One Month, No Blog

I first want to mention that in my last blog I explained I started a new job... and it has taken me a month to update my blog. My job has sort of prevented me from any time whatsoever. I like my job (for the first time in a long time) and I feel like I am finally contributing to a cause I believe in. However, since this is a cause I believe in... the lives of young people... my job is a lot more emotionally exhausting than any previous job. There are days where I feel like a chicken with my head cut off.... Plus, the earlier hours have kept me feeling exhausted and the minute I get home I don't get to put my feet up, instead I have to walk my crazy dog. Some days this walk gives me time to decompress and time to take in the quiet after all the loud jibber-jabber of teenagers, some days I feel like it takes every ounce of energy to force my legs down the street with her and when I get home all I want to do is lay down. Alas, I can never lay down, one because of the crazy dog, two because I am not done with school yet, three the holidays are here and I still haven't gotten a gift since Black Friday,and the only gift I bought that day was for Avery, and she's the easiest person in the world to buy for (other than Lynn, who is also easy and fun to buy for). Thanksgiving finally gave me an opportunity to get some decent workouts in and last week I made it to the gym on Wednesday and Thursday, along with long, good walks on Monday and Tuesday (before it turned really cold).

One of the things I have really struggled with lately is my recent weight gain. It depresses me, especially when I get dressed every day. All I want to do is wear sweat pants. I am extremely ashamed and mad at myself for letting myself go this far. I'm twenty pounds up from my "happy" weight and I have hardly any time to work it off. So, I try to take it in stride and I've bought a few new things to get myself through, but I've been having a hard time finding pants for work that aren't super-nice trousers. Nothing is long enough for me, nothing fits my thighs, etc. I ordered 4 pairs of pants from Victoria's Secret online because they have long pants for everything, yet every pair of 12 longs I bought did not fit at all, which depressed me even more. All I want to do is work out but I have to sit on my butt in front of the computer and do homework instead. And then I snack while I do it because I can hardly stay awake each night.

On a positive note, this morning I ran three miles straight for the first time since I finished my challenge before I started my new job. I am really proud of this accomplishment, especially with the way I've been feeling. I have also been making it to Pump twice a week and I have finally been increasing my weight to a place I feel better about. I am hoping this trend in working out continues an upward climb, and I am hoping for a snow day this week so I can get some homework done during the day and stress less!

Late

I know I promised to keep better track of this blog and keeping it up to date, but the person I know who reads it I have talked to recently and knows about my workouts. Especially my biggest achievement, which was finishing my 6-week plan and running 30 minutes straight. Which I did at 5.5-5.6 mph. I was supposed to start the next 6 week plan yesterday, but I was pretty tired after my big run and going to Pump after that big run, so I put it off for today. I am going to run 30 minutes straight again. I am pretty confident in doing this, especially since I have done it once already this week and I have had a lot of energy lately. Tomorrow I am going to do the run again and go to Pump again. I'll take Thursday off, since I have a lot of decorating and celebrating to do that night and Friday I hope to make it to the gym in the afternoon so I can be in tip-top shape for wedding events. I have to train for my hours of dancing!

I started my new job yesterday, and so far so good. Some students are a pill, which is to be expected no matter where you go, but all in all I feel a lot more at home than I have in a long time.

Weekend Workouts

I miss my weekend workouts. I still get a good workout in on Sundays, but I really miss working out on Saturdays as well. Also, because we had the Miller family birthday party this past Friday, I did not get in my scheduled run. There were also other contributing factors, like leaving my workout bag at home on accident, having an assignment due by 5 pm that was stressing me out, and waiting to find out if I got the job, finding out I got the job, telling my boss that day so I could give one weeks notice... anyway, I even got out of work a half hour early, which should have meant that I could make it to the gym but because we weren't taking Gracie with us to the Miller house, I thought I would go walk/jog with her instead. First, there are too many hills in my neighborhood for a beginning jogger trying to achieve jogging x amount of minutes in a row at a time. Also, with all the rain we've had and the fall leaves on the ground mean a jogging hazard. Third, my dog is still very much a puppy and is hard to control on a leash jogging. She's on this side then on that side, her nose to the ground half the time not watching where she is going, yadda yadda yadda. I tried and jogged about five minutes straight then I decided there were enough hills that a 45 minute walk would suffice. To make up for missing my run on Friday, I upped the schedule for today. Friday I was supposed to run for 15 minutes, after a 10 minute walk and finishing with a 5 minute walk. Today, I was supposed to walk 6 minutes then jog 18, walk 3. Instead, I walked 5, jogged 20, walked 5... then I went to Pump, which kicked my ass.

I also gave in and drove to David's Bridal and asked for help on my dress. They are letting it out a little bit in the four seams they can, which should help me breathe a little better come Jennifer's wedding day. I was so sick of beating myself up for letting things go and not fitting into it. Since it could be zipped up, just very tight, we decided this was the best way to go (and the cheapest). Now that I will be comfortable for her big day, I feel a lot better about things... at least a lot less guilty!

A New Day

I feel like things might be turning around. Although I haven't lost any weight yet, I've gone to Pump 4 times, and I'm almost done with week number 4 on my Running plan. I was going to go to Pump this morning, but I have an interview at the same time as class, so I guess it will be tomorrow morning! I'm really excited and nervous about the interview because getting this job would be a step towards my goals and at 29 I really need that step. I have a free weekend, aside from all the homework and celebrating Don's birthday but I have a lot of working out planned during that time as well.

On Wednesday I did intervals of 5 minutes jogging and 2 minutes walking. Today I bump it up again (either today or Sunday, I have to look) but it's getting harder and easier at the same time.... if that makes any sense. Running is getting easier but it's harder every time because I'm always doing more than the last time. Last time I kept the intervals at about 5.5 mph so I wouldn't get too tired too fast. I figure I can work on speed once I get the endurance part down.

