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| Me jumping the broom! |
Today is an awesome day to start moving! I'm ready to move and I'm excited that I did two miles today! This is just a quick note to get back in action. I hope you're moving too!
All the best,
Barbie Happy and Healthy
One of the happiest days of my life! I worked hard to look like that!
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Monday, March 21, 2011
Let's Move!
Hello All,
Back again with a bit about some new things I'm looking into. If you're not aware, Michelle Obama (Madame First Lady!) has launched an initiative that's been going on for a year now to help target and eradicated obesity in America's children. Now, I am perfectly at fault for my current state of obesity (according to the BMI chart), but what I appreciate about my parents is that they did insist on keeping us active. With busy schedules, more hours at work, less time to cook, more media influenced diets (ahem cartoon advertisers!) it's harder for children to get quality nutrition and exercise. Honestly, I know what keeps our community from being healthy: food deserts and lack of safe places to play. Children, no matter their socioeconomic background will play. As a matter of fact, if you have less money, odds are you're more inclined to CREATE activities to do and keep active with. That is, unless, you get hooked to TV before age 3. I digress though. Mrs. Obama's initiative, Let's Move (www.letsmove.org) is an awesome way to join the fight. If you have children, I strongly encourage you to visit the website and find out some ideas on how to move!
Here are a few starters:
1. TURN OFF THE TV! The Association of Pediatrics recommends children watch no more than 2 hrs of age appropriate programming a day (0 hrs if under 2). It's quite okay for kids to be bored. They are their most creative when they have to make something up!
2. Find a program to enroll your child in (local Soccer team, ballet, running club, etc).
3. Cook. Period. Cook food. I don't know first hand how hard it is to work full time and cook, but I will soon. Honestly, the best thing I can do for my daughter is cook. I know I'm addicted to some fast foods and have not erased them completely. But I cannot pass that down to her. I shutter to think about what that food will do to her little system.
4. Be an example. Later for the do as I say, and not as I do business. That's the worst adage parents can say to their kids. Regardless of what you say, children will do as they see. They will eat what they see you eat, they will say what they hear you say, and they will move as much as they see you move. So bust the move!
Ciao!
Barbara
Back again with a bit about some new things I'm looking into. If you're not aware, Michelle Obama (Madame First Lady!) has launched an initiative that's been going on for a year now to help target and eradicated obesity in America's children. Now, I am perfectly at fault for my current state of obesity (according to the BMI chart), but what I appreciate about my parents is that they did insist on keeping us active. With busy schedules, more hours at work, less time to cook, more media influenced diets (ahem cartoon advertisers!) it's harder for children to get quality nutrition and exercise. Honestly, I know what keeps our community from being healthy: food deserts and lack of safe places to play. Children, no matter their socioeconomic background will play. As a matter of fact, if you have less money, odds are you're more inclined to CREATE activities to do and keep active with. That is, unless, you get hooked to TV before age 3. I digress though. Mrs. Obama's initiative, Let's Move (www.letsmove.org) is an awesome way to join the fight. If you have children, I strongly encourage you to visit the website and find out some ideas on how to move!
Here are a few starters:
1. TURN OFF THE TV! The Association of Pediatrics recommends children watch no more than 2 hrs of age appropriate programming a day (0 hrs if under 2). It's quite okay for kids to be bored. They are their most creative when they have to make something up!
2. Find a program to enroll your child in (local Soccer team, ballet, running club, etc).
3. Cook. Period. Cook food. I don't know first hand how hard it is to work full time and cook, but I will soon. Honestly, the best thing I can do for my daughter is cook. I know I'm addicted to some fast foods and have not erased them completely. But I cannot pass that down to her. I shutter to think about what that food will do to her little system.
4. Be an example. Later for the do as I say, and not as I do business. That's the worst adage parents can say to their kids. Regardless of what you say, children will do as they see. They will eat what they see you eat, they will say what they hear you say, and they will move as much as they see you move. So bust the move!
Ciao!
Barbara
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
S.O.S!
HELP!
This has been a particularly rough stretch of my journey these last few days. I don't know what it is. Maybe it's that my drive slowing, the baby changing, who knows?! But, I need encouragement. I'm back to my grind ( I try not to go more than 2 days without working out) and I did 4 miles and strength training today. Yet, day by day is so hard. My nutrition is still not where I want it to be for several reasons. So, what I've asked my family (that I live with) to do is if they see me putting something in my mouth that I shouldn't, or a portion too large, or me going back for seconds say; " Barbara, I love you. And you can do this."
HEY! You gotta do what you gotta do! I might roll my eyes, I might suck my teeth, but I know that this leg of the journey can't be done alone. Not for me at least. Some of you all might be able to, but for me, this is gonna take everyone. My success is their success.
Thank God for Lent. A new opportunity to add meaning to the process. To once again realize sacrifice and that what I'm giving up for physical health is nothing compared to what He gave up for me.
I hope you all are sticking to your goals.
Remember. I love you and you can do this.
Ciao!
Barbara
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
15 before 30...
Hi All,
Don't you just love having positive people in your life that motivate you and encourage you? People that you can laugh with and cry with are the best medicines and well are awesome compensation for the trials life brings to you. One of the people who I just adore is my sorority sister Ronita, my line sister and ACEsistanumbaone! She has motivated and inspired me in so many ways. From her awesomeness as a mommy of two, her flyness, and her sincere heart; Ronita is the bomb.com. Check her blog out too http://glamincincy.blogspot.com/ My other line sister, Talea is on board to follow her list as well. If anyone is going to blow through her list, I know it's Talea. She's so driven. We are an amazing trinity of women. I'm so glad to have them in my life.
So we decided that since 30 was coming like a speeding train, we'd make a "bucket list" of all the things we want to do before 30, that we still have not done. Since I'm a year younger than her, I have three years and she has about two. We made our lists and I must say, they are awesome. I've had another brilliant idea! I am going to make a 15 before 30! (I cut it in half because 30 is just daunting). I'm making a list of 15 fitness accomplishments I'd like to do before I turn 30. These are goals and like any other goal, if I don't make them by 30, that's okay! 31 will do. :) Here they are:
1. I would like to land and STAY at 160lbs.
2. I would like to run a half marathon.
3. I would like to run a full marathon.
4. I would like to be able to do 20 regular push ups. (Not "girly" kind)
5. I would like to be certified as a personal trainer.
6. I would like to be certified as a children's fitness trainer.
7. I would like to be certified as a nutrition and wellness consultant.
8. I would like to help my family shed 150lbs between the four of us ( and help my husband gain 10 :) )
9. I would like to hike a challenging trail at Yosemite.
10. I would like to teach a dance class.
11. I would like to be able to run (not run walk) a mile without stopping.
12. I would like to be able to do 100 correct sit ups.
13. I would like to wear a bikini. (okay, I know that's vain but so what! who doesn't want to soak up the
sun in a cute two piece?)
14. I would like to run an international event.
15. I would like to take 10 years off my chronological age. BETTER AT 30 THAN 20!
I hope you make goals for yourself and have people in your life to keep you pushing.Some of these coincide with my 30 before 30. I am a firm believer that you speak those things as though they ARE! You declare it, claim, draw a picture, paint a mural, sign it, co sign it and it will be DELIVERED!
Happy Dreaming,
Ciao!
Barbara
Don't you just love having positive people in your life that motivate you and encourage you? People that you can laugh with and cry with are the best medicines and well are awesome compensation for the trials life brings to you. One of the people who I just adore is my sorority sister Ronita, my line sister and ACEsistanumbaone! She has motivated and inspired me in so many ways. From her awesomeness as a mommy of two, her flyness, and her sincere heart; Ronita is the bomb.com. Check her blog out too http://glamincincy.blogspot.com/ My other line sister, Talea is on board to follow her list as well. If anyone is going to blow through her list, I know it's Talea. She's so driven. We are an amazing trinity of women. I'm so glad to have them in my life.
So we decided that since 30 was coming like a speeding train, we'd make a "bucket list" of all the things we want to do before 30, that we still have not done. Since I'm a year younger than her, I have three years and she has about two. We made our lists and I must say, they are awesome. I've had another brilliant idea! I am going to make a 15 before 30! (I cut it in half because 30 is just daunting). I'm making a list of 15 fitness accomplishments I'd like to do before I turn 30. These are goals and like any other goal, if I don't make them by 30, that's okay! 31 will do. :) Here they are:
1. I would like to land and STAY at 160lbs.
2. I would like to run a half marathon.
3. I would like to run a full marathon.
4. I would like to be able to do 20 regular push ups. (Not "girly" kind)
5. I would like to be certified as a personal trainer.
6. I would like to be certified as a children's fitness trainer.
7. I would like to be certified as a nutrition and wellness consultant.
8. I would like to help my family shed 150lbs between the four of us ( and help my husband gain 10 :) )
9. I would like to hike a challenging trail at Yosemite.
10. I would like to teach a dance class.
11. I would like to be able to run (not run walk) a mile without stopping.
12. I would like to be able to do 100 correct sit ups.
13. I would like to wear a bikini. (okay, I know that's vain but so what! who doesn't want to soak up the
sun in a cute two piece?)
14. I would like to run an international event.
15. I would like to take 10 years off my chronological age. BETTER AT 30 THAN 20!
I hope you make goals for yourself and have people in your life to keep you pushing.Some of these coincide with my 30 before 30. I am a firm believer that you speak those things as though they ARE! You declare it, claim, draw a picture, paint a mural, sign it, co sign it and it will be DELIVERED!
Happy Dreaming,
Ciao!
Barbara
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Ride the WAVE!
Hello All!
