Monday Starts Today

Week 7, success.

2011-10-28T10:45:00.000-07:00

I've been MIA for 3 weeks! Oops! I have been super busy with regular day to day life, and then boot camp 3x a week, plus meeting with the girls AND life group every other week... Yikes, I need a break! Actually it hasn't been too bad. The last month really flew by! I have been losing weight still, slowly but surely. I was down 1.6 lbs this week with the girls, brining my total to 15.4 lbs. And then the first month of bootcamp is done, so she took my 3 measurements ( chest, waist and hips) and I am down 4.5 inches. I'm hoping for better the month of November. Randy and I did the grouse grind, which was very challenging, but lots of fun! We are going again tomorrow! I don't know if I'll beat my time of 1:01 though!

I haven't been doing much running, other than the few kms we run at bootcamp. Last week I ran 8K on the treadmill, but that's about it. I'm hoping I can find some time to squeeze it in still. That's al for now! Wish me luck with the grind tomorrow!

Week 4

2011-10-05T13:03:00.000-07:00

The girls and I met this morning, so I don't know if our weight loss was legit or not since we weigh in in the evenings usually. With that being said, I lost 3lbs! Woo Hoo! I'm pretty happy with it. It brings my total to 10.2lbs. I have bootcamp again tonight, and I am nervous!! That's my only update for this week :)

Week 3 results.

2011-09-28T21:31:00.000-07:00

Tonight marked week 3 for me and the girls. I lost another 3.6lbs! I was pretty happy with that, bringing my total to 7.2lbs in two weeks! I am trying so hard everyday and I'm so happy that it's paying off! I'm still eating really well, and working out everyday, sometimes twice a day. I registered for a bootcamp that will start on Monday. I went to a drop in class last week to try it out, and let me tell you, it was HARD!!! I loved the challenge and it was a fun environment with all women and a great instructor. And she will weigh and measure me on the first day and again at the last class. Pretty cool! It's 3x a week, which is a bit much, but hopefully Randy and I can make it work, I will be home in time for bedtime for the kids, so thats good!

So that's my progress for the week! Pretty exciting about how it's all going. I have two birthday parties and a wedding this weekend and hoping to use a lot of restrain at all three events! Wish me luck!!!

Week 2, here I come!

2011-09-21T23:23:00.000-07:00

Today the girls and I met for our second weigh in. Last week I weighed in at 186.6 lbs, and today, I was 183 lbs. Down 3.6 lbs. Not too bad! We meet at night and weigh in with our clothes on, so a bit different number than I get at home. This past week I have been really good with my food. Only one bad night when we went out for dinner for our anniversary. Even then, I substituted my fries for a salad and gave Randy half my burger. It's really hard to make 3 meals a day for the kiddos/hubby and then 3 separate meals for myself. And on top of it all, avoiding the yummy quasadillas and pizza. Or the very cheesy home made baked macoroni they had tonight. But one day I'll get to the point where I can eat that food, just not tonnes of it. But for now, I'm avoiding it as much as possible.

One thing I've done perfectly is working out. I have done the Jillian micheals 30 day shred. Let me tell you, it is HARD!! I could walk or sit or bed after the first day! After doing it 8 days in a row I am almost ready for level 2! I did a couple double workouts too, which included running. I think I am doin well,and I'll continue doing what I'm doing and hope for another good loss next week ;)

Challenge Accepted!

2011-09-12T16:22:00.000-07:00

Say that in a Barney Stinson kind of voice...

A couple of my girl friends are starting a little weightless challenge, and I am super excited! We start on Wednesday, so in two days. The plan is to meet once a week, weigh in, and then go for a little walk and chit chat about life! We are old time friends from school, and its also a good excuse to see each other. We have a $20 buy in, and then every week when we weigh in, you have to pay $1 for every pound you gain!! Obviously the goal is for that not to happen! We plan to continue this through to Christmas.

The two girls I'm competing with will be on a program called "isogenix" and I'll be doing the good ol'fashioned healthy eating and exercise! It makes me a little nervous, because I know isogenix works and you see quick results. I need to really work super hard to keep up to them, but how great would it be if I can take their money at the end!! ;)

So the question is: should I pig out and really enjoy junk food before Thursday? Have a 'last meal'? Or should I keep going the way I have been, and get super strict starting Wednesday?

Run run, eat eat.

2011-09-06T22:18:00.000-07:00

If I could run all the time and eat whatever I wanted and lose weight.....well that would be awesome! Seriously, running is great, I really enjoy the time away from the kids ( I know that sounds horrible but I don't mean for it to be) and the awesome feelings of success afterwards. We went camping this past weekend again and the beach was a bit of a hike. Everyone we were with complained about it and majority of the people stayed behind, despite the 30+ degree weather. It was so nice to be able to go with my little family back and forth and have a great time. A few short years ago I wouldn't have been able to do it! We went for long walks with the kids and were very physical the whole time. We are an active family! I love being able to say that!!! So why am I not losing the weight?? Could it be because I love hot dogs, chips, quesadillas....etc...? Grrrr.... It's so frustrating to stay the same weight for soo long! Maybe once I'm done breastfeeding it will be easier, but I doubt that! Baby girl is one in 2 days!

Man that's a random post!! So basically I love to run, do it lots and same goes for yummy food!

New low, even for me.

2011-07-28T11:25:00.000-07:00

This morning I weighed in at 178.4 lbs. I am SO happy. I thought my scale was broken and couldn't go under 180! I have been running a lot, even beat my personal best. My eating has been superb too. My absolute favourite is pizza, and the other night while the family had pizza, I had a bowl of cereal, after running! And another time, boiled eggs! So proud! I even turned down DQ ice cream cake at a recent birthday party! So needless to say.... I'M BACK!!!!!! I am so pumped! I am going camping for 10 days however, and it's always hard to not over indulge with hot dogs, S'mores and bacon and eggs, but I think I can handle it! I am going to ski my little heart out, jetski until my legs are rubber, and swim until I grow gills! And I'll bring my runners! Wish me luck.

On a roll!

2011-07-21T22:40:00.000-07:00

That's right! 2 workouts in one day. I did my Jillian michaels DVD this morning, and it really kicked my butt! At dinner time I ate too much and felt gross, so I texted my "neighbor" and asked if she wanted to go for a run, and she said yes!! It was a major pain in the butt, I had to shower twice today, and now I'm in bed with wet hair because I don't want to blow dry it and wake the kids, but it's worth it!! Other than larger portions at dinner I have been eating really well, and hopefully the scale will show that soon! Emily is turning one September 8th, and on the 11th she is being dedicated at church. So my goal is to be as close to 160lbs as possible by then. So 22.8 lbs in 50 days..... Fun fun. Hopefully my friend will want to keep running with me and I can shed this weight and be in great shape to go water skiing all day next month! Lastsummer I was pregnant and couldnt partake in my favourite sport ever! I LOVE any and all water sport! And the yet before I was huge.. And couldn't ski for more than 2 minutes. This summer I will rock it!

I was just so excited that after all this time I have a running partner, and couldn't wait to share the good newsi am super sore now, and must go to sleep! Big day of shopping tomorrow, need my rest, it's not easy with 3 little kids!

I'm feeling hot, hot, hot!

2011-07-05T15:18:00.000-07:00

Temperature wise. This week summer has arrived!! I definitly don't feel hot, as in sexy hot. More like a oompa loompa!! I am still struggling so much to get my exercise in, and even more so with the weather warmer. I can't just stick the kids in the stroller and go, and I can't run in the treadmill either since our house is too small, it doesn't fit. So I'm trying to figure something else out. But I'm not stupid either, I know weight loss isn't just about workin out. My eating has been pretty bad as well. Not horrible, but lots of room for improvement. I'm on the hunt for some new recipes. I am such a fussy eater an it makes it really hard to eat healthy and not get bored.

I have a new favourite tv show now!! Extreme makeover: weight loss edition. It's soooo good. Love it. If you haven't seen it yet, you should. The trainer is smokin hot too!

Hmmm... What to say.

2011-06-28T16:23:00.000-07:00

So it's been nearly a year. I was half expecting this blog to have disappeared. What's my excuse? Well first of all I got an iPhone so I rarely open up my laptop anymore. And just this second have figured out how to make a post off it. Secondly? Well I don't feel like I have much to write.

I still have 20lbs to lose to be where I was pre-pregnancy. :(

I have been exercising, and running as much as possible.

