Day 4 and Day 5

So I've gotten a little behind on my posts and I'm skipping day in between my workouts...but I'm still going and that's all that matters.

Day 4 was on Monday and it was Chest and Shoulders. I brought it hard and felt so great when I was finished. Day 5 was today and it was Plyometrics and it sucked. This girl, although 5 feet 10 inches of athletic build, CAN NOT JUMP! For those of you who may not be familiar with the word plyometrics...

Plyometrics is "...emphasizing calisthenics and repeated movements such as jumping high off the ground"

Calisthenics is "vigorous physical exercises..."

I not only can't jump, but I can't jump fast or high. I was huffing and puffing and struggling to keep up. I will be limping tomorrow...but that's how I know I'm working "hard".

I've come to realize that if I continue at my current pace I will finish P90X (a 90 day program) in just over 180 days. HA! I doubt that's what Beach Body had in mind when they formulated this program. Perhaps after a week or so of doing it every other day I will be able to find the energy and motivation to hit it hard EVERY day.

Is it just me or has everyone else been exhausted lately? I assume it is the change of seasons and weather but GEEZ! I'm ready for bed by 8pm...and dear hubby is out of town until Friday...might just have to hit the hay just after the kids go to bed, at 8pm!

Can I also just say how crappy it is to look back through my blog and realize that I made it to Day 54 and then lost track...COME ON!!! I was over halfway done and now I'm back to Day 5...boo boo boo :(

Day 3

How, oh how can it only be day 3? I feel like I've been doing this forever. Bummer! I guess it feels that way because for the last 3 months I've been thinking about P90X nonstop, in an effort to regain my drive and motivation. Oh well...

So real quick, today I didn't get up early because I was tired. I knew I'd be able to fit it in on my lunch break...and I did. Kenpo X was today's workout and I have to say, I didn't give it my all but I gave it about 90%. Let me just say that when you are doing jumping jacks and your shirt is coming up so you can see the pooch you're trying to get rid of, it kinda messes with your head. I've seen those people before...you know, their belly is hanging out and you wonder if they can tell...or if they even care! I CARE! Again, not that I have a big saggy belly, but it just isn't what I want it to be. Also, I'd like to add that while doing my stretches prior to the workout my butt looked just like the lady in yesterday's video post that I criticized. Oh well, no one was filming me and I was in a room by myself.

Who knows what tomorrow and the weekend will bring. I may kick butt and hit the workouts hard, or I may enjoy my 6th anniversary weekend with my family.

I hope you all have a fantastic fall weekend with the ones you love!

Day 2, OUCH!

I say OUCH because when the alarm went off at 4:45am and I got out of bed to turn it off I realized just how badly my butt and legs hurt. I blame it all on those darn "sneaky lunges." I wish I could find a pic or video to put on here so everyone would know just how crappy they are. The next time you see me ask and I'll demonstrate for you.

There was no working out today. As the day went on I've only hurt more and more. Now while all this is good and proves that the workouts work, it keeps me from doing something every day. The plan now is to pray that tomorrow morning goes better. I'm hoping this soreness will let up a bit so that I can actually move at 4:45am tomorrow.

For your enjoyment, here's a crappy video demonstrating the sneaky lunges. On another note, someone should really tell this check to wear better pants and/or underwear if she's gonna point a camera at her butt while doing sneaky lunges.

Well, Day 1 (for the 100th time) was a success!

So I mentally prepared myself last night that I would get up bright and early at 4:45am this morning to start Day 1 of P90X (again). Thankfully it worked. The alarm went off, I laid there for just a couple of minutes and then I was up and at 'em.

Although Day 1 should have been Chest and Shoulders, I actually did Legs and Back. I had done a couple of the workouts over the last week or so but had not committed fully to restarting. Today was the day and Legs and Back was the next dvd in line. I've kept to my last idea of skipping the KenpoX, Plyometrics, YogaX, etc and substituting running in their place.

Tomorrow I doubt I'll be able to walk. On Sunday I rode my new bike about five miles. It has been a really long time since I rode a bike last. For some reason only my left leg has been sore and not my right...who knows. Either way, after the 5 miles and Legs and Back this morning, it was likely a bad idea to hit the road running for 3 miles...but I did it anyway. Needless to say, I started off with a BANG today. Hopefully I am able to keep my momentum up. I long for the results I had after my first 45 days of P90X a few months ago.

Here's to another bright and early morning tomorrow. I have yet to decided which dvd it will be...perhaps Chest and Shoulders again. I hope to hit it really hard this week just to help build momentum for the days and weeks to come.

By the way...here's me on my new bike with the girls in-tow behind.

A slow start but better than nothing

**Update: Who doesn't love ARGYLE!!**

Just so you know, I did start this week and I only managed 2 workouts...not so great. My commitment is a little low still. Between work, home, kids, hubby, etc I just get tired and want to sleep. If I can only push hard for a couple weeks I can get in a routine, that will help immensely! Also, a quick note on the bangs, they still suck but I'm managing better than before.

Hopefully more exciting things and pics to post in the coming days! Enjoy the beautiful weekend and hug the ones you love!

Hold on, this one is a little bumpy...

So, I've been starting and stopping for quite a while now. I get motivated to get my butt in gear (shape) and then really gross, yet tasty food gets in the way. I work all day, come home to hubby and 3 kids, and get nothing accomplished but falling asleep on the couch.

I managed to survive my first half marathon just over a week ago and I loved it. I ran 13.1 miles in 2 hours and 8 minutes. I'm very happy with that for my first 13.1 miles. We've decided to run another one in Tulsa on November 21st, and I'm quite excited to better my 2:08 PR.

Ok, here's where the road gets bumpy...I just have to vent...

After doing so well and tightening up for 45+ days I fell off the wagon and everything went south. I'm now weigh the most I ever have, feel/look more out of shape than I did prior to my first 45 days, and feel horrible about myself. Yes, I know, I'm not fat or obese and I have not health problems. I shouldn't be so upset...but I am. I'm dimply, flabby, and rolly. My clothes don't seem to fit right and God forbid I ever have to wear a pair of jeans. I've officially reached THAT stage. I used to love jeans...now they are my enemy!

I have no will power when it comes to food. No joke, I feel as though I'm within 2 years of turning into one of those people you see riding the motorized carts at Walmart, while filling their basket with 6-pack bottles of Mt. Dew, and Hostess snacks. You know exactly the one's I'm talking about. Horribly overweight and usually with a 10 year old riding on their lap. Yes, I know, I'm a terrible person for even going there...but you know you've judged before too! I'm just saying, that's how I'm feeling right now.

I have adult acne. Wonderful, just one more thing the make me feel crappy about myself. Did I mention I jumped on the bang-wagon...bad idea! Now I have bad hair to go along with my acne face, flabby body and clothes that don't fit. FAN-FREAKIN-TASTIC!

So, the bangs will have to grow-out or I will have to learn to fix them differently. My acne is being treated. I'm working on the will power, and Day 1 of P90X started (again) today.

Once again, my goal is to complete the resistance workouts every other day and run the other days. I want to shed fat, slim down and tone up. I need to keep my cardio up so that I can beat my 2:08 half marathon PR. That's the plan, we'll see how it goes, I hope you enjoyed my mindless vent. Thank you and have a good night!

Just a quick update...

So I haven't stuck to the original plan, surprise surprise! I just recently kicked the half marathon training into gear (meaning the last week-week and a half). Its been rough; however, I finally realized why...

I've been limiting my carbs during the day just because I can eat a ton of them, especially while I am at work...I like to snack! Tonight we had pizza for supper and then an hour and half to two hours later I went for my 5.81 mile run. It was awesome! I had so much more energy and felt great throughout the run. Up to this point 4 miles was the most I had run at once. I am now convinced that carbs and caffine make the world go round.

The half marathon is just 2 weeks from this Sunday (about 2 and a half weeks away). I hope to keep my motivation up; however, I'm traveling to Utah all next week and have yet to figure out where running will fit into my schedule.

