Saturday, May 25, 2013

May 25, 2013

It has been almost an entire year since I have posted, and in that year everything has gone to shit.  I have gained at least 20 lbs since the last time I posted... probably more, but I'll get to all of that tomorrow.

We have recently learned that my mother has stage IV cancer.  She was originally diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but now they are unsure and think that it may possibly be colon cancer.  In order to get a final Dx, they need to do a colonoscopy.  Unfortunately, she became ill with pneumonia and gram positive cocci so the colonoscopy has to be put off for 2 weeks while she receives IV antibiotics.

Needless to say, mom's illness has caused me to spiral into an eating frenzy to rival no other.  Couple that with the Morton's Neuroma in my right foot and I'm a mess.  My inability to run started the weight gain and Ive been unable to stop it.

But...

I refuse to let it go on.  Starting tomorrow, I will post new photos (before photos), my weight and measurements.  I'm terrified to see the numbers, but I have to stare it in the face before I can fight it.  I'm going to have at least 45lbs (my best guess right now) to go before I can be the 130lb mommy.

Wish me luck.

Thursday, August 23, 2012

August 23, 2012

It's been quite a while since I've posted and a lot has happened.

I'll start with my weight.  Right now, I'm not sure what it is, but I know that it isn't pretty.  I will wait at least one week of being back on my diet and working out before weighing myself.  I have had a lot of difficulty controlling my eating and I'm not quite sure why but it has to stop.

Now for a running recap.

The half marathon that I was running on May 6th ended up being AMAZING!  We actually ran the Nut Job (twilight 5k on Saturday and half marathon Sunday morning).  I didn't PR (it was close but I had bathroom issues... Port-A-Potty lines were long) but I finished in a good time [for me], ran the entire distance, AND did it without any music!  That was the first time I had run without music and it was great.  I rarely do run with music these days and find it quite liberating.

I ran one 5k, sponsored by Pretzel City Sports, with L in July.  It was heinous.  It was hot.  I had a belly full of pizza.  But I did it... slowly. My friends are so awesome and they usually come to my neck of the woods for races so it was nice to go there and race in her area.  Well, as nice at it could be considering how heinous, hot, and full I was.

I spent most of my summer training for Iron Girl Columbia, my very first triathlon.  Since I had been running frequently (and detest running in the heat), I spent my summer focusing on the swim and the cycle.  I saw a swim coach twice and she helped me in remarkable ways!  I am a MUCH better swimmer due to her input.  I also signed up for the bike clinic with Princeton Sports and rode my bike around the airport loop to train for the hills on the course.  This really helped my performance on those 2 parts of the course.  Unfortunately, it has left me grossly underprepared for my upcoming races.

Completing the Iron Girl triathlon was one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life.  It was another one of those "things I never thought I would EVER do".  I was surprised with the difficulty I initially had with the swim since I had trained so well and could easily cover the distance.  The problem was that the breathing pattern I had used EVERY time I had swam that distance just wasn't working for me. I felt like I was suffocating.  It took me about 300 meters to switch my breathing pattern and start really making up some lost ground.  I wish I had thought to switch my breathing sooner, but now I know for next time, right?  The cycle went pretty much as I had expected it to.  I knew I would struggle on some of the hills, but I never had to get off of my bike except for the one time I had to retrieve my water bottle that I dropped.  The run was also hilly and I had to walk a couple of times to get through it.  I'm a little disappointed with myself, but now I know what to expect and I know to train more for the run.  The best part (besides running with J) was seeing my family as I crossed the finish line.  It evoked a brief ugly cry, but Im not ashamed.  I earned that ugly cry.  I am also totally hooked on triathlons now.

I am running the infamous A-10 this weekend.... and I use the term "running" loosely.  I tried to run 5k yesterday and my legs were SO tired that I just couldn't do it.  I was so embarrassed and terrified at the same time.  How the H-E-double hockey sticks am I going to run 10 (!!!!) miles on Sunday (with AF here at that!)?  I need all of your prayers, y'all.

Whats up after A-10?  Tough Mudder.  Yup, you heard me right. TOUGH MUDDER.  It seemed like a really good idea at the time.  Of course, I thought I'd have done a better job training this summer too.  These next couple of weeks are going to be brutal, but I. Will. Not. Give. Up.  I will get through this somehow.  It may be sheer grit and the grace of God, but I will find a way.