I had a GREAT workout today! My mommy did one mile with me in her oh so cute walking shoes! I am so proud of her! After I did the 3 miles, I decided to do a new sculpting workout. My sister bought this cool program called the "Wave". It's by the FIRM fitness makers. This program balances toning and cardio. It's pretty cool. What I loved about it was that, it gave me a personal trainer type workout in 30min. It went by so fast and I didn't have to pay 120/hr! :)
I'm not sure how much the program is in all, but it's worth it! I already feel good!
Happy Hopping!
Ciao
Barbara
Monday, February 28, 2011
Update!
Hi Guys!
I am so thrilled about this fitness week. I have so many things to be happy about. First off, I put in at least 20 miles last week. Even though I took a few days off, I was still able to get the miles in, which is important to me. So, I had a solid foundation to start the week off with. Also, I am a week closer to my goal of doing my first race in September in Tennessee! Whoop whoop!
Today was a good Monday. Following a major "no no" that still felt like a 'yes yes' of yesterday's fudge run, (Fudge run- a run to Buckees to pick up fudge.) I felt more motivated to kick my work out up. I started with a trek across the field that separates my apartment from my parent's place. ( I was also carrying my 11lb 3month old in her bouncer). Then I did Tae Bo FLEX. I love this workout because it's quick (35min) and it uses all your muscles to kick caloric butt! Then I slowed it down and did a two mile walk with Leslie and the crew. (My mother even joined me! How awesome was that?) Working out is contagious. I love to work out for my own health, but also because fitness consciousness spreads like wildfire. People can't help but pick it up. It gets folks to thinking, "why not me too?" That's how I operate. I see people who are on their grind and I say, "I can do that too! Aren't I awesome? Aren't I a child of God? Can't I ALSO do all things through Christ who strengthens me? " Well then!
Lastly, I checked my weight in the fitness room we have at the apartment and a weird thing happened. The scale said 224. Now, I didn't want to get to excited because scales lie like dogs sometimes. Plus, the scale I had been using at my mom's house was brutal. After a month and a half of kicking my own butt, it was adamantly staying at 243. When I checked my weight at Target about a week into my program around January 24th (I just used a scale they had sitting out) it said I was 237. So.....who was telling the truth? Mind you guys, I started at 243 on January 17th.
WELL, since I'm an optimist, I went with the scale in the fitness room. I took a 5lb weight and put it on the scale. It said 5lbs. I did the same with 10lb and 25lb weight. I'm going on faith and practicality that I have indeed lost 19lbs!
GLORAY!
Take care yall. And keep on pushing.
Ciao!
I am so thrilled about this fitness week. I have so many things to be happy about. First off, I put in at least 20 miles last week. Even though I took a few days off, I was still able to get the miles in, which is important to me. So, I had a solid foundation to start the week off with. Also, I am a week closer to my goal of doing my first race in September in Tennessee! Whoop whoop!
Today was a good Monday. Following a major "no no" that still felt like a 'yes yes' of yesterday's fudge run, (Fudge run- a run to Buckees to pick up fudge.) I felt more motivated to kick my work out up. I started with a trek across the field that separates my apartment from my parent's place. ( I was also carrying my 11lb 3month old in her bouncer). Then I did Tae Bo FLEX. I love this workout because it's quick (35min) and it uses all your muscles to kick caloric butt! Then I slowed it down and did a two mile walk with Leslie and the crew. (My mother even joined me! How awesome was that?) Working out is contagious. I love to work out for my own health, but also because fitness consciousness spreads like wildfire. People can't help but pick it up. It gets folks to thinking, "why not me too?" That's how I operate. I see people who are on their grind and I say, "I can do that too! Aren't I awesome? Aren't I a child of God? Can't I ALSO do all things through Christ who strengthens me? " Well then!
Lastly, I checked my weight in the fitness room we have at the apartment and a weird thing happened. The scale said 224. Now, I didn't want to get to excited because scales lie like dogs sometimes. Plus, the scale I had been using at my mom's house was brutal. After a month and a half of kicking my own butt, it was adamantly staying at 243. When I checked my weight at Target about a week into my program around January 24th (I just used a scale they had sitting out) it said I was 237. So.....who was telling the truth? Mind you guys, I started at 243 on January 17th.
WELL, since I'm an optimist, I went with the scale in the fitness room. I took a 5lb weight and put it on the scale. It said 5lbs. I did the same with 10lb and 25lb weight. I'm going on faith and practicality that I have indeed lost 19lbs!
GLORAY!
Take care yall. And keep on pushing.
Ciao!
Saturday, February 19, 2011
2011 Racing Events
HOLA! (I'm thinking of taking my blog bilingual!)
I am soooooo excited about participating in the upcoming events this year. I cleared 4 miles today (with my husband who is a former Tracklete) we walked, jogged, and sprinted. My body hurts. The burn was delicious! Every step I take brings me closer to my goals of truly being physically able to run/jog/walk in the Half Marathon in Tennesse this September. If you want a reason to get back at it, hit the treadmill or track and really gear up on fitness, I suggest registering for one of the events below. If you don't see something near you organize your own! (I find, though, nothing is more of a motivator than spending money on something.) They usually support a philanthropy (tax break!) and you meet cool people who are just trying to get it together like you! Happy Racing!
FEBRUARY 2011
2/6/2011
State Farm Melbourne & Beaches Music Marathon Weekend
Melbourne, FL
5K, 8K, Half Marathon, Full Marathon
www.TheMelbourneMarathon.com
2/12/2011
Virginia is for Lovers 14k
Virginia Beach, VA
14k & 1.4 mile
www.vifl14k.com
2/13/2011
Myrtle Beach Marathon & Half Marathon
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Marathon, Half Marathon
www.mbmarathon.com
2/13/2011
26.2 With Donna - The National Marathon To Fight Breast Cancer
Jacksonville, FL
Marathon, Half Marathon
www.breastcancermarathon.com
2/20/2011
A1A Marathon
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Marathon, Half Marathon
a1amarathon.com
2/20/2011
Austin Marathon
Austin, TX
Marathon, Half Marathon
www.youraustinmarathon.com
2/27/2011
Disney's Princess ½ Marathon
Orlando, FL
Half Marathon, 5K, Kids Races
www.disneyprincesshalfmarathon.com
2/27/2011
Gasparilla Distance Classic
Tampa, FL
Half Marathon, 15K, 5K
www.tampabayrun.com
MARCH 2011
3/6/2011
13.1 Miami Beach
Miami, FL
Half Marathon, 5K
www.131marathon.com
3/6/2011
Little Rock Marathon
Little Rock, AR
Marathon, Half Marathon, Relay, 5K Fun Run/Walk, Kids Race, Seniors Race
www.littlerockmarathon.com
3/12/2011
Glen Rose St. Patrick's Day Festival
Glen Rose, TX
10k, 5k, 1 Mile Run Run
3/20/2011
The Yuengling Shamrock Sportsfest Marathon
Virginia Beach, VA
Marathon, Half Marathon, 8K, Kids Races
www.shamrockmarathon.com
3/20/2011
ING Georgia Marathon
Atlanta, GA
Marathon, Half-Marathon and Wheelchair Race
www.inggeorgiamarathon.com
3/26/2011
Cooper River Bridge Run
Charleston, SC
10K
www.bridgerun.com
3/27/2011
ZOOMA Austin Half Marathon & 5K
Austin, TX
Half Marathon, 5K
www.zoomarun.com
APRIL 2011
4/2/2011
13.1 New York
New York, NY
Half Marathon
www.131newyork.com
Crescent City Classic
New Orleans, LA
10K
www.ccc10k.com
4/10/2011
Go! St. Louis
St. Louis, MO
Marathon, ½ Marathon
www.gostlouis.org/marathon
4/18/2011
Boston Marathon
Boston, MA
Marathon
www.bostonmarathon.org
4/24/2011
Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon
Oklahoma City, OK
Marathon, ½ Marathon, 5K Walk
www.okcmarathon.com
4/24/2010
St. Anthony’s Triathlon
www.satriathlon.com
4/30/2011
Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon and miniMarathon
Louisville, KY
Marathon, miniMarathon
www.derbyfestivalmarathon.com
MAY 2011
5/1/2011
Blue Cross Broad Street Run
