Kicking *kitten* In Our Twenties - February Challenge!! Take 2!

meagalayne

Hey y'all - Happy to see some posts! :bigsmile:

Quick update on my goals. I made a tasty dinner tonight and LOVE this mango salad so much! The curry turned out pretty lack-luster, but oh well. Picture:


I texted my new workout buddy but she is traveling to Ottawa this weekend so no dice on meeting up tomorrow night. I am going to go anyway on my own. Should be good.
I also left out a HUGE awesome goal for the weekend - Silly me! I am meeting up with one of my MFP-besties on Sunday ! :bigsmile: She's a training buddy and we are going to be running the 30K race together in March, so we're meeting up for coffee on Sunday to get to know one another. She's been such a fabulous friend so far and I can't wait to meet her in person. Very excited indeed :bigsmile:

I also managed to leave work at 330pm today. I've been going in early a lot to catch up but my mom needed a ride to get some serious dental work done today, so I left in a hurry and called it a day. I needed to get something done for tomorrow so I brought it home. I think I may just take it to bed and curl up with my book, work and a cup of tea. Sounds like a plan to me. I have loads of errands on the go for the weekend and I got very little sleep last night, so I just going to do nothing tonight... And by nothing, I mean not much else

El- You hit the nail on the head :ohwell: That's exactly what's up. Wish it were different, but it's not. It's a tough situation right now. I've been super clear about how I feel but he still wants to keep trying at it. I'm just not sure what else there is to do... I think eventually I'll need to just really hurt him and find some closure :ohwell: None of it is easy. Thanks for sharing your blog - All those desserts look incredible! Oh my - peanut butter cake balls? Sheesh! You got me on that one! Never could I make those - I'd be ohhhh so screwed and eat them ALL. Where did you move to in Ottawa, if you don't mind me asking? I love the city and would love to come out there again in the summer. So many fabulous places to eat, drink and enjoy yourself. I am NEVER bored in Ottawa :bigsmile: You training sounds a LOT like my 1/2 Marathon training from last year. Are you using the Hal Higdon Intermediate plan? I have found that with my schedule now, including yoga and lifting, 5 days a week of running is just way too much for my body. I'm doing 3 days/week now and finding it much more manageable. Do you think you can sustain 5 days/week from now until May? That seems like a longgg time without some major breaks. Just wondering :blushing:

Abby - Thanks girl - your support means a lot! :flowerforyou: Good luck to you on your 11miles! I am sure you'll have no problem I, on the other hand, have major doubts about my 14 mile run.... We shall see! My knee and hip were really sore on today's 4 mile run, so 14 seems insurmountable right now. But I always surprise myself :happy: And yes - Thankfully the vacay was fantastic!

Emily - So happy to hear that Bachelor #3 is such a great find! Enjoy yourself with him for now and just see what happens - Don't get too worried about what the future holds. You'll figure it out :happy: Just have fun right now and get to know each other. That's the best part, anyway

Bethany - I too wish we could live more parallel lives ! It does seem like our struggles balance out, though - and it's nice to have you here to help to support and carry me when I am so down. It's also so nice to hear that things have turned around and are so positive for you these days. You are definitely deserving and it's lovely to hear that your kids are thriving in their new home, as well. I am so happy for you sweetie Everything sounds like it's going great! And your no-excuses attitude kicks major *kitten*! You know how I feel about it Just keep us all on track, girl.

Alright I better get off this thing and get some rest. Catch up tomorrow! Love yas!
Meag

moochachip

So close to the weekend I can feel it...

This week I've continued using the work outs listed in "The New Rules of Lifting for Women", and feel my muscles working it hard again. After doing weight machines for so long, my body hit a plateau. This week I have felt sore in places I haven't felt in a long time, so it's obvious it's working. Balancing this with running for the 5K in May hasn't been a problem so far.. From what I hear things only get harder on this program, but I am up for the challenge. Recommend this book to anyone interested in doing weight training, but not sure how to go about routines with free weights and other workouts.

Tomorrow the guy I have been dating for about a month and I are going out. Since he lives out of town, we really didn't do much for Valentine's Day (which is fine with me - no waiting for hours at a restaurant for a seat.) After that, a movie and the morning after breakfast. Currently debating on whether we should go out, or I should make it. Hm..

Other then that, keeping busy with school work. Went to an internship fair this past week, and met with several different businesses that seemed interested in what I had to offer. Already have an interview for next week, and it's the one where I can really see myself. Creating design, video, and photography for an athletic team. Here's to hoping.

- Emily

Meag - That does look good - Especially for the summer. Good luck with that goal - You're really taking this by the horns. Giving me inspiration for sure.

Abby - Don't think it's a bad thing to spoil yourself on your birthday - Not like you're doing it everyday. Looks like your hubby knows you pretty well with that kind of gift. You'll have to let me know how it was.. My friend going into Kinesiology has been talking about that test for awhile now.

El - It sure looks like you're keepin busy fitness wise to me. Enjoy the new place. (I did add my name next to my goals.)

Megan - Just worry about gettin better, and then get back on track. It's frustrating having to lay around all the time though (I remember that clearly..)

eleanoreb

Abby- Happy belated birthday!!!!!! Stayed udner your calories on your birthday, wow. I am impressed!! What a thoughtfull gift from your hubby! wow 11miles.. ekk, goodluck!! let us know how it goes

Meag- I should clarify that my friend and I made the blog. She posted the chocolate peanut butter ball recipe. i would also eat them all if i ever made something like that.. I moved to an apartment building on the driveway, its right by the canal and the pedestrian bridge (accross from Ottawa U). let me know next time you come to Ottawa and we can go for a run, or do something else. The training plan I am doing is with running room, i'm part of the clinic there and the program is by john Standon. 5 days a week is a lot, but because the mileage isn't that much it seems manageable so far. I'm finally starting to feel back in shape after not running much over the fall. How exiciting to meet one of your MFP besties, that is awesome!! Sounds like you have some fun things planned.

