Full from Vacation

Well, I don't know about you, but I ate enough food over the holiday weekend. NOt that I overate at a certain meal, but just snacking hit the bulge. Oh well. The weekend is over, and I can't change it now. I had a great time celebrating the holidays and spending time with the family.

During my vacationing, I also squeezed in some exercise. Treadmill a bit and a long run.
On Sunday, I cruised through new trails to complete 19.5 miles. My father spent the last 7-8 miles. He was such a trooper. He encouraged me when I started cursing, and it was good. We had some nice bonding time out on the trail.
I haven't lost any toenails, but do have 2 nice blisters which make it hard to walk normally, let alone try to run on.

The race is less than 2 weeks away, and I can't believe it. It's going to be awesome. I hope you will join me!

Holy Crap it's the Holidays

Hey Friends and Supporters,

Wow, what a journey I have been enjoying...this experience toward 26.2. I didn't realize I could ache in so many places, hurt myself in random spots as well. Right now I'm dealing with some foot pain which somehow messed up my walk, so it's caused pain. I am working through it and being sure to take good care of myself.

I can't believe the holidays are here. How did that happen? Life has been even more hectic in the past couple of weeks. I am ready to sleep in on a weekend...just veg out. Maybe later in January!!

Thanks to all of you have that supported me and shared stories with me along the way.

Hugs & Happy Holidays!

What a Weekend

Like I said, I've been a bit of a slacker with the blogging...

Last week I did treadmill work and weights before heading out to my holiday party. I was so sore the next day from all the workouts, especially since I was shaking it on the dance floor.

On Saturday was a big day...21 miles! It was LONG! Toward the end, I was tired and a bit cranky. But it was good to know what to expect next with regard to energy levels and what I need to do. I didn't get enough fuel or water overall, which wore me out toward the end. I didn't listen to any music, and I definitely will be for the race. I'll tweak going forward.

I wasn't as sore as I thought I would be that evening or Sunday either. I went to Universal on Sunday, so that helped me keep my legs moving.

I'm keeping it up and staying strong. Everyone has been surprised, yet excited about the journey and cheers me on.

Hugs to all of you!

Blogging Slacker

Wow! It's been crazy since Turkey Day, I don't know why. I travel in many directions and sometimes the last thing I want to do is turn on the computer after a long day of work, exercise, life.
I have been working out, just not documenting it all here. Actually, I did some strength training just last night that has made my quads so sore; it's all good though. I'll hobble around a bit, but it's all in the name of getting stronger.
I will finish the marathon! Only 26.2...easy :)

The Biggest Loser season really inspired me. I can't believe the challenges they overcame and even the top 4 doing a marathon. Wow! Last night when I was hurting (good hurt if there is such a thing), I pictured them. They kept going and so will I. I am an anxious person at times, so it's hard not to worry or hold onto fears.

I am learning to let my fears go in order to reach new strides.

Turkey Trot

Good morning! This morning I got up with some friends and did the non-timed 5K in downtown. It was great to be out there exercising with friends and celebrating the day. It burned just enough calories to cover the latte that I HAD to have afterwards. Starbucks is such an addiction!

So I got in a nice 3.1 miles today, not including the walk to an from the car :)

Yesterday, I really busted my butt on the treadmill going 4 miles but doing incline training and running more. I spent the last 5 minutes running, which is really helping build my endurance. Can you believe I went to the gym after work let out early instead of doing something else? Wow!

So today is the day to checkout circulars and see what gifts can be bought this Black Friday. I didn't even buy a paper to avoid tempation. Instead, I'll spend a few hours tomorrow doing gift wrap at a local mall to raise funds for Team in Training.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Whew

I squeezed in the 13 miles on Friday and even got in 30 minutes at the gym while traveling. It was good. I met up with the training team on Monday night to do 3.5 miles quickly. I even race the last 1/4 of a mile to help with endurance.
Kick butt!

