tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53822804736558632032012-02-02T11:16:10.973-08:00Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.comBlogger3181100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-39234149858228377992012-01-31T06:35:00.000-08:002012-01-31T09:39:10.308-08:00

Food is comfort, and sometimes there's just no getting around that.  On Saturday evening I spent the evening drinking and eating over my feelings about the murder of a most dear couple.  I worked with Bob for several years and his wife, Susan, is the most best friend of a beloved friend of mine.  I still can't believe what happened and I'm still surprised by how very upsetting this whole thing is

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-50288403755071437162012-01-28T13:39:00.000-08:002012-01-28T13:39:20.766-08:00

First off, thank you all for your kind words of support about the death of my grandfather.  I am so glad I was able to be there for my mom and family to help do the heavy lifting of funeral planning.  The funeral is now set for next Saturday (our family is a weekend funeral family) so we'll be flying back this coming Friday.  We'll be staying the night and flying back on Saturday evening.  Then

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-18122982204403756512012-01-26T23:07:00.000-08:002012-01-26T23:07:56.392-08:00

My grandad passed away in the middle of the night last night.  My nana passed away a few years ago and it's comforting to think of them together.  I flew down this morning so I missed seeing him before he passed but I have happy memories with him from this past year and decades before that.  I'm happy with my memories.  Here's a picture of him with little Ms. Myra from her birthday this past

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-82031356149400766612012-01-25T16:38:00.000-08:002012-01-25T16:38:10.397-08:00

Today is a rest day.  Thank goodness because my back is sore, but it's a soreness from strength training, which is good.  And I just feel generally kind of tight so I know I need the rest.  Things are going to get interesting around here during the next week or so.  My beloved grandfather is passing away and I'm flying down south to be with my mom.  There may  be another trip with the whole

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-6253621890593063462012-01-24T22:52:00.000-08:002012-01-24T22:52:40.847-08:00

I went to the gym today.  I had a 3 mile run and back/biceps/core on the agenda.  I wasn't sure how the run would go since I did a long run on Sunday and according to my plan today should be a day off.  But I want tomorrow off instead. So the 3 miles on the treadmill went fine.  I ran mostly at 5.0 mph, didn't feel like pushing myself beyond that.  And strength training was good.  I was in a

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-39719629606765823162012-01-23T21:31:00.000-08:002012-01-23T21:31:26.836-08:00

There's something about routine that's just nice to fall into.  I started this morning with my standby work breakfast - a bowl of grape nuts and coffee.  I spent the whole morning on the road so I snacked from my "emergency food", a clif bar I keep wrapped up in my bag.  I take a few bites from it and call it a snack.  Fortunately I made it back to the office in time for lunch.  We have a

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-89361154285246659432012-01-22T16:56:00.000-08:002012-01-25T15:36:35.959-08:00

I want to tell you about my rain run today but first, a quick report on our trip to Monterey (scan down to the post run picture if you just want to read about running in the rain).  We had a great time!  We drove down Friday and after settling in to our hotel we took the kids to a nearby fitness center with an indoor pool.  We had a fun time splashing in the water with them.  Then we took them to

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-42364863738869412052012-01-19T22:23:00.000-08:002012-01-19T22:23:45.622-08:00

Whew, today was a hectic day.  I didn't really have a firm plan as to how to squeeze in exercise so I shouldn't be surprised that it was almost 8pm by the time I got to the gym.  I didn't have enough time to do my 5 mile run and then strength train so I compromised and did 2+ miles on the treadmill rotating through 5, 5.5 and 6mph speeds.  After that I did my legs/shoulders/core routine.  Lunges

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-59151345734954459742012-01-18T23:21:00.000-08:002012-01-19T08:58:56.583-08:00

I just love Kate Winslet.  She's one of those people that says she accepts her body and doesn't strive for some crazy thin Hollywood ideal.  Of course, she has an incredible body, one which I would have no problem "accepting."  I realize this photo is misleading as the post title has NOTHING to do with Kate, I would sneer at anyone that even hinted at her being "fat".  I just saw how great she

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-39235260097802130772012-01-17T22:12:00.000-08:002012-01-17T22:12:32.403-08:00

I have had a ho-hum attitude since yesterday.  When I got to the gym today I hoped a little exercise would give me a boost.  I changed and got my 3 mile run underway outside.  It was chilly and I'm learning I don't run so well in the cold.  But I did my best to push myself and finished in just under 33 minutes.  And, of course, I felt revived.  Then I went on to do chest and triceps.  I'm still

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-5993161903580648682012-01-16T14:43:00.000-08:002012-01-16T14:43:59.041-08:00

So we had some friends over last night to watch football.  Mostly I was cooking and watching the kids but I indulged in a couple of beers for fun.  For dinner I had 1.5 pieces of grilled chicken thighs, a piece of carne asada and zucchini.  I started to feel munchy not too long after dinner and ended up eating a cookie, some m&ms (yes, they are back in the house for potty training but this is the

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-20453429036933327062012-01-15T15:15:00.000-08:002012-01-15T19:08:51.046-08:00

It's one of those days.  I just feel so good.  Everything is easier when you feel good.  It's probably due to going to bed at a decent hour last night, having a nice morning with Miguel and the kids and then eating an AccelGel about 10 minutes before heading out the door to the gym.  Oh, and I'm sure it's also that the jeans I bought at Talbots on clearance a couple of weeks ago are no longer too

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-12274395710508441002012-01-14T14:29:00.000-08:002012-01-14T14:29:13.499-08:00

