My Boast Post

Do you remember when Brokeback Mountain came out?  Yeah, I didn't really either and had to look up the date.  It was WAY back in 2005.  I ask because that is the last time I can remember really feeling the way I did this morning.  This whole week actually.  My then boyfriend (now hubby) and I had a date night planned to go see the movie with a couple that we are great friends with and I had bought this pair of jeans from NY&Co (I think they were still Lerner New York then-ha) and I loved them.  I loved them partially because of the super small number in the waistband, and partially because of how good I felt in them.  I felt skinny and sexy and like I was wowing my fella.  I wish I had those jeans still today because I feel like I could maybe get them back on and razzle dazzle again.

Is this too much?  I mean, I feel like when you have these moments where you feel this good about how things are going you should be able to tout off a bit, right?  If you are offended, I'm sorry...but I am feeling pretty good and want to shout it from the rooftops. 

Even on my wedding day, when I had been diligent about my eating and my workouts, and was VERY happy with how I looked in my nice mermaid fit dress, I don't think I felt as happy about how I am looking as I do today.  What makes it so funny is that the number on the scale is higher today then it was on my wedding day, but that has kind of started to lose it's importance.  BREAKTHROUGH, am I right?!?!?!

the happy couple SO many years ago :)

Maybe it's the "gift of age", maybe I really am getting wiser as I get older....I mean I know I am getting grayer hahaha.  Maybe its reaching a point and a maturity where you have a greater acceptance of yourself and your accomplishments, I'm not sure, but whatever it is, I don't want to lose it.  How I am feeling now, is what I want my daughters to see and feel for themselves! 

Is this what a turning point feels like?  I hope so, because this is the "a-ha" moment I have needed, this is the "sign" that what I am doing for myself is what I SHOULD be doing.  I have found myself making sure I make time for me.  I have made my workouts a priority.  I have come to a "happy place" with my eating habits and have grown accustomed to the changes we have made, I even find myself pampering myself a little more.  Here's to keeping the momentum going!

Happy Friday!!

Here Comes the Sun

If you have been following me on my facebook page, then you know that July 2015 marks the completion of a goal that I have had for what seems like forever!  I FINALLY ran my first 5K! I mean it...I ran it.  The entire thing.  I am pretty proud of myself.  Now I know that many people (and I mean MANY people) have encouraged me, but can I say that the following words are not as encouraging as you may think...
   
"It's only 3 miles."

Yes, I know, I am well aware that the race I signed up for is only 3 miles, well 3.1 to be exact...but when someone hasn't trained, or is doubting themselves and feeling daunted already..hearing "It's ONLY 3 miles" does not help.  Thank you though to all those people who continuously told me that, I know that you were trying to be helpful...but dang.

So, I did the Smiles for Sophie Forever run with a group of friends.  SFSF is a foundation that is raising awareness for pediatric brain cancer.  Brain Cancer is a cause near and dear to our family as this past February we lost a dear friend, far too soon, to brain cancer.  A wonderful ray of light in this world that was extinguished far too soon.

This is a picture from our wedding of our dear friends Brandon and Tonya.  Look at that smile.  So young and full of life and hope for the future.  This picture is from seven years ago.  Before Tonya was first diagnosed.  My hubby and I were there when this sweet couple first started dating.  We celebrated their wedding day with them.

We were rocked to our cores when she was first diagnosed.  We celebrated her recovery and remission.  We celebrated the birth of their daughter just a year after our little mini me joined this world.

We hoped as she relapsed that God would find a way.  We feared and felt helpless as her condition worsened.  And we mourned with a dear friend, a "framily member" over the loss of his wife and mother to their sweet daughter.

Brandon and Tonya did, and he still continues to do, so much to raise awareness.  They did a lot with the organization Voices Against Brain Cancer, and due to her love of the music and meaning, they were always team Here Comes the Sun.

So when the facebook message came through asking if we would want to do this run with B, there was no hesitation.  I knew that I had to do it this time.  No excuses.  So with a few short weeks to train, I arrived the morning of July 4th ready to run.

I should pause here too and say that for some reason in my head I assumed that a race like this was going to be filled with hard core runners ready to go...I was shocked by how many people walked the race...or portions of it.  I'm not sure exactly why I was shocked, but it made me feel even better (for my own personal goals) that I ran the entire race.

The sun was shining on race day.  We were there, together, ready to go.  We were sporting our pinterest-inspired shirts, our nod to Here Comes the Sun, and as the race started I felt this  burst of energy.  I mean, come on, I was excited...I was finally doing this.  We started in the parking lot and ran down this LONG driveway into a development and as I rounded the first turn and felt the sun hit my face, my eyes filled with tears.  I could fee Tonya smiling down on us.  I knew that is what it was, she was smiling down on us and happy to see us all together, inspired by our love of her.  I remember thinking, in a perfect world she would be here with us...then it dawned on me...she already was.

Parenthood

Hi, my name is Shannon and I have an addiction to the TV show Parenthood on NBC.  I have recently found this  amazing piece on Netflix, and cannot seem to stop  watching it.  I am eagerly awaiting the season premier this year even more then my birthday.  Well, truth be told it's ON my birthday, so it's like NBC's little gift to me.  There.  I  said it.  I openly admit my addiction.

I have found myself emotionally attached  to  these characters, and drawing on their experiences and how things parallel life.  It's such a good show.  It's true to life.  It's made me stop  and really appreciate little things with my family that I may have otherwise not even noticed.  I have actually felt a wave of  calm    wash over me  after watching an episode.  It's like, see, even TV families have a lot of crap to deal with, its not all Norman Rockwell.

