Workouts

In case you haven't noticed.  I really like to workout.  I love to run.  I am even almost where I like to swim.  I just wish I was better at it.  I have been struggling lately.  I run about 2 to 3 times a week.  But, I feel like I have hit a stand still.  I'm not gaining weight.  But, I'm not getting any thinner. 

My goal would be to look as fit as I feel.  I just hate that I don't look like I workout.  I want to be lean and have toned muscles.  That doesn't mean I want to be a bodybuilder.  Just fit and healthy.  But, for some reason I'm not getting there. 

I need to find a something new that will challenge my body.  When I first started running a few years ago, I dropped some weight.  But, I was much more toned.  I ran my first and only half marathon that year.  Running is my first choice for excersice.  I think my body has become accustomed to my running routine.  I have been trying different interval workouts.  Which is giving me some much needed confidence.  We ran some 1/4 mile repeats.  It was encouraging to see that I could keep up a fast pace for short distances.  I just wish I could put a whole mile together with that time.  And then mutliple miles at that pace.  But, we all have to start some where. 

I am currently looking for new ideas for workouts.  I have tried a few different things.  I need to shock my body into burning more fat off my backside! I will post more on what I can come up with.  I am a very simple person.  I don't want to use a whole bunch of equipment.  I don't feel it is necessary.  I will be trolling Pinterest for some ideas. :)

I also need to tackle my diet.  I try very hard to stay away from things I know I shouldn't.  But, when a cake is staring me in the face.  I just can't help it.  But, diet is a topic for another day.

Hope everyone has a great Tuesday!

Update

It has been a while since I have been on here.  I just thought I would put a little update on here.  I haven't been doing a very much of anything lately.  I have been busy trying to get kids back to school and work with both businesses.  Just like everyone I have my down moments. 

I have been trying to shake up my fitness routine with some different types of exercises.  I have been trying my hand at some at home Crossfit exercises.  It has really showed me that I have been very one sided with my workouts.  I really am going to try to incorprate more strength training into my routine for the next few months.  I like the sore feeling I get from working different muscles. 

Last night I had to to 20 lunges and 10 pushups for 5 rounds.  Sounds easy? Right?  Well, I absolutely hate lunges!  I'm so afraid that I'm going to hurt my knees.  Man! I'm sore today!  So I must have done them right! :)

Well, I will try to keep you up today on my workouts and goals.  I hope you all are doing well!  Talk with you again soon!

Running News

I know I haven't posting much lately.  It has been crazier then usual around here.  The kids have started summer swim.  So we have practices and meets all the time.  We enjoy watching them so it is great fun for everyone. 

Since I posted last I have ran two races.  With TWO PR's! 

The first race was a 5k race at a local Elementary school here in town.  I haven't been feeling well.  So my hopes for a PR weren't the high.  But, since I hadn't ran a 5k in a couple years, I was hopeful that I could pull something out.  And I did!  Just a little one.  I still have high hopes for getting my time down. :)

The second race was just this past weekend.  It was at our local Strawberry Festival.  It was a 4 mile race with some nasty hills!  This is the first race I ever ran as an adult.  Each your I improve.  But, I really wanted a big PR.  Still not feeling well the week leading up to the race.  I wasn't sure I was gonna run.  But, I woke up feeling good that morning.  So I thought I would give it a shot.  I kept telling everyone that it was just a 4 mile training run for me.  (Like I am really training!)  But, that way I just kept my expectations low.  And I could stay relaxed.

We took off right on time.  (Which I always love!)  Ran down past my house and my husband and kids were there waiting to see us run by.  We made it to the first mile marker in a great time. 

First mile was a 9:05 pace.  My friend that I  always run with was super excited about this!  I just kept saying stay relaxed.  We separated a bit before mile 2.  But, we were both still on pace to stay below a 10:00 mile pace.  Which with this course I will take. 

Right before mile 3 was the huge hill that everyone always talks about.  It is just plain mean!! I made my was up the hill from hell.  Mile 3 marker was at 28:39.  Nice pace.  Just one mile left.  I was so tired from the heat.  But, I kept going!  Slowly but still going. 

I ran the last half a mile with another girl.  We chatted about how hot it was and that we really hated that hill.  Who doesn't at this point.  But, rounded the corner for the last couple blocks.  I didn't check my watch at this point.  I didn't want to be disappointed if I didn't make my goal.  I wish I would have.  I would have probably finished a lot stronger.  I finished in 38.42 official time.  Not bad for a hot, hilly 4 miles.  :)  That was my PR by almost to minutes. 

My friend finished just over 40 minutes which was a huge PR for her too.  She was super excited!

After listen to awards.  I learned that I missed winning my age group by just 18 seconds!!  Damn it!!

Well, that will give me something to shoot for next year.  : )

Now I'm super excited to find another race to run. 

Hope everyone has been enjoying there summer so far. 

Trianing?

I think my friend and I have officially decided to do the triathlon in August.  It is a small hometown one.  Nothing big.  But, it will be the perfect starting point for us.  So now I am trying to decided on a training program?  And yes!  I am that much of a sport or fitness nerd that I have looked up all sorts of them on line.

