Workout done! It is 10:30 AM - not exactly my earliest workout. I feel good. My left hamstring is really tight and it will need stretched all day to feel good. Jana asked what some of my goals are for the next year. I had actually been thinking about them for a week now. It gets me through some running around and around in my circle. I thinking toning has to be at the top of my goal list. I have a lot of skin hanging around. Hopefully some strength training and toning will help with that.

I did get on the scale this morning. I know, I know. I wasn't going to get on until I weighed in next week at Weight Watchers. I just had to know where I stood - did I kill my weight over Christmas? The answer..... nope! I'm back to where I need to be. I'm not down but I'm not up.

New Year's Eve is planned. Lots of fruits and veggies. Papa Kelsey's sandwiches - low fat versions of course and the best --- Lil' Smokies -- Turkey smokies -- 4 grams of fat VS 14 grams -- You can't even tell a difference. I'm excited to cut up my pineapple. Yummy!

It is beautiful weather - I'm going to try and get an outside run in -- very excited to run in the fresh air. Happy Day!

UG. I planned on running today. I slept in a little. I was still tired. I went to the Rec Center. I still wanted to crawl back into bed. I started running and at a half mile I was tired. I keep telling myself that it's a mental thing and I just need to push past it. In all actuality, I'm tired. I'm sick. My head hurts. My ears are full. I'm headed to WalMart for some vitamins and soup.

I looked for marathon training schedules last night. I think I'll stick with what I have. I'm a little nervous. I don't have the base I need to really start training. If I felt better I would have my running in. If anyone has any ideas to kick this stupid virus let me know. It's been around for over a month and a half now. I'm ready to move a little more and have a little less snot.

I have been thinking about goals for next year. Running a marathon is one of them. Working at Weight Watchers is another. Red Rock, Ragnar if we get it in... I think running a couple half marathons will be on the list - especially the Hobbler Half. I need something for the fall.

Have a great day!

I got up today and worked out with my Jackie Warner DVD. It goes fast. I love how I feel when I'm done. I'm determined to do strength two days a week. I've got to start building up some mileage for training to start. Being sick has really hurt my weekly mileage.

I've got to sign up for my marathon this week. A marathon is very intimidating to me. It's a long, long way to run. It's a lot of training, both mentally and physically.

Jana, what are you thinking about Red Rock? I've already committed to run with my friends here. I don't know if we'll have two vans. Do you think that you could get enough family for two vans? Maybe you guys could combine with us??? Just a thought.

Mental. It's all mental. I've been on this journey for two years. Getting life time was great but left my brain thinking my journey was done. Oh, my journey is far from done. It's really just starting. I just have to figure out how to continue. It's easy really. I just have to keep doing what I'm doing. I'm not done, I will never be done. It will continue has it has for the past two years. I can do this. I can.

Ran 3 miles - inside. Later in the day it was beautiful - tomorrow I'm running OUTSIDE!!!
Eating has been rough. Today was better - more focus on fruits, veggies & water. Took the family to Chinese food for dinner. Yummy but man am I worried about the sodium. I'm glad weigh ins aren't until next week. Lots of work to do. I'm signing up for the Utah Valley Marathon this week. A little nervous - running 3 miles has been tough lately - 26.2 ...... That's a long way!


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Christmas Eve workout is done! Did you get one in?
So I haven't done Jackie Warner for 3 weeks - since I've felt like crap. Time to change. Today starts ONE week of abs. Some days may be with Jackie, others on my own. One week. Anyone can do a week. Can you?

Today the focus is power foods. My husband & I have already talked about what veggies can go in our egg white omelet- off to shower & cook our Christmas Eve breakfast:)
Oh - blue sky & sunshine as far as I can see. Beautiful day. Merry Christmas!


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Great morning - slept in! I still ran but didn't go until seven - it was so nice to get the sleep. Ran 3 miles, felt okay. I'm still waiting to feel great. I didn't take any DayQuil today so maybe things are improving.
The holidays need some focus--- water, water, water and power foods! Not much junk food around my house - that's a bonus!
Blue sky was here all day - nice!


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So today was the day I've been working towards for almost two years. It felt great. Lifetime member. Yes! I'm not at the weight I want to be at but I'll get there. I'm not worried about that. I still haven't kicked the sinus infection but I plan on running tomorrow no matter what. I wanted to go on a run so bad today. To celebrate. To enjoy the sunshine. To be free for forty-five minutes. I opened the door and the stiff north wind hit me and my dream to run outside was taken away with my breath. Cold. I'm a wimp.

I'm loving Christmas vacation so far. I get to run later - actually I could go whenever. Love it!
I ran today - 3 miles.
I felt great yesterday morning. Yesterday I had the sinus headache back. I've never had this before that I know of and now it won't leave.
I took my DayQuil for the day - we'll see how it goes.
Two more days until lifetime!!!


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I am still around - life is just BUSY!!!
I ran today. Almost 5 miles. I felt great.
For the first time in over a month I had the energy needed and felt really great. I finally figured out what's been wrong for almost 2 weeks. On Friday the 9th, I got up ran, got the kids to school, cleaned a little, and showered. After my shower I was just sick, I slept almost all day and ate very little. It was weird. For the next few days I just didn't feel great. Low energy, food just didn't sound good. On Wednesday I started feeling like a UTI was coming on and by Wednesday night I knew what was wrong. I called my doctor and he called in a prescription for me. By Friday and Saturday I was feeling great! Thank goodness.
Great news! I will receive my life time on Thursday the 22nd. I can't wait. It has taken so long but it has been so worth everything.
Have a great day and I hope everyone is getting into the Christmas spirit!!!

This winter has been crazy. I took Thursday off from working out. Friday I got up and ran - got in three miles which hasn't happened in a while. I felt crappy the entire time. Got home, got the kids off to school, cleaned my house a little and then showered. When I got out of the shower, I was so sick. I felt like throwing up and just had to lay down. I slept most of the day. Good thing I've got a good little girl. It's Sunday & I'm feeling better. I did weigh in yesterday. Down 1.2 pounds. I should be after having a low eating week. Funny how you don't eat when everything sounds terrible.
Last winter, I was never sick, this winter I've been sick since November. It's got to go a
away!

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So I'm wondering what the heck I can do to slow down my day. I... wait... first of all thanks Morgan and Laura for commenting and following what's going on here. Morgan, I hope you can figure out what's going on with your daughter. It's hard not knowing. I know what you mean - I should have gone in a week ago, then the antibiotics would be done by now. Live and learn.

Yesterday I slept in, showered got my kids off to school and then, decided I should workout. So I did my Jackie Warner workout. Loved it. Butt and hammies are sore today. Love that feeling!

This morning I got up and ran. It is cold. I really don't like the cold and the dark. My son is going with me and that makes it easier. If he wasn't going I think I would just stay home. I can't wait to feel good again. I'm ready to start running more. I miss it. I miss that awesome feeling you get after you run 5 miles. If you've done it you know that pride feeling.

Losing 2 Weight Watchers points each day hasn't been that bad. I'm excited to see what the scale says. I have been staying off the scale. It is is a number. It can make or break you. Why? Who knows why - stupid mental game. I have just chosen to stay off the scale. I'm still playing around with the idea of not looking on Saturday. Could I do it??? Um. Mental.

I got up and ran this morning. Only 2 miles. Enough is enough. I made a doctor's appointment. Result --- sinus infection. Thank goodness. A round of antibiotics and I'm hopefully back to new. Time to start thinking about a marathon. I'm gonna run one. Which one is the question. May 5th is the Provo City and June 9 is Utah Valley. My heart belongs to Utah Valley - 1st 5K, 1st Half.... possibly 1st Marathon??? Training needs to start. I need to begin bumping up my mileage and being sick isn't helping. I can't wait to feel better and get moving more!

My weigh in Saturday was good. Down 1.2 pounds. Weight Watchers is refining the program a little. I now have 27 points per day instead of 29. It can be flexible and I can bump it up if I need to. For now I'm going to stick to 27 and see how it goes.

