Friday Weigh In

Down 1.4 today.  I was thinking it might be more with adding in JMBR, but I'm not disappointed at all- I'm also tracking measurements that I will share at the end of phase one and those I'm very pleased with this week!  I'm just so excited that I've been eating right and I've managed to get in every workout as well so far this week.  Next week I am looking forward to getting my workouts back to a morning schedule.  I really wanted to start on Monday, which threw me into nightly workouts for this week, but I am one who really does better with morning workouts.  I don't like getting up early, but when I work out at night, I have trouble falling asleep.  Not because I'm not tired, because I am- I just can't seem to turn my brain off!  So, two more days and I will be done with week 1- a very fast week all things considered!

4 Down, 86 To Go

Day 4 of JMBR is behind me. On the schedule tonight- workout 1 and cardio 1, basically a repeat of Monday's workout. I am happy to have it behind me. This workout was by far the hardest for me to get started. This evening we said good bye to one of the great families on our street. They are off on a brand new adventure, and I am very excited to follow them via facebook and their wonderful blog. I will miss them, but that isn't why it was hard for me to get started. This little guy was the reason:

We said goodbye to our neighbors and headed home (no tears, just happy goodbyes). I got Sophie changed and tucked in and went to tuck in Tyler and Garett and poor little Garett man was just crying. You see, he loves Miss Sue (she gives gum, has a tape measure in her purse and tells awesome stories- what more can you want?). I don't think he understood until today that they were moving and that she wasn't going to live just down the street and would not be able to take him to preschool and gymnastics. We talked, I hugged him and told him that we'd still be able to read about what Miss Sue would be doing on the computer and that she'd probably even share pictures once in a while. He seemed ok. I hugged Tyler and then went to tuck in Caleb. I got my clothes changed and soon all I heard was Garett crying again. I went to try to comfort him, gave him hugs again and he seemed to be settled. I went downstairs to get started, got my water and I heard him crying again. I was really at a loss as to what to do next. So, even though I didn't want to bother our neighbors (they were trying to get everything out of the house), I felt like the only thing I could do was to let him say goodbye again. So, I walked Garett down the street so that he could get one more hug from his special friend. She gave him a pack of gum (totally awesome in Garett's eyes!) and they talked for a minute or so and we headed back home. It seemed to work, he was able to be calm enough to go to sleep.

So after all that, I finally forced myself to get started. I was a little drained after watching my little one cry- I hated that part. But I worked through and I am glad I did- I really want to commit to everyday of this 90 day plan. I know that things may possibly come up outside of my control, but I am not planning on missing one. Weigh in day tomorrow...wonder what that will bring...I've been following the JMBR page on facebook. It is encouraging to see the progress of people who have been doing this longer, I am anxious to see how my body changes during this process as well.

Day 3 Down

I completed day three of Jillian Michaels Body Revolution (JMBR) this evening. Tonight was a bit easier on me because it was just a cardio workout. I had woken up and run this morning so instead of doing double cardio this evening, I just did the one. Tomorrow I'm back to workout 1, followed by cardio 1. I really like the way this program is laid out, it is easy to follow. 27 more days of phase 1- I'm very eager to see the results of this. Oh, and I can tell the cardio is helping with my running. I was able to do my longer interval at a faster pace- even through the soreness ;)

Something New

I now know I can complete a half marathon. Now I am working on my time. I have a very specific goal for when I run the Disney Wine and Dine half marathon in November. I am sticking with my Monday short intervals, Wednesday long intervals and Friday long-ish runs. This has been a very productive training plan for me over the past three months. I am very happy with the progress that I have made. I am hoping that by continuing to work hard I will continue to see improvements. That is really what this is all about- improving myself and doing my best.

So, my something new- last week I ordered Jillian Michaels Body Revolution. This is a 13 week program program, 3 different phases. My set of DVDs came today. Since I like to start things on Mondays, I figured why not? We got home from baseball, got the kiddos showered and in bed and I changed into my workout clothes before I could change my mind. The first week there is a kick-start your metabolism portion that involves doing workout 1, week 1 and then cardio 1. Each DVD workout is a little less than 30 minutes long. Workout 1 included triceps, chest, abs and quads. Thankfully I won't be working on those muscle groups tomorrow, it was rough! Cardio 1 was a bit exhausting. I managed to keep moving the whole time, though there were periods of time where I had to just run in place because I couldn't keep up with the exercise.

Overall, I was really impressed. I felt like I got a great workout in, I didn't get bored, and it felt like just the right amount of time for me. I'm looking forward to the next session tomorrow. On Friday when I did my weigh-in, I also took my measurements. I am really looking forward to seeing the results from adding this to my current running plan.