One of the things I  find after watching it though is how aware I am of time passing.  My oldest turned 13 yesterday.  She is officially a teenager.  I can't believe  it.  My youngest,  my baby,  my mini me...she started kindergarten last week.  Where has the time gone?  Where is it going? Why do my babies have to  keep getting older and more independent?   I know that is what is best for them,  I really do...but they are my babies.

There was a storyline that I just finished in the show (I won't tell you...no need  for a spoiler alert for  those who intend   to watch)...but it made me really start to think about the things that I want my girls to know  and remember and think and feel and believe.  So here it goes.

My sweet Bayba..

You are  now a teenager.  I can't believe it.  When did this happen?  You were just me sweet little girl yesterday  pressing her  face against the window at daycare crying, begging me not to  leave you there (which made me constantly  late for work-because I couldn't just leave you there).  You were the first person to make me realize just how full of love my heart could really be.  You were my sleep  hating baby at night that would gently lay on my chest and hold my finger as you napped during the day.  You were the first amazing child  in my life to utter  the word  Momma, and make me realize just how special that word really is.  You made me look at my relationship with Mimi (my mom)  in a whole new light.  You make me laugh, you make me cry, you fill me with fear and also hope.  You have grown into a beautiful young woman.  Quiet and reserved,  smart, witty,  funny with your Dad's crazy sense of humor.  You know what is important to you and you protect it fiercely.  You try to be SO independent, but still come and just  hug me or rest  your head on my shoulder so I know you still need  me,   and guess what...I need  you too.   You will always be my first baby.  The first one to fill my heart and make me realize how precious life is and can be,  I have so  many hopes and dreams for you.  You doubt yourself, we  all do,  but you are stronger  than you know and can do anything.  I know all parents tell their children that, but you my sweet girl really can and will.  I am so  proud of the person you are becoming, it's an honor to be your mom.

Oh my sweet, sweet mini me,

I don't even know where  to begin with you.  You are  my soul, my heart.  You and I connect in a way no one else  ever will or will ever truly understand.  You made  me realize that love is bigger and stronger  than anything in this  world.  You spoke  to me even when you were still rolling around and kicking in my belly.  You are me.  I  look into  your big beautiful eyes and see such love reflecting back at me.  You may look like  your  Dadoo, but you my dear, are  all Momma.  You are my perfect angel.  The dream that I wasn't sure would ever come true.  You have taught me so much about myself, and have made me better for it.  You are my sassy, smart, creative, outgoing,  vivacious girl that can't be stopped.  You are as determined  and stubborn as me, you are adamant (Daddy's favorite word to describe Mommy), you know what you want and go after it.  Don't ever lose that!  In a world that  is  so  scary and out of control, you are  my center.  You remind me of what it is all  really about.  Kindergarten.  WOW!   I am still in disbelief that  it is already that time.  You have handled it  all with grace and style, as  I knew  you would.  You are  just starting on this adventure as a "big girl" and I could not be more proud of you.  You will move mountains.  Follow your heart and your dreams always.  I can not wait to see what life has in store for you, whatever it is I just know you will take it all in and make things better, brighter.  You are  a shining star in a dark sky. 

You are sisters.  You are always going to be sisters and connected to  each other.  Support one another, love one another,  celebrate each other, fight, laugh, love, scream, live for each  other.  You are so similar and yet so  different.  Thank  you for  allowing me to  be your mom.  I am honored and blessed by your greatness, and love you more then the moon, and the sun, and alllllllllllll  the stars  in the sky infinity amen.

Live Laugh Love

I feel amazing today!  I mean, seriously, AH-MAY-ZING!!   I have mentioned before how the hubs and I started up with The Biggest Loser workouts.  They are great!  There is something about watching actual people (not trainers and the elite super fit) doing the same workouts as you and seeing them struggle along with you that inspires you to try harder.  When I do something like P90X or Insanity, as awesome as the workouts are, I always feel inferior to the peeps in the videos.  I know I shouldn't but when you are struggling to get through...it's hard to see them do it with ease.  You know what I'm saying. 

Anyways, last night we decided to try The Biggest Loser Cardio Max workout, and I have to admit, I said I hated it.  My arms and legs were feeling like jell-o about halfway through, I had to stop for water breaks, I was feeling like a bum.  It was great!  By the end though, I felt good.  Was I sore?  Yes.  Was I tired?  Yes.  Was I sweaty nasty mess?  Heck yeah!  But my heart was pumping and I KNEW I had gotten in a great workout.  Afterwards I drained  a glass of water, took a shower, read and tucked in my mini and by the time that was all done and I snuggled up on the couch with the hubs for our nightly Netflix fix of Breaking Bad (my newest obsession) I was so sore I didn't know how I was going to make it to work today.

Fast forward to this morning.  I.  FEEL.  GREAT!  I can't believe it.  Sore?  Yes, but also so energized and strong.  I feel ALIVE!  There have been lots of pages that I follow through bloglovin and Facebook talking about a word for the year...and that is mine.  Without a doubt!  ALIVE!  I am going to live, laugh and love my way through 2014.  I am going to try and carry that positive note with me everywhere.  No doubting, no excuses.  I even agreed to my first 5K (something I've been wanting to don for a long time).  ALIVE!!!

What is your word?

Resolutions

As 2013 comes to a close, I am smiling.  We have had so many wonderful adventures this year as a family, and looking back through old posts makes me happy.  I am most happy about our family decision to get healthier in 2014!  Even my little mini is moving more and more.  I am excited that part of the reason I started this blog was to hold myself accountable and try to make healthier decision for myself and my family...and now my family is making choices that are inspiring me.

