Annalee Update

Annalee was sent back to Vandy Tuesday night. Tommy was off yesterday, so we were able to drive up and spend the day with her. With the setback, they are back to square one with trying to figure out what is going on with her. Please continue to keep her in your prayers.

I did get in a workout on Tuesday, and hope to get in another one today at some point. And I am keeping my fingers crossed about tomorrow mornings Zumba class.

Merry Christmas and MIA

It has been 10 days since my last post. Not only have I not posted, I am also way behind in reading. I started trying to catch up with my reading last night after our Christmas festivities. Maybe I will get somewhat caught up tonight. The last 10 days did not go as I had expected, but there was alot of good in them.
As you guys know, my niece, Annalee, has been sick since the week after Thanksgiving and had been diagnosed with HSP...and the diagnosis was later confirmed at Vanderbilt Hospital in Nashville. Last Wednesday, Annalee was Med-flighted back to Vandy. This was such a scary time for the family. When my Mom called, I literally felt like I couldn't breathe...I was so scared for that sweet little girl. Annalee's intestines had started telescoping (enclosing on themselves) and she was soo sick and in such pain. A few hours after arriving at Vandy, she was already so much better and they were able to treat her with medicines and avoid surgery. She was released from the hospital last night, Christmas Day. Many of you on my Facebook page have been able to keep up with her progress and your sweet comments, emails, and prayers meant the world to me. She is feeling much better, and is very glad to be back with little brothers and celebrating Christmas with her family.

The Saturday following my last post (on Friday) I participated in the Reindeer Run 5k with my friend Dick. The run was a lot of fun. I thought the course was a bit tough and probably was my biggest run to date (only second to the Susan G Race for the Cure that I walked with my family last year). The race has a great atmosphere and it will definitely be one that I was participate in again in the future. The first might was really tough for the both of us, because of the crowd, and trying to find our pace. We killed the second mile, and then struggled a bit in the final mile having to take some walking breaks. I can't remember my exact time, but it was about average with my other 5k times.

I hope all of you have had a great Christmas! Our greatest gift this year was having Annalee released from the Hospital. I have talked to her on the phone, and can't wait to see her! Tommy and I celebrated yesterday with our Mothers and my Neene and we had a really nice time together. I have eaten way too much in the last 7 days, but hopefully a bit of normalcy will return to life in the following days.  My big plan is to head back to the gym tomorrow! I haven't done any formal exercise since the 5k and my body is ready for a good workout. I look forward to catching up with all of you guys!!

Five Things Friday

1. I only have 8 more hours of work until my vacation time begins. And these 8 hours are spread out over two days...a half day today and Monday. I am so excited about this. Earlier in the week, I was running my vacation leave for the end of the year, and realized when I put in for the time off in August, I have actually used 16 hours of vaca time on Saturdays (which I don't work, unless we have an event). So I had 16 extra hours to use!!! I will be off from Monday at noon until Jan. 2!!! I am super super excited!

2.  Thank you for your continued prayers for Annalee. She had an appointment yesterday at Vanderbilt. The HSP diagnosis was confirmed, however they are doing some more extensive testing just to rule out and other illnesses. We should know something by Wednesday.

3. Tomorrow is my Rudolph Race in Huntsville with my friend Dick. I just can't wait. He arrive in Alabama late last night, and will be staying at our house tonight. I know we are going to have a great time!

4. I haven't worked out as much this week as I had planned. I have ran 5k on Monday and did a workout DVD Wednesday (had planned to run again, but time just didn't allow it). Tuesday my Mom called to ask if I would help her put up a Christmas Tree. She had not put one up since my Dad died, so I definitely wanted to help her out! And last night I was just exhausted. I should have ran Thursday morning, but it didn't happen when I overslept...and after a nonstop 11 hour day I was pooped! But I still have two days to make some of it up..and Saturday will include that 5k.

5. Did you notice that I didn't have any Zumba classes this week! Boo!!! I hope to hit a couple of morning classes next week at the studio near my house. I really love that instructor and wish I had more free mornings to take advantage of such an awesome studio! I think it is great that one of the things I am most excited for during my vacation time is an exercise class!

Hope you guys have a great weekend!

21 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Me!

I was so excited when  (Just) Trying is for Little Girls tagged me in her post 21 Random Bits post! I love learning new things about my bloggy friends! Here are my 21 things....

1.  Santa never left my gifts wrapped under the tree. I always wondered why he wrapped my friends gifts and not mine. Mine were just scattered unwrapped.  (My Mom wrapped gifts as a part-time job before she got pregnant with me lol).

