Friday, December 31, 2010

Goals = Success!!!



Your goals, minus your doubts, equal your reality. -Ralph Marston

Another year is ending and a new one beginning. Time to make those promises that we plan to brea....ahem...keep! Declaring resolutions are for the birds! I declare goals and goals only. My goals are usually stepping stones for something larger so I can't exactly give it a year only. Well, that is if they are important goals. So, my goals for the year are continuations from last year:

1) be more active

2) be more spiritual

3) be more positive

4) live with purpose

5) Love more and without fear or doubt

6) continuously keep up a blog

Those are in no particular order. So, I figure if I try to remove as much doubt or fear from all those goals, they will become my reality. Here's to a successful New Year!


Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Quote Happy and Full of Inspiration


Yeah. It's been one of those days. And I have absolutely no reason for it. Well....maybe because I've been on vacation since the 23rd and will not be returning to the grind until five days into the new year! Yes, yes, yes....that has to be it! So, I'm full of expectation and that old feeling that everything is possible and awaiting new beginnings. I love a new year like a fresh morning. Me and Alex went to the gym this morning after a short 3 day break. We did however find time to take a much needed walk with my Daddy after Christmas dinner. I refused to sit there feeling full and groaning with everyone else! So I headed out with the dogs and did a 20 minute jog. I returned to find my Daddy and husband gearing up for walk. It was a good time. So, I'm back home and trying to get myself organized for the fresh canvas of 2011. This means getting that workout schedule down and a fresh pair of shoes. My mind doesn't need a heck of a lot of work in the inspiration area but I've found it nonetheless. I was copying new quotes for future facebook statuses and found one that helped me get through a grueling treadmill workout.

"That day, for no particular reason, I decided to go for a little run. So I ran to the end of the road. And when I got there, I thought maybe I'd run to the end of town. And when I got there, I thought maybe I'd just run across Greenbow County. And I figured, since I run this far, maybe I'd just run across the great state of Alabama. And that's what I did. I ran clear across Alabama. For no particular reason I just kept on going. I ran clear to the ocean. And when I got there, I figured, since I'd gone this far, I might as well turn around, just keep on going. When I got to another ocean, I figured, since I'd gone this far, I might as well just turn back, keep right on going. "--Forest Gump

So, keep going even if you have no reason for it at that particular moment. One day you will look back and find a reason to attach.

Monday, December 20, 2010

Early Christmas for Me

"So many believe it is love that grows, but it is the knowing that grows and love that simply expands to contain it." That's a direct passage from 'The Shack'. I finally understand it. I have found that knowing with my husband. And because I've finally figured it out, my love has expanded to include family and friends. He's definitely been good for me and has opened my eyes to a lot of things that were always there. He told me what I meant to him last night because I requested a love letter for Christmas. Since funds are tight and he requested I not get him anything, I thought this would be a good request. Well, I certainly got more than I expected. To have someone speak how they feel about you and to know they are truly speaking from the heart is a true gift. He's been going through a lot worried about his family overseas and yet, he can find the time and energy to do that for me. I do love that man. Who'd have thunk it? Me...head over hills. Well, that is one gift I will never forget.

Now, drawing on his strength and encouragement, I will get back to work on the training. Just 4 more months before the Roundup! Oh my!

Monday, December 13, 2010

My Appointment

Well, this morning I checked my Facebook to find Amanda wanted to go walking at 9am. It was 8:30 when I checked it. Since it's been about a month of Sundays since we walked together, I figured I should get on it. I stepped outside and it was freakin' freezing. Like 33 degrees freezing. On the way there, I called her to tell her I would be running a bit late. I wanted to stop by Walgreen's and find a pair of earmuffs. You see, I was rockin' the fro' this morning so any knit cap that Alex had wouldn't fit over my hair. No luck at Walgreens so I head on to the park because I didn't want her waiting long in the cold with little Dax. We walked and talked for about an hour. We only did three miles but the talk was worth it. Besides, I did a marathon cleaning and organizing of the spare room yesterday so my body was a little sore from that. But good news. I unloaded 45lbs worth of weight from the trunk of my car. I finally brought in the free weights to use. Should help my car with fuel costs. So, now I'm sitting here typing because I had a great inspirational thought yesterday but it's lost on me right now. Maybe later. I will have to think on it a bit longer. I walked today and that's going to have to be good enough.

Thursday, December 9, 2010

It's Not the Work

I have a phrase that I try to remember when things get tough or even when I'm just tired of it all. It goes, It's not the work but the purpose that makes it so special. I don't really know where I saw that. I think it was in a book. Sorry....can't site it until I remember. In any case, I have tried applying it to everything I do. I work so that my husband and I can have it a little easier. I workout so that I can be healthier. I pray for my soul and those of others. I smile to make someone else's day better. Everything is special. Sometimes we trudge through life thinking of how hard it is or how boring it is or just thinking of how we would rather be doing something else. Well, try keeping this phrase handy. When you think about why you are doing it, it moves you just a little bit. For some of you, maybe it moves you a lot. But I know one thing for sure, it will definitely make you think. And if you can't find a special reason for whatever it is you are doing....well, I say stop doing it because in the end it probably won't be worth the time. Making my life special involves work and I'm here to say so far, it's all been worth it. Well, I was giving my husband a bit of a silent treatment but after writing this, I think I need to go hug him. After all, he was working at making our lives special too! Goodnight.