I had one of those "moments" yesterday where I saw my reflection in a mirror and had a realization that I don't really look "fat" anymore.  Well, I'm sure according to some college guys I'm still a "fat chick" but by normal standards I look, well, sort of normal.  And in other weight related news, I moved back into the "overweight" category on the BMI when I entered the 170's. No more Obese

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-31891249601430980002012-01-13T22:04:00.000-08:002012-01-13T22:18:52.574-08:00

I called Miguel after work to let him know I was headed to the gym.  He wasn't very excited.  Then again, neither was I.  I got to the gym and was taking off my work shoes in the locker room when I started thinking about spending the whole evening with Miguel and our kids instead.  I put my shoes back on and headed out the door.  I just wasn't into it. I got in my car and was driving out of the

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-86700094263465845672012-01-12T22:59:00.000-08:002012-01-12T22:59:36.959-08:00

"Going into every race, you should have two realistic yet achievable plans. The first plan is your optimal plan, what you fully expect to achieve, not a goal that requires an exceptional day but what you believe to be your best performance ability at that time... The second plan is your bottom line plan -- the minimum achievement for you to be happy with the race. No compromises, no excuses

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-1774723737198630802012-01-11T21:53:00.000-08:002012-01-11T21:53:28.507-08:00

This being a weight loss blog you probably think I'm going to write about stretching.  Nope - I'm writing about skipping the gym.  It happens now and again and today was one of those days.  I had a plan to get up early and go to the gym before Miguel left for work.  But I started waking up with a headache about an hour before I had to get up.  Instead of getting up and taking aspirin as I should

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-35660773361036311132012-01-10T21:28:00.000-08:002012-01-10T21:28:22.883-08:00

It's 9pm and I'm so tired!  I'm in bed already and if I didn't have a clock I'd think it was midnight.  Some days just feel this way, like I'm needing an extra full night's sleep to keep things going.  The good thing is I'm off to sleep shortly so I should get some good zzz's tonight. So my menstrual cycle started a few days ago.   If I understand the way this cycle works it will start again in

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-85752624506420574992012-01-09T09:28:00.000-08:002012-01-09T09:28:12.174-08:00

Today is a rest day from exercise but not from fitness.  My muscles are busy building themselves.  I do a lot of reading about fitness and exercise and one of the big messages I finally "got" is that rest days are just as important as exercise days.  But sometimes it's hard on my stress level to take a day off.  So today I think I'm going to take a leisurely walk after I eat lunch just to convene

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-55217402021058679852012-01-08T15:46:00.000-08:002012-01-08T15:46:32.180-08:00

Probably the biggest problem I've had with running has been my right knee.  It aches off-and-on while I'm running and the day after a long run it hurts most of the day.  I've been reading about ice this, ice that...it seems icing is the solution to everything so I finally broke down and did it.  I iced my knee on Friday night in preparation for the run (absolutely no idea if pre-icing helps, just

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-83680396139249097042012-01-07T21:19:00.000-08:002012-01-08T15:08:29.040-08:00

Today had a 10 mile run on the training plan.  In the last few days I'd been mentally lazy and allowing myself to "dread" the long distance.  I finally snapped out of it after writing my positivity post yesterday and I dug in with all positive thoughts, "I'm going to have a great run, I feel good, I'm ready, I love running", etc.  Despite only doing this for less than a day my attitude had become

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-16319309643567708922012-01-06T10:10:00.000-08:002012-01-06T10:10:20.260-08:00

If you've spent any time reading my blog you know I'm a huge fan of positive thinking.  I believe we tend to underestimate the power of our brains, of our thoughts, and their ability to both influence how we feel and behave.  Just think about a friend or co-worker you have who is a negative-nelly, isn't s/he sort of a downer to be around? Positive thinking can turn bad days into decent days,

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-11075517152416610972012-01-05T08:02:00.000-08:002012-01-05T08:12:37.745-08:00

I got up at 5am this morning to head out for an early morning run. It wasn't easy, but I was meeting a neighbor so that got me out the door, otherwise I would have totally bailed on myself.  Running in the morning is tough for me, I feel stiff and it's hard to push myself.  But we got it done and I'm super happy with that because I have no other time to run 5 miles today. Saturday is a 10 mile

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-86255008771543489312012-01-04T15:25:00.000-08:002012-01-04T15:33:12.852-08:00

It's been an action packed couple of days.  Oh, before I forget, I put Diary of an Aspiring Loser up on Facebook.  Click the "like" button on the left-hand side of the page if you do indeed like my blog :)    Anyway, so yesterday I went to the private pilates session (being a responsible blogger I brought my camera).  I arrived early so I could do a quick 10 minute warm-up jog beforehand. What

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-76477704887128897502012-01-03T10:52:00.000-08:002012-01-04T14:36:48.265-08:00

Are you starting a new workout routine for the new year?  If so, might I suggest you keep some sort of workout log?  I track what I do each time I go to the gym or for a run, cycling, etc. I get a few things out of keeping a workout log.  First, it helps me remember what the heck I'm doing.  I have 3 sets of weight training routines and 2 sets of abs routines.  I wouldn't know if I was coming or

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-61316063042695495022011-12-31T23:16:00.000-08:002011-12-31T23:16:11.013-08:00

I suppose I should be writing a year-in-review and something like a resolution post but I'm just not up for it.  Maybe later this week.  I don't plan to make any resolutions, but maybe I'll put a few goals out there.  We'll see.  I certainly won't be making any weight loss goals for the coming year.  I've already registered for two events so those are easy targets.  Anyway, on to more pressing

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-75151275494604889862011-12-29T12:53:00.000-08:002012-01-05T22:04:20.482-08:00