We bought a house and renovated it, so we've been really busy, and its really hard to go out for runs, now that I have three kids, but only a double stroller. I'm trying convince Randy to run with me and we each push a stroller. Last night we ran nearly 8kms. Hopefully we can get out again tonight. Also, I've been doing DVDs at home. They are pretty decent, and I really can see the difference it's making.

So I have the working out thing going pretty well, I just need to figure out the whole eating business. I'm just not ready to give up the pizza. And cookies. And chips. And hot dogs.......

It's a Girl!

2010-09-16T09:49:00.001-07:00

Yes I'm a week late, but I had a baby, so give me a break! Last Wednesday, the 8th, my sweet little girl was born! It was a huge shock that it was a girl, I was sure it was a boy! We named her Emily Margaret. I am still recovering from the c-section, and I won't be back to running for a minimum of 6 weeks, possibly longer. I had gained a total of 40lbs this time around, and as of this morning I've lost 20lbs. The baby weighed 7lbs 10oz, and when we came home from the hospital I had lost 6lbs! lol. They pumped me full of fluids, so it took awhile to flush it all out my system.

I haven't been watching my food intake at all, so I guess I better get back to it, blah! I am very excited to get back to where I was pre-pregnancy, just bare with me, it will be a slow go this time!

37 weeks pregnant!

2010-08-17T13:04:00.000-07:00

Sheesh! Where does the time go? I am such a slacker when it comes to this whole blogging thing! Since I last posted so much has happened. We sold our house, and moved into a 1 bedroom basement suite. We are still on the hunt for a new house, we just can't seem to find something! I'll be bringing home baby #3 in three short weeks, and he/she doesn't even have a place to sleep yet! Good thing babies are small and don't need much space! It has been so stinkin' hot, I am seriously melting! My weight gain is out of control! I'm at 30lbs gained so far! I haven't done a lick of exercise in quite some time, what's my excuse you ask? I don't have one! My belly has grown a lot as well! It is a amazing though, I feel so good still. When I was this far along with my other pregnancies I could barely walk. My hips would be so sore all the time. Most days I forget I'm even pregnant. Although the other day I rammed my belly into something so hard, I forgot it was so big and....ouch! Exciting news! We bought a travel trailer this summer, and I LOVE it! It's so nice to go camping with it, having the little kids. Lots of fun planned in our future!

After the baby is born I plan to re-vamp the blog. Start the running program up again, and back to eating all healthy, low fat foods! I want a new title too, because, well the current one is lame! Any suggestions for that?

Well I'll leave you with my most current belly photo.

Update/weight gain/ultrasound!

2010-06-02T09:07:00.000-07:00

25 weeks!

Phewf it's been a busy month. After the Sun Run I signed up for another 10k race for May 30th. It was a really good run, and I had a pretty decent time too. 1:05:10, so better than my most recent races. I get so thirsty for water when I'm running, that it becomes a bit of a hassle at the water stations trying to quench my thirst! I *might* invest in a water belt, but those seem so lame, especially just for a 10k....not sure what to do yet! Ideas?

I had my 3D ultrasound mid-May. The baby was still so small, less than a few pounds, but we got a few good shots. My favourite is this profile picture. It's hanging on the fridge right now, and every time I see it I am in disbelief that there is actually a little fully formed baby in me! Man I LOVE being pregnant! I can't imagine this being my last, although Randy thinks differently! I get another 3D u/s on June 19th, so we get one more little peak at the baby until September. We're still deciding on baby names, I always forget how hard it is to agree on a couple. I still have 3 months left, so hopefully it will come to us.

My weight gain is at a total of 16 lbs! And it's all in my butt and hips. Oh and some to my boobs as well. I haven't bit the bullet and bought maternity clothes yet. But I am getting really close to needing some. My jeans need to be unbuttoned with a rubber band holding them together, and my shirts are slowly getting shorter and shorter. Hopefully I can get by with a few pairs of stretchy shorts and tank tops....if the sun ever returns!

I am still keeping up with my running, although it's now Wednesday and I haven't ran since the 10k on Sunday.... Life has just been busy! Our house is for sale and do you know how hard it is to keep it spotless with two toddlers running around and being 6 months pregnant!

2010 Sun Run

2010-05-11T12:27:00.000-07:00

On Mother's Day I participated in the 2010 Vancouver Sun Run. It's the largest 10k in North America. My goal going into it was to be under 1:10:00. Since my 10k last month was 109:00 Well I ran with 50,000+ people and came in the top 20,000....my time was 1:07:56. I was pretty happy with that. It was so surreal running with that many people. Some parts of it was not enjoyable at all! I couldn't imagine what it would be like, and seriously, some people are so rude. I was kicked and pushed a lot! It's a miracle I wasn't tripped by faster runners trying to pass me. And the worst part was when you would bump up against another hot and sweaty person. EWWW! But overall it was a great experience and I will for sure do it again next year. I was pretty sore that evening, back and leg pain, but that's to be expected running while 5 months pregnant! I think I will attempt another 10k next month, but maybe the month of June switch to 5ks. Now onto the weight gain...I was doing so well the first 20 weeks of pregnancy. I only gained about 5-6lbs, but the last month or so I have packed it all on! I am up to a grand total of 13 pounds!! I'm still running 3x a week, I guess I am just eating WAY too much. And not of the good stuff either. Chips and icecream have been my downfall. Specifically cheesies and McFlurries! Can't get enough of the stuff! I'm going for another ultrasound tomorrow, and then a 3D ultrasound on Saturday, so I'm really looking forward to seeing the baby again! We will not be finding out the gender, hopefully I can stay strong!!

23 weeks pregnant!

Baby Update.

2010-04-23T15:44:00.000-07:00

I'm a few days late with this, but I am halfway through my pregnancy!!! I had my first appt. with my ob/gyn yesterday and it went really well. We talked about my c-section and most importantly running! She confirmed what my family doctor said, which is that I can continue to run as long as I'm feeling good. So the Sun Run is a go! She also said I need to up my calorie intake, I've gained 5lbs at halfway, and she wants me to gain about 20lbs altogether. So I just had a big bowl of cheesies! That should add a few hundred extra calories ;) I'll convince Randy I need pizza for dinner to help in the gaining weight department too! (ya know I'm only kidding, and I know it's supposed to be healthy calories...)

Also, I got enough money for my stroller!! I picked it up last Sunday and first thing Monday morning took the kids for a long 5km walk! It was well worth the money!!

20 weeks pregnant! Usually I take the picture before I go run, this time I forgot so I'm all sweaty and tired looking! When I am in my street clothes you can't really tell I'm pregnant, but my jeans are starting to get uncomfortable and my shirts are getting a bit too short so I better go shopping soon!!

Getting Slower!

2010-04-13T20:37:00.001-07:00

My official time was 1:09:00. My slowest time yet, but I am ok with that. I ran the whole 10k and I felt good doing it. It was a beautiful Sunday morning, and really nice course as well. I felt pretty good most of the race, just the usual aches and pains I get while running, nothing major. Whenever I started getting too tired I would just keep reminding myself that I am 19 weeks pregnant and running! I am still amazed that I am doing this. When I was 19 weeks with Gaby I was already complaining about hip pain, and who knows how much weight I had gained at that point! I am still wearing my regular jeans, they are getting too tight though, unbuttoned as I type this ;) I have decided I am going to do the Sun Run this year, and I am super excited about it. I'll be 23 weeks pregnant by then, so I should be able to run the 10k no problem still!

On a side note: I've been saving up money to buy a really fancy shmansy stroller. I want to be able to run as soon as possible, so I need a nice comfy stroller for the new baby. I'm so excited! But I have a lot of stuff to sell on craigslist first.

Yet another race..

2010-04-09T20:23:00.000-07:00

My weight is not so slowly going up and up, but that's ok! I know I won't gain it all back, and I'm really excited to pop this baby out and get back to hard training and dieting! Don't get me wrong though, I am thoroughly enjoying this pregnancy, knowing it could quite possibly be my last :( and I want to savour it! Plus I know I will never be as heavy as I was 8 months ago, and that's a good feeling! I saw the doctor yesterday, and everything is going perfectly and I got the go ahead to "race" the 10k this Sunday. So I am going to take it easy on Sunday and enjoy my run.

Had my ultrasound, and it's a........

2010-03-31T12:52:00.001-07:00

really really cute little baby! I can't lie, I was extremely nervous going into the u/s. And I am now very shocked/relieved/happy that there is a healthy little baby in there. We didn't want to find out the sex, and I'm really excited to find out in 4.5 months what it is! The baby is measuring pretty much right on track, give or take a few days. I was thinking last night how I am so lucky to have no symptoms of pregnancy, well this morning I woke up with a very sore back. My lower back always hurts during pregnancy, it was my first clue that I could be pregnant this time around. But today it hurts really really bad. I have two other kids though that need a properly functioning mama, so I guess I better suck it up and get on with my day!

