Bloggy McBlogertons

Revised schedule

2011-04-11T22:21:00.001-04:00

Daily workout: 5 miles / treadmill

Well last week wasn't a very good week in the training department. When it comes down to it, I only ran one day. I wasn't feeling good at the beginning of the week and on saturday it rained and Sunday just got busy with other chores and errands. All in all, not great excuses but it is what is at this point. So, since I only have three weeks till race day, including only 2 saturday long runs, I have decided to adjust my schedule a bit. Also, I have decided to start doing two days of bikrsm yoga. I really do like it and I think it's helping with my running. Plus, I'd Ike to go get better in my practice. So here's how the next three week are gonna go:

Monday (today): 5
Tuesday: yoga
Wednesday: 7
Thursday: yoga
Friday: rest
Saturday: 11
Sunday: rest
Monday: 6
Tuesday: yoga
Wednesday: 8
Thursday: yoga
Friday: rest
Saturday: 9
Monday: 5
Tuesday: yoga
Wednesday: 3
Thursday: yoga
Friday: rest
Saturday: 1/2 marathon!!!

So no real taper but I think it will be ok and totally doable. Maybe?!?!?

10 miler photos.

2011-04-05T21:49:00.000-04:00

Workout: 3 miles - 27 minutes -- still sick

Wanna see some awesome pictures?

These are from the 10 miler 2 saturdays ago..

Fantastic.. really.. these are awesome! UGH.. yuck.

New Website

2011-04-04T22:14:00.001-04:00

Workouts:
Saturday: 8 miles, walk/run -- I have been sick for the last several days, and wasn't feeling it on Saturday.
Today: Skipped.. supposed to do 5 miles, but still feeling bad and it rained.

I may, or may not have mentioned before that I own my own design company. I was a graphic design major in college and after a few years of working for an agency, I decided to start doing some freelance work on the side. Since then, I have gained a few more clients but still work a regular design job during the day. With my hubby's encouragement, I have sort of decided that my personal busines is what I want to do full time, but it's going to take some more clients to get there.
Which all leads me to, my new website!!

www.peapoddesignonline.com

I am extremely excited about it. It basically took me a year to complete. I am not really a web designer, but like to do stuff that is more print based. So putting together this site, all by myself, was a bit challenging and definitely a learning curve. If you visit the site, you can see that do a lot of work for professional clients but I also enjoy doing wedding and party invitations, personal business cards, stationery and anything else you can think of.

My next step is to open up my own Etsy shop to better serve the masses. But if anyone has any work that they need done, please contact me. I am extremely reasonable and quick!

Current Reading list

2011-04-01T09:00:00.000-04:00

I have always been a fan of books. And when buying books, I usually buy the hard copy. I have picked up several books in the recent months, some actual copies, and some on my iPad.
Currently I have been reading The Girl Who Played With Fire.

I have gotten about 1/2 way through, and just can't seem to remember to pick it up and read. But I need to get moving on it because I have several others on the list. Here's the current:

For my dad

should probably have read before starting my training

Welcome new followers & readers

2011-03-31T18:00:00.000-04:00

I thought I would redo my first ever blog post for any newbie readers out there. Thanks again to Skinny Runner for including me in her Cat Lady Blogs.
(Edits made in RED)

Hello all, and welcome to my blog. I felt the need to start a blog because I think that I have a lot to talk about. But before I get into all that, let me introduce myself with a quick 25 facts about me (which may include topics that come up later).
1. I am 26 (28!) years old
2. I am engaged (Married!) to the most wonderful person who puts up with every part of me
3. My wedding is (was) Sept 25 (you will read much about my planning process)
4. I have a 1 (3) year old, 100lb yellow lab, who gets into trouble, but slowly becoming a good dog.
5. I am a graphic designer
6. I am started my own company last (3) year, and now trying to get new clients.. recently updated my website! www.peapoddesignonline.com Please check it out for any and all design needs!
7. I am a constant myspace, facebook and email checker
8. I am currently training for a mini marathon that is in April (this will be my fourth!)
9. My only sister lives in LA and i miss her.
10. I am considering a career change to nursing - not so much any more
11. I think I have the best family in the world
12. My father is currently going through treatments for brain cancer - still rockin'
13. I have always wanted to move away from home, did once, lasted 2 months.. still want to do it again, probably wont
14. My best friend has encouraged me to write this so she has something to read ;) is she still reading!??!?!
15. I love University of Kentucky basketball - Can't believe they made it to the final 4!
16. I wish I had more time to create things.. photography, painting, etc.
17. I am a big fan of before/after reality shows.. right now its Amazing Race
18. Nothings better than a summer night on my back porch with my fiance (hubby), dog and a good bottle of wine
19. I think I am turning my fiance (hubby) into a country music fan! well maybe not so much
20. I could wear a white tshirt and jeans everyday and be fine
21. I have over 70 pairs of shoes.. all of which i wear
22. I LOVE school supplies, especially pens, the inky ones
23. I consider my self a very loyal and good friend, even though I may not be around a lot
24. I like making new foods, but could live off of potatoes everyday
25. I hope that I can continue to write this blog, even if its just for my own well being.

Most is still the same, some things have changed. Hope you stick around!

Hormones and Challenges

2011-03-31T09:00:00.002-04:00

Anyone else's hormones way out of wack!? I am serious!! I know this is a little personal, but really, it's getting bad. And what I am really noticing is my face breaking out and my hair falling out. It's crazy. My face hasn't been this bad in years, YEARS I tell you. Let me give you an example...

Do you see this? WHAT IS THIS?!? WHY WHY WHY people!? I am on a war path to make this better.. spending lots of money on different kinds of products, and nothing.

I even have asked my doctor.. and basically got laughed at. And not to mention my hair is falling out.. not like in chunks, but there is WAY more hair in the skin than normal.. I am getting nervous.

But since my doctor didn't give me any clue as to what to do, I have decided to take matters in to my own hands.

I had been taking daily vitamins religiously for a while, but then kind of fell off. So I am starting again. Taking vitamins to help me with my breakouts and my hair loss. Currently I am taking a multi-vitamin, fiber, potassium, B12 and Omega 3, 6, 9. The B12 and Omega's should help. And once I run out of the B12, I am going to go to a B-complex.

But it's kind of a test.. I don't really know what I am doing. I am going to see if things start to clear up. If anyone has any suggestions, that would be great.

Another challenge, to help with over all health, my face and hair and to save some money, G and I have decided to eat at home for the month of April. Every meal. We need to get back to cooking at home, and to eating better (we usually do better this way). I am hoping to keep track of everything, to keep us accountable but with my track record lately, we will see. The only meal we plan on eating out is for G's bday, other than that home it is (or if someone wants to cook for us). Wish us luck!

Race Recap

2011-03-30T20:55:00.001-04:00

Yes.. I ran on saturday in the last leg of the Triple Crown of Running here in town. This was a 10 mile race. Last year, my time was around 1:45. So this year, I was just hoping to beat 1:40. My training hasn't been all that great lately. I mean, I continue to run 3 days a week but my strength training and other cross training could be better. I have picked up doing hot yoga on tuesdays which I think is really helping... I just love to sweat out all the bad stuff.
Anyway!!
My official race time for the 10 miler was...
wait for it..

1:33:07!!!!

I was SUPER pumped about this. I wasn't sure how I was going to do. This was the third race I basically ran by myself. I even had to go out and get myself an iPod shuffle the night before. My pace has definitely picked up this year.. I think it is due to not "over" running. But this course has some major hills right smack dab in the middle of the race, and I totally felt myself slowing down through these hills. And my feet were in some serious pain, but I kept trucking along, and PR'd by like 12 minutes!! Woot Woot.

The next race April 30.. and it's the 1/2 marathon. I just gotta keep my training up and hopefully get some more strength training in.

before the race... I'm nice and blurry!!

So devastated..

2011-03-16T21:58:00.000-04:00

Daily Workouts:
Tuesday: 4 miles - 41:11
Wednesday : 6.32 - 56:14 (that's way faster than I ran the 10K on saturday!)

Still totally in awe and completely devastated about the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. I can't even put into words how unbelievable it all is. And every day there are more stories of this whole nuclear radiation threat and of more bodies being discovered under the rubble. It's all very sad, and I can't hep but feel helpless. It just makes you realize how grateful we should all be for the lives we have, for at any minute it can all be taken away from you.

10K Race

2011-03-13T20:51:00.000-04:00

On saturday, I ran my 3rd 10K. I checked my times from the last two years to see what kind of time I was going to go for this year. I decided that I wanted to break 1 hour, since I came in at 1:02 last year.

please excuse this TERRIBLE picture.

Here is G and I before the race. I ended up leaving G at about the 1 mile mark because my pace was just going to be a bit faster than his. So, I ran the race by myself. In some ways, I think this helps because I am able to work on my own time and pace, but then again, I kind of like being able to chat along the way. My pockets in my jacket weren't deep enough to hold my phone without it falling out, so I ended up having to carry my phone the whole way, didn't really like that either. But really, I felt pretty good through the whole race. My left leg started to feel a little bit of pain, but I just pushed through to finish.

And my time: 56:26!!!

I am uber pumped I beat the 1 hour and even by 3 min. YAY me!!!!

yes, ick.

And here we are at the end. So happy to be done. We have the 10 miler in 2 weeks, so now to prepare for that.

Who cares about Charlie Sheen!?

2011-03-10T19:48:00.000-05:00

Daily Workout: 5.36 miles (53:33)

I am probably the only one who could care less about Charlie Sheen. I think its all for publicity and a bit rediculous. It's been going on for way too long for it to still be news. In a lot of ways I think that celebrities get way too much written about them, and sites like Twitter have only made it worse. I mean seriously, I don't care what the hell Paris Hilton is doing every second of her life. I think people get to wrapped up in following each and every celebrity and don't realize that it's generally not real life. It's kind of like pictures in magazines, there isn't one picture that isn't airbrushed and "fixed", making the general public believe something that isn't true.

But this whole Charlie Sheen thing has really gone over the edge. Kind of like Lindsey Lohan. Who cares, they are nuts and have too much money and thing everything is owed to them. I'm not going to act like I don't read People or watch the occasional Entertainment Tonight, but generally, I could care less. Another one, Sarah Palin! (I won't get into politics, but what has she said that's worth anything recently).

It really struck my attention when I read this on someones Facebook status the other day:
"Charlie Sheen is all over the news because he's a celebrity drug addict while Andrew Wilfahrt 31, Brian Tabada 21, Rudolph Hizon 22, Chauncy Mays 25, are soldiers who gave their lives this week with no media mention. Please honor them by posting this as your status for a little while"

It is really amazing though, isn't it? We never hear about these people who are fighting and losing their lives for this country and yet every piece of new information is covering Charlie Sheen. Puts things in perspective a little bit and now American's can get caught up in everything that isn't important and not look at what is really going on in the world.

Just a little thought for the day. A great article was written on CNN today about this same thing.. Here's the LINK

Dinner for Kings!

2011-03-09T19:34:00.000-05:00

Daily Workout: none (took a day off)

I made the BEST dinner tonight.

Seared tuna steak with a marinad of olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, lime juice, salt and pepper. Topped with an avocado. With roasted zucchini, onion and red pepper. And a side salad containing spinach, roma tomato, carrot and goat cheese with a balsamic vinagrette dressing.

Good good good! and Heathy healthy healthy!

Oh, and don't forget my glass of chardonnay!

HOT YOGA!!

2011-03-08T21:09:00.000-05:00

Daily Workout:
1:15 Hot Bikram Yoga

I have wanted to do hot yoga for a while and finally got up the nerve to go last week. I asked my running partner R to go with me and we prepared ourselves for class. Now it said to make sure you are properly hydrated, drinking lots of water through out the day and not to eat at least 3 hours prior to class. So, last thursday, I drank water all day and only ate lunch.

OH MY GOD!

I was definitely not prepared for class. I was dripping from the moment I walked in the room. Apparently it was "hot" that night (as said by regulars). I almost passed out a few times, totally saw stars and my hands started to tingle. I had to lay down and stop frequently. And crazy enough, I felt better doing some of the poses rather than just standing there. I find out when I am in there, that I should have hydrated the day before and not the day of.. and I should have had a snack around 3 (class was at 5:45). I felt better by the end of classes and made it out alive.

So, as to not admit defeat.. I went again!! ACK. (who am I?) I just felt that learning what I had learned AFTER the last class, I could better prepare myself for class tonight. I drank water and gatorade all day yesterday and today.. and had a snack today of graham crackers and peanut butter around 3:30. And I was MUCH more prepared for class tonight. I wasn't able to go through the whole class without stopping, but I did more than I did last thursday and wasnt' as dizzy. And I don't think the room was as hot.

Now I am thinking I want to do it once a week. I think it gets all the toxins out and really sweat, cause lord knows you do. And maybe also ad a regular ashtanga workout one other day a week.

I wish I had a picture of me to show you, but I felt a little silly taking a photo at class!

I know I know...

2011-03-08T08:52:00.000-05:00

I have been a bad blogger. Eh.. oh well

Let's see, workouts..
Thursday: Hot Yoga! (I need to do a post about this, I almost passed OUT! But I am going back tonight.. can't admit defeat yet!)
Friday: Nada
Saturday: 6 mile run was planned, but wasn't feeling well all day
Sunday: 6 mile run with the DOG and G - time was not really calculated because we stopped a few time to walk, but I felt good and felt I could have run the whole thing
Monday: 3 Miles on the treadmill (I HATE the tread, but it was too late to go outside, no time because I don't trust those machines!)

I have seen this on a few blogs I read and thought I would participate. Enjoy!

A. Age: 28
B. Bed size: King - I will NEVER go back.. it's heaven
C. Chore you dislike: going to the grocery
D. Dogs: Charlie Baxter- the bad dog, Yellow Lab
E. Essential start to your day: during the week, it's a shower... nothing really on the weekends
F. Favorite color: blue! Even though my hubby will swear it's purple
G. Gold or silver: silver
H. Height: 5’4
I. Instruments you play(ed): I learned piano when I was younger.. but couldn't' really played if I tried
J. Job title: Graphic Designer - anyone need anything?!
K. Kids: Charlie :)
L. Live: in a house on a street in a city! ha. If you've read for a bit, you may know
M. Mom’s name: Peggy
N. Nicknames: La, boogs, ummm...
O. Overnight hospital stays: nope
P. Pet peeves: ignorance and intolerance
Q. Quote from a movie: oh wow, there are so many..
R. Righty or lefty: Right
S. Siblings: Sister Sarah!
T. Time you wake up: 7am - during the week
U. Underwear: yes.. I like underwear
V. Vegetables you dont’ like: brussel sprouts.
W. What makes you run late: G! haha. or my inability to find something to wear
X. X-rays you’ve had: Arm (I've had 5 broken arms), Nose (got hit with a softball), Foot (recently for some pain)
Y. Yummy food you make: Family recipe spaghetti! Or Sweet potato fries. Or Salmon... We make some pretty good eats in our house
Z. Zoo animal favorites: monkeys!

Sassy! Ombre'!

