Friday, I'm In Love

This song has been playing my head today, so you get to partake in my crazy today.



Yesterday, I did 3.25 miles on the treadmill after pilates.  It was intervals and to be honest I was scared. The speeds Lesley planned out for me were a little intimidating. I even asked her to reassure me that I wasn't going to die. Obviously, I didn't, so, win all around. I really surprised myself.

Notice the piece of paper, I had my interval workout written out so I didn't have to memorize it.

Like I mentioned, I went to pilates yesterday morning, I think that Amy (who also happens to be my trainer) was hell bent on making us hurt. I am so sore today from yesterday's class, it's not even funny. I just have remember that results are on the other side of this hard work. It's just tough to remember when it hurts to laugh and lift my arms.

So, I am looking at bathing suits and can I just gripe about the expense. I know what you're thinking, a good suit is worth the money but geez louise some of these puppies are expensive. Then to top it off some of the stuff they try to sell us bigger girls is laughable at how ugly and/or matronly it is. Just because I'm big doesn't mean I want to wear some FUGLY swim muumuu. Then, while looking for this, I have also been browsing for some running shorts. I hate wearing shorts but I live in Georgia, it's hot and I just need to put my big girl panties on and deal with it. Nike has some shorts that will work, but I am looking for other options as well and having a hard time finding ones that will work. Any bigger runners have any help in this department?

Alright, I'm out... I have to practice some new stuff for my Zumba class, although you'd laugh to watch me practice. I actually practice on the couch, I don't get up and do the whole thing until I know the entire routine. Why kill my body unnecessarily? 

Pollyanna Week 3/28-4/3

Let's just start out by telling you that this week's main goal is to put a positive spin on everything this week, or at least trying to, I'm calling it Pollyanna Week. Secondly, can I tell you guys how glad I am to be back to my regular schedule. This week is going to be KICK ASS!!! There is nothing out of the ordinary going on this week, but I am definitely planning on making it great. What are you doing to make this week great?

Last week completely drained me. The stupid car issues completely stressed me out and I let it stress me out a lot more than I should have... NOT GOOD. I did not stick to the work out plan like I had wanted to, but I managed to work out regardless. I did journal my food, I took my iron supplements and did ok with the not eating after 7 but that one was tough. I didn't do my push ups daily but I will change that this week for sure.

Here are this week's goals...

1. Keep the food journalling going
2. Keep up with the iron supplements, have to remind myself that I enjoy not having my hair fall out.
3. Get the daily push ups done
4. STICK TO THE WEEK'S PLAN!!

3/28 Running, training and Zumba (Ran 1.02 on the tm, 1.65 outside, plus got the training and the Zumba in, also got my push ups done)

3/29 Run

3/30 Run, Training, and teaching my Zumba class

3/31 Pilates, Groove

4/1 Teaching my Zumba class

4/2 Running the Knock Out Cancer 5K 

4/3 Groove 

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

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.

Certain Things Make My Brain and Body Hurt

Tuesday morning was a big day for me. Bella was back in school, Bosu pilates class started that morning, and I was positively giddy. I decided that the best thing to do was to go to Centergy and get my contortion on before pilates, I am not sure I knew what to do with the return of my regular schedule. In Centergy, I was having a hard time with a few things which happens, not a big deal, it takes some people years to do some of this stuff. At least, that's the line I'm feeding myself to keep from feeling defeated. Anyways, after that class, I went to Starbucks to get a coffee, read and kill a little time before Bosu class.  I know that Starbucks can get loud, but there were three people there on phone calls who were having a screaming competition with each other. I was tempted to get on the phone and start screaming at someone about the screamers. Can you tell what kind of mood I was in at Starbucks? This sort of gives you an idea of the attitude I had going on when I got to class. I left the screamers to their business, and headed to the gym, my second home. Bosu class is a small group class, and on Tuesdays the only two in the class are Karen and I... a recipe for a good time for us, and a possible headache for Amy (my trainer) who teaches the class. Due to the fact that it's just Karen and I there on Tuesdays, the class is modified with exercises that are good for runners... SCORE. There were somethings we were doing that I couldn't do and it really got me down. I talked to Amy about it later that day and she brought up a good point, that it was supposed to be challenging and I wasn't supposed to be able to do it all. Next Bosu class is on Sunday afternoon, it'll be interesting for sure. Then, to add to Tuesday's peachiness, I started reading race reports from last year's princess, and then about some medical issues that I am dealing with and I managed to freak myself out and not get much sleep. Lovely! 