As we near the end of another year, I watch as my 4 year old does her workout. because as she says "we need to exercise everyday."  Is there any better proof of success then that?!?! In the past few days she has been actively playing games on the Wii fit and today she did her yoga DVD.  So proud of her.

My big girl, after being off from soccer and riding for a week the other day went upstairs and did my Belly, Butt and Thighs Boot camp DVD, just to get in some sort of workout.  The went up and down the sledding hill yesterday, and today is back at her riding.  Awesome!

last night my motivator, my hubby...opted to pass on our workout.  Did I let that stop me?  Nope.  I went upstairs and busted out one of my Ellen Barret DVD's and started working up a sweat.  before I new it, the hubs was changing into his workout gear and did his own workout.

All in all 2013 was a good year, and there is so much to look forward to in 2014.  As we finalize our "resolution" lists I urge you to challenge yourself everyday!  when you do and succeed...there is just no greater feeling!!

Heres to a happy, healthy 2014!!

Warm, toasty and inspired





mini me modeling her new scarf made by momma

I'm not sure why the cool weather inspires me so much, but it just does.  Once the weather starts to cool off, I feel the need to ramp up my arts and crafts time.  Luckily for me, this year it hit earlier then most so when I felt the urge to bust out my knifty knitter and its only mid-October rather than late November it means...I may have started early enough to finish stuff the kiddos want AND do some holiday gifts as well.  I have been wanting to attempt an afghan for my mom for the past few years and think maybe this will be the year I can actually do it??!?!

 





I know the knitting ideas crop up due to the temps, but fall is just inspiring all around to me.  I start doing more painting projects, I really get a lot more stock made for our little home business, and my workout schedule seems to get going in overdrive.  The hubs brought home some adorable wooden pumpkins made from fence posts for the girls to paint...can't wait to get those done to show you all.  I have my new silhouette cameo which I have finally taken time to sit down and figure out so there are LOTS of signs to be made this weekend and over the next few weeks. 

I am proud to say that adding more walking back in this week has paid off...a full pound less on the scale this morning!  Woot woot...you can't see it, but I'm doing my happy dance.  All the colors and beauty of fall inspire me.  I know I should feel more like this in the spring, when everything is in bloom and bathing suit season is literally around the corner...but I am generally in better shape in the cooler months under my layers of warm and comfy clothes then I am all year.  The beauty of autumn is my catalyst for greatness I suppose.  I'm not going to question it, just embrace it.

another pic of the scarf with the new coat for winter

 

What are you inspired to change with the changing of the seasons?



Prove your mettle (medal)

Why, what is that picture you ask?  Is that a gold (albeit plastic) medal AND an amazon gift card?!?  You may remember way back in July (ha ha)  I posted about a step challenge at work.  So, I have faithfully been wearing my free pedometer everyday.  I wear it to walk the dog, to go to work, even on vacation (which is how I credit my win).  I have been so faithful to it that I even had it clipped on my swimsuit at the beach and almost wore it into the water (I know, I know...vacation post coming this week). 

So I am proud to day that from July 16-August 8 I tallied up 379,863 steps.  Holy smokes!  That's is an average of 15,828 a day.  CRAZY!  I have to admit though with the exception of the days we walked on vacation (or as my husband puts it" Mom put us on her pedometer death marches") those steps are my day to day moving.  No extra efforts to add on.  So what does that mean?

Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm!

It means that I need to challenge myself more.  Hooray to me for meeting (and exceeding) the recommended 10K a day right?  Right!  But to continue to challenge myself, I am still wearing the pedometer.  I am going to aim at trying for 18K a day.  That way its' not to much more right now...baby steps.  Once I hit 18K consistently I can aim for 20K.  Hopefully this coupled with my rethinking my eating and my accountability to you all here, and to MFP I should start seeing the results I am hoping for sooner rather then later.

What are some activities you do to challenge yourself?  And what are your food vices that you want to cut?  (That is for a later post)...

Healthy again...finally

my awesome gift from my Valentine

The past two weeks in my house have been a test in perseverance.  we started with the hubs being sick (flu like sick for what felt like forever).  Then the baby bear and I had respiratory and congestion ick...then just when I thought we were clear...baby bear pukes and the dog is sick all over the family room floor.

Needless to say, waking up this morning to no one coughing, sniffling, puking, aching, complaining or anything feels lie it is nothing short of a miracle.  Thank you Lord for finally getting us on the road to health again (fingers crossed).

Despite all the disgusting germs, we did manage to have a nice Valentine's Day.  See my gift above...my hubby rocks!  I had sent him a pic of this (from pinterest of course) because I wanted to make it as a decoration for valentine's day and he didn't bring me home the wood so i thought it was something to wait for until next year.  Little did I know that he was going to surprise me and make it himself for me.  It is going to look AWESOME above our bed.  I am so excited to hang it up. 

It was a good year for homemade gifts.  I made him something (also pinterest inspired) that marked off all the important dates in our life together.  First kiss, engagement, wedding, our girls birthdays...he has it proudly on display right now in our dining  room...I think it will get moved upstairs though to our room.  Our first Valentine's Day together he made me a finger painted picture of two hearts interlocking (I know the sweetness factor is off the charts here) and I have kept it on my nightstand ever since.  I am thinking it may be time to hang that and add the new gift I made him to next to it on the wall.