I didn't post yesterday, I slept in.... it was awesome. I did feel like running so I went last night. It was nice because there were so few people on the track. I did sleep in again this morning. I can feel this stupid cold coming on again. This will be the third time. UG! I'm fighting it this time. My friend told me about Congaplex - it's a homeopathic thing that you take when you start feeling sick and it's supposed to make you all better. I'll let you know.

I haven't been on the scale since before Thanksgiving. I feel good, exercise and food have been on track. We'll see how I'm doing on Saturday. It is so nice to not get on the scale in the morning... and at night. I was getting on the scale way to much. It was divisive and debilitating. It really takes a lot of the mental games out when you don't get on the scale. I'm seriously considering not looking when I weigh on Saturday. I want to be down on December 22nd - I would really like to be at a 90 pound loss. That would be AWESOME!

Have a wonderful day!

I wasn't planning on running today but my son wanted to go practice basketball so I got up and took him. I just did some intervals - 20 minutes worth. I really feel productive when I do them - makes me feel good.

When I got home I did abs with Jackie. I'm going to do these every day. I can feel and see a huge difference when I do. My goal - Every day until December 22 - The day I get lifetime.

Eating yesterday. I don't ever talk about my eating a lot. I'm trying to not have sugar. My downfall is sugar. I like cookies and cookie dough. My biggest struggle. I make them for my kids. I know. Not the best treat for them either. Yesterday... I had cookie dough. How much? One cookie's worth. It was good. I tracked it. I had dinner - brown rice instead of white rice - Hawaiian Chicken and corn. It was yummy. I tracked it. My goal this week was to stay within my 29 points. How did I do yesterday? The cookie pushed my over. What does that tell me? No more cookies. To be within my 29 points and stick to my goal there is no room for a cookie. It's worth it to me right now. I've just got to get it in my head.

I'm back. I'm going to make time to blog. It's helped me get where I am today and a tool that I'm just not willing to give up. I had a great Thanksgiving. Eating was good. Not great but hey, it's Thanksgiving and I enjoyed every minute of this holiday. Maintenance is going well. I am maintaining. Unfortunately I'm not where I want to be and that's going to get going.

I ran today. I haven't worked out for 5 days. I missed it. I just didn't have the time or place while I was gone. Today was good. I can tell that it's been a month of being sick and run down. I felt good today. Physically I think that what ever I had is gone. Running was okay. Slower than I wanted and breathing was a little hard. I did 3 miles. I'm going to work up to 4 miles each time. I'm still going to run 3 days a week and do Jackie Warner 2 days a week. I may rethink this and run 5 days a week doing Jackie Warner or strength at night. Who knows. I would like to sign up for a marathon. Yes a marathon. That means training would start pretty quick.

I'm going to set some goals today. None involve weight. All will involve behaviors. When behavior is modified and followed the weight will come off.

I got up and ran this morning. I'm really slacking on the moving part of the journey this week! I'll get back on track as soon as this stupid cold leaves my body. I'm really tired of feeling like crap!

I had a lot of time to think this morning. My husband is really struggling with his weight. He wants to lose. He has lost anything and he's been tracking and trying to do better. I couldn't figure it out. He uses My Fitness Pal to track. It really is an awesome program. I could look back on the past month and see what he's tracked. Two things stood out. First, tracking at night and finishing out the day. Second, the stark lack of fruits and vegetables. I know that I'm struggling with veggies.

What needs to happen? Easy. Planning. Portions. Plating.
I need to plan our menus to include vegetables. Make sure they get cooked and not waved aside.

The scale and measuring cups are going to the table. Everyone will benefit from learning portion control.

Our plate should look like the plate above. It should have more on it than the main dish. Can I make a plate like that?

I made it to the Rec Center today. It's always worth it. I really like getting it done early. I did intervals today. I love doing these. I feel like I've worked when I'm done.

So Friday, I stepped on the scales and I was down. I knew I was going to be okay to hit my goal on Saturday. I went to bed feeling pretty darn good about myself. Saturday morning, I woke up got on the scales and I was up one pound. What the heck? Now what? I put on my sweats, hoodie and shoes and got on the bike. I rode and rode. I sweated and sweated. I ran out of time. I hurried got on the scales -- 174.0 pounds. I was going to be close on the WW scale. I showered and left to go weigh in. I was kind of nervous and excited.

I told Vicki that I thought I was there - got on the scale ---- 174.2. I was over by 0.2 pounds. Now what? I looked at Vicki - she told me to take off my socks. What? That wasn't going to cut it. I hurried to the bathroom, took off my bra and stepped back on the scales. 173.8 pounds! I made it. I feel like it will take a week for my body to truly make it and make up for the choreographed effort but it's okay. December 22, 2011 I will be a lifetime member. I can do this. My goal is to lose and not maintain right now. Ten more pounds. I'm over the mental hump and I'm going to do this. I'm not stepping on the scales this week. That was a challenge from Vicki. I already feel liberated.

We had family over the weekend. It was so good to see everyone. I have wonderful sister-in-laws! They brought me some hand-me-down jeans. I have been running short on pants and these were just what I needed. Thanks girls!!! Love ya!

It's official!! Today I start my maintenance! I'll write more later- but I'm very excited!!


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My cold still is lingering. In my chest, just sitting waiting for... I have no idea what it's waiting for. I wish it would leave. I miss running outside. I ran today, inside on my little circle. I miss the fresh air. I miss the scenery. I'm not going to complain about it. I'm going to do something about it. Whenever I have the chance I'm getting outside. It's up to me to make it happen. It will.

Tomorrow at Weight Watchers I'm handing in my doctor's note. I will start my six week maintenance tomorrow. Am I excited? Yes. I've been working a long, long time. Part of me feels like I'm letting myself off getting a note. The other part of me feel relieved and knows that by January the last 10 pounds will be close to gone.

I ran today. I need to run more. I need to run outside. I hope today is beautiful and then I can go for a little run. That entire phrase sounds like a children's book. Oooo, that may insult children's books.
Today my focus is on my points. I'm sticking at 29 today. No more. No less. That's my number. I know that's a huge factor in my plateau. This summer I could eat my activity points because I was running soooo much. I'm still active but definitely not on the same level. I'm backing off and I'm not going to eat my activity points.
I wish I could wax eloquent and have some words that would reflect my feelings right now. I don't have any. I love where I am. I want to be here for a long, long time. I love being active. I love my little girl and my boys seeing me active. I want them to want this life style.

I took Monday off - I'm pretty sure my cold is making another appearance. Seriously. Just go. Today I got up and did Jackie Warner. She is tough. I actually felt like throwing up today. I upped my weights and it really made a difference.
I'm feeling the sugar from the weekend. I wish I could bottle this feeling so that when dessert is in front of me I could remember how crappy I feel two days later. I've come to the understanding that banning sugar from my life isn't going to happen. I just decided that if I'm going to have it -- it's going to be something really good or something I don't normally make. I will have control and have a serving or maybe even half a serving and then I will be done. I will track it and it will be okay. It's life. I've got to have this control and this understanding. I will be doing this for the next 50 years.
The time change is a nice little bonus. I hope it helps me get run in tomorrow morning. I'll see how my chest feels. That's where this little gem of a cold has settled.

I did take the day off yesterday. It was nice. Recovering from the dang cold is taking longer than I would like but it is happening.
Friday's are going to be my distance days. Today my goal was 5 miles. My Nike App told me it was 4.69 miles but I usually can do 5 miles in 55 minutes so I went with my time. I'll recalibrate my Nike app and then I may believe it a little more.
More traveling this weekend. I'm trying to get an eating plan together. I would like to take everything that I'm going to eat but I know that isn't possible. I will make a plan. I will stick to the plan. I will track. If I stick to my 29 points life will be good. I can do that. I can say no and I can track every little bite.
What was I thinking as I ran today? It's something I saw on Pinterest. I don't finish when I'm tired. I finish when I'm done. Loved that thought! It got me done.