Emily- Ohh, sounds like a fun date night is planned!! What do you think you will cook for dinner if you make it? I am intrigued by your weight book, what kind of workouts are there?

ASM had soccer last night and some guy on the other team stepped on my foot with his cleat..ouch!! otherwise it was a good game. I am going for massage therapy at lunch, back has been bothering me a bit. So glad it's Friday, I am hoping to have a reelaxing weekend.

kendib

Wow...what a crazy week! I have been reading but every time I start to respond something comes up and I stop. So I am taking a few minutes at the office while I can.

eleanoreb - I like your idea of putting names with your goals. I'm new this month and have pretty much figured out who everyone is according to their posts and responses but it would help keep us newbies in the loop. I like your food blog. At the orgainzation I work for there is a summer day camp and I do a weekly cooking session with the kids. This summer we are focusing on how to have yummy desserts that are health. I still have a few weeks left unplanned, so if you have any ideas let me know.

abby - what a good birthday present and congrats on not going over on your birthday. 11 miles right now just seems really long right now. A 5k is still a little tough for me to complete, getting better though and hoping to be able to conitue to increase my distance.

meag - I think the work week after vacation is the most busy. Having to play catch up from when your gone plus all the new stuff. Your dinner looks awesome. Don't think I could convience the hubs to eat it though.

emily - I'm glad to here that the "New Rules for Lifting for Women" is working out for you. I was planning on using it with running and am glad that you are ablet to do both. I hope you keep us informed about it is working out for you. I have 4 more week of 30 Day Shred before I start that.

AFM - This weeks workout has been pretty nonexistent. I tried the recumbent bike with a friend and it totally messed with an old basketball injury in my knee. It hasn't been painful to walk but running seems to stress it so I'm not willing to push it. I am planning on running tomorrow and if it gets to bad I can always walk intead. It is feeling better after a couple of days so hoping no harm done. Signed up for a 5k race at the beginning of April and am hoping be able to keep pace with my brother who is a uber in shape military guy. I'm pretty sure he is willing to run at my pace if I can't keep up though.

Has anyone tried or heard about Herbal Life? We have 2 new shake places that are Herbal Life and don't know much about it. Will certainly be doing some research about it.

Hope you all have a great Friday!

Kendi

GuamGrly

Happy weekend Lovelies!!

Meag – I’m still trying to figure out my life plan. I never thought I would end up a lifer in the car business and there aren’t many opportunities for me to move up. My last boss made me want to sprint out of work everyday when I clocked out and never look back. Luckily that all changed when she was kindly escorted off the property and replaced by an awesome boss!! None of us ever thought that day would come but I’m glad I stuck around for it. The new boss has given me opportunities to learn more and sees my potential. Although I still have no desire to be a lifer in the car business, I am still trying to figure out exactly what I want to do when I grow up. That dinner looks mighty tasty!! I soooo wish you were closer so that you could cook for me!! And this MFP bestie that you will be meeting up with…anyone I know?? I was supposed to meet up with Tara when I was planning on going out to Vegas but that didn’t work out and now she has unfriended me so I guess it wasn’t meant to be. In regards to Tyler, I think you need to worry about your own feelings at this point more than his. You have been completely honest and upfront about your expectations of the relationship and the more you drag this out, the more you may start to resent him. This whole thing is really starting to take a toll on you mentally and physically so I hope that you will look at it from all perspectives and make the decision that works best for YOU!! I wish you the best girly!!

Megan – being sick when you are pregnant definitely sucks cause you are limited to what you can take. I hope that you are able to get tons of rest and kick that cold.

Eleanore – I have daughter that is 7 and my son is 4. My daughter is with me full-time and my son is with me 4 days out of the week until he starts school. I am following the couch to 5K training schedule. There used to be a lot of beginning runners in this forum and they all did it and raved about it. They eventually continued onto the bridge to 10K training schedule. I have started C25K before but never finished it. I am determined to make it happen this time around. I enjoy running on the treadmill so that I can track my distance, calories burned, and time since I don’t have a HRM yet. I should be getting a HRM within the next few months after I get my tax return and then I should be ready to enjoy some scenery on my runs. And congrats on the move!! I have been in my new place for 2 weeks now and I feel so comfortable and at home here!! Awesome about your friend at work too!! I have an accountability partner at work too and its so great to have someone that I see on a daily basis that I have to be accountable too. When I get a chance, I plan on checking out your blog too! Sorry to hear about your foot!!

Abby – the food and the atmosphere at Joe’s Crab Shack were amazing!! The waiters get up and dance every once in a while and I decided to get out there with them for one of the songs. I am sure everyone thought I was crazy but I was having a great time and that’s all that mattered. The only problem is that my friend that I went with is notorious for letting the kids order dessert and sweets are my weakness. I am gonna have to put that to an end fast!! I don’t need the calories and my kiddos don’t need the sugar. And great job on your birthday!! Under calories AND got a run in…sounds like a win to me!! And that was such a great gift from your husband. Sounds like he is totally in tune with you!!

Emily (moocha) – glad to hear that the lifting is going so well!! I am just starting on machines for now and even then, I like it better when I have someone there helping me with my form. But one day I hope to graduate to free weights. But baby steps…haha!! And I’m right there with you on not wanting to go out on Valentine’s Day. Not that I have a Valentine but I would rather spend that time doing something unique and fun instead of sitting in a restaurant lobby with a bunch of other unhappy couples. And I say that you should make him breakfast!! And congrats on the interview!! Hope all goes well. Keep us updated!

Kendi – sorry to hear about your knee!! Hopefully the pain will subside soon!! I am planning on doing a 5K in April also. Mine is April 22. That should give me plenty of time to finish up my 5K training since I am nothing close to being a runner.

