tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2729796105540101702024-02-20T07:59:46.290-08:00one more milea blog about gettin' my work out on everydaycorduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.comBlogger209125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-8584439778651151752014-11-08T07:51:00.003-08:002014-11-08T07:59:55.414-08:00Final weigh in & Cleanse reviewIt has been a long journey, friends! The last four weeks have been full of resisted urges and indulgences. They have been full of thousands of steps, lunges, squats, jumps, pounds lifted, miles walked, calories burned. And ultimately, they have led to the best shape I have ever been in in my entire life.<br />
<br />
Let's start with the bad news: I didn't make goal weight of 139.6 by Tuesday, November 4. I weighed in at 141.4 -- just shy!<br />
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Here's the amazing news: following my three day juice cleanse, as of today I am down to:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh42P7zj74kPKjcOvPOKFEGCHnRrxjsBXPksYPHf5PV9nOSX4MP0DfOOqqyvaRw4w3acbhd-a18tKNQWfD6lGGYKOWctdRmd4w8ACp3Ah_R4aHde-_jbDWDERvMAMIb0YvnpnTXxb9iwlY/s1600/20141108_101651.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh42P7zj74kPKjcOvPOKFEGCHnRrxjsBXPksYPHf5PV9nOSX4MP0DfOOqqyvaRw4w3acbhd-a18tKNQWfD6lGGYKOWctdRmd4w8ACp3Ah_R4aHde-_jbDWDERvMAMIb0YvnpnTXxb9iwlY/s1600/20141108_101651.jpg" height="200" width="112" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">138.2!</td></tr>
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Meaning that I've lost 7.2 lbs in the last 4 weeks. This is the least I've weighed in 8 years or more.<br />
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Let's take a walk down memory lane, shall we?<br />
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In <b>2012</b>, when I first began this journey post grad-school, I weighed around 165lbs. By mid 2012, I was down to 155ish and measuring at 32" W, 38" B, 45" H.<br />
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When I moved to NC in <b>2013</b>, i was down to 150 and had whittled down to 31" W, 38" B, 43" H.<br />
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<b>Today</b>, at the tail end of 2014, I weigh 138.2 and measure in at 28.5" W, 36" B, 40" H.<br />
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For you math-minded folks, that means <i><b>I've lost a total of: 26.2lbs, 3.5" in my waist, 2" in my bust, and 5" in my hips. </b></i><br />
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I also have gone from a size 12 to a size 8/10<br />
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Of course, this blog wouldn't be this blog without progress photos!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9jaW1L1B6jNBSphZLhXlsNyiHsxKmeQioLLuqwnZG9YQ7RqFem4zdB4nKYO4b-qVA6mrQWXeDN7FptgPXcDd7cXsNllpTbXpfi87SWVq3_5u9Hq24BVBWdvaRDBKDJBxENM7_c8JV5Rk/s1600/Photo+on+9-26-14+at+5.39+PM+%234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9jaW1L1B6jNBSphZLhXlsNyiHsxKmeQioLLuqwnZG9YQ7RqFem4zdB4nKYO4b-qVA6mrQWXeDN7FptgPXcDd7cXsNllpTbXpfi87SWVq3_5u9Hq24BVBWdvaRDBKDJBxENM7_c8JV5Rk/s1600/Photo+on+9-26-14+at+5.39+PM+%234.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taken at the end of September -- start of my shred</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Today!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh hey, abs! Nice to see you again!</td></tr>
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The guidelines I laid out for my diet were: no coffee (due to sweetener), no simple carbs, less sugar, no eating after nine.<br />
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I followed these rules most of the time. I also increased my exercise and the intensity of my workouts. I met my 5 mile step goal every single day.<br />
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The icing on the top of the cake was the <a href="http://www.jusbyjulie.com/index.php/?mkwid=sW2fd3b76_dc&pcrid=53618483409&pkw=jus%20by%20julie&pmt=e&plc=&gclid=Cj0KEQiAm_eiBRCWgIfq9pK1nZsBEiQAGqUcSU8Rz77bbfHsh6S2bjeEtze4EtyYiQg1UOkIlN-7iI4aAngk8P8HAQ">Jus by Julie cleanse</a><br />
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I drank only juice for 3 days with the exception of water, unsweetened tea, egg whites, steamed veggies.<br />
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I drank approx 6 juices a day (and they were all delicious, surprisingly enough). I drank one whenever I felt hungry and honestly, they kept me satisfied enough that I never felt hungry and I never really craved any food.<br />
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For "dinner" every night, I steamed zucchini and squash and onions and mixed in two egg whites.<br />
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By day 2, I felt incredibly energized and light. I did an hour long trampoline air-obics class that night and was worried I hadn't consumed enough calories to not want to die. But I felt AMAZING.<br />
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I couldn't even bring myself to drink all of the 6 juices every day, so I now have about 5 bottles left over and am extending the cleanse a bit. Will do 2 juices today and then an early dinner and will detox on Monday with 3 bottles until dinner.<br />
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I definitely recommend doing it over the week rather than the weekend. The week days are more structured and full of less temptation.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My JUS menu for the last three days</td></tr>
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I love this cleanse so much, I plan to do it again. It is a bit pricey but I feel SO good that I think it's worth it. I also found a 5 day "JUS til dinner" package for $125 (versus the $150 I paid for 3 days), so I think I will try that one out next time, since that's pretty much what I ended up doing anyway.<br />
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And while I know I will likely gain some weight back once I start eating normally again, I do think it was a good jump start. I had been stuck around 142 for a while during my diet bet and this gave me the extra edge to get ahead.<br />
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I also have a post-cleanse diet planned out, consisting of rich fibers, steamed veggies, and lean protein.<br />
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I am looking forward to this continued journey and even though I lost $30 in the diet bet, I gained so much more in confidence, strength, fitness, and health, that it was totally worth it.<br />
<br />corduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-91006128467774465282014-10-24T18:10:00.001-07:002014-10-24T18:10:18.508-07:00Week 3 Weigh InFriends, I am not happy with my progress.<br />
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So here's the dealio : I was SO SO SO good for two weeks. And then I had company from Thursday to Tuesday and then again from Thursday to Sunday. I did alright during the first stretch. I stayed (mostly) true to my diet. I did a lot of hiking and walking and even managed to squeeze in a few Jillian workouts. But then the second round of company came and it all crashed down on me.<br />
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Granted, I DID run a 5k that Saturday. But I also ate shrimp & grits for brunch. And I drank more beer & wine than I have in a while. Oh, and then there was the Halloween party on Saturday night...you get the picture.<br />
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While I continued to get my steps in, it turned my diet on it's head. I gained back 2 of the pounds I had lost in the first week. I was back up to 144.2 by Sunday evening.<br />
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Lucky for me, I was able to turn it right-side-up on Monday. Since then, I've been incredibly diligent. I've done a video or extra steps or spin class every day since then. I haven't eaten after 9, indulged in any sugary drinks or sugary treats, or eaten any simple carbs. You would think that this change would kick-start my weight loss again, right?<br />
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Wrong.<br />
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The scale has read 144 every day since then, with the exception of this morning, when it read 145. UM, WHAT?!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzSRl9QtOJUngaBvOAIaqipU37EreeBpKPxelfnokUENHvRmCtqM8g5E6htyCdaIjTyCNbJi2M9wyCdfKIF6qpmcR5zTxqKLvu4YSOnqhbI7RJAUsXSHRJ9PdjYqtTLaxAKtXIwSYBQcI/s1600/20141024_123452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzSRl9QtOJUngaBvOAIaqipU37EreeBpKPxelfnokUENHvRmCtqM8g5E6htyCdaIjTyCNbJi2M9wyCdfKIF6qpmcR5zTxqKLvu4YSOnqhbI7RJAUsXSHRJ9PdjYqtTLaxAKtXIwSYBQcI/s1600/20141024_123452.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I look satisfied, but the look is a lie!</td></tr>
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I feel like I've been putting forth a pretty decent effort here, body.<br />
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I just don't really know what else to do. I want [need] to get those 5lbs off before November 4. Which means I have one more week to kick my own butt.<br />
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Next week I am doing two Airobic trampoline classes, a spin class, and whatever else it takes to burn fat and calories. For the last three days of the challenge, I will be doing a <a href="http://www.jusbyjulie.com/index.php/the-jus-cleanse.html/?mkwid=sW2fd3b76_dc&pcrid=53618483409&pkw=jus%20by%20julie&pmt=e&plc=&gclid=Cj0KEQjw8aeiBRCknPXk-u_V_4gBEiQAD2-mgdL774LysRHGj56JCCmfo8MWdute7c8Gsw44uq60RGIaAlQU8P8HAQ">Jus by Julie cleanse.</a> I know it seems pretty extreme. But I've heard good things about the cleanse -- that participants feel more energized and that they actually FEEL cleansed after drinking the juice meals for 3 days. And I'm hoping that maybe this will be just the kick in the pants my metabolism needs to right itself and get rid of those last 5 pounds.<br />
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So here's to hoping! The next week is going to be a tough one!<br />
<br />corduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-5254393197436887702014-10-14T07:21:00.000-07:002014-10-14T07:21:23.856-07:00Week One Weigh-InI'm one week into the 30 day weight loss challenge and twelve days into Jillian's 30 Day Shred video series.<br />
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The last seven days have been full of snubbed free meals, surprising self-control, and lots of sweating.<br />
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That's not to say I didn't cheat. I did cheat. I cheated every day and sometimes multiple times a day. Some of the cheats were worth it. Some of them may not have been. But they happened and I take ownership of the cheats and I'm actually okay with them. The cheats don't do anything to anyone but me. I'm the only one I'm disappointing.<br /><br />And the results are not terribly disappointing!<br />
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One week in and I am three pounds down and my ab cuts are finally starting to come back! I feel strong, I feel healthy, I feel more energized. I feel great.<br />
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I'm definitely looking forward to seeing what the next three weeks of results will bring! Hopefully they will bring the scale under 139 so I can win some $$ from this challenge!<br />
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Here are some things I've done over the past week to help me reach this point thus far:<br />
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- I was successful in choosing tea over coffee every day this week. Until the weekend, when I was overcome with an urge for Starbucks. When I did indulge, I chose regular coffee with three pumps of pumpkin spice and skim milk -- definitely less terrible than a latte!<br />
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- I ate more frequently and I ate smaller portions. A typical day included an apple and peanut butter and a cup of tea for breakfast. A snack of a Baby Bel cheese around 10. Either deli meat or quinoa pizza bites for lunch. Assorted raw veggies as a snack around 2. A bunless veggie burger or soup or salad for dinner. I did not feel full but I did not feel hungry. I felt like I was eating the right amount and it felt good.<br />
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- I cut out desserts completely until the weekend. I didn't really miss them.<br />
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- I cut out alcohol. I had one glass of sangria on Saturday and that's it, despite many opportunities to have more.<br />
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- I did not eat after 9 p.m. I actually made good on that rule! It wasn't that hard! I just had to keep myself busy and keep drinking water.<br />
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More challenges will arise this week with more company and more parties. But I am determined.<br />
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'Til next week!corduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-37068927254147056642014-10-06T10:56:00.003-07:002014-10-06T11:00:50.654-07:00Four weeks & four percentTomorrow marks the start of a fun four-week adventure. I owe it all to Jillian Michaels, who has long fueled my sweaty workouts and attempted muscle definition. I recently friended her on Facebook just so I could see her little daily fitness inspirations when I stumbled upon this:<br />
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<a href="http://www.dietbetter.com/games/50747?utm_medium=email&utm_source=transactional&utm_campaign=WWW-Player+Game+Join+Confirmation">Jillian's Beginner Shred Challenge</a><br />
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At first, I thought it was just a challenge to complete her 30 Day Shred video. I already do that video multiple times a week, so I wasn't terribly excited by it. What I found when I went to the website, however, DID excite me.<br />
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Basically, it's a "Diet Bet" with myself and the other participants. I have four weeks to lose four percent of my body weight. I paid a $30 "wager" (as did 3,894 other people to date) to become part of the community. If I do not lose the 4%, my $30 is lost to me and the community will divvy it up among themselves. If I DO lose the 4%, I get in on the remaining money. <br />