2. As a child, I could never sleep the night before Christmas Eve. I was just so excited that I would stay up all night...usually on the couch in the living room watching Christmas Movies on TV. Christmas Eve was a busy day for my family..we visited both sets of Grandparents and all of my cousins...plus my Great Aunt's House. Christmas Day was very laid back for us, which was nice because I could play with all my new toys.

3. These days, if I am up after 9PM it is a wild night for me...or I had a late Zumba class :)

4. I have naturally curly hair and am always terrified when I go in to get my haircut. I think this is the direct result of a REALLY, REALLY, BAD haircut in fifth grade. My Aunt Cathy checked me out of school (my mom worked at the school) and took me to get my haircut. The boy cut was all the rage...and my aunt thought I would look so cute with this cut. SHE WAS WRONG!!! I looked like an 80 year-old woman with her Sunday Perm in a 10 year-old kid's body. And it took forever to grow back out!

5. When I first met my husband, I thought he was cute...but didn't think a relationship was in our future. Boy was I wrong. I am very glad that Tommy is persistent. I can't imagine living my life with anyone else.

6. I love a glass of red wine with dinner, but Tommy doesn't drink. I usually try to limit myself to when we have company over for dinner.

7. I love to spend the day rummaging through antique stores. I don't always buy something, but I just love it. Tommy enjoys it too, on occasion and I am hoping for an antiquing trip for my birthday this year.


8. Tommy hates to eat in restaurants. It is just not his thing. He would much rather me cook dinner at home than eat out. However, he has no problem eating subway every day for lunch LOL

9.  My Neene (maternal grandmother) is one of my best friends. I am so glad that we have such a special relationship. I hope to be just like her one day.

10.  The first few years after my Dad died, I just couldn't get into the Christmas spirit. My only Christmas spirit came from reading cheesy Christmas books. This year, I have been more spirited than I have been in years....and haven't finished the first Christmas book yet.

11. I named an Orangutan at the Little Rock Arkansas Zoo. I won a contest online! :) I have never been to see my sweet little Moshi, but one day I will make it to Little Rock!

12.  When I was a senior in highschool, I had to have tubes put in my ears. Everyone thought it was hilarious since that's what toddlers have done...everyone but me! Ouch!

13.  I love eggs! I especially like them for dinner. I can usually talk Tommy into eggs  for dinner once per week. I only eat eggs for breakfast on the weekends...and not every weekend.

14.  In the past six months, I have probably spent more money on clothes for my dog than for myself. I am just not that into clothes. I blame this partly on working with kids at the library. I never want to spend much on clothes than might get painted...plus I sit on the floor at work everyday...or no skirts LOL.

15.  I hated pizza until I got married. Now I don't hate it.

16. I always shave my armpits when I take a shower. Even if I take two showers in one day..I run the razor over the armpits twice...now my legs are a different story...during the winter it is more like once a week.

17. My husband raises snakes. Yep...he is a hobby Herpetologist. People have alot of misconceptions about this....including thinking that snakes are just crawling all over the house. Truth is, you could come to our house and never know we had snakes. (And we usually don't tell people because sometimes once they know they start thinking of reasons not to visit LOL). He has a great setup and he says one day we might actually make money! He loves to read any and every thing about reptiles.

 18. We actually got engaged while he was on a trip for a reptile convention. I was completely shocked and had no idea he was going to propose. I was super excited! And even walked over to the convention center that afternoon instead of staying out on the beach.

19. I hate taking a bath. I often read about the joy women receive soaking in a nice hot bath. I am not one of those women. I am a fast shower girl all the way. Occasionally, when I am really stressed out, Tommy will run me a bath...and I think it is a sweet gesture, but all I can think he how long must I sit in this tub.

20. I am horrible about not reading magazines I have a subscription to. When they come in the mail, I get very excited...but then I never sit down and read them...unless I am sick.

21. I am a Brittany Spears fan. Yep... I said it. It's my little secret...but I love to belt out some Brittany!

Now I am going to tag...

Shannon
Kelsey
Alissa
Joy
TopsLady

Five Things Friday

1. I have really enjoyed working out with my new heart rate monitor. It is exciting to see how many calories each of my workouts burn. Some activities are burning more calories that I thought...and some are burning a bit less that what I expected. I think this will be a great tool to use.

 2. My runs have been great this week. Monday I did a 5k and Wednesday I did a nice 2 mile run. I am planning another 5k for this week either today or tomorrow. I have also done a WATP DVD and of course Zumba class!