I didn't post but I did workout. I did 15 minutes each of Jackie's upper body and abs. I am really liking it. I didn't do lower body because I'm still running and I feel like my legs need a break every once in a while.

I ran this morning. I forgot how much I love getting up and getting it done. I did intervals this morning. It feels great to do them. This morning I actually felt like puking. That means I'm working hard!

A lady approached me this morning. She looked familiar but I just don't know her. She said I looked good and asked what I was doing. She couldn't believe how great I looked. She said she had seen me at the track this summer. I am going to place her. I just can't right now. I love it when people say stuff like that. It's a real victory and makes it all worth it. I am doing it for me not for the comments but they sure help.

I tried to not to sugar yesterday. I made kettle corn for the kids after school. It was yummy. I tracked it. I also made cinnamon rolls. I had a bite. Yep. One bite. It was good. I don't know how to be strong about the sugar. How can I get my brain to think before I pop it in my mouth? Maybe a sign in the kitchen? A physical reminder of what I'm trying to do. I'm working on this!

Still feeling icky. It just lingers and little longer than I would like. I got up and ran today. I would like to say it was fabulous! Really, it felt good to move my body but my lungs just fought me the entire way. I got in 3 miles, walking after each mile. I got a ride to the Rec Center with a friend today. Thank goodness because I wouldn't have gone on my own!

Saturday was weigh in day. I was up 1.2 pounds. Ug. It was a hard week. Stress. Cold. Period.

Vicki talked to me again about getting a note from my doctor to be able to get life time at this weight. She said at this point, the last 10 pounds is a huge mental road block. I could get life time, work on my maintenance and still work on losing the last 10 pounds. I talked to my doctor and he was more than willing to do this. Part of me feels utter relief! Part of me feels like I'm just not there yet. Spending the money each month for two years has been worth it. I won't regret that. Getting it free would be awesome! Not having the mental weight on my shoulders would be fantastic! This week I'm going to work super hard and see where I am. If I'm back to my 85 pound loss - I'll turn in my doctor's note and be there!

Vicki also asked us to think of three baby steps to help us get to our goals. I've been thinking. Mine are going to be the following:

1) No eating after 6:30

2) Veggies. A veggie with each meal.

3) Jackie Warner 2X a week

I am feeling a little better. Today it's moved into my head. Ug. I am happy to report that I am not as sore as I was. I am really surprised by this. I thought I would be SO SORE. I'm glad I did Jackie's workout yesterday. Can't wait to see the results in the coming months.
Happy Friday!

I feel like crap. Sore throat, stuffy nose, scratchy chest.... I hate colds. Let this be the only cold I get this year and I'll be happy! I haven't run all week. I can't say that I miss it. When I feel better I'll run again.

I did do the Jackie Warner Power Circuit today. If I'm going to be sick, I'm still going to do something. Can you say lactic acid. I will be sore tomorrow. Feels better to be sore than to be sick.

I'm stagnant on the weight loss. I've got to step back. Look at everything. Plan. Plan. Plan. Go back to step one. Measure. Track. Portions. Stay within my points.

I am sore from yesterday's workout! What an awesome feeling! I love it when I know that what I've done has been productive.

No running today. A cold has settled in my chest. Breathing is, well important & right now running isn't going to happen. I'll rest up & hopefully run this week. If I rest, I'm hoping this will go away faster.


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Oh my gosh! I just did my new workout dvd. Holy crap. My legs are shaking. My arms are shaking. My abs are shaking. My hammies are screaming. Her name is Jackie Warner. It was a circuit training workout. I loved it. I loved how fast it moved. When I started getting tired it was almost over. The ab work was fabulous. Some different moves, some the same but the order and combination was awesome. Oh my gosh. I'm going to run tomorrow and then do this again on Thursday.
Yesterday was a horrible eating day. I made peanut butter popcorn for my kids and I ate some. It didn't really taste good but I ate it. Weird. I was only 3 points over so it wasn't horrible. It just could have been better.
I've said it before and I'm saying it again. No sugar. No sugar. No sugar. How can I do this? I know that when I don't eat sugar I lose weight. What am I trying to do? Lose? Trying to get to my goal. It's got to get in my head. I've got to do what I know! I will figure this out. I'm hitting my goal! I just want to faster than usual. I need to go back to what I know. I lose slowly. Don't rush and don't get discouraged.

After a long weekend of traveling, I am home. I was so tired that I just slept in this morning. It is a beautiful day and I think I'll run after my boys come home. It's supposed to be the last warm day for a while. Bring on winter! I've got some running pants to try!

Just updating my weigh in on Thursday - down 1.4 pounds. We're visiting family this weekend and I'm hoping to go home with no extra pounds. I'm not doing too bad. I did get up and run this morning, it felt great! I was on the treadmill so I did intervals. I really like them. I really feel like I've done something when I'm done!


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"Sweat is just fat crying" a quote I saw and love!!


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I've been doing a little research on exercise and weight loss. What I'm doing is good but not the best. Running the same pace, the same distance is okay but could be better. I've found something called HIIT - High Intensity Interval Training. If you google it you will find a lot of information about it. I liked this article, HIIT I'm still reading and gathering (It's later in the day - I really found this article informative). Trying to boost what I'm doing.

Today I tried interval training. This is not the first time that I've done this. It is almost what I did over the summer in speed training. This was a longer overall period of time, with more intervals that speed training. I warmed up for 5 minutes, then ran at 6.0 mph for 1 minute, then 5.3 to 5.5 mph for 2 minutes. I did this 8 times then cooled down for 5 minutes. Total - about 30 minutes. I think that for the 2 minutes I went too slow, my Garmin is not very accurate inside. I felt good about the faster times. Could I have gone faster? Sure. This being the first time to do this I held back a little not knowing if I would make it through. I did. It wasn't bad. Next time I will leave it all there - running my fastest so my body can burn some fat.

Last night I also ordered a new workout dvd. I'm very excited to have a new face in the line up. The trainer is Jackie Warner - the title is Personal Training with Jackie: Power Circuit Training. I'm really excited to try it. Have a great day!

No running today. I really wanted to stay in bed. Seriously. No desire at all. I got up and did Level 2 of the Shred. It got me moving and sweating. Thank goodness.

I don't want to be negative. I've got to write this down and get it out of my head. This last piece of weight is hard to get off! UG! What is it going to take? What can I do?

Okay. Enough whining. What got me to this point? Tracking. Exercise. Food choices. What will get me to the end? Tracking. Exercise. Food choices. I can do it. I made a little pact with myself. No sugar until I hit lifetime. None. I'm going to do this. Sugar is evil in my body. It stores fat like crazy (Probably not but if I tell myself that what can it hurt?).

I keep thinking this last 10 pounds, it's going to be the hardest. What if I thought this last 20 pounds? Then my last 10 wouldn't me my last 10, they'd be my first. Oh the mind games we play! I think I'll just focus on 90! That's the number I'm shooting for. 90!

I got up early and ran at the Rec Center today. I hate running inside but I LOVE getting my run done so that it doesn't consume my day. Also, they're doing some construction so our water will be shutoff starting at 8:00 this morning. It would be hard to shower later :)

I was up at my weigh in on Saturday. I knew that I would be. I've been running or working out before my weigh ins which totally throws the actual weight off. I've done it before. I thought I had learned my lesson. Obviously not.

I've got to buckle down. This doesn't mean less eating and more activity. I'm learning, and listening to my body. I'm going to focus on eating. I'm going to focus on veggies and water. I'm going to eat my activity points. My weekends are going to be flawless. I'm going to move the same.

I have 10 pounds to go. Probably the hardest 10 pounds that I've lost. It's going to happen. It will take everything that I've learned but it's going to happen.

I got a short run in today - 2.68 miles. I forgot that my husband had to leave early and I took the truck to the gym. Whoops.

