My Half Marathon Training Journey

Journey to the Half..

So I've decided to keep a journal while I start training for my first half marathon in January 2011. I'm really excited to do this since will be at my favorite place in the world - DisneyWorld! It has a huge emotional meaning to me since I used to go there every year with my family since I was 4 years old, so what better first race for my half to be than this! So I've put a challenge on myself to do this and also in celebration of my birthday, which is only a few days before the race. I have never done a blog before but after speaking to some friends who ask me for advice on how to get in shape and to stay consistent, I figured this would be a great way for myself but for them too! I find this being a huge compliment since I had a baby last September but I wanted to prove to myself and to other moms that you CAN get back into great shape after pregnancy - IT IS POSSIBLE!!! Even if you don't have kids but are having trouble losing weight, this is my way to inpire and motivate others. So here I go, to start training and to lose those last stubborn 10 pounds to get to my 'ideal weight'.

And so it begins...

Please leave comments, suggestions, or motivation on 'my blog' page, which you can click on at the top of this page! Thanks :)

Day 1:Thursday July 22, 2010

Even though I've been working out pretty consistently since January of this year, I still have a lot of work ahead of me if I want to be able to keep up with my endurance and have a good race time. Here is a pic that I took recently and I'm going to keep posting probably once a week just to see my progress. I'm going to be following Hal Higdon's training guide from his book, "Marathon." I had the pleasure of running with him back in April for a local 10K and got him to sign my book. `

Today -

Run 3 miles
Pilates

Day 2: Friday July 23, 2010

So yesterday's workout was a little sluggish, even though I did the 3 miles I walked the last half mile, was feeling a little dehydrated. Sometimes when your body is telling you to slow down, you have to listen and take it slow. I couldn't make it to Pilates since my little one needed me to get back home!

Today is a new day, we had planned on going to SeaWorld so today was going to be my OFF day, but because of the tropical storm I will be working out. It will be a strength training day!! Happy Friday :)

Weekend Recap!

So I ran 3 miles on Friday, and it felt great, pace was pretty good but I took my time. Saturday I strength trained focusing on my biceps, shoulders and abs. Today I am taking the day OFF, I'm pretty sore and need a day or two to recoup. I will probably change things around on here now that I kind of laid things out a little better, so stay tuned! :)

Monday, July 26, 2010

So I started to follow Hal Higdon's training but for a FULL marathon, I know I might be crazy but I think I can do it! Plus I think it will prepare me and the 13.1 miles will be a breeze, and then I can focus a little more on my time. Don't get me wrong, I am definitely not racing to win, at least not my first one ;) I'm doing it to FINISH and to ENJOY and to CONQUER this challenge I've put on myself. My husband always asks me, how do you do it - I mean what do you think about, doesn't it get boring? All I can say to that is when I'm running I feel any type of negative energy or stress just melt away from me. I feel like I can do anything, and I love that feeling. They say you can get a 'runner's high' and I definitely get it..although I didn't at first. The only thing I ever got was huffing and puffing, lol. So here's what I did today:

Ran 3 miles
3 sets of 10-15 reps of bicep and back exercises ( which I hadn't planned on doing but since I went with my husband, I just added it in)

Tomorrow is another 3 miles, so until tomorrow :)

Tuesday, July 27 - Thursday July 29, 2010

Sorry for the late entries guys, but had family in town but I'm back on it! :) So on Tuesday I ran 3 miles and focused just on my pace and my speed. On Wednesday & Thursday I took my rest days because of family and a trip to SeaWorld :) Although I must have walked at least 2 miles in that park!

Friday July 30, 2010

Today was rough I really wasn't feeling like running since I was sad to have family leave but I knew I had to do it. So I couldn't make it out to the gym so I put my daughter in the stroller and went out for a run. It actually helped clear my mind alot but since it was so hot I only did a little over 2 miles when I was supposed to run 3. I didn't get all down about it because it was better than not running at all. Also when running with a stroller it really forces you to use alot more muscle parts then if you were running alone so that can fatigue you more too. I try to run with just one hand on the stroller but it's hard on those turns. I still love to do it because my daughter loves the view and it creates a little resistance as well.

Saturday July 31, 2010

So today was supposed to be my 6 mile run and I was ready and pumped to do it however, the weather wasn't. :( Not being able to go to the gym I was going to put my daughter in the stroller and take on the mini challenge of doing the 6 with her but the rain didn't stop. Of course in the evening it did but it's too late to take her out with me. It's one of those things that you may have it planned but things that you cannot control prevent you from doing so. You can't just throw in the towel and forget it all - you say "well there's always tomorrow" granted, tomorrow was my strength training day but I'm going to do the 6 mile and do just a half hour of weights. let's just hope it doesn't rain tomorrow! Hope you all are having a great weekend :)
*Make sure to check out my new blog entry that I posted today, just click at the top of this page "my blog"

Sunday, August 1, 2010

And when the cookie crumbles... so today was one hell of a day. I woke up with a horrible toothache from a 'not finished' root canal that I have scheduled to be completed mid August. Well, no way in heck I can wait until then so I am now on pain meds and have the appt. scheduled for Tuesday afternoon. This definitely puts a burden on my training plans but I plan to get right back on it once I am better again. Can't let it get me down right!

Monday, August 2, 2010

So I wasn't planning on working out today but I said well I feel okay and I won't be able to once I get my dentist appointment - so I ran 4 miles today and it felt great! I'm ready to get this toothache over with and get back on my training plan! See you guys in a few days, wish me luck :)

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

So before my dentist appt. I thought I'd get a workout in and I did a heavy strength training session that left me sore for the rest of the day! Now after my appt. I wasn't feeling so hot, especially since they gave me a strong painkiller. So I took a day off.

Thursday, August 5, 2010 - Sunday, August 8, 2010

Well I ran 7 miles totaling about of the 3 days I worked out and I did a strength training workout yesterday that ended up me pulling a neck muscle :( Swear if it's not one thing it's another! but my motto still lives - nothing will keep me down!! I'm feeling better already but I am going to have to take a day or two off to rest. The most important thing I've learned thru all these things, is that injury will happen if you don't listen to you're body telling you to ease up or take a day off. So let's just say I've learned my lesson!

Monday, August 9, 2010

So it was at 6 am this morning when I pulled my neck muscle, like I said earlier - went to roll over in bed and BAM! hit me like a shock up the spine - it hurt! Needless to say, I've been resting and it's getting better. I don't want to rush my recovery but I'm hoping I can at least start running again by the end of the week. I think the best thing for me is not to lift any weights for a week, but we'll see how I feel. On a lighter note, the other day I ran 4 miles and it was a great time and I wasn't feeling tired, so my training is helping me with my speed and endurance. YES! Oh but I have 8 miles left to go!! I'm not worried, I have alot of time and as long as I am consistent I should be fine. Oh and some more good news - I lost those last stubborn 10 pounds for good! I'm now at the weight I ultimately wanted to be at and it only took me 8 months to get there, not bad! I think the best thing about it is I took my time watching the scale go down but in the process I learned to love my body for how it looked and not worry so much about the number. Still, don't get my wrong, it's nice - I'm not gonna lie! but as long as my jeans feel loose then I know I'm good - once they feel snug, no more sweets for me lol! Well hopefully I can do an entry once I get back into the swing of things. It's weird I started having all these issues once I started this darn blog - maybe it's a curse!? I hope not! Cuz' I'm gonna keep doing it :)

Took this pic the last day I worked out which was on Sunday, Aug. 8 - I look so serious, lol. Also, mother nature has visited me so for being bloated not too bad!

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Still injured...

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

I was feeling better today so I put my little one in the stroller since I couldn't do a solo run, and ran 3 miles around the neighborhood. I went in the early evening but it was still pretty hot. It's funny that I keep getting a different type of tan because of the different shaped sports bras I've been wearing, lol. Either way, I'm really happy that I'm feeling better and able to get back to my training. On the 28th is a 5K I'm really excited about because I think I'll beat my PR record by like 5 mins!

