Saturday, April 27, 2013

These Days - Things are A Changin'

Tomorrow Hubs schedule changes so that I'll basically be a single parent for the next little bit. 

The Good News: 
I have in-laws willing to help out whenever - I've already sent them a list of dates! 
I get to plan my days- no more having to be home at a certain time. 
 I get to cook all the foods I want too! 

While we will miss the hubs, I have a great opportunity to refocus on myself and the kids. The past week is has been crazy between kid's illness and hubs schedule. Did I mention I'm looking forward to what next week will bring? 

 
 

Friday, April 26, 2013

Skratch

Um.... I tried skratch oranges.... it was good until it got mixed with pool water... then it would catch in my throat ..... it was bad. Maybe better for running and biking but not swimming..... and it was so healthy.....

Thursday, April 25, 2013

I Finally Met The Beast


Today I found the "Beast". 

I've met the "Cheerleader" and the "Analyzer". I've met the "Dreamer" and the "Goal Setter". 

But the Beast - I am not sure I have met her..... until now....

She came out of me when I chose to keep going even though I was I was tired and gasping for air. When I wanted to do it beyond the desire to say I have. She greeted me with her fire eyes. She pulled me through a feeling of sinking. She pushed me when I felt dragged down. She made time travel while being the time keeper. She was at my core... There was no shaking her.... She was me.

Thursday 4.25.13

Today is more of the same of yesterday. Jack is feeling much better so I'm trying to decide if he should go out in public or be kept close to home. I'm thinking he's good for soccer - so is he well enough to handle the YMCA? We'll see. 

I had a email exchange that really made me think. With only one day of training in the last five, I'm feeling the pressure to get out and push myself. however, family comes first and this requires hugs not running, biking or swimming. So if nothing changed this week- I have to be happy with me. It shouldn't matter if I'm heavier or lighter, stronger or weaker - I must find happiness apart from what I do and what I look like. HELLO! 

For me that means refocusing on my relationship with Jesus. He wants the best for me. But he'll love me no matter what.

4:00pm Managed a 900m swim...300m of freestyle swimming...or at least my attempt. Feels good to get into the water. I do enjoy swimming even if I panic..... which is what happened. I couldn't get in a Rhythm. I wasn't giving up and I still had time so I'd give myself a minute to catch my breath and the try again. I did get it eventually but it was tough going there for a while!

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Wednesday 4.23.13

Um yeah. While having a plan is good - there will always be variables that change your day. Yesterday we stayed home. Today, Lizzie is feeling great but Jack has a sore throat and cough. So plans change. 

4:15pm - The day went well considering. I notice that life is never how I plan it. It's ok.... I think I'm learning flexibility... now, to not lose focus while still rolling with the punches. 

Lizzie went to school. Jack & I were originally scheduled to go to a play date but since we didn't want to share germs, we kept to ourselves. I blame the rain... and day 3 of a "diet". Long story short I ate an amazing Reuben Sandwich and enjoyed each bite! 

My afternoon is full of active parenting. Translation- my kids have chosen not to listen today and I have to follow through with consequences of actions. Days like to day make you appreciate when your kids are awesome. Here's to a better tomorrow. 

Food Intake:
60oz of water (I'll get 100 by  the end of the day)
2 Super Big Unsweet Teas 40oz?
Banana
1 slice of butter Rye bread (fresh and yummy!)
Reuben Sandwich 
3tbsp  Chocolate Peanut Butter (yum)
Peanut butter & Banana Sandwich

What I did do was sign up for a smaller than the sprint Triathlon......

The Great Escape Triathlon
  • 200 yrd Pool Swim
  • 8 mile Bike
  • 2 mile Run 
 This is 1/2 the swim, 1 mile longer bike, 1.1 mile shorter Run than 3 weeks later -

Sounds about perfect to figure out what I need to do for my "goal" - Huntsville Sprint Triathlon
 

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Tuesday 4.23.13 Food and Other Such Nonsense

The day started out like most. Hear Scott leave for work, get the kids milk, look at the calendar for the day and make breakfast.  15 minutes into the day I knew the plan had to change. Jack was coughing. Lizzie had a sore tummy. I'm not really sure what the deal was but I knew we needed to have a rest/health day here. So we did. My plans to work out didn't pan out I did manage to do a lot of reading, thinking and replanning the next month.

This is what I ate today. It's not near enough (at least not in my eyes). I should at least add a couple more cups of veggies. However, I'm feeling water logged so I think I'll pass for today. 

100oz of water
1/2 cup refried beans
2 apples & 2 tbsp almond butter
3 cups of coffee 1 tbsp heavy cream
2 pieces of red licorice
Cobb Salad from Steak Out (no salad dressing or mushrooms)

10pm - banana

I took advantage of the down time and looked at the Fleet Feet Race Calendar (finally!).  My mind is mystified on how to pick which races you want to do. There are so many!

Diet Change Up

 Be prepared - it's a muddy post!

Lord help! I can't seem to stay on any one dietary plan. I love sugar, all foods white and I love cheese! Those are my diet breaking foods that get me every time and unfortunately, there are no "healthy" food plans that include those ingredients in mass quantities. 

Since my first introduction to Dr. Adamo in college, I always flip between Eat Right 4 Your Type (and more personal diet plans by Dr. Adamo) and than whatever the latest diet out there is.  Between Lizzie and Jack births, I tried to follow Protein Power. The past year I have been attempting to live Paleo or Primal You can tell I'm convince the human body (at least mine) feels better with higher level of proteins. I'm still in the testing phase of what vehicle the protein needs to be delivered. On a side note, I have notice I feel great with fish oil, olive oil and avocados in my diet as well.

Monday marked a fresh start in eating well. At Tri 101 we had a teaching on nutrition for a sprint (great info!). Last night I ate Mediterranean and felt great afterward (instead of sluggish or exhausted). I woke up and cooked the last egg in the house and couldn't eat it. the smell didn't settle so I drank my water... then a little later coffee ... but I still couldn't do it. I was craving refried beans. WHAT?!?!?! these are not Paleo or Primal!  I looked at the ingredients on the can (yes, we had some in the pantry) and it was pinto beans.... It felt right so I went for it.... Knowing full well it might not be "healthy". 