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Now, assuming that 50% of the people succeed and 50% do not, I've doubled my money. And I've also lost 5.816lbs. So it's pretty much a win win. If I don't lose the weight, womp womp to my $30, but at least I've given it a go and hopefully lost something. <br />
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I've been stuck in the mid 140's for the last 6 months, so I'm hoping this kick in the pants will help me get down into the glorious 130's. I have not been in the 130's since I was 19 years old. I would love to be down to 135 -- this challenge would bring me down to 139.6. I'll take it.<br />
<br />
The challenge starts on Tuesday, October 7 (if you're interested in joining me, you still have until midnight tonight to sign up!!!) and runs through Tuesday, November 3, when I will have to do my final weigh-in and see how my efforts have literally paid off.<br />
<br />
I just submitted my initial weigh-in. I am required to take a picture in "airport security" clothing -- one full body shot and one shot of myself and my scale and my signature word (which happens to be "jalapeno" -- spicy!).<br />
<br />
Here they are:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB2oo_KXmIvb5-lSJl0Dv-agD1RoTEFMHrSz_yEE32qvmyYi1YiKTvdJTX9YlJ7ecmDu9130z7IgOcU_ttABO52oKmkFtDh6G9ZYiT69uIQQSBvBWf16Ne1y_I09GQ8X0_4t9HCs6NaP0/s1600/dbweighin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB2oo_KXmIvb5-lSJl0Dv-agD1RoTEFMHrSz_yEE32qvmyYi1YiKTvdJTX9YlJ7ecmDu9130z7IgOcU_ttABO52oKmkFtDh6G9ZYiT69uIQQSBvBWf16Ne1y_I09GQ8X0_4t9HCs6NaP0/s1600/dbweighin.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#awkward</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheHTYQqtPLHqb-DLdQ5pv17WjqFjlzKpBbdPjeF0c7EsUT_9QyVqi-LpBfBuNVhvF4ASrHc1x_6_Fw4QAsszcZ7C0tDrmJLObyh9qvfvUkPDIaK8kadqoRQeKyYkR-eIvP2Y9O_x2-ThA/s1600/dbweighin2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheHTYQqtPLHqb-DLdQ5pv17WjqFjlzKpBbdPjeF0c7EsUT_9QyVqi-LpBfBuNVhvF4ASrHc1x_6_Fw4QAsszcZ7C0tDrmJLObyh9qvfvUkPDIaK8kadqoRQeKyYkR-eIvP2Y9O_x2-ThA/s1600/dbweighin2.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#starting weight</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Now, I'm already a fairly active person. According to my Jawbone UP24, I am in the top 10% most active people using that thing. Go, me! I walk a minimum of 10,000 steps (5 miles) daily and I also do a video or go to the gym almost every day. Clearly, increasing my workout intensity is going to be part of the plan, but it is one variable I have already been controlling since I moved to NC.<br />
<br />
The real enemy in this scale war is my diet. I. Love. Food. I have always loved food. I've also tried a bunch of different diets and was semi-successful with them while they happened but certainly not great at maintaining them for extended periods of time.<br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Here's what I'm NOT doing for the next four weeks:</h3>
<br />
<strong>1) No more coffee.</strong> I don't like it black, so I tend toward the sweet stuff. It's all tea from here through 11/3.<br />
<br />
<strong>2) No more simple carbs</strong>. No pasta, no cereal, no crackers, no fried food, nothing breadlike whatsoever. And no more desserts. Jerks. I tend to be pretty creative with my cooking, so I honestly don't think it will be hard for me to come up with fun meals to try that do not include pasta (for instance, did you know broccoli-slaw makes an excellent stirfry substitute? Or that quinoa pizza bites are delicious? I did!).<br />
<br />
<strong>3) Less sugar.</strong> For breakfast, I normally eat a fiber bar or yogurt or oatmeal. These are loaded with sugar. While I'm not going sugar-free by any means, I am going to try to get my sugar from more natural sources, like fruits.<br />
<br />
<strong>4) No eating after 9 p.m.</strong> I had gotten into a bad habit of having super late dinners. This needs to end. <br />
<br />
<h3>
Here's what I'm doing for the next four weeks:</h3>
<br />
Trying like hell to lose 4% of my body weight by not ingesting any of the above<br />
<br />
Also, <br />
exercising <br />
<br />
"I regret that workout" said NO ONE EVER.<br />
<br />
I'm on day 5 of Jillian's 30 Day Shred video. Let's see if I can finally stick with for 30 days this time.<br />
<br />
Here's to my newest adventure and the next four weeks of shredding!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />corduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-35664170117178172602014-09-26T14:57:00.001-07:002014-09-26T15:13:33.797-07:00Skinny jeansHave you ever tried on a pair of jeans, looked in the mirror and thought "Shit, those look good!", sprinted to the cash register to buy them in a cloud of confidence, brought them home, tried them on again (with multiple shirts) and continued to marvel "Shit, these look GOOOD!"<br />
<br />
Me either.<br />
<br />
Until today, friends.<br />
<br />
I've been feeling kind of down on my jeans. None of them feel just right. The waists are too low, the waists are too high, the butt sags, the waist gaps, the thighs sag, they just don't look great. Today, while hooking my thumbs into my belt loops to once again pull up my falling jeans, I randomly grabbed a pair of clearance dark denim, stepped into them, and momentarily forgot all about the Chick-fil-A dinner I had last night or the weeks prior that were not full of running or workout videos.<br />
<br />
In fact, I literally JUST got back into the workout groove last week after a vacation in mid August that threw me off my game.<br />
<br />
Now, despite my lack of intense cardio, I have been walking my little heart off. This Jawbone UP24 thing? Ah-maz-ing. I now have a team of 5 friends who are on it and who continue to inspire me daily (not to mention provide some stiff competition!). I have been walking an average of 16,000 steps a day (which is about 8 miles). I love this damn bracelet and all that it has done to inspire my extra steps and extra ZZs.<br />
<br />
And despite all of my extra eating and extra lazy workout-ing, I had somehow managed to maintain my weight @ 144lbs, which, as you may recall, is pretty damn low for me (though my goal is around 135).<br />
<br />
Last week I finally slumped off my end of summer funk and decided to check out my new gym. Love. No one ever goes there. It's like a free, private gym with every machine I could ever want. I've been going Monday, Wednesday, Friday and doing 4 miles running, 1 mile elliptical and then some weights. On Tues/Thurs, I take Nala for long walks or do something active with her.<br />
<br />
I've been thinking a lot about how things jut look better on people who are fit. Not skinny, per se, but in good shape and wearing things that fit well. Sometimes I see a girl with a cute outfit and I'm like "Damn, that girl looks good!" but then I realize that I could be wearing the same outfit and not look as good because I, in general, don't look that good.<br />
<br />
But today. Today is a new day. And while I'm 100000% not thin and not even all that fit, these magical jeans make me feel like I am. And that's a good start!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsF8TP_9ZX6Y7Wc2-v9E-Y3QpIxXmYCjSkVTVvJtbgfT8_LMnUrfIAx-80a-3YcYB-KUqth778p9zu8fguQhJUqPnEgPfCgd3j__SGcKvBsz4mbwKPrWf9k3Q1kzHJAoR2fGbDM0_5FZc/s1600/Photo+on+9-26-14+at+5.26+PM+%234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsF8TP_9ZX6Y7Wc2-v9E-Y3QpIxXmYCjSkVTVvJtbgfT8_LMnUrfIAx-80a-3YcYB-KUqth778p9zu8fguQhJUqPnEgPfCgd3j__SGcKvBsz4mbwKPrWf9k3Q1kzHJAoR2fGbDM0_5FZc/s1600/Photo+on+9-26-14+at+5.26+PM+%234.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Also, new sweet Marmot vest that I am in loving.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjSlHbpNqgvqwLTSvYdO7Nk-zLHcgRITG2_y4pkcQDJ9gDblIkUqlHLyLCswajw46XXznuIp4_RKDk2cG0vlXDGVU8v40XG98OP1KR9yM29ZHa_Q-mNUaTP3LaIDAacN668stn-uyd90E/s1600/Photo+on+9-26-14+at+5.27+PM+%235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjSlHbpNqgvqwLTSvYdO7Nk-zLHcgRITG2_y4pkcQDJ9gDblIkUqlHLyLCswajw46XXznuIp4_RKDk2cG0vlXDGVU8v40XG98OP1KR9yM29ZHa_Q-mNUaTP3LaIDAacN668stn-uyd90E/s1600/Photo+on+9-26-14+at+5.27+PM+%235.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Add caption</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWqyLqGCoNUqcWgid7x-7eWtRS9bqrAXF8igU0nz_pUhHhyN7Bj8Y3My_NxV0vSvvY5_80qh3qrgQ013ajOmloxZspQG3fp5lAZf8OzAUwbUZzLXm5KBls1zfjiuqB1OL7lcGEAJ1Ud1k/s1600/Photo+on+9-26-14+at+5.28+PM+%232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWqyLqGCoNUqcWgid7x-7eWtRS9bqrAXF8igU0nz_pUhHhyN7Bj8Y3My_NxV0vSvvY5_80qh3qrgQ013ajOmloxZspQG3fp5lAZf8OzAUwbUZzLXm5KBls1zfjiuqB1OL7lcGEAJ1Ud1k/s1600/Photo+on+9-26-14+at+5.28+PM+%232.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gratuitous jeans selfie. Because, jeans.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7GkqZVD16KCPvjMJ7L1fxnEAkmiUZAipRi4IPOuhrwAwAQd6j6kvS4v-kTGUKSS-is_cqIFIjd16g-PnZIo0t7A275QgKcfpMI0bU3FYtMLf-q7nxfv-JttwBPGp8bGwd1O9vzA7heu4/s1600/Photo+on+9-26-14+at+5.33+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7GkqZVD16KCPvjMJ7L1fxnEAkmiUZAipRi4IPOuhrwAwAQd6j6kvS4v-kTGUKSS-is_cqIFIjd16g-PnZIo0t7A275QgKcfpMI0bU3FYtMLf-q7nxfv-JttwBPGp8bGwd1O9vzA7heu4/s1600/Photo+on+9-26-14+at+5.33+PM.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little September fitness teaser. Not that I look better than last time, but progress is progress even if none has been made</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />corduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-21485167678711207992014-07-19T08:33:00.000-07:002014-07-19T08:33:32.773-07:00July: updates and reviewsIt's been a while since I last updated, but I've been pretty good since I wrote! The past few months have been full of:<br />
- mountain climbing<br />
- running (doing a couch to 5k with some new friends!)<br />
- walking<br />
- workout videos<br />
- swimming<br />
- elliptical-ing<br />
<br />
At the end of April, I moved to a new apartment and am so close to a lot of fun things, including work, my favorite dog park, the white water center, and the greenway.<br />
<br />
I've run a few more 5Ks since April and improved my time with each run. Then I kind of hit a rut with running (because I honestly don't really like it). Now, armed with motivation in the form of 6 friends who are willing to run and train with me and sign up for 5ks, I am back at it and feeling pretty good!<br />
<br />
Since I moved to the Ballantyne area, I have maintained a weight around 145 -- which is a number I hadn't seen for at least half a decade. When I first moved to CT, I was in the mid 160s and when I first moved to NC, I was in the mid 150s. I would be SO happy if I could get down into the 130s, but I think I like food too much. We shall see.<br />
<br />
On top of that, I've dropped at least 2 pant sizes. I think ended up getting rid of about 50 pairs of pants (and will probably be getting rid of some more!). Even the "skinny pants" I've been saving for years are verging on the too-big. It's an awesome feeling.<br />
<br />
Nala has also lost some weight! She was up to about 40ish when we moved here and is now around 35. I will attribute that to longer and more frequent walks, dog park visits, running, and doggie day care (which she attends for approx 2 days a week for about 8 hours of playing).<br />
<br />
Here are the most recent progress pics I've taken. I think they were from July 1st, so about half a month ago (I can't believe it's almost August already!)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTGUk0AK7FvcjTMBaVNgMq3lM2oUZzNvZCO6FBJjGKdnhbX0-AU0nI22P4JNOLanPkY0XBRZkyzodTQ-xPVOHIh2X21FORCXFJZiI9nj8mp-qOF-_tPfaGCG92T5dzsLue_tcSfDqhNkg/s1600/Photo+on+7-2-14+at+3.28+PM+%232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTGUk0AK7FvcjTMBaVNgMq3lM2oUZzNvZCO6FBJjGKdnhbX0-AU0nI22P4JNOLanPkY0XBRZkyzodTQ-xPVOHIh2X21FORCXFJZiI9nj8mp-qOF-_tPfaGCG92T5dzsLue_tcSfDqhNkg/s1600/Photo+on+7-2-14+at+3.28+PM+%232.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV6N-y5iuuWmWBgRyav0VnLktWOhTnnMHbw2ekYRe2vTWihoXKdjpg7e29I3hamVxFrJ_eznJf1bbGRbRO9ky1f7ArlNlnoySpIwPuJ1xB6owN-9lTD6ry277Ldl7x5VW-_9rzSMG_lAA/s1600/Photo+on+7-2-14+at+3.27+PM+%232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV6N-y5iuuWmWBgRyav0VnLktWOhTnnMHbw2ekYRe2vTWihoXKdjpg7e29I3hamVxFrJ_eznJf1bbGRbRO9ky1f7ArlNlnoySpIwPuJ1xB6owN-9lTD6ry277Ldl7x5VW-_9rzSMG_lAA/s1600/Photo+on+7-2-14+at+3.27+PM+%232.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
And here are some things I HAVE to review because I love them:<br />
<br />
<b>1) Jawbone UP24</b><br />
<br />
I jumped on the bandwagon with this one. My work was hosting a FitBit challenge and I was pretty jealous I wasn't in on it. I tossed around the idea of getting a bunch of different fitness bands and/or watches. My sister had done a bunch of research as well and chose this one, so I decided to follow suit. I have to tell you, I LOVE this thing. It's easy to wear (takes about 1 day to get used to) and super motivating.<br />
<br />
<b>Action: i</b>t tracks your steps, the amount of time you are active vs. resting per day, your calories, etc. You can set step goals (mine is 10,000 a day) and also program it to buzz when you have been inactive for too long (mine is set for every 1.5 hours). I find that I am not only competitive with myself to reach the 10,000 a day, but I also strive to keep up with or beat my sister every day, as well, since I can see all of her daily data. It also gives you mini challenges you can do throughout the week (like certain days where it ups your step goal). It syncs via bluetooth to your phone and I find myself constantly checking the app for my progress throughout the day/night. I also find I am taking longer and more frequent walks.<br />
<br />
<b>Rest: </b>it also tracks the zzzz's you get every night. You switch it over to sleep mode and it will tell you how long it took you to fall asleep, your deep vs. light sleep, the number of times you woke up during the night etc. You can set it to buzz anytime w/in a certain timeframe of when you want to wake up and it will choose the optimal point in your sleep study to wake you. You can program "power naps" that will take the same cue and aren't set for a certain time but rather a certain level of restedness. I set 7 hours/night as my sleep goal and am definitely more in touch with my sleeping patterns and am trying to get myself to bed earlier now.<br />
<br />