I wish I looked that graceful trying to do that, I looked more like a beached whale.

We did this, but again, I didn't look that graceful. 

Wednesday, I ran/walked with Shannon. We got 3.44 miles in and it was just fun to hang out and be outside. The best part was the time hanging out at Starbucks after the fact, had a great time, I was sad to leave for training but I needed to get a good workout in. Plus, I needed to get my therapy session in with Amy, because we multitask like that. That afternoon, I went to Zumba and had an absolutely fabulous time, as if anything less than that is even an option. Also, I got a little something in the mail... my running skirt from www.runningskirts.com. I just bought one that was on sale because I wanted to try it out to see if I even liked it for running before dropping the big bucks on the black one I'd like. I'll post my review once I've worn it for a run.

So, I am not sure about the look,
but I think that the black one will look better.
(The shirt doesn't go with the outfit, I know)

Thursday started with pilates class and some tears. Seriously feeling extra emotional, and like a general hot mess. I was laying on the mat in class with the gigantic workout ball between my feet and a puddle of tears forming on my mat. Wish I could say that the tears were logical, but I can't. Once again, I took a little trip to everyone's fave vacation destination... CRAZY TOWN. Geez, who does that?!  I managed to pull myself together, finish the class and then head to another gym to workout with a friend of mine. I had to laugh at myself after the class because it was just ridiculous, I was ridiculous. 

Friday started a million times better because I was headed to out to teach my Zumba class that morning. I was hoping for a good class, and ended up having an INCREDIBLE class. There were new people, the energy was awesome and it was just so much FUN. I really love what I do, I may never get rich taking pictures and teaching Zumba but I am so lucky to do what I love. I wish I could describe what it feels like to get that high from teaching a class. I think that the best way to explain it to the runners out there is that it's like that buzzy fun feeling you get after and during an awesome run. Blame the high from the day, or my general insanity but Friday evening Karen and I decided to run the Atlanta Track Club's Peachtree City 5K instead of our scheduled training run. We figured out that the race would cut through some of our planned route, so why not join the fun instead of trying to run around them. I'll post a race report in a little while....

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!

It's Been A Few Days...

It's been a few days since I posted anything. So, those of you who have been following me for a while know about my late night blogging problems... that whole falling asleep in the middle of writing. Well, I've fallen asleep writing two nights in a row. Tonight, I am planning on writing this and not falling asleep.

I finished day 5 of the 100 Day Challenge, and have been keeping up with it which I didn't really think would be a problem but I love having something that I having something to do. Monday started with a 2.75 mile run on the treadmill with Karen. I just have to reiterate that I am not a fan of the treadmill but having someone beside me to just chat with makes it so much easier and even enjoyable. I followed the run with a training session with Amy, which is always fun. Then in the evening, just to top everything off nicely, I went to Zumba. There were 105 people in class Monday night. Can you believe that?! I'll be stoked if there are 10 people in my class Friday morning... dreamin' big.

Then Tuesday, I started the day trying to get a little zen in my life by hitting up Group Centergy with Shannon and Christina. It had been a while since I had been to that class and I had forgotten how much I enjoyed it. Alright, that isn't exactly right, I don't enjoy it, but I feel great afterwards. The only thing missing from Centergy on Tuesday was my snuggie because I was a little cold during the rest time, so next week the snuggie will make it's come back. After class, Christina, Shannon and I went to Starbucks and somehow ended up there for almost 4 hours. I could not have come up with a better way to waste a morning, we just had so much fun chatting and laughing. I have some awesome friends!

