Saturday, March 30, 2013

Flu & Reflection

Yup. We had 2 "healthy" days with the kids and then the hubs comes home with it. Poor Dude. Needless to say I didn't get out at all! No Running Form Training Thursday Night. No sneaking out. 

Friday (Good Friday) I got the kids out of the house and we went to an Easter Egg Hunt. The kids were so thrilled to get out of the house I could have just drove around and they would have been happy! Then... McDonalds.... Now, I'm sure there are healthy options at McDonalds but I never see them...So in McDonalds... Eat McDonalds.... So then all afternoon I had McDonalds Belly.... I wasn't sure if it was the flu or what but I felt awful. I took a nap. ICK.... The evening was a little better but I wasn't sure what was going on.

Saturday (Today)  I slept in (Hello! That's rare!) and woke up questioning my health... so as of right now... I'm tiptoeing around hoping what I feel is not the flu. 

Needless to say - no training. I'm hoping to get out for a walk tonight just to get moving and then workout tomorrow... I'm 2 weeks behind in my training now and I don't want to get anymore behind.... I really want to make a life change and get moving. 

There is a quote that I have heard my entire life it seems, "You find time for what you value." I say I value me, my health, my body, my family, my life, etc. but I'm not carving out that hour or two a day to make sure I take care of me... so that I can take care of other people. Stepping up to the saying and am going to try and seek balance in finding time for what I value.... a juggling act at best but it can be done!

Part 2
I didn't promise I wouldn't bring God into this blog.  I think I've done well to keep it PC.... well... I can't write about my experience and not bring God into it. 

Through this Triathlon Training, I've been able to chat with my Uncle. Common Ground! I have loved chatting back and forth. One of the things he reminded me of was that I come from "good stock". My Dad, his sister and brother all have a great history of running. They have been known to check off the miles! My Mom's side of the family are hard working farmers who never stop moving! Why have I never accepted that this is also my destiny? Why did I think that I never inherited that gene, that ability for endurance, fitness and health? 

Since I can remember I struggled with self image. I've always wanted to be the sporty fit girl who could get it done. I've been there at varying degrees but then arrive back to a sedentary
heavier existence.As I was thinking about this, it started to parallel with my relationship with God. I know that God sees me differently than I see myself. I have seen glimpses of how God sees me but taking on God's Identity has always been a struggle! I am a child of God  no matter how I see myself - my spiritual genetic make up does not change simply because I don't believe it! 

Today's Life Lesson :pause, remember what I'm made of (something I have no control over) and own that identity. Physically I have the genetic make up to handle Triathlon Training and whatever other sport I choose. Spiritually, I am a child of the most high God. I am a princess. I am healed. I am at peace. I am who God says I am.... not who I say I am... but God... Who does God say I am? 

 

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Wacky Wednesday

Today seemed better for my kids. Which makes it a better day for me! This evening I had a private swim lesson and dude... I had to break it down to the basics and drills. However, my instructor was awesome and I understood what she was trying to tell me - BONUS. I really like her and plan to meet up with her in a month to see my progress.

I laminated my workout notes she gave me so I can take them to the pool... Maybe a little be over done but I am Forgetful Frannie- so notes help!

As far as Diet... FAIL... I had a decent intake until I got home and found the Reece Peanut Butter Cups in the Freezer... I had way to many of those... On the plus side I did have kale chips... that counts for something right?!?!!?

I'm hoping tomorrow will be an awesome workout day. The kids seem to be doing ok. If we all wake up healthy - It's to the YMCA we go for a Spin Class and a little swim... 30minutes is all my instructor asks of me.. I can totally do 30 minutes!  

Here's to a good tomorrow!

 


Tuesday, March 26, 2013

The Guilt of a Training Momma

My kids are sick (Jack needs to potty frequently and Lizzie needs a bucket to toss her cookies). Finding a balance of "training" and still cuddles and nurturing my kids is hard! Last week I broke out of the house for Monday/Wednesday Night Training but stayed in the rest of the week (minus Thursday Night FIRST KARAOKE EVER- but that's for another blog!). Morning Training feels impossible. By the time I've gotten up 6 times in the night, getting up at 4:30am to train just doesn't happen. THEN, like today, the kids napped (which they haven't done in a long time!) so the evening is full of awake kids who are needy. I feel guilty for leaving them when they are awake and wanting cuddles. By the time they go to bed, I'm usually ready to go to sleep with them. Or have quiet time.