3. Tommy and I are doing some reorganization in the house. Our plan is to trade the rooms his office and the gameroom are in... his office is much bigger than our gameroom so I will be able to make a little workout area in it! :) I am super excited about this room trade and plan to start working on it during my vacation time during the holidays. I don't have any workout machines, but it will be nice to have a room with a television for my workout DVDs other than our main livingroom. And maybe one day I will be able to get a bike or treadmill!

4. This has felt like the longest week ever. I only have one more full week of work before beginning my vacation time! YAY I will be off a full week and a half! Next week should go by pretty fast...

5. I am getting really excited about my Rudolph Run next week with my friend Dick. It should be fun. I just hope this head cold is gone!!!

Have a great weekend!

Hope Endures Virtual 5k

Today my run had special meaning...I wasn't running just to add milage to my weekly total or to prep for my next 5k, I was running for Courtney...and in honor of her infant daughter, Ashlyn, who passed away on December 2, 2008.

 I discovered Courtney's blog not long after she mentioned this virtual 5k, and I knew I wanted to participate. On her blog, she said this would not be about "winning or prizes, its for anyone who has to endure life after something they think they cant.  Its about just enduring life each day when we are down. Its a celebration of change and a celebration of never-ending love."

I am so happy I was able to join so many bloggers in "celebrating never-ending love."

Finish time:41:24

Candy Cane 5k Recap

Saturday I participated in the Fourth Annual Candy Cane 5k to benefit CASA.  CASA of Alabama supports and promotes court appointed, trained and caring volunteers for abused and neglected children so that they can thrive in a safe and permanent home. The local chapter of this organization uses this 5k as one of the 3 fundraisers for the organization.
First, I want to say I really enjoyed this event...there could have been improvements but overall it was fun!  This was the smallest 5k I have ever participated in with only about 30 participants. This was also my first "cold weather" official 5k. Actually, the weather was perfect....cool, but not cold...in the low 50s. Everything about this run was very laid back....which has some pros and cons. First, I was really surprised that we weren't given bibs...and yet the timing seemed pretty organized for a run not sponsored by a running organization. The goodie bag was full of some pretty good coupons to locally owned businesses, with some pens and memo pads, a water bottle, and chapstick thrown in for good measure. The shirt was a cute long sleeve cotton.  My biggest complaint of the day was that there were no water stations. I ran this same course a few months ago, and there were two stations, so I was surprised when there was no water. Also post race didn't include any fruit...instead there were snack cracker packs, gummy fruit snacks, hot chocolate, and water...I was very happy to see that water, but could have used a banana!!! Time was kept by stop watch....with no spits given during the race...I finished somewhere around 41 minutes ( it wasn't a PR for me, and I can't remember my exact time.) My goal for official 5ks is always sub 40, but I still felt pretty good with this time. Awards were only given to First, Second, and Third place for the overall race...and then Jr. racers (14 and under). There was also a prize for best holiday dress....AND I WON! I couldn't believe it...I got a $10 gift card to a restaurant. There was also a drawing for everyone that brought a toy for the toy drive.

My coworker Abby also ran the race.

I was excited to see this on the organization's FB page.

Tommy took this when I got home!

I enjoyed this 5k and hope to run it again next year. Instead of feeling like a race it felt more like a really fun Saturday morning outdoor run...with a bit of swag :)

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas...

 I have had such a great weekend! Super busy, but such a great time. Tomorrow I plan to recap my 5k from Saturday! Today you get pictures of Christmas around the Hill House :)

Ho Ho Ho from Humphrey!

My Christmas decorations are now up. I had everything up except the big tree earlier in the week...but today my Neene, Mom, and MIL came over to join me and Tommy decorate the big tree. We had fun and hopefully this will be a yearly tradition...

Neene, Humphrey, and Mom

I just love the cozy feeling of my house during the holidays...

My Snow Village....My Grandmother has a small collection when I was a child. After she passed away my Mom got 4 of her houses and when I got married she gave them to me. Tommy has added to my collection each year.

A close up look...

I love my dishwasher magnet :) It almost makes loading the dishwasher more fun...not really!

I collect vintage Children's Christmas books.

An early Christmas gift...antique corner cabinet. I have been looking for just the right one for years and found it a couple of weeks ago while Tommy and I were out browsing. It was a great price, but with the end of the year bills, I just couldn't justify the purchase. I couldn't keep my mind off of it and was talking to my MIL about it...when out of the blue she said...let me get that for you for Christmas, I never know what to get you (in the five years Tommy and I have been married, she has always bought me cleaning items...steamer mop, vacuum, dustbuster, etc. lol). At first I was hesitant, but she insisted...when we called about it it was still there and they said they would hold it until we made it back over (it was in a shop over an hour away) when we went back they were having Christmas Open House and we got an additional 25% off! We got a great deal...and I LOVE IT!

