10 races in!!

I crossed a milestone this morning! I have now officially ran 9 5k's and 1 10k race! Since April I might add. That's an average of 2 races per month!! This one was extra special, as it benefited Niagara Hospice. They took such amazing care of us and my step father when he passed quickly from cancer 2 years ago. He is missed dearly everyday. 

SO I finished in 38:45 - which isn't a PR, BUT after BARLEY running for the past 6 weeks, I was pretty impressed when I turned that corner and saw 38 on the time clock! It was a nice course, that ran through 4 mile state park, in Youngstown, NY. It was nice to run by the all the families camping for the weekend and cheering you on. My heel is a bit sore after, but not unbearable. My mom actually walked the race with a good family friend of ours and both won medals for their age group! Mom finished in 57 something and karen in 1 hr 3 mins! Congrats to both of them too. We didn't get pictures (bummer) the best part of the whole thing was Colin (my 3 year old) running up and grabbing my hand just before the finish line and running with me. He was so cute and SO excited to run with mommy!! 

Tomorrow is yet another busy day. Apple picking with friends!! Ready for some fall fun! 

Another Run in

Skipped the rest of week 5 yesterday and moved right into week 6 day 1. It consists of


1 5 min run
walk
1 8 min run
walk
1 5 run
The first did I did w/o much problem, the second 5 min really killed me. I really think I need to redo the course I take, it's all uphill the last part, and I know that plays a huge factor in why I had trouble with the last part. Trying to find a route however near me that isn't uphill is hard to do! On top of running 2.5+ miles yesterday, I got a decent strenght training session in as well.
I am loving this fall weather and hoping to get a good run in tonight as well. I am hoping this has me back on track! I am feel ing better just thinking about doing it. I've been tracking my food today as well, which is something that I havent done in a few months. I am hoping this is the push I need to see results. I am actually looking forward to weigh in on wed!

Back to Basics

Starting over again. Back to simplicity. Yesterday I RAN. It's been just about 4 weeks since I've ran, and hurt my heel. I wanted to give it some time to heal, and while doing so, built up this horrible mental block,, that I just could NOT get past. It was killing me. So much so, that I figured if I can't run, why bother doing anything? THEN I noticed I was giving into EVERY craving I possibly could. I kept saying if I am not working out, why bother eating right (yea, I know dumb, dumb). THEN we went camping last weekend. We got home from camping and I weighed in at 250 WTF????? When we left for Colorado a month ago i was at 237!!!. Well on Offical weigh in day, I was at 242.4, which was only a 2 lb gain while on the camping trip. NOt too bad, and I am sure alot of water retention. And I was dehydrated. SO.. 3 days this week, Sitting at work I get all this motovation to go run. I know I need to just GO! Well, I can't when I sitting at work. So 5 hours later, I get the kids, make dinner, transport to cheer, go though school paperwork, get bathes done, bedtime done, it's now 9:30pm. Yep, no run for me. Nor do I want to go to the gym that late. So what do I do? Yep, sit there with a huge bowl of ice cream and wallow in my own pity. *sigh*

Yesterday I had enough. I NEED to do something. I've been lucky that in the month that I haven't been doing much that I only gained 5 lbs. But I know that 5 will turn into 25 very easily. It was a perfect evening. Got the kids, made dinner, ate, and handed over the kids to hubby and left. Got my running gear on, grabed my Ipod and went directly to the C25K program. What better way to get back into the swing of things. I jumped right in at Week 5 day 1. (3) 5 minute runs seperate by (2) 3 mintue walks. It was perfect. The one was patheticly easy. The second was hard, but I did it. The last was a killer, but I pushed and kept on going. I ended up coving 2.48 miles in the 34 mintues that I was gone. I was impressed. I am going to continue to use the C25K program until I am more comfortable out there again.I am determinded to get past this mental block. Having someone telling me what to do will hopefully help that. I didn't have any heel pain while I was running, but had some later that night and a ton this morning, Nothing that some motrin wasn't able to help me with. I'll live. I can walk, thats how I judge it. So this is my back to basics plan.
I will contiue to run at least 3x's per week, if not every other day.
I will start tracking my goals again.
I will start tracking my food again
I will start tracking my fitness again.
And the most important I will be mentally ready to run this race on the 25th and kick some butt for cancer and Hospice! I have a goal to work towards and darn it, I am going to do it!

Give a Way

Ever wanted a fuel belt?? I know I've considered it. Well ~  Running Diva Mom is giving one away HERE - Check it out and enter! I personally would love the Kiwi Green/Black H20 belt! Good Luck!!

