Perfect?

So I came on here over a month ago admitting I ate fries and feeling down as a result of watching an old buddy plug along on his journey and I admitted my err and proclaimed my goal for change. yeah.. well  um guess what? I am not perfect. What? Did I just admit that I am not perfect... YES I did! As a matter of fact, perfect is not a word I use or allow my students to use, along with hate, as there is no such thing as perfect. Just to prove my point I would like to acquaint you with the meaning of perfect.

Perfect - ADJECTIVE

1.  without faults: without errors, flaws, or faults

"in perfect condition"

2. complete and whole: complete and lacking nothing essential

3. excellent or ideal: excellent or ideal in every way

"That's the perfect word to describe him."

 

I do not know about you BUT I am do meet any of the aforementioned criteria to be deemed perfect.  So anyway, I did not follow through from my last post. Why? I can blame my birthday ( lots of cupcakes), my bum ankle, stress at work, Halloween, and walking 60 miles in three days.  I am sure that some of you are disillusioned, as I was, that walking for 3 days will help you lose weight. You can join me in being wrong about that. I gained weight from the salty, but necessary, snacks as well as the tons of Gatorade I drank. The end result is my pushing 199 pounds again. I am in a sad, sad state.

 

There is not much I haven't done in the name of losing weight. In the end, the one thing that worked and kept weight off me the longest was Weight Watchers. I was able to "cheat" within reason. I did not give up all my cards. I did not switch to a liquid diet for weeks. I just ate sensibly and exercised. PLUS I had a scale Nazi to weigh me in and a meeting of people to clap for me every time I reached a milestone. Anyone that knows me understands I need positive feedback, A LOT of positive feedback, to stay motivated. Why else would I post all my work out information and measurements on the "interwebz"?

 

So I am joining WW and will begin my journey, again, to weight loss.

 

 

Have you ever hit rock bottom?

I have!

I know I have been on an unknown hiatus for a little while and felt I needed to pop in and say... well just admit it.. admit what? I am a quitter!!

After several Dr's appointments and 7 weeks of two shakes a day I lost 9 pounds and found out I was completely normal and have no real reason why my body did not want to shed weight. I began to wonder why I was running 3x a week and eating a mere 1200-1400 calories a day and not seeing the results I longed for. THEN, school started and the long days came. I have not been consistent with my running and I haven't counted calories since August 22nd- the first day of school. I admit to eating handfuls of candy corn, the occasional medium fry from MacDonalds, and bread- copious amounts of bread.

God help me..

The end result is that I may have maintained my weight within a pound or two but I feel like crap and I am tired. As my fourth graders would write- I am really, really, really, so, so so tired. ( Do not worry I am fixing their writing)  So, why am I admitting this to you? I am glad you asked. I have totally hit rock bottom. People, I ate fries! Do you hear me? Fries! I had not eaten them in 2+ years!!!!!!

Anyway, I am back sort of. My life is consumed with teaching right now but I will be checking in as much as I can. I will try to get a handle on my eating issues. I believe admitting there is a problem is the first step. With that aside, I think I can get my fat butt back on track. SO here it goes....

Hi, My name is Heather and I am a food-a-holic. I eat when I am stressed. I eat when I am mad. I eat when I am sad. I eat... to eat.

Whew. Glad that is out and in the open. Tonight, I shall jog!

Thanks for staying around and big props to Pat for sticking with it and making me realize what I walked away from.

Week 7/90 Day Challenge- but not really

The last 7 weeks have been really rough on me. I truly thought I had found something that was going to work for me. Why not - it works for so many other people. My body, however, is a medical mystery. I can eat no more than 1200 calories daily, work out no less than 3 days weekly, and make healthy life choices and my body has other ideas.

Diet
I am still drinking the body by vi shakes. I will admit that I do not do 2 a day every day as 5 weeks of following that idealogy did not reap the rewards I had hoped for. I am, instead, alternating between 2 a day and 1 a day as I see fits in my daily schedule as well as along with my workout regimen. I am continuing to eat just 1200 calories a day with a little slide here in there within my alloted net calories and as dictated by calories burned.

Exercise
This last week I walk/jogged 6 miles last Saturday, walk/jogged 3 on Tuesday, walk/jogged 5.41 on Thursday, and walked 11 yesterday. I plan to begin incorporating strength training this coming week.

Results
I am using my weight from Thursday morning as I am currently retaining A LOT of water and do not think todays number is a fair representation of the truth.

So here are the Results..

                 6-17       6-24       7/2       7/8       7/16       7/22               7/29        8/6       
weight     198       191.5       192.4    190.3    189.3    191 (wth?)    188.5     187.5 ( i think)
chest          45           44          44         43         42         42                42            42
waist          42           41         39.25     39         38        38                 38            37
hips           44 1/4     43 1/4     43         42         42        42                 42           41
Bicep        12            12           12.5     12.5      12.5      12.5             12.5        12
Leg            22 1/4     21            21       22         22         22                22           21

Total pounds lost are 10.5 * i forgot if I weighed 187.5 or 187.8 on Thursday.
Inches from waist 5
Inches from bust 3
Inches from hips 3.25
Bicep and Arms- fluctuate
                

Week 6: 90 Day Challenge

Some of you may have noticed I did not post last week. I didn't do so because I was very let down by what changes my body is and is not making. I was UP 2 pounds last week with NO change in my measurments. Now I understand that most of you will say " Shut up- you lost 9 pounds in 5 weeks" Yeah, yeah I get that. However, 6.5 of those were in the first week. You tell me that would not erk some of you!

So this week I decided to stop stressing so much. I tried to do two shakes a day but some I just ate a protein bar for lunch instead. I also changed from jogging at night to doing so early in the morning. I attempted to work out every other day as opposed to being the wild woman that was working out daily as well. Lastly, I visited an endicronologist to talk about my body issues and see if something medical was at play. Let's be honest folks.... being as active as I have been and eating as incredibly holy as I have been should be yielding some much different results- jus sayin. ( Yes I just through in "jus sayin" in my blog)

So here are the Results..

                   6-17           6-24              7/2       7/8       7/16          7/22           7/29        
weight        198            191.5           192.4      190.3    189.3    191 (wth?)    188.5
chest          45               44                44           43         42          42                 42
waist          42               41                39.25      39         38          38                 38
hips           44 1/4         43 1/4           43          42          42          42                 42
Bicep       12                12                 12.5       12.5       12.5       12.5              12.5
Leg           22 1/4          21                 21         22           22         22                  22

So I am back to what I was 2 weeks ago minus .5

Week 4/90 Day Challenge

After a lot of input from the people in my life, I decided to attempt to follow a healthier version of my diet than I had been the last two weeks. I assumed, and was right, that it would probably create a feeling of my body wanted to retain more of what I ate as it might have be in starvation mode before so I did not dilute myself into thinking I would see major improvements this week. 

Diet
I was a good girl this week and made sure to eat atleast 1200 calories daily. I switched from using SparkPeople to MyFitnessPal on my phone and I loved seeing my Net Calories as well as being told how much weight I would weight in 5 weeks according to that days intake. It was very informative.

Workout Results
The beginning of this week was ROUGH! I was suffering from some issues that made it hard for me to get up or out to exercise. Wednesday I did, however, make it to the gym for an elliptical visit. Thursday, I pushed myself 3.6 miles in under an hour. Friday, I wanted to die as a result of Thursday but I did push through 2.5 miles.

Understanding what I changed this past week, I knew the numbers would be low. I do anticipate having a better week next week now that my body is expecting more calories.

Starting weight was 198... today's weight 189.3

                    6-17           6-24              7/2       7/8       7/16        
weight        198            191.5           192.4      190.3    189.3
chest          45               44                44           43         42
waist          42               41                39.25      39         38
hips           44 1/4         43 1/4           43          42          42
Bicep       12                12                 12.5       12.5       12.5  
Leg           22 1/4          21                 21         22           22

Week 3/90 Day Challenge

Weight loss is a reflective process for me. I keep having to evaluate my progress vs. my intake vs. my exercise. As soon as I think something is working- it isn't. It is very frustrating. I do still intend to visit the endocrinologist to verify my health is in order. Until then I will continue to tweak and retweak my levels of the aforementioned.

Diet
This week was rough for me. I slept in many mornings which messed with my eating schedule. I honestly struggled to eat more than 900 calories all week. I really need to buckle down and get more protein full calories in each day to get some changes on the scale.

Workout
This week I hit the streets for my furthest distance of 2.55. I also hit the gym and burned my usual 350 calories 2x this week as well as hitting upper body and abs. I am still trying to strike a balance of what I want,and what I can, do without reinjuring myself.