The last thing on my calendar as of now is the Baltimore half in October.  Luckily I've still got time to get some decent training in for this one and hope to at least come close to a PR on this hilly course.

So, there you have it.  I will update after the A-10 and I will post weight stats again on September 7th.  Time to get my Sugar-Honey-Iced-Tea together and get'r done!

Sunday, April 15, 2012

April 15, 2012

So- this is where I am.

I tried to run today and made it 2.5 miles before petering out.  It was hot as Hades out there and I foolishly left the house around 11:30 am to go for a run.  It was a disaster.  Not only was it hot, but its the day before I'm supposed to start my period and I always do poorly when I run on that day. I ran a nice, solid 4.5 miles earlier this week so this was incredibly disappointing.

I have a half marathon coming up on May 6th and I am fairly confident that I wont even be CLOSE to ready for it.  I've had to resign myself to the fact that its going to be humiliating and focus on possibly getting a new PR on the 5k the previous night.  The Baltimore half is in October and I am going to have to focus on redeeming myself at that race.  I can't believe I've allowed myself to get lazy like this.  I'm going to follow an actual training program for the one in the fall and I'm going to have to train all summer (which will suck) but I'm hoping that it will be worth it.

I've also lost control of my eating which makes me feel as if I'm losing control of everything.  I know I've gained at least 5 lbs and I'm hoping it isn't much more than that.  I'm going to step on the scale tomorrow morning and see what the verdict is.  I am then going to FORCE myself to blog about both my eating and running.  If someone is actually reading this and you haven't seen any posts from me- send me a message or post a comment to let me know that I'm slacking.  I promise I will thank you for it.

It's time to pick up the momentum again.  We have a family vacation at the beach in 2 months and I'd really like to look nice in some shorts and a swimsuit.

Now... off to find a CrossFit gym that is reasonably priced.  My time is valuable and seriously lacking so I need to pack a real punch with my workouts!

Saturday, March 31, 2012

March 31, 2012 (WARNING! May be controversial)

So far Ive only gotten one run during the week (with my club at school) and a run on the weekend.  I need to find time for this... its making me crazy!!!

In other news... Ive started Weight Watchers again.  I'm not going to meetings or doing it online because that's extra money that I just cant afford.  I'm doing it alone (again) in hopes that it will jump start my weight loss!

Ive been searching for somewhere to talk about something that may seem alarming to some of you, but it shouldn't be.  I figured I would come here since I don't think that too many people actually read this.

A friend of mine recently posted a discussion thread about all of the thinspo on Pinterest.  I had no idea about the thinspo and pro-ana culture out there so I started searching for it and reading.  Through my reading, I realized that this is how I think... I just don't have enough self control to execute.  (See I told you this may be alarming.)  I OBSESS over food and calories and how I look.  I OBSESS to the point that I have difficulty enjoying myself out in public because all I can think about is how I look.  When I lose control and binge, I OBSESS over the fact that I was weak then deal with intense remorse over my actions.  When I lose control over my eating, I feel like I'm losing control of EVERYTHING.  Feeling out of control is a very frightening feeling, hence my need for control.

The thing is, I DON'T feel alarmed about this.  I'm still at least 20 pounds overweight and not thin by ANY means.  I feel like I am weak.  I feel like I'm a little pathetic because I let FOOD rule my world.  Most of all, I kind of feel helpless because I cant quit food the way I quit smoking or an alcoholic can quit drinking.  Food has to be a part of my daily life... the unfortunate part is that it rules my life and if it doesn't, then Ive lost control.

*sigh*

Yes- I KNOW this isn't healthy or normal.  I realize that I need help and I'm not ashamed to admit that I'm afraid that if I get help, then I will be fat again.

Crossroads...

Sunday, March 18, 2012

March 18, 2012- TMI ALERT

Current weight:  152

Yeah... that's right.   I've gained 2 lbs and I'm a bit embarrassed about it.  I am back on track though and hoping to see some progress this week.


I ran the Rock'N Roll USA half marathon in Washington, DC yesterday and had a PW (personal worst).  I was grossly under trained and was running it when I run my worst... right before AF is scheduled to arrive.  In fact, she showed up around mile 9 and the closest medical aid station didn't have any feminine hygiene products.  They gave me a roll of stretchy gauze that I furiously cut with my teeth [in the port-a-potty], folded up and shoved in my underpants.  I was already struggling at that point and the further I went the more sore my abdomen felt.  It was much hillier than I expected [and I never run hills] and I had only run one 10 mile run, 2 weeks before the race.  Not only was a I grossly under trained, but I felt completely embarrassed.  Even if you take off the 7ish minutes I spent in the port-a-potty, I still finished at my slowest time ever.