Philadelphia, PA
Ten Miler
www.broadstreetrun.com
5/1/2011
Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon
Cincinnati, OH
Marathon, Half Marathon, Relay, Wheelchair, 10K, 5K, Kids’ Races, Fun Run
www.flyingpigmarathon.com
5/1/2011
Eugene Marathon
Eugene, OR
Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K, Kids’ Marathon
www.eugenemarathon.com
5/7/2011
One America 500 Festival Mini Marathon
Indianapolis, IN
Half Marathon, 5K
www.500festival.com
5/8/2011
Mothers' Day 5K Run/Walk
Denver City Park, CO
5K
www.mothersday5k.com
5/14/2011
The Autism 5K
Minneapolis, MN
5K
www.autism5k.org
5/15/2011
Marine Corps Historic Half
Fredericksburg, VA
Half Marathon, 5K
www.marinecorpshistorichalf.com
5/15/2011
The Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon
Cleveland, OH
Marathon, Half Marathon & 10K
www.clevelandmarathon.com
5/22/2011
Run for the Dream
Williamsburg, VA
Half Marathon & 8K
www.RunForAchievableDream.com
5/23/2011
A Race for Maggie's Place
Tempe, AZ
9K run, Walk/Stroller Push
race4maggiesplace.com
5/29/2011
Ottawa Marathon
Ottawa, ON Canada
Marathon, 10K, 5K
www.ncm.ca
5/29/2011
ZOOMA Annapolis Half Marathon & 5K
Annapolis, MD
Half Marathon & 10K
www.zoomarun.com/annapolis
JUNE 2011
6/2011
See Jane Run Half Marathon & 5K
I run for chocolate and champagne
Boise, ID
Half Marathon, 5K
www.seejanerun.com
6/12/2011
13.1 Chicago
Chicago, IL
Half Marathon
www.131chicago.com
6/18/2011
Grandma's Marathon
Duluth, MN
Marathon, 5K
www.grandmasmarathon.com
6/26/2011
13.1 Boston
Boston, MA
Half Marathon
www.131marathon.com
JULY 2010
7/4/2011
Peachtree 10K Road Race
Atlanta, GA
10K
www.atlantatrackclub.org
7/4/2011
Red, White & Boom! TC Half Marathon
Minneapolis, MN
Half Marathon
www.mtcmarathon.org
7/31/2011
The San Francisco Marathon
San Francisco, CA
Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K
www.runsfm.com
AUGUST 2011
8/6/2011
Woodstock 5K
Anniston, AL
5K
www.woodstock5k.com
8/21/2011
America's Finest City Half Marathon
San Diego, CA
Half Marathon & 5K
www.afchalf.com/
8/21/2011
13.1 Minneapolis
Minneapolis, MN
Half Marathon
www.131marathon.com
8/27/2011
Run for the Creeks 10K, 5K & 1K Kid Creek
Prescott, AZ
10K, 5K, 1K
www.prescottcreeks.org.com
8/28/2011
Santa Rosa Marathon
Santa Rosa, CA
Marathon, Half Marathon
www.thesantarosamarathon.com
SEPTEMBER 2011
September 2011
10K for $10K
London, KY
10K
www.fodpllc.com
September 2011
Fancis Marion Dirt Dash
Awendaw, SC
Half Marathon & 5K
www.active.com
9/11/2011
Chicago Half Marathon
Chicago, IL
Half Marathon, 5K
www.chicagohalfmarathon.com
9/16/2011
Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon
Toronto, Ontario
Half Marathon, 5K
www.torontowaterfrontmarathon.com
9/16/2011
Cooper-Young Festival Friday 4Miler
Memphis, TN
4-Miler
cooperyoung4miler.com
9/18/2011
Community First Fox Cities Marathon
Appleton, WI
Marathon, Half Marathon, 13.1 Mile Walk, Relay, 5K, Kids Race
www.foxcitiesmarathon.org
9/18/2011
A Race for Maggie's Place
Cleveland, OH
9K run, Walk/Stroller Push
race4maggiesplace.com
9/24/2011
Women's Running Magazine Women's Half Marathon - Nashville
Nashville, TN
Half Marathon & 5K
www.womenshalfmarathon.com
9/25/2011
Walk For Hope
Glendale, AZ
5K Run, 1.3 Mile Leisure Walk
www.cityofhope.org
Step Out: Walk to Fight Diabetes
American Diabetes Association
Dates and Locations Vary
www.diabetes.org/stepout
OCTOBER 2011
10/1/2011
Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend
Orlando, FL
Half Marathon, Family Fun Run 5K
www.disneyenduranceseries.com
10/1/2011
Coastwise Mile
La Jolla, CA
Mile Runs, 5K, Corporate Relay, Kids Runs, Mutt Mile, Festival
www.coastwisemile.com
10/2/2011
13.1 Atlanta
Atlanta, GA
Half Marathon
www.131atlanta.com
10/2/2011
Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon
St. Paul, MN
Marathon, Ten Mile, 5K
www.mtcmarathon.org
10/8/2011
Run for Breast Health Williamsburg 10K
Williamsburg, VA
10K
www.thehealthjournals.com/10k
10/8/2011
Bethel Rural Community Organization
Canton, NC
Half Marathon, 5K
www.bethelrural.org
10/9/2011
Bank of America Chicago Marathon
Chicago, IL
Marathon
www.chicagomarathon.com
10/10/2011
Tufts Health Plan 10K for Women
Boston, MA
10K
www.tuftshealthplan.com/tufts10k
10/15/2011
Baltimore Running Festival
Baltimore, MD
Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K
www.thebaltimoremarathon.com
10/15/2011
Waddell & Reed Kansas City Marathon
Kansas City, MO
Marathon, Half Marathon, Team Relay, 5K, Kids' Marathon
www.waddellandreedkansascitymarathon.org
10/15/2011
Spartan Challenge 5K
Tampa, FL
Adventure style race through University of Tampa's historic campus
www.spartanchallenge5k.com
10/15/2011
Run to the River
Richmond, VA
10K Hill Run / 5K Walk
runtotheriver.org/race
10/16/2011
IMT Des Moines Marathon
Des Moines, IA
Marathon, Half Marathon, Marathon Relay, 5K Road Race
www.desmoinesmarathon.com
10/16/2011
Detroit Free Press Marathon
Detroit, MI
Marathon, Half Marathon
www.detroitmarathon.com
10/23/2011
Army Ten Miler
Washington, DC
www.armytenmiler.com
10/23/2011
Borden Uptown Run
Dallas, TX
5 Mile Race, 5K Trolley Walk, Kid's K, Special Olympics Run
www.uptownrun.org
10/23/2011
Marine Corps Marathon
Washington, DC
Marathon, 10K
www.marinemarathon.com
10/29/2011
Blue Moon Wicked 10k
Virginia Beach, VA
10K
www.wicked10k.com
10/30/2011
Halloween Half Marathon
Miami Beach, FL
Half Marathon
www.halloweenhalfmarathon.com
NOVEMBER 2011
11/6/2011
The Women's Half Marathon - Scottsdale-Tempe
Scottsdale-Tempe, Ariz.
Half Marathon & 5K
www.womenshalfmarathon.com
11/12/2011
A Race for Maggie's Place
Tempe, AZ
9K run, Walk/Stroller Push
race4maggiesplace.com
11/12/2011
SunTrust Richmond Marathon
Richmond, VA
Marathon, Half Marathon
www.richmondmarathon.com
11/13/2011
13.1 Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Half Marathon
www.131fortlauderdale.com
11/13/2011
weSPARK Cancer Support Center 2nd Annual 10K Run & 5K Run/Walk
Encino, CA
5K Run/Walk & 10K Run
www.active.com
11/20/2011
The Women's Running Magazine Women's Half Marathon
St. Petersburg, FL
Half Marathon, 5K
www.womenshalfmarathon.com
11/20/2011
Philadelphia Marathon
Philadelphia, PA
Marathon, Half Marathon, 8K, Kids Race
www.philadelphiamarathon.com
11/24/2011
Turkey Trot 5K
Amelia Island, FL
5K
www.active.com
11/27/2011
Space Coast Marathon & Half Marathon
Cocoa, FL
Marathon and Half Marathon
www.spacecoastmarathon.com
DECEMBER 2011
12/3/2011
St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend
Memphis, TN
Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K, Family Race & Kid's Marathon
www.stjudemarathon.org/
12/3/201
Raggae Marathon & Half Marathon
Negril, Jamaica
Marathon, Half Marathon
www.reggaemarathon
12/10/2011
Charlotte's Thunder Road Marathon
Charlotte, NC
Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K
www.runcharlotte.com
12/11/2011
Holiday Halfathon
Maedira Beach, FL
Half Marathon
www.floridahalf.com
JANUARY 2012
1/8/2012
Walt Disney World Marathon
Orlando, FL
Marathon, Half Marathon, Goofy's Race and Half Challenge, Family Fun Run 5K, Kids' Races
www.disneyworldsports.com
1/8/2012
13.1 Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
Half Marathon & 5K
www.131losangeles.com
1/21/2012
Clearwater Halfathon & 5 Miler
Clearwater, FL
Half Marathon, 5 Miler
www.clearwaterhalf.info
1/29/2012
Chevron Houston Marathon
Houston, TX
Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K
www.chevronhoustonmarathon.com
1/29/2012
ING Miami Marathon
Miami, FL
Marathon, Half Marathon
www.ingmiamimarathon.com
1/29/2012
Key West Half Marathon
Key West, FL
Half Marathon
www.keywestspecialevents.com
I am soooooo excited about participating in the upcoming events this year. I cleared 4 miles today (with my husband who is a former Tracklete) we walked, jogged, and sprinted. My body hurts. The burn was delicious! Every step I take brings me closer to my goals of truly being physically able to run/jog/walk in the Half Marathon in Tennesse this September. If you want a reason to get back at it, hit the treadmill or track and really gear up on fitness, I suggest registering for one of the events below. If you don't see something near you organize your own! (I find, though, nothing is more of a motivator than spending money on something.) They usually support a philanthropy (tax break!) and you meet cool people who are just trying to get it together like you! Happy Racing!