Weigh In

So I'll start by saying TOM is visiting. And I didn't try worth of crap to lose weight this week. Seriously I didn't. Sure I've watched what I've ate, but I also gave into each and every craving there was. I've been pretty laxed about my workout's too. It's been HOT here. 90+. I've done the trail a couple of time and I did one day of strength. That is IT. Pathetic I know. I haven't ran in almost 3 weeks, I am still fighting the mental block. However I still managed to lose 1lb! What the heck is up with that?? I am super thrilled to be back to 240, but quite suprised since I was all preped to see a 243 on that scale today.
I can't figure out what is going on with me. Maybe becuase I really can't even remember the last time I was smaller then 237, so my mind is content to stay where I am at? I am proud to have lost 30 lbs so I don't feel like I need to push anymore? I dont' know, but I don't know what has got me to this point where I am so stuck and lacking motovation. I need to get back to basics. I know ALOT of it has to do with how busy our schedule got the month of August. No I not using that as an excuse, but has become near impossible to make it to the gym during the week and working out at home at 9 at night, well personally I'd reather sleep! So yea, not doing so hot. I am glad I lost that one lb. I have no idea what I did to deserve it though. I have the SPARK book. I am going to go back to reading it. I am determinded in Sept to get my A$$ back in gear. To do good again and lose a good 3 lbs by the end of the month. And RUN darn it! Break the mental block Kym. I will, I just need to DO IT! My next race is the 25th and darn it, I will run at least 6 times before then. It's a small goal, but you know what I am going to make it a spark streak so I hold my self accouintable. It's what i need to push the block away!
In other news, we are going on a family camping trip this coming weekend! 3 days! We've NEVER taken the kids camping ever. I am excited and nervous about how it will turn out, but super excited at all the activies that are planned too!

Better Day Today

Morning!! (on my way to work this morning)

So after feeling so horrible yesterday, after hubby got home from work, I lugged my bike into the back seat of the van and took off to a new bike trail about 5 miles from my house. This trail has been in the works for 10 yes, 10 years now and just opened 2 months ago. It runs through the woods in the deep suburbs by us and you can spot tons of wildlife at times. A friend of mine has seen 3 turkeys and our fox friend already (we have quite a few fox around). The kids were INSANE yesterday, like someone gave them an IV of red dye, so I was thankful to get the heck out of there!
I wasn't able to do the whole trail, since it was 7:20 when I arrived, and I was alone, I didn't want to ride after dark. It's scary even if you are close to home and know the area. The path is 4 miles long one way, and I decided I would ride to the 2.5 mile mark then turn around to get a good 5 mile ride in. I did just that,stopping a few times for pictures and water breaks and made it back to my car at 7:53, just as it was starting to get dark. It was so calming and relaxing and it was a perfect, not humid evening. The trail turns out is RIGHT around the block from where Courtneys cheer practice is. I could hear the girls yelling from where my car was parked (courtney didn't have practice last night, but other teams did) SO on the nights that hubby is home when it's time to leave for practice (which are FEW) I am going to drop her off, go run/walk or ride the trail and be done in time to get her 2 hours later. It will be so much easier then driving 20 mins to the gym and being stuck inside when our summer months are already so short.

My original goal, as I mentioned yestrerday was to run. For some reason, I am having a running mental block. I am scared. What is UP with that??? I think it's becuase I am SO afarid of hurting my heel more and not being able to walk after that I am blocking the running from happening. I need to work through this. I know I can and will, but mental blocks are MUCH harder to climb then pysical ones sometimes. Yes my heel is healing (LOL) but still have some problems with it. I can't soley bear any weight on just that foot w/o pain. Trying to balance in the shower on just that foot to shave the opposite leg is hard, and I feel the pain a ton then. I am going to have to go the pharmacy and see if they have any type of braces for your heels (???) that I can wear for the extra support.

Here are some trail pictures. Cell phone camera of course, so they are blurry.

When I got home yesterday, I thought I would do some shopping in my closet to see what bottoms were fitting. I was able to get into a pair of 22 jeans that I haven't fit into in 2 years. They are a wide leg and I love them! I am wearning them today.... Hang on I'll go get a picture.

Ok, so while trying on pants, I can't understand why clothes fit SO different. Why I button up a size 18 but not a 22?? Seriously yes, I was able to ZIPPER and BUTTON my goal jeans (Thanks BECKY!!) However there is NO way I could wear them in public yet, I had about 20 lbs of fat hanging over the top of them, but hey I zippered em right?? But yet a pair of black curdoury pants in a 22 I couldn't even get to BUTTON let a long ZIP! Geez! I am excited to eventually get into a 20 and 18, because I have SO many jeans in these sizes. I was an 18/20 forever until 3 years ago when I ballooned to where I am/was 8 months ago. I am slowly surely making my way there. Yes I've lost 30 lbs. But not much of that was from my waist belly area. Figures huh???
Ok, enough for now. Happy Hump day

