Expo Crashing

I might not be running the Peachtree Road Race on Monday, because I messed around and didn't enter the lottery. Not having a number didn't keep me from crashing the expo, alright, I didn't crash it per say because it was open to the public. I took B with me, and I will definitely be taking her to more expos because homegirl loaded up on freebies and she was just stinkin' adorable chatting up all the vendors at the expo. My main reason for going to the expo is because I knew that the people from One More Mile would be there and I wanted some of their shirts. So, while we are there I came up on the Galloway Training booth and guess who was there... Jeff Galloway himself. He and I chatted for a while, and he signed the mental training book that I bought. I realized after I walked away that I should have asked to take a picture with him, but when I went back, he had left the booth and I didn't want to be weird and wait for him to get back. The expo was pretty cool, but I went in the afternoon and by that time the place was CROWDED, it seriously felt more crowded than the Princess expo. Also, going to the expo just made me sad that I hadn't signed up for the race, I even considered buying a number from someone. Did I mention that people were standing outside of the building buying and selling race numbers. It looked like athletic drug deals going down. So, next year I will enter the lottery and hopefully I'll get a number, if I don't, I'll buy one. 

Here's the whole haul from the day.

Here's the haul

I just had to have this hat.

Some Sweaty Bands for B and I. Plus, I got us two headbands from
Hippie Runner. 

Remember how Shannon gave me a 13.1 sticker last year? Well, I thought
I'd buy myself a 26.2 sticker that I'll display after the big day
 and headband for motivation.

Had to get a 13.1 one too.

With the heat, I'm going to have to run really early so this is necessary
for safety sake.

Got a Hippie Runner race belt as well. Thought it's be good to have
GU and such handy with those loops.

The doctor who wrote this was giving out his book.

Thought this might help me up my mental game.

Jeff Galloway autographed it for me.

Front of shirt #1

Back of shirt #1

B wanted this necklace and I caved and got it for her.

Fabulous and Fierce Friday

First things first, today is Canada Day and I have already started the festivities. I wore my Canada tank to teach my Zumba class this morning, and even I high fived a fellow Canuck at CVS this morning. If I had thought about it when I was home, I would have picked up a pack of mix for the gravy that goes on poutine. Poutine, you ask.. well, poutine is a Canadian dish that's french fries, with gravy and cheese curds.  It looks nasty but tastes so good, I'm serious.

Since, I'm talking about Canada and such here's a list of some of the many famous Canucks. Us Canadians walk among you...



And then just because I love these two videos...





Alright, on to other things. I've been sidelined from running for a while because it turns out that my ankle was sprained. Imagine how jealous I get when I see all the runners around here running and generally looking so bad ass. So, I've been doing the rehab exercises and last week I was sporting a super sexy ankle brace. What?! You didn't know that ankle braces were sexy... well, now you know. Please try not to be too jealous that I still get to rock it when I work out and that I'll have to keep wearing it when I start running again. I'm considering decorating the thing with some fabric paint and such... I'll post pictures if I do. According to the orthopedist, I can't run again until Monday, I'm a little worried about it because of course no one ever wants to re-injure themselves. The ankle thing has been a blessing and a curse. I haven't been able to run but I've been working on the weight loss thing and it's finally getting back on track. Also, because I can't teach my Zumba classes like I normally do, I've had to get creative with teaching and really work on my verbal and visual cueing without actually doing some of the things. I really feel that it's making me a better instructor and my classes have all stepped up and delivered too. Gotta love that!

Hope everyone has fun stuff going on this lovely long weekend! Now stop reading my ramblings and go enjoy a FABULOUS FRIDAY and a kick ass weekend!

Marathon Training Long Run #4

Alright, so I am such an airhead and somehow managed to miss my runniversary and blog-ivesary. On May 18th, 2010, I started this little blog journey and little did I know how much my life would change and how little I knew about running. So, let's see what this second year of blogging and running fun has in store for me.

This morning, I set out for marathon training long run #4. This morning's run was a little different because I had a brand spankin' new running partner with me...Danielle. She's a friend that I met during my last time doing "Lost It At The Club". To be honest, I was a little worried about running with her because it's someone new, and I didn't want to have a bad experience. Thankfully, it went really well, she slowed to my pace and then pushed me at the end where I felt like giving up. The time flew by with chatter about this and that, the conversation came easily and was thoroughly interesting and amusing. I knew that Danielle was awesome but I didn't realize how awesome. She's going to be writing a guest blog post for me sharing her story soon. I'll give you the short version, she's lost a lot of weight, but more importantly she has truly been given a second chance at life. A few years ago, she was in a car accident that resulted in a brain injury. She had to re-learn how to do so many things we take for granted, and she even had to re-learn how to walk, and now she's running and kicking butt. To listen to her tell her story, you can't help but feel inspired. I really can't wait for her to share her whole story with all of you because I could never do it justice. Did I mention that she's going to do 13.1 Atlanta with me as well as the full in Savannah?! I love surrounding myself with those who are awesome and awesomely bad ass!