I'm also disappointed.  Two of my BRF's, L and L, were running their very first half and I wanted to cross the finish line with them.  Not only did I miss it, but they finished a bit more than 15 minutes before me and both of their times [on a hilly course] beat my current PR [on a flat course].  Needless to say, I'm feeling a bit of extra motivation to get some decent training done over the next few months!  This is my current race schedule:

March 24- 5k for 100 k
May 5- Frederick Running Festival 5k (first leg of Nut Job)
May 6- Frederick Running Festival half marathon (second leg of Nut Job, first leg of MD Double)
June 24- Baltimore Women's Classic 5k
August 19- Iron Girl Triathlon
September 9- Tough Mudder
September 22- either The Color Run 5k or RnR Philly
October 13- Baltimore half marathon (second leg of MD Double)

J has agreed to make sure I am able to run 2 short runs after work during the week and a long [relatively hilly] run every weekend.  In between those, I've got to work on strength training as well.

Wish me luck!
 

Sunday, January 22, 2012

January 22, 2012

Current weight:  150.6

I have eaten more food this weekend than I care to admit.  I'm embarrassed.  I'm ashamed.  Probably most of all, I am disappointed.  I fell off the wagon and it was like I had absolutely no control over what I was doing.  At that point, the eating was a compulsion, a psychological NEED that I had no control over rather than your typical, run of the mill cheat day [weekend] on a diet.  Ive been hiding food, eating it quickly so no one sees me and even eating it late at night after everyone is in bed.  I'm just like every other kind of addict out there, but my drug of choice is food.

Ive got a picture posted on Facebook that says, "Do not blame genetics. Do not blame a busy schedule.  Do not blame the weather. Do not blame school/work.  If you want it bad enough, you will do whatever it takes to reach your goal."  I agree with that 100%, so I don't want you to thing that I am placing blame for my eating or trying to find excuses.  I just need to try to explain the plight of the compulsive over eater.

Compulsive overeating is an eating disorder that most aren't aware of.  Everyone knows anorexia and bulimia, but compulsive overeating doesn't get the same kind of press.  Imagine the binge of a bulimic without the purge and you've got the gist of what goes on with a compulsive over eater.

I can do a pretty good job controlling my compulsive overeating if I keep a very rigid schedule and menu for my diet.  Some think I am being too rigid, but what they don't understand is that if I'm NOT this rigid, then I will binge.  Telling a compulsive over eater to loosen up a little and allow yourself treats now and again is like telling an alcoholic that one beer every now and again is OK.  Its not. If I allow myself one cookie, it quickly turns into 10 cookies.  I keep telling myself to stop, yet my hand keeps shoving them in my mouth as quickly as humanly possible... you know, so nobody sees me do it.

I think that this binge has been feeding my soul.  Of course, as much as I try to feed it, the food isn't helping.  Ive had a lot weighing heavily on my mind and the unknown is just so.... mysterious.  Its so... UNKNOWN.  Ive been trying very hard to just give it all to God, and I do feel better after I leave church but I know I haven't been able to just give it all to Him.  Its just too close to my heart.

[sigh]

In other news, today is my 1 year runniversary.  Exactly 1 year ago today, I began my journey toward becoming a runner.  Since then I have run:  5 5k's, 1 10k, 2 5 milers and 2 half marathons.  I have 3 half marathons, 1 5k and 2 triathlons on the books for this year as well.  I think Ive come quite a long way from where I started and I'm mighty damn proud of that.

I wonder where I'll be next year....

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

December 7, 2011

Current Weight:  153.8

Starting waist:  41 inches
Current waist:  33 inches (-8)

Starting hips:  45 inches
Current hips:  41 inches (-4)

Starting thighs:  27 inches
Current thighs:  22.5 inches (-4.5)

Starting arms:  14 inches
Current arms:  11 inches (-3)

Total inches lost:  19.5 inches!!!!!

I don't have a lot of time to post right now- A&P final in less than 48 hours but I wanted to post updated measurements since I haven't done so in quite some time.

