Goodbye 2013! Hello 2014!

This year has been filled with some accomplishments. My intention for 2014 is to be more consistent with my workouts and running. My other priorities are hydration and sleep.

I read a great article today. I wished I'd marked it so I could give proper credit. The main point I got out of it was to set small, manageable goals. While reading this, it dawned on me that I need to set some smaller goals to help with my Peachtree Road Race goal. So, at the halfway point, March, I plan to run a 5k to assess how my training is going.

Not too much else to say. I am very disappointed I am not at my healthy weight. In fact, I stepped on the scale this morning. I've gained 12 pounds! I have to put forth the effort to plan and cook my meals in advance. I was very successful when I was doing this. I started logging again. As much as I hate it, it is a very useful and supportive tool.

I will work on accepting the lifestyle changes I need to embrace in order to live the healthy life I envision.

So, 2014 I am ready for you. Let's do this!

Motivational Monday

I finally "finished" my vision board for the Peachtree Road Race. I left some white space so that I can add to it over the next six months.

I have six months to train for the Peachtree Road Race. I've had this race on my bucket list for three years. I have more than enough time to get myself together. Unfortunately, I feel like I'm falling apart. I've been having issues with my back and knee. Yesterday I did some light exercise. Earlier today I went for a quick ten-minute and decided I take the day off. Tomorrow I will do my strength training and get back on cardio on Wednesday. My biggest challenge is getting sleep. I've been doing better but I can still make improvements.

Fresh Air!

It was finally warm enough for me to hit the pavement. I was so happy. I did four miles. At first I was just going to do two miles and call it a day. After the first loop, I felt I had at least another mile in me. I managed another two. It felt great to be outside enjoying the fresh air.

Hopefully the temperature doesn't drop too much. I really need to work on my endurance and covering distance. The beginning of the new year is coming and there's no way I can stay on a treadmill for more than 30 minutes. In fact, I will probably avoid the gym for a while. There will be lots of people there working on their resolutions. I will either need to get their at 5:30 or right before closing. We'll see...

Motivational Monday

I'm feeling pretty good today. Despite not feeling like it, I completed 60 minutes on the treadmill. I've really made improvements in this area since the beginning of the month. I can still feel a little tightness on my left lower back and glute but with stretching and foam rolling it is getting better. I also take the time to sit in the sauna for five to ten minutes. One of these days it will click that consistency is key.

Someone on Twitter asked the question, do you exercise or train? This is a great question because there is a marked distinction. Sometime I exercise and other times I train. I have better success with training. Exercise is a chore. Training makes me feel like the athlete I always wanted to be. Training keeps me motivated. Training is fun. If I'm working toward a goal and have a plan, I do a better job. When I'm not seeing results, I start getting discouraged and unmotivated. So, I need to always have a goal in mind.

Right now my goal is to be consistent with my workouts, work on my endurance, strengthen my core, and build upper body strength. I need to be able to walk and/or run three miles comfortably before formally starting 10k training. I know I can run 3 miles. I just haven't been able to do it consistently. I need to keep my butt in training mode because 6.2 miles is no joke for me.

Today while I was on the treadmill I was so happy. I felt so strong. I could have gone longer but it was prime time and I didn't want to hog the treadmill. There were two other machines open but I decided 60 minutes was enough. Technically, during rush hour, you're only supposed to do 30 minutes on cardio machines. Plus, overdoing it leads to injury.

Fitness Friday

I just looked at my countdown. I have 201 days until the Peachtree. I need to make each and every day count, one day at a time. I took a power nap after work because I was so sleepy. By the time I got myself together, it was too dark for me to go out. This is one of the downfalls of not having an exercise buddy. I do not feel comfortable going out alone so late. By 5:15, it was dark! Then, I thought it going to be so crowded at the gym and it's cold out. So.... I'm going to do an impromptu workout here. I'll do my cardio tomorrow. I need to get a battery for my HRM watch so I will know exactly how many calories I'm burning. I really need to make sure I'm going bang for my buck. I feel some slight soreness from the strength training. Overall, I feel like I'm doing a pretty good job.

I just realize tomorrow was supposed to be my next 5K. I'm glad I didn't sign up. The weather is supposed to be yucky. Hopefully, by midafternoon I can get my miles in. If not, I'll be on the treadmill.

Transformational Tuesday

Many of the blogs I read and Facebook pages I "like" post Transformational Tuesday entries. Most of them are about physical transformations. For me, at this point in my journey, I need to work on a mental transformation. I am reminded of that part of the scripture which says,... be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind....

More than anything right now I need to get my mind in shape. With the exception of the occasional pain and discomfort I have in my back and knee, most of my challenges are with my mind. My workouts are fine, when I am consistent. I would like to be more consistent. For whatever reason, there are times I get so self-conscious about working out at the gym or walking/running in public. The truth is people are so self-absorbed, especially at the gym, they probably do not even notice me. Even if they do, it's their problem not mind.

I also know I can achieve the goals I have set for myself. Lately, my opportunities are with my food, not my exercise. I cannot out-train a bad diet. Every time I feel like I am depriving myself of something, I am mentally sabotaging myself. I need to turn that around. Each time I make a healthy choice, I am going to remind myself that I am empowering myself.

I also went out today I purchased a presentation board so I can make a vision board. It will be fun to add to work on over the next six months:

Feels So Good?

My body is so not feeling my new exercise routine. I know I need to keep it up and my body will eventually adjust. As usually, I need to do a better job with stretching and using my foam roller. Today I'm going to do my 3.1 miles at the gym and then spend some time in the sauna.

Improvements!

It took me all day to get to the gym today. I almost didn't go. I got dressed, stood outside for a while, went back inside, and took a nap. I got up. Wasted time on the Internet. I then gave myself a pep talk. If I expect to run the Peachtree Road Race in July, I need to get my butt in gear now. I struggle with 3.1 miles. The Peachtree is twice as long.