AFM…the last few days have not been so good food-wise. However, I still made it to the gym last night to get in W1D2 of C25K training. D3 is on schedule for tomorrow. There is also a spin class at the gym in the morning that I’m thinking about attending. It will all depend on when the kids get up. I am also having to go into work tomorrow at 10:30 to make up for some time I took off on Thursday to attend a funeral. I will be going non-stop all weekend so the food should be minimal. Just hoping to fit in some good exercise.

But on a good note, I weighed in this morning and I'm down one pound!! Much better than I expected after my eating yesterday but I will definitely take it!! I didn't record it on MFP cause I haven't recorded my new higher weight because I don't want to continue to see the numbers go up and down and continue to discourage myself.

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!!

abby459

Meag - Glad to hear that you had a nice vacation!! And I already saw that you made your 14 mile run....hows the knee/hip feeling?? Did you did to relax a little this weekend too?? Sounds like you have been stretching yourself thin at work, hopefully you had a little"me time" over the weekend!

Emily - I'm glad that you are liking the bookm so far...I may pick it up after my 1/2 is over and I have more time to focus on weight training. Hope your date night goes well...sounds like you should have a good time!! And I will let you know about the test once I get it done...my appointment isn't until March 12th. Wish you the best of luck in your interview this week!!

Eleanor - Thanks for the bday wishes!! And soccer sounds like fun...besides the cleat to the foot part! But its great and fun type of exercise!! Are you in a weekly league??

Kendi - I know a 5k might seem tough right now but you will get there!! I couldnt even run 1 mile in July/August when I first started and now I can do 11!! Just keep at it and you will improve greatly over time!! Thats awesome that you signed up for a 5k....I think it helps to keep you motivated when you actually sign up for something!! Good luck with the training and knee.....hopefully it feels better soon!!

Bethany - I agree that sweets are a weakness...especially at resturants!! I dont have a problem much at home because I just dont keep them in the house to temp me very often (except my reduced-fat ice cream that I refuse to give up) but when they offer them after dinner it is sooo hard to say no!! And I also couldnt resist the girl scout cookies they were selling at my grocery store this weekend...so now I have those in the house too!! Great job sticking with your training plan and on the 1lb loss...thats awesome!!


AFM - I made my 11 miler yesterday...actually ended up being 11.5 miles with an average pace of 10:24 which is pretty good for me on a long run. I also ended up signing up for an earlier 1/2 marathon with some friends on March 25th. But thats good because I think I am ready for it!! So I am going to change the original trail 1/2 to the 10K part of the race instead....I dont want to attempt 2 big races in one month and I think that maybe trying a trail race for my first 1/2 is a bad idea....so I am liking this switch. And I thought I would share some pics from my run yesterday:



This is the reservoir that I run to from my house and there is a path around the top to run/walk on...its incredible up there!



This is the HUGE hill that I have to run up to get to the top and the one I use when I do hill intervals....its way harder then the pic looks like though!!


The view of my little town from the top.



I took this one from my run a week ago and meant to post it but forgot!! I know someone asked about the Garmin and it's size, so this gives you an idea of what it looks like on a wrist....and bear in mind that my wrist is only a misely 5 inches around.

allie7383

Hey everyone! Sorry I’ve been a bit neglectful of the thread. This week has been one of those weeks where I swear the universe hates me and has done something crappy to me every day. The biggest thing was that we had issues with work and one day I ended up staying 2.5 hours past my shift, and when you work overnights, believe me 10 extra minutes seems like an hour! I ended up with little sleep before having a hair appt, then went home, had some dinner and went back to bed as I had to be at work again.. When I first started this shift I had the attitude of, oh well, I don’t have to go out all the time.. However now I feel like I’m so anti-social, and since I have to work every other weekend I’ve missed out on not just socializing but birthdays and a wedding as well.. Oh and forget trying to meet someone.. I def feel like I’ll be single forever. ( Apparently I’m very attractive to married men as I’ve now been hit on by 2 of them, wth!!) But in happier news, my Disney getaway is in less than a week and I cannot be more excited to be away from work and NJ in general. I have my longest run of 10 miles to do then some tapering and rest days before the big race this Sunday!! My friend made me a running skirt and I got some accessories so I’ll be posting some pics of me as Ariel lol. Having a bit of knee pain right now so hopefully that will be gone by Monday.

Meag- Sorry for the life issues in both work and with Tyler. Believe me I have times too, esp more recently where I just want to pack up and go someplace new. I miss my college friends, and I feel that sometimes I’m living in a dead end, even though I’m back in school trying to prevent that and to finally get a decent job during daylight hours. I really love that you go on vacays alone. I did it when I studied abroad and I think it’s something that everyone should experience. I hope it helped you clear your head a bit! We’re very much alike in the independence department, and part of me feels like that works against me with guys. No way could I be with a clinger and as much as I wish I had a b/f sometimes, there are also many times I’m happy to do things alone, and could honestly care less about having someone there.

Emily- So sorry about your dog. I’ve been through that before and it’s never easy. Our dog is probably 16 now, and we’re pretty sure she’s deaf now, but is surprisingly sprightly still. Her back legs give out sometimes and she’s gotten stuck down the basement stairs a few times, so we’ll see what happens. But yay for having a great guy around. Hopefully the future turns out bright for you guys!

Bethany- How are you doing with your 5k training? Congrats on the loss! Seems like you’re doing well with the moving behind you.

Abby- Happy belated birthday! Sounds like a great gift from the hubs, and very impressive with the cal count for your bday! I’m so jealous of your running surroundings!! I just have the park by me, but am thinking of going to another one b/c I’m def getting tired of this one lol. Awesome time for the long run! I think you’ll def be ready for the earlier ½.

Took me a bit to catch up, and my break is almost up, so that's about all I can get in for now. Everyone have a great rest of the weekend!

meagalayne

Wow - Lots of VERY long posts! I want to catch up with you all but I think I need a quiet night to myself tonight to just decompress and get myself in a better emotional space. The past few days have been a bit of an emotional rollercoaster, and I had a near-meltdown tonight, so I think I just need some quiet me-time. For now, here's the meager catching up I can do!