Weigh In

Yet another gain. It is what it is. It's a small one, only about 4-5 ounces, but I am doing it to myself. I can't figure out why i can't get myself back into this. Is it really THAT easy to fall out of habit and things you know you really enjoy?? Seriously?
This time of year is just a challange in itself for me. It's getting close to back to school time. We have cheer practice every night from 6-8 (I get home from work at 5:15) and my hubby typicaly works long days and doens't get home until 7 or later. This makes it very hard to get the gym (my guys with sensory issues don't handle the day care part of the gym, or I'd take them with) once things get settled down it's after 9- the gym is open until 10:30, and once upon a time that is when I went. NOW I can't bring myself to do that when at 9pm all i really want to do is sleep!! I haven't ran since the race after vacation and my heal injury, which is still acting up. I did get to do some ST last night and minor cardio, but had to really PUSH to finish it. To get back on track, I know I need to start running again. It's what I really enjoy doing the most (outside of strength) and gives me my time alone. I am going back to basics. I am going to go back to the C25K program. start around week 4. I know I dont' HAVE to do this. I've run 9 races in 5 months time. BUT i feel like I need to start back up slow and really baby this heel of mine. My next race isn't until 09/25, and although I keep thinking I need to pick up one here and there, I am not going to. I am going to use my program, use the tools I've found over this 8 month journey and work my hardest. I am going to get past this. If it takes a month, fine. If It takes a week fine. I just know that I've come this far, and I can keep going. I WILL keep going. Just need to get back to the basics

Hidden Pictures

So the idiot that I am, had no idea that professional photographers actual shoot most of the races that I run in. The site that I pull all my race info from, I just go to the site, and skip directly to either, race schedules or results. well it's AWFULY slow at work here today, so while browsing the site, I found a link for pictures..... Hm.... Click. 2 of the 9 races I have done are listed. ok..... Click on them. Ah Ha! Who knew I was being shot! LOL Not I! They are HORRIBLE pictures. next time I know to not look so worn out when I crossing the finish line. So here are a couple from the 2 races I found on the site.

This is the St. John Vianny Run ON thursday the 22nd. It was an evening one and I didn't do so well. This was the race I decided that I like morning runs MUCH better! Caden actually made it into this shot as well!

Another SJV one.

And here is the most discusting picture I have EVER seen of myself. I am only posting here, no where else. it's horrible. this is my last race. Last Weekend, where I hurt my ankle and had only been home from vacation for 2 days. I'd gained 5 lbs and the humidity was about 91% and the temps in the 80's. it was just plain gross out and yes, I felt as HORRIBLE as I looked in this picture.

and there ya have it. Me at the Mississippi Mudds 5K.

So in other news, I now know I did the right thing by taking about 4 days off from everything. My heel is doing SO Much better. thank you all for the well wishes for it as well! I did get to the gym 2 nights ago, did some weights (upper body only) then took Becky's advice and did about 25 mins on the Stationary Bike. it as a good 25 mins and I had quite the sweat working there! I took last night off again, and hope to get back out there tonight, if not for sure Sunday (out of town for the day tomorrow) All in all though, I am glad I took the time to get better. Each day I feel more and more better and am walking w/o even limping now! Hopefully i'll wake up tomorrow and be fine!

My first TOO big shirt!

I am SO pathetically excited! I found a shirt that is not only too big, but WAY to big. Like I can't even get away with wearing it without looking a slob!! I am SO excited, can you tell???  

30 lbs lost, pictures, drama and HRM

Wow do I have alot to share, Sorry if this ends up long.

First of all, Today I WI in 2 lbs lighter at 237.6, I NEVER lose 2 lbs in a week, so this is huge for me. That 2 lbs brought me to a new milestone of 30lbs lost. I am SO excited. And even more excited becuase I get to justify the pedicure that I have scheduled for Friday! LOL I scheduled it yesterday beucase I really wanted to get it done before we leave for Colorado, BUT I also didn't think being the same weight for over a month that it would happen, so I went ahead and booked it and just did the reward early. Now i don't feel quilty at ALL!! yay !!
I was also leary about WI today becuase there has been alot of family drama going on this week. My brother is now an estranged family member and no longer welcome in my home. It's sad yes, however it's for the best. I learned after dealing with PPD that you have to rid yourself of toxic people in your life in order to be happy and healthy. He in the end along with his girlfriend and her family were very toxic to me. In the past 3 days I have been called many things, told I need to grow the F*** up, that I was a spolid selfish bitch and inconsiderate to others (not even by my brother, but his girlfriend???!!!) . that hurt. So much so that I found myself second guessing it for a second. I spend alot of time crying, and feeling bad that I was taking my children away from their uncle and godfather, but in the end, I also relalized that they haven't seen or heard from him in over 7 months, so it's not really hurting them. And when they do hear from him, it's not even positive, it's negative and hurtful. So I think this is the best possible outcome of the whole thing. I have family, my mom and dad, Mike's family and a TON of friends who loves us and my children, and that means more to me then any negative person being around can. So needless to say, I am THRILLED for the weightloss considering all the stress and (extra bowls of ice cream) that have been involved in the past 4 days.
So this past weekend as you know I had to yet again go dress shopping (guh!!) My dear friend put these 2 pictures side/side for me to compare and show off, since I for some dumb Reason can NOT figure out how to do it by myself yep!! (DOH!) SO here you go.