I just love this snow globe!

When I added the deer to the tablescape Tommy wasn't so sure. Yesterday when we were out we saw deer on so many tables. Tommy said I was a trendsetter. Haha!

I bought this little tree at a yardsale  for a dollar this fall. It was missing a few bulbs, but Tommy was able to replace them. I love it!

Another shot of table and new cabinet.

This is my kitchen tree. You can 't see it well, but it is decorated with cookie cutters.

This is our Memories Tree. It is decorated with ornaments from our childhoods, ornaments the kids at the library have made/given me, and our dated ornaments we have collected since we started dating. We also have dated engagement, just married, and first house ornaments. I love just looking at all the fun ornaments on this tree.

This table is made from trees that were cut from Tommy's farm.

Our guest bed with Tommy's Childhood Pooh Bear and a Memory Bear made from one of my Dad's shirts.

Of course Humphrey has his own tree...

This Big Tree...

 I hope you guys will post some pictures of your Christmas decorations!

Five Things Friday

Yesterday was a bit wild...and before I knew it I was too tired to write up my 3 Things Thursday...so today you get a 5 Things Friday.

1. Please keep my niece Annalee (7) in your thoughts and prayers. Yesterday we found out that she has auto-immune disease (HSP). I have done a bit of research online along with the info her Mom gave me from the doctor, and it seems that if she can stay well the next six months, her long term prognosis is good. That is a great relief, but knowing that sweet girl is in pain just breaks my heart.

Here is Annalee last year after we finished Power of Pink 1 mile Fun Run!

2. I am really excited to be participating in Run With Jess's 12 Days of Fit Christmas Challenge! So excited that I got up this morning to get in a workout before work since I will be working late tonight. WOO!

3. On Black Friday, I got a great deal on a Mio Heart Rate monitor. I have been wanting one for awhile, but just didn't have the money...well Friday I found it on sale, had a coupon for additional off, and had an old gift card from last Christmas. I ended up spending only about $15 dollars. I am still trying to figure it all out. I used it this morning, but still need some additional practice...I found a video on youtube that I plan to watch this weekend for some extra instruction.

4. I really love winter, but I hate how dark it is so early! I am contemplating dropping my Tuesday night Zumba class for an extra day of running. I get off work at 5 and the class doesn't start until 7:00...ends at 8, and it is close to 9 before I am home at night. During the summer, 9 felt late...but not too bad. Now it feels like it might as well be midnight when I get home. If I were to run, I could be home by 7 at the latest. I am not sure....I will probably decide before the new year.

5. I have a holiday fun filled weekend, and I just can't wait! Tonight I am working late because the library is staying open for our holiday evening. We will be showing Polar Express for the kids, there will be a reading of the Christmas Carol, and then the town will have their Tree Lighting across the street in the park. Tomorrow I am planning to run a Candy Cane 5k (wish my luck on this cold weather run) and then going with a friend to a performance of the Live Christmas Tree. On Sunday, my Mom, Neene, and MIL are coming over to help us decorate the big tree. Too Much Fun! :) Hope you guys have a great weekend!

When Life Hands You Lemons

My gym posts great health articles on their facebook page each day. Earlier this week, they posted one about easy detox after the holidays that included drinking plenty of water with lemon. I drink quite a bit of water at work each day, and after reading that article I was really wishing I had some lemon with me to squeeze into my millionth glass of water for the day. I responded to the article on FB saying I wished I had a lemon at work. The next day, one of the sweet Moms that comes into the library brought me a lemon. It really made my day....simple kind gestures can mean so much! I smiled ear to eat (when I wasn't puckered from the lemon) the rest of the day.

I left work early today because I had a dentist appointment. Yay! No cavities! After leaving the dentist office a ran a few errands and got home in time to get a quick 35 minute run outside. *Shivers* it was cold...but a good run. I took a new route that included a killer hill. I made it about half way up before I had to stop to walk. I might have been able to make it all the way...but a car was coming my way and I slowed to a walk as I tried to move over to the grass.That hill is my new enemy and I will conquer. I am getting really excited about my 5k on December 17...just a big worried about the colder weather. Speaking of...do you guys have a brand of wicking under shirt that you recommend. I have a Champion and Nike....but the both seem to rise up a few minutes into my run. I blame the DDs a bit for this problem but wondered if any of you had any suggestions. I tried a bigger size shirt, but it still pulled up and was too big under the arms causing discomfort.

They Missed Me!