So I've been thinking more about that article, The Fat Trap, which I just wrote about yesterday.  I'll tell you the truth, I got somewhat angry after reading that.  I think it was the hopelessness of it that ticked me off.  I see so much hope, so much opportunity for change, so much potential for growth - that article is just the opposite, a big downer.  I've concluded that the author, Tara, is

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-38317733798626067512011-12-28T16:41:00.000-08:002011-12-28T16:50:12.209-08:00

I can see the marketing world gearing up.  More ads for exercise equipment, "diet" plans, and other things to tempt us into spending money to kick-start our fitness goals.  I hope you're feeling motivated as the new year approaches.  I know I am.  I hope 2012 is the year I *finally*, after what will be 5 years, reach my goal.  I could go on and on about how, in many ways, I've already reached my

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-47707162963091211362011-12-25T17:07:00.000-08:002011-12-25T17:13:29.007-08:00

Ahhh, I'm sitting down in a quiet, warm house while the kids are napping and Miguel is out picking up tamales.  The last couple of days were a blur as we neared today's big day.  Friday night we had an impromptu lounge-wear pizza (and salad) party at our place.  A few friends and their kids came over and we had a fun, relaxing evening.  I drank 3 glasses of wine!  And I liked it. On Saturday

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-34844218471473841122011-12-23T09:07:00.000-08:002011-12-23T09:07:27.587-08:00

The week has been flying by toward Christmas.  I'm so excited to celebrate our 2nd Christmas as a family of four.  I feel so grateful to have my family around me and healthy.  Warmth, health, love and laughter - what more could I ask for? This is a fitness blog though so I'll get to it.  Monday was a day off.  I'm finding this day off on Monday thing to be ok so far.  It's sort of nice to ease

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-31356264918162900082011-12-18T15:47:00.000-08:002011-12-18T15:48:51.623-08:00

I am so happy with my body today, what can I say?  I went to the gym to do non-running cardio and strength training.  The upright bikes were taken so I hopped on the elliptical, which was probably a good thing because my knees, especially my right knee, were sore.  The elliptical is easy on the knees.  I had a nice 25 minutes and then set out for the weights.  I wasn't looking forward to legs and

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-6815908487299002672011-12-17T22:11:00.000-08:002011-12-17T22:11:26.489-08:00

Thursday was a planned gym day and while my mind was up for the task, my body wasn't.  My back felt really tight and it was my mid-back, which was a new feeling.  My legs were quite sore too.  I had an internal debate all day long about what to do.  I was driving toward the gym when I realized it was a bad idea.  I need to listen to my body.  And my body was saying it needed rest/recovery.  The

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-76866859190476698602011-12-15T11:42:00.000-08:002011-12-15T11:42:18.685-08:00

Resolution season is upon us.  I'm calling it a season because I've decided that the new year resolution thing should be stretched out for several months.  Or at least 9 weeks.  I have a dream of planning a run for 9 weeks from the new years day and calling it the "Resolution Run".  It would be a 5k walk/run and geared toward people who are fresh off the couch.  But anyway, that's not happening

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-67498046194704274602011-12-14T22:21:00.000-08:002011-12-15T07:55:58.916-08:00

I managed to take Monday off from exercising and it didn't kill me.  I did miss that feeling of being ahead of the game as I start the week.  I went to the gym on Tuesday and the training schedule called for a 4 mile run.  I mis-read and thought it was a "pace" run.  Since this was on the treadmill I decided to do a bunch of intervals that would keep me from getting bored.  I did the first mile

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-36989426483478460382011-12-11T22:26:00.000-08:002011-12-11T22:26:40.780-08:00

My body definitely knows it ran 7 miles yesterday.  Mostly it's been my knees (and hips a tiny bit) that are a little achy.  Another good reason to get this weight off - so my knees don't have so much bearing down on them with every step.  Second most achy thing was my lower back, though neither was painful, just enough discomfort that I took notice.  On the whole my body just felt a bit tight

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-4116605973897386252011-12-10T14:24:00.000-08:002011-12-10T14:24:06.989-08:00

The alarm went off at 5am and I was out of bed not too long after.  While I was getting dressed in the near-dark, quiet house I felt a little nutty.  A lot of times when you tell people you're training for this or that the response is, "you're crazy".  This is the first time I actually felt they might be right.  Getting up to run before dawn in the freezing cold felt a little crazy indeed.  But

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-12538586549163232732011-12-09T06:00:00.000-08:002011-12-09T08:15:15.874-08:00

Good morning athletes!  I had a fabulous workout yesterday, can you tell?  I didn't mention this in my last post but during yesterday's employee wellness coaching session (I got a new one, her name is also Michelle) we talked about training for the half marathon.  I told her I'd like to first, be able to run the whole time and second, in an ideal world, be able to maintain a 12-minute mile pace.

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-38457317774031125472011-12-08T11:23:00.000-08:002011-12-08T23:17:27.671-08:00

My mother's club had a "cookie exchange" board meeting last night.  Our board meetings are always fun and festive but this one was especially so with wine, food and tables covered with yummy cookies.  I ate a 1/2 slice of Papa Murphy's chicken garlic pizza before leaving home.  I looked up the NI and I think my 1/2 slice was probably about 250 calories. I went to the party and had a couple/few

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-30374152030060154332011-12-07T10:01:00.000-08:002011-12-07T10:01:11.355-08:00

I have been drinking tea in the evenings after dinner and it is like a miracle cure for the munchies!  I used to drink it pre-kids and sort of forgot about it.  Cherelli reminded me about tea when I had my food meltdown last week and it has really helped.  When I start to feel munchy I get up and make some tea and that solves everything.  It both gives me something to ingest, is also relaxing,

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-38945927252358620542011-12-06T09:35:00.000-08:002011-12-06T09:35:47.261-08:00

Another busy weekend that's rolling right into a busy week!  This past weekend was my 41st birthday so I had a lot of fun (and food).  On Friday evening a friend came over for dinner.  It was a totally relaxed affair and it was nice catching up despite the kiddie chaos around us.  We ate pretty healthy too, which was good.  On Saturday I took the kids to playgroup and Miguel went mountain biking.