With my being down in the dumps with the ick, I didn't get his WW sign up done.  I had gotten a bunch of books from the library already for us to look over and he has been checking them out.  Without me realizing it...he went ahead and started his own thing.  He has started cutting back his portions and making some better choices and is already down 7 pounds.  He's happy with the start, and I am SO happy for him.  He said this morning, 7 down...53 to go.  It's a big undertaking but he is inspired right now.  he is seeing results from changing his eating habits and hasn't even started adding workouts in yet.

Me on the other hand...yikes!  having a respiratory ick isn't good when working out.  My coughing fits weren't even helpful to my abs as they went deeper then that.  I have soreness still in that "poochie" area that seems to never be affected by sit ups.  With no workouts and having felt the need for comfort type foods I am back up a whopping 3 pounds.  Doesn't seem like a HUGE number, but at 5'2" every pound is noticeable.  I am finally feeling like I could make it through a workout though without going into respiratory distress so i have a renewed vigor towards working out.

So, healthy again brings my weight loss goal back up to: 16 pounds.  I would LOVE to lose 16 pounds.  The hubs would prefer me to only lose 8-10...but I would like to cut 16.  Time to get serious.  It's on like donkey kong.

Keep Going and a little Friend Making Monday



 



I was at my daughters soccer game yesterday and had the nicest most satisfying compliment ever!  One of my dear friends came in, took a look at me and said "Damn girl, you are looking skinny."    Now, truth be told, the numbers on the scale have not really changed all that much but I do feel that I am making a dent (a very small one, but still a dent).  What was so great about her words were that it made me feel like the small little changes I thought I was starting to see in the mirror (a little toning here, and little tighten there) aren't just wishful figments of my imagination.  It also made me feel good about not letting the scale get me down. This is a topic that my hubby and I go back and forth on CONSTANTLY when we are working out.  I have been doing a lot of muscle conditioning classes lately.  They are great (I'm actually doing one today).  A little cardio, a little strength training...the benefits are amazing.  Did you know that exercising (including the ever important strength/weight training) can help prevent osteoporosis?!?!

 

So the hubs has done all sorts of crazy intense workouts (P90X, Insanity), I actually really like the P90X workout, but anywho...he does these workouts and doesn't see his weight drop and he gets SO frustrated.  I understand...its maddening right?!?!  But I see the difference in his overall appearance.  I see the toning, and I can feel when I hug him how much more overlap there is with my arms.  So to have someone else validate what I was hoping was an accurate look in the mirror...to notice, say something and for me to BELIVE it is HUGE!!  Luckily I'm not feeling HUGE right now :)

 

And now...a little Friend Making Monday!



 

 

Now it's that time...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!

Getting To Know Each Other

1. What is your favorite color? I stay close to black and dark gray mostly, but do love red and purple.

2. Share one or more of your talents.  I am craftier then even I give myself credit for.  I am currently working on setting up my Etsy site....so stay tuned for details!

3. If you were spending the day getting to know someone new, where would you want to go?  Good question, probably a coffee shop, coffee relaxes me and makes me happy...but not Starbucks.  I have issues with Starbucks, the coffee always tastes burnt to me. 

4. What is your favorite meal? My hubby makes so many great things, but I'd have to say his bruschetta.  I LOVE IT!!!

5.  Do you prefer to text or talk?  Depends on the person.

6. Share something about yourself that might surprise someone that you're getting to know.  I have been on an episode of Unsolved Mysteries (and no, I did not get to meet Robert Stack).

7. Do you color your hair? When I have time and energy....if you saw me right now you'd know I was lacking in both as my silver "sparkles" are showing through. :)

8. Do you wear glasses or contacts?  Both, of course not at the same time...that would be overkill :)

9. What is your favorite breakfast food?  I have oatmeal most days during the week because I can make it quickly at work, but I love eggs!!!

10. Would your friends say that you're sarcastic?  Without a doubt, yes!

11. Do you prefer salty or sweet?  I am a salty girl (this seems to crossover to my personality as well most of the time).

12. What is the first thing you notice about the opposite sex?  The first thing I notice about ANYONE is their teeth.  I wore braces and appreciate all the time and money that people put into a nice smile (I am also spending that $$ right now on my oldest).  As for the opposite sex...after teeth, eyes...most definitely.  My hubby has the most gorgeous caramel mocha eyes. <swoon>

13. What is the last movie you watched?  Tinkerbell and the Lost Treasure, we watched it (again) yesterday.

14.  Are you religious?  I believe in God and have my own sense of faith, but don't feel that I can be boxed into one sect, nor do I think we should be.

15. Are you a neat freak, a slob, or somewhere in between? I used to be a complete freak...like Monica styled from Friends about cleaning...now its more clean as we go and power clean when company is coming.  The kids make it hard sometimes.

16. Share something from your bucket list that you hope to do someday.  I really want to go to Europe.

17. Are you a risk taker, or do you prefer to play it safe?  Hmmmm I'd like to think that I'm a risk taker, but am in reality more close to the cuff.  I would do ANYTHING for family regardless of the risk if they were in need...but that's a different story. 

18. Have you ever worn braces?  Yes.  Two years, 1 month and 17 days...not that I was counting.

19. Would you rather spend an evening at a theater or at a club?  Hard one...I used to work in theatre, and the hubs still does....so at times it can be overload.

20. If you could have three wishes, what would one of them be?  Not sure I could narrow it down...too many things I want for my kiddos and family.

 Now it's your turn to answer this week's questions.  Don't forget to come back and link up in the comments!  Happy Monday!