More to come after finals ;)

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Starting Weight: 205 Current Weight: 155 Total Weight Lost: 50 pounds! Its amazing how much easier it has been to start losing again once I stopped nursing. I was hoping that was the reason for my never ending plateau, but there was no way of knowing for sure until it was time to wean B. I cant even begin to express how glad I am that the weight has started coming off again. I was TERRIFIED that I would never get to my goal weigh and now Im 2/3 of the way there! 50 pounds down and only 25 more to go! HELL YEAH! So I thought I would post some pictures of my journey.
  Uploaded from the Photobucket iPhone App

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 25 more pounds to go. Hmmmm, I wonder how long it will take...

Saturday, November 12, 2011

November 12, 2011

Current weight: 159.4!!!! I'm finally back into the 150's and Im so stinking excited!!!! I have been eating 1200 (or less) calories a day and trying to run at least 3 times a week. Unfortunately it has been difficult to get my running in as often as I'd like, but life has been quite busy lately. I am registered for the Celtic Solstice race in Baltimore on 12.17. Yup, I'm celebrating my 36th birthday with a frigid 5 miler and Im really looking forward to it. I have some friends coming out to join me on my celebratory run so it should be a blast. I'm also registered for the Iron Girl triathlon on 8.19.12. A colleague at work and friend from Florida are both "running" that one with me. (running? doing?) That is going to be so exciting! Im also planning on running the Rock N Roll Half in DC on 3.17.12 for L's birthday and doing the Tri-It triathlon in Bear, DE on 6.9.12.

Saturday, October 15, 2011

October 15, 2011

Wow- Was my last post REALLY on August 30th? Now that Im back to school (both work and college) I find that I dont have much time for posting. So... some updates:

My first half marathon was AWESOME!!! Philadelphia is a beautiful city and I am now a firm believer that the best way to see a city is to run it. I was feeling great for most of the run until about mile 11. At that point there was a slight grade to the course and I started feeling it in my legs. I struggled a little bit that last 1-2 miles, but I didnt stop and I didnt walk. My goal was to run the entire thing and










I DID!!! I ran my first half marathon in 2:41. Am I fast? Not by any means! But I did it damn it and that is all that matters! It wasnt pretty once I crossed the finish line though. It was as if my leg muscles seized up. It was horrible and wonderful all at the same time.

Two weeks later, I ran my second half- the Diva Half in Long Island. My Friend Kristy told me that I needed MORE GU!!! Yes, more Gu along the course and I should be ok... no more of that nasty muscle seizing thing I went through in Philly. Now, if you're not familiar with Gu, its some nasty stuff. Not solid, not liquid, but rather some disgusting in between consistency. She advised me to Gu it up every 3-4 miles. SO- 1 Gu before, 1 Gu at mile 4, then another at miles 7 and 10. Well, wouldnt ya know it? It worked! I finished strong and felt frickin' AMAZING when I finished!!!! (3 minutes faster than 2 weeks prior at 2:38) I could have seriously kept on running (hence my decision that I may actuallly pursue 26.2).

So, what's next? 5 miles on Saturday October 22nd, 5 more on 11/6 (maybe) and then another 5 on my birthday. I think running is the best way to start out my 37th year and Im hoping to have a bunch of folks there with me, helping me celebrate. After that, I dont have any definite plans beside training for a triathlon in the spring. (Yes, I said T-R-I-A-T-H-L-O-N)

Now- onto other things.

My weight loss journey (where this whole blog STARTED) has come to a screeching halt and Ive decided that it is time to do something about it. I am going to be on a strict 1200 calorie diet and Im going to be blogging about it weekly again. Its time to get rid of this last 30ish lbs!

So, stay tuned folks and please send me all of your weight loss and motivation mojo!

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

August 30, 2011

I just got back from a terrible run. I did a most excellent 10 miles on 8.20.11, then started having some weird calf tenderness and aching in my right knee. I decided that being ready for my half marathon was more important that my 100 days of running and took a few days off. It was so difficult to not get out there everyday and get a least a mile in, but I refrained and my body is much happier with me because of it. Ive also been battling a bit of a cold/sinus infection and Im thinking that played the biggest role in the most horrible 4ish miles Ive ever run. It felt like my first time out there! Its amazing how discouraging ONE bad run can be. I just have to keep reminding myself that I CAN do it. If I can do 10, I sure as HELL can do 13.1!