So, I finally get there and there are no treadmills available. Fine. I decided to do my 3.1 miles on the Elliptical. I set a new PR. The last time I did a 5K on the Elliptical it took me 38 minutes. Today I did it in 35:12! Pre-workout me I would think that is no big deal. However, anyone who workouts out knows an exercise minute can be an eternity! I'm so proud of myself.

Cold Weather Running

Now that my November 5k has passed, I'm thinking about how to improve my training for my December 5k. Thankfully, I have not signed up yet. I'm having second thoughts about it. Part of my fee from The Turkey Day 5k I didn't go to on Thursday went to charity. I'm bummed I didn't earn a t-shirt. I don't think I want to spend another $25 and run the risk that I will not run. Since I'm so slow, cold weather running is just not for me...at this point.

I did okay on Thursday. Usually when I run on the treadmill my knees ache for days. I was a little sore but not too sore to jump back on the treadmill later on today. So, I think I'm going to do most of my cold weather running on the treadmill. For December I may to do a virtual 5k:

There's no t-shirt, but you will get a medal if you post your time. If I sign up for this virtual 5k, I'll have the option of completing it outside, if weather permits. The downside, it's not a Peachtree Qualifier like the Santa on the Square 5k.

Turkey Day 5k

Happy Thanksgiving! Today I am very grateful for my health. I am grateful for the willingness to keep putting one foot in front of the other. Although I am not where I'd like to be, I am a grateful for where I am. I've made a lot of progress.

Today was the Turkey Day 5k. I've been worried all week because it was supposed to be cold and I do not have proper running gear for the cold. I picked up my bib last night ready to give it an honest effort. I planned to wear two pairs of pants, two pairs of socks, a long-sleeve shirt, two jackets, three hats, gloves, and ear muffs.

I woke up this morning and it was 27 degrees (but feels like 17)! No way! I'm slow. I knew I'd be out there for at least 45 minutes, on a good day. I decided I'd just do a virtual 5k at the gym. I'm kind of bummed because this was another Peachtree Qualifier. I think I have until April to do another Peachtree Qualifying race. I know it's not going to make that much of a difference in my starting wave but I do want to complete a 5k under 45 minutes. I have some work to do. Total's run: 59:25.

Energems

I loved these things! It was like eating giant peanut M & Ms! I had my reservations about whether or not they’d work. A serving size, three pieces, is supposed to be the equivalent on one energy drink. In addition to caffeine (75 mg. per serving), they also contain B vitamins.

I’ve had a very unhealthy relationship with energy drinks--they’re packed with lots of sugar and caffeine. Yummy for my palate. Yucky for my health. When I read the part about being Energems like an energy drink, I thought, uh oh, this is not for me. Trigger alert!

Truthfully, I’m surprised a product like this would be in a weight loss box. I guess they’re marketed to people like me who like the rush of an energy drink but can’t afford all the extra calories. Each gem is 15 calories so that’s 45 calories a serving versus 200 - 250 calories per energy drink.

Anyhow, I decided to give them a try. I tried them right before a run. I think they gave me a nice boost. I tried them a second time before going to the gym to lift weights. I didn’t notice much difference. I’m saving the last serving.

Would I buy this product? No! It’s like eating candy and as recovering compulsive overeater I do not want to eat something that reminds me of candy. I could see how they would be good for someone running a marathon or something. They’d provide a great caffeine boost without drinking coffee (which could cause stomach distress) or a high-calorie energy drink. If (or when) I ever work my way up to running longer distances, I may give them a try again.

They’re $2.99 a box. Considering my favorite energy drinks are about $1.79 to $1.99 a can, they’re pretty economical.

Turkey Day 5K

Although my training hasn't been 100%, I do feel ready to tackle my next 5K. I have already accepted that I will not be able to run the entire race and that's okay. Now there appears to be another hurdle I must jump -- the weather. It has been unexpectedly cold lately and the weather is only going to get colder. We're expecting a few rainy days. I've been walking and running but most of my workouts have been in the afternoon, not early morning. It's much colder early mornings. I'm so worried about the weather. I'll do my best. All I need to do is finish.

NeoCell Beauty Bursts

NeoCell Beauty Bursts are gourmet collagen soft chews. Per the label, the benefits it’s a skin rebuilder (Collagen type 1 and 3); Skin Hydration (Hyaluronic Acid); and Collagen Enhancer (Vitamin C). It had a weird consistency, more sticky than chewy. I didn’t like the taste. It was medicine-like. These candy-like supplements are not my thing.

I don’t see the benefits of this for me. My skin and nails are okay. I use a good skin cleanser and moisturizer. Plus, I have good genes on my side. The best way for me to keep my skin hydrated is to drink water.

Review Round Up -- October Bulu Box

Here's a review of the remaining three items that were in my October box. I had photos but I do not know what happened to them.

Vibrant Cleanse – I liked this product. Great taste, nice kick. However, I could make this myself with fresh ingredients– lemon juice, maple syrup, and cayenne. If this was sold in individual packets, I may purchase it if I was travelling or something, for the convenience. Truthfully, for personal health reasons, I would never do a full blown Master Cleanse.

Simple Being Slimming Smoothie – I really liked this smoothie mix. It has a great taste and is packed with protein – 26 grams! Would I buy it? Probably not, but only because of the price.

Natural Vitality CALM – I loved this product. I liked the taste and I truly believe it had a calming effect on me. I was interested in this product because it's a calcium and magnesium supplement. I've tried calcium chews before. My previous primary doctor thought I should be taking them. Not sure if they were doing any good. I've had my current doctor for about two years and she's never mentioned calcium supplements. I’ve seen this product in Whole Foods; it’s sold in a canister and individual packets. I purchased another packet for 99 cents. Yep, I liked it again. I was sold. Bulu included a coupon for 40% off a box of 30 individual packets. I’ve been drinking it right before bed. I’d purchase it again, when it’s on sale. 