So... Today no training happened. However, I did get a bunch of cuddles and was there for my kids.... That's ok for today.

Monday, March 25, 2013

Cold Hearted

 Yes. It was FREEZING OUTSIDE Tonight!

To tell you the truth, I was in such a mind space trying to run tonight (Tri 101 Training) That I changed the words from "Cold Hearted Snake" (thank you Paula Abdul) to "Cold Hearted Slayer"! That's right! I'm just that cold hearted that I can slay the asphalt! ok... that may be a stretch but it's do-what-ever-it-takes-to-get-it-done, Right??  The other song choices for the night? Father Abraham (Old School Sunday School)... You may ask (or you may not want to know) why... Cause the repeating and growing part of the song..."Right Arm, Left Arm, Right Foot, Left Foot". I was getting tired and needed something to focus on. One of the many blogs I read said to focus on a different body part and make it do the work... well... Father Abraham comes in handy.... Second Verse Same As The First....... I did have a little bit of The Rocky Theme as I took my last running steps..... but that's my winning victory music.....

Tonight I had an ah-ha. As I was coming to the end, I had side stitches (or whatever you call the side pain that takes your breath away). I tried to walk it out but it was a no go. I could see the ended and I decided to run... and then I started walking. 15 seconds in I realized I was walking... WHY? I can see the finish line... I won't die if I "run" it. So I did.... I ran. I finished. I didn't die. Moral of the Story: Don't go on autopilot. Be attentive when you are training (at least right now). There is no reason that I should have been walking other than I didn't do any Mind over Body Tricks... I let my body win... and it was lying.....

Ok... so the other part of Cold Hearted Slayer... IT WAS FREEZING OUT! By the end there were snow flurries. No LIE. Now for you Canadians... you laugh at me... But if you are from the south, you are proud that I even walked outside to take the trash out today (True Story)!

I know this is so scattered but I want to get my thoughts down before they go away!

Tonights's Training.

COLD......

We did a quick warm up - outside.....  I was so cold. I had on my Buff knock off (Known from Survivor). It's a Hutterites blue plaid but I paid $2 for I"m not complaining about what it looked like. I knew I needed something for such an occasion. Well, I had it up over my ears, mouth and nose. That's how cold it was. So glad my gloves were in the car but those gloves are not for freezing cold... they are meant to take the chill off a steering wheel.... FAIL.The plus of the knock-off Buff is that when I did get warmed up, it turned into a pony tail holder.... SWEET..multifunctional.

We did a brisk walk/run and met at the top of the trail.
The Plan:
15 minutes (running 5 walk 1 I believe) Turn around and run another 15.

So I did it. But I did the majority of it alone. My pacing is different than my group. Most were a head of me and a few behind me. I didn't have an active week last week, so I knew It was going to be tough. I just didn't have the gas to hang with the big kids. I wanted too, but I just couldn't do it. I've been told that I march to the beat of a different drummer... Tonight proved to be true (I'm guessing no one else was singing Father Abraham to themselves). It was still a good night!

A warm jalapeno pizza (Thank You Donatoes!), hot shower, hot coffee and super warm pjs later, I'm still cold... but very proud of a evening well spent! 

Hello Cranky Monday!

Last night I had to admit that sometimes, a new day is just that.... ANOTHER day. I wanted to wake up with healthy kids, energy and activate my awesome day... However, life happened. Lizzie is not well. So it's one more day at home (I do get to go out tonight to train) and let the kids recover. So I decided to see this as one more day to "recover" (that's the right word right?). I've had a week with less-than-ideal activity but I did fit a little in. So planned or not, my body has had a chance to heal and recover.

I also fed it with crap.
Thursday Night was my chosen "cheat" meal. I did Karaoke for the first time and fueled my empowerment with 3 Blue Moons (come one... Ladies Night!) and cheesey french fries. However, it didn't stop. I woke up and ate moderate crap for the rest of the weekend. Sunday, I admittedly decided to screw it and ate Donatos Pizza.

However, the scale shows my sins......

I don't know that I've admitted my weight on this blog yet so here's a recap.

January 1, 2013 - 194.5
January 11, 2013- 189.5
January 23, 2013 - 188.5
February 6, 2013 - 186.5
March 10, 2013 - 185
March 18, 2013 - 188
March 20, 2013 - 184
March 25, 2013- 187

So, not a fast weight loss... but I see where my diet directly influences my weight... no matter my activity level!

