the bags that are packed under my eyes. Sheesh!

Tomorrow begins week 12! Then ab and recovery week...THEN P90X GRAD! WOW. I'm definitely buying a P90X shirt...I deserve it. I've decided to take Pitbulls advice and do my jogging every other day, starting this week. I've also got to reorganize my workout schedule and work around the kids. I did late evening workouts almost all week, and that's just too darn tiring. SO, gonna have to rethink that.

Bring on Chest, Shoulders, & Triceps...can't wait! XO