NEW RECORD!!

So first let me apologize for not updating for the past 12 days. My life has been totally crazy. So lets catch up.

Latest workout / weight update. I am proud to report that I am under 200 lbs. I am no longer in the 200s and will never be back. So setting my final long term weight loss goal of 50lbs. Just so everyone knows my weight goal is to be in the 140s. I signed up for my second month with my trainer on Friday and already my November schedule is posing some scheduling roadblocks.

WASHINGTON DC- I found out last week that I will be going to an Immigration Training in DC Nov. 12-16th. So my training sessions will have to be Mon-Tues-Wed. Three days in a row and then i'm going to party my butt off in DC. Thursday it will be Zengo (i can't help it- I miss the mango mojitos). Friday may be at La Tosca (Cindy tells me great music- plus the sangria isn't that bad). Sat & Sun who know where I will be. But know that I will in town cutting up. So watch out everyone...Artie is coming back for a long weekend.

THANKSGIVING- I will be leaving for Thanksgiving on Tuesday...so that means i'm going to only be able to train Monday and Tuesday AM. Unless my trainer is a saint and takes me on Sunday. PULEASE!

OH and now this week. I have had a death in the family and will be leaving town tomorrow for Houston. Also, my uncle doesn't seem to be doing all that well. So that means now i'm hoping my trainer will be able to train me tomorrow at 7 am. Crossing my fingers.

NEW RECORD: Last night I decided to take my first evening run. So at 5:30 i left the house planning to run about an hour when it gets dark. BUT i ended up running 2 HOURS for a total of 10.5 MILES!! That's right...a new mileage record for me. I can't believe I did it without struggling. I finally found my real distance zen. It felt so fantastic...my knee and my ankle twinged a little but it wasn't that bad that I had to stop. I kept running through. The funny thing that occurred to me was that I believe I could have kept going. I know now I am ready for my half marathon. Crazy huh? 13.1 miles. My run isn't until Dec 6th but at least I know it's possible.

Well....that's enough for now. I hope everyone had a great HALLOWEEN and that you didn't get the crap scared out of you. But today we should be honoring the dead. So for the fallen loved ones -- Shout Out from Big Girl Runner. Miss you and love you always. Maria Trevino Montealvo, Juan Jesus Montealvo, Evangelina Colunga Blanco, Able Blanco, Sr., Agatha DeLaCruz, Paul DeLaCruz, Sr., Mia Nicole Heredia.

TOOTLES....

LONG WEEKEND!!

Hello All, it has been a crazy busy weekend. It's crazy to think I haven't even had anytime to update my own blog. Here is another picture of my neighborhood. This is what I see when i'm running outside. Isn't it incredible?

Well, Friday was an okay day. I ended the evening at the movies to watch Couples Retreat. Vince Vaughn is hilarious. But most of the funny parts are already in the previews. Saturday was a busy day for work then it was on to a new church. Yep, I went to some crazy Christian church service where one of my staff was getting baptized. It was quite interesting. I can't help it i'm just a simple Catholic girl.

Sunday was hella busy. I got up early to start cooking my Blanco Frijoles a la Charra (borracho beans) for my softball team get together. Then I had to run an errand, then I had to get my run in which I was so struggling. I ran for an hour and only did 4.3 miles. Talk about LAME!! I was so disappointed in myself for that. That's the worse I've ever done. I think it was because I started at noon, the sun was out, it was hot and I didn't really have much to eat or drink before I went out. I know now that I can't be messing around with that. Then when I finished I had my massage with a real sports masseuse at the gym. I've paid more for an hour massage and not get the attention I need on my legs. I think we figured out why my knee has been bothering me. My hamstring is all tense and cramped up. I didn't even realize it. So i'm going to see him again this week. I need to work out all of these tense spots.

Oh and Lori Ortega is in town from DC for a family wedding and we got to hang out Sunday night. I may not see much of her the rest of the week because of the family obligations but it is always great to catch up with folks. I hope that means that many more of you are coming to visit soon.

Next weigh in should have been this morning but now I'm gonna have to do it tomorrow. Crossing my fingers under 200 is the goal peoples!!

One last thing. What the hell is wrong with the Dodgers? How is the world can they lose a close game. Last night they had the Phillies and Broxton choked. Seriously? Walks? I understand you don't want to pitch to them but really bro we are talking about the world series!! UGH - I have hope that they can come back but with the Phillies pitching staff that is going to be tough. Come on Dodgers...GET IT TOGETHER!!



TOOTLES...

TGIF -- MLB POST SEASON!!

Good Day my peoples...It has been a crazy busy Friday. Good times were had last night at club MOON in the Palms Casino. It was my first official club night in Las Vegas. It was a RedBull Beat Battle event. It was fun for about two hours...then my feet where like get me the hell up out of here. I was wearing my 4 inch heels and let's just say standing for 2 hours and dancing is not fun in 4 inch heels. I didn't have any cocktails but I still had a great time.

This morning was painful waking up. Finished my first two weeks with my trainer. I can't believe it's been two weeks already. Well, he worked me out pretty good. Did some stretches, suicides, lots of ab work and then some push ups. There's always other stuff but let's just say after the workout it felt AWESOME!! Can't wait to keep the weekend going with activities. I meet my 2nd softball team on Saturday and then Sunday i'm hoping to have another long run followed by a massage and finish the evening with the Monday softball team gathering. I'm making my frijoles a-la-charra. I know how my DC peeps miss my cooking. Sorry but it's time to take the Blanco recipe out west baby!! Of course I won't have any...(not in the food regimen) but I will have a great time.

With that I just have to say that the DODGERS must win this afternoon. They need to get it together so they aren't 2 down going East tomorrow. As for the Yankees and Angels...I have to root for the ANGELS. Even though lots of folks are saying it would be great to have a DODGER / Yankee World Series...come on. I'm so done with the Yankees. A DODGERS / ANGELS world series would be great as well. WOW...I've been in Vegas for 6 weeks and now i'm all WEST COAST. Craziness...

Everyone...have a great weekend!! Stay active...at least get out for an hour walk sometime this weekend. It's a start.

TOOTLES...

HYDRATION -- REUNION?

Since I've moved to Vegas I realized how much I must hydrate my body. Not only in drink water. It is recommended that we drink 8 glasses of 8 oz of water a day. To me I calculate that to 4 - 16 oz bottles of water. So however you choose to hydrate you also must hydrate your skin. I put on lotion sometimes 2-3 times a day. My skin was getting all ashy and hey I want young looking skin. Just because i'm 35 I don't want to look it!!

Well, I had another great session with my trainer. I got up by 6:30 (a little late) and hit the pavement at 7:15. I ran 3.2 miles with a 10:48 pace. Not bad. I need to work on that time. I'm registering for a Halloween twilight 5k Friday Oct 30th. Sounds like fun. I just wonder if I need to get into the Halloween spirit. I like Halloween but I usually like to do is put on a track suit, curl up on the couch and watch scary movies. Hmmm that sounds like a real plan. I just have to make sure to only each my Healthy Heart Orville Redenbacher popcorn. They have the 100 calorie popcorn mini bags. It tastes great without all that extra butter and fat. I will splurge by have a few raisenettes. My buddies know me too well. And yes, while i'm watching what i'm eating it doesn't mean I can't have a few chocolates with my popcorn.