In short, I think it's an awesome product. If any of my friends up buying this, please let me know so we can be on a "team" and I can be competitive with you, as well!!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAk8sbcwHmICi4alm4fzzHQ5WLlfLT3EpstYtrKzJVESewRwp4xSVentY_q8VGYESsERZBtMZ_MSBwEDpCu1IfxfnTo7tXZTNI9UkKYTO665O06H3fBhASGGwJhPegZi_nffQgMWm5zTI/s1600/up24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAk8sbcwHmICi4alm4fzzHQ5WLlfLT3EpstYtrKzJVESewRwp4xSVentY_q8VGYESsERZBtMZ_MSBwEDpCu1IfxfnTo7tXZTNI9UkKYTO665O06H3fBhASGGwJhPegZi_nffQgMWm5zTI/s1600/up24.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://jawbone.com/store/buy/up24?gclid=Cj0KEQjwrqieBRCln82Rgufz7I0BEiQAPNjAI6tE0ig2zJ7eayy_VkxZWZ134K6_cE-GAoegHTVKv_8aAqIU8P8HAQ&gclsrc=aw.ds#medium_onyx<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><div>
<b>2) In motion elliptical</b></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
I had purchased a full-sized elliptical about 5 years ago and it was such a pain in the ass to move and didn't work that well. I ended up leaving it in CT when I headed down South. Now, I love me some workout videos, but they can get a little repetitive. I've been looking for something that I could while watching tv -- a way to get my butt off the couch but still enjoy my Netflix. Behold, the inmotion elliptical!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It weighs about 30lbs and is super small and portable. When I want to watch tv, I slide it out in front of the tv and the time flies by! The stride is shorter than a normal elliptical, so it takes a few rotations to get used to it. It also doesn't have anything for your arms, which is good for core strength and balance. For such a small machine, it is pretty effective and I find myself using it almost every night during times I would otherwise be parked on the couch. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You can also use it while sitting at a desk. I plan on bringing it to work with me sometime and trying it out. Overall, at only $85, I think it was a very worthwhile purchase.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjhAbwqs8Q9mGtSUC4mq6cbVgMO3Z-Ng7r1yb_mXPD6hkqSytye21P1TCbvQaNfowwIkWHlR09dMAFJa1ppbHycMafsoGd5YD7BxOM2N3hola3Hw2SK_RuLKstgywmeF4RlAmUcxEwQFE/s1600/inmotion.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjhAbwqs8Q9mGtSUC4mq6cbVgMO3Z-Ng7r1yb_mXPD6hkqSytye21P1TCbvQaNfowwIkWHlR09dMAFJa1ppbHycMafsoGd5YD7BxOM2N3hola3Hw2SK_RuLKstgywmeF4RlAmUcxEwQFE/s1600/inmotion.jpeg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://www.amazon.com/Stamina-55-1610-InMotion-Elliptical-Trainer/dp/B000VICRO8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1405783947&sr=8-1&keywords=in+motion+elliptical </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
corduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-64947041724508363662014-04-13T12:20:00.001-07:002014-04-13T12:20:51.660-07:00April: Of Legs and Races<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Odd how it's always around the same time of month that I remember to update this guy. In this case, it's exactly 2 months to the day that I last posted.</div>
<br />
Since that time, I've run my first 5k and did my first mud run/obstacle course. I have been running 3 to 5 days a week and supplementing those in-between days with workout videos. The sun is out, the weather is glorious, and I am finally starting to get a sweet sweet tan! Is there anything better than a 70 degree run after work with your best furry gal pal by your side and some motivating Pandora songs blasting? I think not.<br />
<br />
Over the last two months, I have to come to really appreciate what my legs are becoming. I have always had an unfounded hatred for my knees. I didn't like wearing shorts or skirts that showed them because I thought they were ugly and shapeless. Between squats, running, and biking, they have evolved into two stems I am quite frankly proud of. Just in time, because it's about to get hot in this state and I cannot bear to wear jeans all summer long.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7U9J3wnS8diWpzuoyvqP5Bi3cJY7uZWb4cSjdY1YiixJxBH1k1MjYqlJnd3IYVW78UOXs5KHu2ItvCCzFu736-CbULVJqQbpaYVfPDv8lVPrfKpjWvqxtZ8SvAIuzzlLqfySmsUSF3sQ/s1600/2_13_14front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7U9J3wnS8diWpzuoyvqP5Bi3cJY7uZWb4cSjdY1YiixJxBH1k1MjYqlJnd3IYVW78UOXs5KHu2ItvCCzFu736-CbULVJqQbpaYVfPDv8lVPrfKpjWvqxtZ8SvAIuzzlLqfySmsUSF3sQ/s1600/2_13_14front.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Legs in February</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5k2uUqB91dSaddVlfX0yqh-7EJpttrTJgv8ldnQUe60rVngNbLxyCFE97E6Y3PP7pgYrAj1ZaGhS4cyZubOk1X41anFFayYXNCgqC_K4ohwFIWkTK76aramXhlfD_s46j1cz85cwUNvw/s1600/legs_front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5k2uUqB91dSaddVlfX0yqh-7EJpttrTJgv8ldnQUe60rVngNbLxyCFE97E6Y3PP7pgYrAj1ZaGhS4cyZubOk1X41anFFayYXNCgqC_K4ohwFIWkTK76aramXhlfD_s46j1cz85cwUNvw/s1600/legs_front.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Legs today (4/13)</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidxW7pI0ej_33NGO1couhol6W4TNnfrFFkItK9K6y4DYblr_XbjkC1p6Y-x5uJPI5AtAOAposYQIb1qL4wVDzAAsO5WicEBWSO4b_t7dAu2B5XHivkHefPmT1DSL200Ufa8d76NTvEkJI/s1600/legs_side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidxW7pI0ej_33NGO1couhol6W4TNnfrFFkItK9K6y4DYblr_XbjkC1p6Y-x5uJPI5AtAOAposYQIb1qL4wVDzAAsO5WicEBWSO4b_t7dAu2B5XHivkHefPmT1DSL200Ufa8d76NTvEkJI/s1600/legs_side.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Legs today (4/13) -- check out those calf muscles, awww yeah</td></tr>
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In general, I am just feeling pretty damn good about things.<br />
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My time for my first 5k was 33:12...which I am pretty happy with considering a)I had my dog with me and it was her first 5k as well b) she decided to lose control of her bowels during the run...all over the running path. So I obvs had to stop and clean that up. c) The months leading up to the race, it had been a struggle for me to even do 1 mile without stopping on the treadmill. So yea, I'll take it! I also signed up for 2 more 5ks in May and am looking forward to PRing in both of them. Practice makes perfect!<br />
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I've also officially gone down a pant size. I literally have a suitcase full of pants that no longer fit me, which is pretty sad but also pretty awesome.<br />
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And now, for some more progress photos:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQkJdhB9bRl4wl-k515Y9gbj9oOVy_3105dxMWFJoVQkCyb9I4ZmywoWkfSmiKq3QzppSXSMC66822RhqL371B7SXq1HD2XapZ_MkwOLLHXgRt26xiq9vbTieGg3daaoh4J9P9dSA1ms8/s1600/4_13front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQkJdhB9bRl4wl-k515Y9gbj9oOVy_3105dxMWFJoVQkCyb9I4ZmywoWkfSmiKq3QzppSXSMC66822RhqL371B7SXq1HD2XapZ_MkwOLLHXgRt26xiq9vbTieGg3daaoh4J9P9dSA1ms8/s1600/4_13front.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">please ignore my dumb face in this photo and focus instead on how pale my stomach is compared to my arms haha<br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFrd5VBczaQgMbe3PizYHWAsXvXBOw-ljHiZMoHH-uIiwhbt5qfNKLx-Og1ktTt5xm0UO0LxQGiB5duRI7bqJmsFkNcU5TrxvvjImMJn1xiHTEGgv1wlZ5IAUW8sjDWTgoBaAIx_JELgc/s1600/4_13back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFrd5VBczaQgMbe3PizYHWAsXvXBOw-ljHiZMoHH-uIiwhbt5qfNKLx-Og1ktTt5xm0UO0LxQGiB5duRI7bqJmsFkNcU5TrxvvjImMJn1xiHTEGgv1wlZ5IAUW8sjDWTgoBaAIx_JELgc/s1600/4_13back.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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Next time I update, I'll have a nice new shiny tattoo to show off :)<br />
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Also, moving to an apartment complex 5 minutes from a 6 mile run/walk/bike greenway, 8 minutes to the biggest dog park in the area, 8 minutes to work, and with a gym/pool. SO excited.corduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-86548689708548179942014-02-13T11:56:00.003-08:002014-02-13T11:57:43.866-08:00Picture Progress: Hell. Yeah.I know I've been a super-slacker in the updating department. In the workout department -- quite the opposite!<br />
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Since Christmas, I have flung myself whole heartedly into a low carb diet and daily workout regimen and have lost a total of 12lbs since then.<br />
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I feel fit, I feel strong, I feel healthy, I feel great.<br />
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I started off doing Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred and also started "woggling" (walk-jogging) 2.5 miles every day after work with my pup. A sprained ankle put a damper on things, which was pretty disappointing, but I didn't let that stop me from getting my workout-on. I started doing Jackie Warner's "Power Burn" -- which is more focused on strength training and has no cardio.<br />
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Now that my ankle is (more or less) healed, I'm back to doing a combo of Jillian, Jackie, and the Biggest Loser Cardio Burn. I also tried my first spin class and really liked it! I plan to go once a week just to keep mixing things up.<br />
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On top of it all, I've been sick for the past 10 days and lost the ability to smell and/or taste anything. While it's an entirely miserable way to live, it has completed rid me of any cravings for any food. I've been eating a lot of bananas, yogurt, nuts, and slim fast. It's been just enough of a diet modification to help me drop the last 4lbs between myself and 150.<br />
<br />
Yes.<br />
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For the first time in half a decade (or maybe more) the scale is in 140s, baby! As of today, I weigh 148. My goal is to get down to 145 and maintain, and while it would be fabulous to get down into the 130s, I'm not sure that's really possible -- especially with a lot of the strength training that I'm doing.<br />
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As far as life things go, I am feeling really good about where I am. I'm happy with my work, I'm happy with my living situation, and I'm happy with the friends I've made. I am looking forward to moving closer to work and to civilization come May/June, and looking forward to all of the good things I know are ahead.<br />
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Now for the fun part: picture updates!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWA51m5gPkAGJH6DFbeQYriutn3rqlu5WULS_OIR1t4PPalZphElxDuS-mb79p8PHN-Wc6WPaJUk3n95ZkyT8PamibGUI0SK3bPCS-l-tIZUFHOhTefBkf-vnfnKfDjpGjOpq9n5a8sv0/s1600/Slide1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWA51m5gPkAGJH6DFbeQYriutn3rqlu5WULS_OIR1t4PPalZphElxDuS-mb79p8PHN-Wc6WPaJUk3n95ZkyT8PamibGUI0SK3bPCS-l-tIZUFHOhTefBkf-vnfnKfDjpGjOpq9n5a8sv0/s1600/Slide1.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Changes I see: slimmer in hips, more tapered waist line, more defined ab muscles.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVec4AGIFQL6BEhibHpBLlucw4Ejr_6bZIy_puY2wt_fjIyZt2yMbfQFjEA6xwzQAgCWp6RrBTW7_E_OXgGf0RbibeixicBSNVPbUI3pdeHjFpsY8N-efvEyKU58_ZnubuyS5Nx6-PPYg/s1600/Slide1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVec4AGIFQL6BEhibHpBLlucw4Ejr_6bZIy_puY2wt_fjIyZt2yMbfQFjEA6xwzQAgCWp6RrBTW7_E_OXgGf0RbibeixicBSNVPbUI3pdeHjFpsY8N-efvEyKU58_ZnubuyS5Nx6-PPYg/s1600/Slide1.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Changes I see: my back actually looks smaller and thinner, more tapered waistline, stronger arms</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVhb8sbjnKE1h5CyjZQ2r9eq2FbIFx13-O8TYLZ3IEaJlJeOlA4OCP22oFdyvBj7_IZsyWp6JZD0r1qjoCbd6rTutJsXgXYUr-e6bcJ-ql6Pv2MXVmTtRzsTqEMc7irxHyCqhmq-N6emI/s1600/Slide1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVhb8sbjnKE1h5CyjZQ2r9eq2FbIFx13-O8TYLZ3IEaJlJeOlA4OCP22oFdyvBj7_IZsyWp6JZD0r1qjoCbd6rTutJsXgXYUr-e6bcJ-ql6Pv2MXVmTtRzsTqEMc7irxHyCqhmq-N6emI/s1600/Slide1.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Changes I see: everything is flatter haha</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjenwzsXNyBrno5Ak7gwd1NJNsB0ZSr1C-hMaQ-Lc9WxJbU1fEbb88MVVaZ5N-kw7GgzibIOx8OGV5uBfKSSaliZYAzHqAUOSBodlpYCDtqb-yhflRsQXzYsCi8bZJy3mTjFfnxkzpXhNs/s1600/Slide1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjenwzsXNyBrno5Ak7gwd1NJNsB0ZSr1C-hMaQ-Lc9WxJbU1fEbb88MVVaZ5N-kw7GgzibIOx8OGV5uBfKSSaliZYAzHqAUOSBodlpYCDtqb-yhflRsQXzYsCi8bZJy3mTjFfnxkzpXhNs/s1600/Slide1.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This chart makes me so so happy. It's hard to see changes in yourself until you put everything together :)</td></tr>
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<br />corduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-80620269872035034392013-11-17T18:37:00.000-08:002013-11-18T11:48:50.920-08:00Free-kend/One-a-weekI've been slowly integrating many small changes into my daily routines, hoping to make a large impact on my life and my lifestyle.<br />
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I decided that it might be easier to change if I only made one change a week. That way I can keep going with the things I have already changed and just make one small adjustment to my current routine. A good comparison? The snowball effect. <br />
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Four weeks ago, I decided to start keeping a daily log of everything I eat, everything I spend, and all of my exercise. A week later, I started using my lunch breaks to go for long power walks. I've slowly increased my mileage until I now have a few different solid 4 mile routes. I can't even tell you how much my days have improved now that I take the time to step away from my computer and enjoy some fresh air. I listen to NPR podcasts and unwind and get my heart-rate up a bit.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3AcdKtMii4UefKGJZ8aiYnwzNwkQpwtAhPkyqUmB8IowtvOnqkCy1dtAtTg71Yf_C6RkLeqPBwzb8gFtRm0GOa9SqLGjpRSINCXbsU0UeHC-zIG21FmBbkLe49VIpYayZ1I9ArvmZJHQ/s1600/workwalk1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3AcdKtMii4UefKGJZ8aiYnwzNwkQpwtAhPkyqUmB8IowtvOnqkCy1dtAtTg71Yf_C6RkLeqPBwzb8gFtRm0GOa9SqLGjpRSINCXbsU0UeHC-zIG21FmBbkLe49VIpYayZ1I9ArvmZJHQ/s400/workwalk1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">But seriously....who WOULDN'T love to walk around this?!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtgK0BJ30TZ5bfslrEpQp2dZXceixH8pBt-JPqjGyIitIBVGsWLkeNLUn2pvGmDIKI0EnsF31sEZiTuClVHABpGepT7RlXn9llggj19C4AtzaaqWvOhhr_UMclYc9AiyDv5VhFc_4x9To/s1600/workwalk2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtgK0BJ30TZ5bfslrEpQp2dZXceixH8pBt-JPqjGyIitIBVGsWLkeNLUn2pvGmDIKI0EnsF31sEZiTuClVHABpGepT7RlXn9llggj19C4AtzaaqWvOhhr_UMclYc9AiyDv5VhFc_4x9To/s400/workwalk2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ballantyne Corporate Park</td></tr>
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The week after that, I stopped taking the elevator. Still keeping my log. Still doing my daily walks.<br />