2011-03-02T22:06:00.000-05:00

Recent Workouts:
Monday: 4 Miles/~40 min
Tuesday: rest
Wednesday: 5 Miles/~50 min (had a few breaks to walk)
I had to up my mileage this week. I was only supposed to do 3.5 on monday and tuesday, but I am supposed to run a 10K next weekend, and I am a little concerned that I have had enough longer runs. I felt pretty good tonight, so I am not to worried that I will be fine to up my mileage on Saturday too. I actually think I am going to adjust some of my runs as the training continues to make sure that I get enough quality long runs before the 1/2.

I got a new haircut!!! And a new color to boot. It had been a while since I had my hair did, and it needed it. Since going darker with my color, my regrowth just looks terrible! My natural hair is sooo much lighter than my darker shade, so my regrowth look like I have gray hair!! YIKES!
So, when I went in last night, my lovely hair stylist, Holly, decided that we should go for the ombre look that is so popular right now. Stars like Drew Barrymore and Gisele are making it famous.

Basically, it's darker on top and lighter towards the bottom. Kind of like a highlight that has grown out. But instead of lightening the ends, we darkened my roots by 2 shades.

Now I realize, you can't really tell... and to be honest, I can't really tell in person unless I look really close. But I think I will like the effect. And I asked her to go SASSY on the cut... IPhone pics do NOT give my cute, sassy haircut any justice. I'll try to get a better pic soon.

And we've already decided to go lighter at the end of April, to get ready for my trip and spring!

16th Race

2011-02-27T11:01:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I ran my 16th race ever! Wahoo. ha.
It was the first leg of the Triple Crown (5K, 10K, 10 miler) leading up to the Derby 1/2 Marathon in April. So yesterday was the 5K. I had wanted to break my previous 5K PR of 31:00. Actually, I wanted to beat 30 min all together. And after finding out I was going to be doing this race alone, I just had a feeling I could do it.

My official time:
26:48!!!!!

I am so pumped. I honestly didn't think that I could shave off almost 4 minutes from my previous time, but wow! So Congrats to me!!!!

I will say though, running a race by yourself isn't so much fun. The running part is OK, but the before and after just kind of suck. Especially if you just blew away your old PR and want to be excited with someone. Just saying.

The next race, 10K, is in 2 weeks... gotta get some more long runs in. I am feeling behind.

What's happening?

2011-02-23T19:39:00.001-05:00

Daily Workouts:
Monday - 3 miles (in the POURING rain - G was not happy with me) - don't remember my time
Tuesday - Brazilian Butt Lift - Bum Bum video (30 min) + 125 ab moves
Wednesday - 3.5 miles - 32:00 min! (pretty fast for me!)

Anyone else feel that things are really crazy right now? I mean, every time I turn on the news, it's more bad stuff! And I don't know if this is always how the world is and if I am just noticing more or if it's really out of control right now.

From the random dead birds, and dead baby dolphins in the Gulf of Mexico to the uproars in the middle east and the craziness of our own government, I am just not sure what to think.

Maybe I have been watching too many shows about the "end of the world" that is supposedly to happen next year! I can't help myself. I hope that is not foretelling!!! Just a word to the wise, unless you want to be anxious about the next 2 years, don't watch the history channel!!!

Zucchini Bread

2011-02-21T13:46:00.001-05:00

yes, half of the larger loaf is gone

Yesterday I was on a ROLL. I decided to make my family recipe spaghetti sauce (can't share the recipe!!) and some zucchini bread. After the bread was made, G was wondering why I have never made it before. ha! I feel like we always used to make it when I was younger. Soooo good!

So here's a quick and easy recipe:

Zucchini Bread 325degrees / 1 hr.

3 eggs

1 cup oil

1 1/2 cups sugar

1 tablespoon vanilla

1 teaspoon salt

2 cups grated zucchini (one big zucchini will usually work, I actually think a little more than 2 cups is good)

3 cups sifted flour

1 1/2 teaspoon soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

(optional- 1 cup chopped nuts or raisons)

combine all elements. use baking spray on pans, fill up half way with batter.

P90X review-- a little late

2011-02-19T11:43:00.000-05:00

Daily workout - 4 mile run/39:07

I forgot a while back to do my measurement review from my 1 month of P90X. I only did the phase 1 because I knew I'd be starting my 1/2 marathon training in February. And although, I'd like to be a badass and say I could do both, I don't think so! I tried to make my own schedule doing that last year, and kind of burnt myself out, and really, the results weren't there like I had hoped. So, I just did 1 month to get some good cardio and weight training in before starting my 1/2 training
Here are my numbers:
Chest : -1.5"
R Arm : same as before
L Arm : -.5 (yes, my arms measure differently)
Waist: -1"
Hips: -.5"
R Thigh: -.5"
L Thigh: +.5" (yeah, these aren't the same either)

So overall, I was down in every category a little bit. I think my weight was pretty much the same, and continues to be the same. But I do feel like my clothes are a little loser and I'm definitely gaining muscle in my arms... my masseuse even told me I had good muscle definition in my back! woot.

There you have it. I plan on doing another measurement at the end of 4 weeks of 1/2 training and see how it's effecting my body.

Shoe update and more

2011-02-18T16:11:00.001-05:00

I FINALLY went and picked up my new shoes last night.. and surprise surprise.. they are NOT the 2150s, but rather the 2160s!!!! Apparently, the shoe store could not order the 2150s because they are last season, so the 60s are the updated model. I tried them on, and while they felt slightly different from the 2150s I tried on, I think they will be just fine. I am testing on my "long" (4 miles) run tomorrow. And as a bonus, a MUCH improved color combination.

So, I did end up running on Wednesday, 3 miles. I did not, however, do my strength training. And to be honest, I am feeling kind of bad about my slacking the past 2 weeks. I was doing so well when I was P90X-ing, and now, my strength training has just gone down hill. Sadly, I think my body is feeling the same thing. So tonight, as my cross training, I am going to really sweat it out. I need it. The flab on my stomach needs it. How else am I supposed to be in bikini shape by may? I really need to get back on the ball with eating better (we havent been to the grocery in a while, which results in eating out way to much) and really sweating, and working on strength.

Stay tuned for a P90X "after" measurements post, which I totally forgot to do 2 weeks ago.. oops!

Still here...

2011-02-16T10:16:00.000-05:00

Just been busy.. when did I last post? I can't remember.

Past few days workouts:

Friday - P90X Core Synergistic video
Saturday - 4 mile run (have no idea my time because I messed up my watch)
Sunday - rest day (was supposed to do strength and stretch.. didn't)
Monday - had planned a 3 mile run, but it was Valentine's day and my hubby suprised me with reservations
Tuesday - 2 miles/ 19:19 (I was speeding along - for me - at the end because we got UK tickets last minute!! )

Today I am scheduled for another 3 miles and some strength training (arms). Crossing my fingers that I get both done because I just need to get back on schedule. After tonights run, I am off tomorrow and then some cross training on friday (cardio video) and a 4 miler on saturday.

But one thing I am EXCITED about is NEW SHOES!!!! I haven't bought new running shoes since training for the Maui 1/2 in September. Well, I haven't really run since then either, but I have been putting the shoes to work while doing other forms of exercise. I went 2 weeks ago to get fitted for some new shoes. I have basically been fitted for the same shoe, multiple times. But when G and I were training in the summer, I was having some leg/foot pain. So after the race (didnt want them to tell me I could run!) I went to see an orthopedic. And he said he couldn't find anything wrong, but to get new shoes and more specifically, to visit Swag's here in town because they know what they are talking about. So, finally, I got out there. And you know what? He told me my shoes were TOO BIG! Here I have been running in the same shoe, for almost 2 years, in the wrong size! He said I wore them well, but that they were just too big. So, I ordered the correct size.. and I get to pick them up today!!!


Asics 2150.. in size 7.5! (don't believe people that say you HAVE to go up a size in athletic shoes)

Oh, and asics (and other shoe brands) need to have some better options on colors for women. Just saying.

And a shout and congratulations to Running off the Reese on finding a shoe that fits! And that is also the Asics 2150!

Today's Trends

2011-02-10T17:55:00.001-05:00

Daily workout: rest day

Have you all taken a look at today's fashion? Sometimes I just don't get it. And maybe because I am nearing 30, and being "trendy" and "hip" aren't really words I use any more. Don't get me wrong, I am FAR from mom jeans, I just prefer to be a little more classic, if you will. But I just think some of today's fashion for young adults looks.. well.. trashy. Kind of like not much effort was used, almost an homage to the early 90s.

Exhibit A:


umm. nice high water cut offs.. I may have worn this when I was 12.

Exhibit B:

excuse me, why is your hat so small?

Exhibit C:

I just don't get the "hipster" look

Exhibit D:

nope...

Does anyone else feel this way? Everything just looks so sloppy. Do a google search for "Early 90s Fashion" and you will find styles that are out right now! YIKES.

Let's just hope we don't go here:

Nesting

2011-02-09T19:48:00.000-05:00

Daily Workout: 3 miles/27min (with a few walking breaks where I stopped my watch)

Check out my new chairs!

I have been wanting to get chairs for the opposite side of the room for a while now. And every where I have looked they are a little over my price range. But I was looking on Target's website a few weeks ago and found these! And they were on sale. I went ahead and just did it. And I love them. Our room has tan walls, 2 navy and cream carpets (chain link, as seen), leather couches and dark wood TV stand and shelves. I think these cream and brown chairs match pretty well, but then again, I'm no expert!

Like? Hate? (wait, don't tell me if you hate them!)

Swimsuit Seaon Here I come!

2011-02-08T21:50:00.000-05:00

this dog was not my friend on my run today.

Daily workout: 2 miles/18min

So with all this running and working out, there has to be an ultimate goal.. and boy do I have one! I was invited by my friend/running partner R to go to the Dominican in May!!! I am super pumped, but this means I have to get in SHAPE because lord knows I will have to wear a bathing suit. But to entice me a little more, I have started to look at new suits that I may want to purchase. Here are a few:

Love the back


Victorias secret


Victorias Secret 2

JCrew

Oh, and I will look "just" like these girls too.

Any other suggestions for places to look?

Run run run!!!

2011-02-07T19:54:00.000-05:00

Can't remember if I mentioned (I think I did), I have decided to train and run the Derby 1/2 marathon again this year.

It will be my third time running and I am hoping (*cross my fingers*) that I PR. I have run 3 1/2's in the past 2 years, and basically had the same time every race (2:25... slow)

I hesitated on whether or not I wanted to do it again this year. I hadn't run since the Maui 1/2 marathon in September, and just didn't have the motivation to run. Plus, after Maui, my legs were really hurting. But, G told me was going to do it, so, being the wonderful wife that I am (!) I gave in and signed up.

I also decided that I was not going to do the same training program I had done for the past 2 years. Basically, it was 5 days a week of running (M, T, W, Th, S), with Saturday being the long runs. It's just a LOT of running. I don't enjoy running enough to run that many days. And it was 16 weeks! Just tooo much. So, I found a 12 week schedule that has 3 mandatory run days, with another optional day, plus strength and cross training days. I think this will suit my needs MUCH better. I still want to be able to do strength training to be able to keep the muscles I have developed, and to continue to burn fat. So I think I am going to do some P90X vids for my CT and strength.

But today was DAY 1!!!!!

It was cold (34 degrees), wet and snowy!! But we did it, 3 Miles. Even with walking a bit, we finished in 30:53. I am happy about that on our first day. I was a little worried since I hadn't run at ALL since Maui, but suprisingly did OK.

Tomorrow is 2 miles OR cross training. I can't decide what I am going to do yet. Maybe CT so I can get an hour of sweat in.

January Fitness

2011-02-01T20:20:00.000-05:00

Basically, I decided back in January that I was going to start a new program of P90X, but just for 30 days. I am loving this 30 day worth of one program, and then moving on to a new routine. I seem to get burned out around day 30, so it helps me to stay motivated and excited about working out.

I was planning on starting the 1st monday of January, but unfortunately I got sick that first week. Like sicker than I have been in years! And so, I ended up starting the 2nd monday.

I am doing the P90X Lean routine. And work out 5 days. I skip the yoga on thursday, because frankly I just don't like it. And plus, I find that I usually have one night where something else comes up and have to shift some days around. I am not really worried about missing the yoga day because I think 5 days a week is still a lot and definitely worth while. I have definitely noticed a difference in my arms and upperback. Plus, my pants are fitting a LOT better. I am planning on measuring next week, since I am currently on week 4. I will be comparing my numbers to my final numbers from the Brazilian Butt Lift.

So that is what I have been doing for the last month. I will let you know next week how my "numbers" go. And fill you in on my next routine.

Hiatus

2011-01-31T22:50:00.000-05:00

Obviously I have been on a slight hiatus.

For several reasons:
1. Have been very busy. With Xmas, New Years and just every day life, I have not been able to find the time to write
2. I didn't really know what I wanted to write about.
3. Thought no one was reading.

So I am coming back with the hopes of writing every day. I want to keep track of my daily workouts, plus any other topics I find I want to write about.

I have started P90X again, so I will review my progress thus far and continue to write about my progress.

And also include my new 1/2 marathon training. I have decided to run my 4th 1/2 marathon at the end of April. I have not started training, but I'll go over that in another post.

So stay tuned!

Andi's Healthy Advice 3

2010-12-16T18:47:00.000-05:00

Work, holiday shopping, wrapping presents, decorating, parties, family get-togethers - it all takes time! Where do we fit in taking care of our bodies? Lack of time is a reoccurring theme to my fitness tips for a reason. To me, fitness and exercise has become as much a priority as eating, sleeping, showering...you get the point. Taking care of yourself is important. So you have to make the time.

Planning ahead is key...

Manage your time.

Scheduling your workouts in advance, either with a printed workout calendar or online, is always a good idea. But it's especially important over the holidays, when just saying "I'll do it when I have time" can be a recipe for failure. Your free time is sure to get filled up with other activities, and it's easier than ever to forget about working out. On the other hand, if you schedule your workouts just like any appointments, you're much more likely to do them when the time comes. If you absolutely can't find time on a particular day, mark it as a recovery period, and make sure you have a workout scheduled for the day afterward. It'll prevent you from losing the fitness gains you've built, and ensure that you keep your exercise habit intact.

Thanks,

Andi Ramser

Beachbody Coach

http://teambeachbody.com/rockchick1

http://myshakeology.com/rockchick1

Ask me about "the healthiest meal of the day"...Shakeology. It can change your life!

Where've you been?!?!

2010-12-13T21:35:00.000-05:00

Exactly.. Life is what it's called (or we can go with that).

I really hadn't realized it had been almost a month since my last post. I kind of thought it had only been a week or two! ooops! But really, who's reading?!

But since I have been "gone", I have kept up with my workouts, rotating back and forth between Brazilian Butt Lift and Jillian Michaels. I do about 5-6 days a week on average. I don't see as dramatic as results I did in the first 30 days, but my weight watchers has not been going as well. I am trying to amp it up for the next 12 days (till Xmas) to reach my goal!

Gonna be up on my posts from now on!!

Andi's Healthy Advice

2010-11-19T15:34:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving Fitness Tips!

So how are we supposed to get through the holidays without causing weight gain? Here are seven effective ways to get yourself ready to beat the holiday bulge.