This morning, I started out training with Amy this morning. Today was a struggle, I wasn't feeling so great, just kind of down in the dumps. It wasn't anything in particular, just having that kind of day. I even considered calling and canceling my training appointment but I knew that I would regret that and that working out would most lift my spirits. The workout was great and it did help break me out of the funk that I had been dealing with all day. Then, just because I love it so, I went to Zumba in the afternoon. I got there a little late, and ended up in the back. Can I just tell you how much I dislike being in the back... there is just so much more room up front and I don't feel quite as crowded.

Alright, that's all for now. I have to get to bed, I have to be at Bella's school in the morning to watch her get her AR award and Karen and I have our long run after that. We're going for more mileage than we have ever done before, wish us luck.

Back To The Grind

Alright, after a rough couple of weeks of insanity I'm back to the grind. Started yesterday morning with a 3.5 mile run with K. We were slow, so slow we had an old granny whiz past us. Then again she probably kicked it up because of the subject matter of K and I's conversation, she probably found it a bit much to have to endure. This was the first time since the Bedford Dasher that K and let me be honest with you, I just do so much better with someone there to chat with and the company in general. Only issue I had was the sinus infection I have going on cramped my style just a bit, but it wasn't completely unbearable. After we ran, I hit the gym for a training session with Amy. It was an all around awesome session, I managed to do some pretty hard core exercises that I didn't know I could do, I popped an exercise band... BAD ASS. I know it's an odd time to try and get back into the swing of things but if I don't do it now I will start procrastinating. 

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.

It's Vlog-ilicious

I Can Almost See The Finish Line!

Before I even tell you about the insane days I've had, I want to send a shout out to Shannon who wasn't mentioned in the vlog entry. She changes her tennis schedule to come to contortion on Tuesday mornings and she's one of my Zumba peeps. Shannon, you're awesome!!!

I forgot to mention in the vlog entry that I went shopping with my dear friend, she was shopping for a dress for a wedding. While she was trying on clothes, I found a dress that I just had to try on. I didn't know what size to pick so, I picked multiple sizes and started from the biggest size and moved down. I put on a dress in a size I haven't worn in a LONG time. I was so excited that I walked out of the dressing room and started singing and even did a little dance. It was a sight to see... If I had a super nice occasion to go to, I'd go back and buy the dress. 

So, after I got my Housewives fix Wednesday morning, I headed to the gym and trained with Amy. SHE KICKED MY BUTT! I am thoroughly grateful though because it was some good therapy thrown in there for good measure, and heaven knows I needed the therapy.  After that, I got in a short run on the treadmill before I went to cycle class, I really cannot stand the treadmill. Anyways, I went to cycle and would you believe that the instructor played "Cheeseburger In Paradise", that is simply cruelty to fatties. I was so hungry and the song nearly sent me over the edge. I went to Zumba that afternoon and got to see Sarah and Shannon which is always fun, I love those girls. I was so ramped up after class, I felt like a bit of a crack head. I finally managed to tire myself out after going to Groove class later that evening. 

Thursday, I went to Amy's pilates class, and it was awesome. Her class is challenging but we also had a lot of laughs which helped the class simply fly by. I did not go to Groove, I needed the rest. Instead, I went to help my friend Christina find some accessories to go with the dress she bought on Tuesday's shopping adventure. Let me tell you, I learned a valuable lesson, I cannot be left alone in Charming Charlie's. I was picking accessories left and right, and I would have spent a small fortune had I not just put my basket down and walked out of the store. I had to laugh at myself a little because I get a little crazed when it comes to accessories of any kind. Then Thursday evening, I went to Group Active for the first time in a long time, and I stayed for Zumba immediately after that.

This morning K, Sarah and I went to for our long run. Thank goodness for Sarah because K and I were dragging. Sarah pulled us through today.... thank you! It was a different dynamic and a ton of fun to have more of us running together... it just worked out so well. Plus, it was nice to have a third for when we have to face off with the Stroller Mafia who will not budge and take up the entire golf cart path. After we finished our 7 miles, we all headed to lunch together. What could be better?! K and I went to Groove this evening, and I am so glad that she came because I was struggling and I don't know if I would have worked as hard had she not been there. 