Baby, where are you??

2010-03-29T17:00:00.000-07:00

I have decided to keep posting my weight for now. It might not be every single week, but I will try to keep it up to date. I am one day shy of 17 weeks now, and have only gained 2lbs. I don't look pregnant and I certainly don't feel pregnant. I would be lying if I said I wasn't a teeny bit nervous.....I have an ultrasound tomorrow, so we'll see what's going on in there! I'll update when I get home from that, hopefully with a picture of the little critter!

Not much else is going on over here. It's Reegan's 3rd birthday today, so that's been fun. I'm still running, mostly on the treadmill in this yucky weather, but I don't mind the treadmill most days.

Not sure what to do...

2010-03-24T20:52:00.000-07:00

I am still weighing myself all the time, it's quite embarrassing how much I step on the scale, but whatevs, it was helping keep myself accountable. So this is where I'm confused and not sure what to do. Should I keep posting my current weight on the blog, even though it is slowly going up? (ok, not as slow as it should be going) This morning I weighed in at 164.0lbs. Should I record that on the side bar, or wait until after the baby is born and start fresh.....hmmmm. I'm thinking if I keep posting it, it might help me keep the gain to a minimum, but at the same time, it's kind of depressing to see the numbers going up. Not sure yet, what do you think?

Still Chugging along!

2010-03-24T14:58:00.000-07:00

I'm 16 weeks pregnant and still feeling great! I am still running, and still enjoying it. My next race is April 11th, and it's a 10k. I don't know when I'll switch to racing 5ks, maybe when I'm 6 months along? I guess I'll just see how I feel.

I went on a bit of a binge last week. Maybe I was celebrating the fact that everyone now knows I'm pregnant....whatever my reason was, I am hopefully over it now! Now that all the chips are out of the house, I don't plan on buying my favourite kind again!

I took the kids in the stroller yesterday for a run, and that felt really nice. I can get a little burnt out from running on the treadmill all the time. And right now I'm dealing with a sick little girl. Poor Gaby has a really runny nose, weepy eyes and I can tell she is just feeling plain poopy.

That's my little update, and a photo to keep you entertained! I know I'm making a creepy face, I suck at 'posing' for pictures....

I'm ok to run, I promise!

2010-03-16T12:21:00.000-07:00

Now that my pregnancy is public knowledge, everyone seems to have an opinion! And that's fine, but if it's something negative, keep it to yourself! I have run in three 10k races since being pregnant. I like it, I'm good at it, and I feel fine while doing it! Plus, my doctor said it's ok to do, and even good for me to keep it up! I just registered myself for another run next month. April 11th I'll be running another 10k. Obviously I'll continue training at home, running 3-4x a week and just staying active all the time. Trust me, I would never ever ever do anything to jeopardize this pregnancy, it is such a blessing, and I do not take it for granted! I do know my limits, and my time with these races will probably get slower each time, but I'm ok with that. This past race my time was 1:06:57, maybe next month it will be over an hour then, as long as I can finish the run I'm happy!

Here I am 3 weeks ago, at 12 weeks pregnant!

Lotsa changes 'round here!

2010-03-14T16:36:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I ran the 10k race. I tried, but I didn't kill myself trying. I don't know my official time yet, but it was around an hour and 10 minutes. Shortly after the race I told my Mom I was pregnant, and then told most of my family. Now that they all know, I can let the blogger world know. I am just shy of 15 weeks pregnant, and feeling great. I kept it a secret for so long for many reasons. One being that I've had multiple miscarriages, but mainly because I wanted to be able to keep running without worrying my mom. I plan to keep running for as long as I can, and I am already registered for another 10k race next month. It is really helping to keep my weight down (haven't gained a single pound yet) and keeping me motivated to stay healthy for this little baby. When I got pregnant with Gaby I weighed 230lbs, and 260lbs by the time I delivered her. I am so excited to experience pregnancy at a healthy weight and I'm assuming the recovery will be quicker this time too.

I also decided to give the blog a new look. I'm still working on it, but I like the changes so far. I hope you guys will stick with me through this fun and exciting time. My due date is September 7th.

Yet another race.

2010-03-12T11:04:00.001-08:00

Tomorrow will be my 5th race. I have two 5ks and two 10ks under my belt, tomorrow being my 3rd 10k. You'd think I would be used to them now, but that is not the case. I am still nervous the few days leading up to it, and I'm sure I'll be super nervous tomorrow morning. I still don't know what I'm going to wear. Maybe my green excersise shirt, since it is a Saint Patricks themed run. hmmmm, I'll have to see what the weather is like as well. I'll be back tomorrow with an update of my race time, fingers crossed that I do alright!

As for dieting, I've been doing ok. I'm just doing the bare minimum so I don't gain any weight back. And I have been keeping up with my running every week, so that helps keep my weight in check. I guess I'll get around to those last 20lbs later..... ;)

Bad, Bad Girl!

2010-03-06T21:13:00.000-08:00

I am referring to myself! I haven't blogged in a long time, and I'm hating that! For the first time throughout the last 6 months, I missed recording my weigh in! Rest assured, I haven't gained any weigh, phewf! As of this morning I was 159lbs.

Random thought as of late: September 9th was the very first day I went for a run. Ahh I remember that day very well.

Warm-up: Walk slow & easy 5 minutes
Run 1 minute. Walk 2 minutes. Do this 8 times.
Cool-down: Walk slow & easy 5 minutes

That was my run on the very day. A measly 34 minutes. It was the hardest 34 minutes ever! But also probably the most important 34 minutes of my life so far. I remember it being so hard to run 1 minute, and even the walking was making me out of breath. I was so darned determined though! I remember running through excruciating shin splints, thinking for sure my legs were breaking with every step. Running on the treadmill with only 5 minutes left listening to Gaby screaming through the monitor, wanting to stop so bad and go hug and kiss her, but knowing she would be ok for 5 minutes!! (she would wake up early from her nap, and cry for me, I wouldn't leave her in there for hours at a time). I remember doing my Billy Blanks DVD at 10pm in the living room while Randy watched eating buttered popcorn.

Looking back, I can't believe all the obstacles I've overcome. I can't believe I actually got my butt off the couch and did it. I DID IT!! When I used hear people say "If I can do it, anyone can do it" and I would roll my eyes! But honestly, If I can do it, anyone CAN!

Ok, so I know I sound like I'm done, but I know I'm not. I still have a bit of weight to lose technically, I was just feeling good about myself, and kinda felt like tooting my own horn. I am running my 3rd 10k run in one week, and it just reminds me of how far I've come in 6 very short months.

1:04:57

2010-02-22T21:46:00.000-08:00

1 minute and 12 seconds slower than last month.

In my defense, this 10k course was HARD! There was soo many hills, and they were extremely steep. So I am pretty happy with my time. The next 10k is only 2.5 weeks away! And that course is fairly flat, so hopefully I can beat my time. The countdown is on.

Shopping!

2010-02-16T21:00:00.000-08:00

Randy and I went shopping this past weekend for my birthday! It was such a blast. We left the kids with my parents, and I missed them like crazy and was a nervous wreck about Gaby (her first ever sleepover), but I got over it with some retail therapy! I spent boatloads of money and got tons new clothes. 4 pairs of shoes, 2 jackets, 1 dress, 1 bathing suit.....etc... I used to think I didn't like dressing up, and buying clothes, telling myself I didn't need new and fancy stuff...but boy was I wrong! (I still don't think I NEED it, but I do LOVE it). All in all we had a great, relaxing, fun time. I don't think I'll need to buy any new clothes for awhile...but don't hold me to that! I have a dress I bought not too long ago, and planned on wearing it this weekend, but never ended up getting the chance. The night before we left though, I tried it on and got Randy to snap a picture of me. Keep in mind, it's 11:30 at night, I look like crap and Randy was laying down in bed when he took the picture, but you get the idea...

This weekend also involved a lot of eating out. We went to Boston Pizza both nights around 10pm and ate lots of cheap appys...but it was fun and well worth it. So don't be surprised when you see my weight jump up a couple pounds this week, because I won't be! Lastly, I am running my 2nd 10k race this Sunday. I am really nervous. I finally looked up the course, and it's pretty much one big steep hill! What's the worst that can happen?

Setting a goal....

