This blog update will be fairly short, as there is not much different to report from last week.
The temptations at work are now free-flowing...and I have decided to just give in to it. This by no means, means that I am giving up and it's a free for all...just that I will not continue to berrate myself whenever I put a chocolate or anything bad into my mouth. I did that on Wednesday, and paid for it. What's done is done and time to move on.
Wanna know something though? I still managed to lose 0.3 lbs! Yes I maintained - and I will take it!
On Wednesday, we had our montly lap-band support group meeting and our Christmas potluck. It was great to get together with everyone and the food was awesome.
It's been a bit of a crazy and emotional time for me as of late. Christmas time always brings out the emotional side of me. It's the time of year when I REALLY miss my Mom. I think what I am missing the most is the times when I was younger. I miss the times sitting by the fireplace, listening to Christmas Carols or whatever she decided to play...I miss her cabbage rolls...I miss her laugh.
I miss her.
I hope everyone has a really great Christmas filled with family, laughter and love.
Cheers!
K
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Temptation...
It's that time of year...
Christmas Season is well underway and I thought this year I would be prepared for all of the office luncheons, potlucks, and such. I thought that with my new lap-band, that I wouldn't be tempted to eat the yummy sugary goodness and that I would get full way quicker.
Yup... I was wrong...
My problem is, is that I keep picking those nice "Slider" foods. My fellow lap-banders know what I am talking about and can relate! Chocolate, unfortunately doesn't get stuck and slides right on down. My only saving grace, is that I cannot tolerate bread pretty much of any kind - so the yummy slices of banana bread and pastries and such I just don't touch anymore. I did however, and much to my dismay, eat a couple of doughnuts at work - yes they still go down nicely - but I have to work at it...lol...bite of doughnut, then sip of coffee...bite of doughnut...
You get my drift??
I did manage to lose .1 of a pound this week. I basically stayed the same, and I will take it. I also missed a couple of workouts due to being sick. I've spent most of my nights coughing until I throw up - which isn't good for my lungs and throat, AND my lap-band. Today, I managed to get a spin class in and felt pretty good after. I've still been coughing quite a bit, but I think the worst is over.
My focus this week, will be to keep my nibbling of the Christmas treats to a minimum... the good thing about where I work, is that we are all trying to look out for one another - and so we've been putting the treats away in the supply cupboard. Out of sight...out of mind... :-) I only have one Christmas Luncheon and one evening potluck - so I shouldn't have too much of a hard time going off-track.
I hope everyone is doing well with their Christmas Temptations...I know they can be really hard to resist but with some determination and common sense on my part, I can do it!
Just say NO to those temptations!
Happy Week everyone!
Kris
Christmas Season is well underway and I thought this year I would be prepared for all of the office luncheons, potlucks, and such. I thought that with my new lap-band, that I wouldn't be tempted to eat the yummy sugary goodness and that I would get full way quicker.
Yup... I was wrong...
My problem is, is that I keep picking those nice "Slider" foods. My fellow lap-banders know what I am talking about and can relate! Chocolate, unfortunately doesn't get stuck and slides right on down. My only saving grace, is that I cannot tolerate bread pretty much of any kind - so the yummy slices of banana bread and pastries and such I just don't touch anymore. I did however, and much to my dismay, eat a couple of doughnuts at work - yes they still go down nicely - but I have to work at it...lol...bite of doughnut, then sip of coffee...bite of doughnut...
You get my drift??
I did manage to lose .1 of a pound this week. I basically stayed the same, and I will take it. I also missed a couple of workouts due to being sick. I've spent most of my nights coughing until I throw up - which isn't good for my lungs and throat, AND my lap-band. Today, I managed to get a spin class in and felt pretty good after. I've still been coughing quite a bit, but I think the worst is over.
My focus this week, will be to keep my nibbling of the Christmas treats to a minimum... the good thing about where I work, is that we are all trying to look out for one another - and so we've been putting the treats away in the supply cupboard. Out of sight...out of mind... :-) I only have one Christmas Luncheon and one evening potluck - so I shouldn't have too much of a hard time going off-track.
I hope everyone is doing well with their Christmas Temptations...I know they can be really hard to resist but with some determination and common sense on my part, I can do it!
Just say NO to those temptations!
Happy Week everyone!
Kris
Sunday, December 4, 2011
I HAVE Figured It Out!
It's been a pretty good week to say the least. As I said in my post last week, I was having issues with eating enough calories. I ended up upping them to 2,000 calories a day on the days where my workouts were strenuous. The result at the end of the week?? A LOSS of 4.6 lbs! I am totally back on track and feeling positive and upbeat.
I'm also pretty happy about my new fitness routine. I have found my "Niche" at the YMCA. I attend classes there almost every day but Wednesdays...those days I save for my strength training. I am making some new social connections and really enjoying it.
I've had a couple of people approach me this week and ask me how I stay motivated? Well, I can sum it up in about three answers:
1. I don't EVER want to go back to the way I was 2.5 years ago. I am terrified of being over 300 lbs again.
2. My mother. Even though she is gone, she is a HUGE driving force inside me. In her own way, she let's me know when I need to step it up or smarten up or whatever.