Results
 Looking back at the data, I see that the last two weeks were weak in the calorie intake department in comparison to week one, which had the big weightloss, so there will be some tweaking for sure.

Starting weight was 198... today's weight 190.3

                    6-17           6-24              7/2       7/8        
weight        198            191.5           192.4      190.3
chest          45               44                44           43
waist          42               41                39.25      39
hips           44 1/4         43 1/4           43          42
Bicep       12                12                 12.5       12.5    
Leg           22 1/4          21                 21         22

Week 2/90 Day Challenge

I wanted to blog more than 1x a week but I did not have a lot to say this week. Yes, Im being serious. It is a shock to me as well.

Diet
This week was a rough week for me. I was struggling to find stuff to eat as I found that I was not hungry. There were days I did not even drink two shakes. They really do fill me up! We ate out a few times also, so this provided me with an opportunity to try and eat right and still watch my carbs. Most days I hit the 950-1050 range for calories. I am not trying to completely eliminate carbs as that is unrealisitic for me. I am, however, making smarter choices regarding the carbs I do eat.

Workout
This week was not very consistent for me with working out either. I was doing some baby photography shoots in the morning as well as a wedding so that put my gym time on hold. I did make it out Tuesday afternoon and did 30 minutes on the arc trainer as well as my upper body on weights. Wednesday was my first try at walking and light jogging outdoors. I was able to complete 2.44 miles in 40 minutes. Alas, I did not get to work out Thursday or Friday as my left foot was very tight and would not allow much movement for cardio. I did venture outside today for a quick 30 minute 1.8 miles.

Results
The scale went up a bit BUT I expected that. I did lose 6.5 last week! That is a lot of weight in one week. I figure my body was doing the standard week two objection to shedding weight. Look at those measurements. I am down almost 3 inches on my waist. I just wish you was my "low waist" and not my real "old lady" waist since noone makes jeans for my real waist that don't look like MOM JEANS! So, needless to say, I am very excited to see the measurements go down even if the scale went up a smidge.

                   6-17           6-24              7/2        
weight        198            191.5           192.4
chest          45               44                44
waist          42               41                39.25
hips           44 1/4         43 1/4           43
Bi             12                12                 12.5
Leg           22 1/4          21                 21

Week 1/90 Day Challenge

Well, here I sit with the results of my first 7 days on the Body By Vi challenge but first I would like to discuss what my weeks consisted of.

Diet
My diet was very simple. A fruity Shape shake in the morning, a snack of 14 almonds before lunch, and then a lunch of a different fruity shake or my favorite - chocolate banana! My dinners varied from night to night. I had kebobs of beef and veggies, chicken fajitas, chicken souvlaki, or the tried and true chicken breast with veggies. I did try very hard to watch my carbs as I tend to be a little bit of  a "carb whore". YES, I admit it.. I LOVE carbs!!! There was the night I ate at Chili's and over indulged in tortillas on the aforementioned fajitas but I tried to balance it out the next day. I did also have a bag of 94% fat free popcorn whilest watching a movie- GASP! I know right? Overall I am trying to balance it all. If my body wants a carb.. I give it a carb- a SMART carb.

Workout
I made it back to the gym for the first time Monday, since my broken ankle, and found that it felt right. I did 30 minutes on the arc trainer which netted 1.5 miles and over 360 calories burned. I also did the circuit training and focused on my arms- followed by the ab machine. I decided to alternate days so I stayed home on Tuesday. Wednesday I went back to do the same thing I did on Monday but challenged myself to last 40 minutes and 2 miles this time. I netted over 430 calories burned before moving on to circuit and abs again. Alas, Thursday was a day at rest and spent with my son and his BFF. I returned to the gym today, Friday, to finish my workouts for the week ( I am taking it easy) and I felt the pain in the ankle at the 30 minute mark. I honored my body and stopped at 1.5 miles and 340 calories burned. I did not work on arms today but managed to limp to the ab machine and do those before returning home to elevate my ankle.

Results
Since I know some of you skipped all that babble to get to this... I shall divulge the information. I will say I am embarassed at the beginning numbers but its all good.. they are a thing of the past.

                 6-17           6-24        
weight        198            191.5
chest          45               44
waist          42               41
hips           44 1/4         43 1/4
Bi             12                12
Leg           22 1/4          21
(quad)

As you can see I can no real waist.. never had. I anticipate those numbers all dropping but staying the same. I am the sqaure shape they talk about in swim wear magazines.

Body by Vi is helping me watch the calories while meeting my other needs. I am not starving myself of much needed vitamins or nutrients on this diet. I do know these numbers will balance out as the first week you lose alot of water weight but these are great numbers none the less.

Keep watching as I melt away- the healthy way!

My New Journey to Weight Loss

  Throughout my weight loss journey I have tried many different things. Some have worked and some have not. My biggest issue has and will always been consistency. I tend to be the type of person that slacks in the diet area when I am getting towards my goal which causes the downward spiral back to where I started. You have to remember that I have been battling my weight most of my life. Anyone that has known me for any length of time can recollect one or more of my attempts at weight loss. I would like to take the time to discuss some of them in the following paragraph(s).

  It all started in high school when my dad and I both started Jenny Craig. My dad did incredibly well as did I. I was working out via a 7th period class being offered at my school as well as dancing my weekends away at an all ages night club. I reached a size 4! Did you hear that?? A size 4. Alas, I slowly went off of the diet and kept the weight off well. I often, in jest, blame my affinity for the rave scene for helping me gain weight as I wore extremely large pants that were never going to fit me- so I thought. Think about it, a size 4 girl wearing mens size 36 pants with a belt. When or at what point will you begin to notice you are gaining weight? I actually did not begin to gain the bulk of that weight back til we moved to Virginia and I was no longer clubbing several nights a week. The lack of the 8 hour dance nights and the winters helped me gain a significant amount of weight. The time span for all of this was 1991- 1994 Fast forward to 1999. I moved back to Florida and my dad and I began a new weight loss plan- a modified Atkins diet. Once again, I did well. I am not sure if it was because I started hitting the clubs dancing the night away again or the diet. I lost about 45 pounds and felt pretty good about myself. It was, however, short lived as I began to eat carbs and moved out of my parents house and ordered alot pf pizza.

  I met my husband in 2003. after a bad break up, and had lost some unhealthy weight that quickly came back once I reached the " I gotta man" stage of my life. Come on ladies, You know what I am talking about. ( being comfortable enough and happy enough to eat!) I was pregnant with Corbin in July of 2003 and began to eat for 2...3.. maybe 4. Hell, I ate for a whole family. I kept thinking that I would probably only have 1 child so I was gonna do it with style. I reached my highest weight in April 2004- 259 pounds. (Holy Crap.. right!?) Since the birth of Corbin I have been struggling to get down to a healthy weight. It is important for my life, and his life, to be healthy and to portray a healthy lifestyle. In 2009 I tried the Medi weight loss for a week and felt my body reach levels I was not comfortable with. It was what I refer to as a near death experience that woke me up. I realized then that I did not hate myself enough to endure that torture and I began working out 5x weekly and following Weight Watchers. I lost 40 pounds and kept it off for a year and a half. Alas, I graduated and found a full time job that changed the way and ability I had to work out. I gained about half of that back as a result of balancing work and recently breaking my ankle.

So now, as of Saturday, with the help of a dear friend I have begun to follow the Body by Vi challenge. I feel that it is a great combination of several of my past experiences. It is like the a la carte of my diet past- if you will. I am replacing two meals with healthy vitamin filled shakes, having small snacks, and eating a healthy meal for dinner. I am not eliminating any whole food group, I am not lowering my caloric intake to an unhealthy number, I am not taking any metabolic boosting drugs aside from natural vitamins, and I am heading back to the gym. I am truly very excited to begin this journey and I will be keeping you all up to date on my outcomes. I hope you all will follow along and give me feedback.

I thank everyone in my life for being part of my pitfalls and my highs. Understand that I do not claim to have the answer to my weight issues. I do, however, feel that I can offer some of you some insight as I have tried a lot. In addition, I hope to learn from you as well. There are many people in my life, such as my friend Pat, that are on a similar journey that I have taken ideas from and will continue to lean on.

If you like what you read as my journey continues and wish to get involved in the Body by Vi challenge, feel free to ask me.

You can visit my link as well....http://www.heatherschuster.bodybyvi.com/

How do you Remember?