2010-02-03T20:53:00.000-08:00

I think I do best when I set a goal for myself and that's what I'm doing now. And why not share it with all of you so I can be kept accountable. So here it is: I want to get out of the 160's! I know it doesn't seem like a big deal, but I have been stuck here for a long time! There is nothing to blame but myself. I have not been doing my part to lose weight, just enough to maintain, and I am not at the point where I need to maintain yet. I still have weight to lose! I have been splurging WAY too much and not exercising nearly enough. The weather here has been unbelievably beautiful, and I need to get outside and go for a run in the fresh air! So next week I will be checking in and recording my weight in the 150's!

Birthday Girl!

2010-01-27T20:10:00.000-08:00

It's my baby girls very first birthday tomorrow! I remember this time last year so vividly! We dropped Reegan off with my mom, and went to The Old Spaghetti factory for dinner. One last hoorah before the baby was born! I was SO excited to find out the sex of the baby, ugh it was killing me not knowing! So that night I was getting all ready to leave for the hospital the next morning, and decided to check my weight one last time. Well it was exactly 100 pounds more than I was today. I was tipping the scales at 260lbs! And only 30lbs of that was pregnancy weight. So tomorrow we will be celebrating Gaby's birthday, and on the inside I will also be celebrating how far I've come in the last year. This last year has gone by way too fast and I'm excited to see what this next year of Gaby's life brings. Who knows where we'll be one full year from now. Maybe we'll have sold our house and moved, I could be pregnant again by then, maybe I'll run a marathon in the next year! Who knows! (besides God ;))

Jari Love

2010-01-26T19:39:00.000-08:00

This is my newest workout. It's totally differant from anything I've ever done! It left me fairly sore the next day (which is good) and it was pretty fun too! It claims you can burn up to 1000 calories per workout, which is about an hour. I don't think I burn that many, because that would be impressive. I had to buy a step to do the exersises, and I probably look like a fool jumping around on it!

I have been plugging along, trying not too eat too much, and I made a big batch of stir fry again. Also I've been making my shakes for breakfast again, yum yum!

This weekend I went to shopping with some Christmas money I had, and I bought a pair of jeans and a dress. I NEVER buy dresses, so this was quite somethin! I literally tried on 13 pairs of jeans. Every pair fit, I just wanted to get the nicest ones. Randy was getting pretty irritated by the end! Back in October when we had Gaby dedicated I borrowed my neighbors dress. It was a size 16, and it fit perfectly, that was after losing a bunch of weight and feeling pretty good. Well the dress I bought on Sunday it a size 10, and it also fits perfectly. I don't know when I'll ever ever wear it, but I have it hanging in the closet, and I've tried it on twice already. Next time I put it on I'll take a picture and show you all!

If you noticed my latest weigh in, it wasn't too pretty. However, the day before that I was 159, and the day after I was 159 as well, so I guess I was just having a crappy morning that specific day. Tomorrow will be weigh in day again, so it should be down!

1:03:56

2010-01-18T11:41:00.000-08:00

One hours, 3 minutes and 56 seconds of straight running. I completed the 10k! Not one second of walking! I am so happy with my time, and honesty quite surprised by it! I didn't think I would do so well. Randy ran the race with me, and he stuck by my side the entire time. Have I mentioned how great he is? Seriously, he is so amazingly supportive, and he was very proud of me at the end. Great day, that's for sure. I am a little sore this morning, but nothing major. My legs mostly. Now the count down begins for the next 10k. February 21. One month to try and improve my time. This course was almost completly flat, and the next one is very hilly, so we'll see how that goes!

Anyways, I just wanted to quickly pop in to record my time. Time to make lunch for the kiddies!

P.S. I do have pictures of me crossing the finish line, but I was on the brink of death, so they're not that flattering. Maybe I'll work up the courage to post them later!

How'd I do?

2010-01-14T20:00:00.000-08:00

Not too shabby. But I said I wanted a day of perfection, and it wasn't 100%perfect. I might as well be honest, since I'm only hurting myself by lying. Ya see, I did really good all day long, but when Randy didn't get home from work until after 7, I got a little overwelmed with the kids, blah blah blah.....when he finally came home I just wanted to relax and unwind a bit, so how do I do that? By watching American Idol and eating popcorn. Popcorn is actually a pretty good little snack, but at 9:00pm it's not. I should not be eating that late! Today I was also really good. I ran my little heart out on the treadmill and felt good about that afterwards. I'm still nervous for the 10k on Sunday though!

Here we go!

2010-01-13T07:36:00.000-08:00

The day has begun. So far all I've had is my cup of coffee, with a splash of cream and a tad of sugar. Months ago when I first changed my eating habits I used to use a lot more cream and lot more sugar. Slowly I have been cutting back, and it tastes WAY better. I can't stand it if there is too much cream or sugar.

If you look on the right hand side you'll see I had a loss of .4lbs this past week. Not amazing, but a loss is a loss, so I'll take it! Since revving up my strength training I have really noticed more muscle, that's a great feeling for sure! My abs are really hard, (under a few layers of fat and skin of course) still a work in progress though, but really, when isn't it.

So back to this whole, "One Day" business, I am really excited to jump start again. I especially need to reverse the damage I did last night while watching American Idol. Between Randy and I, we consumed 2 bags of skittles and a chocolate letter left over from Christmas!

I'm also going to track how much water I drink today. I need to up that amount for sure! I'll report back to you all at the end of the night, and it will be a good report, because I am roarin' to go! Off to make my breakfast shake!

Just one day!

2010-01-12T13:56:00.000-08:00

-I got the idea to do just one day of perfection from a fellow blogger, so I can't take the credit for it! -

I haven't been that great with my diet lately. Not horrible, but it's been a few chips here, a cookie there, a slice of pizza over there....ya know what I mean! So I am committing myself to one day. One day of nothing but healthy food. No juice, no pop, no chips, no cookies. I need that fresh start again, to re-motivate myself. So since I already ate the kids leftover lunch, plus my own lunch, tomorrow will be that day. I challenge you to join me in this quest. Nothing but feel good, healthy foods tomorrow. Do you accept the challenge?

Thankfully I have been keeping up with my workouts. But the scale is reflecting my bad eating habits, and I might not see a loss this week. But, I'm not going to dwell on the past, rather focus on the present and future and do the best that I can!

The 10k is on Sunday, only a few days away. I can't lie, I don't think I'm prepared enough. I know I was really nervous before my first 5k, so it makes sense that I'm nervous again, I guess.....

Changin' it up a bit!

2010-01-09T14:42:00.000-08:00

Since I can only talk about my running and weighs-ins so much, I am taking some notes from fellow weight loss bloggers and revamping mine a bit. I am going to share more about my diet and some of my favourite 'go to' snacks and meals. I'm no expert on this topic, but I know it's been working for me! So stay tuned, and please please, if you have some favourite recipes, share them in the comments sections, I can always use more ideas!

Also, I may mention the kids (Reegan and Gaby) more often as well. Because lets face it, they are my life and up top it says this is a 'Moms journey of weight loss'.

Eeek! Only 11 days away!

2010-01-06T21:37:00.000-08:00

The 10k race that is. It is on January 17th, and it's creeping up WAY too fast. I am doing it with my mom, and we have talked a lot about it. We are going to try our hardest, but we're not too worried about our time in the end. Since we are already signed up for another 10k on February 21st, we'll have a chance to beat our time.

I haven't been doing so well with my diet. I am trying hard, but it's the getting to the grocery store and buying the veggies that I'm having trouble with. I had toast with peanut butter and cucumbers for lunch and dinner today. I'm not complaining though, it's delish! I am going to make a big batch of stir fry again, and maybe some spaghetti too. yum yum.

Hmmm...how 'bout mind your own business?

2010-01-04T10:49:00.001-08:00

When I started this whole new 'healthy living' dieting thing, I kept it a secret from most people. I didn't think it was their business and I was a little embarrassed. I thought by telling people, Iwas admitting to myself, and others that I had a weight problem. Obviously as the weight started coming off it became obvious to people that I was doing something differant. I must admit, I liked not having everyone know. Especially through the holidays where everything was revolved around food. I think people feel they have the right to comment on what I am eating. I swear some people watch me eat, waiting for me to screw up. And boy did I screw up during the holidays. Last night at my in-laws house, my father in law, felt the need to comment about what was on my plate. Saying certain things were going to wreck my diet, and that I shouldn't eat the potatoes. Yesterday Reegan had a donut, and I asked him for a bite. Some women near by pipes up, that I'm not allowed donuts, and that I shouldn't eat it.