The run started well, and we kept the 3:1 intervals, we stuck to the plan, and trotted along nicely. I was a little worried about my speed or lack there of but Danielle said she enjoyed the pace and stuck with me. I was grateful for the company because I know that I would have lagged a lot more had I not had someone with me. Also, I was super grateful to have her with me because at about 6.5 miles, I started to drag and Danielle didn't let me wimp out. During the run we ran by an aid station, a local running club had an aid station set out and they were kind enough to offer us some gatorade and even gave us some powerbar gels. Gotta love the kindness of other runners! There were lots of people out on the paths today, and can I just vent about how annoying the others on the paths not calling that they were coming. We had a handful of cyclists nearly run us down, incredibly rude. Then right around the point where I started to drag, I noticed that there was Memorial Day ceremony going on and we had to run right behind where the speakers were. We ran as fast as we could and tried to run around it as much as we could. The heat was starting to get pretty brutal by the end of the run and I was super glad that we started as early as we did.

This little gem was on the radio today... gotta love 90's weekends on Star 94 (one of the only reasons I listen to them).

Earworms

Not running, health or fitness related at all. I mentioned a few days ago that I had the Biebs stuck in my head, and today it's that AWFUL Friday song by Rebecca Black. It seems that lately I have had a lot of these earworms. Even when I was practicing for my Zumba class earlier today, I would randomly start thinking of the Friday song and get distracted. I need a remedy, and quick. Any suggestions? Have you had an particularly awful earworms lately?

Off to sing that stupid song to myself...

"It's Friday, Friday gotta get down on Friday..."

I May Have Set A Precedent

If you saw Friday's post where I talked about dressing in regular non work out clothes, well, I extended that streak into Saturday and Sunday. I am afraid that I might have set a precedent of dressing in regular clothes, what next?! I even wore makeup to my sister in law's baby shower on Saturday. I may have set a precedent for dressing in non workout clothes post workout on the weekends.

So, remember how I said I had 6 miles planned for Saturday. Well, that didn't happen but don't worry not all was lost, I managed to get 6 in on Sunday.  I ended up joining K on the tready for a walk then a little core work. I was under a bit of a time crunch because I overslept, and had to get home to get ready for the baby shower. I decided that taking a shower and dressing up was probably the right thing to do and I bet everyone probably appreciated that too.

Someone at the party gave Bella some glow necklaces... why? I have no clue.

Sunday morning, I got up and had a little mental battle with myself about getting out there and getting the 6 miles in. I got dressed, got my ipod and headed out to the lake. The set out and I didn't even have to play any games with myself to push, well, at least not for the first 3 miles. The next two miles seemed to oscillate between feeling great, and having to find landmarks to run just to keep running. The final mile felt great, and I was chugging along nicely. Although, I did get run down my possibly the sweetest dog ever. Her owner was taking her in and had just taken her off the leash, and she spotted me, and ran over to kill me with love. So, I stopped, chatted with the owner, and played with my new fur buddy for a minute. I wish had asked to take a picture of the dog, because she was adorable.

So, as I look back at the run, I can say a few things about it. I am more than capable of running on my own, and I proved that to myself this past week. I am glad that I got out there and got the miles in even though my warm bed's siren call almost won. Even though, I had to battle a little during a few of those miles, I kept thinking that I am very capable of doing this training and the actual marathon on my own. That being said, I would rather be doing this with a partner but unless I find one, it's going to be a solo effort.

The rest of Sunday consisted of hanging out with the family, and then going to Groove. I could think of worse ways to spend an afternoon. Then yesterday, I walked two miles with K and we did our strength training as well. I was pretty spent because I didn't get much sleep the night before so I decided that I wasn't going to Zumba in the evening. I regret not going but I am glad I got to hang out with Patrick last night, so not all was lost.

Bringin' The Crazy

On Sunday, my mom let me know that she was coming from Toronto on Monday. Talk about short notice!  Not a huge deal, I love my mom and we all enjoy having her visit. That being said, it sort of threw a bit of a wrench in my plans for the week, but that's life and I have to learn to work with it... right?