So one last topic. Catching up with old school mates from junior high to high school. I think it's kind of cool that my old classmates from St. Christophers and Milby High School are finding me on Facebook. I really like facebook...hell thats the way I generate visits to this blog. But I just feel awful because I don't remember a lot of people from school. I know it may sound mean and all but this is why I will never run for office. If I can't remember people how can represent them. I have had one rule with Facebook. I don't friend people I'm not familiar with. If I remember you at the time that you friended me than I don't have a problem with it. But at what point do you become selective about who you are friending.

I'm having a great time catching up with a few folks but I'm apologizing right now to the people that I haven't friended. I just don't remember you. If you send me a message to give my brain a spark then i'm all about it. Until then...I guess we can meet at the next reunion or gathering.

Until next time...TOOTLES

LUCKY # 7!!

OH YEAH BABY!! I ran 7 miles this morning with an 11 minute pace. Like I said I'm just happy to be getting in my distance. The wind was killer again today. It is such a pain...makes it harder. My quads are sore. I think it's time to reserve a massage.

BTW I may be coming down to San Antonio NOV 15th for the Rock 'n Roll Half. That way when Dec. 6th rolls around I can really be good for the Vegas one. Plus maybe I get an extra medal for doing more than one Rock 'n Roll.

Well, so far I have burned 2,380 calories today. Over 1000 was for the 1:17 minute run this morning. I have done 15,435 steps so far. Many more to go. Goal is to burn 3100 calories a day and eat about 1200. That's what is going to help me lose the weight each week. Plus the supplements...Women's vitamins and a Fat Burner from the gym. Not the ridiculous stuff you find at the drug store but something that doesn't have bad caffeine etc.

So, I finally took a picture of the area that I run in. This is on Town Center Circle so it's not the best view I see while running outside but it's what the area looks like. Today the skies are really blue and the clouds are crisp white and puffy. I took this picture with my blackberry so sorry for the poor quality.

I hope everyone is having a great week.

TOOTLES...

GREAT NEWS!!

Last week's weigh in on Tuesday was 209 this week it's 204.8. It's crazy because my goal weight loss per week is 4.2 lbs. And I lost exactly 4.2 lbs.

I did it by controlling my food intake. I moved back on the Body Bugg and it is helping as long as I input my food. Another key tool in keeping me honest about what i'm putting in my body. Went back to eating Baby Spinach leaves; Tyson grilled chicken; Newman Light Cranberry Dressing and a sprinkle of sliced almonds. Mmmmm it is tasty. Then I have 1 kiwi fruit and about 1 cup of strawberries. Breakfast is my protein shake - Gold Standard Whey and Light Vanilla Soymilk. Then my breakfast snack was a Danon Activia Yogurt with a little extra granola, cup of coffee and water. Later today I will have my Sara Lee bread and 1 tbsp of reduced fat Jiffy Peanut Butter. Then tonight for dinner. More spinach, chicken and some fruit.

So my session with my Trainer went well today. I told him that I want to work on getting a butt. Damn, that is putting it out there. This is the new Artie. Put all out on the line.

Softball game last night was fantastic. We won! I did okay...i'm getting better but I need to practice more on my hitting and damn can I learn how to throw a ball. They called me butterfingers last night after one of my most ridiculous throws. It was sad...really sad. I wanted to crawl into a hole under a rock. And damn...these cleats are killing my quads while i'm out there. What is the deal? I'm busting my ass to get to first base and then I ran through the bases and realized I pulled my quad and then my ankle was bothering me a little more. A friend of mine likes to remind me that I'm no Spring Chicken. Well, if that's his way of telling me i'm old that is just WRONG!! Being OLD is a state of mind. Not my age! F'm i'm 35 and yes i'm training for my first half marathon.

Oh geez...so i have to get my miles in this week. Need to keep them up to 15+ miles per week. Last week results I ran 18.33 miles. DAMN!!! That is awesome. I didn't even know I ran that many last week. Need to keep it up to keep losing more poundage!!!

One last topic for the day. So sad about the Rockies and Jason Giambi. I know he is not the only player on this team but since I didn't know my boy was in Denver this season...I had to throw in some props. GO DODGERS!! What can I say, i'm a National League kind of girl.

TOOTLES....

SUNDAY BLUES!

Well, I have decided that Saturday's would be my day off on the blog. That's if I can remember to write every other day! And so let's get started. I'm a bit irritated right now with Nike+. Because I just ran for 1:20 and it is telling me I only did 4 miles even. That is BS. I know I ran well over 6 miles. In fact I know that I ran at least 6.2 miles. I could feel the pain etc. I have sent an email to Nike to try and get this taken care of. I mean really...what kind of crap is that? I will not be happy if I have replace this thing if I just bought it less than a month ago. I better get a response.

Anyhow, I will find out later what my BodyBugg recorded. That will be interested. I'm going to see if I can come up with a chart that will have how many calories i'm burning and how many i'm eating. That will help keep me in check. Talk about putting all my stuff on front street.

On a lighter note...I went to a movie last night. Paranormal Activity. DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY!! It was crap. It was a movie date with a strange friend. UGH!! Some people need help. With that I must confess, i'm feeling a little bit of love pain this week. So I think that is another reason why I have been a little distant this week. I'm hoping it won't last much longer but I'm afraid it may last longer than I would like. As long as I stay focused I should be okay. It's just a little hard to do. It's hard to push forward when you really miss someone. Mi LUNA...te extrano mucho - viviendo sin ti es el mas deficil cosa en mi vida. Hasta que reunamos de nuevo! Con mucho carino!

Okay...enough of that for now. I just thought I should stay honest with what is going on in my life. Appreciate all the support and comments. Keep them coming. I gotta keep on fighting. Fighting for a better me and a better day! Coming soon to a future near me! :)

Enjoy your Sunday!!

TOOTLES

BODY BUGG!!

YO!!! It's FRIDAY! I'm at work and I started this blog HOURS ago but got caught up on some stuff and never finished today's blog.

Good workout this morning. Got up and hit my yoga class...then was ready to get on the eliptical but got a phone call. Lori is coming to Vegas. Good times people. Anyhow, I had my third training with my trainer.

I got 6 months on my Body Bugg!! So I am back on track with the Body Bugg. For those of you not familiar with the Body Bugg please check out www.bodybugg.com. Great program. If you are looking for a program that you can use to track your calories burned and your calorie intake this is the program for you. This program totally helped me get to where I am today. It's amazing! I recommend to anyone and everyone.

Well, i'm wearing the arm band and will start up with the nutrition although my burn rate will be a little off but starting tomorrow should be great.

Saw my first Vegas show last night. Temo took me to see A Bronx Tale with Chaz Palmentari. He still has it. It was a great show. Then we hit the sushi bar after a little pit stop into the Michael Kors store and bought some bad ass sunglasses that cover almost half my face. But they are awesome and I love them.

Okay...off to my volleyball game. TOOTLES!!

GREAT DAY!!!