Today we bring Gracie in for her big procedure. I will miss her a lot today but also plan on getting a lot done without her distracting me!

Update

First of all, can I say that the upcoming forecast makes me want to crawl into a warm hole and sleep until spring... I cannot handle this sudden change of seasons. I need a slow transition into winter, not the possibility of snow in October!! Yuck.

Here's the update of my workouts: last night I did Monday night's workout but I did it twice. This means that I walked 10 minutes, then did one minute intervals for the next 10 minutes (mainly between 5.6 and 5.8 mph) then I walked 5 minutes and did the 10 minute one minute intervals again before cooling down. My hamstrings and inner thighs were on fire every time I ran! At least the soreness had gone down a lot by yesterday. Today I did the scheduled Wednesday workout, which consisted of 10 minutes of walking and 15 minutes of one minute intervals. I kept the speed about the same as yesterday. Then I cooled down and Lynn met me to go to Pump. This time around was even more difficult than the first time because some muscles were still tight and sore. I almost couldn't finish lunges and my legs were shaking ever time we dead lifted during the back track. But I made it through! And Lynn made it with me, even though she is recovering from being sick. Hopefully she stays on the track of getting healthy so she can go back with me next week! Tomorrow I am taking the day off, I have to take Gracie to puppy class and finish up some homework. Friday will be the next workout... the schedule does seem to be getting more difficult but this could be because I have been so sore and tight the past couple days. I can't wait til the pain goes away and I can truly assess my progress.

Holy Gadzooks, Batman!

I went really, really light on weights yesterday. I still can hardly walk, sit, stand, whatver. I'm sure I look crazy. I did my Sunday run/walk, which consisted of 8 minutes walking, 15 minutes of run 2 walk 1, and a 2 minute cool down. Then I went to Pump, they just launched new choreography this past weekend, so it was all new, and very difficult. Only difficult because I'm weak and totally out of shape when it comes to weights. I don't think I can do my scheduled run/walk tonight... I hope I can go on a walk with Gracie though. I hope Lynn is still willing to meet me Wednesday for another round of Pump... I think it's the only way I will go back again so soon! I hate how quickly you can get out of shape... it's only been a few months and I can hardly do anything!

Check

I'm a week and a half into my 6 week plan. I've been doing well with the running part, not so well with the weights part. I used to love lifting weights, but that was when I had more free time. Now I know I should just go back to Body Pump becuase I think that will be the best way for me to get strong again. Just not looking forward to the sore part.... Plus, I don't want being sore to interfere with the running part, so I need to work something out that will allow me to do both.

Right now I am doing a variation of the Special K diet. I tried some protein water mix at Karrie's last Sunday and enjoyed it a lot. Of course, now I can't find it anywhere here, they only had the tea flavor at HyVee and the Bakers I stopped at didn't have any Special K protein stuff. Yesterday I ate one of the meal bars for lunch and had a bar for a morning snack. I had the 100 calorie popcorn for an afternoon snack and then a really big salad for dinner. I don't know if I'll be able to do that everyday, but I hope to just get back in the habit of really being aware of what I'm putting in my mouth.

Right now we don't have a lot of plans for the weekend, other than the usual (class, groceries...) so I think it will be a good food weekend and I might try Pump on Sunday morning after my scheduled run/walk.

So Far, Alright

It's been a difficult week trying to get all of my workouts in but I almost did them all. I just fell a day behind because last night was too busy, so now I have to do my Friday walk/run on Saturday. This isn't so bad... but I am usually very tired on Saturday nights and I also have to go celebrate my Grandma's birthday and hopefully (fingers crossed) Don and I can start writing thank yous. I think about writing thank yous every day and every day I run out of time trying to get homework done and to sleep at a decent hour. I was hoping that after the wedding things would slow down, but they haven't. I have things planned every weekend in October, including my regular class schedule. Then in November is Jennifer's wedding and Thanksgiving... and we all know how fast time flies by once Thanksgiving hits. I'm looking forward to classes being over in December, but then that means it's winter time and I HATE winter and the thought of it makes me sad. I want a summer redo!

Day #2

I bought a Bosu and a medicine ball last night so I could start the weight training program last night. I didn't start it until almost 9:30 and it took longer than I thought it would, and it was a lot harder than I thought it would be! Which I guess is good news. I was sweating like I would if I had been at the gym. It could have been the temperature in the house and I could have used a fan on me to help cool me off. But I had to take a shower at 10:30 at night because I was too gross to get in bed. Tonight is a running/walking night, shortening up the walking by 2 minutes and adding to the intervals. I think I might try tonight's plan twice to make the workout 40 minutes instead of just 20 minutes. I say that because I weighed myself this morning and it was bad. Three pounds up since last week, which I just don't understand. I have not been eating worse and I have been working out more. I feel even more pressure to lose all the weight because I have a wedding to be in soon and I can't go buy a new dress now.... the last time I tried it on, it fit. Now I'm too scared and things have to change quickly because I just don't understand why this is going on. I don't want to fluctuate like this anymore.

Day #1

Today's goal was to walk for 10 minutes and then for 6 minutes jog one, walk one, then walk for 4 minutes. This is only a 20 minute workout, and definitely not real tough, but I'm trying to get back to 10:30 minute miles by the end of the program. This means that when I run my intervals I run at that pace (5.7 mph). I'm sure I could have done more walking in the end, but I'm trying not to over do it in the beginning so I don't give up easily.

I have faith that at the end of the program I will be able to run 30 minutes at 5.7 mph pace.... Maybe even faster! This means that after the first six week program, I will start the next six week program, and hopefully be able to run 6 miles straight by Christmas. Hopefully that will curb any weight gain from Christmas cookies!

6 Week Plan Starts Today

I am starting my new 6 week run/walk plan today. I have high hopes that this plan will motivate me and get me feeling better about myself and my accomplishments. I figure it starts me out slow enough that it shouldn't be tough and I won't give up easily. I will let you know how the first night goes!