It has happened again! I have been inspired to think about some things as a result of reading Pat's blog.
http://road2warriordash.wordpress.com/2011/06/16/never-forget/#comment-129

Pat wrote about one's need to de-clutter. We all do it. Take a walk down memory lane by looking through collections we, as adults, realize don't hold the value we believed them to once hold. We sell them realizing they will make someone happy but now feel a void. We look through boxes of old photos, playbills, awards, etc. and wonder if the memory itself is enough to stand the test of time or the article is needed to retain that time in our life for evermore.

I am a Class A pack rat! I have various boxes that contain memorabilia from the various stages of my life. I do sort them periodically if not frequently to try and down size. I always seem to retain more than I intended. However, this blog is not about our need to reevaluate our clutter or whether Hoarders should schedule an intervention in the name of our friends and family. It is about using a memory, article from the past, to recall an especially great or challenging moment in our life. We do this in an effort to continue to propel ourselves in the direction we wish to travel in our life. Perhaps we want to achieve academic status like we did in high school and our honor society sash reminds us. Maybe we have our first speeding ticket or school referral to remind us of a time we were reckless in an effort to not repeat that time of our life. For Pat, it is his Warrior Dash t-shirt, medal, and wooly horn hat. Regardless of his many future attempts to de-clutter his room, house, or life, those items will remain. He will use them as anchor to a time, a memory, within his past that will help to propel him in a positive direction.

Now, this is my blog so I will share with you my anchor. Reading Pat's blog reminded me of my first 5k. If you have been paying attention thus far you are aware of my first 5k being my last to date as a result of an injury. Incidentally, I too have my medal from my first 5k ... its currently hanging on my wall unit so I had to, and continue to, look at everyday for the last 9 weeks. I looked at it everyday as I sat without the ability to walk without aid from an injury sustained at that race. I heard many people tell me, " That is why I don't run- injuries" and " I bet you wont run another race." Boy! are they wrong! I fully intend to run again. I look at that medal and say. " Damn girl, you did it! You finished?" I also say," You did it WITH and ON a broken ankle. I got your IronGirl right here!"

In closing, like Pat, I will forever cherish that medal and all that it means to me. It's a reminder of a time I might have been a little crazy by running on an injured ankle BUT it is also the time I ran and finished my first 5k. I say first because there will be more. This is the first of many medals to come. I will finish what I started- a healthy hobby that cleanses the spirit and relaxes the mind. A hobby I thought I would NEVER do but did Big!

Thanks again Pat for the inspiration... We are gonna run together real soon!

How Ridicule becomes Inspiration

Sometimes I feel like a perpetual lost puppy in my own life. It is as if I keep traveling the same road over and over again with no internal GPS. No GPS to keep me from making the same wrong turn or making that change in my direction just reroutes me back to where I began. My car sometimes tells me to go the wrong way, as I need to upgrade my maps, but I have to foresight to know this because I have gone to the place I am heading again. I have been there enough times to know the general direction but am still not familiar enough to travel without the aide of my GPS.


I often feel like this about my weight loss. I KNOW what needs to be done. I have done it so many times. I have taken so many different routes because, just as when I travel somewhere I have not been in a while, that last route was too long, not scenic enough, or maybe had to much traffic or potholes. Whether Jenny Craig in High School, Atkins in my early 20's, Medi Weightloss, or Weight Watchers I have found a way to get part of the way to my destination and then lose my footing. This story, my story, is no different than anyone elses. I have done diet alone, diet with exercise, weight training, etc. The only difference is that this past time I was determined to change it all around. So determined, in fact, that I pushed myself to do something I abhored- running. People around me were losing weight with my assistance yet I remained stagnant. Then... I received a sign in the form of a broken bone. SLOW DOWN! TAKE A BREAK! I got that message loud and clear.

Fast forward 2 weeks from the injury and I sat here a flabby frustrated fool pissed off at the world, myself, the race. I sat in my house angry that I was unable to work out, drive, get off the couch, be pain free. It was in that time I decided to begin a relationship that was long over due. I started attending church. I began to realize my calling, teaching, as well as my need to love myself as I am and to be who God wants me to be. Now, understand that I am not saying God wants me to be fat but he DOES want me to be happy and love myself as he does. So with this knowledge and general feeling of goodwill I began to reminisce about why I felt the way I did for all these years and why I struggled so hard with believing I could overcome the obstacle of my weight. It wasn't until I began teaching that I felt open enough to share the ridicule of my youth with my students as a means to get them to keep the hurtful words to themselves. This realization of the way my tormentors affected me was brought to fruition when I read my friend Pat's blog
http://www.road2warriordash.wordpress.com/2011/06/10/whats-in-a-name/

I was the child called many names in elementary school. Most of which came from the mouth of a boy I was smitten with. Growing up, I was very chubby. I remember weighing 115 pounds in 5th grade. I was called Bubbles, Fatso, UFO- Unidentified Fat Object, Chubby, etc. These were names from kiddos the same age as me. I also received torment from my half sister, whom lived with me for a short time, in the way of words and jokes at my expense. Being called "Tub-o-lard" cuts... real deep. Some of you are probably saying, " ahh get over it, it was 25 years ago" I bet most of you are fit and never had this issue. Names, nice or mean, stick especially when you are a child and your life is all about being with friends, being liked, feeling good about your place in the social dynamic that is school and your neighborhood. Those names have carried through my life. At 36, I still see that chubby little girl being picked on and I still hear those words in my head when I do not meet a goal. The difference today is that I no longer wish to use it as a means to devalue myself or my mission.

I will continue to blog as well as read Pat's blog. I encourage you to follow him as well. I will also post my Vi Challenge site so you can follow that if you wish. In the end, I ask that you all think about the words you are using when speaking to others and about others- especially if you have children. We are living in a society where the average person believes the only way to lift themselves up is to step on another person. This is untrue and has lasting effects on those it is done to. Also, if you are not a church goer or dogmatic at all. I encourage you to find some word or feeling to follow whether religious or philosophical in nature. If you are living in this world free of any peace and you are trying to survive by yourself amongst the reality tv, the sensationalized media, and generally narcissistic society PLEASE find an escape before you are consumed by the negativity. Life is too short to live tethered to drama of yesterday or today... live your life unleashed!

With all the babbling aside. I would like to thank Pat for continuing his journey while I was sidelined as he and his story of ridicule reawakened my spirit. I have decided to jump start my weight loss with the Body by Vi challenge. I think shedding the flab that has accumulated while being "man down" will be helpful in getting back out and active again.
http://www.heatherschuster.bodybyvi.com/

Also, a special thanks to Pastor Q at GFC Eastlake for your series on living life unleashed!!

Took a little "Me Time"

Hello Readers! So sorry I have not been writing as of late. It has been a little shy of two months since I last blogged. However, if we are being honest, I am sure none of you were sitting on the edge of your seats stressing my absence nor were you fiending for my witty diatribes. I had to take a little "Me Time". I wanted to find something else to lose myself in as I was having a very hard time dealing with the lose of the use of my left leg. I am happy to say that I did find something else to think about in the lapse of time since my last blog. One of those things was and remain very positive whilest the other was negative but turned out to be positive.

Let's start with the negative to positive. Over the last month and a half I have been losing hair and sleep- but not weight. I was in danger of losing my position as classroom teacher due to budgetary cuts in our wonderful state and the district with which I work. It is definitely no fun being one of the last ones hired as, in my field, we are the first to be fired or laid off. Alas, all is well as I am still gainfully employed and even moreso I am going to be teaching fourth grade. YAY! I am gonna rock those writing lessons as I love to write. I know, I know you are shocked right! :0)

My second activity over the last month and a half has been my new relationship status. Please don't get all reality TV on me and assume that I am either getting divorced or cheating on my husband- I am not. I am, however, creating a new and woderful relationship with God. I was never quite sure of my belief system nor what culture I most identified with. I consistantly found myself on the side of Eastern philosophy which led me to study Hinduism and Buddhism. I love both of those ideologies. As someone that is not really into folowing ritual or dogma for the sake of following it, I found myself wanting to keep on searching. I like the freedom of being able to have my own practice and not feeling tied down to any specific process for honoring or worshipping my God. I began going to a contemporary Christian church on Easter and continue to attend. I had an amazing experience a few weeks ago where I physically felt the presence of God next to me. I am not sure what that meant or means nor am I positive that I have found my way completely but I am no longer feel alone- that is for sure.

Okay, enough touchy feely stuff. If you are still reading- Wow YOU really like me! I am still nursing this ankle situation. The last two days of packing up and cleaning my classroom for Summer took a toll on me. I am no longer in a boot but I am far from being able to run again. I have gained 11 pounds and I am NOT happy about that. I plan on getting into my neighbors pool to exercise as well as starting to bike on a stationary bike at Y next week. These two activities plus some weights 3x a week and a good diet should get me back where I want to be. It will be slow going BUT I do believe I will have some people rooting for me as well as a support system I did not have before this happened. So... keep on reading. Heather is back!!!