So, out of five products, I made a full-size purchase of Natural Vitality CALM and I would Simple Being Slimming Smoothie, if the price was right.

November's Bulu Box

I received my November Bulu Box. I realize I didn't finish reviewing the products from my last box. Stay tuned....

I'm already excited about this box because the sample sizes are much better. I received:

Energems -- three servings - I LOVE caffeine! I can't wait to try these.

Shapeology Burn Blend -- seven servings - I already have negative opinion toward Shapeology but I'll give it a try.

Yaff Bar - one bar - made for you AND your dog. Hmmm....

Beauty Bursts -- one chew - seems total useless to me.

I'll post the remaining reviews from October's box before trying these.

There is no shame in walking

Today I had to have a tough pep talk with myself. I am letting what I want to accomplish in my running overshadow what I have accomplished. I am a runner. So what if I take walk breaks here and there. I have run 3 miles nonstop. I will do it again, eventually. Consistency is what is holding me back. Consistency with my training. Consistency with my nutrition.

Last week I wanted the Badwater Ultramarathon. The runners took walk breaks and thought nothing of it. Today I was watching the Ironman World Championship and there were plenty of people who walked across the finish line. Why am I beating myself up about walking? I really need to get over myself. If I am going to reach my goal of running in the Peachtree Road Race next year and need to get in gear.

November Update

I’m still here. I’ve been very lazy about logging my exercise. I’ve been mainly walking and lifting weights. My right knee is bothering me a bit. I am a bit concerned about not running but it will be okay. Truthfully, I’ve also been lazy about running because it’s getting cold out. I realize I need to get some warmer workout gear. I just can’t afford it right now. I’m thinking about taking my running indoors. I haven’t had much success running on the treadmill but I do not want to get so out of shape with running that I have to start all over again. My next 5K is on Thanksgiving day. I'm beginning to have doubts. It will be okay. All I can do is try.

Weeked Workouts

My November workouts have gotten up to a pretty rough start. Yesterday I lasted 10 minutes. There was sharp pain in my left hip area. I didn’t want to risk serious injury so I stopped, went home, and did some stretching. I also used my massage ball.

Today I was just plain lazy. I did not want to go to the gym or to the park. I procrastinated until about 5 pm and then I headed to the park. I initially said I was going to walk four miles but decided not to overdo it. I still ended up overdoing it a bit. I did a slow jog for the last .25 mile. It felt pretty good. I worked out the kink on my left side with my massage ball.

I definitely need to stay on top of this. My left side feels better but my right knee gave me a little trouble coming down a slight incline. As much as I focus on my form and have been fitted with three different brands of sneakers now, I still have this imbalance problem.

I know part of the problem is my inconsistency with the exercises and stretches Dr. Smith gave me. If I can do my part, I am sure it will help the situation. I have 25 days until my next 5K.

The Orb

It’s the first day of November. I have another month to make things happen. I have a new toy -- The Orb. I purchased it to work on the kinks and tightness on my left side.

I love this thing! It is working out much better than the foam roller. I was looking on YouTube for some techniques to use with a tennis ball and stumbled upon this. I went on Ebay and order one. Ahhh! I’m planning to go back to the chiropractor in a few weeks. Hopefully with regular massage and adjustments I can gain greater flexibility.

I am not happy right now. After working really hard to stretch out and loosen up my tight glutes and hamstrings, I wake up this morning with a HUGE kink on the right side of my neck! It’s also raining like crazy. I was planning to run today. I was supposed to run yesterday. However, I had a massive headache. I still have it. We will see what the day brings. I may have to switch to a long walk or do weights and cardio in the gym. I have 27 days until my next 5K. I need to make the best of each day.

Speaking of making the best of each day, I have decided to join Mindful Peace Om in her 30 Days of Thank challenge. Over the years I have learned that expressing gratitude is a key part of wholeness. It's a great healthy habit to cultivate.

Burn360 Revisited

I tried the second pill today 30 minutes before my weight training. I was sleepy before taking it and I was sleepy after. Before I left for the gym I was tempted to take a sip of coffee but didn’t want to chance that Burn360 would kick in. Nothing.
I went on www.bulubox.com and some people experience a burst of energy after taking this product. I think it doesn’t do a thing for me because I have a very high threshold when it comes to caffeine.

I am glad I was able to give Burn360 a try without wasting my money on a whole bottle of this stuff. I guess that’s the whole point of Bulu Box. Eventually I will find a product that will support my fitness goals. This stuff is not it.

Burn360 Review

I was very curious and nervous about trying this product, especially because it contains raspberry ketones. I was curious to see if it would really work. I read a few reviews that the product did give an extra boost. I was nervous because I am very leery about fat burners, etc. I remember back in high school one of my friends took some pills (I can’t remember the name). They helped her drop weight but she was very jittery. Her mother kept complaining that she was going to “ruin” her heart so she stopped taking them. This was before the whole Fen-Phen fiasco. When it comes to diet pills, theses two incidents have been etched in my brain. Again, I’m not one for pills but here goes....

I decided to take it 30 minutes before going out for my run. I was feeling pretty good before taking it. I’d been hydrating. I also used my new massage ball earlier that day to work on my tight glutes, hamstrings, and calves.

Well, I did not notice a difference. I took one pill 30 minutes before my workout. Nothing. It is now four hours later. Nothing. As I was driving to the Greenway, I was thinking maybe I needed, since I’m so heavy, to take both pills.
Tomorrow is weight training. I will give it another try.

So far, what I do not like about both samples is that I do not feel the sample size is adequate. I think a week’s supply should be given in order to be able to see if a product really makes a difference. The downside is that the price of the box would be raised.