Now.... This week may be challenging if my kids are still sick (no ymca for me) so... I've got to be willing to workout before hubs goes to work and after the kids go to sleep.... It's about commitment to the process.... right?



Addition 11:30am
My Goals for the Week:
1. Drink Water (80oz+ a day)
2. Push Up Challenge (May be on Pause this week)
3. Squat Challenge
4. Run - Run a mile solid.... Walk 2 Run 2
5. Biking - Spin Class & Weather permitting -2 Ten Milers
6. Swimming I'd like to go 3 times if I can... I make time for 2.
7. Gluten Free, cut back on the white stuff (potatoes, rice, sugar) 

Sunday, March 24, 2013

A Pause in Training

Last week my son caught the flu. As in, I had him pretend he was a puppy and sit on a piddle pad. Well, he's still has it. Husband caught it Friday. This morning my daughter woke up throwing up. Needless to say I've been doing a lot of laundry, cleaning and cuddling. There as been no energy or time for training.

Tomorrow is a new day and I'm hoping it's awesome! Until then, back to back episodes of the Canadian Sitcom Corner Gas.

Saturday, March 23, 2013

March 23rd

Alright - Today is the beginning of this blog. I have moved my comments and memories of my brief fitness past over from my regular blog. As mentioned in the first post, I'm not sure how long I will post here but I plan to keep my activity stats here until the Sprint Triathlon June 22nd.

Here's to progress!





March 21 My Tri Group





Can you photobomb your own photo?

March 20th

I got out the door to do my  first Crossfit Workout in a while. It was great. There were only 3 of us, but it was good to get back to lifting. I really do enjoy it! We also did back Squats. They were suppose to be jumping Back Squats but um... that didn't happen.....

We did a warm up with a catchy name... and essentially you are partnered up. One dude sits on the floor legs stretched forward and arms out at the sides. So the other dude jumps over the dudes arm, then legs, then other arm... you have to do this 10 times. Um... The good thing about Crossfit is you can scale it down... So I jumped over a bar... Good News - no kickin' anyone in the noggin and I didn't trip! Next we were suppose to do some Toes to the Bar... Um nope.... I did a few band assisted ring rows. Some should er stretches. Last but not least was the foam roller... It felt good.

Here is the "work out".

Strength

EMOM (every minute on the minute) for 7 minutes
1 Power Clean + 1 Push Jerk + 1 Hang Squat Clean – heaviest possible

So I managed to get to 35#s

WOD

3 rounds for time of:
Run 200m
25 Pull-ups (I did band assisted ring rows)
Run 200m
25 Jumping Squats (45#,35#) (I used a 30# bar and did regular back squats)

So I'm proud of myself. I was a little stiff (I fell down the stairs earlier this week) so Scott Icy Hot my back... That seemed to help!

March 19th

Bike Check one two three

Last Night Was our first Bike Ride. It was 2 miles of testing out how we ride. It felt good. I wasn't the weakest or the strongest. I love riding a bike. I had no idea how much I would enjoy it. Now, to just get out there and do it!

After Tri 101 Training I went to a friends to watch The Biggest Loser Finale. The winner was Danni. She lost 121lbs in around 6months. she looks fabulous! It was encouraging to know that what I'm doing, albeit at a slower pace, it can be done! I was interested in previous Biggest Loser Contestants that were there. Some looking healthy and others not so much. I am truly curious about the process of creating new habits so that I'm not a victim to dieting but true life change.

March 15th

My Fitspiration Challenge

I have signed up to do a Challenge with My Fitspiration. This is a website/brand by Biggest Loser Oliva Ward and Hannah Curlee. Yes. I'm a bit obsessed. I loved their season (11). They held a week long training in the fall and I couldn't attend. However, this challenge is awesome!

So... to play catch up... Here is the blog : http://myfitspiration.com/
Here is the challenge : http://www.dietbet.com/games/9856

How it works... Everyone puts $25 into the pot. Everyone who loses 4% of their body weight gets a piece of the pot.  I haven't figured out what my 4% is.... but I'm excited to say the least. I've lost 10lbs (minus whatever the ice cream cake and chips did to me today) so I know I can lose some more. This weekend I turn up the volume on training. I have spin tomorrow morning. Swimming early afternoon and I'm hoping a good bike ride and run Sunday. For those who are "fit" , this doesn't seem like a lot of workin' out... But it is to me!

