Changing things up - Weight Watchers and My Fitness Pal

I have been on a up-down-up-down plateau with my weight since the first week in May.  I wasn't concerned about the up-down pattern for the first month after my half marathon, because I promised myself that I was going to give myself a little break.  Well, when I got to the three month mark of the up-down mess, I decided that something had to give. 

On Tuesday, August 9, I started double-tracking my foods - in Weight Watchers and in My Fitness Pal.  Within the first couple of days, I realized a few things:

1. I was overeating in fruit/veggies.  How can one overeat in fruit/veggies?  Well, it is actually pretty easy...  If I was hungry (or thought I was hungry), I would go for fruit/veggies.  Instead of being smart and eating 1 piece of fruit or a serving of veggies, I would go hog-wild (i.e., 5-6 clementines instead of 2-3).  This adds up in a short period of time.
2. I was overestimating my activity points and eating all of them.  This has been a pitfall on Weight Watchers for me in the past.  I guess that I feel like I earned every single one of my activity points, I should be able to eat every single one of them.  Unfortunately, this isn't always true.  Sometimes, it is good to leave a few extra points on the table.
3. I was underestimating many of my foods, especially on the weekend.  Weight Watchers gives you a lovely, wonderful little pot of weekly points (49 to be exact).  Well, I was blowing the heck out of them on the weekends.  I was definitely underestimating my serving sizes and points values because I would always say "I am using my weeklies for this..."  I was very good about weighing my food before the half marathon and I am back to weighing again.  It is amazing how deceptive your eyes can be with serving sizes!

Well, after double-tracking for 1 week (with weighing on Tuesday), I am down 2.8 pounds.  I think I am going to continue double-tracking for a little while longer, at least until I figure out what tool is best for me right now. 

I am 0.2 away from being out of the obese category for BMI.  I would love to get down to 150, or a little less, so that I am closer to the healthy BMI category (147.6).  I know that it isn't gonna be easy.  I know that it is gonna be slow.  But, I have worked hard and I will continue to do so until I reach my goal!

Dropping out of a race before it even happens :-(

I made the decision today to not do the Women's Half Marathon in St. Petersburg, Florida.  The race is scheduled for November 20, the Sunday before Thanksgiving.  I think this is the best decision, but it doesn't mean I won't be doing a fall half. 

I completed my first half marathon on May 14.  Not long there after, I signed up for the WHM in St. Pete.  I was still on the "high" from my half and didn't really think about everything involved in heading to Florida the week of Thanksgiving - totally not typical for me.  I didn't factor in the higher cost of airline tickets, the cost of hotel for the event, and the pretty high cost of transportation to/from the airport in Tampa to St. Petersburg.  I have to be honest that I am slightly disappointed, but in the end the decision will probably be for the best, but it sucks to be out the money for registration.  Anyone want to impersonate me? (Just kidding, kinda)

I am planning to work on modifying my fall half marathon training program this week.  I am going to wait a few more weeks, but I think I am going to sign up for the City of Oaks Half Marathon.  I was a course monitor for the race last year and enjoyed it.  So, still gonna do a fall race!!

A fun little game - Thoughts versus Actuality

My cousin, Natalie, posted this on her blog after seeing it on a friends blog.  Looks like a little bit of fun to start off Friday!  I think it is cool to see how life actually changes...

So, why don't you fill it out too!  Comment with a link to your answers! 

Where I thought I’d be when I was 12:   I thought I would be the cool kid, hanging out with friends in my small town, and probably participating in sports. 
Actuality:  Chubby kid.  Not cool, but was friends with everyone.  Didn't really participate actively in sports, but was in band.

Where I thought I’d be when I was 16:  I thought I would be a great student at East Carteret, lots of friends, a wonderful boyfriend, and a great job.   

Actuality:  I was a pretty good student at ECHS, but didn't work to get great grades.  I had a lot of friends, but no boyfriend to speak of (I think a lot of that had to do with self-esteem issues).  I worked at a local seafood restaurant and met my first love (that didn't end up being my true love).

Where I thought I’d be when I was 21:  I thought I would be in my senior year of college, preparing to get a great job.  I thought I would be engaged to marry the man of my dreams and start a family.   

Actuality:   2001/21 was tough.  I was in my senior year at Meredith College, the job market in my field was pretty crappy, etc.  I did not have a boyfriend, much less a fiance.  I also was diagnosed with PCOS right before turning 21.  It was then that I found out that having kids would likely be very difficult.  I was dealing with lots of self-esteem issues (still).  It eventually turned around, but that was just a tough time.

Where I thought I’d be when I was 25:  I thought I would be married to a great guy, living in a beautiful home with one child.  I thought I would have worked my way up the "corporate ladder" and enjoy every aspect of my job.   

Actuality:   I wasn't married to a great guy, but I was engaged to one :-)  We were living in a wonderful, beautiful condo (still do!) and enjoying every day together.  We were discussing kids a lot and whether or not we really wanted children of our own.  We were planning the wedding of our dreams - classic and relatively simple.  I was working for a biotech company in RTP and not loving it.

Where I thought I’d be when I was 27:  Depends on when you asked...  I would have thought I would still be climbing the corporate ladder, getting involved in Junior League (or something similar). 
Actuality:   I was in the middle of changing jobs (again!).  I was the "new kid on the block" at my job, but loving every minute of it.  I realized that I am definitely not the Junior League type.

Where I thought Id be when I was 31:  Settled into a great routine with my husband.  Doing volunteer work to help others, since I won't be doing the PTA thing.  Traveling a lot.  Enjoying my life.  

Actuality:  (31 is only a few weeks away!!)  We are settled into a great routine.  It took us a while to figure it out, but we each have our roles in our relationship.  I recently started volunteering for Dress for Success and love it!  I love my life!

Where I think I’ll be when I’m 35:  I have no clue!  I want to still love my life!  I wouldn't mind moving up in my organization and taking on a little more responsibility.  I'd love to be able to be closer to the people I love more often, etc.  

Actuality: Only time will tell....  4 years to go.

Where I think I’ll be when I’m 40:   Happy, loved, and satisfied with all aspects of my life. 