Sunday Meal Planning

This week is proving to be a bit of a challenge. Because of various kiddo activities, we are going to be out of the house every evening Monday-Thursday. Tuesday and Thursday we can be home at dinner time, but just not quite early enough to actually make something. So I'm finding myself in a different kind of position- I need to make meals that can be eaten on the go for every night. This is instead of grabbing something at a drive through on the way home each night. It's also getting warmer here (yay spring!) so crock pot meals aren't as appealing- I am one who much prefers soups and casserole type meals in the fall and winter instead of spring/summer. So here's how this week is going to go:

Monday: picnic dinner (baseball practice for the biggest kiddo)

Tuesday: Skinny Tuna Noodle Casserole- didn't get to have this one last week and this will be the "chilly" day of the week, :)

Wednesday: picnic dinner (baseball practice again)

Thursday: "snack dinner" for the kids and salad with chicken on it for me

Friday: Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken (kiddos love this one- they can eat it over and over!)

Saturday: Kid's Choice

Sunday: Leftover night

I'm getting back on track with running this week as well. I've already run today, so that is a start :)

Friday Weigh in

Down only 1 this week. I'm not surprised. I've been on plan for eating, but not at all for running. I'm not completely sure why- I don't have a reason at all. One thing I noticed- it was very easy to fall into an old routine. Monday and Tuesday were planned rest days. I was up and moving fine after the half, but I did feel the need to give my body a bit of a break. So I didn't run, but I did lots of stretching and even a little jumping on the trampoline with the kiddos.

I was all set to get up on Wednesday and return to my running schedule. And then...I didn't. No excuse, no reason, I just didn't. Same thing happened yesterday. And again this morning. No clue why except I just didn't want to. I do usually find it difficult to get back to running after a race. I haven't figured out why that is hard for me yet, but I do know I need to get over it. Next race is 22 days away already.

I am still very proud of what I have accomplished so far, I am not going to beat myself up over letting this week get away from me. I am planning on an afternoon or evening run today. The day isn't lost! Have a wonderful weekend!

Doing My Part

Deployments are hard. I try not to complain, but they are hard. Hard on the military member, hard on the family members at home. I set a goal for myself before this deployment started. My goal is to run a half marathon every month. At first I thought it would be a fun goal to have, a way to lose weight, a couple weekends out of town, but it really has turned into much more than that. Sunday I realized that I am setting an example for my kids. Taking care of myself is a very important lesson to teach them. I am so many things to my kids while my husband is gone. I am trying my best to make sure all logistics are taken care of- everyone gets to school on time, homework done, laundry, after school activities, meals (because they do want to eat everyday!), and everything else that comes with being a mom to a busy household. Every other deployment before this one I thought that was my part- make sure we all got through as happy as possible, trying to make sure that the kiddos felt the effects of deployment as little as possible. As it turns out, seeing me complete a goal like this is also my part. Showing my children how to be active and eat healthy are lessons that they will never forget. I am doing my part to show them what it is like to say I am going to do something and to do it to the best of my ability. And that is my contribution to this deployment. And it is paying off already....

I watched my oldest complete the "Operation Smile Final Mile" on Saturday morning. I am so proud of him- he had been running at school and logged 25.2 miles and then Saturday he ran with over 4000 other elementary school students that had signed up. He was so excited to run- I had picked up his race shirt and goodie bag while he was at school on Friday. When he got home and I showed it to him, he changed his shirt right away and checked out his bag (one of the drawstring backpack kinds). Saturday morning he got ready for his race and kept asking when it was time to leave. We got parked and got him down to the oceanfront and into his corral for the start. He was running with one of our neighbors. Waiting to start.

Getting close to the finish:

He completed his marathon!

He is so proud of that medal- and he should be! I know that there was a time that I couldn't run a mile. I know how hard a mile can be. Here is this 7 year old who ran his mile (and the 25.2 before that!) and loved it! He's already asking about his next race. He's asked more than once when he can do a half marathon.

I have to say, I am now proud of the example I am setting for him. I feel like I am doing my part.

Sunday Meal Planning (on Monday)

I was a little brain-numb yesterday after the half. I had meant to plan ahead like I did after the princess, but last week really got away from me. So, after a great night's sleep (I love how great I sleep after a race!), I got one kiddo off to school and then sat down to plan so that I can still get to the store a little later today.

Monday ~ Picnic dinner: oldest kiddo has baseball practice from 5:30 until about 7:30. Since it is his first one, I'm planning on giving him a heavy snack before practice and taking sandwiches and stuff for the rest of us to eat while he practices and then giving him something else after practice.

