My workout blog.

Classes?

2012-01-10T17:02:00.000-08:00

Do any of you take classes at the gym? I never thought Id be a class taker, but a few months ago, my runner friend, Cait talked me in to doing my first. It was a TAC (total athletic conditioning) class. And boy was it HARD!
It was the instructors last day so she really pushed us. It was basically Tabata. Which is 20 seconds of ultra-intense exercise, followed by 10 seconds of rest, repeated continuously for 4 minutes (8 cycles).
Power squats were the very first exercise. I have never been so sore in my entire life! I literally had to reteach myself how to walk! I tried running 3 days after the TAC class, and I couldn't even get my legs to go the way they were supposed to!
But it was totally worth it and I LOVED the feeling of that soreness!

So ever since that first TAC class, I've been hooked. TAC is every Monday and then we take Cycle Circuit. Which is basically spinning. Getting off of the bike, doing Polymetrics on the floor and then hopping back on the bike. And on Friday, we use the gym. We do 30 minutes of cardio,(which is almost always running) and then strength training.

But now, our TAC instructor has an all Tabata class on Fridays! To say I'm excited and a bit nervous is an understatement. I'm so excited to have such an intense work out. But a bit nervous of not being able to walk 3-5 days afterwards! Haha..

Do any of you take classes? Would you rather take a class or just use the gym?

I'm here!!

2012-01-01T19:17:00.000-08:00

Update:

So my foot is probably still in it's healing process. I say that because I know that it hasn't completely healed. I still run on it and I still exercise and when I do, it hurts. (which makes me think I reinjure it)But not enough to make me go back to the doctor. I'm so afraid that they'll stick me in another cast and all of the hard work and training I've been doing will be ruined. Yes, I know, it's stupid and I'll just end up injuring myself more. But, I'm selfish, and I don't care. :)

Hubby and I did the Warrior Dash in Virgina in October. I HATED it! Well, I hated it while I was running it, but afterwards, it was all totally worth it. In fact, it was so much fun that we've signed up for two more! I have one in August and another in September.

So I did the Warrior Dash in October and a Breast Cancer 5k the same month and a Turkey Trot in November. As of December, I've been taking classes 2-3 days a week at the gym and toning up. The closest thing to a race that I've done in December was my 5.7 miles I ran on Friday and a pace of 10 minutes a mile. I know, I know.. that's slow.. but I don't care. I enjoy my run way more at a slower pace.

Speaking of that run. It was one of the best runs I've had since I stopped running in my Vibrams. I haven't felt that much in tune with my body and my breathing in a long time. It's so nice to just go out there with no plan. Just go out there and run. Run until you feel like stopping. No watch, no music.. just you and the road. Those are the best kind.

As for whats next, I REALLY want to add a half marathon to my list of races. I've been saying this since 2009 and every year something prevents me from doing one. 2011 was supposed to be that year. 7 miles was the farthest I had ever ran in my life. I ran the 10k and the next step was the half.. and then I broke my foot. So hopefully, 2012 will be the year I can cross, "~~Run a half marathon~~" off of my to do list..

Like I've mentioned above. I have two Warrior Dashes with a possible 3rd in the works lined up so far. I'm hoping to be able to add a few 5k's, 8k's and 10k's in the mix as well. But also, I'd really like to focus on cross training and building up different muscles while training for these runs..

That's that.

Out of commission

2011-08-22T14:44:00.000-07:00

So as most of you may know, I am out of commission. I haven't ran since my 8k on June 11th. I fractured my foot and have been in an air cast for the past 9 weeks.

August 31st, I go back in to see if it's healed. If it isn't, they're going to do a CT Scan to find out exactly why it's still broken and not healing. The fracture is just down from my second toe on the top of my foot. At the last appointment, my doctor said that it is healing.. so this is a good sign.

I think I fractured it by trying to run too fast in my Vibrams. I started running with my neighbor, Cait and shes faster than me. She wanted to do a 9 minute mile. (Which I could do in regular sneakers) So to practice for the 8k (Race the Waves) that we signed up for, we ran a 9 minute mile. I just think I over did it with that run because after that, I couldn't run for 3 days. The 8k was that Saturday and I was determined to run it. Well, I did and, like I said before, haven't ran since.

Not being able to run is KILLING me. I feel like running is a huge part of me. I can feel it in my bones. I ache for it when I see someone run by. I get jealous of other runners. It's awful.

But I did sign Aaron and I up for the Warrior Dash. It's October 1st and it's in Virginia. Here is the site: Warrior Dash My Mom and Dad just did it in New York and had the time of their lives. My Mother even got 1st place for her age group! So I'm praying to be healed by then. Hopefully I wont need physical therapy..

As for now, I'm stuck in this baby:

Unfortunately, this is the only picture I have of myself in the thing. That's my cousin, Erin on the right. .

I'll update after the 31st! Wish me luck! :)

Race the Waves 8k

2011-06-11T14:40:00.000-07:00

This morning I did my first 8k. I guess it's kind of a step backwards from a 10k, but now I have one of each under my belt.

This race took place in Emerald Isle, Nc. I got up at 6:15, ate a bagel put on my flip flops and was out the door. Packet pick up was from 6:45-7:30 and the race started at 8:00. I was really rushing to get there because I didn't realize that it was almost 40 minutes away. Whoops. So I get there, put my Vibrams on, go get my packet, and put on my bib. I met up with my friend, Cait and her Husband, Kyle. We stood around for what seemed like forever in the blistering sun. It was only 75 degrees, but the humidity was 85%. FUN!

The race started and I made sure I was the last to cross over the start line. I hate getting tangled up in all of that adrenaline when the gun goes off, so I normally hang back to ensure I can stay at a good pace.

This race was an out and back, (which I HATE) The first 2 miles were HOT. I'm not going to lie. I sweat like a mo fo! There was absolutely no wind or breeze.. just your breath and the humidity. The way back was so much better. I caught the breeze off the ocean and it felt so good. This route was actually hillier than my normal running route! Which really surprises me considering it's right by the ocean. But I welcomed a little challenge. I mean, these hills are nothing like what I used to do in Virginia and nothing like I've done in NY, but I've become so used to running on flat, that these "hills" were a nice little change.

Anyway, I finished in 50 minutes and some change. Which is okay with me. Thats a 10 minute a mile pace and thats what I normally do. Eventually Id like to step up my pace, but I'm not going to worry about. As long as I run the whole thing, no walking, and I finish, I'm happy. I have never walked a single race I've been in and I wont start now just because I decide to pick up my pace and tire myself out. Ya know?

I'm still looking to find the official time, but so far, nothings up. Oh, and I finished 3rd for my age group! Got a nice little medal and even stood on a podium! Lol..

Next up is the Firecracker 4 in Saratoga, Ny on July 4th! That is, unless I find something else down here and my foot heals before then! :)

8k and a bit of an update.

2011-06-06T20:43:00.000-07:00

I just recently signed up for an 8k. It's this weekend in Emerald Isle, NC. So I think an 8k is 4.97 miles. So, we'll just say 5. I've been running 5 the past few days. I've actually picked up a running partner. She's my neighbor from down the street. She actually ran the Run for the Warriors that I did in May except she ran the 5k and I ran the 10k. She's good.

She ran her first 5 miles with me the other night. She's got a faster pace which makes me work more. I'm not sure how I feel about it yet. I like being in the 10 minute pace, but the competitive part of me wants to keep up. Which has now resulted in a minor injury to my left foot. It's a bit swollen. But nothing a little ice and Toger Balm can't fix.

So after this 8 k, I have a 4 miler lined up back in New York. It's on the 4th of July. I'm trying to get my dad to run it with me. We'll see.

Now I just have to find something for August.

I ran my first 10k!

2011-05-21T16:32:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, I did the Run for the Warriors 10k here in Jacksonville, nc.

Right up until I crossed the start line, I was a nervous mess. But I tried really hard to keep thinking like it was a normal run and I did great. I paced myself at a 10 minute a mile pace. I was pretty much right on the whole time. It was an easy run for me. (I can't believe that I'm saying that!) My breathing was perfect, nothing ached, no cramps. Well, at the 5 mile mark, I thought my toes were probably blistering.. and they were.. but that's nothing too bad. At no point was I thinking, "Gosh, I need to stop." I just kept trucking along.

The route was great. It was through a residential area and people were outside their homes watching. A lot of people had Patriotic music blaring and sprinklers on full blast so you could run though them. It was so nice to see such a great community of support. And what better cause than Wounded Worriers?

My official time was- 1 hour, 2 minutes, and 26 seconds. I was pretty darn happy with that. And very proud of myself. As you'll see in the pictures, I hauled ass about the last half mile, finishing strong.

I think I'll be signing up for a few more 10k's this year before I try and tackle a half.

Best ever!

2011-05-02T19:03:00.000-07:00

The other day, I ran 7.3 miles with my Vibrams! Yep, 7.3! I am obviously pretty darn proud of myself considering I started out only thinking Id do 3. After the 3.2 mile mark, I felt I should at least do 4. After that, I just kind of kept running. My breathing has been so perfect lately, that no amount of pain in my shins or feet can even stop me. When I'm finished running, I have blisters and can barely walk. (Tiger Balm works wonders for those sore muscles guys!) But since my breathing is so great, I just feel that as long as my legs keep working, I'll keep running. Kind of a mind over matter thing I guess.

Here is my route:

Hmm, wonder if that re sizes when you click on it? Probably not. It took me forever just to try and figure out how to do the darn print screen thing. I'm too lazy to try and re size it now.

Anyway, It's been two days since my run. My Mother in law moved into her own house so it's been kind of difficult to get out there and run. And you all know how I feel about the treadmill. So I'm hoping to be able to go tomorrow night. I'll make myself do a lesser amount of mileage so I don't end up hurting myself. Then I'll probably only have about 2-3 more runs before the race. I also want to go down to the actual race route and run that once, too.. so we'll see..

I'm progressing in huge strides. I really don't think I could get this kind of run with my Asics. I truly believe that my Vibrams are what's making me progress so well.

If you haven't gotten a pair yet, what are you waiting for?!

Break them in, NOT wear them out!

2011-04-21T13:01:00.000-07:00

I took my Vibrams for a little run the other day. The lady at the store said to only run a little bit on them to break them in. So I since I normally run 3 miles when I run, that Id do a mile or two just to get used to them.

So I started down my normal route. Out of our subdivision, down the main road to the next subdivision. I felt great! I mean, I don't even really know how to describe it. My breathing was incredible, and I was striking perfectly. I felt like my toes were pulling me and I couldn't stop.

I did my normal 3 mile loop but instead of stopping, I ran another mile loop. On mile 4, one of my toes started to hurt. I kept running and every once in a while Id sort of suspend that foot in the air a little longer so I could check it. I really thought that I might have worn a hole in the bottom. But there was nothing.

I started to kind of baby it after that. Which also caused me to land improperly. But I made it 5.2 miles! When I stopped, I kid you not, I couldn't walk. I can't even believe that I continued running when I knew that I was in pain. But like I said before, the run was so smooth and so natural, that I just felt like I could go forever.

So today, two days later, I can barley walk. I have a nasty blister on one of my toes and a horrible pain from the bend that connects the foot to the ankle all the way up to my knee. (this is all on the right leg) On the left leg, I just have a sore calf muscle..

I almost regret pushing it too far. But I was so happy that I did 5.2 miles outside! The first thing I did was call my Dad. I told him how awesome the run was and all about my Vibrams and he was excited for me. He told me to call back in a week and let him know if I had anymore pain. If I don't, he's going out and buying himself a pair. THAT'S how excited I was about this run. I even have my Dad convinced to get some! Haha

Anyway, I did take pictures of my blister for the Blog, but they didn't come out very well. so maybe later..

I can't believe I'm only 1 mile away from a 10k!

Vibrams!

2011-04-15T16:50:00.000-07:00

Sooo, I bought myself my very first pair of barefoot running shoes(are they even considered shoes? I don't know) But I bought them. I bought the Vibram KSO's

I have heard such great things about these shoes. I know a few people who have them and love them. A lot of the influence to buy a pair came from reading my friend Ross' Blog - He really did all of the research on them and runs on them quite a bit. Very helpful Ross, THANKS! Make sure to check him out: Barefoot Odyssey he has a bunch of great videos and tons of information about it.

So I wore them all day. I went to the Commissary with them, I walked down to the stream with the boys and picked up all the garbage along the road.. I pretty much walked in them all day long. I did notice some discomfort towards the end of the day.. but I figure they're like any pair of shoes - they need to be broken in.

The lady at the store told me that it would be a good idea to wear them while doing my day to day chores and just walking around. I asked her when I should start running and she said that I should start off by cutting my mileage in half at first. So probably by mid next week, I'll try and run a mile or two in them.

Anyway, here they are:

And this is what they look like with my capris - kinda silly!

I decided to go with black because they're so neutral. I can wear them with everyday things like jeans even!
I have gotten a few questionable looks from strangers.. but I think it's funny.

Anyway, I'm running tomorrow with my regular sneaks, but I'll keep y'all updated on the work I do with my Vibrams!

Getting there

2011-04-09T16:07:00.000-07:00

I don't think running on the treadmill is anything like running outside. But I've talked about that throughout my Blog enough that you're probably sick of hearing it.

But today I set the treadmill to 60 minutes, my pace at 5.5, and my incline at 1.5% and took off. For the first two miles I ran that 5.5 pace and then bumped it up to 6. Then back down and up for the rest of the workout. My breathing was great as well as my stride for the most part. But I did start to feel a pinch at the top of my left foot. I had the same kind of thing last week on my right. I was telling my Grandpa about it and he said the way I described it, it sounded like a bone spur. I hope that's not the case.

Anyway, I did set a new personal best. I did 5.70 miles in an hour. Ideally I would like to be at 6 miles in an hour but I'm getting there.

I figured that when race day actually came, I'd probably make it my goal to make it to each water stop and just keep a nice, slow pace. Keeping a slow pace is easy when I'm just running by myself, but when I'm in a race, I automatically just start full speed. Adrenaline pumping and every one's excited. It's hard not to let some of that rub off on you. I just pray that I can keep a steady jog pace. Id be very happy if I finished the darn thing in under an hour and a half. That's my goal. It's doable. I just have to take it easy. I also have to get a 5+ mile run outside a few times before hand. And even go down to the route and run it..

Monday I'll be heading back to the gym to cross train and I'm also watching what I eat and eating right. So hopefully by race time, it'll be a piece of cake. Ha :)

Oh golly!

2011-04-05T20:14:00.000-07:00

I just went and did something really stupid.

I signed up for a 10k. I'm an idiot. I don't know what makes me think I can run a 10k!(6.2miles) Just because I ran an hour a couple of weeks ago? Man oh man what have I gotten myself into?

But, now that I've signed up, Id better start training. I have no real time goal in mind. I'd just like to be able to finish it. Not to mention cross it off of my Day Zero project. :)

It's called, Run for the Warriors <- you can check it out there. It's for a great cause and if you're in the Jacksonville area around May 14th, you can come down and show your support or even donate online :)

Anyway, it's done. I am already signed up. I've alreay paid. Now all I have to do is start training.. yikes!!