Thursday, August 12, 2010

So today went great! I'm back at it and feeling like 100%! I did a 2 mile run in the 90 degree heat and then did some Pilates! Good stuff :) I wanted to run farther but I was pushing my little one and it was a little too hot for her to be out too long. What made me happy was that I beat my time that I usually run while pushing the stroller, so my pace is getting faster!

Friday, August 13, 2010

Eat. Pray. Love. it was so good, I loved this movie - it had such beautiful views throughout the whole movie and Julia Roberts did a great job playing the part! Okay back to my training ;) I ran with my sister-in-law and my little one in the stroller around the neighborhood again and we did 2 miles and did an ab circuit by the Tone it UP gals. Which btw are AMAZING, I do alot of their workouts and they have great recipes too. Felt really good! Sorry the short post today but I gotta run ;)

Saturday, August 14, 2010

So this is kinda completely off topic here but I didn't run today and instead got my hair did lol. You might be thinking now is that any way to be committed to your training - but I thought to myself I have ran the past 2 days and I could take a day off. So instead so I didn't completely not do anything, I did an ab + upper body workout at home (thx to the lovely Tone it UP ladies). Granted I did it like an hour ago but I feel great and I ate well too today! Bonus! As for the hair, well I'm not used to it just yet, going from blonde to jet black is a big change but my hubby likes it and I'm hoping it will grow on me too :) Have a good weekend!

Sunday, August 15, 2010

Annoyed is the word for today. All pumped to do my 4 miler and I got to do it solo and of course it rained on mile 2...grr! So I only got to a 2.5m for today. It's okay though because at least I got that in. The next 2 days I'll be able to make it to the gym since my hubby will be around to watch the baby. So what was my drink postrun? Chocolate Almond Milk of course! Delicioso - if you have never tried, go to your local Whole Foods store and buy some!! ;) Hope everyone had a good Sunday. Hasta manana, baby! (lol..yea I just said that)

Monday, August 16, 2010

So today I made a trip to my local Whole Foods store and stocked up on some goodies! I made this amazing salad with Kale, peppers, pine nuts, herring and a little drizzle of balsamic - all organic and super healthy and it was sooo good! I was so proud of the finished product I took a pic for you all to see ;) I have to give a shoutout to the ToneItUP ladies on getting the Kale - I normally just buy Romaine Hearts and chop it up but I'm in love with Kale now! So as for my training it was a really hectic day and it stormed ALL friggin' day so I had to workout indoors & at home. So I did my ab +arms circuit workout once again and my arms are hurtin'! Not sure if I'm going to run tomorrow or just do a spin or yoga class -I let you know what I'm in the mood for tomorrow ;) Hope you all had a good weekend! OH and I had just realized I have 2 5K's coming up back to back starting on the 28th and then the following Saturday - it will be a piece o' cake! I hope to beat my PR (personal record)!

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

So sorry for not posting yesterday but it was a hectic day! I was planning on making it a 'rest' day but I felt energetic so I hit the gym late last night. I ran 3 miles and did a shoulder + back workout. I wanted to run further but I really wanted to get in some weight time. Run felt good but I didn't stretch very well prior and I ate like an hour before so I stopped before I caused an injury on myself or would get heartburn! So that's what I did, and tomorrow will be..yep, you guessed it REST DAY! yay :)

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

So today is my 'rest' day and even though I'm not doing anything physical I thought I'd share my delicious breakfast with ya'll, lol. It was egg beaters with tomatoes, Ezekial bread with margarine and of course my coffee - and let me tell you it was yummmay!! Anyways my plan for the day is to take a dip in the pool and maybe do some laps in it...or just float ;) Happy Wednesday!

EXCITING NEWS PEEPS!! You know how I always mention the 'ToneitUP' gals and how they've helped me in my well..everything! Well I have become part of their 'affiliate program' and they've allowed ME to post their videos, links, and their fat burning system on my blog!!! I'm really excited to share this with you guys and hope you check them out!! These ladies are amazing & look amazing to prove it!! :) So I'll be posting links around on here and feel free to browse!! Now, as you can see, I DON'T do promos for anything but this I will make an exception for b/c I truly believe in it.

Here is a pic of the ToneitUP gals - Karena & Katrina! Below is a link to more info about their 'fatburningsystem' These ladies are my inspiration!

Click Here!

Thursday, August 19, 2010

Happy Thursday folks! Well today was a good day, hit the gym and ran 4 miles. I thought alot about a quote I heard from @WhitBenj (follow her on Twitter!) who is an Lululemon ambassador and just finished her first half marathon. She said that she took the challenge 'one mile at a time' and that is a great way to look at it. Instead of thinking I have to do 4 today, I just ran and said okay, mile 1, then okay mile 2, and then it wasn't a big deal anymore. Heck I could've ran to 5 but I didn't want to overdo it and I had to get back home. So my workout was great and as for the @ToneitUp gals they announced thewinnders to their "shake it dance", so be sure to check it out below! Ta Ta for now :)

Friday, August 20, 2010

So here is a pic of a very yummy shake I made this morning along with my egg beaters & turkey bacon - it was with strawberries, oranges and almond milk. First time I didn't have coffee and I have been energetic all day :) Well it's midday and I haven't hit the gym yet but today is strength training focusing on upper body but a few lunges throw in. :) Hope everyone has a fantastic weekend!

Saturday, August 21, 2010

So today I did a strength training session on the whole body, oh yea! Felt good and even did a run around the block on the way back from the gym. Today is a short post since I'm about to head out the door, hope you all have a great Saturday :)

Monday, August 23, 2010

So no posting yesterday? Well that's because I didn't workout lol...did alot of fun stuff with the fam and didn't get a chance. I know maybe a lame excuse, but I'll count it as a rest day. :) Well today it has been pouring down and I really wanted to run and I couldn't go to the gym b/c I had my little one so as soon as the sun peaked out I put her in the stroller and we were off!!! It was really sunny and hot and once I got a little past the mile 2 mark I felt drops again so we bolted back. Luckily at least I got a little bit in because it's pouring again!!! So as for my weekend, I didn't eat too well..with my hubs and his friends wanting Steak N' Shake I offered to get it for them (bc I'm a great wife lol) and I haven't had it in over 2 yrs so I did..the frisco melt was the culprit but damn it was good!! So that was my bad eating for the weekend, and I'm not going to feel guilty about it one bit!! NOW, onto exciting news - I have a race coming up this Saturday (5K), and the reason for my excitement is because I KNOW I will be my personal record time. It's my 6th race this year and I'm determined to kick butt! Nice thing too is that all the races I've done this year benefit some charity or cause and that makes me want to do it even more. Anyways, I plan to run and strength train and take Friday off to rest up for Saturday's race. Hope you all had a good weekend :)

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Sooo today is "Tone it UP Tuesday" and that I did, did a total body strength session and feel great! I was able to hit the gym today and it really makes a difference working out at home then at the gym - for me at least, I feel more energized there and I think it's b/c there's people around me doing it too. So here are 2 pics, one of me all sweaty (lovely) at the gym and the other an awesome salad I made (most of it I ate already when I snapped the pic, lol)! It had cranberries, almonds, pine nuts, guacamole, and chopped up veggie patties over Kale ---soo soo good and filling too!! Well that's it for today folks, sorry, kinda busy but I shall be back tomorrow :)

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Hello there! It's Wild on Wednesday and that I did - I ran 4 miles and half of that in the rain! I was 2 miles out when it started to pour so I booked it back and let me tell ya, I got some soggy sneakers right now lol. It felt good and I was planning on doing 4 today anyways so I just did it that much faster ;) I'm really trying to run outside than on a treadmill b/c it's just so much better for your training. Earlier this morning I had a delicious shake consisting of - strawberries, blueberries, and banana with almond milk...must try! Well 3 more days til' the race and I AM PUMPED! Anywhoo - how ya'll doing? Have you been lookin' at any of the TONE IT UP stuff I've posted? I'm going to post some more soon of updates and more info on the 'Fat Burning System' , hope you all have a fantastic day :)