That's all for now...just wanted to let you all know that I'm still alive and somewhat training...kinda

Day 3 Shoulders & Arms and AbRipper X, Day 4 Running (unsuccessful)

So, I'm a day late on my post; however, the workout was done nonetheless. I was quite temped to skip as I was not in the mood and didn't get to go to the gym as I had hoped. Craig left for the gym, I got the kids to bed, and was crabby enough to suck it up and know that I would feel better once I was done...and so it was done!

Today was to be Day 4 and it was a running day...it was unsuccessful. Between work, kids, and husband it is sometimes hard to fit it all in in a day...gotta keep everyone happy.

So hear I sit, just having finished a bowl of cereal that I DID NOT need, updating on how I did good yesterday and persevered and sucked today. Perhaps tomorrow will be better...

Day 2, Run...

Today was Day 2 and I was feeling quite motivated. Since I'm doing a hybrid of P90X I skipped the dvd today and hit the road. I was quite ambitious with 5.25 miles planned. I felt great and was eager to get out there and accomplish it. This 5.25 miles was not only quite long but hilly too! I kept a slow pace and tried to push through; however, there were periods of walking. I had hoped to run it non-stop, but that didn't happen.

I made it just short of my turn around point and decided to use it as rest for the way back home. Once I started running again I felt surprising great...then I got back to the hills...they sucked! My 5.25 mile run was finished in 1 hour with 3 periods of walking. Not my best work but a great start nonetheless. Today really made me realize how hard I am going to have to work in order to be ready for 13.1 miles in 5 weeks!

Tomorrow brings the Shoulders & Arms dvd followed by AbRipper X. Considering my shoulders and abs are very sore from yesterday's Chest & Back dvd this should be interesting. I love being sore though. It reminds me why I'm doing this and that it is working.

The diet is still a "work in progress". I'm not doing horrible but do have some lapses...thank goodness the Chips Ahoy cookies are now gone! (I'm pretty sure I ate 3/4 of the package in less than 12 hours...oops)

Pictures didn't get taken today but hopefully tomorrow.

Starting from scratch, yet again...

A month and a half since my last post, and much longer than that since my last motivated surge at changing my ways, I've returned. Today, Saturday evening at that, marked Day 1...again.

For those of you reading my blog for the first time here's a brief run down:
I started P90X back in April and hit it hard for 45 days. Then I started to lose track and then have to play catch up for skipped days. It took me close to a month to complete week 5.

At this point there's no point in picking up where I left off. I've lost all ground that I gained, and I had gained quite a bit of ground in 45 days! It's so maddening to realize it all now. Not only will it be hard to get back to the level of fitness I had reached (not that it was spectacular but it was much better than the present level) but the discipline with diet is going to kill me. I've sincerely enjoyed eating everything in sight...just wait for my new "Day 1" pics :( (coming tomorrow)

This go around I am doing a hybrid version on the program. Like stated in one of my previous posts, I am going to be doing the resistance workouts by dvd and replacing the stretching and cardio workouts with half-marathon training. I look forward to the results I feel I am capable of...as long as I can keep my motivation going it should be an exciting journey. My half marathon is 5 SHORT weeks away.

Here's to health, fitness and happiness!

M...I...A

I thought I give a quick update of why I've been MIA for the last week or more....I'M ON VACATION!!! I had good intentions of hitting the workout super hard over my vacation, but instead I've been hitting the "to-do list" super hard. I've been cleaning out the garage for my next project, planting some plants around the yard, cleaning out closets, etc. My 60 day pics will once again be put off until after my vacation, once I can hit it hard for a week. I promise...I'll stick to it this time. Get off my back, 2 weeks of vacation to enjoy with my family...I'm taking advantage of it!!!

Day 54...4 Mile Run Done (3.9 actually)

So I came up a little short on my 4 mile run, however, I ran it faster than I was supposed to, so I'll call it even. I was supposed to do 4 miles at no faster than 10:30 a mile...which would mean I'd finish somewhere after 42:00 minutes. I finished in 36:50.

The humidity was awful and to make matters worse the ipod died half way through the run. I'm glad its done and I can move on. Tomorrow I have Back & Biceps and Ab Ripper X...or I may switch it up and get my legs and back in. Legs & Back tend to mak me pretty sore and they're due up on Friday. Saturday I am supposed to get in 7 or 8 miles, so I'm not sure how that will go with massive soreness...I can only assume poorly.

By the way, in the midst of writing this post, I downed a Double Fudge Cookie Dough Blizzard from DQ. The hubby made a trip and as much as I tried to pass up the offer I just couldn't stick to my guns. It was good but sickening rich...I wish I would have stuck with skipping it...oh well.

60 day pics in 6 short days!!!

Day 53...first day of half marathon training...and I didn't even run

I know, right. It doesn't make sense that today was day 1 of my half marathon training and I didn't even run...but that's what the schedule calls for. Today was my rest/cross training day. How awesome is it that day 1 of a program is a rest day!!! I didn't rest however, I pushed play on Chest, Shoulders & Triceps and Ab Ripper X.

Man oh man, do I hate push ups. They suck, they suck, they suck..especially when you do slow-motion push ups, side to side push ups and one arm push ups. Actually, I skipped the one arm push ups because they suck that much. Again, I like my teeth in my mouth where they belong more than I'd like to attempt a one arm push up and land flat on my face, thus knocking out my teeth! My workout seemed so hard at the time. My arms where shaking and tired and at one point my pecks (boobs) were shaking while attempting a set of those wonderful push ups. But now, I feel just fine. My arms aren't tired or sore. I'm hoping the soreness rears its ugly head tomorrow, just to remind me why I push play.

Ab Ripper X was good. I still hate the start of it. I'm really not sure why because the moves seem to be getting slightly easier, I just think I'm bored with the routine. But, all good runners have strong cores!

Tomorrow starts my training runs. I believe I have 4 miles to do tomorrow, at a very easy pace. I'm excited. This will help me burn more fat and slim down and look more cut...and that's what I want. After watching the marathon this weekend, MAN, some of those chicks are cut up! Keep in mind, I don't plan to be the skinny skinny runner, I want to be a more muscular runner, but slimming down will help me appear more muscular. You can't see my muscles like I'd like, due to the nice layer of insulation. Again, I know I'm not fat, but I could be a little thinner to help show definition.

Here's to a wonderful run tomorrow!

By the way, I was so inspired by all the runners on Saturday that I hit the road and busted out 3.4 miles Sunday morning before going to the parade!

Day 52...Yes, I'm still alive

So its Day 52, I've got 60 day pics in just 8 days, and I've done a whole lot of nothing for the last few days. However, I've decided to change things up once again and will start training for a half marathon during these last 30+ days of my P90X experience. I am very excited by this, as I think it will end with tremendous results. My inspiration for my half marathon training is my hubby.



Craiger isn't a run, and never has been. He's always been the "meat head" type of guy, without the annoying attitude! He's more in to muscle and size instead of being lean and skinny. Therefore, he doesn't look like a runner either. Approximatly a month ago Craiger decided he was going to run the first annual Kirksville Stars and Stripes Half Marathon. At first I really thought he was all talk. He didn't train like he should have. He ran a few miles every other day or so and only attempted one long run, that ended with him walking the last couple of miles due to unbelievable pain. He almost gave in and didn't run...but he didn't. He prepped the day before: kept himself fully hydrated, loaded up on some carbs and he was ready to go. He finished the 13.1 miles while only having to stop to walk once, part of an abnoxious hill at mile 9! I'm so proud of him.

Here's my new plan. I'm going to start training for a half marathon, actual race to be deteremined at a later day. I'm going to continue to do P90X but will be skipping the Plyo, Yoga, Kenpo, etc workouts and will be running instead. My running days will more than make up for the skips. I will continue with the lifting workouts such has legs, back & biceps, chest, shoulders & triceps, back & biceps. This schedule should allow, perfectly, for cardio, endurance and muscling building bliss!!! By day 90 I should be one ripped, fit mother!!!