3. I hired a personal trainer and a damn good one. Ben taught and showed me so much about exercise and what I was truly capable of achieving. I went from hardly being able to bench-press the bar, to pressing upwards of 120 lbs. After I started seeing results, I wanted to keep going. While I don't train with Ben anymore, my love of exercise continues. Every time I get frustrated with something in my fitness routine, I think to myself "What would Ben do?" A personal trainer can push you beyond what you never thought you could do. I have made exercise a part of my life. I no longer think of it as a chore. It's what I am.
So those of you out there that need movitation - Believe in yourself, push yourself and most of all, just be yourself...and NEVER GIVE UP!
Wish me luck for my weigh in on Friday!
Hugs to everyone!
K
I'm also pretty happy about my new fitness routine. I have found my "Niche" at the YMCA. I attend classes there almost every day but Wednesdays...those days I save for my strength training. I am making some new social connections and really enjoying it.
I've had a couple of people approach me this week and ask me how I stay motivated? Well, I can sum it up in about three answers:
1. I don't EVER want to go back to the way I was 2.5 years ago. I am terrified of being over 300 lbs again.
2. My mother. Even though she is gone, she is a HUGE driving force inside me. In her own way, she let's me know when I need to step it up or smarten up or whatever.
3. I hired a personal trainer and a damn good one. Ben taught and showed me so much about exercise and what I was truly capable of achieving. I went from hardly being able to bench-press the bar, to pressing upwards of 120 lbs. After I started seeing results, I wanted to keep going. While I don't train with Ben anymore, my love of exercise continues. Every time I get frustrated with something in my fitness routine, I think to myself "What would Ben do?" A personal trainer can push you beyond what you never thought you could do. I have made exercise a part of my life. I no longer think of it as a chore. It's what I am.
So those of you out there that need movitation - Believe in yourself, push yourself and most of all, just be yourself...and NEVER GIVE UP!
Wish me luck for my weigh in on Friday!
Hugs to everyone!
K
Sunday, November 27, 2011
I Think I've Figured it Out...
I think I've figured out why my weight has stalled completely the past couple of months...and I can't believe it has taken me so bloody long to figure it out.
But it seems I have.
First off, I would like to thank everyone that has given me their advice and support this last while. I have been VERY discouraged and even - as you know - been so discouraged that I wanted to give up totally. I've listened to everyone's ideas of what I could do do kick start my weight loss again and I've even tried some of them. But what I never really considered doing was the most obvious.
MAYBE YOU AREN'T EATING ENOUGH.
I know. What a concept. But you see, I thought I was watching everything that I was eating. And I have been. I was eating between 1100 - 1400 calories a day, which is what the lap band dietitians have advised that I eat. What I haven't been watching closely is the amount of calories that I burn and intensity of my exercise program vs my calorie intake I thought that after Ben left, and not having a personal trainer anymore, that I would slack off and my workouts wouldn't be as intense. On the contrary - I've kicked it up a notch and added WAY more cardio. My strength training isn't near as good as I want it to be, but it will come. And I will be able to bench over 100lbs again in no time. I've been doing lots of spin classes and have recently taken up Tae-Bo...both of which burn a serious amount of calories.
I have discovered that I am not eating enough for the amount of exercise that I do. Yes I know... I've had a few people tell me that I might want to check into that - that I might be starving my body and not giving it the fuel that it needs in order to up my metabolism - hence lose the weight. I just thought that I wasn't working out hard enough.
Make sense? It does to me now...finally. I stepped on the scale this morning. Since Friday I have lost two pounds.
I can't really say this plateau has been a really bad thing tho. My body has taught me its limits. While the scale hasn't shown change, my clothes have definitely changed. With all the spinning I've been doing, my quads have developed some definite muscular definition - something I'm totally not used to. AND - my cardio endurance is the best it has ever been!
I am happy and so relieved.
I am on track again. YES!!
But it seems I have.
First off, I would like to thank everyone that has given me their advice and support this last while. I have been VERY discouraged and even - as you know - been so discouraged that I wanted to give up totally. I've listened to everyone's ideas of what I could do do kick start my weight loss again and I've even tried some of them. But what I never really considered doing was the most obvious.
MAYBE YOU AREN'T EATING ENOUGH.
I know. What a concept. But you see, I thought I was watching everything that I was eating. And I have been. I was eating between 1100 - 1400 calories a day, which is what the lap band dietitians have advised that I eat. What I haven't been watching closely is the amount of calories that I burn and intensity of my exercise program vs my calorie intake I thought that after Ben left, and not having a personal trainer anymore, that I would slack off and my workouts wouldn't be as intense. On the contrary - I've kicked it up a notch and added WAY more cardio. My strength training isn't near as good as I want it to be, but it will come. And I will be able to bench over 100lbs again in no time. I've been doing lots of spin classes and have recently taken up Tae-Bo...both of which burn a serious amount of calories.
I have discovered that I am not eating enough for the amount of exercise that I do. Yes I know... I've had a few people tell me that I might want to check into that - that I might be starving my body and not giving it the fuel that it needs in order to up my metabolism - hence lose the weight. I just thought that I wasn't working out hard enough.
Make sense? It does to me now...finally. I stepped on the scale this morning. Since Friday I have lost two pounds.
I can't really say this plateau has been a really bad thing tho. My body has taught me its limits. While the scale hasn't shown change, my clothes have definitely changed. With all the spinning I've been doing, my quads have developed some definite muscular definition - something I'm totally not used to. AND - my cardio endurance is the best it has ever been!