Thursday August 26 - Friday, 27, 2010

Hey guys sorry for the delay!! Been busy with family stuff, my little sister-in-law just left for college..ah those were the days ;) Anyways I haven't done much heavy cardio or lifting, just been relaxing but eating healthy in time for my race tomorrow! yay! It will be my 6th one and I'm excited to have my family there to cheer me on! I will post pics of the event as well later on tomorrw - hope you all have a great weekend! :)

Saturday August 28, 2010

Well I did it!! I hit the ground running and didn't stop and it led to me my alltime fastest time, under 30 mins. To some of you that may still be slow but to me, it's awesome, I started my first 5K in March for Susan G Komen and finished around 38mins..so I've shaped up and gotten faster ;) I did something a little different and just had a larabar around 4am and that was it, I was hydrated and we had an overcast so that helped alot -no squinty eyes! So I kept my pace around 9-10:15 or so and at the 2.5m mark there was a woman who I had my sights set on to focus and she stopped to walk, as I passed her I told her ' You can do it, we're almost there!!' She smiled and kept walking..well later after the race was finished I was getting some OJ and talking with my husband when she came up to me to shake my hand, and told me ' thanks for that extra push, it really helped me out, thank you.' That made me feel so good that I was able to help someone else get thru it as many people as did for me in the past! She said I'll be seeing ya at the next race, and I told her ' you betcha!!' Well here are some pics of this morning :)

Sunday August 29, 2010

Hiya! Well I had planned on making it a rest day but I was feeling energetic so I did a plyometric workout at home and did some light yoga. The yoga felt gooood to smy muscles ;) It's been really rainy here so I couldn't do it outside so indoors with my little one laughing at me was a sight to see lol. Well I hope you all had a good weekend :) *Namaste.

Monday August 30, 2010

Today was well big suprise...RAINY...so I wasn't in the mood for running indoors so I took a spin class and boy are my buns burning! She was a new instructor and she did a phenomenal job with music and pushing you to do those uphill climbs! So earlier in the day I went to my local Lululemon Athletica store and got the cutest and best running shorts..if you have the problem of them 'riding up' like me, you need to check their website or go to a store and get a pair! Come to find out they have a weekly running club on Tuesdays and every weekend they are either doing Yoga outside or some kind of bootcamp fitness class...AWESOME!! They were all really nice and even invited me to join them for a Power Yoga class tonite, but I told them I'm still a beginner not quite ready for intermediate yet! but I would join them tomorrow for a run if I wasn't sore from today's workout. I was really happy..it's always good to meet new people with common interests and they are so involved in the community too. Well that's all on today's events ;) see ya tomorrow! xo

TONE IT UP FAT BURNING SYSTEM!

Okay ladies & gents, I've gotten some emails about what exactly the fat burning system is and I got some info to share with you about it! 2 things I can tell you is that IT WORKS and that you will never have to starve, count calories, or not be able to eat your fav foods! So below is the ad about it and will be a link if you are interested in giving it a try! It will change your eating forever - trust me!

So if you want to know more about it or give it a shot please click on the link below!!!

Click Here!

Wednesday September 1, 2010

Hi! Hope you all are having a good middle of the week! Today I got up went to Lululemon to get some awesome running shorts..again, lol, then ran around the beach with my littleone, then grocery shopping! It was a productive day and a nice cool breeze so my run felt great! Pictured above is a whole wheat taco I made with almonds, cranberries, DeliFresh precooked chicken, kale, guacamole, and raspberry vinegarette dressing ..soo soo yummy! So It's September 1st and 3 months to the big race day - (Jan. 8th,2011) I have been running well but not doing a lot of long distance, so now it's time to step it up! I feel stronger than ever, and my endurance is getting better, so other things are improving so I'll take it! OH and ALSO! I found out yesterday that I TOOK 3RD PLACE OVERALL FOR MY AGE GROUP FOR THE 3 RACE SUMMER SERIES i JUST DID! So I need to go sometime this week and pick up my award :) I am soo excited, I didn't expect that at all, so that was pretty cool :) Anyways, I'm off to cook some dindin..talk to you guys soon!

Thursday September 2, 2010

Happy hump day! So today was a beautiful day so I put my new Lululemon running shorts on and my new Nike headphones and took off! Only thing it was 90 DEGREES OUT AND VERY HUMID - soo crazy hot but I pushed thru and still ran a few miles. Well from here until Saturday a.m. I am resting, I really would like to get the same running time I did at last weekend's race. Either way I won't put the pressure on and just have fun, it's for a good cause benefiting Alzheimer's disease and the Police Dept. How have you guys been doing? My goal for this month is to do as many new things as I can to keep exercising fun - Yoga, CrossFit, PaddleFit, etc.. I've met some new great people that have invited me to their place of business for a week free so I'm gonna try it out and see! :) Above is me after my run (sweaty!)

Friday - Saturday Sept 4, 2010

Hello! Soo Friday was my 'rest day' so therefore no entry,sorry ;) but TODAY was race numero 7 and boy was I all over the place. I slept well but once the race started which btw had 600 people, not even 10 mins. into the race I semi-fell. I was getting up on a curb to get around some people and bam my ankle rolled and boy did it hurt, but I didn't stop. I did think dang I'm gonna have to turn back but I said you know what if it hurts that bad stop but it didn't so I pushed thru it. Next hurdle - my mind - I could not get focused thoughts were rushing in and out of my brain - what's my lap time, dang I need to speed up - I need to focus on someone but can't find anyone in particular - dang my musiclist isn't doin' it for me - and so on, ALL OVER THE PLACE! 3RD HURDLE - a big@!! hill (bridge) didn't see that coming and that slowed me down...cramps, and did they hurt, a side stitch..all these things were on me this a.m. but I kept going. I stopped twice but only for a second or two and picked it right back up..my pace ended up being around 9:35-10:30s, and then my BIGGEST PET PEEVE is that I didn't see any mile markers!! I felt like mile 2 was the longest ever and then I started to recognize the loop and I was like wait a minute...and then I saw my husband..and i was like what the !!!! and then I booked it to the finish and finish I did at the same time as last week. So with all these things and I am sure I could've beat my time and I was a little upset afterwards. I am hard on myself, I admit that, but I am glad I didn't stop or turn back when I easily could've. Soo my ankle is hurting a little now and I've been icing it but it seems it would be best to take a few days to let it heal. Strength training will be my priority this week. Hope you all have a good weekend! Next one - an 8K (4.9m) on Halloween..hmm what costume should I wear ;) see ya!

Monday September 6, 2010

Happy Labor Day folks! This post is gonna be short & sweet since it's the holiday and there's much to do :) I took yesterday off and ate to my hearts delight at a cookout - hotdog, chicken, s'mores, cupcakes...yep it was a cheat day :) Today I'll be good and I just did an upper body strength training session - situps, pushups, russian twists, and a few other moves just to let my semi-sprained ankle get some overdue rest. We'll see how it is tomorrow, I might just go for a light jog around the block. Well that's it for today, hope you all have a great day and enjoy - eat good food and work it out later ;)

Tuesday September 7, 2010

Sorry I'm a day behind here, I've been quite busy with my baby girl's first birthday coming up ;) Anywhoo - so yesterday I decided to see if my ankle was ok since it hasn't been hurting so I went for a run and did some fartleks..and lo' and behold its a-okay!! Yippee!! It felt really good doing sprints, I didn't worry about mileage I just did 1min long sprints as fast as I could with 20sec or so of recovery in between. When I was about done and the sun was blazin' it was a little over a mile and a half, so not bad! That's all I did today since I had other stuff I had to get to. I was sad I coudn't make it to the running club but I will maybe when my mom is in town. Well that's it for Tuesday!