So my grand plan of being down 2 pounds this week blew up in my face. I'm up almost 2 pounds. What the heck? I had a pretty good weekend, pretty good week. Not perfect. I'm tired of trying for perfect. I'm up. Um. I will ponder that all day.

Wow. Pushing a thirty-five pound two year old is hard. I thought it would be fun to take Miss B for a run with me. It is a beautiful morning. It was perfect. I enjoyed every minute. She is quite fun to talk to. I wanted to get 4 miles in today. At 3 miles she had to go potty. Thank goodness we were by the Rec Center. We hurried and took care of business. I got another mile in, half of which was uphill. I wanted to walk so bad. I just kept thinking, "If it doesn't kill me, it will make me stronger." That thought just kept going through my mind. I made it. I feel good. I have sweat dripping every where!

I've got to update my Daily Mile and then shower. On with the day. Love my run!

Before I go, I just have to record somethings that are happening in this part of the journey. One of my friends and her daughter joined WW with me. Very exciting to see someone else starting. Her husband approached me in church and said,"You are my inspiration. If you can do, I can do it!" Last night at a Relief Society meeting, my friend who sat by me told me she started running this week. She kept telling herself that if Molly can do, she could do it. Two of my other friends called me a skinny genius. Another texted me afterward and asked how I can have such will power to not eat the yummy treats that were served.

I just have so many people who knew me 85 pounds heavier and see what I have done. They want to do what I am doing. I don't want to write this and sound full of myself. I just want to express gratitude for where I am. I am humbled. I am thankful to be here. I have a loving Heavenly Father who helped me get here. He put people around me to help me, to inspire me. He answered my prayers day and night when I was struggling. I needed to to this. For me. For my kids. For my husband. For those around me who I love. Friends and Family. For me.

This is our 2011 Red Rock Relay Team - Van 1

Family Picture 2009

Family Pictures 2011

So today I really didn't want to get up. I think I'm getting a cold. I decided to sleep in. I rode the bike and lifted a little after the boys went to school. It felt good to do something different. After 30 minutes, I was done and I got on with my day.

We had family pictures a few weeks ago. What a difference two years and a lot of hard work has made. We'll get the official pictures in a few weeks. I had my husband snap a couple of me just to have.

Just back from a great run. I know that I LOVE running in the morning and getting it done. I have found a new love, running in the afternoon, running in the evening, running whenever I can get it in.

I'm so close to my goal weight and at the same time so far away. I'm making a huge push this week. I'm going to do whatever it takes to hit a 2 pound loss this week. Running, working out and staying within my 29 points.

By the end of October, I want to be closing in on my goal.

I can do it.

Focus. Focus. Focus.

I am worth it and I can do it.

This is what I'm looking at -- I KNOW what it's going to take.

I can do it.

I can do hard things!

October 14th - 172

October 21 - 170

October 28 - 168

November 5 - 166

November 12 - 164

Done! 85.4 pounds gone! I'm really going to focus this next week. Two pounds on Thursday is my goal. I know, it maybe high but I'm raising the bar. I'm getting to goal. Next number in my view ---90 pounds!

Just finished my run. Music helps running inside. I've just got to find my armband for my phone.
Tomorrow is my weigh in. I want to hit 85 lbs. I want to lose my 1 lb for the week. I want. I want. I want.
My Garmin only tracked time today. I guess I'll leave the GPS on inside. I know I got 3 miles in - good enough for today!
I'm off to make school lunches & send my boys to school.
Happy Friday!


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Oh! I am a new woman! I just needed to run. It felt so good. The sun was shining, it wasn't raining or snowing. I just headed out on the canal. It was a little muddy but oh so awesome! Words cannot describe. I am in a new place in life.

um. it's raining, snowing and cold. i really want a good run outside in sixty degree weather. i'm not ready for winter.

I stayed inside and did a Jillian dvd today. It was okay. I really needed a good run. I'm a little stressed and whiny and ornery. It's okay. Everything will pass.

Traveling is always hard for me when trying to lose weight. I did okay. I didn't blow it. I tracked every day. I did have some cobbler. I did have a super yummy brownie. I did have my downfall this fall --- Que Bueno and tortilla chips. It curses me. No more. It will have to be eliminated! If I want to get to my goal, I've got to do better. I'm going to get there.

I didn't go weigh in today. I'm up. It was depressing. I'm going to go on Saturday. It will be okay. I just expect better of myself.

Well enough of the whining. I've got to go pay bills. Joy! I am kidding.

I was willing to run in the rain, but the lightning was a no go! I drove down to run at the Rec Center. It sucked. I hate that word but it did. It was warm, stuffy and in a circle. Yuck! I've got to figure out when I can run outside. I may just have to be really flexible.

Great workout with Bob today. I only did 45 minutes because I really feel like I need to get moving with the day. It is 10:00 AM. Where does the morning go? Wow.

Great weekend. We did family pictures. For the first time in years, I was so happy with who I saw in them. I so grateful for where I am. Two long hard years. I know that it's not time to coast now. I'm aiming for my one pound this week. I will have less than 10 pounds to goal. It is still going to be a push. Ten pounds is still ten pounds. That still two months of working hard. Probably harder than I've worked the entire time. I will do it.

I caught a little of General Conference this weekend. I can't wait to listen to it this week. Just me. Solitude while my kids are at school. Can't wait to be spiritually fed and strengthened.

I'm seriously laying in bed, talking myself into just getting in the shower. No workout. Can I justify it? I can justify anything. I have worked out all week. I am going to give my legs a day off:) have a great Friday!


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Sooooo close! I was down one pound. Yay me! I'm grateful for the pound. I'll take it any day! I met the challenge 2 weeks in a row. I was 0.4 pounds away from my 85 pound goal. Next week I will blast right past that silly 85 pound mark! Yes!

My legs are hammered. Between running and the strength training my legs are tired. They need a break. Maybe Saturday and Sunday will be good. Tomorrow I need to do 4 miles to get my 15 in for the week. I guess I'll see how I feel.

Today is weigh in! I will hit the 85 pound mark! Kinda excited!

Today was awesome. Last night my oldest son told me to wake him up, he wanted to run with me in the morning. We had a great time. He made it a mile with me, running and walking. Today was supposed to be a 5 mile run but it's okay. I asked if he would ever want to train for a 5K and he said maybe. Now, that's not a yes but from and 11 year old boy it's pretty great!

We got home and I had him go lift with me. It was fun. I love it.

After we lifted and he went up to shower, I did the Butt Bible. Wow. It was great. Funny name and the lady talks about how much she loves butts the entire time but it was great to do. It will definitely help my running! No more weak glutes here!

Tomorrow is weigh in day. I counting on being a pound down. I'm excited for tomorrow's meeting. My friend is going to go with me to the meeting. She's never been. I hope she likes it. Weight Watchers WORKS!

Have a great day!

I needed some encouragement today. The scale is moving so slowly. I have to remind myself that "the number" isn't what counts. It helps but it's not everything. I don't measure often but I did today. Loved it!

9/27/11

Waist------34.25"

Hips-------40.5"

Abdomen--40.5 "

Thigh------21"

Ribcage----34.5"

Chest------40"

01/30/10

Waist------43.5"

Hips-------52.8 "

Abdomen--52.8"

Thigh------25.8"

Ribcage----39.25"

Chest------48.25"

Total Inches GONE*****

51.95"

Waist-------9.25"

Hips--------12.3"

Abdomen---12.3"

Thigh-------4.8"

Ribcage-----4.75"

Chest-------8.25"

OH MY GOODNESS! I did Bob's workout again today. Typing is even hard. My body is tired. I loved it. I can't wait to see my arms in a few months. My legs are burning. Life is good.

Nice 4 mile run today. I'm still working on a 5 mile route. One that I'm comfortable with in the dark. Today I was tired. Probably from Saturday's run but I still got it in. The ball of my right foot hurt the last mile or two. I think I've worn the flip flops enough around the house. Time for some good shoes. I should have known better.