Last night when I walked into the gym, the manager ran over to me and said, "Where have you been?!!!" It was really nice to know that I was missed. I told her about the stomach virus...and then that I wasn't able to get to town (my gym is in the town I work in) while I was off work. (I didn't tell her that I cheat on my zumba instructors at the gym with a different instructors at the studio by my house when I am off work lol). After a bit of chit chat, I hit the treadmill. I knew I would need to take it a bit easy since I haven't ran in over a week. My last run was a nice outdoor run the night before the virus struck! I was able to hammer out a nice 5k+ some cool down walking on the treadmill. Last night was cold and rainy (they were predicting snow, but it didn't happen) and would not have been a good night for me to run outside, but I need to get outside for at least a couple of runs before the Rudolph Run on December 17. Maybe this weekend.

I'm Back!

Sorry I have been missing for almost two weeks! It started with one of the worst stomach viruses I have ever experienced. I woke up fine...went into work..and by 10 AM they had sent me home (after some horrific puking!) I had to make three stops on my way home from work (more puking!) and then clean the car when I got home before collapsing into bed! It really took it out of me! Then last week was my Thanksgiving cleaning and cooking Frenzy! I only made it to a formal workout once last week (Monday morning Zumba!), but there was lots of activity! Hopefully things are back to normal this week! I am back at work...so that is step one for normalcy! Can't wait to catch up with you guys!

Weekly Weigh In and Workout Summary

* This is late because Tommy and I were out of town this weekend. It was a wonderful weekend to completely unplug!

Today's Weight:  (no WI this week)

Last Week's Weight: 196

Previous Low Weight: 190

Weight Refection: 

Workout Summary:

Sunday: 0 minutes

 

 Monday: Total 45 minutes

 30 minutes Bootcamp

15 minutes cycling

Tuesday: Rest

 

Wednesday: Total 30 minutes

30 minutes - Outside powerwalk

 

Thursday: Total 85 minutes

25 minutes cycling

60 minutes Zumba

Friday: Total 60 minutes

60 minutes Zumba

Saturday: Total 0

Tommy and I did so much walking during our trip. I loved walking the old square and the historical streets.

 

Weekly Total:  (220 mins total)

 Work Out Reflection
Great week!

Work Out Goals for This Week:

At least 250 minutes

Three Things Thursday

1. As most of you know, I am a children's librarian. I have been working at the library in some capacity since I was 14 (volunteering). Well last night, I ran with one of my former "Story Time Kids." She found me on facebook a couple of years ago when I first got my account (several of my former "library kids" are now facebook friends and tons of Moms). She is now in her 20s, engages, and working on her associates degree in child development! She knew from FB that I ran, and so we decided to go out together. She is just starting out, so our plan was to walk one lap 1.25 miles, and the run/walk the second lap. Unfortunately, it got too dark and we didn't get to finish, but we have fun...and hopefully I have a new running buddy!

2. This week, That Tops Lady, has really kept me on track with my water. Each day we have msged each other on facebook as we finish our waters. It has been great! She is working so hard...and really inspiring me with her constant motivation!What's funny is I know TOPS from the library too! Her kids used to visit me at the library, too! But now she lives a million miles away! BOO!

3. This weekend, Tommy and I are going away for the weekend! Last Spring, we purchased an online deal for a night at a Bed and Breakfast about an hour and a half way. I have never stayed in a B&B or visited this town. I also reserved our stay for the town's Annual Host of Christmas Past Festival. I am super excited! I am not sure what all to expect. But I am excited!

Book Camp Kicked my Butt!

Photo from :http://www.searchamelia.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/boot-camp-club-14.jpg

 

OH MY WORD!!! I was not ready for boot camp. This class was hard core...and unfortunately, I am not ready for it yet! I think I will try to attend once a month as a way to check my fitness progress, but it will not go into the regular rotation.

The class lasted 1 hour. I lasted 30 minutes exactly. It was a full body workout in circuits (2 rotation of 5 moves in 30 second intervals)...no stopping. I did fine with the cardio parts, but the floor exercises killed me. As we started our 4th circuit I started to feel woozy...when I stood up from the floor exercises, I started to feel the room spin and blackness coming in on me. I thought I could step to the back grab some water and start again, but I really thought I might pass out...so I quietly picked up my mat and headed out. I grabbed some more water and walked around the gym do get my heart rate down...and then headed to the car.

I had done 15 minutes of cycling prior to the class starting, so I was still able to get in a good 45 minute workout. I am a little down about not being able to complete the class. Part of me want to attempt it again next week, but part of me wants to just run on Mondays. But for now, I think I will keep it a once a month class.

FMFFC Results!

Deb-435 minutes! WooHoo Deb! She made a come back this week!!!
Jess- 260 (that's me!)
Tops Lady- 252 minutes!! And she had her 7th week of losses! Awesome job!



