Sunday 28 December 2008

Detox...

Hi all,

I decided to do a detox for a few days to get me back into healthy eating habits after Christmas... It isn't so much Christmas Day itself that gets me- usually that turns out to be a fairly healthy day with meat and salad... What gets me is the month of treats in the lead-up to the day! Mince pies, shortbread, my famous choc chip cookies, etc etc etc... That's where I feel my jeans getting tighter!

So yesterday I began a detox (of my own invention) based on veggie juices, raw fruits and veggies, healthy veggie soup, raw nuts and brown rice. I plan to do it for a few days to a week. I'll see how I feel. Yesterday I got the classic 3pm "I need caffeine now!" headache but persevered and have felt good all day today.

My meals yesterday looked like this;

Upon waking- warm water with lemon juice
Breakky- apple, carrot, celery, silverbeet and ginger juice
Morning tea- 1 big apple
Lunch- A big crunchy salad with chickpea and lentil sprouts
Afternoon tea- 2 plums, some grapes and a large handful of almonds plus peppermint tea
Dinner- Lentil, pumpkin and sweet potato soup
After dinner- chamomile tea

Today;

Breakky- same juice as yesterday
Morning tea- peppermint tea, a banana and a peach
Lunch- Salad with chickpeas, avocado and lemon juice dressing
Afternoon tea- raw cashews more peppermint tea
Dinner- will be baked brown rice risotto with lots of veggies (minus the parmesan) and lots of herbs and spices for flavour

Tomorrow is Molly's 2nd Birthday! I know I can't believe it either! We are having a tea party and I am making beautiful butterfly cakes and iced tea for all her friends to enjoy! I am also making fruit skewers and mini home made spinach and fetta pizzas. I am sure we will have a wondeful time!

Tuesday 23 December 2008

Still here...

.. struggling a lot with food and doing very little exercise... my head is in a pretty bad place body image wise. I have put on only a kilo however I feel really bloated and yuk!

I will get back on track after Christmas- until then... eat, drink and try not to be too miserable...


:(

Hope you all have a nice Christmas...

xo

Thursday 11 December 2008

Boring for some!

But not for me!

Weigh in this morning.... 85.6! Ya ya ya!

Loss of 1.3 this week!

Whoop!

Thursday 4 December 2008

After all that...

I weighed this morning (I know I know- only once a week! Shh don't tell!) and the scales flashed up 86.9! 600g down from a few days ago and my lowest weight in a long while!

So I'm going with that and have updated my sidebar. I am so ready to be in the 86s for at least a couple of weeks! And then the 85s 84s 83s 82s 81s 80s 79s 78s 77s 76s etc etc..... It doesn't look that far away when you look at it like that.

On tuesday I ended up playing 2 games of netball, Goal Keeper in the first game and Goal Defence in the 2nd... I kept up! I ran around and you wouldn't have known that my confidence for netball (especially when playing a position I don't usually play) is so poor! I had a good sweat and I am sure my HR would have been at a good spot for most of the game. I also went for a walk/jog with Mayra and have figured out that I need to be exercising in that annoying spot between going easy and going hard... It's really hard to stay there as I need to either jog incredibly slowly or walk incredibly fast!

I think bike riding is the way to go for my cardio/fat burn HR stuff. I will be looking to buy a nice big (I have long legs!) hybrid bike in the near future so I can tootle around Footscray on it but also be able to do serious exercise on it.

Non weight related stuff ahead....

Our community has been providing some meals and support for a family in Footscray- a mum and her 5 kids. Their house burnt down a few weeks ago and they have been living in a bungalow/sheltered area behind their house with no power, phone or hot water. I popped in with some dinner on Tuesday last week and her 3 year old little boy was just filthy. She struggles to keep them fed, clothed and clean at the best of times- so, as you can imagine, this experience has not been easy for them.

She has a support team of workers and she has us as an extra support but I just wanted to ask if whoever reading this could send some positive thoughts and prayers (if you're so inclined) her way and think about some of the ways you might be able to help families and individuals in need over the Christmas period.

If you know of a community organisation who need some volunteer help or money- please be generous. We are so fortunate and have so much (if you're reading this from your home internet connection you are priveledged even if you feel poor sometimes) so please don't spend too much on your family and friends this year. Make/find/recycle some truely meaniful pressies, cook for your family, make a favour voucher book to be used through the year, use your kids paitings for wrapping paper, offer to wash your mum's windows, offer to take your sister out for a meal, find a gorgeous "antique" book for 2 dollars at the op shop.... and give the rest away....

I know it sounds simple.. but it is so liberating and it really helps understand what Christmas is about. Even if you don't follow Jesus- you have to admit he was a pretty top bloke who loved and served others. He set a great example- so Christmas should reflect that.

I hope you are all feeling festive and preparing for a lovely time with family and friends. Just don't forget those who will still be sleeping rough even though it's Christmas.

Love
xox

Tuesday 2 December 2008

Struggling...

As someone who doesn't like to complain, it's kind of tough coming on here when things are not going all that well.. although, it's not that it's "not going well" it's more that I'm just a little stressed out.This last week of the challenge has been an absolute write off!

We have been moving house all weekend and my motivation for the challenge have gone out the window. One of my goals for the challenge was to just keep going after setbacks and not give up like I have in the past... I am finding it so so so hard to stay on track. I just want to eat! And the choices I have made this weekend have not been good (Maccas sundae, pizza, magnum icecream, chips etc)... Given, we haven't had a working kitchen to cook in- but there is ALWAYS a healthy choice somewhere when you live in the city... I just chose not to make the healthy choices!

AND... to add to all the dramas, my bro-in-law (who we live with) was struck down with apendicitis on Saturday night and in hospital for 2! So we had to stay home and look after Felix (2.5 yrs) - which we love- but it's hard work... I am so glad we didn't have a full pantry as I think that may have been the only thing to stop me from gaining 2 kilos over the weekend. So it's back on the wagon for me!If anyone wants to buddy up and help me stay on the straight and narrow that would be great!!

My plan...

Today's food
B.1 fruit english muffin, strawberries and jalna vanilla yoghurt, tea
L. Beef casserole on 2 slices soy lin toast
D. Chicken and veg stirfry with basmati rice
Snacks. 1 big apple, 1 med banana, some nori rice crackers and a skim latte

Exercise
Today- Netball- one game (30 mins)
Wed- Pushups and a gentle jog (HR under 150)
Thurs- Pushups and jogging again
Fri- 6km walk, squats, lunges and more pushups!
Sat- noneSun- Sussan women's funrun (5km)

Thursday 27 November 2008

An interesting conversation...






I had a chat last night with a very good Personal Trainer (Thanks Jeff!!) about why I am not getting the results I think I should be getting from exercise.

I have been exercising frequently and I feel my fitness is improving however I am not noticing much movement on the scales. If this was only for a few weeks it would not bother me but it has been for the past year!

So I told him all the exercise I have been doing and intensity etc. and (just as my Polar HRM told me) I have been working too hard. My heart rate has been going too high for too long and I am not in the "fat burn zone" when I am exercising"... He said it has the same effect on the muscles as exercising without air. Hence the lack of progress.

So he recommended I stick to the Polar heart rate program and increase my weights sessions and I should see a difference very soon.

The only thing is, I'll have to tone down the running and, when in events, might have to walk some- but that's ok... I'll keep everyone posted on how it goes!

Sunday 23 November 2008

On a HIGH!!

Hey all,Just coming on here for a bit of a brag!I completed the final 8km run for the Spring into Shape Series this morning.

I have done 2 other runs- the first one I completed in 1:06:34,

the 2nd I did the 4km (due to having to be somewhere) in 29:50

And this morning I completed the 8km course in 1:00:35 !!! I have shaved off more than 6 minutes with 3 months of (not even full on) training!!

And, the think I am even happier about is that I jogged the WHOLE 8k!! Only walking a couple of steps to have a decent drink at the drink station! That is the first time I have achieved something like this... I'm on such a high!!

For the first time my brain wasn't saying STOP STOP STOP!!! It was saying YOU CAN DO IT, YOU RAN UP A BIG HILL 2 DAYS AGO, YOU CAN DO IT NOW- ONLY A FEW KS TO GO, ONLY ONE K TO GO, ONLY A HUNDRED METRES TO GO, THERES JOHN, SMILE FOR THE CAMERA! YOU'VE DONE IT , YOU RAN IT, YES! YOU'RE UNREAL!!