I am focusing on my pound loss for the week. I'm going to fuel my body right and do what I need to do to get there. Enough messing around with this eating. I've got to get to my goal. 85 pounds is my focus this week!

Awesome 7 mile run today. Eating hasn't been too great but very little sugar so that's a bonus! I love my life!

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Challenge - Week 1

I joined a challenge on WW online. The Challenge is to lose one pound a week until New Years. Very doable and it keeps me focused. Jenny, my WW leader has challenged everyone to track four days this week. I love challenges. They motivate me. They keep me working hard. I track everyday regardless. It's what I have to do. Success is directly related to my tracking. Honest tracking. Last week I learned that I was pretty free with my eating and then I would track. I've been working on tracking either before or as I was eating. This made a huge difference.

I did meet the challenge goal this week. I'm down 1.6 pounds. I will take it and and keep on tracking. Watch out because here I come! I focused and determined. I can do anything one day at a time, one pound at a time. I can do it.

Just a side note, I've put my 95 pound sign up every where. Hoping to motivate me to my life time goal. I think I undermined myself. I've gotten where I am by focusing on a single day, not a month or a year at a time. I'm printing of my 85 pound sign. I'm going to take this one step at a time. The confidence that this gives me is enormous. That's what will carry me to the end!

Awesome run this morning. The first two miles were tough. I'm not sure why. Last two felt great. I'm really trying hard to get at least four miles in each time I run. I would really like to have five each time. What's holding me back? The route. I'm still not comfortable in the dark. I am starting to enjoy it more. The last few stars out, a sliver of a moon and the light outlining the mountains. It is beautiful. There's just a comfort level that's not as high in the dark.

Weigh in is today. I am a little nervous. I stepped on the scale last night. It wasn't bad. It was lower that last week. I'm not getting on this morning until I'm at my meeting. I just keep reminding myself. A pound a week. That's what I'm going for. A pound. Done. I can do it.

I worked out with my boys last night. I downloaded some work outs and we checked them all out. You will never guess the ones that they like and that we did --- Leslie Sansone. Yes. We just walked. I am so proud of them. I know moving is good but now I've got to work on their eating. I know that eating it most of weight loss. Have a great day!

Level 2 of the Shred today. Wow. I forgot what it was. I did it because I wanted something different. It was. I wish lunges weren't so good for you. They are definitely not my favorite. One pound is still my goal for the week. I am there mentally. I haven't been on the scale all week. I have no plans to step on a scale until my WW meeting. To me, the scale takes away all of my power. When I know the number, I am no longer making the decisions about what I eat. If the number is low, my head says it's okay to eat more. If it's high I'm in a tail spin.

My boys and I watched the Biggest Loser last night. It was awesome. By the end of the show, everyone was working out. They continued for about 15 minutes after it ended. My boys are on the big side. My first grader weighs 88 pounds. Too heavy for a little guy. I'll finish later. They just came down stairs to workout with me :)

Awesome run today. I was a little tight from yesterday but not too bad. I did a lot of hills today - big hills :) I really did enjoy it. It was so dark when I started. Not really enjoying that, but what do you do?

Eating as been good so far. Tracking and weighing everything, getting back to portions. I feel good. My goal is ONE pound this week. I'm going to do it!

So I have felt a real connection to this song this week. I sent it to Keelie and since then have just listened to it whenever I can. This week I feel like I am on solid ground. I hit the bottom of my fall blues (is there such a thing???) and I'm ready to hit the journey rolling!

Back to the basics in every aspect of my life.

I did Bob Harper's Inside Out workout this morning. Well, 42 minutes of it. My arms were shaking so bad I couldn't finish. I've never felt like that. You know what.... it felt GREAT! Love it. I will get strong enough to finish the entire workout. I will.

I'm following what I said yesterday. Getting back to square one. I have gotten lazy and lazy gets me nowhere. I figured out my points for all my dinner recipes last night. They all felt high. Today I'm going to figure out how to modify a few and maybe swap some out for lower point dinners. I've also got to stock up on some more veggies. I left the celery out yesterday and everyone munched on it. That is a good thing.

I joined a challenge on Weight Watchers. The challenge is to lose a pound a week until New Years. That would be awesome but is only going to happen through ACTION on my part. This week it will start. I will focus on Power Foods and staying within my 29 points. It will be hard. I can do hard things!!!

Square One

I'm feeling like I'm going nowhere with my weight. Probably just the week. I am taking some action. This week I'm going to stick with my 29 points. I'm not going to eat my activity points like I have been. 29 is my number. I'm also sticking with Power Foods. If it's not a power food, it's not going in my mouth. Most valuable change ...... I put the scale away. I know. I was weighing myself twice a day, sometimes more. Crazy. Ridiculous. What am I thinking? Activity wise, I'm okay. I know what I'm going to do.

Planning is also going to play a huge role. I am going to plan every meal, each day. Know the points before I eat. I track pretty good right now but I just keep tracking even when my points are gone. It's a lot like my check book. I'm getting on top of this. I'm going to hit my goal. Not in another year. In the next three months. I'm going to get there. Period.

Hobble Creek Half Photos

These are some photos my friend Tammy took at our half marathon. Looking at these, I really need to focus on where I am!




















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Crossing the Bridge

So here I sit. I had my weigh in today. Up 0.4 pounds. Minimal. Not to worried about it. Once my body starts clicking again it will be fine. Recovering from Red Rock is slow. I am old.

I have been having a mental battle all week. There is this fat person still inside. I'm sorry if that is offensive but it's true. This journey has been long. Fat me has been my companion for most of the way. For most of my life. I've got to get rid of the "fat me". I don't want her back. I want to push on. Continue the journey without her. In order to finish this journey I have to be on my own. New me pushing forward - taking charge.

I am sitting here in a size 12 jean. When have I ever been able to say that? Never. My face is different. My hands are different. My legs are different. For heck's sake my chest is different. When can I mentally let go? Push on and continue to live the life that I've worked so hard for.

As I ran Red Rock and rode in the van watching I people watched. So many people. All shapes and sizes. Some running for years. Some just starting. Some with a "born to run" body. Some with a "born to watch tv body". The entire time I feel like I associated with the latter. There was one girl in particular with a Utah Valley Marathon shirt on. One just like mine. Over a body that used to be just like mine. I know that's not my form any more. I know it. I just don't see it. When I look in the mirror, when I shower, when I'm changing. I know there is a mental bridge that I need to cross. How does that happen? How do I cross that bridge?

I ran this morning. It felt good. No pressure to do any hills (but I did some just because). I just ran a couple of miles and then went home. I'm even liking the dark a little more.

I am sore from Miss Jillian yesterday. I stretched good and felt better. Can't wait to do it again tomorrow.

Food. Yesterday I was ravenous. I was good but I was hungry. I think when I do any kind of strength training it's going to be like that. It's okay. I just need to have a plan and some veggies on hand and I'll be okay. It's worth it.

Jana - a family van for Red Rock would be AWESOME!!! I would love to run with you guy!s

I took the day off yesterday. Rest felt so good. This morning I got up and did Jillian's 30 day Shred. It was so much easier than the last time that I did it. It's hard to believe how far I've come. I never share it with anyone, usually it's just kept in my heart. That little bit of pride I have in myself and where I am today.

I think I'm going to run 3 days a week and the other 3 days, do a workout DVD. This way I can maintain my running and get some great strength and toning in. Love it!

Fifteen more pounds. I want it to just melt off and go away. What have I learned from this journey? Fat just doesn't melt away. It takes time. It takes work. I will take what I have learned and I will be patient. I will also not waste a single day. I will do everything it takes to get those last fifteen pounds off.

What is it going to take? Number one ---- no sugar. How bad do I want this? Bad enough that I won't let sugar stand in my way. Number two --- workout every day. Moving is the key. Number three --- planning. Plan my meals. Plan my snacks. I'm going to track. Track. Track.

This weekend was great. I want to build on that success. Even though I'm not training for anything, I've got to keep pushing. Keep running and improving my time and distance.