So, tomorrow is the big weigh in and then I have to wait until Wednesday night to find out if I won. At this point, I still want to win but I am also ready for this to be over because I'm ready to get my head out of Crazy Town. As much as I enjoy being Mayor McCheese, the mayor of Crazy Town, I am ready to have my brain back to Normalville. Wish me luck! I saw the dude who's in second as I was leaving the gym tonight, I hope he only puts in a half as*ed effort. 

Pancake Wishes and Cupcake Dreams

Just ignore the fact that I look like a hot mess. It feels so weird to vlog, my eyes were darting around everywhere... I looked like a crazy person. 

Exciting First

K and I ran this morning but let me be honest and tell you that it was a slow, humid and chatty run. Not a huge deal because it was fun to get out there regardless and I love the time K and I spend together having our own therapy and gab sessions. After that run, I had a training session with Amy but it wasn't our normal sessions in the gym. We met at a track and did some sprints, speed work and some other things that we do not normally do. It was a heck of a workout and an eye opener. The 100m sprints were faster than I thought they would be and even Amy was impressed as to how fast they were. I'm not going to be the next Flo Jo, but it I was still pretty happy with my time. The best part and my exciting first was the run at the end of the workout. Amy had me run so she could see my pace per mile. I did a little run/walk and managed to do a 13 minute mile. I know that for most runners, that isn't a great pace but in my world this is HUGE. It was faster than my usual shuffle, and I'm just happy about it. I know I say it all the time but a year ago, I would have laughed in your face if you'd told me that I'd be out running, or trying to do anything remotely like running.

After the morning's workouts, I was lucky enough to have lunch with my dear friend A. She and I haven't had a chance to spend much time together lately. We had a great time just chatting and catching up, but sadly we just didn't have enough time to cover everything we wanted to chat about. Is there ever really enough time?! Then this evening, I got to spend more time with K and A when we went to Groove class to dance it out a little. K left, but A and I stayed and tried to get a little zen on in centergy, but it just wasn't the same without a snuggie for the rest time at the end of class.

Shut It Down

This song is one of my faves...



Shutting this day down by watching The Real Housewives of Atlanta... yeah, I love watching crappy tv. For what it's worth, they should do the Really Real Housewives of Atlanta, and they can follow my broke butt around. Sadly, I don't wear a wig, but I will probably be tardy for the party. Oh gosh, I think I'm dumber for watching this and even dumber for writing about it. OY VEY!

Anyways, this morning not even tornado warnings were going to keep me from getting a run in. I hauled my butt to the gym this morning to get in a quick run because running outside was just not an option. It was storming and there were tornado warnings, so that threw a wrench in the plans. As soon as I got to the gym, the tornado sirens started to sound and we had to cram into the locker rooms until they gave us the all clear. I got up there and did 24 minutes on the treadmill because I had to get back to help out at Bella's school. After being a good mom and helping out, I headed back to the gym for round 2 of 3 with Amy. We had a challenging and interesting workout, and of course a little therapy thrown in there for a little added fun. Then, because I had to go back for more, K picked me up and we headed to Fayetteville and hit up the October Groove launch. I didn't go to Zumba... can you believe it?!

So, I have some great news. My friends Sarah and Shannon are joining K and I in Orlando this February! They have signed up for the half and I couldn't be more excited about it! The more the merrier!!!

Let's Play Catch Up

Started Monday morning, with a 4 mile walk with K. We threw in a few little spurts of running in there, but I mostly walked. You know, I don't even feel bad about it, I think if I had actually tried to run, I wouldn't have made it. It was just nice to get outside and I had a nice chat with K. We made plans for our long run on Friday morning and we have big plans for 7 miles. Our motto is "We Got This" and we definitely "got this", we are going with a plan and we are sticking with it to make it to 7.

Monday evening, I went and shook it in Zumba. My friend Christina is now coming to Zumba on Monday nights and I love that we can share that because I do so love my Zumba, if you hadn't already guessed. She cracked me up with a comment about how she didn't know how anyone could get up there and teach that because I remember thinking the same thing when I first started. How things change...