Day 48 4 mile run...at least that was the plan

We all know cardio and running in particular are good for us overall: muscle tone, lung capacity, heart rate. Well, I've been throwing it into my P90X here and there and for some reason it seems to fall on Wednesdays. Today I skipped P90X and went straight for a 4 mile run....except it only ended up being 3.75 miles.

I ran my normal route, with an added loop in the middle. I assumed this added loop would make my route equal approx 4 miles, however, it didn't. I was so very proud of myself for not stopping...I kept a running (slow running) pace the whole time. This has seemed quite hard lately. Again, I didn't map it ahead of time, only assumed...and you know, when you assume you make an ass out of someone, we won't mention names.

With pictures only 12 days away, I should be running more and at a faster pace. The diet part of this scenario is going ok...with the exception of those darn potty treats. I almost blame my wrist pain on them. You see, ginormous bag of M&Ms is on top of the fridge, and when I reach up to grab a handful my wrist is in the exact position that hurts so bad. Therefore, if I lay off the potty treats I will not only continue to slim down, and at a faster rate, but I will also allow my wrist to heal. Well, that's what I'll keep telling myself.

Day 47 Bringing it Kenpo Style

It seems like forever since I did Kenpo last....but then again, I haven't been the best at sticking to the schedule and Kenpo is Day 6 of each week. I enjoyed it today but feel I could have brought it a little harder. I've somehow ended up with a wrist issue and was a leery of how the punches would feel. I survived to talk about it so I guess that's good.

I now have 13 days til pictures and have tried to tighten the reigns on my eating habits. Its tough when you have potty-training going on in your house...potty treats are M & Ms and it seems that everytime Paislee potties Paislee gets 1 treat and Mom gets a handful!! DELISH! Somehow, someway, its got to stop!

I attempted a protein shake today and have felt pretty good besides the tummy rumbles...I like milk with in my protein shakes but milk doesn't like me. So far so good for today and I hope to have another one as a pre-bedtime snack...muscles heal the most during rest and protein helps heal!

Day 46 A Day of Sneaky Lunges

This workout should have been done last Friday; however, when it was time to "bring it" I was horribly bloated and uncomfortable from eating. The rest of the weekend followed suit and I was very unproductive in the way of working out.

Today I attacked Legs & Back and Ab Ripper X. The quote of the day is, "What's up noise-maker?" I love that...said by Tony to one of the others because the move was causing great strain and they were squealing. This is how I always feel and am glad to know that even the pros do this. I can't wait for the soreness to set in, just because you then know that your hard work is making a difference. With any luck I won't be able to walk in the morning.

Ab Ripper X is getting old. I love that it is only 16 minutes long but having to do it after a 50+ minute workout makes the whole workout take too long. I'm more of an hour in and done kinda gal. But, if I save it and do it later...well, we all know that will never happen, so why even mention it.

I'm starting my countdown now...14 days until my 60 day pics...I better straighten up and pull it together. At this point I'm doubting any changes, that's my hope at least. I know I haven't made any progress and I'm praying there's no regressing!!! That will really kill my motivation. I've got 14 days to eat healthy, hit it hard and get somewhat of a tan. Hopefully pudginess and skanky tan lines will no ensue.

~BTW, it tells me that skanky is not a word...hello, for those of you who don't know skanky = trashy, ugly, nasty, distasteful...I could go on and on but I'll just leave it at that for now.

Day 42, phew!

Since today was YogaX day I figured I'd stick to my guns and skip out on it. I considered making up my Plyo from the other day but then decided I'd go for a run. First I thought a hard run, then I decided on a nice enjoyable run. Well, it was hard, but not because I ran hard, and it wasn't enjoyable...at all.

It started ok but quickly began to suck. I ended up walking, for a long time, but finished up running. I really thought the slightly cooler temps would feel great today, but it didn't help. I'm going to blame it on not running regularly and the whole huge back of banana chips I ate throughout the day today. I guess (althought they're good and reasonably healthy) they don't serve the purpose of full nutritional meals...who would have thought? Today is my SIL's birthday and we're eating at Ponderosa. I think I'll opt for a steak and hope that it helps get me thru Legs & Back and Ab Ripper X tomorrow! I'm secretly excited about doing those darn sneaky lunges again...I was sore for 3 days last time and that's such a great feeling...knowing you're working your muscles and making them grow!

On a seperate note, I had really high hopes for spicing up my blog and making it more entertaining. Perhaps I need to take more pictures on a regular basis...I don't know. Either way, I failed miserably with this entry. I read a blog today that made me smile and laugh; unfortunatley for you, it didn't trickle on to my blog. Sorry!

Day 40 SKIP, Day 41 CHECK!

Yesterday I just wasn't feeling Plyo. I had told myself I would wait and attack it in the afternoon as you really need to be awake and ready to go for Plyo. Then I got busy at work and ran out of time...oh well. I decided last night that I wasn't going to make it up and stay behind...instead I skipped it and moved on today.

I tore it up with Back & Biceps and Ab Ripper X. I've gained some size in my arms and have now begun to focus on definition. I was doing 8-10 reps but have moved on to 12-15. By the time I finished with Back & Biceps my arms were throbbing. It was such a nice feeling of soreness and swelling...in a good way! Then I pushed through Ab Ripper X and was able to keep up and not cheat, at all. I really think my sugar-free Red Bull helped prep me.

For those of you following my progress, here's another bicep shot after today's workout. Not that anyone truly cares, though.

Its been a while since I ran. I think tomorrow, pending any rain or 100 degree temps, I'll give it a shot. Who knows, perhaps I'll get up early do part of YogaX and then run tomorrow afternoon?! Wouldn't that be great!

Day 38 & 39 Slow Pitch and Chest, Back & Triceps and Ab Ripper X

Can I just say WOOOO HOOOO!!! I'm finally in Week 6 instead of Week 5. It took me 4 tries to complete Week 5. I don't know why I had such a hard time with it, I just couldn't keep my motivation up. Nontheless, its behind me now and I can move on...and I'm stoked to!

After my manual labor on Saturday (Day 37) I used yesterday as a rest day; however, I still managed a crappy game of softball and a dip in the lake...E. Coli included (the swim beach has been closed but they'll let you swim everywhere else)! Today was Chest, Back & Triceps and Ab Ripper X..and let me tell you, my arms feel like jello. I was pumped all day to get my workout in. I wish I had planned ahead and made time for some cardio, as tomorrow is Plyo and cardio definitely can't happen after Plyo!

I skipped the one-arm push ups. I'm just not ready for them yet. Plus, when trying to do the side push ups my arm nearly gave out twice. I decided it was time to give up instead of losing my front 2 teeth...I happen to like them. I also skipped out on the last 2 ab sets because I was running out of time.

I don't think Plyo will be happening at 4:15am either. It is really one of those workouts that's best done when you're fully awake and ready to "bring it". Perhaps I'll get up early and get a run in before Plyo...that might just be the ticket to getting them both in.

Day 37...Manual Labor

Today I didn't get up early enough to get KenpoX in before heading over to Gallatin...and thank goodness I didn't. The manual labor I performed today was more than a workout.

My grandparents are flipping a house in Gallatin, and today I headed over to help out. My first task was to help my mom empty the junk/trash off the front and back porches and into the back of an old grain truck. While reading this keep in mind that the house has a steep embankment down to the drive and road, where the truck was parked. We got the back porch emptied and I moved on to getting rid of all the old carpet and padding from the front porch. This was an entire body workout:

~Tossing the rolls down off the porch and onto the lawn (arms)
~Picking them up and putting them in the wheelbarrow (arms)
~Hauling the wheelbarrow down one embankment and up another (arms/legs/abs/back)
~Tossing the rolls into the back of the truck (arms)
~Then a storm rolled in and I had to increase my pace...drastically (cardio)

I had help to start but then mom, who just turned 50, tried to push the wheelbarrow up the embankment, without properly stretching first, and somehow strained/stretched/pulled a muscle in her leg...hence me rushing to beat the storm.