It's amazing how different things can be when you're in a good frame of mind...

Thursday 20 November 2008

Said Molly to me....

After spending half the night in our bed.....

Molly: "Mummy.... let's get up.... let's get up and have lunch"

Me: "Don't you mean breakfast??"

Molly: "oh.... yes... Mummy... Let's get up.... let's get up and have break frast"


Cuuute!

Tuesday 18 November 2008

Wow!

Check out the comment on my polar heart rate post!! What the??

Doofus!

I didn't tell you about Sunday did I?

Well, you know that run I was talking about doing?? The spring into shape one??

It's next week!

Gimme a D- Gimme an O- Gimme and O-F-U-S! What does it spell??

DOOFUS!!

Monday 17 November 2008

Famous...

You know how I said I was getting an article published in Runner's World magazine? Did I tell you that?? Yes?? No??

Well, the editor called me the other day to ask if they could do a profile on me! It will be in a summer issue (I will let you know)

I just had the photographer come to my house this morning and take a portrait of Molly and me plus a whole lot of running shots by the river!!

So you all have to buy a copy and see me being all famous and athletic!!! It's amazing when someone else (other than you guys and family) acknowledges the hard work I have put in to lose 30kgs (nearly 40 the first time- then 30 since I had Molly). It's a real boost which makes me want to take this HBC 16 week Biggest loser challenge even more seriously!

Huzzah!

Saturday 15 November 2008

I [heart] my new polar heart rate monitor!!!


I am totally addicted to this thing. I got the F11 (this is the colour too "pink fizz") model which works out exercise programs for you and determines where your heart rate should be and how long you should work out in that zone.


I did a work out this morning and realised that I have probably been over-doing it and I should focus more on consistancy (4-5 times a week) at a moderate level rather than slogging it out at max heart rate 2-3 times.


Today I burnt 450 calories in 50 minutes.


I am interested to see how many calories I burn in my 8km run tomorrow and what my average heart rate will be.
Yay!

Wednesday 12 November 2008

Hate to be materialistic but......

.... I am so excited... My mummy said she will get me one of these for my birthday!



Tuesday 11 November 2008

Weigh in 10/11/08

Up 100g to 87.9kg... but TTOM came today so I am feeling really positive as I usually gain about 1 kilo each month! And I have sucessfully avoided my usual pre-menstrual choccy binge- somehow!

This morning on my home scales I was 86.5kg- that is the lowest ttom number I have seen in.. well.... over 2 years!

And I am feeling really motivated! I had weight watchers last night and I decided to leave a little earlier and ride my bike there. It was just lovely to slow down for a minute and take everything in. The ride there was a little scary with big trucks whooshing past me- but the ride home, I went a different way. I rode along the Maribyrnong river track. The sun was setting and it made the river shimmer pink and orange. There were bunnies everywhere (in Footscray??) and I wondered why I didn't do it more often.

After last night's ride I didn't feel like driving to work today so I left early and caught the train/tram and bus to get here. It was really nice getting out into the crisp morning air and just take my time. I was able to help motorcyclist who fell off his bike (he was ok but needed help getting his bike off the road) and I wouldn't have been there had I driven. I also got a lovely free coffee from my used up loyalty card- which I wouldn't have thought to do had I driven.

And- best of all, I got to work early and was able to ease my way into the morning.

The moral of the story.... just slow down! Plan to have more time by leaving early or deciding not to do something unimportant.

Have a good day!

Wednesday 5 November 2008







This pic is from Tri Pink 2007- Just posting to brag that those bathers are waaay too big for me now!

I love this pic of both Mayra and Me! I can really see how my body has changed over the last year. It's funny coz I am a similar weight as I was this time last year but I have dropped a dress size! I love muscle!

It's here! Happy birthday 2 me!

Monday 3 November 2008

Lookie what I just ordered!!!



A pressie from my grand-p's for my birthday!!! I love having loaded rellies!

Sunday 2 November 2008

My Pink Triathlon

This morning was absolutely brilliant!

I was quite relaxed, had a good night sleep and yummy jam on toast and tea for brekky (I love jam on toast before an event!)...

My friend Mayra and I decided we would do the long course together to support and challenge each other. Our course was 300m swim/9km bike/ 3km run and I wasn't nervous at all until we were heading for the pool deck, preparing to start! I am so happy Mayra did it with me as she is a little bit fitter than me and a more experienced cyclist. She just did the 210km round the bay in a day ride. She was a terrific support.

The 6 lap swim was the easiest part for me- I am a strong swimmer and I felt quite comfortable the whole way. I think we did it in under 10 minutes. I forgot to put my drink bottle at transition so I left it by the pool and grabbed it on my way to transition. It was quite a good move really as aI got to have a decent drink before getting on the bike.

was easy peezy. We decided beforehand that we were going to take our time and not get flustered. Mayra and I had matching race singlets and bike shorts and we looked cute as a button.. I love elastic laces. It made it so quick to get going.

The ride was much easier than I thought it would be. Last year I struggled and I did the short course so I was interested to see if my increased fitness would help, especially as I was riding with Mayra who is a much better cyclist than me. I managed to keep up just fine! Last year I had ladies whizzing past me and this year I was passing everyone else. The six laps went quickly and were relatively easy- it was all pleasure apart from a bug that went in my eye (which didn't come out till we got home!!!). I now realize just how much fitter I am than I was last year! I am a similar weight but I feel like a different person now! I have been working hard on my fitness all year and it has paid off!

Second transition was easy- apart from Mayra getting told off for unclipping her helmet before she racked her bike. Quick drink, helmet off, and off we went... then the crisis point came (as it always does at some point!) and I didn't feel like my legs were going to carry me.. I even said "I can't run" and Mayra assured me I could! I ran most of it and walked about 150 metres in total. I didn't feel good until the last/4th lap when I obviously overcome the pain/crazy mind games barrier and we ran over the line holding each other's hands in the air!

We felt absolutely unreal to have been able to complete the course so confidently. I think Mayra is addicted! We'll be seeing her at triathlons all over Victoria! And I think we'll see her around the forums soon too!
It was wonderful to see Ajay and all the girls! Thanks for your amazing support and cheers!! Well done to all who competed..

I saw Shell and Bek cross the line- Beck apparently smashed her time from the last one so I look forward to reading her melbourne wrap up!

Yay to all us pinkies!!




Thursday 30 October 2008

Please come along!!

It's time to de-lurk people!!!









Oh come on!!! Leave me some love!!



(not that I do it for the comments but........ Okay, well maybe I do- Is that such a crime???)

Ooh.... I forgot to post about...

My run on Sunday!

I was registered for an 8km run (2nd Spring into Shape run) until my friend said she would do it with me but had to be home for 10:30 which just wasn't gonna happen if we started our 8ks at 9:30. So we decided to enter the 4km and try to jog the whole thing. We allowed ourselves a walk break for a drink but only 50 metres or so..

We did it! It took us 29:50 to complete the 4km course but man it felt good to run a whole race! Hoorah!

Had to change templates...

Grrr.. I loved my old template but it wasn't letting me upload photos- and that's a bit boring!! So we'll go with a boring template and have interesting pics instead!

Tuesday 28 October 2008

Another something yummy out of nothing!

On Sunday night I felt that the cupboards were bare again!

It is so very easy to pop to the shops and buy a jar of pasta sauce and some pasta but we had a bare bank account too so I rummaged around in the fridge, freezer and pantry and found a few bits and pieces!

Check out my creativity!!


Saturday 25 October 2008

Mezz's Footscray Show....it'll be great! come along!

dog theatre.jpg - Gmail

Thursday 23 October 2008

They're back!

I worked out that if I delete the last few posts the older ones would re-appear.

I think it is when I copy text from a work document and try to paste them- it doesn't like it... So I might re-type some of the good stuff...

Hmm...

Wednesday 22 October 2008

Weigh in 20th October

Yay! After last week's expected setback (definately TTOM related!) of a 700g gain, I have managed to drop off another 1.1kilos over the last week. This is keeping me right on track for my 5 kilos in 5 weeks birthday challenge! I am excited to see the 87s after a long plateau! Fingers crossed for a healthy week ahead! All good so far!!