FEBRUARY 2011
2/6/2011
State Farm Melbourne & Beaches Music Marathon Weekend
Melbourne, FL
5K, 8K, Half Marathon, Full Marathon
www.TheMelbourneMarathon.com
2/12/2011
Virginia is for Lovers 14k
Virginia Beach, VA
14k & 1.4 mile
www.vifl14k.com
2/13/2011
Myrtle Beach Marathon & Half Marathon
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Marathon, Half Marathon
www.mbmarathon.com
2/13/2011
26.2 With Donna - The National Marathon To Fight Breast Cancer
Jacksonville, FL
Marathon, Half Marathon
www.breastcancermarathon.com
2/20/2011
A1A Marathon
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Marathon, Half Marathon
a1amarathon.com
2/20/2011
Austin Marathon
Austin, TX
Marathon, Half Marathon
www.youraustinmarathon.com
2/27/2011
Disney's Princess ½ Marathon
Orlando, FL
Half Marathon, 5K, Kids Races
www.disneyprincesshalfmarathon.com
2/27/2011
Gasparilla Distance Classic
Tampa, FL
Half Marathon, 15K, 5K
www.tampabayrun.com
MARCH 2011
3/6/2011
13.1 Miami Beach
Miami, FL
Half Marathon, 5K
www.131marathon.com
3/6/2011
Little Rock Marathon
Little Rock, AR
Marathon, Half Marathon, Relay, 5K Fun Run/Walk, Kids Race, Seniors Race
www.littlerockmarathon.com
3/12/2011
Glen Rose St. Patrick's Day Festival
Glen Rose, TX
10k, 5k, 1 Mile Run Run
3/20/2011
The Yuengling Shamrock Sportsfest Marathon
Virginia Beach, VA
Marathon, Half Marathon, 8K, Kids Races
www.shamrockmarathon.com
3/20/2011
ING Georgia Marathon
Atlanta, GA
Marathon, Half-Marathon and Wheelchair Race
www.inggeorgiamarathon.com
3/26/2011
Cooper River Bridge Run
Charleston, SC
10K
www.bridgerun.com
3/27/2011
ZOOMA Austin Half Marathon & 5K
Austin, TX
Half Marathon, 5K
www.zoomarun.com
APRIL 2011
4/2/2011
13.1 New York
New York, NY
Half Marathon
www.131newyork.com
Crescent City Classic
New Orleans, LA
10K
www.ccc10k.com
4/10/2011
Go! St. Louis
St. Louis, MO
Marathon, ½ Marathon
www.gostlouis.org/marathon
4/18/2011
Boston Marathon
Boston, MA
Marathon
www.bostonmarathon.org
4/24/2011
Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon
Oklahoma City, OK
Marathon, ½ Marathon, 5K Walk
www.okcmarathon.com
4/24/2010
St. Anthony’s Triathlon
www.satriathlon.com
4/30/2011
Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon and miniMarathon
Louisville, KY
Marathon, miniMarathon
www.derbyfestivalmarathon.com
MAY 2011
5/1/2011
Blue Cross Broad Street Run
Philadelphia, PA
Ten Miler
www.broadstreetrun.com
5/1/2011
Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon
Cincinnati, OH
Marathon, Half Marathon, Relay, Wheelchair, 10K, 5K, Kids’ Races, Fun Run
www.flyingpigmarathon.com
5/1/2011
Eugene Marathon
Eugene, OR
Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K, Kids’ Marathon
www.eugenemarathon.com
5/7/2011
One America 500 Festival Mini Marathon
Indianapolis, IN
Half Marathon, 5K
www.500festival.com
5/8/2011
Mothers' Day 5K Run/Walk
Denver City Park, CO
5K
www.mothersday5k.com
5/14/2011
The Autism 5K
Minneapolis, MN
5K
www.autism5k.org
5/15/2011
Marine Corps Historic Half
Fredericksburg, VA
Half Marathon, 5K
www.marinecorpshistorichalf.com
5/15/2011
The Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon
Cleveland, OH
Marathon, Half Marathon & 10K
www.clevelandmarathon.com
5/22/2011
Run for the Dream
Williamsburg, VA
Half Marathon & 8K
www.RunForAchievableDream.com
5/23/2011
A Race for Maggie's Place
Tempe, AZ
9K run, Walk/Stroller Push
race4maggiesplace.com
5/29/2011
Ottawa Marathon
Ottawa, ON Canada
Marathon, 10K, 5K
www.ncm.ca
5/29/2011
ZOOMA Annapolis Half Marathon & 5K
Annapolis, MD
Half Marathon & 10K
www.zoomarun.com/annapolis
JUNE 2011
6/2011
See Jane Run Half Marathon & 5K
I run for chocolate and champagne
Boise, ID
Half Marathon, 5K
www.seejanerun.com
6/12/2011
13.1 Chicago
Chicago, IL
Half Marathon
www.131chicago.com
6/18/2011
Grandma's Marathon
Duluth, MN
Marathon, 5K
www.grandmasmarathon.com
6/26/2011
13.1 Boston
Boston, MA
Half Marathon
www.131marathon.com
JULY 2010
7/4/2011
Peachtree 10K Road Race
Atlanta, GA
10K
www.atlantatrackclub.org
7/4/2011
Red, White & Boom! TC Half Marathon
Minneapolis, MN
Half Marathon
www.mtcmarathon.org
7/31/2011
The San Francisco Marathon
San Francisco, CA
Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K
www.runsfm.com
AUGUST 2011
8/6/2011
Woodstock 5K
Anniston, AL
5K
www.woodstock5k.com
8/21/2011
America's Finest City Half Marathon
San Diego, CA
Half Marathon & 5K
www.afchalf.com/
8/21/2011
13.1 Minneapolis
Minneapolis, MN
Half Marathon
www.131marathon.com
8/27/2011
Run for the Creeks 10K, 5K & 1K Kid Creek
Prescott, AZ
10K, 5K, 1K
www.prescottcreeks.org.com
8/28/2011
Santa Rosa Marathon
Santa Rosa, CA
Marathon, Half Marathon
www.thesantarosamarathon.com
SEPTEMBER 2011
September 2011
10K for $10K
London, KY
10K
www.fodpllc.com
September 2011
Fancis Marion Dirt Dash
Awendaw, SC
Half Marathon & 5K
www.active.com
9/11/2011
Chicago Half Marathon
Chicago, IL
Half Marathon, 5K
www.chicagohalfmarathon.com
9/16/2011
Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon
Toronto, Ontario
Half Marathon, 5K
www.torontowaterfrontmarathon.com
9/16/2011
Cooper-Young Festival Friday 4Miler
Memphis, TN
4-Miler
cooperyoung4miler.com
9/18/2011
Community First Fox Cities Marathon
Appleton, WI
Marathon, Half Marathon, 13.1 Mile Walk, Relay, 5K, Kids Race
www.foxcitiesmarathon.org
9/18/2011
A Race for Maggie's Place
Cleveland, OH
9K run, Walk/Stroller Push
race4maggiesplace.com
9/24/2011
Women's Running Magazine Women's Half Marathon - Nashville
Nashville, TN
Half Marathon & 5K
www.womenshalfmarathon.com
9/25/2011
Walk For Hope
Glendale, AZ
5K Run, 1.3 Mile Leisure Walk
www.cityofhope.org
Step Out: Walk to Fight Diabetes
American Diabetes Association
Dates and Locations Vary
www.diabetes.org/stepout
OCTOBER 2011
10/1/2011
Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend
Orlando, FL
Half Marathon, Family Fun Run 5K
www.disneyenduranceseries.com
10/1/2011
Coastwise Mile
La Jolla, CA
Mile Runs, 5K, Corporate Relay, Kids Runs, Mutt Mile, Festival
www.coastwisemile.com
10/2/2011
13.1 Atlanta
Atlanta, GA
Half Marathon
www.131atlanta.com
10/2/2011
Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon
St. Paul, MN
Marathon, Ten Mile, 5K
www.mtcmarathon.org
10/8/2011
Run for Breast Health Williamsburg 10K
Williamsburg, VA
10K
www.thehealthjournals.com/10k
10/8/2011
Bethel Rural Community Organization
Canton, NC
Half Marathon, 5K
www.bethelrural.org
10/9/2011
Bank of America Chicago Marathon
Chicago, IL
Marathon
www.chicagomarathon.com
10/10/2011
Tufts Health Plan 10K for Women
Boston, MA
10K
www.tuftshealthplan.com/tufts10k
10/15/2011
Baltimore Running Festival
Baltimore, MD
Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K
www.thebaltimoremarathon.com
10/15/2011
Waddell & Reed Kansas City Marathon
Kansas City, MO
Marathon, Half Marathon, Team Relay, 5K, Kids' Marathon
www.waddellandreedkansascitymarathon.org
10/15/2011
Spartan Challenge 5K
Tampa, FL
Adventure style race through University of Tampa's historic campus
www.spartanchallenge5k.com
10/15/2011
Run to the River
Richmond, VA
10K Hill Run / 5K Walk
runtotheriver.org/race
10/16/2011
IMT Des Moines Marathon
Des Moines, IA
Marathon, Half Marathon, Marathon Relay, 5K Road Race
www.desmoinesmarathon.com
10/16/2011
Detroit Free Press Marathon
Detroit, MI
Marathon, Half Marathon
www.detroitmarathon.com
10/23/2011
Army Ten Miler
Washington, DC
www.armytenmiler.com
10/23/2011
Borden Uptown Run
Dallas, TX
5 Mile Race, 5K Trolley Walk, Kid's K, Special Olympics Run
www.uptownrun.org
10/23/2011
Marine Corps Marathon
Washington, DC
Marathon, 10K
www.marinemarathon.com
10/29/2011
Blue Moon Wicked 10k
Virginia Beach, VA
10K
www.wicked10k.com
10/30/2011
Halloween Half Marathon
Miami Beach, FL
Half Marathon
www.halloweenhalfmarathon.com
NOVEMBER 2011
11/6/2011
The Women's Half Marathon - Scottsdale-Tempe
Scottsdale-Tempe, Ariz.