I am happy and so relieved.
I am on track again. YES!!
Sunday, November 20, 2011
INVINCIBLE
Took a long hard look at my life
Lost my way while I was fighting the time
A big black cloud, stormy sky
Followed me, oh I was living a lie
So heartless, so selfish, so in darkness
When all your nights are starless
You're running outta hope
But I found the strength inside to see
Found the better part of me
And I'll never let it go
I've come a long, long way
Made a lot of mistakes
But I'm breathin’, breathin’
That's right and I mean it, mean it
This time I'm a little run down
I've been living out loud
I could beat it, beat it
That's right, cause I'm feelin’, feelin’
Invincible
When you're gone for a day
On your own
Tear your heart out just to find your way home
I've been so high
I've sunk so low
I've come so far, with nothing to show for it
Mistaken, I got so good at taking
But now I'm tired of faking
This story's getting old
So I found the strength inside to see
From the better part of me
And I'll never let it go
I've come a long, long way
Made a lot of mistakes
But I'm breathin’, breathin’
That's right and I mean it, mean it
This time I'm a little run down
I've been living out loud
I could beat it, beat it
That's right, 'cause I'm feelin’, feelin’
Invincible
I'm not the only one
That crashed into the sun
And lived to fight another day
Like a super nova
That old life is over
I'm here to stay
Now I'm gonna be
Invincible
I've come a long, long way
Made a lot of mistakes
But I'm breathin’, breathin’
That's right and I mean it, mean it
This time I'm a little run down
I've been living out loud
I could beat it, beat it
That's right 'cause I'm feelin’, feelin’
Invincible
The lyrics to the song by Hedley, a really great Canadian Band BTW, ring true for me. Just a mere 2.5 years ago, I found myself in probably one of the lowest times of my life. I was 360 lbs, and hated myself. I am now 273 lbs and even though there are days where I struggle incredibly to stay on track, and focused, I know that I am getting closer and closer to my goal. My goal of being happy AND slimmer. Check out the video of this song if you get a moment...it's so inspiring!
Instead of saying I CAN do this...I'm saying I WILL do this!
Hugs to all...
Lost my way while I was fighting the time
A big black cloud, stormy sky
Followed me, oh I was living a lie
So heartless, so selfish, so in darkness
When all your nights are starless
You're running outta hope
But I found the strength inside to see
Found the better part of me
And I'll never let it go
I've come a long, long way
Made a lot of mistakes
But I'm breathin’, breathin’
That's right and I mean it, mean it
This time I'm a little run down
I've been living out loud
I could beat it, beat it
That's right, cause I'm feelin’, feelin’
Invincible
When you're gone for a day
On your own
Tear your heart out just to find your way home
I've been so high
I've sunk so low
I've come so far, with nothing to show for it
Mistaken, I got so good at taking
But now I'm tired of faking
This story's getting old
So I found the strength inside to see
From the better part of me
And I'll never let it go
I've come a long, long way
Made a lot of mistakes
But I'm breathin’, breathin’
That's right and I mean it, mean it
This time I'm a little run down
I've been living out loud
I could beat it, beat it
That's right, 'cause I'm feelin’, feelin’
Invincible
I'm not the only one
That crashed into the sun
And lived to fight another day
Like a super nova
That old life is over
I'm here to stay
Now I'm gonna be
Invincible
I've come a long, long way
Made a lot of mistakes
But I'm breathin’, breathin’
That's right and I mean it, mean it
This time I'm a little run down
I've been living out loud
I could beat it, beat it
That's right 'cause I'm feelin’, feelin’
Invincible
The lyrics to the song by Hedley, a really great Canadian Band BTW, ring true for me. Just a mere 2.5 years ago, I found myself in probably one of the lowest times of my life. I was 360 lbs, and hated myself. I am now 273 lbs and even though there are days where I struggle incredibly to stay on track, and focused, I know that I am getting closer and closer to my goal. My goal of being happy AND slimmer. Check out the video of this song if you get a moment...it's so inspiring!
Instead of saying I CAN do this...I'm saying I WILL do this!
Hugs to all...
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Time for a Change Up??
The last couple of weeks have been a little trying emotionally for me. Last weekend, I actually felt like quitting...I felt like throwing in the towel and saying "screw it." My weight has stayed the same (give or take two pounds) for almost two months now.
I'm tired...
I'm frustrated...
So I thought I would take this past week and just try and relax about my weight loss (or lack of it) and try not to even think about it. I think I made it to Tuesday...lol I talked with a few people from work and the gym and got some insight.
First off...quitting is NOT an option for me. I have come way to far to quit. I have to change my mindset and keep focused.
Secondly...I need to start tracking EVERYTHING. I track what I eat and for the most part, how much. What I have not been tracking is the amount of carbs that I've been ingesting. I need to start counting those and keeping better track.
Thirdly...Water...or lack of it. Starting tomorrow - I am going to track my water intake and TRY and drink more (notice I said try). I will make sure I am not using being too busy at work as an excuse as to why I'm not getting my water intake.