Much ado over "nothing"

So, the stress of the past few days was pretty useless.  Isn't that always how it goes?  The hubs had his upper endoscopy procedure this morning.  According to everything I understand, he did very well with the prep and the actual tests. 

After the procedure, the doctor reviewed the pictures from the endoscopy.  Basically, the hubs has a slightly irregular Z-line (tissue sent for biopsy), hiatal hernia, and gastritis (also sent for biopsy).  So what does all of that mean?  If I understood the doctor correctly - the hubs has pretty annoying acid reflux (along with a significant amount of the population).  The irregular Z-line was likely caused by not treating the reflux as soon as it was noticed, but it is no reason for concern.

Dr. O'Loughlin prescribed the hubs a reflux medication, instructed him to follow an anti reflux regimen/diet, and come back for a follow-up in a few weeks.  Jason and I both asked questions about what the results really mean, should we be concerned, etc.  Dr. O'Loughlin assured us that these issues were relatively insignificant and could be corrected with behavior/diet modification. 

As far as the call from the nurse the other day, well that is another story.  The nurse either misread/misinterpreted what she was supposed to tell the hubs or it was all lost in translation with him.  She should have told J that he had a couple very small kidney stones (no reason for further consultation at this point, a couple very small gallstones (again, no need for concern right now), and a couple fatty deposits in his liver.  No one will ever know what she really told him because I am sure he went immediately to the worst case scenario.  Dr. O'Loughlin said that he does have some fatty deposits on his liver, not fatty liver/fatty liver disease/non-alcoholic cirrhosis.  He said that the deposits are normal for most people and that it isn't anything to be concerned about unless he has inflammation in his liver and/or his liver function tests come back funky (neither of which apply).

So, at this point, the biggest/best thing we can do is reduce trigger/reflux inducing food from our diet.  Considering that the list from the doctor has a lot of foods on it that the hubs loves, this should be interesting.  I am going to do my best to encourage him to eat things that don't cause him issues, but I have a feeling he is going to be stubborn about it.  Of course, I will also be telling him that I don't want to hear him complain if he is going to choose to eat foods he shouldn't be eating. 

I suck at waiting

I suck at the waiting game...  I feel like I need to get my thoughts out there and then I will feel a little better.  A small warning - This blog post will be filled with limited medical mumbo-jumbo language and will probably be TMI for some.  It will be long.  It will not make much sense.  However, I hope that it will make me relax a little....

Several years ago, the hubs (aka, Jason or J) started complaining about acid reflux type symptoms after eating.  After trying various over-the-counter medications for several months, we made an appointment with our primary care doctor.  After reviewing the various symptoms, etc. the hubs started taking Zantac two times per day.  This seemed to help most of the issues, except the "gassy"/bloating feeling he often had.  The hubs added Phazyme to the mix and it helped some too. 

About 8 months ago, J went for his annual physical.  During the appointment with his doctor, J explained the annoying stomach issues that he was continuing to deal with.  Dr. Anderson upped his Zantac dosage.  He also suggested that it may be time for a referral to a gastroenterologist (GI).  The hubs wasn't too keen on going to another doctor, but told Dr. Anderson he would keep that in mind.

Well, the third week in July, Jason had finally had enough.  We went to J's primary care doctor on Thursday afternoon and discussed our options for different medication, getting a consultation with a GI doc, etc.  Dr. Anderson changed J's medication.  He also got him set up for a referral to Digestive Healthcare for a consultation.

On Friday, July 29, Jason and I went to meet with Dr. O'Loughlin at Digestive Healthcare.  We were immediately put at ease by Dr. O'Loughlin being honest and saying that there likely was some kind of issue with J's stomach, but it was also likely easily fixed with medication, diet modification, etc.  Dr. O'Loughlin put J on another different medication.  He got Jason set up for an abdominal ultrasound and an endoscopy. 

The abdominal ultrasound was on Tuesday, August 2.  After the ultrasound, we headed to Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach for the rest of the week.  We did the best with keeping our minds distracted from being concerned with the various stomach issues.  We were surprised to not receive a call from the doctor, but finally the nurse called on Tuesday of this week.  The nurse told the hubs that he had a kidney stone(s), gallstone(s), and a fatty liver.  The only advice she provided over the phone was for J to reduce his intake of fatty/greasy food. 

Not long after Jason spoke with the nurse, he called me.  He sounded upset and concerned.  He told me the results and what the nurse said.  Of course, at that moment, I was frustrated.  1) Jason and I don't eat fatty/greasy food; 2) The recommendation to reduce fatty/greasy food is too vague to be helpful; 3) If you are going to call on Tuesday and we have a follow-up on Thursday of the same week - what is the point?

So, the past two days (plus the last week or so) have been an awful waiting game.  I am glad that Jason has an appointment for an endoscopy tomorrow.  I am really hoping that Dr. O'Loughlin can give us some immediate guidance on how to eliminate some of the stomach issues that J is experiencing.  I just need some kind of "game plan".  I keep saying to myself -- Just tell me what is going on.  Tell me if I need to remove food ingredients A through F from our diet and I will.  I will then make the most delicious meals possible with food ingredients G through Z. 

Good thoughts for the hubs tomorrow!  He is very nervous about being "put under" for the endoscopy.  Also, good thoughts for me too.  I have a feeling that I am going to be stuck in the waiting room, trying to remain calm the entire time J is going through his procedure. 

If you made it this far, thank you.  I appreciate it. 

Week in review

This week has been a busy one, but wonderful.  The hubs had to present at a conference in Wilmington and I had to attend a conference in Wrightsville for work.  What does that mean for us?  Nearly a full week at the beach that we don't have to pay for :-)

Tuesday:  The hubs and I left Raleigh mid/late morning to head toward the beach.  We made a stop in Clinton for the hubs to get a haircut and have lunch at Kaleel's.  Not sure if anyone even knows where Clinton is, but if you ever pass through you must eat at Kaleel's.  After lunch, we made the rest of the trip to Wilmington.  After checking in to the hotel, we made our way to Johnny Mercer's pier for a while.  It was absolutely delightful.  I was right where I belonged - salt air all around and a beer in my hand.  Life was good.  For dinner we headed to a "new to us" restaurant in Wilmington - The Fish House Grill.  You must try the grouper nuggets - so good!