Monday - Ran 3 miles (as planned), and my mom and I went to Zumba
Tuesday - Unscheduled rest day. Alright, it was more like I went shopping and got some new real clothes, not workout clothes. Hoping to make up the miles later this week.
Wednesday - Trained with Amy and taught my Zumba class.

So you see, not a complete diversion from the plan but still just a little off.

What I didn't plan for was my car breaking down. FAN-FRIGGIN'-TASTIC! Now, I have to take the car in tomorrow morning, and hope that it makes it there, plus, hope that it isn't going to cost me an arm and a leg. I love my volvo, but when that car needs anything done to it, I end up spending a small fortune. The car stress was enough to send me to crazy town today. Add in the stress from the last minute visit and I am officially back to being the Mayor of Crazy Town... good times.

Back In The Land Of The Living

Alright, since I feel so much better, I've rejoined the land of the living. So, let's address the post from Tuesday, I will fill you all in on what that was about. I received a message from a lady who works for Zumba's PR team, and she had seen where I had posted about my weight loss on Zumba's Facebook Page back in October. Anyways, she wrote that she was working on getting some other stories like this out there, and was looking for someone for a very big TV show. She asked me if I was interested in the opportunity and if I would get in touch with her. I called her and she was in a meeting so couldn't chat for long but her first question to me was if I was an instructor, which automatically disqualified me for the TV show she was working on at the moment. Apparently, the TV show does not want people who are instructors, so big bummer for me. That being said, all was not lost, she did ask if she could contact me when other opportunities come up, and apparently these do come up, maybe just not on the large scale as the TV show she's working on right now. So, there is still a possibility that I will get to do some cool stuff with regards to Zumba. Here's a question for you. I did not get to chat with the PR lady long, and I did not tell her my updated stats and such. Would it be pushy to send her an e-mail with updated stats? I just don't know.

After Monday's visit to the doctor, she had given me the ok, to return to the gym on Wednesday as long as I felt up to it. Believe me, when Wednesday rolled around, I was ready to get to the gym and at least be quasi active. Karen and I trained with Amy, and she didn't push me too hard was aggravating but she had a good reason. She didn't want me pushing so hard that I broke down again and possibly get worse before I got better. After the workout, I went straight home and back to bed, because to be honest I was wiped out. I had to sub out Wednesday night's Zumba class because there was no way I was going to be able teach that class, I really was just not well enough yet. Thankfully, Thursday morning I was almost back to normal. I went to pilates Thursday morning, and even ran a little with Karen after class. Now, the run was less than stellar but you know what, WHO CARES?! Getting out there makes me feel good, and I was active. By Friday morning, I was feeling like a real human being again.... SCORE!!! Especially important because I had a Zumba class to teach that morning. After class, I again met Karen and got some miles in. What's not to love about that?

At some point on Sunday, I am going to post my week's goals, update my weight because I forgot to weigh in Saturday morning. Also, updating the upcoming races page because I have some things lined up, and I need to refocus on training towards a goal.

Have you seen this ad? This chick is totally stealing my moves. LOL

New Additions To The Playlist

Before I let you all in on what I added to the running playlist. I will report that I got in a short run yesterday and another one today. My schedule has been insane this week so, trying to fit the runs in anywhere I can. I feel ready for Disney...slow but ready. I even bought myself this awesome bracelet today at Charming Charlie's that says "fearless". I am going to be fearless from here on out. I also taught a Zumba class tonight which was just incredible. LOVE TEACHING! Love spreading the Zumba love with everyone.

I added a few new tunes to the running playlist. Can you believe that it was sadly lacking in Britney?! Who does that?! Apparently, this girl... I know, what a disappointment. So, I added copious amounts of Ms. Spears' music, and I felt like it still needed a little something. So, I added some songs...

• "You Make The Rain Fall" by Kevin Rudolf feat. Flo Rida
• "Revolver" by Madonna
• "Danza Kuduro" by Don Omar feat. Lucenzo (I use this song in my Zumba class)
• "Hey Baby (Drop It To The Floor) by Pitbull feat. T-Pain
• "Here I Go Again" by Whitesnake (don't judge, it's catchy)

To Post Or Not To Post

We actually did this in class in Bosu class, and I didn't fall on my face.

Let me start by telling you about Bosu class Sunday afternoon. I decided that I would go in prepared for anything and with a better attitude than I had on Tuesday, so automatically doing better than last class. I reminded myself that this class is good for me, for the running and for helping me reach my goals for the year. We got started and I had to remind myself that I was not supposed to be able to do it all, and that it's supposed to be challenging. It was challenging and I think that I will get a lot out of it. Also, love that I have Karen there with me, she keeps me accountable.