Again - I must get more sleep. 5-6 hrs a night is just not cutting it. I know that proper sleep hygiene is VITAL to weight loss. I've had quite a bit of stress to deal with lately - maybe it's time I make another trip to talk to Veronica my therapist. I am considering taking up meditation...I've been going to as many yoga classes as I can and that seems to be helping. I need to learn to BREATHE...and relax!
I am also seriously considering trying to cut gluten out of my diet. Although I LOVE my grains (i.e. cereal and oatmeal) this is something that I would like to try. I have a couple of friends that have celiac disease, and although they have told me that in the beginning, it was hard for them to cut out the gluten or wheat in their diet, they have definitely felt better and have had more energy. This might be one of the things I need to do in order to kick start my weight loss again.
I am also going to change up my exericse routine. I am going to add more cardio and cut out my cross fit classes.
Whatever changes I need to make, I need to just do it. After all, they say change is good right?
Cheers to a better week ahead!
K
I'm tired...
I'm frustrated...
So I thought I would take this past week and just try and relax about my weight loss (or lack of it) and try not to even think about it. I think I made it to Tuesday...lol I talked with a few people from work and the gym and got some insight.
First off...quitting is NOT an option for me. I have come way to far to quit. I have to change my mindset and keep focused.
Secondly...I need to start tracking EVERYTHING. I track what I eat and for the most part, how much. What I have not been tracking is the amount of carbs that I've been ingesting. I need to start counting those and keeping better track.
Thirdly...Water...or lack of it. Starting tomorrow - I am going to track my water intake and TRY and drink more (notice I said try). I will make sure I am not using being too busy at work as an excuse as to why I'm not getting my water intake.
Again - I must get more sleep. 5-6 hrs a night is just not cutting it. I know that proper sleep hygiene is VITAL to weight loss. I've had quite a bit of stress to deal with lately - maybe it's time I make another trip to talk to Veronica my therapist. I am considering taking up meditation...I've been going to as many yoga classes as I can and that seems to be helping. I need to learn to BREATHE...and relax!
I am also seriously considering trying to cut gluten out of my diet. Although I LOVE my grains (i.e. cereal and oatmeal) this is something that I would like to try. I have a couple of friends that have celiac disease, and although they have told me that in the beginning, it was hard for them to cut out the gluten or wheat in their diet, they have definitely felt better and have had more energy. This might be one of the things I need to do in order to kick start my weight loss again.
I am also going to change up my exericse routine. I am going to add more cardio and cut out my cross fit classes.
Whatever changes I need to make, I need to just do it. After all, they say change is good right?
Cheers to a better week ahead!
K
Sunday, October 30, 2011
"YOU Don't Do Yoga!"
So...
We had our Health and Wellness Fair at work this past Thursday. They had a lot of very informative booths - everything from the Arthritis Society, to World Health, to Survivor Bootcamp...and...The Yoga Studio...
For those of you that don't know, I LOVE Yoga. I try and do it every Sunday when the opportunity arises. It's been only since the start of this year that I have taken on a real interest in it. This summer, I even tried hot yoga. I am by no means an Ashtanga guru, but I do love the restorative classes. I love the great stretch that I get and how relaxed it makes me feel.
This story is going somewhere...lol
I approached The Yoga Studio booth and was grinning ear to ear - I said "Ooooohhhh!! YOGA! The guy at the booth looks me up and down and says "YOU don't do yoga!" to which my reply was "Oh yes I do...I take a class down at Yoga Santosha." I then proceeded to show him my old ID card with my big fat face on the front of it. "This USED to be me." I said. Not suprisingly, the guy wanted to give me his card and give me 50% a class. I told him to keep his card. I was shocked...and then the shock quickly turned to anger. How could he be so rude like that??? You would think that someone in the fitness industry wouldn't treat people like that. What I need to realize is that those kinds of people are everywhere - and I clearly need to figure out a way to not let them get to me. I have been working WAY too hard to let some small-minded person rent space in my head like that.
So ya...The Yoga Studio won't be getting my business anytime soon...or ever...
It was a pretty hard week for me. I was sick to my stomach after spin class - which I found was kind of strange - I did push myself, but have pushed harded before. I think it was mainly due to a mild stomach flu which I woke up to on Tuesday. I took Wednesday off and rested - I needed it. I ended up taking Friday, and today off too. It was kind of nice actually.
We went to the movies last night and saw Crazy Stupid Love and Contagion. Both movies were great and it was nice to get out of the house for an evening.
I am looking forward to this week and I am looking forward to my fill appointment on Friday. I am finding that my hunger is coming back a little more quickly after I have eaten than I would like. I am hoping we can nip that in the bud.
Have a good week everyone!
K
We had our Health and Wellness Fair at work this past Thursday. They had a lot of very informative booths - everything from the Arthritis Society, to World Health, to Survivor Bootcamp...and...The Yoga Studio...
For those of you that don't know, I LOVE Yoga. I try and do it every Sunday when the opportunity arises. It's been only since the start of this year that I have taken on a real interest in it. This summer, I even tried hot yoga. I am by no means an Ashtanga guru, but I do love the restorative classes. I love the great stretch that I get and how relaxed it makes me feel.