This last weekend has been wonderful! We packed up our little family on Friday afternoon and headed to a little town in northern country Victoria for the Numurkah Foodbowl Music Festival. My sis-in-law played a gig with her band (which includes my husband, and me sometimes) on Sunday afternoon so we decided it was the perfect opportunity to have a mini-break! There were so many fantastic bands there and the whole festival cost $15! We paid $50 a night for our caravan and food was provided for musicians, so all in all it was a decent weekend for a good price. Molly and Felix had a wonderful time dancing to all the bands.

My netball mixed team has made it ito the finals. Definately because of all my good goal keeping! Ha! We played last night and it was a draw but because we were higher on the ladder we got through and they didn't! I felt sorry for them- they are a very good team.

Tonight I pick up my bike from the repair shop (yes..... it's still there) and I plan to go for a decent ride in the next couple of days. The ride is the part of the triathlon that I am feeling the most nervous about. Although, I said to John last night that I really don't care if I come last as I feel awesome for choosing the race that I knew would challenge me the most. I love the feeling of achieving something I didn't think I would ever do.

I went for a job last monday- I didn't get it... but I am somehow pleased as I know I will find the perfect job at the right time, in the right location. This one was probably a bit far from home anyway. But the interview seemed to go well so they must have found someone with more community referral knowledge and experience in that particular role. I feel like I would have been good in the job, but I'll be even better in the one that's waiting around the corner...

I'd better go do some work!

:)

Thursday 16 October 2008

Just for phun!

Here are a couple of photos I found on my nan's computer...
Me at about 105-110 kilos 2004


Me at 75kilos March 2006


















Back on track...

As you all know, last week was a shocker for me! I just couldn't stop eating and thought my period must be due. Well, I must have mixed up my dates or something because I still haven't got it so I must have been eating for other reasons. (And I don't think I'm pregnant! Hmm...)

I have been trying to work this one out because I haven't done the whole emotional binge thing for a while. I think it may have been to do with being really busy with work life and home life and not being able to organise myself. We had several family functions in the last week and I also applied for a real Social Work job (for which I had an interview on Monday! Eek!)... I just felt pressured from all sides, I couldn't plan my food properly or do a proper shop and I didn't make exercise a priority.

I am really glad I could just get back on the wagon again though and dust myself off. The run was a great turnaround point! Yesterday's foodies went something like this...

B. 1 slice of grainy toast with 1/2 cup baked beans and another slice with peanut butter
S. 1 banana
L. Salad with sardines in tomato sauce (very yum- don't knock it till you try it) and a slice of bread
S. Yoghurt and a slice of cheese
D. (Birthday party) African chicken casserole with injara (flatbread) and some birthday cake
S. Some popcorn

We went to Molly's little friend's 1st birthday party last night. They are an Ethiopian family and had all their friends from church over. The kids ran wild and all us "adults" (I still struggle thinking that I am one) sat inside chatting and drinking coffee. It was no ordinary coffee. They make a whole ceremony out of roasting the beans over fire, grinding the beans, brewing the coffee in a beautiful urn and then serving it very sweet in tiny intricately painted china cups. I felt very honoured to be invited and welcomed as a part of their family. They don't have any family left. They were all killed back in Africa so it was a very special time with their new Australian family. Before we left Solomon told his four children to come and kiss their sister goodbye- Molly is their sister now. It was really touching.

So now I'm in training for The Pink Triathlon... I aim to do a bit of running this weekend but am going away to The Numurkah Foodbowl Music Festival From Friday afternoon until Monday So my other options are kind of limited... But with a whole weekend away where John can look after Molly I should be able to get at least 3 decent runs in! My sister-in-law and bestie Mezz Coleman is playing a gig at the festival on Sunday afternoon. I'm singing backing vocals for one of her songs. I'm so excited!

I have an inspirational story to post soon so stay tuned!

Big Hugs!

Monday 13 October 2008

Another 10kms!

Yesterday was the Melbourne Marathon and it was an awesome day! There is something special about those big races where there are thousands of people all there for the same reason. It was a very "festival" atmosphere before the race with people playing music and teams gathering around tents.

Before the starting gun I was lining up with all these fit looking running types and I thought to myself "gee you've come a long way!". I still get really nervous before a run- The task seems so big and I can't visualise finishing.... but I always do!!

I gave myself a goal for this run- to run the first 5km. And I did it!! Nearly 6kms actually!! Except for the bottleneck right at the start and a few steps walking at the drink station!! I DID IT! Yay!

I ran until I saw a friend of mine and passed her- then stupidly, I ran too fast to lose her (I'm competitive) and tired myself out. Then she caught up with me- we walked about a kilometre and ran and walked until we had 1km to go- then we bolted to the finish line and crossed together holding our hands together in the air.

It was soooo hot!

I'm a bit tired so wont write more now- but it was a really good run..


I have had a horrible week with food! I think TTOM is coming today or tomorrow- I don't want to weigh in tonight... I might just go for the meeting bit.

Thursday 9 October 2008

Why am I proud of myself?

(I wrote this for the Healthy Body Club forums but thought it would be good to put it here too)

1996: Came last in cross country and made a vow never to run again- my poor little fat pre-teen body just could not handle it.

1997-2002: Miserable with my body without the wisdom that something could be done- highschool kids are cruel...

2003: On a plane coming home from england I asked the hostess for a seat belt extender so I could fly safely. The regular seat belt cut me in half and I could barely breath. This was a wake-up call! I was 115kilos and suffering from bladder control issues at the age of 18!

On the same trip (in Melb airport) I picked up a copy of Ajays book (confessions of a reformed dieter) and could not put it down. This lady was talking about all the things I had avoided talking about for so many years (even the bum-wiping issue that I swore only happened to me!)

Late 2003: I joined the gym and started aqua aerobics classes and walking. I cleared all the junk food out of my kitchen and started trying to find healthier options (to begin with it was just buying anything that said "fat free")

2004: I was able to lose 15kilos before my wedding in December. My motto was slow and steady. I was counting weight watchers points to track my food and I started doing more vigorous classes at the gym. I joined HBC for the first time.

2005: This is the year that it really all came together. I started a weightloss blog and met a huge group of fantastic ladies who were also trying to lose weight. I met a new friend called Philippa who was the same weight and height as me with the same goal weight. So we worked together to reach our goal.

I found the key to getting results with my PT Sarah- WEIGHT TRAINING! It was hard but the cardio alone was not making my body look the way I wanted it to. I was 83kilos and needed something to change if I was going to get to goal so I devised my own 12 week challenge. I worked hard doing 3 weights sessions and 3 cardio sessions every week. I was able to lift some very heavy weights!

By the end of the challenge I was 74kilos and finally at my goal weight.
I am very proud of my achievements!

2006: I got pregnant! I put on a lot of weight during my pregnancy- I never learned to maintain my weight and my portion sizes and servings of junk food increased.

2007: I focussed on my baby and began to rein my eating in.

It is now 2008 and I have lost 30 kilos since my highest pregnancy weight. I am on the road to reaching my goal again. I have about 10 kilos until I am in a healthy weight range again. I am now a runner and have competed in several events this year.

I am very proud of doing it all again!

Wednesday 8 October 2008

Sabotage??

Why is it that after I have a decent loss I try and undo all the effort??

Yesterday I had a bad eating day- some may call it a binge... hmmm

I had yoghurt (2) and lsa (.5) and a skim latte (1) for brekky, 3 vitawheats with cheese and vegemite (4) for morning tea, a capeseed (4) roll with 1/2 a boiled egg (.5) and salad (0) for lunch, then (here's where it got ugly!) 4 family assorted creams (5), a small milky bar (3), some jellies (1.5) and a choc crisp bar (1.5)... then I shook it off and decided (after contemplating throwing up or not eating for the rest of the day- a very unhealthy thought pattern from my eating disorder days) to have chicken and salad for dinner (3). Total= 26

I played 2 fast games of netball last night which should take care of at least a few of those extra calories!

My 2 games of netball got me an extra 7 points! (Just worked that out on my points slider thingy) So I don't feel as bad about the binge as I still come within the total points if I spend those exercise points!

So if I have a few lighter days I should still be ok. Especially as I have a couple of walks planned over the next couple of days and a 10 km run and a group exercise class planned for Sunday!!

Phew- it's good to come on here and write it all down to see that it's not as bad as I thought!

Monday 6 October 2008

Weigh in 6th October

I am pleased to announce that I have indeed had a loss!! And a good one at that!