Wednesday:  On Wednesday morning, I dropped the hubs off at his conference.  I headed to Wrightsville Beach to try out "the loop".  I got in a nice 2.5 mile run - the only negative was the ridiculous humidity.  After my run, I headed to the Blockade Runner to sit on the beach for a while.  I was, yet again, right where I belonged...  The salt air just makes my heart happy.  I spent several glorious hours on the beach.  Later that afternoon, I picked up the hubs at his conference.  We spent several hours just hanging out, then went to The Eat Spot.  Another delicious dinner!! 

Thursday:  I dropped the hubs off at his conference and headed on another run.  After my run, I went back to the hotel, got cleaned up, and checked out.  I picked up the hubs around noon and we went to Sweet and Savory for lunch.  Whenever we travel to the Wilmington area, Sweet and Savory is a must.  That afternoon we headed to the Blockade Runner, our hotel for the rest of our trip.  After settling in and attending a the reception for my conference, we met up with the hubs' boss and colleagues at Hieronymous Seafood.  We were able to enjoy catching up with his colleagues and have a yummy seafood dinner.  I had the mahi mahi with lemon-caper sauce.  I love chicken piccata, so I just might have to try making it with fish to change things up. 

Friday:  I spent Friday morning doing activities associated with my conference.  After the morning sessions were over, the hubs and I went to lunch (again) at Sweet and Savory - yummy again!  We spent the afternoon at the pool.  The weather was perfect - partly cloudy and relatively cool.  For dinner we went to 22 North.  I have to say that the food at 22 North is close to "life changing".  They have a chalkboard-style menu - they definitely market their freshness and variety.  I think the best thing we had last night was the Red Beans and Rice appetizer.  It came with these little jalapeno hushpuppies - a nice little kick when you bite into them, but not so spicy that it bothers your stomach.  We are already trying to decide when we are going to come back to Wrightsville Beach, so we can eat at 22 North again. 

Saturday:  Today is the last day of my conference.  After the morning sessions are over, I think we'll be heading out to the pool again.  Tonight we have the closing banquet for the conference and we'll head home tomorrow morning.

If you can't tell, the recurring theme for this week has been - conferences, food, salt air, and food.  I am hoping that I haven't gained this week, but if I did I will just move right on.  The little bit of relaxing time at the beach with my hubs has been good for my soul.  I feel rejuvenated and ready for the next challenge. 

FMM - Girly Stuff

If you’ve taken part in FMM then you know the rules. If you’re new, please take a moment to answer this week’s question on your own blog then add your link in the comments section here www.alltheweigh.com so everyone can see your FMM questions and answers.

FMM: Girly Questions

1. Do you like to shop? I do now!  When I first met my hubs, I hated shopping for clothes.  I think part of that had to do with how I felt about myself.  There are still times where I like to shop in the "hunt vs. hunted" way, but most of the time I enjoy taking my time and savoring the experience.

2. How often do you wear makeup? I wear makeup everyday.  On the weekends, I tend to go with less makeup than on a weekday.  I don't want to scare anyone that I work with, so makeup is a must!

3. How do you feel about nail polish? I admit it...  I am a nail biter.  Until the last month or so, I have had gel nails.  I recently got them removed and now get manicures with gel nail polish.  Hoping they will grow out soon.

4. Do you consider yourself to be a feminist?  Umm...  I don't think I am an uber feminist, but I do love strong, determined women.  I graduated from a women's college and being strong, determined, and all that jazz was embedded in us.  I think that women can do anything that they want, so long as they set their mind to it. 

5. What’s your biggest challenge as a woman? I think the biggest challenge for me is to accept me, but also be aware that I can't "let myself go" at the same time.  I need to be happy with certain parts of my physical appearance, etc. , while always working to maintain a healthy lifestyle, etc.  It is a very hard balance.

6. Do you wear skirts and dresses? I love to wear skirts and dresses in the summer.  When the weather gets cold, rarely will you see me in a skirt/dress because I detest panty hose/tights!

7. How do you feel about high heels? I tolerate them.  Most of the time, I save the heels for important meetings or times when I am going out and know that I will not be standing for a long time.  I am only 5'4" so sometimes I need the height and cute-factor :-)

8. Do you subscribe to magazines? If so, which ones? I currently subscribe to Weight Watchers, Whole Living, and Cooking Light.  I keep meaning to subscribe to Runner's World and/or Women's Running.

9. Do you shave your legs/wax/ use depilatory creams or go au naturale? I shave.

10. What do you like most about being a woman? Hmmm....  Is "almost everything" an ok answer?  I love to cook, bake, clean, organize, etc.  I think my most favorite part of being a woman is the stereotypical "caring" role.  I love doing things for others and just taking care of others.  It's just my thing...

Now it’s your turn to answer the questions! And don’t forget to link up at http://www.alltheweigh.com/!!

A little disappointed to be (wife of) a Tarheel

Butch Davis has been fired as head coach of the UNC Tarheels.  The only way you could have missed this news is if you have been under a rock for the last 18 hours.  I generally hate am not a big sports fan, but I have enjoyed Butch Davis' tenure at Carolina (Shhh...  Don't tell my husband. He will think he has converted me to a sports fan).  I am pissed upset furious annoyed disappointed.  What can be worse than that?  I suspect that I am not the only one.

Over the weekend, Butch Davis and others from UNC were at Pinehurst preparing for the beginning of the football season.  He was interviewed about his position and seemed to feel that the football program and University were moving on.  It is my understanding that the administration was behind Butch over the weekend, but what changed in two or three days?  Really?  What has changed since the NCAA sent the list of allegations a month ago?  NOTHING.  

I am not going to say that Chancellor Thorpe and AD Baddour shouldn't have made the decision to end Butch's tenure at Carolina, but they sure as hell heck could have picked a better time to do it.  Seriously.  Since last year, they have said they support Butch.  They both announced last November that Butch would be back.  Now, all of a sudden, there has been an epiphany and Butch had to go.  Training camp starts in a week; the first game is Labor Day weekend.  The timing could not be any worse. 