Abby - I'm so sorry I forgot to wish you a happy birthday! Awful terrible MFPal I am! :noway: Really happy to hear you had a good one, though :bigsmile: Seems like you did a FINE job on your 11 miler! That's the same exact pace I ran my first 10mile race AND it seems that we're racing the same day this year - March 25th! That's my 30K! It's going to be a big day around here for us ladies :drinker: You are DEFINITELY ready for it! If I can run 30K, you can absolutely run a 1/2 Marathon. The farthest I had run before my 1/2 was just over 10mi. The last few are all heart, determination, and will. You have loads of all three, so I know you'll do great :bigsmile: The pics look great BTW - wish I could come and run there with ya! I love running in new places and the weather there looks gorgeous! If you ever want a visitor, let me know

Emily (moocha)- Great job sticking with NROLFW! I hear the workouts and advice are great, and that the program is really empowering. How was your date with the boy? and breakfast? Fill us in! You know how we love to pry! haha

El- Well both you and your friend look like fabulous bakers, I must say! It's a darn good thing I haven't got much of a sweet tooth I'd be sooo screwed if I lived anywhere near you! hah! As for visiting Ottawa, you betchya! Next time I'm in the neighbourhood we'll plan a run and coffee date, for sure. Or meet up for some good healthy eats at Table :blushing: My closest friend in Ottawa lives on Somerset just the other side of the bridge (I think? she just moved in Dec...). Either way its in Sandy Hill, so we could easily meet at the bridge for a run! Where's the nearest running room to you? Is there one on Elgin or something like that?

Kendib - Convince? Just make it and tell him tough-*kitten* if he doesn't like he can make himself some PB&J! :laugh: That's how I roll, girl. Pretty sweet, huh :huh: It's not a wonder I'm destined to be a crazy cat lady forever... As for Herbal Life, I've heard nothing good TBH. Do your research and seriously evaluate what it has to offer that simple healthy choices, exercise and moderation can't provide over time. I'm a bit old school in my thinking but the reality is that nothing comes cheap and without hard work. The old adage "garbage in --> garbage out" comes to mind. Your body just needs good fuel and moderation and things will fall into place. Hard work and patience, my dear. But hey - whatever works! That's just my $0.02!

Beth - Ahhhh the life plan. We're supposed to have one of those, right? :huh: Yea, mine flew out the window a few years ago and thank goodness for that! Otherwise I'd be at some stuffy academic institution, massively overweight spending all my time in the library and being miserable. Psht! So glad that's not my life anymore! Being flexible and willing to just go with where life leads us sometimes seems crazy and irresponsible but often results in the greatest happieness and most fulfilling life experiences. So, you may not know what you're doing right now. But you're definitely on a MUCH better track. Which is fabulous! :happy: You know I'd LOVE to cook for you, girl. Absolutely ANY time! I'll make it down to Cali some day... And that day, you'll have a mighty fine meal. You have my word! hehe As for the de-friending... LOL! Tell me about it! Me too! I say - saves me the trouble Wait, did I just say that out loud...? Wooooops :blushing:

Allie - I've already sent you a few profile messages and what not, just wanted to say wohoooo on your 1/2 and so excited to hear your results! I know you are going to SMASH it! A few of us have been pretty neglectful around here these days (myself included) so no worries. Just give what you can! Meeting people is EXTREMELY hard, and harder when you are working + training + have crazy shifts + want to eat well and find balance and be happy etc. It's TOUGH! And where to meet people, anyway? Ugh. Miserable! It's just not easy. I hear ya. When I was working Thurs/Fri/Sat nights every weekend, I felt trapped, so I can relate. But now that I'm working 9-5, I don't feel any less busy/crazy. The reality is that everybody just has way too much on their plate and it's hard to find the time. You just need to make it a priority. Have you tried online dating? I know it's not ideal but it does help with the initial ice-breaking. Or maybe speed dating? I hear that's a laugh, at least Just have to throw yourself out there, girl. It's not easy but it's better that being unhappy if you want to find somebody to share your life with. Mega awesome << hugs>> either way. You'll figure it out!

AFM - Thank you all for your Tyler advice. *kitten* is hitting the fan pretty hard right now. Once something is set in stone, I'll give you a proper update. For those who are friends of mine (most of you?), you'll see my statuses and know what's up. It's not pretty.

Made some pulled pork tonight and it turned out OK... Not brilliant though and took a LOT of time and effort. Kind of a b*tch really. And now I am just INSANELY full! Argh. I feel like I ate my weight in pulled pork. And it's probably much worse for me than I even realize. Ah well. C'est la vie!

Shopping in the US tomorrow with my mom, which is exciting. We are just heading down for the day, as she wants to pick up some clothes and personal items for their trip to Cancun next week. I am just going for the ride and because I am in serious need of more work clothes that fit and the US seems to be the only place I can find clothes that fit. And they all happen to be super cheap, too, which is nice.

Will post with an update when we get back. Hopefully I'll have lots of good finds to tell you about. That's it for now. Off to bed! Jeeeez this was a long "quick" update. As always! :blushing:
Love yas!

GuamGrly

Happy Monday Lovelies!!

Abby – that view would definitely be great motivation for me to get out there and run!! And which model Garmin do you have? That seems to be exactly what I’m looking for. And sounds like you will have everything worked out with your races so that you don’t over-do it!

Allie – sorry to hear about your life troubles but sounds like your trip to Florida will be just what you need. Can’t wait to see pics of your outfit. I am hoping that one year I will be able to do the one they have out here in Anaheim especially since its just minutes from my house. 5K training is slowly coming along but I’m enjoying the process.

Meag – I’m a firm believer in the “everything happens for a reason” motto. And although I may n ot have my life plan figured out, I know that there is a plan for me even if I’m having to figure it out along the way. I’m not able to be nearly as flexible as you are cause I have the kiddos but I’m sure that everything is gonna work out for us. And I am very much looking to that meal you make for me!! Sorry to hear that your pulled pork didn’t come out as you had hoped. I know it sounded good. Hope you score some sweet deals in the states!! And how did it go with your MFP meet and greet??