Wednesday September 8, 2010

Well I was planning on doing Yoga today but that has been scraped due to an engagement I have to attend to, so I'm not sure what I'm going to do. Either way whether it's running or being able to hit the gym to do some strength training, I'll let ya'll know later tonight :) Hope you all are having a good one! UPDATE! Sorry I didn't write back ;) I ended up making my first bala vinyasa yoga class and it was AMA-ZING! I did an upper body workout earlier in the day and in the evening attended a class and it was so awesome, and felt great for my hamstrings! They teach even said I'll be great at backbends and that I impressed her at how well I did for my first class - yay! made my day :)

Thursday - Friday September 10, 2010

I woke up this morning feeling sore, and I didn't expect to since my teach told me I should be fine so i'm not sure if it was b/c my workout or the yoga -or both!?? Anyways, I took a day off on Thursday and it worked out because I had alot of family stuff going on. Soo toay Friday, I put my little one in the stroller and we went for a run and I just went at a comfortable pace and we did a little over 2 miles nonstop. It's amazing how before I would have to stop once or twice to take a quick break but today I was comfy and we kept going..felt proud ;) Well that's it for today, nothing too exciting! Tomorrow am is a FIT class at my local Lululemon Store so I hope I can make it but if not I'm sure I'll have something else up my sleeve to do ;)Have a good weekend folks!

Saturday September 11, 2010

Well before I even mention what I did today, I want to pay my respects to the heroes and victims on 9/11, you will never be forgotten and will always be missed. ;( So today I did a strength training workout which involved the whole body and I was sweeeeeatin'!! luv it!! Then I hopped on the eliptical for about 15 minutes and put the intensity real high and just went at it! I took this pic at the gym today (I have a gym membership but when I don't have time to go, I hit up our clubhouse gym hence where I was today ;)) Checkout my lulu shorts - my fav!!!! Soo another update is that I'm sad to say I won't be doing the half marathon in DisneyWorld, I'm pretty bummed about it but good thing is that there is a half here that's local later on in January that I plan to do instead. I might be able to make the Disney Tiarathon in February but we'll see..i have alot of family flying in for the holidays and with it being close to NY's, it just isn't gonna happen ;( but I won't let it get me down or quit, I'm going to still keep training because I will do one! :P So that's the 411 on today,hope you all are living it up this weekend..I am at the moment watching some TONE IT UP videos from my favorite gals Karena & Katrina to plan out my workout for tomorrow! toodles guys :)

Sunday September 12, 2010

I only had about 20 mins to be able to workout by myself so I opted to go for a quick run outside - I did 2 miles and considering it was 90 degrees out, that's not bad :) I had alot going on with my mother flying into town on Monday so at least I got my quick workout in!

Monday September 13 - Tuesday September 14, 2010

Hello! Well sorry I've been a little behind on my updates but my mom flew into town yesterday (Monday) and I took it as a day off. Today (Tuesday) I did 1 set of Gabby Reece's total body workout and 2 sets of Tone it UP's Plyometric workout. had to be quick because today is my daughter's FIRST BIRTHDAY! So while she took her nap I worked it out fast & hard! Now when I am eating some cake tonight, I won't feel so guilty ;)Tomorrow I 'plan' on making it to spin class but I don't know if that will happen,,let ya'll know tomorrow!

Wednesday September 15, 2010

Happy Hump Day! So today I had a dentist appointment (teeth cleaning) and right after I went to Spin class and it kicked my bootay! We had a new instructor and even though the music wasn't great (the knockoff singers) she really pushed us to our limits and I went all the way! I know tomorrow my legs are gonna be sore! I plan on doing some yoga to give my hamstrings so stretchin' love ;) How are you all doing? I need to pick up the slack on my Lululemon Challenge - I planned on doing at least 3 new things this month, and I've only done one! Next week Paddle Fit or Cross Fit are on the menu! See ya'll tomorrow xo!

Thursday September 16, 2010

Sorry my posts have been so short but my mom is in town and there's lots to do and on top of that I have my daughter's big birthday bash on Saturday so running around like crazy! BUT I'll be happy to say I still got my workout in today - did a strength training session and worked upper body and core mostly. Always get my lunges in though ;) I still plan to workout the next few days but we'll see..stay tuned !!

Friday September 17-19, 2010

Well it has been straight madness this past weekend but now that it has slowed down I can catch up on here! SO on Friday I did a strength training workout total body and ran 2 miles and Saturday took the day off since it was my daughter's bday party ;) and well today I only ran 2 miles since a friend of ours had her baby so I squeezed it in right before sundown! Whew** Hope this coming week I can get better at my longer runs, at least my strength training hasn't been too shabby! Hope you all had a great weekend! :D

Monday September 20, 2010

Well today was hotter than hell but I went and ran anyways, I have raccoon eyes but I don't care lol! I ran 4 miles today and it was an easy run I didn't check my pace or mileage I just ran..tomorrow is 3 miles..starting to get strict on my running plan by Hal Higdon - its a 12 week plan and I'm going to start waking up really early and running before my little one wakes so I can go it solo. Hopefully it starts to cool off so I can start wearing my warm running gear ;) Welp that's it for me, off to do laundry lol!

Tuesday September 21, 2010

I dont know why I torment myself with running at the hottest time of the day lol. I ran again 3 miles and it was so hot outside my arms are really dark now but i also have raccoon eyes lol!!! Tomorrow I'm SO going to run at the gym on the treadmill and just put up the incline. Feeling good though that I'm stickin' to my guns and doing what the training plan :) Getting the Tone it UP DVD and will be doing that on my cross train days too~

Wednesday September 22, 2010

Went to the gym with my hubby and I knocked out 3 miles and put up the resistance on the treadmill to somewhat make it equal to running outside. It felt good, my breathing was good, had a good pace and no squitny eyes or burnt arms loL!! Afterwards we both did some abs and then headed home..was a good workout! Tomorrow according to my training plan is a rest day so that I will definitely do!! Tata folks! ;)

Thursday September 23, 2010

Well I DO apologize for being absentee these past few days but my mom was here visiting and we did ALOT of stuff lol, which gave me little time to update here...but fear not I haven't stopped training!! :) On Thursday I ran 3 miles and ran under 29 mins which is really good for me, and with the blazing heat outside I got a

Friday September 24, 2010

Today I only ran 2 miles - it was a cross training day and according to my plan it says it's great if you run but to make it easy and keep it light, so I only did 2 miles :) Funny how I only say 'only' before I ran that was a huge achievement! Always keep aiming higher when you reach a goal I say :)

Saturday September 25, 2010

Today was my long run - 3.5 miles..now some of you may be wondering why I haven't been running longer mileage than this since I have been running for a long time now. I have 2 answers to that 1.) The race isn't until Jan.2011 so I didn't want to get all burned out or have injuries training too early and 2.) I changed my training plan - it's still Hal Higdon's but since I still have quite a bit of time I'm going up only in 1/2 increments rather than a whole mile weekly. Sooo with that being said it was a good run, had a good pace and felt like I could've ran 4 but I took it easy..oh and I ran this at the gym b/c it was 91 that day -- no bueno to run outside for sure!!!! Here's a pic @ the gym I took :)

Sunday September 26 - Tuesday September 28, 2010

Well I took Sunday off and it was a much needed rest, I was feeling really sore ;) On Monday I ran 2 miles since it was my mom's last day here and I really just wanted to spend all my time with her <3 Yea I love my mama! And today I ran 3 miles in between the pourdown of rain outside - for some reason I was struggling today maybe it was because I hadn't drank alot of water, or because my mom left today, or I just wanted to snuggle under the covers and be lazy, but either way I'm glad I got it in and did it -fast or not. :) Tomorrow's plan? Another 3 miles :) See yaa manana!