At the Starting Line

Okay, so in the past I have mentioned the fabulous fancy gym (Jump Start).  It's glorious with its awesome classes, state of the art machines, juice bar...alas, it is a BIG financial commitment and when I have two really nice (albeit not QUITE as fancy) gyms at my disposal for free...it's not an expense I can allow myself to indulge in.  The nice thing about the fancy gym is they generally offer 1-2 free classes every month which as an employee of the university I get to participate in...and now the BIG bonus!  Since I got my boss on the workout bandwagon last year she has joined the fancy gym (the life of the rich and childless), and for part of my Christmas present this year she got me a 1 month long membership at the fancy gym!!  HOW AWESOME IS MY BOSS?!?!?!

Now, it has been a while since I have done a proper class (hence my pic above).  It's a nice reminder that I will feel the burn, I will hurt in the very best way possible.  If I go into it remembering this and anticipating it....it will be welcomed instead of used as a reason to not go back.  Only downfall to this fab gift?  Yes, I know, it may be hard to believe but there is a downfall...the gym is where I work.  Ok, so?  Well, I drive a half an our each way across town.  I have to leave work at a certain time every day in order to pick up my kids on time from school, so in order to make up the lost time we are going to the gym...I need to start my day an hour earlier.  Every day.  For the next 4 weeks.  I have to be up and on the road by 530am.  That will stink because I will be falling asleep SO early at night and missing out on time with the hubby...but its' just a few weeks right?  And it's to jump start my new workouts so that I have many more YEARS with my hubby and the girls right?  Right!

Okay, so now the big class list.  Can you feel the excitement?  We have decide to try the following classes:

Muscle Conditioning (A resistance training workout using weights, elastic bands, exercise balls and tubing to improve muscular strength and endurance for the entire body)  I will be doing 3 variations on this class a week.

Cycle 45 (A 45 minute cardiovascular workout mixed with  rhythmic and cycle specific drills on a stationary bike)

Zumba (Latin rhythm workout featuring aerobic/fitness interval training with a combination of fast and slow rhythms to tone and sculpt the body)

One on of the muscle conditioning days the class is an express workout and is only 30 minutes, so I will be filling the other 30 minutes with either treadmill or elliptical time. 

I'm pretty psyched.  I have done the spinning class before and found it to be challenging and painful (my bottom was sore for DAYS after from the super uncomfortable seats).

What are some of your workout class favorites?

And now.....for a little Friend Making Monday!

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!

Simple Questions

1. Outside my window I see...right now...nothing.  I have no window at work. :)

2. My kitchen counters are...reddish marbled generic counter tops (they are the next replacement in the kitchen.  Changing over to black marble)

3. Yesterday I drank...coffee and cherry coke zero

4. My cell phone is...sitting in front of me distracting me.  I have an audio book that I am almost at the end of and just want to listen, but am at work.  No book, so just blog!

5. My computer is...a rather lightweight desktop system with 2 monitors.

6. My favorite reality show is...Chopped (does that count), Amish Mafia, Storage Wars, Duck Dynasty

7. My workouts are...taking the front seat again starting tomorrow

8. The last book I read is...actually read???  Can't even remember, I listen to a TON of books.  Currently listening to TripTych by Karin Slaughter

9. My week will be....busy...lots to do.  Big kid's Christmas break is finally over as of today so all the fun activities jump start back in.

10.  So far 2013 has been...good.  I look forward to what the year has in store.

 

Now it's your turn to answer this week's questions.  Don't forget to come back and link up in the comments!  Happy Monday, friends!

Happy Anniversary!

Happy Anniversary my dear readers!  Today we celebrate a year together on this strange and sometimes crazy journey!  I share today with you as it is because of you that I continue to come back and challenge myself.  It is because of you that I refuse to give up.  It is because of you (and the fam) that I am grateful for all that I have accomplished over the past year.

I have been thinking about what to write in today's blog for sometime.  What are the things that are most important?  What goals did I hit in the past year?  What goals did I miss?  Then I re-read that very first blog post, Bring it on 2012!, and it occurred to me, that was never the REAL point to this blog.  I said it myself, " I will measure them in terms of good and better...failure is not an option.  I am a work in progress."  In my heart, I truly believe that 2012 was not just good, it was GREAT! 

In my first year of blogging I have been lucky enough to have some of you not just read a post or two, but to look forward enough to my crazy ramblings that you even follow this blog.  AWESOME! I have found some other great blogs to follow myself and draw inspiration from, and had the opportunity to guest blog for a dear old friend on No Thanks to Cake.    I have kept with my healthy choices (for the most part).  There are ups and downs in every situation, but the ups are certainly more prevalent then the downs for me...even overcoming the slump from surgery that could have been my undoing.  A few years ago, it would have been.  Three weeks off my feet would have been the end of an motivation I had built up.  But I can honestly say that I made promises to you and to myself, and I had no intention of letting either of us down.

This blog is something that was just for me, then as I became more confident it started to become more.  I started to want people to read it.  I sent my link to people to make sure they did read it.  I hoped they would.  I started to hope they would share it.  I open my blog and get such a kick out of seeing the "followers" number slowly climb. 

With this in mind, my goal for 2013 is to continue building on what I have started.  To continue to focus on my health and the health of my family; to continue to make fitness a priority for all of us, and to continue to build confidence in this blog.  I have some ideas cooking up...and hope that you do too. 

What are some things you'd like to see from Waits and Measure(ment)s this year?  what are some challenges you'd like to make to me?  Let's not WAIT to see how far we can go! 