Letting Go of Control isn't Easy!

I know I am not a famous blogger so I am sure most of you know me personally. Anyone that has any true connection should know that I am a little bit of a control freak. I have read Eckhart Tolle as well as The Secret and I do not have the ability to remain in the Now. I have tried to live there and have been successful but something happens and I start to ponder what if's and what could have beens. This inability to live in the now has prompted this blog.

Being as though I recently broke my ankle, whilest running my first 5k, I have had to let go of all control and allow myself to remain sidelined from my life. I have had to instill the assistance of a reluctant spouse for all of my transportation and meals as I cannot hobble on crutches with a plate or glass. I have had to rely on my students to behave and get Mrs. Schuster whatever she needs for lessons. I have had to sit on my ass instead of run 3x weekly or attend my kickboxing classes. Worst of all, I have had to watch my son wish we could be as active as we normally are on weekends and miss out on doing things we would usually do.

I was reading an article of about injuries and how they can bring you through similar stages of dealing with death. If this is true, I must be in the depressed stage. The WHAT THE HELL AM I GONNA DO FOR SIX WEEKS stage. The WHY CANT I DO MORE WITH MY SON stage. The LIKE I NEED ANY NEW REASONS FOR MY BODY TO NOT WANT TO LOSE WEIGHT stage. I know I am being a Debbie Downer, and I am sorry. I just want to express the pain and anguish I feel knowing that I made it to the very goal I was working towards to have it all ripped away from me. I keep telling myself that it is just more motivation for me to kick ass when I get off the crutches. I also tell myself that I will have to be conservative for a while when the cast is removed.

Anyway, if I am short with anyone, give an attitude, or just look plain sad next time we interact in person, please understand the roller coaster of emotions I am having. I will be alright.. and Yes, this could have been worse. In the end, it is me- unable to live in the now- thinking of what was and what could be if only I had stepped a little further when crossing over the divot that took me down.

From the Couch to 5k and BACK to the the Couch AGAIN!

What can I say? If I don't start this blog with a positive about my accomplishments there will be many people yelling at me.

So, YEAH! I finished my first 5k!

I was able to finish in just 40 minutes a time that would have been better by 2 to 3 minutes. I fell at the last turn and fractured my left ankle. I was down for a minute or so before a friend came up behind me, along with a stranger, and lifted me up and helped me jog/limp across the line.

How it happened:

I was making my way around the final turn. There was a small dip/divot in the road where the two sections of asphalt met. This divot was cement. My left foot came down and rolled out and under my leg causing me to land on the ground.

What now?:

I am in a boot and on crutches for 6 weeks. I will miss another 5k I signed up for but I will NOT stop running. I plan on getting back into it as soon as I am cleared from the dr.

How do I feel?:
I was very sad. I felt like I had failed and I also felt like I had worked so hard for this to only lose it in one stupid mistake or mis-step. Then I saw my time and realized that even with the injury I had done well! So many of you have given me the strength to go and refer to me as an inspiration.. and it is truly you all who keep me going. Thank you so much!


I AM AN IRON GIRL!

Throw me a frickin bone people!

So I have taken a break from blogging because I was retweaking my workout and diet and wanted to see how it worked before I reported back. I began Weight Watchers PointPlus a week and a half ago and have been using my iPhone to track my points. I have maintained my points each day and been tracking my activity points as well. Having been on this diet before I anticipated losing the standard 2-3 pounds one does the first week BUT I did NOT. All of this, in addition to my doing couch to 5k 3 times this week as well as kickboxing three times lead me to call my doctor. I will be fasting Monday evening in anticipation of having my blood overworked on Tuesday.

I cannot begin to explain to you how it makes me feel to have done 8 weeks of P90x and 6 weeks of Couch to 5k and literally lost and gained the same 3 pds over and over again. This week I lost .2! .2!! My diet is not the issue, I eat very well. My workouts are consistent and I vary the exercises. Someone throw me a frickin bone!

On a different note..

I will be running my first 5k Sunday. Wish me luck.

I will report all findings from my blood work and keep everyone posted. There is no reason for someone to work as hard as I am to reap little reward. Its down right depressing and overwhelming!

Week 5 Day 3:Couch to 5k - Beating myself up

Last night I took on the challenge of Week 5 Day 3. Wowzers! I had to run, "jog", for 20 minutes straight. I am proud to say that I only punked out 4 times for 25 seconds each. (yes I counted the seconds) Needless to say I am a little tired this morning.

I have been beating myself up regarding my lack of weightloss. I keep losing and gaining the same 5 pds. I have been watching what I eat and most people believe I eat incredibly well but I suffer from nighttime munchies. Alas, if I am burning soo many calories I do not believe that is enough to totally derail my loss. I have fallen off the p90x routine for about 2 weeks due to life obligations and work. I am hitting again hard so I can finish out my last 4 weeks.

I have been considering seeing a dietician or endicronologist to discuss my body image and needs. I believe there is a reason I am working out 6x weekly and eating well and NOT shedding the pounds as I was. I just hope its that I need to eat more, something else simple so I can see a payoff for all of this hard work.

Gone Camping- I thought you were back! WTH!?

OMG... so I went camping at the end of last week and then dealt with going back to work and getting planning done, a few meetings, and grades together. I am a little sidetracked by real life to work out like I was. I did do couch to 5k on Friday and then again yesterday. I am keeping that up but getting home later than normal from work. After training tomorrow night, I have to stick it through and get my ass in gear!

Keep me accountable people!

On a sidenote I did sign up for my first 5k! Ahhhhhh!

Week 9/Day 1: P90X

I am back- again.

Today was the beginning of my final 4 weeks. I started back with Chest and Back and can honestly tell you that I must have forgotten how hard this program was or maybe I somehow always did the wrong disk because this was HARD!

Diamond Pushups and Military Push ups = EPIC FAIL on my part!!

I made it through and will survive but damn my injuries and focus on cardio made me weak!

Where in the hell have I been?

WOW.. after the injury and taking a small break and  then getting back into it I fell of the blogging wagon.

I have been doing week 8 lite. I have been doing more cardio and couchto5k. I am working through week 3 as well as doing cardio/kickboxing this week in preparation for week 9. Week 8 was supposed to be rest week which is based mostly on cardio and stretching. I do intend to kick it up the last weeks.

Stay tuned.

Window of Opportunity

In the beginning of this program, I could come home and work out at 9pm. Since I have been working out immediately following work and then coming home to relax that has changed a bit. I feel that there is a window of opportunity that I must take advantage of and TODAY I missed it. I am pooped.

Call me a loser but I do not think I am gonna get the second wind needed to get my workout in today.

Week 7/Day 4: P90X and Couch to 5k Week 3/Day 1

Okay... so today would have been Yoga for me but some of the girls that work out after school wanted to work out. I decided to pretend to be a Kickboxing instructor and we did about 30 minutes of a workout with arms, legs, and abs.

I left for home after that workout and commenced to start week 3 of the couch program.

WOW it was hard to run for 3 minutes straight. I lasted 2 minutes 40 seconds.

Week 7/Day 3: P90X

Well, I am back in the saddle!

I am realizing that this 90 day program will have taken me much longer BUT I have always been told to honor my body ( by my awesome yogi Sandy) and this is something I have done throughout this process.

Today's Workout
Back and Bi's with abs. As always I did my own ab work esp. since I do not want to re-injure my back pushing myself with ab ripper

How do I feel?
Still feeling good.

Couch to 5k - Week 2/Day 3

After my injury and my two days of rest, I eased back into the plan with a couch to 5k jog/walk. I switched sneakers and found that a pair that did not work out for kickboxing are working out for jogging in the street. I was able to complete the session without my usual shin/calve pain. WOOT WOOT!

I also changed my music and listened to a friends drum n bass mix. I found I was able to lose myself and not worry about keeping up with a beat. My pace seems to be getting better.

I chose to stay away from P90X for one more day and honor my body.

Today's Workout
90 second jog/2 minute walk for 20 minutes.

How do I feel?
Much better!

Forced to Rest

I have not blogged in a while because after Week 7/Day2 I was forced to rest for two days. I injured my self pretty bad and had some serious sciatic pain. After resting Friday, I sought the assistance of a massage therapist. I paid her a visit on Saturday morning. She worked my core muscles (soaz sp?) and my sciatic. I was very tight and needed a deep tissue massage.

I will be updating my workouts from Sunday and Monday as I am feeling better and have eased back into the plan.