Monday, was dancey kind of day. I trained with Amy, but the rest of the day was spent rehearsing my new stuff for my Zumba class on Friday. The gym that I work at requires that I have an entire new class on Friday because they are launching new stuff in the other group fitness classes. I'm not too worried about it but it just adds to the things I have to do. Here's the super awesome part of Monday, Karen had gotten a call from the Grand Poobah of Group Groove, and she asked K to teach with her. The lady that called Karen is the person who trains Groove instructors worldwide, she is Groove royalty. Anyways, Karen and I drove up to the gym where she was going to teach. The whole way up there, I had a bad case of jiggy leg. I get jiggy leg when I'm nervous... I was nervous for her, and she was cool as could be about it. I'll cut to the chase and tell you that she KILLED IT! She did so well, and it was so cool to get to see her teach with this lady and I also loved having the opportunity to take a class from this lady.

On Tuesday, we had Bosu class again but before class I banged out a mile and got another mile after the class. The class was awesome, and I am feeling more comfortable with it all around. Then that afternoon, I went to support one of the other Zumba instructors from my gym as she launched her new stuff. It was fun and she invited me to teach a track, and can I just reiterate that I LOVE teaching. It was all just so much fun.

Yesterday, I ran with Karen, and we got in 6 miles. I got to the lake and we decided that it was entirely too windy, so we headed to the gym to hit the treadmill. After two miles on the treadmill, Karen suggested we run another mile outside. We got out on the paths outside of the gym, and at half a mile where we were going to turn around, we decided to make it an even mile out and a mile back. Loved the change of scenery and loved running outside, I really dislike the treadmill. We got back to the gym and our cars and decided that we might as well get another 2 in because our original plan was to go for 6. So, back to the treadmill we went and we got it done. I am not a fan of the treadmill, it makes me hurt in places that running outside does not.

Today, I am taking an official rest day. Yup, an honest to goodness REST day. Icing the knees, rolling out all the aches and tightness in my legs. I'll have to tack on another day for the 100 Day Challenge, but I am completely ok with that. Does practicing my Zumba stuff on the couch count as movement?

In other news, I finally got in touch with a therapist. I had mentioned before that it was time for professional help but I hadn't done anything about it, but it's time. I need a third unbiased party to help me work through some of the issues that have surfaced because of the weight loss and the changes in my life. Trying to get a handle on my trips to Crazy Town.

Finally Climbed Out From The Icy Mess

This is so true. Found this here.

We finally climbed out of the icy mess we had going on in the Atlanta area. Thank goodness, because I love my family very much but I was getting ready to sell my husband and Bella to the gypsies. We are just people who need our schedules and our space, without it we all officially took a trip to Crazy Town. I've said this before but this Canadian has gone soft after living in the south for nearly seven years, I freaked out just a little being stuck. I'll give you a run down of the week...

Tuesday


We were starting to get just a little stir crazy and saw that the roads were passable during day light hours, so we headed out. We were able to go out for lunch and then I decided that I would run out afterwards to get in a few miles with Karen at the gym. I assumed the gym would be empty because of the weather and because when I passed it a few hours earlier there were only a few cars in the lot. Well, you know what they say about assuming... because the lot was packed and it was a huge ordeal to get a treadmill let alone two treadmills together so Karen and I could run together. Somehow we managed to get treadmills together and got in 3 miles.

Wednesday


I trained with Amy, and Karen joined us for the session. Thank heavens for Karen's daughter who kept Bella and Amy's daughter because the gym's childcare was closed. Did I mention that at this point this was Bella's third day home from school, and we were starting to butt heads just a little. The rest of the day was just a blur.

Thursday

I was certain that the kids would be able to go back to school on Thursday, but no such luck. I woke up and checked to see if the gypsies were outside, ready to buy my little pumpkin but I guess the roads were just too icy for them. So, I had to get her and I to the gym (thank goodness that childcare was open), and I went to Groove. After that once again, Karen's daughter came to the rescue and kept Bella for a little while so that Karen and I could get a few miles in on the track. Even though the company was wonderful, the track is dreadfully boring, almost as bad as the treadmill. We stuck to the track because we knew that there wasn't any ice on the track as opposed to the golf cart paths which were still sketchy. You know what helps you get over boring workout on the track? Karen, our girls and myself going to the new TCBY! It's self serve and I had to fight the urge to drown my yogurt in chocolate, chocolate bar bits.

