Reality Check

I love SkinnyMeg.  Have you heard of her? Yeah..she's great and also going by "PregMeg" for the next few months.  Absolutely love her blog and how true she is.  If you don't know her, go check her out.  She's also on Facebook.  That's where I noticed she posted a link to a site that talks a bit about body image.  It's a clothing site in the UK: Marisota but they have a neat visual that helps assess where you are and compare it to where you think you are. Trust me, it makes more sense once you do it.

You click which picture mostly looks like you, then fill in some measurements.

Then, based on your measurements it tells you what your true body shape is.  It is pretty neat.  From what I'm seeing from other people posting in response to her post, I'm not the only one that has a better body than I expected.

The site says I'm the "Perfect Hourglass" ahh..to hear something about my body is "perfect"!  I also am 12.5% smaller than what I view myself.  Interesting! Guess I need to change up my self-view, yay!

So here's the link to see your body image vs measurements.

I'm interested to see how your body image compares to the truth with your numbers.   Comment back and let me know what you think!

Single Momma

Soooo I'm fortunate to be married to one amazing guy (93% of the time he's amazing, the other 7% he's pure male, haha).  However his job, that we both love, occasionally takes him out of the state. This time he's actually out of the country! This usually wouldn't be an issue, especiallly since I"m still on summer break and can just take it easy with the kiddos until he returns.  (Last time he left, it was the first full week of school, I had a 10week old and a crazy clingy 3 year old, AND they had just started at a new baby sitter....yeah, I can handle this time).

But what I didn't realize is how it affects my Half training.  Typically Tues/Thurs/Sun are my running days. Once he gets home and we have dinner one of us will go for a run. Thankfully he runs on my off days - it works best that way, for some reason we feel that an adult needs to be here with the kids.  Silly parenting, I know... haha.   It just dawned on me though....that I can't get out and run tomorrow. That is a problem. I dread the ol' treadmill.  Seriously. I can find so many excuses while I'm on it that I neeeeeed to get off. Wait, let me rephrase... that I NEED to get off.  Sometimes it's because I forgot to turn on the dishwasher. Or maybe because one of the girls needs a snack.  And sometimes it's because I have gotten off too many times to go pee and feel "what's the point?"  I'm not kidding. It seems I ALWAYS have to pee more when running inside.  Don't get me wrong, I almost always have to pee while outside but not 5 times in one mile.  Maybe I hit the floor harder on the dreadmill, or my mind knows the bathroom is super close. Either way, it happens.

What I'm getting at is that I don't know how single mommas do it?  Do you run/workout before you pick up the kiddos? I imagine most SAHMs aren't single and so the issue of being single and the kids not at the sitter is never a problem...or am I assuming...or did that even make sense?  Either way....I'm doomed to the treadmill this week. Gonna have tos uck it up and do it. No there's no one around to watch the kiddos for me.  Luckily it's only 2.5miles but it's 1.5 mile more than I'd ever like to do on the machine. Did I mention I hate the treadmill?  ughhhh.

Someone hold me accountable! Check in with me tomorrow on my running day and make sure I ran.   Shoot, someone check in with me on off days too to see if I did my strength or XTrain because I'm a slacker there too!

How do you fit in your workouts if you have kids, are a SAHM,, are single, both or well....what keeps you accountable??

More Rambling: Music This Time

While I'm running I have started talking to myself, in a good way.  (See the previous 2 posts for more details if you're brave enough).  But it intrigues me to hear that some people listen to audio books or podcasts.  Right now I listen to music but have recently found a blog that lists ideas for songs and Pandora stations! Stay tuned for that one.