Wow! I can't believe it's Thursday already -this week has really flown by. Well today I did a 3 miler and it was really nice out, really felt the breeze from the ocean, and how I've missed it! Hope it starts to cool off ;) Tomorrow is my rest day and I am ready for one!!! I have 3 more pounds and it's been pretty consistent these past few weeks. I have been eating healthier except for a slice a pizza here and there ;) Excited to do Tone it Up's new exercise routine on Saturday which is my cross-training day. What have you guys been doing to be active?

TONE IT UP WORKOUT & DVD!!!!!!

So I'd like to post the workout I just previously mentioned since it looks awesome - intense & fat burning!! Also I'd like to add that they have a DVD that just came out!!! They also have a fat burning plan that I've mentioned to you guys earlier! If you buy this DvD and their plan I PROMISE you will TONE -IT-UP!! These girls are great and very personable - if you ever have a question they always respond either on twitter or facebook, they are there to help us!! So anyways if you want to buy the dvd you can on their website www.toneitupdvd.com and their fat burning plan just click the 'click here' button and it will take you straight to the site :)

Click Here!

Saturday October 2, 2010

Today I ran my 4 miler and it went good, it was really hot out so I took my time the first 2 laps and then picked up and got my runner's high - and how do I love thee :) Really helps push you along towards the end, my strides were wider and had my breathing in tact..not sure if I will be doing PaddleFit tomorrow but if not I'll be running another 4 miles :) Hope you all have a good weekend!!

Sunday October 3, 2010

Hola!! Well today I ran another 4 miles, thank god there was an overcast which really helped me out since my shoulders are kinda burnt. Pace was pretty good I finished the last lap under 9mins, which is a first for me to do at the end! Tomorrow is a rest day, and I look forward to soaking in my hot tub and just letting my muscles relax! It's the end of the weekend, but what did you do? Anything fun?

Saturday October 9, 2010

WELL howdy folks! Sorry I've been MIA for the last oh 6 days but my brother and his girlfriend flew in and I haven't had one second to come on here and update all the stuff I've been doing. FEAR NOT! I have been exercising this whole time (can ya believe it!) I'm stickin to the course, not giving up! So I'm just going to sum it up all nice and sweet what I've done:) Soo On Monday I took my rest day like I said I was and on Tues (10/5) the day my brother came into town I ran a quick 3 miles so I could get my workout in! I had my L.O. with me and we went on a new trail I found and I love it - by the water, it's shaded, only 5 mins from the house..perfect! On Weds (10/6) I wanted to get up early and run but I didn't go to bed until 2 a.m. so I slept in and ran only 2 miles, but hey it's better than not at all! I wanted to make it longer but we had plans and I didnt want to make anyone wait for me. On Thurs (10/6) ran another 3 miles real quick in the a.m. with everyone in the house sleeping. On Saturday (10/8) ran 2 miles, my ankle was bothering me so I didn't want to push it, and today I ran 4 miles! They left early this a.m. and my hubby was home to watch my daughter and I went on my new favorite trail, and it was breezy, sunny and just beautiful for an October day :) So that sums up my workout week, tomorrow I plan on doing some TONE IT UP workouts here at the house. Focusing on my abs and shoulders - bought some new weights and stability ball for the home, so excited to try them out. Here's a pic of me from when we went to the beach 2 days ago - it's nice to feel comfortable in a bathing suit again :)

Sunday October 10 - Tuesday October 12, 2010

Well I think I'm going to start updating on here every few days since life has just been getting very busy and I don't have the time to do it daily, but I'll keep on it :) Sunday I did Tone It Up's bikini body bootcamp and when I woke up on Monday, my abs, buns and arms were sore! So I took Monday off and it felt good to give my muscles some rest. Today I ran but I didn't get a chance to until the evening and since it was really dark and my trail isn't lit I only got to 2 miles, I was supposed to do 3 but I didn't feel comfortable ..safety first right! Tomorrow is 4 miles and I plan on going during the day..one thing I noticed and I don't know if it was because it was so late but it was really cold! Breathing in that cold air while I was running felt weird, and when I got hom I felt like my lungs were sore..make sense? Anyways, hope tomorrow is warmer during the day...I live in the South so I shouldn't complain really but it was chilly for me ;) Here's a pic of me on Saturday after I did TIU's bootcamp workout..I was exhausted!

Wednesday October 13 - Friday October 15, 2010

Happy Friday guys! Well let me back up a few days and recount what I did this week :) On Wednesday I ran 3 miles which felt fantastic, went to the Vineyards and ran by the water and it was a nice break from my usual trail. On Thursday I ran 3 miles around the house but that wasn't too great b/c I was tired from the day and went at night but at least I got it in. Today (FRIDAYYAY!) I took a rest day and got some errands done, and went to the GAP to donate an old pair of jeans for new ones. Well I didn't know my size since I hadn't bought any in awhile and I am now a SIZE 4! I almost cried in the dressing room..I think the last time I could fit into a pair of slim size 4 jeans was in middle school, no joke! It felt really good and was a nice treat for all the hard work I've put into getting my body back into shape and eating healthy. I kind of forgot how nice it is to fit into clothes that are form fitting and not tight or taking an hour to find a pair of jeans that don't make you look or feel fat. I am so used to being in either workout clothes, pajamas, or just loose comfy fitting clothes that when I was shopping today for clothes to go 'out' in I was like wow I love shopping again!!!! Anyways, had to share because it really cheered me up today! Well I hope you all hav a great weekend. I was talking to this gal I follow on Twitter from Nike about how I think I might have plateau since I haven't lost really anymore weight. Looks like I'll be adding in more fullbody weight training & a day of sprint runs to see if I can get things going again :) Either way I'm happy with how I look and a number doesn't really mean much to me anymore...tty soon xo!

Saturday October 16 - Wednesday October 20, 2010

Well hello there! I'm sure you've all missed me - I'm baaack and with some updates ;) Well last Saturday I ran a mile just to warm up and did some strength training, and I realized I need to do it a little more because I had to go down in weights. That's okay though because I'm trying to tone up and you don't need to be lifting 15lbs to do that, so I'm down to my 8-10lbs and it's resistant enough for me. On Sunday I ran 5 miles and I stopped for a few seconds about 3 times and I still had a good time - under 50 mins and I'd like to keep it that way, lol! On Monday I took a much needed rest day and hung out with my family :) Tuesday I wanted to change things up a bit so I did 2 miles worth of sprints and my fastest time was 6:55s which is a-amazing! for me at least! and then came home and did Tone it Up's ab routine. Today I ran 4 miles and it was a little challenging because it was hotter than heck and I did a new route, which was nice but there was no shade so I stopped like 4 times to catch my breath. I did it under 40 mins so it wasn't too bad but I really wanted to only stop once if need be. Well since my shoulders are burnt lol, looks like tomorrow will either be a run indoors or strength training..indoors lol! Talk to u guys soon! Here's a pic of me after my 5 miler - i had sweat burning my eyes so I'm giving the stink eye kinda lol..