The picture on the left is from a wedding last July 267 lbs. the one of the right is from this week, 28lbs down at 239. Although I am not nearly where I wanted to be by now, I am quite proud of how far I've come!
Also!! I am a frequent shopper of onesaleaday. if you have never visited this site be sure to do so! www.onesaleaday.com I've been wanting a heart rate monitor for quite some time now. We just don't have the extra money in our budget to justify it. So today, as I was making my morning rounds for my deal web site, I found the Bowflex HRM on sale for $17.99 from $199.99!!! I HAD to order it!

Who knows if this is the right type to buy or not, who cares? it was only $20!! Here are the details on it,

Easy-to-use fitness watch for aerobic activities

Lightweight and comfortable changeable battery chest belt

Accurate continuous heart rate

Sleek and comfortable design for a good fit on the wrist

ECG heart rate

Counts calories and fat burned during workouts

Programmable heart rate zone with a high and low alarms

% of Max heart rate

High and low target zones w/ alarm

% of average, maximum and minimum heart rate

Stopwatch

Time, Calendar, Alarm

User menu

Personal profile

Chronograph

Memory

Night Vision

Countdown timer

Pacer

Water-resistant
Looks good enough to accomplish what I'll use for for now anyway!! can't wait to get it.

Ok, I think that's it for now. Sorry for the lenght. How is everyone else doing today??

The dress I got.

Races

2 races in 3 days this past week. Needless to say I've been busy! Thursday I had a kickoff run for St. John Vianney. I thought I had finished in 40:03, when viewing the results today though, turns out my official time was 39:53, hey 10 seconds is 10 seconds! 

So here I am before the Race. 
 

And here I am coming up to the finish line. We forgot to put the memory card in the camera so we ran out of memory for any other pictures! DUH!! 
 

Then on Saturday I ran the Crabapple 5K right down the road from my house~ I was excited about this one, since most of the course is what I run when I go running 4 miles on my own, so that was nice! It was SO hot and humid though. When we woke up at 8am it was already 79 out and humidity was sky high. I had Sweat pouring down before I even started running! 
 
 
Taking off 
 
Almost there! 

This is a horrible picture, but I was laughing SO hard. The boys were cheering me on at the finish line, must have been saying Go Mommy, and the guy with the speaker phone said "BRING IT HOME MOMMY!" I was cracking up! 
 
 
 
Mike tried to get my crossing the finish line. he was close 
My final time was 38:44, much better then 2 days before. 

And here is Colin enjoying the free Subway Subs and popcorn after wards!

In 11 days Hubby & I (sans kids) hop on a plane to fly across the country to celebrate his best frieds wedding in Denver, Colorado. I am SO excited for this trip, I can't contain it! :-) Some of you may remember that there was a specific dress that I Really wanted to be able to get into for this wedding. I bought it 4 years ago and never wore it. When I pulled it out in the begining of June to try it on, I could barley get it on, let alone zip it. I had a super strong fitness plan to make it work by August 1st. Although I wasn't able to stick with that plan (jillian Michaels hurts my knees WAY too much) I did get a good strengh routine from a trainer at the gym and continue to run races and do cardio as well. I am happy with how I am working out. Funny part is during this time, I have lost NOTHING! I've gained a pound and lost a few ounces, only to gain them all back again. So be it. I've learned early on that I am a VERY slow looser. Well yesterday, being short of 2 weeks before the wedding, I figured I better try on that dress. Well let's just say I won't be wearing it to the wedding, BUT I was able to get it on, and ZIPPED! Until the boobs came into play. I have lost NOTHING here. And it seems to be my problem! LOL It fits over waist, and hips, but can't zipper it over my chest. *sigh* I am PROUD regardless that altough in the 6 weeks I've lost no weight I was able to get in that dress, that was NOt even close to being able to do so before. So that makes me feel better.

So I did still end up having to go dress shopping yesterday. I had no one to go with, so I had to go alone, which is not easy. you always need another pair of eyes. First two store were horrible. I couldn't find anything and when I did, I felt like a blimp. The last store (Dress Barn, which I should have just went to first off) I found a couple. I've never shopped at a store where the sales staff is so willing to help. I was torn between 2, so had to go out and model them both (since I was ALONE!) to get an opinion. I ended up buying one and even got some earrings to go with it as well. I'll have to take pictures of it later to show you.
I also had a converstation yesterday about weight. It was intersting. When I was younger, I always thought I was HUGE. I've again, always been heavy, but after looking at pictures, when I thought I was really big, I wasn't nearly as big as I thought I was. Now however I am. It's horribly sad that body imagine means so much to us at that young age. Its sad to think that so many years are wasted thinking horrible thoughts about yourslef, only to look back at those years now and WISH you could look like that it. Society makes us think this way and it's sad.

Oh here's a HORRIBLE cell phone picture of the dress. it does it no justice and you can't even see the color or detail! But it's something until I get home later!

Tonight we are going on a late night boat ride (cataraman) with my dad and his wife, and some other friends.

(horrible picture, had to find it online) But it's something we do every year at this time. We have the last sailing time from 8:15pm to 10:15pm. NO kids again, they'll be home with the sitter! Food and drink are included. I am really looking forward to it!!