Challenge starts in 3 days.......

March 13th

Headed to the YMCA. The kids played while I got my running in. I then thought I could practice swimming with my kids. UM... NOPE... Fail... The kiddie pool was open... so we had to play in there. When I forced the kids into the big "cold" pool (as Jack calls it) I was in for a tug of war. Jack got out and sat on the edge wrapped in a towel while Lizzie and I did one lap. I say Lizzie and I because she was pulling on my feet the whole time... So yeah. FAIL.

Practicing Swimming is a solo sport for me.

March 10 & 11

Sunday & Monday March 10 & 11

Oh Sunday....

I have big plans for Sunday. I was going to do Spin Class, the get on the treadmill and run just a little and then play in the water with the kids and practice my freestyle while playing.

So I get there PUMPED. Kids are happy to play at the YMCA. I'm excited there was still a bike for me (apparently a popular class!) and I had my bike positioned awesomely..... We get going and I can at least mouth the words to the songs I know. I find it is so motivating to keep going. If I can sing and move I feel fantastic... it's like my dream to sing live on stage moving and dancing come to life... except it's not. It's just me puffing away on a still bike. However, Tom is amazing. He's taught both the classes I've done and he can make the time go by. I think the dude is a preacher. He can keep a group together like no one I've ever seen. AMAZING Skills!

Anywho, I get spin done and I realize I'm wiped. As in. Can't move. So I catch my breathe. Pick up the kids and head to the pool..... AWESOME. Kid's are so excited. Except I forgot my swimsuit. So... the kids are swimming by themselves (and their floaties) and doing amazing. They played and had a great time. However, I only knocked out 1 out of the 3 activities I had planned for!

We get back to the house and I'm beat. We missed Scott's Parents by an hour so the kids are disappointed. We make it to 7pm before the kids literally fall out because they swam so hard! I make it to 9:30pm and I crash... that is until 10pm when the kids wake me up asking for milk... seriously? So then I was WIDE awake until midnight. My alarm went off at 4:30am for Training and that did not happen... at all.... I slept until 7:30pm after hearing Scott go to work. The kids had a wonderful spring forward sleep and we made it Preschool!

Jack and I hung out at Chikfila, where he was a big boy and climbed to the top of the play area but then got stuck and was crying. Poor Dude. Then we went to the South East YMCA where he was king of the play area and I got to try swimming. OMG. I got there. flagged down someone who was already doing laps if there was etiquette. She was quite willing to tell me there was no etiquette but she was not willing to share because she had "drills" to do. um... ok... So I went to the end where I had a wall to guide me (And the dude I was sharing with was super kind and didn't make fun of me). Good Decision.

First Lap - um... some how it was easier on Saturday. I got 1/2 way and the pool drops to the deep and I started to panic. so I stopped. Caught my breath (I think I have a problem here... cause catching my breath was a serious issue), and sputtered on. I made it to the end, held on for a second and then came back. Not bad for the first attempt but not as easy as I remember it being Saturday.

Second Lap - I got this! I know how to do this. I know the distance. I know how the water feels... Um... Yeah. I did it. But I"m sure it looked like I was a directional drowning manatee. The life guard, who I gave her full warning she might have to save me since this was my 2nd attempt to "freestyle" if that's what you kids call it, told me I was looking good and needed to keep at it! That gave me hope.

Third Lap - I admit, I'm exhausted! How do these people just go lap upon lap upon lap? Where does it come from. I can barely catch my breath!  I stopped in the middle on the way up and back AND at the deep end.

Fourth Lap- I found a floatie board. It took me a minute but I knew I was in need. Once I got in the water it was so much easier. I worked on twisting my body and breathing. but I didn't get anywhere and was exhausted 1/2 way (it's really true that your legs don't propel you!). So I stopped. Readjusted the plan, held on to the board and practiced the stroke while using the board. SO MUCH EASIER.

Needless to say -
Laps Five through Nine were done with the board. Not playing I tried to breathe. I tried to twist. I tried to keep an eye and ear in the water while breathing. I attempted to bed my arm in the stroke but not windmill my arms out of the water... it was a lot of thinking, feeling like i'm about to drown and choking on water that I swallowed...

oh and i forgot to mention that my goggles leak.... super cool.

swimming is hard.