All Alone

Today I trekked alone. 13 miles of me & my iPod. It was hard to get started, as I just saw a big number in front of me. Due to time constrictions, I could not fit in the 17 miles, but 13 is pretty good. It was a nice trail walk with lots of nature. The morning started out cool with grey skies and fogginess, but by noon was streaming bright sun. I felt good, hydrated and fueled myself through the journey. I even did some extra incline work by crossing a bridge 4 times; a couple times walking up backwards. Good little squeezed in workout!

Rest Day

Gotta love my rest day. Feeling a tad sore from the weights, but it's so good. This has been quite a journey so far, and I am so glad that I have friends/family that are there for the emotional support.
I am ready for a 17-mile walk tomorrow morning. It's going to feel a bit long I'm sure, but it's going to be SO good.

Fitness Training

Wow, 30 minutes of grrr today. weight machines for arms & leg presses too. Did creatively designed push-ups, arm exercises with weights and some crunches from hell. It was good!

Yoga

Massaged my organs tonight with some yoga. That's all I need to say.

Bit o Treadmill

Thought I would jump onto the treadmill this evening since my team workout was cancelled. 30 minutes of goodness. I did some running along with my fast walking, and even ended strong with running the last 2 minutes. It was hot...I was hot, but it was good. Hate going places just after exercise, but I tried to avoid people in CVS as I picked up a couple random items.

This experience has been so uplifting, harsh, good...

Pilates Mat

First pilates class...wow! From 3 minutes in until the hour was over, it was pushing to stretch myself...literally. My abs got worked out well, and I felt stronger yet tired at the end. It was a good class overall, and I'm so glad that I did it. Perfect salad afterwards too!

Hello 15 Miles!

Whew! Yesterday started a bit chilly but quickly warmed up as the muscles were moving. It was chilly for Florida people...57-60 degrees. We headed out to a trail on the east side of town to do our 15 mile stretch. Well, it took just over 3.5 hours, so I actually maintained a 14:37 pace...that's great for me. They want to ensure that I can go the distance on race day, so I need to be able to keep a pace like this to buffer my time later when I will end up slowing down. Disney is a great place, but they will sweep you if you don't hit the desired mileage at certain mile markers. So back to my 15 miles, it was good. Of course doing this amount of miles at one time is not a thrill ride, more of a slightly painful one, but it's expected. So I kept my pace and kept chatting. I had a buddy with me for most of the journey, so it helped me keep going. I probably only listened to my iPod for about 20 minutes total.
My coaches were there for part of my journey as well, and they got me to 'jog' for a couple intervals, so that was good too. I fondly called one of my coaches "Jillian".

After screaming into my arm to get some excess 'argh' out, I headed to a friend's house (sweet woman) and get changed, so I could enjoy a local festival. I hobbled around the rest of the day, even to the hospital to visit a sick friend. I was definitely happy to sit down and not move as evening came.

It's Sunday, and I feel good. The plan is to head to the gym for a pilates class and treadmill work, just to keep it interesting :)

Holy Thursday

Well, it was a rough Thursday afternoon. 30 minutes of hard core circuit training-I felt like one of those Biggest Loser people. My trainer was even getting a little loud with me; I guess he doesn't think I'm funny. Oh well. So after the brutal workout, I felt so nauseated. I had to attend a birthday party, and I really wanted to go. I ended up on the side of the road losing it for a few minutes, but continued on and had a nice evening :)

Today is my rest day, so I'm enjoying just coming home and doing random tasks. My quads are definitely sore from last night, but I just feel a bit stronger...that's nice.

Tomorrow is the long run day...15 miles of fun. Can't wait!!!

The Road I Am Traveling

It's amazing how much one can struggle to change. Change is constant, yet we fight against the flow. I have been challengd to exercise daily where it wasn't that often before, and to eat healthier. It sounds easy, but for me and many others, it isn't. It seems easier when I'm exercising with someone else, but when alone, I struggle more.
My friend asked me the other day if I have lost weight and am I am feeling energized. Nope. I'm slowly learning new eating habits, but the weight loss hasn't occurred. Of course I'm building muscle as well, but I haven't seen much change. I struggle with getting my sneakers on and not falling back into old patterns.
Last night, I hit a wall. I hit a point where I said that I need to re-dedicate myself to what's important and to simplify.