Well on the workout front it is a great day! The triste I feel is for something else. ANYHOW, I was out the door at 7:15 and ran 4.57 miles. It was great but I was about 10 minutes late getting to my trainer. He wasn't happy until I told him my run ran long. Then I was excused...well it is my time and my money. Anyhow, he introduced me to the medicine ball today and let me tell you throwing that shit felt good this morning. I needed to workout feelings and throwing that damn 10lb is a little tougher than I ever thought it would be.

Then he had me do some squats and OUCH my right quad is still giving me problems. UGH! My trainer told me to ice it. But it didn't bother me during my run. It wasn't until the squats when it was being stretched that I felt it. I need to figure something out for it. Oh and then he had me do the plank on my elbows! Talk about OUCH! My back starts hurting after a while on that. Then we did some dumbbell work and then a row type weight machine. You know my trainer told me he went to Bejing with the USA Basketball team. Isn't that sweet. I have a REAL ATHLETIC TRAINER. I am quite lucky.

Well, did I mention that I was seeing my trainer 3 times a week? I am, I told you guys I was bumping it up. So I have my third session tomorrow at 10:00 am. UGH! I hate the fact that it's so late in the morning but i'm happy about none-the-less. So my schedule tomorrow is Yoga at 8:00 am then eliptical / cardio then my trainer. So I should get a solid three hour workout tomorrow. I LOVE IT! THAT'S MY GOAL!!!

I'm back and I'm bad!! Oh enjoy this comic. LOVE Garfield!

Until later...TOOTLES!! :)

INJURED - WEDDING CHAPEL - NEW TRAINER

I have been Missing In Action for almost a week. But let me tell you it hasn't been any less eventful. I have been volviendo Loca. Last Thursday, I got injured, so I signed up with a new TRAINER at the gym. Enough of this puttering through. It's time to get REAL! This is the rest of my life i'm talking about. What the hell am I doing playing around with this shit. Okay, i don't know if that makes sense to you but really. I'm either ALL IN or go home and quit. I'm not a quitter. On Friday, I woke up early and guess what I found a new yoga class. It is not as good as my girl Rachelle's in Southlake 24 Hour Fitness but it's damn near close to it. There is no binding but really I still have too much belly to be able to do that anyway. Let's focus on the stretches and my stability / CORE. I need a HARD and STRONG CORE. The night ended as we lost our volleyball games (again!). That's okay...whip it off. Move on to the next day.

WEDDING CHAPEL CEREMONIES? I don't know how many of you are familiar with the wedding chapels in Vegas but as I'm up Saturday morning trying to get my crews out when I get a call from my father. Who starts dictating a phone number for me to write down. It's my cousin's cell number, apparently he is in town and getting married that day! WHAT? QUE DEJISTES? So my cousin, who has been planning his wedding for 4 months tells me he is getting marries at 3:45 pm at the Special Memory Wedding Chapel in downtown Las Vegas. OMG! I move up my work so that I can leave the office by 3:25pm. Speed home change into my wedding outfit (which BTW thank god i had one in the wings). It took me less than 10 minutes to change my clothes fix my hair. I'm barreling down 93/95 to exit Las Vegas Blvd and putting on my make up at the same time. Thank god no cops saw me and I wasn't swerving that bad to attract unwanted attention. Where am I going again? Oh yeah....the Special Memory Wedding Chapel. WTHell? My aunt, uncle and another aunt are in town. Standing outside the chapel, because in TURE MEXICAN style the family is like LATE to their own wedding. SERIOUSLY? It's 4:30 pm and we haven't even started the ceremony. Then the wedding guy is a crack pot. Says he will conduct the ceremony in Spanish but turns out the hustler doesn't event speak a lot of Spanish. It's better than mine but still WTHell? He cracks us up the entire time. Throwing out random shit and random Spanish translations. It was like listening to a Boxing match between rounds with BAD TRANSLATORS translating the trainers talking to their athletes. Anyhow, it was finally over. And my drama for the day ended in happy smiles.

Well, Sunday was amazing. I can RUN AGAIN without the leg strain. I needed those days off so I ran a mile in less than 10 minutes and I hit my Yoga class again. I can feel the power coming back. YES! Monday it was back to Yoga. Then it was time to run to the office for some work. We played two softball games and I sucked ass. I got hit in the jaw with a ball it feels like it's bruised but i'm okay. My cleats are really starting to bother me when i'm hauling ass to get to first base. I got a good hit then a brain fart and f'd up and caused a double play out. It was a bad day! OH and I pulled my right quad. I'm not as young as I used to be. UGH!!

TUESDAY!!
I'm BACK BABY!! I got to the gym at 7:00 am ran my 5k (3.1 miles). Can I just say how much I HATE running on the treadmill. It was harder and the distance and my pace is off so much on my Nike+. Then I met the next love of my life (well Love may be a really really strong word) more like my PROPHET! My new trainer is going to kick my ass and I'm gonna love it.

TODAY!!
I ran outside and loved it! I got a new best mile but need to pull that number. And I ran 4.4 miles. Now i'm working and trying to find time to keep updating this blog.

whooo That was a lot to catch up on. I hope to get some comments soon. Let me know if you are planning on coming out to Vegas anytime soon. And If you plan on getting married in Las Vegas your ass better call me way more in advance than the DAY OF!! PULEASE!!

I'm being rushed by Temo who is sitting in front of my desk reading the paper telling me who is going to bet on this week. Maybe LSU Maybe Texas will blow out Colorado by 32 points? HMMMM Any Longhorns care to comment.

Until next time.....TOOTLES!!!

DAMN IT!!!

I am not happy this morning. I got up stretched used the foam roller, had my coffee, some water and was ready to hit the road. I get out there ran good for a quarter mile and BAM my left groin muscle pulls and screams at me. I stopped in my tracks...EERRRRRGH.

Talk about pissing me off. I'm assuming its a groin muscle pull. My quads have been a little sore the last several days but I just thought it was because I was picking up my running routine. I'm going to keep stretching today and going to see my personal trainer hopefully this evening.

This is not going to stop me. I'm on a mission and I will not give up.

Hope you have a better day than I do!

TOOTLES...

WIND BLOWN!

OMG It is officially fall in Las Vegas, NV. I woke up and thought I was ready to head out at 6:45 this morning but then I opened the door and BURRRR it was freezing. I had to go back upstairs and pull out my jackets. The wind was so strong I want to say it really slowed me down this morning. My pace picked up in the last two miles but damn it was cold. On the plus side I can tell that i'm breathing better while i'm out there running. Also, I didn't have to make an emergency pit stop. I went straight through my 4 miles. Felt great and my pace is getting better after each run. As long as that happens i'm really happy with my results.

So I need to update you all on the latest haps. Yesterday i didn't post because I was exhausted after Monday. Running 6 miles and two hours of softball made for a great Monday. Yes, so I played my first games with my new softball team "Beer30". Which i'm not sure what that means other than everyone is over 30 and likes to drink beer? Well, i'm on a great team...everyone is amazing and I think I had pretty good days with them. I'm playing 2nd base which for me has been a while since I've been that involved on a softball team.