1. Buy clothes that fit right now. This first tip might be a bit pricey, but it's a great motivational aid in staving off weight gain. A new addition to your wardrobe in a size that shows off your summer body can be all you need to prevent those extra pounds from creeping on. Imagine that beautiful holiday dress or great pair of pants, then imagine being unable to zip them up thanks to sugar cookies. Yeah, no one wants that. So before you begin the festivities, go buy yourself something perfect to wear to your parties and hang it someplace visible, so it serves as a constant reminder. Perhaps on the TV where you play your workout videos, or in front of that treadmill that might be starting to collect a little dust in the corner, or on your refrigerator door . . . that way, if it doesn't fit quite the same way the next time you try to slip into it, you know it's time to get back to work.

2. Keep exercising. Most fitness trainers will tell you the slowest point of their year is between Thanksgiving and New Year's. Sure, their clients schedule workouts with the best of intentions, but then they cancel them for parties and gift shopping. It's hard to remain balanced when you have a million things to do and gifts to buy. Yet the greatest gift you can give yourself is to stay focused on your fitness goals and get your workout in. Shopping getting in the way? Do it online and save some time. Parties getting in the way? Just show up later. Who cares if everyone else is a couple of cocktails ahead of you? You'll be healthier, and you won't have to worry about the embarrassing YouTube videos in the morning. Just stay consistent, even if it's inconvenient. You'll be much less likely to look like Santa (both belly-wise and red-nose-wise) at the end of the month.

3. Eat before parties. Most holiday parties don't focus on low-fat, low-calorie refreshments, so unless you're organizing the event, the best damage control is to show up with a full tummy. Make sure you eat your meals and snacks throughout the day, and try to eat a healthy meal before attending any party. If you're going straight from work, prepare a healthy and filling snack to eat on the way. You'll be a lot less likely to swim in mayonnaise dips and pigs in blankets if you're full.

4. Get junk out of the house. The majority of people don't get into the car at midnight, drive to the store, buy the ingredients for cookies, bake them, and then stay up to eat them. But if those homemade cookies that Linda in accounting made for you are already on your kitchen counter, you better believe you'll find a way to justify it. Frankly, at 12:30 AM, after a rotten day, for most of us there's nothing like a few cookies to drown our sorrows. The secret is to get the enticements out of the house. Send them to work with your significant other, donate them to a bake sale, regift them to your 100-pound friend with the perfect metabolism, or just dump them in the trash. Linda will never know. If you have holiday dinner leftovers, box them up for your guests individually and send them home with them. If your family still sends you that Pepperidge Farm cookie assortment, invite a bunch of people over for a pre-party party and serve 'em up before the drinks. Don't be more wasteful than you have to, but get the less-than-healthy temptations out of your reach.

5. Offer to prepare healthy fare. This suggestion won't be well received by those of us who'd rather spend Thanksgiving sitting around watching football than toiling in the kitchen, but if you do the cooking, you have the control. Your family could have a tasty and satisfying meal without ingesting thousands of calories and fat grams. The way the turkey is prepared, the type of stuffing, how vegetables are made, whether the cranberries are real, and countless other things can make or break the healthiness of a meal.

6. Choose wisely and proportionally. Something occurs during a holiday meal. It's like a Las Vegas buffet—we feel like we have to eat some of everything. We feel almost like those foods will never exist again, and this is our last meal on the planet. This year, why not try to eat only your favorites, as in two or three items, and keep the portions to the size of your palm? If you're still hungry, try to fill up on veggies (preferably ones that aren't drowned in butter or cream-of-mushroom soup). If you want dessert, lean toward a small slice of pumpkin pie (220 calories) as opposed to pecan (a heftier 543), leaving out the hydrogenated nondairy whipped topping if possible. If you're going to have an alcoholic beverage, go with a flute of champagne (100 calories) as opposed to that rum-laced eggnog (with more than four times more calories, at 420). Just a few wise choices will save you a ton of calories, and probably a significant amount of heartburn as well.

7. Don't beat yourself up. Quite possibly the worst thing you can do is beat yourself up over a bit of holiday indulgence. Yes, it does stink to backslide after working your tail off. But sometimes it doesn't stink as much as dealing with your mother when you turn down her brisket and potato pancakes. Sometimes, we don't have time to go to work, buy a Christmas tree, decorate it with our kids, make dinner, oversee homework, tuck kids in bed, and spend an hour exercising. We can only do our very best. Mentally berating yourself will only make you feel worse, which never helped anyone get back to their fitness program. So if you happen to gain that one extra pound this holiday season, be part of the rare group who actually follows through with their New Year's resolution and manages to shed it again. A week of hard work and a slight calorie deficit should do the trick. Resolutions don't come easier than that!

Andi Ramser
Beachbody Coach
http://teambeachbody.com/rockchick1
http://myshakeology.com/rockchick1

New Specs!

2010-11-17T09:13:00.000-05:00

Like my new glasses?

anyone think iPhones take pics that are wonky?

Vitamins!

2010-11-16T09:00:00.000-05:00

I think I have mentioned before that I have started taking daily vitamins. So, I wanted to take a minute to let you know what I have decided to take, and why.

I bought one of these things so I can keep it my purse and if I dont remember first thing in the morning, then I have it with me all day!

1. Small white pill - B12 - to boost energy level, and speed up metabolism
2. Large white pill - Potassium - I take this for muscle cramps. I will get muscle cramps in my legs at night that go up through my feet. This has really helped reduce that pain
3. Large yellow pill - Multi-Vitamin - Everyone should take a multi-vitamin for nutrients we don't get in our daily food intake.
4. Large Dark pill - Omega 3, 6 and 9
     - 3 - efficient functioning of the brain
     - 6 - help with bloating from PMS, maintains healthy skin, hair and nails and generally helps to bring about hormonal and emotional balance.
   - 9 - reduce the risk of arteriosclerosis, cardiovascular disease and stroke
(here is a good source for all things about Omega 3, 6, & 9)
5. 2 brown pills - Metamucil - Fiber for regularity.

30 Day Shred

2010-11-15T20:56:00.000-05:00

I have decided to start the Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred. I debated back and forth as to what I was going to do since my BBL had ended. And since I already had the 30DS, I decided to just pop it in and see how I do. I may end up doing some BBL videos here and there when I get "bored" of doing the same thing day after day, but we will see.

"After" pic from BBL. I realized I never took a "before" and this isn't a good pic.


Who says you can't break a good sweat in 20 min!

So, Day 1 done. I'll keep you up on my progress (and any changes I may make).

BBL Review

2010-11-12T14:04:00.000-05:00

I have finally completed "30" days of the Brazilian Butt Lift. It took me longer than the 30 days because the last week I was just not there. Things have been crazy around our household with G being out of town, and then us going out of town together, that I didn't get to complete it as fast as I wanted. BUT! I completed it about 5 days later, so not too bad.

All in all, I really like the BBL. It is definitely different from your regular fitness videos and has fun music to go along with it.

There are 5 different videos that you use in various combination's, depending on the "schedule" you choose. I chose to do the Classic version. Here are a list of the vids:

1. Bum Bum - the signature workout. Kind of a fun dance video that really focuses on your butt area
2. High and Tight - more strength training for your butt area
3. Cardio Axe - the dance work out of the bunch. You learn a short routine to really get you sweating
4. Sculpt - The longer all over strength trainig video.
5. Tummy Tuck - abs video.

I like all of the videos. They are all about 30 minutes long, with the exception of the Sculpt which is 50 min. And the rotation is nice so you don't feel like you are constantly doing the same thing over and over.

I took my "after" measurements today and was happy with the results:
Chest – -1"
R. Arm – -.25"
L. Arm – -.5" (I dont know why they aren't the same!)
Waist – -.5" (Although, I am feeling really bloated today, so I am hoping this number is actually lower!)
Hips – -1"
R. Thigh – same
L. Thigh – -1" (again, don't know why they aren't the same)

So YAY! Down in the majority of areas. I think some of this is also because of the WW.

Now to decide what to do next - another round of BBL? Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred? P90X? New video (turbo fire, slim in 6, insanity)? I just don't know!!! But I am liking the 1 month thing.

I haven't taken "after" pics yet, but once I do, I MAY post! Depends on if you can really see a difference.

Andi's Healthy Advice

2010-11-09T16:39:00.002-05:00

7 great **strategies for permanent weight loss**

1. Exercise is essential for weight loss
It's nothing new, but exercise is probably the most important predictor of whether you will succeed at long term weight loss and weight loss maintenance. In order for exercise to be helpful in weight loss, you should strive for a minimum of five 30 minute sessions per week. The good news is that recent research has shown that three 10 minute sessions in a day are as good as one 30 minute session. This helps many in combating the old "no time for exercise" excuse. Be certain to find something you enjoy. You'll be more apt to stick with it. Once you give exercise a chance, you will begin to enjoy its positive benefits on your psyche as well; you will literally become hooked.

2. Weight loss and weight training

I chose to list this separately from the "exercise" category because of the significant weight loss benefits attached to weight training in and of itself. The basic equation is this: the more muscle tissue you have, the more calories you will burn. This is why world class weight lifters must eat thousands of calories a day to maintain their weight. Muscle is active tissue, fat is not. Thus, muscle "burns" a significant number of calories each day for its own maintenance. While aerobic activity can help burn calories, muscle's where it's at when it comes to giving your metabolism a significant daily boost even at rest.

3. Keep a diary for triggers that hinder weight loss

Keeping a food diary can be a huge asset in successful weight loss. Devote some time each day to record what you have eaten and how much, your hunger level prior to eating, and any feelings or emotions present at the time. A food diary can provide a large amount of self-awareness. It can identify emotions and behaviors that trigger overeating, foster greater awareness of portion sizes, and help you discover your personal food triggers. Study any patterns that emerge from your food diary and identify where you may be able to make more healthful changes. A food diary provides an added benefit of keeping you focused on and committed to your goals.

4. Stay focused on being healthy, not on becoming thin

Many people become more successful at long term weight loss when their motivation changes from wanting to be thinner to wanting to be healthier. Change your mindset to think about selecting foods that will help your body's health rather than worrying about foods that will affect your body's weight.

5. Weight loss and portion control

With the advent of "super-size" meals and increasingly huge portions at restaurants, our concept of normal serving sizes is a distant memory. Be mindful of the amounts of food you consume at a sitting. When necessary, divide your food in half and ask for a take home bag. It is all too easy to be a "plate cleaner" even when served enormous portions. Learn to pay attention to your hunger level and stop eating when you feel comfortably full, not stuffed.

6. Lose weight slowly with small changes

Try to remember that "losing 15 pounds in two weeks" is nothing to celebrate. It is important to realize that the more quickly weight is lost, the more likely the loss is coming from water and muscle, not fat. Since muscle tissue is critical in keeping our metabolism elevated, losing it actually leads to a decrease in the amount of calories we can take in each day without gaining weight. Fat loss is best achieved when weight is lost slowly. Strive for a weight loss of no more than 1-2 pounds per week. One pound of weight is equivalent to 3500 calories. By making small changes like eliminating 250 calories a day from food and expending 250 calories a day from exercise, you can lose one pound (of mostly fat) per week.

7. Eating slowly can lead to weight loss

Did you ever notice that thin people take an awfully long time to eat their food? Eating slowly is one method that can help take off pounds. That's because from the time you begin eating it takes the brain 20 minutes to start signaling feelings of fullness. Fast eaters often eat beyond their true level of fullness before the 20 minute signal has had a chance to set in. The amount of calories consumed before you begin to feel full can vary significantly depending on how quickly you eat. So slow down, take smaller bites and enjoy and savor every tasty morsel.
An idea is to print this out, and keep it on your refrigerator as a motivator. A quick fix is likely to backfire at some point. Making changes over time and staying consistent in your dedication can help provide a lifetime of fitness and health. Hope everyone has a fantastic week!

Andi Ramser
http://teambeachbody.com/rockchick1
http://myshakeology.com/rockchick1

Twinkie Diet?

2010-11-08T13:42:00.000-05:00

Have you all seen this?

Twinkie Diet

I guess it just goes to show that we really do consume too many calories as a nation.

Weigh-in Wednesday on a Friday.

2010-11-05T13:54:00.000-04:00

Yes, I realize it's friday and not wednesday. Do you ever have those days were things dont go how you planned so, you just kind of ignore it and move on?? Well that's pretty much what happened wednesday.

I totally did my weigh-in on Wednesday, but didn't like the fact that the number was still the same, so I chose not to do my post and hope for a better week next week. I know I know, not the way that is supposed to happen, but at least I am coming clean with it now.

So I was a little disappointed that my # was still the same, but glad, I guess, that it hadn't gone up. The last few weeks have been a little difficult in the WW department. With G being out of town for most of the week, I am just not keeping up like I should. Which is kind of backwards, cause you'd think I'd be doing better since I only had one mouth to feed. Problem is, I haven't gone to the grocery in a while. I really need to get there and get some healthy food for meals, especially dinner. I have still been eating breakfast everyday, usually in the form of a Fiber One bar. But I start to loose track of my "points" as the day goes on.

I am going to try my hardest to get back to it. I have too! I am still 3lbs away from my goal.

I am also in my last week of BBL!!! I must say, I can definitely tell a difference. I have had to refrain from actually doing measurements till monday (or whenever I finish) the last video. I am hoping there are some numbers changing!! (fingers crossed). I am kind of amazed that I have actually seen a transformation.

But now, I have to decide what to do next. I am loving this month by month program. It helps me keep on schedule and not get burnt out on the same thing. I am hoping to meet with Andi next week to figure out a plan. I am thinking about doing the Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred, but then again, I may to do a combo of running and P90X. G has stated he wants to maybe do P90X, so maybe I'll do some stuff with him?! I'll let you know!

*Shakeology review to come.

Andi's Healthy Advice - 2

2010-11-02T14:39:00.001-04:00

Below is a list of questions I would like for each of you to think about this week. If you want some feedback on your answers, send them to me! Otherwise, really think about your answers to each question and be specific as possible. Spend some time honing in on what is important to you and why.

1. What are your fitness/health goals? To lose weight? To have more energy? To stay young/live longer? To look good in a pair of jeans? To run a 5k+? Write down anything and everything that applies here. Be specific: to lose 10 pounds, 20? Energy to do what? etc...

2. How important is it to you to achieve these goals? Really important? Don't really care? If not, why?

3. Who are you wanting to please by achieving these goals? Yourself? Your significant other? Class reunion coming up...impress others?

4. How do you think you'd feel about yourself if you could reach your goals? Obviously, pretty dang good, but do you think it could make you a more positive person? Give you the confidence you want? Visualize yourself reaching those goals, and try to think about what it would mean to you and how you might feel...write those thoughts down.

5. Are your goals realistic? Being the weight you were in high school was fine when you were 17, but now that you're an adult...maybe not so healthy. So make sure you are setting your sights on an attainable target. Also, if "to lose x amount of pounds in 7 days" is your answer, keep in mind that fast weight loss is more likely to be gained back and then some.

6. What do you feel has held you back thus far in looking and/or feeling the way you want? Do you even believe you are capable of achieving what you want? Do you have bad habits you can't seem to break? Don't have the energy to exercise? You know what your vices are...what are they?

Create a goal, know it, and own it. Dedication and commitment...you must believe in yourself and your ability to achieve what you set your mind to, but you must commit in order to succeed. It also takes knowing what will work for you and your situation, and that is what I am wanting to help you with if you'll let me! If you're typically full of excuses, there are ways to modify a plan to work for your lifestyle. Again, I add that I am not a certified fitness expert, but I have educated myself and learned through experience and applying the advice I've been given by experts in the field. If you'd like to share your answers with me, feel free to send them to me. I may be able to "see" things you don't and help you get over the hurdle.