I function better when I have a plan.  I am not sure how I am going to do all the training.  With two kids in sports and a full time job.  I'm a bit overwhelmed just thinking about it.   So a plan is what I need.  It has been hard training for one sport at a time.  I am not sure how I will fit 3 in to a crazy schedule.  But, I will figure it out. 

Do you follow a written workout training program or do you wing it on your own??

My workouts for this week  look like this:
(So far)

Monday
Rest

Tuesday
Ran 3.5 miles at easy pace (morning)
Swim (Evening) 900 workout

Wednesday
Bike ride 30 minutes (morning)
Hopefully an evening run
Track workout 6x200s

Thursday
Run 3.5 or maybe some intervals
Swim (Evening) 1000 workout

Friday
Rest
(Bethany's Birthday Party!)

Saturday
Swim (?)
Run a nice easy run.  :

Sunday
Bike ride 30 minutes

I'm looking for ideas for taking my running to the next level.  I can run miles at an average pace.  I want to be able to at least do a 5k at a faster pace.  Any suggestion on how to do this with only running 2 to 3 times a week?

Happy Tuesday

Needing to get back in Water

After I finished my 21 day swimming challenge.  I decided I needed a break.  I have taken a week off from the pool.  I am now ready to go back.  I just hope it goes well!  I am so excited about my new found swimming abilities. I really feel like I could serious do the triathlon.  I am thinking I need to take my training to the next level.  We have 3 full months until the race day.

I think I could do it.  First thing I need to do is get a  bike.  I know I can ride 13 miles easily on the stationary bike.  But, I'm sure it is much different on a regular bike.  So we have been bike shopping online.  I cant decided if I want a actual road bike or a hybrid bike.  The hybrid bike looks like a mountain bike but with road tires.  So, I could use it to ride with the kids too.  I think I'm leaning more that way.  But, the competitor in me wants a actual race bike.  We will see what my wallet has to say about this decision. 

Not much else going on here.  I'm gonna get back in the pool tonight.  I'm hoping to do a 1200 endurance workout.  Should be interesting.  My next move is to swim in deeper water.  Something I can't touch in.  Technically, you swim the same.  But, to a non-swimmer.  It is not the same.  Wish me luck!!

Next goal, We are running a 5k for at a local elementary school on May 19th.  I'm looking forward to hopefully getting a Personal Record (PR) at this race.  It has been a while since our last 5k.  So it shouldn't be to hard to do.  Now with that said.  I have to or else I look silly!! : )


Happy Wednesday!!

Swimming Challenge

Yesterday I finished my swimming challenge with a test day.  I wanted to see how far I could actually swim.  I had met my first goal of 100 earlier last week.  So that was bare minimum goal met.

On Tuesday, I was able to swim a 150.  Which I was very excited about.  It felt good.  But, I knew I was tired.  The thought of trying a 200 (which was my next goal) seem unreachable.  

I was nervous about trying this test.  The night before Ed brought the kids to meet me after swimming so we can go to dinner.  They got to see me swim just a little.  Ed volunteered to go watch me swim and count my laps.  I really appreciated  his support. 

I did a short warm up of 2 x25 and 2x 50.  I decided that I would just swim.  No pressure no race.  I just had to do the distance.  An easy run for those runners.  The nice relaxing long runs where you just run.  Not time crunch.  I did my first 50 with just my arms.  (I swimming for a triathlon.  I want to save my legs for the bike and run parts)  I felt good.  Then I got to 100 stilling feeling good.  Relaxed.  I got to 150 and I started to freak a little.  I had same any farther then that. 

I got to 200.  I thought I could stop here and consider it a good job.  But, why stop at a good job when you can do great!!!! Right??  So I turned and went for another 50.  I was feeling myself struggle with my breathing. I did what I do in a stressful situation.  I sang my ABC's. It got my mind off the stress and I relaxed again. 

I stopped at the 250.  I wasn't sure that I counted my laps right.   I asked Ed.  He said I did a 250.  But, by that time I couldn't turn again.  My legs were cramping.  I did meet my ultimate goal!!  But, afterwards I'm still kind of disappointed.  I think I could have done a little bit more. 

I am so pleased with this challenge.  I could not have ever imagined this kind of success.  I really feel I gained a lot from this.  Not just physical strength.  I think that was there the whole time.  I think what I gained most was confidence in the water and in myself.  I love to reach or smash a goal.  It drives me.  I am a very driven person.  I love the challenge.  That is a part of me.  It always has been.  But, as time goes by, it wasn't a priority.  Now I'm hooked again.  (Sorry Ed!!  I will probably come up with another challenge soon)  I just cant help myself.  I promise it wont be as involved as 21 days straight. : )

I still have a lot of work to do before I still feel 100% confident in the water.  But, I know I can swim! And not just look like I'm splashing around in the water.  I can't say that you will see me going off the high dive anytime soon. (Or ever!)  But, you may see me swimming in water deeper then 4-5 ft.  I think that is progress!  Another goal is to be able to jump into deeper water.   

Here is a lovely picture of Ed and I after swimming my test.  I look horrible and Ed looks ticked!!  He was just sticking his tongue out!  LOL!  I promise we will have a better pic taken soon.  : )

I'm going to take a week off from swimming and do some running.  I have been dying to run more this past 21 days.  But, swimming has taken up all my free time.  I also will be happy to not smell like chlorine all the time!! :)

Thanks for all your support!!