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-91637637828693738092011-12-02T23:18:00.000-08:002011-12-02T23:18:30.726-08:00

First off I want to thank you all for the helpful comments.  I really got a lot out of receiving them - the support and in information.  Thanks! I'm feeling entirely back to "normal" (whatever that is) today, which is a relief.  I still can't believe how impossible it seemed to resist eating but I'm just glad it's passed for now.  I am taking the advice given and will try to behave differently

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-38989334200417184772011-12-01T19:50:00.000-08:002011-12-02T11:16:25.526-08:00

Ugh, it's been a tough week.  I don't know if it's the Thanksgiving eating or the resulting weight but something kicked me into a bad mood where I didn't care about my eating and I actually considered throwing in the towel on this whole fitness thing, if you can imagine that!  I figured I must be pre-menstrual but so far, nada.  The good thing is I have stayed steady with my workouts despite my

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-43219107678698155202011-11-29T10:27:00.000-08:002011-11-29T10:27:30.187-08:00

I can't believe, CANNOT BELIEVE, that I forgot all about the official triathlon photos!  I blame this entirely on having children.  With my first triathlon I obsessively checked the photos page, I couldn't wait for the pics to post.  This time I checked once, they weren't up yet and I planned to check the next day and totally forgot.  Anyway, without further ado... I have a big smile on my face.

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-49858724782082003862011-11-27T15:51:00.000-08:002011-11-27T15:51:52.034-08:00

So curiosity got the better of me and I got on the scale this morning.  Big. Mistake.  I was up.  I was so up that I am not going to document that number.  I am going to take a holiday pass and march on toward next Friday's weigh-in.  Hopefully if I'm careful I can undo some of the damage. Today started off rocky when I woke up with a headache.  Actually I went to bed with a headache last night.

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-54372943582989134502011-11-26T22:38:00.000-08:002011-11-26T22:40:38.843-08:00

Success!  At least that’s what I’m going to call it.  I did eat quite a bit, but it was Thanksgiving and I was visiting family so that’s to be expected.  I only went overboard a couple of times and that was balanced by some exercise.  We arrived on Wednesday evening and we were hungry and tired.  It’s weird how sitting for hours on end can make you tired. We arrived and I started munching on Chex

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-66064957784455452672011-11-23T16:07:00.000-08:002011-11-23T16:07:56.717-08:00

It's been a very eventful week, though that's the way it's been around here lately.  I didn't get to the gym on Sunday but I didn't let that cast a pall over the rest of the week.  This being Thanksgiving week I'm ok with things not going quite as planned.  Monday started out interesting... I don't have very many pants that fit well.  They are either too big or too tight.  On Monday I woke

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-59294076559075297242011-11-18T23:39:00.000-08:002011-11-18T23:42:57.334-08:00

Phew!  I've been busy, busy, busy.  I feel like I'm running from one thing to the next.  The last time I posted was Sunday and it's already Friday.  This kids, husband, household, work, gym thing is not for the weak of spirit.  Thank goodness for a daily dose of relaxation with Marek.  I read books with him almost every night and then sit with him for a bit discussing the day and singing songs.

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-75354925940592941352011-11-13T23:21:00.000-08:002011-11-14T11:00:43.991-08:00

Wow, I haven't blogged since Tuesday.  In my defense it's been a busy week.  I had the rest of the week off and the kids kept me busy!  But that didn't stop me from getting to the gym five times this week. On Tuesday I did 25 minutes on the bike followed by chest and triceps.  I've really been working on my pushups. Three weeks ago I lowered the smith machine bar again, working toward doing "

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-62222564073814614722011-11-08T11:38:00.000-08:002011-11-08T11:38:43.978-08:00

PMS and a late night finally did me in when it came to the Halloween candy.  Last night I ate three mini pieces.  Plus two (or was it three?) bites of a full size Baby Ruth bar (who gives out full size candy bars to trick-or-treaters?!).  I had an if...then plan based on reading this Fitness article (more on that in a sec) that went like this, "If I start to eat the Halloween candy I will put the

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-72416576917017261112011-11-06T22:11:00.000-08:002011-11-08T11:44:51.868-08:00

Oh my goodness, I had no idea how much fun you can have with all this information!  None of my prior races involved timing chips so this is a whole new world of details. Official Time:  01:39:57.2 Overall place:  254/ (out of) 285 Women's Overall:  132/158 Age Group (f40-44) placement:  22/27 Pace on bike:  5mph (ugh!) Pace on run:  12.43mm (cool!), 4.7mph.  This is my favorite part! T1:  4:07

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-78600976367292182582011-11-05T16:31:00.000-07:002011-11-14T00:22:10.947-08:00

What a day!  I finished in around 1 hour, 41 minutes, give or take.  I got a little teary at the finish line, which I was not expecting, I was definitely challenged but I had fun facing up to it and felt very grateful for my health and my body. And now, for more details than are necessary. I got up at 5:30am, a little later than I wanted (I didn't hear the alarm) but still with plenty of time

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-80893284078867249632011-11-03T23:48:00.000-07:002011-11-03T23:48:38.453-07:00

It's getting cold outside and that can only mean one thing...comfort food!  The number of unexpected encounters with food has been inching up lately and that's got me to thinking about my eating/food plan for the holidays.  My current plan is this: When it comes to the holidays, eat whatever you want.  What?!  "What kind of plan is that", you ask.  Easy.  There are only a handful of holidays. 