*Because participation in this challenge has dropped so much, this will be our last week of FMFFC! We may start back up after the holidays if there is enough interest. I will continue to type of my week in review on Sundays and would love to continue to hear how your exercise routines are going too!

Weekly Weigh in and Workout Summary

Today's Weight:No196

Last Week's Weight: 195.5 Change:+.5

Previous Low Weight: 190

Weight Refection: 

I am up again this week, but I know I did the right things...so moving on.

Workout Summary:

Sunday: 30 minutes

30 minutes walk/hike

Monday: Total 30 minutes

  30 minutes walk

Tuesday: Total 130 minutes

  30minute Elliptical

 40 minutes cycling

  60 minutes Zumba

 

Wednesday: Total 30 minutes

30 minutes - treadmill (5 walking-20 job-5 walking)

 

Thursday: Total 70 minutes

10 minutes walking

60 minutes Zumba

Friday: REST

Saturday: Total 0

I did a ton of walking, but it was during shopping so it doesn't count for challenge.

 

Weekly Total:  (260 mins total)

 Work Out Reflection
Great week!

Work Out Goals for This Week:

Survive Bootcamp on Monday :)

*If you are taking part in the Friends Make Fitness Fun Challenge this week, be sure to comment on my blog so I won't miss you :)

Boot Camp Questions

So my gym is going to start offering boot camp classes next week. I know that some of you have taken boot camp type classes before, so can you give me a bit of a heads up as to what I should expect?  I am a bit nervous, but plan to try it out on Monday. A few other girls from the Zumba class have also agreed to give it a shot.  If I like it, I will hopefully continue to take the class once per week...and slow down Zumba to only twice a week in hopes of still getting in three good run each week. I usually don't do well taking classes and running (I learned this during the 30 day challenge). I would start my workout with my run, and about half way through my class I started to feel shaky. So now it is just moderate walking and cycling on class days.

Tomorrow I am going window shopping in a cute little downtown area with my Neene and Mom. I am really excited about this! It should be a fun morning. And tomorrow night Tommy and I will be glued to the television for the Bama v LSU game. Roll Tide!

Three Things Thursday...

1. Have I told you guys that I am running a 5k with one of my best friends in December? Dick and I have been friends for a million year...and I walked my first 5k with him about 2 years ago! He is living in Portland now, but will be back in Bama for the holidays. He found us a fun Holiday themed 5k in a nearby city, and I just can't wait! This will be my first cold weather race, so it will definitely be something new and different for me! I have also found a New Year's Eve race that I am thinking about doing. I want do do a little more research on the race before I commit to it.

2.  This week I have really been focusing on food. My focus has been as much on what I haven't ate (or treats I have turned down) as what I have.  Tuesday was insane! I turned down a cupcake, tons of candy, butter cookies (one of my favorite holiday treats), and popcorn. As we head into the holiday season, I am going to limit myself to one treat a week!

3.  Question! What is your must have winter gear?

New Shoes

I am super excited about my new running shoes. I chose Adidas Marathon 10 for my new running shoes. I didn't get fitted for these shoes like I did my last pair, but I did do some research, and did a quick jog in them before paying lol! I have only done one run in them so far...a nice two miles last Monday. I am breaking them in slowly and hope to rotate these in as "run only" shoes. Doing Zumba 2+ times a week, did a number on my old shoes, so NO Zumba in these. I will have 3 pairs of shoes in my rotation now...(tossing out a pair)...these for running, my Brooks for walking, elliptical, biking...and the Saucony Pro Grids (former running) will now be exclusively Zumba. For Christmas, I would love to buy a pair of actual dance/aerobics shoes for Zumba.

How many pairs of shoes to you have in your exercise rotation? What are your favorite brands/styles?

FMFF Results!

Tops Lady- 332 minutes!!  And she had another great loss this week! Great job AMY! You are my inspiration these days!


BH-120

Jess- 60 (that's me)

Deb-
Joy- 
Rusti-


If I didn't see your total minutes, comment here and let me know! I will edit the post to add them! I think several of us had crazy weeks last week! This week will be better!

Congrats to all of you that finished the 31 Day Challenge!

Weekly WI and Workout summary

Today's Weight:No Weigh-In- 195.5

Last Week's Weight: 193.5 Change:+2

Previous Low Weight: 190

Weight Refection: 

I am up this week. It is a result of too much food and not enough exercise.