Half Marathon & 5K
www.womenshalfmarathon.com
11/12/2011
A Race for Maggie's Place
Tempe, AZ
9K run, Walk/Stroller Push
race4maggiesplace.com
11/12/2011
SunTrust Richmond Marathon
Richmond, VA
Marathon, Half Marathon
www.richmondmarathon.com
11/13/2011
13.1 Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Half Marathon
www.131fortlauderdale.com
11/13/2011
weSPARK Cancer Support Center 2nd Annual 10K Run & 5K Run/Walk
Encino, CA
5K Run/Walk & 10K Run
www.active.com
11/20/2011
The Women's Running Magazine Women's Half Marathon
St. Petersburg, FL
Half Marathon, 5K
www.womenshalfmarathon.com
11/20/2011
Philadelphia Marathon
Philadelphia, PA
Marathon, Half Marathon, 8K, Kids Race
www.philadelphiamarathon.com
11/24/2011
Turkey Trot 5K
Amelia Island, FL
5K
www.active.com
11/27/2011
Space Coast Marathon & Half Marathon
Cocoa, FL
Marathon and Half Marathon
www.spacecoastmarathon.com
DECEMBER 2011
12/3/2011
St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend
Memphis, TN
Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K, Family Race & Kid's Marathon
www.stjudemarathon.org/
12/3/201
Raggae Marathon & Half Marathon
Negril, Jamaica
Marathon, Half Marathon
www.reggaemarathon
12/10/2011
Charlotte's Thunder Road Marathon
Charlotte, NC
Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K
www.runcharlotte.com
12/11/2011
Holiday Halfathon
Maedira Beach, FL
Half Marathon
www.floridahalf.com
JANUARY 2012
1/8/2012
Walt Disney World Marathon
Orlando, FL
Marathon, Half Marathon, Goofy's Race and Half Challenge, Family Fun Run 5K, Kids' Races
www.disneyworldsports.com
1/8/2012
13.1 Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
Half Marathon & 5K
www.131losangeles.com
1/21/2012
Clearwater Halfathon & 5 Miler
Clearwater, FL
Half Marathon, 5 Miler
www.clearwaterhalf.info
1/29/2012
Chevron Houston Marathon
Houston, TX
Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K
www.chevronhoustonmarathon.com
1/29/2012
ING Miami Marathon
Miami, FL
Marathon, Half Marathon
www.ingmiamimarathon.com
1/29/2012
Key West Half Marathon
Key West, FL
Half Marathon
www.keywestspecialevents.com
Sports Attire-The Bra
Hello All,
I wanted to do a series on sports and fitness attire. We all know that when you look good, you feel good. So, to me, I like to wear workout clothes with a little jazz in them ( a pop of color or a cute design) to keep me motivated during a trying workout. However, it must be said, that functionality trumps fashion any day. While you may be tempted to wear those cutesy Jordan's or Air Maxes, they are not fit for all sports. Today's post focuses on protecting our breasts as we run. Men have gear to keep their ahem..packages safe during a workout. We should be just as cautious. When working out, it's critical to have a proper sports bra.
The biggest reason why you should wear a proper-fitting sports bra is comfort. A runner should never think about her breasts while running. This is a key indication that the sports bra isn’t fitting properly. A poor-fitting sports bra can hinder performance and ruin your entire workout experience. If the sports bra is too tight, it can result in chafing and prevent proper breathing. A sports bra that is too loose won’t provide the right amount of support to reduce breast movement. Also, a proper-fitting sports bra helps to keep the Cooper’s ligament (connective tissue that supports the breasts) strong. Because women start to wear bras at such a young age, the ligament loses its strength and doesn’t have the ability to support the breasts as much as nature intended.
WHAT ARE SOME TIPS TO FIND THE RIGHT FIT? WHAT TESTS CAN I DO IN THE DRESSING ROOM?
First, you need to find out what size sports bra you actually wear by going through a professional fitting. The reality is that 80 percent of women wear the wrong size bra. Women who don’t get fitted typically buy a bra with a band that is too big and cups that are too small. Here are some ways to gauge the proper size in the dressing room:
Straps: They shouldn’t be too tight or dig into your shoulders. If the straps are providing a majority of the support, the sports bra isn’t the right fit. Look for straps with minimal stretch to reduce up-and-down breast movement. Adjustable straps provide a customizable fit.
Band: As the foundation of the bra, the band should fit flat against your ribcage and fit more snugly than a lingerie bra. Take a deep breath to make sure the bra fits comfortably. Look for a wide band with strong elastic to provide necessary support. If it rides up in the back, the band is either too loose or the straps need to be adjusted.
Cups: Your breasts should be fully covered and should not be pouring out of the top. The fabric should be smooth with no wrinkles. When you first try on the bra, adjust your breasts and allow them to settle into the cups for a couple minutes.
Try on a sports bra as you would running shoes. Most specialty running stores have a treadmill or track set up for trying out their running shoes. If the store doesn’t have a track or treadmill, run in place in the dressing room. Move in ways that give your breasts every opportunity to move up and down, in and out, and in a figure eight, which is similar to the movement they actually make while you run. While testing out the sports bra, you shouldn’t feel bounce or pressure against your chest wall. Remember, you may have to try on several bras until you find the one that is most comfortable.
WHAT ARE KEY FEATURES TO LOOK FOR IN A SPORTS BRA?
Look for a sports bra made from a moisture-wicking material such as polyester that dries quickly. The sports bra should also have cup stability to hold your breasts in place. Many women think of a sports bra as a giant elastic bandage, but for those with larger breasts, you want to look for one with both strap and band adjustability. A women’s breast size can change throughout the month, especially if you lose or gain weight, so it’s important to have the ability to slightly alter the bra’s size. An adjustable strap and band will help you to customize the bra to your particular shape.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I REPLACE BY SPORTS BRA?
This depends on how often you wear and wash your sports bra, but in most cases, it should never have a birthday. The fabric wears out over time from sweat, detergent, dryers, etc. You should look for signs of wear such as rippling of the elastic or a loose fit. If you adjust your bra to the tightest hook and you can still fit your fingers underneath, it’s likely wearing out. Keep in mind that you should own several sports bras and should never wear the same one two days in a row.
SHOULD I WEAR DIFFERENT STYLES DEPENDING ON THE ACTIVITY?
A pullover soft wicking bra is ideal for cycling, yoga or any low-impact activity that doesn’t require as much support. For high-impact activities such as running, a supportive bra featuring both compression and encapsulation is ideal. Compression bras minimize movement by pressing flat against your chest. Encapsulating sports bras, which resemble regular bras, add shape and structure and keep each breast separated. Finding the right sports bra is a time-consuming process, but if you start your search equipped with the above advice, you’ll be well on your way to bra nirvana. Not only will you feel more comfortable during your workouts, but you’ll look fabulous, too. A perfect-fitting sports bra makes all the difference.
And as always, if you don't have a good one now, it's the PERFECT TIME TO SHOP!! :)
I wanted to do a series on sports and fitness attire. We all know that when you look good, you feel good. So, to me, I like to wear workout clothes with a little jazz in them ( a pop of color or a cute design) to keep me motivated during a trying workout. However, it must be said, that functionality trumps fashion any day. While you may be tempted to wear those cutesy Jordan's or Air Maxes, they are not fit for all sports. Today's post focuses on protecting our breasts as we run. Men have gear to keep their ahem..packages safe during a workout. We should be just as cautious. When working out, it's critical to have a proper sports bra.
The biggest reason why you should wear a proper-fitting sports bra is comfort. A runner should never think about her breasts while running. This is a key indication that the sports bra isn’t fitting properly. A poor-fitting sports bra can hinder performance and ruin your entire workout experience. If the sports bra is too tight, it can result in chafing and prevent proper breathing. A sports bra that is too loose won’t provide the right amount of support to reduce breast movement. Also, a proper-fitting sports bra helps to keep the Cooper’s ligament (connective tissue that supports the breasts) strong. Because women start to wear bras at such a young age, the ligament loses its strength and doesn’t have the ability to support the breasts as much as nature intended.
WHAT ARE SOME TIPS TO FIND THE RIGHT FIT? WHAT TESTS CAN I DO IN THE DRESSING ROOM?
First, you need to find out what size sports bra you actually wear by going through a professional fitting. The reality is that 80 percent of women wear the wrong size bra. Women who don’t get fitted typically buy a bra with a band that is too big and cups that are too small. Here are some ways to gauge the proper size in the dressing room:
Straps: They shouldn’t be too tight or dig into your shoulders. If the straps are providing a majority of the support, the sports bra isn’t the right fit. Look for straps with minimal stretch to reduce up-and-down breast movement. Adjustable straps provide a customizable fit.
Band: As the foundation of the bra, the band should fit flat against your ribcage and fit more snugly than a lingerie bra. Take a deep breath to make sure the bra fits comfortably. Look for a wide band with strong elastic to provide necessary support. If it rides up in the back, the band is either too loose or the straps need to be adjusted.
Cups: Your breasts should be fully covered and should not be pouring out of the top. The fabric should be smooth with no wrinkles. When you first try on the bra, adjust your breasts and allow them to settle into the cups for a couple minutes.
Try on a sports bra as you would running shoes. Most specialty running stores have a treadmill or track set up for trying out their running shoes. If the store doesn’t have a track or treadmill, run in place in the dressing room. Move in ways that give your breasts every opportunity to move up and down, in and out, and in a figure eight, which is similar to the movement they actually make while you run. While testing out the sports bra, you shouldn’t feel bounce or pressure against your chest wall. Remember, you may have to try on several bras until you find the one that is most comfortable.
WHAT ARE KEY FEATURES TO LOOK FOR IN A SPORTS BRA?
Look for a sports bra made from a moisture-wicking material such as polyester that dries quickly. The sports bra should also have cup stability to hold your breasts in place. Many women think of a sports bra as a giant elastic bandage, but for those with larger breasts, you want to look for one with both strap and band adjustability. A women’s breast size can change throughout the month, especially if you lose or gain weight, so it’s important to have the ability to slightly alter the bra’s size. An adjustable strap and band will help you to customize the bra to your particular shape.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I REPLACE BY SPORTS BRA?
This depends on how often you wear and wash your sports bra, but in most cases, it should never have a birthday. The fabric wears out over time from sweat, detergent, dryers, etc. You should look for signs of wear such as rippling of the elastic or a loose fit. If you adjust your bra to the tightest hook and you can still fit your fingers underneath, it’s likely wearing out. Keep in mind that you should own several sports bras and should never wear the same one two days in a row.