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-36185261203289969172011-11-02T08:25:00.000-07:002011-11-02T08:25:20.532-07:00

As you might have guessed Halloween did indeed throw a wrench in my workout plans.  After a super-fun evening with the kids I just couldn't drag myself away from them to go to the gym.  Our son stayed up later than usual and, well, it was just such a fun family time I didn't want to miss it.  These are the kinds of decisions time-pressed moms who are trying to exercise face all the time.  No

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-34061718865986622252011-10-30T21:56:00.000-07:002011-11-14T11:03:52.205-08:00

Man, I was SO tired yesterday (Saturday) afternoon and evening.  It was to be my second day off from exercise for the week and though the swim clinic was exercise I still counted it as a day off.  That's probably why I was so tired.  At least I hope so.  I got a good night's sleep last night and woke up today feeling ready to face the day. I took the kids to watch Miguel play soccer this morning

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-926636713451728392011-10-29T16:26:00.000-07:002011-11-01T11:44:11.244-07:00

I've just been going and going lately.  A quick catch-up of my exercise this past week: Tue 10/25 - Upright bike, Level 6, 25 minutes on random; back and biceps, core work, stair climber Wed 10/26 - Day off Thur 10/27 - c25k W9/D1 (30 min run) outdoors (4.8 pace), chest and triceps, core work, stairs *tired Fri 10/28 - Upright bike, Level 6, 25 minutes on random; legs and shoulders, core work,

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-23992070753333892452011-10-24T09:12:00.000-07:002012-01-13T22:23:54.985-08:00

Here are five reasons you can't trust the scale even as far as you can throw it. 1. The Scale does not have all the answers. If I were to tell you, "I'm going to make a recipe and the ingredients are beef, brown gravy mix, dried Italian salad dressing mix, ranch dressing mix, and water and then asked, "What am I making?," would you know? Highly unlikely, right? Why? Because you don't

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-30193397059405171442011-10-24T00:21:00.000-07:002011-10-24T00:21:32.227-07:00

I want to start off by saying a huge THANK YOU to everyone that congratulated me on reaching 15+ pounds lost.  It's nice to be reminded that there are people out there cheering me on.  I appreciate the thoughts on how often we step on the scale.  We are all motivated in different ways (and what motivates us can even change over time), which I appreciate.  Thank you.  We'll see if I do a mid-week

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-47632147900525568842011-10-21T11:20:00.000-07:002011-10-21T11:41:28.692-07:00

I lost 2.6 pounds this week!!  O.M.G.!  That brings my total loss since June to 16.4 pounds.  I am, of course, quite pleased with how things are going.  And I am reminded about why the weight loss part of the journey can be so much fun.  I am fitting into some clothes I haven't been able to wear in a while, getting dressed in the morning feels good again.  I have yet to face long term maintenance

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-4569116058786781912011-10-17T13:20:00.000-07:002011-10-17T13:20:07.205-07:00

Whew!  Still catching my breath after a weekend packed full of fun.  I feel like I've crossed some kind of line when it comes to my weight and body.  I was a size that I was very uncomfortable with, it was hard to move and do the things I wanted, and I felt like I looked really big.  Now that I'm less large I can move easier and don't worry that much what I look like.  Clearly I'm still

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-74186335747835450352011-10-14T23:32:00.000-07:002011-10-14T23:53:30.554-07:00

So I took Wednesday off like a good sick person, but was back at it on Thursday.  Despite still feeling run-down from the cold I knew some exercise would help my energy level and maybe even kick this cold out of my body altogether.  At the gym I did Week 8/Day 2, a 28 minute run, doing intervals, and felt great.  I ran with that easy feeling of, "I can do this, no problem" that feels so good. 

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-47719759481392578672011-10-12T19:13:00.000-07:002011-10-12T21:26:07.696-07:00

I wish I'd been tracking my heart rate all along but I haven't.  I was reading an article today that got me to wondering what my resting heart rate is.  I'd been sitting on the couch long enough to watch Pan Am so I figure that's resting.  I took it twice.  The first time it was 60, the second time 62.  That's pretty darn good!  I think that means my heart is "conditioned".  I love it!  For me

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-362094766711876192011-10-08T22:38:00.000-07:002011-10-08T22:46:32.670-07:00

I'd love to dive right in to my training day today but I have to mention my weigh-in on Friday first.  Down a full 3 pounds!  Can you believe that?  I was shocked.  Of course my neurotic mind went a bit off the deep end wondering if losing three pounds in one week means I'm burning muscle instead of fat.  My percentage of fat is staying somewhat steady, I think it was 41 or 41.5% this week.  I

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-68173850325589631692011-10-06T23:07:00.000-07:002011-10-06T23:40:05.102-07:00

We've had a nasty bout of cold, rainy weather these past few days and I've felt like the treadmill has been giving me threatening glares.  I admit, since I started running outside again I have been scared of the treadmill.  My virtual coach and I talked this morning about my run pace and how intervals can help me get up to 5mph (12 minute mile), which is what I'd like to be able to maintain. 