Ho Ho Hopeful

This is the reason I have hope!  In the wake of so much tragedy, this little bear lifts me up!  We had the pre-school holiday party last night, and despite telling us (many time) that she was not interested in talking to Santa...baby bear made her way up to the line and snuggled right up on his lap.  She told him what she wanted for Christmas (lots of pretty jewels...can we say princess??), and he asked her if she'd been a good girl.  This got me thinking today at my office Christmas party.

Have I been a good girl this year?  Overall, I'd have to say yes.  I started the year strong...lots of goals and a great workout routine.  I got side tracked by my surgery some, but got myself back on the saddle.  I have even been good (so far) with holiday treats.  Trying my best to not overindulge.  I've even opted to eat nuts from the snack bag that was left by a colleague that had mints and chocolates.  Protein people!  I opted for protein over sugar!  Proud moment.

So far, this holiday is starting of strong.  I mean seriously, look at my bay bear with Santa.  No tears.  My heart is happy and full today.

Where's My Cape?

So, how many of you want to conquer everything but just dont' have the hours in the day or the stamina to do it all?  I am constantly jealous of my BFF who is a stay at home mom.  Her house is always clean, her scrapbooks are all caught up, she works out when she wants to...I WANT THAT!  But, my situation is not the same as hers...I work full time and my children are in more activities then hers and life is just different for the two of us.  I dont' begrudge her anything, I just wish I had a cape some days and the superhero ability to do it all.

This comes on the heels of a weekend in which , yes I indulged a bit, but not in excess as far as I thought...yet the scale seemed to think otherwise.  I was SHOCKED this morning when I got on the scale...shocked I say.  My hubs always tells me that I have to move the scale around and check a few times and take the "average" because our calibration is sometimes sub-par...but this was not just a calibration issue.  This was a full on assault of the numbers.  I mean, wow.  WTH! 

I have been feeling "doughy" lately, as that is the only word that seems suitable.  But I had a great week at the gym...well, two weeks ago.  I know I need to be better, and should have been building oin that momentum and moving onward and upward last week, but schedules and need for sleep got the better of me.  I even was at a point where I was craving comfort style food and embraced that in my cooking last week (although, I am SUPER proud of my version of beef stroganoff that I made).

So, this morning when I saw those numbers staring back at me I knew it was time to take charge and jump start this body of mine.  First plan of attack, I made myself a sensible breakfast.  I made 2 eggs to start my day off with a burst of protein and had a small glass of OJ.  I even went through the cabinet and got my vitamins out to hopefully help kick my sleepiness.  I made sure to log everything with myfitnesspal.com (something I have also been slacking in) and packed a sensible lunch with controlled portions.  It's a start.  I am hoping that the hubs gets out of work early enough to relieve me at soccer practice and maybe I can even get a workout in tonight.  I may need to think about getting up earlier and trying to workout before work.  It just means I will be going to bed earlier...which means getting the little one to bed earlier...so that is actually a good thing, right?!?!  I still need to find time though where I can have some QT with the hubs.  Where is that cape again????

So my request to you is to help keep me going, keep me challenged.  I am going to make sure I have time each day to "come clean" to you...or sing my own praises...hopefully more of the latter.  I need to get back on track so I can start feeling good about myself again.  When I feel good, I can see my positive energy radiate out through my kiddos and husband and it makes the world a brighter place, well, my world anyways. 

With that being said...what is your challenge to me this week?  I am going to ask you to help me.  Be more than just my inspiration and source of accountability...be my virtual trainers and chefs.  I implore you!!

Now for a little Friend Making Monday, even I need something a little lighter after all that :)

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 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!

Uniquely You

1) Do you prefer to talk or text? Lately I would say I prefer to text, as I can do it anywhere and feel like I’ve been running all the time from activity to activity.

2) How often do you make your bed? I make it every day, but generally after work.  When I leave in the morning for work everyone in my house is asleep…so one of the things I do after work is make beds….absolutely makes the room look better.  If my youngest is in my bed when I leave, I will go make her bed so as to feel like at least 1 room is pulled together.  I have that fear of someone wanting to stop by for a surprise visit and get a whole house tour…not sure whey!

3) What sounds do you hear right now? The water cooler in my office and the keyboard as I type.

4) List three things that you always carry with you. Pictures of my kids, my iPhone and my lipstick.

5) What are your favorite TV shows? While my TV time is limited to what I tape and watch when I can…I do have a few guilty pleasure shows…Drop Dead Diva, Grey’s Anatomy, The Office, Bones and Pretty Little Liars.

6) Is there a hobby that you’d like to devote more time to? If so, what is it?  I wish I had more time (and funds) to scrapbook the way I’d like to.  I also want to learn to knit (properly), crochet and sew.

7) What is your favorite drink? Cherry Coke Zero.

8) Share a couple of cool facts about your family. My girls look exactly alike at age markers (meaning my 3 year old looks just like my 11 year old did at 3), my husband is just as much of a neat freak as me, I try to talk to my mom and dad a few times a week and although he may not know it, if something were to ever happen to my husband and me my little brother is the person I would want to take over care of my children.

9) List one thing that you will do for yourself today. Get back on track!

10) Share something that you’re thankful for today. My family, as I am every day.  I am a very lucky girl!

Now it's your turn to answer this week's questions! Don't forget to come back and link up in the comments. And try to say something to someone new this week. There are some pretty cool people connected here. Happy Monday, friends!

Instantly...like NOW!!