Sunday's Stroll

I was so tired this morning. If I wasn't on the schedule to work in the nursery at church, I would have slept in. Thankfully, we only had one child and he feel asleep after playing for 30 minutes. I spent the rest of the time stretching and sipping coffee. All I could think about was coming home and taking a nap.

As soon as I came home, I ate and went to bed. I tossed and turned for about an hour. I thought about blowing off my walk but thought about how I felt yesterday. If I want to be able to run up hills, I need to keep up my cardio.

I wasn't sure I was going to be able to walk one mile. My left leg was so tight. It's my fault. I haven't been consistent with the exercises Dr. Smith gave me. I also did not do enough stretching yesterday. After two miles, my leg felt a bit more loose. I was tempted to stop but decided to keep going. I'm glad I did. Being consistent about my workouts is what is going to help me get across my next finish line.

Tomorrow I am planning to run 3.1 miles in my usual spot. We'll see how it goes. It's so frustrating that sometimes I can run nonstop and other times I cannot. Again, consistency is key.

Powbab Review

The first product I tried from my October Bulu box is Powbab Baobab Superfruit Chews

Great smell! They had a nice fruity taste for the first couple of chews. The more I chewed the chalkier the taste became.
I’m really not sure what these chews are supposed to do. They’re supposedly an “everyday health booster.” One chew meets the daily antioxidant needs, the equivalent antioxidant level of:

- 2.5 tomatoes
- 2.5 cups of spinach
- .5 orange

I definitely would not buy these on my own. Mainly because I’m not convinced this is something beneficial and they remind me of Starburst candy.

I’ve taken calcium chews before. I gave them an honest effort for a few months. They were probably doing some good but without being able to notice any difference I wasn’t motivated to continue taking them. I’m sure I’d end up doing the same with these Superfruit chews. I give them two thumbs down!

Training for Turkey Trot 5K

I've been thinking about what I learned from today's 5K. Basically, I learned that I need to be consistent with my training AND practice running uphill. So, here's my plan for the next four weeks:


Sunday – Walk four miles

Monday – Run 3.1 miles

Tuesday - Weights and Elliptical

Wednesday – 3.1 miles

Thursday – Weights and Elliptical

Friday – Rest

Saturday - 2 miles/hills

I also need to work on a food plan that will help me drop some weight. I will have a better time getting up those hills if I have less weight to carry.

Big Pumpkin 5K

Well it's over! I am going to be honest and say I am disappointed in my performance:


Sheila,
Your 5K time was 58:11

Your pace was 18:46/M

You were number 945 overall

You were number 43 of 45 in your age group 50-54


I have to take a step back and be very grateful that I was able to complete the race. I also have to take into consideration the course was changed at the last minute. The original course was mostly flat. I'm glad they at least made an announcement that the course had been changed. My takeaway from this is to be prepared for whatever comes. This is the second time I've experienced a course being changed. I am glad that the race is still a Peachtree Road Race qualifier. So, for the Turkey Trot, I will be working on hills more often.

It was very hard for me to stay focused on my race. I kept wanting to push myself much too soon. I started to panic before the first mile. It was clear from the very beginning I was going to be at the back of the pack. Before we completed the first half mile, there was a steep hill. I reminded myself to forget about my time and just work on running as much as possible. I also reminded myself that there was no shame in walking. Although I was disappointed in myself for walking up those hills, I am proud of myself for giving it my best shot.

So, between now and Thanksgiving Day, I will be working on my aversion to hills.

My First Bulu Box

Woo hoo! I received my first Bulu box today. My first thought was, "it looked much bigger in the photos." I start reviewing the products after this weekend.

I have my 5K on Saturday. Everything I read says you shouldn't try anything new before or on race day. I'm so anxious about Saturday. I haven't run at all this week. I haven't had the energy or the motivation. I'm also worried about the weather. It's been unseasonably cold. I'm bummed I won't be able to show off my new t-shirt:

Countdown!

I've got four days until my 5K. Starting to get very nervous. I didn't run yesterday. Today I did a slow, two-mile walk to loosen up my left quad. I then had a nice, hot soak in the bathtub. At this point I think it's all going to be mind over matter. I am doing this 5K all alone. I haven't even asked anyone to go with me. I still want to do this one on my own.

I am also concerned about the weather. It's been cold in the mornings and I have not done any early morning runs. I purchased a long sleeve tech shirt and gave it a test "run" this evening during my walk. I think it will be fine. I'm planning to bring along my gloves just in case.

There's nothing else I can do at this point except hydrate and stretch. Tomorrow I am planning to do a two-mile run. I'll walk again on Thursday and Friday.

Trust the Process Revisted

Whoa! It’s not even noon and I’ve had a full day. I have so many thoughts racing in my head right now. After writing, I’m going to do some meditating….

I had my quarter doctor’s visit this morning. I was really nervous. My workouts have been inconsistent. I haven’t been feeling my best. My food has been okay but I feel I could have done better. I was so nervous about seeing those numbers I almost cancelled my appointment.

Results: I’m two pounds down since my last appointment. I admit I was disappointed. I was also shocked. I was convinced I had gained weight. My blood pressure was the lowest it’s been in years – 102/68! I can’t believe it! Next, my A1c – 6.0. My doctor is pleased. It’s been pretty steady – as far as she is concerned, my diet is on point. Of course, in my dis-eased mind, I want the number to be below 6.0. My cholesterol is good. I can’t remember the numbers and I forgot to ask for a copy of my results. I plan to stop by the office later today or tomorrow to get them.

Finally, my TSH – it has gone up from 2.3 to 3.8. Whoa! So this is what has been going on with my fatigue and inability to drop some pounds. I have no idea what’s going on with my thyroid. My doctor is increasing my Synthroid. Hopefully we can get my thyroid level back where it needs to be. This is going to help my energy level and improve my workout performance and results. My doctor was quick to remind me that when I started on this journey my TSH was over 4. It will be okay. Trust the process.
So, on the way home I really had to take a hard look at myself. How many times am I going to have to relearn the lesson of trusting the process? My doctor has no complaints about my health. She isn’t even worried about my weight. She said I am obviously doing something right because my lab results give her an accurate picture of how I have been eating and exercising. She advised me to just keep doing what I am doing. I am the healthiest I have been in years. Why can’t I just accept this? Sigh....