Mabye I'm just misserable because my lady friend should be visiting soon, but that kind of stuff really annoys me. Nobody commented on my eating habits when I was overweight, so why do they now? Is anybody else dealing with this problem?

I hate to admit it, but I'm happy the holidays are over! Now I can get back into the swing of things. I'm like a little kid, I need my routine. Plus, I am running a 10 in 13 days and I'm not feeling prepared, eeeks!

oh, one last thing, my mother in law bought me some sweet running gloves for Christmas, they are from lululemon and are really comfy and cute! YAY!

I love Christmas!!

2009-12-28T15:53:00.001-08:00

I hope everyone had a great Christmas!! I didn't exercise much, and I ate WAY too much, but I did manage to keep the damage to a minimal. I weighed in at 165.2 this morning. As much as I didn't want to, I did my work out for the day, so I'm feeling good about that. I hope I can shed a few more pounds in the coming weeks, but more importantly eat lots of veggies, I feel so much better when I do.

Randy got me a few t-shirts for Christmas, and so did my mom! Also I got a gift card to Coquitlam Centre (big, huge mall) I am tempted to buy a fancy new camera with that money and my $500 from the weight loss challenge, but I'm still deciding....

Sick, again!

2009-12-18T23:03:00.000-08:00

Last night my throat started hurting again, and by this morning it was excruciating. So I saw the doctor first thing this morning, and was given another antibiotic. Hopefully it works this time! Tomorrow morning we leave for Sun Peaks. We are going with the big in-law family, not my idea of a good time......I am bringing a few healthy foods for myself (skim milk, veggies...etc.) They are supplying all the food, and that worries me. Hopefully I don't offend them by bringing some food myself. I hope to be one of those peoples that loses weight during the holidays instead of gaining!

I have a 10k race January 17th...coming up quick! And just today I registered for another 10k February 22nd. I'm excited!!!

Have a good weekend, and hopefully we can all make wise food decisions and get some exercise in!

Money!

2009-12-17T15:27:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was weigh in day at the gym. But apparently I can no longer weigh in there. They have decided to close the challenge to members only. So I don't have that to keep my accountable anymore. I think they were just scared I was going to win again, also, it's not very good advertising for them that someone that doesn't belong to their gym won the first challenge. I did get my $5oo from them though. Plus a big medal, that Reegan enjoys wearing, he is currently napping with it in his bed, (I did check on him to make sure he didn't fall alseep with it around his neck)

I will continue to weigh myself at home, and every wednesday I will record that weight. My mom challenged me to see who could lose 10lbs first....so far I'm winning :) I went Christmas shopping at Old Navy today, and man do they have some good sales right now! Just for kicks I tried on a pair of jeans, because mine are getting baggy. And yippee, a size 10 fit! It was just a few months ago I was wearing a size 18 pants! I didn't buy the jeans, because I don't have the money (saving the $500 for some down south outlet shopping) but now I know, I am a size 10! I can actually go to Lululemon now and buy more than just headbands!! Too bad it's so expensive!

Can I have a re-do?

2009-12-15T15:39:00.000-08:00

I am still here! I have been keeping up with my exersising and my eating has been pretty good, but could be better. So I was looking through my old photos for some inspiration, and I just wish I could go back in time, and have a re-do. I wish we could do our camping trip over again, I wish I could go to the lake with my sister's again, attend my mom's 50th again....all things that I have pictures of, which I hate looking at. I know I can't re-live those moments, but I can look forward to next summer and all future events that will be documented with film. I know I can't talk about pictures and not share them all with you. So for your viewing pleasure, from the beginning of summer, to now.

Comparing this last picture with the rest really puts things into perspective for me, and gives me motivation to keep going and not give up!

Tomorrow is weigh in day, and I'm hoping to be down again. I'm not expecting a big loss, just really hoping not to gain this week.

Cycle two

2009-12-10T21:37:00.000-08:00

Picture my friend recently posted on facebook of me at my first baby shower (3 years ago).

With the 12 week challenge finished I was worried that I would lose my motivation. Thankfully the gym has started another cycle. I am all signed up and ready! My goal weight was 160lbs by my birthday (feb 12) which I have now changed, again. My new goal weight is 140lbs. I don't have a date set that I'd like to be at, but my birthday would be nice, however I don't think I can lose 25 lbs in the next 8 weeks....but we'll see. I have become alot more lax when it comes to my diet, which really sucks, but I haven't been horrible. Something I can definitely live with, without going overboard. This is a constant battle and I'm learning as I go. The 10k race I am signed up for is fast approaching, and I'm really excited for it. A fellow blogger friend just signed up for a half a marathon, and it's something that I have been thinking about for quite some time. I haven't told anyone though, because I didn't think it was attainable. But now that my friend has signed up, I'm thinking maybe it is possible that I could complete one....one day.

Only 2 weeks left until Christmas!!!

I'm healed!

2009-12-04T23:52:00.000-08:00

I finally dragged myself (and two kids) to the doctors office. I was diagnosed with Strep throat (which according to him is the same as tonsillitis..hmmm) so after taking some antibiotics, I am definitely feeling better! I actually ate 3 full meal today! So enough about that...

Wednesday I was weighed in, and I didn't want to tell them I was sick, because no one likes sick people....and I was scared they would say something about me losing so much weight in one week, so I quickly chugged a litre of water right before I went in to get weighed, lol. I still tipped the scales at 168.8, which is down 6lbs from the week before. I told him I just tried really hard so I would win. And win I did. They are having a little awards ceremony, which I think is lame, just give me my money already! But I will be contacted in about 2 weeks with a date of when the ceremony will be....Five hundred smackaroos! I already have that money spent in my head, all the cute little outfits I am going to buy and purses and shoes! Ahhh, I'm so excited!

So my total for the past 12 week is.......41lbs, on the dot! They measured me as well, and I don't have them right in front of me, because it's midnight and I'm in bed, but I know the inches lost is quite something. I know I lost 8 inches just off my hips. In 12 weeks, seriously! It is so amazing to me the differences I see in these past 12 short weeks. I feel like such a new person, inside and out! I dream of going for hikes with the family and swimming, and water slides! Stuff I used to dread and avoid at all costs! I would worry friends would invite us to the beach and have excuses ready why we couldn't go. Now, it's like pick us, pick us! I will try anything! I am no longer embarrassed of my weight. I weighed 164.2 this morning. I could scream that number from the roof top, I am so proud of it! I'm sure I sound like a real butthead right now, but when people congratulate me, or tell me how good I look, I kind of down play it and just say thanks, or say I've lost a bit of weight....but here can I just said that I am so proud of myself and I'm starting to love the way I look!

Now back to business, I haven't worked out since Saturday! That's almost a whole week! Now that the sickness is gone, it's time to get back at 'er. And even though I weighed 164 this morning, I'm sure most of those pounds will come back momentarily until I can actually work it off, and not lose it by being sick.

Oh, before I leave, I am officially registered the a 10k race. January 17th, is the Chilly Chase and I shall run it! That's my motivation to keep running through the holidays! What's keeping you from over indulging in Christmas baking and skipping out on some workouts?? We can be the few that loses weight at Christmas instead of gains!

Want a quick fix to lose weight?

2009-12-01T16:14:00.000-08:00

Get tonsillitis. I am sicker than a dog. I haven't had anything to eat or drink (besides 2 cups of tea) in the last two days. This morning I weighed 169lbs. I am so hungry, but it hurts too much to eat :( Being sick sucks, but being sick while taking care of two kids REALLY sucks. Thank goodness my fever seems to be coming down finally!

Tomorrow I go in for my final weigh in and measurments! Ican't wait! Wish me luck

Winner...?

2009-11-26T21:50:00.000-08:00

As of right now, I am winning the challenge. That would mean I will get $500! I am winning by a long shot (35lbs of fat lost, 2nd place lady lost 15lbs) But it isn't over yet, and there is a slight chance someone could catch up....

I had a loss of 4.4 lbs this week, which I'm very excited about. One question I have, is what my goal weight should be. First it was 180lbs, well I'm bellow that now, and still think I have a ways to go. I guess I'll know when I get there, or at least that's what I'm hoping...any suggestions?

This past Sunday my mom and I ran a 5k race. It was a really nice route through Bear Creek Park. Gorgeous place! It was raining pretty hard at some points, but I enjoy running in the rain. My time was 31:13, I hope to improve that at my next run!