Long story short, there was no P90X today, but I still "brought it" and worked my butt off. Let's hope I can move tomorrow...mom probably won't be able to. And, if you know anyone in the Gallatin area looking to buy a house, there's an awesome redone Craftsman that will be hitting the market in the next few months...3 bed 1.5 bath!

Day 36 has been BROUGHT!

After the lack of sleep and productive day at work I managed to find 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete Legs & Back and Ab Ripper X. It's been a long time since I've worked legs. Ironically, I really want muscular legs; however, they seem to be one of the weakest parts of my body. Some of those moves are nearly impossible. I tell myself its because I'm tall, but I know that's not true. I just have weak legs. Here's a warning to all of you out there regarding the "Sneaky Lunges"...THEY SUCK!!! They are hard and work your entire body!!!...and they're done really slow, that makes them even worse! Once again I caught myself breathing as if I was giving birth. Thank goodness I workout alone and there's no one around to witness the spectical.

Another happy note on Ab Ripper X...the first few exercises always wear hard on my upper thigh (hip flexors). The leg workout must get them nice and warm because I was expecting the worst but it actually went quite well.

I'm very proud of myself this week. I skipped Monday but have worked hard every other day of the week thus far. I hope to get Kenpo X in tomorrow! I have plans to leave town and am busy on Sunday as well. I'm just happy to have nearly completed week 5...who would have ever thought it would take 3+ weeks to finish 1!!

Day 36...has yet to be conquered

You see, Ms. Paislee, for some reason, woke up crying at 1:30am and didn't want to go back to sleep. This happened a few days ago and resulted in me sleeping in the recliner while she eventually fell asleep on the couch. So this time, instead of rewarding her by getting her up, we let her cry it out and brought Scotland to our bed (b/c they share a room). By the time Scotland made it to our room she was already awake and Paislee continued to scream for over an hour. Craig had given up his side of the bed and moved downstairs to sleep...but Scotland didn't really care to sleep at this point. I was stuck in our bed with Scotland talking and thumping her feet and legs onto the bed while Craig slept away downstairs. This continued until 4:15am when the alarm went off and I had to go get Craig up so he could run to work...and I literally mean run, this was his workout for the day. At this point, Craig's awake, Scotland is still awake, I'm awake. Scotland kept me up until 4:30am at which point I decided she could do what she wanted downstairs and I was going to sleep. She had the tv on and a blanket. I finally got to sleep and woke up sometime in the 5:00am hour and checked on her. She had finally fallen asleep in the recliner and I went back to bed until 6:30am. Needless to say its a coffee kind of day and by this evening I'm going to be exhausted.

My goal is to get my Legs & Back and Ab Ripper X in this afternoon sometime. I have to work off the Blizzard dear Craiger got me last night. It was so good and was the perfect treat after a cold shower. We've been holding off on turning our AC on and yesterday evening was rough. We have an attic fan that makes a huge difference, but when it gets this hot and humid it doesn't make things very pleasant. Last year the heat didn't seem to bother me much; however, this momma was cranky yesterday. Here's hoping today is better!

Day 35 Back & Biceps and Ab Ripper X

For the 3rd day in a row I was up and at 'em at 4:15am, "Pushing Play" and "Bringing It"...and it feels great. I hit it hard yesterday with Plyo in the am and then a 3.5 mile run in the 90+ degree heat. All last evening I was beat. And, let me tell you about that heat and my cravings last night...I guess because I worked so hard yesterday I felt as though I had earned and Double Fudge Cookie Dough Blizzard. I was craving one so bad. I really thought we might get one on the way to the in laws, but we drove right past. Then I thought we'd get one on the way home, but we drove right past again! I was a little perturbed that Craiger wouldn't stop. He stated that it was because the kids were with us and they didn't need ice cream...either way, he stopped me from blowing my hard work all to crap and I appreciate it greatly! Thanks babe!

Today my workout is done, nothing more to come this afternoon. Instead, I'm going to concentrate on what I'm eating. I got some new salad dressing at the store last night and am hoping it helps the taste of my salad at lunch time. I had a protein shake last night and realized how much it helps with the sweets cravings...think I'll take one for my afternoon craving. I've also had quite a bit of soreness the last couple of days and know the protein will help with it...although I love being a little sore!

Its very nice to be up and going so early. It gives me time to get my workout in, eat my breakfast, drink my coffee, and check the daily weather. It looks like we might get some more rain today, who would have thought???!! Glad I have no run scheduled for later this afternoon...all my hard work for the day is done!

Day 34...AGAIN!!

Sorry guys but today I'm a rock star and I just want to make sure everyone knows it...because, who knows, tomorrow I may suck.

I just finished my 3.5 mile run in the hot, hot sun. I was going to try to add some mileage but that didn't happen. I'm just happy I was able to finish the 3.5 without walking...it got pretty close to happening. Then, after a brief cool down (me standing in front of the fan in the fitness room like a dog with her head out of a car window) I hit the biceps with 3 sets of 21's. Craig says there's no such thing as "spot training" but I can't resist some 21's after a run!!

Tomorrow is Back & Biceps and Ab Ripper X. I'll start mentally preparing to "Bring It" at 4:15am tomorrow morning!

Day 34...later that same morning

Apparently I worked extremely hard this morning. I've been starving all morning. I'm fighting the cravings, after eating a snack size back of Teddy Grahams (so much for no sugar), and trying to hold out for lunch. Today it will be a salad, yuck, and a pb&j sandwich. I'm trying to avoid the protein shakes as they cause bloating and gas...who really needs either of those!!!??? However, I know that protein will help me get the results that I want...the verdict is still out on the final decision.

I still plan on getting a run in this afternoon and depending on how my legs feel, I may try to make it a long one. Its pretty warm out there right now and I can only assume that it will be hotter by the time I get around to running...guess the heat just helps you sweat off more weight! My upper body is quite sore from yesterday and it is such an awesome feeling. When you wake up sore you know you worked hard...I was actually starting to get sore late yesterday afternoon, which is even better.

I feel that I'm really getting back in the groove, even if it has only been 2 days since starting again. I feel that my mind is in the game and I'm up for the challenge. I want to look better naked and I was getting there, until taking the hiatis.

Day 34 Plyo

Wowza, wowza, wowza...I thought that one was going to kill me. Its been awhile since plyo and I had a run...and this time plyo definetly won! Plyo is one of those workouts that really makes you feel as though you weigh a ton. It also reminds you just how out of shape you are. I remember, back in the day, I was light on my feet. I've never had ups, but I could at least land like a cat. Nowadays I land like Shamu making a splash at Sea World. I'm afraid that with every jump my house will shake and the kids will wake up. And, let me add, that is it entirely impossible for me to jump, kick my butt with my heels, and land back on my feet...that floor comes up way too fast. Wow, how depressing!

Again today, I woke up just before the alarm sounded, which was nice...but I was not ready to push play. I was dragging and not totally awake. I feel as though I should have had my coffee before working out...but they warn against eating or drinking an hour before Plyo...that's always a good sign!

I'm hoping to get an afternoon run in this morning. I feel like I've lost a lot of ground in the slimming department over the last 3 attempts at week 5. I haven't done very well with cutting out carbs, so I'm going to have to up the cardio. I feel that is a fair trade...I'd almost run 10 miles a day if I could eat all the carbs I wanted. Carbs make me happy!...Carbs and Bloody Marys...quick note, I mixed a horrible Bloody Mary last night and was sorely disappointed in myself. I'll try harder tonight ;)

Here's to a better today than yesterday. The workout is in and the rest of the day can slide by without incident...ha ha, that's what I'll tell myself!

Who needs an alarm when your mind is set to "Bring It"..

I'd like to point out to everyone that I'm not as corny as I sound...my play on words with all the P90X sayings and slogans is more for comical effect! Please keep that in mind when reading my posts, my husband would appreciate it! He's quite concerned that you all will think I'm cheesier than humanly possible.