**
After my doctor’s appointment, I headed straight for the Greenway. Since I had to cut my run short on Monday, I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to run the entire 3.1 miles. Yesterday I spent time stretching and making sure I drank enough water. I felt pretty good today. In fact, when I did my body checks, I realized I felt better than thought. I really have to do my best to listen to my body instead of my thoughts.

This is my lesson for today: My thoughts can be very deceptive. I cannot always trust what I am thinking. I have an eating plan. I have a training plan. If I can just stay focused on my plans, the results will take care of themselves. Trust the process!

Good Grief!

Well, I'm back. I was in such a funk last week. I finally forced my butt out of the door. I had every intention of running my usually two miles today. For whatever reason, at the last minute, I decided I was going to run a 5K. I have 16 days until the Big Pumpkin 5K. I was a little worried since I hadn't worked out in a week. The self doubt was back. I quickly reminded myself that a week of non-activity was not going to overshadow my weeks of training. I haven't tried a 5K since my September 12. I took it slow and managed to finish. It felt really good.

This grief has been pretty hard to shake. However, I know I am just feeling sorry for myself. My friend is at peace. I must go on with my life. I do not want to take the gift of life for granted. Running, sweating, breathing hard, feeling the air on my face made me feel so alive today.

Next week I am planning to go over a run part of the route. I'm feeling pretty confident that I can run the entire race non-stop. Big Pumpkin Run here I come!

Fitness Friday

Over the years I have learned that fitness is a lifestyle, not to regard it as a chore. I am not so sure I have learned my lesson. I have not exercised at all this week. I have been overcome with grief and insomnia. A dear coworker and friend passed away. I think I could have used all my anger and sadness as fuel for my workouts. Running is great therapy, right? If it hadn’t been for all the sleepless nights and not eating, I could have done it.

I felt a little better today. I’ve had my pity party. I am sad for myself. My friend was in a lot of (emotional) pain. I pray he is now at peace. I know he would be the first to tell me to get back to living my life. In fact, we talked about his passing after a previous incident. I am glad I was able to tell him just how much I cared about him. I told him I would be devastated. I am angry with him for being so selfish and not considering his family and friends; yet I know I am being selfish because he just couldn’t take the pain any longer. He didn’t see a way out. I reached out but he couldn’t, wouldn’t reach back.

I have mourned him and now it is time to get back to life. I still remember him telling me how proud and impressed he was with my weight loss and exercise. So, hopefully I will get a good night rest. If not, I know I will be able to sleep in. Whatever happens, I do plan to go running some time tomorrow. Unfortunately, rain is on its way. Hopefully, the storm will pass us. If not, I will have to tough it out and hop on the treadmill next week. I cannot afford to miss anymore workout time. I have exactly 22 days until my 5K. I need to eat clean, hydrate, and rest. The best way to deal with this grief is to work it out!

Sunday's Stroll

I had a nice four-mile walk today. It took me a while to get there and then I wanted to quit after walking two miles. I reminded myself why I was doing this. I want to run my next 5K nonstop. I want to participate in the Peachtree Road Race next year. I am not going to reach my goals by sitting on the sofa surfing the Internet. I am going to have to walk (and run) more than two miles to get across those finish lines.

There was no reason to stop. I wasn't tired. I wasn't in pain. I just didn't feel like doing it. So for this coming week part of my training plan is to spend each day visualizing myself running in the Big Pumpkin 5K. I still need to take a drive and check out the route. Perhaps I will do so after I write this blog. :)

I Can Do This!

Today was a good day. I needed to have this run without any walk breaks. I was starting to have huge doubts that I could run. I have been doing much better with my hydration. In fact, yesterday during my four-mile walk I thought my bladder was going to burst. I had to walk another mile before getting to the restrooms. It was not cute. I managed to get some restful sleep last night so this helped too.

I really need to focus on not worrying about what other thinks. I go through the same mental scenario. I’m too slow…. I’m too fat…. This is crazy…. While I know I need to work on the physical, improving my endurance and form. I also need to work on the mental aspects of running. I need to keep the negative self-talk at bay.

All in all it was a great week. I lifted weights twice this week and I complete my three runs. Consistency is going to get me across that finish line!

Thirsty Thursday

Tonight’s run sucked! I was not happy at all. Within the first five minutes, I was taking a walk break. I am becoming more accepting that walk breaks are supportive of my running goals. I just do not understand why I am having such a hard time lately running nonstop. I’ve done it before.

More than anything I think it has to do with inadequate sleep and hydration. Even though I have been going to bed at a decent hour, I still find it hard to fall asleep until 11 or midnight. Tonight I plan to meditate for 15 minutes before going to bed. Hopefully, this will help.

I also need to do better with my hydration. Today I took a look at my pee. It’s way too yellow. I would say I was about a 4. Not too bad, but not good either.

I’m not good with drinking plain water consistently and I do not like putting a bunch of artificial sweeteners in my water. I’ve tried lemons and limes. This last for a couple of days and then I’m bored with it. Today when I was at Whole Foods I picked up some packets of Ultima Replenisher. I’ve had it before. It was pretty good. I feel comfortable drinking more than one packet of this a day before it doesn’t have any artificial junk in it. I think I’m going to get a large container tomorrow.


I also think I need to push myself more to build my endurance. Tomorrow I plan to walk four miles. The Elliptical is great exercise but I’m thinking my primarily cross-training activity should be walking. I have actually one month until the Big Pumpkin 5K and I’m feeling a little nervous….