Thursday October 21 - Sunday October 24, 2010

Well my arms didn't hurt to bad on Thursday so I went for a short run - 2 miles nice and easy. Friday was a well deserved rest day and got some stuff done around the house :) Saturday I did TIU's fullbody workout 3 x's thru and Sunday was my big day - today!- my 6 miler..hadn't ran this far in a long time but I was ready for it. I had my good tunes on my nano, went to my favorite shady trail and I didn't pay attention to; time, pace, nothing - I was just running :) felt good and i didn't stop I could really tell my endurance had improved since I felt fine up until mile 5 - my darn blister came back, and it was my fault because I didn't have good running socks on and I forgot to apply my bodyglide..grr~! So I said to myself 'better stop you have that 8K on Sunday' and I did and started heading to the car..but then I got mad and said, 'hell no I am so close and now I'm gonna quit, forget that!' so I turned around and finished strong at 1:05 mins...back in April when I did my first 10K I did it in 1:15mins..so with stopping, walking and getting to that time I was very happy! I'd like to finish under an hr next time if all goes well! So I was feeling pretty proud of myself :) I posted a pic here of a board I made on Saturday - it's to help me stay motivated for the half..and I gotta say it helped today when I thought about it! I have my 2 mentors on there Karena & Katrina from TIU since they're so supportive and inspiring to me at staying healthy and fit. Tomorrow is my rest day ...ahhhhh* I plan to run light (to help ease off these blisters) Tues-Thurs and rest Frid & Sat. maybe do some light yoga we'll see and then the HALLOWEEK CRAZY 8K ON SUNDAY!! WHEE! I'm excited If I can beat my time which is usually around 52 mins..I'll be over the moon!! xox night night*

HERE ARE MY FAVORITE GALS - TONE IT UP- & THEY ARE GIVING AWAY FREEBIES! JUST CLICK BELOW TO SEE!! ;)

Click Here!

Monday October 25 - Thursday October 28, 2010

Well I really pushed the limit on Monday - and NOT in a good way! I had a really bad blister that came up on Sunday. Well since it had gone down so much and Dr. Scholl's being my savior for me not even feeling it walking around, I thought it would be safe to go for a short run. So I ran 2 miles and when I got home it was huuuuurrrrting! when I took off my sock I gasped* it not only came back but with a vengeance because it was huge! So I got really angry with myself for not just taking it easy and not run! *learned my lesson* anyways so I decided the rest of this week I will NOT be running! On Tuesday I took a rest day and did nothing and on Wednesday I did TIU's ab circuit 3 times thru. Today I did the same ab circuit but only twice thru and the problem areas TIU workout 3 times thru. My blister is alot better, it's gone down and gotten smaller but it's still there. I am going to run the race of Sunday no matter what I've decided. One thing is that doubt has been setting in my mind..running 5 miles and not running at all this week makes me feel that it's going to be harder than ever. I usually run light anyways the week of any race and don't do anything 2 days prior, but not doing any leg work or running this week has me kinda frazzled. Luckily I have great support thru my family, friends, twitter & facebook fam that has really helped me stay positive..for the most part. I'll let you guys know how it goes on Sunday, but my goals remain the same a)FINISH b) try to under 52 mins. Here's a pic I took after working out today..it was killer ; hence the sweaty tired face lol

Sunday October 31 - November 1, 2010

Well before I give you guys the 'GOODS' lol, -HAPPY NOVEMBER 1ST! I personally am more of a Dec. fan but I love Thanksgiving too, so happy happy joy joy :) OKAY !!! SOOO HOW DID I DO YESTERDAY!?! Well I can tell you that I finished! YAY AAAAANNNND I HAVE A NEW PR! 51:20s!!Granted it's not like this big amount but shaving over a minute off is fantastic!! So I'm thrilled, so here's how it went ---;) Well some of you may know I've been on a painful blister kick this past week and a half and was really worried I wouldn't be able to run this 8K this past Sunday b/c I haven't ran in almost a week. I've never gone that long without running and so I was nervous. The good thing was the blister was gone by Sunday but I had doubts coming in and out of my head that I wouldn't be able to a)finish and b) beat my previous PR time which was 52:23seconds. To make a long story short in the beginning of the race I paced myself, I wanted to go fast but I didn't. Once I got to mile 3 I picked it up and I didn't stop for water - I had hydrated myself enough the past 2 days before that I felt fine to not stop. Mile 4 came and I went even faster, I got the 'runner's high' and I realized that I was running pretty fast and I was mentally thinking 'slow down you're gonna burn out' but I didn't, something inside me said to 'keep going you're going to be fine!' Then "whip my hair" by Willow Smith and booooiiiii that made me go even faster! I was .5 miles away and I was sweating like crazy, where my blister had disappeared was starting to say hello again, but I pushed thru it anyways and once I saw the 'FINISH LINE' I went as fast as I could. I never felt such power in my legs, and the cheers of people was great and empowering. I looked at the clock as soon as I went under - 51:23 seconds!!! I beat my PR time AND I finished..it was a good day ;) Thank you all for the positive vibes and encouragement this past week..you know who you are..it brought me goodluck and I'm grateful :) xo.

Monday November 2 - Wednesday November 10, 2010

Whew! Sorry it's taken me so long to update on here, and I fear that it might get worse with the holidays coming up..but fear not I will keep doing it and keep working out :) Sooo lets back up a bit, after I did that race the next day I took the day off but on the 2nd I ran only 2 miles to loosen up the musclesand take it easy. On Wednesday the 3rd I ran 3 miles and did an ab circuit - I'm trying to incorporate some more exercise than just doing my run..but only if I'm up for it! on Thursday I did 4 miles and didn't push it, just took my time..been really nice lately with the cooler weather. Friday took a break and on Saturday I did 3 different types of Tone it Up videos --i know crazy right, but I did a total body one 3 x's, then a shoulder/arms 2 x's, and an ab circuit just one time thru :) It was my strength training day and I had alot of energy! on Sunday I ran 7 miles - longest I've ran so far and surprisingly I felt great, I could've kept going but I don't want to overdue it so I stuck to my training plan. Monday took the day off and Tuesday the 9th ran 3 miles easy and today only did 2 since I ran outta time :( Tomorrow is a 4 miler and this weekend is 8 miler!Whoa! We'll see how that one goes..hopefully it will be as easy as last weekend's 7! Soo on another note the half marathon is getting closer!! It's January 16th so almost just 8 weeks away! So far I'm doing good and I feel confident I'll finish okay without stopping - I'm not even concerned with a certain time right now..but maybe for my 2nd half which will be in March "Hooters 2 Hooters" lol (hubby is thrilled for that one, ha!) I might want to beat whatever time I finish in January. Today though while I was running I started to think about how thankful I am for everything I have. Then I started to think about my legs, that I'm thankful to be able to run and do this and enjoy it. The simple things sometimes we forget to take a moment and be thankful that we're healthy and have our body parts that function well that allow us to try and do new things. That's why I love running, it makes me think about things that normally in the busy everyday life you look over :) Every get that way too?? Hope you all are doing well and staying active as best you can! xo

Thursday November 11, 2010 - Monday November 15, 2010

Hi folks, hope you all have a fantastic week, here's an update of what I've been doing :) On Thursday (11th) I ran 3 miles, pretty easy now those three milers ;)- On the (12th) took a rest day..weeee!! On Saturday (13th) did an amazing total body workout that I found from my Shape magazine that even had my sister in law sweating and with deep muscle soreness the next day, felt great! On Sunday (14th) I RAN 8 MILES WHOO HOOO!! Now it took me an 1hr and 15 mins but I think it would've been less if my new Lululemon skort wouldn't have been chafing a little on my right inner thigh :( Had to keep pulling it down and stopping - very annoying and it started around mile 5 too. Learned my lesson of a)don't try new workout clothes on a long run and b) don't wear a skort running long distances lol. Either way I love it and I bought another one too in a different color but I'll wear for either strength training or casually. So back to my run, it felt great, I took my time and I felt like I really CAN do this half marathon in January!! Since I'm training 2 weeks ahead of my training plan I am going to do this last week's training plan again for this week, just so I'm not ending too soon. It's less than 8 weeks away now - the race - and I couldn't be more excited!! :) Hope you all are being active before the snow kicks in..if it hasn't yet in your area. toodles, xo.