Workout Summary:

Sunday: 30 minutes

30 minutes walk/hike

Monday: Total 30 minutes

30m treadmill run

Tuesday: Total 0 minutes

 

Wednesday: Total 0 minutes

 

Thursday 0 minutes

Friday: 0 minutes

Saturday: Total 0 minutes

 

Weekly Total:  (60 mins)

There was some exercise this week, but it didn't fit into the challenge requirements. Mostly walking with friends that wasn't fast enough to get my HR up. This was a busy week. I knew going in that it would be wild, and I should have made a better effort to get to the gym in the mornings. But now it is time to move on...this is a new week...that will include better eating and more exercise.

FMFF Challenge Results!

BH-570 minutes! That is 9.5 hours! I think this is the most minutes anyone has had in this challenge!

Jess- 425 (that's me)

 Deb-408 minutes!  Great job as usual!

Joy-  270 minutes!Way to go Joy!

Tops Lady- 246 minutes!!  Keep up the great work!

Rusti- Looking forward to seeing your minutes next week!

If I forgot anyone this week, I am sorry! Just send me an email and I will add your totals! Great job ladies!


And I think a few of you have earned this, too!!!

Weekly Weigh In and Workout Summary

Today's Weight:No Weigh-In

Last Week's Weight: 193.5 Change:0

Previous Low Weight: 190

Weight Refection: 

Tommy and I went on a little day trip today and I was in a bit of a rush this morning and didn't weigh (this is also the reason I am posting so late.) 

Workout Summary:

Sunday: 30 minutes

30 minutes walk/hike

Monday: Total 90 minutes

  75 minutes Zumba

15 minutes walk

Tuesday: Total 90 minutes

  30minute treadmill

  60 minutes Zumba

 

Wednesday: Total 50 minutes

50 minutes - treadmill (Cupcake classic + cool down)

 

Thursday: Rest - Tommy and I won tickets to see the re-release of Ghost Busters. This is one Tommy's favorite movies (I had not seen it!). Life Happens :) Zumba can wait :) and we had a blast! :)

Friday: REST

Saturday: Total 165 minutes

3 hour Zumba-thon to support breast cancer awareness!n  We took 3 5 minute breaks! This was awesome...I could barely move that night! haha! And I had awful blisters. I would do it again in a heart beat! :)

 

Weekly Total:  (425 mins)

 Work Out Reflection
Great week with the Cupcake Classic and Zumbathon :)

Work Out Goals for This Week:

5 workouts of at least 30 minutes....Wild week at the library and I will miss both Tuesday and Thursday Zumba classes :( I will need to get in some morning workouts to keep up my totals.

*If you are taking part in the Friends Make Fitness Fun Challenge this week, be sure to comment on my blog so I won't miss you :)

Three Things Thursday

1. I am going to miss my next 3 regular Zumba classes! BOO!!! Work next week will be insane, but I am hoping to make it to the gym even if it is before/after zumba.  But I do plan to do a 3 hour Zumba-thon on Saturday :)  I am really excited about it! Have any of you done a Zumba-thon? Any suggestions...I think I will definitely take both water and juice for a pick me up!

2. I didn't get any info back on the water zumba class that I was hoping to take Monday while I was off work, but I did visit a new Zumba studio and got in a great workout! The next day, that Studio was our local deal of the day, so I bought a 5 class pass for $12...can't beat it!

3.  Yesterday, I really enjoyed the cupcake after the Cupcake Classic Virtual 5k! I am so glad that I decided to go purchase one cupcake instead of baking a pan at home....I think I would have devoured the whole pan post run :)

The Cupcake Classic

Today I participated in the Cupcake Classic to celebrate Jess's 37th birthday. The premise of the virtual race was awesome....run 3.7 miles and then celebrate with a cupcake. I looked forward to this run all day.  I was a bit nervous about it because my knee has been acting a bit wonky lately, but I figured if it started to bother me too much I could finish the race by walking. As soon as I got off work I stopped my the local cupcake shop.

This was my second time to visit the cupcake shop, but my first time to buy a cupcake.  There were so many yummy cupcakes to choose from.

I chose a pink champagne cupcake...because it was so cute.

After picking out my cupcake I drove over to the gym. I had originally planned to run the Cupcake Classic outside, but it was soo cold today and raining a bit, and I didn't have the proper attire. This is my before picture.

The run went great...I was able to stay between 4.3 - 5.5 the entire time. I also almost broke my 2 mile PR (this has really inspired me to start working towards this goal again). I finished the 3.7 mile in 45:28 and was super stoked with this time.

This picture is gross! LOL I couldn't wait to get back to my car and eat my cupcake!!

And it was delicious!!! Thanks so much to Jess for organizing this super fun run!! I hope you have an amazing Birthday!!!

FMFF Results!