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Last week, I started flossing my teeth every night.<br />
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This week, I am going to start moisturizing my hands and feet every night before bed (they are starting to get cracked -- probably from my lunch walks while wearing Toms and also from the change in weather).<br />
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I know those seem to be very minor changes, but if I keep adding them up and adding them up, my whole daily routine will evolve into me taking better care of myself and my body and making the most of my days!<br />
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This weekend was another experiment -- I wanted to have a whole weekend where I didn't spend any money. I normally drop a hundred dollars or so on dining and entertainment and it becomes SUCH a budget buster!<br />
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On Friday, I made crockpot dinner with food I already had and we had dinner with friends. I spent $0! On Saturday, we made breakfast with food we both had in the fridge. I went to the dog park with Nala and then headed home and did a workout.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRUdqz_Ci3v20JGK0x1Z_Lbw1ODHmESkxhjgyAP0w_XaZ3Rozb8adA0MIuJdALArgxbBFPW5OeFWT8iGq7x4S1yQoBwYY67P094S25tJxLEYVgDu1c45ZaiF6OQya8elwBeLRP2IU5GXs/s1600/mree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRUdqz_Ci3v20JGK0x1Z_Lbw1ODHmESkxhjgyAP0w_XaZ3Rozb8adA0MIuJdALArgxbBFPW5OeFWT8iGq7x4S1yQoBwYY67P094S25tJxLEYVgDu1c45ZaiF6OQya8elwBeLRP2IU5GXs/s400/mree.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sleepy Nala after a romp at the park and a bath.</td></tr>
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<br />
On Saturday evening we, went to Treehouse Vineyards with a Groupon I had purchased a while ago. Hellooo free wine samples and a nice bottle of wine! Dan then purchased dinner at a cool restaurant called Bibi's.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCrEiqAUwGVwwb32Q9wkTDgudM8P88R3QGEv3CcG6CAiQDRRhn4EhRFQQelgkdK_jxN35GP3ep7TzchLuAILHpV0ctfcjcFpKB3S26ChXdubgXFevgl3CQasTxlasfBHCMRRN99NHMOw8/s1600/treehousevineyard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCrEiqAUwGVwwb32Q9wkTDgudM8P88R3QGEv3CcG6CAiQDRRhn4EhRFQQelgkdK_jxN35GP3ep7TzchLuAILHpV0ctfcjcFpKB3S26ChXdubgXFevgl3CQasTxlasfBHCMRRN99NHMOw8/s400/treehousevineyard.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some vines at Treehouse Vineyards in Monroe.</td></tr>
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This morning we had coffee and looked at rentals. In the afternoon, we used leftover ingredients to make nachos and then he watched football while I watched "Bomb Girls." Then we both worked out and spent the evening with my roommate and her family.<br />
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All in all, I spent less than $30. I bought a few random things here and there (my damn dog is sooo spoiled!) but didn't spend ANY money on food or entertainment. I am definitely going to try to have more Free-kends, because I ended up being $119 under budget for the week -- and would have been $219 under budget for the week if I didn't have to pay a deductible for my car repair.<br />
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I am quite happy with my ongoing progress -- I definitely feel that I have turned my life around since I moved down to NC. I'm feeling good and know that good things are ahead :)corduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-75945875694034308442013-11-10T14:30:00.001-08:002013-11-12T07:13:21.861-08:00Resolve Results<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20.79px;">You may recall that I set quite a few goals for myself for this past week, and here are the results:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20.79px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20.79px;">1) <b>No grocery shopping:</b> I did not spend a penny on groceries until we had to buy something for a party on Saturday and for Sunday breakfast. It was great to use a bunch of things I had hanging around in the cupboards and fridge! And I still have more to use up for this coming week!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20.79px;">2) <b>No coffee: </b>I did really well with this one. I drank a lot of tea this week (so obsessed with <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0006SDRRE/ref=oh_details_o04_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1">Market Spice Orange Cinnamon tea</a>). When Saturday morning hit, I was jonesing for a Starbucks and got an iced coffee w/ creme brulee syrup and cream. YUM. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20.79px;">3) <b>No going out to eat: </b>I only went out to eat for one meal this week (Friday night) for date night w/ my boo. I ate in for every other meal and brought a lunch every day this week.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20.79px;">4) <b>Exercise every day: </b>I walked/hiked 22 miles this week. I walked every work day during my lunch break and did a 6 mile hike on Saturday. Today is Sunday and I haven't done anything yet...will maybe consider using the treadmill this evening.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20.79px;">5) <b>Budget: </b>I did spend $72 over my budget but there were a few unusual expenses in there (having to fill up two tanks of gas, since I got a rental car that was on E the day after I dropped off my own car, which I had just filled) and a friend's 30th birthday that we obviously had to celebrate in style! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20.79px;">I will say that keeping track of my budget has made me much more conscious of my decisions and how I try to rationalize a lot of the things I want to buy to myself. I think it's important to recognize how so many small indulgences of things I tell myself I "need" add up. I am hoping to be under $350 for next week. We shall see!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20.79px;">I've been keeping a daily log of everything I spend, everything I eat, and my exercise for the day. I ordered a daily planner for 2014 so I can continue this tracking because I think it's important to track my behaviors so I can learn how to modify them and make better decisions in the future. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20.79px;">This week's goals:</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20.79px;">1<b>) Spend under $350 for the week.</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20.79px;"><b>2) No going out to eat for the work week. Can go out to eat 1x over the weekend.</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20.79px;"><b>3) Exercise every day: a minimum of 30 mins/day -- okay to take one day off. Walk on lunch break (minimum of 2 miles) every work day (unless it's raining). Also, should do one hour of circuits at least three times this week.</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20.79px;"><b>4) No buying coffee.</b></span></span><br />
<strong><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-small;">5) Take the stairs every time.</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-small;">6) Floss teeth every night.</span></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20.79px;">Pretty similar to last week's goals, but also modified to account for the things I've learned this past week.</span></span>corduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-12922874842286118282013-11-04T08:12:00.003-08:002013-11-04T08:12:49.203-08:00Slump & ResolveI was in a major life slump last week. Minimal exercise -- totally pumped the brakes on my 30 day shred progress! -- terrible eating habits, and a bit of financial stress.<br />
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On Sunday, I looked at myself in the mirror and thought <em>Self, these are ALL things that you can control. You have the materials and tools to build and sustain a wonderful life...why are you letting yourself live this way?!</em><br />
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The night was spent looking at mortgage rates, discussing the future, and taking a step back from myself to reassess myself.<br />
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Today marks exactly 5 months since I started working at Liberty in Charlotte and it is time for me to stabilize! I have taken care of all of the crazy abnormal expenses that come with moving and adjusting to a new lifestyle. Time for me to start making smarter decisions that will lead to a happier future for myself (and not to mention a happier day-to-day feeling!)<br />
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I woke up at 6 a.m. today. I was ready by quarter of 7....I'm normally not even out of bed by that time! But it felt good!<br />
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I made my breakfast/lunch, planned dinner, got gas and made it to work 30 minutes early.<br />
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Here are my resolutions:<br />
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<em><u>For this week:</u></em><br />
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- <em>No grocery shopping</em> (except for produce). My cabinets are full of dry goods and I have a bunch of meat in the freezer. I don't need to spend money on groceries when I already have so many!<br />
- <em>No coffee</em>. I will be drinking tea, instead. It's cheaper and less caloric.<br />
- <em>No going out to eat.</em> This is an expensive and unhealthy habit. I should be making bigger dinners so I can have leftovers for lunch. I don't need to go out just to go out.<br />
- <em>Exercise every day. </em>At least 30 minutes a day of walking and/or aerobic exercise. Need to get back into my videos for bigger impact and to maintain/strengthen the muscles I had built! And I need to keep doing my daily lunch walks to ensure that I'm stepping away from the computer and taking a breather.<br />
- <em>Budget. </em>I should not be spending more than $350/wk. That is absurd for one person. I need to be saving and I need to not be dipping into my savings to pay off my credit card. This means I'm spending too much!!<br />
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<em><u>Long term:</u></em><br />
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- <em>Exercise a minimum of 30 minutes a day for a minimum of 5 days/wk.</em><br />
<em>- Maintain budget of spending under $350/wk every week. </em>I should be saving $1000/month. If I'm not, I'm doing something wrong. I will be keeping a weekly log of all of the dollars I spend per week to ensure that I'm not going over budget or dipping into my savings.<br />
- <em>Limit going out to eat 2x/wk</em> -- 1 lunch/wk and 1 dinner or breakfast/wk. That's it. <br />
- <em>Find more fun, free things to do. </em>And creative ways to spend time w/ my boo that don't involve going out to eat or going out for drinks or spending money.<br />
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corduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-31470860217730309702013-10-24T16:11:00.001-07:002013-10-24T16:56:25.711-07:00Uber October UpdateIt is completely unintentional that I should update this blog exactly one month from my last update. Since that time, I have made small but positive changes in my day to day routine in an effort to <b>I</b>mprove <b>M</b>y <b>L</b>ife.<br />
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But first, let's start with some pictures. Because those are clearly the most fun and inspiring part of this never-ending fitness journey!<br />
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Today, I've actually put some comparisons together for you (and for me).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0m7CUWA4jeeoIKWaBuMeODYmS9FQ57M3j78_0T6CMdLXbtbsG-UXPhpgp6cdCmXb94pe6wQoKxf1ARjMf6i-pxzUJDpQPONu8-7tNIGuQO1bCGDhRSAeGSoP0C8cHgF99AhnV5TbQAqM/s1600/Slide1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0m7CUWA4jeeoIKWaBuMeODYmS9FQ57M3j78_0T6CMdLXbtbsG-UXPhpgp6cdCmXb94pe6wQoKxf1ARjMf6i-pxzUJDpQPONu8-7tNIGuQO1bCGDhRSAeGSoP0C8cHgF99AhnV5TbQAqM/s400/Slide1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Changes I see: My chest and arms are definitely more muscular (thanks for all of the plank moves, Jillian!). My arms are more defined and my waist seems more streamlined. That and I'm smiling. Makes a big difference!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCuUj8KAfJ2TY1Vm7sF6StWd_jjA0tleBiXhZeoYw6IVxs-EdKoO_mbBNXKRmMWSnwRrz89OIAZTqku4WysP3wWehb7i2l4qPdzmCSOJLP7mZQoCdpIIsdHZ0higMjF53YQYAcoeR4L84/s1600/Slide1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCuUj8KAfJ2TY1Vm7sF6StWd_jjA0tleBiXhZeoYw6IVxs-EdKoO_mbBNXKRmMWSnwRrz89OIAZTqku4WysP3wWehb7i2l4qPdzmCSOJLP7mZQoCdpIIsdHZ0higMjF53YQYAcoeR4L84/s400/Slide1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Changes I see: It's funny how I always put my left elbow out farther than my right one. My back looks more tapered, there is less of a fat build up. My arms are definitely more defined.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsbq_YcL0gPaMcQRH4PTEWRegDTu7IdHWRfOMyRlpy_4jrjf4nP_2McvplRpP1aae8MIvJWLGDNbBQ7qe6-BGDeiDTc9XrftzpUwgAlD5Kw6dWqfUWCVCpB_e6uVdmfIjt5x5jfX9XGhk/s1600/Slide1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsbq_YcL0gPaMcQRH4PTEWRegDTu7IdHWRfOMyRlpy_4jrjf4nP_2McvplRpP1aae8MIvJWLGDNbBQ7qe6-BGDeiDTc9XrftzpUwgAlD5Kw6dWqfUWCVCpB_e6uVdmfIjt5x5jfX9XGhk/s400/Slide1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Changes I see: I think my chest, arms, and abs look pretty legit in this pic. I finally have some definition in all three!<br />
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The craziest thing is that I haven't really changed sizes or weight from day 1 to now. I think the weight I'm at is the weight that my body is destined to be. I don't weigh myself anymore. I don't care about weight. I care more about how I feel and how I look (mostly how I feel). I am stronger, I am leaner, I feel better and more healthy. Those are the important things!<br />
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Now, the next portion of our show: IML Updates!<br />
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<b>1) Do what needs to be done: </b>It's official -- I am NC responsibility-free!!! Nala was spayed last week, all of my medical appointments are finally finally done, my car (aside from the hit and run damage I prefer not to think about) is all set with good ole NC and I can fully focus on building my life here without annoying administrative tasks hanging over my head.<br />