I had my first appointment with the nutritionist last week and she is having me do a more detailed food journal for 5 days. I have to fax what I have to her tomorrow and I will see her again on Thursday afternoon. Im terrified of what she is going to say. Ive already cried in front of her once, Im really hoping not to do that again. Its so very difficult to talk to someone about something that is so incredibly embarrassing like my food issues are. My break from running is also going to make me look like a liar since Ive already told her that I run every day.

Its funny, when Im running I think of all kinds of things that I want to say when I finally get behind the computer but when I actually sit down to write, I cant remember any of it. I guess that's God's way of telling me to get off of my fat ass and clean this house then get my homework done!

Friday, August 19, 2011

August 19, 2011

This post is going to be quite a bummer, prepare yourselves.

Im struggling- bad. You can only plateau for so long before becoming terribly discouraged. Its been 3 months and it seems that no matter WHAT I do, my weight just wont change. The good thing about that is if I have a few bad days, I dont gain a lot (if at all!). The bad thing is that I can bust my ass dieting and running for weeks (months actually) and get NO results. Zero. Zip. Zilch. Nada. Nyet. NOTHING. Same damn number taunting me on the scale Every. Damn. Day. Seriously, what the F#@k? I still have 35ish pounds to lose and they act like they're taking up permanent residence.

Ive tried:
1. eating more
2. eating less
3. modifying my running schedule
4. counting calories rather than WW points
5. giving up artificial sweeteners

Im about to start eating cinnamon by the spoonful and going nuts with the cayenne in our food.

I now have an appointment with a nutritionist as my next step. I know I eat more processed foods than I should, but I dont eat them in excess (most of the time anyway). I need to get back to the basics I guess. Salad and some sort of protein.

Mostly, Im frustrated. Im busting my ass and not getting results. THEN, when I get discouraged and eat like a freaking maniac I spend the rest of the day wallowing in remorse. Yeah, like right now.

So- Im going to post what I actually ate today as punishment for being such a freaking glutton.

2 scrambled eggs.
6ish garlic knots
4 slices of a NY style 12" pepperoni pizza
an entire order of crazy bread
2 slices of LC pepperoni pizza
a hershey bar with almonds
a coke
a Big Red soda

Everything else was zero calorie beverages. How freaking embarrassing. Im guessing that is approximately 66 points??? Umm, yeah... My daily allowed points right now is 29.

Im going to go change my son's stinky butt and wallow in my misery for a while. Maybe I'll manage to cry or something.

Its also day 49 and I havent run yet. For the first time in these 49 days, Ive actually contemplated just not doing it. THAT is sad. Of course, you know I will... one way or another.

Today's overall feeling? I. Suck. All I want is to have control of my food rather than my food having control of me!

Thank goodness tomorrow's a new day.

Monday, August 1, 2011

August 1, 2011

Taking the week off of dieting? Giant F.A.I.L. The scale this morning read...

168 lbs

Genius idea, V. Have a major love affair with food and think that it will actually HELP your diet. I swear I'm smart. I even have a college degree! Sometimes stupid things DO happen to smart people.

So, I'm back at it today. Well, I lied- I'm back at it TOMORROW. For some reason I had a really hard time stepping away from the food today. I'm feeling quite discouraged and its making it hard to stay on the wagon. I have walked or run every day so I haven't lost sight of my 100 day challenge. (I had to walk 2 days due to a pulled muscle in my calf that was injured while playing Wizards, Giants and Elves in one of my grad classes. Yeah... don't ask).

I did do my PR 7.25 miles on Saturday and I'm feeling good about Rock'N Roll coming up in only 48 days! At one point in time, I obsessed about whether or not I would be able to go the distance. Now all I obsess about is my weight/food. I haven't seen the damn scale go down in about 3 months now and its just leaving me feeling completely defeated. I start feeling pretty good about myself then I see a picture and it just makes me feel worse. Why the hell wont this freaking weight come off?!?!?!?! I made an appointment with my physician for Wednesday to talk about the hair loss and other myriad of things that are bothering me and I'm hoping he can refer me to a dietitian/nutritionist. I CANNOT fail at this weight loss journey! I'm doing this for my boys more than for myself. I just don't know what to do anymore. Am I really going to be resigned to eating salads for the rest of my life? Don't get me wrong, I love me some rabbit food every now and again, but I don't think I can handle it all the time. I guess that if that is what I have to do, then that is what I will do.