In the middle of my questioning tummy, I read Bob Harper's New Book Jumpstart to Skinny. Bob Harper, while totally drunk on Crossfit Koolaid, has not bought into the Paleo/Primal/Zone Diet Plan that seems to go with Crossfit Community. The recipes in the books were balanced protein and carb with low fat (for quick weight loss). It reminded me of the SWAMI/Eat Right 4 Your Type Diet plan (for me). I went back to it and realized that while the plan produced by SWAMI wasn't close to Paleo/Primal, it was still the same principle of higher protein and veggies... and what do ya know? Pinto Beans are deemed healthy for me by SWAMI standards.... way to listen to your body Sarah!

Since I'm more active than my sedentary life in 2012 (without huge results), I know that I have to start looking at my food intake as the culprit... low energy, illness, sluggish metabolism... whatever else I can blame on it. 

So the next 28 days are going to be focused on my SWAMI plan...Since I'm A Blood Type - that's tons of veggies, fish, turkey, and lamb that are highly beneficial..... As opposed to Beef that's awesome for O blood types  and what I've been eating almost everyday for the past year.... 

Looking forward to seeing what the results will be. I'm also looking forward to some new foods I haven't eaten guilt free in a long time - Like Quinoa and Chia Seeds! 

Monday, April 22, 2013

Mediterranean-inspired Monday

Ok... so that's how my Monday Ended... Mediterranean-Inspired.... but I loved it so it's the title. 

Monday started out with no sleep... midnight was rough with a kid who was wide awake and hungry. She had played all day and even after eating a decent supper, her little body was thirsty and hungry by midnight. In what is becoming more of a habit than I like, I had fallen asleep with the kids. With a 3 hour nap taken, I was just starting to get tired when Lizzie was wide awake. After a buffet plate of food was ingested, it was time to settle in for the big nap... again.... except I won the race and fell asleep before her. So she woke me up to tell me. Needless to say, I was short on the sleep. So when the hubs alarm clock went off, I hoped he would wake me up on his way to work...except he went back to sleep too... so there was a bit of a hustle this morning to get a tired Lizzie to preschool and I some-what rested Jack (he woke up a little after 1am for a buffet plate and drink himself) to face the day. 

Swimming - Got Lizzie to preschool on time! WOOT! Jack and I headed to the South YMCA for a swim. However, it was a random morning with many other people who had the same idea. It was a mess. I decided to just pick the edge of the open part of the pool (they only had 3 lanes open) beside the family of 4 who were apparently doing their own training of sorts. Like I said it was a little ugly. The family swimming were using the platforms (I think that's what you called it) but it was placed where I had decided to attempt to swim. So the kids who basically allowed me to co-exist with them for an hour, had to jump off and then swim wonky to get out of the lane and swim to their mom... THEN 15 minutes into it, there were literally 4 adults waiting on the side for a lane. Talk about crazy busy. People were having polite raised voice discussions over sharing a lane and the life guards had to be no older than 16 years old. It was so unruly for a "free swim".  Note to self - it maybe worth the drive to Madison YMCA. I've never seen the southside so busy and crazy like that before! 

Anywho, I got my swim in. It wasn't pretty. I was trying to avoid the family of butterfly swimming professionals who were "allowing me" to swim in their space. I did mostly drills with my floatie board and pull buoy. I did do 200m of "freestyle". However, I think I've created a new definition for the term "freestyle". 

The day trucked along well and before I knew it, it was time for TRI 101 Training. It's no secret I look forward to Monday Training. It's a good time to get on track. It's great to get with peeps who are going through the same enjoyable Hades. I'm slowly getting to know names & faces and sometimes I even match them up correctly!  

Today we ran 1 mile and then jogged/walked it for 20 minutes afterwards. Here are the good news! I cut my mile down by 1minute 22seconds! WOOT....

March 11, 2013 12minutes 09seconds
April 22, 2013 10minutes 49seconds

I'm thrilled! 

No joke. Tears of happiness! I may actually be able to do this..... 

So I have to contribute some improvement to the Good Form Running Clinic I took last week. After seeing my form and being critiqued on where to improve (essentially all of it!) I started with pose and cadence. The cadence helped a lot! Plus there is some decent music with 180bpm. I'm hoping I can keep increasing my speed AND longevity!

Afterwards it was onto Zoe's Kitchen which I have never been too... That place is AWESOME! In the description it says "Mediterranean-inspired ". And as one person said at the table - if you can figure out how to fit Feta into every dish - I'm in! I believe I will eat there many times again. YUM!

So overall, a great fun day! Not what I was expecting but really great!

Sunday, April 21, 2013

Spiritual Sunday and Snazzy Swimsuit

I can't help but think of this Triathlon Experience as a spiritual one. It has really reconnected places in my heart that I had detached because I couldn't deal. Well, for whatever reason, when I'm moving - it comes up and I can deal. I don't have the shame or fear about the situation I once had. It's amazing process to me. 

Today, 2 different sources have talk about relaxing and not letting my heart be trouble. 


Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you… Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
John 14:37

Today's focus is in the Peace of God. Peace in a swim. Peace on a bike. Peace on a run. 


Snazzy Swimsuit -
So I wrote about my swimsuit issues a couple of weeks ago.  I decided to try again. I got out to a few stores and it was a no go. I've still  super-sized compared to whoever decided what the average size is AND apparently still pretty modest in comparison to what's being sold. So back online I go. I really wanted a "good" suit. I started out looking speedo and like brands. Then I remember the very revealing TYR swimsuits I found in the store. Since they are such a big company I thought I'd see if they have any other designs.... well they did! One that covers..... TYR Square Neck Suit So I'm in a good place again with swim suits! WOOT! 


My Weekly Review: Goal / Reality  Swim 3x / 4x Bike 2x / 3x Run 2x / 1x Crossfit 2x / 1x

I'm happy to be getting as much time in the pool as possible... now I've got to get out there and run... It's turning into my weaker sport!  I'm hoping the endurance growth in the pool will translate into a run!