Tuesday ~ Tacos- we have some leftovers from our fajita dinner on Saturday evening, and since we have gymnastics, we will need something quick.

Wednesday ~ Chicken Pot Pockets (didn't have these last week)

Thursday ~ Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken

Friday ~ Skinny Tuna Noodle Casserole

Saturday ~ Kid's Choice- I'm trying to do this once a week as a treat for them. They are really great about eating the healthy choices that we have the rest of the week. A few weeks ago my oldest said something about really wanting chicken nuggets or something (and we do still eat out on occasion) and I told him that we are trying to eat more healthy overall. We were talking about what are good choices for us and what are not so good choices for us. I'm also hoping that by giving them a choice, they will learn to make good choices for themselves eventually. I am also hoping that by allowing them to choose they will also learn about moderation, because I truly feel that is the key.

I'm kind of glad I don't have to cook today. I can spend the day getting ready for the rest of this week. It's a pretty normal week for us here, just adding in the start of baseball :)

Shamrock Half Marathon

Today I completed half marathon #3 of my deployment challenge. I really enjoyed this race. It was a little chilly waiting for the start, but overall the weather was really nice during the race. I was doing really well the first 8 miles. But I must have pushed too hard, and ended up walking the majority of the miles from 8-12.5. I'm still very happy with my end time (3:17:13- a new personal record). It is very close to what my goal was for this race, but not quite- I was really hoping for 3:15 or better this time. I maybe could have pushed a little more in my walking miles, but lesson learned- I will try harder next time. The best part of my race (except finishing!) was getting cheered on by my friend on the course. Her encouragement came at just the right time! Here is how my miles break down:

Mile 1 ~ 14:01

Mile 2 ~ 14:38

Mile 3 ~ 14:40

Mile 4 ~ 14:19

Mile 5 ~ 14:27

Mile 6 ~ 13:57

Mile 7 ~ 14:09

Mile 8 ~ 15:33

Mile 9 ~ 15:44

Mile 10 ~ 15:55

Mile 11 ~ 15:59

Mile 12 ~ 15:33

Mile 13 ~ 15:16

Weigh In

I didn't get a chance to post yesterday, but I did weigh in and was down 1.2. Making the total for 12 weeks 25 pounds. I'm now getting past the point where I usually give up out of frustration over not losing weight. It seems like the combination of weight watchers and running are really working for me. I would like to add in some cross training, but honestly I having a hard time fitting it in right now. Between school schedules (3 different ones!), a toddler at home full time, meal planning, kids' activities, grocery shopping, cooking, laundry, and keeping up with the house, there really isn't much time leftover. I'm hoping the summer will bring more time for that. Until then, jumping on the trampoline will have to count as cross training :) Hey it seems to be filling in that spot really well for right now!

Sunday Meal Planning

This week I am getting ready for half marathon #3 of my deployment challenge. It is crazy to think that I am already getting ready for my third half since January 2012. This time next week, I will be finished with #3 and most likely going to bed early!

Monday- Crusted Honey Mustard Chicken

Tuesday- Tacos- I have several packages of ground turkey because of a sale. So, I'm planning on tacos for Tuesday night because of gymnastics. I can make it ahead and have it in the crock pot for when we get home.

Wednesday- Chicken Pot Pockets This is a big favorite, the kids love it when I make these.

Thursday- It is school night at Chick Fil A, so we will be going there.

Friday- kids choice

Saturday- Chicken Fajitas- a yummy pre-race meal

Sunday- Leftovers

Friday Weigh in

This week was much better than last week. Down 2.8, total now is 23.8. I have to say, I'm happy with that number. I'm 11 weeks in and averaging a little over 2 pounds per week. This week I was back to eating the meals I'd planned along with running since I am fully recovered from the princess half. I'm 9 days away from the shamrock half, I'm think I'm on target to reach my goal for this race. It's been a little harder than I thought it would be to recover and get ready for the next race in just 3 weeks. But, keeping these races scheduled is keeping me accountable and I'm meeting my goals because of it!

And, a little weight loss info from Losing 30 Pounds in College:

How Much Have You Lost?