As I'm sure you can tell, I'm feeling quite defeated today. Weight loss is the only thing at which I have been unable to be successful. Of all of the things I have undertaken in my life, THIS one thing... this one MOST IMPORTANT thing is the one that I find myself repeatedly failing to do. Why do I obsess over food? Why is it one of the top things I think about daily? Honestly- the number one thing I think about is my kids. Number 2 is probably food.

That's just not normal.

Thursday, July 21, 2011

July 21, 2011

So, instead of taking the weekend off from my diet, I'm taking the whole damn week off. Maybe it will kick start my metabolism a little so I can start losing again! I have been weighing myself daily to make sure I don't overdo it too much and I haven't gained anything (in fact, it appears as if Ive actually LOST a pound!) so I'm not worrying about it right now. This never ending plateau is killing my spirit so I need to step away for a minute and just focus on my running before I lose my mother loving mind.

Speaking of running, this insane heat wave is really putting a damper on my running. I have been running on the treadmill and while that is great for intervals and my short runs, it sucks for my longer runs. I need to get outside for those and cant very well do that if its 100*+ outside.

Warning: Geek alert!

I have a pretty close knit group of online friends. We've been friends for over a year and a handful of us see each other pretty regularly since we live close enough. Since we only really get to talk online, it is easy to get sucked into conversations instead of doing what you need to do around the house (well, it is for me anyway!). So, even though I miss them terribly , I have taken a break from the group in order to try to get my life put together so I can stop feeling like a hamster on a wheel.



Yeah, that ^ pretty much sums it up!

While on hiatus I have:

1. Gone on a surprise vacation. Yup, it was a SURPRISE vacation. J had his dates wrong and we got lucky enough to be able to switch our reservation and leave that same day. Molly was boarded and she didn't seem to enjoy the experience. It took a couple of days of being home before she returned to herself and started eating normally again. Poor pooch.

2. Potty trained JD. Well, at least partially. He will urinate on the potty every time but bowel movements are inconsistent. Regardless, he is a potty training rock star in my eyes, especially since he's only 2!

3. Cleaned our bedroom. Yes, you heard me right... I cleaned our bedroom and it took me TWO WHOLE DAYS. I have to admit though, my mother (yeah, I asked my mommy to help and she is doing a stellar job. Wait... maybe that's because we're paying her) and I have done a kick ass job! J actually commented that we could fit a few kids in there. I'll get to that later.

4. Mostly sorted and organized all of the boys clothes according to size and season. A dear friend is about to have a baby boy so I'm going to let her go through everything, then we're going to yard sale most of the stuff.

5. I'm on day 20 of 100 days of running. Yes, I have run 20 days straight.

6. Met one of my college sorority sisters for happy hour. We haven't seen each other in 10ish years so that was pretty kick ass.

Would I say that my life is in order right now? Not quite yet, but its definitely closer than it was a few weeks ago.

Lastly- I am desperately trying to convince J that we MUST have another baby. I think I have him convinced that we should have one, now Ive just got to convince him that we need to get the ball rolling in September! I NEED another baby. Ive always wanted 3 kids and I am super excited to actually have them.

So. There ya have it y'all. My life in a nutshell. This isn't my usual type of post, but I thought I would try to remind myself of the things that I have accomplished and hope that focusing on that will keep my mind off of the fact that my body just doesn't seem to want to shed any more weight. Once Monday rolls around, I'm back on track and hoping to finally see some more results.

Sunday, July 17, 2011

July 17, 2011 Part Deux

Sunday: 1 mile
Monday: 1-2 miles
Tuesday: intervals
Wednesday: 3 miles
Thursday: intervals
Friday: 1 mile
Saturday: Long run, increasing by 1 mile every week.

This is what I am looking at for my running schedule through mid October. This week will be a trial run (no pun intended) and I will try to do some cross training with it in order to switch things up a bit and try to keep my legs fresh. I don't want to injure myself while training for my first ever half marathon. It does break the rules of 100 days of running, but I WILL be running every day and (to me) that is what is most important.

So far as my dieting goes, I took the weekend off. I didn't count points and enjoyed 3 slices of pepperoni pizza from Piazza Italia last night after my long run (which burned 736 calories according to my Nike+ app, thank you very much) and I washed it down with a regular Sprite. It was heavenly. I ate what I wanted and didn't worry about it for a single second. Of course, now I have to face the scale in the morning but Im hoping that all will be ok. And if its not? Well, back on the horse I guess....