Tuesday morning, I went to Centergy with Shannon, and it felt good to get to "contortion class". I still have trouble with some of the things we do in the class, but I was pleasantly surprised when I was able to do some of the things with more ease then ever before. Before I know it, I will be a centergy pro... ok, maybe not a pro but it will be nice when I don't have to modify as much as I do now. So, looking forward to that day.... After contortion, we went to Starbuck's because there is nothing better than post contortion oatmeal and coffee.

Wednesday, I got a call from my friend asking if I wanted to go to the gym with her. Of course, I agreed and told her that I had to get in some strength training. I let her know that she could train with me, since Amy's little one is sick and she couldn't meet me. So, I got to play trainer to my friend and I got quite a kick out of it. I took her through a pretty easy workout, where we focused on upper body stuff and core work. She complained the whole time calling everything we did stupid, it was pretty darn amusing, and it just made me bug her and push her harder. She even went on facebook to complain about it, which made it all the more amusing. I had to tell her remind her that if it were easy we'd all be toned and buff and instead of working out it would be called walk in the park. Anyways, I was able to get in a short run on the treadmill while my friend who'd I'd worked out with was complaining to a mutual friend of ours about how "mean" I was to her. She'll get over it! Back to the run, I ran slow and easy 30/30 intervals, I am trying to do the Galloway Run/Walk thing. I had a slow pace of 17:08/mile, I have no doubt that I will be able to improve on that greatly between now and February. I went back to the gym for a second round to get in some Zumba, just for sh*ts and giggles. Then, because I am glutton for punishment and maybe a little dumb, I went back for a third round and hit up Centergy.

Thursday was just chocked full of good gym times. I went to pilates and did some things that I know will  be feeling for a day or two. I finally got to train with Amy in the morning and we had a good little therapy session and a heck of a workout. Afterwards, I was able to get to the second part of Groove to get a little cardio in. But wait, there was more! I had to get back to the gym in the evening to go to Zumba because I needed some more cardio. Plus, I get to hang out with Sarah for a little while after class, so it's a win all around. Phew, I'm tired just typing all this out.

I got an email from the photographers that were at the race on Saturday with the link to pictures taken of me. I learned a valuable lesson by looking at those pics. I need to practice looking cooler when the cameras are around during a race. I was making a silly face in one, that one had been on purpose, but the rest, ugh... I need to work on the bad ass poses. I did fork over the cash and paid for the rights to one picture, because I needed to have a souvenir from the race. Also, I signed up for another race on November 14th. It's the New Balance Girls On The Run Atlanta 5k, I can't wait! Amy said she was going to run this one with me.

Here's the picture from the race. This was the least awful of the pics.

Yesterday Mental Roadblock... Today Is A New Day

Yesterday was a complete mental roadblock day. I had a short run with K this morning and I was in a funk, BLECH! We finished 2.7 miles but I was a mess... it's just one of those days. I joined K at the gym for a quick strength training session, nothing to write home about but we got it done. The rest of the day was a total and complete write off, I was useless. I wanted to go to the pool and get in a water workout but I just couldn't get my head into even leaving the house yesterday evening. All day was one gigantic roadblock day. On a good note, I signed up for the Peachtree Classic 5K this Saturday, so that should be fun because I have a lot of friends running this one. Plus, Bella had a friend over and those two little girls were exhausting but they had so much fun, which made it so worth it.

Today, was so much better then yesterday. K and I ran again this morning and got in a 5.4 miles. We were both pretty jazzed because we were faster than we have been in a long time. I mean we aren't breaking any speed records but it's a big deal for us. If we can go a little faster than we did today we can finish the 5K much quicker then we did last race, and I really just don't want to be the last across the finish line. That isn't much to ask right?! Anyways, I went to workout with Amy afterwards and she was just so inspiring and all around awesome. I am really lucky to have found a trainer and a friend who I mesh with so well and who gets my crazy. We did come up with a game plan for my training as soon as "Lost It At The Club" is over, we are going to make running and running related workouts my one and only priority and focus because there is no reason I should be this slow and why I can't finish the half. Right now with the weight loss aspect to things I am not able to focus like I should be on just the running. Alright, this is where I have to bid you all a good day because there is a certain dance fitness class calling my name. Can you guess which one? I'll give you a clue, it starts with a Z and ends with a umba. Peace out peeps! ¡WEPA!