Deb-485 minutes! Girl you are a machine!!! You are rocking all of your challenges and I am soo proud of you!!!  (Be sure to gran the graphic up top for your blog!!!)

Tops Lady-388 minutes!!  Tops you are doing great!!! Did you realize you worked our over 3 hrs more than the week before?!! I have to brag a minute on Tops! She also just completed a 119 day fast from soda, fast food, and dessert! So, so proud of you!!!

Jess- 238 (that's me)


BH-230 minutes! BH's son had surgery this week...and she still managed some great workouts!! Way to go!

Joy-  223 minutes!  I have said it before and I will say it again! I love this lady! What a great friend and motivator! Joy is still dealing with injuries and she has a series on her blog right now about dealing with injuries and staying focused!


Rusti 60 minutes!  Every bit of exercise counts and Rusti is getting it in when she can and that is awesome! Keep going Rusti!



So proud of all of you!!! Let's do even more next week!

Weekly Weigh In and Workout Summary

Today's Weight: 193.5

Last Week's Weight: 193.5 Change:0

Previous Low Weight: 190

Weight Refection: 

The same.


Workout Summary:

Sunday: 20 minutes

20 minutes jogging/walking

Monday: Total 48 minutes

  30 minutes treadmill

18 minutes cycling

Tuesday: Total 60 minutes  (worked late- didn't get long workout)

15 minute treadmill

45 minutes Zumba

 

Wednesday: Total 20 minutes

20 minutes jog + escape of the jogging pup

 

Thursday: 90 mins

 10 cycling

20 mins Treadmill

60 min Zumba class 

Friday: REST

Saturday: REST

 

Weekly Total:  (238 mins)

 Work Out Reflection
Tuesday I had to work late so I missed my long workout...but still got it a good workout that night instead of going straight home after work.  Thursday night during Zumba my knee started bothering me. It felt a bit off during my run that night, so I decided to take two rest days. It is feeling much better today so I am hoping to get in a great workout this afternoon.

Work Out Goals for This Week:

I have two later nights at the library this week so my goal is to get to the gym on those days for a workout. On days I work late, it is so easy to just want to go home!

*If you are taking part in the Friends Make Fitness Fun Challenge this week, be sure to comment on my blog so I won't miss you :)

Three Things Thursday

1. Last night I planned to run outside by myself. Humphrey, however, had other plans and broke through his outdoor barrier to join me on my run! And then ran right past me...off leash of course since I didn't plan on him joining the run. Scared me to death when he ran into traffic. I guess he was trying to tell me that he needs to go on more runs! (His current leash rubs a blister on my hand when I run with him. no problems on walks...do they make specific running leashes?) I finally caught him and walked him back home. By that time my heart was pounding from being scared and my nice long run ended up being a short one mile (for the challenge)...and it was awful...couldn't get my breathing right.
Speaking of Humphrey....he is going to be a a bumble bee for Halloween!

How do I look Mom?

Yeah...I make a pretty cute bumblebee!

2.  When I leave work this afternoon I will begin an awesome 4-day weekend! I am excited! Hoping to catch a water zumba class on Monday morning. Nothing else really planned...which I love!

3.  Remember the contest I mentioned last week. On Anytimehealth.com? I WON!!! Super excited!! The prize money will definitely help out with Christmas! Or rather the end of the year bills...property taxes, home owners insurance, car insurance...I just hate how it all hits at once! I mean, I know it is coming...but I am never prepared!

Looking Back, Looking Ahead

Sometimes when the scale stalls, it is easy to forget all the progress you have made. During the past two years, I have only lost about 10 pounds...and they were hard earned! But I can't forget my total progress. Of course I want to keep moving forward. I will keep moving forward...even if the progress is slow...it is happening!

2008 - I remember thinking this was a great picture!

This summer- I wasn't thrilled when I saw this picture the first time.

Even though the scale hasn't changed much, I do notice changes in my body. I am stronger and my endurance improves everyday!

Day 10

Can you believe we are on our 10th day of this challenge? CRAZY!  I wasn't sure when Big Clyde would get a chance to post today, so I wanted to make your Day 10 Badge available to all of you working so hard! Keep up the great work. We are 1/3 of the way there! Your next badge will be at day 15!  Last night, I had the best run. The weather was perfect...and it just felt so good to be alive and moving...putting one foot in front of the other!

I am going to head out of work a bit early today. My first stop will be the gym (I think I will run to Alanis tonight) and then I need to do my weekly grocery shopping. I know there are many people that like grocery shopping, but not me. I used to like it better, but money is soo tight right now. I don't get to pick new things to try...just keep to the essentials. But things will get better...and I know they could be worse.

Have a good week y'all!