I'm Back

Well, sort of. I've only managed 2 workouts since returning from California because I have had so much homework to do and I have had a hard time adjusting back to a regular schedule. The bad news is that I weighed myself yesterday (because I knew I needed to face the music) and I gained almost 10 pounds the past month. I'm so ashamed of myself for letting things get so bad. The good news is that I am going to do something about it... I want to lose those 10 pounds and get back into running shape so I can run a 10k next year. I won't have a wedding to plan and after December I won't have school work to do either. Since I am waiting to student teach until the fall (I need to save some money again before quitting my job!), I will have plenty of time to workout. Especially once I get better and more confident with running, I can then take Gracie with me since she will be fully developed by then.

I printed out a 6-week "Running for Weight Loss" plan from Women's Health. It seems easy; I chose the run/walk program because the running program starts with 30 minutes straight. Ha! But with this program it increases running time every day and by then end I should be ableto run 30 minutes straight again. Once I get there, I want to do the next program. So here I go. Wish me luck!

I Suck

One would think that the closer the wedding gets, the harder I would be working out to be in perfect shape, but this is not the case. When it is your own wedding and you also have a 4-month old crazy puppy at home, it makes it difficult to work out often. I even now have my Wii Fit and EA Active and have only tried it once and was barked at the entire time. I have not been to Pump or Combat in over a week. I have tried jogging twice now and can only do it in intervals, 3 minutes jogging and 2 minutes walking for a an hour. The last time I did this (Monday) my legs were so sore and fatigued by the end of the workout that I could hardly walk. The sad thing is that I was jogging slower during each of those 3 minutes than I have ever jogged before (except maybe when I first started jogging, but I was overweight then!). Plus I am a stress eater, and since I have no one at work to talk to about it and help me not stress eat, I tend to eat too much chocolate at work and go pick up something for lunch because no one will know.

Blog Slacker

I suck at this blog thing lately. I've been to the gym, Combated, Pumped, been sore, taken the dog for long walks, etc. Can't say that I'm in any better or worse shape than before. Now I have this tattoo on my shoulder and I'm not sure if I can wear a sports bra over it while it is healing. I'm giving it a couple days and then I'll see. The bra might not cover much of it so for a workout it might not be a problem, but they said to try not to wear tight clothes while it is healing. And I can't tan for a few weeks. The wedding is in a month... hopefully there will still be time to continue buffing up and get a little tan so I don't blend in with the dress!

Launch...Repeat

So I had written a blog a few days ago but something happened when I tried to post and the whole thing was wiped away and I did not have the energy to rewrite the whole thing. I went to launch last Saturday morning for both Combat & Pump. Holy crap. There is a 7 minute upper body song in Combat and everything in Pump is challenging. They both are filled with awesome choreography that left me sore and tired and wanting more. I have since gone back to Combat twice. I am probably just going to do Pump once a week until school is over and then bump it up again. I chose Combat to repeat because it is such an awesome cardio workout and great for defining the upper body, which I really need to develop in the next month and a half. I'm freaking out how soon the wedding is and also the fact that my birthday is next week. I'm not ready. Where has the time gone? Just flown by... I want a redo! Luckily I have been able to go on walks with Gracie so that has been extra cardio that I've been missing....

As a birthday present to myself and a pre-wedding gift to myself (I decided you can give yourself wedding gifts as well as birthday gifts) I am getting a new tattoo on the 28th of July. I am not posting this on Facebook because I don't trust my family and I'm pretty sure they don't read this!! My Mom knows about the one I have but I think she would disapprove the money that will be spent... Hey, I spent more on a dress I'm only wearing for a few hours! I wanted to get it done this weekend but I have to wait... I don't like waiting!

And again...

I've been making some progress getting back to the gym. I went to Combat Saturday morning and last night and I plan on going to Pump tonight. I have also been getting some walking in at night with Don and Gracie, so even though I'm not really counting these walks as workouts, its a few extra calories I'm burning throughout the week. I'm looking forward to the long weekend and going to Pump on Friday morning and Combat again on Saturday. Plus I might be going swimming on Friday (although I'm not sure if you can count laying by the pool or floating in the pool as a workout!). The Fourth probably won't be the best eating day for me because it's the one day of the year I allow myself to buy Doritos and eat however many I want. They are one of my weaknesses and I figure it's better to have a yearly tradition of eating them, rather than a weekly tradition!

The countdown to the wedding has officially begun and there is a lot to do in the next two months! I learned this morning that my wedding is on what would have been Michael Jackson's 51st birthday. Weird.

Finally!

I've been to the gym twice now since Saturday. Boy, has it been hard to get at it since I took so much time off for illness and homework/puppy time. Saturday morning I managed 38 minutes on the treadmill. I only jogged about 9 of those minutes but it seemed like a good starting workout for me. Last night I went to Combat (for the first time in weeks) and wanted to leave 30 minutes in but I powered through to the end. My energy levels were just so low, I had the strength for the punches and kicks but no energy for the quickness of it all. So far I feel good this morning.... we'll see if and when I start to get sore! I might try Pump tonight if I'm not too sore since it's been over a week since I've been there.

It's getting down to crunch time and I need to up the workouts to get the kick ass arms I need for that halter dress. Last weekend was so much fun and I look forward to the upcoming months. I think the best part of this whole wedding thing (other than the marriage) is all the time I get to spend with family and friends along the way!