Swimming Challenge Update! Final Week!!!!!

I'm entering my final few days of my swimming challenge.  I have until Wednesday to meet my goal. 1st goal was to be able to swim 100 by the end.  Second goal was  a 200.  Ultimate goal would be to swim a 250 which is half the distance I need to swim for the triathlon. 

I think I will be able to complete the first goal.  I'm not sure about the other 2.  But, I do know that I feel a lot more at home in the water.  I even preformed my first handstand in the water this past week.  Thanks to Jonnie and Bethany.  They have been helping me work on that goal.   I was also able to complete my first 75 this past week.  Yeah!!!!  I know everyone else in the pool was happy for me when I screamed "I DID IT!!!" afterwards. 

It amazes me all that I have learned from this experience.  I have met lots of new people.  Gained a ton more confidence in the water.  And I actually enjoy it.  That doesn't mean that I look forward to going every night.  Matter of fact the last two workouts I have slowly dragged my self there.  But, the workouts were done!

Looking forward to another hard and goal setting week!!  Here is my plan for this week.

Monday
Swim 1200 form workout
(WoW!) Wish me luck!!

Tuesday
Early Run 
Swim 800 endurance workout
(Wimping out on 1200 endurance)

Wednesday
Swim final workout of challenge
Test to see how far I can swim!!!  100? 150?  200?  What do you think I can do?

Thursday
Early run

Friday
Rest day

Saturday
Long run??

Sunday
 Rest  Maybe a short run

I have been dying to run.  I think next week I might take more runs and fewer swims.  Then get back on the swimming before my kids start their summer swimming program.  :)

Hope everyone has a great week!  Ill keep you posted!!

Troubled Waters

A quick swimming challenge update. 

Monday's workout was tough.  I had to do 2 800 workouts.  I combined warm up and cool downs.  So it was probably closer to 1200-1400 yds.  Not bad for me.  But, these workouts are hard!  After last week of feel so good in the water, it is hard to struggle again.  These workouts have higher sets in them.  75's and 100's.  When you finally just conquered a 50 those are huge!  I got my workouts done.  But, didn't feel great about them.

That night I got home and started shopping for a new suit.  I am really wearing my old one down.  Plus, I need more then just on suit if I'm gonna keep this up.  After much trouble we (and I do mean we.  Ed had to help me) the order finally went through.  Sot that is something to look forward too.

Tuesday's workout had me worried.  I had my first 100 planned.  Not happy about it.  Tried to convince my mentor that it was to early.  She said doing it poorly would be better then not doing it.  So, after and hour of struggling through it.  I completed the darn workout.  But, I felt totally defeated.  I'm putting my faith in the process and just riding out these troubled waters.  Only time will tell.  Stay tuned!  (Doesn't that sound like a soap opera title. Troubled Waters)  : )

Today my suit arrived.  So I am excited to swim.  Tonight is a fun swim with the kids.  We will see what they try to get me to do tonight.  I also got a new swim bag, goggles, and bungee straps.  Cant wait to try them out.  Here is a pic of all my new swim sh@t. : )

I may not swim well.  But, I'm gonna look good while trying! 

Have a good Wednesday!!

Ps.  My Tuesday's run went well!!  So at least something is working for me this week.  : )

Swimming Challenge Update

The swimming challenge is going very well.  I'm very excited about my progress.  I think my swim mentor is also.  I swam with her on Saturday morning.  She couldn't believe how comfortable I was getting in the water.  And she said I'm getting much faster!!

I have had to adjust the challenge a little.  Do to the pool schedule I can not swim everyday.  I have this thing called a job.  Where people count on me to be there.  So I can't swim at 11:30-1:00 on Friday afternoons???? Who can??  So, I have been trying to get there one the days they are open.  I have made up all workouts! So, I may not swim for 21 days.  But, I will get the 21 workouts in the 21 days.  I promise!

Last Thursday, I swam my first full 50's!!  Not one, but two!!  I could do 50's before but they were horrible!  I would have to float on my back or float on my side to get a long breath.  Not anymore!!  I swam the whole way!  And do I dare say they aren't to bad!!  I have found it is much easier to breath less!  It make the lengths go so much faster!!  I was so proud of myself!

Saturday, I swam 4 50's and 1 75!  Which wasn't pretty!  But, I did it!!  Moving on up the workout chart now!  I'm so excited to finally get it!  Now I'm doing 800 yd workouts instead of 400's.  I'm hoping I can do it and still feel the progress.  I'm sure I will.  I believe in this process.

Workouts for this week:
Monday
Swim 800 form workout (Another 75 )
and speed workout

Tuesday
Morning run
Swim 800 endurance

Wednesday
Swim  Fun swim with kids

Thursday
Morning run
Swim 800 form workout

Friday
Rest

Saturday
Morning Run (Long run Please,Please, Please!!) 
Afternoon Swim 800 Endurance

Sunday
Swim Fun swim with kids

Hopefully I will get my long run in on Saturday.  If not a run then an early swim to make up for Friday.  I will keep everyone posted on how my week goes.

Happy Monday!!