Saturday, April 20, 2013

Sedated Saturday


Here's the thing I'm learning about me. No plan means nothing happens. I need to at least plan my options and pick them when I wake up... but no plans... produces no fruit. Today ended up being a sleeping day. I took many mini naps, ate pizza and hung out with the hubs. It was still a great day- just not towards any physical/health goals I have. 

Which Brings Me To....

My newest DietBet.com challenge. I brought the website/challenge to my moms group. There are enough of us to form a challenge. This should be a fun and intimate challenge. It will not be about the money as much as reaching our goals together. I'm looking forward to it! 

So here's the honest raw details. I ate like a gluten this week and did not fulfill my activity goals for the week. so I gained 4.5lbs.... Seriously... it can happen. I had no idea how fast I can gain weight by going back to my old eating habits.... There's a lesson here... I'm sure of it... now... to learn it! 

 My helpers......

4.20.13
My Goal is to lose 8lbs in 28 days. I'm not sure what the requirement of the challenge is yet but I'm guessing between 7-8lbs.

Friday, April 19, 2013

Swim and Bike Knock Out

It could be because I've slept this week but I had a knock out of a workout this morning. I fit a 35minute Swim in this morning. It was all drills but I felt great! At every drill I was focused on what my goal was for the drill and nailed it! I managed 550m.

Spin was good. It was my first experience with Sherry She was on top of each song - It was a lot of intervals - which i love because that means a chance to breathe! I used Gu Brew again and I'm convinced on it's ability to keep me focused and not foggy!

A great work out! Maybe it will forgive my dietary sins of yesterday (beer, hot wings and cheese fries). 

Successful Swim Lesson!

Thursday Night I had a swim lesson. It's been about 3 weeks since my first with Lisi Bratcher/TriHuntsville. She has given me the drills to work on and I'm pretty strict at running through them and then if I had energy, I attempt my own freestyle swim and drills given to us by Tri 101. I love drills. They usually include a floatie and I feel safer with a floatie. I love floatation devices.

I had booked the lesson before the kid's soccer schedule was set so I walked into the pool shaking off the guilt of not being there for the kid's practice. I have great fear of angst teens/20's moments of them upset I didn't show up to every game and every practice! Anywho, I got there just a few minutes early and attempted a free style swim on my own. It wasn't bad.

Once we got into the lesson we revisited a few of the drills I did for homework. We added a few new drills. Then we got into timing my swims. The first lesson we timed my attempt at a freestyle swim 25m. My first time was 38.?seconds. Yesterday's time was 30.?seconds. WOOT! An improvement! I was excited by that alone. May not be a great time compared to others but just to see an improvement was satisfying!  At the end of the practice I was timed at 50m. Mine was 1m11.?seconds. I'll take it! The fact that I could actually swim a lap without stopping to take a breath was exciting news! So needless to say my time in the pool is showing progress! I might be able to swim 400m without stopping by June 22nd after all!

This was followed up by the Tri Expo at Fleet Feet. They had reps from different Tri Businesses. I totally bought into CEP Socks.  I'm hoping it will help my calves not hurt after a run. I have the sleeves and those were good about the run but after the run just annoying - the sales rep dude confirmed the sock is needed for recovery... something about compression around the foot is also important. We'll see if it's magic for me. Did I mention Running is my least favorite of the three? I'm hoping the with a little running form modification, I can at least learn to love it!

They also served free beer and snacks (had me at free beer!) and it was great to see people in "real" people clothes and chat about life and sport!

The REAL reason I attended the Tri Expo was early registration for the Tri 102 Training. From the flyer I read, they are only registering 50 people.  The goal is Frantic Frog Sprint Triathlon in Scottsboro, AL with distances of a 400 meter open water swim, 24 k bike and a 5K (3.1 miles) run. So OPEN WATER and LONGER BIKE. I'm so excited I can barely stand it. The water should be "warm" in July/August and I love a bike ride!

My focus today is swimming and spinning. I'm hoping to knock those two out this morning....

Thursday, April 18, 2013

No Injuries Please

This morning I've spent some time researching how to protect myself from injury. Now, have no fear. As much as I think I could be a go-getter, I tend to be cautious. That's not the only requirement in arming yourself to be the best you you can be. In fact, we've all watched the OVER -CAUTIOUS person get hurt... So... In the pursuit of fun, increased energy and long term health, there seems to be an underlying connection to what I read.... Set your intention in what you want to do, then physically remind your body of what you want it to do. 
For Swimming - get out there, kick off, get your face in the water and float.
In running, it's setting up your posture and getting cadence in your head. (Tri 101 gave us stretches for all 3 sports) 
For biking, it's reminding your body of posture and a go mindset.
In crossfit, it's a mental set and then practicing movement with a PVC pipe. 

Every sport I'm involved in at the moment connects the brain, the muscles and your heart together. From what I can gather, it must be unified and in it's perfect balance to continue working together in health. For me, this is the true practice of the Tri 101 course. It's not just learning each individual sport but making the heart, brain and physical connection! Something I've been content to ignore until now. 

So where is this coming from? A few places. 
1. I just don't want to get hurt. Every sport has it's critics. However,  I've got to start somewhere and start moving! So I need to move in a way that is conducive for me to be the healthiest in that moment. 

2. I met a Marathon Runner who was hurt. His body just didn't do it any more. He's out of pocket until his body heals. Never mind the surgery, the disruption in life and family.  

I'm a firm believe that the Holy Spirit lives inside me and he tries to tell me when things are going awry. I want to be in tune so that if I'm in the process of creating imbalance- even well intentioned- I'll change my direction/my course.  Pushing myself that extra umph is not worth the damage that can be done. 

3. Since being done with this diet (a week before I officially start the next challenge), I've been eating foods that I missed! UGH... my body feels awful! Even though I felt deprived, I was starting to feel fantastic! I had energy and motivation! Today I feel icky and sluggish.... Not worth it!