So today is Day 33 AGAIN!! I felt a slight urge to workout yesterday but knew the scheduling of it wouldn't be very promising. Instead I tried to keep my head in the game and plan my workout for this morning. I went to bed about 9:30pm but couldn't fall asleep until a little after 10pm. I prayed that I'd be up and ready to go once the alarm sounded at 4:15am.

At 4:07am I woke up on my own and knew this was going to be a good day. Instead of laying there thinking about how nice it would be to sleep in a little longer I went ahead and got up, hit the alarm so that it wouldn't wake up Craig once I got down stairs, and headed to get my workout on! Today's workout was Chest, Shoulders & Triceps, and Ab Ripper X. Check, Check, Check and Check! Lordy, lordy I hate push-ups. This workout starts with slow motion push ups...if you think regular push ups are bad you should try them in slow mo! There are so many push ups in this workout, fast-slow, one-arm (ha!), side-to-side, etc. By the time I had finished I had incurred my first P90X injury. Apparently all this humidity and all those push ups turned my knees softer than peach skin. I am now "proudly" sporting carpet burn on both knees...CLASSY! My shower and shave in a few minutes should feel lovely.

I could tell my abs weren't ready for their workout...Ab Ripper X was pretty tough. I found my self huffing, puffing and grunting to get it done. At little note to anyone doing this program, I cheat and take off my shoes for Ab Ripper X. Those darn in and outs, bicycles and crunchy frog are so tough and the added weight of shoes makes them worse. I've convinced myself that its slightly easier sans shoes.

I'm so happy that I was able to get up and get my workout in first thing this morning. I plan to stick to this schedule as it makes the rest of the day go easier...and Lord knows I need that right now. I'm wrapping up one job in the next month and starting a new one. Although I'm very excited to start the knew one, there will be many adjustments to be made. Getting the workout done before work will help tremendously. Plus, I'm all of a sudden having a head time keeping my head in the game while wrapping up my current position. There is a ton to train and pass on and it's been a long time coming. The transition period has proven to be challenging! 4:15am workouts are about the only thing that makes it better. So, here's to a wonderful Tuesday! I hope your day is as fantastic as I expect mine to be!

How was my run, you ask..

It started off rough. There's a cycle I always seem to go through when running: First there's the energetic, pumped-up start...Then there's the "Oh my Lord I started too fast" feeling...Finally things start to even out and get easier...Just in time to push and finish hard! I don't know why but it seems the first 3 minutes are the hardest. After that I seem to find my stride, breathe deeper and feel better.

Yesterday, just as I was out of safe distance from the YMCA I noticed that the pavement ahead of me seemed to be steaming. Hmmm, surely its just steam from humidity and not rain...WRONG! I got wet. There was no way I was going to beat it back to the Y...so a nice, wet run is what I had.

I ran about 3.5 miles in about 32 minutes. I didn't push it, I didn't want to. I was simply going for distance. I didn't stop and walk; however, at my turn around point I stretched out my Achilles tendons a bit. For some reason I could feel my left one tightening...my right one is the one I had trouble with before. I made it back to the YMCA save and sound, hot and sweaty, and feeling accomplished! Now that I know 3.5 miles isn't over doing it on the tendons I'll push for 4 and then so on. Hopefully I can continue to steadily increase the mileage in time for the Kirksville Stars and Stripes Half Marathon on July 3rd. We'll see

Here I come running...

Day 31 was quite productive in the way of physical exercise, but Day 32 lacked quite a bit. You see, it was Paislee Grace's 2nd birthday and instead of exercising I ate pizza and cake! Oh well, a good time was had by all.

Today I've caught the running bug. I'm not sure if it has anything to do with the weather, all the talk of running going on around me, my Runner's World mag infront of me, or the fact that the last time I ran (Day 31) my body, minus my lungs, felt really great. Today I have my sights set of 3-5 miles. I'll have to feel it out and see what the ankle feels up to. The last time I ran 5 miles was the onset of my tendonitis.

Did I tell you my hubby is running the Kirksville Stars and Stripes Half Marathon in July? Wow, I know, right! He ran 7+ miles the other day and I was so proud of him. I'm excited that he's now running and hope we can find time to run together sometime!

I'll post again after my run to let you all know how it went, distance and time!

Week 5 Start Over...for the 3rd time!

Ok folks, today is Day 31, instead of Day 50. Although I've been eating somewhat healthier than I was prior to Day 1, I'm starting week 5 (workout wise) over for the 3rd time and I'm going to turn back my days as well. This means there will not be any pics in the next 10 days, as there was originally supposed to.

It seems as though ever time I lose track and start over it is with an arm day...and today was no different. I started my workout with 1 lap around the KV School Campus, which is somewhere between 1.5 and 1.75 miles. I'm pretty happy with that, as I ran the entire loop instead of doing teh 10 min run 3 min walk thing. Apparently the humidity was just right because even though my legs felt good my lungs were suffering. I was sucking air worse than a lady in labor. There were huge breaths in and squealing blows out...really, it was horrible and thank goodness no one was running with me to witness it all.

After finishing my run I decided it was a Back and Bicep day...Ab Ripper X will follow tonight. I enjoy getting the entire workout done at once and know that Ab Ripper X will do more good when my heart rate is already up; however, for some reason, when I am already pretty tired I really strain my neck and end up with a headache that lasts the rest of the evening. So, sometime after supper and before bed I will get my Ab Ripper X in, and it will have to be scheduled around the Women's College World Series!!! I love watching those games!...at this point I don't even care who wins, as long as I get to watch.

So, long story short, I ran and worked my back and arms. My biceps are exhausted and I love the feeling. I feel a huge sense of accomplishment and hope it carries me through the rest of the week. Tomorrow's workout should really be done at 4:15am as it is Paislee Grace's 2nd birthday!!! We will undoubtedly be busy tomorrow night, so no excuses for skipping. 4:15am it is!

Day 46...I'm hanging in there

Wow was is it a hot one out there. Today I just focused on jogging...it would have been much nicer if I had remembered my iPod. Running sucks as it is, not to mention the dreaded heat and lack of musical stimulation. I did my 10 min run 3 min walk times 3. That got me approximately 3.4 miles! I'm pretty happy with that. My ankle is still feeling really good, no soreness or tightening...so no complaints.

After my run I was able to keep myself motivated enough to BRING IT for Ab Ripper X. It wasn't much fun, as it had been a while since the last time I had done it. I figured I had might as well get it done while my heart rate was still up...and, I knew I'd feel a lot better afterwards.

I'm still sticking to coffee, yogurt and a whole wheat bagel for b-fast, a salad for lunch, something to snack on in the afternoon and then pretty much whatever I want for supper (within reason, of course). I can't wait to see what the hubs has fixed for tonight. He's a pretty good cook and always beats me home!!

Day 44 & 45

Hi everyone, it's time for me to make a "come to Jesus" post...to myself (and a slight plea to my hubby) I've lost all motivation towards my P90X program. I don't know why. I want to want to do it. I want the results that I've started to see on myself and the results I've seen on all the program graduates. I'm in a rut! This week was supposed to be a repeat of week 5...now, next week will be a three-peat of week 5. Hopefully one of these days I'll stick to it and move on to week 6!

I still have motivation, some, to work out (run)...I just don't have it towards dvds. And,I think that is exactly it. I dvd workouts themselves are fabulous...they keep your heart rate up, they work your muscles, and you can feel the progress the next day...however, they're just that...a dvd. I have lost interest in working out to the tv. If only I could have a partner. If only my life partner and husband, Craig, would do them with me. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE!!

You see, he's more of the meat-head type. He wants huge, massive muscle and isn't concerned with the amount of leanness he has going on. He's not fat by any means but I think he would have tremendous results from this program. We could be the hottest couple in the world!!!! ha ha

So, here's to scraping by this week and attempting to start over next week and hit it hard with week 5, once again. For all of you who are doing the program also, keep up the good work. Try your hardest to stick with it. I truly believe in the program. These issues are purely my own that I must work through and conquer.