What are your workout plans for the week?  I have been wanting to run more.  But, with all the swimming it is hard to fit in any more activities.

last of vacation info

So I'm trying to still relive my mini getaway.  When we woke up the second day we headed to the local children's museum called the Kids Common.  Fun little place.  The kids had fun and so do Ed and I. 

Here is my favorite picture of the kids from the Kids Common.

The little turds!!  They had a house built on the second floor.  You could room through all the nooks and crannies.  Ed and I also got our picture taken in the toilet.  But, those pictures wont be shown.  : )

They even had a little rock wall.  It was designed to look like the front of the building.  Jonnie was excited about this.  He had never gotten to rock climb before. 

After rock climbing we had to back to the house and see what else we could discover.

Here Jonnie found a hidden passage.  It looks like he is behind the fish tank.  So naturally I make him act like he is holding his breath!

After having fun at the Kids Commons we head a few stores down to the old fashion ice cream parlor.  This place was awesome!!

He is what I ordered!!

This was our lunch!!  How awesome is vacation!!!  I also order a Red Raspberry coke!  Yumm!

Here is a pic of one of the old fountains they had there!  So pretty!!  This place was restored very nicely!! 



After we finished our ice cream we just finished walking our this cute little town.  We found a bakery.  I was good.  I got one cupcake and one brownie to go.  The kids each picked out snacks for later.  We found a nice little bookstore.  Jonnie got a new 39 Clues book.  He was super excited.  After that we headed home.

All in all a great little get away.  I think Ed and I appreciate taking the time to explore local business much more now.  We are both small business owners.  Hey we have to all stick together.  So, if you want a family getaway or a couples getaway.  I high suggest that you check out Columbus, IN.  Very nice town and nice people.

Now on to my workouts.  I have been catching up on my missed workouts.  I swam  Monday and Tuesday.  I did double each night.  Wednesday, we had shoot.  So,  I have to double up again tonight.  But, that is ok.  I am seeing good progress.  Even with my broken toe.  It was a challenge to run on Tuesday morning.  It got cold again here in Indiana.  It was just one of those runs that you just don't want to do.  But, we did it. 

This morning when the alarm went off, I really didn't want to get out of my warm bed.  But, once again.  I did it.  I'm glad I did.  It felt much better.  My foot hurt a little but not bad.  So far today workouts are looking good. 

Ill report back to you tomorrow on the swimming. 

Have a great Thursday!!

I think It's Broke!

Day 3 of swimming challenge.

Well as I mentioned I started off day 3 with day 2's workout at 6:30 in the morning.  Anyways it got done!  Then it was time for some family time.  We packed up and headed to Columbus, IN.  Hey don't knock it tell you try it!!  We just wanted to get away for a bit.  A good friend had told me about this great little town.  It is known for its architecture.  Since my husband is a photographer, I figured he would love it.  I found us a great Hotel with reasonable rates.  We got an Imagination package.  This included our room, 4 tickets for the local children's museum, and a $25 gift card for a local toy store. 

We got there just about check in time.  We stopped along the way for some shopping.  : )   The hotel has a special greeter.  Miles the dog.  Cutest little thing ever!  Jonnie was in love with him.  He so wants a dog.  : (
Miles has only lives at this Hotel.  I am amazed that he doesn't run out the door!!  He even gets treated to the spa twice a week!!  Lucky Dog!!

Here is Miles.  Photo by Ed and Bethany

So we settled into our room.  Which is not your ordinary hotel room.  It had hardwood floors and  very modern decorating.  Kids thought it was cool.  Me too!

Here is the chandelier in the lobby.  (Photo by Jonnie)

He is the entry to our room.

And a very blurry picture of the beds.  (I am probably the one that took this pic.  But, I'm gonna blame Jonnie.) 

After we checked in  We went and walked around town.  We had a gift card to a toys store burning a hole in our pocket.  Off we went!  We met a lovely lady that owed the toys store.  It was nice to have that old fashion feel.  The kids found a couple items.  One of them was a ball maze thingy.  All three of my kids cant put it down!!  Honestly!! I have touched the thing 3 times.  The store was filled with fun learning toys.  We had a good time there.  They liked this ball so much we had to go back the next day to get the next level one!

After shopping we ate at a local burger joint.  Yum!!! 

Here are the kids playing with the ball thingy.

Here is my delicious meal!  With water of course!  I tried to get my water in!  I promise!!  But, it just didn't happen.  : (

After dinner we walked around so more and then headed back to the hotel for some Swimming!!

Day 3 of challenge fun swim with kids.

You know that saying.  Its all fun and games until someone gets hurt!  Well I'm the one that got hurt.  I was playing with the kids in the pool.  We were doing handstands.  Yes even I tried!  But, when I went to get my footing.  I slipped and bent my toe back.  I broke it.  :( 

So I didn't get to swim Saturday do to being on vacation and needing to let my toe heal a little bit.  Then Sunday was Easter.  So all pools were closed.  I am thinking that I had bad timing on this challenge.  But, I promise all workouts will be made up!!

That is all for now!

To be continued........

Swimming Challenge Day 2

Sorry it has taking me so long to update!  It has been a busy weekend plus being on vacation. 