Here's my list of questions:

• Why continue to say that you are behind a head coach, but as soon as a new Board of Trustees is installed your tune changes?  (The Board of Trustees changed as of July 1.  Yesterday was their first meeting.  New members...  New chairman...)  I suspect that Davis was a scapegoat in this one. 
• If "...our academic integrity is paramount, and we must work diligently to protect it...", what are you going to do about the individuals that may have a part in this from the Academic Center and/or the general faculty?
• Can we, as Tarheels, really believe that this has nothing to do with the possibility that the University hopes this will help with sanctions in light of the NCAA investigation?
• This is nothing but pure punishment to the players that are supposed to start preseason next week.  As much as I want to be supportive of Carolina football, if I were one of the new recruits I would probably beg for someone else to take me.  It is almost like you are telling them you don't care.  You tell them that Butch Davis is going to be their coach, they are excited, they work their asses butts off and then you fire him.  Is that fair?  No.  These kids players have probably dreamed about playing college football since they were little boys in their grandmama's backyard.  I hope they can gain some of their enthusiasm back and do well this year. 
• What are you going to do with all the empty seats in the Blue Zone?  The Blue Zone was built on the heels of Butch's success.  We as Heels fans were excited.  Now, don't be surprised if you lose some season or regular season ticket sales. 

Even though Butch Davis is no longer Carolina's our coach, I still support him.  I believed it when he said that he did nothing wrong/didn't know about certain things and I will continue to believe him.  

My little message to Butch Davis:
You have been an awesome part of the Carolina tradition and family, even though there were some bumps in the road.  You handled losses and victories with class.  Your enthusiasm and support of the University was obvious in your actions.  I wish you all the best.     

Friend Makin' Monday - Defining Moments

If you’ve taken part in FMM then you know the rules. If you’re new, please take a moment to answer this week’s question on your own blog then add your link in the comments section at: www.alltheweigh.com so we can all see your FMM questions and answers. Please invite your blog readers to add their links here too so everyone has to opportunity to be seen. The idea is to connect with other awesome bloggers so take a moment to post your own FMM post and comment on a couple of other posts. Now it’s time for this week’s topic!

FMM: Defining Moments

Was there a defining moment in which you realized that you needed to lose weight?  If so, will you elaborate? (If you experienced this moment in some other area of your life, please feel free to share that too!)

I honestly can't say the exact day of the "defining moment".  I have worked on my weight and health in the past, but something was different in May 2010.  For some reason, that time it just clicked.  I made the decision to completely transform myself, both mentally and physically.  Why?

• I was back over 200 pounds and carrying it on my 5'4" frame. 
• I was getting close to turning 30 and I couldn't imagine continuing through life the way I had been.
• I was just plain unhappy with something in my life.

I immediately found a gym where I was comfortable and began slowly introducing new activities.  The next month, I started working out with a trainer and did a 10-day organic transformation diet.  In July, I learned about the NCRC women's beginner running program and joined.  I started talking with a therapist on a regular basis.  I focused on me and the things that I could do to help ensure that I am here for a long time with my husband, family and friends. 

It has been an amazing year.  Onward and upward to even more success!



A lot can happen in one year...

Wow.  That's pretty much a one-word summation of what has happened over the last year... In May of last year, I made a the decision to start taking better care of myself and transform myself. 


On July 24, 2010, I went on my first run with the NCRC women's beginner running program.  I enjoyed being surrounded by women that were like me - they had goals, they had something they wanted to accomplish, they were going to run and not give up.  It was great.  Through the group, I have met lots of awesome women that I believe are some of the best people to ever exist!


Quick summary of the year:

• July 24 - Began the NCRC women's beginner running program
• September 24 - 1st 5K ever (Women's Distance Festival)
• September to November - continued working out with my trainer and running
• November 6 - Completed my 2nd 5K (NC Lung Cancer Partnership 5K)
• November 7 - Served as a course monitor for the City of Oaks Half Marathon.  This served as reassurance that I could do a half marathon!
• November 25 - Completed my 1st 8K (Ridgewood Turkey Trot); I ran on Thanksgiving Day!  This was something I never thought I would do!
• November 30 - Recommitted for the last time to Weight Watchers!
• December 11 - Reindeer Romp 5K
• December 19 - Completed my first 10K with Sarah (on the Raleigh greenways)
• January 1 - I made some pretty darn good goals for the year.  The only thing I am concerned about conquering for the year is 700 miles. 
• January 31 - Dealt with my first bit of anxiety about my first half marathon
• April 2 - Completed the Cooper River Bridge Run
• May 14 - Completed my very first half marathon!!!!!
• June 11-13 - Took my hubs on a surprise birthday trip
• June 25 - Started volunteering for Dress for Success.  I love this opportunity to help women gain more confidence through finding clothes for interviews!
• July 2 - Had my first Green Monster and I loved it!
• July 16 - Completed the Beaufort Road Race 10K
• July 18 and 19 - First two runs as a volunteer for the NCRC women's beginner running program
• July 24 - ONE YEAR "Run-iversary"!!!

I feel like I have made awesome strides toward transforming myself.  I have gained a love of exercise/fitness that I never thought I would have.  I have lost right at 30 pounds since July 20 of last year.  I feel good about myself.  In fact, I feel better than good - I feel amazing!

If you are thinking about making changes in your life, you can do it.  Hell, if I can do it - anyone can.  You have people that have been where you are all over the place - there are blogs to prove it.  Here's to your success!

What's wrong with last, so long as you finish?

Jason and I were driving back to Raleigh from my hometown on Sunday afternoon.  We always stop at Neuse Sport Shop in Kinston on the way to/from the beach - it is a good halfway point and has super-clean restrooms. 

On Sunday, I saw a shirt on a gentleman that bothered me just a little.  Let me set up the situation though - 35-40 year old man, tall (probably 6'3" or a little taller), slim, athletic looking.  He had numbers on the back of his calves, etc.  My assumption is that he did a triathlon over the weekend and was heading back to his home. 