On Monday, it was a nice jaunt with the TNT group. A couple miles then cross-training, another mile then more training, then a final 1/2 mile. It was a nice change-up to do the cross-training between the miles - jump rope, jumping jacks, crunches, kicks.

On Tuesday, I took my cross-training at a different angle and attended a meeting on presence. It was a good exercise in study as well as being able to sit still for 7 minutes in a meditative state. All good!

Last night was the wall. No exercise, just some crying. I know it sounds pitiful, but I needed to hit the wall. Then I sat for awhile and put to paper what my real focus needs to be for the next couple of months...what's important. I asked myself why I was doing this race, and why was I involved with Team in Training. I came out with a couple positive results, and I feel renewed.

I got up this morning and did an exercise walking video for 45 minutes (3 miles) so get my day started. I have strength training later this evening, and I'm back!

You Spin Me...

Holy crap! I'm trying new experiences and today I did a spin class. Needless to say, my butt will be hurting for awhile. I went to my friend Kristin's gym to checkout the facilities. We did a 50-minute spinning class, and it kicked my butt. My knee was sore from walking the day before, so I didn't get up in the climb position everytime. I paced myself and sweated A LOT. I did it...I wasn't very good, but I did it.
It was good. Trying new experiences is good. However, now I need the experience of sleep.
Thanks for sharing life with me!

Tears

When you make average great, your dreams will become a reality!

Today I cried...oh Oprah. This week she did a show on Fearless Women and 'stepping out of the box.' I had it on DVR and didn't watch it until after I walked 13 miles this morning.

This morning was hard. I didn't feel energetic from the start, and I was nervous about 13. It's a half marathon distance, and I've only done that was before (untrained). I felt off, and it most of the time to try to find a rhythm. I just didn't feel great. I was even asked if I should step down to the half marathon in January instead of going the full 26.2. Today I struggled. The inner voices fighting against each other. "I can't do this! My legs are hurting, and it's so far to go!" vs. "I can do this! I am strong!" I felt so tired, hoping that my legs would go numb before I finished.
One of my coaches finished the last couple miles with me...helping bring me home. She was a lifesaver, as I don't know what I would have done by myself. Thanks Jen!

I came home today feeling defeated. Yes, I did the 13 miles, but worried about my ability to do 2 sets of 13 miles in a row. My dad was uplifting, talking about the courage to go out and do the race, and the fact that I could do it if I got my head in the game.

So I came home to watch some TV and rest before attempting a nap. I watched the episode of Oprah. I cried...hard. Women being put in fearful tests (skydiving, roller derby, running into the ocean nude), and how they overcame each one. The sense of accomplishment, of confidence, of rejuvenation. I now have a new picture in my head. I can do it...I can push myself physically and mentally, and I can do this damn race. I don't have to be naturally athletic, tall and skinny, and I don't have to come in first place. I just have to get out there and do it.

Thanks to my friend Julie who posted the quote above on her blog today, as it really touched me today.

Wednesday - Whew!

Man, Monday night was dark for an evening run, but it was good. Run a couple miles plus some crazy strength training. Variety of squats plus calf raises and push-ups too. I was definitely sweating but it was cool out too.

Last night was yoga. It's been awhile since I've done yoga, but it was good. Gentle and supposed to do hormonal balance by massaging kidneys, adrenal glands, etc. It was nice. I went to the same place where I had attended Laughter Yoga, which is SO very good, yay!

Tonight I hit the gym for a nice treadmill workout. I was there for just over an hour; I did some speed work as well as working inclines and even trying to walk backwards a bit.

Wednesdays are rough for me. I have been working out since Saturday, and my body is begging for a day off. But no, I keep trudging as best I can to meet my goals and kick butt for the marathon.

I really enjoy hanging out with my Team in Training coaches/mentors and fellow runners. Everyone is so spirited and excited about the racing. It's great to be involved with people trying to get healthy and train properly.