Friday


Guess who had another day away from school?! Yup, my dear Bella. Now, this wouldn't even be an issue at this point if it wasn't for the fact that she did not want to go to work with me in the morning. She got over it, and was pleasantly surprised to see other big kids at the gym's childcare. Anyways, I got to the group fitness room and was praying that someone would show up, I was pleasantly surprised to have the biggest class I've ever had. WOOHOO!!! We got our Zumba on and I may have frightened an older lady who was trying Zumba for the first time, but I had told her before the class started that there are no rules and that she could just march in place or do her own thing if she got lost. These things are bound to happen but because I'm new to teaching this is new to me. After class, Karen, Bella and I met up to get our nails done. While we were there, Karen brought up the idea of getting a few miles in the afternoon and I was in. I invited Shannon and Sarah, and Sarah took me up on the offer. We headed out for our little run. Alright, physically I had a hard time with it, and then mentally, I was a mess. During the run, I felt something in my sock but ignored it, when I got home there was blood on two toes but I couldn't pin point where it came from. Mystery blood equals bad ass in my book... so we'll go with that. We got 4.65 miles in and even though I was whiney and not into it I am glad we got it done. After that, Karen, her daughter, Shannon, Sarah, Patrick, Bella and I went out for a little Mexican food and finalized our travel plans for the half. The hotel is booked, and this is getting very very real.

Saturday & Sunday


Not much accomplished other than a few miles walked on the treadmill on Saturday and Groove on Sunday.

Have managed to keep on track with the 100 day challenge. Now, getting ready to head out for a long run with Karen. Wish us luck!

SNOWMAGEDDON!

Alright, it's not snowmageddon but being from Canada it is always thoroughly amusing to see general panic when ice and snow hit the Atlanta area. We just don't have the equipment to deal with these kinds of conditions, and this doesn't happen often around here. So, I shouldn't complain about the weather because it has forced me to take a rest day, which would not have happened otherwise. I knew I needed a real rest day, this was not lost on me, but the idea of not doing anything is hard for me to wrap my head around. I have been icing the knees, using the stick and foam roller like I am supposed to, and trying to enjoy the break. Here's the problem, I want some endorphins, I feel like a bit of a junkie, I want my hit. Plus, time away from training for the half is making me a bit nervous.

As for the 100 Day Challenge, I went to groove yesterday and shook it for a while. Today, we played outside and took a walk which counts towards it so, I have 10 days under my belt for the challenge, only 90 more to go.

In race news, I talked to Karen about running the Polar Bear Run on the 22nd, and I spoke with Sarah and Shannon about doing the Tartan Trot 10K on the 29th. Plus, I am looking ahead to other races so I can complete the Run For The Bling Of It Challenge. Karen and I were chatting about what our next big races would be after the Princess Half, and we are definitely signing up for The Peachtree Road Race, and we decided that we are going to Vegas for the Rock n' Roll half marathon in December. Lots to look forward to!

Alright, I'll leave you with pictures from playing out in the icy muck outside. School's out again tomorrow, let's hope Bella doesn't go completely insane from being at home.

Ghetto sledding!

That's how we roll in Peachtree City! (Not my golf cart, I'm not that cool yet, but I will be eventually)

Sticking your tongue out helps when taking pictures.

Bella did a pretty good job with this one.

Just A Little Monday Blogging

When I last left you, I was heading to a zumba audition. So, I went and did my thing, I was offered the job, then on Saturday I received a call telling me that they are taking that particular class off the schedule all together. So, I had the job for a minute, or at least a few days. I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason, so I am slightly bummed but I think that it wasn't meant to be. Then on Friday morning, I taught my first entire Zumba class. The funny thing is that I was lukewarm about that particular gym, I went in for the experience and wasn't too worried about getting the job. That actually turned out to be a great attitude because I was really relaxed when I went in and I wasn't nervous or anxious at all. Anyways, not to sound conceited but I did really well. I felt great teaching, it was a TON of fun, and the people in the class enjoyed themselves. Now, I just have to wait and hear about this particular class...

Wednesday afternoon, I went to Zumba class because I just hadn't gotten enough earlier. It was highly amusing because first of all Sarah came to class and then I wore my Zumba pants to class for the first time. Sarah was being thoroughly amusing, and had me cracking up during class. Then the pants.... oh the magical Zumba pants (they give you mad Zumba skills)... they finally fit but they are a tad snug through the hips and bum. I will blame it on the fact that they are mens pants and not because my hips and bum are quite large. Anyways, I thought I was going to split my pants a few times, they held up but the situation was pretty funny, it mad me think of something that would happen on "I Love Lucy".