Have a great day!

What a fabulous weekend. I can't believe how fast the Red Rock Relay passed. I had a great time. Ran with fantastic friends and through beautiful country. I did the best I could. I wouldn't change a thing.

I want to describe every minute, every inch of ground that was covered. I'm not. I'll write about it in my journal and not bore you here.

I did have a lot of time to think and one constant thought kept coming back to me.

When will the fat person inside of me leave? When will my mind catch up to my body? I still hesitate when doing things. I still order race shirts too big. I still look in the mirror and see a big me. I know I've changed. I know it. I just have slips every now and then that take me back to old me. I know this makes no sense unless you've been there. If you've been there, how long did it take for "new me" to show up mentally?
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Good run today. I wish is was lighter in the morning. Daylight is slipping away so quickly. I've got to figure out how to like running in the dark. I'm just not a fan right now. Lots of people do it. I wonder why they like it. I need to remember that I love running -- does the daylight make a difference?

At my WW meeting on Saturday, Vicki challenged us to set a six week goal. Mine is to hit the 90 pound mark. This is going to take everything that I have. Great weeks eating, good positive mental attitude and great workouts.

I'll figure out some how to's for that goal and post later.

Fun little event in the weight loss journey. I bought some jeans last week. Size 12. Never in my life to I ever remember buying a size 12. Never. Maybe in elementary school but that's digging. Life is good!

I'm laying in bed - I've pretty much talked myself out of running. It is okay. I'm running tomorrow & I'll survive. Running has been hard this week. I tapered before my half. Took it easy after my half. I'm ramping back up in time to taper a little before Red Rock.
I'm so excited for Red Rock! I can't wait to run in a beautiful place with great friends. Next week can't get here fast enough.
I'm weighing in tomorrow. Yesterday just didn't work out. Happy Friday!


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Life is busy. I love it. The run this morning was good. I really don't like running up 1500 East. It's a LONG hill. It makes me strong.

I have come to a realization. I need to eat to lose. I need to eat my activity points. I know I've said it before but it's just so true and I'm seeing that. I'm also seeing results.

95 pounds --- here I come!

Wow - it has been a busy week. A bit heavenly. My kids are back in school. I love them. I do. It is so peaceful. Ahhhhh.

It's been an easy running week. I walked on Tuesday, ran 3 miles on Thursday and ran a 5K today. Today was my best 5K time - 30:57. The last mile was uphill or I would have had even better.

This week is a monumental week. I am in the 170s! I haven't been here for 20 years. I know, I say this frequently, but I have been in uncharted territory a lot lately. Eighty pounds is gone! I have fifteen more to go to hit my goal. I talked to my leader and told her I was aiming for October. She said why October. Take the pressure off, aim for January 2012 - Lifetime Member. I'm still shooting for 90 pounds gone by the first weekend in October. That's the weekend that my entire family is doing family pictures. I can see the light! It's there and it's bright!

Today was my Hobble Creek Half Marathon. It was awesome. Loved every minute! I wanted to finish at 2:30 - My unofficial time was 2:22. I felt strong at the end. I made it a goal not to have any regrets and to not leaved anything out there. I wanted to run my best. I think there were places I could have pushed harder but I'm pretty happy with today's run!

I ran today with a couple YW friends. It was an easy 3 mile day for me - a little on the slow side but that's okay!

Last night I drove the course for my half on Saturday. It is beautiful! I hope I can take it all in and enjoy every step. It's going to be cold at the start and probably dark. I hope it gets light fast and the bears don't get me!

Today is weigh in. I have a tiny negative attitude about it today. I just want it to all come off. Fast. I've been doing this over a year and a half and I still want it to come off fast. Funny. When will I learn. Next week should be a bigger weigh in. I just want to hit my 85 by September 8th - That's the goal. To run the Red Rock Relay with 85 pounds gone!

Off to do some strength and abs! Have a great Thursday!

I didn't run today. It's my taper week for my half. I'm going to run Saturday like I haven't before. I'm already trying to get a plan in my head. Thinking about past long runs. Thinking about when I felt the best. What mile I settled into my pace. What mile I can think about pushing it a little harder. I don't just want to run it. I want to do my best.

Thursday is packet pick up! Can't wait!

I am dripping in sweat and it feels GREAT! I was supposed to do 4 miles today, but my Garmin was dead. I tried a new route, took my watch and guessed on the mileage. I knew I was a little short and when I mapped it I was at 3.8 miles. Not to bad of a guess.

Trying to get to my 80 pound loss this week. I'm really struggling to eat all my points plus my activity points. I am full. I've really been eating the fruits and veggies this week. Yesterday I really focused on getting my water in. I KNOW I have to eat my points to lose. It's kind of frustrating. Today -- I will get everything in - dairy, oil, lean proteins.

Packet pickup is on Thursday - I'm getting excited to run this. I'm trying to be careful and not get sick, get my rest.

I love my new shoes. Have I mentioned them? I decided to get the Brooks Adrenaline, bought the regular width - didn't like them. Returned those and got the wide width. Then I got an email from my favorite place - Running Warehouse. They were having a huge sale and an extra 25% off - free shipping - free returns. My Brooks were $100 - I could get two pair of Asics GT 2160 for $120. I returned the Brooks, ordered the Asics and I am one happy little runner. I did get inserts for one pair. Ran in them, felt good. I ran today without the inserts and my stride was really off. I kept hitting my ankles. Today I think I will go get another pair of inserts and I'll be set.

It's the week of my half marathon. I don't feel the build up to this one like the one in June. I'm not sure what the difference is. I am excited to run it.

This mornings run was nice. It is cooler and a little darker in the mornings. Summer is slipping away. I only had a 3 mile run today, I'm tapering down for this weekend. Then it's back to regular training so I'm ready for Red Rock.

What made you make the decision to be active and lose weight? Ultimately there is a light bulb moment. There has to be. The moment when you decide to get up at the crack of dawn and workout. The moment that you decided you are more important than the brownie sitting on the table. How does that moment happen? I remember mine. I know that this time is different and I have made the decision to make it happen. How can I help someone who is struggling? Ultimately - it's up to them. They have to do for themselves.

Finally! I feel like I'm back. Today's run felt great. It was only 7.7 miles but it was the best run I've had in a few weeks. I don't regret starting the cleanse -- I learned a lot. Physically, not a lot of benefits. Mentally, HUGE! I realized that I am pretty in tune with my body. After a year and half, my body and I are pretty good friends.

One week from tomorrow is my next half marathon. Yeah! Two weeks after that is the Red Rock Relay. I am so excited for each of these!

This was the view of my half way point today.

Provo Canyon is one of my favorite places to run. It is so beautiful. The morning breeze is the best!

Weigh in was today. I really wanted to hit 80 pounds today. I was only down 0.2 pounds. Not quite there yet. If I had run today I would have been there but that is an artificial loss. Weight loss after running is simply dehydration. Next week I'll be there and I can't wait! Next is 85!

Today was a hard morning. I still have no energy and running is really a chore. Makes me very nervous for my half next week.

My friend ran with me today. It was awesome. I feel like I haven't seen her for months. She suggested that my iron might be low - especially since the drastic change in diet and I'm having my period.

I immediately decided that I am done with the cleanse. I will still stay away from sugar and the bad carbs. I am back to red meat and dairy.
I have learned a very hard lesson this week. I need to eat to lose. Weight Watchers is working for me. Eating my activity points is working especially when I'm training.
I probably won't have loss this week. It's okay - the lesson I learned is worth it!
Today I did something BIG! I cleaned out my closet! I got rid of my size 22, 20, & 18 clothes. It was liberating! It was refreshing. My closet is very empty.
Here's a picture that is awesome. I held these pants up and told my kids these were the pants I used to wear. They all said, "Mom - that's awesome!" Yeah!






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Oh my heck. Today was a long hard run. You'd think it was 13 miles. Um. No. Six miles. How am I going to do my half next Saturday? Being sick last week has thrown me off. Big time. I started my period (I know - TMI) but man, does it suck energy out of me.