I have to say some athletic inspiration in from two sweet friends - 1 who is about to do a relay race weekend across the state and another that just finished her first solo biking trip from Savannah to St Augustine. These ladies inspire me!

Time for Bed!!

seriously, the longer you run...the more you smell

Well today was a trip. I defintely utilized my extra hour of sleep after celebrating a friend's birthday late into the evening.

Lesson 1: Get enough sleep
Lesson 2: Minimize the amount of alcohol before your 'long run' day

Since I missed my group run yesterday, I headed out to the same area they trekked yesterday to get in my mileage. I had planned to do 11 but only got 9.5 miles. My knee was hurting and so were my feet. I didn't want to push it and risk injury, especially being out there alone.

I was excited to have my iPod to keep the music pumping, except for the fact that somehow it was dead...darn it. At least a little bit lighter load, but nothing but my own thoughts to guide me...yikes. Just kidding, but it felt longer without that good vibe.

I tried my first actual 'Gu' gel, but it did nothing for me with regard to feeling an extra boost. I'm more of the fan for hammer and clif; I need to stop up with some as well.

I used my fuel belt today (all 4 bottles), and it was super handy. It's different carrying weight like that, but it was highly beneficial. Next time, I need to have 1 of the bottles hold powerade to ensure I have some electrolyte-fluid. It was quite handy, and I'm so glad that I bought it.

At the end of my trek, I was ready to crawl into bed. But no, first a very important shower. I don't understand how people enjoy sweating like this! Then my hope is to visit the World Showcase of EPCOT and enjoy the last days of Food & Wine celebration. Now for a bit of rest before even MORE walking.

travel sucks

well, the last couple days have been filled with travel, which makes it crazy to try to squeeze in exercise on a business trip. being gone a couple days and i got in a quick workout tuesday morning. so happy.

Hills

Kicked butt today! Just under 9 miles with 5 trips up the Big Bertha hill. Awesome! I monitored my pace a bit but didn't push it. It felt great!!! I am exhausted and a bit smelly at the moment (need the shower).
Awesome day!

illness

being sick is awful no matter what...
i have been sick...cold...sinuses...i'm over it. i'm so tired. i haven't been able to run in days. i'm nervous about the 8 miles tomorrow.
so tired...

counting calories

Okay, so I am working out to get ready for a marathon, right? But I also need to start paying more attention to my calorie and other 'gram' intake...fat, carbs, protein, etc. I've started making a list of typical foods that I eat during the week, even that Grande Soy Chai from Starbucks. It has really put into perspective what I'm eating. Each item as a piece of the day is not awful, but combined I am eating more calories than I thought, and not getting enough of a couple vitamins during the day. Eye opening for me, so I will continue to learn from my friends on better choices, healthier choices. I have improved my habits, but it still needs work...gotta tweak it.

Race for the Taste 10K

Gosh darn, it's still so hot in Florida. This is why they don't do races in summer because it's so hot. Fall needs to get here.

Well, it was a group effort today at the race. I've never had so many friends out there with me in the race, and it was great. I think the 'race bug' has been caught, though they are all against the marathon (participating themselves at least).

It was warm, and I stayed steady until I got into EPCOT's World Showcase. I started feeling 'blah' and ended up sitting on a bench for a few minutes near Mexico. After I emptied my stomach on the lawn, I strolled the last .7 miles to the finish line. The medic pargo had been called, but I wasn't going to stop so close to the finish. My poor friends were so worried, but I did it. Unfortunately, I didn't get to enjoy the free Food & Wine Festival food items, but that's okay.

I am still glad that I did the race. It's been a few months since I actually participated in one, and they are always a learning experience.

Hopefully new photos will be appearing once my friend gets them uploaded.

exhausting week

This week has been tough. When I'm out of routine, I have a hard time getting on board with my program. I have worked but not as hard as I want to. Sometimes I have to give myself a couple minutes to just adjust. I'm stressed too because I have to raise money for Team in Training, and I've fallen short. I really want to do this race. Not only will it bring help to those in need, but I am really building a new lifestyle. To be more fit, to be more conscious, it's so important. I can do this...I know I can. All I need is support.