I know you were all on your seats wondering what I was thinking about today - this was it!

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Rest Day Tuesday, Wondering Wednesday

I had a great Tuesday. I met my goal on weight loss (won $43.72 - considering I put $25 in... I'm think I did alright!) and then proceeded to celebrate by eating chocolate. Amazon put Lindt Milk Chocolate Truffles on sale (I paid $16 for a box of 60) and they happened to be delivered yesterday around noon. Needless to say, I had my fair share! For Supper I had Roast Beef and Mashed Potatoes - Potatoes are so much better when you haven't had them in a while- PLUS I had Swiss Chalet Gravy - which was the finishing touch!  I put the kids to bed and passed out. Once I realized I had fallen asleep with the kids I decided to go with it and slept 11 hours last night! I woke up feeling like  a new person! 

Wednesday we are back to the grind. Besides having a Gigi's lemon Cheesecake cupcake,  it was a fairly normal morning! After picking up Lizzie from School, We headed to the YMCA. I managed to get 700m in... only 100ms of just regular freestyle with no floaties! The first lap went super great! I felt like I had it all coming together. Unfortunately the second lap did not go so good- my brain blue screened and my arms malfunctioned. Since the first 650m had gone so well, I considered it a success and got out of the pool. I did hit up the sauna for 15 minutes which so super relaxing! I grabbed the kids so they could swim and did some stretches in the warm kiddie splash pool. 

This evening I attended a New Balance Running Form Clinic - Maybe I hate running because I'm doing everything wrong?  So the 4 Elements to Proper Form are :1. Posture (Fail - I look down to much, bend at the hip instead of ankle) 2. Midfoot - (Fail - I heel strike) 3. Cadence (Fail- We practiced good which is 150 steps a minute and 180 steps a minute and I would consider both of those fast paces for me!) 4. Lean (Fail - My lean is wonky at best.... note:bending at waist, head is looking down....) At least now I have an idea of what I look like running and a general idea on how to fix it... Now to practice. Which... can I admit to not looking forward to it? 

I'll post the video when I get it.

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

DietBet.Com Challenge!

I am a huge fan of The Biggest Loser. Season 11 Winners Olivia Ward and Hannah Curlee decided to host a Diet Bet Challenge. The idea is that everyone puts $25 into the pot. If you lose 4% of your body weight in 28 days - you split the pot with the other winners.  For me I had to lose 7.5lbs. It was tough! I didn't do much for about 2 1/2 weeks of the challenge due to family sickness and not putting me first! So I had to drop 4lbs in 10 days.... It was work!

Here is the difference between Day 1 and Day 28 for me.

 March 18th, 2013

April 16th, 2013
 
 I see the loss in my face, neck and thumbs. 
I'm excited that I can see progress!

Monstrous Monday - Tiny Tuesday

Monday - First - I've a 1/2lb from my goal and felt like I've had this cloud over my head for the past 2 days. 1/2 lbs is stopping me from winning a contest! Second -HAD to get back into our routine - what little of a one we had. I should have done this Sunday Night but I fell asleep with the kids! So the morning was a rush to get my stuff and the kids junk together. I forgot my wallet........

The Swim was gentle. After attempting to do handstands (bahahahaha - not sure what I was thinking other than excited to try it!), my shoulders were/still are a tad bit sensitive. I only swam 600m mostly of drills but when I did attempt to freestyle (my pace) it did go better than before. I called it a success and went and sat in the sauna. :-)

The sun was out and Jack and I played at the park while we waited for Lizzie. Once she was picked up we went to Madison Cycle to adjust my bike -it felt like I was kneeing myself in the chest - picked up a day-glo yellow vest to ride on the arsenal. There was more play in the sun home for a quick supper and than Tri 101.

6pm Tri 101. It's still sunny and hot. I pack my water and used Nuun Grape and Gu Brew. While the grape was better tasting the Gu Brew seemed to help give me the boost I needed. We biked 7.7miles
(My bike chain kept slippin') and ran a mile. I didn't feel good about the run - I didn't give it my all. I wimped out trying to conserve energy when I could have done a lot more. However, I did get to have a great conversation on the last lap!


Tuesday Morning - I DID IT! I was able to get my weight to where I wanted it to be to win the DietBet.com contest! I'll add pictures as soon as I can! I'm so happy!

Few things to note. I did not starve myself. I did not deprive myself of all things good. I did cut back on gluten, corn, all foods white and pop... Oh and chocolate!



Sunday, April 14, 2013

I think I'm gettin' it God - Sunday

I believe that God can only work through people. We are his hands and feet as the popular saying goes.  

Yesterday, I had the privilege of someone speaking into my life by telling me to Swim, Bike, Run my own Race. If you've known me for about 30 seconds - you know I like to think - and this has been on my mind for the past 28 ish hours! My dreams were filled with what I could do by staying true to my course -Even though I have no idea what that looks like! I woke up stunned that God would use my dreams to show me a snippet of the future. Kind of felt like Jeremiah.  Anywho, Today I went to Spin Class and had a new instructor (he will go by Spin Preacher). This dude had the sense that he was a Godly man from the moment I put my tag on my bike. He was presentable, kind and talked like an Hospitality/Greeter Usher (I'm guessing he is!). It was confirmed by a joke about people who arrive like to church and spin get seats in the front. About 2 minutes into the class he busts Scripture of the Day - Galatians 6:4 " Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else,"  New Living Translation says, "Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won't need to compare yourself to anyone else." 

Now, I'm not the brightest crayon in the box but when two people in two different parts of my world say the same message - I want to take note. This dude has no idea that he confirmed a message I got yesterday. It's SO simple but so powerful for me. I have always tried to be independent but I have always looked on at how other people live and copy! While I have always fought the urge to be a sheep, I still am one. I am at my most put together phase of my life thus far and enjoying it! One can be so much happier when you are striving to be or do something you are not. However, I still want to be the cool kid. Having this reminder to stick to my course, whatever that may be or look like - is what I need to do to live the life I was born to lead. 

 A BIG Thank You to y'all who were God's voice to me!