Bad Blogger

Okay, it's been a long time since my last post, and the reason is that it's been a week since I've worked out. I was sort of sick all last week with some sort of stomach virus, even went to the ER Tuesday night because my stomach hurt so bad I wanted to make sure something really bad was going on. Turns out I was dehydrated, so I got my first IV and morphine to relax my stomach, then I got a nice shot in the butt to help relive the abdominal pain. The blood test came back normal but it turned out I also had a UTI on top of the stomach virus. This took up an entire night, but it was worth it because I felt so much better. One of the medicines I've been taking for pain makes me really, really sleepy... so with the homework, puppy, and illness, I did not make it the gym all week. Today was my first day back and all I did was Pump, that was hard enough! My legs were shaking from squats! The good news is that I no longer have Saturday class until September, so I can go to the gym both weekend days again!

Only 2.5 months til the wedding! I went in to get fitted for my dress and ended up spending as much money on alterations as I did on the dress. Almost made me sick! It's because I added a bustle so it won't drag on the floor all night as I dance. Oh well. I just can't wait to get some awesome workouts in before the big day so I can show off the gun show! Plus, this stomach virus thing has helped me lose about 5 pounds and I've enjoyed wearing some jeans that have been tight lately for the past few days. I know it won't last but I figured I'll have fun while it does!

Puppy Time

I have not done very well with workouts since I got my new puppy Gracie. I did jog 3 miles at the gym Sunday and I went to Pump Tuesday after work, but that's about it. A puppy is like having a toddler around, it's rewarding but very exhausting. She must be watched at all times and is very interested in chewing everything, including my hands and feet. I hope to make it to Combat Friday after work to make about 3 hours of workouts this week. Better than nothing, right? I can't wait til she's older and can go jogging with me in the morning. I think we'd both really like that!

On a totally non-workout note, I picked up two of my bridesmaid dresses and I think they are really cute and awesome and want one for myself! Everything is coming together. I can't believe it's less than three months away!

Did It Again

So on Thursday morning we got up at 5:30 for another morning jog. I am amazed I did it considering the night before I went to Wicked and did not get home until almost 11 and didn't even fall asleep until close to midnight. But we got up anyway! I really like jogging in the morning. I have the most energy in the morning and I am more likely to push through pain. We are going to try to build up to logging more time and miles in during the A.M. I am willing to sacrifice a little sleep for a quality workout. Plus, it's a great feeling to come home after work and know my workout is done for the day... Especially during the summer when there is so much to do! Yesterday I made it to Pump and then I went to Combat this morning. It was the first time I've made it to Combat on a Saturday in a really long time. Boy was it crowded! I think I prefer the Friday 5:30 class... Less people, more room to shuffle and kick! Today is the start of our busy week. In a few hours is our first party and tomorrow we have two. I hope I can stay on track with what I eat (stay away from cake!) and also get another hour of working out in tomorrow morning. I love having a Saturday off! I already feel like I've accomplished so much!

Early Bird

As you'll see from the time stamp on this post, I was up early this morning. Don and I have been talking for a couple months now about getting up early and jogging in the mornings. With my schedule being so busy it seemed like a good idea, but either the weather didn't cooperate or I was having hip pain issues. Today, however, was a perfect morning for a morning run. We got up around 5:30 and was out the door at 5:45. We only were out for a half an hour and did have to walk up some of the hills (I thought I might die or throw up), but we did it none the less. I just hope I'm not asleep at my desk at noon! I also hope we can continue to do this and I can improve my running as the summer goes on and the wedding grows near. I want to look my best!

I Don't Like Papers

I'm in a huge need of a break! I am on page ten of the 15 pages I have to have written by Saturday, but then I'll have to add on 5 pages after that. Not sure how I'm going to do it. Last night I was very distracted with the Biggest Loser finale on TV but I still got 2 pages written and I went to Pump after work. I can go on Tuesdays now that a different instructor is teaching. Thomas was there, but he wasn't so bad. I don't know if it's this new drug I'm taking or what, but I didn't feel like punching him (this new drug is supposed to help with thoughts like that!). Don and I got in a nice long walk Monday night... which means tonight I can't work out because I have two nights to write 5 pages, and it must get done!

Next Monday I go back to the doctor for some special physical therapy. I believe it is called PRI therapy. Something about one side of my pelvis being sunken in farther and rotating differently than the other side, which is causing the occasional pain. I hope it works! Then once this class is over I can really rev up the workouts again.

Blah

It's been a busy week. Next week will be even busier... Tonight I hope to make it to Combat, which will mean I've only accomplished 2.5 hours of working out (that's IF I make it to Combat, and I will). Tomorrow I hope to get some sort of work out in after class and then I have to start writing this paper because I have to have 15 pages written by next Friday. I'd say Saturday, but I won't have time Friday night to work on it at all. And Sunday we have pictures at 10:30 and I have no idea how long that will take, a couple hours maybe? At most... Anyway... it's also Mother's Day which means I have to spend time with my Mom (and she doesn't quite understand I don't have time to sit and drink wine with her before dinner) and I feel I should go with Don to visit his Mom since he's going with me to my Mom's... The thing is, is that Sunday is my most productive school work day. No other day will I have that much time to work. Plus, we still have chores like laundry and getting groceries. I feel like I'm losing my mind and I'm afraid it will mean gaining weight because I am not the type of person that forgets to eat or isn't hungry when I'm stressed... Eating is the only thing I can do at the same time as getting homework done. I can't work out and get homework done or call a friend and get homework done at the same time.... AHhhhhhh!

Pretty Good

I had a pretty good week... I did the two hours Monday, and then Pump again last night and tonight I am going to Combat again. This will make four hours so far this week and I plan on more Sunday morning. Not sure if I'll get six hours, but at least 5 and a half. I'm starting a new class tomorrow and it looks like a lot of work. It appears that there is a pattern to the classes. One will be a lot of work and the next will be easier to handle, then another with a lot of work... and so on. I have read the syllabus online and we are required to write a 20 page paper, with at least 20 sources. I hate finding sources. I can babble on for 20 pages, but 20 sources seems like a lot to keep track of. On top of the 20 page paper there are two group projects, discussion board (which involves finding articles to discuss), and writing our teaching philosophy. And it is still the busiest month of the year! I hope I can keep up the workouts because I have been stress eating a lot lately. I wouldn't say I've been over eating, just eating things that aren't so nutritious. I just can't get on track and I don't know how when things are so crazy and things like chocolate call out to me when I'm feeling that way.....