Muggy Evening

Holy Crap! Our cool front was literally 24 hours. Today was 90 and at 6pm, it will crazy humid. I was sweating before we even started. We varied our trek this time around and also did some crazy strength training.
I had to carry a plastic egg on a spoon for a couple quick loops - probably took 5 minutes. It was to help us with posture, and it was a challenge.
We also did squats with side leg lifts, rear lunges, push-ups on the back of a bench and tricep push-ups on the bench seat. It was good but created a good burn.
I was pouring with sweat by the time it was over, but it felt great (kinda).
I had nice conversation with one of the TNT ladies, and it made the walk must easier. Working hard getting ready for the weekend race, let alone an upcoming 26.2.

damn, it's hot

The had a 2-day cool front last week then back to 90+. Killing me! It was warm today as I walked around Blue Jacket & Lake Baldwin. A nice 5.5 miles to get in the needed exercise and prep for the Race for the Taste 10K next week.
It was a nice change to walk with a couple friends, though I felt sluggish the whole time. I guess some days are just off. I will continue to monitor my food intake around 'running' time and ensure that I'm doing well in that area.
I didn't rest much after the walk either, as I headed off for shopping and more walking.
I have to say that I'm quite annoyed that I misplaced my pedometer for the last two days. We are doing a contest at work, and I forget it for over 6-7 miles of activity in less than 48 hours. Bummer!
Time for bed (almost).

a quick cool front

The weather has been so warm...it took until 10/1 to get a low of 65. I decided to do a morning run instead of evening. It was cool, and I got to experience sunrise. I really enjoyed the cool weather, breeze, and I was prepared in a long sleeve tee. It felt good, and I found my pace.
a nice day

forgotten socks

Ouch! I headed to the gym today only to discover no socks. That's what I get for packing a bag when I'm not feeling well. My workout was cut short due to the discomfort (pain) of the 'no socks' drama. I quick 30 minutes with some quick runs at 6.0 mph (fast for me). It was a good workout, but I wish I had been able to work longer. I think I burned about 170 calories, which is nice. I enjoyed a little Larabar after the exercise to get some carbs going. Tonight I will pack 2 sets of socks to avoid future issues.

P.S. I hope to have new photos uploaded soon. I'll work on it the next couple of weekends. I'm doing a practice race (10K) at Disney in a couple weeks.

sick day

Ouch...I woke up this morning and was nauseated for hours. I didn't make it to work, and I've been bed-ridden all day. So no exercise to report. I was excited too because I was going to attend a yoga class this evening. I'll be out again tomorrow. Cheer me on!

Darn Shins

Another fun day on the 'path.' Met up with my TNT group for a 1 hour extravaganza. 45 minutes of running with 15 minutes of stretching/strength training. I got 3 miles in, fighting shin splints the whole way. argh! It was so frustrating, but I must figure out how to effectively deal with them.
For the stretching, we did 25 pushups and 25 situps and even some squats. For the squats, we bent down in a squat then when raising would lift one leg. We did 10 for each leg with total 20 squats. We also did the fun 'coach pull' where we run in 2 circles (approx 30 feet?) dragging our coach behind us by a resistance band. Coach pulls us back and we strive forward.
It's been a good run, and I'm looking forward to a good night sleep. Training has started to become a bit easier (kinda), and it feels good to get out and get the blood pumping. I'm also enjoying the nice people that I'm meeting in the group (not enough boys though).
I'm out.