Jack had fun playing at the YMCA and was ready to go! We ran by Fleet Feet to get new goggles and silicon hat... because I want to be like the other cool kids at the pool... and apparently they have a purpose... who knew?

Then lunch at Sirin of Thailand.
Eating Gluten Free is proving to be a little easier this time around. I have a Warm Chicken Salad which means 2 grilled chicken breast on ice burg lettuce and peanut thai sauce to dip. YUM.

We ran a few errands and picked Lizzie up from School.

Home and started cleaning... WHY? because the Knology Guy was coming over and we had to clear a path. 1 hour of cleaning and it did magic! Every helped out. Scott came home early to talk to the guy and check out what's really going on with out internet (still don't know)  so we had a delightful break before I went to do my evening Tri 101 Class.

I get there and the peeps are pros in their new running shoes, outfits and snazzy head gear. I have not invested into much so I'm wearing 2 shirts, 1 jacket, 1 pair of yoga paints and my new shoes.... not too classy if you ask me... but it's not what you look like but the work you do right?

Any who... first things first.. warm up. a few stretches... yay... Then the challenge... Push your self so you can run without holding a conversation but holler for help if you need it. So yeah... I won't bore you with the thoughts I had through the run but let's just say there switched between the Rocky Theme Music and OMG... I can't breathe. I managed to run a 12minute 9second mile. I'm pretty proud since I didn't stop running when I really wanted too. but a minute walking and I was ready to run again... so I did.. and caught up with the group...

Group Rule: When you finish - you turn around and catch up to the last runner so you end as a team. We are all in this together. This also means if you are a great runner - you get to run more and if you are still working at the skill, you get to do the minimum. From what the Coaches were saying, they think they got a good group. we ranged from 8minute mile to 19 minutes.

March 9th

I had a Titanic Moment

Today was the first swim lesson for me. When I signed up, I said I could swim a lap. Well sure I can. But not with any form. It became obvious, after listening to the other participants of the Tri 101 class talk, that I was more of a beginner than I thought. I was originally put in the 2nd group of swimmers. I decided this may be rough and asked to attend the first groups class. Yay. So glad I did. She went through form...step by step. Then I watched the first group practice. By the time our class got started, my nerves had calmed down. However, once we got in the water, I was put into a group with strong swimmers. I was the Titanic.

We first used the boards..... I didn't do bad but using your hips is tough. Then we did a arm swing thingy and grabbed the board. Then we ditched the board. This is when I took on water. The whole alternating breathing thing got me... Then it was breathing out through your nose not your mouth. I in haled a mouth full of water. Sputtering in the deepest part of the pool (couldn't touch the bottom) I didn't know what to do... So I did what normal people do. PANIC. I couldn't breathe. I couldn't get my head up out of the water following any form (I'm still trying to do it "right" while drowning). Then I remember what they said in class... Relax. And it all came together. I got my hands going, one two three breathe on two three breathe. I'm still working on the whole exhaling in the water thing... I tend to hold my breath, but that will come. I hope to get in the water tomorrow and practice just breathing. Sounds simple...

March 8th I ran a mile

I Ran A Mile

I did I did run a mile!

Ok... so first... it wasn't the original intent to log absolutely everything here, however, I can't put information in a gazillion places. So here it is... the good and the bad. the details no one cares about and the ones I remember. Once June 22nd hits I'll re-evaluate where I log my life... however, right now... it's going to be here.

SO.... I ran a mile

The Fleet Feet Tri 101 Class will evaluate our mile ran. I wanted to see if I could do it... AND I DID! I can't tell you the last time I ever ran a mile straight. I think it was when Lizzie was a baby. Other than that, I haven't done it. So I feel all good about myself. At least I know I'll be able to do it on Monday.

I went to the Grocery Store and Stocked up on food that shouldn't raise my blood sugar level... What exactly does that mean? Meat & Green & White Vegetables today. The scale did move this morning. so I'm hoping it moves again tomorrow morning and make this all worth it!

I need to read what I've wrote but I'm too lazy, so I'll write it anyway. My Blood Sugar levels have been higher than I understand is healthy. anywhere from 85 - 118 after 12 hour fast. So I'm attempting to eat healthy. Ive started exercise but apparently that wasn't doing much...UGH.. I hate having to give up "tasty" foods.