Monday was insane. I left an hour before my game realizing that I needed to buy some cleats. So what do I do but hit my favorite NIKE Factory Outlet. I found the best cleats they were half size larger but they were only $4.99. My socks cost more than the cleats. I can't believe how much of a fan I have become of Nike. I never really thought I would be such a label whore but hey I really like their products. This morning I ran in my Nike Structure TriaxII shoes; Nike sports bra; Nike head band gear; Nike FitDry jacket and of course my Nike+. Damn, i'm a NIKE BIG GIRL RUNNER. If only they would really pay attention to regular people using their gear. But You should check out your local Nike Factory Outlet. I have found some great deals. It may take a visit or two before you catch some deals so be patient.

Okay, enough with the soap box. Tonight I have volleyball practice and it's time for me to be on my way to work. Lots to do!

Get your RUN ON BABY!!

TOOTLES...

OUCH!

This morning was hard to run. Which is interesting because I ran a better pace. And my Nike+ gave me another message from Joan Benoit Samuelson. She congratulated me on making a new best 1 mile time. I didn't know who she was until I started playing with the Nike+ options on ITunes.

It seems that Nike+ started putting together some training albums with Lance Armstrong, Joan Benoit, Serena Williams, Kara Goucher and Alberto Salazar. Now, there are comments on these albums and it seems for the serious runners Lance and Serena mixes are the best to consider purchasing. Even though they are over a year old i'm still considering buying one to help me with my training. When I have more time I will be checking them out. But if you need more training material to help you out for your IPOD Nano check out ITunes. To find it on ITunes store click on Music then scroll down to the left side of the screen for More To Explore and click on Nike Sport Music. That's where you can find them.

Anyhow, I hope all is well for everyone. I finished my 3.55 miles this morning and am scheduled to run 4 miles tomorrow. I am so tired...but i'm going to push through it.

Hope everyone had a great weekend.

TOOTLES...

HAPPY SUNDAY!!

I was so pushing to run a 10k this morning and missed the f'in boat. Talk about disappointed. But I should be happy with a 15.43 mile week...at least that's good news. That's my goal 15+ miles a week. We can do this. I need to keep that goal up to be ready for my first half marathon.

Thats right...I really haven't shared that news with y'all. Once thought to be a commitment phoebe (yes, i'm talking about myself) I made a commitment to the Las Vegas Rock 'n Roll Half Marathon. I mean really! Like I said before, it's not about making an amazing time it's about finishing it.

Well, i'm wipped out this morning and I running late to my softball practice. BTW Volleyball was fun on Friday except that we have yet to actually win a game. But that's what happens when you play with strangers. It takes a while to come together.

TOOTLES...

HEARD FROM LANCE ARMSTRONG!

KICKED SOME BUTT today! I am so siked today after running for 1:04 I completed 5.86 miles. At times while running I felt like I was practically walking but according to my pace I kept it up pacing at 10:55. For me my goal is to always be under 11 minute miles but it's hard sometimes. And taking on more distance tends to really slow you down. I'm so excited now I think i'm going to try a 10k this weekend. Now for those of you that are new to my blog know that the longest I've run before is 9.3 miles my pace sucked for that 10k but the important thing to me was that I could do the distance. All you speed junkies go ahead and pass me up. I have no worries and my feelings won't be hurt. I know that i'm out there to compete against myself. Although it does feel good to know you aren't the last person coming in. But anyhow, i'm on a role with my training.

My Nike+ was even so impressed with my workout this morning that Lance Armstrong sent me a message. He said Congratulations on a great workout. This was your longest workout to date. Keep up the great work. HAHAHA How many of you can say that you got a message from Lance Armstrong? Well if you have the Nike+ I'm sure you have but a note to everyone else. The next time you complete a GREAT workout pat yourself on the back. If you know someone that just finished a great workout you better congratulate them. If there is anything that everyday people need to encourage a better more active lifestyle is the pats on the back.

So everyone, while you are out this weekend at a BBQ or brunch or just hanging out with your buddies...raise your glasses / bottles and toast to the people in your lives that are trying to change their lifestyle. At least they are trying!

TOOTLES...

MORNING RUNS!

So, I got a little bit of a late start got out around 6:30. Had a little bit of coffee before I stepped out. Now that I have my Nike+ chip I was able to measure my outdoor run. It is 3.53 miles. So now I know that I need to add an additional half mile to hit my 4 mile goals for the day. Will start that tomorrow. My ankle is giving me a little problem but not too bad. Will watch it to make sure it doesn't evolve into a problem.

I'm going to talk about something a little embarrassing but it's important to discuss if you are going to start picking up your running routine. After a little bit of coffee this morning I hit the trail and a little more than half way through I was desperately looking for a bathroom. Thank god there was a community center that I run through and the public restroom was open. Remember, the idea of waking up at least 30 minutes earlier than you want to start your run is to give you time to have your coffee maybe a slice of toast and walk around the house to get your stomach moving. You want to try to hit the toilet before you hit the pavement. Trust me it will be beneficial for a successful morning run.

Well, as you can see I love my Nike+ Mini Chica! Isnt' she cool? I wish I could add some additional clothing but it's cool for now. Oh I also signed up for a half marathon training program. Going to make sure I'm able to add it to the blog so that you all can keep track as well as I can.

That's it for now...OH BTW I happen to be watching some morning shows and CBS Early Show was talking about BREAD! But they didn't even really give any help on the matter. If you want more detail information check out the September issue of Runner's World. (if you can still find one out there) Check out the article here. It's important to know about bread. You don't have to completely cut out bread from your diet just eat it in moderation and know the calories. I will take credit for starting the BREAD CHATTER.

Until later...TOOTLES

SPA DAY!!

It's Monday and well it is my day off of running. One of the reason's I came home was because it was my cousin and nephew's birthday this week and it was an opportunity for me to play some softball. BTW we WON our softball game I struck out but in the last inning got a great hit and then was batted in for a score. It was a great ending to a fun weekend.

Back to today. I bought my cousin a spa day at a local spa here in Grapevine. She got a full body massage, pedicure and manicure. I only really wanted / NEEDED a full body massage. I had so many knots in my shoulders and back that she worked it out. She even worked out my glutes. I needed it so bad. I found out about Massage Envy. Apparently it is a massage place that you can get a monthly membership to. I need to check this out. Since i'm training for my half I think i'm going to need to keep getting massages on regular basis to keep my muscles in constant recovery.

No run today but I should be able to get a run in tomorrow when I get back to Vegas.

Until later...TOOTLES!

NATURE!

So it's Sunday, I got about 4.5 hours of sleep. Got up at 8:00 am and decided to go for a run. I walked the dog, drank some water, got on the foam roller and was ready to hit the pavement all alone. Since it was kind of late morning the sun was out and it was a little powerful. Can I just as a runner various things can happen in the middle of a run. Today, nature was out and about. Especially the bugs! I think i caught like two bugs in my hand and I wasn't even trying. I just happen to be running striding my arms up and down and I just kept catching bugs in my left hand.