AFM...well again, my weekend didn’t go as planned. I have been dating this guy since September but we hadn’t seen each other in a month so the plan was to go out there Sunday afternoon and stay the night. Well that wasn’t enough time so he talked me into going out there Saturday night which meant I didn’t get my W1D3 run in. Food wasn’t too outrageous but I couldn’t calculate much of anything. And he made me some sort of mixed drink last night and my tummy is not feeling so hot today. I am hoping that it will be back to normal in a few hours so that I can get my W2D1 run in today. And after hanging out with him this weekend, I am more confused than I was when I was going out there. Just taking things one day at a time and not putting more effort into it then what I’m getting out of it. However, I have pretty much decided that should things end with him, I am not dating for the rest of the year. I need to work on me and don’t want to be out there “looking” for love when there is a ton of things that I can work on.

Well hope everyone is having a great start to their week!!

meagalayne

Good morning and happy Fat Tuesday! Hope y'all are planning a serious pancake dinner tonight! :bigsmile: For reals!

I was opting for either a major protein shake or some asparagus and leftover pulled pork, but I've gotta stick with tradition on this one. Protein pancakes it is! At least that's what I've got planned. Who knows what will happen when I get home! I am aiming for 5 miles on the dreaded TM tonight after work, so we shall see...

Bethany - My meet and greet went very very well, thank you! Jen is such a sweetheart and it's lovely meeting and talking with other people that are as motivated and inspired by running as I am. It's also nice to put a face to a screen name and makes me very excited for our race together next month :happy: I am sorry to hear that your weekend didn't go as planned. Never does, does it? Especially when you take into consideration the unpredictability of others - and relationships! Oyvey. I hear that!:ohwell: I could write the book on feeling confused about relationships right now. I hope that you are able to find some clarity and if what you need is to just be alone and work on rediscovering the love you have in other parts of your life, then I say do it! I am nearing that same crossroads in my life again as well... We're all a work in progress, dear!

AFM - This is a quickie, shopping yesterday was great. Bought some awesome stuff at great deals - jeans, sweaters, some short shorts which make me feel GREAT, a killer skirt for work, some shoes, a new yoga mat and some stuff for the pooch. Very productive day! And I managed to stay under my cals even on a rest day - a freaking miracle if there ever was one! LOL

Today is going to be interesting at work, since we've had a day off and things are bound to be very very busy. I am headed to the gym right after work and going to pound out some miles on the TM and then head home. That's about it. Tyler and I are on a bit of a relationship hiatus right now and I think it's for the best. I just need to figure out what I want and where he fits in that, if at all, right now. It's not easy but I know it will get easier... Just takes time.

Have a great Tuesday my loves!
Meag

kendib

Abby - Your running pics look great! I don't have anywhere fun to run where I live. I usually run around some neighborhoods. The 5k isn't has awful as was at the beginning. I am hoping to be able to run a marathon in a year, so April of 2013. We will see how that goes. I want to run it in a respectable time.

Meag - I don't usually plan meals around what the hubs will or won't eat. When I do make something new or different he will usually try a small amount and either fix himself something different or eat a sandwich or something. Thankfully his food preferences have improved over the last 5 years, :happy: so there isn't much that he won't at least try. I agree with you on the Herbal Life. I hadn't heard of it before and with 2 new shake shops opening in my small town, I was curious. I like my protein shakes after workouts but I don't think I could live on shakes. I didn't start this looking for short cuts and think exercise and eating right will get me there. I'm glad your shopping trip went well. I love shopping and that was my big "wake up" call to lose weight...the mall or any shopping sounded like to much walking and I didn't have the energy for it. :huh:

Bethany - I'm sorry your weekend didn't go as expected. It's hard havig to balance other people's schedules around yours or vice versa. I am starting W3 D1 on the C25k program. I have started and stopped several times and have finally signed up to a race at the beginning of April so I have no excuse not to finish the program.

AFM - I completely fell off the bandwagon this weekend. We had 3 birhtday parties and 1 going-away party to attend in 3 days. All with a meal. I tried to watch what I was eating but wasn't as successful as I would have liked. I ended up not logging it because I would have been upset with myself for not having more control over what I was eating. When food is provided there is only so much you can do.

I am also starting my no caffine. I have already cut out carbinated drinks and this was the next step. I bought some decaf coffee to make it through the morning. I think I can do this, I just have to me creative with drink choices.

Hope you are all having a great week.

Kendi

abby459

Allie - Thanks!! and your right, working overtime on a night shift is killer!! I worked nights for several years and I always hated getting held over. My 12 hour shifts somehow always ended up being 14s!! I hope you have a wonderful vacation!! Let us know how it went!!

Meag - No worries on the bday....I dont even like to celebrate and you are always an amazing MFP friend!!! Thanks!! Thats awesome that we are racing on the same day!! I will use you as inspiration for my 1/2!! And I live in tiny little Delaware and unfortunately what you saw in the pics is the ENTIRE town. So you are more then welcome to come, but I think it would be a very boring trip....we have nothing to do here!! I hope the time apart from Tyler helps you figure everything out...sometimes it takes time apart to get perspective.

Bethany - The watch is the Garmin Forerunner 110, which (according to my hubby) is the smallest model that they have out. Its a little pricey, I think around $150?? But I have to say that I really do love it!! It sounds like you have a good head on your shoulders about the boyfriend situation...I agree that its important to have yourself and your life all figured out before getting into anything serious. Good luck with week 2 of C25K!!

Kendi - Glad to hear that your 5ks arent as awful as they were when you started!! And you will able to do a marathon by next year!! Just keep at it and slowly add a mile every other week or so....thats worked pretty well for me. And dont sweat the eating over the weekend...its always hard when you are at an event or party. You'll get yourself right back on track!!