10k plus weigh in plus challenge

2009-11-20T12:57:00.000-08:00

Last week I finished off my running program with a 10km run. The weather outside was nasty, so I ran on the treadmill. It took me 65 minutes to run the full 10 kms. Not too bad. Now I've started on a new program, run 10k faster. So I run 3 days a week, and do some home videos (Billy Blanks) 3 days a week. I workout 6 days a week, crazy! I've been a little laxed on my diet lately, and I and reaping what I've sowed now. I had a 1/2 pound gain this week. I was talking with a guy at the gym yesterday and he seems to think I am winning this 12 week challenge by a lot. The person in first place has 15 lbs of fat loss, and I have 35 lbs (in 10 weeks). He thinks he could be calculating it wrong, but looks like I might be coming into some money soon! He said I am doing exceptionally well, and that it's unheard of how well I'm doing! Hey, that's a compliment I'll take!

I am running another 5k this weekend, hopefully beat my time from last month.

I have been getting a lot of flak lately about not being a member of a gym (the gym this challenge is at especially) I am doing really well on my own, and I enjoy the workouts I am doing. I am a runner! I love to run. I don't get why that is such a big deal to these trainers. I am doing my strength training and I feel great. I just wish they didn't have to hassle me to join their gym and fork out the money! That's my little rant this week ;)

I am waiting for a phone call letting me know if I am winning the challenge for not, so I'll update when I hear something!

Thanks for reading and leaving such kind, encouraging comments!

The Good, The Bad and The Not so Ugly

2009-11-12T20:35:00.000-08:00

The Good:
I lost 3.2 lbs this week! Woo Hoo! I'm pretty excited about that. I am now officially in the 170's. It seems like I've been setting goals for myself, and am blowing by them so quickly that I can't even enjoy one milestone before I'm on to the next. Don't get me wrong...I'm not complaining about that!

The Bad:
I'm not winning the 12 week challenge I am participating in :( In the last 9 weeks I have lost 31lbs. Almost 15% of my starting weight. Someone in the challenge has lost 15.4% so far. So she isn't that far ahead of me, and I have 3 weeks left to catch up!

The Not so Ugly:
I bought some new jeans this past weekend. Size 12. They were cheap and are cute, and I'm feeling pretty hot in them!

My new goals: Lose 8.4 lbs in the next 3 weeks, bringing my total to 40lbs in 12 weeks. Lose 18.4 lbs before my birthday (February 12) to bring me to my goal of 160 lbs!

Here's me at my heaviest, 82 lbs ago!

Edited to add: I was looking at this picture, and I can see a crap load of nachos and cheese sitting on the stove ready to eat, and Randy is making us big huge cups of hot chocolate! What a dose of reality of how bad our eating habits used to be!

Cookin' in a dress...

2009-11-06T08:06:00.000-08:00

My mom brought over my grad dress yesterday so I could try it on, and to my amazement it fit! I was soo excited that I wore it all evening. I even cooked dinner (shephards pie) in it. And of course I took some pictures. I think it fit pretty good, still pretty tight, but it was tight when I wore it 4.5 years ago. My boobs are definitly bigger, but I am breastfeeding now, and obviously wasn't then!

Yesterday was also my weigh in day. I lost 2 pounds this past week, putting my weight at 181.6 lbs. Hopefully next week I'll be in the 170's. And this is uncharted territories for me. I have no memory of being in the 170's. And obviously at one point in time I was, but it was well over 5 years ago. So that will be an exciting time!

What to blog...

2009-11-04T13:30:00.000-08:00

When I am running all I think about is what I should blog about when I'm done. I think about my inspirations, my motivation...basically everything. I could make 10 mini posts about all random things or just lump it all together in one....

I do my best thinking when I am in the shower, running and laying bed....maybe that's because that's the only time I get mostly to myself. The kids are usually in bed by that time and I can just think about life.

I've always wondered why I want to lose weight. Most people would say because they want to be healthy and life a long happy life. Well if I want to be honest with myself, it's because I want to look good. I want to buy cute clothes from my previously favourite stores again and feel good wearing them. That probably makes me sound shallow, which I assure you I am not. Who doesn't want to look good? So that was my main goal going into this, look great and have other people notice as well. Yesterday morning I ran on the treadmill, 6 miles, and while I was running Reegan was playing around me and watching Treehouse. He is such a sweet little boy, and I realized I am doing this for him and his little sister. They are amazing little kids and they deserve to have a great mom. Randy has wanted to take Reegan to the water slides for a while now, and I always so no, and the reason is because I didn't want to wear a bathing suit. Well not anymore! Too bad I came to this realization in the winter when they are closed! I do not want to deprive my kids of anything just because they have a lazy and embarassed mom. I am going to live my life to it's fullest and looking good is just a perk of that! So as sappy as it sounds, my family is my motivation. They give me that little push to keep running.

It feels good to get some of my thoughts out!

As far as my weight loss this week goes, it's not too great. I can come up with a thousand excuses, my monthly lady friend is visiting, halloween candy was around, I don't have a vehicle so I can't go to the grocery store....blah blah blah... Basically I lost sight of what is important, only for a short period, and I am back on track! My running is going really well and I'm looking forward to the 5k in a couple weeks. Also, I will starting some strength training soon, which will be nice too! I'm thinking I want to be at my goal weight by my birthday (February 12) and I think I chose 160lbs as my goal weight. That may change, but for now, that is the number I am shoooting for.

Some pictures to end the week!

2009-10-30T13:01:00.000-07:00

Here's my new haircut!

The first picture is from 7 weeks ago, when I started my running program, the second picture is is 6.5 weeks later. (25.5lbs lost)

7 weeks down

2009-10-29T21:44:00.000-07:00

I have been at this for 7 weeks and this week I lost over 6lbs! Very exciting! I also got my hair done, as a reward for losing 50lbs. It looks really cute, and it was kind of a splurge. Anyways, that's my mini update for this week! I hope I can get through halloween without eating too much candy!

I survived!

2009-10-26T07:46:00.000-07:00

Not only did I survive the 5k, but I rocked it! I had three goals going into it:

1. I didn't want to die!
2. I didn't want to walk
3. I wanted to finish under 40 minutes.

I was so nervous all day! I don't know why I was nervous, I just was. When the race started there was quite a few people so I had to navigate my way through them all. Just over halfway there was a massive hill that I wasn't expecting! But, I ran right up that darn hill! I did twist my ankle and fall, but I got right back up and kept on running. And then close to the finish my shoe came untied! Soo mad about that, because I always, always double knot my laces, and for some reason I didn't that day! Anyways... I finished the race just under 30 minutes! (like, literally just seconds under 30 minutes) I was very happy about that time! I was expecting to be around 34 or 35 minutes, so yay me! I had such a feeling of accomplishment when I was done, and I am still running on adrenaline! I am going to register for a 10k on November 22nd! My friend that also did the 5k kept commenting how it was "only" 5km, and was no big deal. I had to continually tell her that to me it was a big deal! 6 weeks ago I could run 1 minute, and now I'm running 30 consecutive minutes! I just want to mention how much I love my husband! He has been so amazing for me through all this. He ran the whole race with me, and pushed to stroller. At the end he ran really fast to get ahead of me, and quickly took a picture of my crossing the finish line! I upload it later! Yesterday he even brought me shopping in the states so I could buy a new bra! How many men go bra shopping, seriously! On that note....it was so fun going bra shopping! My boobs have shrunk a lot. I am still nursing, so they will shrink even more when I am done! Normally that would be a bad thing, but in my case, it's awesome! I can almost buy bras from regular stores again! Like La Senza or Victories Secret!!

I hope you all had a great weekend!!

Weigh in day!

2009-10-22T13:20:00.000-07:00

Nothing too exciting to post, just that this morning I weighed in, and I am down 2.2 lbs. Making 190lbs even! I am soo excited to weigh in next week and be in the 180's!! Eeeek, still seems so unbelievable to me!

Today I have the run for 72 minutes...well kind of. I warm-up and cool down for 5 minutes of walking, so that leaves 62 minutes of running...well not really. I run 10 mins, walk 1, run 20 mins, walk one, and then run 30 mins! So that's 60 minutes of running. I am super super excited to do it! This running program I am doing is so awesome! I can't believe that 6 short weeks ago I could barely run 1 full minute. I am no longer nervous for the 5k on Saturday! I think the running aspect of this whole 'journey' is my favourite! I used to love running when I was younger, and now I am loving it again! It's so nice to be able to call myself a runner! One day I want to be labeled as a marathon runner!

I am going to take a picture today, it seems like a good day for one. Even though I don't like my jeans anymore. They are getting soo sagged out, and that's not sexy ;)

Nummy Num....