Day 42 (nothing) & 43 Back & Biceps

Ya, so...I went ahead and enjoyed the holiday on Monday and spent it in our back yard with the kiddies...oh, and I might have had a small Dairy Queen Double Fudge Cookie Dough Blizzard. No workout was completed. However, today I stepped up to the plate and the road for 30 minutes in the hot, 3:30pm sun and then pushed play for Back and Biceps. I ran out of time and didn't get Ab Ripper X done, and frankly, I don't feel like doing it now that I'm home watching the Cards.

How about that summer heat? It really sucks to run in. I hadn't run for quite a while and could really tell. Between the humid hotness and aches in my legs and lungs, I was really sucking butt by the time I got back to the YMCA. The run was a really nice warm up before my Back and Bicep workout. I LOVE working arms!



Check out my gun!

By the time I was done I could really tell that my biceps were swollen and sore. Again, I'm not one of those gals who just want to be skinny. Yes, skinny is ok, but I want more muscle. I want to be one of those chicks you see and think to yourself, "Damn!"...so, biceps are a lot of fun. I believe tomorrow calls for YogaX...think I'll be hitting up KenpoX. It seems like its been forever since I did that dvd last.

Day 39, 40, 41 update

Well, with it being a holiday weekend I've fallen of the wagon of health! I can already tell a difference with how my body feels in my clothes and how I feel about my body. Although I haven't eaten as healthy as I was trying to, I'm remaining sensible and haven't indulged in any Blizzards; however, that is only because dear hubby didn't bring my one when he indulged! I will undoubtedly be repeating week 5, just as I did week 2. I take pride in the fact that I may slack here and there but I will not just idle through the 90 days. I will repeat weeks as needed and my 90 day program may end at 100+ days...and that's ok!

Tomorrow is Monday and it is a holiday. Craig is working but I have the day off. We'll see, I may get up early like I was doing other weekdays and get my workout in early. It would be a nice start to a hopefully productive day. Or, I may sleep in and enjoy the holiday. Who knows? Either way, its time to get back in the grind of staying focused and working hard...that's when you see the results that you work so hard for.

For those of you who follow me...do as I say not as I do...I wish you the determination to stick to it and not take as many breaks as I already have.

Day 38 Plyometrics

I guess its been a while since the last time I did Plyo. I had totally forgotten how much I really dislike it. By no means does it compare to YogaX; however, it is a rough workout on the legs. I am, however, starting to feel better about the way my legs are looking, so I guess its worth the pain.

I don't think I've ever been a good jumper, and age has not helped this matter. I am so awkward with some of the simplest jumps...it really is sad. There is a "rock star jump" where you strum your guitar like a champ and jump, making your heels tough your butt (just like rock stars do). I'm telling you, one of these days I'm not going to get my feet back under me before I hit the ground. It is hard! I'm not good at jumps where your legs have to curl up either. A simple knee tuck jump is nearly impossible. Hopefully by Day 90 I'm a little lighter on my feet. I feel as though I have lead in my shoes...and it sounds as though I do too.

My upper body is sore today from all the push-ups I did yesterday. It always nice to feel the soreness, to help remind you what you did and why you did it. I have yet to see what tomorrow brings, but you can bet if its KenpoX I'll be stoked and if its YogaX I'll be stoked (because I'll be subbing KenpoX in its place).

Day 37 Chest, Back & Triceps and Ab Ripper X

I just brought it X-style! And, it felt great. This was a tough workout. I feel that my chest and back are extremely weak, and this workout proved it. Plus, not having stuck to the plan the last several days hasn't helped. There were so many "tricky" push-ups in this workout I thought I'd die! One-handed push ups, side push ups, others that I can't remember the names of. Long story short, there were a bunch! But, I struggled through and hopefully the next time I face this workout I'll do even better.

I finished with Ab Ripper X and am still suprised at how much easier some of these moves are. I was sure when I started that I'd never be able to do an oblique V-up or a sit up v-up...but now I can. They may not be real pretty yet, but I can do them and that's all that matters.

I stuck to my salad for lunch and have even felt that my appetite, or what I thought was my appetite (was very likely bordem eating) has really dropped off. That is great considering I was eating so much McDonalds! Its great to feel as though I really have my fitness and nutrition under control. To those of you who know my, you may have thought I was living a pretty healthy lifestyle...I really haven't been. I've always been a "junk" food eater! Not any more!! Pending any more traumatic events, I should be able to keep with it.

Day 36

You all know how tragic my week started. It has gotten me off track on the whole fitness and nutrition lifestyle change that I've been working on, and doing well with. Today Craig and I both took off to finish the burial process of our dog, Bosco...and, Scotland was one of the guests of honor for the Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run.

I must say that we had a wonderful day today. Bosco has a wonderful place to rest in peace and it has made me feel so much better. It was a beautiful day and we were able to enjoy it outside with the kids. We topped off the night with Scotland's first t-ball game and then supper (again) with Gma and Gpa Fisher at Pizza Hut. I'm really dreading going to work tomorrow. IT WAS SO NICE TO ENJOY THE COMPANY OF MY FAMILY TODAY...ON A TUESDAY!

Well, I digress. Tomorrow I have to get back into the swing of things and hit the workout and diet HARD!! I still haven't decided if I'll be able to get up at 4:15am to get Chest, Shoulders & Triceps and Ab Ripper X in or if I'll continue to be off schedule. My goal would be to get it in in the morning and then get Plyo in tomorrow afternoon. Wow, wouldn't that get me back on track!

The Cards game just started at 9:00pm, I hate when they play on the West coast. Its so hard to stay awake to watch the game. This is exactly why 4:15am isn't sounding very promising...but we'll see. I noticed that YogaX is on the schedule for this week, so we know I'll be able to make up a missed day there.

This week starts Phase 2 of my 90 day transformation. I'm very happy with the results that I've gotten thus far. I can't wait to see what the next 30 days bring...however, I guess I'll have to get started on those 30 days in order to actually see anything.

Here's to closure on the death of our beloved pet, Bosco, a fantastic day at home with the family, summer finally arriving, and getting back on the X track!!!

Day 34 & 35 Update

Well folks, I hit it hard on Saturday with a long run and ab ripper X. Then Sunday I took it rather easy for a day off, but still played softball yesterday afternoon...so it wasn't a whole day off. I had planned to hit it hard starting today; however, today has not gone as planned.

My morning started well with a morning home with the kids. We took Scotland to school and then even went and bought a couple ferns and some flowers for the back patio. We got home, got them planted and then the kids started watching tv. I had planned to workout later this afternoon or this evening. It all went down hill from there.

I found out this morning that our dog, Bosco, had died. It was a tragic ordeal that has left Craig and I deeply saddened. We plan to spend the evening giving him a proper and permanent resting place out at Scott and Sonya's, where he has lived happily the last 5 years. He was our first dog together and quickly became our first baby. We loved him dearly, whether anyone else did or not. He was a bit ornery but very lovable too. He, of course, chewed up anything and everything he could find...his most prized possession was any old pop bottle he could find lying around. I guess this is the roughest part of falling in love with a pet. They will undoubtedly have to leave you at some point. I guess the hardest part is almost over now.

Above is the last pic I got of "B"...was taken Easter Sunday

The Moment We've All Waited For...Day 30(ish) Pics

Here you go...Day 1 pics followed by Day 33 pics

Day 33...What an AWESOME day!!

Since its Saturday,the sun is out and the hubby ended up not having to work until tonight, I decided to get in a good amount of cardio and then finish up with Ab Ripper X. It was awesome!

For my cardio I completed 4 sets of 10 mins running and 2-2.5 mins walking, for a total of about 46 minutes total. Granted, this seemed to be a little much on the ol' achilles tendon, as I am now icing it as I type. Oh well, I'll hold off on running for a couple of days. It was totally worth it.