This story is going somewhere...lol
I approached The Yoga Studio booth and was grinning ear to ear - I said "Ooooohhhh!! YOGA! The guy at the booth looks me up and down and says "YOU don't do yoga!" to which my reply was "Oh yes I do...I take a class down at Yoga Santosha." I then proceeded to show him my old ID card with my big fat face on the front of it. "This USED to be me." I said. Not suprisingly, the guy wanted to give me his card and give me 50% a class. I told him to keep his card. I was shocked...and then the shock quickly turned to anger. How could he be so rude like that??? You would think that someone in the fitness industry wouldn't treat people like that. What I need to realize is that those kinds of people are everywhere - and I clearly need to figure out a way to not let them get to me. I have been working WAY too hard to let some small-minded person rent space in my head like that.
So ya...The Yoga Studio won't be getting my business anytime soon...or ever...
It was a pretty hard week for me. I was sick to my stomach after spin class - which I found was kind of strange - I did push myself, but have pushed harded before. I think it was mainly due to a mild stomach flu which I woke up to on Tuesday. I took Wednesday off and rested - I needed it. I ended up taking Friday, and today off too. It was kind of nice actually.
We went to the movies last night and saw Crazy Stupid Love and Contagion. Both movies were great and it was nice to get out of the house for an evening.
I am looking forward to this week and I am looking forward to my fill appointment on Friday. I am finding that my hunger is coming back a little more quickly after I have eaten than I would like. I am hoping we can nip that in the bud.
Have a good week everyone!
K
Sunday, October 23, 2011
So close...yet so far away?
I am frustrated...
To put it bluntly...I'm REALLY frustrated...
I blogged a couple of weeks ago about how I have been stuck at the same weight for the past couple of months. The truth is yes I have been stuck at the same weight...but I didn't say what the weight was.
Today I am 271 lbs. Last Monday, I was 268...exactly 10 lbs away from 100 lbs down. It has been an excruciatingly LONG journey to get to this point... I am so close I canalmost taste it. I worked REALLY hard this week - I ate clean, I exercised my butt off (literally)and drank tons of water. The result??? 271 lbs.
I am trying SO hard to not let a number define me - to define how hard I have worked to get to this point...but it's hard. I think the next step will be to switch things up with my exercise program... I tried a Y-Bo class yesterday at the YMCA and really liked it. I know I need to crank things up a notch and do more cardio. I will continue to do spin classes and add the Y-Bo in there. I also need to be wary of my knees and not over-do it as I have in the past. Maybe a day off here and there? I don't know.
If there is anyone out there who has been stuck in a long plateau as I have, could you please give me some advice? Thanks!!
Onto my week...
We had employee appreciation week at work. It was really nice and it was nice that we were all recognized for doing a good job. I don't think enough employers out there do that for their employees. Along with employee appreciaton week, came candy, chocolate, chips and cookies....EACH day. I did REALLY well up until Friday when I had one to many cookies. So to put it mildly, it was slightly brutal - I have issues sometimes with self-control. Throw in PMS and I am screwed. I was pretty amazed when our site leader brought out a veggie tray on "candy" day and made all of us throw out our candy and dig into the veggies. It made me feel supported - I liked that. It's nice that I work with a great group of co-workers that support each other!
On Monday, I did a Tabata spin class. It was crazy...to put it mildly lol...we did lots of hill climbs, straight hills, straighways, and lots of intervals. My Crossfit classes with Kendra were the hardest yet. On Tuesday she had us doing bearcrawls, crabwalks and lots of agility ladder drills...my lats were sore up until yesterday! I don't think I have been that sore in months. Wednesday, I went to the YMCA by myself and proceeded to kick my own ass. I went hard on the bike for my cardio, and then worked my legs on the leg press machine until I couldn't feel my legs. Saturday I tried out a Y-Bo class at the Y, and today I did a spin class...I worked so hard in spin this morning that my face turned a beautiful shade of purple lol...
Yesterday, my friends Katie and Jarred got married. The ceremony was absolutely beautiful and Katie was stunning. I can't think of two people that are more deserving of each other than them. I hope they will live a long and happy life together - love you guys!!
Hope everyone has a great week! I hope to break my plateau!
HUGS!!
Kris
To put it bluntly...I'm REALLY frustrated...
I blogged a couple of weeks ago about how I have been stuck at the same weight for the past couple of months. The truth is yes I have been stuck at the same weight...but I didn't say what the weight was.
Today I am 271 lbs. Last Monday, I was 268...exactly 10 lbs away from 100 lbs down. It has been an excruciatingly LONG journey to get to this point... I am so close I can
I am trying SO hard to not let a number define me - to define how hard I have worked to get to this point...but it's hard. I think the next step will be to switch things up with my exercise program... I tried a Y-Bo class yesterday at the YMCA and really liked it. I know I need to crank things up a notch and do more cardio. I will continue to do spin classes and add the Y-Bo in there. I also need to be wary of my knees and not over-do it as I have in the past. Maybe a day off here and there? I don't know.
If there is anyone out there who has been stuck in a long plateau as I have, could you please give me some advice? Thanks!!
Onto my week...
We had employee appreciation week at work. It was really nice and it was nice that we were all recognized for doing a good job. I don't think enough employers out there do that for their employees. Along with employee appreciaton week, came candy, chocolate, chips and cookies....EACH day. I did REALLY well up until Friday when I had one to many cookies. So to put it mildly, it was slightly brutal - I have issues sometimes with self-control. Throw in PMS and I am screwed. I was pretty amazed when our site leader brought out a veggie tray on "candy" day and made all of us throw out our candy and dig into the veggies. It made me feel supported - I liked that. It's nice that I work with a great group of co-workers that support each other!