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I am making strides at work, settling in to a great life here and constantly searching for more and more ways to Improve My Life!<br />
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<b>2) Maintain exercise of 3x/wk: </b>This month has been GREAT. I just completed Day 16 of the 30 Day Shred. Once I've finished that, I will move on to the Ripped in 30 video. The possibilities are endless!<br />
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I've started doing a few things in the last week or so that I think are going to greatly improve my day to day and my overall fitness.<br />
a) I've started drinking Kcup coffee instead of Starbucks -- cuts down on $$$ and calories. The KCups I've substituted are Donut Shop's 'Sweet & Creamy' -- they have sugar/flavor/cream in them already (magically) and are only 80 cals.<br />
b) I've started taking the stairs at work instead of the elevator. I work on the 4th floor, which = 8 flights @ 13 stairs/flight. I am out of breath by the time I reach the top. Someday, I hope not to be! It's a small step, sure, but a good one!<br />
c) I've started going for power walks during lunch. In the summer it was so hot and humid that I would do anything to avoid being outside and sweating like a hog. Now that it's fall and the weather is more temperate, I've been ungluing myself from my desk chair, putting on a podcast, and taking a nice 1 to 2 mile walk around the corporate park. I seriously think this is making me more productive. When I come back to my desk, I feel refreshed, almost as though I am starting the day from scratch. In addition, it tacks an extra couple of miles onto my daily workout regimen!<br />
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<b>3) Make conscious food choices: </b>I've been trying to go out for lunch a lot less. Going for walks instead of eating out = a lot healthier (and cheaper!). I've been making big meals and taking the leftovers in with me for lunch.<br />
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I've also switched over to Greek Yogurt for breakfast. I eat yogurt/fruit/kashi for breakfast every morning.<br />
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For dinners, I try to do high protein/veggie and low carb. Of course, I still allow myself to splurge (especially on the weekends!).<br />
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<b>4) Enjoy my hobbies: </b>Have done a few crafty projects over the past month. Am knee deep in a few new books, which is great. Jumped wholeheartedly back into piano playing and ordered some new books, which actually just came in today! Can't wait to try them out! Have been busy and social and active and having a great time!<br />
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<b>5) Keep my close friends close: </b>Trying to keep in contact with people when I can! It's hard to find time to chat with everyone's schedules being crazy. Thank the lord for internet communications! Also, thanks to my mom and sister who both made the trek to come stay with me (and fill up!) my weekends this month! It was fun to be reunited and partake in some of our favorite pasttimes (shopping, vineyard-ing, eating out, bonfires).<br />
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<b>6) Do what I can for my health: </b>I've been slacking on the dental flossing a bit, but other than that, things have been great! I've increased my activity and made strides to keep my physical and mental health in check. Positive attitude FTW.<br />
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PS: It's currently 45 degrees out. Am I in the right state??corduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-67789570426949653362013-09-24T12:13:00.000-07:002013-09-24T12:13:40.141-07:00IML Updates - SeptemberPumpkin spice season is upon us! The days are cooler, the sun sets earlier, and the humidity has finally lifted! Things have been pretty busy and pretty fun this past month. Of course, I had my fair shares of fitness ups and downs...but when don't I?<br />
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<strong>1) Do what needs to be done: </strong>Finally! I'll all done with doctor's appointments, I am officially a Tarheel and have all of the necessary paperwork to prove that myself (and my car!) live and work here! Next up will be getting Nala spayed and after that, I'm pretty much home free in the responsibility department! <br />
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<strong>2) Maintain exercise goal of 3x/wk</strong>: Even though I often feel like I haven't been exercising very much, looking back at my daily mile account <a href="http://www.dailymile.com/training">http://www.dailymile.com/training</a> proves otherwise. I've been fairly consistent with my training. I've been meeting this minimum 3x/wk exercise goal.<br />
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In fact, I recently started doing the Couch to 5k program and so far so good! I am FINALLY doing my first 5k on 10/5 and have pledged to do a Sprint Triathalon next September, so I'll have to make sure I'm in tip top shape for that one. <br />
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One of my coworkers makes it a point to do a 5k every month, just to ensure that she's not getting rusty. I think this is a great idea and might steal it from her...<br />
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<strong>3) Make conscious food choices</strong>: I try (sometimes). This will forever be my downfall. I just love food. I love buying it, making it, serving it, eating it. In fact, I have a new dinner club -- we meet every Wednesday. Last week was homemade grilled pizza and s'more brownies! The week before was cheddar beer fondue and chocolate fondue. All delicious. All somewhat unhealthy. <br />
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And then there's this little thing called "going out to eat." It's a money suck and also a calorie bloat. But I just love it. It's social, it's fun, and there are so many amazing places to eat in this area. I know I could really IML if I cut back on this excess, but that would mean making a major life change. I'm not sure I'm ready to give that up just yet...<br />
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<strong>4) Enjoy my hobbies: </strong>I've definitely cut back on reading and music-making this month, not sure why. I have been crafty recently, which is nice. And doing a lot of travel. Spending a lot of QT w/ my pup and enjoying seasonal things. Overall, I'm pretty happy with my day to day.<br />
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<strong>5) Keep my close friends close: </strong>Definitely still trying to keep in contact with people via Lync, gmail, the phone. It's hard but I so care about preserving these friendships. It does suck knowing that I can't take a weekend trip to visit my friends and family because I'm in the middle of nowhere. I have to keep reminding myself that moving here was the best thing I've ever done for myself and my life...<br />
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<strong>6) Do what I can for my health: </strong>On it!<br />
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Heading to Seattle for a nice long vaca w/ the boy! While he's conferencing on Thursday/Friday, I'll be gym-ing it, spa-ing it, and shopping. What a life!<br />
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xoxocorduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-74640857136102926522013-09-16T09:31:00.003-07:002013-09-16T09:31:55.092-07:00PSL challenge<a data-ved="0CAUQjRw" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=IyO2v1HTPB75UM&tbnid=ispfSMTHwc3RiM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.starbucks.com%2Fblogs%2Fcustomer%2Farchive%2F2009%2F12%2F24%2Fmy-starbucks-rewards-your-ideas.aspx&ei=DzI3Us6uDcje2AWil4HgAQ&bvm=bv.52164340,d.b2I&psig=AFQjCNFA_FxUB_L2Ls3yqjocAvHcqBVYrg&ust=1379435402641324" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor; clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img height="200" id="irc_mi" src="data:image/jpeg;base64,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" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="120" /></a>As if being a Gold Card holder (aka: congrats! you've spent a shit load of money on Starbucks!) weren't enough to get me in the drive-thru, they had to go and bust out my Achille's heel: PSL (Pumpkin. Spice. Latte. aka liquid crack). Now, I have modified this little baby to perfection. I do not actually order the PSL. I order an iced coffee with pumpkin sauce and 2% milk. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
But it's addicting. Oh so addicting! <br />
<br />
I crave it daily. I drink it (almost) daily. It is terrible for the wallet and more terrible for the body.<br />
<br />
I need to break out of this SB rut. Therefore, I am challenging myself. Self: you are not to engage in any drinking of any form of the PSL for the next 7 days.<br />
<br />
It's going to be hard. Sitting here at my desk, I am dreaming of the sweet elixir. But it's become necessary for me to wean myself off of this delicious coffee treat for a week just to prove to myself that I am not, in fact, an addict.<br />
<br />
Wish me luck...<br />
<br />
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<a data-ved="0CAUQjRw" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=gBrwV9PYfFXewM&tbnid=lR6397goDQ6WzM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcincinnati.com%2Fblogs%2Ficymi%2F2013%2F08%2F29%2Fpsst-want-a-starbucks-pumpkin-spice-latte%2F&ei=7zE3Uta7OeuI2gXd6oCIAg&bvm=bv.52164340,d.b2I&psig=AFQjCNHKqLqVoqmhGhlLHIYgfAWBpV2jJw&ust=1379435349192160" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img height="294" id="irc_mi" src="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSQRwJ0XA9ZIky7A6tQ8i4w5aFfJuCvnuUjOgzo7MMgl2lK36-q" style="margin-top: 83px;" width="400" /></a></div>
corduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-8951496924609235292013-09-01T08:49:00.002-07:002013-09-01T08:49:50.715-07:00Picture update - September StyleI seriously can't believe that it's already September. It feels like I moved here only one month ago, and yet it has actually been 3 months already -- one quarter of a year! I'm so excited to see what the fall and winter are going to be like here. And I'm most excited to eat SO MANY pumpkin things. My pinterest board is literally bursting full of pumpkin recipes.<br />
<br />
The past month has had it's fair share of ups and downs in the nutrition and exercise department. If you look at <a href="http://www.dailymile.com/people/MeganG148#ref=tophd">my DailyMile </a>, the last two weeks of August were REALLY good for me, with at least one workout a day. The week before was not so good - I only got in three workouts.<br />
<br />
But overall, I am pretty happy with my continued progress. I got in a bunch of new videos this month and have been trying them all out and rotating them through my repertoire. It's keeping me from getting bored and also showing me some rad new moves!<br />
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Pixor time!<br />
<br />
As of September 1, 2013:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1EdH1SbLyGEznzamC2HUdFaL-vYdlJIV2x6W9EucKqgdcZozYezQkznXc6sIrf0ViqNqSoD6wiYSk30a3s-yjJNjvtwFsOPcaHYdrg25KgCaZVcqm12pKnF7lwahhPs6Fvh79NimbJbQ/s1600/9_1front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1EdH1SbLyGEznzamC2HUdFaL-vYdlJIV2x6W9EucKqgdcZozYezQkznXc6sIrf0ViqNqSoD6wiYSk30a3s-yjJNjvtwFsOPcaHYdrg25KgCaZVcqm12pKnF7lwahhPs6Fvh79NimbJbQ/s320/9_1front.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6N8XqAJw0GF-1FkBu5IjDiaSjZclMS5mMHe3E6s9CV9JLhtrI5KXzbAm_uPLtx2x2WJIh9ahzd9U4GNugAkcK5UgAmrTHwWLD8_c_QtHyRR7PiFcdCSDsJiz7wByZbXlpZP5V-2OClxc/s1600/9_1frontup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6N8XqAJw0GF-1FkBu5IjDiaSjZclMS5mMHe3E6s9CV9JLhtrI5KXzbAm_uPLtx2x2WJIh9ahzd9U4GNugAkcK5UgAmrTHwWLD8_c_QtHyRR7PiFcdCSDsJiz7wByZbXlpZP5V-2OClxc/s320/9_1frontup.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjaXGbgFgRcPpukQUx2fFG9eloz7yrFFP9Dvc95roVr1zlucGjzZ8vU2kS3YILdpxWBEzb0m8rx0SsthNlePCxXxqVE4B8qiswY7k30B2Ze-4QQW2SeDHlpQ8a4UMglqw2_y3Hn5zTX_g/s1600/9_1back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjaXGbgFgRcPpukQUx2fFG9eloz7yrFFP9Dvc95roVr1zlucGjzZ8vU2kS3YILdpxWBEzb0m8rx0SsthNlePCxXxqVE4B8qiswY7k30B2Ze-4QQW2SeDHlpQ8a4UMglqw2_y3Hn5zTX_g/s320/9_1back.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr4tltAdj_6iI7wzLVwSce46dTOZ9Y5Bxw_C5CdFPHzKNl75azXJxQipzqZ-Gy7DOiiaYLNaLpGZ4Ikujvv5C5UcylfaihD2ClgVJTjPLKzZxq1L7VzGnt9-H2QLOiCHdMLp6Fe31mLs8/s1600/9_1backup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr4tltAdj_6iI7wzLVwSce46dTOZ9Y5Bxw_C5CdFPHzKNl75azXJxQipzqZ-Gy7DOiiaYLNaLpGZ4Ikujvv5C5UcylfaihD2ClgVJTjPLKzZxq1L7VzGnt9-H2QLOiCHdMLp6Fe31mLs8/s320/9_1backup.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj15DpOfOPMNyGmtDr-auYMpE6MVPm9uYIEXDiA66PPpgm9dl-3LI0pvHc0J9gSEULilY03xYYNVAmhuvByG3fBqzV_pJOnI1Uq94Cj8_aa0dZJfAxUNPomb8tOMPDzqYXSPTC__l9rTbg/s1600/9_1clothed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj15DpOfOPMNyGmtDr-auYMpE6MVPm9uYIEXDiA66PPpgm9dl-3LI0pvHc0J9gSEULilY03xYYNVAmhuvByG3fBqzV_pJOnI1Uq94Cj8_aa0dZJfAxUNPomb8tOMPDzqYXSPTC__l9rTbg/s320/9_1clothed.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Old School, January 1, 2012:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGdmdvAc9NHfMhoyzkVY6JzKnjrjI-xZ8YgN7qoXQhaB7iGhNZjP7QHcrWVMfy4-l6BRc9UWjXM2XPvGvreiKXdUf4D2sGpitEbzypE_-B4InTzcvNAnHjzJof451dtO9z_5nGLt4l9mw/s1600/1_19_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGdmdvAc9NHfMhoyzkVY6JzKnjrjI-xZ8YgN7qoXQhaB7iGhNZjP7QHcrWVMfy4-l6BRc9UWjXM2XPvGvreiKXdUf4D2sGpitEbzypE_-B4InTzcvNAnHjzJof451dtO9z_5nGLt4l9mw/s320/1_19_12.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2qEOqXd-s0MCzMUNpRp8do5MHJeKNbbC4PXTwawkujWVAnCxdxlFGJg_RVD13Axjlo9k0ANDhnYar0V2ZCaXQ9PYcPST6NTHgOUgDRw37KdYHMiJUZFu8a91dQ9JaWqi2y7KN5rsJ3h8/s1600/day1-back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2qEOqXd-s0MCzMUNpRp8do5MHJeKNbbC4PXTwawkujWVAnCxdxlFGJg_RVD13Axjlo9k0ANDhnYar0V2ZCaXQ9PYcPST6NTHgOUgDRw37KdYHMiJUZFu8a91dQ9JaWqi2y7KN5rsJ3h8/s320/day1-back.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />corduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-13921154838331791422013-08-22T20:23:00.000-07:002013-08-22T20:23:54.980-07:00Suits.Nothing is more disheartening than feeling really good about how much you've been exercising and how well you've been eating than trying on a bathing suit that you thought looked okay on you a year ago and now looks wretched. I have a hard time believing it all has to do with perspective and the new standards I have for myself.<br />
<br />