AFM - Glad that everyone liked the pics of my town, although I am said to say that those pics cover my whole town...there is nothing else to it at all. I have to run from my house to the reservoir, around it 3 times, then back towards my house and through a few neighborhoods just to get in the 11 miles!! Its only a couple more days until I will be lying on the sunny beach of Riviera Maya, Mexico with a cold drink in hand!!! I am soo excited to start packing tomorrow...we leave saturday early morn. I might even be brave and pull out some old shorts to try on...I havent worn shorts in over 2 years!! And I am making a goal to run at least 3 times during my week there...or any type of exercise if they dont have much room to run. I know I wont lose weight, but just trying not to gain over the vacation!!

Hope everyones having a great week!!

meagalayne

Hey ya'll - Quick post before bed! I have my alarm set for 6.5 hours from now and today was exhausting, so I don't want to push it...

Abby - No worries lady and thanks for the sweet words :blushing: You make me blush! Truth be told, my knowledge of DE starts and ends with Joe Biden :laugh: I really haven't got a clue what you folks have going on there, but from the sounds of your post- not much! Then again, I can always find stuff to do in any place I visit. In fact last summer we traveled to Albany for 5 days and had a BLAST in Troy, NY. Small-ish towns can often times be the best if you know where to look. Lots of great finds and always something new to discover that is a total departure from what you are used to. Being Canadian, I find small towns in the US of A absolutely fascinating. I'm sure I'd love it there! At least to visit What's your proximity to other larger cities? I should really just Google map it...

Also - Garmin Forerunner 110; what features does it have? Chest strap? Laps? HRM? GPS? I'd love to know! I need to replace my Timex sometime this year so it would be great to get some feedback. I should really splurge on a really good watch for a few hundred bucks, but that money could just as easily go toward a trip, so it's a hard sell.

Kendib - I didn't mean for my post to come off as judge-y! I hope it didn't - Sounds like you've got what works for you and your hubs figured out. Tyler and my folks aren't crazy about my eating habits but typically they don't complain when I'm cooking - they either make something else or we find a way to accommodate everyone. Often I begrudgingly cook something extra to sate their carb-loving appetites. As for Herbal Life, let us know what you think if you do decide to take it up. I'm curious about the schedule and meals etc and how you find it fits into your life.

AFM - Ran a good 5mi in 47:30 flat today, which isn't my fastest by a long shot but I did a lot of random intervals, some incline, and also some recovery, so it was pretty good. Over a few miles I increased my speed from 6.0mph to 7.2 7.5mph for the last burst . I was a sweaty mess at the gym, as usual, and was gawked at while I ran. C'est la vie! Keep on looking - you don't get this fit sitting your *kitten* on the couch! :laugh: I promise, I don't ACTUALLY say that! It just amuses me at times that people at the gym seem to think there is a one-way-mirror between themselves and the rest of society. Too funny.

Managed to eat my weight in protein pancakes, fruit and other random snacks today. It was kind of a mess of a eating day, meal-wise, but my macros were fine and I ate my cals so I'm happy.

Tyler and I are on a bit of a break and it's kind of nice to just worry about me. Things today were absolutely NUTS at work, and I ended up over-stressed and just feeling pinched all day long, so being able to zone out tonight and just do my own thing without having to factor in our relationship status every minute was a welcome change. Right now I think I am finding the rest of life just so demanding that it's too much to have a not-really-working relationship to add to the mix. It's a bummer that things have turned out that way, but I'm not so sure there's much I can do to help it :ohwell: One day at a time.

Anyway, getting up early to hit the gym again. Gotta make it all fit! Hope you lovelies have a wonderful Wednesday! I am banking on having a less stressful day tomorrow... Fingers crossed!
Gnight! Meag

GuamGrly

Happy Hump Day Lovelies!!!

This thread has been slow lately!

Meag – glad that the meet-and-greet with Jen went well. Sometimes I wish we all lived closer so that we could at least hang out once in a while. And I know what you mean about putting a face to a screen name. Years ago, I used to be very active in the AOL chat rooms and one Saturday we decided to meet up at the beach for a bonfire. It was interesting to finally meet everyone in person. Honestly, glad to hear that you and Tyler are on a break. I understand that relationships are hard work but I think everything was affecting your emotional and physical state just a little too much. Hopefully you are able to work things out. If it was meant to be then it will be! I’m personally over stressing about things that are really out of my control. I would rather take that time and energy to focus on things that are in my control and worth my while.

Kendi – good luck with the lack of caffeine!! My best friend just gave up coffee and soda for Lent. He is not even through the first day and is already realizing how dependent has been on it.

Abby - $150 still sounds like it would be worth my while. Definitely gonna do my homework before I purchase one. And yay for the beaches of Mexico!! I think that the beautiful scenery would be motivation enough for me to get out there and get my run on. Hope you have a fabulous time!! And I definitely think you should wear shorts!!

AFM…just realized today that leftovers aren’t so bad when you really like the original meal…haha!! Pulled out the sales sheets last night to plan my meals for next week. My brother is coming to live with me for a while also so that should make the meals interesting. He is a complete carnivore. I am hoping that he will only be staying for a couple of months. I don’t mind helping him out but I have 2 kids to take care of already. I have always joked that he is my oldest child though. I have yet to get a run in this week so I’m hitting the gym tonight.

Hope everyone has a scrum-diddly-umptious day!!

abby459

Meag - DE is right between Philadelphia and the Baltimore/DC area. About 45 min drive from each one. And yes there isnt much going on here...basically my entire town is a college...so lots of bars...but not a ton else!! And as for the Forerunner 110....it has GPS, a chest strap, HRM, and lap counter. When you use it outside, the lab counter is preset to 1 mile increments...but if you use it inside you can push the lab button anytime you want. And the GPS shows current distance for your run and once you plug it into your computer it will show you the map of you entire run. Also if you can see from the pic I uploaded, once you finish the run it does also give cals and average pace. The computer readout give elevation and HR change graphs and things like that. I love it!! Totally worth the money (even though hubby bought it and it wasnt MY money)!!