On Monday, I did a Tabata spin class. It was crazy...to put it mildly lol...we did lots of hill climbs, straight hills, straighways, and lots of intervals. My Crossfit classes with Kendra were the hardest yet. On Tuesday she had us doing bearcrawls, crabwalks and lots of agility ladder drills...my lats were sore up until yesterday! I don't think I have been that sore in months. Wednesday, I went to the YMCA by myself and proceeded to kick my own ass. I went hard on the bike for my cardio, and then worked my legs on the leg press machine until I couldn't feel my legs. Saturday I tried out a Y-Bo class at the Y, and today I did a spin class...I worked so hard in spin this morning that my face turned a beautiful shade of purple lol...
Yesterday, my friends Katie and Jarred got married. The ceremony was absolutely beautiful and Katie was stunning. I can't think of two people that are more deserving of each other than them. I hope they will live a long and happy life together - love you guys!!
Hope everyone has a great week! I hope to break my plateau!
HUGS!!
Kris
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Another week down...
I enjoyed this past week...
And then the weekend came.
For some stupid/strange reason, I don't like the weekends. The weekends are supposed to give me all the time in the world to myself - to relax and rejuvenate and get rid of the stress from the week.
But for me - it's the total opposite.
Call me crazy, but I enjoy my work week and the whole routine it brings to my life. It feels structured, and I feel in control. On the weekends, I find I think too much...and I don't feel in control of myself. Eventually this will all catch up with me I'm sure - eventually I will have to relax and have some fun.
Anyway...on to the important stuff!
I went to my lap-band support group meeting on Wednesday - that was probably the highlight of my week. I really enjoy seeing all of my fellow lap banders and see how each and every one of them is doing. I was really happy to see my friend Ginny who had recently been in the hospital - and was really happy to see that she was doing better. I also learned more about my band and how it works - there were details about it that I didn't even know about - I knew I had to eat slowly with it, but didn't realize just HOW slowly I am supposed to be eating. All along, I have been eating WAY more quickly than I should be. I took into consideration everything that was shown to me and am proud to say I have not had anything stuck since Wednesday! I am finding now that I have had a recent fill also, that I am eating less. I also stay fuller longer, and that's a good thing.
I went back to yoga tonight too. I haven't been in a couple of weeks and was really missing it. I love my yoga class on Sundays. It gives me the opportunity to unwind and relax. Most of all tho - I don't have to think about anything!
I worked out five times this week - and am proud of that. The Crossfit classes with Kendra were particularly brutal with Thursday's class being the hardest. It was an hour full of exercises that worked on all the small core muscles and such. Each exercise, we did 100 reps worth! By the end of the class, I was dizzy and felt like throwing up. Needless to say - the pain in my abs finally went away this morning. Must have been a good workout!
I hope everyone has a great week...
Cheers!
K
And then the weekend came.
For some stupid/strange reason, I don't like the weekends. The weekends are supposed to give me all the time in the world to myself - to relax and rejuvenate and get rid of the stress from the week.
But for me - it's the total opposite.
Call me crazy, but I enjoy my work week and the whole routine it brings to my life. It feels structured, and I feel in control. On the weekends, I find I think too much...and I don't feel in control of myself. Eventually this will all catch up with me I'm sure - eventually I will have to relax and have some fun.
Anyway...on to the important stuff!
I went to my lap-band support group meeting on Wednesday - that was probably the highlight of my week. I really enjoy seeing all of my fellow lap banders and see how each and every one of them is doing. I was really happy to see my friend Ginny who had recently been in the hospital - and was really happy to see that she was doing better. I also learned more about my band and how it works - there were details about it that I didn't even know about - I knew I had to eat slowly with it, but didn't realize just HOW slowly I am supposed to be eating. All along, I have been eating WAY more quickly than I should be. I took into consideration everything that was shown to me and am proud to say I have not had anything stuck since Wednesday! I am finding now that I have had a recent fill also, that I am eating less. I also stay fuller longer, and that's a good thing.
I went back to yoga tonight too. I haven't been in a couple of weeks and was really missing it. I love my yoga class on Sundays. It gives me the opportunity to unwind and relax. Most of all tho - I don't have to think about anything!
I worked out five times this week - and am proud of that. The Crossfit classes with Kendra were particularly brutal with Thursday's class being the hardest. It was an hour full of exercises that worked on all the small core muscles and such. Each exercise, we did 100 reps worth! By the end of the class, I was dizzy and felt like throwing up. Needless to say - the pain in my abs finally went away this morning. Must have been a good workout!
I hope everyone has a great week...
Cheers!
K
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Fitlinxx
I've had my membership with the YMCA since September 4th, and I gotta say, I'm pretty impressed. I enjoy all the drop in fitness classes and I enjoy the weight room floor...but I think most of all, I really love the Fitlinxx System.