When I started running, I quickly downloaded several songs to listen to.  I found myself listening to Black Eyed Peas, Pink, Kelly Clarkson, Eminem, Ludacris, Pitbull and other random songs I hadn't heard of but were recommended.  I quickly learned what songs worked for me and which ones I consistently skipped.  I can't do songs that I would typically listen to and sing along with.  but instead found powerhouse songs or songs with a heavy beat with rap that would allow me to drown out everything.  That's what I love about music.  I fall back to it when I just want to consumed.  Sometimes it's at work and I need to power through some deep lessons. Sometimes it's in the car -- stressful day or emotions running high.  Other times I'm cleaning (rarely) at home and need to forget about what I'm doing and let the music carry me through the dreaded task.

When people were talking about podcasts so I downloaded PodRunner and listened to techno music that was set to so many beats per minute.  That lasted a few months, then I was bored.  I've gone back to listening to music from my playlist and I'm ready to find more songs.

But I saw this blog post that lists "12 Secret Pandora Workout" stations.  I have Pandora but haven't bought the ad-free (I REALLY hate the ads.  Definitely planning to buy the adfree Pandora sooooon) but the possibility of listening to Pandora while running is intriguing.   Pop over to her blog to see what stations she recommends!  I'll try them on the next run.

What do you listen to? 

Free Therapy - Part 2

Here's the riveting part 2 of my mental breakdown...not a breakdown breakdown, but a breaking down of my mental thoughts :)  I'm not THAT crazy.  But if you didnt' read part one (it was a doooozy) you can find it here.

I've kinda gotten through all that, now that I'm training for my first half. Yes, I had to create my own modification because I can't run 3 miles yet. But dang it I'm doing it!  Well, havent' been doing the cross training etc but I'm gonna run this half in Nov!  I'm realizing I have new struggles.  I guess not new, but still frustrating.  And running is definitely my free therapy.  The husband is also running the half and I get confused with his training and try to block out his speed.  But I still think about it.  I'm running a 12 min mile and that's AWESOME for me.  I keep thinking I'm super slow but the more I read others' times Im' not feeling so slow. I also find myself frustrated when I need to walk.  I find myself wanting to run with perfection, not stop if I'm not supposed to.  Or finding myself thinking that walking is cheating...or setting goals for myself on when it's okay to walk but then thinking I set my goals too low.  Am I rambling, probably.  But oh well.  You can stop reading anytime you want, haha.

Last night's run was probably the first time I treated it as a therapy session.
My friend is training for her first marathon and running the Galloway method, a run/walk. So I tried running my 2 miles by running 2 minutes and walking 1 minute.  I didn't really enjoy it and I think it hurt more.  I've always thought that walking was more of a nuisance than running.  Don't get me wrong. The walk is needed but it works different muscles and then I dread starting back up the run.  It definitely slowed down my total time (duh) but at the end of the 2 miles I didn't feel any less tired like I thought I might. Maybe that method works better for longer runs.

But as I ran I used that time to think. Think. Think. Think. I thought about how far I'd come. I thought about how it will feel to finish the half. I thought about how hard it was and that I was doing it. Finally, I was doing it.  I thought about how one of my friends is running the same race, only she's doing the half and how I'm feeling overshadowed by it. Thankfully for my #RockingtheRoute group, I got over that and focused on me accomplishing my goal.  (thanks girls!)  I thought about my breathing and learned that thinking about my breathing made me breath funny, so I stopped...thinking, not breathing.  I thought about how I tried something new and learned I dont like it (the run/walk) and now I know...  I thought about how hard I am on myself and how that is just negativity that I don't need right now.  And then I thought about it more.



I was only out there for 24 minutes, running/walking 2 miles.  By the end of it though, I wasn't really done with the therapy session and found myself somewhat ticked when I walked in the house.  I felt that I had just started digging deep and frustrated.  (I'm seeing a pattern...me always frustrated...which is frustrating).   I showered, still ticked for some reason, grabbed my laptop and started typing.  Somehow between blogging and messaging a local runner for some insight into the half I calmed down ... a lot. Enough to where I forget exactly what the deal was, but eager to hit the road again and work out some more "issues" .  I guess running does that for ya too...leaves ya wanting more (once the pain is gone, like childbirth, haha).