FUNK

2011-03-30T19:43:00.000-07:00

I'm in such a funk with running for some reason. My last two 5k's on the treadmill have been 30 minutes or over and I can't seem to push myself any harder. Just a few weeks ago I was doing a 28minute 5k and now this. I'm pretty sure it has to do with the fact that a few weeks ago, the incline was broken and I was running flat. Now that it's fixed, throughout the whole 3.2 miles, it's inclining and declining from 0% to 3%. Which may not seem like much, but when you've been running on no incline for a while, that 3% is noticeable.

Obviously having the incline is a good thing. It makes it feel like you're actually running outside. (well, as good as a treadmill can I guess) But man, I must be really out of shape!

Anyway, I've started watching what I eat, too. Which is huge for me. I am NOT a dieter. That's why I workout - so I can eat whatever the hell I want. Obviously that isn't working. So now I'm watching it and even keeping track of it on my Ipod.

I would just like to see some weight loss. Just 2 pounds would make me happy right about now. I'm still stuck at 132. And it goes between 132 and 134. Never higher, never lower. I need to get below 130 before bathing suit season. (Which is probably next week considering I do live in NC) I would just like to feel a little bit of confidence when I put that bikini on.. just a little. Enough to not run back inside and throw a tank top and shorts over myself..

New personal best!

2011-03-23T20:41:00.000-07:00

Tonight I forced myself to run for an hour. I tried really hard not to care about how many miles I was covering, I just focused on pace. And pace went between 5.0 and 6mph through out the whole thing.

I'm pretty friggen pumped. I covered 5.35 miles in an hour. I would have liked to at least get 5.50, but I'll take it. I burned 500 something calories (can't remember) which my not seem like much, but my body sure feels it.

I'm going to cut back for a few days and do a normal 3 mile run and then try again. My ultimate goal right now is to run a 10k.

I'd also like to get back into doing some races. In April, it'll be one whole year since I ran my last race. Thats crazy. I can't believe it's been a year already.. I'm so slacking. But, stuff like that happens and now I've got nothing but time on my hands to start my new goals :)

Whoot

2011-03-15T12:33:00.000-07:00

I am proud of myself so I'm going to brag a little. So what?

I ran for 45 minutes non- stop yesterday on that treadmill. Which came to be 4.52 miles. The farthest and longest I have ever run in my life! I burned 472 calories, too!

I'm just psyched. I'm going to try and slowly work up to an hour and I would like to be able to run a 10k in a few months..

Still running.

2011-03-10T12:17:00.000-08:00

Yep. I'm getting some good use out of that treadmill.

I took the last two days off. I've had a bad shin splint,(shin splints?) in my left calf thats been bugging the hell out of me. So I've been resting and icing it.

This morning I took it slow. I did 5.5mph for 35 minutes and then 7.0mph for he last 5 minutes because when I looked down and realized that I hadn't even hit the 4mile mark yet, I panicked. I still didn't hit the 4 mile mark, (3.80) which is pathetic.. and I probably even hurt my shin more by pushing my speed so much but, the run itself was good.

The pace was a little slow, but I knew I planned on running 40 minutes and didn't want to over do it. Eventually I want to make it to a whole hour of running, (which I've never been able to do) and after that, Id like to see if I can run a 10k (on the treadmill, not an actual race yet)

If you're not into running, I don't think you know the kind of high it gets you. Running is the main reason for my weight loss. I lost 50+ pounds because of it, the high.

When I first started, I was almost 190lbs. Thats pretty big for my 5'6" body. One day, I just went to the gym, got on a treadmill, and forced myself to run 1 mile without stopping. I did it. It took me 14 minutes, but I did it. And after that, I just couldn'tget enough. I went everyday to the little gym that they had at my housing complex. And day after day, I would force myself to go a little bit farther.

I also started running outside and up huge hills. It was such a great feeling to see that weight fall off. At my lowest weight, I was 127lbs. Right now, I'm back up to 131 with a goal of being 125 and staying there.

Oh, and now my fastest mile is 8 minutes and 24 seconds. Which is a huge accomplishment from 14 minutes.

I guess the whole point of this post is to let people know that it can be done. You can do it and you will feel so much better about yourself when you do. Hang in there

Stats

2011-03-06T09:18:00.000-08:00

Today I ran a 8:29 minute mile! ANND, I'm down 2lbs! Yay!

Here are my stats (according to my treadmill) since we started.

I've had 13 total workouts.
I've ran a total of 32.04 miles
I've burned a total of 3,556 calories
And I've ran for a total of 5 hours and 49 minutes.

My fastest 5k right now it 28 minutes and 52 seconds.

Over all, I'm pretty happy with these stats, Of course, I can always spend more time on the treadmill. One day, I'd like to be able to push myself to run a whole hour on the treadmill. The longest I've ran on it so far is only 39 minutes and 14 seconds. But, I'm getting there. Just have to learn to really pace myself I guess..

I'm very happy with the weight loss as well! I'm only 6lbs away from my goal weight of 125. Once I hit that weight, I'll start strength training at the gym again and leave my running for every other day here at home. At least thats the plan right now.

As of right now though, I have to take it kind of easy because of this shin splint in my left calf. Its so hard for me to, "take it easy" once I get on the exercise wagon though. If I have an off day, where I dont run, I feel like a fat hunk of lard. I know it's stupid, but I do. I know off days are good for your body and your muscles. They need to heal, and your body needs to rest.. but it's a mental thing with me I guess. I know when I'm not running, I can be doing other things like walking or strength training.. but it just doesn't give me the same high as running. The same sense of accomplishment, I guess you could say...

Guess thats something I need to work on..

2011-03-02T16:24:00.000-08:00

28:59 5k time on the treadmill tonight! Guess it's time to sign up for another race. There is one in Emerald Isle in April. It's also a half marathon, but I'm totally not ready for that. I'm hoping to be able to run a 10k in a few months, but Id probably better get a few more 5k's under my belt first. I still struggle with those.

The last 5k I did was almost a year ago. WOW! Yeah, April of 2010 I did the Dodge the Deer 5k back home. I dont think my time was very good either. Its amazing how easy it is to slack or fall off the wagon, I guess you can say.

But I am very happy that we bought a treadmill. We use it daily. We've had it for 2+ weeks now and I've missed two days. And thats great because those were off days.. it's good to give your muscles a break.

As far as weight goes though, I'm still at 133. Plus its that time of the month so I'm bloated anyway. So hopefully this time next week, I can report a weight loss..

Thats about it for now :)

Okay fine

2011-03-01T08:27:00.000-08:00

This is me, and I was runnnnnniiinnngggg!

Yes, that is a dish towel. I can't run without it. I hate looking at how far I've gone or how far I have left to go.

Anyway, Aaron took this picture. Hes been asking me why I haven't taken any pictures of our "awesome new treadmill" or posting any status updates on Facebook about it. (which I have by the way) He's so proud of it, and spent a lot of money on it. I guess he figures that I post everyday on Facebook about whatever I want and he's hurt that I haven't bragged more about the treadmill. So here it is.

Our treadmill is pretty awesome. Except we've had it under two weeks and the incline is broken. The power cord got stuck in the actual treadmill as it was declining and it pinched it. So now we've got to get someone out here to take a look at it and hopefully fix it..

Ive ran on it every day but one since we bought it. I think Ive put in a little over 20 miles on it.. so that feels good. It feels good to have that runners high again. Ya know?

So I guess now that Im back into running, I should sign up for another 5k. Aaron said he wants me to be running a 10k by the time he gets back. So I've got 7 months to shape up.. we'll see..

2011-02-24T08:30:00.000-08:00

I feel like I have 50 billion places to track my workout! LOL I do it here, I do it on www.myfitnesspal.com (my user name is ibejackerz if you'd like to add me) I do it on the Live Strong app on my Ipod..and on dailymile.com it's all over the place!

Last night I did 2.88 miles on the "weight loss" option. I love all of these options. It makes running on the treadmill a little more fun. So the weight loss option has 3 levels. I do level 1. Level ones speed goes to 7.4mph and doesn't go slower than 5.2 - so thats a steady run and sprint. You do each interval for 30 seconds before it switches.

Starts at 5.2 then goes to 5.9, then 6.2, 6,9, 7.4.Like I said, you do each for 30 seconds. When you hit 7.4, you start going back down all the way to 5.2 - then it starts going back up again. The whole 30 minute workout, I did 4 sets(?) I guess you would call 'em. Of up and down. It was pretty intense and I felt great,(sore but great) afterwards.

I burned 324 calories and ran for 2.88 miles.

Today will be the first day off since we bought it on Saturday. It's gotten a lot of use, too! With the Live Strong treadmill, you can track your workouts. When I get back on tomorrow, I'll write down how many miles Ive done, how many hours I've logged and all of that.

2011-02-22T09:21:00.000-08:00

As much as I didn't want to, this morning I hopped on our treadmill and ran. I'm just glad to have it over with. 30 minutes can sometimes feel like forever on a treadmill..

Today I did the "foot hill" option. Where you pick the speed and the incline goes up and down. On a level 1, the incline goes up to 3.5. (which is enough for me) I think Aaron did his last night on a level 2 and I think he said it went up to an incline of 7.5 - here is a picture of him tackling the foot hills.

My. Oh. My! He's sexy when he's sweaty!

You wont see any pictures of me on the treadmill though. Because I look like a crazy, out of breath, dying monkey. And I don't want anyone to have to witness that.

Feels good to finally get back in the swing of things though. Ya know? After not being at the gym since the beginning of January, and only running outside here and there when I feel like I absoulty have to, I haven't been doing much.

And it shows! I'm 133lbs - the weight itself is fine for my height. But after having two kids, my hips and legs will never been the same. And I feel like thats where I hold the majority of my fat. Hopefully sticking with the treadmill and doing some squats and lundges will help. I just have to keep at it.

2011-02-20T15:31:00.000-08:00

Okay, we bought the treadmill. We didn't get the 13.0 because honestly, there is NO room for it in our house and it was longer than the 10.0 -We saved about $300 too. And so far, it's run very smoothly. Aaron just had it a 9mph ands not even shaking.

I've ran on it twice. Let me just say, I cannot stand running on a treadmill. I swear there has to be some kind of special talent for it that I don't have. I'm not good at it. I do so awesome when I run outside. I think it's because I have a goal. I know that when I run outside, I have to get back to my house. I wont allow myself to walk because I don't want people to see me quit. Inside on the treadmill, I'm like, "Whatever.. 2 miles is good enough.." I just can't seem to get the same motivation from it. Hopefully I find this special talent soon, or I'm going to be miserable for 30 minutes a day..

Yesterday I ran 2 miles on it, and today I did a mile and a half. I felt like such a loser. I can easily,(well not too easily) run over 3 miles outside.

Outside I have things to look at. I have a clear mind, I don't have to keep pace with the belt of a treadmill. I just run. I enjoy it.

I despise the treadmill. Uunfortunately for me, my Husband just spent $1,200 on it.. so guess what? I HAVE to use it everyday. And I will. I have to. It's literally staring me in the face every time I go in the living room - it says, "Jackie, get your sorry, fat ass over here and RUN damnit!" It does. And I comply. (So far anyway.)

Oh and its sooo ugly in the living room! Look how much space we don't have for it. We wanted to put it out in the garage with the free weights and stuff.. but we can't. There obviously is no heat or ac out there. I would freeze- or heat the whole outside this time of year having it out there. And in the summer, Id fry.. so.. yeah.. in the living room it stays.

Into the swing of things.

2011-02-16T18:07:00.000-08:00

Gotta get back into the swing of things. It's been so hard to workout with only having one car. We sold Aaron's Jeep back in December and I've only been back to the gym a handful of times since. I have been running outside when I can. I did 3.3 miles on base the other day. Which surprised me.. I like knowing that I can still push myself to do 3. Even after taking some time off. I've never been able to do that before. Even back in high school when I was really athletic.

We went to the commissary the other day, and I've always wondered out loud how many miles it is from the front gate to the Cstore. So we checked it out on the odometer and it was about 4 miles. It always seemed like it was longer than that. I know I could run it, and one day, maybe when my parents are down and they can watch the boys, I'll try it.

Oh, and we finally gave in and decided to buy a treadmill. I always said I wouldn't own one because I'd much rather run outside. But outside really isn't going to be an option much longer with Aaron deploying and me not having anyone to watch the boys. I sold the jogger when we first moved here. They're too big for it now anyway.. and Noah ALWAYS put up a fight when he had to ride in it.

So this weekend were buying this:

It's the Live strong T13.0
On the Live strong website, it gets all positive reviews. We tried it out at Dick's and the belt seemed nice and padded.. pretty comfortable.. so I'm looking forward to using it!

2011-01-19T08:43:00.000-08:00

Went for a run the other day. Managed 2 miles. Felt great, but my hips were sore for a day or so afterwards.

It didn't make sense though. When I run on the treadmill, I've NEVER sore. But every single time I run outside, my hips ache like crazy for days afterwards. I said this is Aaron and he explained that running outside is harder on your joints because you're pushing yourself. On a treadmill, you're just trying to keep up with the belt. Makes sense to me. But, I'd much rather be outside and running. I despise treadmills. I just wish running outside wasn't so killer on my hips.

I wonder why..

2010-12-18T16:54:00.000-08:00

According to my scales at home, I'm 127.4 lbs. I haven't been to the gym in 3 days. Why is it, when I don't go to the gym, I lose a decent amount of weight? But when I do go to the gym, I stay the same or gain?

Obviously, the answer is muscle.. but man, it SUCKS.

127 is 2lbs away from my goal weight, so I'll take it. BUT, with the holiday's coming up, I'm going to have to do something to keep it that way. Maybe running again? I'll have to bring my running gear I guess.

These babies.

2010-12-03T18:18:00.000-08:00

I love working out with kettle bells.

I might even buy myself one for Christmas ..

What is one of your favorite workout tools?

I want this:

2010-11-18T16:00:00.000-08:00

This is the Free Motion incline trainer. It rooccks. We have two at my gym. Now, normally I'm a runner. But running on a treadmill isn't very fun. I'd much rather be outside in the fresh air, running up and down hills. On the treadmill, running for a half hour, I would barely burn 300 calories. When I get on this baby and put the incline at 24% and walk at a speed of 3.5mph, for a half hour, I burn 700. 700! Unbelieveable isn't it?

So lately my workout has been this:
Treadmill for a half hour.
Kettlebells - 3 sets of 20 on each side.
Abs on the machine
Abs on the floor.
Leg presses
Stairs for a half hour at a pace of 110 steps per minute which burns 500+ calories in a half hour.

So almost every day, I'm burning 1,000 calories. I should start seeing some weight loss soon. Well, I am actually. Last week I weighed in at 134.5 - today I weigh in at 131.2.. so that's something. I'm still aiming for a goal weight of 125. But I'm happy to be getting toned along the way.

Those kettlebells are the shit. I can already see a big improvement in my love handles and it's only been 2 weeks.

yuck

2010-10-13T12:44:00.000-07:00

So I've been sick. Which means, no workout cause I don't want to bring my nasty to the gym. Mainly because it's already hard to breath in there in the first place without having a headcold. Not to mention, the gym was probably where I caught this sucker in the first place. AND, I dont want to get anyone else sick.

Anyway, Ive been out of commission for over a week now and it doesn't seem to be getting better. I did manange to push myself out the door yesterday morning to go for a 2 mile run around the neighborhood. But that was the most pathetic run I've ever taken. I wouldn't even call it a run, really. It was more like a shuffle. And I was weezing and coughing the whole time. I even carried a tissue with me cause I knew Id have to blow my nose on the way.