What are we back to? Swim. Bike. Run. Live Your Own Course. 

Part 2 of my Day was a Crossfit Workout. They just started  Sunday Class and I was eager to get to it. Well, I walk through the doors and it's an gymnastics class. Super Cool. I'm Game. Well, we worked on handstands and pull ups. 2 Things I have never attempted in my grown life. Of course I didn't just throw myself against the wall and do it- but I did manage to  get my feet on the wall and hold myself for 10 seconds at a time. WOOT - this is a big deal to me... As far as pull ups, I used a band. I never did get my full body weight pulled up to do an official push up but I did do it. Just hanging from the bar was a biggie. I don't use my right shoulder so it was a solid work our for my left and gave me an idea of how to attempt it next time! Super great brain and body play! It was nice to face something new! 

Saturday, April 13, 2013

Run Your Own Race

The Big Lesson I Learned Today - Swim, Bike, Run Your Own Race. 

Today was our last swim lesson. 4 of us showed up (I think there is suppose to be 15?) So there was a lot of personal attention. I was happy to have it. There is only so much sinking and taking on water one can take without getting completely frustrated and quit. A few things that I need to work on:
*Kicking from the hits, slightly bent knees but no bicycle legs. 
*Zip up the suit- No more windmill arms
*No more catchup drills - I have to actually attempt to freestyle

We practice swimming 100m's. Which, to me, is still a struggle to do without stopping. The first attempt I tried to keep up with the big kids and just took on more water and became extremely tired, fast. An awesome Coach told me straight on - Swim your Pace. Make perfect sense. The next time round I was the slowest by at least 50m's but I didn't die and I made it! So now to put it all together! 

ok... so here is another piece of advice to myself - EAT. 
This morning we were rushed to get the kids to soccer, I grabbed some deli meat to eat and swallowed it down! Water to drink and I felt great! The kid's went to Grandmas and I got to go shopping solo- so I picked up a cup of coffee - YUM  - Iced Coffee! by noon I was HUNGRY so I grabbed protein, threw a scoop into some water and called it good. However, as mentioned, I ran out of steam. After swimming I could figure out why I was so light headed and tired. I was struggling. I look at the protein powder bag and realized I only added on scoop not 2... so I only ate 150calories between 7-3pm. NO WONDER I WAS TIRED! After I ate I felt 100% better! 

In DietBet.com news- I hit my "goal" weight a couple of days ago- unfortunately, I lived life and I'm still hovering at the number needed to win! So I have 24-48 hours to get the number down 3lbs. Here's to a solid sleep and a solid workout tomorrow! 

My Weekly Review:
Goal / Reality 
Swim 3x / 4x
Bike 2x / 0x
Run 2x / 2x
Crossfit 2x / 0x

So As you can see- I got a little distracted....... I didn't get any biking or crossfit done. I did get extra swim in - that was my true focus this week (it's been on my mind the most!) Seeing as this is the most consistent training I have to date - I'm not ashamed. I also have a better idea of how it feels so not as much fear of training going into this next week. As I understand it, the past 6 weeks of training has been about building a base (I am not solid at what is the recommended training - I hope this doesn't mean I'm going to fail!). This next week start we start to "build". I'm not sure what all that means but it sounds like more intensity in short sprints... in all 3 sports. Scary enough - I feel much more comfortable with this phase because it guarantees a rest... maybe it's a mind game... but I like being able to catch my breath and not hear a pound heart in my eardrums...... We'll see how it goes!


Friday, April 12, 2013

What a Difference a Month Makes.....

 April 2013
This is after a 40 minute run......
March 2013
Here we are fresh and ready to bike!


10:50pm - Today's workout was more practical. We cleaned up and mowed the lawn, took the kids swimming and hung out. It was good though. Tomorrow I have the last Tri 101 Group Swim Lesson (I'm nervous!) and a run scheduled. I am horrible at running! It's the one thing I dread the most. I struggle with swimming but I dread running at the moment. I think I'm going to have to focus a little more on it to find the love! 
 

Thursday, April 11, 2013

Thursday Just Turned Into Rest Day

I woke up before my alarm this morning. I had full intentions to FINALLY make it to a CrossFit class. I got up and started getting ready but my internal gut stopped me. So for whatever reason, today is a rest day.

The perk? A home cooked hot breakfast!

Not sure where the day will go. In laws are here nd the morning work out was the only one planned. Things could get interesting.

Wednesday, April 10, 2013

Whoop It Up Wednesday!

I mark today a day of landmark and success... even if it's about small victories! 

First - I saw my goal weight on the scale for the DietBet Challenge I'm doing. Now granted, I need to stay at this weight and hopefully lower for 5 more days, but I actually saw the number on the scale and that was encouraging. In similar news, I was at the Doctors and in the past year I've lost 18lbs. while that isn't huge- it's more than I've done in a long time so I am please. Even more pleased that 14 of those pounds is from this year! 

Second - I swam. It was a good swim. I managed 800 meters. Now, 600 of that were drills but I felt really good about how the session was going. I also discovered that am not afraid of the deep end like I was on Monday. I noticed my breathing was better today too. Now, to fix my sinking.... 

Third - I passed up on an evening workout to have a date with my husband. No Regrets there! Thanks to the inlaws that came over, the hubs and I had a nice meal. walked and did a little shopping this evening. It was super nice to hangout with the guy I married! I actually got to hold his hand instead of two littles. 

Fourth - I realized I do love our dog. He had to go to the vet to get his manhood removed. This is after a week of thinking I was wrong to ever bring a puppy into our family. He is a Great Pyrenees Mix  and at 18 weeks is 37 lbs and still very much a puppy. Chewing things. Crazy Energy and a pain in my side. He came back very happy to see the family and the kids were so happy to see him. I know this has nothing to do with Tri Training but it does have to do with emotional well being. I concluded that he is worth the work because of the love that gets shared. This makes for a happy family - Happy family means a momma can be a happy triathlete! A little random stress can reek havoc on an exercise session - or so I've notice. 

Tuesday, April 9, 2013

OMG - How Did I Forget To Talk About Swimsuits?!?!?!?!?