Thursday, I ran with K in the morning, I was an utter and complete mess. Let me tell you that I have turned into a weather wuss. I don't know if I have mentioned this here before but I grew up in Canada, I used to be Nanook Of The North, these past six years in Georgia have made me soft. So, it was freezing on Thursday morning when we headed out for our run. The run itself was a tough one, I was miserable. I was in a bad head space that I couldn't shake, and my calves were killing me.... I was so whiney. I guess that days like that are bound to happen. At least we got 7 miles in, and I had a slightly bad ass moment. When I got home, I found some mystery blood on my toes... blood is pretty bad ass... right? Thursday evening I went to Zumba again, to get some practice in because Kareen played some of the songs on my Friday playlist and to hang out and dance it out.

Friday morning was the audition that I killed. Oh, I just can't get over it. Even if I didn't get the job, I am really grateful for the experience and it was such a Zumba high. I have to say that I really LOVED teaching, and I can't wait to do it again. After that I went to a surprise party for Shannon, but I managed to sort of wreck the surprise because I was running late. I was running to the house as Sarah and Shannon were turning onto the street... leave it to me. That evening before Groove, I finally got a training session in. It was a ton of fun even if I had to take it easy on the upper body stuff because my arm still isn't 100% better. We had a hard workout, a lot of catching up and a even a little therapy for good measure. Then, I had to stay for Groove because two hours at the gym just wasn't enough for this guy.... naw, I just love Groove.

Today was some running on the track with Amy as well as a training session. It was cold, that's all I have to say about that. BRRRR. I am a weather wuss.

The Pity Party Is Over

Alright peeps, I am done with my ILIATC pity party. I am feeling a little disorganized today so I am going to try and organize my thoughts in bullet form today. Let's just go with it.

• Talked to Amy yesterday, obviously, and we had a wonderful chat after I was done losing my sh*t about "Lost It". I cried, she got teary eyed, it was a delightful mess. Don't worry, they were good tears.
• Amy left me some homework. I have to come up with a spiel that I am going to give people when they ask about the weight loss, because they will and they do. I have a tendency to clam up about it. Secondly, and sort of tied in with the blog, she wants me to start writing about the weight journey. We're talking from the beginning. She wants me to do it now because I'm still in the process and it's still fresh and pretty raw. 
• Last point actually ties in with something that K said to me on Saturday morning. She said that it would be selfish to not share my story with people. She meant more than just the blog. 
• We talked about was about my inability to wrap my head around what is going on with me and the changes in my body. K and Amy keep telling me that what I see, isn't what everyone else sees when it comes to my body and what I am doing. It might be time for me to find some a therapist. *just a side note- I must look like a crazy person because I'm blogging from Starbuck's and I am sitting here trying to hide the fact that I am crying... CRAZY TOWN*
• I'm a firm believer that people come in and out of your life for a reason. With all the emotional mess I've been feeling, I feel very grateful for all the incredible people who have come into my life. Especially those who have and are helping me through this weight loss and half marathon journey. 
• I think I am done being an emotional mess. 
• Wait, there's more.... nope, I'm done.

Off to walk with my dear friend. 

A Rest Day?!

Guess what happened on Sunday... I had an honest to goodness rest day. It wasn't intentional but I was grateful for it regardless. Let me explain how this happened, I had originally made plans to either go for a short run or hit the gym this afternoon before we took Bella out trick or treating. Patrick, Bella and I were out and about longer then we had originally planned, by the time we got home there wasn't time to go to the gym or for a run before the Halloween festivities began. I even considered going to the gym this evening because of the whole "Lost It" competition but decided that I really needed the rest. I am sure that my sore body will be very grateful for the day off when I get back to it tomorrow.

This evening, I got together with some of my friends and their families to take the kiddos trick or treating. These kids have known each other for the majority of their little lives and they are such great friends, I really hope that they stay this close as they grow up. It was such a fun evening and we had a ton of laughs watching the kids. Now, I'll be one of those moms and share a picture of Bella (in the Dorothy costume) and her little homies.