I thought that maybe getting out in the sunshine would make me feel better. You know, the whole fresh air thing.. but it didnt. I feel worse this afternoon. I even took a nap on the couch this morning. I keep thinking that this has to get better - head colds dont last for weeks, do they? What if I have the Flu? I've never even had that before so I have no idea if I do or not. (note to self: Google "flu symptoms") I was pretty achy the other day. I couldn't even let my kids touch me cause it felt like I had bruises all over my body..

But enough complaining. There is an Oktober Fest 5k on the 23rd and I'm on the fence about running it. I know that I should since I havent ran an actual race since April, but part of me is just to lazy.

Aaron says he'll run with me and push the boys in the stroller. I guess that would be kinda fun. Obviously we woudln't be running for time though.. cause eveyone knows pushing a stroller and running is kinda hard. (atleast I think it is!) But it's like a big festival and it looks like fun. Might be worth it to get back into the running thing again instead of being a gym rat all the time. Really, there is nothing like running. The feeling. Just going out there in Mother Nature with your thoughts and your sneakers..

This is what I think..

2010-08-18T09:15:00.000-07:00

And it may not come out right, cause I'm never very good with words. .

I was just thinking about how far I've come in a year and how easy it would have been to just give in to becomming an over weight Mom and Wife.

I see it happen time and time again. We get pregnant, gain some baby weight, and then become completly consumed with this whole life of changing diapers and taking care of these adorable human beings that we brought into the World.

I get it. You're a Mom now and have another life to worry about but your own. BUT, that's the problem. Another day goes by and you are still at your pregnancy weight. You go to bed each night saying, " Tomorrow I will go for a walk.. tomorrow, I will exercise" and tomorrow comes, and it doesn't happen. Believe me, I've been there.

When you're used to being a certain size, and you're now 60+lbs over that weight, (like I was) you start getting depressed and start to give in to the fact that you're always going to be over weight because with a new baby, it's just so hard to get out there and do something about it.

But it's not! When I first had Noah, I was 30+ lbs over weight. After my 6 week check up, I could hardly walk around the block without getting winded. I remember trying to do crunches on my living room floor and just failing miserably. I tried laying on my back, putting my legs straight out, and trying to lift them up and I couldnt. That's when I knew I had to do something. And I did.

I started walking every night around the neighborhood. It turned out to be 3 miles. I did that Monday-Friday (this is easier when you're a stay at home Mom like me) and took the weekends off. Then I started doing more and more.. and then even tried running. I think I could do about a half mile.. and then a mile..and then more..

Until I got pregnant wirh Benjamin. I fell right back into that," I'm pregnant, I can eat whatever I want and not do anything" mode. That's when I gained almost 60 pounds. I was over 180lbs when I delivered Benji. I was miserable.. I had no self esteem and NO motivation to do anything about it..

I had Ben in May, 2008, and stayed that weight until January, 2009. In January, I had had enough. I went to the gym on base with my neighbor and made myself run a mile on the treadmill. It took me almost 14 minutes, but I did it. I went right home, and decided that THIS was going to be the turn around in my life. And it was.

I've been working out ever since. This is easy for me bacuse like I said before, I'm a stay at home Mom. I don't have a job to go to every day. But if you do, I still think you need to make time for some exercise. Even if it's going for a walk around your neighborhood. After all, that's what got me started.

"No matter who you are, no matter what you do, you absolutely, positively do have the power to change" - Bill Phillips

I think I've come to terms with..

2010-08-12T14:58:00.000-07:00

The fact that I have a big butt.
That my hips are always going to be a bit wider.(Thank you Noah and Benjamin)
That I might always have this "double chin," (and an awful profile)
That I have a lot of work to do on my theighs.
That I have the boobs of a 12 year old.
That I still have a widdle "Mommy pooch"
That I'm not 19 anymore and my metabolism is slowing waaaay down.
That I need to workout longer and not harder.
That exercise is very important to my self image.
That its one thing I can do for myself.
That exercise is a daily need. If I don't get out and do something, I feel like a slug.
That exercise makes me a happier person and has been such a positive in my life.

Lovin it.

2010-07-29T15:05:00.000-07:00

Did over 4 miles on the stairs today. It took me 30 minutes aend I burned 510 calories! Phhew! I sweat buckets when I do the stairs. And after that, I still have another hour to do the rest of my work out which mainly consists of leg presses.

I'm obsessing about my legs lately. I feel like my theighs rub together when I walk and that my legs should be more muscular. So leg presses and hip flexers it is.

Da gym.

2010-07-26T11:31:00.000-07:00

While I was running every day, I didn't see the point in going to the gym. I hated the idea of getting in a workout in front of everyone. I felt as if everyone there would be staring at the fat girl trying to run on the treadmill. So, I ran outside. I ran almost every day. And running, is how I lost my 50+ pounds of baby weight.

Now that I'm down (to)wards my goal weight, I don't run as much. And when I do run, (outside) now that I'm down in North Cacki Lackie, I've come to realize how hard it IS to run down here. I haven't gotten used to the heat. Nope, it's awful! I just can't get my breathing down.

Sooo, I go to the gym. I go Monday,Tuesday,Thurs, and Friday with Wednesdays and Saturdays off. I try to run around the neighborhood on Sunday nights. Anyway, I love it!

We're practically regulars there now. We drop the boys off at day care and hit the gym for an hour and a hafl each day.

I normally start witrh cardio. I'll either run on the treadmill or do the stairs.

Today, I ran 2 miles on the treamill. Then did my abs, legs, and arms.. then ended with 3 miles on the stairs. All in all, a pretty good workout I think.

If you haven't done the stairs at the gym, I suggest it. It's a crazy workout. I sweat an insane amount..and love it. It's one of those workouts that you really feel like you've accomplished something. I do it at 110 steps per minute for 20ish minutes. That's about 3 miles. I'm working up to 30 minutes. If you do that baby for an hour and 110 steps per minute, you are supposed to burn over 1,000 calories. PHEW! I coudln't imagine spending all of my gym time on the stairs..

Wait a sec..

2010-07-25T08:23:00.001-07:00

HOW do I delete this whole blog? I'll be starting a new one, shortly.

I've made the decision..

2010-07-25T08:21:00.001-07:00

To delete this blog and start fresh.

Update!

2010-06-29T13:31:00.000-07:00

I was thinking the other day that I totally said that I wanted to do a race each month for a year. HA! Where was I thinking I would find the time? The last race I did was when we were still in NY. That was April. I havent done much of anything since then. I few runs here and there when I'm feeling pudgy, but nothing like a race.

Anyway, I joined the gym on base. I think I wrote about how it was free to go but if you had kids, you had to pay. I was a little upset about that cause you didn't have to pay at Quantico. You just voulnteered your time.

But, I got the punch card and this is day 3 of going. I'm loving it! The boys, not so much.. You would think they'f have a great time interacting with other kids their age and being in a place with a million toys.. but they don't. I guess thats what I get for not being more social with them. All they've known is Mommy and as soon as you take Mommy out of their sight and leave them with no one they reconize, they freeaak.

The first day, Benji was nuts. They called my name over the loud speaker when I only had about 25 minutes on the treadmill to come in and comfort him. They said it as just a precaution and that I could leave him if I wanted.. but I took him because he was hysterical and they said he was biting and kicking and I hate to be that Mom that says, "oh well.. it's your job to deal with him" So the first day was a bust.

Yesterday was about the same. I was supposed to meet my friend, Erica there but her phone broke, there for her alarm didn't go off and she didn't end up making it til 9:30 when I was just finishing.

As far as the boys, Ben screamed the whole time again. I went to check him once and take him potty. He didn't go. he just sat there. They said Noah cried a little bit but was fine after a few minutes. I stayed an hour or so and left..

Today it seemed MUCH better. Erica came with her two boys. Noah and Ben know her kids so I think it's a bit easier for them. Noah didn't cry at all. Ben was crying in the beginning and then I checked on him about a half hour into it and he was playing.. it kind of went back and forth like that all day. We were there for an hour and a half.. got a nice workout in..

I'm loving having a gym partner,(thank you Erica!) she's so motivated, too.. I love it. Keeps me motivated.

I've decided not to focus on running as much. Lets face it, I'm not exactly built to run. I enjoy it still but, there are SO Many different things to do at the gym that work SO many different body parts, why waste a half hour on a treadmill? Its okay every once in a while.. but I'm determined to learn all of the machines in that gym..

FINALLY

2010-06-23T18:24:00.000-07:00

A gym membership! I've ben down here for 2 months and have gained some weight. I've been running here and there, but only when I feel really bad about myself. I know that the gym on base housing is free, but I've heard rumors that you had to pay for child care - which wasn't the case at Quantico. You brought your kids, and volunteered your time 3 times a month to watch other peoples kids. It was nice-

So I finally trugged the boys over and got a child care punch card. As I understand, You pay for this card. You can pay $10, $20, or $40 and you get like a meal ticket punch card. Each time you bring your kiddos, they punch your card. I bought a $20 card, which is good for 11 times of dropping your kids off. What I didn't realize is, each kid is a punch. So when I bring both the boys, thats two punched each time. Thats a load of crap! Totally not cool. Soo, I figured it out that if I go 5 times a week, I'll have to renew my card every week. Which means, $20 each week, which adds up to about .. what, $80? Is that right?! For some reason, before I only made it out to $60.. which I still this is awful! - I've always been terrible with Math -

ANYWAY, I think thats a flipping rip off. Soo, I'm going to call Gold's Gym, down the road and ask what their rates are. This is total bologna. It would be totally cool if I didn't have any kiddos.. Id be able to get in free. But since I have two, I have to get my card punched twice.. lame.

I feel like I might as well be getting a regular gym membership - not getting any kind of deals on base..

So I'll call Gold's tomorrow and find out what their rates are. Ive heard that they're $50 WITH childcare AND TANNING..

It's been a while.

2010-06-03T18:53:00.000-07:00

But I'm still plugging along. Although it's been hard to get back into the groove after moving down to NC, I still have that urge to get out there in run. I took about 3 weeks off, and then decided I needed to get back into it. At first, I could seriously run one mile. It was pathetic. But today, I finally ran over 3 miles. Whew.

Let me just say, no matter how shitty I'm feeling, if I go for a run, I feel 100 times betetr afterwards. I love the feeling after a run and I can understand why people get addicted to it. Like today, I was feeling fat and I had a massivr headache.. I went for a run, I feel better about myself and my headache is gone.. I may not be the best runner, I'm surely not the fastest but, I enjoy it and I am always proud to say I'm a runner, and hopefully always will be.

Okay so, as far as weight goes though, I'm getting heavy again. I'm up to 132ish. YUCK. I just wish I could stay 125. That would be so perfect. I hate being so self conscience about my weight. It's so hard to go from 180 to 125 and then fluctuate between 125 and 135. I just wish I could get it under control and keep it under control.

I'm so totally rambling today - but you know, I can't go out of the house in a bathing suit unless Aaron takes a picture of me. I have to look at that picture and decide weather or not I'm skinny enough to go out in a bikini.. If I think I look fat, I'll put a pair of shorts and a tank top on.. if I think I look okay, I'll wear the bikini but when I get to the beach, I'll keep my shorts on.. I'm so selfconsciencde about my theighs and butt.. thats kind of sick, right?

I hope some day I can get over it and feel comfortable enough in my own skin to bare it all..

Dodge the Deer 5k.

2010-04-20T14:34:00.000-07:00

The day started with me getting up at 6:30 to take a shower(cause I always have to shower before a race for some reason) I woke Aaron up at 7 and then Ian came at 7:45. We followed him to Schodack, NY.

It was raining the whole time and about 42 degrees on the way there. I remember thinking that we should just turn around and go home. After all, the race was only $15.

On the way, Jolene called and said she was running late. With how long it would take her to get there, we would be finished with the race already so she stayed home.

We got there and picked up our packages and bibs and then went over to a tent that they had where they were selling tshirts and souviners and all that stuff. I ended up buying a tshirt and Aaron bought a sticker, and a tshirt. Ian bought a pint glass..

Then they announced it was time to line up. By then the rain had stopped. (thank goodness) and we all lined up. There were 264 people at this race. Not the biggest race Ive ever done but it was a nice chunk considering we all had to squeeze onto one tiny trail.

They said "GO" and we were off.. I stayed with Ian for the 1st 2 miles. It was SO hard to get around people in front of you so I'm blaming some of that on my finish time. Lol..

At mile 1, they had a clock and my pace was 9mins20seconds.. which was pretty good. (for me) It seemed like FOREVER for the mile 2 marker to show up, I thought that they might have forgotten to put it up..but then I saw it. Ughh.. I was dying by then for some reason and thats when Ian started to pull away..

I kept my eye on him the whole time though. Aaron was long gone by then and I was just trying not to stop. I passed a few girls that looked about my age but I think they got me in the end...

Over all, it wasn't a good race. It was my frist trail race and not at all what I expected. Very hilly which was fine but also so very crouded..

Official time: 28:57 - Ouuccchh! Not my best time but not the worst, either.

On to some pictures:

These were the mascots I guess.. I have no idea what the race is about. All I know is it's put on by the Albany Running Exchange and they had a cookout and music and everything.

Thanks for reading!

country

2010-04-20T14:13:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of the hilly route that Aaron and I ran a week or so ago. I love the route.. very pretty!

Here is looking down the hill that we ran up:

I hate how pictures dont show the true massiveness of this hill!

This is just before going down it. Pretty big drop off.

I have a video, too but for some reason, I can't get it on here. Darn.

We had our race this Saturday so I'll be posting a race report after this.

Phew!

2010-04-11T16:53:00.000-07:00

Aaron and I took a different route on our nightly run today. We ran way out into the country where all there are are cows and the smell of cow poop!

It was fun though. The first 1/2 mile was all hill. Probably bigger than the ones back in Virginia,(if you remember me posting pictures of those suckers) and a hell of a lot longer! But we made it all the way.

I wish I had brought my camera. It was just so peaceful out there compared to running in town with people everywhere and traffic. I hope we can do this route more often.

Im beginning to think I can be a distance runner. That is, when I'm not thinking about running, I can be.

Like today when we were running out there in the openness with nothing around but cows and beautiful views, for once, I wasn't thinking, "Man, when will this be over? I can't breathe, my legs hurt, I have a cramp" like I normally do. I was just thinking about the veiw. It was fun. Seriously.

Our race is this Saturday. The Dodge The Deer 5k trail run. This should be fun!

Graceful

2010-03-30T12:57:00.000-07:00

Yeah, leave it to me to roll my ankle while doing nothing at all.
I have had problems with my right ankle for as long as I can remember. Ive never sprained or broken it though. It's just been really weak my whole life.

I remember playing basketball back in middle school and rolling it almost every week. I always had to tape it for games.

So yesterday, I was downstairs doing laundry and talking on the phone with Aaron when I went to step over a broom that was just laying on the ground. I don't know how it happened but, I stepped down on my ankle wrong and fell. I landed with my body half way up the basement stairs, phone flew out of my hands onto the floor and all I coudl hear was Aaron yelling, "Babe! Are you okay? Should I call 911? Your Mom? Do you need help!?"