Week 7/Day 2: P90X and Couch to 5k: Week 2/Day 2

Today was the first time I tried to double up a cardio day with a couchto5k day. The running is getting a little harder as it's for a longer sustained time and I am still trying to perfect my stride. I weigh in tomorrow at school for our Biggest Loser so I wanted to get a good workout done today.

Today's Workout
Today was Plyometrics for P90 and a 90 second jog/2 minute walk combo for Couch. I noticed that I did not make the 2 miles I am usually able to travel this time around. I did Couch before dinner and P90 after.I still had to skip Rockstar, Knee Tuck, and 180 jump squats as they are too high impact for me BUT I modified or did jacks instead.

How do I feel?
Honestly, my lower back kind of hurts and my legs are tired but I am feeling good!

Week 7/Day 1: P90X - Can You Believe It?????

I can not believe I have made it this far! I always squash my own ego but admitting I have modified my way through the last 7 weeks BUT in reality I am one proud B*&%! ( you get the point)

Today's Workout
After my first graders referred to my arms as " wiggly like my moms" as well as " jiggly like gummy worms", I truly felt the need to get my work out on! Well, today was Shoulders, Chest, and Triceps- fitting, right? I still had to skip some of the pushups such as the one armed and clap push ups. I made sure, however, that the tri's were done.

How do I feel?
Pretty good actually.

Couch to 5k - Week 2/Day 1

Today would have techinically been the beginning of Week 7. However, I decided to keep up with my jogging. After realizing I was following the wrong version of the program I have been a little backwards.

Today's Workout
I began week 2 of the Couch to 5k. It was definitely a little harder than the previous weeks as it increased the running times. I will start back on the P90 program tomorrow with Chest, Triceps, and Shoulders as well as some cardio.

How do I feel?
My shins hurt a little bit.

Week 6/Day 7: P90X

So, I decided to do one of the workouts I missed this weekend today ( Monday). I did Kenpo to boost my heart rate  ad work off my dinner as we went out. I did have Salmon.

Today's Workout 
Kenpo

How do I feel?
Good.

Week 6/Day 6: Couch to 5K and .... OOPS!

Hello! So, sleeping on a the ground in a tent was all I expected it to be. We had a good time. Hubby was up at 4 am fighting off raccoons. FYI: If you are camping next to your car.... put the food in the car at night so you don't have various visitors stealing your marshmallows.

We left for home early to get some spring cleaning done and rest. I decided to get day 3 of week 1 done for my couch to 5k experience. I also realized that my papers had been shuffled and I have been following the regular P90X routine for about 4 weeks - OOPS! I decided that armed with this information I would do my own thang today. So I did the couch to 5k and did some serious battling with my son on Just Dance 2. *Do no laugh.. that game is a workout! With the aforementioned OOPS I have decided to increase my cardio regularly and take a short break on weights for a day or two.

Today's Workout
Day 3 of Couch to 5K
Just Dance 2 Battle

How do I feel?
My legs are sore. I was honestly planning on doing Kenpo tonight and decided that would be overdoing it. I am gonna listen to and honor my body and get going on Kenpo tomorrow.

Week 6/Day5: Gone Campin'

So we decided to head out and do the camping thing. We, as a family, are camping virgins. My hubby, however, is an ole pro. I, when I was a Brownie, camped out in a backyard to earn a patch. We headed about 40 miles from our home to Ft. Desoto to a beautiful campsite located on the water. My hubby cautioned me regarding the breeze and cold. I, like any typical wife, dismissed his banter and was proven wrong when the sun started to set - Burrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!

Whilest my husband set up camp, YES I helped put the tent together, I took Corbin for a walk. We did not know how far away the fort was nor did we know it was closed construction. I urged Corbin to keep walking as we began to realize it was further than we thought. We ended up walking 2.5 miles before Corbin had me call Chris to come get us. The fort ended up being about .5 miles away from our ending point. So anyway, I did not do any P90 but I did get a walking work out.

Today's Workout
2.5 mile walk

How do I feel?
Bad for making my 6 year old walk it with me.

Week 6/Day 4: Coucn to 5k

Today was supposed to be Yoga but I did not want to do that. I felt like I needed some more cardio.  So I did my couch to 5k today instead.

Oh yeah, Guess What??

I am down 4 pds! WOOOOOOO HOOOOOOO!

I am blogging this on Saturday Afternoon and we are going camping. My workout today will be hiking.

Week 6/Day3: P90X

I am late on blogging this. Very late - 2 days. I attended a drum circle at my school. If you live in the area you should check out http://www.givingtreemusic.com/. They are incredible.. they = Steve

Anyway...

Today's Workout
Back and Bi's

How do I feel?
Great

Week 6/Day 2: P90X

Howdy all... I am still going strong and kept it going with day 2 of my sixth week. Falleur was hurting from yesterday and had a parent conference so I was going solo, although Baker was with me for the first 15 minutes. It was nice to have a partner for a bit.

Today's Workout
Today was Plyometrics. I was able to do almost everything. I skipped the knee tucks and rockstar. I do not like that high of impact so I did jumping jacks during that time.

How do I feel?
It is bittersweet. I feel great for sticking with it and a little sore as well.

Week 6/Day 1: P90X and Couchto5K

Sometimes you gotta buckle down.. and today was that day. I decided to skip day 7, the day of rest, as a result of my bad week last week and began week 6 today. I did forget the proper dvd at home so Falleur and I decided to take to the faculty parking lot and do a little jog-run/walking.

Today's Workout
Today I did a Couch to 5 K walk/run for about 27 minutes. Then I headed home had some dinner and followed it up with some P90X triceps, shoulders, and chest as well as some ab work.

How do I feel?
I feel pretty good- now. I am sure the slight ping in my thigh/groin will surely get a little more severe. It is all good.

Week 5/Day6: Getting it Done

Back on track... it was the day of love, chocolate, and spazzed out first graders today! Alas, I persevered and got it done!

Today's Workout
Today was Kenpo X, my fav. Falleur worked out with me today which made it a fun time.

How do I feel?
Good! I am going to skip the day of rest tomorrow as I had enough of those this week and head strong back into Tri's, Shoulders, and Chest PLUS a quick run/jog after.

Week 5/Day 5: Reality

Reality is my stomach bug really screwed this week up - BIG TIME! I just returned from a valentines date with my son and am not sure I will get back and legs done tonight. I am thinking of doing Kenpo tomorrow and starting my week anew on Tuesday without taking a day of rest. I kind of already rested when I was sick.

So, yeah, I resolve to hit it harder this week.

Week 5/Day 4: P90X.. kinda

Day 4 was supposed to be Yoga X but I really missed my kickboxing class, so I decided to take a trip to the Y today. In all honesty, the cardio routines on this program are not as intense as Toni Ann's class and I believe that may be why I am bulking and not losing.

Today's Workout

I did 45 minutes, the standard class, of cardio kickboxing. We did some arms and abs as well. 

How do I feel?

Since I am blogging a day late I will be honest. My glutes hurt- bad :0)

Week 5/Day 3: P90X.... Keep on Keeping on!

I have to be honest and tell you that when I got home I laid on the couch and read People magazine. I then headed out to Carmelitas for some enchiladas, I know BAD HEATHER!, and then to Wal-Mart to get some valentines goodies for my kiddos, Target to get Corbin a new Wii game, and then back home again. After allowing Corbin to play his game until 9:45, I had to ready him for bed. I am sure that you are asking yourself, " Why is she telling me all of this?" or maybe you are thinking, " She is totally trying to make excuses for why she DIDN'T workout tonight!" Well, guess what! These are the reasons one could use for not having time to workout but I DID WORKOUT!

Today's Workout
At 10:00 pm, I turned on Back and Bi's and completed Day 3 of Week 5. I, as always, skipped Ab Ripper as a result of the aforementioned mexican cuisine and did my own abs workout. I did several sets of 25 for obliques, upper, and lower abs for a total of 225 moves.


How do I feel?
Friggin Awesome!! Woot Woot! Bring it on. I plan on screwing with the plan a bit and doing some cardio kickboxing in lieu of the tamer Yoga X tomorrow. I need to make up for my two sick days.

Week 5/Day 2: Back on track from the stomach bug

Well I was out for two days and resting as opposed to working out. I picked back up today with day 2 of week 5. I am hoping this little hiatus did not mess up my progress.

Today's Workout
Today was Plyometrics. WOW..wow .. wow.. jumping around was the main idea for this video. I found a little difficulty in a couple of the higher impact moves, as a result of my Plantar Fascitis, but as in weeks prior I made modifications and did what I could. It will be interesting to see how I feel in the morning.