Update... finally...

We took a little family road trip Sunday to a place in North Georgia called Goats On The Roof and as the name implies there were actual goats on the roof of the place. I don't know why I was so surprised to see the goats up there, but it was a little unnerving. I guess I thought there would be one or two up there and the rest would be on the ground like normal goats. Anyways, Bella had a fabulous time feeding the goats, "mining" for gems, and doing a little shopping. She said it was her favorite part of the entire week, which I absolutely loved. It was a nice way to spend a mostly restful day. Of course, I couldn't take the whole day off, I had to hit up Groove Sunday evening.

This morning K and I decided to have our long run Monday because our schedules don't quite work for a long run any other time this week.... or so we thought. Anyways, I ran 5.5 and walked 0.5 back to the car, K on the other hand rocked it out and ran the 0.5 that I walked. Walking that 0.5 worked out because as it turned out, I had an e-mail from the Zumba website from a Group Fitness director from a small local gym looking for a Zumba instructor. When I got back to the car, I called and left a message. Later that day after my workout with Amy, I got a call back to set up an audition/interview. When it was all said and done, I had set up an appointment to teach half of a Zumba class Wednesday afternoon. The best way to celebrate was of course, by going to Zumba that evening.... duh.

Tuesday, I spent a good bit of the day helping out at Bella's school. I did manage to squeeze in Group Centergy that morning. That afternoon, I got back in the pool for an aqua jogging session with some interval work. It didn't love the workout but I didn't hate it either, but I did the damn thing and got it done.

Wednesday, I had a workout scheduled with Amy but we actually spent half of my workout practicing for my audition/interview later that day. Our actual workout was pretty tame because Amy wanted to make sure I was fresh for my thing. I got myself together after picking Bella up from school and we headed over to the gym where I was having the audition/interview. I got there, and the nerves started to kick in just a little but I had prepared and there was nothing else I could do but give it my all. When it was my turn, I got up there and started strong. The ladies seemed to be really responsive, and I was chugging along. Then when we hit the fourth song, I completely blanked out, and I made up the routine on the spot. The good thing is that they didn't know the difference and I kept going. One lady, even said it was her favorite song after the class. Then, I got cut off by the group fitness director during the second last song because the girl before me went over her time and I had run out of time but it worked out. I cooled the group down, and they were a wonderful group of class participants. She said that she would be in touch but but I am not going to hold my breath. It was a great experience and I'm moving forward. Anyways, in the parking lot, as I was pulling out some dude in a minivan hit my little car. Bella and I are ok, but it just plain sucked and I freaked out. When I was headed to my gym for Groove I had a mini melt down with my friend over the phone. When I pulled up to the gym, A and my other friend were standing outside chatting. When I got up to them, I had a total meltdown. I think that the stress of the day and the accident just sent me over the edge. A and my other friend were awesome and helped me get myself together. A and I danced it out in groove, it was exactly what I needed. When I got home, Patrick was awesome and won some serious "awesome husband" points.

Thursday.... it wasn't Wednesday so already we were off to a good start. I hit up pilates with a friend and she was kind enough to invite me over to her house afterwards for some coffee. She was wonderful, and spending time with her was what I really needed. I took it easy the rest of the day and headed to Fayetteville for some Zumba this evening. I am so glad I did because I got to see some friends and it was just a fun evening. I also realized that I am SO LUCKY to have so many incredible and supportive friends.

Spice Up Your Life

It's a Spice Girls kind of day in Lucy-land. Don't fight it, just go with it. You know you danced to some "Wannabe" don't even try to act like you didn't. Ok, I know it's been a few days since I've updated but in my defense, I have fallen asleep on the couch mid post 3 nights in a row.