In other words, UGH.corduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-48147935554797565712013-08-19T05:57:00.004-07:002013-08-19T05:57:39.140-07:00IML Update - Halfway thru AugustThe first half of this month has been crazy-busy! I feel like I've had things to do every single day..though I'm not complaining. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My calendar - first half of the month is pretty full!</td></tr>
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Of course, good intentions are often lost in the day to day scuffle. The start of every week inevitably leads to the start of new weekly resolutions.</div>
<br />
For instance, this week I am trying to detox a bit before heading to Asheville for a mountain-cabin-spa-hiking weekend getaway here: <a href="http://www.thewaynesvilleinn.com/">http://www.thewaynesvilleinn.com/</a><br />
<br />
In the last week, I spent way too much money on going out for coffee, so I'm trying NOT to go out for coffee at all this week. Additionally, I went out to eat on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday...and will be going out while away this weekend. Trying to eat low carb and healthy from Monday thru Friday. And finally, last week was NOT my best workout week. I am resolving to be better this week!<br />
<br />
Now on to the good stuff!<br />
<br />
<strong>1) Do what needs to be done: </strong>Getting my NC license plates is still hanging over my head, but I am not looking forward to having to use some of my FTO to make it happen, so I'm still procrastinating.<br />
<br />
I DID, however, start a budget, and have redistributed my paycheck to ensure that I am saving more and spending smarter. I would like to be able to save an additionaly $10k by next June, which seems daunting but is also do-able. <br />
<br />
I have two more doctor's appointments to attend to and then I should be in the clear for a while!<br />
<br />
<strong>2) Maintain exercise goal of 3x/wk</strong>: I SERIOUSLY killed it in the start of August. I was working out every day at least once a day and several times I worked out both in the morning and before dinner. Last week was a bit lackluster -- I had 4 workouts, but definitely phoned it in. <br />
<br />
I discovered a new bike trail system about 20 minutes from my house. And while the route is only about 6 miles on its own, we found some fun neighborhoods to ride through and are going to explore the area some more this coming Wednesday. <a href="http://www.carolinathreadtrailmap.org/trails">http://www.carolinathreadtrailmap.org/trails</a><br />
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I've also ordered 6 new workout videos in the last month and am trying to slog my way through them so I can pick and choose my favorites and know which ones I have time to do when.<br />
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<strong>3) Make conscious food choices</strong>: This one is always a struggle. I know I have been going out to eat a lot this month, what with parents visiting and birthdays etc. The times that I do cook at home, I'd like to think that the meals I make are relatively healthy. I've been cooking pretty low carb and high veggie/protein. Even the desserts I'm making are health-conscious (like this berry crumble -- which is basically just berries, cabernet, brown sugar, oatmeal, and almonds)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_HSbqIED8qpBUSbPLnwHDPoLOcooyJ71NPj8PHfsRpAwf_xjeEr9DwO5POCu2JRznusNlnZ1pPawZcyzkcFycb7JIU0A2GousbTWfGmQ93pEpAUcbniDApnjgaAPbdJ3D13j3r81M_2I/s1600/berrypie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_HSbqIED8qpBUSbPLnwHDPoLOcooyJ71NPj8PHfsRpAwf_xjeEr9DwO5POCu2JRznusNlnZ1pPawZcyzkcFycb7JIU0A2GousbTWfGmQ93pEpAUcbniDApnjgaAPbdJ3D13j3r81M_2I/s320/berrypie.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beginnings of a straw/blue/black berry crumble.<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I definitely consumed WAY too much coffee for the good of anyone. I'm not one of those people who <em>needs </em>coffee to function. I don't crave it every day. I don't wake up with a headache if I don't drink it. I just plain and simple like the taste.Therein lies the problem, friends. The reason I like the taste of most coffee is because of the unhealthy crap that is loaded into it. My go to drink is a Grande Hazlenut iced from Starbucks with one pump of classic syrup (which is basically just liquid sugar, since I think normal sugar is too grainy) and cream. I also like taking a break and getting out of the office. Or just having something to sip on while I work. But, it's expensive, it's not good for me, and I <em>don't</em> need it. So I shall bid it adieu (at least for this week!).<br />
<br />
<strong>4) Enjoy my hobbies: </strong>This month has been amazing. I got some new ink:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlYbjuFwL55oi_5bBIkWQiW1PQlBw9Y9WnulvAtyEjcIUzODt_U32cgb0olF5qZC3a63ol7NnpWMh5iNCwX7J8jv-Y7wvj38N5TGa6rwS1H9fCqkiIiYhS3U9-O5vanDf-Aduyj_-ZQio/s1600/tatt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlYbjuFwL55oi_5bBIkWQiW1PQlBw9Y9WnulvAtyEjcIUzODt_U32cgb0olF5qZC3a63ol7NnpWMh5iNCwX7J8jv-Y7wvj38N5TGa6rwS1H9fCqkiIiYhS3U9-O5vanDf-Aduyj_-ZQio/s200/tatt.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The royal suits :)<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I went for bike rides, to museums, went kayaking, visited with friends (and family!), went shopping, cooked, worked out, did some crafting, ate at some super fabulous restaurants, worked on some duets, spent QT with my boy and with my puppy, and just genuinely have had an enjoyable month so far!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitlyHg2PwiqhLM71BEVvz664c4n-NyRGzIGNMDKkXR4rEZZjPawpNN3htSb0Se5a749yL1IAbk3aMVOBxj5-VwIZ79i_Jvn8R-lXWahiDdva7Ff93L5igwnw_XCpTEd1EoJ0WevFE2-Ik/s1600/manster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitlyHg2PwiqhLM71BEVvz664c4n-NyRGzIGNMDKkXR4rEZZjPawpNN3htSb0Se5a749yL1IAbk3aMVOBxj5-VwIZ79i_Jvn8R-lXWahiDdva7Ff93L5igwnw_XCpTEd1EoJ0WevFE2-Ik/s320/manster.jpg" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monsterface</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilicv8HMX7bBLb8yK89krY3JNZiMMb2TEWr9ZwmmWWW016gYgiGjrRJ3gbrkva4_DYZQrq8P_u_zLnMTOCgTzYCnvtLHvLIYjWge2Lpo_si6gViua_-js4ekV_H2qmTjHF8rhn94wz9nE/s1600/museum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilicv8HMX7bBLb8yK89krY3JNZiMMb2TEWr9ZwmmWWW016gYgiGjrRJ3gbrkva4_DYZQrq8P_u_zLnMTOCgTzYCnvtLHvLIYjWge2Lpo_si6gViua_-js4ekV_H2qmTjHF8rhn94wz9nE/s200/museum.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Bechtler Museum</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZXEbAMI-M3t9NDGrGPnFCf6dVsSwE9xzfWVQ6cCf0qVawqMRUbopHLgVv1aGaTiIH7r_SATqJZaTA3czb4MKUjqkOXbzFaDemBD9Vus-QPDx2srUQ0FEsedijhhfrJfFxZ3xNUUlVSCM/s1600/parents.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZXEbAMI-M3t9NDGrGPnFCf6dVsSwE9xzfWVQ6cCf0qVawqMRUbopHLgVv1aGaTiIH7r_SATqJZaTA3czb4MKUjqkOXbzFaDemBD9Vus-QPDx2srUQ0FEsedijhhfrJfFxZ3xNUUlVSCM/s320/parents.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Myself & my parents in NoDa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong>5) Keep my close friends again: </strong>Have been doing a somewhat okay job with this one. I've been trying to reach out to as many people as I can to make this happen, via text at the very least. Of course, GChat continues to be a god-send. There are some people who I can feel slipping away a bit and need to kick my communication w/ them back into high gear! But in general, I am quite satisfied with my current social life!<br />
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<strong>6) Do what I can for my health: </strong>I'm trying and will keep on trucking. Every day is a winding road.<strong></strong><br />
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corduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-52923603562440320002013-08-06T16:15:00.002-07:002013-08-06T16:15:21.808-07:00Picture Progress - AugustIt's been nearly a month since I posted my last picture update!<br />
<br />
The last four weeks have been full of ups and downs. I took nearly a week off from fitness due to having a terrible case of sinusitis followed by a bad medication reaction, both of which drained me of all energy and air. The week directly after that was full of friend visits and lots of going out to eat.<br />
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The last week has been a complete 180. I have been exercising every day for the last 10 days at least once a day if not 2x. I have actually started to super enjoy and look forward to my daily workouts in a way that I never have before.<br />
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Videos in rotation:<br />
<br />
- <b>Jillian Michaels "30 Day Shred" </b>- an oldie but goodie. 25 minute workouts, 3 levels, circuit training<br />
- <b>Jillian Michaels "Ripped in 30"</b> - another circuit training, 35 minute workouts, 4 levels<br />
- <b>Biggest Loser "Cardio Max"</b> - up to 50 minutes of 3 levels of cardio (I do the whole video for max results)<br />
- <b>Biggest Loser "Power Sculpt"</b> - up to 50 minutes of 3 levels of "sculpting" (I do the whole video)<br />
- <b>Jackie Warner "Power Circuit" </b>- 40 minutes of intensive full body strengthening focusing on core muscle groups<br />
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I just ordered 6 more videos and can't wait to try them all out! Also going to invest in a kettle bell and some heavier weights.<br />
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And now, the results:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1kX4fJdglypP2AQEuK8CBpWWyQ5vlpj9lH9b9urE6wGL65fQB-HftDZ7K4NF6gy4MkZzgrAJydtuwY_4oOkDsiClQuin5BvQZdPHMTOKrQl6SDbQ539rYaxyq-ToEmSElZzJlglAJNsI/s1600/1_19_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1kX4fJdglypP2AQEuK8CBpWWyQ5vlpj9lH9b9urE6wGL65fQB-HftDZ7K4NF6gy4MkZzgrAJydtuwY_4oOkDsiClQuin5BvQZdPHMTOKrQl6SDbQ539rYaxyq-ToEmSElZzJlglAJNsI/s320/1_19_12.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You may remember this sad sack: 1/9/12</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMhuFP5sLTGMPtWU_ZlN3QUY4KmWcZbEx-cdE707rIBbmyLEY8ygneYy8RoGDrC3xnG9yY7e6zvoHEhonA6G9xvd2sF_Fl5e4kkVvkm24PGzTJYv8_buatAI-bPQZoKOx7CWOi5aaGfY8/s1600/day1-back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMhuFP5sLTGMPtWU_ZlN3QUY4KmWcZbEx-cdE707rIBbmyLEY8ygneYy8RoGDrC3xnG9yY7e6zvoHEhonA6G9xvd2sF_Fl5e4kkVvkm24PGzTJYv8_buatAI-bPQZoKOx7CWOi5aaGfY8/s320/day1-back.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another view, 1/9/12</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWcJp9c_jHzxGHE3WP8vDDoWeW7ecAriqLet2r0FvvMKPQ5jVedXU84O-ASVKWWgj02nIiwNpFa05K-u_Hw3h2LhS9YkqE-t3ty3-IjE5r1n99AAdZctzUu9b_s_D3hZyUTN2ROmRXTrs/s1600/7_1front1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWcJp9c_jHzxGHE3WP8vDDoWeW7ecAriqLet2r0FvvMKPQ5jVedXU84O-ASVKWWgj02nIiwNpFa05K-u_Hw3h2LhS9YkqE-t3ty3-IjE5r1n99AAdZctzUu9b_s_D3hZyUTN2ROmRXTrs/s320/7_1front1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Definite progress as of 7/1/13</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZMIVk1ycNAeqtDndDq9zxphssqStnxvg9ltFGsLwP4sj7z1Whb8tVo1XmH9bfjC8p0luHPNV2KTt8359RGYMLcvnMwbLISQiH2nAfo0I00UW2DX8QfOaDnjlrReBGCZrb4zGMYLNmM38/s1600/7_1back2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZMIVk1ycNAeqtDndDq9zxphssqStnxvg9ltFGsLwP4sj7z1Whb8tVo1XmH9bfjC8p0luHPNV2KTt8359RGYMLcvnMwbLISQiH2nAfo0I00UW2DX8QfOaDnjlrReBGCZrb4zGMYLNmM38/s320/7_1back2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">7/1/13</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGJ-I84FWSIx9h416fu9d78z-V8M64pWuF2IgpnVefzNo_jQdb0NFucX25oacI8jJSDkfEuhyphenhyphenUeDYD6oucuwGeXE7XsBtLN_ExxQIBoLLs8YjitzNePhTB1ivqKDGRJmYzlQN8FoWSWe0/s1600/aug6_frontclose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGJ-I84FWSIx9h416fu9d78z-V8M64pWuF2IgpnVefzNo_jQdb0NFucX25oacI8jJSDkfEuhyphenhyphenUeDYD6oucuwGeXE7XsBtLN_ExxQIBoLLs8YjitzNePhTB1ivqKDGRJmYzlQN8FoWSWe0/s320/aug6_frontclose.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As of today 8/6/13</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdUO3igA7aZiVoA5CGNcBTqUSmMStYAy6oo-h8ip9CwH9y3C8OHbR2kLKHQU4cbBkJ2z4BiuJUp3eXbsUVU_-PPwkDKyWIwUip8D_ZUds6eUhPgR0kgDCFj4-YZki3x6kUiHCyXtbofCQ/s1600/aug6back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdUO3igA7aZiVoA5CGNcBTqUSmMStYAy6oo-h8ip9CwH9y3C8OHbR2kLKHQU4cbBkJ2z4BiuJUp3eXbsUVU_-PPwkDKyWIwUip8D_ZUds6eUhPgR0kgDCFj4-YZki3x6kUiHCyXtbofCQ/s320/aug6back.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">8/6/13</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyxzOyhAWSFxlMCUeH1XFnYuO_5r6OwvVtQsi1wX8dnD74cZsoHMiw1d5_iQ56bAu9ZY18iOFvLbiwM8-eIYub5FwUFqNd1Z1wvSn7moVOcY1xbfhk4CjSavaxHKrB3IVTK0J4OkCMDRw/s1600/aug6faraway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyxzOyhAWSFxlMCUeH1XFnYuO_5r6OwvVtQsi1wX8dnD74cZsoHMiw1d5_iQ56bAu9ZY18iOFvLbiwM8-eIYub5FwUFqNd1Z1wvSn7moVOcY1xbfhk4CjSavaxHKrB3IVTK0J4OkCMDRw/s320/aug6faraway.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just to prove to you that this is, indeed, me. 8/6/13<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The results aren't totally drastic, for the aforementioned reasons, but I am definitely seeing some more muscle definition. Actually, the place I feel it the most is in my arms -- I should have flexed. Next time!<br />
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My back actually looks less in shape to me, but it could be the angle of the photo. I also see a huge difference in my hips (these pants did NOT fit me 1 month ago and now they are baggy at the hips) and my legs (I no longer hate my knees!).<br />
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I am super looking forward to seeing the photo progress one month from now. I better be able to keep this up!<br />
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<br />corduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-42977361085560181562013-08-01T05:37:00.002-07:002013-08-01T05:38:42.846-07:00IML - A new monthWow, it's August! Kids are already starting to prep for back to school and I feel like they just got out two weeks ago. Time flies when you're having fun :)<br />