Day 2 of Swimming challenge

Was a flop!  I got suited up an headed to the pool at my regular time.  Only problem,  it was closing.  It closes at 7 on Tuesdays and Thursdays!  With being on vacation, I totally lost track of the days!  So, I didn't get to swim.  I was heartbroken!  I had already failed!!  But, after talking to my running partner, we agreed that if I went the next morning and got the workout in.  I would be fine.  She agreed to meet me at 6:30 the next morning to swim.  I needed her there.  There is no way I could be trusted that early in the morning to be in the pool! 

Crisis averted!  Got Day 2 workout in.  Got home and showered.  Packed for a mini-vacation with the family.  More to the story later!  I will fill you in on all the details!! :)

Hope everyone had a good weekend! I' glad to be back to work this week.  I need my schedule!! 

To be continued!! : )

Swimming Challenge

We all know how much I like to do different fitness challenges.  This month I have chosen to concentrate on swimming.  Because I love it so so much!  I'm tired of constantly struggling with it.  I have been trying to swim for almost a year and a half.  But, I struggle to make it a full 50.  I need to be able to swim a 500 before August. At the rate Im going that will never happen.  (For non-swimmers a 500 is 20 laps backs and forth the length of the pool.  A 50 is down and back.)  I have a lot of work to do.

Everyone has told me that it takes 21 days to break a habit.  So, I'm going to put that theory to the test this month.  I am going to get into the pool for 21 days straight.  I'm not real sure how Im going to make this work.  Im sure that something will come up.  But, I'm going to try my hardest to make this work. 

I started yesterday.  I tried to talk my swimming partner into going with me.  But, she was spending time with her family at the Children's Museum.  My backup swimming partner (Bethany) was also at the Museum.  So,  that left me all alone.  I had to buck up and wear my big girl panties.  I have never gone swimming by myself.  I know I would have to.  But, the first day!  This was a make or break it moment for the whole challenge.

I squeezed into my suit.  (Literally!)  I hate that thing!  Got all my gear ready and headed out the door.  I thought about heading straight to Culver's and drowning my sorrows in a big concrete mixer. 

Here is me sitting in the truck at the pool parking lot.  Really trying to get the courage to go inside. 

I decided that if I didn't do it today then I wouldn't do it.  So I sucked it up and went inside.  While I was getting my new punch card.  A friendly face showed up.  Not my swimming partner.  Not my daughter.  But, a friend that I at least calmed my nerves.  Thanks Bobby!!  He told he would save me if I started to drown.  Comforting words to some one who is scared to death of of drowning. 

To prove I made it inside the pool. Here is a picture.  : )

Once I got in the water I was fine.  I got the shallowest lane possible. : )  My comfort zone.  Maybe as the month moves on I will move down towards the deep end.  And then again.  Maybe not!

Here was my workout
Form workout

Warm up 4x25
Main Set
2x25 right arm only
2x25 left arm only
2x25 pull buoy
2x25 catch up
2x25 kick
Cool down
2x25

400 workout complete!!

Not much  but to a non-swimmer!

Day 1 is down!  ONLY 20 more to go!!

Day 1 and Day 2 of vacation

Monday is what I consider the first day of vacation.  Saturday and Sunday are just a normal weekend.  Right!?  I would have those off anyway.  For our first day of vacation we did something that I have never done!  I have lived in this area all my life.  But, I have never played frisbee golf.  I am now thinking of turning professional.  But, I am just that good!   We went out and found 4 frisbees that were different colors.  Mine was purple.  My favorite color!  Which is pretty much why I rocked at this game.  We have done nothing but play frisbee this week.  We are having so much fun!  We even made our own little course here at the house. 

In case you live here and do not know, Milligan Park has a 22 hole course.  We are pretty confused about the choice of 22.  Because a golf course normally has 18 holes.  But, nothing is normal in Crawfordsville!  So we started our morning off.  We had a little trouble with the wind.  But, we had a great time!! We laughed and laughed at how horrible some of our throws were. 

We got to meet a lot of interesting people that play frisbee golf!  I know that in golf the uglier the outfit the better.  But, I think the camo is the plaid of frisbee golf.  Or maybe it is just a staple here in town.  Since, I don't own any camo.  I might have go shopping before the next time.  These guys (dressed in camo)  even had a caddy carrying a bag with other frisbees!  They were pros for sure!!  Now I could see where a towel would be helpful.  We did loss ours in the creek a couple of times.  The park has provided a "disc dipper" ( that is the technical term posted on the tree) so that you can fish it out.  We just sent these little kids that were already playing in the creek to get ours.

All in all, we had a great afternoon of fun!  We have even found out there is another frisbee golf course in town.  At Hoover Elementary school.  We are going to have to check that course out and give you a full review! Now I did forget to take my camera on the course.  (No phones allowed.  It might disrupt the golfers.  No I just forgot!)  So we took a few shots after we got back to the truck.

Bethany had to make sure to get a pic of me.  I try very hard to stay out of pictures.