Just a Walk in the Park

Today was a Disney day. My friend, Kristin, and I wanted to test out part of our upcoming 10K, so we hit some 'free' areas of Disney. We walked the Boardwalk and trail from Hollywood Studios to the World Showcase entrance of EPCOT - twice. I think it measured to about 4.5 miles. We didn't go super fast as my 'long run' was yesterday, but we kept it steady and did a good amount of stretching throughout. It was good to get a feel for at least a portion of the race, and we even took the little hills backwards a couple times just to work some different muscles. It was 100% humidity, so even at 9:30am this morning, it was HOT. We had a good workout and ate pretty well overall.
We started the day with a double fiber whole grain bread lightly toasted with peanut butter and a banana. It was yummy, but not recommended for long run days (for me at least). We had a yummy salad and some bread at lunch from one of our fave places, Sweet Tomatoes.
I've been reading Body for Life and Runner's world this evening, and I'm getting some good tips for healthy eating and exercising. This has been a great experience!

The week over already

Looking back on the week I missed a couple days (well one was a rest day). On Wednesday, I felt beat. I don't know if I should blame the flu shot or not. I started feeling feverish and exhausted around the end of the day, and that's when I was supposed to be at the gym. I went home and went to bed at 9:30pm (early). I slept it off and was able to get into the gym at work for a 45 minute treadmill run.
This morning was the TNT group run, and we did 4.5 miles. I paced about 14:33; I'm not that fast when it comes to longer race distances, but I'm steady. I was tired and achy through the first couple miles but by the end I was in stride. I was glad that I went today since I had a raging headache Friday night that had me restless and pained.
Now I smell all stinky, but I've had a chai latte and that made the morning better. I am really enjoying the pain and thrill of doing a marathon. It's not easy, but I know I can do it.
Time for a quick nap before I go to support my friend in her race tonight.

BTW, I also need to shop for a fuel belt since I have to start carrying my liquids and clifshots. I also have to figure out good cross-training, and one of my coaches recommended Biggest Loser videos, so I'll be searching for that online today.

Fun times. Hopefully in the next week I'll be able to post some pictures of my progress.

Training in front of the TV

I desired more home time today so instead of hitting the gym, I got in front of my TV. 1 hour old-style walk aerobics. I think it was equivalent for 4 miles - got my heart pumping and also included a little stretching. It was really good. I enjoyed getting pumped in my comfort zone of home. I will be back at the gym later this week, but I'm also trying to figure out how to keep everyday fresh, add a little different element and keep it fun. Otherwise, I'll go crazy. I did miss getting together with my TNT buds this evening though...I have enjoyed our gatherings and comraderie.
Cheers! Maybe a little wine to celebrate a good day. Or may just a little break and a little rest.

After Fondue

So last nite I decided to dine on a fondue dinner at a really yummy restaurant. My friend and I made some smart choices with what we were dipping in the cheese and ensuring that we ate veggies. We even had food leftover (except for dessert) that she was able to take home.
After a big meal ending at 10:15 at nite, getting up at 6am to do a run was not happening. I headed out for a 30 minute walk around 9am this morning. I was fighting with my shins again (shooting pains). I took time to stretch during the walk and work it out. When I came home pouring in sweat, I crawled onto the floor for some exercises. Crunches, push-ups, squats, lunges. It was good.
After my exercise fun, I headed to the grocery store to pick up some new food items and get ready for a new week of dining. I even tried some muscadine grapes!
I'll be ready for my Monday night workout and will soon build up my endurance.
I am an Endurance Athlete!

Big Bertha

Holy crap, I didn't know there were hills in Central Fl. Today, I found the big one. I did 2 miles then went up & down this hill 3 times, then finished with 2 more miles. Since I'm definitely not used to doing hills being in Fl, this was all new.
So the second time going up the hill, I went backwards. Wow, that was slow moving. It works some different hills, and I need to train this way because WDW has a lot of ramps (little hills). I know I will be ready for the race! I will not take this training lightly. I heard some inspirational stories today about why people run and experiences they've had. Inspiration to kick butt!

Day Off

All I can say is a day off feels good!