I'm sure he was worried because when I went down, I screamed "F*ck!!" and then I started crying hysterically.. I heard my ankle snap. It was awful.. ew. CRINGE! !

Anyway, I am okay. Aaron didn't have to call 911, (or even my Mom.) I made it back up the stairs and took my sock off.. sure enough, it was already starting to swell. Nice.

It looks a lot better than I thought it was going to today though!

Just a little swollen. And I can walk pretty good too!

I'm trying real hard not to be a baby about it :)

(man my calf looks fat and dry!)

It better heal before the 17th cause thats my next 5k!

Running with an 80lbs Labrador is not a good idea

2010-03-24T14:19:00.000-07:00

Woke up this morning knowing that it had been 3 days since I ran. Which is a big "no no" for me. I usually run every day or every other day, (when I'm feeling unathletic and need a break)

I thought it would be fun to take Gunner. After all, he was my running buddy back in the day and I loved taking him along.

My awesome sister bought this for him:

And with her, it works like a charm. That dog would do anything for her.

It's a Gentle Leader. I guess it's supposed to help with them not pulling as much.

Uh, yeah, it does NOTHING for Gunner. He tries to take his paws and scratch it off. That would be fine, but he does it when we are in the middle of a run.. all the sudden, he just stops and tries to get it off while I'm still in mid stride. Needless to say, it's a big mess. I normally trip over him and practically fall flat on my face. Fun.

He really doesn't like it:

Can ya tell?

He thinks he looks silly.

I agree.

But, I'll try anything to get that dog to run at a normal, sane pace next to me like he's supposed to.

This is embarassing..

2010-03-18T14:45:00.000-07:00

But this wouldn't be a true weight loss blog if I didn't have pictures of my insecurities, would it?

I bought a new bating suit. Its not a Victoria's Secert like I wanted. It's from Target but, I like it.

This is it. I think it's cute.

But when I look at this picture, I see this:

All of those black circles are my "trouble spots"

I have a wicked muffin top and saddle bags for theighs.

Around my belly button is a mess of stretchmarks and saggyness..

You probably can't tell by this picture unless you blow it up though.

I think most girls are insecure about themselves though, right?

I'll admit. I still am. Even after losing 50something pounds. I still have a lot of work to do to get to where I want to look. It's a never ending struggle for me. I'm not a teenager anymore. I'm a 26 year old mother of two just trying to keep up.

Even though I see a lot of problems with these pictures, I'm not going to say that I'm fat or that I feel ugly. because I don't. For one of the first times in my life, I feel pretty. I feel, thin even.. and I don't know if it's because I've worked so hard to get to where I am or what..but it's a good feeling.. It's nice to have a little self confidence. Like I said, I'm still insecure.. but its just because I know I can do better. If I worked harder..just a little harder.. Id be to where I want to be.

See that cellulite under my butt? I swear that'll never go away! No matter how many squats I do!

Heres a close up of my belly.. see those love handles? Id love if they'd just melt away without having to do any work.. those babies are HARD TO LOSE!!

But I'm feeling comfortable with myself right now. Enough to go to the beach and strut around. All I need is a tan!!

Going Vertical for Cystic Fibrosis Race report and RESULTS!

2010-03-09T12:43:00.000-08:00

The Corning Tower.

So my friends and I conqured the 42 flights, 809 steps of the Corning Towers on Thursday.

The event was to raise money for The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (http://www.cff.org/) I think the Albany, NY chapter ended up raising about $36,000 for it!

Let me just start off by saying that this was one of the hardest things I had to do in my life,(besides giving birth without any drugs. Obviously, that was more painful) I went into the race thinking, "It's just stairs. You climb them every day, Jackie.." and that was the state of mine I was in until the starting line.

Before I go any further, I'll post some pictures pre-race! We were having so much fun!

This is my friend, Stacy and I with the Subway guy.

They were sponsers and had subs for before and after the race.

Ian and I putting on our race bibs.

Stacy getting ready!

Showing off our awesome shirts that came in our goodie bag

Phil, Billy, and Brit

Jolene.Me.Ian.Stace

Jo and I showing off our shirts

And my Dad climbed, too! He rocks!

These feet will carry us a LONG way! :)

Our whole group with sub man

Hi Familes of the Few!

Ian and I. I swore I would beat him up those stairs!

Right after they called us to line up! NERVOUS

So, it was "go time" We had to ride up the escalators to get to the stairs.. Jolene and I registered at the same time so we stood one in front of the other. Luckily, I was to go before everyone in my group and I braved those stairs, camera in hand so I could catch everyone finishing.

Once we got to the top, everyone was asked to line up next to the windows single file. Thank God I'm not afraid of heights,(as this is the 2nd highest building in NY state since the Twin Towers fell) because we were pretty darn high!

I was real close to the front of the line and could watch the first few people take off. It was so intimidating! They'd say, "GO!" then the next person would have to wait 5 seconds and then they'd say, "GO!" so there was 5 seconds between people. I remember waiting behind the guy in front of me and being so nervous.

When it was my turn, I lined up and waited for the, "GO!" and when it happened, I just booked it. Which was probably a stupid idea because I tired quickly. I think my main stratedgy was to take it slow in steady but when you're at the start line, the adrenaline is just pumping and you don't have a choice but to book it. This happens to me in every race so I should be used to it.

I made it to flight 9 before I thought I was going to collapse. I ran 9 flights at my fastest speed and then walked. I walked. I don't know why I thought I would be able to run the whole thing but, I did. I thought that all the way until I hit FLOOR 9. It was so very hard to breathe. I mean, so hard that I had to remember how to all over again. "In through the nose, out through the mouth, Jackie"

The whole time I ran, I passed about 7 people. And was passed by at least 2. This one chick that was behind Jolene just flew by me! I managed a, "great job!" as she was a blur in front of me. She turned around and yelled," you too! keep it up" and thats when I found more motivation.

My mindset was this: Use the walks as your "rest" and when you feel up for a run, go for it. So after a few floors of "resting," I tried running again. I took two stairs at a time and literally pulled myself up every other stair by the railing. I continued this until we got to one platform where I guess the stairs shifted and I had to run from one set of stairs, down a hall way, to another. That's when I almost passed out. I could feel it coming, I closed my eyes and my knees buckled... but I couldn't let myself fall flat on my face.. I couldn't.. I stumbled a little and slowed down a bit so I wouldn't pass out.. and up the next set of stairs I went. This was the half way point I think..

I remember thinking, "this is ONLY the half way point. HALF WAY! I'm not going to make it." But I kept pushing. I was determind to get up these stairs.

The rest of the climb was uneventful. I made it to the top where a camera man was waiting to snap my picture. If you have read any of my other race reports, you know that I'm awful at having my picture taken at the finish line. I even made Aaron take a "re-do" picture of one of my finishes back in September because the orginal one was horrible. So when I saw the photographer, I managed a smile. And it was posted to the website yesterday and looks like crap! (of course I look like I have a double chin.. why would I ever get a decent finish photo?! hah)

So I crossed the finish line 8 minutes and 38 seconds later. Those 8 minutes felt like a life time to me. I felt like it was never going to end. And when I finished, I couldn't even breathe. I coudln't talk, and I could barely stand..but I forced myself to keep moving so I wouldnt cramp.

And then I waited:

Brit came first.

The Phil(he's behind the yellw shirt guy)

Followed by Billy

Ian

My dad

And the girls!

Everyone did such an awesome job! I am so proud of all of us!

This is about 10 minutes after finishing.. still panting..

One last little group shot from the top:

Everyone else went down to get subs. By the time we got down there, they were all gone. Lol.

All in all, we all did an excellent job. Brit got 1st place over all for the women! That is HUGE. She won it last year, too so she's still the raining champ. Phil got 2nd in his age group, and Billy got 1st in his. I ended up getting 2nd in my age group (20-29) and was totally shocked! I was just happy to make it up the stairs and you're telling me I got 2nd place?! Hell yeah!

This is my Aunt Jenn. She was pretty much in charge of the whole event. She rocks!

And here is everyone getting their medals:

Brit 1st place over all for women!

Billy (Brits brother) 1st place!

Phil 2nd place !

ME! 2nd place!

All of the Hoosick Falls (NY) people who won a medal. We swept them!

Me. Aunt Jenn. and Dad before we left.

I just want to thank each and every one of my friends for taking on this crazy challenge for such a great cause! I had an awesome time guys and hope to do it again next year!

Tomorrow is the stair climb

2010-03-03T10:50:00.000-08:00

7:30pm we start. To begin with, I thought it was going to be a piece of cake. I mean really,whats so bad about climbing up stairs? But I want to do it in a decent time. My brothers girlfriend did all 809 steps in 6 minutes. My Dad did them in 8minutes. Which puts me around 10 minutes I'm sure. haha! And I need a stratedgy.. My brothers GF goes as fast as she can to start off and when she gets tired, she literally pulls her self up by the railing two stair at a time. I thought that should be my stratedgy, too but I when I ran it past my Dad, he said, "No way" Slow and steady wins the race.. so we'll see.. I guess when it comes down to it, I'll decide after they say, "GO!"

I just want to beat my Dad. He's 50 something years old and NOT ONCE have I beat him in any sort of race, EVER. He's always beat me in any of our road races. I'm in my prime, people.. whats going on here?!

But I mananged to drag three of my friends into doing the race with me, too. Thank you Jolene, Stacy, and Ian! We're going to rock it. I'm excited about it right now but as soon as I get there, I'm going to be so nervous!

Here they are - The Corning Towers in Albany, Ny. 809 steps and 42 flights of FUN, FUN, FUN.

Wish us luck! I'll post later on how we did! :)

Oh my gosh, I'm lame

2010-01-29T11:53:00.000-08:00

I'm in New York until May. As you may know, New York is freezing in the winter. There for, I have paid for a gym membership. Now, I'm from a po-dunk town and the nearest gym is about a half hour away (which blows) So I go to this gym the other day to get a membership, (This is the only gym I am aware of by the way) and pay $30.. okay so, that's not bad at all. So, I get the membership and leave (because I had already put my make up on and was in the middle of running errands) So the next day, I get there and try to find the nearest treadmill. I go over to the treadmill section and I canno't believe what I see. These treadmills are seriously from 1982.. I swear! I almost died. But, a treadmill is a treadmill, right? So I run on it and a slow pace, (I guess you could call it a jog) for 3 miles. I swear that I felt like I was going to fall through the damn thing it was so cheaply made. It was awful. And here it is, two days later, and I am sore as hell.. - no real point to that story.. just that te equipment is SO old.

After the 3 miles on the treadmill, I walked over to the bike. I sat down and decided to do 20minutes on the the random hills option. So I'm pedaling along and my foot gets caught between the pedal an dthe actual bike and I almost rip my ankle off! What the hell?! It turns out that this equipment is SO old, that the foot straps dont tighten anymore, causing your foot to slip out almost every time you go around..

Anyway, the point is, this place is lame and I feel like a spoiled brat because the gym on base was awesome. All the equipment was brand new and it was FREE. It makes is so I don't want to go back. And I haven't been back, since.. I know, that's lame.. a gym is a gym.. but ughh..

So it's been two days. No workout.. someone help me get my head out of my ass and back into the gym!

Where have you been? And what's next?!

2010-01-07T16:38:00.000-08:00

It's been a long while since I updated but that doesn't mean I've been slacking. In fact, I less time to update because of the gym and my new routine..

I enrolled the boys in the co-op program that they offer on base. It's pretty sweet. You bring the boys mon,wed,fr 9-11 and tues,thurs,11-1. Imstead of paying for day care, you volunteer your time watching the kids while other people work out. You are recommended to do three days a month and you only have to do two hours a day. It's an awesome set up, so I've been taking advantage of it since December.. the boys do well with it too!

January 6th, 2009, I made it my New Years resolution to start running to lose weight. I made my goal, 120lbs by September of 2009 (That totally didn't happen. I think in September I was around 130lbs) After I didn't reach that goal, I decided to keep running and working out to get toned. Here's the post: My very first! http://hinieshapingtime.blogspot.com/2009/01/this-is-my-weight-loss-blog.html

As of today, January 7th 2010, I weigh in at,(on the scale with all my clothes and shoes on.). drum roll pleasssseee..127.4! So it's not 120.. but I'm happy at this weight. 125 would be better and I will get there.. but, right now,I'm fine with that weight. I feel great about myself.. and am proud of the fact that I stuck in there a whole year!

Speaking of 2009, here is a quick re-cap of what I accomplished:

In May, I ran my first 5k! I did it in under 30 minutes which was my goal.

I ran a 5k each month...one in September,October, and my last was in November.. my best time was :26:57 (or something like that..)

I suffered a hip injury which I started going to physical therapy for in December. I wasn't permitted to run while I was trying to heal with PT so, I took up the gym and cross trained..

I ditched PT (bad idea) and started running again(bad idea) my hip is still bad, but I'll manage. I've been going to the gym on base and love it! Running a little less.. but I'm still able to bike, do the eliptical, and almost everything else.. when I run, I wont let myself run less than a mile.. but I still don't push it..

And thats about it for the quick 2009 re-cap...

Aaron just bought these babies for me: So far, so good.

So, what's next? I normally like to have some kind of competition lined up to keep me motivated.. but the only thing I have(so far) is this stair climb for Cystic Fibrosis..: http://www.cff.org/UploadedFiles/Chapters/neny/ChapterEvents/brochure09.pdf

This isn't until March..

When I am able to run more, I want to train for a half marathon. My goal of 2010 will be to complete a half marathon..

And that's my little update.

Physical Therapy

2009-12-06T11:03:00.000-08:00

So I went to the doctors the other day because I thought I found a lump in my right boob..
Anyway, it turne dout to be nothing but while I was there, they asked me if I had any other concernes. I told them nothing major but that I had been experiencing hip pain after a run.. or if I sit too long, or when I wake up in the morning.. they checked it out..and referred me to Physical Therapy..

I didn't think it was that bad.. but they are the doctors..

I went to my first PT appointment on Wednesday. can I just say that I LOVED It?! They did and ultra sound on my hip and I swear I could have fallen asleep laying there. It was SO warm and it just felt like all the pain was being brought out..

Then they did some kind of electric shock thingy.. (no idea what it's called) and even that was great.. I left there feeling awesome..

I went back two days later and it was a little rougher.. they still did the ultra sound and electric stuff but they also rubbed it and stretched it and taped my feet - I guess because I have low acrhes and the sneakers I wear when I run arent made for people with low arches- they think that that has a lot to do with my hip pain..
I knew I was wearing the wrong sneaks all along but never got around to getting a nice pair thats made right for my feet..

Anyway, I also did the bike for a little bit. After that visit, I was SORE.. but my doc says thats a good thing.. so we'll see.. I have another appointment Tuesday.. or Monday., ha. I dont know which day

But all in all, my hips is starting to feel a lot better (knock on wood)

I went to the gyn on base with my friend, cass yesterday and we worked out for about an hour and a half.. and I even ran a mile on the treadmill (which is a "no no". According to my physical theripist I shouldnt run for 4-6 weeks) but today I feel fine.. not too much pain at all..

So yeah, thats that.. hopefully everything will heal just nicely.. they're not even sure whats wrong with it.. all he said was that it's loose.. yuck..

Pictures of the Turkey Trot!

2009-12-05T10:22:00.000-08:00

The majority of my family. We all ran it!