Did I ever tell you I actually had a duck chase me down the street for half a block. I was flipping out yelling and hoping up like I was trying to run hurdles. Well, I think Nature should chill out a bit. I am a Big Girl Runner and I don't need bugs, knats, flies and ducks chasing after me while i'm trying to get my run on. I understand that you are there and you exist but come one give a girl a little breathing room. And stay away from my nose and mouth. I don't even want to think about how many knats made it through. UGH!!!

Well, i just enjoyed my protein shake. Now it's time for a little piece of meat. We have a busy day today. At 1:00 pm we have an indoor volleyball game, 2:30 the boys have another baseball game then at 4:30 we have our softball game. I am going to be good and pooped tonight. Ready for my full body massage tomorrow at Renata Salon & Spa in Grapevine.

Until later...TOOTLES!

HOMECOMING!

So, I am writing today from Grapevine, TX. I am back in town for the weekend to spend some time with my cousin and my nephews. Arrived at DFW airport at 4:45 am. We drove to Dunkin Donuts, got a coffee and my favorite sesame bagel with butter. I KNOW not really good food choice for the morning but I was hungry and we were planning to run. Got home and after walking the dog and putting my Nike+ in my shoe we were off for a run. I'm sitting in the kitchen while my cousin and aunt are cooking breakfast. I'm trying to get my nephews to record my favorite cartoon to watch with them the Penguins of Madagascar! Hey if you have 4-7 year olds you would understand.

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that I purchased the Nike+ running system. It works with an IPod Nano and the ITouch/IPhone. Anyhow, I was running around Vegas and stopped off at the Nike shop in Cesar's and purchased one for $29. So far I like it but really haven't had time to play around with it. BUT I added my Nike Dudette to the blog. Basically, you set it to start when you right when you start to run. It tracks your miles and pace. It can also track calories, steps etc. But like I said I haven't had a chance to play with it.

Well, i'm in Grapevine and have a busy weekend with the family. It will end with a nice day at the spa on Monday. Excited about that. I am due for a full body massage.

Oh, yes last night we had our volleyball games last night before my 12:35 am flight. Well, as a team we really have improved. We still lost all four games but we played a lot better. We are improving and i'm having fun.

So, enjoy your weekend and get your runs or exercise in. Have a cocktail for me and we will chat later. Well, the boys are calling me to watch a new episode! Gotta run!

Until later....TOOTLES!!

TWO RUN DAY!

Yes, I had a two run day yesterday. I am so TIRED!! So yesterday morning I did my outside run and last night I hit the gym for a second run for the day and completed 3.3 miles. It felt great. Did my foam roller (which i found the good one at the gym). Which brings up another point. I really get annoyed sometimes that the trainers try to keep equipment away from the regular members. For example the foam roller. They like to hide the thick hard one (wow that could totally be taken out of context) tee hee hee. And they leave the crappy foam rollers that are all beat up and out of sorts for everyone else to use. Well my message to 24 Hour Fitness...That's not going to stop me from buying my own foam roller. There BAM! yeah like they really care. Maybe I just need to consider getting a trainer. But you know the trainers you get are either young, dumb and don't really pay attention to you or the older freaks that like to look at themselves in the mirror and flex while you are sweating your ass off, shaking uncontrolably in a plank position for a minute.

Yeah, that last one is a little rough for me. Talk about needing to work on my core. Anyhow so yesterday was 6+ mile day for me. This morning I had a conference call (I thought I was so done with those) and now i'm off to a meeting. Hopefully, I will be able to get in a run before volleyball practice tonight. PLEASE say it's so.

Okay...adding a new music video and all I have to say is that MARY J. BLIGE is a bad ass woman! Finally, since she dumped her loser guys and wised up. BIG PROPS to my girl.

Until next time....TOOTLES!!

FINALLY!!!

I know I have been missing from the blog for several days. I have been lacking in my runs. I keep saying tomorrow I will catch up, I'll make it up. Anyhow, I finally woke up this morning at 5:30 and hit the road by 6 after having my cup of coffee and half a bottle of water.

Tomorrow, I when I hit my run I will take my camera and take a picture of my views. It was so pretty and the weather was perfect!!! I walked out of the house and I swear it was 70 degrees. Nice and cool with the sun coming up over the mountains is just amazing fora morning run. I need to measure the distance I ran but I know for sure I ran at least 3 miles.

Oh one more thing to report on. I joined a softball team this weekend. So now I'm on a Friday Volleyball league and now a Monday Softball league. I am getting into being a local in Vegas.

So when anyone is ready to come and visit let me know and we can make some plans!! YEAH!!

TOOTLES...

UGH!!

So, last night we had our first two volleyball games. First, let me just say for people that have never played together we did as well as can be expected. But we have this one high school girl who thinks she is just the ultimate volleyball player. She had us playing some crazy rotation with the center playing back which is not the standard way of play. But a more court advanced style of play if you choose to. Anyhow, our first game was a complete bust. We didn't score higher than 5. By the second game we made it to 10 and were playing a little looser and more communication. By the second match (we played two teams) we were a lot more communicative and we changed the style of play by having the center actually play forward. Which makes way more sense when playing sand volleyball.

Anyhow, that's all for now. At work about to have our first canvas day. Hoping to be done by 6:00 pm so that I can go get my run in.

Have a great weekend...TOOTLES

PROTEIN!

Went to get in my miles this morning. While yesterday I wasn't able to hit the gym before my 8:45 am meeting I knew that today I was going to have to hit the gym for my miles. As I'm pulling myself out of bed it occurred to me how tired and sore my muscles have been since I moved here.

After finishing my 5 miles on the treadmill (ran 3.6 and walked 2.4) while I was stretching and using the crappy foam roller a thought occurred to me. When was the last time I had my Whey Protein? We all know that protein is a key ingredient in muscle recovery. I just about kicked myself in the ass after realizing I hadn't been drinking my homemade protein shakes or even just my strawberry milk. YES, I said STRAWBERRY MILK.

So here is what I do with my Whey Protein. I purchase the Gold Standard Whey Protein, you can find it at GNC or Vitamin Shoppe. Before purchasing I would compare costs then choose your store to purchase. The two flavors I recommend at Delicious Strawberry or Vanilla Ice Cream.

Here is how I use them. You can either do the quick 8 fl oz of milk (soy) and one scoop of whey. Shake, Shake, Shake and you have your protein ready to go. The other more extensive way of having your protein is in a blender add 8 fl oz of milk (soy), one scoop of whey, frozen fruit of your choice (mixed berries is the best) and two table spoons of flax seeds. Blend then puree and you have your protein smoothie. For the guys out there that don't have to worry so much about calories you can add a scoop of chocolate ice cream and half a banana if you like instead of the frozen fruit. That's how my brother-in-law likes to drink his.

Now, you can have more than one scoop. Just note if you are watching your calorie intake besure to take into account that a scoop is 110 calories.

Anyhow, I only had one scoop left today so I am enjoying my one scoop and one glass of skim milk. I hope this is helpful.

Until later...TOOTLES

UNDER CONSTRUCTION!