First Day of Really Trying Strength Training

How do I begin? Well, it all begin this evening following a snack of nothing (bad idea) to the gym. I geared up and hopped on the treadmill for about 10 minutes. I wanted to get my heart pumping, and I had no clue how I was to fill 60 minutes of cross-training.
After the treadmill of light walking but getting warmed up, I found a little area of floor to explore. My dad gave me some calistenics (sp?) exercises that he still actively uses and are good for that strength training stuff. I looked so amateur, but I had a guide and it's all I needed. I didn't do any crazy jumping around (save some of it for at-home), but I did get dirty on the floor.
I did forward and backward lunges, crunches, push-ups, squats and a couple others that really worked some muscles. I'll probably be aching tomorrow - I can't believe doing a few push-ups really made my arms feel jiggly.
After doing about 20 minutes of training (no weights, no machines), I hopped back on the treadmill for another 10 minutes to make my treadmill experience a mile.
It was an interesting experience. Like I said, I felt like a novice especially with 4 girls there being coached by a couple trainers. I realized later tonite, however, that it doesn't matter. I made the decision to improve my health, and going in with my little cheat sheet was the best way I could get started.
I'm sure I'll be achy, but I made a decision to exercise, to work on my healthiness, and I acknowledge myself for taking that action.

P.S. After the workout I met up with a group of friends that I visit with once a week (great group of women). We watched a movie called "The Shadow Effect" and it really started to connect for me what I'm doing and why I'm choosing to participate with Team In Training. It was a good evening.

Biggest Loser

Today's workout was not the greatest. Since this daily regimen is new to me, I am so tired today. I spent the whole time trying to be okay with feeling so tired, but it hit me as I tried to strength train this evening. It was brief, but at least I did some of it. Tomorrow is another day!

So I watched the first episode of 'The Biggest Loser' tonite (DVR). I cried for the first 45 minutes. They made it so emotional, plus in some ways I can relate to these individuals. We all have our stories, our habits, and our ability to choose. I do this race not only to raise funds for a deadly disease but also to create a better life for me. If I can become a healthier individual while helping others, then it's a real win-win.

So I make my choices day by day, hour by hour and moment by moment.

Ooops, what I supposed to cross-train

Well, I was supposed to cross-train today, but as I didn't know what else to do, I just ran. Oops! 45 minutes on the treadmill - again my fast walking with a bit of jogging. I did interval training on the machine today, so it would go from 0 incline to 3. It was a good workout.
I bought new shoes over the weekend, so I tested them out today. I spent about 20-25 minutes in my new 'kicks' but switched back to my old shoes, since I want to get into the new shoes easily.
So I asked a personal trainer what would be a good idea for cross-training, and she told me that I should jump over a bench to build my endurance. So I guess that will be added to the mix this week :)

Side bar: after exercising for an hour, going to singing rehearsal for 2.5 hours is rather exhausting. It's okay, because I'll be fine doing both in the same night soon, but today kicked my butt. My bed is calling!

Added the Strength

Well, I met up with my TNT group at a local park for some running and strength training. My shins were just hurting, so I moved a bit slower trying to shake it all out.
45 minutes of walk/run
15 minutes of strength training -
25 push-ups
25 crunches
dragging the coach around w/ resistance band on waist

It was great meeting people and exercising. We even celebrated a birthday with a little cookie (maybe 2).
This exercise is tiring of course, but feels good. I am surprised that my butt isn't dragging, but it's good to get healthy.

It's Hot Outside

The sun kissed my forehead this morning, and light blurred my vision as I slept in (enjoyingly) until 8:45am. I didn't even give myself a chance to delay, as I crawled my from bed and immediately changed into my running outfit. Now I see why they saw to lay it out the night before. I crawled down the stairs and out the door. Today I used my iPod to keep it pumping as I walked (little bit o' running) around the neighborhood for 40 minutes. By the time my little trip was over, its was 87 degrees outside. Holy cow, is that why I was sweating so much. I enjoyed half a Larbar (sp?) that tasted like Banana bread (thanks Julie). I decided to stop by Sports Authority in the search for spandex'y capris and try on shoes. Not so much luck in the shoe department, but I do have a pair of Brooks waiting for me to pick-up tomorrow from Track Shack. I also found some moisture-wick socks; I want to try out a different type of sock since my feet get so sweaty. I love shopping for athletic clothing.