After my run I headed inside and completed Ab Ripper X. I can't express how wonderful it feels to finally be feeling the results of the last 30+ days. Its all coming together and my body is learning how to do some of these awkward moves.

Anyone who is following my progress and considering P90X for themselves should know that it is very normal to feel a little overwhelmed, confused and awkward by some of the moves in these workouts. I am proof and telling you first hand that the first 30 days are the roughest, as far as your body learning how to do them. After that your body knows what to do, you just have to push it to the max and bring it every time! Think of the first 30 days as the jump start you need to really hit it hard and get your body in the best shape you've been in. I am so excited to see what the next 30 days brings my way.

I will take and post my Day 30(ish) pictures later today and hope you all are inspired to take the plunge and join the club...the club that is, P90X!!

Day 32 CardioX

I really enjoyed CardioX this afternoon. CardioX was just the right length...not too long, but just long enough to really get my heart and lungs working. Just when I thought it wasn't hard at all it started to kick my butt. It combined many aspects of the other workouts: YogaX (yuck), KenpoX and Plyo. I still have to say that KenpoX is my absolute favorite, because it works the whole body!

My pics are either tonight or tomorrow, so I'm trying to be good with the diet. I've come to realize that I CAN eat a salad everyday for lunch as long as its a plain old salad and nothing fancy like spinach. Here all this time I thought I liked spinach instead of iceberg. Boy was I wrong!

I'm contemplating what results I'll actually see in my pictures. I feel they aren't going to be as great as I would hope; however, looking back, I feel there were days when I could have pushed it a little further. I will try to keep that in mind during the next 4 weeks. My hope is that I will not only get a P90X workout in, but a nice run too! We'll see if I can stick to the game plan.

Day 31 Core Synergistics revisited

This whole P90X thing is quite the love/hate relationship. There are times that I just don't feel motivated to do it, yet I can't wait to have the feeling of accomplishment from finishing. I've been able to maintain a relatively stable level of motivation over the last 30+ days...but the other day when I attempted Core Synergistics it just wasn't happening. So...

Today I sucked it up and attempted it again with the mindset that I wasn't going to let it beat me...and it didn't! It was a rough workout: hard, tiring, awkward. But, most workouts are the first time you try them. I pushed play and pushed through and even attempted the bonus round. I'm not going to say I mastered, but I finished it and will be able to do it more easily next time.

Over the last couple of weeks I've really considered becoming a BeachBody coach. I've already got a little bit of a following (and I appreciate you all very much). Some of you are using me as motivation and I am definitely using all of your kind remarks as motivation. It is reading and hearing the success stories of other coaches that really makes me push through, as I did today with Core Synergistics. If I want to eventually be a coach, Lord knows I'm going to have to be able to do all the dvds!! I'm still not sure on that darn YogaX though, maybe one of these days.

Right now I'm basking in the joy of conquering a new workout that had me beat...for a day or two, and staying on track in order to take and post those Day 30 (actually 33) pictures for all to see.

Day 30...I'm Back

Who would have thought that DQ was actually what the doctor orderd! My blizzard was outrageously chocolatey and rich and after eating it I fell asleep on the couch. Apparently that was the right combination. The alarm went off at 4:15am and I got up at 4:30am. Since this is week 4 I wasn't sure which workout was on the agenda and I didn't want to mess around and lose intrest again so...KENPOX it was!

Now, I'm mixing and switching dvds quite a bit...I don't necessarily suggest it; however, I feel it is extremely important to do whatever is needed to keep up your intensity and motivation. My personal goal is to suck it up from day 60 thru day 90 and follow the plan accordingly.

So, my P90X is done and this will allow me to get my cardio in this afternoon. My achilles tendon is feeling really well and I hope to up the mileage (resonably) soon. Right now I'm more concerned with burning fat and working the lungs and heart!

Please be thinking of my family as Craig is leaving town tonight for the Ozarks until Friday evening. I'll need the positive thoughts to stay on track with the workouts (juggling work, workout, and all 3 kids by myself) and Craig will need positive thoughts while he's traveling and away from his wonderful family...he'll miss us so much ;)

Also, as previously stated, I've decided to hold off and post the Day 30 pics Saturday...so they'll be more like Day 33 pics instead.

Day 29 Core Synergistics

Well Folks, my very motivated attitude turned to mush as I started core synergistics and:
#1 Realized I hate it
#2 Got interrupted

That was the end of my 20 minute workout. I will undoubtedly have to find another workout to substitute in place of core synergistics...at least until day 60, at which point I will add it back in with YogaX.

My attitude quickly went South as I realized I would not get a workout in today. As I was leaving work I was starving and cranky...all the while knowing I would not get around to working out after arriving home. So instead, I enjoyed my supper and the 4 biscuits that went along with it. Yes, that's right, I had a carb loading fest tonight. There will absolutely be no Day 30 pictures posted until Saturday. Hopefully the carb bloat will be gone by then.

To top things off, I really may hit up Dairy Queen for one of my favorite blizzards. I might as well enjoy a feast tonight and then work extra hard the rest of the week. I feel as though I deserve it. I've been trying really hard with the nutrition part of this regime...and all of this hard work might just be what is leading to the crankiness and sudden lack of motivation.

So here's to relaxing and indulging! Pray for a better tomorrow!

Day 28, the start of week 4 (I did week 2 twice)

So, weeks 1-3 are pretty intense with weight training. Week 4 is made to give the muscles a little bit of a break while uping the cardio, yoga and stretch. We all know how I still feel about YogaX and that's what was on the agenda today. Instead I did KenpoX and it was awesome. I enjoy it more and more everytime I do it. Its a mix of cardio, punches and kicks and really works your core more than you expect. Tomorrow is Core Synergistics...and I'm exited to see what it's all about. This will be a new workout for me.

I really hope this is the week when I really start to see results. They say it can happen all at once...so let's hope so. Day 30 pics are tomorrow night. I'm doing them a day early because Craig is leaving Wednesday and won't be back until late Friday. And, I'm a very impatient person and want to see the "results" soon!

I want to thank everyone who is following this and encouraging me. I'm glad I can inspire some of you to start or restart your own workouts. I really think we can work together and all achieve the results we want. Please feel free to leave whatever comments, good or bad, on here. I've made this blog very "matter of factly" and intend to lay it all on the line...hence that horrible rear view pic below!!!

PS: Sully's been asking for ice cream since we finished supper...ooh the temptation is calling. A Dairy Queen Double Fudge Cookie Dough Blizzard would be stupendous right about now!!! And, its supposed to warm up the rest of the week, for crying out loud...what's a dieting girl to do!

Day 27 Cardio (instead of YogaX) and Abs

Can I tell you...I just KILLED IT! And, it felt great. I did 30 minutes of moderate cardio. I've been healing from Achilles tendinitis since January and have just recently been released to start running. My cardio consisted of 7 mins jogging, 3 minutes walking, 7 mins jogging, 3 minutes walking...and then I finished with 10 minutes jogging (don't tell my doc that I switched the last 3 mins walk into jog). Then I came right downstairs and "pushed play" on Ab Ripper X.

I'm not sure if it was the coffee or the cardio or if everything is finally connecting but the grueling 15 min ab workout was AWESOME! I was able to keep up and do all the exercises. It feels so good when that happens...like results are happening.

I found a little black bikini last night and plan to wear it in my 30 day pics. I've always gone for the summer prints when selecting swimwear; however, I'm taking the classic route this year. Let me also add that after 3 babies, the tops just don't fit like they used to. I feel like I've slipped back in time when I couldn't wait to fit into a triangle top! I have yet to decide if this new top actually fits or looks as though it is too big. I just don't remember the top point of the triangle being so high on my chest...guess that's life!

PS..I survived date night while staying pretty close to the diet. Chicken breast, rice and broccoli for supper, plus a fabulous bloody mary. We indulged in coffee drinks before the movie and I only had a few sips of Craiger's Mt. Dew during the movie. I am very proud of myself.

Day 26 Shoulders & Arms!