July 17, 2011

I ran with KF (the wife of a colleague and a new running buddy) last night for my "long" run. It was just under 6 miles and it would have been OK if it werent for 2 things:

1. potty issues
2. my calves

I dont know what it is with my body choosing the absolutely WORST time to want to evacuate, but it never fails. I wouldnt have minded that much if it werent for the fact that I was running with KF. She is a MUCH faster runner than I am and I always try to step up my game when Im running with her. We ended up having to walk about 1/2 mile last night because I was afraid that I would soil myself. We had quite a laugh about it.

The issue with my calves seems pretty obvious. They're tired! Im running every day for this 100 days of running challenge while training for the half marathon and I think I need to re-evaluate a little. After talking with KF (my running guru that inspired me to do the 100 days of running) Im going to switch up the program a little. According to the website 100daysofrunning.com, you are supposed to run 30 minutes every day for 100 days. Ive been thinking about it and I understand the importance of the cardiovascular benefits of having a minimum of 30 minutes of running, but to me the most important part is the fact that I am getting out there and running EVERY DAY. So, Ive come to a decision. Since Im not actually emailing my information to the website for an official 100 days of running t-shirt, Im going to do a combination of shorter and longer runs. Im thinking 1 long run, 2 days of intervals, 2 three-ish milers, and 2 short (1 mile) runs every week. Am I still running every day? Yes. Am I still going to make this a lifelong habit after 100 days? Yes. Do I have to run for 30 minutes to make that happen? No. Ive got 2 half marathons coming up that I have GOT to get focused on and my legs are never "fresh". They're always tired and that makes the long run so much harder. Im hoping the change in my running schedule will make a difference.

I will be going to get blood drawn tomorrow for the Dr to check my thyroid and vitamin D. I know my vitamin D had tanked again, but Ive been taking 5,000IU daily for about 2 weeks now so hopefully that will be going up. Maybe we will find an answer as to why Im not losing anymore weight right now. Ive got 34 more pounds to go and really wanted to get it off before I actually manage to convince Jeff to have another baby. I dont see that actually happening (the 34 lbs part) since if we do it, we will need to get pregnant in Aug/Sept/Oct. Oh well... the journey may take longer than expected, but it never ends...

Friday, July 15, 2011

July 15, 2011

I just completed day 14 of 100 days of running. About 9 or 10 days ago I remember thinking, "What the hell have I gotten myself into? My body is angry and Im just plain tired." I realize that was probably just the first wall that I am going to hit in this journey, but Ive pushed through it (as I will any others) and am enjoying my runs. Im not really running far, but that isnt really the point. 2-3 miles daily, speed work 2-3 times per week and one long run weekly isnt anything to be ashamed of. Only 86 more days to go.

My first half marathon, the Rock'N Roll half marathon in Philly is in only 65 more days and the Diva half in Long Island is in 79 days. I will be increasing my long runs on the weekends soon. I havent done a long run in a while so I need to pace myself ;).

The whole point of this blog was to document my weight loss journey and hold myself accountable. I kind of fell away from writing because for a little over 2 months, I havent been able to lose any weight. Im still watching my daily points and Im (obviously) still exercising but the number on the scale wont budge. Im frustrated. Im discouraged. Im still determined to lose these last 34 pounds!

So- basic math can explain the principles of weight loss. Consume fewer calories than you burn. Simple, right? The difficulty lies with determining how much you burn. According to my Weight Watchers calculations, and assuming that 1 point is approximately 50 calories, I should be able to lose weight eating 1250 calories a day (which is what I am doing now). Add to that the fact that 30 minutes of running burns approximately another 250 calories and the weight should be coming off. So, why isnt it??? If I eat any less, I will be hungry all the time. I AM still nursing and that should be burning more calories as well. The math cant be wrong, can it?

Ive been experiencing some major hair loss and have expressed my concern to my dr. He is going to be checking my thyroid to make sure that I havent developed postpartum hypothyroidism. If I have, then that would explain not only the hair loss, but also the weight issue. I dont want anything to be wrong with me (of course), but it sure would be nice to have an explanation for why I cant lose any more weight.

So, I continue to chug along, stepping on the scale and staring at the same damn number day after day and week after week, hoping, PRAYING that the next time I get on will be the time the number changes.