Now that the sun is setting on the day, and I still feel pretty good. I am enjoying my first glass of Perrier, which I opted for instead of a glass of wine. It's a different taste, but I've read that drinking a bit daily improves body performance. So it can't hurt to try :)

See you on the track tomorrow!

First Official Day of Training

Holy cow, 5:15am came so early this morning. It was dark when I left home and dark when I started exercising...aack! I had to drive across town for this morning's training to be there at 6:45am. Unfortunately, I misjudged the time and got there a couple minutes before everyone ran off. 3 miles today - I decided to walk with 2-3 little spurts of running since this is the first time I've really gone out and run/walk outside since earlier this year. I am sliding easily into this training, so that I don't injure myself. I spent the walk by myself, but being nearby a number of fellow trainees. I was happy to meet my coach & mentor in person as well.
I left sweaty and looking 'hot' (by that, my poor face was bright red for 30 minutes afterward). It felt great, and I am so motivated right now to face the world. Why haven't I been exercising more when it gives such a rush?

Well, I'm going by Track Shack today to test out some new sneaks - expensive yes - fitting my foot and stride - awesome!

First official week of training for the marathon - check! Looking forward to more fun!

Laughter

Tonite I experienced my first yoga class for laughter. Laughter yoga where no mat is needed. We stood around for 45 minutes laughing with some breathing and stretching as well. It sounds odd and until you experience it, it's a bit hard to explain. We know laughing is good for us, so this is exercising our laughter to make the body feel good. I've decided eating Indian food right before was probably not the smartest choice, but it was a great 'cross-training' activity.
Night!

Weighing In

I don't own a scale because I'm one of those obsessive people that would weigh myself twice a day. Who needs that stress? So when I go to Publix or a friend's house, I hop on the scale. Until 7 months ago, I was okay with the number. Slowly, it's been increasing. Stress, bad eating habits, stress, lack of exercise, stress, you get the idea.
Today that has changed as well. At work, there is a special group doing a 'Weigh In'. There will be teams and contests and motivation for positive change. Today I hopped onto the scale; no, not in front of anyone. The only one who knows my number is the coordinator of the activity. For the next 5 weeks, I will weigh in and track my progress. Let's slow down on that junk food and soda and move into the direction of more vegatables and water. Like exercise, my eating habits are not that consistent. That is why I look forward to this new challenge with "Weighing In" and working with friends in a circle of accountability. We all need support in some fashion, and I have found a group that shares love so freely.
I am so grateful. So tomorrow is a new day with opportunities with positive change. Go in the direction of your dreams!

Buyer's Remorse

so about 3 days ago, I experienced buyer's remorse. Only it wasn't a purchase exactly, but the decision to do a marathon. Am I crazy? My body can't handle that. How will I ever find the time and energy for this task?
So today I slapped myself...well, not literally. I pushed those "can't" voices out of my head and decided that it's going to be great. I finally put on my sneakers (had been avoiding) and got on the treadmill to start next step of the journey. It felt good. Well, I may have been slightly nauseated after the effort, but only temporarily. It was probably from a lack of adequate water supply, so I'll fix that tomorrow.
Honestly, it felt good. My heart was pumping and legs were pounding the treadmill belt. I took it easy as one should easing back into a good exercise regimen. Like many, consistency in certain activities is not my strong suit.
I'm excited as well because some friends will be starting an accountability group. A group to go where I can have the support system to strengthen myself and also be a supporter for my friends in their journeys.
Today felt good and tomorrow will be great.

Food

So my friend is tracking her food...every bite. I may get to that point, but I am so not there yet. I will move forward with tracking some of my food and my exercise regimen as well. I'll even see if I can get some action shots of me running or walking or eating health bars. Whatever...
again, join the journey.

The Journey

Hello! Yesterday, I started a new challenge...a journey...
I signed up to complete the WDW Marathon in January. My first thought was 'awesome', and my next thought was 'Holy Crap!' I have done races before but never a marathon. Here's my journey!