Needless to say, I am not ideal vision in a swimsuit. However, having kids has made me more relaxed about what I look like. I do like to keep my rolls and all that jiggle covered as much as possible. The first time I tried to find a "normal" one piece, I might as well have went for a 2 piece. Seriously, when did all these cut outs (while cute on others) be the end all to swimming fashion!?!?!? I found a swimsuit by "TYR" brand. I thought I scored. NOPE... I put that brand into "Must Be Designed For Europeans" category and took a step back! I have back fat... while I'm ok with showing a little... COME ON! I don't want to have boobage escaping from the sides, top and then having to compete for the same 10square inches my back fat and tummy rolls are fighting for!

So Back to my many Triathelete Blogs I've been stalking and found a company for plus size girls. It pleased me a little to know I was the smallest size they offered. I got it in the mail and was pleased! It covers all the important bits and appeared to be lined...

I didn't even look in the mirror for the last month I've had it. I just trusted it! I thought it covered everything and so I should be good. This week, I went the South Huntsville YMCA and their full length mirror is hard to miss. WOWZA! First, at the request of the hubs who likes me in pink, I am wearing a BRIGHT ROSE swimsuit (really - there should be a photo of this hot mess just to giggle at!). My toes are lime green from St. Patrick's Day. I have a blue and lime green swim cap on and my goggles . The double lining swimsuit has failed to visually protect my jugs and there is an outline of everything! The NUDE lining is flipped over at my groin so I took a double look to make sure it wasn't my Vajayjay hangin' out! LORD.... I was so embarrassed... I took a deep breath... fixed my swimsuit the best I could and then went out to the pool... I had some training to do... So... There is no telling how many people have seen the outline of my goodies... However, I'm still on the search for the perfect swimsuit. I might be out there in a sweat suit if I don't find anything......

Tragic Tuesday

It just didn't start well. I slept in. Panic to get everyone rest. Our Great Pyrenees Mix is getting nutered and had to be at the vet across town (on a good day 40 minutes)  and I wanted to work out after we dropped him off. FAIL. We get to the YMCA. I get 20 minutes of Drills in and I hear from the YMCA childcare staff. Jack has wet himself. So I pack up my gear(I was planning a 30 minute swim and then a 60 minute spin class), picked up my pee soaked kid (because he's a big boy I don't carry spare clothes any more) and loaded everyone up in the car.

What does one do with a pee soaked kid and a list of errands? Go to Walmart. I'd like to note I was not the only momma with a kid in pee soaked underwear in the kid's section. Any who, we picked up what we needed (and a little more) and came home. Other than now and the next 30 minutes. I won't have time to fit in a work out. BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!! Here's to a better tomorrow!

Monday, April 8, 2013

Manic Monday

Needless to say, for those that know me decently well or have just kept up with this blog, I didn't make it to an early morning workout. These allergies are killing me. As soon as I lay down I'm coughing and choking. I didn't want to take night time meds and wake up in a fog so I took Robitussin. It didn't work well. I got an hour sleep before the coughing set in. 3 hours of sleep was not enough for a morning work out. I managed to get 5 hours and change (change being trying to keep my body and brain still while the kids watched The Grinch & an episode of Dora). The Day is planned and I should be able to knock out a swim and short run! We'll see how that goes!

4:30pm - I got out there and did a 45 minute swim. Admittedly, it was mostly drills. I was pretty tired by the end of drills. Once I got out of the pool I sat in the sauna for a few minutes. Dressed in my running gear and hit the treadmill.I did a 18 minute mile. Considering I had been in the pool, I was decently happy with just getting it done. Next. 40minute run tonight at the Tri 101 Class. I'll let you know how that goes.

6:00pm Tri 101 Training was challenging. We apparently (I'm convinced I ran a bit shorter distance) did 3.3 miles. Well.....  I tried too! The idea was to run 6 minutes walk 1. but I think I did that only twice. The rest of the time I would have to walk, catch my breath and then keep going. I got some Coach Larry & LD lLOVE! Those two can run and not break a sweat. They can hold a conversation, cheer, smile, holler and not look rattled! I, on the other hand, will post a picture of my after glow. Cherry Red Face, the sounds of Gasping Haunted Ghosts coming from my lips and a stink like none other. 

Some Topics of Discussion in my head while I ran:

Outside is better than Treadmill any day - 40 minutes outside was tough but it was so much easier than getting on a treadmill at the YMCA. It's a mental game I'm sure, but the greenway was pretty and had distractions! 

Water vs Nuun - Today was the first time I ran drinking something other than water. I have been drinking coconut water after a run/workout but I decided to try Nuun during (I've been feeling mentally sluggish in the middle of a run). I felt great. I didn't get that foggy feeling last night. I'm going to try it again and see if I have the same results, if so, Nuun is my favorite "extra" of the sport. I tried lemon lime and it wasn't bad. My only complaint is that by the middle my water was warm but cold - it was tasty.  In random thought, if it gets much hotter i might need to run with a camelbak. I was thirsty the whole run!

Chafing - While it has been talked about in training and in books, unless you've experienced it, then its just a word! Last night I tried wearing my new North Face Skort I got on winter time clearance. It was breathable and light. I think I won the lotto. Once we got on the run I realized I was wrong. The short rode up and it was thigh on thigh action. um. ouch. I guess I need to purchase some grease.

New Workout Clothes - They make me excited to get out and do something in them but sometimes oldies are better!

Triathletes - I don't know how people do an Ironman. I'm struggling to learn how to do a sprint! Do people training for an Ironman ever rest? 



Sunday, April 7, 2013

Sunday - Rest Day

Rest Day - This means trying to wake up after taking night time medicine for these Allergies I'm dealing with. Spending quality time at Chuck E Cheese with the family (no food - just play!) and then eating a reasonably healthy meal at Golden Corral (I loved their Smoked Turkey BBQ Salad. Kept the cheese and used lemons for salad dressing).  Came home and did a little cleaning here, a little organizing there and then headed outside. I spent a good hour cleaning up the back patio and yard. I didn't waste a lot of time online today but I did relax a little with some surfing. :-) Then back to the kitchen to prep tomorrows supper (Hello Crock Pot), cut up veggies, pack lunches, packed gym/swim bag, got together 4 bags of things to take to donation and make supper for tonight. 