Aunt Kathy and Pop for a strong finish!

My finish - I'm in the pink.. (27:23)

Turkey Trot

2009-11-28T13:20:00.000-08:00

Phew, I havent updated in a long time!

I ran a local Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning. 16 of my realitives on my Fathers side ran it.. Including my 72 year old Grandfather (who made it in under 45 minutes!) It was SO much fun! I mean, seriously, I have never had so much fun at a race..

To begin with, there was over 3,000 people there to run/walk it. It was insane! It took us almost 4 minutes from the time they said, "go" til we actually ran across the start line.

I ran a decent race. Still not my fastest but my goal was to beat all the females in my family (which I did, thank you, thank you.) But my Father beat me AGAIN! Some day, I WILL whoop that man in a race. Lol..

Official time: 27:23.

Pictures to follow.

Next on my list:
Climb Albany Stair climb in April
And hopefully some 5k's inbetween but it's real hard to find them in upstate NY this time of year..

Aaron has a half marathon on the 13th and thats about it for him.. Oh! But he's totally training for a half IRON MAN! (if he's not deployed) We're super psyched about that!

Harvest Run 5k results -

2009-11-01T08:42:00.000-08:00

"Congratulations Jackie Houran you finished the Harvest Run 5 km on October 31, 2009 with a chip time of 00:28:12. You placed 70 of 175 runners, 22 of 95 Female runners and 5 of 19 in the Women's 20-29 division. Weather on Race day was 59 degrees, rain."

That is my official time. 28:12. I was really disappointed in myself yesterday. I know I said I wasn't going for time but I really felt good about this race. Problem was, I started the race at my friends pace. I told her I would run a nice pace that she could keep up with and I would run it for at least 2 miles with her. I ended up having to run in place for about 50 seconds or so because I ended up getting to far ahead. I wanted to keep her motivated because I know she could get a better time than her last 5k. And she did AWESOME. Her last 5k time was 37:00 - yesterday hers was 33:00! I was so proud of her! Thats a HUGE jump in only a month!

Anyway, I waited for her until mile two and then started running at my regular pace. It was a very hilly track and that was fine because that is what I normally run on. But the rain didn't help. I started picking out people in front of me, chicks who looked like they were in my age group and I thought for sure that I would at least place third. (I obviously didn't) But at mile 2.5, I passed 3 that looked about my age and I was keeping pace with an older lady(maybe 30) who had a nice pace going, too.

At the end, I thought I had it. I saw the clock and it said 24:00. I was psyched that I might get 25:00 or so.. too bad I'm blind. Because instead of it saying 24:00, it really said 27:00.. Haha.. so when I realized that, I picked it up. But it was too late. .

All in all, it was a good race. My breathing was excellent and after mile 2, my pace was right on. I didn't get to use my Nike+ watch because I lost it the night before. One of the boys got a hold of it and tossed to somewhere. I found it last night after the race.. how funny..

So, yeah, now that I look at the results, I think it was a pretty decent race. I'm excited for the Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving. There is normally around 3,500 people in that one so I know I wont place. But I just hope I can get a good enough time to beat all of my female realitives :)

On to some pictures:

My shirt, bib, and mask(that I didn't wear)

Ash and I before the race

Me. Clearly disappointed in my time..

Thanks for looking!!

two days!

2009-10-29T17:58:00.000-07:00

Two days until my 5k!

I did a nice, slow run this afternoon with my neighbor. I decided that I'm going to do a nice, slow run at the race. Time isn't going to be important to me anymore. -This is mainly because I don't think I'll get a good time- This is a fun race. Everyone is supposed to dress up in a costume in honor of Halloween.

My neighbor and I haven't even decided what to be yet! We're thinking skeltons or something easy. We'll paint or face and maybe find some pj's that already have bones in the fabric. We don't have much time to figure it out. We're going tomorrow after we pick up our race packets to look for something.

Oh, and I got this:

It's the Nike+ chip and the watch that goes along with it. It was like $60 at Dicks and I couldnt pass it up. The chip goes into your sneaker ..you're supposed to have the Nike+ sneakers that have the built in compartment for the chip - which I do. Awesome. Aaron doesn't and he just puts it in his sock. Still reads.

Anyway, you slip it in your sneak or your sock and it counts your pace, how many miles you've run, and calories. -I think. I haven't mastered it yet and I still think we havent calibrated it right. But once you're dont with your run, you plug it into your computer and it brings up all of that information. You can even chart it on www.Nikeplus.com. It's pretty neat! And so far, it's been worth it.

5 days

2009-10-26T18:04:00.000-07:00

5 days until my third 5k!
I will be running in the H.O.M.E Sports and Freedom Middle School Harvest 5k.
H.O.M.E provides direct support and assistance to children who are infected with HIV/ AIDS.
This will be my first charity run.

I'm so nervous though. Maybe some of you runner out there can explain to me why I am getting really, REALLY sharp pains under my ribs? I can run fine for the first 2 miles. But lately, I have been having a rough time breathing right. I get some intense sharp pains under my ribs.. so bad that I can't even run through them anymore. It's defeating and very annoying. Could it be because the weather is getting colder? I can't think of any other reason. I mught try and Google it..

Anyway, I just wanted to put this here first. I doubt my time is going to be any better. Not that it really matters but I just wanted to throw that out there. That I probably wont have a new PR. Ot would be nice if I did but physically, I doubt I'll be able to..

Is that bad? That I can doubt myself so much? I am just going to run it. I'm gong to run how ever I feel like it. I wont quit. I wont walk. I'll make it.. I just dont think it's going to be my best race...

Anyway - I'm trying to see if I can talk my friend, Leah into doing the Historic Half with me in May. It will be my first half marathon and I am positive that by then, I'll be able to run the 13.1 miles.

So that is what I will be training for now :)

3 runners die in Half Marathon

2009-10-19T09:52:00.000-07:00

My friend, Leah was supposed to sign up for this half. She lives in Michigan. This is just the saddest, eeriest, story..http://www.detnews.com/article/20091018/METRO/910180321/Three-runners-die-in-Free-Press/Flagstar-half-marathon.

It makes me worry about Aaron's half that's coming up in December. A half marathon is 13.1 miles. Aaron just finished a 20 mile run on October 10th so I hope that he'll be okay. The article says that as far as anyone knows, these guys that died we're all very healthy. I hope an autopsy is performend so they know what happend.

It just freaks me out. I mean, this is something that these men trained for. They're familes were there to watch, everyone was cheering them on. One guy even crossed the finishline before he died. I just cannot imagine what their families are going through. I mean, waiting, and waiting for their loved ones to cross the finish line just to find out that they had colapsed and died at mile 11. 2 miles short of the finish! I just can't wrap my head around it..

Many prayers to the families of these runners..

2009-10-17T15:37:00.000-07:00

<- I want this. It's made by Brooks and it's $80. I saw it in VA Runners this afternoon and tried it on. I'm in love. It's PERFECT for outdoor, cold weather running. It even has the long sleeves with the hole in it for your thumb and the mitten flaps for your hands so you don't have to wear gloves.

I'm praying that Santa brings it (before) Christmas. And he will if he know's whats best for him :)

VA Runner is really expensive, so we headed over to Target and found me some running pants -that I'm not thrilled about- and a long sleeve shirt to go under my Nike jacket that I wore today in the freezing cold rain.. bur.

My 3rd 5k!!

2009-10-17T10:23:00.000-07:00

Okay, I've totally ducked out of my half marathon and have decided to get a few more 5k's under my belt. Maybe even do a 10 miler somewhere in there. So I sigend up for this today: http://www.spotsylvania.k12.va.us/fms/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=WO59KIszKRE%3D&tabid=3993&mid=6266
And then I have a Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day. Aaron's going to run the Blue and Gray Half Marathon in December, then the Sweethearts (couples race) On Valentines Day. I think thats a 4miler.. or 5.. not sure.. and I'll run the Marine Corps Historic Half on May 16th!
Aaron will probably want to run it with me and it's the day after Benny's 2nd Birthday so hopefullllllyyyy my parents will be down to watch the boys.

Anyway, thats my planned schedule right now. I just hope I can keep it up. We're planning out going out today to look at running watches. I really want this one: https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=349 we're hoping to kind of get it for eachother for Christmas.

Oh and I ran in this ICK this morning. I did about 2 miles. It was raining and abour 40 degrees. I was miserable. I guess it's time to think about cold weather running gear.. blah.. more money.. can't I just win the lottery?

I swear I'm not a stalker.

2009-10-14T18:32:00.000-07:00

Meet Jillan. She's my "inspiration" that I've been talking about. She ran the 20 miler with Aaron. Anyway, shes awesome. She has ran almost every race this year. I have only come across a few where her name isn't on the finishers list. And she's always finishing in the top 5 for her (our ) age group. (she's 26) Her pace is around 8:36 a mile. Sweet.

I now want her to be my BFF. Seriously. I need a running partner! I need a MOTIVATED running partner. Someone who wont quit when it gets hard. Someone who is better than me so I can motivate myself to be a better runner.

I mean, she's a distance runner. I have decided that a distance runner is what I want to be. As long as my pace is under 10 minutes a mile, I'm golden.

Now.. I'm thinking about signing up for this Halloween 5k. BUT you are "encouraged" to wear a costume. WHAT? Okay.. what kind of costume amd I going to wear while I run? Maybe just paint my face?

Ideas? Suggestions? Thanks!

ps - I ran 4 miles on the stupid treadmil tonight. I hate that thing. Guess Id better get some cold weather running clothes.

Whoot whoot!

2009-10-13T19:23:00.000-07:00

I just ran 4 miles! FOUR!

So it probably doesn't seem like a lot to most of you BUT it's one mile closer to 5 Miles. 5 miles is pretty far when you think about it. (on foot anyway)

I want to sign up for a half marathon. I'm on the fence about it though because I have never ran more than 4 miles without stopping in my life. A half marathon is 13.1 miles. I think, maybe I should sign up for a 10miler first. Agh.. there is one on the 24th of October in Charlottesville, Va. But, thats so close. And I wouldn't have anyone to watch the boys. I would say Aaron could but he likes to be in every race that I'm in..

I want to continue my running, (Especially now that I have found more competition) I want to be good at it, I want to be able to say that 3 miles is just a warm up, and one day, I hope that I can. But reality is, this is probably just a phase for me. Although it's been a "phase" for almost a year now, I'm afraid that the day is going to come when it's, too cold. Or too hot. Or..I don't know.. just anything to keep me from going.

I had one of those days today but I overcame it. I only let myself have 2 days off at the most. But I'm so afraid that I'm going to give in to just wanting to sit down and watch tv with my family for once. That I'm going to give in to not having to take two showers a day, or do more laundry because my clothes are sweaty..

::Just had a sudden change of heart::

But, I'm not a quitter. I wont allow it. Running is something I need to do. I have finally made it part of my life. Theres no stopping me now! -insert smily face here-

"Stonewall" Jackson 20 miler.

2009-10-11T09:10:00.000-07:00

And they're off!!!

Aarons in the yellow shirt and "flappy shorts" As his Gunny calls them. Ha.

Waiting for Dad at the finish with our sign!

Noah became quick friends with the ChickFilA cow.

Cheering on the other runners as they finished

This girl- she's hard to see- in the green is my inspiration. She came in 2nd in my 5k last month and I looked up her name, she runs in every single race in the Fredericksburg area. She's a distance runner and SHE's who I want to be like. There for, she is the reason to keep training and (maybe) do that Half marathon in December. I know she'll be there..

HERE COMES DADDY!!!

An adorable finish with Noah!

Aaron with his sign.

Aaron and his Gunny who also ran it with him..

What a great day! My husband completed a 20 mile race. YES, 20 MILES! I know, I know, thats 6 miles short of a full Marathon and he'll get there.

I would say that he was hardly prepared for this race. He only ran a few miles here and there before it. We ran that 5k back in September and he ran a couple or 10 milers on his own.. he wasn't hydrated enough. He found that out after mile 10 when each of his legs cramped up and he had to hobble to the next water station to get them rubbed out only for them to cramp up again a half mile down the road.

I was expecting him around the 3hr30min mark and when he didn't show, I was starting to worry. I saw the ambulance go back in forth to pick up injured runners but no sign of Aaron. I knew he wasn't a quitter and if he was able to still use his legs to move, he'd make it across the finish one way or another..

Around 4 hours was when we saw him! When he saw the finish, he started to sprint. Which was a bad idea.. when he did, he just froze, jumped, and grabbed his theigh. He obviously had another cramp. He pushed through it though and crossed the finish line (with Noah) at 4:06. not sure of the official time yet.

He DID IT! How cool is it that he ran 20 miles? How many people do you know that can do that? Probably not many. And that's why he's my hero. He never gives up. He can't. I am beyond proud of him!

He's really sore this morning. He has to pull a 24 hour duty so he's at work when he should be here resting. He could barely make it down the stairs this morning. But he'll pull through. He's already talking about signing up for the half marathon in December.. we'll see..

Thanks for letting me share!

New personal best right hereee!

2009-10-07T16:22:00.000-07:00

I was thinking to myself the other day that I haven't been pushing myself. I usually just run 2 miles and thats that. Sometimes I'll do the hills, other times, I just do the neighborhood.

So the other day, I sat down at the computer and g-maped a new route. One that would be at least 3 miles. I mean, I've run two 5ks so 3 miles shouldn't be such a problem. But I just never push myself to do it..

The first day, I ran 3.02. I was pretty psyched. Not quite a 5k b ut pretty darn close. I took a day of rest, and the next day, I just ran the same route but added more to it. I took different roads that I really didn't knoe existed and figured that when I got home, Id G-map it and see how far it was.

I got home and g-maped it, and it was 3.5 Miles! I know that doens't seem like a lot to most people, especially runners, (like my Husband) who does that (plus more) on a daily basis. But that is a new personal recored for me! Never in my life have I been able to run 3.5 miles without stopping! I was, (and still am) "pleased as punch!" Now I'll shoot for 4 and then on and so forth until I'm running 5+ miles every other day..

Annd, January 6th marks the 1 year point that I decided to turn my life around. But, November of last year was when I started thinking about it.Haha.

I was 180 pounds and miserable. I truely thought that I was going to weigh that weight forever. That I had officially "let myself go" I was grumpy towards the boys, and to Aaron and just depressed about the whole situation. I couldn't believe that I had let myself gain so much weight when I was pregnant with Benjamin. It was sad and I was a sad sight..

As of today, I weigh 55lbs less then I did a year ago at this time. My weight is perfect,( it's almost too little)it's where I want it to be and I couldn't be more happy! I'm in a size 6 American Eagle and those are baggy. I have to wear a belt but I'm not quite into a size 4.. haven't tried 5's yet but I'm not about to go spend $50 on a pair of pants right before Christmas..

So, I just want to throw that out there - that it can be done. You can do it. You can lose the weight and feel better about yourself and your life. I did it.. and I'm not quitting now! Being healthy and exercising has become part of my life and it can be part of yours too! !

whoops

2009-10-06T13:18:00.000-07:00

"You're killing meee" was totally supposed to be on my http://speakerspeakingincode.blogspot.com/ blog.. whoopsy..

Anyway, I ran 3 miles around this stupid neighborhood the day before yesterday and then went to the gym and lifted.. now I'm sore... Took yesterday off, and now I'm due back at the gym. Problem is, I have a belly ache.