Tuesday November 16, 2010 - Friday November 19, 2010

Hey guys! So much exciting stuff to tell you but first I'll give you some updates on what I've worked on these past few days :) On Tuesday (16th) just did an easy 3 miles at jogging pace, wasn't too bad besides it being really hot! On Wednesday (17th) did 4 miles in the Vineyards and for some reason I had a struggle going on - mentally - my mind was all over the place. Gotta work on that! On Thursday (18th) I did sprints - well my first mile I just went a little faster than my normal pace so I averaged a 8:15pace which is great for me! Then on the way back I did fartleks so 2 miles total! Felt great and a nice change of pace! Today is my REST DAY WHOOHOO!! So that's the update on that NOW EXCITING STUFF!! I am going to be working as a p/t educator at LULULEMON ATHLETICA!!! This is SUPER exciting for me since you all know I LUV their clothes but also the people and how involved they are in the community! I can't wait to bring my little bottle of sassiness to the team ;) I didn't know if they'd hire me b/c of my tricky schedule with having my little babygirl and hubby working fulltime but the mgr was so nice & understanding, she is willing to work around it!! I'll for SURE be posting pics and info on here about what I'll be up to working for them as well :)))) ALSO I'm excited for the Gobble Gobble 4 miler on Thanksgiving day - and I got my TWO sister-in-laws to do it with me!! So I can't wait to have a fun experience running with them and just enjoying the moment! I am just so thankful for everything that is happening in my life -I believe when you have integrity, the willingness to help others and just be happy - it seems to come right back to you :) What better time to really think about these things than the month of November -giving thanks :) Until then, toodles, be active in something you ENJOY and I'll be back in a few days! If not before Thanksgiving - have a blessed one with your families and really think about all the goodness in your life..we can't ever take it for granted. xo ps - here's a pic after doing all that speedwork yesterday - notice my lulu headband..LUVS IT!hehee

November 20 -28, 2010

WOW, alot has happened just in the past week but I'll summarize it up for you guys. Well first off on the 20th I did a fullbody workout and went for a mile walk. On the 21st I went for a 7 mile run with my sister in law and it went great however I had some stomach pains afterwards for about an hour. On the 23rd I ran just 2 miles since the 4 miler race was on the 25th. Then came THANKSGIVING! which I hope you all got to enjoy. I did the race in the a.m. and it went superb I couldn't be prouder of myself, I went nonstop and finished under 39 mins which I had never done before. The bad news was once I got home I got severe stomach pains to where I ended up being rushed to the ER, and after doing many tests they found a cyst on my ovary that was causing the pain. I'm thankful that it's not cancerous, dangerous and can be removed if I want to keep running, what makes me sad is that now that I finally can run long distances and was less than 2 months away from the half marathon, I don't think I'm going ot be able to do it. I can't run until it's removed and even after that I'l need a couple weeks of recovery time. I don't want to think that all this training I've done is for nothing because it helped me get in shape and there is another half in March I can do too. It's just that I love it so much and I've gotten used to running everyday that not being able to just well stink! I just hope when I can again my body will bounce back and not hate the process! In the meantime I just started doing light workouts the past two days (27,28th) and take it easy. Since they put almost 3 bags of IV fluids in me I gained 5 pounds but I've already lost 3 since it's all water weight anyways I'm not too concerned. So that's what I've been up to, I had a race planned on Dec.11 but that's cancelled as well :( Pray for me and hope that all turns out well. I'll keep this updated to see what workouts and how it's going so far for you guys too :) xo ~ staying positive.

November 29 - December 7, 2010

SORRY! I'm sorry I've been slackin' big time on here but I did try to get on last night and the site was down :( Sooo much to catch up on! Well first off as you know I haven't been able to run since Thanksgiving which has been stressful & frustrating BUT I have found other ways to staying fit in my own capacity. So on November 30th I did some strength training which felt really good - good circuit routine! on December 1st was the first time I did straight cardio so I kept it light at only 30 minutes on the elliptical. On December 2nd, I did 45 minutes but on the stationary bike with moderate intensity and felt fine. On December 4th I did a fullbody workout and 30 minutes of cardio on the elliptical - THAT felt really good since I was sweating hard and I felt like how I did after my runs. ON Dec. 5th I did only 15 minutes of elliptical and 15 minutes on the stationary bike - worked up a sweat but not out of breath. And TODAY,the 7th, I did BIKRAM YOGA - one word; AMAZING. I had heard from all sorts of people that it's torture, you can't breathe, you want to run out of the room, you are sweating like a beast, don't breathe thru you're mouth or you'll think you died...all this stuff!?! Finally my Lululemon manager asked me if I wanted to go with her to a class and then a few other girls wanted to go too so I was like awesome, good support group! Well b/c of schedules and stuff only my mgr. and I made it -I got there a little early so I could go into the heated room and relax a little and it helped. The whole 90 minutes session was amazing I did my best at every pose and only one I didn't do because I got lightheaded - the camelback - pretty hard, it's where you open youre chest out completely and tilt your head and arms all the way back. It did get extremely hot, I did sweat like a beast, but I let myself remain calm, I thought this is for me, don't let it scare you..this is good for your mind & body. At the end the class gave me a big round of applause for staying the whole time and giving it my best and that made me feel good. My mgr. was like oh my gosh, you look like you've done this for years!?! I couldn't believe it myself I told her! Either way I highly encourage anyone to go and let go of all the prenotions you've heard about it and try it for yourself. I promise i will go again and again since I can't run and this will help me become flexible b/c I'm not at all right now!!!! I hope this post gives courage to those who are afraid to try it b/c I was too. Namaste xo.

December 8 - 18, 2010

Sorry I haven't been on here - I've tried multiple times to log stuff and this stupid thing would not let me!!!! I finally had to send out an email to Weebly to get me to help me out, apparently they've fixed it! Anyways - how ya been my peoples!? I'm doing alright, still working out and staying busy with the holidays - who isn't, right! So here are my workout updates :) 12/9; Tone it up circuit video full body 3 x's, 12/10; Power Vinyasa yoga -first time and it was harder than bikram! alot of challenges but I liked it! 12/11; fully body workout and ran 1.2 miles (since the doc gave me the ok I'm taking it slow. 12/12; Ran 2 miles and it felt great -I even sprinted a few times..it was hard not to!! 12/14; Ran another 2 miles but it was a bit challenging because there was alot of wind last week! 12/15; ran 3 miles and it's gotten back to being warm so it was good - I refuse to run at the gym. I don't want to get used to running on a treadmill, I like being outdoors and it's harder too heehee. 12/16; ran another 3 miles - no pain since I've started back up so on Sunday 12/18 I'm doing 4 miles. Today 12/17 did a plyometric workout 3 x's via tone it up and they're ab workout 2x's and 30 mins. on the elliptical. All in all I feel fine I don't have any pain and I have been back and forth on whether I should tuff it out and do the half marathon in 3 weeks. My family thinks I should take it easy, slowly get back into it and just do the next half that's slated for early March. I don't know we'll see..it's just that when you have a goal to accomplish something and you don't, it can really get you down and that's what is troubling me :( Any advice or suggestions feel free to share. nite yo xo.

December 29, 2010 - January 12, 2011

Wow so I haven't been on here for 2 weeks, someone's been slackin'! Well Happy belated New Years 2011!! This is YOUR year and mine to get in the best shape possible, eat right, be happy, be grateful for everything in our lives. That's no cheesy line, I'm serious, it's important to really try to be good at all those things! So I've still been hitting it hard, but now that it's 2011 one of my goals is to bring it home and that means to take it up a notch - without burning out! So far I feel great, more energy and it's doing me good so here we go! 12/29/10 - ran 2.29 miles, 12/30 - ran 3 miles, 1/1/2011 did a 5K race and did MY ULTIMATE BEST TIME 28 mins - my goal is to be under 25 mins by 5/1/2011. 1/2/11 - ran 3 miles walked 1 mile, 1/4 - ran 2 miles and did 20 mins on Active2 for the Kinect (awesome workout game for the xbox360!)1/5/11 - ran 2 miles, 1/6 - did 30 mins on the Active 2, 1/7 - 1 hour power vinyasa yoga, 1/8 did new bootcamp style workout for 1 hour, 1/9 - 1 hour power vinyasa yoga, and today 1/12 ran 3 miles and 1 hour of power vinyasa yoga! Now that was all bunched up but I like to keep it short and sweet right? :) Hope you all are making way for your goals and if you fell off get back on, it's never too late! See you in a week..or so ;)~