Anyway, the back of his shirt said "Don't be last."  For some reason, reading this on his shirt bothered me.  I guess part of it was because I had just finished a race the day before and finished last.  I worked hard to train for the Beaufort Road Race and completed the 10K, but still came in last.  It took me a little time, but I had to remember that I did the race and that was way more than I could do a year ago. 

So, here's my thinking... Even the best runner/athlete can be last.  If you take 4 elite runners and put them together to run a mile/5K/etc., one of them will come in first and one of them will come in last.  It's just how it has to be...  Despite the fact that we are all winners because we did the race, someone has to be the last to finish.

So, why such a stigma on being last?  I am not trying to be all "puppies and rainbows" about running, but why not some encouraging messages on the backs of shirts?  This could be motivation to the person wearing it, but also to the people that are behind them on the greenway, race course, etc.  It isn't about the time, it is about finishing.


Maybe some of the running companies can use messages like the messages below.  These are all courtesy of my awesome running buddy, Sarah.  She is one of the most encouraging, enthusiastic people I have ever met!

• You are full of AWESOME!!
• Most people can't do what you are doing! 
• While everyone else is asleep in bed, you are running!
• You're kicking ass and takin' names...
• What would your shirt say??

Friend Makin' Monday

I have been reading Kenlie's blog for a while and draw a lot of inspriration from the things I read.  I decided to participate in Friend Makin' Monday for the first time today.

Feel free to join in on the fun.  Just remember to go to Kenlie's blog and post your blog link in the comments section!  

FMM: Ten Random Questions

1) What do you like most about yourself?  If I put my mind to something, I succeed.  I guess you could call that stubborn too :-)

2) List three characteristics that you like to have in your friends. Flat-out honesty, loyalty, and compassion for others

3) How often do you brush your teeth? When I wake up, (usually) after meals, and before bed.  If I get an urge to eat something I shouldn't in the middle of the day, sometimes I brush then too.

4) If you could travel anywhere today, where would you go? Somewhere not as hot and humid as North Carolina...  Or somewhere to take a break from it all with my husband

5) Have you ever met anyone from the blog world in person? Not yet!

6) What is the last show you watched on TV? I watched a couple of DVR'd Big Brother episodes last night

7) What kind of perfume/cologne do you wear? I have several I love - Calvin Klein Intuition, D&G Light Blue, and Ralph Lauren Romance

8) How long ago did you complete your last workout? I ran with the NCRC Women's Beginner Running Program this morning. Lovin' being a volunteer this year!

9) What will you eat for dinner tonight? Chicken Divan, Lightened Up from SkinnyTaste and a steamed veggie

10) Share something fun that you did over the weekend.  The hubs and I headed to my hometown this weekend.  I participated in the Beaufort Road Race 10K on Saturday morning.  Saturday evening we had a cookout with my Mama's side of the family.  It was great to see everyone that we don't get to see that often!

Beaufort Road Race 10K

Sometimes you do a race because you want to beat a time.  Sometimes you want to run a race because you haven't completed that distance yet.  Sometimes you run a race to raise funds for a cause important to you.  Sometimes races are done to conquer a little "demon" in your soul.... 

For me, the Beaufort Road Race was that race.  I grew up on the coast of North Carolina, in the small town of Beaufort.  I loved growing up there and (sometimes) miss the quiet of the small town life.  For as long as I can remember, the Beaufort Ole Towne Rotary has sponsored a 10K/5K through town.  When I was a kid, I remember seeing signs advertising the race.  I also remember thinking it would be cool to do the race...  but since I was the little fat kid, I normally watched or went to the water station near my house to help pass out water to the runners.  

When I started running on July 24, 2010, I knew this race was one I wanted to complete.  When I started my blog, I added this race to my "fitness bucket list".  Exactly 51 weeks after I started running, I completed the Beaufort Road Race 10K!  

Earlier last week, I was very concerned about the race.  I posted a message or two on Facebook to see if anyone I knew would be doing the race - no one responded.  Later in the week, I posted a message on Facebook about my fear of coming in dead last.  Thanks to some great encouragement from friends, I began to feel more confident about doing the race.

The weather for the race was beautiful...  but humid.  I was sporting my cute new Moving Comfort "Alexis" tank and I had my Nathan water belt ready to go.  My Daddy dropped me off at the courthouse around 7:25 that morning.  He headed back home to meet up with Jason to go to a place on the course to cheer me on.  I wandered around downtown, enjoying being downtown when there was relatively little hustle-and-bustle.  About 7:50, I got behind the starting line toward the back.  At 8 a.m., the gun fired and we were off.

Around mile 1.3, I passed the road that connects my neighborhood area to Front Street (Leonda Drive).  I saw Jason and my Daddy standing and cheering.  I was "in the groove" with my music and smiled, waved and kept on running.  Around mile 2.75, I passed the other side of Leonda Drive (at Lennoxville Road).  Evidently J asked if I would marry him again.  I didn't hear anything because I had my music going full blast, but my Daddy got it on video.  It was pretty funny.

By the time I reached the water at mile 3, I was starting to get hot.  I wasn't really thirsty, but my face was burning up.  I ended up taking a cup of water and pouring it on my face.  It helped a ton!  I repeated this at miles 4 and 5.  I didn't realize how much cooling my face and chest off would help.

The entire time, I had 3 ladies behind me.  From mile 3 on, I turned occasionally to see if they were still there.  They had been there, but kept falling further and further back.  When I got to 5.25/5.5 miles, I turned around to see who was still behind me.  Well, they weren't there.  You know what that meant?  If those three ladies were not still behind me, I was going to be last.  I started to panic.  My worst race fear was becoming a reality. 

I realized that this race was about me, not the people behind me.  As much as the thought of being last frustrated me, I kept on truckin'.  As I got closer to the finish line, there were people cheering and being so encouraging.  I finished the Beaufort Road Race in 1:19:59.  I had a goal to finish in less than 1:20 and I did it - one second less, but I did it! 