1 kilogram!! 1000 grams!! 2.2 lbs for any non metrics out there playing along at home...

I felt like I was going to do well and I have! Hooray for me!!

I have done it by careful tracking, a moderate amount of exercise and making sure my weekends (particularly Friday nights) aren't too slack. I have noticed that it's a pattern for me to go well all week and then lose it somewhere between thursday night and weigh-in...

I took Molly to the pool this morning. Not much exercise for me but I overcame a lot just getting into my swimsuit!! It was 8:30 in the morning, hardly anyone there anyway. I took her today as we had a bit of an ordeal last night when we were trying to wash her hair in the bath. She scramed and screamed!! She's never been afraid of water before so it came as a shock. I love water and I had her in swimming lessons from when she was four months old but finished up just before we moved here (she was 11 months) so there has been almost a year's break and it's like we've undone all the work we did early on. I wish we had've found swimming lessons as soon as we got over this side of town as she'd probably be swimming by now... she was very good- ahead of all the other kids her age. She used to be able to swim under water to me and hold on to my shoulders while we duck dived (dove??) under the water.

So the episode in the bath was enough of a wake up call to get her back in the pool. After a tentative few minutes, she was spashing, kicking and having a great old time. She will not stop talking about having a "very big bath" today.

I also cut her hair this evening. It has been getting a bit straggly at the back and I have been casually mentioning cutting her hair to John without getting much of a response. Anyhow, today I mentioned it again and to my surprise he said "do it, I trust you"... so I jumped on the opportunity before he changed his mind! She now has a cute little bob just above her shoulders with a heavy straight-cut fringe. She looks quite trendy actually! The front of her bob is a bit longer following her jaw line. We went out and bought a lovely little headband to compliment the new style. She feels it-and-a-bit!

I'll take pics soon- promise!!

Sunday 5 October 2008

Plugging along...

Hi all,

It's a beautiful sunny Sunday here in Melbourne-I just spent half an our relaxing on the deck outside.

I am feeling like I will have a good weigh in tomorrow night but I thought that last week too so we'll have to wait and see how we go!! My Beatles t-shirt that I wore in the Run For the Kids this year is feeling a lot looser (George's face isn't as distorted stretching over my ample bosom!). And my denim skirt is much more comfortable so if I am not losing weight I must be losing centimetres! I should measure this week to see if there is much difference.

Next weekend is the Melbourne Marathon! I'm doing the 10km run and plan to jog as much of it as I am able. Then we have the Pink Triathlon soon too! I am going to put my bike in for a service tomorrow to make sure I don't kill myself when the handlebars fall off. Then there is the 2nd Spring into Shape 8km run the week after that- so it is busy times!! Hopefully the couple of kilos I have lost in this past month will make it a little easier to haul myself around the course!

Fingers and toes crossed for my weigh-in tomorrow!

:)

Wednesday 1 October 2008

Go check it out...

My hubby's band have a new website... http://www.foolsandangels.com/

Go check it out!

I had a great day yesterday... i felt like a very healthy fit person... My food was spot on- I ate exactly my points and it was all healthy foods which are going to make my body sooo happy!

I also did a lot of exercise which will also make my body happy (and my mind too!)- I walked from the office in Port Melbourne to the bottom of Elizabeth street instead of catching the bus and then played 2 games of netball. I worked up such a sweat! It was fantastic! I really played well last night and feel I made a contribution to both teams... It's such a good feeling to be in a team and actually feel like you know what you are doing!!

Today I'm doing the walk I did last Thursday again- from Port Melbourne to Richmond... I usually walk around the shops in Richmond when I get there so it works out to about 8 kms.

Hope everyone is feeling good. Here comes the sun la la la la!

I love it when we step out of the fog of winter!

Tuesday 30 September 2008

Weigh in 29 September 2008

Good morning!

After doing HEAPS of evercise last week I anticipated a good reult on the scales last night.

I stuck to my points mostly and figured I'd be on track to lose around a kilo.

But it was not to be...

I stayed the same...

Hopefully it's muscle and we'll see a good reult next week...

Track track track and work out- that's the plan for this week...

Saturday 27 September 2008

I have had a better week this week...

... except for that fish and chip shop burger I just had- but apart from that, it's all good!! One thing that is not working in my fvour is that weigh in is on a Monday NIGHT! After the weekend where I often loosen the reins a bit- oh well, just goes to show I shouldn't loosen them so much!

After last weeks lousy effort I decided to be more on top of things this week. On the exercise front I have been much better-

Sunday: run with Michelle
Tuesday: 2 games of netball
Wednesday: jogged the tan without stopping and duid some pushups and crunches
Thursday: Walked nearly 8kms home from work and around the shops
Today: Group PT (boot camp style)
Tomorrow: Meeting HBC girls at the Tan for a training session

And my eating has been much better too. So hopefully the burger wont undo all my good work. I plan to have a really good day tomorrow with some muesli and skim for brekky, a ham, cheese and tomato toastie for lunch, fruit for snacks and a chicken salad for dinner. Yum!

There is much festivity outside tonight after the Hawks win at the AFL grand final- fingers crossed our car is in one piece in the morning as ther are loads of drunken bodies roaming up and down our street!

Hope you're all thinking healthy!!

Wednesday 24 September 2008

I ACHIEVED A MAJOR GOAL- GO ME!!

I am so thrilled!

After running with Michelle and being able to do 3kms before needing a rest (in the whipping wind and rain) I decided I should be able to jog a whole lap of the tan.

I feel so fantastic right now because I actually did it!! On my own, with no one to distract me from all of the sabotaging thoughts in my head!!

There was only about 50 metres that I walked and that was up the second half of the steep hill (right at the start- I wish I had've just pushed through now that I know I was able to do the whole thing! Oh well, next time!) and the rest I just jogged, remembering to keep my shoulders back as the reason I had to stop last time was because of my aching back (which didn't ache at all this time!)

I ran the whole thing in 29 minutes. The tan is 3.87kms so I averaged a speed of just under 8km an hour!! I definately could've gone on too- so I am looking forward to my next fun run. The challenge for the next one (The melbourne marathon 10km) is to just jog and not walk- slow down, yes... but not walk as it is too hard to start running again.

I AM SO PUMPED TO HAVE ACHIEVED A GOAL!!!

YAY ME!!

Excuses

Thanks to Amber from HBC for these words:

I don’t have time, I cant get motivated, I’m caught up with work, its too hot, too cold, too late, too hard, I feel guilty leaving my children with my husband after he has worked all day, I had loads of functions this week, my husband, partner, friend made me dinner, bought me chocolate or wanted me to share a bottle of wine with him or her, and I couldn’t say no…

I’m just too tired, work provided lunch, I’m on the road all day, have meetings all day, don’t have time to stop all day, I’m not allowed to eat at work, I am a shift worker so it’s harder for me, I’ve always found it difficult to lose weight, I don’t like exercise, am not interested in classes, I work out hard enough(reading a magazine), I only like the treadmill, I walk 3 times a week…that’s heaps, I don’t want to do weights and bulk up….

I’ve got a 21st, a 30th, a 50th, a wedding, engagement and funeral to go to this week, I’m going on holidays and I want to relax, I had to help out a friend, my parents, my children, my husband, I had to stay and help at school, ….I just couldn’t get to the gym this week, I tried to get here, but didn’t make it, it was too late by the time I got home, I had to prepare for work, do assignments, make dinner, my favourite program is on Tues nights – I cant miss it, I don’t want to workout on the weekend, classes don’t fit in with the times I can get here, my boyfriend wants me to spend time with him, I had to work overtime this week, I struggle to get up in the mornings, when I get home after work/school I just cant be bothered…..

There is only one thing that all of the above mentioned things have in common……

If you want to lose weight enough…….none of them would stand in your way.

Ask yourself………how much do I really want this?

Tuesday 23 September 2008

Run photos!!



Finally! A couple of running photos that I don't mind!!

Weigh in 22nd September!

I held my breath as I stepped onto the scales last night- waiting for the news that I was higher than my starting weight. I knew that I'd had a bad week. I had next to zero motivation and felt so bloated that I was sure I'd have more stretch marks today!

So I was elated to hear that I have lost 100g! I didn't gain weight! I still have a long way to go but if I can get through TTOM without seeing the scales go up- I'm doing okay!! The weigher marked my book with a P to see if we see a pattern emerge over the months when it comes to TTOM. It will be useful to know what to expect!