Okay, so i got a late start this morning. I was super sleepy. Anyhow, woke up drank my coffee and decided to start playing with my blog a little. I added a blog list with three blogs. Well, it's really two blogs, one is a local running store. I gotta support my local businesses (i guess). Anyhow, I really like the two blogs. They are obvious runners from way back. Total experts in the subject matter, they've probably been runners their entire lives. Well, I'm a runner now and the rest of mine. What can I say i'm a late bloomer (for the first time).

Have to add a note about BREAD. Can I just say how disappointed I am that Vons Grocery Store in Vegas does not carry my favorite bread. The best low calorie wheat bread on the market is EARTHMAN'S. Check your local grocer and see if they have the 35 calories a slice and it tastes great. I can't tell the difference anymore. YEP that's right I said 35 calories that means only 70 calories for two slices. The bread on the market these days have like 80 calories a slice and some even more. I am now going to have to eat 50 calorie slice bread and I decided to try Nature's Own Double Fiber. DON'T BUY IT!!! It tastes like fish. It is so bad that it even smells weird. I don't care that it has bookoos of fiber I just don't want to taste it. I was surprised they didn't even have Nature's Own 40 calorie a slice wheat bread. At least it doesn't taste like crap.

Next time you are at the grocer be sure to really check out the type of bread you are buying. You will be surprised how good low calorie bread can taste. Oh and don't by the Sarah Lee low calorie bread, I bought it once while in LA and it was so hard I had to toast it each time I wanted to have bread.

BTW I ran 3 miles this morning. It was tough since I was so tired. Hoping to make it to a Zumba and Yoga class this evening. Curious to see if they have good instructors in Vegas.

Until later...TOOTLES

SAND IN MY TOES!

So, I'm on a Volleyball team. It's a sand volleyball league. We met tonight and played for an hour or so. They are really cool people other than the fact that i'm the oldest person on the team.

But, I am basking this evening because a young man commented on my strong legs and asked if I was a runner. HA it was nice and I have to admit I got a little embarrassed. But they are cool people.

Our team name is Team USA but we all will wear a Mexican flag on our person. Don't know how I will wear mine but still thinking about it. Our first games are this Friday. I am going to be tired after the games but all good times yet to come.

Until tomorrow...TOOTLES

WORKING IT OUT!

Well, I tried to start my blog this morning before the day really picked up but what can I say. It picked up and now I can finish my posting for the day.

I woke up at 5:45 am and rolled over until 6:15. Thank god I set the coffee maker to start brewing at 5:45 that way it makes me want to get out of bed with the smell of sweet coffee. Anyhow, after a little coffee and a little organize my lunch for the day, I hit the gym.

YEAH! Did one hour on the treadmill. Ran 3.2 miles and walked 2.2 miles all in one hour. Then found a shitty old foam roller UGH. I'm going to have to shell out a few dollars for a new foam roller. Would it be weird for me to go to the gym with my own roller? Hmmm Okay, you have to admit that was a little funny.

So....I'm hoping to get out of here in an hour to practice with a volleyball team. YEAH. I found a league that started this week. I will be digging in the sand this evening hoping to make a good impression. I will let you know how it goes.

Blog Update - i'm hoping to add my training schedule to the right panel of the blog. I'm still learning how to make it better and add gadgets. If anyone has any suggestions or pointers please comment. I could use all the help I can get.

Since I missed my Monday Weekly Run Update - (need to get a better name for that). Here is my Miles Report for last week. I ran a total of 9.25 miles (just missed 10 UGH). Last week was a bad week. But i'm getting back on track.

Finishing up some work so that I can hit the sand volleyball courts.

Until later...TOOTLES

VEGAS BABY!!

I made it to Vegas. After a 19 hour drive from Grapevine, TX to Las Vegas, NV. Through rain storms and hail in New Mexico and crazy lightning storms between AZ and NV. But thus we survived and made it to Chez Gail's at 1:30 AM Vegas time (that's 3:30 am TX time).

Woke up at 6:30 unpacked the car and went to my new gym. I was going to run outside but by 8am it was 90 degrees. I don't want to screw up my first Vegas run. The gym is nice, it's a Super Sport and thus had to upgrade my account. Which basically means I'm going to be paying $10 more a month. But it will be worth it. It's an Agassi Super Sport. Good times yet to come.

I have to confess...I struggled to finish 2 miles. UGH! That's what happens when you don't run for a few days and then you try to run in a different environment.

Anyhow, i'm late for work (already) and a very busy day. Of meeting, greeting and planning. Oh and maybe a little Vegas style lunch.

Until tomorrow...TOOTLES

MOVING!

Okay, so yesterday was a fun filled day of packing and cleaning. I woke up at 5:30 and just started planning out my day. Oh...wait I haven't told you. I decided Tuesday evening to move to Las Vegas (not certain for how long) to help out some friends and of course to make a little more money. For those of you that don't know...after the Presidential election of '08 and 15+ years in the business, I decided to hang up my excel spreadsheets and cancel all my political google news alerts. (Although i still seem to be getting my news alerts on Gov. Richardson? hmmm)

Anyhow, when I did this I concentrated a solid 4 months working out 2-3 times a day for about 4-5 hours. Then February hit and I realized my savings was being depleated. Anyhow, with a little side project and then a two month stint in Los Angeles I returned to Grapevine, TX and decided to find a job in photography. I did but in case any of you were thinking of changing your career please note that retail doesn't pay that well. Needless to say, I miss shopping. I miss traveling (even though traveling 3 weeks out of a month is a bit much at least i was going somewhere).

Yes, i did it. I'm back in the business. I'm moving to Vegas for a project that could quite possibly be long term. It's kind of exciting to be getting back but I know i'm going to miss that life a regular citizen.

So thus my workout yesterday and this morning was packing, walking up and down the stairs and sweating loading up the car for an 18 hour drive in the middle of the night and all day tomorrow. Trust me when I say I got a workout. I also through in some crunches and leg lifts and a session with my personal foam roller at home.

Well, i'm off. I leave tonight around 2:00 am hoping to reach Las Vegas at 7:00 pm Vegas time. (i'm giving myself a little flex time - I may need to pull over for some zzzzs).

I will be driving to Amarrillo, Albuquerque, Flagstaff and then Las Vegas. I wish I had time to plan this out. I would have liked to spend a day in Sedona. But oh well...maybe another day.

Until tomorrow evening...TOOTLES

FOAM ROLLER?

It's a gorgeous day in Grapevine. Woke up this morning at 5:15 - got to the gym and ran 9 intervals for 4.25 miles. Great workout. It was push push push this morning.

Then I treated myself to the FOAM ROLLER. I posted a video one day on my facebook last month. If you are a runner you know what a foam roller is and what it is used for. I cannot recommend it enough. I spent about 10 minutes with my favorite foam roller at the gym. I will post the video on the window but here is the link to the best foam roller video. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5lLw81kGeXg If you do all of the exercises correctly it's like getting a mini massage all over your key running muscles. I get the best results in my runs when I use it before and after my run. But if you are short on time at least do it after your run.

Try it out after your next workout and let me know how it goes! Okay...off to work. Hopefully, I will make a second run this evening.

Until then...TOOTLES

VOLLEY??

It's been a great day for workouts. Did my 5k, hour of yoga and just got back from the park from over an hour of volleyball volleing with my cousin. We are going to eat a little chicken and then go back out.