Let It Begin

It's the last week of April and I'm already beginning to feel the stress of May. Last night I got my hair done, left there at 8:00, then off to my Mom's to color her hair (she pays me $10, so it's worth it!). Then I wasted a few minutes driving to Best Buy to see if they had a Wii in stock because I've been obsessing about getting one. This is mainly because I want to try the Wii Fit and all the workout games that go with it. I've even read a review on the Gold's Gym Cardio Blast. Anyway, they had one but I couldn't bring myself to spend the money.

I did not workout last night and I didn't make it on Sunday either. I planned on going later on Sunday but time got the best of me, proving that I just have to force myself up in the morning and go. Monday, however, I went to Combat and Pump. This felt awesome! I was amazed I made it through both hours alive. It was so hot during Combat, and so many people in the room, that we fogged up the mirrors. It was pretty gross actually, but proof that we all had been working hard! I was totally soaked through by the end of it all, which felt great. Needless to say, I slept like a baby that night!

No time for a workout tonight, unless it's not raining and we go for a walk after our "tasting". Our caterer is bringing food over and my parents and a couple of their friends are coming over as well. Should be a good time, but like a said, no time really for a workout. I'm thinking about going to Pump again tomorrow and Combat again on Friday. They had a new launch last week and both classes have two songs that are the same, Rhianna's "Shut Up and Drive" and Pink's "So What." This makes it a little annoying when you take two classes in a row, but they are all good tracks as far as working out goes.

A Little Hope

Dammit I love warm weather. If it could be in the 80s year round, I would probably be a more pleasant person! Well, I made a lovely trip to the ER today (nothing serious really, I just don't have a primary care physician to call) because that damn hip of mine was hurting... again. And I just can't take it any more! So I got some drugs and made a follow up appointment with a primary doctor so we can figure this thing out. It was nice because today was the first time both the nurse and the doctor mentioned that it was strange that I would be having this issues at such a young age and think further tests should be done before officially diagnosing me with osteoarthritis, since usually you don't get that until your OLD not 28 (or 22, when I first experienced this pain). So knowing that this problem might be solved soon makes me feel better about like in general.

I did go to Pump last night, even though both my knees and my hip were bothering me somewhat. It felt good. My upper body is still lacking in strength, but I know that just going is better than not going, and eventually I will see results. I wanted to work out tonight but I have too much homework to do and my last class is Saturday... My first semester is almost complete! Yippee!

Lost and Confused

I am at my tipping point. I know I could be working harder, but I'm not eating more or working out less than before and yet, this morning, I saw a 3 pound jump in my weight. I'm more frustrated than you could ever imagine. I've eaten way worse in a week and see no gain like that. And if you think about it, a pound is 3500 calories, which means I would have had to consumed 10,500 more calories last week than the week before. I don't remember having that much fun and feeling that full at any point! I'm pissed and angry.

Same

Let's see, I believe I accomplished about 5.5 hours of working out this week and my pants are still tight and my hip starting acting up and prevented me from doing any running since Wednesday. I haven't been eating any worse or better, so I'm not really sure what gives. I have been wondering if it is because of a change in medicine that has caused this weight gain that will not go away without starvation. What is most important however, is that I made it to two Pumps this past week. I even forced myself to go heavier on squats Friday, and although it was hard, I made it through. I plan on going again tomorrow night because that's when my favorite instructor teaches. Plus, the weather looks like it should be nice all week, getting better at the end. I'm hoping for nice weather Saturday night so I can grill out with my girls and have fun! I need some! Hopefully I can stop dreading waking up in the morning because all my pants are uncomfortable.

Free Day

I went to work today and was home by 10:30 because the program we use to do our work on the computer was down (and has been since yesterday at 11:30am, I was told; I was at my practicum) and they did not anticipate it to be back up until 5:00pm today. Therefore, there was nothing for our department to do because that is the only program we use. So, I got a free day off! Yay me! Yet, I don't really know what to do with my time. I should clean.... which I hate doing, but needs to be done. I want to workout but I'm still aching from the run yesterday (Don and I did a repeat of the run we did Saturday morning, and it was still very hard). I wish I had someone to meet for lunch or something because all I want to do is eat. I could work on our registry, but I feel like Don should be there too. I think my plan will be this: (and I've only started devising my plan since I started writing this!) I will clean my bathroom and the bedroom, and pick up and organize around the house. Then I will eat lunch and go tanning. After that I hope I have time to lounge about and read a little bit... Hopefully my body will be up for the gym later because I know Don wants to work out too and he's working tomorrow night and all weekend.

I do plan on working out tomorrow after my practicum (it's my last day until fall semester!). I feel bad though, because I feel like I should cancel the practicum and go into work and help them out. They are supposed to do an upgrade of the system this weekend and we have a lot to get done before that can happen... and one of our employees has been out all week having medical tests done, so it's been a bad week for my boss. However, I have already mentally planned on going to Pump at 4:30 and maybe, possibly, Combat at 5:30. It might kill me, so we'll see. If I don't go to Pump tomorrow, I won't be able to go until Sunday morning, and I don't want to wait that long. Is it right to choose your workout over your work (especially when they are in a bind)? Oh well.