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-63293194636567806942011-10-05T11:48:00.000-07:002011-10-05T11:48:22.804-07:00

I was tempted not to "count" Sunday as a workout day since I didn't go to the gym and didn't do any strength training.  Then I realized I need to acknowledge the work my body did even if it was outside of my routine and allow my body the rest/recovery that it needs.  So I went to the gym on Monday and yesterday (Tuesday) and taking today (Wed) off.  Then I'll go Thursday and Friday and take

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-35073957930808031292011-10-03T22:39:00.000-07:002011-10-03T22:44:34.719-07:00

Before I go into my weekend fun I'll do a quick rundown of the gym.  Alright, truth be told, I can't remember anything.  All I know is I went 5 times last week and made sure Saturday was a day off so I could rest before my big ride on Sunday.  Saturday night we went to my mom's for dinner.  Let's just say my mom likes to serve dips.  The yummy kind, with lots of calories, that are downright

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-15671518805806398482011-09-27T23:01:00.000-07:002011-09-27T23:01:45.668-07:00

For some reason I have a really hard time doing simple math while running.  On Monday I went to the gym and warmed up on the treadmill for a few minutes.  I had Week 7/Day 2 run ahead of me, 25 minutes.  I am pretty much done running on the treadmill I think.  I headed out the door, saw my heartrate monitor said I had been working out for 7 minutes and tried to add half my run (~13 minutes) to 7

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-90937956533829940092011-09-25T22:16:00.000-07:002011-09-25T23:15:51.962-07:00

That's how it's been feeling lately, like I am adding a bit more strength (and endurance) each day.  It sure is rewarding.  On Friday I went to the gym and did Week 7/Day 1 for c25k.  Week 7 is the same as Week 6/Day 3, a 25 minute run.  I ran outside again and it was ok, not a fabulous showing, but I felt good about it.  I wasn't feeling strong enough to even attempt The Hill, plus it was hot

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-81208674755604545542011-09-23T08:51:00.000-07:002012-01-10T21:18:28.505-08:00

This is a good week! I went to the gym on Sunday and Monday.  Day off Tuesday and then back at it Wednesday and Thursday.  More on that in a bit.  First, I want to share a few pictures from my beach outing Wednesday.  The weather forecast was for HOT, darned HOT, and I love going to the beach on those super hot days.  When we first arrived at the beach the fog was still holding on tight but it

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-62983193647128167582011-09-19T22:16:00.000-07:002011-09-19T22:16:36.028-07:00

I feel like I'm joining the ranks of nagging pain sufferers.  Throughout the day I find myself wondering things like, could it be my mattress?  am I sitting too much at work?  this or that exercise?  picking up the kids?  weak abs?  abs too strong?  In reality it could be a bit of all these things to varying degrees.  I wish there was a simple thing I could "fix" to make it all better.  One thing

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-27647036497598031792011-09-18T11:33:00.000-07:002011-09-18T11:33:56.718-07:00

Three days in a row with no gym was making me downright grumpy.  When exercise is also your main stress management tool, not exercising gets stressful.  So yesterday (Saturday) I decided I had to go to the gym regardless of my back.  I planned to stop doing any exercise that irritated my back.  I walked on the treadmill for a few minutes and my back was hurting a bit but it was tolerable.  Then I

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-6176213370428686362011-09-16T21:40:00.000-07:002011-09-16T21:40:16.832-07:00

Aren't I a little young to be breaking down all the time?  I'm only 40.  And 40 is the new 30, right?  Well, according to all my 40 year old friends it is :)  Anyway, I woke up yesterday with my back hurting like heck.  I took some tylenol, and later some ibuprofen, and it pretty much hurt all day but at least I could stand up and walk somewhat normally after all the pills.  I was on the fence

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-71068734876817627562011-09-11T17:35:00.000-07:002011-09-12T07:56:12.875-07:00

What can a single workout do for you?  Can it vanquish self-doubt?  Can it re-light that fire of motivation?  Can it turn that frown upside down?  Yes, yes and yes!  If you can't already tell I had a fabulous workout today.  I was home with the kids this morning while Miguel played soccer.  I've been struggling with a lack of control in my eating and that, coupled with the consequent weight gain,

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-74878307931987081212011-09-10T10:41:00.000-07:002011-09-10T10:41:43.924-07:00

I decided on not weighing myself yesterday.  Well, sort of.  I weighed myself...but I didn't look.  I had Miguel look.  I told him if it was over 190 I didn't want to know.  He told me that it was.  Of course I had to pester him with questions.  Was it over 191?  Was it more than a pound over 189.4?  I thought you didn't want me to tell you?  I don't.  Kind of.  Anyway, he ended up telling me it

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-23205097668870376022011-09-08T08:57:00.000-07:002011-09-08T08:57:34.427-07:00

I declared the party over on Tuesday but in reality it just keeps on rolling.  Tuesday evening I had a mom's night out.  I planned to skip all food and only have one glass of champagne.  Didn't happen.  Yesterday (Wed) I ate so much you would have thought I was in a competition.  I went out for lunch with a friend and ate a gigantic crab quesadilla.   For dinner my mom came over and grilled

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-91603465176487441122011-09-06T09:52:00.000-07:002011-09-06T09:52:43.958-07:00

And it's a good thing too, otherwise I'd likely see a gain this week.  We had little Myra's first ever birthday party on Sunday and it was a blast!  We had SO MUCH fun with all our friends.  The only thing about those parties is you never get enough time to talk to everyone.  But I had plenty of time to eat cake!  My mom got the cake and it was way too good.  Seriously, it was good.  And I ate a

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-1927959288774006682011-09-02T17:16:00.000-07:002011-09-02T17:16:59.305-07:00

One last post before the weekend gets away from me.  We are planning Myra's one year birthday party and I have a feeling I'm going to be busy,busy until then.  A quick gym report before I get to the good stuff. Thursday I had to face the music with Week 5/Day 3, another 20 minute run.  When I got on the treadmill my stomach started growling and I realized it'd been 4 hours since I ate lunch. 