MRI Day

Today was quite the ordeal. You would think that an MRI would be pretty cut and dry, but no, not in Lucy Land. I took a little road trip to the MRI center where I had my appointment this morning and I even got there extra early and I was ready to go. It looked like we were a go, I filled out my paperwork, I paid what I owed and even put all my junk in one of the lockers. Then one of the techs there comes out and said there was a problem. I didn't even have to wait for them to tell me what the problem was, I knew exactly what they were going to say. I couldn't have my MRI there because of the weight limit on the machine, which I understand. Apparently, the person who took my information when I scheduled the MRI wrote down a weight that I would not even say as a joke. People make mistakes, but I was pretty ticked that with the million phone calls that the MRI place made to me, that not one person asked me to verify my weight. They did ask me about every other detail of my life, so weight should have been a given. Anyways, I had to go to a location with an open MRI machine, again, not a problem other then the fact that the appointment was at 4 and it was a little over an hour away from where I live. I signed Bella out of school early, took her home to let her pack herself an activity bag, and we were off. We finally got there and I was able to get my MRI. It wasn't bad at all other than having to lay ridiculously still, I swear just thinking about sitting still made me feel like I was moving. There was a point when I was convinced that I was moving my foot, and I was trying really hard to keep it still. I swear I felt like a crazy person. Now, we just wait until the follow up on Thursday morning. I will keep you posted as soon as I know what's going on. 

Now, just because I was singing this song to myself during the MRI, you can share in a little bit of Elton. 

What A Weekend!

This was a super fun weekend! It started on Friday when I spent the morning getting a mani/pedi with my friend A, plus we also had a chance to hit up DSW... I didn't find any shoes but she did.   Then Friday evening, Patrick, Bella and I headed to the Braves game along with Patrick's parents, grandmother, sister and her kids. Patrick, Bella and I had a the best time, I can't speak for everyone that was with us, but I think they enjoyed it too. Patrick bought Bella a Chipper Jones jersey because she just adores Chipper and cried when she found out he was out for the season. Then, he tells me that he's going to take her to get her face painted. I thought nothing of it, assuming that she would something small airbrushed on her cheek. Nope, I was wrong, she got the full on face paint complete with designs and glitter on each cheek. She was so happy with it and so proud of her paint job, it was beyond cute. Just watching her at the game was a trip because she just was so into it.

Here's a picture of Bella in full Braves regalia. It was taken with my cell, so pardon the poor quality. 

Saturday morning, I had our team orientation for the "I Lost It At The Club" program. Just a quick side note, from now on for the sake of my typing fingers I'll refer to this program as ILIATC. We had our little orientation, and we were told what is expected of us and the team during the next few weeks. We officially start on Saturday, and life is going to change, but I really want to win this thing. Last time I did ILIATC in the Spring, I came so close to winning and I'll just be honest I like winning and winning a free gym membership for a year is pretty darn awesome. So, this trainer that I'm with is no joke, and she expects a lot. You know what, I like her approach and I think it's going to be tough but super good for me.

Then, Saturday evening I went to a Zumba party at a friend's house. Guess what?! I got to teach my first two songs ever. I think I did pretty well, but then again we'd all been drinking so I am not sure if I have a good frame of reference. Anyways, getting up there was a rush and I really can't wait to teach some more because it was so much fun. I really am so thankful that I had that opportunity. Also, let me go on record and say that drinking and Zumba sounds like a good idea, but it's really not so much the best. Ok, let me rephrase that; a drink before Zumba is probably ok, but multiple drinks isn't so good. I didn't get sick, but I didn't feel the best either. The party was a ton of fun and I was so glad to get out and just relax for a while. Let me tell you what the best part was.... I got cupcakes! Isn't that awesome?! My Contortion class date, Sarah, brought me some delicious and healthier pumpkin spice cupcakes which her mom made for me. Oh they were so good... yum!

Sunday was low key and exactly what I needed because I wasn't feeling it on Sunday. Which I am sure comes as no big surprise, based the aforementioned party on Saturday. I hung out with the family and didn't do a whole lot except going to Groove in the evening.

As for today, I just had a pretty uneventful training session... nothing to get excited about. Then tonight, I didn't make it Zumba because I had a photo shoot. Tomorrow is MRI day, one step closer to some answers about the knee. Keeping everything crossed for good news.

Like A Virgin...

... running a 5K for the very first time....

Took this picture a little while ago, after I realized that I didn't take any pictures pre or post race. 

I can now say that I am no longer a race virgin. This morning I ran my very first 5K, and I am still alive so that's always a good thing. The day began early this morning because I was so worried that I would oversleep that I woke up disgustingly early. I got ready and thankfully already had everything I needed packed so I didn't have to worry about that. I also drank a Slam to get some energy, I did get a jolt but I should have saved it and drank it right before the race started. My friend came by to pick me up and we headed down to Newnan for the race. We had a great time just gossiping and sharing stories, it really did help put me in a good mind set for the race. We got there, got our numbers, and got ready to go. We tried to line up in the middle of the pack, and took it from there. 