Supper tonight:Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Bacon, Beef

Supper tomorrow: Dump all into crock-pot: Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Celery, Chicken & Salad Dressing, Water. Place on high for the day.  (While I understand salad dressing is not "healthy"- it's what I got and it's ready to go!). Strawberries are cut and ready for dessert. 

So on this restful day, I prepped the first of this weeks food and made a food plan for the rest of the week, grocery list, scheduled workouts, fun and Things To Do.  

Now that I'm really getting into the meat of training it's helping organize the other part of my life that I let slip simply because I could. The perk - I'm good at organizing and happy to do it and live by it.

Saturday, April 6, 2013

Just Keep Swimming!



I had to say this to myself over and over during today's group swim lesson. Between being out of shape and lacking skill in the swim department, I was struggling. I forgot to breathe. I got choked on water. I got tired. I've got to get in the water more often! 



I'm feeling like I need to just MOVE!  

Overall, I felt like the class went well. I was nervous going into it. We split up and individualized the training so that helped. Then we got out of the pool and practiced jumping in (OMG The NERVES!), kicking off the side and then swimming down and back touching the wall. That was hard work. I was exhausted. I did what I could and make it. I didn't want to cheat myself of training time but I didn't want to drown either.

I find I have a hard time not cheering for the others! If they do something "right" I hear a hoot and holler come from my lips before I can stop it! So Sorry for those who don't appreciate my overenthusiastic nature. This is been a person journey for me- trying something new and sticking with it... I'm just excited at each success point! No matter who has the success!

Super Saturday

I did not sleep well. I believe I have Good Ol' Alabama Allergies and not "sick". Mowing the lawn and hanging out outside yesterday (beautiful day!) made the pressure in my head so much worse! I'm pretty sure I'm not contagious so I'm going to face the world... albeit... with swimming and not much more... but I'll get my swimming done!


Goals for 2013
I found my goal list for 2013 and I've had to refine them a bit. 


Schedule Complete 2 WOD a week & Yoga 2x a month
Read 1 biography a month someone who has achieved what I want
Keep a detailed food journal
Eat Paleo 80%- primal
Keep the house clean
Read the bible
Learn to do A wall hand stand
Drop 40lbs

Here is my refined list:
Train daily for Triathlon (June 22nd the Sprint, Frantic Frog Sprint Triathlon September 7)
Schedule:2x Swim, 2x Run, 2x Bike, 2x Crossfit, 2x Core Work Out (20 minute Class, Pilates or netflix/youtube) (Plan Plan Plan! Go Go Go!)
Read 1 biography a month (this is super easy for me to do - I seem to do this daily!)
Eat Clean (Paleo/Eat Right 4 Your Type) Real Food
Keep House Clean (This is a work in progress)
Read the Bible (I'm behind in my daily reading but if I can sit and focus for 4 evenings in a row, I can catch up!)
Learn to do a wall hand stand (still haven't even tried), do a double under
Drop 40lbs  (only 28lbs to go!) 

Needless to say, I'm not focusing on world peace this year. This year is all about me. Being honest about it removes the guilt. Once I realize that it's really ok to pursue my own goals that may not immediately help those around me (although I believe it will improve the quality of life for those around me). This is a huge hurdle for me to get over!  

Friday, April 5, 2013

What's a journey blog without pictures?!?!?!

 Notice the Crazy Eyes!
The above photo is the one I wanted to use in my header - because of the crazy eyes- and it showed a little personality... however, I don't have the passion to understand how to create a header with my picture so well, it's just text. 

Below is the REAL picture I had to take for the DietBet.com competition I'm in. When I signed up it's a $25 buy in and there was $20 000 in the pot. I was super excited. At the moment, there is $63 000 in the pot so I HAVE to lose a total of 8lbs by April 15th. That's 4 solid pounds I have to lose in 10 days. I did not do well working out while my family was sick. So I might be a little cranky eating my broccoli and veggies for the next week... But I'm at least going to get my $25 bucks back... if not more... YES... money is a motivator! 

Frustrating Friday

I had a wonderful sleep last night. It was 12 hours. I was only up a couple of times. I played with the idea of getting up to do Crossfit but um.... with no alarm, I missed it. I felt great when I woke up. The schedule got set. Swim, Spin, Swim with the kids.

We get loaded up in good time! This is amazing! Then to the YMCA. I walk through the doors in perfect timing. 1 hour before class and I get my spin slip. The kids are awesomely excited to go play and there are no hiccups to getting them signed in. I head to the changing room super excited about the next 2 hours. Except I forgot my swim suit. I had it by the door ready to go (it was drying separately) but in the hustle to get the kids out the door, I forgot it. So... Plan B. I have 45 minutes to Spin Class. I head to the Treadmill. I'm a little cautious. I don't want to over do it and fade during Spin Class. So 20 minutes. I do a 5 minute walking warm up. The it's on... So the plan is run 6 walk 1. I very quickly figured out I didn't have the steam today. My lungs ached. So... It was Run 2 walk 1. I managed that for 15 minutes. Figured I'd call it good and rest before spin. I did a 3 minute walking cool down and went to claim and set my bike up.

Spin. I was there early and made small talk with Spin Dude Tom. Yes. The same Tom. He wasn't suppose to be the teacher today but I lucked out! So I asked him a little bit about what he does - he runs and bikes. Dude joked about being 84 years old but I'm placing him at about 65 years old. We'll see. One Day I'll ask him.  I'm a little early so I fill my water bottle, spin the pedals and make small talk with other spinners. We get going... 5 minutes in and my feet are numb. seriously!!!! I keep going but it's hurty! I kept going but I have to say. I was tired today. My lungs ached and I was out of breathe a whole lot sooner. I worked the resistance instead of spins plan... so I pushed but not as fast as the "plan". I feel like I got a good work out. Heart rate was still higher than normal range.