Bethany - Even though I got it as a present, I still think it is worth spending the money on!! Especially if you run outside and have a hard time figuring out how far youve gone, like I used to!! Its nice that you are helping your brother out. If he's anything like mine, I know how tough that can be!! Hopefully he wont overstay his welcome though!! And maybe he can even help out with cooking or something?? Dont cater to his food needs though...take care of yourself first!!


AFM - I started packing tonight because I am too excited and cant wait!! Just have to get through one last day of work tomorrow, then I have friday off and leave saturday. I have been slacking on my running a little this week because I think I pulled a muscle in my calf....not sure but its definately more then just post-run soreness. I have been trying to rest it and I hope to get in another good run on friday before I leave.

meagalayne

No time to post today - seriously - but just wanted to say...

Abby - So if I take a trip to Philly I can easily squeeze in a visit to see you?! Sounds like a plan to me! :bigsmile: I didn't realize they were so close!

Meag

kendib

Taking a few minutes to post before I freak out on my coworkers. AAAARRRGG!!!!! :ohwell:

Meag - First off no worries. It takes A LOT to offend and I have learned in the last 5 years not to judge or compare other relationships to ours. What works for us would drive other couples crazy and vice versa. So no offense what so ever. When we first got married I ate extremely healthy and organic and he very much didn't, we have kind of met in the middle. The in-laws were much slower to adjust. :laugh: but have finally come around. They used to have meat, potatoes, mac & cheese, corn and rolls for a family dinner. All Starch!!! Now they eat a little more healthy and always have a salad or something for me to eat that isn't all starchy.

I did try one of the Herbal Life shakes. First off it was $5 for a shake and a tea. Which apparently you can't get one without the other. The shake tasted good but I was starving in about an hour and ended up eating more that day than if I had just eaten my regular breakfast. I think $5 a day is way to expense for and not a fan. I am back to the way I started, moderation and exercise.

Bethany - Thanks! I am on day 5 of no caffeine. The first 2 days completely sucked. No headaches and have been able to be creative and find lots of things that have no caffeine. Good luck with your brother coming to live with you. I love my brother but if we are around each other after about a week we revert back to being like we were when we were kids and picking on each other. We never really fought, just picked on each other. Holidays are always fun times for our family! Both of our spouses give us a hard time cause we have behavior that they never see otherwise. I agree with Abby about taking care of yourself first! When your healthy the rest of the fam will hopefully follow.

Abby - The Garmin sounds interesting. I'm not sure if I could handle the chest strap. I do like that it can read indoors as well as outside, I think that is a nice feature. I have been looking at the BodyMediaFit armbands and have started saving for it. By the time I get the money I might not want it though. I hope you have a fabulous time on your trip. Mexico sounds like a lot of fun.

AFM - I have recovered from the weekend of parties. Doing well on the no caffeine...on day 5! I will not cut caffeine out completely for the rest of my life but don't want to be dependent on it. I have 2 big meetings to finish my week with, one today and one tomorrow! The one today was stressing me out cause I am going in pretty blind as I have only had one 5 minute conversation with the supervisor about what they would like to have their training materials over. So I am over preparing and hoping for the best. Tomorrow's training is in front of the whole organization and I'm not nervous for that one cause I know my stuff and have had time to prepare.

On a good note...my best friend stole me from work early yesterday for a spontaneous girls night. It was great and I don't get to spend enough time with her. We usually workout together but there’s only so much talking you can do when you are running.

And I am wearing a skirt to work today that didn't fit a month ago, and it is loose! I will remember that as my day gets stressful.

Hope you are all having a great Thursday!

Kendi

meagalayne

OK folks it's already mega late and I need to be asleep like an hour ago... Quickness again!

Kendib - Glad I didn't offend! We all do what works for us and I know that my own relational preferences would make most people absolutely NUTS, too :blushing: To each his own! I just tend to have a "no mercy" approach to other peoples' eating habits and preferences and am completely inflexible if it affects my own. I figure people should just eat whatever I make them and shut the hell up :laugh: Andddd that's why I normally eat alone! haha! Not the easiest way for most people to live but it works for me - I'm a bit of a lone wolf. Sounds like your inlaws are on the typical Southern diet. Or at least, they were. It's nice that you guys can meet in the middle and that your healthy eating habits are rubbing off on them as well as your husband. The trickle down is good for everyone. There's only so much starch one's body can endure!

The Herbal Life sounds like a huuuuge money scheme. Aiya! Glad to hear you've opted for something more moderate and fiscally reasonable. I'm a total cheap-o so I cannot imagine paying $5 for any shake or product that doesn't have some SERIOUS benefits. I figure the more frugal I can be about what I eat, the more $$ I have to do other things I love in life. Besides, eating in season and making stuff at home from scratch can be fulfilling and a lot of fun. If you need any suggestions, lemme know!

Any reason in particular you're giving up caffeine? I may have missed that post, but I'm curious. I'm a coffee JUNKIE and cannot imagine a life without it. I'd be a disaster! Headaches are only the beginning for me. I am totally incapable of functioning without coffee multiple times a day... so what's the trade off? I'm very curious! :huh:

Abby - The forerunning sounds like a combination of my HRM and my RunKeeper application. I currently use them both to track my workouts. The GPS on RunKeeper maps out my run and my HRM keeps track of my calories, avg HR, peak HR and recovery. I just have to mash all the data together manually to get an overall picture. Is the watch any good for non-running activities?: Spin or weights? How accurate is the chest strap? Just curious :bigsmile: Thanks again for the info! You must be getting SO pumped for your holidays! This place won't be the same without you! When do you get back? I'll post the March thread to your wall when the month starts up so you can find us easily... Safe travels if I don't hear from you til then. Hope your last day at work was fab!