I had a little bit of a hard time dealing with finishing last yesterday.  After I thought more throughout the day about how far I have come in one year, I was happy with the result.  I am actually going to write another post tomorrow or later this week about being last because of a shirt I saw today. 

Looking forward to doing the Beaufort Road Race again next July!!

This post is brought to you by the letter "H"

Hormones - If you are a guy reader, you may wish to skip this part...  For some reason, my hormones have been all out of wack the past week.  This can be a positive and a negative, depending on who you are in my life.  If you are one of my close girlfriends, you have probably had to listen to my whining about many things; the hubs has been "treading lightly" so as not to bring on a hormone-induced rant.  It has been interesting to say the least, but it is finally dying down. (Thank God!)

Heat/Humidity - I have been trying to get up at 5:15 several mornings and week for the past few weeks to get in a few quick miles.  The first two weeks weren't so bad, but this week sucked.  At 5:40 in the morning, it has been almost 80 degrees.  This is the type of run that makes you wonder why in the hell you are even out there.  It equals = totally sweaty within 4 minutes; no water after about 10; giving up after 1.5 miles and being mad at yourself.  Hopefully some of the heat/humidity will calm down or this chick will have to get up at 3 a.m. to run.

Hills - The hubs and I live in a part of town called "North Hills".  I have been following a certain straight out-and-back route for my weekday morning runs from home.  On Tuesday, I decided to try going through some of the neighborhoods around me.  It felt great to have a change of scenery at first.  Then, there came the monster hills - no bueno.  Needless to say, I definitely learned why the area is called "North Hills" and now totally believe that the area needs a new name because that is the biggest understatement.

I am sure there are more "H" things I can write about...  Hope you are all well!!

New favorite - Green Monsters

I love to read blogs of other folks that are focused on their healthy lifestyle and fitness journeys.  One thing that I have seen over and over on the blogs is the infamous Green Monster. 

The Green Monster is pretty simple.  It's a smoothie that has a base of spinach or kale.  They are supposed to be so wonderful for you - increase energy, decrease oils and fats, cravings change from sweets to fruits/veggies, etc.

Last week I bit the bullet and bought a blender and set out to figure out what all the hub-bub was about.  I scoured the Internet for recipes, etc.  I found tons of variations and made my first Green Monster on Saturday morning.  The first one was pretty darn good, but I did learn that I need a little bit of liquid to make it blend well, etc. I have made three more since Saturday and I think I have finally found my favorite combination:

• 1 (6 oz.) container of fat free vanilla yogurt
• 2-3 good handfuls of fresh spinach
• a handful of shredded carrots or other veggies (if I have them)
• 2 tablespoons of finely ground flax seed
• 1-2 cups of frozen fruit (this week, I have used a combination of strawberry, mango and peach)
• a splash of water (probably less than 1/4 cup)

The combination above has about 6 Weight Watchers Points Plus values for a huge serving.  It almost fills my 24-ounce Tervis Tumbler and is a delicious start to the day.  While I don't think I will be jumping on the Green Monster every single day of the week bandwagon, I have found a new fun meal/snack. 

Any suggestions on other combinations?

Update on the thumb, etc.

I went to my primary care physician on Wednesday afternoon to have my stitches removed from my thumb.  When she was examining my thumb, she said "...Wow...  I am surprised the doctor at the urgent care didn't send you to the ER.  This is one of the worst cuts I have seen in a long time..."  She fixed me and bandaged me back up.  I will have to wear a little non-stick pad and a wrap on my thumb for at least a month, but at least the stitches are out.  She said as I was leaving "...Maybe you should stay away from the mandolin in the future..."  Of course, my response was "You think?  No doubt about that!"  Glad that my thumb is on the mend, but quite annoyed that it will be bandaged up for a while longer.  Oh well...

Well, it is Friday afternoon of the Independence Day holiday weekend.  Jason and I are going to run a few errands after work and do our grocery shopping.  Tomorrow, we are planning to head to the outlets in Mebane.  The last time we went, we didn't have a good amount of time to look around, etc.  We're hoping the outlets won't be too crowded - hopefully everyone will be at the beach or at the lake. 

On Sunday and Monday, we have only a few things on the agenda - relax, sit by the pool, and eat yummy homemade food (and drink delicious beer, of course!).  I cannot wait.  One of my favorite parts of living in our condo complex is the pool.  Most of our neighbors are older.  This means a few things for us, considering that we are the youngest people in the complex - quiet neighbors, clean buildings, and no one is ever at the pool!  I am looking forward to celebrating the Independence Day holiday and working on my tan.

At some point this weekend, I must get back to running.  I ran on Thursday morning and I could definitely tell that I had not run since the previous Saturday morning.  The Beaufort Road Race 10K is in 2 weeks and I am concerned I am not going to be able to do it.  My plan is to try to get in 6 to 8 miles this weekend. 

Hitch-hiker thumb

Well, this is me and my new friend.  Allow me to introduce you - blog friends, this is hitch-hiker thumb; hitch-hiker thumb, these are my blog friends...

You might ask what happened and how....Well, here is the story...

On Saturday evening, around 6:45 p.m., I was beginning the preparations for our dinner.  We were going to be having two new recipes (Yakitori and Roasted Potatoes with Fresh Herbs).  I got my trusty mandoline from Pampered Chef to cut slice the potatoes.  I was using the mandoline just as it should be used and then things went terribly wrong...  I sliced a huge chunk out of my right thumb. 

I immediately grabbed several paper towels and ran over to the sink.  I ran water over my thumb to get some of the blood off, so I could see if the wound was really deep.  It looked ok, so I just kept pressure on it.  I figured it would stop after a few minutes and I could put a BandAid on it and move on with the rest of my dinner preparations.

After 30 minutes, it was still bleeding pretty heavily.  The hubs and I decided that it needed to be checked out.  I called my insurance and started trying to find an in-network urgent care.  The issue was that it was almost 7:30 p.m. on a Saturday night most urgent care offices were closed and I refused to go to an emergency room and spend my entire Saturday evening there.  Luckily, the insurance representative directed me to an office that was open, but only until 7:45 p.m.  I jumped in the car and high-tailed it over to their office, arriving at 7:25.  I quickly checked in, apologized for coming so close to closing time, and filled out the necessary paperwork.