On another note, I saw buzz on Twitter about FitBloggin’ being in Savannah next year. Since it’s only a six hour drive for me, I really should go. I mean I lurk on quite of few blogs and it would be nice to meet some of the people I follow.

Workout Wednesday

Today was supposed to be a run day. It's been raining all day. I haven't worked up the courage to run in the rain. I debated about completing my run on the treadmill. I decided against it. I've been doing so well. My knees don't do so well on the treadmill, even when I'm walking for more than a few minutes.

I decided I'd do weights and the Elliptical and pray it doesn't rain tomorrow. I was so sore yesterday. I felt pretty good until about 2 pm and then DOMS set in. I need to be more diligent about stretching and using my foam roller. This is one of the reasons why I'm not consistent about lifting weeks. So, I'm going to do my best to keep up with the twice a week routine, maybe add another day.

One of my Facebook friends posted something about a class she will be teaching. It starts October 3 and will run through the end of the year. Supposedly, this is the last 90 days of the year. This has me thinking about what I can accomplish for the last 90 days of the year. Well, I have three 5Ks planned. I plan to be more consistent with meal prep. If possible, I may take additional swim lessons.

During my ride from the gym I started thinking about what I'm going to do about running throughout the winter. I really do not like running on the treadmill. I guess I need to figure out what it is about my form or shoes or whatever it is that causing my knee to hurt after running on a treadmill.

I have one month until the Big Pumpkin 5K. I am starting to get nervous. I am not going to doubt myself. I am going to keep on working out. As long as I have done my best to prepare, this is all I can ask of myself, right?

Bulu Box and Other Products

I did something very spontaneous this morning. I signed up for a subscription of Bulu Box. Right now they're having a 50% off sale. I signed up to a six-month subscription for $30 -- that's $5 a box! It was such a great deal I couldn't pass it up. I've seen reviews here and there on blogs and YouTube. I also figure that the stuff I don't use I can save and create a goodie box for my brother.

Speaking of trying out products, I purchased some tart cherry juice. Running While Chunky mentioned it on her blog so I had to try it. I was pretty good but way too sweet for my taste. I started adding water to it. I was worried about it being too sugary and spiking my blood sugar. Fortunately, my local Whole Foods starting selling the light version. So I was pretty happy about that. The main reason I wanted to try tart cherry juice is because it is suppose to have anti-inflammatory properties. We'll see....

A few weeks ago I also grabbed a tube of nuun. This was the same day I purchased that pepper spray. Now, it has been sitting on my dining room table. Someone I follow on Twitter mentioned it. I don't even remember what she said about it. I guess I'll give it a try one of these days.

I'm not one for taking a bunch of pills and supplements. I just decided to try all this stuff out of curiosity. I figure it can't hurt and it might help.

Motivational Monday

Today was strength training day. My goal is to lift weights at least twice a week. For the past two weeks, I have only lifted once a week. As much as I love lifting weights, I don't like the feeling the next day. I think I'm overdoing it so I tried to take it a bit easy today. I really need to create a plan and stick to it.

I also did 35 minutes on the Elliptical and a 10-minute cool down on the stationary bike. I feel pretty good.

Tomorrow I'm going for a four-mile walk. I want to make sure I keep up my cardio endurance. My 5K is a month away!

#RunChat

For the past few Sundays I am been lurking on Twitter's #RunChat. Not much to say about it. I do try to find beginning runners to follow. Today while running, I notice a woman ahead of me who was running at my pace. I really wanted to caught up to her and have a chat. There are days I wish I had someone to run with. The only people I know who run are way too fast for me. They were be totally bored running at my pace. It would be more like fast walking for them.

Today's run was not so great. I had to take walk breaks but I finished. It was a great reminder that I need to get proper rest and eat properly..

Is it Friday yet?

This is how I feel about today's workout:

Motivational Monday

I spent over half the day talking myself in and out of going running today. Then, all of sudden, at 7:00, I got dressed and headed out of the door. Up until the end of my five-minute warm up, I thought I was going to end up walking. I started my "wog" and pushed through for the entire 30 minutes.

I had about ten minutes left and it started getting dark. There wasn't much traffic on the Greenway. I was not feeling so comfortable. When I had about three minutes left, I noticed this creepy looking dude. At that point, I pulled out my pepper spray and finished my cool down. I wasn't sure if it was the dude or the fact that it seemed dark earlier than usual that was making me uneasy.

Funny thing is I get on Facebook one of my friends, the one who has most inspired me to run, mentioned being at the Greenway and it getting dark all of sudden. She also mentioned that same creepy dude. It seems I missed her by about 15 minutes. I guess we both found out it is getting dark earlier now that summer is almost over.

I am glad I got out there and completed my workout. I kept reminded myself that I really want to give myself my best shot at meeting my goal of running nonstop during the Big Pumpkin 5K. The more I push myself now the better runner I will become.

Sunday Lazy Sunday

I have been so lazy today. I slept in. I did not go to church. I haven’t finished my laundry. I have not started my meal prep. I did not go for a walk as scheduled. I am not going to worry about it. I did use my foam roller and I will do some stretching as soon as I finish writing. Fortunately, I am off tomorrow so I will finish my laundry and food prep. I also plan to go for a 30-minute run.

Gaining Confidence

I guess my confidence to run will come in time. Once again I found myself going back and forth about getting out there. Was I too sore from my adjustment and massage yesterday? Is having only one day of rest enough for me? The questions kept coming as I drove to the Greenway. How many times am I going to go through this? I know I can run 30 minutes! I reassured myself that even if I did no complete the run it was the effort that counts. There is no shame in walking.

About ten minutes into my workout, I thought about quitting. I thought about quitting right up until I have two minutes left. Each time I thought about quitting I told myself the effort was going to make me a better runner and to enjoy the moment. One thing I did notice is that at times I was breathing heavy even though it was not necessary. There are so many things to remember: pay attention to my form, my surroundings, my breath AND enjoy the journey. I have to say each time I finish I amaze myself.