Here's the thing

Iam SO freaking TIRED!! I can not even begin to tell you how much I just want to sleep. SO much so that I am very heavily considering skipping the gym tonight to vege out at home, do nothing and get to bed at a reasonable hour. I hate feeling like this. The worst part is that tomorrow is weigh in day. I have NO weighted myself or peeked at all, which is for the best, since I am feeling WAY off and bloated and I have been WAY WAY off on my food. It's my own fault I know. I feel like if I take off tonight and relax, I am making an already bad weigh in, even worse, But If I go, I am pushing myself to do things that I know I need a break from. At this point, I know I've gained in the past week, as i have no choice but to take that, I also think I am ok with it. I am too tired to care otherwise. I ran 4 miles friday. Spent all day Saturday running after 2 toddlers at an amusement park, Went for a 4 mile bike ride on Sunday and did 30 min and 30 min ST last night. It's not like I am sitting here doing nothing. I am! But being so tired, also lets my guard down when it comes to food. I eat, becuase I am tired. I've ate way to much today and can't wait to get home and get on PJ's.


I am sorry this is such a debbie downer blog, but I am just wiped. Working full time, not getting to bed until well after 11. Chasing 2 toddlers all over, not just during the day, but in the middle of the night as well, must have caught up with me. I am tired. I need a break. And I am writing this to hold myself accountable for the weigh in that will be a gain tomorrow.

Making the choice NOW to go home after work today and not go to the gym. I am making the choice to take care of me right now, even if that is only in mentality mode and not physical!

Oatmeal pancakes & Race today!

I've never like oatmeal. I've tried many many times to eat it and just can't do it. I have NO idea if it's the texture or what, but it just doesn't work for me. I read a couple weeks back on a spark blog, (NO idea what one, sorry!) About making oatmeal pancakes. Simple ones at that! I thought what the heck?? It doesn't hurt to try and see if I like it! And I do!! I just use one instant packet of quaker oatmeal ( I like maple/brown sugar for flavor) One whole egg and one egg white, mix it together, pour into pan and proceed as if making regular pancakes! One of these is more then enough and plenty filling. the original recipie called for 2 whole eggs, but I couldn't justify the calories and fat in that 2nd whole egg, so I used just the white of the 2nd one. I also tried it with just one egg and a couple tablespoons of water, but It stuck to the pan and really didn't hold very well, so I suggest using the egg rather than water. I also use a little bit (maybe 1-2 tbsp) of light reduced calorie syrup. I can't do the dry thing, just me being weird.

here's a picture of it, of course after I started eating it already! It looks like a ton of syrup is on there, there really isn't. I think it's the glare of the bright lights at work. :-)
Nutrition Info of my version:
Cals 302 (this was 252, but the syrup brings it higher)
Carbs 44
Fat 4
Protein 14
Tonight is also the Subaru 4 Mile Chase Race. I am not sure how i feel about this yet. I've BARLEY ran at all since the 10K. The temps have been in the 90's and the humidity is insane and I just can't run in that. I've been working out. We've been bike riding ALOT. I do the elliptical almost daily, so it's not like I've done nothing, but not a full out run. I did run on the treadmill the other day at the gym and HATED it. I HATE running on the treadmill. funny since that is where I started at! So again, the temps are cooler today, thankfully (84 if that's cooler!) but STILL very high humidity. So we'll see how it goes. It helps that it's at 7pm, so the sun will going down and it'll be cooler then if it was at 9am. I am not shooting for anything other then to finish this honestly. Hopefully in under and 55 minutes (my goal) But again, it's been 1.5 weeks since I ran that distrance, and I have no idea how I'll hold up. I am not sure of the course yet either. Time will tell!!


Here's a cell phone crappy picture of me to leave you with today. I took in the bathroom at work, so it's pretty blurry but it's the best I could do.



July 16th 239lbs.
Happy weekend everyone! We are taking the kids to an amusement park tomorrow wtih a special needs group, super excited for them!

18.2 Mile Bike Ride

Sunday, July 11, 2010

I woke up this morning craving a 10 mile bike ride! Very surprising since we had Colin's birthday party yesterday and had company until close to 11pm last night. 

So we ate, got dressed, loaded up the bikes and trailer and headed out at 9:30 this morning. It was around 73 and perfect riding weather! 

Got to the parking lot and it was already getting warmer. Got us packed up, extra water on hand and rode. We got to the end of the first trail 5.2 miles and decided to keep going. We started In Amherst, NY and ended up in Tonawanda, NY, for those that live in Buffalo. From UB North Campus to Niawanda park. here we are at about the 7 mile mark, quite hot and sweaty! 
Mike very hot! 
 
our little troopers! 
 
Hot and sweaty me! 

We finally made it the first 9 miles and ended at our destination. Mississipi mudds along the Niagara River. So pretty here. We settled in for lunch. I had a great 5oz. marinated Chicken breast on a roll. Hubby had pulled pork and Colin has chicken nuggets. (caden doesn't eat, ever - after we ate, we went up the rooftop to check out the scenery. 