Please feel free to forward this e-mail to your friends/family who may be interested. Have an awesome week!

Andi Ramser
Beachbody Coach
http://teambeachbody.com/rockchick1
http://myshakeology.com/rockchick1

Do you want to know more about the healthiest meal of the day?
Visit my Shakeology site or contact me!

Halloween 2010

2010-11-01T21:53:00.001-04:00

Just a quick post about Halloween.
G and I live on a street that goes all out for Halloween. Each yard is completely different and the decorating starts Oct 1st. We get tons of people walking up and down our street the entire month just to check out the yards. On Halloween night we get around 3000 kids trick-or-treating (this is not an exaggeration, we have counted). Needless to say, each kid gets ONE piece of candy from us, no handfuls. We ran out of candy at 8:45 this year, we started at 5. And there were still kids coming.

But here is our yard this year!!! The Haunted Luau!!!

I wanted it to be a little "scarier" but it gets expensive. G and I made the tiki's ourselves. He fabricated the form out of plywood and aluminum heating ducts and then I painted each one. I think they turned out great. Our yard looked really good when it was dark and our red lights were on and the tiki torches were lit.

And to go along with our yard, I was a hula girl and G (whom I don't have a pic of was a tourist with a "pig roast" on his head). I think we really made our yard.

Weigh-in Wednesday 2

2010-10-27T22:27:00.000-04:00

I almost forgot to do my post!! Not that it's anything special, but just trying to keep it up.

I am starting to get confused about the numbers from week to week. I can't remember exactly where I am. But I am down a total of 7.6 from my start weight. I am not to discouraged that I am not more down from last week because I kind of got off the wagon this past weekend with WW and keeping points. I think I already explained it in my post on monday. But I am back on it and doing well.

I am starting to make more "every-day" healthy decisions. Trying to remember my ultimate goal and making good choices. I have had to force myself a few times to do the workouts, but defintiely feel better after I do them.

I can see changes... well at least I think I see them. Time will tell when I take measurements in 2 weeks. I have over half way done with the BBL and totally curious to see the difference at the end.

New 'do!!!

2010-10-26T17:00:00.000-04:00

This is major people.

Here is my before...

And the after .....

DARK HAIR AND BANGS!!!

My hair has never been this dark before. And the last time I had bangs I cried because it was so bad. But this time I love it!!! It's actually a little darker than this picture, but will fade over the next several weeks. So I will have to go back soon so the rich color stays. .

what do you think?

Andi's Healthy Advice

2010-10-26T08:34:00.000-04:00

I totally forgot to post this yesterday.. but here you go!!

Trying to get a workout in, but you're crunched for time? This week's tips are all about saving time!

If you're short on time to exercise, try doing compound exercises utilizing your upper & lower body at the same time. For example, do lunges with bicep curls, squats with overhead press, calf raises with tricep extensions. Boom!! You just worked two major muscles groups at the same time! You can also invest in small hand weights to carry and/or ankle weights to add intensity to a power walk!

Something else I do is work in "little exercises" at the strangest of times. ;) While brushing your teeth, applying face lotion, or maybe even while applying make-up (not eye make-up though!)...stand in ballet stance (thighs together, heels touching, toes turned outward where feet form a V shape) & squeeze & contract your butt muscles! I know it seems silly, but why not get in a little strength training when you'd otherwise just stand there? Work on tightening your tush! Think of everyday tasks you do in which you could be doubling up your use of time. Here are some more examples:

*While rinsing or washing dishes, do calf raises to tone your legs. You can also do small controlled side & back leg lifts to tone your thighs & butt.

*While sitting on a swivel chair at work...once an hour take 60 seconds to plant your feet & twist your torso back & forth. If you can do it once every 30 minutes, even better!

*Another reminder to keep hand weights within eyesight of your couch, so when you're watching TV you can do bicep curls, straight arm extensions, etc. Heck, you can even sit on the edge of your seat, weights in hands...stand up & sit down to tone your thighs. You still get to watch your favorite shows, you're just making better use of your time!

*While driving in your car, suck in your stomach & tighten those abs. Hold for a 10 second count & release. (You can still breath while holding in your stomach!) Start at 10 second intervals & build up to 20, 30, and so on!

*Another absolute tried & true favorite of mine is wall push-ups! I remember to do this about 75% of the time when I take a restroom break at work. Before I walk out the door, I stand about 3-4 feet from the wall, & while keeping my back aligned & straight as possible, I max out on doing push-ups against the wall. Typically I'll do 20-30, but if I'm having a really stressful day...it feels great to push for 40+! Helps relieve tension. Of course, this doesn't have to be done in a bathroom! :)

Lack of time is a very common excuse people give for not exercising. When you are dedicated to making a change in your life, you make the time for change. The tips I've given today are meant to encourage you to be creative & think of ways you can fit exercise into your daily lives. Even on the busiest of days...a little bit of exercise here & there like the examples I've given above are better than doing nothing at all.

Enjoy your week!

Andi Ramser

Beachbody Coach

http://teambeachbody.com/rockchick1

http://myshakeology.com/rockchick1

2010-10-25T23:00:00.000-04:00

I have been slacking lately.. apparently on everything. Well, maybe slacking isnt the word, but more preoccupied with other priorities. So, apologies for the lack of posts in the last several days.

Along with not blogging, I have also been a little lax on the eating healthy and the exercising. Here's a recap...

Friday- took a half day to clean house then got my hair cut (stay tuned for new pics). So I didn't get a chance to do my BBL that day. But 4 hours of dusting, vacuuming and moping count for physical activity.
Saturday- 1 mile walk in the morning, clean house, cook food and get ready for party we had on saturday night. Again, no real time to do any workout.
Sunday - I actually did 2 videos!!! the Sculpt and the Cardio Axe. So glad I pulled myself off the couch and did these workouts. Definitely helped with the hangover and made me feel some what productive for the day.
Monday- It's my birthday, enough said.

These past 4 days I have been pretty bad with the WW too. I definitely haven't tracked in a few days. I don't think it was too bad, but definitely not great. Friday I had a huge meal once G got back in town. Saturday I basically didn't eat anything all day (whooops!) until that night when we grilled out (burgers, roasted potatoes, veggies, salad) and had cake!!! Sunday I didn't really eat much, but it wasn't good-- chips and queso and a slice of cake, dinner included chicken, potatoes and rice, plus more cake. Today wasn't that bad, salad for lunch with grilled chicken, lots of water, ahi poke (yum!) and a baked potato. But I had some cupcakes. ACK! I have to get the cake out of the house.

I am back on it tomorrow. I need to get back on track with the eating and the working out if I plan to lose 10 lbs by Xmas and keep it off!!!!! (that's the ultimate goal).

Stay tuned for new hair pics!

2010-10-21T23:19:00.000-04:00

Starting intense work outs at 8:30 at night is not really a good idea.

Just did three BBL videos totaling an hour and forty minutes. Mostly all strength training. I'm tired but awake. Laying here with the lights off hoping to fall asleep fast. Yet updating my blog from my phone.

So note: Just like you shouldn't eat after 7 ( or 2 hours before going to bed), don't do heavy workouts starting at 8:30.

Hope I fall asleep soon

Weigh-in Wednesday

2010-10-20T16:26:00.000-04:00

I decided that since my sister and I were doing our weekly Weight Watchers (WW) weigh-ins on wednesdays, that it would be a good idea to give an update on the 'ol blog about the last few weeks.

I am currently down a total of 7.4 pounds from my ultimate* start weight!!!! I am thrilled. I am just 2.6 lbs away from my "goal" weight and still have until Xmas to get there. WW is hard to say the least. I don't get a lot of points to begin with because of my height and my activity during the day (I sit at a desk for 8 hours), so I have to choose my "points" wisely. And I will say, all I really want is a big greasy cheeseburger, with french fries (oh how i LOVE potatoes) and a REAL coke. YUM! But I am doing pretty good at resisting any unhealthy temptations. I will admit to not exactly following my points on 2 nights because we were going to a cookout and I had a few beers. But all in all, I think I am doing pretty good.

The Brazil Butt Lift (BLL) is going good too! I have done a total of 8 days thus far, and after today, I will be half way done with my 2nd week. Some of the moves are totally hard, and I have to take breaks, but I am really liking the ab workout and even getting the steps down in the "dance" video (Cardio Axe). Last week I had to miss wednesday because we had dinner with our neighbors. So I made that an off day, and just pushed everything back a day.

I feel that my body is getting leaner and tighter, although the measuring tape says otherwise. I am not going to fret to much over it (yet) and keep on plugging away. I am hoping by the 4th week of the BBL I will have a noticeable difference and be able to have an "after" pic.

So that's the deal so far. Wish me luck for the next several weeks!

*The weight I have been for the past several months. Not the exact weight I was when starting WW.

Random Thoughts

2010-10-19T21:20:00.000-04:00

1. I want to figure out my next steps with running. I thoroughly enjoy running races, but I can't say that I truly enjoy running. If I have a goal, then I am all about following the schedule to complete the task. But I just can't wrap my head around running to just run. And I have to admit, I am little jealous of all these running blogs I read where these wonderful women are out running full marathons! I guess I just wish I enjoyed it more. I am definitely not a runner. It's frustrating.

2. Anyone work out at 6 am? I tried to get up early this morning and get my workout over with, so that I would have more time in the evening to get all this stuff done.. yeah..... that didn't happen. I just feel like I have a ton of stuff to do lately, and having to take an hour out of my already short evening just kind of sucks. While I like working out, most of the time, it is totally time consuming and sucks!

3. We are still looking for a bed. I was completely SOLD on the West Elm bed from my previous post. However, when speaking with my "all-knowing" mother, she kind of suggested I wouldn't like it in a few years, and would find it hard to match with things. So now, G kind of agrees and wants a wood bed. Searching for a good quality, solid wood bed is HARD! They all start to look the same. I found a few the other day for G to look at, but he is going to have to decide.

4. And on that note.. I am in a desperate need to decorate. I know I have talked about this before. But seriously. I get crate and barrel and pottery barn magazines. I am in complete awe of homes that have been complete gutted and redone to a modern, yet comfy flair. I am in love with all things west elm. But have NO idea what I am doing. I need someone to come in and just decorate for me. Make it look cool.

5. UGH! could I complain some more.?!?!?

Birthdays

2010-10-19T09:00:00.001-04:00

My birthday is a week from today. Kind of weird that I am going to be 28. I remember when 28 seemed OLD! haha. Now, I still feel like I could go back to college! (well maybe not). And what is so crazy about this birthday is that I have nothing that I want. Usually I have at least one thing I am asking for, but this year, I dunno, nothing really comes to mind. I guess that's a good thing. Meaning, I am pretty content in everything I "have" right now. But it does become a little difficult when people ask, aka my mom! I guess what I want is just to see my friends and family.

I love birthdays. Doesnt matter if it is mine or not. I just love to celebrate them. One day out of the whole year, that is just for you. Your day. If I know it, I will try to do my best to make sure you have a wonderful day. If not on the exact day, at least celebrate it one day close. I just like that its a special day for you (or whoever). I think I like birthdays more than holidays.

This year we are having a bunch of friends over on Saturday night to hang out, grill some food, carve some pumpkins, maybe play some cornhole. I can't wait to see everyone and just have a relaxing night with our good friends.

I had a whole point to this blog post, and now it's kind of gone wonky. Just know birthdays are the best!!!

What do you ask for for your special day?

New Feature!

2010-10-18T09:29:00.000-04:00

I have decided to add a new feature to my blog. Every monday, there are going to be fitness and healthy living tips from my Beachbody Coach Andi. This will be "Andi's Healthy Advice".

Here is a little bit about Andi:

I'm Andi. I work as a Senior Media Buyer at an advertising agency. I'm also the lead singer in a rock band called Point1Zero, and it is a blast! I'm happily married to my super cute loving husband and have three amazing stepkids. In my spare time, I play competitive volleyball, coach my stepdaughter's volleyball team, write music, run, and oh...I love to buy shoes. :)

When it comes to fitness, I NEED to work out 4-5 times a week. If I skip too many days, I start to feel lazy and groggy. Exercising your body releases those natural endorphins that make you feel great! Staying fit and healthy is about so much more than just looking good. It's also about being able to get around and do the things you love for the rest of your life as well as feeling awesome about yourself from the inside out! You have one body in this lifetime, and it is your personal responsibility to take care of it if you are well and able.

And her story:
Soon after turning 30 I began to realize that exercise alone wasn't cutting it anymore. Instead of maintaining I started gaining weight, because I wasn't eating right. I read a book about whipping yourself into shape back in Dec. 2007 that would forever change the way I eat. I was deeply affected by what I read in that book! I had my last steak on January 17, 2008 and never looked back. Since that date I haven't had a single bite of beef, pork, turkey, or chicken. I educated myself on all of the amazing veggie and soy products on the market and began incorporating more salads/fruits/vegetables into my diet. I was maintaining my weight at that point, but more importantly after a few months...I started to feel lighter and feel so much better overall. I still wasn't getting the toned body I wanted though, because I wasn't pushing myself physically. Then...in the summer of 2009, I was in a conversation in which the term "P90X" was introduced to me for the first time. My curiosity grew as they talked about people they knew that completed the program and how unbelievable they looked. I honestly thought I had reached an age where I was past my prime and had to accept I couldn't look the way I wanted. There were those stubborn 5+ pounds that would never go away. Well, P90X changed that dooming idea! After completing the program, I had lost 8 pounds and looked better than I did in my 20's! I truly believe in P90X, which is why I've become so interested in Beachbody as a company overall. They have amazing products that can change and improve people's lives, and I've decided I want to be a part of that!

So please welcome Andi!!!

(Andi is not a trained professional, but gives her advice based on her personal experience through using P90X and other Beachbody programs. If you have any questions for her, please respond to these posts and she'll be sure to answer all your questions!)

New Bedroom!!!

2010-10-15T14:07:00.000-04:00

G and I have decided we are in desperate need of a new bed. Well, this decision was made quite a while ago when our current bed frame warped (from being CHEAP! and not put together correctly ....). So probably a year ago, we ended up putting our mattress and boxsprings on the floor, with the CHEAP bedframe around it (so it wasn't totally ghetto ;) )

And well, that only is OK for a while. So we have talked about needing an actual bed frame for a long time. And most recently we got a new Tempurpedic mattress. G is totally sold on this concept, me? I haven't slept any better, but it's what he likes. So now, we are using a regular box spring (because our stairwell wouldnt allow us to get the Tempurpedic boxspring up the stairs, way too narrow - and did you know the Tempurpedic boxspring is just like plywood?! crazy!) with our tempurpedic mattress, that is all on the floor.

Last weekend, we went out on our first official furniture shopping day.. Oh, let me also say that, basically everything in our house was either a hand-me-down, furniture from college, used furniture from friends (or craigslist purchase) or nice pieces my grandfather made. We have not really bought any NEW furniture for ourselves (well minus the bookcases I just bought from Crate & Barrel). This was/is going to be our first BIG purchase. We originally thought we wanted a nice solid wood, platform bed (for our tempurpedic). I figured that if I was going to buy a bed, I didn't want to by junk, but have a nice piece of furniture (and actually get side tables and dressers to go with it).