Better and Worse at the Same Time

I worked out three days in a row... which hasn't happened for a while now. Friday I went to Pump (making it twice in one week) and did 40 minutes of cardio. Saturday morning, Don and I went for a walk/jog outside for an hour. This was difficult because most of it was one big hill and I could NOT jog up the hill. I thought I would die. Then on Sunday, I went back to the gym and did 30 minutes of cardio, which I figured was better than nothing, which was my original plan. I didn't feel I had eaten too horribly this past week... I did eat out a couple times, but had eaten light at every other meal those days, but yesterday was a doozy. I hate having to attend two family celebrations in one day. I ate a lot of dessert... I think more than any other kind of food... I don't know if it was eating out or all that dessert, but I was up 3 pounds this morning. This was very depressing. Just when I feel like I'm making some progress, I fall back. I'm very frustrated with myself and I have been very hard on myself the past few days (especially when I couldn't jog up the hill). I need to get things together before May, which is turning out to be the busiest month of my entire life. In one week alone I will have 2 graduation parties, two birthdays (one is a milestone birthday of 90!), one concert, one wedding, and Memorial Day (which I will at least have off). In the month of May I will also have Mother's Day, engagement pictures, a tasting for the food for the wedding, and another birthday (you know who you are, if you still read this!). I stress eat a lot and need to get it UNDER CONTROL.

I also just got contacts today and I feel a little dizzy trying to get used to them... and I need a new pair of sunglasses without a prescription because I'm about to drive to the gym (for Pump again) and the sun is finally shining!

Not That Great

Last week did not end up being the great workout week I had imagined. My energy and spirits were low, and I only made it to the gym Sunday, Monday, and Thursday.

This week should, hopefully, be better. I went to Pump yesterday but left during shoulders because I felt like I was either going to throw up or pass out. It seemed harder than usual, which sucks because I thought I was getting back into the swing of things. I'm going to try and start going twice a week. I have engagement pictures next month and I plan on wearing a sleeveless dress. My arms need to be in tip top shape! I am a tad worried about the weekend because I thought I would have lots of time (no class!) but now family activities are getting in the way.

I did start Weight Watchers online after a very, very bad weigh-in last Monday. I know I was bloated but the number shocked me into spending money to help me get my head back on straight. I'm teaching Don about it and having him help me pick out recipes for us to try that are better for us. I'm on a fish kick, so if anyone has a good fish recipe, let me know!

Sunny Sunday

Well, this was my weekend off and it was pretty productive. Yesterday, Don and I went to the gym, and I did an hour on the treadmill, jogging three miles and then doing interval jogging and walking. I was surprised that I actually did it after only working out once since last Sunday. Then I met with my florist (or former boss) and worked on some wedding flower plans, picked up my bridesmaid dress for Jennifer's wedding, and then finished my homework and submitted it online. Finally done with another class! Then last night Don and I were given tickets to go to VinNebraska, a charity event that featured wine tastings from vineyards across the country.

This morning I did about 15 minutes of walking hills before heading to Pump, for the third week in a row now. I can tell it's getting easier, my legs only shook half the time during lunges. My shoulders are going to be sore this week though, I forced myself to use the mediums the whole time and the moves we did seemed harder than last week. Workouts this week will be much better. I have no homework, Hooray! and two of the days I will be working on my practicum (all day helping teach 7th grade art) and I leave there at 3:00ish, which leaves plenty of time to get in some workouts. I hope this week helps me get back into the swing of things and that my next class (starting Saturday) has less homework, and will allow more time at the gym. My bridesmaid dress was a tad tight in the chest area and I think I just need some trimming up to look perfect!

Again

I went to Pump again yesterday and I even jogged on the treadmill for about 30 minutes before class. This amazes me since I haven't had a really good workout in a while. Last week, when the weather was nice, I did make it outside for some nice walks and Don and I even went out and jogged/walked around the lake at Boys Town. I was hoping to get outside again this week but to my dismay the forcast is awful and is even predicting snow for my one weekend off this month. I'm trying not to be upset and go pack my bags for somewhere like Arizone, but it's not working. This is going to be another busy week and I plan on having a mini party for myself when I am done with all the homework for this class! I hope the next class is less intense and still allows me to work out the way I want. Oh yeah, a social life might be nice too!

Back to Pump

Since my back had been killing me for about a week or so, and I went to the chiropractor to help since I didn't have time for the gym, I decided I need to try to go back to Pump. What a mistake. Okay, I know in the long run it will be good for me, but today I am crippled. My whole body kills and I didn't even try to do any weights like I used to. This just shows how weak I've become. I also tried to do this when I didn't feel very good. I haven't gotten the best sleep the past couple weeks and with all the school stress my immune system must be shot. The nice spring weather doesn't help the allergies either. So between Pump and feeling crappy, my only day off (which was yesterday) was shot because I about passed out at 3:30 due to exhaustion. Don and I were supposed to start a morning running program today but I since I couldn't breathe last night, the start is now postponed. Here's hoping for better health soon!

Short and Sweet... Or Maybe Sour

Okay, I know I've been missing. Although, I have been so busy I did not even realize how long it has been since I've blogged until now. I'm taking a new class that has an insane amount of workload. I'm excited about the class, but it really is sucking up my time and I feel good if I get 30 minutes in at the gym.... Basically I haven't been working out a lot, which I hate, and hope to get this schedule figured out.

I have also been dealing with the dilemma of the fact that I tried on my wedding dress last week and I wasn't in love. I thought I looked fat. I was PMSing.... but it made me want to go dress shopping again. I hate my indecisiveness. I don't know what to do, I'm torn. Anyway, I really have to get back to reading this book and researching online.

Yikes!

I decided that since things hadn't been working out at the gym lately that I would try and go to Combat Friday night. I haven't been in a while and I thought it would help jumpstart some cardio since I've been slacking with my busy schedule. Let's just say, Holy Crap! Not only was it hard because I hadn't been in almost two months, but even Bri admitted it was one of the hardest combinations of songs she's ever put together. She even told the newbies that if they made it through to the end, they were good to go for any future classes. We did my least favorite song (the one with the multiple lunges) and the tricep blaster at the end. Plus a whole bunch of nasty songs in between. I thought my heart was going to jump out of my chest! But I did it!