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-23236169962025804392011-08-31T22:16:00.000-07:002011-08-31T22:16:05.130-07:00

Almost bad enough to drive to the store and buy some. I think I'll make some hot chocolate after I write this, hopefully that will fix my cravings. So things are going well. I went to the gym on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday so far this week. [So much for waiting until I finished this post, I just made my hot chocolate] On Sunday I did c25k Week 5/Day 1 and was hoping for an easy run. It

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-66373480581831567412011-08-27T23:30:00.000-07:002011-08-31T21:25:08.600-07:00

I got on the scale Friday morning not sure what to expect. I'd had the camping where I knew I'd eaten a lot of snacks, including more chocolate dipped biscotti than I will disclose. Then there was the weak evening where I ate a packaged El Torrito chicken caesar salad (with out of control salad dressing) AND a piece of tres leches cake. A large piece. But I also knew my workouts were

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-87563709833578700792011-08-26T06:36:00.000-07:002011-08-26T11:54:40.338-07:00

I got on the treadmill yesterday with high hopes. It seemed the circumstances were ideal, I'd been following c25k on the each-week-twice plan, I felt good in the week 5/day 2 run, I had a rest day the day before...and I was feeling good mentally. Everything seemed in place for a triumphant 20 minute run. Oh but it wasn't. It was a fight. Minute by minute, step by step, I had to fight to

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-14920875763253309152011-08-25T06:26:00.000-07:002011-08-25T10:13:15.467-07:00

I should not be blogging right now. I am tired, feeling down and just generally not in any sort of state to be writing and possibly infecting anyone with my mood. Why am I tired? Who knows, it's been ailing me since Tuesday. It could be related to my lingering sore throat, or to not enough vitamin B, or not enough Iron, or the weather, or the kids, or, or, or. I know it's not not getting

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-34085072637367052672011-08-22T18:36:00.000-07:002011-08-22T18:36:00.401-07:00

with the sound of music. I wanted to post a pic of the route I took to the gym the other day AND post a list of my workout playlist and then the Sound of Music song popped into my head. No, I don't listen to music while riding the bike because I need all my attention on the road but if I did I might be tempted to add that song to my cooldown playlist. Without further ado - here is the route:

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-54525302487956173652011-08-21T23:25:00.000-07:002011-08-22T14:50:35.888-07:00

So much has happened since my last post... On Thursday I cut my thumb while cooking. I cut it so bad I thought I'd need to go to urgent care but it stopped bleeding and seemed fine. Still, no gym for me. On Friday I wasn't sure if I could lift weights with my thumb so I took a pass on getting up at the crack of dawn to hit the gym. Bummer. I got on the scale for my weekly weigh in and what

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-23490502140145015052011-08-17T22:16:00.000-07:002011-08-17T22:18:14.089-07:00

Is it Wednesday already? Things have been going well on the exercise front. I started off shaky though, I was so tired on Monday and Tuesday that I walked around with puffy eyes all day and just felt like I could nap at anytime. I was going to take some iron on Monday but I forgot. I still dragged myself into the gym on Monday and put in the effort. I did 25 minutes on the bike and then did

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-16247547290389182772011-08-14T22:16:00.000-07:002011-08-14T22:16:03.346-07:00

Whew! This was one of those busy weekends where Miguel asks me more than twice why I planned so many things for the same weekend. It just happens that way sometimes. But I managed to get to the gym both Saturday and today (Sunday) and Miguel is a rock-star husband for being so supportive. On Saturday I had a mom's club event so I spent the morning hours at the park with other moms and kids.

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-70217310669542027552011-08-12T18:02:00.000-07:002011-08-12T18:02:03.834-07:00

The short of it: I have been tired during my workouts. And another loss! The long of it: My last couple of gyms visits have seemed particularly hard. In thinking about it I realized my midday meal was sort of on the skimpy side each time. Monday I had a chicken soft taco and two bites of a burrito. Wednesday was the worse, I had a few small slices of cheese and a couple handfuls of dried

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-2358101880808849842011-08-11T22:01:00.000-07:002011-08-11T22:01:31.763-07:00

Summary: Tuesday - I was planning to go to the gym at 8pm. Didn't happen. Wednesday - Bike, 25 minutes (kick ass level 4 people!), back and biceps. Thursday - c25k Week 4/Day 5, being stubborn pays off, chest and triceps. Details: I was not planning to take a day off from the gym on Tuesday. I couldn't squeeze the gym in before the kids went to bed and come 8 o'clock, after a lot of

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-82509140495101513752011-08-09T06:21:00.000-07:002011-08-09T09:44:19.471-07:00

Summary: I dodged a volcano, did c25k Week 4 and legs/shoulders at the gym, swam for 30 minutes. Details: I arrived at work yesterday morning (Monday) but I was dragging for sure. I just didn't feel good and after a few hours I threw in the towel. I went home and after a couple hours more I started feeling better. I left to run errands and soon I realized it was past lunchtime and I was

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-36492569213054444932011-08-08T06:26:00.000-07:002011-08-08T10:24:52.304-07:00

Summary: Saturday - c25k Week 4/Day 3 (I have a decent running cadence), The Dailey Method class Sunday - Bike 25 minutes, chest and triceps. Sadly, no pool. The details: On Saturday I went to the gym and did c25k Week 4/Day 3. For the first time on Week 4 I felt solid. The rest day on Friday really made a difference. My heart was happy too, I stayed in the not-so-high range throughout

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-65910452357508565462011-08-06T10:34:00.000-07:002011-08-06T11:08:25.161-07:00