Kneeling Psoas Lunge

I went to the chiropractor today for an adjustment and a massage. Boy, did it hurt so good! He kneaded my left glute like it was hardening Playdough. I could feel the release right away. He gave me some exercises to stretch the Psoas. He also recommended I start doing lunges. I am always afraid of lunges because I am afraid I am going to hurt my knees. Then again, I felt the same way about squats and I can do them now without any problems. He looked at my chart. Besides the time I hurt my knee trying to avoid not tripping over Rascal, I haven’t been to see him about my knees since September 2011. Now if I can get rid pesky tight glutes. I showed him the hip flexor stretch I’ve been doing. The stretch I was doing was static. He said it is fine but wants me to start lunging forward. I will eventually work up to a standing lunge.

Anyhow, this is what I will be working on for the next couple of months:

Happy Birthday!

I did it! I ran 3.1 miles. It was my birthday present to me. I almost gave up before trying. I was so nervous. One of the things I noticed was that I had to hold back on my pace. I was worried that I was going to run out of steam. Whenever I started getting a little weary, I told myself…”you can take a walk break once you get to that cone, just make it to that tree…” Before I knew it, I was done!

I am still in disbelief. I can't believe I did it! I ran three miles nonstop! I’ve recently accomplished two of my fitness goals:

Completing the Couch to 5K plan
Running 3.1 miles on my birthday

Now my goal is to continue running three times a week (I’ll run another personal 5K in two weeks) and consistently doing strength training at least twice a week. Both my GYN and Endocrinologist keep telling me strength training will really help improve my health. I need to stick with it. Thank God tomorrow is a rest day. My arms are still sore from Tuesday's workout.

This has been one of the best birthdays. This afternoon I treated myself to a pedicure. Tomorrow I am getting an adjustment and massage.

Wellness Wednesday

Today I saw my GYN for my annual exam. I am still amazed that my blood pressure continues to be in the normal range. Today it was 113/71. I also discussed with her that I have noticed that for the past month my hot flashes have increased. I was thinking I need a dosage adjustment on my HRT patch. She said, since my thyroid levels are okay, it probably has to do with the running. My body is making adjustment for the more intense exercise.

As far as she is concerned, I should just ride it out. She suggests I keep up the running and make sure I keep lifting the weights. It never occurred to me that running would affect my menopausal symptoms. I have been so concerned with my blood pressure, diabetes, and weight. The sweating has been pretty bad. I even had to switch to one of those clinical deodorants.

Tuesday's Training

I am not sure what to blog about, but I want to stick with my plan to blog more this month, so this will be short. Today I did and Elliptical workout and some weights. I can definitely notice improvement in my upper body strength.
I am so enjoying my staycation. After I was bummed that I wasn’t travelling but I think it has been good for me. I did not realize how tired I am. It is giving me the opportunity to rest and workout the way I would like to. It is going to be interesting to see if I can maintain this momentum once I begin work again next Tuesday.

Today I also did some window shopping. I want some new workout gear. I want to wear a nice orange neon shirt for the Big Pumpkin Run in month. If this is the case, I want to break it in now. This is where I get so frustrated. Why, oh why, is it so hard to find workout gear for big folks? We work out too. I get tired of having to order my gear online. For once, I would like to walk into a store and buy a nice shirt or shorts…and not spend an arm and a leg!

Motivational Monday

I do not even know how to explain how I feel right now. Accomplished? Inspired? Motivated? Excited? I did not do anything spectacular. I ran for 30 minutes…again. I was starting to doubt because I struggled on Saturday. I had to talk more walks than I would have liked. I attribute it to running too fast, well, at least for me. I was not running with music which helps me pace myself and drown out my heavy breathing.

Anyhow, after about four hours of going back and forth about whether to go to the greenway, I decided to try. I was so worried that it was not going to be good for me mentality if I wasn’t about to complete my workout. I prayed, grabbed my water and iPod, and headed out the door. The mind wanted to stop so many times! I was aware that it was just my mind and that my body was fine. Even when I noticed myself spending up a bit, I intentionally went back to my “normal” pace.

I am currently reading John Bingham’s No Need for Speed and it has really helped me get over being so self-conscious about my pace. I proudly post my workouts, along with my pace, on Facebook and Twitter. I remind myself that I am going faster than anyone sitting on their sofa. I am going faster than I was when I was sitting on that sofa.

I am not sure what compels me to keep getting out there putting one foot in front of the other. I do even know why I started with this crazy dream and goal. I do know that, for today, I felt like a runner.

Second Chance Sunday

Thinking about my workouts and food plan last week; what went well; what needs improvement.

I did a great job with meal prep. I am in the process of meal prep right now. I am having oven-baked fajitas again, sautéed kale, and baked salmon patties. On Friday I did treat myself to take out...a falafel plate -- Greek salad, hummus, and falafel. It was yummy. I ate all the salad and saved half of the hummus, pita, and falafel for lunch on Sunday.

My opportunities are with consistent working out. I only ran two days last week. My goal is to run three days. I am on vacation this week so there is no excuse for me not to meet my goal. I am planning to run a 5K on my birthday, Thursday.

I also planned to do strength/weight training twice a week. I only lifted weights one day. So my plan this week is:

Sunday - walk my new route. I want to calibrate my new route.

Monday - run my new route. Weights at the gym.

Tuesday - Elliptical

Wednesday - Walk. Weights at gym.

Thursday - Birthday 5K

Friday - Rest day -- I have an adjustment and massage scheduled.

Saturday - Run my new route.

Sunday - Walk

Saturday Sweaty Saturday

I decided to try a new route this morning. I’m still kind of spooked about the dogs in my neighborhood. I get to the greenway and discover my iPod is completely dead. Run without music? I hate listening to my heavy breathing. I ALMOST went back home to charge up my iPod but decided against.