March 8th

Friday, March 8th... SUN SUN SUN

The sun has been out all day! The kids are behaving. I'm feeling decent and overall, it's just nice.

For the record. I can walk. Now stairs ache, but I can walk. I'm surprised and proud.

I also dropped weight! Finally! I guess it really is 80% diet 20% exercise. Just for the record. That stinks!

I've been cutting out the crap for 2 days. I'm not starving (detoxing but not starving) but I look at food as a treat or reward. So I'm in the transition of changing what my rewards are.. and well.... right now the world is a tough place... cause I don't really have a reward to look forward to (other than um... being lighter! looking good in clothes... )I'm just not there. At least its exciting to see the scale move in the right direction... finally...

In similar news, My blood sugar levels are high after fasting (morning). So I'm going to track a few more days and see what's going on.

March 7th

Spinning.....

So I got up at 4:30am, looked at the Crossfit WOD (work out of the day http://games.crossfit.com/video/open-workout-131-demo) , and decided to make breakfast and go back to bed. I chickened out. 

after taking a mini nap, I decided to go to Spin Class at the YMCA. I don't know that I'll be able to walk tomorrow.

I have a swim lesson tonight (totally scared and looking forward to it!).

Wish me Luck!

March 4th

So yesterday I was waiting for the warm sunny ride... except I waited to long and then didn't do it. MORAL... Get out the door and do it! It's not THAT cold!

I slept in - so no morning workout.... Then Mall Walking got canceled. So that was out... THEN I went to the Downtown YMCA to attend a beginner spin class but the instructor (ED-I've heard about him for years) was sick so class was canceled. This afternoons meet up with a momma was canceled cause my kids lost their minds! The only workout I still got in Was the Fleet Feet Tri 101 Class 1. We did some stretches, then ran. well... I ran/walked. I tried to find someone who was at the same pace as I but didn't.  So I'm somewhere beginner. Maybe cause I'm just too social. Any who, I'm excited to keep up with the running and see how much I improve. In the mean time my shins hurts.

I also noticed, I need bright clothing... blinky lights. Cause I have a couple of weeks before time change and can't get out until the kids get in bed!

So yes.... I'm going to sleep tonight (I did have a 40minute nap today) and walk up and get active!

March 3rd

Very Inspiring Title.

What it means....

It's my brother's birthday on the 4th, but since he's in a different time zone, it's in a few hours. Happy Birthday to the best brother in the world. He doesn't demand anything from me, offers friendship and loves my kids. Can't ask for much more in a brother! I hope it's a great birthday! May your Jesus Birthday, be your best Birthday Yet!

It also means that I officially start Training to be a Triathelete. Albeit, my goal is to do a sprint....
(June 22nd, 2013 - http://www.teamrockettri.org/content/races/huntsville-sprint-triathlon 400m swim / 7mi bike / 3.1mi run). I signed up for the Fleet Feet Tri 101 Training (http://www.fleetfeethuntsville.com/training/tri-101). We had our first cheerleading/informative meeting Tuesday. First weeks of training emailed to us yesterday. Today is the first official Run. I'm waiting until it gets warm!

I bought a bike - it is awesome. Looking forward to my bike ride this afternoon (the sun is shinning today!).

I talked to a friend's sister who bikes and I'm super excited to get out there and join a group already doing what I want to do! Talk about Inspiration!

I have found a favorite blog: Swim Bike Mom http://www.swimbikemom.com/ I downloaded and read her book. It's a great beginner book! She talks about everything! PLUS she talks about not having to be light or perfect to get started! So encouraging! She recommended a book by Slow Fat Triathlete (http://www.amazon.com/Slow-Fat-Triathlete-Athletic-Dreams/dp/1569244677) I'm in the middle of it now. However, openly spoke, I relate to Meredith in Swim Bike Mom much easier.

I am currently stocking 6pm.com for, well, everything but cycle shorts. They are so expensive otherwise!

Since I'm really doing this. Here is my Plan for the week.

1. Drink My Water! I have 93 oz of water to drink a day! Plus my coffee!
2. Push Up Challenge - Week 3 http://www.hundredpushups.com/
3. Squat Challenge - Week 3 http://twohundredsquats.com/
4. Begin My Running Program. 3x week. Walk 2 minutes Run 1 minute for 21 minutes. 5 minute warm up 5 minute cool down.
5. 2x 10 mile Bike Ride
6. 3x Swim (2x Fun 1x Workout)

I'm not going to be policing my food this week. However, I am planning on choosing healthy options. I want to get moving and not worry about food.