SHOULD I WEAR DIFFERENT STYLES DEPENDING ON THE ACTIVITY?
A pullover soft wicking bra is ideal for cycling, yoga or any low-impact activity that doesn’t require as much support. For high-impact activities such as running, a supportive bra featuring both compression and encapsulation is ideal. Compression bras minimize movement by pressing flat against your chest. Encapsulating sports bras, which resemble regular bras, add shape and structure and keep each breast separated. Finding the right sports bra is a time-consuming process, but if you start your search equipped with the above advice, you’ll be well on your way to bra nirvana. Not only will you feel more comfortable during your workouts, but you’ll look fabulous, too. A perfect-fitting sports bra makes all the difference.
And as always, if you don't have a good one now, it's the PERFECT TIME TO SHOP!! :)
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Update!
Whew! What a week!
Hi Friends! I hope all is well.
Here's the haps (happenings).
1. I started a new job. It is literally an hour and a half commute! OMG!
So, my 10 am workout has now turned into a 4am workout. This is the definition of commitment. I missed two days simply because I was exhausted. However, I have gotten back on track and am moving right along.
2. New job=classroom parties. I absolutely love my classroom (for now). The going away/Valentine's Day party given by the old teacher contained cheese and peperoni pizza, chili, nachos, heart shaped sugar cookies, chocolate covered strawberries, cupcakes (big and small), cookies, and candy. I was in HELL (masqueraded as Heaven.) War wounds include dipping cheese pizza into cheese sauce. Oh, I forgot to mention BIRTHDAY CAKE (that just said, "We'll miss you"), and Blue Bell homemade vanilla ice cream. My goodness. I survived though. I'm here to tell the tale. It was hard but I made it through.
Back on top and feeling good. Me and my sister took to the track and did our 4 miles yesterday. I ran a little bit of it (I've got to start picking up my speed). We did an hour today on the track. I took little miss Lilly and she gave us some weight and resistance. It was a beautiful day to be outside among God's work and enjoy ourselves.
I am 240, and so I've dropped 6lbs in a month. I wanted to do 10lbs, but we all know what might have stopped me from reaching that goal. That's alright. I'm feeling good in my spirit and body.
I hope you all are still reaching for your dreams and goals for the new year.
Ciao!
Barbie
Hi Friends! I hope all is well.
Here's the haps (happenings).
1. I started a new job. It is literally an hour and a half commute! OMG!
So, my 10 am workout has now turned into a 4am workout. This is the definition of commitment. I missed two days simply because I was exhausted. However, I have gotten back on track and am moving right along.
2. New job=classroom parties. I absolutely love my classroom (for now). The going away/Valentine's Day party given by the old teacher contained cheese and peperoni pizza, chili, nachos, heart shaped sugar cookies, chocolate covered strawberries, cupcakes (big and small), cookies, and candy. I was in HELL (masqueraded as Heaven.) War wounds include dipping cheese pizza into cheese sauce. Oh, I forgot to mention BIRTHDAY CAKE (that just said, "We'll miss you"), and Blue Bell homemade vanilla ice cream. My goodness. I survived though. I'm here to tell the tale. It was hard but I made it through.
Back on top and feeling good. Me and my sister took to the track and did our 4 miles yesterday. I ran a little bit of it (I've got to start picking up my speed). We did an hour today on the track. I took little miss Lilly and she gave us some weight and resistance. It was a beautiful day to be outside among God's work and enjoy ourselves.
I am 240, and so I've dropped 6lbs in a month. I wanted to do 10lbs, but we all know what might have stopped me from reaching that goal. That's alright. I'm feeling good in my spirit and body.
I hope you all are still reaching for your dreams and goals for the new year.
Ciao!
Barbie
Friday, February 4, 2011
I Heart My Heart!
February is Heart Health Month!!! It is also Black History Month!
In celebration of both, I'd like to encourage you all to take some time and do some heart healthy activities. African-Americans are at a much greater risk to die from or be diagnosed with a cardiovascular disease. This is serious folks. If you are a "foodie" like me, and love all food, it is hard to limit the intake of sodium and salt. According to a new issued by the US Department of Agriculture, African-Americans and people over 51 should limit their salt intake to no more than 1,500mgs of Sodium a day. So basically, look at your labels guys!
To keep your heart in great shape, amp up your CARDIO! That's why they call it cardio guys, it promotes a healthy cardiovascular system.
I like to walk as you all know, but you can also run, jog, dance, move furniture, do laundry, garden, did I say dance? You have to make sure you get your heart rate up (according to your age and weight) in order to really get the blood pumping and push through those arteries.
When you are eating, make sure you are checking labels for sodium count and be careful of your hidden salt intake with seasoning. I love to season my food with all sorts of spices, but I have since moved to fresh herbs (that you can dry and ground). Use sea salt instead of regular salt. Try lemon juice as a flavoring! There are so many ways to get around just salt and really punch up a heart healthy meal. Be sure to get your Omega 3's and Omega 6's for the healthy fat you need as well.
I'm no expert but I know that heart disease has taken some wonderful people in my family. I walk for my Uncle Albert who was the most wildly creative man I ever met! I remember him on this journey so that I can be that crazy, funny, creative and loving for my daughter and nieces and nephews.
Let's remember that we come from a group of people who relish the natural, the organic, and wonderful (when talking about foods - have you ever had a Pineapple fresh from Ghana? mmmm)! We don't have to settle for the Standard American Diet! We can reach back into our heritage (that extends beyond greens with ham hock, mac and cheese with sugar and cheese) and cook for health and enjoyment.
Let's do it, and make Daniel Hale Williams proud! He after all was the first African-American to perform the first successful open heart surgery!
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| Daniel Hale Williams |
Happy Black History Heart Health Month!
Barbie!
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Update!
As of yesterday, I have lost 8lbs since January 17th! That's an awesome accomplishment. My goal is to not gain that weight back and to continue with weight loss and inches lost. I have a few hiccups (mainly in the form of two smore pop tarts and a "TO DIE FOR" chocolate bread pudding. Yeah, I told you I had a sugar issue. Well, I'm conquering it so I'm glad for that.
My sister and I walked today and we are stacking on the miles! We are building our endurance and working toward our goals of doing an event this fall!
I hope everyone is on track with their goals!
Ciao!
Barbie
My sister and I walked today and we are stacking on the miles! We are building our endurance and working toward our goals of doing an event this fall!
I hope everyone is on track with their goals!
Ciao!
Barbie
Monday, January 31, 2011
Recipe for the day: Shrimp Pasta in Spinach Pesto Sauce
Who doesn't like a big ol' bowl of "Spasketti"? I know I do! Since I'm doing low carb and whole wheat and blah blah....I tried a really yummy recipe that I thought might be good to eat for the winter months (for those in the bitter cold ) when you want something to stick to your ribs.
I made whole wheat spaghetti with shrimp and pesto sauce.
It's pretty simple which is why I can post it from memory.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup of extra extra virgin olive oil
2 tsp of fresh basil leaves or 1tsb of dried basil
1/4 cup of chopped garlic
1/2 cup of fresh spinach (optional)
1 tbsp of freshly grated Parmesan cheese (feel free to use dried Parmesan cheese out the container)
1 box of whole wheat spaghetti
2 cups of frozen pre-cooked peeled shrimp
1tbsp of butter
*optional* sun dried tomatoes
Directions:
Set Shrimp and butter aside
Boil spaghetti in a pot. (Add a tsp of oil if desired)
Combine the rest of the ingredients in a food processor or blender
Heat skillet on med high and saute' shrimp in butter for approx. 2min or until done.
Strain and rinse spaghetti. In a bowl toss shrimp, pesto, and spaghetti until a nice coating is achieved. Add sun dried tomatoes for texture and additional flavor. Spinach option add a beautiful green color (and extra nutrients!)
Serve with side salad or alone.
Pair with Alsace Willm Pinot Gris 2007
Enjoy!
Barbie
I made whole wheat spaghetti with shrimp and pesto sauce.
It's pretty simple which is why I can post it from memory.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup of extra extra virgin olive oil
2 tsp of fresh basil leaves or 1tsb of dried basil
1/4 cup of chopped garlic
1/2 cup of fresh spinach (optional)
1 tbsp of freshly grated Parmesan cheese (feel free to use dried Parmesan cheese out the container)
1 box of whole wheat spaghetti
2 cups of frozen pre-cooked peeled shrimp
1tbsp of butter
*optional* sun dried tomatoes
Directions:
Set Shrimp and butter aside
Boil spaghetti in a pot. (Add a tsp of oil if desired)
Combine the rest of the ingredients in a food processor or blender
Heat skillet on med high and saute' shrimp in butter for approx. 2min or until done.
Strain and rinse spaghetti. In a bowl toss shrimp, pesto, and spaghetti until a nice coating is achieved. Add sun dried tomatoes for texture and additional flavor. Spinach option add a beautiful green color (and extra nutrients!)
Serve with side salad or alone.
Pair with Alsace Willm Pinot Gris 2007
Enjoy!
Barbie
I did it! 56 Miles today!
I wanted to keep it simple and not try to do too much. So, I'm going to make another goal of continuing this fitness regimen for another two weeks.
Wish me luck! Have you accomplished anything you want to share today?
Ciao,
Barbara
Friday, January 28, 2011
If we knew better...