That was day one.  Much more exciting then day two.  Day two started off with a nice morning run with my running partners.  We are trying to stretch our midweek runs longer.  But, we are on such a short time frame during the workweek.  We thought that since we were all off this week we would do some 4 mile base runs.  We got a solid run in.  Time is questionable if we will make it next week.  But, I think we will get faster and faster.  Well, at least that is the plan.  It is hard to push yourself at 5am.  That is why I like running at that time.  My brain isn't awake to tell me not to.  : )

Today, I start my swim challenge for the month of April.  I am going to push myself to get of this fear of the water.  I am going to attempt a feat that is so unimaginable by non swimmer.  I have been told by many swimming people.  That you must do something for 21 days straight to rid yourself of the fear.  So, that is my challenge.  I am going to try to swim or get in the water for 21 days straight.  This will be hard to do. I can't even imagine putting a swimsuit that many times!  But, I am going to do this.  So stay tuned for an update each day to find out what I'm doing to conquer this fear.  I really do want to become a swimmer.  I hope that by the end of these 21 days I will be able to swim a solid 50 and be close to 100.  My absolute top goal would be to swim a 250 by the time this is done.  Stay tuned for the results!!

The first swim log will be posted tomorrow!

Enjoy your Wednesday!!

Hey anybody watch Biggest Loser?  How about those makeovers!!  Awesome right?

Vacation Fun!

Hello again!

Sorry it has been awhile.  In case you didn't know.  We are on Spring Break this week.  This is the only real full week I take off each year.  So I am ready for some relaxing and fun.  Since, we are on a tight budget we weren't able to go on a big trip.  Momma needs a new roof.  Kids were bummed but you do what you have to do.  But, I think we have been creative and have had fun so far.  We still have big plans for the rest of the week. 

Like all good things we had to start our vacation with some ice cream.  In case you don't know me well.  I require a lot of ice cream.  I have raised my daughter to require a lot too.  Because she is the one that persuaded us to go for this trip. 

This is what I choose to treat myself.  Nothing like a good old fashioned ice cream.  You will learn that this is why I run.  So that I can eat all these great treats.  I have a serious sweet tooth.

Here is Bethany enjoying her ice cream.  See I told you I would work on the taking more pictures this week!! : )

The next event was April Fools Day!  We have to love this holiday because we are all fools around here!  Ed and I went and did some shopping on Saturday.  We picked up some things to play a trick on the kids.  Another way that Bethany is just like me is that she has to eat often.  We eat ever two hours.  I was a preemie when I was born.  My Mom had to feed me every two hours.  I still eat every two hours!  It drives Ed nuts!!  Food is one thing you don't mess with for us Young girls!  So, we knew trying something new would drive her nuts!!  Not just new but healthy!  If it is green or grows in nature my kids don't want anything to do with it.  (They get that from Ed!) 

Because I love Pinterest!  I found some food you can make to fool them.  I chose sushi.  One I knew they wouldn't like it and two it was super easy to make.  We took a twinkie and cut it into small sections.  When then wrapped it in green fruit roll ups.  We then garnished it with red fruit roll ups.  Here is what it looked like.

Doesn't itlook real!!  I could not stop laughing!!  I knew they would be so mad about trying something new.  I called them to the table and explained that we were trying something new.  I found the recipe in a fitness magazine.  I thought they might like it.  The whole time I'm trying not to bust up laughing!!  Here is they reactions!!

They were good sports!!  They tried it.  But, quickly discovered what it really was.  So they we got them some real lunch.  Bethany insisted on McDonald's.  (The reason why they don't like any vegetables) 

That was the first couple days of our vacation.  There were a couple of naps in there and a couponing run.  Which I scored some major deals!  I'm trying to stock up on things for Bethany's Big 13th Birthday party coming up soon!!

More adventures to come on our Vacation week!!  We may even venture our of town.  Who knows! We are free to do anything this week! ; )

No workouts the first couple of days on vacation.  More to come on that!  Starting Wednesday, I'll kick it into high gear.  Well, at least medium gear!!

Hope everyone is enjoying your week!!

Weekend and Comfort Zone

Why do the weekends go so fast.  It is horrible how fast they go by.  I did get a lot done but it is never enough. 

My workout was good.  I went on a long run to calibrate my Nike+ again.  Since, I haven't done it since I got it 2 years ago.  I felt for accuracy reason it might be good idea. I know my running has changed just a little bit since then.  We ran 5.5 miles total.  Which felt great!  I am hoping our weekday runs this week won't feel so long now.  3.5 is a piece of cake after running 5.5.  Right!?   It was just a nice relaxing run.  I got to catch up on some current events with my running partner.  It has been a long time since we just took off and ran.  Normally we are on such a time crunch.  We have to hurry and get our run or swim in and get on with our day.  But, this was a nice good run. 

Do any of you run or walk with a meter of some sort?  I have downloaded a new app on my phone.  But, I am not sure about running with my phone.  My pockets are not very deep.  I'm afraid of dropping it.  I also don' know about running with it in an arm band.  The phone would probably be bigger then my bicep.  (Which is getting bigger due to all the push ups!)  

After that we met up again at the local dance studio here in town.  They were having a grand opening of their new studio.  Since they are now offering some fitness classes.  We thought we would check it out.  Nice new facility.  I look forward to trying some of their classes.  I'm not usually a class kind of girl.  But, we all have to try something new.  I am pretty comfortable with my running, swimming, and biking habit right now.  Maybe Ill try one and report back to you how it goes.  They were offering a free pedicure with a month membership at the open house.  Since I don't like people to touch my feet.  I declined.  I have a different goal in mind for April.  But, I did promise my friend that I will do some drop in classes with her. 