1 pound- a Guinea Pig

1.5 pounds- a dozen Krispy Kreme glazed donuts

2 pounds- a rack of baby back ribs

3 pounds- an average human brain

4 pounds- an ostrich egg

5 pounds- a Chihuahua

7.5 pounds- an average newborn

8 pounds- a human head

10 pounds- chemical additives an American consumes each year

11 pounds- an average housecat

12 pounds- a Bald Eagle

15 pounds- 10 dozen large eggs

16 pounds- a sperm whale's brain

20 pounds- an automobile tire

23 pounds- amount of pizza an average American eats in a year

24 pounds- a 3 gallon tub of super premium ice cream

25 pounds- an average 2 year old

30 pounds- amount of cheese an average American eats in a year

33 pounds- a cinder block

36 pounds- a mid-size microwave

40 pounds- a 5 gallon bottle of water or an average human leg

44 pounds- an elephant heart

50 pounds- a small bale of hay

55 pounds- a 5000 BTU air conditioner

60 pounds- an elephant penis

66 pounds- fats and oils an average American eats in a year

70 pounds- an Irish Setter

77 pounds- a gold brick

80 pounds- the world's largest ball of tape

90 pounds- a newborn calf

100 pounds- a 2 month old horse

It Was a Monday

Everyone has a "Monday" every now and then. You know, the kind where you can't get started or where if it's going to go wrong it's going to. It started off fine, got up, got into workout clothes, fixed breakfast and then started off on my treadmill run. About halfway through I was switching the incline and the safety magnet came off also, which turns off the treadmill. I didn't know that this would go through a calibrating cycle for the incline. So I didn't know what was going on and just decided to call it a workout. So that did not give a very good start to the day. The rest was fine, just rainy and cold- my least favorite kind of weather.

Dinner tonight was Chicken and Broccoli Noodle Casserole. I thought it was a very yummy dinner. My complaint was that there were too many dishes used while preparing the meal. All the boys liked it, Sophie ate all the broccoli and noodles and then called it a day- big surprise. Overall it was a hit and we will be having it again.

Sunday Meal Planning

It was a pretty busy week, but we've all recovered! My parents and sister went home Tuesday morning and Kelly left on Wednesday. Meals went almost as planned. There were a couple change ups, so trying new ones this week instead. This week we're pretty much back to normal. Company coming in on Friday, so that will change things up a little, but making good decisions is key.

Monday: Chicken and Broccoli Noodle Casserole from SkinnyTaste- this is a new one we didn't have last week. I'm thinking that it'll be a hit for us, we all love broccoli, chicken and noodles. Look for the review later on!

Tuesday: Turkey Chili Taco Soup from SkinnyTaste Another new one. It's a gymnastics day, so this is one I'll make ahead and throw in the crock pot so it's ready when we get home.

Wednesday: I have a meeting so I will leave something for the kids and I will have some leftovers

Thursday: Another meeting tonight, so brown bag dinners it is!

Friday: Spinach Lasagna Rolls from SkinnyTaste These were a big hit last time, so hopefully they'll go over well again!

Saturday: Not sure, company's choice :)

Sunday: Leftover night

Only 2 weeks until my next half marathon. I've got a time goal in mind for this one, it's a pretty flat course, so I'm hoping to meet that goal. This week I'm hoping to log some decent miles, but not push too hard- saving that for the half.

This is from a fellow Princess Half Marathoner and blogger: "I am running the San Diego Rock and Roll Half Marathon on June third to benefit Team in Training for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Soceity. Each runner has to raise a minimum of $2900. As a fundraiser, I am holding a virtual 5k--BLING included. Just run or walk anytime Saint Patricks Day weekend. As a thank you, I will send you a finishers medal. Registration is just $20, but feel free to donate more! Thanks!" So, if you are looking for a no-pressure 5k to do and also benefit a good cause, check out this one: Lucky Leprechaun Virtual 5k. I will be running mine over the weekend. It's pretty easy, you just go out and run it when you can!

Giveaway at Running Diva Mom

I read a lot of different blogs. It has been great to read other blogs to learn from their experiences. Some that have been around longer do giveaways on their blogs. Running Diva Mom is giving away a copy of Hot (Sweaty) Mamas. Go and check out her blog and enter her giveaway!

Friday Weigh in

Today was actually better than I thought. I had some treats while on my trip last weekend and of course we ate out most of the trip. But overall down .8, making the total so far 21 pounds. I have a goal of 10 pounds per month, and this puts me over the goal for this month and gives me a head start for next month as well :)

Now I seem to be suffering from post-vacation and post-race blues. It was such a great experience and I had such a good time that I am kind of blah. Don't get me wrong, I am happy to be back home and we have all settled back into our daily routine. We have plans for our annual birthday dinner for Dr. Seuss- green eggs and a movie, probably also read a book or two.

It's just a little over two weeks until my next half- that is sneaking up fast! I have been able to get a couple runs in this week, so I am feeling really good. The recovery time between races is becoming easier and easier, which I am thankful for.