It's 8:35am on a Saturday, no less, and my workout is done for the day. I love working my arms and Lord knows my shoulders need some work. I have this genetic dimple on the back of each shoulder. I assume it is genetic as Sully has it too. I hate them. I'm not sure if there's a way to get rid of them with weight training or if I'll always have them...man I hope not.

So I decided to skip abs today since I did them yesterday. Its a pretty tough workout and I guess I'm really just making excuses. I plan to get in quite a bit of cardio tomorrow and I'll add abs to the mix then. Tomorrow should be YogaX and I really just can't get in the Yoga mode. I don't necessarily think its a good idea to skip something as important as Yoga; however, it for some reason brings me down and allows me to lose focus...so I'm adjusting in order to keep my spirits up!

On the way home from the inlaws last night I suddenly got the Blizzard itch...and I worked through it. Craig and I have a date night tonight and I'm sure the diet won't stay on track as much as it should.

4 more days until I get to take my 30 day pics...I'm stoked and feeling pretty good. I wouldn't say I am showing tremendous results yet, but I hope to see a little shrinkage around the middle and a little growth/definition in the arms and shoulders. I can't wait to get into the tiny little black shorts again...that back view is scary!

Day 25 Plyometrics...I've been X'ed!

Well I may not have done it first thing this morning, and I may have slept in a bit...but Plyometics is DONE...and I BROUGHT IT! I must say that something as high impact as Plyo is much better suited for the fitness room at the Adair County Family YMCA anyway. I just can't seem to get the full effect when I'm dodging toys, books and ceiling fans! I was able to give it my all (or nearly my all). I now also realize that there is no possible way I could do 58 minutes of Plyo and then go for a 30 minute jog...these legs are noodly. Also, my 15 minutes of Ab Ripper X weren't my best either. But, I put in the time and gave it some effort...and I'm glad I did. Tomorrow is Saturday and I have Shoulders & Arms and Ab Ripper X (again) on the agenda.

Day 25 Plyometics...

Well faithful followers, today I am a slacker and I slept in. I hit the alarm and went back to sleep. Then I worried all morning that my day would be horrible...so far so good.

I brought my workout clothes and my dvds with me and I plan to get my workout in later this afternoon. Might I add that I also have to do my Ab Ripper X from yesterday because I "left it for the evening" and didn't get it done!!! I'll admit it...I'm a slacker from time to time.

Thank goodness for a lovely facebook chat I had this morning with a friend who has been following my blog. Her and her hubby are using me as their inspiration to restart their P90X workouts! Knowing that has really inspired me to stay on task...especially since it's Friday and we all know how I lose track on the weekends and spend the 3 days indulging on Dairy Queen Blizzards. My goal for this weekend is to keep my nose to the grind stone and workout everyday! My Day 30 pics are close approaching and who in the world would want to take those pics after a weekend of eating and no exercise!!! NOT ME!

So, I'm off for now and will post again after my Plyometics, 30 minutes of cardio and Ab Ripper X!!

Votes are in...

After a couple hours of deliberation and 2 facebook comments the title has been changed...and I must say, it better fits my personality and goal!

Day 24 Chest & Back is completed

So the alarm went off at 4:15am and it was one of those mornings...I didn't feel like getting up at all. Luckly, instead of shutting if off completely I had hit the sleep button and it went off again at 4:24am. I got up and headed down stairs.

I had to get my day started as Craiger is taking a field trip to STL today and was going to be leaving the house earlier than usual...which meant I was on kid duty by myself. I pushed play and started...and to my surprise it went well! I was motivated and rejuvenated by the time I finished; however, I left Ab Ripper X for tonight...so I have that to look forward to...I guess!

I have to say that looking over all the result photos on Facebook and Team Beach Body has really helped keep me going. There are some amazing results out there. Of course being female, I'm not all that impressed with the mens' results, as it seem relatively easy for men to have terrific outcomes...but some of these women are awesome. As you can see below I got my before pics up. Again, I know I'm not fat or over weight...I'm doing this to tighten and tone and build the muscle I want. I am really considering changing the name of my blog to "By God, I Want To Look Better Naked!"...because really, don't we all?! Think about it!

Before Pics...

As previously stated (and much dreaded) here are my before pics. Hope they inspire you! HA! Hope having them posted for all to see will keep me motivated to "keep pushing play", as they say on P90X!

Day 23...XStretch

Good morning world, I'm proud to report that it is shortly after 5:30am and part of my workout is done. Now keep in mind that today is Wednesday and I should be doing Shoulders & Arms (I believe); however, I'm a little off track since I did nothing the previous weekend. I'm not sure how and when I'll get back on track but oh well.

So XStretch...
I should have already done this workout a few times now, but it is the alternative to the Sunday rest day...and we know how I've been slacking on the weekends. Either way, today was the first day of XStretch. It was nice. Although I feel like I really have to step up my cardio later this afternoon, it was nice to take an hour to stretch and work on flexibility. It seems to mundane to spend an hour on stretching instead of cardio or weight training; however, I know the pay offs are huge. Craiger (my hubby) was supposed to get up and join me this morning as he is extremely inflexible after years of weight training and only weight training. At 4:15am, when the alarm sounded, he explained that he'd been up late and wanted to stay in bed.

I've never been one of those people who swear by starting their day off right by beginning with exercise...but I think I'm turning into one. After a good week and a half of P90X I had skipped a morning...it ended up being a horrible day. I was tired and an emotional mess. That feeling is what motivates me to go ahead and get up when the alarm sounds at 4:15am!

Now I'm ready to face the day ahead of me. Half my workout is completed, grapefruit eaten and I'm on my first cup of coffee of the day while watching the Weather Channel. Looks like we're in for more rain and storms today...guess I'll be hiting the dreaded treadmil for my cardio...YUCK!

Here's to a wonderfully productive day of Spring weather and hopefully a healthy diet! No Blizzards til the weekend...that's what I keep telling myself ;)

Oh, also, I'll get my before pics up as soon as my computer stops acting dumb and blocking the program!

So, it's been a while...

Apparently I haven't used this thing in over a year and a half...and it now has a new purpose. The new purpose of my blog is to keep myself motivated, as well as hopefully motivating others in to making healthy lifestyle changes.

Now, keep in mind that I'm currently a 28 year old wife and mom of 3. I work full time and lead a hectic schedule of working, chauffeuring, cleaning/cooking, maintaining my own hygiene as well as my kids', and trying to enjoy the free time that I have. Please note that I am not taking any credit away from my hubby. He's such a great help at home and does just as much cooking/cleaning, etc as I do...if not more. However, he seems to somehow keep the motivation to hit the gym on a regular basis...that is where we are very different.

Now, back to me:
I am by no means fat or over weight...so, Mom, Dad, Grandma and whoever else has 2 cents to add, that's not why I work out. I simply want to be more fit and have more muscle definition than I currently have. My goal is to improve my appearance and athleticism. I want to have a 6-pack...I want big, muscular thighs and calves...I want nicely rounded shoulders that look hot in whatever shirt I have on.

You see, I've always been athletic; however, age and 3 babies have slowed me down. I'm one of the girls on the slow-pitch team that the guy hates to be behind because they are only as fast as the girl in front of them. I don't want to be that girl, I want to be the girl that surprises the other team with hits and speed.

So, here's the plan. I am currently on day 22 of P90X (probably closer to day 18 but oh well). I've had good days and bad days. The weekends seem to be what kills me as I like to eat DQ Double Fudge Cookie Dough Blizzards and not work out at all!!! I am able to maintain a relatively healthy diet during the week, which helps a lot.

I'll stop rambling on now and simply state that each day I will post about my workout and diet. You can follow if you like and if you don't like that is fine too...Its more for myself than anyone else anyway. As of today, I've eaten well and my workout was completed at 5:45am! It was a great start to the day and I look forward to a healthy, hearty supper tonight with my family. The Cardinals play at 7:15pm and it should be a great evening to enjoy before the alarm goes of at 4:15am tomorrow morning for Day 23's workout.