In the afternoon my family and I headed to Lafayette for the day.  We had some shopping we needed to do.  I told Jonnie that I would buy him an early birthday present.  He needed a new bike.  Poor guy looked so small on his old one.  Plus, I think it will make our long bike rides more enjoyable for all of us.  Now that he isn't swerving into us because his knees are poiningt out.  He went from a size 16 to a 20.  Huge difference.  He was funny.  He didn't want to try the bigger bike.  He kept telling us it was out of his comfort zone.   We explained to him that sometimes it is good to get out of your comfort zone and try something new.  I know I  need to take my own advice and get out of my comfort zone too.  I hear ya! : )

Here is Jonnie on his new bike. 

We also got some 4H projects to work on next week.  Bethany picked out her rocket and Jonnie got a model of a plane to build.  Wish us luck on building those!! : )  Maybe I'll finally post more pictures.  I'm really working on it. 


So that was pretty much my weekend.  Hope everyone has a great Monday!!

One week until vacation!  Hope I can make it!!

What kind of exercise is your favorite?

Do you have any big plans for your spring break?

 

Rough Days and Motivation

Yesterday was a rough day for me.  I just had no motivation to write.  Ever have a rough day at work?  What do you do to make yourself feel better?  I used to eat.  Eating sweets always used to make me feel better.  Little Debbie used to be my best friend.  But, not now.  Or at least as much.  : )

 Instead I went to my basement and rode my bike.  I got a good 9 miles in.  I did a hill interval.  I hate hills!! But, I know they help make me stronger.  I felt much better.  I got to rock out and  just pedal my troubles away.

Then Ed brought me a vanilla coke.  One of my favorites!  I did pay for it this morning on our early run.  I did not get enough water.  : (

On the good side!  Bethany had her swim banquet last night.  She was the most improved swimmer for the season!!  Way to go Bethany!!  She dropped 124 second this season.  So, needless to say Ed had to pay up on his deal of $1 for every second she dropped.  Yeah, you do the math!  Ouch! : )  But, well worth it.  She was so happy!!

I working on expanding the blog and making it more interesting!  Hang in there with me! : )

Workouts

9 mile bike ride (Wednesday night)
3.5 mile run this morning.   Still working on relaxing during my run.  Breathing is still not great.

Friday is my day off.

But, I am looking forward to a good workout this weekend.

Then one week left until vacation!!

Blogs!

Ok this may seem weird but I am blogging about blogs!!

I just have to say that I am so addicted to them right now.  I have found 3 or 4 that I check back with everyday to see if they have posted.  They are all fitness blogs.  Mostly running.  I am so jealous of the crazy PRs that they have. ?They can run a mile/minute faster durning a marothon then I can even hold for one mile.  I'm lucky if I can get one 9 min/mile.  Let alone 26 of them with 7:30 splits!  They are almost half my age and childless. But, still!!  I wish I could run as fast as they do.  

Today is Tuesday. Running day and Biggest Loser day!   I got up for my 5am run.  I love to run in the mornings.  But, I have to say, lately it has been difficult.  I haven't been able to enjoy them as much.  I just can't relax and just run.  So today, I decided to just relax and run.  Not to worry about how fast or slow.  Just run. 

I have to tell you.  I so enjoyed it.  I always want to get faster.  Don't get me wrong.  But, sometimes you just have to relax and remember why you started in the first place.  I may never be as fast as the girls I follow on the blogs.  But, I can still enjoy running. 

I will work on posting more pictures.  I'm not good about taking them. 

Tonight we have Bethany's band concert.  So I have to DVR Biggest Loser.  So no one ruin it for me.  I probably won't get to watch it until Thursday! :(

Workout List
3.5 mile run at a comfortable pace
My optumizeMe exercises.
Month is almost over!!  Keep up the good work girls!!


Happy Tuesday


Do you follow any Blogs?  If so What are they?  Maybe I can add them to my list! ; )

Nice weather and Feeling Blah!

It has been a few days since i posted.  I haven't been feeling great.  I thought it was just the time change just messing with me.  But, I think I got the virus that the kids have been spreading around.  I sent 2 kids how last week with fever and running noses and eyes.  We just thought it was allergies with this 80 degree weather we have been having.  Indian weather is crazier then ever this year!!  So, Saturday I woke up with a slight fever.  Not feeling great but not totally out of commisson.   I stayed in bed until almost 10 am.  That is unheard of for me.  I'm usually up and going early.  But, I just love Saturdays when you turn on the tv and there are a bunch of good movies on.  But, I knew I had to get up because as always we have stuff to do.  I tried going to do some shopping but we got what we needed and got out of Walmart.  I came home and was quickly out of energy.  Ed ended up taking Jonnie to a friends birthday party.  Which he failed to remind us about until an hour before.  Which explains part of the reason I had to go shopping.  I just hate when they spring stuff on me!!  I am a schedule person and do not like sudden changes.  It is a flaw of mine.  But, I am working on it. 

I pretty much spent the rest of my day on the couch watching movies.  I think we all need days like this to recharge our batteries.  I had a little company.  This is Rocky.  She must have known I wasn't feeling well. : )

The whole family joined in to movie night too.  Jonnie is so much like me.  It could be 100 degrees outside and this kid would still be in sweats and his sweatshirt.  I am always cold.  It drives Ed nuts.  : )

Something I am working on is adding more pics to my blog.  I am working on it.  I still don't like to take my pic.  But, I will try to get over it soon. : )


I will try to update more later.