What is Fitlinxx you ask? Well, basically, it's a computer program that is connected to all of the cardio and weight machines and it tracks your reps, weight and your form. I use it mainly with the cardio machines - i.e. the stationary bike and the elliptical. My strength training, I either use the dumbells or the lat pull down and seated row etc. I try and do my weight training as "manual" as possible. I have worked on the "machines" a few times, but every time I do, I feel as though I don't get as good as a workout as I would if I was doing it manually with the weights. For one thing - I'm just sitting there - and it just doesn't feel right to me. On Wednesday, I hit an all-time goal (I think) for my dumbell chest press...I hit the 50lbs mark. That's 50 lbs in each hand. I managed to squeak out five reps, but I still did it - and paid for it the next day!
So...yeah...I'm happy with the YMCA. Sure, it's no ALIVE, but it helps with my fitness routine, and for the first time in a long time, I'm feeling motivated and happy about my exercise program.
I seem to have plateaued in the weight side of things...and it's starting to drive me crazy. My surgeon doesn't seem too concerned about it, but I am. I'm eating well and exercising like crazy, so eventually the scale will go down - in the right direction. My clothes are fitting a lot looser and I've been getting lots of comments from people saying that they think I have lost some. I've just decided to take it day by day and TRY (the operative word here is try) to not be so hard on myself. I am in no race and there is no hurry to get the rest of my weight off.
So...one day at a time...I will beat this plateau! Stronger both physically and mentally...I will do it.
Cheers and love to all!
K
What is Fitlinxx you ask? Well, basically, it's a computer program that is connected to all of the cardio and weight machines and it tracks your reps, weight and your form. I use it mainly with the cardio machines - i.e. the stationary bike and the elliptical. My strength training, I either use the dumbells or the lat pull down and seated row etc. I try and do my weight training as "manual" as possible. I have worked on the "machines" a few times, but every time I do, I feel as though I don't get as good as a workout as I would if I was doing it manually with the weights. For one thing - I'm just sitting there - and it just doesn't feel right to me. On Wednesday, I hit an all-time goal (I think) for my dumbell chest press...I hit the 50lbs mark. That's 50 lbs in each hand. I managed to squeak out five reps, but I still did it - and paid for it the next day!
So...yeah...I'm happy with the YMCA. Sure, it's no ALIVE, but it helps with my fitness routine, and for the first time in a long time, I'm feeling motivated and happy about my exercise program.
I seem to have plateaued in the weight side of things...and it's starting to drive me crazy. My surgeon doesn't seem too concerned about it, but I am. I'm eating well and exercising like crazy, so eventually the scale will go down - in the right direction. My clothes are fitting a lot looser and I've been getting lots of comments from people saying that they think I have lost some. I've just decided to take it day by day and TRY (the operative word here is try) to not be so hard on myself. I am in no race and there is no hurry to get the rest of my weight off.
So...one day at a time...I will beat this plateau! Stronger both physically and mentally...I will do it.
Cheers and love to all!
K
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Why I do What I do...
I've had lots of comments from people in the last while stating that they are proud of me...that they are "in awe" by the amount of exercise that I do...that "I am an inspiration" to them. While these comments always leave a lasting impression on me, and keep me going, there is a real reason behind what and why I do it.
I started this journey over two years ago because I lost my Mom. My sisters and I found her body in her bed in her home one Saturday night in January 2009. This is a day I will never forget. She lost her battle with alcoholism and rheumatoid arthritis. My Mom battled each day with dignity and courage, but her body just couldn't fight anymore.
I was 360 lbs then. Plain and simple - I don't want to end up like my Mom. I don't want to go back to the 360lb Kristy. She is gone. She served her purpose - whatever that was, but she is now a blip in the past. My Mom is what keeps me going. Her strength within in me is what has been pushing me to work harder. She has been the reason for me not giving up when I've wanted to - on numerous occasions I may add. I've been having a lot of conversations with her lately - I know she can hear me...I can hear her saying "Keep pushing Kris - don't give up" "Get a grip!" "Smarten up!"
Thank you for being an inspriation to me Mom...I love you and I will never give up!
Oh do I miss her...
So...my week...has been a bit of a struggle...Monday and Tuesday were great - my workouts were really great. I am really beginning to love my spin classes tho! On Wednesday my friend Randi and I went to the YMCA and she and I did my new workout! She and I did everything from lat pull downs, to seated rows, to leg presses and bicep curls. She did such a great job and I am so proud of her. I have to admit, I was kind of happy that she was sore the next day...is that wrong?? lol... Thursday I took a long walk through my neighborhood - I am glad the weather is still holding out so that we can still do that. Friday I went back to the YMCA...and kicked my own ass. I got my leg presses up to 160 lbs and my shoulder presses up to 30 lbs. I am still feeling a bit of the effects from it today! I decided to take yesterday and today off from exercise as my body has decided to rebel. When I woke up on Saturday, I could barely get out of bed - I actually thought I had a flu bug, so went back to sleep. By the time mid-day approached, it was very apparent that I was just exhausted from everything - I've been going through some more stress lately and the stress mixed with the hard exercise made my body to just basically give out. I am glad to say I am feeling a bit better tonight.
I hope everyone has a great week! Push yourselves and don't give up!
Cheers!
K
I started this journey over two years ago because I lost my Mom. My sisters and I found her body in her bed in her home one Saturday night in January 2009. This is a day I will never forget. She lost her battle with alcoholism and rheumatoid arthritis. My Mom battled each day with dignity and courage, but her body just couldn't fight anymore.