Do you ever get that nervous feeling? Like butterflies but really, they're bats because they're not the "good" butterflies..well, that's what I have. I get it every once in a while and it eats me. The last time I had it real bad was in 8th grade when my Grandfather had a heart attack while I was away at basket ball camp.. it hasn't been that bad since but I still get it and worry that something happened.. ya know?

It's hard living far away from friends and family. Things can happen and you're the last to know because you're, out of sight, out of mind, I guess.. I hate this feeling. Normally I can go for a run and it goes away.. so hopefully after dinner I can run it out.

On a different note, I'm DYING for new running sneaks!

You're killing meee

2009-10-05T11:40:00.000-07:00

I have always been in New York for Christmas. Every single year of my life. Even when I lived in North Carolina and Virgina. I always drove home. But this year, we just can't and my Mother is freaking out about it. I mean, she literally wrote me an email this morning saying that she was, "losing sleep over it".

This is so not fair! She know's that I want to be home with my family as much as she wants us to but we simply cannot afford it this year. There is too much going on. Aaron didn't pick up (because it's closed!) so that extra money we were hoping for, isn't there. Plus, this place that we're living at is sucking us dry.. (doesn't help that Gunner chewed a hole in the floor and that we're going to have to get all new carpets before we leave here in January.) We dont want to spend the money to drive 8 hours to NY. And Aaron doens't want to take the leave because he's trying to save as much as he can..

It just makes me feel like crap. I know that the main reason she wants us home is because she wants to be there when the boys open their presents. She doens't want to have to mail them.. but she knows that we're trying to save money and when she asks me every.single.day. about Christmas, it's like shes putting me on a crazy guilt trip. Ugh..

I just needed to vent. Sorry- -

I'm tired of living here.

2009-10-04T13:52:00.000-07:00

There isn't any place to run! I hate it. I feel like I'm always on Gmap-pedometer trying to figure out a safe route. Its all busy highways and dead ends around here and it's killing me! I'm just really tired of running the same 'ol route. I see the same things, day in and day out and I'm just bored with it. Itried a new route the other day but involves crossing a very busy intersection and a hill with no shoulder. (Gunner and I were almost flattened the other day running it) It's just frustrating. I want to live in an area that has a bike/running trail. Stafford sucks.

In other news, Aaron's 20 miler is THIS SATURDAY! Crazy, right? We drove the route last week and although it's very senic, 20 miles is a lot longer than you would think! I mean, it's 6 miles short of a marathon!

Speaking of marathons. I have agreed to sign up fo rmy first. It's in December, (yeah, cold) and although I know I'll finish it, I want to make a decent time. Right now, (and I calculated it) it's looking like a 2hr03mins if I keep the 9:26minute a mile pace (which I wont) So I would be pleased if I finished it in under 3 hours. So that's my goal.

I havent signed up (yet) because Aaron wants to run in it and if he does, that would mean we'd have to find someone to watch the boys - which is a royal pain in the ass.. especially since the race is at 7:17 in the morning. It's still dark out at that time in the winter!!

Anyway information can be found, here: http://www.halfmarathons.net/usa_half_marathons_virginia_va_runner_blue_gray_half_marathon.html

And in wicked awesome news - my size 8 American Eagle jeans are too big so I bought 5 pairs of 6's off my friend, Tonya for $50 (awesome deal!) and when I tried them on, they fit perfectly.. here it is no more than a week later and they're really big.. how on Earth do I lose that much weight in less than a week that I have to wear a belt with them?! Its great in all but it's also VERY annoying. One because I just bought 5 pairs and two, because I HATE wearing a belt and threeeee, because I dont have any money to buy a smaller size! Doohh!

The race

2009-09-21T10:41:00.000-07:00

Getting ready 6am

My Dad. Myself. Aaron

My Dad's finish

My finish (ugglly)

My "fake finish" What I wanted to look like

Our trophies!! I got 3rd. Aaron got 1st!

My Dad. Benji. Aaron. Me. And my Uncle Bill.
We all placed for our age groups!

The day started at 6am. We all got up, got dressed, and were out the door by 7. We got to the race just as the 1 mile fun run was taking off. I think it was for kids 14 and under and boy were they ADORABLE!

After we watched them, we went and picked up our chips. Which went around our ankles. i found my running buddy, Ashley and we lined up at the start together, Aaron was behind me, and my Dad and Uncle were just about last. The gun shot went off, and we were off!

The first mile was seriously killing me! We ran through a turf field and through the woods. (which I didnt know about until I was at the tree line) Which made it interesting. The course was out and back which sucked.. but it was also kind of fun because I had no clue where I was going.. just following, and trying to catch) whoever was in front of me.

I had my eyes set on this one girl who looked about my age.. she stayed in front of me for the 1st 2 miles and then I passed her. There were a few hills, too which is great because I eat hills for breakfast.. I really caught up to people on the hills and past about 5-6 of them.. and then I heard it.. I could hear his footsteps coming right behind me.. My Dad.. I can tell his run from anyone elses.. he started at the back of the pack and he was already going to pass me at mile 2! We ran side by side for the rest of the race until the end where I tried my best to beat him. We sprinted against each other to the finish.. I beat him, but he beat me in time since he started after me.

Anyway, all in all, I am VERY happy with my run.. I have a new personal record of 26:59 - which I found out this morning was the "official" time. I went around all day yesterday, telling people that it was 27:07.. I looked up the official time this morning and it's 26:59! Whew! I'm stoked about that!

I was determind to get 27 minutes at the most.. I'm so happy that I made my goal! It was a fun race and I'm glad that I did it. We're signing up for a Turkey Trot in Chantilly, Va and Ash wants to sign up for a 5k on Halloween. There is the Blue and Gray half marathon December 13th but I'm afraid I wont be ready for it.. we'll see..!

Twenty six

2009-09-17T16:54:00.000-07:00

Don't ask me why the picture is sideways. I suck at this stuff.. Buuut, my race number is 26 and that is my (wayyy to big) shirt!

Still not sure if Aaron's running or not.. we'll see come Sunday morning...

Ash and I went to pick up the packets and saw the majority of the track. It seems pretty sweet. Not just pavement! We get to run through a field! It'll be a nice change..

I ran 2 miles this morning and felt like dying. - Not sure if I posted about it yet- Guess thats what I get for taking an extra day off.. Hopefully things will start to shape up and I can get my breathing under control..

Today, my breathing was unreal. I couldn't catch my breath. And Gunner was being a pain in the ass.. like he's never run with me before. He was all over the place.. not focused like he normally is.. which, I guess, made me lose focus. Then I started worrying that I wasn't breathing right and after that happens, it's all down hill for me because I can't think about anything else.

How the hell am I going to sign up for a half when I can't even control a 3 miler? I guess I'm not doing as well as I thought I would be at this point..

There is a half marathon December 13th and I want to make it my new goal to run it.. sooo I need to get with it..

Race - 3 days!

how many days

2009-09-16T07:27:00.000-07:00

Okay so they don't look THAT bad.. but I like to show them off, anyway.. I feel better this morning, that arm is still pretty sore. Almost like I got a tetnis shot. Ya know?

So I'll run tonight. Aaron has duty all day tomorrow, my parents come Friday, so Aaron, my Dad, and I will probably run then, take Saturday off, and then the race is Sunday.. Phew!

I know its just a 5k but I get so nervous!

Anyway, Aaron's planning on running The Marine Corps Marathon in October! Isn't he insane? He really wants to do that so I'll update when he finds out more. I know that registration is closed but his Ssgt is signed up but is now injured and I guess you can transfer registrations to someone.. soo Aaron's probably going to take him up on that offer.. we'll see!

Trail running!

2009-09-15T09:01:00.000-07:00

So this is the result of trail running. Obviously, I fell because I am so clumsy.

My Grandparents came down for the night so they watched the boys while Aaron and I went on base and ran the trails. The trails are 5miles long but we only did half because it was getting dark. -so dark that I couldn't see in front of me and I tripped-

But, man was it fun! I was on a runners high all night long after running the trails. I think I did really well. I made it the whole way and even ran about a half mile more after I fell. It was sooo dark though! I mean, we left at 7 and it's dark by 8.. we're stupid.. but it was really the only time we could do it..

Anyway, I wish I could run the trails every time I run. Its easier (if you ask me) Because I don't focus on running. I focus on jumping over roots and watching my feet instead of staring straight ahead at the pavement.

The E-course on base is an obstical course. (we just ran the trail) But the trail itself is pretty crazy. There are a lot of big hills, mud hols, bridges, roots, and BIG rocks that you have to jump over..

I guess I'm still kind of on a runners high about it.. just typing about it makes me want to do it again..

The only thing that sucked was my fall. It sucks even more because the 5k is in 5 days. I'm sore but can still move enough to get around. I just hope it gets better before the race.. I have more pictures but I can't, for the life of me figure out the Blogger picture thing.. so I'll post 'em later..

2009-09-11T13:00:00.000-07:00

I did the hills again. I'll do them tonight as well.
The last time I did them, I had the most horrible cramp in my stomach.. It was so bad that I was practically shuffling my feet the last 1/2 mile. Luckily Gunner was still pulling strong after a mile and a half and pulled me the rest of the way..

But these "cramps" lasted the rest of that night til last night. I thought maybe my appendix was going to burst. It made it difficult to walk or even get up out of a chair. But I woke up this morning and they're gone. Hmph..

In other news, my shins are feeling much better! Well, well see how true that statement is after my run tonight.

I did go to my LRS and find out what was wrong with them tho.. and what was causing it. Apparently I run with my right ankle/foot tilted inward. That comes from tearing my ligaments in it so bad when I was younger. My right ankle is VERY weak and tends to tilt in which causing the shin pain. So, after they watched me run, they made shoe suggestions. I'm pretty sure I'll be buying new sneaks after my 5k on the 20th. So I'm PSYCHED about that!

5k - 9 days away!

Eating hills

2009-09-08T12:42:00.000-07:00

Did the hills Sunday night. I plan on doing them again tonight.

Looks like the weathers improving! It's been rainy all morning.

I'm so slacking on the C25K. One of my running buddies got hurt and she's been out so I have been taking it upon myself to run about 2 miles whenever I can. It's been every other day lately..but I'm also nursing a shin pain that just wont go away..

Oh and I want one of these: http://www.roadid.com/Common/default.aspx?referrer=4252&gclid=CN39m5Xk4pwCFcZM5QodRktpKQ

Ya know, just in case I get run over by a bus. Id like someone to contact my loved ones and I don't end up like this lady:http://dcist.com/2009/09/woman_struck_by_metrobus_did_not_ha.php

That is all for now. 5k in less then 12 days! (ps - how do I make those into links?) I suck at Blogging!

17 more days until 5k!

2009-09-03T18:25:00.000-07:00

This morning we ran on Main side again. I love it. The only thing I don't love is having to wear a glow belt. My glow belt fell right off of my hips today.. what a pain.

I did Week 5, Day 3. I was supposed to do Day 2 but decided to run the whole 20 minutes anyway. I brought Gunner and left the kids. I'm still unsure if I want to bring them with me to mainside because we're running in a lot of traffic and the double is just too wide for the shoulder.

Tomorrow, we're going to run at Lunga Lake on base. The road is gravel but I drove there today and tested the double and it seemed fine. I mapped out our miles and we'll be taking off at 7:30am. The only problem is, we might have trouble running on it because of the loose gravel and bigger stones. We'll see.

Anyway, back to running on base. Like I said before, I love it. I love running in a place where a lot of other people see you. It keeps me motivated. It keeps me from stopping. But more importantly, it keeps me distracted. I love being able to see different cars coming at me, different people running ahead or across the road from me, I love the trees and Smith lake on the other side of the road.. all of these things keep me from thinking about the task at hand. And I'm the type of person who does better when they're not thinking too hard about it. (if that even makes sense)

The 5k is in 17 days! Why am I so nervous about it? I don't know. I always get that way I guess. I even get nervous before my morning run.. just strange I guess..

Week 5

2009-08-31T10:48:00.000-07:00

I know I should be on like week 7 but I went home and my Ipod broke so I just ran 2miles every other day with Aaron so I'm not counting that towards the C25K.

Anyway, tomorrow starts Day 1 Week 5! Holy moly! And my 5k is only 20 days away!

My Dad and Mom are coming down for the weekend of the 5k. Dad's running it with Aaron and I and Mom's watching the boys.

I'm so nervous. I don't know why I psyche myself out about it so much. I know I can run it. I can run it without stopping and run it in under 30 minutes. Which is always my goal but I still get so nervous about it.

I just want to try and keep pace with Aaron or my Dad. I was going to keep pace with my Dad the last race but he just took up and finished the race 4 minutes ahead of me! LOL. But I should be faster by now and I'm praying that I can just keep up with one of them.

I also want to go to Virginia Runners and get myself some nice, fitted especially for me, shoes before the race. Maybe if we can find a little extra cash we can do that.

Anyway, Week 5, Day 1 tomorrow. We're going on base to run it so that means I get to wear a purdy little glow belt. Lol. I'm going to (try) to talk Aaron into watching the boys in the morning so I can just run by myself. If I do that, I'll bring the dog. If Aaron wont watch 'em, I'll take the boys and leave the mutt. I can't do both on base because the road just isn't wide enough..

I'll letcha know how it goes!

W3D2 Complete

2009-08-18T11:50:00.000-07:00

We're down a running partner. Ash went home to visit family. But Diana and I are still plugging along. We finished week 3 day 2 this morning. Tomorrow will be the final day of week 3. Then I go home. But I plan on continuing at home by myself.

Anyway, this morning started off hard like it normally does. Its take at least the first 2 intervals to get me "warmed up." And in week 3, there are only 4 intervals. So by the last two, I'm ready for more.

At the end of interval 4, I sprinted. Bad idea. Well, let me back track... last Friday, I did my normal run/walk in the am and that night, I wanted to go on the treadmill so I could get an accurate time for 3 miles.

So I hit the gym and do a mile easily (or so I thought) I did it on a 2% increase and ran it at 6mph. But when my 1st mile was up, I looked at the time and did it at 10minutes. Which really sucks because I was thinking that I had been improving a lot in time. I though atleast 8-9 minutes. So that was very discouraging.

So I walked for 2 minutes and then started up mile 2. I ran that at 1% and ran at a speed of 6.8mph. By the end of the mile, I was dying. Not with my breathing or anything but my shins we aching! so I stopped after the 2nd mile and my time was a whole minute faster. (Nice.) Buuut I totally injured my shins. (Not so nice)

Anyway, I couldnt stand the thought of trucking in another mile so I walked for a few minutes and quit. I was so disappointed in myself. I know better then to push that hard. I knew that I would most likely get hurt but I did it anyway becuase I'm obsessed with time. And that in itself is annoying. I should be worried about distance and stanama but I just cant get the thought of time out of my mind.

I think it all goes back to highschool. In highschool, you ran a mile like twice a year. Normally I ran it about 7-8 minutes. Once I ran it in 6. Which is awesome, I was a teenager then and I COULD run it that fast. I'm 25 years old. I shouldn't be worried about what my time was in highschool. It's just stupid.. but I think it's just that competitive part of me. Weather Im competing against myself or someone else, it's always a competition to me.. and that's my problem..

Anyway, I'm a little sore in the shins but Ive been trying to RICE it all day and we'll see how it goes tomorrow..