December 19-December 28, 2010

Well the days are counting down until we are in the new year, whoohoo!! Here's what I've been up to last few weeks. I can honestly say that I worked out thru the holidays, and I'm proud of that! Now as fro my eating that's another story, but it comes only once a year so I'm not going to guilt myself to death! On 12/19; I arn 4 miles, timed under 42 mins. not too happy with that since at my last race (xgiving I did it under 39) but it's okay! 12/21; ran 2 miles, 12/22 ran 3 miles, 12/23 ran 1.05 miles and got strong pains in my lower calves/shins, had to walk home and take a rest from running - it's because I haven't been stretching! 12/25; yep even on xmas day I worked out lol did the Tone it UP circuit training and shoulder and just a run around the block. did this with my sister in law so it was fun :) On 12/26 ran 1.15 miles then it started to rain! so went to the gym and did a tone it up full body circuit 3 x's with my 2 sister in law's..they called me drill sergeant rest of the day lol. The last 2 days I've rested b/c my legs need it but tomorrow 2-3 miles before I head into lululemon :) Hope you all have a wonderful New Year's and please be safe out there! Don't drink & drive :) xo.

January 13 - 31, 2011

So for some reason Weebly is being weird and has my last two posts flipped so scroll up a bit if you want to see what I've done since the New Year! I have a load in the laundry that needs folding and dishes to put away so this is going to be short and sweet..as always ;)- 1/13 ran 3 miles, 1/14 did 1 hour of power yoga (felt soo good), 1/16 ran 8 miles (wasn't hard just took my time and it was nice out). 1/17 did 1 hour of power yoga (which I do vinyasa flow if you were wondering at a local studio), 1/18 ran 1.5 miles with my daughter (wasn't long at all since it was pretty cold out), 1/19 ran 3 miles fast pace. 1/20 ran 2 miles speed intervals, 1/21 1 hour power yoga, 1/22 Nike training club 'adrenaline rush workout' and a 20 min. walk (if you can download the app DO IT - it's free and awesome!). 1/23 8 mile run, 1/25 2 mile run fast pace, 1/27 3 mile run medium pace, 1/28 power yoga. 1/29 did a 5K race for the Humane Society called Run for the Paws - so fun, I don't have a dog but about half of the 600 runners did so we were running alongside :) Super fun and that is what the pic above is me after the finish, didn't PR -was 30 seconds short but it was hard with the dogs, and the trail was very narrow. 1/30 ran 9 miles (was hard mentally, last 2 miles I had to stop 2 or 3 times and walk for a few seconds but I finished it!) 1/31 REST DAY! So that's what I've been up to these past few weeks. Working out hard and increasing mileage and endurance for the Half on MARCH 6!!! I feel like I'm getting there..slowly but surely :) xo.

February 1-10, 2011

Yo! So I just got back from a 2 mile run doing sprint intervals, whew that was tough! So for the last 10 days I've really been focusing on my running since the half is only 3 weeks away..YIKES! So on 2/1 I ran 2 miles and did 100 situp/pushups, 2/2 ran 3 miles, 2/3 40 min vinyasa flow yoga, 2/4 strength training circuit 3x's thru. On 2/10 I RAN 10 MILES *never8 had I done that before, it was a great feeling :) 2/7 ran 2 miles and 2/8 ran 3 miles. I want to write more but the baby is awake from her nap, so I'll get back on here soon ;) xoxo!

February 11-17, 2011

Hey guys, hope you all had a happy valentine's day even if you are single, to have love and be loved from friends and family is a wonderful thing ;) So here's what I've been up to; 2/11 did an arm & ab workout from tone it up 3 x's thru, 2/12 ran 10 MILES AGAIN, whoot and it went awesome! 2/15 ran 2 miles easy, 2/16 ran 2 miles speed intervals, and today 2/17 ran 2 miles fast. Have a 5K race this Saturday and in 2 weeks I have MY FIRST HALF MARATHON! It's what I've been working towards since January! I can't wait and I really do feel ready to take on the challenge. I want to give a big thank you to all of you for the encouragement, support and advice this whole time. After my half I plan to work on my speed and do races the rest of the year and even a triathlon in June if I feel ready. I know i want to do another half and maybe in January 2012 I'll do it by going to DisneyWorld, which was my original plan..God works in mysterious ways ;) xo. (Here's a pic of my in Valentine's Day)

March 5 - March 6,2011

Whoa! So I could totally enter a post from Feb. 18- now but I know most of you just want to hear about the half marathon lol! So I decided to skip to the day prior to the race to now, how's that :) The night before I felt surprisingly calm, I went to the carnival with my family and was in bed by 9pm, I slept good and felt confident. I woke up at 4:45am to eat 2 egg beaters, 2 slices turkey bacon & slice of toast with PB, it's what I always eat before a long run and they say never change it up so I didn't! Once 6am hit, I started feeling butterflies in my stomach, I couldn't believe it was here. My sister in law picked me up and we parked by 6:40am, enough time to well use the bathroom really lol. Then we jogged to the starting line and stretched a bit, then before it hit 7am, I said to her, "this is it, what we've been training for this whole time. We can do this!" and then the flare went off and the cheering began! Sun was peaking up and with over 1,200 runners I stayed at my 10:10 pace and waved at the crowd cheerfully. I wasn't in this to finish first, I was doing it to enjoy the moment and have fun! The first few miles were easy, I kept my steady pace and just kept looking on. When I got to mile 6 it started getting cloudy and I felt raindrops on my arms, ah hell I thought, I hope it doesn't rain. Two seconds later the drizzling started, I had my sunglasses on and I kept them on for as long as I could until I had to start using my fingers as wipers! So I put them on my water belt praying they would stay on there. Mile 7 came - the bridge- the highest bridge crossing from Fort Myers to Cape Coral, a mile long each way. We'd have to go up and then down and turn around and do it again! I misjudged how hard this bridge was, my pace slowed down but as I was going up and seeing my fellow runners who were already heading down, their faces of determination it gave me a boost. I kept going, I didn't stop and when I was already heading back up the bridge, seeing the people coming up with their faces the same way I had mine, had me yelling, "it gets easier, you can do it!" So once I was finally off the bridge it was mile 9, and the rain finally let up thankfully!Then I thought hey, only 4 miles left - I GOT THIS! once I hit mile 11 I started getting a little fatigued, that bridge took alot outta me but I was going to keep going! Once I got to mile 12 I had to stop a few times and get some water in, it felt like the finishline was soooo far away!!! I was with a pack of runners who were in the trenches with me, one lady (dressed up in a Hooters outfit, it was a Hooters half marathon :)-) said come on we're almost there! So I started to run fast when I heard yelling, I looked behind and it was a guy holding my glasses, damnit* I thought, i thanked him and just held them, at least I had the leg and only was missing the screw. I just started running as fast as I could, I saw the FINISH banner and people on the sidelines, yelling 'PUSH, YOU CAN DO IT', 'COME ON, GIVE IT ALL U GOT', and I did - crossed that line under 2:28:10. then my legs said STOP! So I did ;) my sister in law ended up catching up to me and crossed the finish at the same time (pictured above). It was the best feeling in the world and seeing my husband and babygirl congratulating me and telling me how proud he was, made is so worthwhile. To those of you who don't think you can do it, I'm telling you YOU CAN. 90% of it is mental, get that negative poisen out of your mind and be confident in yourself. There was a woman who finished it at 1:37 in a wheelchair - that was astounding to me. Nothing is limitless, get out there and get it!Oh and by the way, my next half? October 29,2011 - Halloween Miami Beach Half Marathon...oh yeah..BRING IT!

*I'll be posting the workouts I've been doing since tomorrow, so stay tuned! I have new goals to share with you all :)