I did not do so well in the beginning. The first five minutes I struggled to find my pace. Music helps me with my pace. I think I was going way too fast because I had to stop and walk after about ten minutes. I remind myself that walk is okay and kept on going.

The next aggravation was not seeing any markers. I could have sworn when beginning the Couch to 5K with Bianca last year I saw mile markers. So, no app and no markers! Even though I run by time, I still like to know how far I have gone. After 30 minutes is up, I look down at my watch. I forgot to turn on my HRM! I have no ideas how many calories I burned. Now I am just pissed!
For whatever reason, I decided to do the loop again. I remember what I have read about doing too much too soon. Even though I felt I could have run for a few more minutes, I walked. Despite all the aggravation of the morning, it was a great workout! It was a beautiful day. It’s the first day of my birthday vacation. I am having second thoughts about my ability to run 3.1 miles on Thursday for my birthday. I am going to do my best. I do no one thing. I need my music!

WTH! Wednesday

It took me about 20 minutes to get out of bed this morning. I wasn’t feeling my workout but I prayed and went out to conquer it anyhow. I was feeling great. I gave myself a pep talk about how accomplished I was going to feel, it's only 30 minutes, etc.

Five minutes into my run, these two little dogs come out of nowhere barking up a storm. I stop and try not to panicked, pissed that I still haven’t gone to the store to get pepper spray. I keep talking myself out of it thinking it won’t be necessary. I’m standing there trying to be calm and this dude is taking his sweet time (at least this is my perception) getting his dogs! He didn't say, sorry maam; I'm going to get them; they won't bite; nothing. I wanted to say something to him but didn't want to provoke his dogs. Who knows...maybe he was speaking for the same reason.

I start running again. Five minutes later I see this guy with his dog. I'm thinking, really? Usually it's so quiet out here. Just me, a few cars, and people walking to the bus stop. I can’t tell if this dog is on a leash. In hindsight, I should have turn away as soon as I saw the dog. Now this dog is barking and charging toward me. The guy, who looked half asleep, takes his time pulling the leash. He at least says sorry and good morning. I run a few more yards and a car speeds pass me. I’m thinking this morning I’m either going to get bit or it. I head for home. I was able to complete a mile.

Tasty Tuesday

This week I made Oven-Bake Chicken Fajitas. I have been seeing versions of this recipe floating on Facebook and other blogs. I used this one. The only change I made was excluding the diced tomatoes and adding crushed red pepper flakes. I also decided to have it as a salad instead of in tortillas. This is the reason I cut the chicken, peppers, and onions in chunks instead of strips. Yummy! This is definitely a keeper:

Motivational Monday

I love September – it is my favorite time of the year! I had every intention of running this morning, but my body said no. I wanted to try to run after one rest day but I think I better stick with two for a while. My back, neck, and shoulders were aching. It could be because I cleaned a closet yesterday. I lifted a bunch of boxes then I did some strength training later in the day. If I want to meet my goals, the best thing I can do is stay injury-free.

Next week I am getting an adjustment and a massage. I can’t wait! Everything I have read says that one of the biggest mistakes new runners make is pushing too much too soon. While I am so excited to get going, I have to curb my enthusiasm somewhat. So, instead of running (I thought about getting on the treadmill later today), I am going to do some yoga. It looks like rain so I may not be able to go for a walk. If not, I will hit the Elliptical at the gym. I also need to hit the foam roller!
My goals for this month:

• 50 Miles — I signed up for this 50-mile challenge on Daily Mile. I’m averaging about 2.5 miles each run. I know will not meet this goal but it is something that will help me stay focused.
• Strength training — I am going to work on pumping the iron at least twice a week. I love deadlifts! This includes #PlankADay
• Virtual 5K — I plan to run a 5K on my birthday. It is my birthday present to me! 
• Healthier Eating – The key to healthier eating is meal planning and prep. As long as I prepare my food in advance, I’m good. I am also working on eating every two or three hours. This also includes my hydration. I am not good about drinking enough water. I do better with hot herbal tea. I do not use sweetener in my tea so it counts!

Hello September!

Hello September! I am feeling really good. I am right where I wanted to be with my running. I wish things were better in the weight department but that is coming. I was cleaning last weekend and saw my fat loss monitor. I need to take that out and start using it again.

So, now that I have the Couch to 5K passed me, I can slowly start getting back to the gym. Running really takes a lot out of me but I know that rest, hydration, and proper nutrition is going to help me become a better runner and drop some pounds.

I am starting the month off right and going to the gym later on today. I haven’t decided whether I am going to practice my swimming or hit the weights. I spent some time for the past two nights reading through some running blogs. I like one runner’s suggestion to run and do strength training on the same day. This way you could some other cross training like swimming, cycling, or yoga on a non-running day to give your body a break from high intensity work. The problem for me is that I do not know if I have enough energy on a running day to also do weights. I tried it a few times during the C25K and I was wiped out. I definitely want to get back to Spin class. I miss Spin. However, for me, Spin is like adding a fourth running day.  Again, rest, hydration, and proper nutrition are going to be key.

I have the following song on my running playlist. It really helps me through those tough spots:

Conceive it, Believe it, Achieve it!

Today was my first official run as a Couch to 5K grad. I wasn't feeling too confident about running for 30 minutes. First of all, despite going to bed at 9:30, I did not sleep well. Last night it occurred to me that my sleep issue probably have to do with menopause. I have a doctor's appointment in a few weeks. I am going to ask her to check my estrogen level. So, I didn't feel like I slept well. I open the door and it is hot and sticky at 6:00 am. Yuck!

Despite that voice that told me it was okay to give up after five minutes, I finished! I still can't believe I am running for 30 minutes and my knee is not bothering me.