 
  
The boys had a great time running around chasing the birds. Mike and I relaxed with frozen yogurt and watched. We stayed there for about an hour before we decided to make the treck back. We pulled away at 1:20 and made it back to UB parking lot by 2:50. I had to stop ALOT on the way back, my girly parts were a wee bit sore! Darn bike seats. We ended up doing a total of 18.2 miles though and had a great time. Too bad my daughter was a bummer and stayed home. 

And in the end through all the sweat and hard riding we burned over 1100+calories! 

10 10 10 summer challenge

Since Spark ate my 10K blog yesterday, and I don't have pictures with me at work, this one will have do.


My gym (the YMCA) has started a 10 10 10 summer challegne. It's actually 3 challenges in one. they consist of the following

1 - Lost 10lbs

2- Complete 10 cardio miles on Y equipment

3 - Try out 10 different classes.
You can do one of all 3, and if your are able to complete each or all of them, you get entered into a drawaing to win 3 hours of personal training. The competition runs from July 5th to August 25th. Of course I HAD to sign up. I never let anything of the sort pass me by!
So yesterday was my weigh in and first meeting with my trainer. I was SUPER excited about this. I've been weighted at the gym before and I KNOW for some reason the scale is never right. It said I weighed in at 230. I know this is wrong. Even more so since it was 7 at night and I we just finished a HUGE dinner. My scale at home last week was 239, and when I got home from the gym yesteday, just to double check it said 242, so I know 230. is wrong, but we'll use it to track at the Y ONLY. I got my body fat measured and he also took all of my regualr mesurements. He told me I have great running legs. I have to laugh at this, only because everyone tells me I have these amazing legs. And I am lucky enough that I do have nice legs, but this is NOT from weight loss, I've been lucky enough to be born with nice legs, thanks to my dad (LOL) Only NOW they are QUITE muscular! So thank YOU all too for the great comments, I only wish it was becuase I worked HARD to get them that way.
So after all the measuements and things he got a strength circut together for me. He said I didn't need a cardio plan, that between running and what I accomplish on the machines there, I am doing all the right things. he did say that if I am stucks and want to switch it up, then trying doing intervals on the elliptical for 20 mintues instead of just 30 mins of average. So I'll try that too. I loved learning how to use the free weights and different techniques. I have a bunch of things to do, 3 days per week and do each set 16 times for 3 reps. this is interseting, since I typically Only do the machines for 2 reps of 12 each. Hm... So maybe this will help? It's a nice mix of machine, free weights and cable weights. I am excited to start it1
Tonight i plan on doing my strength class, maybe 30 mins of cardio then relaxing in the pool for a bit too. It's in the 90's here and will be for the next few days. I have central air at home, but the pool will still be a nice break from the ordinary.

Weigh in

239.4 - No Loss. No Gain. Guess it's ok huh? I do get frustrated and can't understand why I don't lose faster, but it is what it is. I didn't track my food this week, just to see how I would do. I guess I'll be a PRO at maintaining when I get to that point huh?? 

All in all though, I am over the fact that I need to fit a dress for a wedding just over a month away, if it doesn't fit by the of July, that's fine. I'll shop for another one. I can not continue to stress myself out over the fact that i NEEDS To work. It's just stressing me out, and in turn, probably making me gain! LOL 

so here's to better tracking and a better week, starting tomorrow!! {yea, June is not going out with a BANG, I am exhausted today and am taking it slow, and easy tonight!}

Jog for the Jake

Man of oh man and I SUPER behind on blogging. I hate when this happens. Not sure what's going on, but I am in a pretty serious motivatin funk. Help me!! 

So 2 weeks ago was the Jog for the Jake race in Delaware Park. My mom and his new Beau were walking it as well. We picked up our race packets on Saturday the night before and got all set to leave early Sunday. This was the one race that we decided to bring the boys too, since it was fathers day, which was nice. Well we got there at about 8:45, 45 mintues before the race began. Delaware park is 1.5 miles around. It circles many areas, including our Buffalo zoo. So we run into a volunteer, ask where the starting line is, so we can hang out and acquint the boys to a new enviroment and he waves us this way, saying it's over that way. Ok..... never told us how far. So we walk. One 4 year walking, 2 year old in a stroller, Bag on my back with water, ipod etc, that eventually gets to hot to wear and ends up on the stroller. It's 9am and ALREADY 80+ degress out. No shade anyway. Direct HOT sun right on us. So we walk, and walk, and walk. About 1/2 around, we have NO idea where we should be. We are coming up to the zoo, I ask a security guy what time it was and where in the WORLD is the starting line?? He gives me the time of 9:20 (?????) WHAT????? He points me towards the starting line, right where we were when we GOT THERE! 
 