But then today, I came across this from West Elm!!!

upholstered bed

And I just love it! And I even love the paint colors on the walls. I am completely inspired, and hope that this is what we get. I sent the pics to G and he really liked it too. And while its not wood, I think the gray color will leave us wide open to lots of different options in the future.

I also found a ton more on West Elm that I'd really like to have as well... shopping spree anyone?

Do you love it!?

Mad, Angry, Hurt, Confused today.

2010-10-14T11:52:00.000-04:00

Sometimes I wish my blog was completely anonymous.
That anyone who read it didn't know me in real life.
Sometimes I just want to vent and get opinions on whether my feelings are accurate and OK or if I am a totally looney tune!

But I can't.

I fear of hurting others with my feelings.
So I don't post about them.
And they get bottled up because, frankly, my husband doesn't need to hear me whining all the time.
So I try to let them go and not say anything.
Maybe it makes me a push-over in the end, I don't know.

Whistler

2010-10-13T16:12:00.000-04:00

In trying to keep this blog light, and have a sense of variety.. I must vent a little.

I work with a "whistler". What's a whistler? It is someone who whistle's non-stop to various tunes through out the day. All of the tunes are annoying songs that get stuck in your head and won't go away.

Let me give you some background...

I work in a VERY quiet office. Meaning, there could be hours where not a word is said between anyone. No music. Nothing. It's all very strange in and of it's self, but that's a whole other post. But, since our office is so quiet, you can hear people a mile away... (let me tell you there are 13 people in the office.. two in the same room as me).

But the whistler is in the other room!! And it goes on ALL day if there is nothing to be discussed work wise. I am not even sure he is aware that he's doing it. And let me also say that, I can tolerate a lot of "stuff". I live with a person (love you G!) that can't sit still for a minute. He constantly has a foot shakin' or singin' or even whistling! And I know sometimes it's totally involuntary, his mouth just has to be moving. So while I can put up with a lot of "noise", this drives me insane!! Everyday I just want to shout out "SHUT YOUR PIE HOLE WHISTLER!!" Not that I wouldn't prefer our office to have a little more noise, but whistling ain't it.

I think its just that it's soo quiet, and that's the only noise, and they are songs you don't ever want in your head. Today I think I even heard a xmas tune! Really?!?

body issues?

2010-10-12T16:01:00.000-04:00

I am starting to realize after my last few posts, that it seems like I have a major body issue. (and who doesn't really?). But it seems as though I am obsessed. I don't know if I can clearly state that. But blogging seems like a place I get vent a little bit. My husband G is definitely sick of hearing about workout programs, how to eat right, why I want to lose weight, etc etc. And I am sure you, my fellow (but few) readers are probably sick of it too.

Som I am going to try, from here on out, to by more conscious of my words and how I am portraying myself. Yes, I want to shed a few pounds. Yes, I am trying to make better eating choices. Yes, I am doing extreme* workouts to get into shape. But I don't want to make it seem like I am totally unhappy with myself. I am just trying to take steps to a healthier me!

I have plenty of other things going on in my life to talk about (I think). So I will work on being a better blogger. I am hoping to try out some new, yummy recipes soon, so stop back by for reviews.

I hope you continue to read. And ask questions, pass along posts you find interesting, whatever.

* in some people's mind

Inspiration

2010-10-11T16:51:00.000-04:00

I have found my inspiration..

Minka Kelly: Esquire's Sexiest Woman Alive

Yes. I will look like this.

Bum Bum!

2010-10-10T22:07:00.000-04:00

I received my Brazil Butt Lift DVD's on friday!!! I read through all of the material and decided I was going to do a video on saturday.

So I picked out the plan I was going to do and did the first DVD, Bum Bum, bright and early on Saturday morning. I had watched the basic video first just to learn some of the moves. Then, I started the first routine. And before I go any further, let me just tell you, the instructor, Leandro Carvalho is an interesting character. It's a little hard to take him seriously.

Anyway, the workout was 25 min and was HARD! I was not expecting to be so worn out so quickly. I mean I think I am in OK shape, but I was out of breath in like 5 min! The workout goes from one move to the next without stopping. I am sure my endurance is going to improve over time, as well as getting a good strength work out. I had to stop a few times and catch my breath and get some water. Even having to get a graham cracker so i wouldn't pass out! haha.

All in all, a good workout that I hope I will improve upon.

And just to prove that it will definitely make you sweat, here is a pic of me after.

lovely, eh?

This is 25 min people! No retouching done! I like sweating though, makes me feel like I am really working.

So the plan is to actually "start" the program tomorrow. It's a 4 week deal. And I will keep you updated with my progress. Wish me luck!!

Getting off my lazy ass

2010-10-08T10:00:00.001-04:00

Last night, I finally did some exercise after almost a 3 week hiatus. And it was tough.

Like I said the other day, I ordered my Brazil Butt Lift from Beach body and am currently awaiting the arrival of the DVD's. I had all but planned just to wait until my DVD's arrived before starting to do any physical activity. But my coach A sent me an email that told me to get crackin'. She suggested I bust out one of my P90X videos and do that to get my body started on its way to hottness (not in those words).

So, tonight I brought out Core Synergistics. I figured this was a pretty cardio intensive workout that also incorporated some strength moves. Plus, working on core which is definitely my "weak" area. I haven't done a P90X video since May (I think). And though I remembered the moves, I was suprised at how weak I have become. I guess it shouldnt really surprise me since I haven't done any strength training for about 6 months now, but I definitely had to stop a few times and catch my breath. Also at one point, I was feeling pretty light-headed. So, I got myself a graham cracker. (I guess this means I need to up my calories intake on days I am going to be doing a hard workout).

I am happy that I did it and looking forward to my DVD's coming. So far, I am down 2.6 pounds from when I started WW. YAY! I am hoping to keep it up even when I start my new workouts. I just have to be sure not to over eat but to make sure I get enough calories.

Breakfast and High Heels

2010-10-07T22:57:00.000-04:00

I have never been one to be a breakfast eater. Over the past 20-some-odd years of my life, I have gone through stages of eating breakfast and not eating it. In all reality, breakfast food isn't really my favorite. Unless I get to have an egg every morning, nothing else is really appealing.

But now, with starting WW and trying to eat the way I am "supposed" to, I find that I have to start eating breakfast. But it's such a struggle to pick something out. At one point it was everything bagels with goat cheese. Or a banana. Or a Clif bar. And another thing, with WW I only have so many points, so I would rather "save" them for meals that I enjoy so much more.

But here are some benefits to eating a healthy (containing protein and/or whole grains) breakfast:

• it give you energy to start a new day,
• weight control (studies have shown that breakfast eaters tend to weigh less than breakfast skippers)
- reduces hunger throughout the day
- eating b-fast is part of a healthy lifestyle that includes making wise food choices and balancing calories with exercise.
• A more nutritionally complete diet, higher in nutrients, vitamins and minerals
• Improved concentration and performance in the classroom or the boardroom
• More strength and endurance to engage in physical activity
• Lower cholesterol levels
• Eating eggs may be one of the best ways to get your morning protein

So what does one eat with limited time?

sorry for the bad, upside down pic.

On another topic all together. Please look at my recent shoe purchase.

These beauties are 4 inch, patent "leather" pumps from Target. I think they are awesome. (and they kind of kill my feet)

Brazil Butt Lift!!

2010-10-06T21:28:00.000-04:00

I have bit the bullet and ordered the Brazil Butt Lift DVD set from beachbody. Like I said in my last post, my friend A is a new Beachbody coach and said she has done this DVD and really enjoyed it. I figued I would give it a go around for a few reasons:

1. My butt could definitely use a work out. my pants have been getting tighter over the past year
2. It does more than just work your butt. I will work your abs and everything else too!
3. It's 4 weeks. I think a good way to get back into work out mode
4. The videos are relatively short.

I am excited to start this program. And with following my weight watchers, I am hopeful for a good start to a new me! (isn't that so cliche). I will try to do reviews on the DVDs once I get them and try them out. And if my numbers show something, I'll definitely post my progress!

Look out world.. I'm gonna have this kind of behind!

What's Happening Here

2010-10-04T22:40:00.000-04:00

So I'm on it again. I am on a mission to loose some pounds. (Aren't all girls thought?? It's sad really) But honestly, I have slowly gained weight over the last several years, and I am sure it is mostly due to my metabolism slowing down with age. I am nearing that dreadful age of 30 and your body just isn't going to be what it was at 21. But none the less, the weight bugs me, especially on my 5'4" frame. And don't get me wrong, I am not over weight, I would just like to be happier about my body image (and my current clothes to fit better).

So as of last week I started weight watchers. I have done WW before a few years ago and was pretty successful, so that's what I have decided to do. And to keep myself on track, my wonderful sister S has decided to do it with me. Our ultimate goal is 10lbs by Xmas. That gives us 3 months. TOTALLY doable. WW can be hard, especially living with my hubby who out weighs me by 70 lbs and is a good 10" taller. (he needs a lot more calories, considering he is on his feet all day and I am in an office chair). Plus, another way to hold myself accountable is to track my progress on my blog. I am still figuring out how I want to do this though. Whether it's tracking my daily eats (which could get old really fast) or just doing a once a week post updates like I did at the beginning of the year with my 1/2 marathon training.

Another thing that is going on around here is my good friend, A has just become a beachbody coach. And since I have done P90X before I am enlisting her help in my fitness routine. I am just looking for some new ideas of how to keep up with my exercise. I am feeling REALLY lazy these days since we got back from vacation. I haven't ran or worked out once. I need to get on it. But in all honesty, I have been catching up with my home business and really haven't had time.

So, my blog will take a fitness/health turn with random postings about other events and happenings. I hope you stick around as I could use some encouragment through out my journey.

Welcome.

I'm BACK!!

2010-10-01T16:26:00.000-04:00

Wow it's been a long time. I hadn't really realized that I had not done a post since the beginning of September. I sort of thought it was like a week before I left... oops! Oh well. I am back.
Are you still there?

For a little recap:
We finished the 1/2 marathon in beautiful Maui Hawaii. Starting at 5:30 AM, we heading out along the coast line. Running 6.5 one way, and then turning around and running the same trek back. All in all, an OK run. The weather was pretty nice. A little sticky, but nothing compared to what we ran this summer. The course was flat, which is good, but a downhill is always nice. We ran the majority of the time. Stopping mostly to take pictures, drink water, and rest the legs (and one potty break for G). We ended up finishing about 2 min shy of the race we did in April. I am OK with that, although I had wished to improve on our time. But for our sake, we were a bit injured and not knowing the course throws me off. Here are some images.

start of race

having fun running

almost half way

views from the run

quick photo break

our final time

hot, sweat and DONE

So now I am in the process of deciding what I want to do next in my running career. I have basically not ran since the race almost 2 weeks ago. I know I would like to keep running in my exercise routine, but I have to figure out where it fits in. I would love to get faster, and break the 10 min mile that I seem to keep. I am just not sure how to do it. And I am deciding whether to do the April 1/2 again here at home. I like racing but training can be draining... decisions decisions.

Other decisions include the rest of my work out routine. I do really well with "time frame" workouts.. Meaning, P90X was 90 days or training was 16 weeks. I like the start and finish of it all. But it leaves me lost when the time is over. I am currently not a member of a gym since it keeps me away from home and my hubby isnt really a gym goer. I may do the 30 Day Shred again or may start P90X again. But I would really love to get into a routine where I can keep it up long past 90 days (or whatever). A few years ago I belonged to the YMCA. And it was great, I would go there after work and spend about an hour doing various things, either classes (hello body pump!) or free weights and treadmills, or even yoga. There was just so much at my disposal. And I also parked in the lot for work across the street which made it VERY convenient. But now I struggle. Tips are welcomed.

So those are 2 things on my mind. I have PLENTY more and hopefully will be able to take my blog into a more entertaining and constant realm. I am inspired by the blogs I read and I hope to inspire others from mine.

More to come in the following days about where I am wanting to take my bloggy!!

Hiatus

2010-09-07T16:02:00.002-04:00

As you can tell, I am on a blogging hiatus until I figure out what I want my blog to be. (and when life slows down a bit.)

The race is in 12 days so I'm gearing up and mentally preparing. Wish me luck

And I'll be back soon

Not injured...

2010-08-25T16:17:00.000-04:00

Went to the docitity doctor today to get checked up on what is going on with my leg pain. Like I said in a previous post, I have had some extreme pain in my left leg starting at my foot and growing up through my calf.. and then sometimes my knee hurts and sometimes my hip hurts. Last week, when I finally decided to make the appointment, I was in a lot of pain, kind of limping around when I walked...much less ran on it.

But like all doctors, it took them a week before they could fit me in. In that week, I took off a couple days but still continued to run. And by yesterday, on my 4 mile non-stop (except for crossing streets) run, it was starting to feel better. But I decided to keep the appointment just in case.

So I went in today, letting them know that I thought the main cause of the pain was starting in my foot... with my bunyon (which by the way, is a gross word... can't "they" name it something else?). I have been having to really stretch out my calves and my toes... Yoga Toes are my best friend sometimes (I actually have the generic from Walgreen's). So the doc examined, asked a lot of questions, even took X-rays.

And nothing.. well, that he could easily diagnos. He told me to go to this other running shoe place in town and have the owner, who knows anything and everything about feet and running to look at my shoes and let me know if I need to get a different pair. If he doesn't think there is anything wrong with the shoes I have (and have been "fitted" for multiple times) then I should call back and talk to the foot and ankle specialist.

I am glad it's nothing serious, and I can still run... but I am a little disappointed, because in all honesty, my foot still hurts. I hope it goes away. I don't want to have to buy another pair of shoes when I just got the ones I am using now. But I guess that is a better alternative than not running or something else.

Recipe Review

2010-08-24T09:13:00.000-04:00

So finally, I got to cook out of one of my new cookbooks that I bought last week. Saturday morning G and I got up early and went to the Farmer's Market to buy fresh, organic veggies and then we finally went to the grocery on Sunday for everything else. So, last night night I busted out the "Cook Yourself Skinny" cookbook and tried the Chicken and Bean Burritos with Pineapple Salsa.

And let me just say... it was pretty good! It kind of took forever to make though (I am not so sure the "in minutes" part on the cover of the book is accurate). And I was even trying to make everything at once to make the process go faster.

But in the end, the burritos were light, flavorful and yummy! And best of all, G liked them too. Sometimes the healthy recipes can taste a little flat, probably because we are so used to so much salt in our meals, but with the pineapple and red onion mixed together there was really a little suprise there.

I would suggest trying out this recipe, and maybe even have it for friends... since it's kind of a "make your own burrito" with the specific ingredients.

Here's the recipe if you don't feel like making the jump:

Serves 4
Calories per serving, chicken and bean burritos: 436
Calories per serving, pineapple salsa: 28

For the chicken and bean burritos
1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels, thawed and drained, if frozen
1 15 1/2-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon minced fresh jalapeño (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
3/4 pound bone-in, skin-on split chicken breasts
3 peppercorns
1 carrot, sliced

1 bay leaf
3 medium tomatoes (2 quartered, 1 diced)
1 white onion, quartered
6 garlic cloves
1 1/2 teaspoons vegetable oil
4 medium flour tortillas
1/4 cup shredded low-fat cheddar
1/4 cup shredded iceberg lettuce

For the pineapple salsa
1 cup ripe pineapple, chopped
1/4 cup red onions, chopped
1/4 cup roasted red bell pepper, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

1. Heat a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the corn and cook, shaking the pan occasionally, until browned, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a medium bowl. Add beans, cilantro, lime, jalapeño, salt and cayenne, and stir until well mixed; set aside.