We'd do better? Is that true? There's a reason someone coined the phrase, "Ignorance is bliss." Is it because we just don't want to know what we ought to be doing? How we ought to be living? Is is that we don't want to be held accountable for our actions? Probably. I was joking with my sister about how I wanted to eventually become a Certified Personal Trainer (whoop!) but I had a lot of work to do before I could help someone else. Imagine me, sitting on the reformer, eating an Oreo, telling someone else to push it and pump it up! I could just see myself, with a 64oz Slurpee in one hand, too small leotard, tights, and a valour headband saying, " If you want fame, it starts here! And you start paying, with SWEAT!"....(slurp!..belch!) I thought it was a funny image, till she reminded me that there are plenty out of shape trainers (well maybe just a few) who know all the moves but never implement them for themselves. How many machines do you own? How many fitness DVD's have you bought with the best intentions? You could open your own gym and consultation service for all the diets you've tried and equipment you've purchased. So what's holding you back?
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| 06' in while living in LA-Image was everything there. |
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| 6 mos pregnant...glowing. :) |
What held me back for a long time was what I saw in the mirror. Admittedly, I was never a skinny person. I was statuesque (yes, we'll use that word). A curvy 14/16 with a proportioned waistline and though I couldn't shop in Express...I still was able to wear many designer duds. When I would lament that I was slightly overweight, someone would chime in and say, "whatever, you're not fat!"...I'd go, "oh, yeah, I guess you're right." I wasn't. Size is very relative. Words like fat, overweight, thick, plump, chunky, lean..are words that are in the eye of the beholder. When I looked in the mirror, what I saw changed from time to time, but it wasn't enough to lead me into action.
Then enter baby. I looked in the mirror and I looked different. I am no way shape or form minimizing the struggles those who have battled weight since childhood have, but I couldn't believe who was starring back at me. This was real. I said,"This is what I look like now." I didn't like mirrors for a week or so, but I was obsessed with starring in them. I'd smile, frown, wince, lift an eyebrow, turn to the side; anything in hopes that the image would be different. It wasn't. I kept saying, out loud, in conversation that I was "fat", "ugly", I even called myself a "troll under a bridge." I tossed these self bashing terms around like hotcakes hoping it could add humor to a sad situation. What was most sad was that I believed it. It wasn't until I prayed and said, "Lord, I'm wonderfully made in your image; why don't I feel that way? " He said, "because you are looking through your lens and not mine." If I was truly grateful for being made so wonderfully, how could I treat my body as though it was a piece of junk? I couldn't do that.
So, I fasted from make-up to see who I really was for a while. And I decided to take all that I knew, learned, and was learning about fitness and nutrition and decided to make over the inside. I was an am careful about what I put it. When I work out it's a time of prayer and meditation (even though it's fast paced). I reflect on what I look like, what I feel like, what I love about myself, and what I love about God. I thank Him for making me in His image and restoring me.
What really makes us do better not necessarily knowing, but understanding. When you understand that you are made for a purpose greater than what you see in the mirror; you can start to make changes. When I work out and look at my baby sleeping; I smile. I say, "we're almost at 4 miles Lilly!" She grunts and keeps on snoring. But I am committing to change for her, to give her a legacy of good health and positive self affirmation. Loving yourself isn't just about saying it, but truly taking care of your body, mind, and spirit.
Ciao,
Barbie
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Sugar Sugar....Sugarhead
How many times have we heard older African-Americans refer to themselves (or others) as having "the sugars" when referencing Type II Diabetes? I remember hearing that term a lot growing up. Unfortunately, in my family, its a frequent saying as several of my family members have been diagnosed with either Type II or Type I Diabetes. It is another disease that plagues the African-American community in startling numbers. It can lead to loss of sight, appendages, and a slew of other debilitating conditions if left untreated.
That being said, my sugar addiction scares the crap out of me because I see myself spiraling down a dark rabbit hole that leads to a not so wonderful land of insulin shots and strict (er) diets. While I was pregnant I was nervous that my overly heightened sugar addiction would lead to gestational diabetes and complications in my pregnancy (including a baby with a high birth weight). Fortunately, I didn't have it. Yet, I am still genetically prone to being diagnosed with it. The hardest part of this whole health process is cutting out the sweets. Here are a list of my repeat offenders:
BIRTHDAY CAKE! (I always seem to know someone whose birthday falls in every month and I'm sure to call and say, "Happy Birthday" and get a cake. Even if they live miles away. It's the thought that counts. ). I even love bad birthday cake. With the horrible dye and sprinkles and hokey toys on top.
Oreos. Chocolate with cream in the middle. Enough said.
Bread. I love it with a big slab of butter and something saucy or soupy to dunk it in. My favorites are my Aunt's rolls, Red Lobster biscuits, and banquet rolls.
These seem to catch me up all the time. My doctor said it simply, "Barbara, you consume too many carbs and too much sugar. Cut it out, and the weight will come off."
He's right. I had to cut it totally. When I looked back at my diary, I had at least two separate forms of carbs that convert to sugar (i.e. bread, pasta, processed food, or sugary sweets themselves). It was eye opening. PLUS, sugar in my drinks (i.e. pop, tea, and the biggest offender JUICE!...the Juice was loose in my diet. )
So here's what will help YOU to purge the sneaky sugar.
1.You're not crazy; you might actually have a sugar addiction. Sugar gives us an emotional and physical lift. It stimulates the brain to release endorphins and raise the "feel good hormone" serotonin. Because of this we eat sugar when we're stressed, sad, PMSing, or want to feel happy or celebratory (Happy Birthday!). But, as all good things come to an end, it wears off and leaves you feeling bad, heavier, and sluggish. From an evolutionary standpoint, it's what helped us decipher good food from poisonous ones. Well, it's come to that again. For your survival, you need to know that sugar can kill you. It's a radical thought, but it helps to gage it and keep it in check.
2. 25 grams of sugar is ALL the sugar women should get in one day. To give you perspective, you usually clear that in on 8oz glass of juice or pop. As, I sit in Starbucks right now, I could have easily cleared it with my Grande Skinny Carmel Macchiatto (had I not asked for it to be sugar free). That one drink had 35grams of sugar in it.
3. Reach for Healthy Substitutes
I'm no fool. An apple in not gonna cut it when I want something that was baked, frosted, and sprinkled. But it will help to take the edge off. Nicorette for smokers, grapefruit and strawberries for sugarheads. Those fruits still have natural sugars, but they are also packed with nutrients that can fill you and an apple has fiber so it won't leave you feeling hungry like that piece of cake will.
4. This seems to be the rule. Cheats or OK. It's too much sugar overtime that will cause the problem. So, birthday cake is good, so long as it's your birthday, which rolls around once a year. (Duely noted.)
Besides according to integrative physician Jacob Teitulbum, M.D., 80 percent of the pleasure that comes from eating something sweet occurs within the first two bites. So take a bite, and another, then share the wealth. With me! (or someone else..) If no one else is around, just toss it.
I hope these tips help. This is a very personal battle to me and can cost me so much in the long run. Wish me luck. If you are battling a sugar addiction, take a look below to see what it might cost you.
Happy Eating!
Ciao!
Barbie
P.S.
FYI- The Cost of Too Much Sugar
-Anxiety
Sugar wreaks havoc on your nervous system by spiking blood sugar, leaving you on edge.
-Depression
Eating sugar laden foods instead of nutritional ones leads to Vitamin B deficiencies, which exacerbate the blues
-Type II Diabetes
Your body can be overwhelmed with the need to process all the sugar and lead to insulin resistance and weight gain.
-Fibromyalgia
That being said, my sugar addiction scares the crap out of me because I see myself spiraling down a dark rabbit hole that leads to a not so wonderful land of insulin shots and strict (er) diets. While I was pregnant I was nervous that my overly heightened sugar addiction would lead to gestational diabetes and complications in my pregnancy (including a baby with a high birth weight). Fortunately, I didn't have it. Yet, I am still genetically prone to being diagnosed with it. The hardest part of this whole health process is cutting out the sweets. Here are a list of my repeat offenders:
BIRTHDAY CAKE! (I always seem to know someone whose birthday falls in every month and I'm sure to call and say, "Happy Birthday" and get a cake. Even if they live miles away. It's the thought that counts. ). I even love bad birthday cake. With the horrible dye and sprinkles and hokey toys on top.
Oreos. Chocolate with cream in the middle. Enough said.
Bread. I love it with a big slab of butter and something saucy or soupy to dunk it in. My favorites are my Aunt's rolls, Red Lobster biscuits, and banquet rolls.
These seem to catch me up all the time. My doctor said it simply, "Barbara, you consume too many carbs and too much sugar. Cut it out, and the weight will come off."
He's right. I had to cut it totally. When I looked back at my diary, I had at least two separate forms of carbs that convert to sugar (i.e. bread, pasta, processed food, or sugary sweets themselves). It was eye opening. PLUS, sugar in my drinks (i.e. pop, tea, and the biggest offender JUICE!...the Juice was loose in my diet. )
So here's what will help YOU to purge the sneaky sugar.
1.You're not crazy; you might actually have a sugar addiction. Sugar gives us an emotional and physical lift. It stimulates the brain to release endorphins and raise the "feel good hormone" serotonin. Because of this we eat sugar when we're stressed, sad, PMSing, or want to feel happy or celebratory (Happy Birthday!). But, as all good things come to an end, it wears off and leaves you feeling bad, heavier, and sluggish. From an evolutionary standpoint, it's what helped us decipher good food from poisonous ones. Well, it's come to that again. For your survival, you need to know that sugar can kill you. It's a radical thought, but it helps to gage it and keep it in check.
2. 25 grams of sugar is ALL the sugar women should get in one day. To give you perspective, you usually clear that in on 8oz glass of juice or pop. As, I sit in Starbucks right now, I could have easily cleared it with my Grande Skinny Carmel Macchiatto (had I not asked for it to be sugar free). That one drink had 35grams of sugar in it.