I am really starting to feel that I am going to do it this time. I remember what it felt like to be at goal and I really want it again! This week I will plan plan plan! And then stick to the plan!

Today's plan:

Food-
B. Muesli and low fat yoghurt (3.5)
1 slice fruit toast with low fat cream cheese and a tiny bit of honey (2)
S. Choc crisp bar (TTOM craving!) (1.5)
L. 2 sushi hand rolls and a diet coke (5)
S. 1 apple and 1 banana (2)
D. Grilled chicken, roast veggies with pine nuts and green bean and spinach salad (6)

Total: 20
Points saved: 2

Exercise:
2 games of netball
Points bonus: 6 (?)

A post for Miss Milo:

Q. What do you put in your couscous salad?
A. I usually roast some onion, tomato, zucchini, pumpkin and sweet potato and throw it through some couscous (I soak it in stock first but you can just use water) with balsamic dressing and tzatsiki. I have seen it with olives in it too but I'm not an olive kind of gal! It's yummy with fetta cheese too!

Q. And what yoghurt dressing do you use??
A. When I say yoghurt dressing I really mean home made tsatziki. It's just some greek yoghurt with garlic and cucumber. It's always nicer if you can be bothered to cook off the garlic first. Or just go and buy some off the shelf!

Saturday 20 September 2008

Hoping for a good result.... but not expecting one!

There are a few reasons why I will probably not be happy with what I see when I step on the scales this coming Monday night;

1) I have not made up for my over-point days over the week
2) I have not exercised like I planned to
3) I am severely pre-menstrual and feeling bloated (this could also have something to do with my appetite and craving for sweet things in this past week!)

The first two points are more to blame of course! I am bracing myself for a bit of disappointment... The temptation to not eat anything for 2 days is there (get behind me little miss eating disorder!!) but I know it's not going to help me in the long run.

I only exercised twice this week- I played netball on Tuesday and I met Michelle from Healthy Body Club for a run/walk around albert park this morning. All-in-all not enough! But we had a nice time this morning despite the bad weather... Don't you feel like a champion when you exercise in the rain?! It's such a good feeling!!

I managed to run straight for nearly 3 kilometres before my back got too sore (need to stand up straighter) and I needed to walk. I'm impressed- last weekend I could only manage onekm before walking. Progress is progress! My goal for the next couple of weekends is to be able to run around the tan non-stop. Ultra-slow jogging is fine- but no walkies!! I find it very hard to start running again once I stop! The only way my back will get better is to keep training and building up those muscles- and trying to watch my posture too.

The next run coming up is the Melbourne Marathon 10km- I would like to run at LEAST 5km of the course. If I can do more, great!

I need to make a big pot of veggie soup- something low point that fills me up! Right, when Molly wakes up I am going to go to the supermarket and buy the ingredients!


Meal ideas for this week:

Lunches:
Veggie Soup
Sushi hand rolls
Couscous and roast veggie salad
Potato with tuna and coleslaw
Steamed veggies with tuna
Bean and salad wrap with yoghurt dressing
Pita Pizza

Dinners:
Warm chicken salad
Chicken and spinach soup with rizoni (pre-vego Philippa recipe)
Veggie canneloni
Roasted vegetables with pine nuts and brown rice
Veggie Soup

Those should keep me going for the week- I really need to track closely this week as it is usually in the 3rd or 4th week that I lose my mojo. But not this time!!


Exercise plans for the week;

Sunday: 4-5km run (try not to walk!)
Monday: Gym for weights and some cardio
Tuesday: Netball (2 games)
Wednesday: Gym for weights and cario
Thursday: PT
Friday: Rest or walk
Saturday: Run 4-5 kilometres

Fingers crossed!!

We are very sad that the doggies lost last night
:(.....

Thursday 18 September 2008

Over points!

Looking back at my food diary from the last few days, I have noticed that I have gone over points by one or two and yesterday I went over by 4.5- a total of 6.5 over the week. Luckily I have a few days to make it up (fingers crossed!). My blowout las night was at a community barbeque- I find it hard to resist homemade hamburgers!! I had 1 and a half!! I guess that's better than two! (Yes, Ash, keep telling yourself that!)

So the plan is to have 19 point days for the next three days. That will more than cover the over-eating of the past few days! I also plan to get out and do some kind of exercise each day. Today I have an hour between finishing work and picking up Molly so I plan to have a brisk walk (about 6kms). I don't have my proper shoes but the ones I have on are comfy enough- it's going to be nice weather so i might even take my jumper off! OOH! Spring! Yay! That should get me a couple of extra bonus points!

I want to get back in my regular exercise habit as it has fallen by the wayside since I hurt myself and had tonsilitis etc... I bought some photos from supersportimages.com. I'll post them now.

Wednesday 17 September 2008

Clothing Exchange

Would anyone be interested in being involved in an online clothing exchange??

Losing weight is expensive when you need to be buying smaller clothes!

Plus it is a very symbolic thing getting rid of bigger clothes!

If anyone would like to be involved please leave a comment and I will add you as a blog author so you can post your old clothes!

Strawberry Jam

Ingredients:
About 3 punnets of strawberries (so cheap right now!)
pure apple juice
gelatine or agar agar
Method:
Take off green bits, wash and cut strawberries in half.
Put the strawberries in a medium saucepan
Pour enough apple juice into the saucepan to cover half the strawberries
(so, there is double the amount of berries to liquid. The strawberries will cook down so you don't need heaps of liquid.)
Bring to the boil and simmer until the strawberries are soft.
Mix 1 teaspoon of agar agar with some boiling water to disolve.
Add to the strawberry mixture and mix well.
(at this point you could use some gelatine- only use a small amount like half a sachet mixes with some boiling water)
Chill!
This was honestly the easiest recipe!!
FYI: Nutrition data.com says about agar agar
This food is low in Sodium, and very low in Saturated Fat and Cholesterol. It is also a good source of Potassium and Zinc, and a very good source of Folate, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium and Manganese.
So do try it!

Dinner...

...turned out to be a delicious affair!

I made a salad of mixed leaves, blanched green beans and avocado and tossed though a dressing made from some free italian, low fat mayo and balsamic. I roasted some pumpkin, onion and tomato with balsamic vinegar (try it, it's great!). Then I grilled some chicken breast in a pan, finished it off in the oven and thinly sliced it. I popped it all on a plate with some basmati rice and it was such a great dinner!! I wish I had've taken a photo!!

Yesterday was one of my most balanced eating days in such a long time. Breakfast was a piece of soy/lin toast with my homemade sugarfree strawberry jam (no chemicals! and not a lot of calories! Will post the recipe soon) and a low fat yougurt tub. Morning tea was a choc crisp bar thing. Lunch was 1/2 a cup of brown rice with some grilled whiting and a greek salad, I was so full that I just had a few grapes and a couple of dried apricots for afternoon tea. And then dinner was the meal described above.

I played netball after dinner and when we got home my housemate dived (or is it dove) into a bowl of nuts about chocolate icecream and I was happy just to have a cuppa, a nice warm shower and go to bed. I feel I am beginning to "get it" again...

Yesterday a woman from work (who I don't know very well) came up to my desk and handed me a bag from pumpkin patch! She'd been shopping and saw a gorgeous little dress/undies set thing and bought it for Molly! I seriously don't know this lady very well, she is very shy and keeps to herself. I was so shocked! Some people are so kind!

Tuesday 16 September 2008

What should I cook for dinner tonight???

I'm not feeling inspired!

Please leave a comment with a suggestion or two!

HELP!

8kms and more weight lost!!

Good morning all!

Sunday's run/walk was great! My ankle held up well and didn't even swell afterwards! It was such gorgeous weather although the wind was a bit challenging- I really need a hat to keep my hair in check I think!

I walked about 2/3 of the course which I was happy with but am looking forward to pushing myself a bit harder for the next one! So it's back to training for me now that I know the ankle is ok!

After the run I headed to the Abbotsford Convent "Lentil as Anything" restaurant to meet fellow blogger Miss Milo for a much needed catch up- she's looking absolutely fab! I can see an amazing difference in her body- but moreso in her demeanor and self esteem. Love you Miss M!!