2. Put the chicken, peppercorns, carrot, bay leaf and 3 of the garlic cloves in a large saucepan, and add enough water to cover by 2 inches. Bring to a boil, and then simmer over medium heat until cooked through, about 25 minutes. Let cool slightly in the broth. Remove the chicken from the broth, and remove the skin and bones. Shred the chicken into small pieces, and return the meat to the broth.

3. Put the quartered tomatoes, onion and garlic in a blender and blend until smooth. Heat the oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tomato mixture and cook, stirring until thickened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the shredded chicken to the tomato mixture. Stir until well mixed.

4. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Warm the tortillas, one at a time, until pliable, about 1 minute. Divide the cheese, lettuce, diced tomato, bean mixture and chicken with its sauce among the tortillas, spreading the ingredients in a line down the center. Fold in the top and bottom, and then roll in the sides. Serve immediately.

5. To make the pineapple salsa: Place all the ingredients in a bowl and mix together. Set aside.

*I have not been paid to advertise Cook Yourself Skinny or any of the recipes in the book. I am merely giving my review based on trying it at home and sharing with others

North East Touring

2010-08-20T10:02:00.000-04:00

G and I have talked a few times about wanting to go up to the northeast and tour around. Nothing particularly planned, but just to see the scenery. I have never really been up to the northeast except to go to NYC a couple of years ago. But I would really love to see that part of the country.

We are thinking about maybe going on a driving trip this fall to see the colors. I just love the fall time with the changing leaves and crisp air, so why not go and visit some of the most beautiful places this time of year? I'd even love to get all the way to Cape Cod.

I am just not sure where to go and what to see. Plus, we would like to bring big dog, Charlie with us, so we would have to find pet friendly hotels or bed & breakfasts.

Does anyone have any suggestions on a good driving route? or pet friendly "tour"... nothing organized with a group or anything, but a list of places to see and things to do?

Cookbooks!

2010-08-20T09:00:00.000-04:00

I have recently bought 2 new cookbooks that I am really excited about.

This first one has 500!! healthy recipes. The images in the inside were so inticing that I HAD to buy the book. Everything just looked soo yummy. You guy buy it at Amazon too!

This is the second. Cook Yourself Thin. Not only is this a cookbook, but it also includes a shopping list and a good discription of what the purpose of the book is... to be able to eat your favorite dishes, but making substitutions for a healthier way to eat it! Can be found here

I can't wait to try out EVERY recipe in each one. Ya'll know I am on a kick where I want to be uber-healthy, and I think having these 2 cookbooks at my immediate disposal is a definite PLUS.

Now I just gotta get to the store to get some yummy ingredients.

I'll let you know how it goes (and hopefully be able to give some reviews on various dishes)

Injury

2010-08-19T09:00:00.000-04:00

To give an update:

My running training is still going strong. I must admit though, we have maybe missed one run a week for the past several weeks. BUT! due to good reason - life, weather, pain.. etc.

This past saturday, G and I did a 10 mile run. We probably only ended up running about 8 out of the ten, but we were at least out there getting it done. We had to stop a few times and stretch. G had to stop once, just to sit down and let his legs recover a bit. Plus, stopping for water breaks and waiting at cross walks. We both felt pretty good on the run. G and I both have had some leg pain over the past few weeks, but saturday we felt pretty good (I think it was taking a few days off before the long on saturday).

Speaking of injury though, it might be time to see the doctor. As much as I don't want to go because I don't want him to tell me the worst (not being able to do the race), I feel that it is better to go so that I don't cause any serious damage. And it may be nothing (cross your fingers), that a few days off can't fix.

Back when the pain started, I attributed it to old shoes and inserts. So, I have replaced both, and while it was better for a while, it seems to have come back. Basically, it feels like I am running up hill the whole time because of the tightness in my calf. Self-diagnostically, I think it has to with my foot - either torn muscle or bunyon issues. But the pain starts in my foot, up through my arch and into my calf.. and on the worst days, up to my hip. I try to run on it as long as possible and just ignore the pain, but if I stop and start again, it just gets worse.

So to the doctor I go, next wednesday. Cross your fingers and pray real hard that its only minor. I will be VERY disappointed if it prevents me from doing the race.

Where does the time go?

2010-08-18T13:48:00.000-04:00

I am a horrible blogger. I started this blog as a way to get some things off my chest, and also talk about anything and everything I felt was worthy of typing.

It started out all good.. but now things have kind of gone down hill. I wish my life was more interesting to write about. Or that I was able to tell these hilarious stories about every day activities. But unfortunately, that is not how my life works. boo.

I am selfish enough, and self aware enough to know that I want more followers and more commentors. But how do you get those, probably by writing more appealing material. I need to work on it. And I'm going to. I want to. I want to make this something I enjoy doing and look forward to doing. Rather than something that I struggle with trying to find a topic each day.

So bear with me while I get back on track to better blogging.

(does this all sound familiar???)

Nesting...

2010-08-12T11:01:00.000-04:00

I want to nest.

G has lived in our house for 3.5 years, and I have lived there 2.5 years. The only room that is "semi" done is our never used dining room. There is so much that I want to do with the house, but am currently in a limbo state of decorating.

See there is a chance we won't be there much longer. So I dont want to put in all this time, effort and money decorating a house that we will more than likely move out of. But I am definitely at that stage, where i want it to feel warm and cozy and not just a place we sleep in. Catch my drift?

I keep looking at furniture on the internet, and almost hit the "buy" button, but then remind myself, that it may not fit with in a new home (because or current place of residence is so awkward and furniture has to be bought specfically). And G asked me the other day why I hadn't printed out our wedding pictures and put them in frames.. I'm like HELLO! we have no shelves to put them on..

Needless to say I want to decorate our house in a more suitable fashion. I just hope I get to soon. But until then I'll just lust after the following...


Sloane Mahogany bookcases from Crate & Barrel


Pottery Barn type gallery wall... I LOVE this


Chloe Velvet Metro Living Chair from Macy's (in Ivory)


And a bed that is off the floor.. PB

Amongst MANY other things.

How is it...

2010-08-09T22:03:00.000-04:00

- that I can go out for a nine mile run on saturday, and struggle with a 3 mile run on monday
- that my knee can hurt me all day, but then on said run, its ok, its other parts of my leg that hurt
- that I can run 5 miles a week and never loose 1 lb.
- that my "to-do" list never gets shorter
- that my 100 lb lab just now started chewing on a bone I gave him 3 days ago
- that everyone I know seems to be having kids
- that I am in my late 20s
- that I can never find worthy blog topics, but could read useless information about other people all day
- that I never have enough clothes but can purge like there is no tomorrow
- that there is never any thing to eat in the fridge
- that i am where I am
- that i have a lot of creative ideas but would rather sleep my free time away
- that i am always tired
- that I have managed to surround myself with wonderful friends (even if they dont live so close)
- that I don't live near a beach

????

What to say..

2010-08-04T19:29:00.000-04:00

It's amazing to me how I can quit something so easily. Does this ever happen to you? You start a project, feeling very confident that you will be able to keep up wih the task and BOOM! you have failed. UGH. It happens to me a lot and it's frustrating.

I have every intention of keeping my word and being good about the promise to myself. But in reality, I let myself down a lot and get disappointed.

I have gone back to "crap" eating this week. I am still trying to not snack on bad stuff through out the day.. or make daily trips to the Walgreens (to save on money too) and I have been semi successful. But I definitely haven't been tracking everything I eat, like I planned. This whole loose 5 lbs thing is hard. And maybe it's because I have never "had" to diet so I dont really know what to do, or how to be committed. And it's not like I "have" to now, but more of a want to be healthier in my food choices. (But geez if a McD's coke isn't exactly what you need sometimes).

Like I have said a million times, I wish I had a live in chef that would make me all these delicious, 0 calorie meals, then I wouldnt have to worry about what's on the label.

And what's up with your body changing when you are nearing 30?!? I mean I am still over 2 years off, but things are definitely not the same as they were last year, and I have trained/training for two 1/2 marathons this year! I run 5 days a week dammit!! Shouldn't something be shrinking?!?

Sorry, it's a bitch-fest over here. I am just frustrated. But I am going to see my doc next week and going to ask about my BC. I think it's making me gain weight.. seriously.. i know that's probably not a true fact, but my body feels different, even in the last few months.. hopefully I can work this out.

Happy Wednesday. Hopefully I will have a happier post tomorrow (if anyone has even read this far)

Fitting it all in.

2010-08-02T10:00:00.001-04:00

Do you ever have that trouble just fitting everything in?

I can't seem to make time to do it all. And I am a young, married girl with no real responsibilities! I don't understand how mom's and uber busy people can do it all.

Here's my point. We have 24 hours in a day. 8 of which we are sleeping (well I need 8 hours, it could be less for others). 8 hours we are working (in my case 9 hours, I work 8-5, but do get an hour lunch, which I go home or run a few errands). And then we have another 8 hours to do everything else. For me, one hour goes to getting up and getting ready in the morning. 1 to 2 hours goes to running in the evening. Then you gotta take in time to make dinner and eat. And usually I have to do some kind of personal work. And then all of the sudden it's 11 o'clock and time to go to bed.

I have an on-going "to-do" list and try to check as much stuff off as possible. Like this week, since G has been gone, I have tried to get as much off the list as possible, and pretty much succeeded, but there were a few things left that had to be left for another day. I would just love for there to be a day when there wasn't one thing on my to-do list. I mean, don't get me wrong, there are days when I completely avoid the to-do list. But seriously, just one day when there is NOTHING. I guess that never truely happens.

I guess part of it, is that I feel bad for leaving my dog by himself for the majority of the day. Even when I am at home, I still feel like he needs more attention, or something. He is a VERY spoiled dog, but still. I worry about when G and I decide to have kids.. am I going to have time?! Or will I feel like I have spent enough time with them? I am worried. I want to be around. I don't want to be busy...

but then again, I like be productive. So it's kind of a double edged sword.

Do you ever feel like this?

Recap.

2010-08-01T19:05:00.000-04:00

Things never end up as planned.. isn't that the way it goes?

Friday, G asked if I wanted to meet him in Chicago for a quick trip. See, G had gone to Minneapolis for work and was supposed to be there for 2 weeks (hence the time frame for my "experiment"), but he ended up deciding to come back early, and we were going to meet friday night on his way back. So, needless to say, my work out and my diet went out the window from friday on.

Since I was driving 5 hours, I ended up getting something to eat on the road, aka fast food. BLECH. Not good for the body. Then, we got up the next morning, skipped our long run and headed back home.. and stopping at cracker barrell for brunch.

Like I said, things never end up as planned. I need to regroup and start something new. I REALLY want to loose a few pounds before heading to Hawaii but it's just so hard to get started on the right path, and even harder to stay on it. I am seriously considering doing Weight Watchers again. A few years ago, when I lived by myself, and had to make all my own meals, I did weight watchers, and lost some. But like I mentioned in my previous post, it's hard to do this kind of stuff when you are feeding someone else that eats twice as much. I dunno. We'll see if it happens.

I am not too worried about missing my run on saturday. Honestly, my legs needed a break. My calves are on fire these days. But my new shoes came on friday and I can't wait to put them on tomorrow and head out for a 5 mile run. We have a month in a half till the race, and I am determined to be as prepared as I can be for it. Sometimes your body just needs a rest. I hope that everything will feel good tomorrow and I can continue on my training without pain.

Happy Sunday!

Day 4...

2010-07-29T19:02:00.000-04:00

Another day, another run.

Stats:

Ran/Walked 5 miles (part of schedule).
My calves are SERIOUSLY hurting. It has to be my shoes and the way I roll in on my heels. I mean it feels like I am running up hill the whole way. I did my best though, and I thought my energy level was good. I didn't feel exhausted, but had to walk a few times just to let my calves have a rest.
And I need to starting adding the temperature at the time of the run to the stats.. it makes a difference you know. Today it was 91º but "feels like 99º" when I started. H-O-T!

Food:
Bfast: muffin and might mango Naked Juice (these things have some serious calories, but they are soooo good).
Lunch: Spinach salad with grilled chicken, goat cheese, sundried tomatoes, garlic. balsamic vinaigrette dressing. (one of my favorite salads from a local eatery) And a glass of lemonade
Dinner: I haven't figured it out yet.
Snacks:.. no real snacks today..
WATER!

Pretty average day around here. Now off to do some more house work.

Detox, Organics and Diets.. Oh my

2010-07-29T10:00:00.000-04:00

So, I read a lot of blogs about people living these supreme healthy lifestyles. They eat the right thing, do the right work outs and are or have already seen amazing results and I just can't help but to be totally jealous of them. It makes me want to do extreme things, but alas, I guess I am to set in my ways.

I would love to be a person that can choose a salad over a cheeseburger, who would rather have a carrot than a cookie and could easily deny scaring down a whole plate of pasta. But sadly, I'm not that girl and I am completely envious of those who are.

I have gone on a detox/cleanse before. And strictly did it for the entire 10 days. It was hard and miserable and I was so happy when I could finally eat a piece of fried chicken again. (ever realize fried is one letter away from friend? coincidence? anyway...)

I have gone on a few diets, including weight watchers (which I think I did well on). And also cut out items for a period of time... no soda for a month, no french fries for a month... to see if anything "drastic" happened.

I have even tried to buy organic food, but that but that gets expensive.

I am pretty sure I know what to do. It's just a matter of doing it. And one of my biggest issues is feeding 2 people of completely different appetites. G works all day on his feet in the elements. I, on the other hand, work all day in an office staring at a computer. We have totally different needs when it comes to calorie intake and nutrition.

I just need some help. I would love for someone to come over and make my meals for 1 week, or give me a strict plan of meals to make myself. I want someone to really "teach" me what I am supposed to be doing. And how to make it feel like a lifestyle and not a "diet" or a "chore".

I dont know if anyone even reads this little ol blog, but I hope you do. And I hope you comment and give me some advice. This girl wants to be fit gosh dammit!

Day 3...

2010-07-28T22:21:00.002-04:00

Today was kind of an uneventful day. But to keep up like I promised (myself?) here are today's stats:

Eats:
Bfast- nutrigrain bar (I really need a better bfast, but lack of time or resources are my main issues)
Lunch - Subway Turkey 6" on wheat (sub of the day!), no cheese, spinach, tomato, onion, green pepper and honey mustard! plus a glass of lemonade.
Dinner - soft homemade tacos (ground beef) with a little cheese, lettuce and tomato
Snacks - grahmn crackers, Yum!
And of course water. I am really trying my hardest not to have soda. It's not like I drink a lot of it, but I at least have one a day usually. So for now, I'll stick to my lemonade and water (crosses fingers)

Workout:
Clean house! (yes, I consider this to be physical activity)
3 miles on treadmill. (Originally I was supposed to do 5 miles outside, but it was raining this evening, and by the time I got home from my cousin's house, it was pretty dark out. So, I will do my 5 tomorrow. Plus, my legs are REALLY hurting, so it was probably better to have a slower day)

News:
I bought my new shoes today!! whoo hoo. I can't wait, this leg pain is really getting annoying. I am hoping that the shoes will help that. If not, next step is new inserts. If that doesnt work, I am not sure. So cross your fingers on that too!!