Anyways, let me tell you about Wednesday. I started the day with K and we ran 5 miles. I ran intervals and I really think that's why I was able to go as far as I did without being completely wiped out. Actually, during the last mile I was able to push a little harder and I know it was because of the intervals earlier in the run. I was so excited and proud of us, we totally rode the high from our accomplishment. We ended with a 1.4 mile walk/cool down, which brought us to having covered 6.4 miles. After that, K joined Amy and I for a training session. Amy worked our upper bodies and core pretty hard, and thankfully she was easy on our legs. While we were doing some shoulder work, K asked Amy if anyone really lifted the 130 pound dumbbells they have at the gym. Amy challenged me to try and pick it up because it's a little less then what I've lost this past year, and so that I can try to visualize how much weight I've lost. I took her up on it and went tried pick it up... I was only able to lift it about an inch off the ground. Needless to say, the feeling of trying to pick up that dumbbell is going to stay with me. I've already gone back to it a few times since Wednesday. Then just for fun and to top off the day, I went to dance it out in Zumba that afternoon.

Thursday was a pretty low key day, I just went to pilates and Groove. That being said, pilates was a tough class and I am still feeling sore from it. I had a lot to get done on Thursday, so I didn't make it to Zumba that evening. It's crazy but it made me sad, I missed my Zumba.

*Warning- this part might be TMI for you, just skip this part and go straight to Saturday's activities.* Friday was another of my insane days not unlike Monday. I started out with taking an easy 2 mile walk on my own. I went to Zumba, and followed it up with going for my first cycle class. Ok, I knew cycle class was going to be uncomfortable, but I had no idea. My general peesh area is SORE! I even had a gel seat cover, but that didn't make a difference, I am still sore. K and I stayed for half the class, that is about all my junk could take, but next class, K and I said we were going to aim to stay 45 minutes. Then in the evening, I went to Groove class which K was subbing for, it was a total blast.

This morning started with an EARLY morning run with K. We walked our first mile, and slowly jogged 2.9 miles after that. We were slow but we got out there and got it done. After that, I had my ILIATC workout and weigh in. It was great news!! I LOST 6.6 POUNDS!!! I got through the super tough workout by focusing on the great weight loss this week. I hope that my team stays in the top three again this week, and hopefully I will be in the top three for individual weight loss. Keep your fingers crossed for me.

Jumping In

I totally looked bad ass like that in the water today.... yeah right! So, I got in the water today with Amy there to guide me through the workout and for company. Let me tell you, I had to let go of my ego and such when I got in the water because I am sure that I looked like a massive dork. I did some jogging in the water with some interval work with the water dumbbells. There was nothing cool or bad ass looking about the workout. When I was doing sprints in the water, I swear there was a point where I felt like I wasn't moving at all. Some of the sprints were with the water dumbbells and I actually liked that better then doing it without the dumbbells. Even though, I felt and looked like a dork, it was a great way to get in some active recovery. I am going to be incorporating this into my week's routine, especially on days after crazy gym days like yesterday. The other positive aspect of this workout is that it didn't hurt my knees, that was welcomed relief.

Next Stop... Crazy Town

I am one tired and sore girl tonight. Today was mega workout day and there will be more of these to come in the next few weeks because of this ILIATC business. I want to win darn it! I started with a run/walk session this morning, I got in 3.26 miles in 65 minutes. Super slow pace, but I got the workout and the miles in so I'm pretty jazzed about it. After that, I trained with Amy and got in another killer workout, and she just added to the soreness that I had left over from Saturday's workout. I went back to the gym this evening and got in another 1.25 miles in 24 minutes before Zumba. Again, like the pace earlier today it was slow, but I did the darn thing. Then I got in a round of Zumba, just for an added element of fun. I am just wiped after all that. Tomorrow, should be interesting. I am going to take it easier and just hit the pool with Amy for a session of aqua jogging. I am sure it will make for an interesting entry tomorrow. All this working out makes me think that I am going to be making a trip to Crazy Town.