How do I feel?
Right now, I feel pretty good.

Week 5/ Day 1: P90X

Can you believe I have made it this far?!??

I can't!!

Today's Workout
Today was shoulders, chest, and triceps. WOW, it is like starting from scratch again. I was not prepared for this workout. I was struggling to keep up with all the various push-ups. I did what I could handle and remembered that I had 3 weeks to get better at each set. For example, I cannot doa  clap between push ups nor can I do a one handed push up. It is okay.. I like to know I have a long way to go and.I am actually excited to see my growth.

Ab Ripper was also on the schedule. I am not a fan of the extreme sit up actions in that dvd. I did a few of the activities from the dvd and some that I had learned from the amazing kickboxing instructor, ToniAnn.

How do I feel?
I feel incredible! I am gonna hurt like hell in the a.m but it is worth it!

Week 4/Day 7: Day of Rest ( Sunday)

I did not blog yesterday. I rested.

Week 4/Day 5: P90X, Couch-to-5K, GNO, and a Drumroll!

Today was a great day. I woke up earlier than my norm on a weekend. I must be getting on handle on my weekly germ warfare in the classroom. I grabbed my ipod, then realized it was dead and patiently awaited it's recharge, and headed out the door to start week 1 of the Couch-to-5k. I was able to get in 2.06 miles in the timed session and I felt great when I was done.

Today's Workout:
Since I was off by a day with the program I was planning on doing Core Synergistics today but decided that my dancing all night PLUS my 2 mile run/walk was enough working out for me. Since it is MY recovery week, I figured it would not be a big deal to shun a day in favor of good old fashioned dancing.

How do I feel?
Tired..

* Dun Dun DUNNNNNNNN* < That is a drum roll.

Weighed myself this morning and I am done 3.2 pounds!!!! Wahoooooooooooo!!!!

Week 4/Day 5: P90X and TGIF

Ahh.. TGIF! Although it is still unclear to me as to why I say that when I spend my weekends planning my weeks. I hope that changes when I am teaching next year and already have a lot of my stuff planned out. Today was a long day as I am still fighting off the onset of the stomach bug and had to endure visions of some other kid from another class depositing barf outside my door today. ( I can NOT handle barf!!!)

Today's Workout:
Today was Stretch X. It was a refreshing way to end my day.

How am I feeling?
Excited to be completing week 4... can't wait to see some pounds drop off... soon I hope.

Week 4/Day 4: P90X- Back on Track

I made up for my missed day by getting back into the swing of things. My girl Falleur and I were punching and kicking and panting and huffing.

Today's Workout:
Kenpo X -My Fav!!!


How am I feeling ?
Still not feeling to hot but cant lose the momentum.. keep on chugging.

Week 4/Day 3: P90X and the Infiltration of Influenza

So today was supposed to be Kenpo.  But my morning started out with my own feelings of "ick" and my hubby calling me at work to tell me he had gone home sick. I have had atleast 3 kiddos out of my class at any given time with the a stomach virus or the flu. I have been playing touch and go tag with some symptoms here and there but nothing concrete.

I came home and decided to take a cat nap, something I have been known to do, and then workout. Unfortunately, I passed out and awoke without the loving feeling for a quick Kenpo session. Like weeks previous, I have decided to make today a rest day and work through Sunday.

Week 4/Day 2: P90X and the Busy Day

Today was another lazy morning. I did not want to get out of bed and was not feeling 100 percent. We had a full day in the classroom with computer lab and writing in the media center taking a chunk of our day. We spent the end of our day pre-viewing stards and galaxies via the internet on our smartboard. After dismissal, I hauled on down to Falleur's classroom to get my workout on.

 

Today's Workout:
Today was Core Synergistics. I definitely am seeing a difference in what I am able to do and try this week. I still do not attempt the Dreya Roll. However, I am now able to get 6-8 prison cell pushups done in the time given. I was also able to increase my side pushup up and under numbers.

How do I feel?
I felt incredible after the workout. I am truly getting stronger.

Week 4 Day 1: P90X

Today was typical Monday. I did NOT want to wake up but it was promising to be a gorgeous day. I had promised my kiddos an end of day "teacher led P.E activity" We played Freeze Tag and after two collisions we headed back to the classroom for some Yoga.

Today's Workout:
Today was Yoga X. I did 1 hour and 20 minutes of the 1.5 hour workout. I skipped the exercises that I am not able to do or hurt my back.

How do I feel?
I feel good. Nothing beats ending my yoga with some OM's.

Week 3/Day 7: Day of Rest

Today was my day of rest. I relaxed mostly. However, I did take a quick 2 mile bike ride.

Week 3/Day 6: P90X and Progress

I am blogging early today. I will be doing day 6 of my workout in a couple of minutes but I wanted to announce my progress on the journey.

We took my measurements today and they were interesting to say the least.

Chest: -.75"
Bust: - 2.5"
Waist: -1.0"
Hips: -.75"
Bicep: +1.25"
Thigh: +1.0"

Weight: +2.0 lbs.

Onward and Upward, I say!


Today's Workout:
Today's workout is Kenpo X.
How do I feel?
I am feeling better about myself. I was sad to see that I have actually gained 2 pds since I started BUT, after speaking to my friend Julian, I feel better about my progress. I do intend to make some attempts to get going on this diet as close as  I can. I may need that to jump start the actual pound droppage.

Week 3/Day 5: P90X

Today was great day! Since it was Friday, we had some fun at school. I put on my Bill Nye hat today adn taught the kiddos about erosion and different compositions of sand, soil, and clay. My buddy Falleur met up with me following school for another try at the P90X workout.

Today's Workout:
I did Legs/Back and Abs today with my pal from work that I affectionately refer to as We were able to do most  all of the workout-minus 2 of the switch grip pull up as I am still modifying by doing weights and let her use the band. Falleur and I also did my verison of Abs. We did some pikes, oblilque crunches, and some standing core exercises.

How do I feel?
I feel alright. My wrist is definitely still bothering me but I am doing what I can. I am still at the SAME WEIGHT! I may need to bite the bulllet and try to adher to the P90X diet. I just cant find the time or personal need to eat that much! Tomorrow is Kenpo as well as my going to the trail to get some couch to 5k in.. gotta start training.

Week 3/Day 4: Man Down!

I am late to blog but I have an excuse. My wrist and tendon by my thumb is very inflamed and hurting bad! I decided it was in my best interest to skip Yoga X as I did not think I could handle all the inversions with my wrists this week. I took a breather and had a date with icy hot and some ace bandage wrist band instead.

Week 3/Day 3: P90X

Today was an interesting day. My kids were a little riled up today as we were finishing up our unit with a long test and tomorrow is the 100th day of school. We have some fun activities tomorrow including my second day of staying after work to work out with my intermittent workout partner Falleur!
Today's Workout:
I did Cardio X today with my pal from work that I affectionately refer to as Falleur. We actually had a college class together back in the day and now work together at the same school. We were able to do most of the workout-minus the Dreya Roll which we all know is crazy hard. Falleur did a great job of keeping up and laughed when I ever told good ole Tony to bite me when I was getting tired.
How do I feel?
I feel good. I think my butt is getting tighter. Anyone that truly knows me is within the know of my not truly having a butt. I suffer from "noassatall" I swear it si getting firmer. My hubby says it still is not existant. Whatever! I am still running around showing people my cut line in my bicep. I am proud of my "lil guns".

Week 3/Day 2: P90X

What a yucky day! It was very windy, with tornado warnings, and raining. I had a great day in the classroom. I stayed after for a conference and ran to my car in the drenching rain. I must have been pretty tired as I passed out on the couch at about 7:00 and did not wake up til 8:00. I did get my butt up and start my workout after putting my son to bed.

Today's Workout:
I changed the workout a bit and did arms/shoulders as I do have a friend or two that want to try to workout with me at school and I felt that CardioX was a better intro to the program than Arms/Shoulder and Ab Ripper. So I changed them around. I was able to attack Arms/Shoulders with no problem this time around. I am still not a champ with the chair dips but I did get in 15!!!! Up from my 10 last week.

I was feelign a little off tonight, so instead of doing the regular Ab Ripper I did my own Ab exercises. I did  100 different "moves". 2 sets of 15 pikes, 3 sets of 15 crunches, 15 reverse crunches, 15 oblique crunches.

How do I feel?
I am a little tired but I feel great. I can feel a difference from this week to week 1. I know I am stronger.

week 3/Day 1: Back to It

Ugh.. A case of the Mondays! So it was kinda rough getting back into the swing of things. It always is on Mondays. I had sent out an email to my work to gather up some folks to work out with me. Unfortunately, this workout plan is hard to commit to. It takes a chunk of your schedule and most teachers spend a lot of free time still working on school work. I do still intend to spend some workout time after school in the health lab to avoid my 9:00 pm workouts.