So this is what I'm thinking about this morning!

*************************************************************************
So I decided to just keep adding my notes from the day so that I have them.

After typing the above out, I questioned why I was waiting until it got a bit warmer? Seriously? The sun is out now. Hubs is cool with me getting out (no kids!) so I quickly got my "gear" on (yes. I have running pants from my previous attempt to take up running plus my "active" shirt from Old Navy (it's got the cool thumb grips) that I've been using as a PJ shirt, my NEW Day Glow Warning/Home Depot Employee Cycle Jacket- (had to get something, almost got hit twice last week when I was on my bike with a black reflective running jacket -gear from my previous running experiment) with my need-to-be-replaced-promptly-New Balance I-will-never-buy-again-ouch shoes. I donned my "running" socks which are going on their 5th year and many attempts at running. The arsenal sports bra and last but not least, my sony walkman... that's an mp3 player. I don't have music on it.. just paraliminals (http://www.learningstrategies.com/Paraliminal/Home.asp)... so that had to do.) and headed out the door.

Attempt 1: Never been walked on a leash Dog, treats, leash and me. We made it to the corner. No Go. he was freaked out by everything. The car driving by was the icing on the cake. he ran 5 feet into someone yard.

Attempt 2: Made it out the door. - now joke on me all you want. but I want to remember this experience. I don't want to be here again and if I can help someone else by sharing my journey - they yay! Otherwise this is just for me and you can pass over it.
Walk 2 minutes, Run 1
Minute 1-2 Awesome.
Minute 3 - 20 seconds in I looked at my watch. LONGEST MINUTE EVER.
Minute 4-5  Caught my Breathe
Minute 6 Over ran by 20 seconds. SCORE. I got this!
Minute 7-8  Shorter break but I'm feeling like a champ!
Minute 9 I got this!
Minute 10-11 Much needed Break
Minute 12... lasted 30 seconds. My DAY_GLO Orange Jacket was riding up, pulling my shirt up with it... exposing my belly (awesome) to the cold air and to the church members arriving late at JE Williams School (forgot they met for church- bad timing). So I quickly pulled down my jacket over exposed flesh and walked.
Minute 13-14 Good Good. Recovered from embarrassment and said hi to a city worker.
Minute 15 I run it solid but realize i have to go potty!
Minute 16-17 change of plans. It's a good walk but I have to go potty! Redirect my route.
Minute 18 RUN! The Faster I run, the quicker I get to the bathroom.
Minute 19 Rest... side splits... POTTY!
Minute 20-22 Walking quickly - I called it the COOL DOWN and got to the door!

POTTY! OMG. Apparently 24oz of water, 16oz of coffee will flush you out... literally!

So I'm feeling energized, cleaned out and ready for the rest of the day. I'll report back!

My Quest To Be An Athelete.

Everyone says, "Seek Your Truth". Well, for the longest time I thought that meant seek God and the truth will be revealed (Matthew 6:33 comes to mind). Well, I feel like I've been seeking God my whole life and I seem to drift from interest to interest. Last year I signed up for Crossfit. I knew I wanted what these people had. However, I didn't do much with it... well... I did... but not enough... any hoo... This year I decided I wanted to try the mini Triathlon. Swimming, Biking and Running. Yup... So I signed up.

This week I heard the phrase "Seek You Truth" and it finally clicked. The one truth that I have always struggled with is the truth and reality that I know how to be healthy, fit and strong. So why not just go for it. I am in the middle of Triathlon Training. I'm am paying for Crossfit... Why not just take a chance and utilize these next 3 months (until June 22nd) to see what I'm made of.

In addition, I signed up for a Diet Bet Challenge... so I have to lose 4% of my body weight to get my money back and maybe a little bit more...... I have to lose 8 lbs.

So here is the blog that I'm going to use to track the next couple of months. Not sure if it will go farther but I wanted a place to put my details in writing. I have been writing on my personal blog (http://wanttoknowmythoughts.blogspot.com/) so I will transfer what I have written about my training and then continue it here.

Welcome to my Quest... My Journey... to being strong, healthy and having as much fun as I can along the way!