A quick update before our weekend activities get underway. So the good first, right? My legs aren't sore (mostly)! I was worried working my quads so hard would have me in agony on Friday or today but not so. The little bit of not good is that I do have some pain - but not what I was expecting. My gracilis is sore. In simpler terms, my inner thigh hurts, mostly on my left leg. I looked up a

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-72780866685791996432011-08-04T21:02:00.000-07:002011-08-04T22:03:34.080-07:00

I started off the day having a phone session with my virtual coach. This was the orientation session where she told me our phone calls would be 30 minutes, I'd be given 12 sessions (more if needed) and we'd set goals at the end of each call. She had me set a goal at the end of this one. I said I'd do something active every day. We were done after 20 minutes. I don't know, I'm hoping this

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-14923732425616582432011-08-03T22:06:00.000-07:002011-08-03T22:06:27.880-07:00

I was planning to exercise yesterday only because I thought I had a training session scheduled. Turns out that's tomorrow (Thursday). Because of my back I decided it was probably a good idea to take the day off. But my back tends to hurt more in the morning and as the day goes on it gets better so by evening I was wanting to go. Miguel agreed to put the kids to bed so I could go before they

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-21949182753130633062011-08-01T21:02:00.000-07:002011-08-01T21:58:30.077-07:00

I got to the gym yesterday (Sunday) and started off with c25k Week 4, Day 1. Whew! It was hard. Here's the lowdown:warmup walk3 minute jog90 second walk5 minute jog2.5 minute walk3 minute jog90 second walk5 minute jogcool-down walkI had to take my headphones off during the runs so I could hear myself breathe. I do best when I take one breath for every two steps, so in four steps I've breathed

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-50124591772177830522011-07-31T09:37:00.000-07:002011-07-31T10:40:17.674-07:00

My back is still touchy but my attitude is solid! I am feeling confident that I will continue toward my goal of reaching and maintaining a healthy weight. Weigh-in Friday went well. On my old scale I was 194. But I'm switching over to the Tanita scale that includes body fat and on that one I was 194.2 with 42% body fat. So I went with that and am feeling good about a loss. I am feeling good

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-74963654043212176432011-07-27T22:19:00.000-07:002011-07-27T23:12:02.649-07:00

I'm watching myself very carefully. When you're in that formation stage of a new (or re-established) habit something that disrupts the momentum can throw you right off track. This back ache issue is the type of thing that could derail my whole routine and send me back to the couch for who knows how long. But I am watching myself and don't plan to let that happen! On Tuesday I got to the gym

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-17183008474585185202011-07-26T06:53:00.000-07:002011-07-26T08:30:55.679-07:00

I made it to the gym yesterday. I could tell I had gotten some rest, in general my body felt ready and able to tackle my workout. My back felt pretty good too, I only noticed a couple very slight twinges of pain during the entire workout. I did c25k Week 3/Day 4 and it was a challenge but not painful. Afterward I did chest and triceps. Instead of doing the chest press and dumbbell flys on

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-31314241096673940532011-07-25T10:31:00.000-07:002011-07-25T12:30:35.303-07:00

That about says it all. Thanks for the encouraging comments folks, they really do help. Yesterday (Sunday) my back was still feeling out of sorts when I had the brilliant idea to go swimming! I figured it'd be a good way to get some exercise that would be easy on my back. I arrived at the pool in the late afternoon. It's been a long time since I swam more than a lap or two so I went nice and

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-48190426521214667092011-07-23T22:17:00.000-07:002011-07-24T10:58:04.800-07:00

What? I haven't blogged since Monday? Well, it has been a crazy busy week I suppose. A quick run-down:Tuesday: Gym - c25k Week 3/Day 2, chest and triceps, abs/coreWednesday: Gym - Recumbent bike 25 min, legs and shoulders, abs/core I was away at a conference and had to use the hotel fitness room to work out. The recumbent bike was old and HARD! I was on Level 1 and thought I wouldn't make it

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-40349075860067589062011-07-18T18:13:00.000-07:002011-07-18T18:13:00.341-07:00

I have noticed an interesting difference between my pre-kids weight loss journey and my current one. Well, there's been more than one difference but the most notable is impatience. When I was losing those 75 pounds I rarely felt any sense of urgency. In general, I didn't get bummed when I only lost x amount of weight, I didn't have any deadlines (as in "I have to lose 10 pounds by next month),

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-32287949931139743522011-07-17T21:44:00.001-07:002011-07-17T22:24:33.827-07:00

It's Sunday night. Bummer. But it's been a decent weekend. I went to the gym on Saturday morning. I did the bike and then chest and triceps. Gosh, I can't even remember if the bike was hard or easy. My mind these days, it's why I need to blog daily if I want to keep up with myself. Anyway, I left the gym and immediately picked up the kids to hit the park for playgroup. It was so fun! I

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-66454493409980954162011-07-15T22:37:00.000-07:002011-07-15T23:25:32.351-07:00

are gone! I weighed in today at 194 pounds even. That's five pounds down. That was my weight the first, and last, time I got on the scale this morning. I won't tell you about all the times in between when it was threatening me with 194.5 pounds. I would not accept that neurotic scale messing with my head. It's what I deserve for getting back on the second time. In the end, 194 popped back up

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5382280473655863203.post-74584529751999437752011-07-14T18:20:00.000-07:002011-07-14T18:20:00.215-07:00

I got to they gym this past Tuesday and all of a sudden it was *really* difficult. I rode the bike for 25 minutes and, as usual, it was a challenge. But I was feeling ok and started into my strength training routine. Chest and triceps were due up, along with core work. For some reason everything seemed more challenging than usual. I suppose it could be related to not having worked out since

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03397688383690372206noreply@blogger.com3