Weekend workouts

Nothing!!  Sorry!!

Do You like it when you plans change?  How do you organize all your kids activities?  


Hope everyone has a good Monday!!

Motivation??

Today is my off day for my workout.  I find that a rest day is very much needed for me to keep active.    But, it couldn't have come at a better time.  I'm really not to motivated today.  It could be because we wer out late at the swim meet last night!!   We didn't get home until after 10.  And to this old woman that is late!!  (More on the swim meet later!)

Which leads me to the question of what motivates you to do anything.  My theory on this subject is that everyone has something that drives them to be better at what they want to do.  But, some are just to lazy to figure it out.  It would be much easier to just sit around and hope that something falls in your lap.  But, for most people, it just doesn't work that way.  I was always taught that if you want something badly enough you will work for it.  This is a lesson that drives me everyday.  Whether it is at work, with my family, or in my workouts.  This principle pays off in some many ways.  Not only do I get what I was working for, but I get the pride of knowing I have done it all on my own. 

This is another lesson that I hope to pass on to my kids.  Sometime it is very hard to keep the idea in mind that you can hurt them by just giving them everything they need.  If they never have to save money for a toy or a special item that they so deseperately need to have then will they every be self suffient adults?  Am I not a good parent if I don't give my child what they right when they need it?  I think I am.  Even though those moments are hard to live at the moment.  The pain of seeing them suffer or struggle is worth it in the end.  They need to find out what motivates them.  The reward of seeing them succeed is so much better and more rewarding for everyone. 

Ok enough serious stuff!!  Back to the swim meet!!  Bethany did great! She dropped 11 seconds on her 200 and 9 seconds on her 400.  She swam great!  I couldn't be more proud of her.  Turns out that Ed found out what motivates her.  MONEY!!  He offered $1 for every second she dropped!  Bye-bye $20!!!  Which is fine.  She is wanting a new laptop and a new room, and the list goes on and on.  So now she can put that money to good use.  

Questions of the Day!!
What Motivates you?  

I think tomorrow I will be setting some new goals for myself.  Or at least putting them out for other to see.  That motivates me. :)

Have a happy Wednesday!! 

Time and Silent Lessons

Ok!  I'll start off with the fact that this post is more of a rant then a post.  I just have to say how much I dislike daylight savings time.  As if the weather changes we have had in Indiana arn't enough to throw the mood of 10 preschool out of whack.  Let's just throw in a time change!!  The poor daycare kids have come in crying the past two days.  They are just so tired!!!  Not to mention the beautiful weather we are having.  They are almost to tired to play outside.  Which is crazy because it is perfect out!

Ok now that is over with.  Now for positive side of the spring forward stuff!  It is almost spring.  It really feels like it too.  It is supposed to hit 70 everyday this week!!!  Whoo hoo!!  I love getting up early and getting my workout in and then I can just enjoy the rest of my day.  It almost feels like I don't workout.  I ran at 5 this morning.  It was almost 60 degrees!!  I was way overdress!  I gave a few truckers a show when I started taking layers off!  :)  Even though it was miserable getting out of bed.  I'm always glad I do it. 

Last night, I got a good hill workout on the stationary bike.  Man, those plateaus hurt!!  But, I still enjoyed it.  That was until I had to walk up the stairs when I was done. Then, I went on another bike ride with my son Jonnie.  We rode 2 miles!  He was so excited. Other then the fact that he kept complaining about his butt being on fire!  I really hope that they learn to love sports and fitness as much as I do.  That is really my goal.  I wasted so much time taking care of others.  I forgot about myself.  I can only hope that they learn this silent lesson form me.  Yes, I do mean silent.  I try not to push what I love on them.  If I did.  Bethany would be playing volleyball instead of soccer.  But, she loves soccer and that is all that I care about.  (Jonnie is going to be my volleyball player!)  ; ) 

I want them to find something that they love that will keep them active and happy.  That is what sports did for me.  They give me something to shoot for and keep me from losing my mind some days.  As well has keeping me physically healthy.  Sports have been a huge part of my life.  At times when I had nothing to look forward to I had sports.  They gave me an identity.  They gave me a way to feel good about myself.  They gave me a good work ethic.  They taught me how to set a goal and achieve it.    I just honestly believe that there are many lessons to be learned though sports.



Are any of you parents of young kids?  How are they adapting to the time change?  Any suggestions on how to reason with a preschooler on why they need to go to bed when it is still daylight out? : )

Did you play any sports?  Or do currently play any sports?  If so what do you do?


  Previous workouts

Biked on stationary bike for 7 miles
Bike ride with Jonnie 2 miles slow but good
Ran this morning 3.5 miles with hills  (Hate those darn hills.  But, they are everywhere!) 
OptumizeMe Challenges  all done!

I would like to wish the Tuttle Swim team luck tonight in the Conference meet!!  
Good Luck Bethany on your 400 swim.  I know you will do better then I could!!

Happy Tuesday!!

Oh yes!  I need to set my DVR for Biggest Loser Night!! : )

This does not mean the time!! : )