3. Reach for Healthy Substitutes
I'm no fool. An apple in not gonna cut it when I want something that was baked, frosted, and sprinkled. But it will help to take the edge off. Nicorette for smokers, grapefruit and strawberries for sugarheads. Those fruits still have natural sugars, but they are also packed with nutrients that can fill you and an apple has fiber so it won't leave you feeling hungry like that piece of cake will.
4. This seems to be the rule. Cheats or OK. It's too much sugar overtime that will cause the problem. So, birthday cake is good, so long as it's your birthday, which rolls around once a year. (Duely noted.)
Besides according to integrative physician Jacob Teitulbum, M.D., 80 percent of the pleasure that comes from eating something sweet occurs within the first two bites. So take a bite, and another, then share the wealth. With me! (or someone else..) If no one else is around, just toss it.
I hope these tips help. This is a very personal battle to me and can cost me so much in the long run. Wish me luck. If you are battling a sugar addiction, take a look below to see what it might cost you.
Happy Eating!
Ciao!
Barbie
P.S.
FYI- The Cost of Too Much Sugar
-Anxiety
Sugar wreaks havoc on your nervous system by spiking blood sugar, leaving you on edge.
-Depression
Eating sugar laden foods instead of nutritional ones leads to Vitamin B deficiencies, which exacerbate the blues
-Type II Diabetes
Your body can be overwhelmed with the need to process all the sugar and lead to insulin resistance and weight gain.
-Fibromyalgia
Sugar suppresses the immune system. One can of soda can weaken your immune function for up to 3 hours!
-MigrainesA drop in blood sugar after a sugar "high" can cause tension headaches and worsen migraines.
-Sinusitis
Too much sugar causes yeast overgrowth, which may trigger an inflammatory reaction in the nose.
Sugar Ray :)
Black Woman's Kryptonite
The root of ALLLL evil...not really. Enjoy responsibly.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Laces up!
Hi All,
Running. People generally have a love/hate relationship with it. I love the sound of my breath keeping pace with my heart. I love the feeling of swiftness and the wind whipping through me. I love the escape from life and the chance to be one with my thoughts. Running is cleansing.
And it burns a buttload of calories!
Some of you all may be aware that I am on target (yay God!) to meet my walking goal of 56 miles in two weeks. The reason I set this goal, was because I need to drop weight to safely begin running again. I wish I had pursued my passion for running earlier in life. It just never dawned on me to join the track or cross country team in high school. Well, since my legs are still working and I have breath in my lungs, I'm going to tie those laces up and hit the track. I used to love to run/jog on the lakefront in Chicago. Since I put on baby weight, it's not safe to run till I drop the pounds. I could risk serious injury to my knees. So, walking is my next best friend.
I can't wait until I can jog safely again and then run!
One of my goals is to run two events this year. A 5k and a half marathon. A 5k is a little over 3 miles. Half marathons are generally 13 miles. I know I'll have the stamina, but I have seen people very close to me suffer foot, knee and back injuries because they were running with too much weight. So, stay posted as I work toward my immediate goal of walking 56 miles in two weeks and my greater goal of participating in the Women's Running Magazine Half Marathon, November 11th in Tennessee!!
P.S. I have a new love in Women's Running Magazine! It's a great read and very inspirational.
Ciao!
Barbie
Running. People generally have a love/hate relationship with it. I love the sound of my breath keeping pace with my heart. I love the feeling of swiftness and the wind whipping through me. I love the escape from life and the chance to be one with my thoughts. Running is cleansing.
And it burns a buttload of calories!
Some of you all may be aware that I am on target (yay God!) to meet my walking goal of 56 miles in two weeks. The reason I set this goal, was because I need to drop weight to safely begin running again. I wish I had pursued my passion for running earlier in life. It just never dawned on me to join the track or cross country team in high school. Well, since my legs are still working and I have breath in my lungs, I'm going to tie those laces up and hit the track. I used to love to run/jog on the lakefront in Chicago. Since I put on baby weight, it's not safe to run till I drop the pounds. I could risk serious injury to my knees. So, walking is my next best friend.
I can't wait until I can jog safely again and then run!
One of my goals is to run two events this year. A 5k and a half marathon. A 5k is a little over 3 miles. Half marathons are generally 13 miles. I know I'll have the stamina, but I have seen people very close to me suffer foot, knee and back injuries because they were running with too much weight. So, stay posted as I work toward my immediate goal of walking 56 miles in two weeks and my greater goal of participating in the Women's Running Magazine Half Marathon, November 11th in Tennessee!!
Ciao!
Barbie
Portion Control
Hello All,
There are so many reasons to be grateful today! It's a beautiful day here in Texas, and I lost 3lbs since last Monday! The hard work is paying off! One thing that I am starting to do, however, is watch my portions. Now, we all know that America restaurants doll out enough food for three people on one plate. Here in Houston (area), it's even more likely that you'd get enough food to last you the whole day in one sitting (and the calorie intake too). This being considered, I have to be very careful of my food preparation at home. To the left you can see that I switched bowls. I used to eat out of the blue bowl. Now, I eat out of the clear bowl. "But what if I'm still hungry?", you ask. Fear not. Here are some other tips I found to help with portion control and stamp out hunger:
1. Break Leftovers Down
When you cook, put leftovers away before you even fix a plate, that way you will be able to pull it out in a perfect portion size without trying to figure out how much is too much.
2. Say Yes to Salads
Eating a salad before lunch or dinner to fill yourself up and get your serving of veggies. This isn't just a small iceberg either. Used dark leafy greens and colorful vegetables to load variety, flavor and best of all needed nutrients to your diet. Plus, the fiber from the salad will make you fill fuller.
3. Single out trigger foods
Round up the "usual suspects" and divide them out into snack healthy portions. It's easy to go through a whole bag of chips (or cheeze its in my case) when you're not paying attention. However, if you're done with a 12oz bag, then you're done. (A caveat: if a healthy portion is less than a serving size, you probably shouldn't eat it.)
4. Master mini meals
Eating small meals during the day helps to keep hunger at bay. Ideally, you should have six small meals.
5. Keep Seconds out of Sight
This goes alone with number 1. After cooking, just put away the food. I like to serve plates and put the food away before we even sit down.
6. Serving Standards
Perhaps the most important, know what serving standards look like. Learn to "eyeball" portions. A 3oz portion of meat looks like a deck of cards or audio tape. A 1oz portion looks like a matchbook. 1 cup of potatoes or rice looks like a tennis ball.
7. Last but not least...indulge.
I ate a piece of cheesecake Sunday. It was VERY good. But it tasted so good because I had worked so hard to enjoy. Give yourself a a treat and know that it's worth it. Make it worth it. Don't splurge on a cheap Little Debbie Snack, get a gourmet delight that will make you say, "That was perfect".
I hope these help. They are helping me, along with patience and diligence.
Ciao!
Barbie
Monday, January 24, 2011
Hold On, Push Through
Hi All,
Creating a goal gives you a purpose. There is something so rewarding about reaching that goal. That's why for your emotional, spiritual, and physical health: you should be creating tangible goals that you can accomplish.
I am so excited to share that I am halfway to my goal of walking 4 miles a day for two consecutive weeks (56 miles). Today I reached 28 miles!! I am almost there. On Sunday, I had to go to church and agreed to walk with my sister at 8am in the morning. Sure enough, 7:54 a.m rolled around and I woke up on my own. I looked at the clock and said, " I can do it after church." Something, in my head (my little angel on my shoulder) said, "But what if you don't. How will you feel knowing you came so close to reaching your goal, and you gave up for the sake of sleep?"
I literally JUMPED out of the bed and drove to my sister's house. I didn't even call her. Whether she was up or not; I was walking. I didn't want to cheat myself out of my blessing. Sometimes we do that. We're almost there and if we just hold on and push through, we will make it.
So, HOLD ON! PUSH THROUGH! You will accomplish all the goals you set for yourself.
Ciao,
Barbie
Thursday, January 20, 2011
What I'm Walking it out to!
Hi All,
This is what I'm walking to right now. My joints and ligements are still loose from pregnancy and I can't do too much too soon, however, I love this video because in 50 minutes I walk 4 miles and burn A LOT of calories. I also like that she incorporates cross training and strengthening. As I stated, I want to start running by June, so this helps to build up my endurance and bring me down to a weight that is safe for my knees to run on.
If you are getting started in your workout, try this video. She also has 1mile options and up to 5 mile walks.
Enjoy.
Ciao.
Barbara
Back at it again...
Hi All,
It has been a while. A year exactly since I last posted on here. That says a lot. It says that I've fallen, gotten back on, fallen and gotten back on again. I'm excited this time because I have so much motivation this time around. When I started this blog in 2008, I was gearing up for my wedding and trying to slim down and be healthy. My goals are still the same but much has changed since then. Obviously, I got married. More recently, I had my first daughter. The other love of my life. She is more than I could have ever asked for and more. She has already taught me so much!
She came with a hefty price too! 60lbs of lovely baby weight (see above). Truthfully, I can't even blame her. I ate whatever I wanted and made no apologies for it. Now, with 20lbs gone, I still have 40 left to shed. This year, I didn't make any resolutions, I simply started a food journal. Last week, I started consistantly walking 4 miles a day. I'm trying.
I make no promises to myself, only goals. I set a goal to keep a food journal for two weeks (recording everything I ate, the good, the bad, and the yummy!). My reward for sticking with that? A new workout outfit. I just love feeling sexy while sweating!
My next goal is walking 4 miles daily (without fail) for two weeks. I created this goal to see if I could stick to a fitness routine. I get creative and want to add things but I just want to stick to this and see how it goes. My reward? A massage my sister bought for me. I'll check back with you all to see how it goes.
Ciao!
Barbara
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