We got off to a really good start, but I started to fade quickly. I was just a tad overly eager at the start, had I just paced myself a little better it would have been a LOT better. We were rockin' it out when the course turned we saw that we weren't the last ones. Something must have happened at some point because next thing we knew there was a cop car trailing us.... we were the last two. After a while the cop car stopped following us, which was good because it was really wigging me out. Anyways, we pushed on, and finished the 5K in 52:15 minutes which means our pace was 16:51 minutes per mile. Which in my mind is not too shabby. We are going to try and run another 5K towards the end of the month or beginning of October, and we are aiming for a finish in 45 minutes. We've got this covered!

And because now the song is stuck in my head, I give you none other than Madonna from a 1984 performance.

Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now...

We've got the groove!



That's today's theme song. It's a classic and I think it's pretty appropriate.

Let's start the very beginning, a very good place to start. After I dropped Bella off at school, I headed to the gym to go to "contortion"(BTW- great name Shannon and Sarah) class (aka- Group Centergy). I met Sarah there for a little contortion and we got to see a lady who took the rest portion of the class very seriously. The lady had a blanket and some like spa eye cover thingy, and you could tell that she doesn't play when it comes to rest time. Sarah and I mentioned that we might bring snuggies for rest time next week.... who doesn't love the blanket with sleeves?! I might have to take some post Contortion class pics of us sporting the snuggies, because we too can take rest time seriously.... and by seriously, I mean the opposite of seriously. After we got our human pretzel on, we headed to Starbucks for some coffee and some great conversation.

Amy and I trained a little later in the morning and had part of our session outdoors bootcamp style. Not only was it bootcamp style, we also had a super therapy session. Gotta love it, we killed two birds with one stone. We also sat down and prepared for our meeting with other trainer that I will be working with for the Lost It At The Club program. I wanted us all to meet together so that we can all be on the same page with regards to my training and such. I feel like I have an entourage, and then I remember that I am neither famous nor rich.

I finished out the day with a little Zumba and a short run. Let me tell you, the run was awesome, and it made me feel a little better about running with my knee being all messed up. The knee discomfort wasn't any worse than if I had only done a zumba class, so that has to be good. I am going to run again on Thursday, and then do the 5K on Saturday.

Went To The Ortho

I had my appointment with the orthopaedist today and it was some good and some possible concerning news. First, the good news, she gave me a cortisone shot in the knee that has only been bothering me slightly. The left knee is going to be rocking out! She also gave me her blessing to run my first race ever, a 5K this Saturday. So, early Saturday morning I will be getting ready to run the Sunrise on the Square Road Race.... I am so excited and just a little nervous but more about that after the knee update. The slightly concerning news is that I am going to have to get an MRI on the right knee because of the amount of trouble it's been giving me. It's good because it'll give us some answers, but it sucks because I have a feeling that this is going to be ridiculously expensive. Please keep a good thought for me, that this is something that can be easily treated and not cost me a small fortune.

So, back to the running thing... you know the whole reason for starting the blog. Like I mentioned earlier, I am super excited but slightly nervous about the race on Saturday. I know that I have not prepared enough for it but I will be pleased as punch just to finish the damn thing. I promise to update it on Saturday with a report of the race and such. Please send good running vibes my way.

Due to the fact that I had to go to the doctor's this morning, I had to reschedule my session with Amy this morning. In lieu of today's session, we will be having a bootcamp style session tomorrow morning after I go to Group Centergy. I will have to get Zen before I get my butt kicked. It's good though, because with the way I have been eating lately, I need a good butt kickin'.

In honor of the multiple margaritas I had after yesterday's Groove class with a couple of friends I will leave you today with this little gem.

Let's Boogie

This was a tough morning, my body wanted to sleep but I had to get to Zumba this morning because I promised the lady who substituted today that I would be there to support her if I didn't make it to the convention. So, I was there today, front row and cheering for her. Before class, I went ahead and signed up for the "I Lost It At The Club" program. Soon, I'll be on my way back to Crazy Town like I did last time I did the program, but I had such great success that it was worth it. Like I mentioned in yesterday's post, I am going to be doing the program with a different trainer this time but I am going to continue training with my trainer as well. Then this evening, I went to Groove again. Firstly, Groove is a lot easier on my knees and it's a bigger calorie burn... double plus. Secondly, I really am digging this new release, it's fun and it's been fairly easy to learn. If you hadn't already figured it out, I am big on the dance fitness classes.

So, with all the knee issues, I caved and made an appointment at the ortho for this coming week. I was able to get an appointment on Monday, but it's going to be a bit of a hike. It's worth it so that I can start getting some answers and some relief. Plus, I want to get the ok from the doctor to run, because I am itching to run.

Just for fun and because it's on TV, I am going to leave you with a clip from the movie The Proposal.