Within a few minutes, I was in the room and being taken care of by a very nice medical assistant and PA.  The PA used some betadine to clean my thumb, then he used a topical numbing agent before giving me a shot.  After I got the shot, I started feeling like crap and I said to him "...We have a problem.  I am burning up and I feel like I am going to throw up on you..."  He asked the medical assistant to get me some water and he leaned me back on the table a little.  He quickly stitched me up - 4 stitches.  After letting me relax for a few minutes, he bandaged me up with some nice gauze padding and a pink wrap.  I figure if I have to have stitches, it may as well be cute.  I was in and out of the urgent care in 35 minutes - a rare thing indeed!

After leaving the urgent care, there was no way that I was going to fix dinner.  One, I was in pain; two, I was quite annoyed about what had happened.  I went to Peace China and got us some yummy Chinese takeout.  After dinner, I huffed and puffed a little more about being frustrated about my hand.  I kept saying over and over that "...things like this don't happen to me..."  Well, they do now. 

I have to keep my hand, especially my thumb, dry until the stitches come out on Wednesday.  It has been quite interesting trying to do things around the house, at work, etc.  I didn't realize how useful my thumb actually was until I couldn't use it.  So, here's to my new friend, hitch-hiker thumb.

Dress for Success

Several months ago, after the "Great Closet Clean-Out", I donated a ton of work clothes to an organization called Dress for Success.  I first learned about the organization from a coworker, Gayle.  While she didn't give me a lot of information, it sounded like the perfect place to donate my too big suits, jackets, slacks, and miscellaneous blouses,  In late March, the News & Observer ran a piece in Midtown Raleigh News about the local Dress for Success affiliate.  After reading the article, I decided that I wanted to volunteer as an image coach.  I quickly emailed and asked to be added to the email list for future volunteer opportunities, etc. 

Since then, it seemed like I had a conflict every time there was an opportunity - until last week...  I received an email from the Raleigh boutique manager asking if I wanted to volunteer one Saturday per month.  I committed to volunteering from 10:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the 4th Saturday of each month.  This past Saturday was my first day and it was nothing short of awesome.

I got to the boutique around 9:30 a.m. so that I could get a quick "orientation".  I was paired with another volunteer for a little while so that I could "shadow" her.  Unfortunately, the boutique was quite busy and a little short-handed - I was quickly on my own to help several women.  While each of the clients were different, they were all very much the same when it came to finding an appropriate interview suit.  They were so appreciative.  They all left with big smiles on their faces.  It warmed me to the core.

If you have a Dress for Success affiliate in your area, I would encourage you to donate any and all gently-used work apparel to them - suits, jackets, slacks, long sleeve blouses, cardigans, shells, business-casual wear (khakis, etc.), and even jewelry.  Maybe you will even become a volunteer!

New Rules of Lifting for Women - Stage 1

I recently purchased the New Rules of Lifting for Women (NROLW) after reading a ton of positive reviews on other blogs.  After my half marathon, I decided that I was going to stop using personal training services at my gym and focus on lifting through the information in this book.  (I love personal training, but it is very expensive and I can think of a lot of things I would rather spend my money on... like cute, new running clothes, pedicures, etc.)

I started reading the book and enjoyed the information.  While I will not be following the nutritional guide (I prefer Weight Watchers), I will try to incorporate as many of the ideas as possible.  The book explained everything very well - detailed yet concise. 

Yesterday was the day... I downloaded a set of tracking charts and set out to do the workout yesterday afternoon.  Since I had the time, I figured I would do Stage 1, workouts A and B.  I don't know if I will continue to do both workouts on the same day, but it wasn't terrible yesterday. 

The exercise that scared me the most was the prone jackknife.  When I read about it in the book, I had visions of myself looking like a complete idiot and falling.  Thank God my gym has a women's fitness area.  I got a ball, got near a wall to help stabilize myself and got to working.  It really wasn't all that bad, but boy do I feel it today!  While is isn't the most graceful position, it is pretty damn effective.

Overall, the workout went well.  I liked that it was simple to follow, relatively quick, and I could tell I got a good workout. 

Here's what the first two sessions entailed. Squats and lunges were supposed to be body weight only, but that seemed too easy so I modified it.

Stage 1 workout A

• Squats -- 2 x 15 w/ 30 lb bar
• Pushups -- 2 x 15 (I am gonna conquer the pushups sooner or later.  I hate that I have to do them modified)
• Seated row -- 2 x 15 @ 60 pounds
• Stepups -- 2 x 15 on step bench (5 risers) w/ 15 lb weights
• Jackknives on ball -- 2 x 15 (I was supposed to do 8, but didn't realize until after I had done 2 x 15)

Stage 1 workout B

• Suitcase squats -- 2 x 15 @ 40 (This was supposed to be a deadlift, but my trainer saw me and suggested suitcase squats instead.)
• Wide-grip Lat pulldowns -- 2 x 15 @ 60
• Shoulder presses -- 2 x 15 w/ 10 lb weights
• Lunges 2 x 15 w/ 15 lb weights
• Ball crunches 2 x 15 (Again, supposed to be 8, but I didn't realize until after I had done 2 x 15)

SURPRISE! - Jason's 36th birthday

Well, this surprise has been a long time coming and now I am super excited to write about it.  We were able to keep it (pretty much) a secret until the morning that we left.  Here's how it all went down.  (Warning - it is a long one...  I am just so darn excited that the trip was a success and I am worried I will leave out a detail.)


My hubs is a huge Tampa Bay Rays fan.  Their Triple-A team is the Durham Bulls and we usually have a mini-plan each year.  Anyway... He has been dying to go see them in person for a while.  It isn't easy for us to get to the Tampa/St. Petersburg area, so we have been trying to see them in a city close(ish) to us.  I checked the MLB schedule as soon as it came out at the end of 2010.  Lo and behold, it was a miracle - they Rays were playing the Baltimore Orioles the weekend of the hubs' birthday!  The little gears in my head immediately started turning!