Yesterday was my last class (meaning I have next Saturday off) and I did not make it to the gym but I did make a nice healthy dinner. Chicken breast strips on a salad with bread. This morning, or I should say afternoon, I went to the gym for some cardio. Somehow, I think it was sheer determination, I jogged 4 miles. I did stop a couple times to let my heart slow down and then hopped back on. It was hard, but after seeing the scale the past couple mornings, I knew I had to push myself. I'm even thinking about going to Combat again after work tomorrow since it did such a number on my arms, back and shoulder muscles. I need to shape up or ship out!

Isn't it Friday yet?

It's Thursday and I'm preparing to go to the gym for the first time since Monday. I drove there last night and sat in my car briefly, not wanting to go in. Then I called my sister because, after having not the greatest day, I thought hanging out at her house would help... but things were bad at their house. The damn economy. Anyway, I won't get into details since they aren't mine to share.... I'll just end with the fact that I drove to Menards to bug Don instead of working out and then we drank wine and ate cheese before going to bed.

I hate my job and I don't know how to not let the mood it puts me in affect everything else. I haven't been this unhappy at work since, I don't know when.... I just pray I can find something more challenging soon or that the next 10 months fly by so I can start this whole teaching process! I do look forward to that!

A Sunny President's Day

I finally have a moment to stop and write a blog! Not that I have much to say. I haven't even been keeping track of my workouts because, if I did, I would probably get sad. I think I may have worked out 3 or 4 days last week? I can't remember. All I know is that I was busy Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night, and with having class all day Saturday, I wasn't able to get to the gym again until yesterday. It was so hard. I keep trying to run, but it seems to get harder every time. I was also able to get to the gym this morning since I have the day off. I love working out in the morning and starting my day after as opposed to going to work and then trying to cram in a workout. I even attempted to run again almost making it 3 miles. I might go shopping this afternoon and look at a new pair of running shoes. I figure if I can't pay for a new gym membership (which I think would motivate me to go more again because I would be excited) so a new pair of shoes might be exciting since my old pair is slowly falling apart.

My next workout days will be Wednesday and Thursday, assuming the girls are still planning on dress shopping tomorrow night. Don works Wednesday night, so that should be a good night and then the two of us can go again Thursday. Maybe I'll even make it on Friday! That would be exciting. Well, I'm off to do more homework and then allow myself a little shopping trip (Don did give me a gift card to Gap for V-Day, since he knows how much I miss really shopping, someone needs to jump start the economy and it might as well be me!).

Good

I have now had three good workouts in a row. Considering I only had been working out about three days a week, three days in a row is a big thing. I am totally sore from doing lunges and other various weights that Don made me do (I had him write me out a workout so I would actually do it). I even went to the gym last night after my 8 hour class. It feels good. I've even been jogging again, and although I'm still not at the pace I was a few weeks ago (before the stomach bug), it's getting better every time. I think I'm just motivated enough to keep pushing myself. Plus, I think it helps that the class I'm taking now is way better than the last class and being in a better mood really helps me work out harder. When I'm in a bad mood all I want to do is eat something bad for me.

Slow

I know it's been a long time now... but since my last post I've only made it to the gym three times and none of those times have been very memorable. After I was done being sick, I spent the entire week working on my final project for school. This had to be turned in my midnight Saturday but I wanted it done on Friday so I could focus on fun Saturday. Undfortunately, it was so busy at David's Bridal I didn't have much fun because it was so overwhelming. I was also not impressed with the dresses there... I know I bought my dress there but I don't think their bridesmaid dresses are worth the money they are asking for. I saw something I liked in a magazine and checked it out in a store and think that it would be really cute and compliment the whole theme of the day better. I just feel bad that I started out the whole thing allowing everyone freedom and now I might be asking them all to buy the same dress.

This week is equally crazy as last week, just in a different way. Don works two nights, I have to spend one night dying my Mom's hair, tonight I'm working on my invitations with Lynn (she's designing them) and Thursday night we're having a couple of Don's co-workers over for dinner (one of them is a travelling installer and here for a job, so Don wants to have him see the house). Since we didn't get any cleaning done Sunday, we both have to do a little each night. It's a freakin' pit of a house (to me) and I don't want a stranger to come in and judge me!

This is where my workouts come in... I don't know when they will happen. I should make it there tomorrow night and hopefully Friday, but that's it. Then I start my new class Saturday and Sunday will be the next workout day. School and wedding planning is really bringing me down. I just have to maintain my weight so I look good in my dress in August!

Sick-o

I should be at school right now but I am sitting upright for the first time in hours writing this and hoping I don't get sick again. Today was my last class and my body decided to get some sort of stomach flu at 1:00 am this morning. After I finally fell asleep somewhere around 4:00, my alarm went off about 6:15 and I tried taking a shower but then I got sick again. I have now eaten three crackers and had some juice. After a bad week of food though, I weighed myself this morning knowing that the loss of water weight would help and I was down a half a pound from last week. This diet of crackers should help though. Maybe I'll have some broth too. Livin' it up I tell ya.

Paid Holidays

I love paid holidays. Especially ones like today that don't require me to spend time with my family and businesses aren't closed (other than places like post office, which I don't frequent). I got a good workout in this morning already. I did a total of 45 minutes of cardio and I did a weight circuit thing that I really should have written down to refer to in the future. I was a little intimidated though using the big weight room because Don is normally with me, and in the evenings there is usually one or more other women in there working out as well.