2009-10-19T17:04:00.000-07:00

That's how I describe my dinner last night, and tonight dinner too! Stir Fry! It was soo good and easy peasy to make! I don't like any meat in it (shrimp, chicken...etc..) so it's just a veggie stir fry, but was it ever tasty! Basically you just chop up as many vegetables that you like, and saute them, stir in some low calorie stir fry sauce and serve over brown rice. I didn't blog this weekend because I was embarrassed! Randy went hunting for 4 days, so while he was gone I got Reegan and I Triple O's for dinner. That entailed a hamburger and onion rings for me! The first really bad thing I've had in 5 weeks. I had been craving it every single day since I started this diet, and I finally caved. When I used to get the exact same meal I would eat the whole thing with no problem, and could still eat more afterwards. This time, I could barely finish it! I was soo full! And guess what?!? It wasn't worth it. It wasn't nearly as good as I remembered, and I felt yucky afterwards. Not to mention the waste of money that it was! Seriously, for me and Reegan our bill was $13. I could have bought a cute new top for that price! What a disappointment! So, back to the stir fry. Not only is it cheap, it is very healthy and I felt great afterwards. I am making Randy baked mac and cheese for dinner (one of my favourites) so I better get to choppin' on my veggies and make my stir fry before the mac and cheese starts calling my name!

Oh, one more thing....the 5k race I signed up for is coming up! Like really really soon...Saturday to be exact. As in 5 days away! I'm freaking out. I don't know what I'm so worried about. I know it isn't going to kill me. I just really hope I can do the whole thing without walking. Eeeek!

Getting closer...

2009-10-15T12:53:00.001-07:00

to being in the 180's! I had a loss of 1.8lbs this week. I know it could have been better, but a loss none the less. I'm just one step closer to my goal...speaking of which, I don't technically have a goal set yet. I keep thinking I'll know I'm there when I get there. I do have mini goals set though. My next one being 189lbs. The 5k race is coming up, and I'm excited and scared at the same time! I am doing it with my mom, and I have no idea where she is at with her running. I really hope I can keep up with her, and that she doesn't hate running slow with me! We're going running together tomorrow, so I can gauge how it will go. At the gym this morning the lady was nagging me again about joining them. Saying statiscally I can't make it on my own and if I want to see results I need to join a gym. (I only go there to get weighed in for this 12 week challenge, not an actual member) I just wanted to scream at her! Can't she see my results and know that I can make it, I am making it work!!! Why would I want to go to the gym and run on a treadmill with tons of other sweaty people around me when I can run on the open road while pushing my kids in the stroller giving them fresh air?? It just doesn't make sense to me. I understand the gym has weights and machines there I could utilize, but clearly I am making due with what I have! Don't get me wrong, I have nothing wrong with people that go to a gym, it just isn't for me at this time in my life!!!

Turkey Days!

2009-10-11T20:51:00.000-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all my Canadian friends! Technically tomorrow is thanksgiving, but that's ok! My mom and sister came over tonight for dinner. It was really good!

I forgot to update for my past weigh in, so I lost 1.4 lbs. Obviously not as great as last weeks, but I'll take it! Any loss is good in my books! Soon I'll be in the 180's, which just seems soo unbelievable to me! When I was 9 months and big and pregnant with Gaby I was 260lbs! So I never imagined I would be back down to this weight. It's been years and years!

I never imagined I would feel so awesome as well! I have so much more energy lately. My running is still so hard, and is constantly kicking my butt, but I am still enjoying it. The 5k I am registered for is in less than 2 weeks! We mapped out a 5k loop by our house, so that is what we've been running, and it isn't too far. Randy is going hunting on Thursday, and I am not looking forward to it! I am going to miss my running partner!

So wish me luck this week, and that I have another loss at our next weigh in!

Me, a runner?

2009-10-06T15:07:00.000-07:00

The kids have both been napping for over 2 hours, so I'm sure they will wake up just as I start this post! My running training has been picking up, and last night I ran 10 minutes, walk 1 minute, 4 times. It was soo refreshing to run outside, awesome! It made the 10 minutes seem almost enjoyable! When I was younger I used to run a fair bit. Me and my mom even did the Sun Run (annual 10k run in mid April). I gave it up though over the years. I've always wanted to get back into it, and here I am, training for a 10k. Ultimately I want to run the sun run under an hour. But my first goal is to do the 5k. I really hope I can run the whole thing, with no walking. I don't have a definite time set, but close to 30 minutes would be nice. Randy and the kids will be doing my running with me tonight again. They got a little sick of sitting in the stroller after half an hour, but I'll just turn my ipod up really loud so I don't have to listen to them ;) Speaking of ipods....It may be mean to Randy for me to listen to music while he is running with me, but I'm so out of breath I can't talk to him anyway. I was skipping through songs on my shuffle when I got to some Christian music. At first I skipped through them because I wanted to listen to some upbeat, loud music while running. But I realized I really enjoyed the calming effects it had on me. So now I have a good mix of Hillsong and Toby Keith songs to enjoy ;)

On a less happy note....my weight loss has slowed down! I'm thinking it might have something to do with losing 7 lbs last week, but also I haven't been as strict as I was the first few weeks. As of this morning I am only down 1lb so far. Hopefully I can get back on track, and stay on track!

The kids are still sleeping, but why push me luck!

New pants and a dedication!

2009-10-05T13:54:00.000-07:00

Saturday Randy, Gaby and I went to Costco and Old Navy in the States. I bought a pair of jeans, and they are so comfy, they fit really well! Hopefully not for long though ;) They are a size 14, not too shabby for me :) Sunday we dedicated our sweet Gaby to the Lord, with all our family with us. It was a really nice day, and we are so blessed to have such great family. I wore a really cute dress that my friend had lent me.

It was beautiful weather, so after we enjoyed a very yummy brunch buffet we needed to try burn off some calories! So we put the kids in the stroller and went for a long walk.

Both kids fell asleep, so it was a very peaceful, almost romantic walk! It reminded me of when we would go for walks before we had kids. Awesome afternoon, that about sums it up! I can't lie though, I could have done better with my diet. We were at an all you can eat buffet, for brunch, I mean come on!! I definitely could have been a lot worse though. It took a ton of self control to not stuff my face! I ate a lot of fruits and veggies, and only a few potatoes, and one little waffle, no whipped cream :P

I am officially signed up for the 5k at the end of this month, October 24th. Today I have to run 10 minutes, walk 1 minute, 4 times. Randy is going to do it with me, on the trail by our house. I usually do it on the treadmill, but our schedule got screwed up today, and it's also nice to run outdoors sometimes.

On a roll

2009-10-01T20:04:00.000-07:00

Today was weigh in day at the gym. I am proud to say I had another great loss. I lost 7lbs! Woo Hoo. That officially brings me under 200 lbs. I couldn't be more ecstatic! All my hard work is paying off! I got some new runners today, and I can't wait to use them tomorrow morning. I haven't missed a single day of excersising either. I am currently running 6 days a week, and it's been awesome. I seriously need to do some shopping. The pants I am wearing right now are soo big. If I jump up and down a few times they fall down to my ankles! And I'm wearing these pants around town. Hopefully this weekend I can get some pants to tide me over :) I have been feeling happy, energized and motivated these days, and I know I owe it all to my excersise and food control!

Nothing to wear!

2009-09-26T22:18:00.000-07:00

I went to a wedding 3 weeks ago and bought a new dress for it. It was so tight, it was practically painted on. I had to wear spanx under it in hopes of smoothing out a little bit. Well I tried the dress on today, and it's too big. Not a little big like I could still wear it, it's WAY too big. It looks like I'm wearing a potatoe sack. I was planning on wearing the dress for Gaby's dedication, but obviously I can't now! One day I will get it taken in, but not yet! So now I get to go shopping for a new dress. Also, all my pants are too big. I'm not really into shopping for clothes, but I'm hoping that I will enjoy it a bit more now that I'm losing a bunch of weight. So my plan is to buy a new dress and some pants that aren't all saggy and make my crotch look like it hangs down to my knees.

This morning I weighed myself, (like I do 100x a day) and the scale read 200.00 lbs!! It was soo exciting to see! Honestly I haven't weighed this much in such a long long time. It isn't my official weigh in, so I can't track it down yet, but I'm hoping when I go to weight in next week it's even lower!! I can't imagine being in the 100's. That will be amazing for me.

This evening some friends came over, and we had a great time! I had a very yummy hamburger and lots of veggies! I even made cookies and was able to resist having any! Yay, so proud of myself for that, and thankfully my friends ate them all so I don't have to have the temptation now. We had such a delicious dessert as well! Thank you Frances! I am glad I was able to socialize with my friends without eating too much junk food! Great time had by me!