I had weight watchers last night and had a lovely loss of 700g which is right on track (My aim is to lose between 500g and 1kilo per week). I really love my group- I am organising to meet up with one girl for a walk next week! Yay!

That'll do from me for now- Hope you all have a great day!

Saturday 13 September 2008

An afternoon to myself...

This is totally what I have been needing recently!

John is working in the studio today so it was just me and Molly. I decided to go and park the car at the beach while Molly slept so I could sit outside the car with the window open and just look at the water and soak up some sun. It was awesome- but what was even more awesome was Mum calling to offer to take Molly to see my stepdad's mum for the afternoon and then mind her this evening while John and I went to the movies..

When they drove off I kind of didn't know what to do with myself and contemplated watching TV at mum's for a few hours but then I decided this was too good an opportunity- a WHOLE afternoon on my own!! So I went down the street and got my hair lightened.. It's really nice- I plan to gradually go lighter as summer approaches.

I also bought some tan-in-a-can as I was horrified when I looked at my legs while sitting at the beach!

So I am now brown and blonde- as opposed to ghoulishly white and brunette! Haha! I am on my little brother's Mac laptop on the back "alfresco" (read: fancy verandah) at Mum's place- the sun is setting, my boy will be here soon and we're going to see Tropic Thunder Gold Class tonight...

Great preparation for tomorrow's run (read: tentative walk).

Thursday 11 September 2008

I was going to give this Sunday's run a miss...

But I have decided to walk it instead!! Don't worry, I'll be careful!

Having a hungry day today- I think it's because I started with toast instead of my usual porridge... lucky I'm about to have a big can of tuscan tomato and bacon soup! yum!!

I love having a big Tuscan every now and then! *lol*

The ankle is feeling much better...

... thanks for asking!

I was even able to go out for a short walk with Molly in the pram yesterday- only about 20mins but it's better than nothing!

I thought I'd post a letter I wrote to my family and friends at the beginning of the year about the community we live in and how we are involved- this was nearly a year ago so some things have changed, but all in all it's a pretty good wrap-up!

Hi All!

A happy 2008 to everyone!

I thought I'd give a brief rundown on what's going on for us this year as I haven't seen many of you and and you may be out of the loop! Firstly, our new address is ..deleted.. and our new home phone number is .. deleted...(mezz and byron's old number- had to keep it as it is also the business number).

We are so excited to have moved to Footscray! An exciting, vibrant community, filled with diversity and colour but also a lot of sadness (drug and alcohol addiction, racial tensions, loneliness, poverty etc) to which we have chosen to respond. Not by simple charity (which is useful but can be limited and impersonal) but by moving in and standing in solidarity with those who will hopefully become friends to us. This is what Jesus did and what we will try our best to do.

We live with Mezz (John's sister), Byron and Felix in a lovely big house with four bedrooms, two bathrooms and 3 LIVING ROOMS!! How amazing is that!?? Very important to have your own space. We also have a lovely (albeit charmingly old and crusty) kitchen which is in a central location and is in the middle of the hussle and bussle of the rest of the house- which makes cooking a pleasure!

I am looking forward to the year beginning as far as our community involvement goes. Some of the small ways we will be involved include the community garden at droop street (tuesday gardening), visiting James Barker house (for ex- alcoholic men) for a chat with the guys, Wednesday community dinner at Droop St, House church at the leasurely start time of 10:30 for a shared breakfast on Sundays, hopefully finding a job in Footscray, maybe getting involved in some of the local schools and just basically being present and available to make new friendships and community connections.

We have just celebrated Molly's 1st birthday (I know... a YEAR!!) and are having a wonderful time watching her grow and learn. She has taken 8 steps on her own and is saying many words clearly. She is just beginning to string words together like "Oh no!" and "No more"... We are so proud of her! We are also very excited that she will get to experience what living in real community and learning to love people despite their differences is like.

Love and blessings,
Ash, John and Molly


We also have some key principals we try to live by which I will find and post about in future...

Wednesday 10 September 2008

OOH!

My jeans are feeling a bit looser today!

Tuesday 9 September 2008

A good result!

Wow! I think my clothes lost weight- or that may have been me somehow!!

I lost 1.5kg bringing me back into the 80s again! Phew!

So I'm now 89.9kg with 14.9kgs still to lose.

So we're back on the straight and narrow again and I plan that my weight loss next week will not be as a result of some crazy fluke! I have already made a really nice friend in my meeting and I told her about my blog. She seemed very interested and asked to be invited! So we might see her around here at some point which would be nice!

I am so over my job!! I'm a Goddamn Social Worker (by qualification) and I am sitting here doing administration for a shoe company for shite money... grrr... I have said I am going to sit it out till the end of the year as it is quite a flexible position and the hours are just right but surely I could find a social work job that offers similar hours... hmmm...

I have been asked to write some stuff about the intentional community thing- I will, I promise but there is quite a lot to say about it and I need an opportunity to write uninterrupted for a while. But stay tuned!!

Here's a quick and very brief description of intentional community (from answers.com);

"The purposes of intentional communities vary. They may include sharing resources, creating family-oriented neighborhoods and living ecologically sustainable lifestyles (ecovillages). Some communities are secular; others have a spiritual basis. Commonly there is a focus on egalitarian values. Other themes are voluntary simplicity, interpersonal growth and self-reliance. Some communities provide services to disadvantaged populations, for example, war refugees, the homeless, or people with developmental disabilities. Some communities operate learning or health centers."

Ours is a Salvation Army community of people wanting to even out the ground between the rich and the poor. To be a loving and supportive family to those who are on the fringes, lonely, have mental health issues, have little money etc etc etc... We also have the theme of voluntary simplicity and sharing resources and advocating for those who cannot stand up or speak for themselves...

I have a lot more to write but no time right now....

Monday 8 September 2008

Wish me luck!

I have weight watchers tonight and am a bit nervous as I have done no exercise (apart from my injury inducing netball) and have gone over points on a few days- so not expecting a great result...


I wish I could weigh in naked! I think my clothes are fat...it's not me- it's my clothes, HONEST!

Friday 5 September 2008

Yummy thing!

Creamy "Joghurt" or "Yelly"

Make up jelly as normal (diet or not- whatever floats your boat) but replace some of the cold water with some low fat yoghurt and refrigerate to set for about 5 hours.

MMM!!

Wow! I didn't know there were so many of you!

Hooray for some privacy!!

Feel free to let other bloggers know my email address as I don't wish to be a total hermit however I just found out that I guy I know has tracked me down and has been reading. I am not comfortable with him knowing about some of the more private things I have posted about recently (ie. the pap smear saga).

So here we all are then!

The ankle is already feeling a lot better, thanks for everyone's kind wishes!

I'll be back with more weight loss related banter shortly!

Hugs to all you ladies in the "inner circle"!!

Thursday 4 September 2008

Had to get rid of the photo post to make the page work properly... doh!

Private

Have decided to go private.

Please email me at ashleyecarr@gmail.com if you would like access.

Is anyone else having trouble viewing my last post...

It just looks blank unless I click on the actual title of the post... hmmm

My ankle isn't broken- from the look of the x-rays but they said they often can't tell till it starts healing. But it's already starting to feel a bit better. I have a nice bruise to show for the pain!

I spent 5 hours in emergency yesterday to be given a pair of crutches and a tubey stocking thing and sent home to rest...

grrr...

Wednesday 3 September 2008

A spanner in the works...

Last night during my 2nd of a well intentioned 3 games of netball I rolled over on my ankle and heard a big CRACK!


The umpire started yelling "that's gonna be bad! I heard that crack!" which was awfully considerate of her, don't you think?!


So I'm off to the doctor today to have it looked at- it is like a big balloon!


Look! I have dainty feet and ankles usually!

Tuesday 2 September 2008

Weight watchers...

Last night I went back to weight watchers.

I haven't actually been to a meeting since I was 99kilos in 2004. I have decided I need a bit more accountability and a chance to meet other people in my community who have the same goals and struggles as me.

The scales were not friendly to me! 91.4kg!! I know all scales are different but seeing that 9 on there has got me motivated to definately be an 80s girl again within the next 2 meetings!! There were 2 ladies who reached goal and 3 that achieved their 10% goal last night- that was very encouraging. Anyway, it seems like a good group and I met a girl who's a lifetime member, at goal and has just recently joined a running club- so hopefully surrounding myself with a few more like minded people (plus weekly weigh-ins) will give me the kick I need to get to my goal of 75kilos.