New Wine Cooloer

2010-07-28T10:00:00.000-04:00

So after G and I got married, we ended up taking back some of our gifts that we decided we didn't really need. I won't go in to specifics, but we ended up having a large sum of money on a gift card to Macy's.

Recently, I bought the rest of our china bowls, so now we have a full 10 piece dinner setting for all of the fancy dinner parties we will have in the future!!

But, we still had a large sum left over too. So we decided to buy a 16 bottle wine cooler. It's made by Cuisenart. And it just arrived today! I am so pumped. Now, I just need to get some bottles to fill it. Thankfully we get a wine of the month shipment (for G for his bday) at the end of the month to start us off nicely.

Isn't she pretty!?!

Day 2...

2010-07-27T18:06:00.004-04:00

and I am still here!! :) Can you believe it?
Here are today's stats

Ran 2 miles (on schedule)
Total time: somewhere about 19.45. Hey, I never said I was fast. And I said "somewhere" because about every other run, I have some issue with my watch where I press the wrong button and things get mixed up!

It was a hot run today, as usual. But it had just rained so it was muggy too! Fantastic
Oh and I came home and did some crunches to help with core strengthing. While laying there, I decided that I think I am going to do the P90X abs after my short run days (tuesday and thursday) then switch off between an arm or a leg on friday and sunday since they are my days off.. we will see if that actually happens, but I need some strength training and toning.

Food:
Bfast- nutrigrain bar
lunch - deli sliced chicken breast on whole wheat with a thin layer of mayo (for moisture ;) ) and a lemonade. .(let's just say I dont like my lunch selections at home, and I come up 95% of the time for lunch since I work a mile from home... I need to work on this)Dinner-- not yet, but I think it will be a salad with balsamic dressing
snacks - a handful of cheezits and a few orange slices (candy)... they are in my desk, don't judge, or do..
and WATER!!! of course.

And I'll leave you with this.. While doing said crunches, this is where the big dog chose to cool off! Right on top of me. Thanks CB!!

my sneaks...

2010-07-27T10:00:00.000-04:00

So remember back in March when I got these:Bright and shiny, new running shoes. Asics GT 2150..

Well..

They have seen a better day.

(actually this pic makes them look pretty good)

I think it's time for a new pair. I am literally poking a hole through the top of the left shoe. And my legs are starting to hurt, especially my calves. So I figure, I better get some new shoes before the pain gets worse and if new shoes don't fix it, then we will dig further into the issue.

But, as I said in my previous post, I have been fitted for these shoes multiple times, so I am sticking with them. This time though, I am going to order them online. There are more color options (because that is important!!) than what you get at the local running retail store. I hate not to give the locals my business, but I think I can get a better deal, and a better look than the stark white things I began with.

What kind of shoes do you like? What are your go to running shoe?

Trying again... or something

2010-07-26T18:54:00.003-04:00

Well folks,
I have decided to set another goal.. to loose some pound-age (technical term here). I can't help but be slightly disappointed with my 2010 goal of loosing just a few pounds. I feel like I have been working my butt off since the beginning of the year... with only taking a short time off, I have pretty much worked out 4-6 days a week since Jan 1.. and for some god forsaken reason, I am not a toothpick.

So, I am giving myself 2 week to loose 5 pounds.
Why 2 weeks? I'll tell you later.
Why 5 pounds? Because it seems reasonable and doable.

So seeing as I am already training for the Maui half marathon that is in September, this is obviously my main form of exercise. Each day, I am going to hold myself accountable and loyally blog my food intake and my exercise for the next two weeks. Hopefully this will help me to achieve my goal. If not, well, then, I don't know.

But let's start off with the basics.
(* to self: Do I tell my weight? do I not?)
Let's just say I am 1XX lbs. :) haha.
I am on week 8 of a 16 week training program for a 1/2 marathon.Here is my gear. (and yes, I even took pics AFTER my run today, so don't judge on my sweatyness)
Nike Tempo Shorts-- in all honesty, they don't really fit me great.. but I wear them anyway.. I am in the middle of being a small and a medium. Smalls being a tad tight, and mediums feeling like I have a little somthing extra
Men's "wife beater" tank -- I have also come to the conclusion, these are not that great for long, HOT runs. They get bigger!! And eventually feel like they are choking me, but it's all I had today.
Watch-- to keep track of my time when running, I stop it if I stop to walk (I know I shouldnt, but it makes me feel better), or if Charlie has to pee. Id like a garmin GPS watch this year for Xmas (hint, hint)
Nathan Speed 2 water belt-- This is my favorite thing right now. Since it has been sooo hot, and there aren't a lot of water stops on my routes, this is perfect. The 2 10oz size bottles are a perfect size for me without being too heavy to carry.
Asics GT 2150 -- I have been fitted for these shoes so many times, that they are my "go to" shoe for running. Iphone/Ipod -- I ususally dont have any kind of music, but I have had to do a few runs by myself lately and so I take it for background noise.
Avis sports bra-- nothing fancy
Big Dumb Dog-- my running buddy on some of the less hot days.

Today it may have been a little too hot.

Today's workout: 5 miles -- we walk/ran for the entire length, probably running a total of 4.5 (if I go by my watch time)
Today's food intake-- not great.
Bfast- nutrigran bar, sunny d
Lunch - J Gumbo nachos and coke --- I have a small excuse, I had to go get my car looked at lunch time, and didnt have time to go home, like I normally do, to get lunch, and I was starving
Dinner - haven't eaten yet, but probably the rest of what I had last night-- grilled chicken and veggies with bowtie pasta.
And lots of WATER!

So that's that.. sorry for the long post. I hope you stick around for this adventure I am on (and I hope I can keep up on it every day).

~BB

Fashionable bloggers HELP

2010-07-21T10:22:00.003-04:00

who makes this dress?
found it on Macy's website, but there was never a listing to "buy"... who makes it? I LOVE IT. :)
I am sure it's way out of my price range, but I must know.

Hawaii

2010-07-19T10:45:00.002-04:00

So I have a friend that works at a super luxurious hotel in New Orleans, she was VERY kind in offering to get us a great room rate at their hotel in Maui.

Here is where we are staying for our 3 nights in Maui.

That, my friends, is The Ritz Carlton.... in Hawaii.... and we are staying there. Talk about once in a life time chance!!!!!

I know it's not nice to brag, but seriously, how could I not share this?!?!?
Check out their pool
Yes, please.

"Might Could"

2010-07-14T16:11:00.002-04:00

what the hell does "might could" mean? In the context of "I might could help out"..

I have heard this a few times recently and no matter how you look at it, it doesnt make sense. Can't you just say "I might be able to help out" or whatever the phrase is. I am not one to ever correct grammar because lord knows mine is not great.. but this is just TERRIBLE...

But I guess when you live in KY, you take what you can get...

PS.. I promise a better blog post soon. I am debating on what to write and finding the time to do it. Things are strange around these parts. :)

My blog post about Eclipse

2010-07-08T08:47:00.002-04:00

Yes, I am on the band wagon known as the Twilight series. Back in 2008, when we took our trip to Italy, my sister was just starting to read the first in the series. This is sort of when it all blew up. She had finished the first one while we were on the trip, so I read it on our flight home. I actually finished Twilight on the 8 hour flight from Rome to Atlanta... granted, it's an easy read, but I was definitely hooked!

I ended up buying the entire series in hard back and finished them all pretty quickly, and before the first movie came out. And I went and saw the first film, and the second. And last night, I went and saw the third, Eclipse.

As much as I love the books and the story line, the movies (and maybe the books too) are SO CORNY!! I mean, the acting is so bad. I want to love the people they chose for the main characters, but it's hard when they are all so stiff. I actually had to laugh out loud in the theater last night just thinking about how silly the whole thing was. Now, don't get me wrong, I will see the final installment, but I'm just saying its so silly! lol.

Kristen Stewart is down right awkward. And I realize that is part of Bella's character, but if she is supposed to be soooo in love with Edward, why does she slightly pull back every time he kisses her!??! It's weird. And she is just sooo blah. That is not how I read the character at all.

And Robert Pattinson is sooo corny and totally not a crooner...which, again, is how I pictured him to be. He's this lanky, awkward person trying to be smooth and infatuated.

I do love me some Taylor Lautner, but only for his amazing abs. He kind of pulls off the character correctly, but there is still something really too sweet about him. Too soft spoken.

And don't get me started on how awkward Jasper is! And cut your hair, you look like an idiot!! I had totally forgotten the part about jasper being the civil war dude. His texas accent was sooo bad and annoying to say the least.

So there it is... my blog post about Eclipse. I can't wait to see how horribly bad the final movie will be. I wish they had cast the characters better. But I guess, when you aren't sure if this movie will even make $1, you take what you can get.

(side note to the image I used... if R Pattz didn't talk to the whole movie, it might work better.. the poster is hot and right on target, but he is not!)

New Coach Bag

2010-07-06T16:03:00.002-04:00

I am not usually one to brag (ok maybe I am) on new items... but this one I had to share because of the amazing deal I got on it.

G and I went up to the Coach outlet this weekend, because we had received a coupon for an additional 20% off through July 14th (and we didnt have much else to do) (and mama wanted a new bag).

I had decided a little while back that I was in needed of a new every day purse. I have been carrying my Italian bag I got in Italy (duh) pretty much for the past two years.. only occasionally switching it out. But its getting beat up and I want to savor it for a long time. So, when we got this coupon, it was a calling.

The above bag is what I got. Now, at the outlet, they are last years styles, so I have no idea the name of it. But it's an off-white, goes with everything kind of color.

Here is the deal I got. It was on clearance to start with (at the outlet), plus an additional 50% off clearance items, PLUS an additional 20% with the coupon.. can we say D-eal! It is pretty big and a good size for me. I *heart* it.

REGISTERED!!

2010-06-30T16:03:00.002-04:00

I registered G and I today for the Maui 1/2 Marathon!!!! I am super pumped to be running in my second 1/2 marathon this year and to be doing it in such an amazing place!! I have never been to Hawaii, and while the trip has already started off to be a little pricey, it is going to be well worth it! It's pretty much a once in a life experience (for me) and I am thrilled. Hope my training can continue on and get better in the next 12 weeks.

WAHOO!

Chicken Salad!

2010-06-28T14:36:00.002-04:00

So my hubby G is a sometimes cook. He knows how to man the grill (and this is essential since 90% of our meals in the spring - fall our grilled) and occasionally he will help out with stuff in the kitchen. He's kind of one of those "throw things together and hope it works out" kind of cooks.

But there are two things that are his specialty: 1. Chili and 2. Chicken Salad.

These are two dishes that I don't have one hand in what so ever, but to eat it. And both are delicious!! But even though they are his dishes, I wanted to share the chicken salad recipe since its soooo easy! (and quite yummy too!)

Ingredients:
1. store bought rotisserie chicken (any flavor but BBQ is good)
2. white onion (I prefer vadalia onion cause it's sweet)
3. celery
4. walnuts
5. grapes (red or green, we use red. smaller are better, but if they happen to be large, half them)
6. MAYO (real, none of this miracle whip nonsense. small jar)

For the chicken, G likes to shred it with a fork and place in dish. getting as much meat off the chicken as possible. I am more of a cut it off kind of gal, but either works. And eliminate the skin.

Once chicken has been pulled, add chopped onion. I'd say a half an onion will do, but it depends on how much you like.

Then we add the mayo. Again, it's up to you the amount, but the majority of a small jar is usually enough.

Then about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of walnuts. And about 1 1/2 hand fulls of grapes.

(I know my measurements are very specific.. but it's all kind of eyeballed).

And refrigerate!

I am sure there are plenty of other chicken salad recipes, but the reason this is so easy is because of the rotisserie chicken. No sense in boiling chicken when you can buy it already prepared.. and rotisserie chicken is good anyway.

Enjoy! (Today we had this for lunch on whole wheat slim sandwich buns, a slice of swiss cheese, toasted.. YUUUUUUMMMM!!! )

SUCKER!!!!

2010-06-23T10:00:00.000-04:00

Lately, I have been the biggest SUCKER for things. My spending is a little out of control due to this as well. Ever since I paid my last car payment, I have been on a little spree, and a lot of times, can't say no to the deals.

For instance:
I went and got my hair done on Saturday. Speaking to my stylist, I was complaining that there aren't very many color protection + volumizing shampoos out there. I have looked. The only one I really know of is Bed Head. But I never stick to the same kind from bottle to bottle. Anway, she told me that the line she carries (which she is exclusive too) has one. So, I totally paid $20 for a new bottle of shampoo... and I just bought shampoo like last weekend!! I totally didnt need it, but I got suckered in. Couldnt help it. Although, there wasnt much arm twisting.
(here's what I bought although mine was volumizing, not urgent care. Not sure of how much I like it just yet though.. we'll see)

I need to get it under control and quit spending.. gotta save up for Hawaii in 3 months!

Georgie Pie's for all your monogramming needs

2010-06-22T20:58:00.004-04:00

My cousin just started a new business doing embroidered monograms on personal items. She loves to do stuff for babies and kids, but is able to all sorts of other things too.

She just started a new blog to market her new items, and so I want you to go on over and check it out, become a follower, inquire about items, whatever!

http://mygeorgiepies.blogspot.com

She also has an etsy shop if you want to view some of her current items

http://www.etsy.com/shop/georgiepies

"It's too hot to run"

2010-06-22T09:36:00.002-04:00

This has been my excuse for the past several days.. and for good reason too.. it's been in the 90s for about a week now. And not a nice dry heat, but a stuffy, humid heat. Its flat out HOT.

I wanted to get up this morning and try to run at 6am since it was definitely cooler (try 76) but my body told me I needed to stay in bed and sleep an extra hour. So needless to say I haven't ran since last thursday. This is not good for my training schedule. I have to figure out a way to run in the heat so I can stay on track.

I looked up some advice this morning on this topic and thought i'd share it with you.

Tips for Running in the Heat (sources mainly active.com, I have combined similar topics)

Switch gears and adapt. It takes about two weeks for your body to adapt to the heat and cool itself more efficiently. Slow your pace and reduce your intensity and get the run in rather than pushing through it. Doing so will allow you to more efficiently acclimate and continue to run. Your body will gradually become better at cooling itself in the warmer weather allowing you to continue to run at your normal pace.

Work with the heat. Run by your effort level rather than your typical pace until you acclimate. If you are new to running, add power walk breaks every 4 to 8 minutes to cool yourself during your runs. It is all about managing your body core temperature and not allowing it to rise too much, risking overheating and really slowing down. Like a car, if the temperature rises too high you will overheat. Ease into the heat. Do a slow, two- to three-mile walk or very easy run at the hottest part of the day two times per week for three or four weeks to acclimate to the heat. "It makes the morning run feel cool," says Brookner.