Alas, I decided to head home so I could get ready for a getting started meeting for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. I attended the meeting and met some great new people and I am very pumped up to start my training- Did ya know some people lost their toe nails?

Today's Workout
It was Core Synergistics tonight. I did not start til 9ish. I had a hard time sticking to the 57 minutes and I punked out at 40. I do feel that I got a good enough workout considering.


How do I feel?
I feel a little tired but that is a result of my working a full day and not truly resting on Sunday.  I will survive.

Week 2: Day of Rest

Today was my day of rest. I did not truly rest as I drug the family out to the trail today and did a 4 mile walk. Corbin rode his bike while Chris and I walked. This did help me walk quicker. My RunnerGPS app on my phone was FAIL again so I don't have accurate mileage.

I officially signed up for the 3day in October. I am hoping that many of my 400 Facebook friends can ante up $10.00 towards my fund raising goal of $2300.00. I am also looking into a few more 5k's until then. Got to keep the momentum and motivation.


Tomorrow begins Week 3- Day 1. Woot Woot!

Week 2/Day 7 (actually 6): P90X

You may have noticed that I did NOT blog yesterday- again- I forgot. I was able to get my workout done last night at 8:45 pm. Then, I watched Idiot Abroad on National Geographic channel. It was hilarious! I love brits and this show is a great depiction of a british man traveling abroad- much to his dismay. I strongly suggest you check it out.

Today's (Saturdays) Workout
Today was Kenpo X. I love this workout. It holds a place in my heart as I adore my kickboxing instructor and was unable to make it to class in the morning.

How do I feel?
I pulled something in my knee which kept me from kickboxing class in the morning.I was feeling much better by the evening and had no issues with Kenpo. I am definitely feeling a difference in my stamina as I continue this program.

Week 2/Day 6 (actually 5): P90X

You may have noticed that I did NOT blog yesterday. I was in training again Thursday and picked Corbin up a little early from school so he could ride his new bike. We spent some outside, him riding and me walking, before dinner and had to finish his homework. By the time I was ready and able to take over the t.v to work out, it was very late. So I had to skip last night.

Today's Workout
Today was Legs and Back plus Ab Ripper. I was able to complete both videos. I did a few sets of 20, as opposed to 35, on a few abs exercises. As well as my having a bad back keeps me from full sit ups. I modified positions that were hurtful to my spine.

How do I feel?
I pulled something in my knee. I am hoping to be able to jog tomorrow in addition to Kickboxing class. I am keeping, adjusting my diet and trying to push it as far as I can to speed up the weight loss.

Week 2/Day 5: P90X - Down Dog, Up Dog, and a Curious Dog

I spent the day at training today. I spent a lot of time sitting on my butt. After leaving training, I spent 45 minutes chatting with my son's teacher at a conference- again on my butt. Upon returning home,  I was grading papers and finishing a project for the aforementioned traning class. 8:20 came quickly and I had to put Corbin to bed. At 8:35, I decided to get my workout- umm on. LOL

Today's Workout -
Today was Yoga X (Keep in mind I am a day behind on account of Monday) Just as last week, I had to skip Crane and Plow. I did stick with the video overall, completing my Vinyasa flow full of Up and Down Dogs galore, and finished my workout with the obligatory and relaxing OM. This leads me to the "curious dog" mentioned in the title. Apparently, Lilly is weirded out by my low resonating OM. She gave me a strange look, per my hubby, and then sat on my lap and stuck her head in my face. It was a nice show of love and distress combined.

How do I feel?
My arms were sore today. Just ask anyone sitting near me at training today. I felt the ache when doing my planks. I feel very relaxed from my Yoga and I am drenched in sweat- note to self: wait to shower next time.

That's all folks! More training tomorrow...
and then back home for Day 6 of Week 2 ( actually the real Day 5)

Week 2/Day 4: P90X and the Bike Fiasco

Today's Workout
Today was the first day of my work week and I was up and in my classroom at 8:15. It was a hectic day as I was planning for a sub the next two days as I will be at District Office for training Wednesday and Thursday. After work I came straight home to clean the rabbits cage and then jetted back out to get Corbin a much deserved new bike. ( He got all S's on his report card and has perfect attendance) We hit up Wal-Mart first to get a bike rack that took Chris 45 minutes to put on - the parking lot was dark and the directions were not clear. We then headed out to Toys R' Us to get Corbin his new bike - did I mention that it doesn't fit on that aforementioned bike rack very well. All of this running around ended with us eating dinner at 8p.m. and my finally being able to get to my workout at 9:45.

So... I made up the missed day with Arms and Shoulders as well as my version of the Ab Ripper and I upped my weights to 8lbs!  I will reiterate, this is harder than I thought!!!

How do I feel?
I am feeling pretty good about my effort as well as my dedication. I know that this is a hard workout and I am still trying to adjust to working out and working as well. I have NOT noticed a weightloss via the scale but my clothes are definitely fitting differently.

Week 2/Day 3: WOW, this is harder than I thought!

Who would have thought that a horribly gloomy day off from work would be the hardest day to stick to this plan. MLK Day was rainy, stormy, and I spent most of it planning lessons for the week.  By the time I was able to think about working out it was past 9pm and, well umm " I didn't wanna!", things did not work in favor of me getting on track.

So needless to say, it is apropos to title this post " WOW, this is harder than I thought!"

I will make it up, I have to!

Week 2/Day 2: P90X and Family Exercise

After heading out to dance last night and getting in rather late, I did what every late 30's woman does- slept in! I decided to try and start my walking training for the 3 day with my family and headed out to the park for a walk.

Today's Workout -My family headed to Starkey Park for a walk today. I kept a decent pace, although my Blackberry  app failed to properly record my stats, and I completed 4 miles total. I left my husband and son at the 1.5 mile mark and went on to the 2 mile mark then turning around to pick them back up and finish our total 4 miles. After having linner, which is lunch/dinner, we came home and I proceeded to do Cardio X. I will admit that I skipped the Wacky Jacks and the Dreya Roll. I do, however,think I did alot and if you don't that is on you.

How was it? How do I feel?
 As always, I am glad you asked. I really wanted to get in 5 miles today but I am happy with the 4. I can honestly tell you that my legs hurt a bit and my back is achey but I will survive. I am looking forward to getting Corbin a bigger bike so I don't have to hear him whine about the long walk.

Week 2/Day 1: P90X and Dancing

I started my week 2 today. Amazing how a slight change in my schedule, such as actually working, and some other minor health issues set me back ONE extra day but I felt it big time!

Today's Work
Today was the same as last weeks day one- Core Synergistics. I ended up lasting 40 of the 57 minutes as I had to sit out the Dreya Roll and the Prison push ups. I did make up this lack of activity by heading out to the local bar and dancing the nigh away.



How was it? How do I feel?.
I am feeling alright. I am tired and my muscles are sore but I need to work up to having the stamina to juggle all of this.

Sidenote -
Tomorrow, I plan on beginning my walking/jogging training for my upcoming 5K's and the Susan G Komen 3 day.

Day 7 and a Forced Break

Hello! I know I have not blogged in a day or two and I have a reason for this. Day 6 is an actual day of rest on the program- so I observed that day as a good participant would. However, my first week back in the classroom also proved to be the germ haven it is. I had a queezy feeling yesterday, what would have been my day 1/week 2, and decided to take a step back and recoup. Today, I am feeling my usual Friday blues of being exposed to germs all week and my body did it's usual routine of wanting to shut down today/ I crashed out on the couch as soon as I got home for work- full on snores and all.

So with all of this being said, I plan on starting Day 1/Week 2 tomorrow which should help me out by re-structuring my week a bit. I will now use Friday as a day of rest from work and the plan. Additionally, I can tell you that I have thought twice about my eating as I have lost 0, yes a BIG FAT ZERO, pounds this week. I believe that my morning shake is keeping me from eating snacks aside from not being able to when I am teaching. I am also not eating a quick small lunch on a account of my 25 minutes I get to prepare and eat it daily. This leaves me with dinner, when I get home, and a later night snack. I am NOT eating enough. I am planning on returning to Weight Watchers within the next two weeks.

Anyway, thanks for bearing with me as I figure out how to make this plan work best for me.