So I bought a journal and an updated points guide and feel very encouraged.

Here's my exercise plan for this week.

Today: Gym for weights and cardio
Wednesday: Running
Thursday: PT
Friday: Weights and running
Saturday: Running
Sunday: Rest

Onward and downward!

Thursday 28 August 2008

KFC and butterfly cakes....

That's what is being served at my work for lunch today.... grrr.... It's someone's farewell....I will be a good girl and eat my tuna, salad and pumpernicle.

Wednesday 27 August 2008

Pushing yourself feels bad.... but when it's done it feels great!

I felt un-motivated again today. However I have realised through many years of trying to get fit and stay fit, motivation is not going to get me where I want to be.

One of the big differences between those who achieve their goals and those who don't is the ability to simply push on and do it without over-thinking things and without letting their lack of motivation get them down.

Tonight I went to the gym as it was part of my plan- simple. I did 10 minutes on the bike at level 5 to warm up. I then did abs and back (went fairly hard), then spent the most gruelling 30 minutes on the treadmill. I went with my gym buddy and we both really needed each other tonight. We did interval running but half way through I changed to straight high incline walking and ended up burning more calories than when I do intervals!

I felt like giving up 15 minutes into our cardio but I didn't and that feels fantastic! Nothing like some endorphines to brighten the mood!

Yummy thing alert!!
For lunch today I had a mountain bread wrap filled with sundried tomato and basil tuna, grated carrot, crunchy mixed lettuce and spicy hummus. It was absolutely beautiful. Tomorrow I am going to try the same combo except put it onto some sunflower seed pumpernicle (sp?) bread and eat it with a knife and fork. MMMMMM!

Tuesday 26 August 2008

Making the decision to be healthy...

This afternoon I found myself with an hour to kill before picking Molly up from childcare (hallelujah!) so I wandered around DFO at Spencer Street window shopping.

This kind of an excursion would normally include a quick sweep of the foodcourt to see what calorie laden morsel I could sink my teeth into (blaming threethirtyitis for the binge). However, today as I was standing in front of DoughBoys gazing at the glazing, I made the decision to be a healthy person. Just for that moment- then I would deal with the next challenge next time one presented itself. It was just so easy- it was unemotional and it made sense. I had two options, I could eat a doughnut and decide to be unhealthy or I could bypass the sugary, heart-clogging bit of junkfood and make a choice that would ultimately make me feel powerful and strong.

Powerful is not a word I would use to describe myself when I'm in "The binge zone". I may have a powerful appetite and be able to plough through a lot of food- but I sure don't feel powerful. I feel controlled and manipulated, disgusting and weak. Those are not empowering words.

So instead of eating, I stopped and thought "what do you really feel like?" and went and got a small skim latte. It was just right.

Had a very down day yesterday....

Felt shitful yesterday... actually, it was mostly the afternoon and into the night.

I spent the day with Molly at Highpoint- which was nice, but we were there too long and there was a lot of stuff to do at home. John took the car key with him accidently so I was stuck on public transport while the car sat out the front of our house.

Anyway, we got our tax return and it was a decent amount so I decided it was time for a new pair of runners- considering the last time I bought runners was when I didn't even know I was preggers with Molly- just before the run for the kids (2005)... So I bought a pair of super comfy Nike Zoom. I had a lot of guilt buying shoes that were probably made by a poor little child in a sweatshop but then I looked around and decided they probably all were anyway. And I need some decent shoes if I am going to be running like I plan to. If anyone knows of any "no sweatshop" decent runners, please tell me and I will take them back and get a refund.

They are seriously like walking on air. It will take a few weeks for me to wear them in but I know they'll be great.

Anyway, when I got back from the shops I got a call from John who said he'd forgotten he booked a recording client last night so he'd be out from 7 till 11pm. I really wanted to get a workout in so I had to re-arrange my afternoon and go at 4:30 instead of after dinner with my friend. The workout was hard- I felt every ounce of resentment dragging my body down making me want to give up. I could barely lift my feet on the treadmill so I decided to do some heavy weights instead. I went pretty hard and tried to get my anger and frustration out that way. I then hopped back on the treadmill but only lasted 10 mins before I decided to give up and go home. I figure 20 mins cardio and 30 mins weights was enough for a day where I feel shitful.

So I got home and gave Molly dinner (creamy chicken and avocado pasta cooked by housemates- grrr undoing all my gym work- but I think it was evaporated milk so hopefully not as bad a cream), put her to bed and sat watching crappy tv on my own. I was just so close to tears all night- I am sure I am premenstrual but it was rediculous.

When john came home he made me a wheatbag and hot water bottle and a cup of chamomile tea as he felt really bad about having to go out on a designated "gym night"... He knows I need more time to myself than I have been getting. He's trying to work out ways to make it happen (ie. quitting his afternoon 3 day-a-week job at the school) which may work out if we are entitled to a bit more centrelink. We have worked out that he would get nearly as much in Austudy if he were to go full time (3 days at the moment) at uni as he does with his job. That would work out fine unless I fall pregnant again- in that case I'd need to get parenting payment too...wonder how much that'd be? Oh well, we'll deal witht that when we get to it.

Thursday 21 August 2008

Another three to finish!

Just submitted my registration for The Spring Into Shape Series!!

It's a bargain at $65 for 3 8km runs!

I hope to beat my time each run...

Wednesday 20 August 2008

Weigh in today...

Scales said 87.3 today!

Probably coz I'm sick but I'll take it any way it comes!

Dying for a run!

Now that I shouldn't run I REALLY want to...

Hmm..

Do you think a little run would hinder my healing??

What about some weights??

Grr- Wednesday is my gym night and I have a regular gym buddy! It's been so long since I have had a gym buddy!!

Maybe I'll go and see how I feel.

But I might be contagious!

But I'm at work!

Oh well....

Tuesday 19 August 2008

What's worse than a bad case of DOMS?

... a bad case of DOMS while you have tonsilitis!

My skin and body are so achey and I can't eat anything with any texture!

Grrr...

Did a good workout on Sunday- hence the muscle soreness...


Molly has spots- a virus that is going through her childcare...

Blaaaahhhh!

Saturday 16 August 2008

Decided to keep a food diary online again...

I will put a link in my sidebar if you fancy taking a peek- I don't want to bore people on here with it but would like a place to be accountible.

Friday 15 August 2008

Feeling surprisingly fine!

Ha ha!

A little embarrassed looking at that last post! But have decided to leave it there as a couple of you have told me to... It could've been worse! Ha ha!!

I felt a little giddy this morning but totally fine. We have John's mum's birthday party thingy tonight and I can be sure I'll wish I were in bed instead of there at about 9pm!

John took me out for breakfast this morning as he doesn't feel like we have seen enough of each other recently. Probably true. We shared a egg and bacon pide and I had a taste of his buttermilk pancakes... Molly was so excited to have a babycino! I also had a yummy apple, carrot, celery and beetroot juice. Felt like I needed vitamin concentrate!

My baby bro gets home from his 6 month adventure to south and north america. He wont know what to do with himself but I have missed him a lot. Even Molly has been saying "ucle David on Sat-a-day!"

Yay!

Wednesday 13 August 2008

Day 3 of week 1

Yesterday I ate to plan- apart from a few jellybeans, and my calories were around 1650 which is right where I want to be at the moment.

I made a delicious dinner- bean and veggie chilli over a baked potato and 1/4 baked sweet potato. I was planning to have that for lunch today over rice but left it on the bench, so I guess lucky John will get to eat it! So I have a heinz very vegetable soup for lunch today- it wont fill me up and I'll be hungry later- but it's my only option and it's better than KFC!

I didn't run! After all my blowing on yesterday, I didn't do it!! It was pelting down with rain and, while I could have been brave and just done it- I didn't want to... I ran pretty hard at netball though..

So- here's to today!

The plan is to go to the gym tonight after community dinner.

I also plan to go out to the shops with Molly before dinner as the afternoons at home are very dangerous for me. It is when I want to eat 5 pieces of toast with peanut butter (not that I ever eat that much- but the desire is there!) It's not even junk food I crave, just carbs- I know it's a blood sugar thing but I need to come up with other things to help me- like a nice trip to the shops!

I might pop back later and post some more- feeling very bloggy today!