     So, as anyone who has ever struggled knows...taking off weight and toning is a process.  I have come to a not-so-happy understanding with this.  What I mean is, I know its the reality....but still think it sucks.  I have found only one other process that is as mind numbingly painful to wait through...growing out my hair.  Who's with me.
     I go through my phases, as I'm sure many of you do, where I want it short then I want it long, then reverse ad nauseum.  I finally broke down last year and cut it short...like Ginnifer Goodwin short.

this was the inspiration for my most recent cut



     Don't get me wrong, I get a fair amount of compliments on my short and sassy do, and most days i LOVE it...but then there are those days when I find myself googling how to make it grow faster.  Today is one of those days.  I want to have the long, sleek hair the trainer in my workout video has...the hair that makes other girls jealous with its long, glossy beauty.  I want Zoey's hair.

love this hair!


     So you can see my dilemma.  There is a vast difference in these two do's.  Both are fab in my opinion...but that's a lot of time and "grow out" to achieve.  That has always been my problem...I hate the growing out phase and get frustrated and cut.  I wish there was a magic potion I could take that would just make it grow.  I guess I have to rely on my healthy diet...which doesn't make it happen NOW!!  I have all sorts of cute up do's in my head NOW.  AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!



    

Jump Start

I got an email this week that made me VERY happy.  Once again, thank you Universe for interceding.  Both my husband and I work in the wonderful world of academia.  This has many perks; college tuition for the kids...CHECK, flexible work hours...CHECK, fancy college gym facilities at our disposal...CHECK.  At first, I was intimated at the idea of going to the gym where I work...imaging throngs of hard bodied, young college kids everywhere reminding me that age keeps marching over me, but I was pleasantly surprised. 

The university I work at has a free college rec center (my normal workout location of choice) but also has a fancy gym you can buy a membership to.  The fancy-pants members only gym offers a wide range of classes, has a smoothie bar, and has excellent equipment (proof that they USE those memberships fees wisely).  It's super nice, but spending that kind of money each month when I have access to two free gyms is silly to me.  A few times a year though, it's like Christmas for the workout community.  A few times a year, the fancy gym offers a week long open house with access to all of the classes, facilities for the entire week for FREE!!  I have mentioned the fab freebie before, and was SO excited to see that email! 

I tend to take the free classes when they are offered, then I can try things I may not normally try...and also squeeze in a few tried and true classics.  So, without further delay...here is my class lien up for next week:

Monday: Zumba! (bright and early at 7am)

 

Tuesday: Yoga (a personal fav)

 

Wednesday: Qigong/Tai Chi (what?!?!  Not sure, but it sounds interesting)

 

Thursday: Barre Fitness (showing off my Mom and Me dance skills :)

 

Friday: Cardio Muscle   (ending the week with a bang)

I am psyched!  Has anyone tried some of these?  I am very intrigued by the Qigong.  Never even heard of it...I have done Tai Chi before, so I am hoping for the best.

What are some of your favorite workout classes?

 

Order up with a side of FMM

     Well...it has happened.  I have become a domestic goddess!  HA  Well, at least maybe one in training!  Thanks to those of you who sent me to some great recipes stops.  I have been pretty successful thus far.  My grocery shop was a little pricier than I had hoped for, but I reminded myself that you pay for quality...and that is what I got, some good, quality food.
     The way the schedule was playing out, I knew that after shopping it was going to be rough to get in the kids activities and prepare something fabulous so I did cheat a bit on the first day in the kitchen...however, I only partially cheated and made sure it was in a healthy way.

pre-made Rotisserie chicken with chicken and herb couscous and fresh green beans

     So I bought a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and had that as the staple.  The picture above shows it as first plated, I actually take the skin off of my chicken (and share with my pup) but I leave it on in case the hubs decides he wants it.  I am proud of the side dish choices I made.  Couscous...I love couscous, and it's a much better choice than (some) rice or noodle type dishes.  The green beans too.  Our neighbors have quite the garden and they brought us over fresh green beans, which I have never cooked.  Is it sad that all of my green bean experiences before now started with a can opener?  So, I give this start to my healthy cooking decent marks.
     I am VERY proud of my next dish (you can find the recipe in the Daring to Dream tab)...it's one I found online and made my own revisions to "healthy it up."  My dear hubby is a fan of hamburger helper, but we NEVER buy it based on how bad it is for you.  So when I found a recipe for a cheesy beef noodle bake, my first thought was Helper...make a great meal!

my original ingredients stash

    
     Above is the original gathering of ingredients.  I did decide to use tomato sauce instead of the diced tomatoes though once I started mixing, but other than that...pretty good choices right?  I substituted ground turkey for ground beef, used whole grain pasta, and veggied it up with two of my favorite flavorings....onions and peppers.  Okay, I admit I used a little bit of cheese, but honestly it was a little bit.  The recipe I found called for not only cheese on top, but a cheese sauce to be mixed into the actual dish.

final product

     It didn't "stick" together as well as I had hoped (maybe that's why the recipe called for the cheese sauce) but flavorwise...this was FAB!  If anything, I think I would add a few more veggies to my saute...maybe some zucchini next time too!  I served this with a nice salad (more veggies) and it was a hit.  Even the two year old liked it!  PLEASE keep the recipes coming in!  I'm starting to look forward to them..and ask your friends to share too.  A girl can NEVER have too many healthy recipes!

Now....on to a little Friend Making Monday!

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 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!

Tech Questions

1.  PC or Mac?  I am a PC person when it comes to my computing needs.  Do I appreciate and like Apple?  Yes of course…I have an iPhone, an iPod and an iPad…but when it comes to user friendliness for a computer, I still feel better with a PC.

2. When did you get your first computer?  I feel like I have had a computer in my life forever.  I remember having games as a kid that I needed to DOS prompt to play.  Barbie, Olympics, cards…oh how I miss you “*”.exe RUN hahahhah NEVER!!!!