Now that a cool front came in the temps dropped and it's been a nice 80 degrees. Lovely compared to the high 90s we've had for some time.

Anyhow, I was reading my runner's magazine today (last months) and something occurred to me. It's about running a half and how to prepare for beginners and how advanced runners can improve their time. The article featured Biggest Loser contestant Bernie Salazar. He was the contestant from Chicago. Anyhow, he talked about after losing 130 lbs and won the $100,000 prize for the stay home contestants that he decided to run a marathon and in his first finished 2:01. By his second half he finished 1:46. It made me think. This won't be my first half. If at the end of my 15k (9.3 miles) I was still okay. I felt that I could run another 4 miles.

So, why can't I run a half in three weeks? Exactly, no reason. It's my first. And then there will be a second and god willing a third.

So thus the training really begins. Well, i'm off for the night. My cousin is patiently waiting for me to finish this blog so that we can go back out and volley some more.

Until tomorrow...Tootles

TIRED!!

Okay, so this weekend was a bust. I was feeling bloated and sluggish and I had to work all day and evening Saturday and Sunday. UGH!! Today...I confirmed my suspicions of why I was so sluggish and feeling that my body was out of whack. Uncle Red arrived today. Which to me is still a positive. Do your business and go so I can get my training on bub.

So today, in spite of my monthly visitor I made it to the gym. Ran my 5k before my LOVELY yoga class. Which Rochelle totally kicked my ass. Oh can I say ASS on a blog? That's a good question...can I curse on a blog? hmmm gotta do some research on that one.

Anyway, Yoga totally kicked my ass today. As if my 6 4-minute intervals on the treadmill didn't do it's job enough. Which, let me talk about these 4-minute intervals. So I kind of programmed my music to help me get through them and it was pretty good. I realized I need to switch out some of my running songs to my non-running songs. They just don't inspire me anymore.

But, I think I'm going to push for a two run day. So, I did a solid 35 minutes on treadmill and tonight I will probably do over an hour. We'll see. I have a running partner and the commitment was made. We just need to make sure we follow through.

Okay...that all for now. Tootles...

RAIN STORMS & SUNSETS

So tonight there was a thunderstorm in the middle of my HIPHOP class tonight. We were bringing the thunder as well. It was a hot class tonight. After class when I was walking to my car the skies were clearing and the sunset lit the clouds beautiful hues of orange and fuchsia.

I wish I had my camera to take a picture at that moment. But one day i will capture it and share with everyone.

Anyhow, class tonight was great but i'm starting to feel some soreness in my right knee and my still in the back of my right ankle. I'm hoping to be up again at 5:15 for my morning run. I hope i'm able to make it through the run. We are going to try the intrevals again. But i'm coming up with a system. Will let you know how it works out.

Until tomorrow...Tootles

GOOD MORNING!!!

I just returned from a quick run/walk outside. Now that we are rolling into September there are cooler temps and breezes which make for great early morning runs.

I was up by 4:55 this morning and was out the door by 5:15. We tried a 4 minute run and 1 minute walk intervals and it was okay...but geez is there an exercise watch that you can set a vibrating timer on? Or what I was doing was when we started a 4 minute run I started a new song. And when the song was over it was four minutes. I guess that may be the way I would think about timing those. For those of you that don't run with an Ipod more power to you but for us weaklings I will enjoy my music.

Something is going on with my right heel. On Tuesday after my 5 mile run when i took off my shoes and walked around the house I couldn't put any pressure on my heel. It hurt like a sprain or something. And today while walking back to the house I started to feel a little strain above my heel up my calf. I need to figure it out. But it doesn't feel too great.

Anyhow, enough of my whining. I'm now training for a half in a couple of weeks. I know I can do it and i'm happy about it.

Having my yougart with granola and a cup of coffee. Off to the showers and work. Have a great Thursday.

Tootles...

THEME SONG!

Don't knock it. I distinctly remember an episode of Ally McBeal. Who remembers that show? Anyhow there was an episode or two that was all about selecting a theme song. This is when John, the nerdy weird partner revealed that his theme song was a Barry White classic. Classic indeed.

Anyhow, my new theme song for at least a month or so is Work by Ciara. Now the video is a little raunchy but I can't help it. When I listen to the song and i'm running or even just walking it effects my behavior. I act as if i'm walking in a club or at a party or on a runway. It's fun and it puts me in an amazing mood.

SO my recommendation to help jump start your rutt of a workout routine is to find a theme song to listen to in the car on the way to work. To listen to on your way to the gym. Even take a 5 minute break in your work day to listen to your ipod. Keep it handy...it can turn a crazy disruptive day into a great afternoon.

Tonight I made it to my beloved HipHop class. If I didn't have my HIPHOP crew on Wed and Thurs my workouts would be BORING! Now I need to find a striptease class. ;)

Until tomorrow....TOOTLES

STRUGGLING!

Okay...so i meant to get on this weekend and report my activity since I didn't work.

Saturday we had a Garage Sale YEAH!! I got rid of alot of those clothes that don't fit anymore. YEAH!! I had a lot of clothes. Now, i'm struggling to replace my wardrobe. I kind of miss my suit jackets. But early spring I bought a new suit jacket at Nordtsrom and it fit tight in the upper arms but now it fits great. LOVE IT! No other real activities that day. But hung out with the boys and took them to the movies to see Shorts. It was funny.

Sunday was a great day! Woke up early went to CHURCH. Prayed for everyone and myself. Then it was off to VOLLEYBALL. We lost but oh did it feel good to be out on the court. I just wish I had knee pads so that I could actually slide for the ball. My knee pads are in storage in DC. Some people though need to listen and pick up their game. I'm no expert but I do know volleyball strategy. Then it was SOFTBALL time. We WON!! I did okay. Got a good hit and advanced to third then came in for a run. We beat a church team that was a bit rude. What's with these christian holier than thou folks. I mean seriously...it's not very christian like to pick up second base and through it accross the field. What jackasses!! Serves em right to get beat. Then we had some coronas and it was time for the hot tub. It felt great.

Monday was a bust. Went to work early got off early to take the boys to karate class. Sweet it was. No other activity.

Tuesday - TODAY woke up early and hit the road. Just finished running 5 miles and i struggled. At one point my body just took over and stopped while my mind was still envisioning me running all the way home. Talk about body over mind. I just stopped and it took me 20 second to realize that I was walking. Has that ever happend to you? Well it was a first time for me and it was weird.

Well, today I am going to clean and wash clothes. UGH I work the rest of the week through the weekend. But i'm going to have to make adjustments to my Sunday schedules. I just love having my Sundays for summer sports.

I work tomorrow OPEN to 6 pm. We'll see if i'm able to wake up by 6 am to run outside then when i get off of work book it to my dance class. LOVE THE HIPHOP CLASS!

Tootles for now...

DECISIONS

I wish life decisions could be as easy as deciding to go to my favorite dance class ever. It's been a while since i've been able to attend the BEST HipHop dance class at 24 hour fitness. I had a great time in class tonight. I was so energized and pumped! Running is great exercise but sometimes you have to mix up your routine and keep up that level of interest.