Thanks for sticking through all this muck of a mess that was supposed to make sense.  I'm not going back to reread and see if it makes sense, too late in the day for that and as Sweet Brown would say "Aint Nobody Got Time fo Dat!"

Free Therapy

So I know I don't post much...life gets in the way. Same excuse I use for working out and getting fit.  With school starting back in 3 weeks my life this past month has slowly become more consumed with my classroom and decorating. I soooo wish I could spend a fortune on my room and decorate it the way I want.
However, teaching at the same building with the same teachers has it's benefits.   I've learned soooo much about myself in the past 6 years teaching.  And some of the teachers have helped me realize some deep stuff about myself, through my reflective teaching.

I am very much a reflective teacher and often first assume that the problem lies within me. Which is a good thing, to an extent.  It's always best to first look within when confronted with a problem instead of automatically thinking there's something wrong with the kids or that they just weren't listening (unless it's a full moon ... then it HAS to be the kids' fault.  I kid...kinda, haha).   But it also backfires on me and that's where my coworkers step in.  I often use them as resources or sound boards when I'm stumped or have a new idea.  One of my coworkers knows me well and knows when I'm being too hard on myself. She reminds me to stop and look at the situation from a "different lens" or she'll flat out tell me that my self-expectations are unrealistic.  I think everyone needs someone like that.   I'm getting off track - oops.

I know they say running is a mental sport.  80% mental, 20% training..or something like that.  I feel for me it is definitely a mental game.  I find it a good therapy session ... although I'm kinda leery of what is going to happen when I get to longer runs because just within the 30 minutes I'm on the road now, I come home with my mind reeling and confused and set and ready for new goals and frustrated and makes me want to run more (or drink).   I know I'm hard on myself. When I was running more consistently to prep for my first 5k, I was on fire.  And it lasted a little bit.  When I started running again, I was disappointed in how hard it was again. I was frustrated that I couldn't run what I was running.  I'm not talking about running an 8min mile like I did in high school. I'm talking about not being able to run a mile, like I did a month prior.  I would get mentally defeated and hate running because I knew I wouldnt be as successful as I was.  Yeah, lame, but it's true.  I started c25k again and even THAT frustrated me.  Again, just being hard on myself and unrealistic expectations. I would even get upset that it was making me upset.  I'd be frustrated that I mentally wasn't willing to push through it all when I knew I could at the time.


Stay tuned for Part 2 where I delve into where I'm at now...will post it in the AM. I know you're dieing to hear the rest of my head-drama.

This Girl Got Her Run On

Guess what...I got in TWO workouts today. Not sure I've ever been able to say that!

Today during Abbie's naptime I did the BikiniBodyMommy's Day 2 challenge. WOW - I'm sooo outta shape.  I thought it was tough. It was 7 different activities (I think) and I did 3 reps...took about 30 minutes and I had HooBear beside me the whole time.  She supported me by sitting on the computer chair, eating Cheez-its, and calling me out when I slacked.  At one point while I was doing planks (let it be known that I hate planks) she told me she thought I was actually laying on the ground, crying. Yeah, thanks babe.

But I also went ahead and ran tonight.  I'm in week 1 of my 20week half marathon training and this is my 2nd run this week, 1.5miles.  I'm managing to run with an average of 11:45-12:00 min mile both times and tonight I really didn't mind the run.  So does that mean I'm getting better?   I looked back on past mile runs and noticed that I'd been doing 13-14min miles back in January.  You BET I'm getting better!  Although I'm not too concerned with my time/speed but more of maintaining my pace.  Tonight I ran without my watch (okay, i had it with me but the battery was dead) and still managed to keep my pace.  And when I ran, I wasn't dieing this time. I'd like to think of that as progress for sure.   Last time I ran with gum, didn't this time, and think I'll chew it next time - gave my mind a good distraction.

So this gives me motivation. I love seeing progress. It's this "high" that I need to remember when I'm dreading going...which was me tonight. Thankfully E made me go.  *thanks E*

Tomorrow it's a rest day...Sat is 30 min of cross training and then 2miles on Sunday.  Sleep and repeat next week.