Sunday, November 28, 2010

I Did It!

Six miles, 15, 417 steps, burned 681 calories (per pedometer) in one hour and 35 minutes. And it was just walking....no running. My body is talking to me telling me it wants Motrin. But I finished and I wasn't at all sure I could do a 2nd 3-mile round. But I did! Yay Me!!!

Sunday Morning Appreciation


Part of my personal improvement journey is to try and appreciate what I have regardless of how insignificant it seems. I'm working on looking more closely at the things around me to finally see the blessings. I can choose the obvious things like family, friends, roof over my head, a job, etc. But I'm also trying to stop and observe more while going through this crazy life of mine. This morning as I was walking I actually stopped long enough to realize the leaves had changed. When did this happen? I'm sure it was a gradual occurrence and I just didn't see it. But they were a beautiful reminder of how awesome nature is. I went so far as to stop and pick a variety of them specifically for this post. I gotta share this beauty. And if no one ever reads it, I have a lasting reminder. It's been a good day so far. I got out early, did a half hour walk, gazed upon the world's beauty and spent quality time with my awesome husband. Oh! I almost forgot! The dogs walked this morning so they have been pleasantly quiet and playing with each other or snuggled together sleeping. See! Another reminder. Man....I like this life.
Today's Personal Message: All things are working for me, even things I can't see. Your ways are so beyond me, but You said that you would let it be for my good, so I'll rest and just believe.

Saturday, November 27, 2010

Saturday High Energy Stroll



After my personal waterfall last night, I vowed to at least do something about my lack-luster workouts. I downloaded Prevention's 40 minute Pyramid Podcast to my MP3 player with the idea that I needed a beat that would force me to walk a certain speed and keep it. So, I got up this morning at 6:30 and pulled on some yoga pants and my husbands sweatshirt and skull cap. I decided to take Baxter out to potty first because I knew he was not up for a walk. After 15 minutes of shivering and saying over and over 'Hurry up man! It's cold!', we made it back in. I slipped the halter and leash on Sofie and headed out the door again but this time for some serious walking. Good ole Sofie is always up for a walk with me. Sometimes her youthful ignorance is a blessing to me. We headed to the sidewalk and I had to wait a good 10 minutes of strolling while she found the appropriate places to 'go'. But true to form, once she's done, she's pulling the leash and ready to run. I think she was a bit surprised at our speed and distance though. After a mile, she slowed her gait and kept looking back at me as if to ask me what had gotten into me. LOL. She's so cute sometimes! Well, we completed the full 40 minute podcast and I kept pace through it all. Guess I'm not as bad off as I thought. Well...the last 3 minute fast pace was a bit taxing but I made it. I felt so good afterward. And Sofie....well, let's just say she was about ready for a nap after devouring her food and water. She lay it down and was even hesitant when I said 'Let's go' for her evening potty walk. I promised her it would only be the 20 minutes and it was. She was ready to lay back down when we go in. As a matter of fact, she's still snoozing hours later. Poor baby! Well, guess that's it for this evening. The husband is cooking lamb so I need to find me a decent meal to eat as I won't be joining him for that particular dish.

Friday, November 26, 2010

Tears In My Tea


It's amazing how doubt can break you down. I've been doing pretty well trying to stay positive and pumping myself up but today something got in the way. I was walking Sofie and I started thinking of all the things I need to accomplish by the end of the month. As I started thinking, the same familiar phrases jumped ahead. I can do it. So far everything as worked out. No need to worry. Come up with solutions. Well, I started trying to get ideas that would lead to solutions. But instead of ideas came doubt. I started thinking of what I could do but then I felt fear in the pit of my stomach and it worked it's way up to my mind with the idea that I would fail if I did this or that. Well, dang it! I thought. Why now? I haven't had that feeling in a month or two. But here it was.

I extended our walk to try and work my way around it. I thought I was successful until I was sitting here on the sofa tonight. I started thinking about how I've been working as hard as I can so that I can get to a decent place this month. By a decent place I mean closer to peace of mind. I try not to worry and it is hard to push worry away but I've been working hard to do just that.
Well, anyway I was worrying and started thinking of all the things I could eat. Why? I guess eating might take my mind off of the problems and worry? I know, I know. This never works. In fact, it just adds to problems I already have. So, I did something that I've been saying I was gonna do for a long time. Instead of giving in to late night eating, I would drink a cup of tea. I made a cup for me and one for my husband. As I was sitting there watching a movie, I got overwhelmed by a thought and I started to cry. Tears in my tea! What is that about? Well, I reached down to use my napkin to wipe away the tears and I just happened to see the tea tag. Talk about a moment for me! The tag was exactly what I needed to see. (See pic) Never let it be said that there aren't signs when you need them! I'm in a better place right now. I know it.