In late-January, I mentioned the idea to my mother-in-law.  After talking to her, the final decision was made - we were going to Baltimore.  We purchased great tickets (behind home plate) for one game and pretty dang good tickets (down the 3rd base line) for another game.  We made plans to ride the train to Baltimore on Saturday morning and return via train on Monday.  It was going to be great!  It was also going to be a big surprise!


About two weeks before his birthday, the hubs started getting a little antsy about birthday plans.  My mother-in-law loves to make a big deal out of birthdays and she hadn't really said a lot.  During that week, he also came in the office while I was working on an email to my boss about being off work - of course, that made him more curious about the birthday plans.  I told my mother-in-law about her nosey/sneaky son, and we started coming up with our little white lie...


My mother-in-law and I created a fake birthday weekend trip.  We decided that we were going to "go to Wilmington for the weekend".  We told the hubs that we would be driving down to Wilmington on Saturday morning.  We would be spending the afternoon around the waterfront area.  That evening we would go to Fort Fisher Aquarium because my father-in-law needed to attend a reception for a special project/event, then we would go to a nice dinner.  We told him that on Sunday, we would do some shopping, exploring, and relaxing.  He seemed to fall for it, but as time went on I had a feeling he thought something was fishy....


On Saturday morning, my in-laws showed up at our home around 8:45.  My mother-in-law decided that the hubs needed to open his birthday gifts before we went on our "field trip" to Wilmington.  Here's what happened next - see the video on YouTube.

We loaded up and took the train to Baltimore for the weekend.  Here are some pictures from our weekend...

The happy birthday hubs at the train station

My father-in-law at the hubs at the game on Saturday evening

Happy hubs with some NatBoh's beer

My mother-in-law and the hubs at the game on Sunday afternoon

It was a wonderful weekend!!!  We had a great time.  I think that the hubs was genuinely surprised and would probably say it was the best birthday gift he has ever gotten!  We were able to see a lot of former Durham Bulls and that definitely helped me follow the game more (I am totally not a sports fan). 

YAY for an awesome weekend!  Happy birthday to my dear hubs, Jason!!!

Runner's World Daily Kick in the Butt

Every morning, I get an email from Runner's World - Daily Kick in the Butt.  Most days, it is a quote that mentions running, etc.  The quote yesterday was:

Running improves my relationships with my family, my friends, everyone around me.  And while my running is personal, it's also something I give.  Running can be given. -- Tony Sandoval, M.D., winner of the 1980 US Olympic Marathon Trials

This quote could not have come at a better time.  This quote also could not be more true, especially for me.  The two weeks after the half marathon, my chiropractor recommended that I not run.  Those two weeks were extremely hard on me because of how much I enjoy running.  I felt like I wasn't as "in control", calm/relaxed, etc. 

Last Thursday, I went on a run and immediately felt better.  I felt relieved of some invisible burden.  When I went to work the next day, I could feel myself just being in a better "place".  While I have always enjoyed running, being without that release for two weeks helped me realize how wonderful a gift running really can be - a gift for me and a gift for those around me.

Summer's here and it looks like there is no end in sight

I knew that summer was inevitable.  However, I wasn't really counting on the heat and humidity showing up almost a month earlier than last year and not letting up...  I am not ready for this reality.  I am not ready to be absolutely soaking wet from head to toe after a short 3 mile run.  Of course, I don't think Mother Nature gives a flip about what I want or need.  Summer's here and she's here to stay.

On Monday, Sarah and I ran the Oak Park Trail and had to stop several extra times to walk because of the direct sunlight and heat.  No bueno.  It was during that run and after guzzling a quart of water when I got home that I truly understood why people told me not to complain about running in the winter.   

Morning runs are definitely part of summer running, especially in North Carolina.  This morning, we got together at 5:30 a.m. at Shelley to run.  Looks like there will be a lot more 5 a.m. wake up calls - at least until September or October. 

National Doughnut Day and the run from hell

Today is National Doughnut Day.  Even though I have received numerous emails and Facebook messages about claiming my free doughnut at Krispy Kreme and Dunkin' Donuts, I have ignored them.  I have ignored the messages for several reasons: 1) I am not a huge fan of doughnuts; 2) a doughnuts has between 6 and 9 points plus values on Weight Watchers (about the same as a mini sub from Jersey Mike's; 3) I can't imagine waiting in the line to get one.  

So, for those that are doughnut fans, don't mind the nutritional information, and don't mind waiting in line - go get yourself a free doughnut!  You can thank me for the reminder later :-)

On Wednesday afternoon, my chiropractor released me to run again.  I had only run once since my half marathon (May 14) and caused a nagging knee pain from running too far, too fast, too soon after my half marathon.  I have been babying my knee and spending a lot of time in the gym for the past few weeks and I was dying for a run.  Yesterday was the day....

I got off work at 4:30 p.m.  I headed to my normal little spot on the greenway with my iPhone and water bottle.  I was determined to do 4 miles at my normal 3:30/1 interval.  I knew that I had missed running, but I didn't realize how much I had missed it until I got going.  There is just something about being on the trail that makes my heart happy.

Everything was going well until the turn-around point.  I turned around at the 2 mile mark.  That's when it started to hit me - it was unbearably hot and humid.  After completing a 5K, I decided to walk the rest of the way home.  I am glad that I stuck it out for a 5K, but at the same time I am a little annoyed that I couldn't do the full 4 miles.  It was just too damn hot!  If yesterday was an indication of what hell feels like, I sure as heck hope I don't end up there.

I am feeling great today!  I have no knee pain at all - yay!  Hopefully the weather this weekend will be a little bit cooler and I can get in a run at Shelley Lake or on another greenway trail.  Time to get back in the saddle!   

National Running Day (one day late)

Yesterday was National Running Day.  I would have loved to have been on the greenway, even with the ridiculous heat.  Even though I couldn't run yesterday, I got something better...  I have only run once since the half marathon on May 14 because of a nagging knee pain/issue.  My chiropractor re-evaluated my knee yesterday afternoon and said I could go back to running!  YAY!  It is hotter than hell in North Carolina today/this week, but I am planning to hit the greenway for a little bit after work.  Can't wait!!!