Bethany - Thanks girl ! It was such a treat to meet another MFPal. After meeting with Cait and Gonks last summer I was itching for another meet-up! Those ladies were fabulous and I've stayed in touch with them outside of MFP since. Just wish we could see more of one another :ohwell: And thank you for your support on the relationship front. I know what's right for me and what I need right now. The break has been a nice, if a tad bit lonely/boring, change. I am definitely enjoying the freedom and quiet. My emotional and physical state were definitely taking a beating so one less thing to stress about has been nice lately.

If you need any good suggestions on ways to stretch a budget or meat-eater friendly meals, let me know. Advise me on what you're working with and I'll send you some killer recipes. I really do eat super cheap, despite all the produce, so let me know. I'd love to help any way I can. The best, cheapest and most satisfying way to feed a crowd (with leftovers) is soup/stew/chili. It can be very inexpensive, loaded with cheap root veggies, loads of flavour, and even a small amount of protein goes a LONG way. Breakfast for dinner is another great way to stretch a budget and tends to be really accessible for even the pickiest eaters. Everyone loves pancakes

OK folks Ive gotta run. AFM - I had a killer Hills workout this morning (4 miles of running uphill on the TM - ugh!) and have a rest day planned tomorrow, although I'll likely hit the studio for some hot yoga again. Work's been OK - I am trying very hard not to let it break me. Otherwise just a busy weekend planned with my folks taking off for Cancun tomorrow and leaving me to my own devices. Without Ty around, it should be a very quiet week...

Have a great Friday loves!

greenhumanclay

Omogosh how Ive missed out, wow soo much to read!!

I'll start fresh forgive me ladies! :flowerforyou:

Had a rough time being sick and still pushed through with exercise that my body just crashed causing me to miss work, school and workouts! I feel 100% now and ready to rock the threads! I apologize for being gone for so long. I could go on with excuses but Id rather start with a clean slate and although I've read your posts all of them I might add very impressive, I could not respond to all off the threads way too much going on!!

Meag Hope things workout the way they should but it sounds like this was the way things should be at least for now. i know you have contemplated this relationship many times and having that clean break whether its temporary or not might help put things in perspective. I myself have been in denial I think about the status of my relationship to the point of having met someone and oh man long story but if you are feeling that confused I think you know what you need to do and free yourself. We all know deep down inside what works and what doesn't, hope you can enjoy the 8 days of solitude and really do what you want to do without feeling any guilt!! Be selfish!! BTW you are not destined to be the cat lady I think IMO of course you are finding what like and don't like and haven't found that person that gets you and balances you out! it seems you both want different things but in the end you know what to do!! Hope you have a fabulous day at work and enjoy your hot yoga!!

Abby that watch sounds amazing I do like my current watch but your is waaaay cooler!! Your hubby sounds like he's a great guy and really knows what you like, could he possibly give my bf a clue lol Looking forward to hearing about your well deserved trip and seeing some pics that way I can vicariously live through you lol!! Im sure you are bikini ready!! Hope your pain subsides before your run tomorrow!! :flowerforyou: btw I didn't confuse you for anybody in regards to where you live I was just really OFF lol!

Bethany Good job sticking with the C25K plan thats exactly how i started running last April too it really does work, although i never did the Bridge to 10k I did continue to add distance every week or so in small increments of .25 miles per week basically 1 mile a month and it worked for me!! You definitely have the right mind set and really put all your energy into more positive self loving things and your kiddos. BTW your gym deal for the daycare sounds awesome since now a days every thing is so expensive, thats really nice of you letting your brother live with you! i have three brothers and I would honestly only let one of them live with me the other two especially my older brother umm no thanks I can't stand him after a few hours let alone live with him lol! :laugh:

Emily sounds like bachelor #3 is the guy for ya enjoy every moment you have and make it fun and let us know how things pan out!! I think you have a new pic up for your default is that bachelor#3??


AFM Im like a soap opera and don't have the energy to spill right now but Im kind of along the same lines as Meag and it's draining. Taking 5 classes with one being online and I have been reading and writing papers like theres no tomorrow and Im the biggest procrastinator so i need to shape up because these courses are not anything I can wing. I have class Sat. from 8am till 6:10 pm to get a Professional CPR/AED/BLS/first aid for infants toddlers adults a bit more difficult than the regular CPR anyone can just get so I hear, (I believe it's the same thing health care providers need) so Im kind of stressing out a bit! I have been running and weight training fairly well and eating so so, these damn girls bout cookies were torture and all the v-day chocolate at work was terrible as well since I apparently have no self control! :grumble: Planning on doing an 8 mile tomorrow with some stairs in the evening, then school all day Sat and shooting for a 14 mile run Sunday! Very nervous about that since a few weeks ago i did a 15 mile run and that was torture from mile 11 to 15... left me a bit intimated but nonetheless I need to challenge myself! For Lent (not religious) but decided to still give something up, I went ahead and decided that the Scale has got to go. The only problem is that i didn't take it out the bathroom so this evening I hopped on it and didn't even realize it till way later that I weighed myself thats how bad I am that i forgot that I weighed myself its almost second nature, so I will put it outta sight and hopefully eventually outta mind and I will start again tomorrow and plan to not weigh in at all until Sat or Sunday easter day!! let the challenge begin. tried a TRX class and I have to say I love it but they are out of my price range so I will give them go every two weeks or so!! Alright ladies I should be studying so until tomorrow have great night and a Fantastic Friday!! :bigsmile: Cynthia!!

Stylistntenn

Just wanted to post about how my Feb. goals are coming along.. My goals were to lose 7 lbs, increase my jogging/treadmill time, and decrease diet soda intake/increase water intake... So far, I have lost 5 pounds. I have increased my treadmill time as well. I was doing around 25 minutes but now I try to do 30-45 minutes each time. I can also jog longer at a faster pace. I still have a lot of work to do on that though. And, I am super proud to report I have completely gone off sodas and am drinking only water! (With the exception of milk and occasional tea). I guess I'm doing ok. I will report back at the very end of the month. I really like having this thread because it makes me MAKE a goal and THINK about it and WORK towards it. Very motivating!