Mike & Caden walking 

I freaked out! I left the boys behind and had to RUN to the finsih line. It was at least 1/2 mile and I had already walked 1 mile! I was sweating my BUTT off, had to pee and still didn't have the chip on my sneaker! My ipod, water etc were still in the stroller but I didn't have time to go back to them! I was stressing. I ran, and ran, and ran. Found a port a potty with a line, got my chip on my shoe, went pee FAST and ran to the line. Got there and saw my mom and Jack waving to me. got to them, starting to say hey, I just walked/run 1.5 miles and then BANG!  The gun goes off! WHAT???? Are you kidding me?? Run with NO Ipod and not even catch my breath??? My mom gave me hers and sent me on my way. I ran, and ran. I was exhausted and dehydrated Long before I even got through the first mile. I was bummed, with as hot as it was, the only water spot they had was back at the 1/2 mark back at where we started. I at least got to see Mike and the kids when I was coming in for water. I was dying. The water didn't cut it. 
 
Coming in for a water break 
 
Mom & Jack 1/2 way 

I ended up walking most of the way after that, I just couldn't push myself anymore, I ended up finishing in 42:03 - not my best time, but I was hot and in the end had ended up doing somewhere around a 7K race. 
0 
Waving as I am about to finish. 

The after party was amazing though! We had chicken, sliders, hotdogs, salad, cookies, ice cream! Tons of fun things for the kids to do and everything. I'll run this again next year and know where the starting line is!! Heres a few more pics! 
 
Col and I 
C  
me, my mom and Jack 
 
The boys 
 

My first Ever "NOTICED" moment!

was on cloud 9 when I got home from the gym yesterday. At the begining of my journey, I met a spark friend locally on here, we go to the same gym and quickly became buddies. She got me into Zumba and I got her into Strength Class training. We push each other and it's quite enjoyable. I've been taking the strength class I got her into since January. I really enjoy it. In fact, looking at the whole, I wonder if this is why I lose so slowly? I do ALOT of strength training? I wonder if my body is too busy making new muscle to work on the fat?? Whatever, anyway it sounds good right?? LOL

So Toni and I go to this class 2 times per week. Love the insturctor and got to know most people in there as well. A young(er) girl there usually comes with her husband, and I hadn't seen her in a couple of weeks, but think nothing of it. Its summer now and the class is alot smaller. WELL said girl was there last night. As class ended and we put away our equipent, she comes up to Toni and I and says this "I haven't been here in 2 weeks, but I know who you two are, since your always here, always together and always enjoying it. So since I have been gone and came back today, I wanted to tell you guys that you look SO much different in 2 weeks. She said I am sure you don't see it, but she does and wanted to let us know that we are doing a great job" I was floored! I haven't really had anyone yet notice a change in me. Everyone I know, see's me everyday, so they would't see the change. And when they say "you look good Kym" I have a hard time believing that it's sincere, since they KNOW I am trying, it's probably just out of niceness. I couldnl't stop smiling and thanking her to pieces. She made my night!!
At 26 lbs lost, I thought I too would see major changes, I don't so much, only down one size, but you know what? I FEEL better. that is what counts! I can wrap a bath towel around my body when I get out out of the shower. I've always had to use 2 in the past. I can go in my closet and wear "most" of the clothes in there now. I can come home from work and put on shorts and a tshirt instead of Pajama bottoms, becuase I am more comfortable and confident. This girl proved to me that my hard work IS working. And that all the sweat and pain that comes with it is more worth it then ever.
Remember how I hurt my hip last week? It was feeling better. Went to Zumba last night, and 20 mintues in, popped it out AGAIN. ugh!! Even had to leave class, couldn't even stand! SO I think I am going to take it easy until my Race on sunday. Don't want to cause any more damage.
AND tonight is game night with my girlfriends too. 15 of us get together, eat, chat and enjoy. It's my one night where all bets are off. I enjoy the company and enjoy the snacks/food. I WON'T feel guilty. I will work hard tomorrow to make up for it. I will enjoy!!!

I need a challenge

I am in need of a challenge. I guess being a full time working mom of 3 and advocating for 2 isn't enough for me huh?? Just kidding, I love that part! Seriosuly though. I do SO much better when I have a GOAL to work towards and can be held accountable for. 

I've proved to myself that I CAN run. I truly enjoy running now and look forward to each and every race that comes my way. This Father's day I will be running my first race with my kids there to cheer me on. this is a HUGE thing for us. We *typically* don't take them places, seriously I don't say that to be mean. It's just easier for them to stay home. Too many people, crowds, lots of noice etc, just overstimulate them, and it's a downward spirl from there, they are upset, i am upset and what's the point then, when no one is having fun? Well last weekend we did a family trip the marina. Walked the water, got ice cream and relaxed on the grass for a little bit. We had FUN. It was nice to get out with my little guys. So when I found this race, that had lots to do for the kids, and it was fathers day, I thought why not?? So they will have bounce houses, the zoo will have live animals and since I know Iam only (gone) for 40 mintues or less, I know hubby can do it alone. I am also running my first 10k on the fourth of july and Hope to run a 1/2 marathon someday. Never would I have thought this. So although I've accomplished this goal, I no longer HAVE to follow this strict program to make it happen, it's just second nature to me now. 

And I get bored with the same old. 

So I need a change. A challenge. 