W2D3 Complete!

2009-08-12T12:13:00.000-07:00

Yeah, we kicked it's ass this morning.

It was nice and cool, sun was under some clouds, and we ran a different route. Which I like WAY better.

Friday when we go, I'm bringing my camera. I shouldn't have to take the boys so I should be able to snap some good pictures.

Oh annnd, I found out today that there is a 5k on Base on Saturday! I'm signing up. It's $30 normally but if Aaron and I do it, it's free I guess because it has something to do with his work. I dont know but I'll do anything that's free. Especially since we're trying to save as much money as possible for our trip home next week.

Anyway, here's the link:http://www.marinecorpshistorichalf.com/Left_Nav/MCM_Event_Series/RunStock.htm

and if you're interested, it even gives a download to see what the course is going to look like.

Now, I'm not positive that we're doing it yet. When I talked to Aaron, he said we'll talk about it when he gets home. (Which is tomorrow) but even if he would just watch the boys, I would love to be able to run this one by myself.. just to see how I could do ya know? But he probably wont let me because I know he wants to run it, too.. Hmph. I guess we'll have to suck it up and take the jogger. That is the reason we bought it, isn't it? Well, yeah it is but boy does it suck to run with.

Anyway, I'll update once I know more..

As for the C25K ladies - keep up the awesome work! I'm so psyched that so many of you have joined! We're really kicking its butt! Has anyone else signed up for a 5k yet? C'mon ladies! You can do it!

W2D3 (C25K)

2009-08-11T16:43:00.000-07:00

Well, today was the start of week 2 day 2. Tomorrow will be week 2 day 3. Not sure how many we're going to be doing for week 2. We've just kind of been doing whatever. You're supposed to do 3 times a week, one day one, one day off.. but when we started last week, we started Tuesday (I think) and ran Wednesday, Thursday, Friday. I guess we feel like we're getting a foot up because we're not skipping a day. We allow the weekeds for rest. Although we don't completely rest. We'll normally walk one night and run one morning.

Our 5k is in 6ish weeks. The program is supposed to take you 9 weeks so I think we're kind of stepping it up because we didn't allow ou sleves enough time before we signed up for this 5k.

I'm excited to see what my time will be. I know it's all about running distance and taking your time but for me it's not. I have to beat a certain time.. it's my goal.. that's all.

Here we are. Lets compare.

2009-08-07T09:23:00.000-07:00

This is me at 170lbs in June of 08.

The picture with the belt is from Feb 6th 09 and the picture with my black tank top on is from today (aug 7th 09) Cuz I can't figure out how to put the pictures side by side. I suck at blogging.. =/

Okay, so I dont see much of a difference between Feb and Aug. but there is. Weight wise anyway. On Feb 6th, I weighed 141. Today, I weigh 131(ish.) So what you're looking at is a 10lb difference. Nice. Still have the crappy stretch marks but so does every other Mom I know. I'll live with it. I like to think of them as my battle scars! :)

Some pictures.

2009-08-07T09:07:00.001-07:00

This is my stomach as of August 7th 2009

Still not "flat" But we're getting there

These hills are the reason I'm getting into better shape

And these ladies are my motivation

Oh, and these cute little guys too. :)

I would love to post some pictures of my legs.. but right now Aaron's working and I had a hard enough time getting the self timer to work for my stomach.

I know some people are reading this and probably thinking, "Get over yourself, Jackie"(I know I would..lol) But ya know what, I work hard and I am proud of what I'm doing and how far I have come. If you don't like it, don't read it. I deserve to have a little pride and God forbid a little confidence once in a while.

I'm getting there. As of right now, I am 10lbs from my goal weight of 120. My goal for this month was to get down to 125 before I go home. (which is August 20th) I think, if I work real hard and eat real healthy, I can get there. Problem with that is, I wont have any clothes to wear! LOL

That's the worst part about losing/gaining weight. You have to go out and buy an all new wardrobe! I think I have one size 6 pants that I'll be able to wear when I get down to 120. Thats it..

Anyway, I'm going to go back to my January posts and dig up my before pictures and compare. I hope I see a big difference!

And to all of my fellow C25K followers - KEEP IT UP! You're doing awesome! I'm so happy that I get to share something like this with you all! You inspire me!

Things I need for my workout.

2009-08-06T11:50:00.000-07:00

My double jogger and 2 kids(Ben not pictured)

My trusty k9

My Ipod Nano

My kick ass Sigg water bottle

And my awesome Nike RunChi's

I've started this: http://www.c25k.com/ It's basically a site that will get you running a 5k in 9 weeks. It rocks. Now, I've already ran my 1st 5k buuut this program kicks butt and if it's going to help me improve then you bet your ass I'm doing it!

If you download the pod casts, it'll walk/run you through the whole 9 weeks. It tells you when to run and when to "walk briskly" It also has some nice motivation words thrown in there.

My neighbors and I have decided to take the challenge. we started Tuesday and have gone every day since. Although the program wants you to take the day on, day off approach, we feel we can run week one over 5 days instead of 3. And we also think there is less chance of us quitting as the weeks get harder. PLUS, our 5k is in 7 weeks instead of 9 so we have to crunch and work really hard and do more work if we want to make it.

If everything goes as planned, we'll be at the starting line on September 20th at 8am. My goal: 25 minutes. Can I do it? I have no idea.. but I'd like to find out. I'm going to try and keep pace with Aaron. And he can run it in 22 or less.. so we'll see..

More updates to follow.

September 5k

2009-08-03T12:31:00.000-07:00

My neighbors, Diana and Ashley have been walking the "hills" with me every day for a month now. Ash and I do 3 miles in the morning and 3 miles at night and then we run on either Saturday or Sunday. Leaving one day of rest.

I showed them this: http://www.c25k.com/
(Couch to 5k)
It's awesome and we're starting the program tomorrow. We have 7 weeks. (even though the program takes 9) to get ready for our 5k. I figure we've already got a nice head start considering we've been kicking the "hills" asses for over a month now. Plus, Ash and I have been running..

So they're coming up in a half hour and we're registering for it.

Aaron and I are supposed to do a 5k while we're back home but he's having second thoughts. He thinks we're not going to have enough time while we're home and the race is an hour away. BUT, I really want to do it. And my Dad does, too! He even bought new running shoes. So maybe just me and my Dad will sign up. We'll see. But in the mean times, I'm signing Aaron and I up for this 5k in Stafford:http://www.racetimingunlimited.org/ The Margaret Brent PTO 5k.

And what are we going to do with the boys you ask? I have no idea.. we'll have to figure that out when the time comes.. LOL

My second 5k

2009-07-27T19:24:00.000-07:00

So, it's in the works. Just have to call my Dad and see if he wants to run it with Aaron and I. It's in Albany, NY(http://www.altamont5k.org/) and it looks like there is going to be a crazy amount of people compared to my 1st one with no more than 60.

My first 5k time was 29:38 (I think) and I won 1st place for my age group (20-26) which isn't saying much, considering there were only about 60 people racing. But, it did make me feel good. I felt especially good because I was under 30mins. And that was my goal. I was fairly new to running so I still wasnt sure of breathing, and pace, and all that fun stuff. Now, I'm pretty positive that I've got it down. I only run outside because the weather is fantastic so I haven't hopped on the treadmill to see what I can do 3.2 miles in yet but, the next rainy day, I'm going to.

My 1st 5k, Aaron literally had to push me at one point to keep me from stopping. I'm pretty sure I'm not going to need that this time. But that could be me just being overly cocky. But I've worked really hard at this running thing, and I believe that I can do it.

My goal time is:
27mins. It would be awesome if I could keep up with my Dad (who got 25mins at my first 5k) and maybe I will.. but it would be BETTER, if I could keep pace with Aaron. (who can do it in 22minutes or less)

Either way, I can't wait to hear from my Dad so we can all sign up together!

My 1st post

2009-07-22T19:05:00.000-07:00

This was my first weight loss blog post. Jan 06th 09

This is my weight loss blog

So my new blog as of Jan 6,09

My neighbor and I are tired of being fatasses so we've started running. Yesterday was our first day. We went to the gym on base and hit up the tredmils. We made it our goal to run a mile without stopping. Which we did. But holy hell! I have never in my life run a mile in more than 8 minutes! That's when I knew I was waaaay out of shape! It took me 13mins and 19secs. It was really depressing.. buuut we have decided to stink with it so far and ran again tonight. We didn't go to the gym. We just ran outside in our neighborhood. And the weather is crap! Raining and 32drgrees! Buuurr.. so we bundled all up and ran another mile. But we did it waaaay faster this time. About 8 minutes! I have no idea what was going on at the gym..

So anyways, this will be my own little weightloss blogger thingy. I am determined to get rid of this mommy pooch and fat thunder theighs before hubber and I go to Puerto Rico in September. I HAVE to look decent in a bikini! I HAVE to! Or else I'm not going.. '

So, as of today. Jan 6th,09 I weigh in at 145lbs. My goal - 130lbs.. or 125 would be great.. no wait.. okay I'm going to make my goal 120. That is what I was before I got pregnant with Noah..

Okay so goal weight - 120lbs by September.. that shouldnt be too hard! Yay

SO...
As of this morning. (July 22nd 2009) I weighed in at 131lbs. So in 6 months I've lost 14lbs. I think thats pretty kick ass. All of it has been from working out and eating better. I'm no longer flabby and unhealthy. I'm toned and I feel great!

And here is my "LIST" that I made back in January of goals that I wanted to accomplish by September.. lets see how I'm doing:

1-To feel better about myself. I'm sick and tired of being self conscience about what I look like.
2-To keep up with Aaron.
3-To keep up with my kids. I want to be able to run and play and all that fun stuff.
4-To wear a bikini in Puerto Rico!
5-To live longer!
6-To have a better attitude towards things. Life in general and being healthy and losing weight helps with that.
7-To wear shorts even! I never wear shorts, EVER and it'd be nice to not have to worry about my flabby legs anymore.
8-To run more than 3 miles without stopping
9-I have no reason to be over weight. I'm 25 (or will be in 2 days) and am at my prime.
10- To fit into a 5 again

Well, I feel way better about myself and am way less self conscience.
I still strive to keep up with Aaron but on a dead sprint, he kicks my ass.
I can keep up with the kids.
We're not going to Puerto Rico now but I still wear a bikini and feel good about it
I hope I'm prolonging my life by staying active
I have a way better attitude. Even Aaron says I'm less grumpy.
I wear SHORTS! Me! I do! Crazy, right? But I've got some kick ass toned legs and I'm not afraid to say it.
Ive ran a 5k without stopping (3.2 Miles) and I got an even better time then I thought I would. (under 30 minutes)
I'm not over weight. I weight 131.
Annnnnnd grand finale--- I can fit into an American Eagle size 6. Okay, so it's not a 5.. buuut it's a 6 and I'll take it. (for now)

It's July. And all of these goals were to be accomplished by September. I think I'm ahead of myself. I'm kind of excited. I love seeing that fat girl just being erased from my life. I love being in shape and looking good! I dont care if you dont think I look good, I feel it and thats all that matters! (see what I mean? I totally have a better attitude!)

I love the new positive Jackie.

In a few days, I'll make another list of goals and then 6 months from now, I'll see where I'm at.

Hills

2009-07-07T19:34:00.000-07:00

This is the "hill" that I try to walk everyday. It's pretty massive. Can you imagine running it? Me neither. Aaron runs it like it's his job though. LOL This is at the top, looking down

This is the weight that I push. LOL. About 70lbs of cuteness.

This is me, half way up.

Oh, and this is the bottom..

FINISHED!

Anyway, this is just one of the hills. If you get to the top of this one, you'll come to an intersection. Go straight through it and there is another mile of hills. Only one is as steep as this but there are also more. The other "hills" are the ones I run.. they're still pretty rough.. but man do you feel a nice burn afterwards.

All together it is 3 miles. I walk them regularly. At least once a day. Now Ive got my neighbor doing it with me and we're going to try and start doing it twice a day. And on the days when she doesnt want to or can't, I'll run. (as long as Aaron is home to watch the boys b/c I still haven't gotten my double jogger)

I'm getting there. Still stuck at 135. But hey, it's not 140!

Dreaming

2009-06-22T18:35:00.000-07:00

I had a dream last night that was so frustrating!
I dreamed that I was running a 5k back home. I was trying to get an awesome time.. but everything just seemed to get in my way.. something was always preventing me from actually making it over the finish line! I even woke up tired! LOL

Do you ever have those kinds of dreams? I wonder what they mean. ..

I had to go out tonight and run just to make sure I could! I just ran 2 miles but I did it easily.. which is nice to finally be able to say.. okay, well.. I can run about a mile and a half easily.. the last half mile, I'm about dead..

I ran the same a few nights ago. I've been taking Gunner to wear him out. I'll take him on the first mile and then drop him at the house and run the next mile. He's normally dead by the time I get him home but it makes him less hyper at night..

I was down to 134. Not sure if I posted that or not.. but got on the scale this morning and was 135.. darn.. but, I'm getting there.. the other day, I actually refused 5 Guys! And if anyone knows what 5 Guys is and how much I LOVE it, you know I'm being serious about eating right. .

do I always have to have a title?

2009-06-20T08:22:00.000-07:00

Ive been walking the hills every night for abour 4 days and 2 days ago, I ran 2.1something miles. Which surprized me because I didn't think it was that far. I felt like I could have went forever though. I took Gunner with me on the first lap but he was slacking.

I'm down to 134lbs! Thats -3lbs in a little over a week. Ive been watching what I eat and trying to get out and exercise every night.

I think what started it all was camping. Aaron and I drank water the whole time. Nothing else and bearly ate because we were so busy. We're going camping again this weekend (27th) so maybe I can do the same thing. I would Love, love, lovee to get down to 130 before this weekend buuut I doubt that'll happen. Especially today since it's thundering and raining out right now. Bummer. I could always go to the gym though..

My 1st 5k!

2009-05-21T19:53:00.001-07:00

Saturday, May 16th, I ran my first 5k. (I have no idea why this is being underlined right now. LOL) In the picture below, it's my Dad in the blue and Aaron in the green with the Camel Back on. My Dad said that he would run at my pace but then saw the guy ahead of him that always wins the race for his age group so he booked it. Dad's official time as 25:44 and he got 2nd place for his age group! AND he beat the guy that he was trying too! He kicked butt!!

Luckily for me, Aaron ran at my pace.The kid can run a 5k in under 22 minutes but stuck by my side, anyway. And I am so glad that he did! He literally was pusing me at one point. LOL! He was such a great motivaitor. He let me run ahead of him at the finish line so I would have a better time and he even told me how proud of me he was. I love that guy! On to the pictures. None were very good and I'm kinda disapointed by that because I wanted to get a frame of us finishing our 1st 5k together but we'll have to make do with what we have.. . .

Starting out.
Booking it to the finish line!
My arms a flailing!
FINISHED! 29:38!

t minus 5 days

2009-05-11T07:56:00.000-07:00

Until the 5k! Man am I nervous! Especially considering I can only run 2 miles and a 5k is 3.2!

I've been running every day since I've been back in NY with the exception of yesterday (sunday = rest day) I plan on running tonight although I have no motivation to.