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<strong>1) Do what needs to be done: </strong>Staying super on top of my bills. Just need to get my NC license and I will be golden. I went to the License Center on Tues hoping to get it taken care of and did not realize I would need the title for my car. Boooo waste of time.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4E4piGRPoxkKP-B7q5IG2f4O_xhdFZY3qBpmnCOfPLc9oAagvPu6Z_FcIeFcMjBoCQDg5yCXz5-sCUWXj4Mz7XkljUMSkuoVLj80-SACLZkI-_Yq9vOFejdXpA4GQ4KJqb_1uEwd2cY/s1600/glasses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4E4piGRPoxkKP-B7q5IG2f4O_xhdFZY3qBpmnCOfPLc9oAagvPu6Z_FcIeFcMjBoCQDg5yCXz5-sCUWXj4Mz7XkljUMSkuoVLj80-SACLZkI-_Yq9vOFejdXpA4GQ4KJqb_1uEwd2cY/s200/glasses.jpg" width="112" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New specs & sunlight</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Have had several doctor's visits and established some primaries. Also had a Lasik eval and the doc advised I should wait another year before I get it, since my eyes are still changing. Kind of a bummer, but ended up getting some new glasses and will be having a fitting for contacts at the end of the month, which will be interesting.<br />
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<strong>2) Maintain exercise goal of 3x/wk: </strong>The last two weeks I have managed to just barely eke out 3 workouts/wk. Last week was particularly rough, with lots of chillaxin because I was pretty darn sick. I did do a bike ride on Saturday w/ my boy, which was fun (until he punctured his tire on some glass). Managed to get about 9 miles in before that fiasco.<br />
<br />
Have decided to sign up for an <a href="http://ramblinroseevents.com/">all-female Tri</a> with my roommate -- will be on September 22 and consists of:<br />
- 250 yard swim<br />
- 2 mile run<br />
- 9 mile bike ride<br />
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A pretty nice beginner's Tri! I haven't been swimming in a really long time, so I need to start training for that and the running. Went for a run on Friday night and felt pretty good, minus shin splints. I think I did about a mile.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgy_N-kWBn-9Fa-n96zYBHgNPO1CuByyWvX_5gge5Llbda3P-r_LPhl7LoiaH3n75sIWtdp1MpIFQ6zJ3RI88jkE6ANaPkryFtWfiss5Ye9QuSP0547Rm-xFE9rEldMgACB-Lg5gl_SfI/s1600/tri.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgy_N-kWBn-9Fa-n96zYBHgNPO1CuByyWvX_5gge5Llbda3P-r_LPhl7LoiaH3n75sIWtdp1MpIFQ6zJ3RI88jkE6ANaPkryFtWfiss5Ye9QuSP0547Rm-xFE9rEldMgACB-Lg5gl_SfI/s320/tri.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post-run and feeling good!</td></tr>
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This week is looking much more hopeful! I'm attempting to detox from a few day stretch of lots of eating out and little movement. Did the 30 DS on Tues, tried out Jackie Warner's 40 minute total body circuit last night, and did it again this morning -- hopefully to be followed by some of the Biggest Loser "Cardio Max" video tonight. Feeling good about this week so far!<br />
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<strong>3) Make more conscious food choices: </strong>I seriously don't even want to talk about this. Between Saturday and Tuesday, I probably ate out like 6 times.<br />
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"Detoxing" right now, starting yesterday. Had yogurt, kashi, and nectarine for breakfast and had a wedge of brie, dried apples, strawberries, and two slices of turkey for lunch. For dinner, made an egg white omelette w/ black beans, spinach, avocado, tomato, scallions.<br />
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Today is much of the same, methinks. Friday, will be going out for dinner for a birthday and hopefully the rest of the weekend will be spent cooking in and making smarter decisions.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXu3xuLqNWIYlhXyhO01kIX3SQXiJvnx2Qvp553OwINbw7FnkwOfv83XOQuMsZQ_tTHowG4oRy35AnXoeAlv9O2wLjvKUFlX6iAV4bS4cwK8v5pqWW5Bc9r1OrqNmBZeOQIRLhIGGLjyg/s1600/redvelv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXu3xuLqNWIYlhXyhO01kIX3SQXiJvnx2Qvp553OwINbw7FnkwOfv83XOQuMsZQ_tTHowG4oRy35AnXoeAlv9O2wLjvKUFlX6iAV4bS4cwK8v5pqWW5Bc9r1OrqNmBZeOQIRLhIGGLjyg/s200/redvelv.jpg" width="112" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red velvet cream cheese cake balls were a bake sale success @ work!</td></tr>
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<strong>4) Enjoy my hobbies: </strong>The last few weeks have been pretty crazy busy. I've been very social and spending a lot of time out and about, trying new things and visiting new places. I've also been on a really good reading kick and am currently reading 2 books. I've started reading every day during my lunch break, which is a nice change of pace for me. Been baking and cooking, as per usual.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQDEHGJAOL5BuEOzeokJpyQZYHpwvVrwZHiZ6SrviJZILu04x86ajcRj_2HYT2Me0TVM0TCfFkzSMzPFVrtBB2oc7EQ0qHLJTLAkcqjmvj3LlNWLxf_J8vRaOHxwqaOQobCHJEaZvQ7bw/s1600/cobb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQDEHGJAOL5BuEOzeokJpyQZYHpwvVrwZHiZ6SrviJZILu04x86ajcRj_2HYT2Me0TVM0TCfFkzSMzPFVrtBB2oc7EQ0qHLJTLAkcqjmvj3LlNWLxf_J8vRaOHxwqaOQobCHJEaZvQ7bw/s200/cobb.jpg" width="112" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My roomie said this cherry merlot cobbler was "better than sex"</td></tr>
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<strong>5) Keep my close friends: </strong>I'm getting a little bit lost in the hustle and bustle of this life and not putting as much time and effort to keep in touch with people outside of the here and now. Need to work on that. Hoz visited this week, which was fun, and my parents will be coming up next weekend, so there's that. And thank god for GChat, a friendship saviour.<br />
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<strong>6) Do what I can for my health: </strong>Definitely started slacking on the tooth care this week and will need to pick that back up. Finally got over a 10 day stretch of being super sick and feeling lousy (which also accounts for some lack of exercising). Getting a good amount of sleep. Drinking a TON of water. Maintaining my exercise goal. Now all I need to do is be a big more dilligent with my "diet" and I'm golden!<br />
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Happy August!<br />
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corduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-46057079004131535342013-07-15T05:45:00.001-07:002013-07-15T05:47:02.105-07:00IML: Halfway thru JulyIt is hard to believe that I have been here for almost 2 months by now. It is also crazy to think how much my world has changed in that time. I am overflowing with happy and life is great! And while my workouts have slowed down a bit, thanks to a budding social life, I am still pretty satisfied with my current regime and the fact that I'm keeping it part of my daily routine, no matter how hectic the days/nights become.<br />
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<strong>1) Do what needs to be done: </strong>Just about to send my final CT excise tax in mail..good riddance, you overpriced state!! Now I just need to go to the DMV and get my NC license plates and I will be officially transitioned over! Awesome. I also made appointments to see my first doctors in NC and (hopefully) end up having lasik, which will be an amazing life change (hello, glasses since 4th grade...)<br />
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<strong>2) Maintain exercise goal of 3x/wk: </strong>Since I moved here at the end of May, I have been able to meet this goal every single week, which is pretty awesome. I have a tumultuous workout history and tend to do some binge exercising for a nice stretch before falling off the wagon for an even nicer stretch. C'est la vie. But I'm proud of the fact that I <em>have</em> been able to meet this goal. Last week, I did Jillian Michaels' 30 Day Shred 4 days out of 7, which is pretty good, if you ask me! Looking forward to much of the same this coming week and the coming weeks after :-p<br />
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<strong>3) Make more conscious food choices: </strong>Things like birthdays, boyfriends, holidays, sister visits, and travel make for difficult meal management. I've had my fair share of ups and downs in this department (and mostly down this past weekend), indulging in sweet and savory goods and lots and lots of alcoholic bevvies. Starting the morning off right with some blackberries, fat free yogurt, craisins, almonds, and cashews. For lunch, I have truffle mac'n'cheese and a banana. Will be having an omelette with peppered pork, black beans, scallions, and rotel for dinner. Damn, I love menu planning.<br />
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Other planned meals:<br />
<strong>Tuesday:</strong> peppers, mushrooms, onions & kielbasa w/ creamed spinach and whole wheat pasta<br />
<strong>Wednesday:</strong> spinach artichoke dip stuffed chicken and sesame sauteed bokchoy<br />
<strong>Thursday: </strong>spinach salad w/ chicken, sesame sticks, strawberries, craisins, gorgonzola, strawberry champagne dressing<br />
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Yogurt w/ fruit & nuts for breakfast. Every day.<br />
Leftovers from dinners for lunch. Ever day.<br />
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Things to avoid:<br />
- coffee w/ lots of sugar or other flavored syrups<br />
- snacking (no more food @ my desk!!!! and get rid of this chocolate)<br />
- soda<br />
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<strong>4) Enjoy my hobbies: </strong>got my piano/sing on this past week. Felt nice to launch back into the musical side of things. Listened to some sweet jams during a sweet roadtrip to a new place with great people. Did a pub crawl/scavenger hunt of epic proportions. Reading a really great and thought-provoking book ("Visible Man" by Chuck Klosterman). Did some cooking. Some eating out. Some eating in. Some puppy snuggling. Life is grand and I'm enjoying it all!<br />
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<strong>5) Keep my close friends close: </strong>I've maybe slacked a little in this department. Did not engage in two phone calls I was looking forward to. Boo to that. But I've been branching out and trying to make new friends. I (think?) I have a friend at work, which is cool. And of course, Boy and his friends are all phenomenal. So is my fam, who I talk to on the reg.<br />
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<strong>6) Do what I can for my health: </strong>I think this is the first weekend I've had in a long time where I didn't wake up Monday morning feeling sleep deprived. I got some epic sleeping in this weekend, mostly due to not having to worry about walking the pup in the a.m. (sorry, Monster! I still love you). I've still been flossing before bed on nights that I'm home (I know -- I can't believe it, either!). And I have some doctor's appointments scheduled that will hopefully lead to big some major bodily changes for me.<br />
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Overall, as I've said a hundred times in a hundred ways, Life Is Good. :) I hope it stays this way!<br />
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corduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-64834481702308732112013-07-01T17:21:00.001-07:002013-07-01T17:21:18.768-07:00Life overhaul: a journey in picturesIt's that time again: progress photos.<br />
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As usual, pretty shocked by photographic evidence of improved fitness.<br />
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Let's not forget where I started in January, 2012 (ew):<br />
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By April, I had somewhat gotten my act together:</div>
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Life got a little crazy and by the time I moved to NC, I had taken a few steps back (photos taken on June 9, 2013):</div>
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Now, less than one month later and about 20 days in the 30 day shred and a whole lot of sweating, dog walking, and miscellaneous cardio, as of July 1, 2013:</div>
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Biggest differences: my back, hips, and my arms. SOOOO much better. I am in the best shape I've been in in about a decade (gross, I'm old). I look better, feel better, and I am never going back to January's sad sack. Hoping that by the end of this year, I'll just morph into Jillian Michaels :)</div>
corduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-90980843928185718142013-06-25T06:42:00.001-07:002013-06-25T06:42:45.493-07:00DetoxI have(had) been doing a pretty decent job of watching what I eat and working out 1-2x/day. As of Thursday, this all went to shit. <br />
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I left NC for DE on Thurs afternoon. I had Bojangles for breakfast, and a salad at ChikFilA for dinner (so delish!). The next morning, I DID do a sweet workout in the hotel gym, but that was followed by a tuna melt and fries at a diner and later followed by a portabello burger and fries @ Firefly.<br />
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We spent 7 hours in the car on Friday trying to get into the festival fairgrounds. Walked around a bit, saw 2.5 shows and peaced out.<br />
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On Saturday, we had McDonald's for breakfast and then spent about 10 hours walking the fairgrounds. I pretended to be healthy and got a spinach salad w/ strawberries for lunch. Then we went to Chipotle for dinner. At least I perspired all day and drank a ton of water?<br />
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Sunday was much of the same. McDonald's for breakfast, mango sorbet for a snack, and one pancake at 12 a.m. before heading out on the longest overnight drive of my lifeeee and drinking any coffee I came across. I danced my tailfeather off that day (even dancing in the rain/mud), so I'm pretty sure I got a good "work out" in. Proceeded to spend the next 10 hours in the car and got home around 11a.m. on Sunday, slept for 3 hours and actually had a semi-productive day!<br />
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Now, I'm trying jump back in to good diet and exercise. First, I must catch up on sleep. Tonight I think I'll do some 30DS and pretend to eat healthy. <br />
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<strong><em>IML Update:</em></strong><br />
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<strong>1) Do what needs to be done: </strong>Got my license in the mail! Now I just need to register my car and get new plates and I am officially a resident! Transferred my insurance and health insurance over last week and the to-do list is dwindling! Go me.<br />
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<strong>2) Maintain exercise goal of 3x/wk: </strong>Despite a crappy ending to my week, I did manage to get in 4 workouts (3 30 DS days and 1 day @ the gym).<br />