Checking in on Wednesday Weigh-in

So, by the looks of this blog (and my scales) fitness hasn't been a priority this summer. And I  will admit I've been more focused on the girls and now that it's July I'm focusing on work more.  I've kept up my work blog more too, but probably since it's easier. It seems every time I post here, it's blah blah blah I'm not doing anything and not losing blah blah blah.   I keep thinking of game plans but they don't work because as soon as I get up from  here I don't do them.  (womp womp womp). 

I didn't even weigh-in this morning, that's how focused I've been! 

However, I have started back up running.  Monday was to be my 1st day back of training in prep of training for my half this fall, #fail. Mon and Tues was a bust, nothing done. But today.....ahhh today...I did the fittest for teh Bikini Body Mommy Challenge (and nearly died).  Wow what a test! I'm excited to see changes and progress but that means commitment. 
But here's my stats for the test:

1.  SPEED SQUATS:  34
2.   HIGH KNEES:  85 
3. PUSH UPS:25 (modified)
4. SQUAT JUMPS:  22
5. TRICEP DIPS: 17
6. BURPEES:8
7. ALTERNATING LUNGES: 15
8. ELBOW PLANK:20sec

Trust me, it was H.A.R.D.  I plan to do workout day #2 tonight then 3 tomorrow before the festivities for the 4th.  And even plan on taking them home to do during the camping weekend.  It seems a few days I'll be doing cardio/running so guess I'll be taking home my shoes and sports bra! Woohoo. 

No food goals...just focusing on my running plan and the BBM 90 Day challenge. 

Wednesday Weigh-In

Well here it is. Wednesday. Which means weigh-in Wednesday. 

Today I was excited to see what a difference this past week has been. I knew it wouldn't be huge but at least was expecting a pound, making that slow move outta the 190s.  I've been trying to consciously watch what I'm eating. AND I got in a few miles on the road here in town.

So I'm not going to lie, once I saw the number I got on the scale 3 times!! Surprised by the number that was on there . 

This is the lowest I have been since having Abbie. 

Hopefully every weigh-in Wednesday I'll be able to say that!

Seeing 195 will keep me motivated this week, even though it's just 0.2 pounds from 196. Hopefully next week I can see 194, even better would be 193 to send me on my way to Mexico for a week!!  Which also means I won't get the weigh in next week...but will do it when we get back on Friday to help keep me in check.  Guacamole and Liquor will not undo what I've been doing!!

I've also gone for a run 3 times this past week. Started up c25k and tryin to figure out which week I need to be on.  It's a pride thing...i'll save that for another post. Which, by the way, I'm due for a deep post soon -- one that goes into my history and explains a few things. 

On a happier note, Abbie's FIRST birthday and party is this Saturday.  Then we leave for Cozumel next Thursday! Wow!

Here's to Wednesday!!

Setting Goals

So here it is....50 minutes before June 1st. 

Time to set some goals for the month.

BUT before that, let's be realistic and look at what hurdles are set before me.

• June 8th my sweet little AbbDabs will turn ONE (sidestep here...holy moly my little baby is going to be ONE!!  Time just flew with her! I am soo blessed that she chose our family to join and excited to see what the rest of her craziness will bring to us!)  Anyways....usually this means stress which then leads to eating.  Not a good combo.  Not to mention the birthday yummies. 
• June 15-20 we will be the amazingly beautiful and warm Cozumel (can't wait!!).  As excited as I am, I realize that means all-inclusive....guacamole...liquor...but it also means hiking, swimsuit, and pictures to hold those memories, all things that are going to make me sweat and look horrible I'm sure.  
• July 4th and the Rufenacht Campout is just around the corner!  You can read that to mean: hot dogs, chips, soda, chips, no exercise (sweating from heat..that burns calories, right?).  

So now that that's outta the way, here's some BIG news!