Day 6: P90X

Today was my reality check of getting back into the swing of things. Having worked all day and worked out, I was having a hard time to wake up this morning. Alas, I made a Vi Shape shake and headed out for my day. I brought my own salad fixings to school today with a grilled chicken breast. It was a definitely a great mid-day refueling. The weather was cold and gloomy as well which is always a mood dampener.

Today's Workout -Today was day 6, but because I did Kenpo X,on day 5 by accident, I did Legs and Back. I was able to work my legs very well but am lacking the proper equipment for my back. I need to get a mount for my bands. I did try to replicate the exercises with free weights. Some of the leg exercises were killers such as the wall mounted one leg squats and the various lunges.I was unable to get AbRipper done as a result of spending time at the tire shop after work, so I will do it tomorrow on my "Rest Day"


How was it? How do I feel?My legs were burning up! Arms do not feel as well as they could - I will work on getting the proper equipment. Trying to work all day and come home to get this workout done is proving to be challenging but I have to get them done, so I will try my best.

Sidenote -Alot of my friends on FB are stepping up to support me for the 3 day. I am going to go ahead and sign up and start raising my funds.

Day 5: Kenpo X and the Classroom

Today was our first real day back from Christmas break. I woke up a little late and made a Vi Shape shake before I headed out the door. The day was laid back as I allowed the kids to ease back into the swing of things. I noticed how relaxed I was, which surprised me, and felt it may have been a result of the previous nights Yoga.

Today's Workout -
Today was day 5, but somehow I misread the chart, and I did Kenpo X. I should have done legs and abs so I will be doing them tomorrow. Kenpo was an enjoyable dvd. I love my kickboxing class I take on Saturdays and this class had me to doing alot of the same moves from that class. We did a lot of different blocks and hits which really had my arms feeling the burn. We also did many different kicks leaving my legs feeling worked out but relaxed as well.

How was it? How do I feel?
I feel wonderful! I was worried that working all day would drain me enough to not feel like giving it my all BUT I persevered! I feel healthy, happy, and destressed! I will pick up tomorrow with legs and abs which is really day 5- I will get it right next week.

Sidenote -
 I have decided to join the Susan G Komen 3 day in honor of my Aunt. She has recently been diagnosed and undergone surgery for breast cancer. She is an amazingly strong woman with more class than you can shake a stick at. I have always looked up to her as a role model and she is the godmother to my son. I will be walking three days to show my support of her battle with breast cancer. I will do this for her!

Day 4: P90X and More Weekend Fun

Today was MORE fun with my son day.  We went to Congo River Golf and did a quick 18 holes of miniature golf. We had the hubster in tow to take score and assist Corbin with form and follow through. This may sound, okay it really does sound, ridiculous but I felt like I was putting my best today. Like I had a grounding of sorts that allowed me to stay within par or better on most holes - usually I suck and get mad because I do. I was very relaxed today.

Today's Workout -
I did day four of the Lean program which is Yoga X. This was a wonderful change from the actual cardio and strength training as I am returning to work from Christmas break and could use some help calming the mind and getting the body prepared for 15 first graders wanting to tell me EVERYTHING that happened of break all at ONE TIME. I will be honest and say that I am not a Yoga beginner. I did take Yoga for about 2 1/2 years at the local Y with a great instructor that had us practicing Hatha with some Vinyasa flow as well. It was not, however, until I lost the 40 pounds that I was able to finally touch my toes and do reverse twists with prayer hands. I felt a little more prepared for this workout as I did have experience with Yoga.

How was it? How do I feel?
 As always, I am glad you asked. I was nervous to take it on once I saw it was 1 1/2 hours long. Then I remembered that my old class was similar in length. I did, actually, have some help psyching myself out as an old high school friend told me, and I quote, " If you can last the entire Yoga X, I will have a new found respect for you." Yes, Matt, I am talking about you! I did take it all on and I rocked it! I have already stated this on my Facebook and page and received the aforemention respect and props from Matt!

All kidding aside, I feel great. I enjoyed rounding it all off with corpse pose and some wonderful deep breathing and having Om resonate throughout my home and within my chest.

Sidenote -
 Some more information on me. I was 194 pounds when I started this program. I am 5'3" and my BMI is in the overweight/obese area. I began losing weight in March/April of 2009 beginning at 228 pds. I tapered off in July of 2010 at 180 pds. ( So I have gained 14 pds since beginning teaching and having less time at the gym) I have taken all the pertinent measurements but will share those at a later time.
As always, thanks for reading. I will check back in tomorrow!

Day 3: P90X and Family Fun Day

Today was fun with my son day.  We went to Crews Lake Park and rode the trains there. We also took a leisurely walk to the playground where I mostly stood around talking to other parents while he played. Sitting on, not as padded as I would like, bench seats was not the highlight for my already sore inner thighs. Alas, I enjoyed the great outdoors as it was a beautiful day!

Today's Workout -
I did day three of the Lean program which is Arms/Chest as well as Ab RipperX. I met a new nemesis which actually was two exercises requiring the same movement I was not capable of. The first was the ladder climber and the second was the push up to V crunch- I think. Anyway, I am not able to actually come up into a sit up. My core is non existant but moreso than that I have a horrible back. So I modify those to high crunches and hope that I will eventually be able to roll all the way up and toe my toes rolling back to a V position.
How was it? How do I feel?
 As always, I am glad you asked. My thighs and glutes are still a little sore. My arms were rubbery immediately following the workout. I did not use a heavy weight as I only own 5 pound weights. I will be picking up some 8 and 10 pound weights also. Over all I feel pretty good. I definitely think I will be sore in the morning.
Sidenote -
 The aforementioned "before" pics that were taken yesterday are still on my camera and I looked again and thought- get it on and get going Heather. So, I will keep on trucking. Next Saturday I will add my usual Kickboxing to my daily workout.

Thanks for reading. I will check back in tomorrow!

Day 2: P90X and Back to Work

Today was Teacher Planning Day so I spent my day, from 8:30 to 5:00, at school. I did not actually get much planning done as I spent the bulk of my day pushing my tables and filing cabinets from one side of the room to another and back again- Yes I am indecisive. One would think that was a workout in and of itself but I can home to get my P90X on. 

Today's Workout -
I did day two of the Lean program which is CardioX. Once again the Dreya Roll proved to be my nemesis. I decided to just do the reverse crunches and leg lifts to work the same ab muscles in hopes I will someday get to do a roll like the people on the video.

How was it? How do I feel?
I am glad you asked. My thighs and glutes are on fire! The video was not that hard as I have an amazing Kickboxing Aerobics instructor that works me harder for 45 minutes every Saturday a.m at the YMCA near my house.

Sidenote -
 Took some before pictures today and wanted to cry. OMG. I will NOT share them until I have a killer after shot to go aside them as I am embarassed to admit I look as I do currently. I will, however, keep them on my desktop as a sort of visual warfare to motivate me to get my butt moving and achieve my "just deserts"

Thanks for reading!

Day 1: P90X

Today was the first day of my transformation.

Today's Workout -
I did Day 1 on the P90X Lean routine - Core Synergistics.
How was it?
I was good. I was able to follow the entire routine aside from these roll back manuevers which required me to roll back onto my back and do a reverse crunch and then roll back on to my feet and into a standing position - totally not happening.  I woke up late and did not eat breakfast. I did not realize this until I was completing my routine and decided it was best to make a Vi-Shape shake. It is now dinner time and I am just beginning to feel hungry. I will be eating grilled chicken and a tiny square of my neighbors lasagna.

Anyway, I will be back tomorrow with a report as it is Teacher Planning day and I want to see how I fare with having to work before I work out.

Welcome to the Blog!

Before I begin to explain the reasoning behind the blog and it's title I want to school everyone on a very interesting fact I learned about the saying, "She is getting her just deserts." I, like you, thought it was "just desserts" but apparently it is not. According to snopes and many other sites it is indeed desert - and does not bear the extra s one would put when referring to the tastey after dinner reward. (one which I looove so much) Anyway I decided it to be apropos to name my site "just deserts" as I believe I am indeed going to get what I deserve in life by changing my outlook and the methodology in how I approach it. Additionally, I too thought it was "just desserts" and I LOVE cake and pie - er, desserts. This is actually what has placed me in my current situation of wanting to make lifestyle changes which are permanent so I can finally lose ALL the weight I want for good. But I digress, and have now explained the reason for the blog whilest rambling about the title.

So sit back and enjoy the ride while I sweat, wimper, cry, and shed mental and physical weight in an attempt to achieve " My just deserts"

* sidenote- I know there are people in my life, such as my dad, who will say that I am giving out "too much data" by having a page like this. I believe that sharing my struggles and triumphs with the world without too much TMI is an inspiration and motivator and hope it is viewed as such by others.*