Here's my update from the past week, since I've been so bad at posting lately...
Thursday night I did an hour of cardio while watching the Office and 30 Rock (this is what I will now refer to as the "Humor" workout. As much as I loved Grey's Anatomy, I really just need a good laugh at this point in life and less drama.
Friday I didn't workout at all because a friend of Don's came over and set up my wireless router so I can now sit anywhere I want in the house to do things like this (or homework, I guess) and not be confined to my desk.
Saturday I had every intention of working out after school, but since I had an emotional breakdown in the middle of the day all I wanted to do when I left there was have a drink and unwind.
By Sunday my legs ached so bad from not doing anything that I forced myself to run 4 miles. For some reason this is easier for me when I have taken a small break but my hamstrings were on fire after the run. Don helped me do a couple weight movements after that to work my chest and back.
You've read today's workout, so I won't summarize that one again. Tomorrow I won't be going to the gym because I have a hair appointment after work and I may be getting together with a friend I haven't seen for years, which is really exciting! I do plan on running again on Wednesday night... along with doing homework, because Don is working, and I hope for another hour of "Humor" on Thursday. Oh and did I mention we have a birthday party tonight and two on Friday? What will I do with desserts staring me in the face like that? I had a 1.2 pound weight loss this past week and I want to keep on the downward trend.

The Skinny....

It's not quite me yet (the skinny) but here's an update. I've been eating well for the past week now with only one real slip up.... Saturday night when I managed to eat almost all of the Beefy Cheeseball at the birthday party. But I did get up the next morning and jog three and a half miles with a hangover, which I see as a real triumph. Recently it has been so hard to run at all and I was able to do that much with a headache and upset stomch...oh and awful dehydration. I did not go to the gym yesterday because I was feeling slightly stressed about school and it was cold, windy, and snowy. But tonight I went after a healthy dinner and jogged another three miles and then did a short weight circuit with Don. I actually felt pretty good! Maybe I was right... The key is better quality and not trying to force myself to have these great workouts during adverse conditions (immediately after work when the gym is really busy). I have been doing a good job not weighing myself. I haven't done it since Saturday and I don't plan on doing it again until then. I'm hoping for a 2lb loss but really anything below the number last week would be great. I'll let you know what happens! Oh and I was watching the Biggest Loser while running (but listening to my music) and boy was Bob mad at someone. I think this helped me push myself while I was running. Maybe he was mad at me for being such a gym loser resently. I'm back Bob!

Friday

Soon I will be on a visit to a new gym. I hope that the price is right because it would be really handy to have a gym so close by. No more excuses to not go! Plus, they have swimming pools, which is something I've been wanting for a really long time. It's been a tough week, but I stuck pretty close to my old eating well habits. More than one piece of fruit a day, healthy lo-cal snacks, and a small treat every day (no mindlessly grazing the M&M bowl). Even though I haven't had the greatest workouts this week, I hope that the food changes will be enough to show a small change on the scale this week. I decided Saturday mornings will be my official weigh in day. No more weighing myself every morning and being depressed about the slightest fluctuation. When I was on Weight Watchers it was only once a week, and I kept focused on that day so I would see results. Rather than having a good weight day and thinking I can indulge myself in what I want because "I'm finally there" because the next day I won't be because of the total indulgence.

Do you like my new positive spin on things? Let's see how long this lasts! Ha.

Quality? I Don't Know Yet...

Here's a short summary of my workouts this week.... On Monday I went to Combat (and something totally worked my oblique muscles because they are still a little sore), Tuesday I had orientation for school so I did not workout, yesterday I actually got a treadmill (the gym is too busy right now) and attempted to jog three miles. I actually made three miles, but barely. It took almost 33 minutes with one walking break and a couple breaks to take a sip of water and wipe the sweat off my brow. My stomach has been crazy the past few days because I've started incorporating more fiber into my diet. I think it is getting used to it, but slowly! So after I hit three miles, my legs felt achey and my stomach was all tight and yucky feeling. I wanted to walk the rest of the hour but I gave up my treadmill to do a couple weight machines. I just didn't have it in me. There were too many people around and I felt totally exhausted from the run, so I went home. Tonight I plan on going to the gym later (after dinner) and hopefully there will be less people there.

I'm thinking about joining a new gym, one that is closer to home. I want to try and work out in the morning so that I am free in the evening to get things done and not have to take another shower in order to do so. This might be more expensive but I think it would be a good investment for the next year. It would take only 5 minutes to get there, so even if I didn't get up until 5:30, I could still get in an hour workout before coming home and getting ready for work. That is an hour and a half earlier than when I get up now.... Might be challenging. I want to do it though!

I would like to add that I have been in the presence of cake and cookies this week and I have not given in to temptation. I am really committed to losing at least five pounds and keeping them off. These treats just aren't worth it (this is what I tell myself!). I have been so good this week, I hope I can keep it up!

The Countdown is Over....

And now we are already 4 days into the new year. What have I done so far, you ask? Not much. I have been to the gym but I haven't been to Pump since Wednesday now (after my three times last week). I have done weights on my own, both Friday and today with Don. I have decided that I've been going about my workouts all wrong the last few months. I've mainly decided this because I am exhausted all the time and have lost all energy for the gym. I have decided to only have one day a week that I do an hour of cardio. This is what I used to do when I was losing weight. The other days I would either do interval workouts or half cardio, half weights. My schedule just doesn't allow me the time I want to commit to the gym and so I become overwhelmed and quit before I should and then I get mad at myself for not being able to do what I set out to do. My best workouts are when I am able to do them in the morning. When I worked part time, and on most days not until 11 am or 1 pm, I had the time to get a good workout in in the morning. Now it's only after work, when I need to cook dinner or run errands, and two hour workouts just aren't feasible. I also really need to up my muscle mass so that I can burn more calories and lose a couple inches off my belly, so I need to fit in more weight time and two Body Pumps a week just aren't cutting it (along with the cardio time I would also like to put in). My goal is to work out 3-4 nights during the week, on Saturday, if possible with my new schedule, and then a long cardio session every Sunday. I want to try and run a 10k with Karrie in June and I think I could do it if I stop overloading my cardio sessions and stressing/psyching myself out every week. Starting tomorrow I am going to look at my workouts differently and try to focus on the quality of the workout rather than the quantity.