I still can't complete 3.2 miles on my runs. But I know, that when the day comes, I will be able to. I'm not much of a quitter. Especially when I know people will be watching. I'm just worried about my pace and breathing. And most importantly (to me) time. I doubt I'll be able to run it in under 30 minutes but I would be estatic if I could! Every mile that I run is at least 10 minutes though. If I could get myself down to 9 or even less, that would help, A LOT! But in 5 days, I doubt it'll happen.

In other news, I'm down to 137! Finally past 140 (for now!) Thank goodness! I was so sick of getting on the scale every single day and seeing 140 or above.. I just hope I can keep it this way.

I have been eating healthier since Ive been home. Lots of bananas. Which I love. And potassium rocks! So I know that eating right is obviously playing a great role in how much better I feel about myself..

Ive also notice d my love handles shrinking! YES! Now if I could just get rid of this awful stretch marks! LOL

I probably wont post again until after the race.

Ya know what..

2009-04-24T13:38:00.001-07:00

I feel good about myself. Well, not good enough that Id want to prance around in a bikini..But good enough. I went from 180something pounds and now I'm at 137lbs in just under a year. Granted I will credit most of that to breastfeeding.. but I did and have been working out ALOT.

I mean, when I look at myself in the mirror, I don't see that fat face. (Aaron once called me a butterball. Lol) I don't see massive love handles AND when I look down, I can actually see my feet past my belly!

When I put my hands on my waist, I actually feel hip bone and not thickness of fat and I LOVE that feeling! I still have a wicked ass but it's slowly shrinking, too. Plus, Aaron likes my ass big. Ha.

Anyway, I guess you could say that I'm proud that I didn't just sit around and become an over weight slob like I wanted to. I want to bit fit and healthy for my kids and these days, there are som many Mom's who just kinda let them selves go. I mean, I gained 30-40lbs when I was pregnant with Noah and after I had him, I only got back down to 140 before I was pregnant with Benji. With Benji, I gained 40 MORE pounds.. and thought that I would NEVER see a size 5 again... well, I'm getting there and sooo happy about that!

So the 5k is May 16th. I got the route from my Mom and it actually looks pretty easy. Problem is (right now) that I can bearly run and mile and a half without wanting to quite.. thats from going so long without running because I was sick the first few weeks in April.

Today is my 2nd day of running. I have only been running a mile a dayt..I hope to go again tomorrow but my friend, Erica is coming down for the day. She said she'll be here by 10am so I hope I can get up and out the door before then.

I told Aaron today that I was so afraid that I wouldn't be able to keep up with my Dad when we do the race. Or even worse, get beaten by my overweight realitive..I just need to push myself and sometimes, I just can't find the motivation.. its hard. .

Althought, I was 1 minute faster on my mile this morning. I'm at 9mins. I would love to be down to 8 or better yet, 7 before the race.. it's only 3 weeks away which means, I can only spare a few days off.. we'll see!!!

Finally

2009-04-19T11:20:00.000-07:00

Finally. I am feeling better! Still blowing my nose every hour but that beats every second, right?

So, I ran this morning, and boy did it kick my butt. I told myself I would do 4 laps, (which is 2 miles) but I didn't. I did 3 and died. So I only did 1.41 miles. Or thats what the Google Pedometer says anyway.

So tomorrow is another day and hopefully I can run at least 4. My Dad starts running on Wednesday and I'm sure he'll kick my butt in the 5k.. but I have to try to beat him! Lol

I have managed to get down to 137lbs! So that's nice. We've been eating ALOT healthier, too!

Thats it for now.

Well, shoot.

2009-04-09T10:37:00.000-07:00

It's been 9 days since I last ran?! Holy moly!

Well, I ran in the rain. And it was cold so I got sick. Still am sick. Hate being sick! But I'm starting to get over it. I can bearly breathe at night.

I havent been running. I know, I'm supposed to be training for a 5k and at this rate, my 50something year old father is going to whoop my butt..(well, he will anyway because he's in the best shape, ever! But I would have like dto have a chance to beat him)

So, I'll have to start Saturday(again) Aaron has duty tomorrow. All day and night so I wont be able to do much of anything. .

BUT, believe it or not, I am down 2 lbs! So 138 baby! I'm getting there.. .

I hate rain

2009-04-01T19:14:00.000-07:00

I bearly made it 1.88 miles. I was pushing for 2 but was just shy. Didnt find out later until I googled it.. oh well..

Did a different route today. SO boring! It's 7 laps around the townhome complex.. and it sucks.. I mananged to do 4 before I quit. Id rather do the hills.

Tomorrow's another day..

2.24 miles

2009-03-29T15:41:00.000-07:00

On the hills today! 2.24 is purdy darn good if ya ask me. Too bad I'm BEAT.
Since we've been running the hills, I've always thought that Aaron and I were running the same direction. Turns out, we've been running the oppisite way from eachother. Where I go right, he goes left.. haha.. so today, he's running my way and tomorrow I'll run his. Just to see if the hills are any different. He says that he has one killer hill and I'm wondering if it's any worse than my killer hill. We'll see..

He's trying to run 3.2 miles. He's kinda crazy..

I ran by myself. Ashley and her hubby walked the hills earlier. But I've come to the conclusion that I do better when I'm alone anyway.. not sure why..

So.. hopefully I'll start seeing some moe weight loss here soon. I've got 20lbs to drop and I'd like to do it before the 5k in May.

I have a feeling that these hills are going to make it hard for me to stay motivated so I might have to switch it up a little. I HAVE to run tomorrow because Tuesday Aaron has duty. Tuesday will probably be my off day. According to this training schedule that I found online, you should have two off days a week. One completely off and another you stil should run but just not as far.

And that's that =]

Screaming from the hill tops!

2009-03-28T16:02:00.001-07:00

So day 1 was awesome!

1.6 miles ALL HILL BABY! I am so darn proud of myself!

1.6 miles seems like nothing but if you saw the hills, you'd faint. I pushed so hard and did it and I don't care if I sound like a jerk, I kicked ass!

I warmed up with my Biggest Loser dvd. So 10 minutes with that and I started out. On the way, I saw my neighbor and she asked to come. I said sure if I could take her dog, Max.. so we went. I was so proud of her, too! She made it wasy farther than I thought she would. She's shorter than me so she's always going to be a litle behind and while she was on the last hil going down, I was starting back up that same hill. I thought Max would pull me up 'em. Yeah. no he didnt.. he was too worrid about Ashley so he was all over the place, trying to slow down to look for her.. he was dragging me down.. lol

WE DID IT!

We'll see how we feel about it tomorrow LOL - Aarons running it now and I"m going to give te boys a bath =]

My 1st 5k!

2009-03-28T11:21:00.000-07:00

Well, my Dad called me this morning to ask how my running was coming along. (ha) And asked me if Aaron and I would want to run a 5k back home in May with him. Awesome!

So now on to the training! The last time I ran was what, 3-4 days ago. So now I realy have something to work for! I'm excited! Aaron and I went to Dicks and I bought myself a new tank top and a new runners jacket (I guess thats what you call it) Because it's so nasty here with the rain and all.. it never seems to stop.

So, I'll be running tonight after he gets back. (he took Noah to see Monsters VS. Aliens) and I will try to run every day until the race.

My goal is to master the big hills out back. If my 50 yea old father can do it, there is no reason I can't!

Yay for motivation!

another mile outside

2009-03-24T19:35:00.000-07:00

My neighbor called this afternoon and has decided to stat getting into shape(again) She asked me if I wanted to take a run and at first, I said no becuase there was so much stuf f to be done around the house. But the more I thought about it, the more I thought, why not.. So I threw on my sneaks and met her at her house. We took her black lab, Max.. and ran the hills.

I think I did AWESOME! I ran those hills like it was my job. My neighbor had asked me to take her dog since he wanted to run with me because I was a little ahead. So I took him and he actually helped! When I thought I was going to quit up one hill, he'd pull harder. WHich makes me even more excied for our pup, Gunner. I hope that hes going to like running. Because between Aaron and I, theres going to be alot of it. :)

So it felt good to get out there again. ANd since the weather is starting to get nice, I hope to be able to run everynight again - just like going to the gym :)

blah

2009-03-23T13:03:00.000-07:00

Thats how I've been feeling about working out lately. The last time I worked out was the day before I went to Mrytle Beach soo.. Tuesday.. I did the elipitical for 30 minutes while my Dad walked omn the treadmill..

Today I walked 2.26 miles (mainly uphill) though! And pulling a wagon with two boys in it! So that was a pretty good workout. I bet if I did that once a day Id get some muscles!

Major slacker over here!

2009-03-13T16:10:00.000-07:00

Well, I havent done anything since my last post.

I thought that I was going to make exercising a huge, everyday part of my life. Obviously, I havent. And I have no excuse for it.. none..

I'm hoping that I can get back into the swing of things here once the weater turns nice so I can continue running outside. My goal is going to be 3 miles outside. Once I can do that, and do it easliy, I will have reached my goal and then I'm going to make Aaron sign up for a 5k with me..

We'll see.. c'mon nice weather!

Running outside

2009-03-10T12:36:00.000-07:00

Sucks. Haha. I mean, I suck at it! I ran a mile outside for the first time since.. well, we were stationed at Lejeune.. and it was hard!

I didn't believe anyone when they said that running outside was so much different than running on the treadmill but now I do..

I started out front of our house and ran Aaron's normal route. He was watching me out te window and said that my first mistake was starting out too fast. And I totally agree because I was so winded by the first hill.

But, I made it. And I plan on getting better. I mean, I HAVE the ability, and the stanema (I guess) but since I was running at no incline on the treadmill, the hills outside killed me.. but I'll get there!

Other than that, I'm still stuck at 140lbs. Can't seem to shake it..

How is everyone else doing?!

The usual

2009-03-03T11:54:00.000-08:00

Went to the gym this morning. Almost thought about taking my boots and then changing into my sneaks because there is so much snow. But, I made it.

Ran 2 miles on the treadmill and did 5.5, almost 6 miles on the darn bike. Have I mentioned how much I hate that thing!? Haha. But it's good that I hate it because it's almost like everytime I get on it, I can't let it defeate me. I MAKE myself do atleast 20 minutes on the Rolling Hills which gets up to a level 5 resistance. Blah.

So after the treadmill and bike, I just did my normal arms and went home. Was at the gym for an hour. Normally I only go for about 45 minutes. Ive decided today that the least amout of time I'll go to the gym is going to be an hour. No less..

I try and keep my heart rate at 165-170. Not sure if that's good or bad.. but when I drop below, it gives me more motivation to push just a little harder.

Also today on the treadmill, I did most of my run at an incline of 1. Normally I just run flat but it's time to step it up since the warm weather is coming and I want to run outside. Got to be able to make those hills!

Aaron was supposed to start running outside March 1st but that was delayed because of the crazy snow and he had a wicked headcold. He still works his ass off at work when he has duty. He brings in his Iron Gym and Perfect Push ups and does those all night.. the kids pretty buff =]

We'll see how tomorrow goes. Not sure how Aaron's work day is going to be like so I might make it to the gym or I might just do my Biggest Loser Dvd..

beat

2009-02-27T06:39:00.000-08:00

I'm slacking big time!

Before lastnight, I hadn't been to the gym in 4 days. (although I did work out a home in little spirts after the boys went to bed)

So lastnight I went. Did 2 miles on the treadmill and 5.5 on the stupid bike. I hate that thing! I do the Rolling Hills option and it just kicks my butt. I only do it for 20 minutes but it really is a workout.. Feels nice when it's over though. On top of the bike and the treadmill, I did my arms. 1 set of 15 on each..

Might go tonight depending on what time Aaron gets out of work and how long dinner takes to eat and clean up..

Aaron's ben slacking too. But he's starting to run outside on March 1st. I'll probably do the same once I can lay out a running route.. thats one thing I hate about here! There is no place to run!

2009-02-21T07:56:00.000-08:00

So this morning, I was up at 6 because poor Benji is very sick. I took him down, cleaned him up and fed him some breakfast. Then he took a bottle around 8:30 and I put him up to sleep.

Aaron and Noah were still sleping so I hopped into my gym clothes and hit it up. Brrr it was a cold walk though!

I ran 1.5 miles on the treadmill -which was nothing compared to the 3 I did the other day- I had ful intentions of running 3 again but my darn haedband flew of and my hair was in my face and that was all I could think about. It kept distracting me.. and thats a crappy excuse but whatever.

I stopped at 1.5 and got off and did my arms. Then walked over to the bike and did Rolling Hills for 20 minutes which equaled out to 5.5miles. So all in all I think I burned more calories today than I did just running the 3 miles the other day. So I'm happy with myself.

I'm trying to change my eating habbits but man, I just love to eat and that kind of makes it hard. I took Ramee's advice and had my cup of Cheerios this morning before the gym but afterwards, I get so hungry. After my shower, I ate one of my Special K bars (which a SO delish!) and now I'm Jonesing for something else. It is almost lunch time. I think I'll have a ham sanwhich or maybe even turkey on some whole wheat bread.. we'll see. .

Gotta get back to wiping runny noses!

3 miles!

2009-02-19T10:09:00.000-08:00

I did it! I ran 3.05 miles today without stopping! Can you belive it?! I can't. I mean, just the other day, I was so discouraged because I was only doing 1.5 miles. And today, I just blew that out of the water! I did 2 miles without looking down. I looked down and saw 2 miles, and was like, "well, I guess I could try and do 2.5".. and when I hit 2.5, I said to myself, "well, you might as well try and make it to 3.. just try" and I did!

So needles to say, I'm wicked proud of myself. I think Ive got a method now, too. Well, this is what I did today- I did the first 1.5 at a speed of 5.8 and then I slowed that baby down to 5.4.. I ran at 5.4 for another half mile. And then sped it back up to 5.6-7 for the rest of the way. So it was nice not to have to stay at a certain speed.

I ran for 33 minutes! Now my goal is to run for an hour. And at the way I'm going, hopefully I can reach that goal in the next 2 months. I mean, Its only been a little over a month since I even started running and I can run 3miles.. When I first started (Jan 6th) I could hardly even run one mile..

I'm excited to be keeping up with this. On days like today, I feel good - I feel like this is something I can keep doing and something I WANT to keep doing and more importantly, something I NEED to kep doing.

4 days!

2009-02-15T14:12:00.000-08:00

It has been 4 days since I hauled my butt to the gym! That is unacceptable. And pathetic.

So I went this mornin. I did a mile and a half on the treadmill to start off with and then 15 minutes on the bike. After the bike, I did one set of 20 on each arm weight machine and then hopped back on the treadmill for another half mile. So all in all, I think I did okay. Just 2 miles all together on the treadmill but I also did the bike(which I don't normally do)

And one thing that flipping rocks issss I'm down to a size 8 American Eagle jeans!! Heck yea baby! I put 'em on and they aren't too tight, or too lose.. just right! Now if I can only keep it that way..

In bad news though, I'm up 5lbs.. so I'm exactly at where I started at a month ago. I guess maybe it's muscle? Because even when I was at 140, I wasn't quite fitting into these size 8 jeans..

Who knows... but now I have a problem.. not to sure exactly what it is but my right knee is busted.. busted like it's difficult to walk up the stairs, busted.. but it didn't effect my running today. Which I totaly thought it would. Aaron says it's because I run wrong. And I'm sure he's right but I just can't quite grasp the way he's telling me to run when I'm actually on the treadmill.. I don't know..