I typically work out everyday. I feel bad if I don't. For the past 2 days I've been SO tired I can't even keep my eyes open. It's impossible to get to bed before 10:30 or 11. Colin still wakes up multiple times during the night and I wake up at 6:15 for work. So needless to say yesterday, I was wiped!! I decided to take a night off. To sit and do nothing. And eat a nice bowl of ice cream! And you know what? I DID enjoy it. I loved the ice cream. I loved the sitting there putting both kids to bed. Doing NOTHING. AT ALL! 

Then this morning came along and I felt guilty for not doing any thing last night! LOL how horrible! So I decided that I need to challenge myself. 

I bought Jillians 30 Day Shred not too long ago. I've done it only 3 times but VERY sparatic. I've decided that I need to do this faithully for the full 30 days. I'll still do my reg. gym workouts, but will STILL do the shred as well. I still have 6.5 weeks to get myself small enough to fit into a fitted size 20 dress that I bought 4 years ago. What better way to push myself to make that goal, but challenging myself to do this EVERYDAY!? So off I go. I am going to start it This Saturday/maybe Sunday. I am THINKING About getting up 20 mins early to do in the AM, if I have a rough night with Colin, that's Okay, I'll just do it later at night, but I must do it. I'd really like to get past week one and prove to myself that I am strong enough to work through Jillian!

Weigh In & 6 week BLC measurements

Lost 1 lbs this week. Not what I wanted to lose, I was hoping for more, however it's a loss nonetheless, so I have no reason to complain. With that 1 lb loss brings me to the 30's AND 10% of my body weight is now GONE for good. It took me FOREVER to get here! 6 months to be exact. I guess in the end slow and steady wins the race, but slow and steady is making me MAD! Its just frustrating that I am not losing more per week. *sigh* I am happy though, don't get me wrong. Any time it's not a gain, it's positive!


Since this is week 6 in the BLC, It was time to take more measurements. So here are my past measurements as usual, with the current ones at the bottom :

March 3, 2010 (3 months ago)

Upper Arm - 16
Thigh 25
Chest (above breasts) 45.5
Abs 49
Waist (at belly button) 53 (ewwww!!)
Hips 56
Neck 15.5
Breast- 53


April 8, 2010 (2 months ago)

Upper Arm 16 Same
Thigh 23.5 -1.5 inches
Chest Above breast 47.5 ?? Is that right? I'll have to see next month
Abs 47 -2 inches
Waist at belly button 51.25 - 1.75 inches
Hips 53 -3 inches
Neck 15.25 - .25 inches
And I didn't do my breast this time,
But I did do my calf, since those are changing like crazy 15.5 - however I believe they are getting BIGGER! From running that is!


May 10, 2010 (last month)
Upper Arm 15 = -1 inches
Thigh 23 = - .5 inches
Chest (above Breast) 46 = -1.5 inches
Abs 47 Same
Waist (at belly button) 50 = -1.25 inches
Hips 55 = +2 inches?? Bummer
Neck 15 = -.25 inches
Calf 16 (getting BIGGER! LOL) must be from running. + .5 inches.


June 16, 2010 - current
Upper Arm 15 = Same
Thigh 23 = - same
Chest (above Breast) 46 = -same
Abs 45 = -2 inches!
Waist (at belly button) 49 = -1 inches
Hips 53 = -2 inches
Neck 15 = same
Calf 15.25 = -.75 inches.

That's 5.75 inches since last TOTAL since 6 weeks ago. Not too bad.

14.5 Inches lost since March
Oh Yea, AND I am in a size 22 now. I started in a TIGHT 24, should have been a 26. most of my 22's I can pull down w/o having to unbutton. But the 20's are still too snug yet. 6 more weeks until the wedding in colorado where I need to fit in my dress from 4 years ago!

Run for the Rosas - My 3rd 5K!

Finished in 37:24 ~ My best time yet! HOWEVER , someday I would really love to run a race when it's NOT raining or snowing out! 
 

We woke up this morning with the rain SLAMMING our house. We've had the weirdest weather lately and today was no different. I have no idea what time it started, but it wasn't raining when I went to bed at midnight, We work up at 6am, which our back lake Flooded like a lake, Couldn't even see the tips of the grass! Then looked out front, and thankfully we are the high end of the street, the others at the low end, well the street was all flooded up onto the lawns and then some! the sewers just couldn't hold all the water. it was insane! Thankfully JUST before we left the house, it stopped! 

 

However, not for long! It was misting as we lined at the starting line, and just continued from that point on. What a mess! I ran the entire first 1.5 mile. Then it became a complete downpour and I walked for a bit. It couldn't even see where I was going and with nothing dry to wipe my eyes, it was hard! LOL - I continued and pushed through like never before. I ended up finishing in 37:24, and making a PR for this race! Wahoo! Surprising with the weather conditions and all. 

My next race unless I find one sooner will by my 10K on the 4th of July. I am really looking forward to that one! 
 
Coming up the finish line! 
 
This is after the race. The only dry spot left on my whole body. Guess being "larger" on top keeps the belly dry huh?? LOL 
 

Finished 143 our of 157. I'll take it!!