Swim. Since I didn't have my swim suit, I let the kids play in the splash pad. Lizzie braved no floatie! SCORE and I was happy with the independence they showed - apart from Jack not listening (hitting people with a floatie). So it was 30 minutes of relaxing for me (shoes off and feet in the warm water) and drinking my water.

The afternoon is beautiful. I hope to go in the backyard with the kids and do some work. We'll see how the evening plays out. Over all. I was frustrated that I couldn't push as hard as I wanted too. I still have a little pride that I didn't give up. :-) yay me.

Thursday, April 4, 2013

Thursday - Forced Rest Day

I slept reasonably well last night considering all I had was an  alka seltzer, coconut water and hot decaf coffee last night. I woke up swallowing razor blades and decided there would be no work outs today. JUST rest. I took the kids to their Well Visit at the Doctor. The kids are healthy and on track. The consensus on me is that I might be detoxing. um... ok... still doesn't change that I feel like poop. So... tomorrow I see how I feel and decide if another "rest day" is in order or if I can push myself a little. I'm hoping I can push myself a little bit. I don't want to be 3 weeks behind in anything...


Wednesday, April 3, 2013

my Mind Did Not Convince My Body

Last night after spin class I noticed my throat was sore. I figured I pushed myself super hard. I joked about it with Scott. Noticed it this morning but pushed it aside because, finally,  after 2 1/2 weeks of dealing with family being sick, I was back in the groove. Well, this afternoon I had to admit that I was not feeling great.  By 5pm, I was ready for sleep and it felt like I was swallowing razorblades. I'm sick! Book! I'm ready to catch a break!

Wonderful Wednesday

It's been a very good and productive day. First Day back for the hubs, Lizzie had preschool and our vet appointment was quick giving me extra time to fit a swim in! WOOT. So I swam for 40 minutes. I ran through my drills that took just at 26 minutes and then I spent 15 minutes putting it all into practice. I was pretty tired after and sat in the sauna for a few minutes. I was pleasantly surprised to find a handful of woman in there talking about their schedules and how they fit working out into their life. Very inspiring. One lady cooks all her meals in the crockpot! She pulls the ingredients together the afternoon before (leaving room for an errand to the grocery store if need be) and then prepares supper while getting a hot breakfast (that' HOT.... bacon, eggs and pancakes every morning for her family) ready every morning. WOWZA! She mentioned everyone once in a while she'll do a casserole (still puts it together in the morning) and puts it in the oven when she gets home but she loves a crockpot because it's ready when she walks in the door with the kids. 

Anyway, I'm hoping to fit in a class this evening if the weather is ok and Scott is ok from his first day back. I understand he had a headache all day ... If he's not feeling like being childcare daddy tonight - I may have to netflix it up or something.... Anyway, there will be some sort of exercise in near future!

Tuesday, April 2, 2013

Tuesday Dreaming

I had full intentions to get up and work out at 5:30am this morning. I went to bed by 10pm. However, my toddlers had other plans and we were up from 2-4:45am... needless to say, the alarm got shut off and I slept a little later. Scott still has germs so he stayed home. It was a peaceful, relaxing Tuesday considering he's on the mend, the kids didn't leave the house and I got to sit in my pjs.

I was going to attend Crossfit Nomad until I read it was a team workout... they plain ol' intimidate me. I know i"m going to be the slowest and have the most scaled down workout... to mentally deal with that on my own is one thing... but in a team setting - I hate it. So I bailed. I did go to the YMCA and picked up my spinning class ticket (one must get there an hour before class to claim a bike!). I managed 10 minutes of rowing on the machine (setting was on 10- my shoulders are hurting!). 

I lined up outside the door for my first "Total Core" class. My swim coach had advised me that Core work was key to being an excellent swimming and had worked at the same YMCA I attend so it was a perfect fit. Description:
"Total Core: Combining new abdominal and back exercises with traditional pilates, this 20 minute class will reshape and strengthen your core. A great bonus before or after your workout!" I figured I could do anything for 20 minutes. I WAS WRONG! 15 minutes in my "core" was wore out! She wanted us on our side, knees bent and together, elbows to the head and bring both "up". yeah... I looked like I was convulsing. Maybe I couldn't do it for the giggling I was doing but in any case, it wasn't getting done. Soooooooooo happy that didn't take to much time. The cool down was golden and then we were done! 
 
I had about 5 minutes between Total Core and Spin Class, so I used it to fit my bike and refill my water bottle. Tom... yes that's our spin coaches name. Claims to be 79 years old... I'm not sure he's that old but the dude is older and can whip any of us, beginners AND advanced spinners at a class. He is impressive. I was encouraged to attend his class by his following... yes he has groupies! He keeps his class fun, lively, full of fun facts, variety of music and encouragement. This dude can make an hour feel like 45 minutes. :-) Anywho, he keeps you pushing yourself and I like it... I like the friendly reminder that you can do it. So he gets us going. 20 minutes in my feet start going numb. I'm not sure what the problem is. I loosen my shoe laces.... I finally pull the insert out to see if that helps.. and it does minimally... I guess I need to google and see what can be done about it. Different shoes? That was the most frustrating part of the hour were my feet feeling like they were numb and on fire with pins and needles. I made it though! He was so friendly and encouraging after telling me not to give up and come back Thursday. I think I'll try!
 
I sucked back my emergency Coconut Water (with pineapple  - my favorite- all it needs is a little Tequila) and got my mind back. I was wore out! I had packed my swim bag but I brought that back and all it's contents back home dry. There was no way between the tough rowing, Total Core and Spin that I would not drowned. 
 
Luckily, I got home in time to cuddle the kids and say good night (Thank you good husband for taking lead on supper and bedtime routine when I no-so-quietly-sneak-out to workout)
 
I can barely move my body. I'm drinking water and I think I'll have another glass of coconut water - (once you get drinking it-it's pretty addictive) and lay down to go to sleep. 
 
Will I wake up to work out before Scott goes to work? That's to be determined! 
 
Nightly Night!