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<strong>3) Make more conscious food choices: </strong>I know I made some really bad food choices, but I also tried not to pig out TOO much. In the scheme of things, I didn't eat as terribly as I could have. <br />
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<strong>4) Enjoy my hobbies: </strong>finally baked a loaf of bread! Taking my puppy on nightly walks, went to Firefly festival, reading, writing, piano-ing....life is good! Now I just need to get back into biking/find somewhere to hike and I'll be even better!<br />
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<strong>5) Keep my close friends: </strong>g-chatting, skyping, texting the days away! My goal is definitely to make some more friends in this area. My roommate is gone until Thursday and if I weren't so exhausted, I would definitely be bored. Good thing I got a dog? She can be my friend.<br />
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<strong>6) Do what I can for my health: </strong>In the process of recovering from a crazy long weekend. Need to catch up on sleep, get back in my normal routine. I have to get back on the exercise train for a few days before I post my 15 day 30DS results (not as big of an impact after 5 days of doing nothing, I'm afraid!). <br />
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Stay tuned...<br />
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corduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-41509082276294411712013-06-17T06:14:00.000-07:002013-06-17T06:14:07.873-07:00a better version of meI have now officially been a Tarheel for 3 weeks.<br />
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I am still so happy and thankful for the positive changes in my lifestyle.<br />
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IML Update:<br />
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<strong>1) Reduce stress: </strong>Honestly, I might as well remove this category from my updates. I have never been a very high stress person and I continue to not be stressed whatsoever. I DID have to take the NC Driver's test this week and took Nala for her first vet's visit, so I'm getting things accomplished, which is good! I make daily to-do lists and I love crossing things off. Maybe I should change this category to: "Do what needs to be done" -- this might make more sense for me!<br />
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<strong>2) Maintain exercise goal of 3x/wk: </strong>In the last 7 days, I have worked out 6 days (1 day of rest) and done a total of 13 workouts. <a href="http://www.dailymile.com/people/MeganG148#ref=tophd">http://www.dailymile.com/people/MeganG148#ref=tophd</a><br />
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Today will mark Day 8 of Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred, though it is more of a "Shred every day for the rest of my days" than a measured workout. The roomie and I are graduating to Level 2 tonight and I am upping my weights from 3 to 5. It is going very well and I think I am starting to see some results! Too bad I'm going away from Thursday thru Sunday...definitely going to disrupt my routine. Might take my laptop to the hotel with me and do it in the mornings....<br />
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In addition, I've been biking and trying to get back into running. Last night I ran two miles on the treadmill only to be haunted by my arch nemesis, the shin splint. Today I am ordering some compression socks that will hopefully protect my shins a bit and optimize my blood flow.<br />
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<strong>3) Make more conscious food choices: </strong>I've been pretty good since I moved down here! High protein diet with lots of veggies and fruit, minimal simple carbs, only drinking coffee (1cup/day) and water the rest of the time (SO much water!). I've been cooking like crazy, which is super fun. On tonight's menu, I am making eggplant stuffed chicken breast in truffle oil and garlic asparagus. Probably to be followed by angel food cake with strawberries and cool whip...yum!<br />
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<strong>4) Enjoy my hobbies: </strong>Puppy time, biking, piano playing, reading, socializing, cooking..what more could a girl ask for? (I should be doing more crafting and less shopping).<br />
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<strong>5) Keep my close friends: </strong>Still in pretty constant contact with several friends. Making concerted effort to text people and talk on the phone and send emails. So excited that my sister and friend Kelly are coming to visit for 4th of July weekend (17 days and counting!!). I'm also going up to Delware for the <a href="http://fireflyfestival.com/">Firefly Music Festival</a> this coming weekend and will be reunited with two friends, as well! <br />
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I am trying to make friends here, but it's definitely tough. I have mainly been meeting people through my roommate, which is great. I'm hoping to forge some new friendships with coworkers and break out into the dating scene and make some friends that way, as well. It is really easy to talk to people down here, so any time I go out, I make it a point to strike up conversation with strangers. You never know who you might meet!<br />
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<strong>6) Do what I can for my health: </strong>I feel (and apparently look - based on reactions to a recent photo I posted) so much healthier! I have been spending a lot of time outside, religiously working on my fitness, eating healthier, sleeping well, enjoying a lot of "me" time, and (surprisingly!) maintaining a pre-bedtime routine that includes flossing. Who am I?! As Fiona Apple would say <em>"Here it comes, a better version of me."</em><br />
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corduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-65356642400305561472013-06-10T05:37:00.003-07:002013-06-10T05:37:52.493-07:00ShredI am so happy to be moved and settled into a perfectly balanced life between structured routine and chaos. So far, I am LOVING living in N.C. And my roommate is fabulous!<br />
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Prior to the move, my workouts became infrequent as I struggled to cram in as much of my CT "bucket list" as possible. A few bike rides and hikes made their way into my life, but I certainly wasn't keeping up with the fitness routine I had been maintaining for several weeks before that.<br />
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Now that my life is coming together, I am making it a priority to take good care of myself, which is much easier when you have a) a puppy to take care of who requires a somewhat strict schedule b) less late nights spent hanging out with friends and resulting in sleep deprivation c) a much longer commute requiring that I wake up earlier.<br />
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IML updates, N.C. style!<br />
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<strong>1) Reduce Stress: </strong>I think I will fit right in in the south. I have always been a pretty low-stress person and am even more laid back now that I am amongst my kind of people. Peace out, New England anxiety-ridden folk! <br /><br /><strong>2) Maintain exercise goal of 3x/wk: </strong>I have definitely been active every single day since I moved here. Having a puppy ensures I take at least 3 walks a day. I have also been biking a few times with my roommate or to run errands, have run on the treadmill, done some lifting, and started a new workout routine as of yesterday. As far as biking goes, I definitely need to find some nice long stretches of less-populated roads to take longer rides on and also want to explore some "greenways" -- which are the equivalent of the Rails to Trails in N.E. <br />
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In other news, my roommate and I are powering through Jillian Michael's 30 day shred! Last time I started it, I was doing pretty well until I re-sprained my bad ankle, so womp womp to that. Now that I am waking up at 6 every weekday to get ready for work, doing a nice 20 minute workout first thing in the morning is a great way to jump start the day. I am going to do all three levels of the shred, so it will technically be a 90 day shred. I'm looking forward to seeing some results!<br /><br /><strong>3) Make more conscious food choices: </strong>I am eating way more healthily than I have in a while. Long gone are the days of traveling every weekend and eating out 3x +/wk. I have been having yogurt or oatmeal with fruit and nuts for breakfast, packing healthy lunches, and eating dinner at a more reasonable hour. I've also totally cut out snacking, mostly because I'm too busy to be sitting around getting hungry. I have been drinking approx 3x the amt of water since moving here, mostly because it's so hot/humid and I need to stay hydrated. <br />
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I am already seeing some results and think I have probably shed about 5 lbs already since I moved here, all thanks to my shift in lifestyle. <br /><br /><strong>4) Enjoy my hobbies:</strong><em> </em>I seriously love it here. All of the people I've met are super nice. I've been swimming and biking and reading and decorating and shopping and cooking and playing with my puppy/neighborhood children (can you believe I actually like these kids. Who am I?!). I've been busy and active and social and this is pretty much the life I have always wanted for myself. Next on the docket: make more friends!<br /><br /><strong>5) Keep my close friends close: </strong>I have been making a concerted effort to keep in touch with my "home friends." I've had several long phone calls with my family and friends and sent many a text. Now if only I can convince all of you to come visit me...<br /><br /><strong>6) Do what I can for my health: </strong>I feel GREAT. I am getting the perfect amount of sleep, exercise, and food intake. I am keeping up with a good dental routine. And, as always - creating happiness is the best thing you can do for your body. And right now I am overflowing with happy.<br />
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Stay tuned for some 30 DS shred results...took my Day 1 pictures and will post progress @ Day 15.<br />
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<3 br=""></3>corduroyveinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12746391985626176305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-272979610554010170.post-53723438595401147852013-05-17T06:29:00.004-07:002013-05-17T06:29:40.636-07:00The hard wayI have been pretty lazy for the last week and a half. Perhaps lazy isn't the right word for it. Busy? Unmotivated? Something.<br />
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Last week, I exercised three times - if you can call it that. I went for two hikes on Friday and walked 4 miles on Sunday. I definitely exercised my digestive muscles more than the rest of my body.<br />
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This week was off to a rather sedentary start, as well. And the weather took a turn for the cold and dreary. <br />
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On Thursday, the temperature spiked back up to a warm and sunny 77 degrees and I mounted my bike for the first ride in a few weeks.<br />
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I knew this might be my last chance to ride the Farmington Canal, so I wanted to go farther than I have been going since the start of the season. This meant one thing: conquering the dreaded, awful, terrible hill that I normally stop at.<br />
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Things were going well. The sun was shining, bugs were hurtling themselves at me, I was working up a good sweat and feeling pretty good. The hill was glorious to go down and I kept going and going until I got over 10 miles and realized it was nearing 7 oclock.<br />
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The way back was miserable. I managed to conquer the hill just fine, only having to drop down to 3rd gear to make it up that long and steadily inclining beast. But I started to feel the twinge in my foot, the twinge that could only mean one thing: impending foot cramp.<br />
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Every time I do a long bike ride, I end up getting debilitating foot cramps. My toes curl up, my leg shakes, it feels like someone is running over my foot with a car. I sometimes briefly consider amputation because the pain is so unbearable. I try to walk it off to no avail. It sometimes leaves me in tears. It is miserable.<br />
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I could feel the muscles in my feet start to twitch. I was still over 8 miles from my car. I hopped off, walked a little bit and realized that at my pace of 2.3 miles/hour it would take me until 10p.m. to get to my car if I had to walk the whole thing. I hopped back on and began the race...with myself.<br />
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Racing against your own body is a terrible thing to have to do. My hands grew sweaty, I felt anxious and nervous that my feet would seize up at any time. I pedalled faster than I have in a long time, with an average speed over 15 mph (my normal speed is approx 12.5). I just kept telling myself to <em>go go go go go</em>.<br />
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I was afraid to move my feet at all on the pedals or shift the pressure of my body against my foot. I was afraid to stop, I was afraid to keep moving. I counted down the miles. By the time I reached the 2 mile point, I knew things would be okay if I had to walk the rest. But I didn't. I reached the finish line, ripped my shoes off, and proceeded to get a miserable cramp in my left foot that spasmed for over 20 minutes.<br />
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Apparently, this is a common affliction. I read a lot about cycle-induced cramping when I got home. I may consider getting a primary care and seeing if they will prescribe me a low-dose muscle relaxant to take before I do a long ride for preventive purposes.<br />
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Here's a great article I found about these cramps:<br />
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<a href="http://www.livestrong.com/article/202134-how-to-prevent-cycling-leg-cramps/">http://www.livestrong.com/article/202134-how-to-prevent-cycling-leg-cramps/</a><br />
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And here are some snapshots from my ride yesterday:<br />
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