Accessorize & Screen it out. Wear light colored, loose fitting wicking running gear. Technical apparel will allow moisture to pass through them to be evaporated, keeping your cooler. Wear sunglasses that filter UVA and UVB rays, waterproof sunscreen, and a hat or visor to protect your skin and eyes from the sun (Cover it with a loose-fitting hat, preferably made of mesh or some other breathable material.) To protect yourself from skin cancer and other skin damage, use sunscreen liberally. Do so even on partly cloudy days; harmful ultraviolet rays are not blocked by cloud cover. Another benefit: Sunscreen can decrease your skin and body temperatures, so you'll stay cooler during exercise.

Timing is everything. Run at cooler times of the day in the morning or in the evening. If you run in the morning, you'll avoid the heat, but may encounter a higher humidity. The air quality is also better in the morning, since ozone levels increase soon after dawn, peak at midday, and then again in the early evening. Times to avoid running are noon till 3pm.

Train at 5 a.m. It's the coolest, most serene part of the day, and there's nothing like a morning run to boost your mood all day long.

Extreme measures. If there is a heat alert or poor air quality day, take your workout indoors. You won't get any super-human reward for pushing in dangerous heat and it most likely will take your body longer to recover from the workout. Train smart.  

Heed the Heat Warnings. You need to be very sensitive to the warning signs of heat illness, which, if it progresses, can be fatal. If you feel trouble coming on, you need to stop running, find some shade, get liquids and then find a ride or walk home. Following are signs of impending heat illness:

• Headache or intense heat buildup in the head.
• Confusion or lack of concentration.
• Loss of muscular control.
• Oversweating followed by clammy skin and cessation of sweating.
• Hot and cold flashes.
• Upset stomach, muscle cramps, vomiting, dizziness.

Hydrate during your workouts. For workouts shorter than 45 minutes, water works just fine. For longer runs, research suggests consuming about a cup of sports drink every 15 to 20 minutes to fuel your muscles and aid in maintaining electrolyte levels. Have a hydration plan before you start. Know where your water stops are, either by plotting your runs in areas that have water fountains or by stashing bottles at strategic points along your route ahead of time. Also get in touch with local running clubs and training groups to find out where they might put out jugs, so you can share. Don't just drink the water. A combo run-and-swim workout is perfect on really hot days. One of Brookner's favorites is a three-mile run from the Cocoplum traffic circle to Matheson-Hammock Park in Coral Gables, Florida. There, he and his buddies dive into the cool, clear waters of the nearby lagoon, swim for 15 to 30 minutes, get out, and run back. You can re-create this duathlon anywhere there's a body of water, or even a local pool.

Drink Like Crazy. Even if you don't feel thirsty, drink at least 8 oz. of fluid each hour, and more if you're outside or tend to perspire a lot. You'll run better with adequate fluid intake, and you'll feel better, too. By keeping your water storage high, you'll also improve your body's cooling mechanisms.

Cross-train indoors. Build your cardio base while taking a break from the heat and humidity by swapping an outdoor bike ride for an inside spin class.

Head for Water. Running near water—whether it's along a river, lake or ocean—is usually cooler and breezier. Urban streams often have paths running alongside of them, if you take the time to explore. And even if the air temperature is about the same, you'll likely feel cooler just being near water.

Plan to race in cool temperatures. For Brookner, registering for a fall marathon "up north," such as Marine Corps or New York, basically guarantees relief from the heat. And the cooler race temperature is like a key unlocking the sultry shackles that have bound his feet throughout the summer. "When I show up in New York for the marathon in November and it's in the 70s, the New Yorkers are all like 'ugh,' and I'm saying, 'Bring it on!'"

New books

2010-06-21T12:05:00.004-04:00

I am in the market for some new reads. I am not a heavy reader, but I do enjoy it when I have the time and the material is good. But not just "story" books, but also informational type books on various topics.

I would love to have a day to hit the local B&N and find some really helpful/interesting reads.

One book I'd like to get is "The Help". Several people I know are currently reading this and have recommended it to me and said it was a very good book. I dont even know what it is about, but I am a sucker for any recommended reading, or books that are on the best seller list.
But I am also looking for other books. Specifically I want/need some new design books. (I may or may not have said that I am a graphic designer by day. ) But I haven't bought a new design book in a while. May even flood over to photography books so I can get back into that since I have my fancy new camera!!! : )

And I also want to start reading about feng shui and qi and organics and all that other "hippie" stuff (I use the term "hippie" in the sincerest form). Not that I want to get real deep into it, but I am definitely interested in the topic and since I have felt so " out of place" lately, I feel that I need to learn more about it and how to "fix" it. Plus, the idea of healthy, non hormone produced food really gets to me.

Any other recommendations for good reading??

Swimsuit

2010-06-17T14:11:00.004-04:00

I found a new swimsuit!! wahooo.

I think swimsuit shopping can be one of the absolute worst things, right after jean shopping and bra shopping.

But I was online the other day, perusing around Target and came across this:
It's brown and white and I just love the pattern. I just hope it fits. And each peice was like $14! SCORE. Can't wait for it to come in...

My swimsuits have seen a better day and some dont fit as well as I would like, so I am thrilled to have a new one.

review

2010-06-16T13:43:00.002-04:00

ahh.. the FURminator.... my new best friend.

I got mine in the mail probably 2 weeks ago (time flies, can't keep up) and let me just tell you..

I LOVE IT!!!

It is the best invention since sliced bread... I'm not even lying. It works sooooo well..

Check this out.
This is a ball of hair I brushed of C-dog today. I only had about 5 minutes so I didnt really go to town (plus he was a little rowdy and I was chasing him all the way around the porch). But this is 5 minutes of brushing! Any other brush I have used on charles wont get this much off if I tried to brush him for an hour!! AND!!! I have already brushed him multiple times.. it just keeps coming. I swear my house is less hairy than before.

I <3 this and you should too! Go get one.

Anyone used this?

2010-06-16T10:23:00.003-04:00

I may have just gotten suckered.

Apparently this Nivea "Good-bye cellulite" may work. I am tempted to buy it and try it, and possibly do a product review..

Has anyone used this?

blogger template designer

2010-06-14T12:29:00.001-04:00

I like the new template designer! So many more options to choose from. Until I get off my lazy butt and create my own layout (that I actually like) this will be fun to play with and use!

Happy monday to me!

(hopefully this week will be filled with better posts.)

Can't get it together

2010-06-09T11:36:00.003-04:00

I am out of sorts and just can't seem to get it together. So sorry for my MIA lately. Plus, I am not really sure who is reading and if it is even interesting. I'm in a rut, I guess.

My qi (chi?) or Feng shui or whatever is totally off. Do you ever get that feeling that you are physically in the wrong place? I have had this for the past week now. And I am sure there are many contributing factors: 1. house guest for a week. 2. g's dad and step mom staying with us for a few days 3. the inability to do my P90x because of said house guests... the list goes on and on. I hate the feeling. I get it every now and then and it makes me completely uncomfortable. UGH.. know what I am talking about?

Plus, I feel like i am falling behind on all my "to-dos". I am just tired and hate looking at the ever growing list. I need to get it together and get some things checked off... including my new website that I haven't worked on in 2 weeks!

(wow what a bitch fest!?!)

In lighter news, I started my 1/2 marathon training again Monday. We (g and I) were supposed to start last week, but somehow that never happened. And we have decided to go to Maui for the race ;) The trip for the race will also be in conjunction with our 1 year anniversary. Should be pretty fun but now the planning and flight arrangements begin.... stressful!

So I will run another 3 miles today.

I have also been OK with the calorie counting (did I mention I was doing this? I can't recall) It's really hard though with things being so hectic. Mostly I am trying not to snack too much on bad things and drinking lots of water through out the day. Plus, eating more fruits/veggies and less starch, and I have been trying to eat breakfast every morning, which I so haven't done in my 20 some odd years of existence. And also trying to do a bit of portion control. If I really looked at the numbers, it probably isnt as good as it sounds, but I am trying. I also got a good app on my iphone: My Fitness Pal, to help me log and keep track of all food and exercise.

Speaking of exercise, I just have 2.5 weeks left of P90x! I am determined to finish the whole damn thing even though it's taken me well over 6 months. I like the program, but sometimes life gets in the way..

yes, life gets in the way

(sorry for the long, ranting post.. i'm out of it)

Things on the Brain

2010-06-04T14:13:00.003-04:00

- going to the pool tomorrow and catching some rays

- not really wanting to go to my 10 year high school reunion tomorrow night because it is just going to be a series of pointless conversations with information I could have gotten off facebook. Although I like high school, I pretty much made new friends once college came, and everyone from HS stayed together.... I dunno we'll see

- would like a new outfit to look my 'best" at said reunion

- not happy that I skipped 2 days of my workouts... I am soo close to the end of it and I can't quit now

- keeping up my calorie counting and see the effects

- need to start training again for another 1/2 marathon. supposed to have started monday, but that didnt really happen with the holiday and all

- we have decided to go to Maui for our 2nd 1/2 marathon and our 1st anniversary. Gotta get the plane ticket situation figured out and get moving on the plans for the week.

- gotta clean the house a little bit again this weekend because G's parents are coming for 2 days

- charlie dog really needs some good running time in this weekend

- excited for 3 packages to arrive: 1. final 5 pasta bowls to our china, 2. FURminator and 3. a new lens for my camera that i bought for $50!

Recent purchase

2010-06-03T09:38:00.006-04:00

I purchased this today, on ebay, for $19 (reg. $65-ish)
What is it, you ask? It's a FURminator.

See, I have one of these. (actually this is mine)
And while I love him to pieces, he sheds.. A LOT. Especially right now. So my house is covered in white dog hair, along with my clothes. And even though we vacuum often, it still seems to be everywhere. You should see the amount of hair I pick up, its ridiculous.

So I bought a FURminator in the hopes that it really works and will reduce my hair problem. Here is a product description, courtesy of Amazon.com:

The patented FURminator Medium deShedding Tool quickly and easily removes (it doesn't cut) the loose, dead undercoat hair that is the underlying source of shedding - a pet owners #1 complaint - and the allergies and cleanliness problems associated with it. The tools unique stainless steel edge grabs loose undercoat hair and removes it without damaging the pets topcoat. Reduces shedding up to 90%. Guaranteed to reduce shedding better than any brush, comb or rake . Works great on all shedding breeds of dogs and cats, (both long and short-haired). Brings out the pet's natural oils, leaving a shiny and healthy topcoat. Features a comfortable, ergonomic grip handle.

Check out their website and watch the video... I bet you will want one too! http://www.furminator.com/
(I have in no way been paid by the FURminator company or Amazon to promote this product, I am merely SOLD by the idea and hope it works, will update when I receive and use)

visitor

2010-06-01T13:13:00.003-04:00

look at what scared the crap out of me when I got back to my car after having lunch at home today...Thankfully he was not alive and I was able to get him out of my car pronto.. but he was about 4" long.. crazy..

(better blog post to come, just had to share)

weekend

2010-05-28T14:24:00.003-04:00

If it was up to me, this weekend I would:

Have one of these

On this:
While doing this:

But alas, this is not happening.. Anyone wanna take me?

Shopping Spree

2010-05-26T14:41:00.006-04:00

I went on a little shopping spree today on line. As I have mentioned in previous posts, my wardrobe is seriously hurting, so today I bit the bullet and bought some stuff. And here are a few of my purchases:Linen Blend Apron Dress

(I thought this would be cute just to bum around town in.. may be awful once I actually put it on)
Gap

Hip Slung Easy Flare Pant
(Just some basic light colored chinos to wear to the office or on weekends)
Gap

Patchwork Mini

(It's probably a little juvenile, but I couldnt resist! )
Old Navy

Gathered Skirt
(I thought this would be a good office skirt. It looks a little short on the model, but I am only 5'4" with short legs, so I am hoping it's a little longer)
Banana Republic

All items I got on sale, plus free shipping and 25% off my order!! I just had to do it. I also got some plain ol t-shirts. One can never have to many white t's!

All images came from Old Navy/Gap/Banana Republic

What the H$#% is summer break?

2010-05-25T16:29:00.003-04:00

It's that time of year when I start to get really sad I am not in school any more. Obviously for the sheer pleasure of having a summer break. 3 months of having absolutely nothing to do except go to the pool and get a tan (and maybe take a trip to the beach).

I can't tell you the last time I had a summer like that. Even when I was in high school and college, I always had a job. I even worked one summer every single day at Pier1 or a country club, lifeguarding (which was really easy and basically satisified my need to hang out by a pool).

Now, I see people on facebook and blogs talking about their "summer plans" to not be working or going on trips! I am way jealous. I will be locked away at my desk all summer, in the cool of the A/C, being pale as a ghost.

Not Lost

2010-05-24T11:23:00.001-04:00

Is anyone else really OVER all this talk about LOST?! Maybe it's because I didnt watch the show, but I am slightly tired of reading everyone's facebook posts and/or blog posts about it.. Show is over, move on !! :)

I guess I could counter attack by talking about the 2 hour season finale of Celebrity Apprentice that I watched instead, but I'll spare you the details. :)

Happy Monday!!

Bloggy McBlogertons

Revised schedule

10 miler photos.

New Website

Current Reading list

Welcome new followers & readers

Hormones and Challenges

Race Recap

So devastated..

10K Race

Who cares about Charlie Sheen!?

Dinner for Kings!

HOT YOGA!!

I know I know...

Sassy! Ombre'!

16th Race

What's happening?

Zucchini Bread

P90X review-- a little late

Shoe update and more

Still here...

Today's Trends

Nesting

Swimsuit Seaon Here I come!

Run run run!!!

January Fitness

Hiatus

Andi's Healthy Advice 3

Where've you been?!?!

Andi's Healthy Advice

New Specs!

Vitamins!

30 Day Shred

BBL Review

Andi's Healthy Advice

7 great strategies for permanent weight loss

2. Weight loss and weight training

3. Keep a diary for triggers that hinder weight loss

4. Stay focused on being healthy, not on becoming thin

5. Weight loss and portion control

6. Lose weight slowly with small changes

7. Eating slowly can lead to weight loss

Twinkie Diet?

Weigh-in Wednesday on a Friday.

Andi's Healthy Advice - 2

Halloween 2010

Weigh-in Wednesday 2

New 'do!!!

Andi's Healthy Advice

Trying to get a workout in, but you're crunched for time? This week's tips are all about saving time!

*While rinsing or washing dishes, do calf raises to tone your legs. You can also do small controlled side & back leg lifts to tone your thighs & butt.

*While sitting on a swivel chair at work...once an hour take 60 seconds to plant your feet & twist your torso back & forth. If you can do it once every 30 minutes, even better!

*While driving in your car, suck in your stomach & tighten those abs. Hold for a 10 second count & release. (You can still breath while holding in your stomach!) Start at 10 second intervals & build up to 20, 30, and so on!

Enjoy your week!

Andi Ramser

Beachbody Coach

http://teambeachbody.com/rockchick1

http://myshakeology.com/rockchick1

Weigh-in Wednesday

Random Thoughts

Birthdays

New Feature!

New Bedroom!!!

Mad, Angry, Hurt, Confused today.

Whistler

body issues?

Inspiration

Bum Bum!

Getting off my lazy ass

Breakfast and High Heels

Brazil Butt Lift!!

What's Happening Here

I'm BACK!!

Hiatus

Not injured...

Recipe Review

North East Touring

Cookbooks!

Injury

Where does the time go?

7 great **strategies for permanent weight loss**