I'm not sure about the cleanse. I track my points everyday. Each day I still have points left. I'm eating so many fruits and veggies and lean meats that I'm not getting all of my points eaten. Cooking with olive oil helps. If I could eat dairy on this I know I would eat all my points. Is my body tire because I'm just not getting all my calories in? I'm really going to focus on the protein side and get it in.

What a morning. I'm going to stretch - yes here I sit letting my muscles form the shape of this chair!

I'm going to hit 80 pounds this week! I'm stoked!

It's an awesome Monday! I feel so much better today than last Monday. Aren't our bodies amazing. I'm so glad mine has recovered.

Today's run was great. I can tell that I didn't run much last week. It makes me very nervous to think that my next half is next Saturday. gulp. I'm going to push it this week and get on it. I've done it before, I can do it again. I will. I'm running this half with a friend so it will be nice to start with someone!

I need to set some fitness goals. I haven't done it for a while. Who was it that started "something extra" each day? I think that's going to be my goal for the next month. I have one month until Red Rock. That is also my goal for my 85 pound loss mark.

For the next 30 days --- I commit to do the following:

1. Abs Daily.

2. Plank Daily.

3. Glute exercises - Monday, Wednesday, Friday

4. Push Ups Daily.

Good run this morning. Ran with my buddies which makes for a better conversation and pace. I really missed running with them. My stamina isn't back yet. I'm going to take tomorrow and Sunday off and hopefully I'll be back to normal on Monday. Crossing my fingers :)

Yesterday was an awesome day. I love my Thursday WW class. I've got to find a way to keep going when the school year begins. I was going to switch back to Saturdays. I still may but I sure like the ladies and the leader for Thursday. I still get to see Vicki when I weigh in - Who knows, maybe I'll go both days!

I'm in a good pattern. I was eating a lot of stuff that really wasn't getting me to where I want to be. Starting the cleanse was a great boost to get me back on track. I have loved it since I added fruit in. It was just what I needed. I could eat Power Foods all day!

Have a super Friday!!!

Wahoo!!!! Down 3.8 pounds! I'm at 79 pounds total! Next week --80 pounds and a new decade!


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Today was the day. I was going to run. I didn't care how I felt, I was going to run. I did it. I got up and ran. It felt okay. I wish my body felt as good as my legs. I'm supposed to do my last long run, 12 miles, tomorrow. I'm not sure if that's going to happen. I'm thinking maybe 5,6 or 7 miles. If I do that and a 4 mile run on Saturday maybe a 12 mile run on Monday maybe doable. Thinking, thinking. My half marathon is coming up fast -- yeah!!!

Today is weigh in day. I'm down and I can't wait to get on the scale today! I'll post details later! I'm getting closer to 85 pounds.

How's the cleanse going you ask? Well, being sick and having a change of eating plans is very, very interesting. I decided to add fruit early. I found myself not eating as many veggies. Eating more almonds than I should. Being sick all night Tuesday night. I added fruit yesterday. When your sick, celery just doesn't sound great. A banana sounded better. Overall, it's been okay. For my husband it's been awesome. He's having great results and sticking to it. Nice job!

Just a few Pictures

I was going through some pictures on the external hard drive and I came across some from 2009. I will post some recent pictures when I have the time. I can't believe how far I've come. My face is totally different. My legs are different. My arms, my neck, my chest.... I am different.

Sick! Who needs a summer cold?

I haven't felt good since last week but I ran through it. Yesterday & today it's hit me like a ton of bricks. I think I even have a fever- I would need my mom to come check:)
I have had a few people ask me about my Weight Watcher's story.
I'll just share it here - then it only gets told once.
I did WW for the first time in 2007. I did it with a friend which was super nice but not beneficial. I did it for about six months, lost about 35 pounds and quit. I really got to where I hated every minute.

This time has been different. I started in January 2010. My little girl was seven months old. We had just had family pictures. The holidays were wrapping up. I was done being fat. I didn't was my little girl growing up with the example of a fat, inactive mom. Sounds harsh, but it was black and white. It had to be done.

I joined Weight Watchers again. After a week I received a welcome letter from Vicki - my leader at my Saturday meetings. I also started my blog. I started following other blogs. I started exercising. I was on my way. I focused on not wasting a day. Not one day was going to pass that I didn't do everything in my power to make this happen. I haven't looked back. I can honestly say that I haven't wasted my year & a half. I am almost to my 80 pound mark. I have 15 pounds to go. I will get there.

I can't wait to start the next part of my journey.

I can't imagine a day without running. Talking about running. Dreaming about running. I can't wait to get faster & stronger. I can't wait for the day that someone in my family runs with me!

I am so grateful to be where I am. I know that I am where I am because of the influence of many friends, both around me and those from blogs who share the same struggles I have. Support is essential. My WW meetings kept me going. They are so valuable! I hate missing a meeting. I love the leaders and my friends there. One of my secret dreams is to work there. It will keep me in check. I can't wait to hit lifetime. It's unbelievable almost to have it so close! I don't want to curse myself so I'll stop talking about it and celebrate when it happens!

There you have it. My story. Written with a fever, watching Toy Story 3 with my little princess:) Could life get better?



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Oh my heck. Today was hard. Probably the hardest run I've done. I didn't want to run alone and I was scheduled to run 14 miles. I kept looking for routes. I really wanted to avoid running up 1500 East - my BIG hill on the way home. Boy was I stupid.

On FB I read that a running club was doing a run from Soldier Hollow down the canyon. Cool. I could get my 14 miles in easy. I got up around 5:45 to get ready - I really didn't want to get up. I really wanted to stay in bed. Running with people I don't know in a place I've never run is soooo out of my comfort zone. I did it though. I got up. I got dressed. I got myself to the mouth of Provo Canyon. I got in the carpool and headed up the canyon. What the HECK was I thinking.

This group was the Sojourners Running Club, Hawk is the owner of Runner's Corner. The group was him, his wife, 2 daughters, 4 other women and 5 other guys, oh and me. They were all talking about pace and the races they had won. Me, I was hoping there was a bathroom at the trailhead - there was - I was way out of my league. What the HECK was I thinking?

I was pretty much alone the entire run. It was beautiful. The dam is huge and the water was awesome to watch as I ran. The entire route is hilly. Rolling, climbing hills. Brian called me around my half way mark. If he could have come and picked me up, I would have let him. The problem was I was in the middle of nowhere. No motorized vehicles allowed. Only me and the trail. I took a couple walking breaks, ate some chews, drank some water - kept pushing. Mentally I just kept pushing. There was only one way out and I was standing on them. Towards the end, I turned the corner and I could see the dam. What an awesome site! I knew I could finish. I was still 3 miles out but I had my goal in site. It was sweet.

I was supposed to do 14 miles, I ended up with 9. Nine long hard miles that are worth 14 flat road miles any day. I did it. I can do hard things. I did it!

Just a little cleanse information. Yesterday I just felt weak and crappy all day. Knowing that I had a long run today, I ended the cleanse. I had a peanut butter & honey sandwich on whole wheat bread, a banana, an apple, and some cheese. I just needed my body to be ready for today. I am starting it again. I am going to follow the guidelines. I will have a short run on Monday and I'll see how I feel.

Have a great weekend! Go out and accomplish something! Get out of your box!

Met my girls for an easy 3 mile run today. My girls are my former Mia Maids who I love! It was a nice easy slow run. It felt good after yesterday. I dare say that I didn't stretch my quads after yesterday's workout. My quads and hamstrings are so tight today. I'm hoping this run helped -- I need loose legs for Saturday's 14 miler. I know - 14 miles. I'm really considering 10 or 12 but then what's the difference? After you've run for two and a half hours, what's another 15 minutes? I've got to find a good route. I really liked running down Provo Canyon but really didn't like running up 1500 East. It is about 1.5 miles up hill. It's a tough finish.