3. Do you use cable, DSL or something else?  I have a cable connection.  We had fiber optic for a while with AT&T but their customer service left something to be desired and we switched back to cable.

4. When choosing a laptop, do you think it's more important to choose the fastest one, or the lightest one?  Speed for sure.  My job has me at a computer all day and I would freak out if I had to wait for things.  Think of the extra poundage as a workout!

5. What kind of cell phone do you own?  Do you like it? I have an iPhone and LOVE it.  My hubby has a Droid though and I can see that being nice too.  What I like best about my iPhone is the streaming capability between devices.  I just have to make sure I check my 11 year old iPod from time to time.  Just downloaded Fifty Shades (audio book) to my phone and had to make sure it was NOT on her iPod or the iPad. J

6. How do you carry your laptop when you travel?  I don’t travel much.  If I need to take my laptop somewhere it is generally in my briefcase in the car next to me.

7. How many e-mails do you send on an average day? I don’t think I want to know the answer to this.  A good chunk of the programs I do at work rely on my emailing presenters, students, faculty…it is a never ending process it seems.

8. Do you ever blog using your iPad or similar tablet? Haven’t tried.
9. What do you use more often - a desktop or a laptop?  Desktop.  That is our primary home machine and my primary work machine.

10.  As a blogger, are there other gadgets that you need to get the job done?  If so, what are they?  I rely on my iPhone and its camera very much.  As I am still new to blogging, I haven’t found other devices that are “must use” yet.

Now it's your turn to answer this week's questions on your blog!  Don't forget to come back and link up in the comments! Happy Monday, friends!

On your mark...get set

It begins today.  I have been scanning recipes, many thanks to some of you, and have put together my grocery list.  I think I have found a few good ones that have cross over ingredients that will help stretch my budget some too (very exciting).  Tonight, after picking up the little one from pre-school...we are have to the races with Operation Chef.  I like to grocery shop with the wee one because its fun to her.  She helps pick out what fruits and veggies she wants, we get a special treat to enjoy through the store...

love the juice box style and the healthy benefits

She helps load the cart, entertains other customers, usually earns a free slice of deli ham and makes my heart happy.  It's a win-win to me.  I will keep you posted on the Daring to Dream tab of this fine little blog with what I come up with.  A few recipes I have grabbed are: baked chicken strips, beef, cheese and noodle bake, crispy fish, zucchini bites...and you will have to come back and see what else.  I already feel proud in the fact that I searched healthy low cal recipes...and I also have enough kitchen smarts to know some of the substitutions I can make to bring the health level up another notch.  Wish me luck...and keep the recipe suggestions coming folks...I am loving them!

Inspiration

     Well...I was so inspired to start this post and found a wonderful picture to use and sadly can't get the picture to post.  AHHHH!  Okay, stress released...on to the good stuff!  The past week I feel as though I keep getting signs from the universe that make me feel like good things are on the horizon.  Which in turn is inspiring me.  What signs you ask, well aren't you a curious one :)

• My foot had a serious break-through this week.  I was working on it (just basic bending and stretching) and it cracked.  Not a bad crack, but one of those knuckle cracking type of cracks and all of a sudden I had so much more mobility.  I think the walking everyday is helping.
• My little one has been doing a great job on the potty!  During the day she and my husband have their routine with the pull ups, because they are out and about all the time.  When Momma gets home though she knows it's big girl time.  We put on our big girl undies and go for it until bed time.  She has been doing GREAT!  I even took her for a quick trip to the grocery store in her big girl panties and she was a champ.  I'm hoping this weekend that we can do a long stretch on either Saturday or Sunday (or maybe even both) in our big girl undies and then (fingers crossed) we will be well on our way to being potty trained.
• My oldest made the top team in a higher division for soccer (got the official word last night), and was also moved up on her premier team.
• I have gotten my butt back into the kitchen and am having what I conswider to be great success!  Two nights ago I made low cal stuffed peppers.  I used ground turkey, cilantro, long grain brown rice, salsa, taco seasonings, onion and garlic.  Very yummy and good for us!  I also made ham and cheese crescent rolls for the little one.  Then last night my wee helper and I made two homemade pizzas.  One plain cheese on a traditional dough and one veggies and pepperoni on a wheat crust!  Sadly no pictures..but mostly because it was all so yummy we just ate it all up!
• I have discovered a way to clear my clutter and make a few bucks at the same time without the headache of a garage sale.  I have finally delved into Craigs list.  I listed seven items, had hits on six already, and one has already sold.  It's nice because I can help stop the impending "Hoarders" casting call that I feel like my house could become with all of the toys and the gadgets and the craziness.  The item I sold was my big ticket item too, which makes it an extra bonus!! 
• Finally, today is my Friday (a day early for those of you who read this post on a non-Thursday).  Granted I worked extra hours Monday-today, but now I get a whole day off for girl stuff since Dadoo has to work.  Tomorrow is BFF day.  A day that has been far too long in trying to set up.  My big girl is away for the week, so my little one and I are off to see our BFF's.  My bestie who I have been friends with since third grade and I both have girls within 5 months of each other (plus she has an older one who is not too much older and still enjoys the lil ones).

With all those good vibes being pushed at me, I have to admit...I feel renewed in my overall goals!  I feel like I need to push myself more with my workouts and my recovery.  I need to try more exotic recipes and foods.  I need my kiddos to see a vibrant and healthy mom who can not only keep up with them, but maybe even pass them on occassion!  Time to get busy!