Keep your fingers crossed for me.

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

July 5, 2011

Good idea: running while on vacation.
Bad idea: running on vacation after a cheeseburger, french fries, Diet Coke, Miller Lite and frozen creamsicle.

Lesson learned.

Did I go far? No.
Was I fast? No.
Was it pretty? No.
Did I do it? Yes.

And that... Well, THAT is all that matters.

100 days of running, day 4: check!

Monday, July 4, 2011

July 4, 2011

Happy Independence Day!

JD is still struggling with a fever that continues to come and go but he is a potty training SUPERSTAR! I just have to brag about how well he is doing with this adventure. He's even going to the potty all by himself now on most occasions. My baby is growing up...

Speaking of my "baby"...

After completing day 3 of 100 days of running, JD welcomed me home in his usual manner. He said to me, "Mommy, can I go run now? I need to get my running shoes!" (His running shoes alternate between his velcro, Thomas sneakers and his LeBron James tennis shoes that J bought for him- I think I need to buy the boy some real running shoes) Once he gets his running shoes on, we head out together and go for a run around the block. He is so proud of himself and I understand exactly how he feels. I feel that same pride when I finish a run (especially if it is a new distance or time record).

Today's run:
30'12"
2.3 miles
13'04" pace (ouch!)


I have to admit, my body is NOT happy with this new endeavor. It is having difficulty seeing the long term benefits of this new torture to which it is being exposed. As I start out, I immediately start wondering:
* When will this be over???
* How long will it take to hit my pace?
* How the hell am I going to run in this horrid heat and humidity?
* Why are my legs screaming at my like this???
* Why cant I start out with that nice easy stride and breathing pattern? The first 2ish miles always SUCK.

Once I get 2ish miles into it, I think:
* Ahhhh, this is why I continue to do this.

Once I get over that hump, I fall into my easy, even stride... my breathing comes easily and isn't strained... I start *gasp* enjoying myself. When I first start out, I'm usually dreading the run. I'm hoping I can manage to do 2 miles without collapsing. Once I get over that hump, I'm wondering how far I can run before J starts questioning where I am and getting irritated that I'm gone too long.

Today- I never got over that hump. My body was pissed off at me the entire time (and I only ran for time today [30 minutes], not distance!). My body is seriously rebelling against this whole "100 days of running" thing. Fortunately, it doesn't realize that my mind is much more powerful than my body. Ive set a goal and I will not quit... especially after only 3 days! One day, both body and mind will be working together.

One day.

Sunday, July 3, 2011

July 3, 2011

Starting weight: 204
Today's weight: 164.4 (-39.6)

Measurements:
Starting Waist: 41 inches (OUCH!)
Today:35.5 inches (-5.5)
Starting Hips: 46 inches
Today: 41 inches (-5)
Starting Thighs: 27 inches
Today: 23 inches (-4)
Starting Arms: 14 inches
Today: 11.5 inches (-2.5)
Total inches lost: 17!!!!

Day 2 of 100 days of running:
Time: 48:09
Average Pace: 12'47"
Distance: 3.76 miles

My first thought today as I was getting ready to run? "Im going to need to buy more running clothes!"

Yup- that was my first thought. I only have 2-3 decent pair of running shorts/skirt and maybe 3 shirts that I like running in in this kind of weather. I only have ONE bra appropriate for running (those things are EXPENSIVE) and after 2 days of wear without washing, I think it may stand up on its own. And socks. My running socks keep disappearing. Im suspicious that they are getting thrown away since that is J's answer to what one should do with socks that cant be immediately mated.

Dear J,

Socks are not disposable.

Love,
Me.

I am also in need of:
Chomps
Accessory pouch/band for my phone (Im afraid Im going to kill it with sweat as it bounces around with the boobies)
Sunglasses

Ive been looking at sunglasses and Im thinking I may get some Maui Jim's. Now I need to decide which ones.

As usual, my writing has lost focus (if I didnt know any better, I would think I had ADD).

Now that Im conquering 100 days of running with an old-but still younger than me- friend from high school, she has me thinking about the 100 pushup challenge. Between the armpit boobies, back boobies and "feed your baby" boobies, I feel like I should have a litter to show for all of them. Perhaps these 100 pushups will get rid of all of the boobies that dont belong there? Hmmm, what to do???