After The Feast

Well, it was a Thanksgiving to remember. The first one without my mama. Daddy was a little sad but we did what we could to lift his mood. Not all the sibs were able to be there but there was enough that would fit at my sister's home. What was on the menu you ask? Turkey, dressing, chicken, gravy, African rice and baked chicken dish, collard greens, green bean casserole, layered salad, potato salad, and rolls. There was a large selection of desserts which included german chocolate cake, lemon pound, 2 pecan pies (courtesy of my older sister {it was miracle! 1st successful pie!}), 2 pumpkin pies (the new Northwestern bro-in-law's recipe), pumpkin bread, 2 sweet potato pies, and a chocolate cake. It was a feast for sure!

But I think I did well. I only got a smidgen of each of the savory and I ate a thin slice of pecan and sweet potato pie. I did bring home a slice of the german chocolate for today. But that's it. I didn't get the top button open type full and I felt well about it. And it was great to be amongst all the family and friends.

Hope everyone had a great day as well and let's get on track and keep the schedule for the Round-up. Just 5 months! Eek!!!

Monday, November 22, 2010

It's a Miracle! I Can Breathe!

Yeah, it's a bit dramatic. Sue me! I've been sick and couldn't breathe worth a damn. My husband tried giving me Claritin, Nyquil, Dayquil, and made me stick my head over a bucket of steaming menthol-ed water. Did they help? I don't know. All I know is after 3 days of sniffling, sneezing (thank goodness), moping and whining, I suddenly could breath from both nostrils today. Lucky for me it finally happened for I had to be at work today. Oh, it was a glorious discovery!

After the euphoria came the realization that I hadn't worked out in almost a week. Not a drop of sweat fell from this brow. The only ache I have is in my foot. That reminds me...I really need to find a foot doctor soon. Can't run a 5K on a bum foot now can I? So, I was telling a friend at work that I feel fat. Like I must have gained at least 10 lbs. She said that my lack of appetite probably prevented it. But I broke down and confessed to what I had to eat during my sick time. For three days, I only really had an appetite for tea, saltines and Panettone bread. I must admit the tea wasn't a bad thing. No sweetener except a smidgen of honey in ginger green or herbal tea. The saltines....bad. The panettone....sinful and HEAVENLY!!!! And I think I ate the entire loaf alone. {Imagine me hanging my head in shame}

So, I want to get back on track tomorrow. My husband and I will hit the gym at 5am tomorrow morning. I will have my mp3 going with Carli Fierce's Couch to 5k podcast. That is the plan and I plan to stick with it. On a side note...I got two people at work to commit to completing the 5k Texas Round-Up in April. Neither have ever done a 5K and were excited by the challenge. I'm stoked! My sister and I had planned to do the 10k this past year but due to family matters, we had to cancel the Annual Sister Bonding experience (a.k.a. 2010 Texas Round-Up). But we'll come back with a vengeance in 2011! Woo-hoo! So, I'm strapping on the shoes and getting back in the game tomorrow. Wish me luck!

Saturday, November 20, 2010

On The Road Again


So, I started this blog like forever ago. Well....I wouldn't go so far as to say started. I will say created. But I never actually got up the nerve to post anything. It was intended to chronicle my weight loss journey. I didn't exactly get that off the ground. Got sidetracked by everything else that's happened in life and forgot about the big picture. It's time for me to get on track and see what I can accomplish. My motivation? My Mama. She passed in April. I never thought I would see the day. I guess I thought she would always be just a phone call away. We had a good and healthy relationship and laughed often. I was forever telling her what she should do to take better care of herself. Well, she lost weight before she passed. She was sort of excited by it all too. She called me once telling me how she and my Daddy had walked around the yard (about an acre) but she was only to do one round. Well, she got out and she did it. That was all that mattered. I was happy to hear her excitement. I didn't care how much she did or didn't do. I guess it was just knowing she was on her way to doing something that she's been saying she was gonna do. Well, after she passed, I started thinking about all the things she wanted to do that she didn't get to do and how they were forever telling us to not be afraid to do things. Well, this is something I've been saying I was gonna do for a long time. Lose weight. And I don't want to wait until it's too late. None of us know how our timeline looks but we do know how we want it to look. So, my timeline will have a section for my personal health labeled The Beginning. And this is it. I've been working out at the gym with my husband. (Yeah husband. Of 9 months!) We've been under the weather this week but plan to get back in there as soon as I can breath again. The eating leaves a lot to be desired. We ordered pizza last night but I could only stomach a slice and a half. He had hot wings and one slice. We don't exactly have an appetite and wanted to get something full of flavor to rev the appetite. So, it wasn't the best day. But every day may not be good, but there's something good in every day. And the good thing was we were able to eat and we did it together. So,the plan is to get some more veggies in our bodies today and see how we feel. Well, hoping i can get some daily posts up on my progress.