Anyhow...I'm faced with a dilemma. One of the things I haven't really talked about is my old career. The line of work I used to be in before working at a photography studio. I used to work in politics. And after the big election in November 2008 I decided to run away. Escape and lose weight. Since i'be lost over 66 lbs since then and run out of my savings...i'm beginning to wonder if my break is over. It's time to get back to work.

Well, my friend has been calling me and trying to get me to take a year and four month project. They are going to pay for my housing and a decent contract per month. I'm too tired to thing tonight. I need to sleep on it.

Should I move or stay at the photography studio. Decisions...Decisions...

Until tomorrow...Tootles

KEEPING UP!!

So I hit the gym today. I didn't make it up early enough the other morning to go for my morning run. I have other things on my mind right now. Like how can I make more money and stay in Fort Worth.

ANYWAY...I kept up with my running. I ran a 5k today at the gym under 33 minutes. I even did a 2 minute interval at the end of each mile. I was proud of myself for running my last 2 minutes at 7.0. I didn't think I was going to make it. I had to hold on the the treadmill to catch my breath and then my song came on and I was set for the last minute. I ran hard...looked straight and just kept my eyes straight ahead.

Do you ever get that way when you are running? Your not really looking at someone or something when you are running. You are just looking straight. You don't pay attention to who's walking in front of you and when someone gets on the treadmill next to you. Unless it's a guy and of course you have to check him out to see if he's cute. Not that it matters...but it's just instinct.

Anyhow, it felt great to be on the treadmill again. BUT I need to update my playlists. UGH!! Don't laugh but I added a song last month that I love!!! Cruel Summer by Bananarama. I couldn't help it. I found it and added it. Plus this summer has been cruel. I'm running in the heat and I have a new job that I LOVE but it doesn't pay well.

All is good...i'm off tomorrow and I need to get an oil change and now my car is saying my coolant is low. This is when having a man comes in handy. He could just deal with the car issues and the grass and the trash and whatever other things that men should take care of.

Tomorrow, I will be back at the gym. Good times are here again.

Tootles...

COUPLES...

So today's notes is not going to be about running...but I have to say something about couples. So i'm working at a photography studio. Yes, the kind you see at any american mall. Anyhow, I like the job but the interesting thing is how you become part of peoples lives. How you get a glimpse of a family or a couple's lives. I'm starting my fourth week and let's just say it's an interesting job.

Back to my story. About 90% of our clientele are families. Or couples starting a family. We specialize in Maternity, newborn and family sessions. But tonight we had a couple in their early 30s. She wanted to give him something for his birthday. They came out with some great portraits and they even purchased an enlargement. Which, now i'm thinking are they even engaged? I mean really...if I was just dating a guy and maybe we were together for a year but no plans for marriage...would you have portraits done?

At what point is it okay to say "I DO" to portraits but not to vows? Just a thought.

While i'm talking about my job, I have to say how tired I am all the time and how I haven't been able to run as much the last couple of weeks. Well, that has got to change. Tomorrow I am waking up at 6 am so that I can run for an hour. Then it's off to work at 8am.

I am setting my alarm. HOPEFULLY I WAKE UP!!!

TOOTLES...Until Tomorrow!

SUMMER SPORTS!!!

Let me just say how much I miss summer sports. Today, I spent money on a new softball glove. (Since my other one is still in storage in DC). I also bought a bat and a ball.

My exercise for the day was to take those items to the batting cages. After 9 rounds of 20 pitches...I am pooped. But I did good...I want to keep playing...but come on can we get some single guys on these teams.

Last Sunday, we had our first softball practice and I realized how I had missed organized sports like that. After softball practice we went to play beach volleyball and I LOVED it. I haven't lost my moves from 10 years ago. That was a really good thing. I fit right in on the team.

Okay...so that was my workout for the day. My food was mix and match...but still decent.

Until tomorrow....Tootles

RELAPSE!!

So, it's been 15 days since my first post. I already suck at this blog thing. I've been a bit distracted. So I started I new job July 11th at a photography studio. I also started hanging out with a new friend. And well that tends to cut into my spare time. Needless to say I only ran a total of 10 miles during the past 15 days. UGH!!!

On Friday I finished a book. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. It was a great book about finding wisdom in world and realizing what is really important in life. What we choose to put emphasis on and so on.

Yesterday, after work, I ran to hang out with my nephews at soccer practice and then booked it to Half Price Books where I found additional books of Coelho. I am now going to read The Pilgrimage, Veronika Decides to Die and By the River Piedra I Sat Down and Wept. Reading his books is like experienceing a journey. Wisdom, Faith, Humility, Courage, Temptation, Hope, Redemption, Forgiveness, Obsession and Love. I've decided in my journey through his books Love will be the last. I started with Wisdom and now on to Humility. I will keep you posted on how they turn out. But if you want to join me in this journey don't be afraid to.

So, I do have some more explaining to do about what I have been doing the last 15 days. On Sunday, I joined a softball and volleyball team. We practiced for a total of 4 hours. It's been a long time since I played either sport but let me just say DAMN i'm athletic. But now for the past 48 hours i'm a little sore. Especially in my hamstrings and inside hip flexors.

I work today at 1:00 pm and it was absolutely ridiculous that I didn't workout this morning. I'm here at home dealing with my computer and preparing my meals for the day since I will be closing the store tonight. Maybe, I'll muster up enough energy to hit the gym at 10pm.

Also, I must confess...I haven't been eating right the last 15 days. Don't get me wrong I'm not completely off the wagon but my foot has hit the ground many days recently. Again, another reason why i started this blog. I need to hold myself accountable to myself and others.

Okay...it's Wednesday, August 5th. A new day!

INTRODUCTION...

Today is my first blog entry. I'm excited and nervous at the same time. Sharing the couch with my nephews, I'm typing while they are playing Star Wars Lego on their DS's. Thought just crossed my mind...is that correct? DS's? It is another brand of hand held video games. Wow, I remember the first ones...Gameboys. They had no color screens (much like the first computers) and were dull.

Anyhow, getting back to why I'm starting this blog. In November 2008, I made a critical life altering decision. Tipping the scales at 276 lbs, I was unhappy with myself and my life. All my life I was the heavy girl and then 8 years ago I was the FAT girl. And when I say FAT I mean morbidly obese. I have the pictures to prove it.

FAST FORWARD: July 2009, 8 months later, I am 210 lbs and discovered a new passion. RUNNING! Yep, that's right. I'm a runner now. Well, I'm a BIG GIRL RUNNER. In January, I started running on the treadmill and realized that I could actually improve with training and time. While I was once the VALET Queen - I am now the "oh a little walk as long as it isn't 100 degrees won't hurt anything". Those that know me will understand.

Four 5ks, One 10k and One 15k later...I have run a ridiculous number of miles. Every once in a while I would post a new update on Facebook but nothing consistant that I can go back and review. So hence, the blog creation.

Well, I think this is a long enough introduction. I hope to be active on this blog and hopefully wil be able to share and possibly inspire others to take a journey to a better lifestyle.

Until tomorrow...or later today! Tootles...