In Sync with Biggest Loser!

2009-09-23T13:01:00.000-07:00

Last night was week two for the Biggest Loser contestants, and this morning I had my week two weigh in! I have been doing pretty well this week. We went out for our anniversary but other than that, I've been really good! My work outs are getting harder, and the eating part is getting easier! So while watching Biggest Loser last night I was thinking week two is a crappy week and I probably won't lose any weight. I was just hoping not to gain! I lost 1.6 lbs, not a tonne, but it's still down. I am just going to keep plugging along and keep doing what I'm doing, and slowly but surely this weight will come off! I didn't get under 200lbs, but soon I will!

I LOVE how much energy I have had lately! It's so fun playing with Reegan on the playground and running around with him. I feel so much more energized and simply excitable about life! I am also going to sign up for a 5km run that's at the end of October. It's just down the road from my house, and Randy will do it with me! I hope I can run the whole thing!

This post is already all over the place, so why stop here.....I made such a yummy snack yesterday! I cute a tortilla shell into little triangles, and baked them in the oven on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes, until they were crunchy. They were really good, and I ate them with salsa...so a pretty low calorie snack! I am going to do it again today! And I am going to make my own hummus today, yum yum!

It's too HARD!!

2009-09-19T21:35:00.000-07:00

Obviously it's hard! If it was easy there wouldn't be so many obese people in the world! I just wish it didn't have to be so hard for ME! Randy has been supportive, he will watch the kids while I jump on the treadmill. (not literally jump on it, but ya know...) And he really encourages me every step of the way. He is also very good at flattery. But still. I still am the one that has to deal with this struggle daily. The good thing is that I am starting to enjoy exercising! I used to be a runner back in High School, and I'm so glad I'm getting back into it. I can't wait to sign up for my first race. One of the many things that sucks about weight loss, is how long it takes! I want results NOW! I hate that 2 or 3 lbs a week is considered good. Why can't I lose 20 or 30 lbs a week? That's one character flaw I can admit to! I do not have patience! So how about I stop my belly aching and write some things that are positive in my life right now!

I LOVE that I can already tell my exercising is paying off! I don't get winded anymore when we go for our nightly walks after dinner. I LOVE that I have been eating so many vegetables lately. I LOVE that I get excited to shop for new clothes now! Lastly, I LOVE that I am finally thinking of myself and feeling less LAZY!

Sometimes I just need to bitch to myself, but I have no desire of quitting! And I can't wait for what is to come!

Why, oh why...

2009-09-18T13:46:00.000-07:00

did I have to do it! We went to Red Robin last night for dinner. I wanted to pick something healthy off the menu, but what did I get? A big fat burger with fries! In my defense I didn't get cheese on it like I usually do. Not that it really made much of a differance! It really wasn't worth it honestly! And as soon as I finished eating it I knew I made a mistake! So usually when I get to this point in a diet I give up. It's happened so many times. I just tell myself that I've already screwed up, so why keep trying. Not this time. This morning I worked out extra hard! I was sweating something fierce. I really hope my screw up doesn't mess up my weigh in too bad next week. I guess it's time to move on, and just focus on the future!

On the upside of last night, Randy bought me a new jacket. I saw it at the store a week or so again and really wanted it! So I convinced him it would make a good anniversary present. After dinner we went to the mall and got it! It is pretty tight, but in a couple weeks it will be perfect!

Tomorrow is Saturday, and weekends are always hard for me to stick to my diet! Randy is home, and our routine is all out of whack. So wish me luck! I started doing pilates again as well. I tried doing it a few years ago, with results, so hopefully it will do the trick again this time! I can really feel it in my abs today, so that must mean it's working!

Buh bye 5 lbs!

2009-09-16T14:23:00.000-07:00

I went to the gym yesterday to get weighed in, and I lost five pounds! I am very excited about it too! In 6 days, that's almost a pound a day! I know next week most likely won't be such a big loss, but that's ok! Any loss is awesome in my books. I am hoping that I am under 200 next week. That will require a 4 pound loss. I have been doing really well with my diet, and even better with my exercise. It's still really hard for me to not eat bad food. Randy has been a great support to me, and I am so thankful for that. Last night he even said my butt is getting smaller ;) I don't know if it really is or if he is just saying that to be nice, but it doesn't matter! Too bad I didn't start this challenge that I'm in before I lost 30 pounds, oh well! I can still win this one! I love being excited about buying clothes! It's our 4 year anniversary tomorrow, and I asked for a jacket. I don't know if I've ever asked for clothing as a gift before! I haven't decided yet if I'm going to cheat on my diet tomorrow. We don't have a babysitter available to us tomorrow night, so we can't do anything too exciting, but I would like to not have to cook dinner. I am craving a burger from White Spot sooo bad! With Triple O sauce. mmmmm.....it would be soo good, but would it be worth it?? Talk me off the ledge, please!!!

Oopsy!

2009-09-13T21:20:00.000-07:00

So it wasn't too bad of an oops, but still, it wasn't great. We went to Randy's parents house today for dinner for the FILs birthday. I knew it would be hard to stick to my diet, but I didn't know just how hard. I only took a teeny tiny bit of mashed potatoes, and Gaby ate most of them, so that wasn't too bad. My whole plate was veggies, but when they are dripping in butter, it kind of defeats the purpose of eating veggies. And then I had a piece of cheese cake after dinner. My MILS cheese cake is seriously one of my favourite desserts ever! So when I had just a small piece and gave as much as I could to Reegan, I was proud! So like I said, it wasn't horrible, but I definitely could have been better. And to top it all off, I didn't exercise today! But that was planned all along. 6 days a week, with the off day being Sundays. I weigh in on Tuesday, so lets hope it's a good weigh in for me!

Hide the scale!

2009-09-11T13:10:00.000-07:00

So I'm happy to say that I have been sticking to my diet, very well. I got on the treadmill again today, it was soo hard doing it, but I'm glad now that I'm done. I have a real problem with weighing myself. I swear, sometimes I weigh myself 10 times in one day! I wish I could just go to the weekly weigh-ins at the gym and that's it! The good news is that I know I have already lost weight! I am doing my grocery shopping today, I am excited to go buy lots of yummy healthy foods! Anyways, that's all I have to report for today.

Pictures!

2009-09-10T20:45:00.000-07:00

I started excersising today. I am doing a learn to run 10k program. It went pretty well, it was hard running, but I got through it. I took a few pictures of myself just before I went to work out. They aren't the prettiest pics, but they'll do.

So far the hardest part of this 'lifestyle change' is the not eating after dinner. We (Randy and I) used to always have a snack together after the kids went to bed. Whether it was popcorn, icecream or nachos. In the winter months we had a cup of hot chocolate every single night. So now that all has to stop and it's been HARD!!!!

I recently got into crafting. It's been so much fun, plus it keeps my hands busy. I really enjoy making little things for my little Gaby! I even started a little group on facebook to try and sell some stuff. Hopefully help pay for my habit. So here's Gaby with her new paci clip.

Day One

2009-09-09T21:39:00.000-07:00

Day one of the 12 week challenge is officially over! Well I guess technically it isn't over, but I have brushed my teeth and avoided all temptations that I've had today, so in the sense that I won't be eating anymore, it's over. I went to get signed up for the challenge and I was weighed and measured. My weight was 209 lbs. I don't have my measurements, but I'm sure they were really high. My first goal is to be under 200 lbs. That will be such an exciting day for me, because I haven't been in the 100's in a looong time! Tomorrow I am going to start exercising. I have a learn to run program that I did a few years ago, so that's the plan. Start running.....slowly. I'm feeling pretty good about my first day!

Intro.

2009-09-09T12:55:00.000-07:00

I titled my blog 'Monday starts today' because today is a Wednesday and I am starting yet another diet today. In the past I always said I would start on Monday. Well not this time! This diet is going to be differant. I am doing a 12 week challenge at a local gym. Whoever loses the most weight after 12 weeks wins $500. I know I am going to win, and I will use the $500 to buy a new wardrobe. I am going to get weighed and measured this afternoon and will update tonight with those stats, as hard as it is going to be, I will share my weight with everyone.

I haven't always been fat. But as I got older the weight kept creeping on. Then I got pregnant a couple times, and now here I am. I have already lost a bit of weight leading up to this 'new Laura' but not near enough. I weigh 18 lbs less than I did when I got pregnant. So wish me luck, because my diet starts NOW!