Tuesday 12 August 2008

Spoze I'd better update.... day 2 - week 1

After a less than pleasant week-and-a-bit, I'm back on track.

I did no running last week but did PT, Netball and Community Fitness- so three sessions is better than none, right?!

But I SOOOOO want to be a runner that I simply must get back on track.... today! So after work today I will put on my neatly packed (ie. shoved in my bag) running gear and head off for a lap or two of Princess Park before I pick Molly up from childcare.

I have entered the Runner's World Magazine "RIO- Run It Off" Challenge.

Today is day 2 - week 1...

There are fairly loose guidelines for this challenge, you simply send a photo holding a newspaper, you know the deal- pick a start date and a race date 12 weeks ahead and go for it! You take your weight and measurements. I am going to weigh and measure every 2 weeks.

My race date is November 16th- the 3rd Spring into shape 8km run.

This is timely as there is now only 12 weeks until my birthday- wouldn't it be the perfect birthday present to get into the 70s?!!

So, Here's my starting stats;

Weight: Still 88-89kgs
Goal for challenge: In the 70s!
Waist: 98cm
Bust: 107cm
Thigh: 60cm

I aim to keep my calories between 1500 and 1800 per day.

Today's food looks like this.
b. very yummy 1/2 cup porridge with almonds, starwberries, skim milk, honey
s. yoghurt
l. 1 tortilla with spicy mince and bean mix
s. apple, banana
d. beans with rice and veggies

Wednesday 6 August 2008

Big videos...

Does anyone know how to shrink video files... I have a few vids I want to share but they are too big.

Ta!

Tuesday 5 August 2008

RE: Anon comment...

Hi again,

My doc has told me not to go rushing home accusing my hubby of being unfaithful from the hpv result as it is something that could have been sitting dormant in me for years- or I may have had it in my last smear test but she could have swabbed a different spot.

I have NO concerns about my husband!

HPV can also be transmitted from any skin contact. I have had wart viruses (hands, knees, feet) before and doc says there are studies being conducted at the moment about whether those viruses can transfer to STD type viruses...

Please, don't go anon- I am not worried about comments or peoples opinions.

Just for the record... I have only had one sexual partner and so has John... go figure?!

You can tie it in a knot, you can tie it in a bow!

You know something?!

I just realised that I no longer notice my body swinging to and fro when I run! I know I still have quite a bit of fat to lose however I am not distracted by my tummy and boobs going up, down and waving all around any more!!

I remember writing a post when I did the Spring into Shape 4km run last year saying that I needed a body bra- well, I don’t think I do any more!!

Hoorah!

Doctors appointment...

Hi all,

Thank you for your support!

The doctor’s appointment was ok. It is HPV- eww! Very common, but not nice.

I need to go back for another test in 12 months as it may clear up by itself within that time.

If it hasn’t they will need to treat it as 70% of cases (of certain strains of the virus) lead to cervical cancer if not treated (over many years).. It's worth monitoring it!

So it’s good news, annoying… but good..

Sunday 3 August 2008

Some pics from the run...




Me in my new running top!




Me with all the other lovely running ladies!

All smiles after another good run!

Look I am getting dimples again!



Another run to cross of the checklist!!





I finished in about the same time as I did last week but this week it felt much harder. This is probably due to 3 factors.





1) I am sore from PT


2) It is TTOM and it hurts!


3) My mind kept wandering to tomorrow's doctors appointment.





It really took a long time to get into my groove this morning. It wasn't till the 2nd lap of Albert Park that it started to feel easier. I had to tell myself to keep going when I ran PAST the finish like for the 5k race... But it feels great to have done it! I finished 100 or so metres in front of the lady who finished after me last week... she crossed the line saying "I'll get you one of these days!" Very funny! But she's entered in the Sandy Point Half Marathon in 3 weeks time... I don't think I'm up to it yet but it wont be long!

I can't let myself slack off this week! It is easy to fall in a heap after a run and find yourself at the next weekend again having done no exercise- easy to fall out of the groove!

So here's the Plan!

Monday- Gym- weights
Tuesday- Netball
Wednesday- Gym- weights
Thursday- running
Friday- PT
Saturday- Community Group Fitness

The next run I am doing is the 1st of the Anlene Spring Into Shape series... BRING IT ON!!

Friday 1 August 2008

Push-ups, food and planning

Earlier this year I couldn't do one pushup on my toes... today in PT I did 7 on my toes and another 30 on my knees!!

I worked really hard in PT today- I nearly didn't go as I was feeling pretty crappy after hearing from the doc. But I thought to myself "why don't you wanna go?!" and realised that it was all emotional and I just needed to get on with it. So I went- and worked bloody hard..

My shoulder muscles are getting more defined.. I love it!

Todays PT went something like this.
skipping with a rope to warm up
step ups with 5kg weights x3
squats with 5kg weights x3
lunges with back leg on step and 5kg weights x3
pushups on step x3
bench press x3
plank x3
plank tricep lifts with 5kg weights x3
side planks x3

I'm going to be sore- I doubt I'll beat my 10km time this Sunday as I'll be hobbling around in pain..

There is still a chance to come on down to Albert Park this Sunday morning for the Queen of the Lake 5 or 10k run. You can register at 8am on the day. Please let me know if you're coming and would like to meet up.. I have bought a pretty green running shirt for the occasion!

Eats weren't that good today- too many "treats" and not planned meals. Breakfast and dinner were good- an egg on toast for brk and japanese dumpling soup for dinner... lunch was just snacky bits and pieces of food from about 10:30 to 2:30...

Tomorrow is Saturday, often a day where I have trouble staying on track. So here's the plan.

9:30 community fitness class

b. porridge with honey, and skim milk and a protein shake
s. almonds and fruit
l. chicken and salad sandwich
s. fruit and yoghurt
d. meat and veg
s. yoghurt or shake (if hungry)

Better be heading to bed... have had an exhausting day.

"minor changes in pap smear"

I have to go to see my doctor on Monday as my recent pap smear has picked up some minor changes...

I'm freaking out a bit...

She said it wasn't urgent but that she would like to speak to me and she needed to go more in depth than she can go over the phone...

I haven't told my family (John and my household know) as I don't want to worry them but I needed to vent, so here I am!

PLease send me some prayers!

Or I can wear it parted like this.....


Hair!


Thursday 31 July 2008

ps...

... got my fringe cut!! Feel like a new woman!

Running Photos...

Click here, then click on Olympic Dream- then enter bib number 169 to see some pics of me running.... none are good enough for me to buy so you wont get any on here!! Haha!

Have had a couple of non-working out days as I have been very busy! It seems that life is a bit all over the place at the moment and I'm a little stressed out. But I am not going to let that get in the way of my goals! Tomorrow morning I will be getting up early and going to do some weights at the gym before mum's group at 9:30. I don't wanna lift too heavy as I need to avoid being too sore on Sunday for my 2nd 10k run!

Found an old fat photo tonight which has spurred my on- never going there again!!!

I might scan it and put it on here..

Need to go to bed now!!

Very tirrrrrrred!

Wednesday 30 July 2008

Something yummy out of nothing!!

Last night I stood at the open pantry and sighed...

It's often nights when there seems to be no food in the cupboard that we end up eating something different and yummy.

I had some frozen chicken breast, some nearly too old garlic, a jar of passata sauce, and pantry staples...

So, I browned the chicken and some garlic and then let it simmer in the pasta sauce. I then mixed 4 cups of flour with a generous pinch of salt and enough water to make a dough. I then separated the dough into 6 balls, rolled them out with a rolling pin and cooked in the frying pan with a little oil to make chapattis! I rubbed them with garlic, filled them with the chicken mix, folded them over and popped them in the sandwich press.

YUM!!!!!

Talk about making something out of nothing!

On a very important note, I am considering cutting a heavy fringe... what do you think?? I love them- I think they look tre-groovy!

Monday 28 July 2008

Results...

Feeling a bit sore today but fully stoked!!

I came 1497th overall yesterday! I didn't come last!! Yay!! 143rd in my division and 536th of all the women.

My official time was 1:18:46. My split times were 39:01 for the 1st 5 kms and 39:45 for the 2nd 5kms.

I am still waiting for photos to come up on sportingimages.com.au but will have to screen them before I post them as I don't look my best after running 10k!! But I may have to go by the motto a multinational sportswear company is promoting at the moment..... "run yourself ugly" as I certainly did that yesterday!