(insert drum roll) 

Ethan and I have officially signed up for the 

Bass Pro Shops Half Marathon here in Springfield on Nov 3rd.  

YAY!  

Although I'm nervous about it because I can't even complete a 5k without walking ... and this is 13.1 miles!  I'm definitely going to earn that 13.1 sticker, no doubt. I'm nervous about the training, wanting to make sure I can do it and stick to it.  Worried that i'll lose the momentum - not motivation, because i HAVE to do the 13.1 now, no questions there.

Sounds like it's goal setting time.  FIVE months away from the 13.1....2 weeks away from Mexico. Time to get back on track and set some reasonable goals.  I feel like in the past I've set monthly goals and they always focus on weight.  Well this week my weight has fluctuated sooooo much (thank you TOM) and that it's honestly not that great of a measuring tool of success that I don't want to solely rely on that as a means to see that I met my goal.    These are goals that I think are measurable and attainable:

1. Track (and stay under) calories on MFP at least 5 of 7 days of the week. 
2. Get in 2-3 runs each week...building up to a 3-4mile long run
3. Do at least 2 days of a Jillian DVD (I'd like to say do more, but I know I can't commit to it yet) 
4. Get up and run at least one day before Ethan leaves for work 

I don't think those are unreasonable.   And if I was going to through my weight around (as in my numbers) I would like to see me get to 190 although 10 pounds in a month is ridiculous for me right now.  Maybe 5 pounds if I'm really strict.    

On the non-fitness side of things, here's my June goals

1. embrace the time home with the girls
2. An outing at least once a week with the girls
3. Be IN the pictures...and not just a selfie or a self-taken headshot of me and one of the girls. 

Here's to June! (I have 3 minutes left to post before it's June! woohoo I'm good)

Wednesday Weigh-In

Well...I knew it was gonna be bad, and it was. I KNOW it takes hard work and I need that discipline again to make the right choices.

So here's the dreaded scale pic.

I think the most upsetting part is last Thursday it said 196.  Five freaking pounds. FIVE!!!!!  It also hurts that it starts with a 2.  I said good bye to the 200s. I thought.

I know last weekend did a number on me (five numbers) but this wknd will be tough too.  Tomorrow is our anniversary and we'll be at Silver Dollar City...I've GOT to make healthy choices and load up on water.  Then Saturday we are celebrating which will mean dinner. I WILL make good choices. Maybe I need to start posting my MFP daily food journal here too.  Who knows..I just gotta do it. 

  I also haven't worked out since Thursday last week. Ugh.   With a new month maybe its time for another sticker calendar and goal setting.  Tomorrow I will definitely work on monthly goals and have those posted here. 

Until then,

Just an update

Ethan made it possible for me to go running last night. Yay! 

I really wanted to want to run, but dreaded actually doing it.  I couldn't decide on outside or treadmill....and here's why. If I run outside I have to actually get dressed and run all up and down the hills. But yet if I run on the treadmill I hate running on the treadmill its boring and there's nothing to see.

But I got out and ran and I did it down and back on the road, just a mile. What I'm coming to realize is that a mile is a mile. I'm only competing with myself but yet I still get frustrated when I'm not as good as I was.

I usually listen to a podcast called PodRunners where you can listen to music based on beats per minute but this time I decided to go back to my Runners music playlist. I think I might have liked it better not quite sure yet.

Anyways I ran down half a mile actually  0.54 miles and then walked for a little bit and then jog the rest of the way back up the hill. I was excited to see that my time at the end was a 12:30 mile average. Not too bad. I wish that my music had a beat per minute play option on it but i think that music was a good thing.

So it seems so far I've been able to get at least a mile in every other day. Granted this is day 3 but I'm hopeful. I did hurt my ankle, well more the top of my foot. Really hurts to walk on it. keep an eye out and see how it goes. Hopefully today I can get in a little bit of Jillian while AbbDabs is asleep this afternoon.  

Here's to Thursday!!