Weigh in day is today. I'm really enjoying Thursday weigh ins. I really miss my Saturday people though and I wonder how they're doing and if they are reaching their goals. It's fun to be on this journey with others.

Jana! How are you? The cleanse is going great. I'm missing my fruit but I'll have it back in a week and a half. Ten pounds from your goal is awesome. I've heard the last ten is hard. This cleanse lasts 8 weeks. It really isn't a cleanse but a "refocus". Friend me on Facebook and I'll send you the details. I'm liking it so far and it just isnt' that different from eating power foods. It is very motivating to stay on track. My little sister lost 35 pounds in her 8 week cleanse. I'm not hoping for 35 pounds but 15 would be awesome!

Have a great day!

Okay - went to my meeting. I'm even Steven for the week. No loss, no gain. Awesome. I sure enjoyed my camping trip this weekend! Glad it didn't kill me on the scale.

What's my next goal?

Speed work today. This isn't the funnest thing. Some people despise it. Me -- I don't mind it. I actually kind of ...... like it. I know it is helping me. I really don't enjoy the mile run down and the mile run uphill home. It's done. For this week.

I got a call to go play softball last night. It was so much fun. I haven't played for so long. I can tell that losing weight and running have helped me in all aspects. Running to first base wasn't a chore. Jogging in and out from the outfield wasn't a chore. I felt great. I did worry about getting hurt the entire time. I have my half and Red Rock coming up and they are really too important to me, so injuries are out!

Day 1 of my cleanse is done. I know that I need to go grocery shopping and get some move veggies. After going camping it is slim pickins'. I'm excited to see my results in two weeks and see if it makes a difference in my weight loss. Not wasting a day on anything!

I am potting training my little girl. I forgot how much I don't like this. The first day is done, two more days of pretty intense focus and we should be golden!

I have had the best weekend. Sadly, it involved no running. We went camping with some friends and had a ball. We stayed up late talking, got up early to chase kids, ate good food and just had a great time without the "real" world making it busy.

I haven't posted since my weigh in on Thursday. I hit my 75 pound mark! Yeah! Just a little happy dance. I really can't believe that I'm to this point. My next big marker -- my goal weight. Wow. I have less than 20 pounds - 164.4 is my goal weight. This makes me happy. It doesn't get me to a 100 pound loss at 159.4, which I really have my eyes set on. I will hit the 100 pound mark, it may not be my maintenance weight and that's okay. I'm so good with that!

We are officially registered for Red Rock Relay - Zion. I got an text when I got back with the confirmation. Seven weeks for that and four weeks until my next half. Four weeks - it's coming up quick.

My IT band at my knee is really bugging me. I need to get in and get it taken care of. I haven't been doing my stretches and I know that is a big part of it. Starting this week I will be doing my stretches morning, noon and night.

Today I started an 8 week cleanse. It isn't anything drastic. It pretty much sticks to lean proteins, veggies, fruits, and whole grains. Sounds familiar? Yes, it is all the things that Weight Watchers stresses. It eliminates processed items, red meat, sugar and artificial sweeteners. I will still be tracking my points and following portion control. I am just cleaning out my body and I can't wait to see some good results. I know that sugar is my weakness and I'm hoping that this will be a good push to my goal weight.

Have a great day! Hug your kids and enjoy summer!

I had plans of an 8 mile run today. I had it mapped out. Last night I was ready to go. This morning I really didn't want to get out of bed. I didn't want to run. It was weird. I love to run. My friends and I did 6 miles instead of 8. It's okay. It felt good to do it. My knee/IT band has been bothering me the past week. I think the increase in mileage does it. I just need to learn how to overcome it.

Weigh in day today - I'll let you know how I did. I'm hoping to hit the 75 pound mark today! Yeah! I am excited about that - It was taken a long time to get here. Twenty-five more and I'll be at goal. Wow. I can't wait.

It is so hot and humid today. I'm so glad it isn't like this everyday. Wow. Good 5 mile run today. Ran with my buddies. It's so nice to run with someone. I move so much faster. Today I noticed that my breathing was better at the faster pace - yeah. Small victory. Can I do this for 13.1 miles. No, but I can have that pace for 3 miles. It's a start.

I'm getting a little excited for Red Rock. I would like to know what the legs are like so that I can feel like I'm ready a little.

I didn't get my clothes cleaned out yesterday - maybe today. I'm ready for a do-nothing-day. It's not today but it is coming. We're going camping this weekend. I can't wait. I'm packing my running shoes just in case I get a chance to run :)

Nice run today. I was a little on the slow side but it felt good. The last mile felt the best, maybe I was just warming up :)

It is almost 8:00 AM - I am very lazy with getting moving around my house this summer. It feels great and I hate for school to start again. It's nice not to be rushed.

So I'm looking at my closet and only a handful of clothes actually fit. Yes, it is an awesome thing. I love it. I know I need to clean everything out and get rid of what doesn't fit. This is almost everything.

Part of me says, "Put it away. You never know when you'll need it."

The new part of me is whispering,"You'll never need it -- get rid of it. You're never going back."

It is very hard to listen to the new me. It's very hard to overcome 30+ years of being overweight. I love where I am - I love it - I feel great -

How do I guarantee myself that I will never lose my way? That I can stay on this journey for decades to come.

I just calculated my BMI (just because I can) and I'm at 28.4 - OVERWEIGHT. Yeah! Can't wait to be under 25!

Awesome run today! Great friends. Great weather. Felt good. IT band is a little tight and my knee bothered me. I came home and iced and stretched and feel great. Off to the shower and ready to get stuff done! Have a great Saturday!

Just a note -- I found out why I had to find a bathroom so many times at the end of my half. It's actually quite funny and I had a good laugh this morning when I figured it out. Running this morning with my friends, I pulled out the GU chomps about half way through. They were asking me serving size and I was telling them what I thought. Then B read the package..... each package has two servings! During my half I ate two full packages. Hello digestive system -- duh me.

I'm missing my Nike app a little. Why? Just me. I really like to look at my total miles rack up, now it's like starting over. I was over 600 miles, now I'm back to 6 miles. A plus -- accuracy. I feel like my Garmin is so much more accurate. I really like looking down and seeing my current pace, it's really helped me pick it up when I need to.

Weigh in day today. I could be up a little but it's totally expected. I traveled and it was the week before Auntie Flo visited (TMI). That isn't a great combination but I ran while I was gone and I didn't eat the worst that I could. Positive spin. Positive spin.

It looks like a go for the Red Rock Relay! Yeah. I'm so excited to find out my leg and really start going. I have my second half marathon two weeks before Red Rock so I should be right where I need to be.

How does stress affect your weight? Does it? I feel like I don't lose when I'm stressed. I'm sure there are other factors. I know there are ways around stress. This is where positive thinking come in to play. I've got to get some quotes memorized or at least printed to when I'm feeling stressed I can turn to them. Maybe the answer is some scripture study. Hello.... why is the answer always so black and white and it takes me longer to figure this out.

Have a great day!

I may have the best husband around. Yesterday he showed up in the middle of the day with my belated birthday gift -- a Garmin Forerunner 305. It's awesome. I am so excited to have this. I used it this morning and I can't wait to play with it and see what its capabilities are.

This journey that I'm on, it is never ending. It is one that I'm going to continue on until I'm old and gray and can not long do it. I'm going to run this year, next year, and the years to come. I watch my little girl run and play. She is active. She is happy. I watch my six year old son who is tired after a short walk and it makes me sad that his example when he was younger was an over weight, out of shape mom. He and I are working on this, he does a work out video with me a few times a week. He plays tag at night with the neighbors. He plays baseball. Slowly, this is turning into a journey for my entire family. It's a good thing.

Oh! Another exciting thing. I went shopping with some friends yesterday. I now a very comfortable size ......... 14! IT'S AWESOME! I even found some cute capris in the junior section - size 13 -- a little tight but so cute. I love the direction life is going. I am GRATEFUL!