I was 360 lbs then. Plain and simple - I don't want to end up like my Mom. I don't want to go back to the 360lb Kristy. She is gone. She served her purpose - whatever that was, but she is now a blip in the past. My Mom is what keeps me going. Her strength within in me is what has been pushing me to work harder. She has been the reason for me not giving up when I've wanted to - on numerous occasions I may add. I've been having a lot of conversations with her lately - I know she can hear me...I can hear her saying "Keep pushing Kris - don't give up" "Get a grip!" "Smarten up!"
Thank you for being an inspriation to me Mom...I love you and I will never give up!
Oh do I miss her...
So...my week...has been a bit of a struggle...Monday and Tuesday were great - my workouts were really great. I am really beginning to love my spin classes tho! On Wednesday my friend Randi and I went to the YMCA and she and I did my new workout! She and I did everything from lat pull downs, to seated rows, to leg presses and bicep curls. She did such a great job and I am so proud of her. I have to admit, I was kind of happy that she was sore the next day...is that wrong?? lol... Thursday I took a long walk through my neighborhood - I am glad the weather is still holding out so that we can still do that. Friday I went back to the YMCA...and kicked my own ass. I got my leg presses up to 160 lbs and my shoulder presses up to 30 lbs. I am still feeling a bit of the effects from it today! I decided to take yesterday and today off from exercise as my body has decided to rebel. When I woke up on Saturday, I could barely get out of bed - I actually thought I had a flu bug, so went back to sleep. By the time mid-day approached, it was very apparent that I was just exhausted from everything - I've been going through some more stress lately and the stress mixed with the hard exercise made my body to just basically give out. I am glad to say I am feeling a bit better tonight.
I hope everyone has a great week! Push yourselves and don't give up!
Cheers!
K
Sunday, September 25, 2011
The Easy Way Out...
Alright...I really need to get something off my chest...and since this is my blog, I don't think there's a better place!
Within this past week I have had two people approach me and tell me that they feel I have taken the "easy way out" with regards to my lap-band surgery. While I feel I don't need to justify to anyone the reason why I chose that route, I feel I just need to get it off my chest.
By no means have I taken the easy way out. I had to go through a very tedious process to even be CONSIDERED to be put on the list for the surgery! I had to go to classes bi-weekly and hand in my food and exercise journals. I had to lose a certain percentage of bodyweight - I had to prove that I could do some of it without the surgery.
Let's also not forget the 5-6 times that I trained with Ben and Kendra...they put me through workouts that were so intense that I could hardly walk most days. I also had to do the dreaded three week pre op diet - which in fact, was the hardest thing by far that I had to do. I was on 900 calories a day...three Opifast shakes and all the green veggies I cold eat. Still to this day, I am still unable to eat green beans. And - throughout this pre op diet period, I didn't miss a workout. I even worked out the morning of my surgery at 7am! Yeah - it was a pretty tame workout, but a workout nonethless!
The lap-band by no means, is a quick fix...it's only to be used as a TOOL. It has taught me to eat more slowly and savour each bite. I have had my "stuck" issues and have been freaked out - but have learned from them. I am still able to eat those nasty "slider" foods too - and that's something that I've been trying to train myself not to do.
So there - I'm done...and I won't be discussing it anymore - if you feel the need to say to me that I took the easy way out - please keep it to yourself. You have no idea what I have gone through to get to where I am now.
Alright...on to my week...it was BUSY!! My workouts were awesome...my friend Angela joined me in spin class on Monday - she was a trooper and did so well! Tuesday and Thursday I did Kendra's Bootcamps...Wednesday I tried another class at the YMCA which I actually wasn't really fond of - so I will be doing Wednesday evenings on my own from now on. On Saturday I went to the YMCA for an appt with one of the trainers there to show me how the FITLINXX System works. He sat down with me for 30 mins and discussed what my fitness experiences have been. He helped incorporate some of the exercises I have learned from Ben. It went a lot quicker than I thought as Ben has taught me well. It's going to be awesome to be going back to some of the exercises that Ben and I used to do. In fact, I went to the YMCA this afternoon, and tested it out. I was excited to be doing lat-pull downs and seated rows again! I am also thinking of picking up another class - a cycling one that is held on Sunday mornings...I can't believe it, but I think I am getting addicted to cycling/spin...who knew!
Work has been CRAZY...but yes, the answer is...I am still happy and know that it's been the best decision by far that I have made.
Woohoo! I'm getting my exercise routine back...I am starting to feel more confident and definitely more happy.
Happy week everyone!
Within this past week I have had two people approach me and tell me that they feel I have taken the "easy way out" with regards to my lap-band surgery. While I feel I don't need to justify to anyone the reason why I chose that route, I feel I just need to get it off my chest.
By no means have I taken the easy way out. I had to go through a very tedious process to even be CONSIDERED to be put on the list for the surgery! I had to go to classes bi-weekly and hand in my food and exercise journals. I had to lose a certain percentage of bodyweight - I had to prove that I could do some of it without the surgery.
Let's also not forget the 5-6 times that I trained with Ben and Kendra...they put me through workouts that were so intense that I could hardly walk most days. I also had to do the dreaded three week pre op diet - which in fact, was the hardest thing by far that I had to do. I was on 900 calories a day...three Opifast shakes and all the green veggies I cold eat. Still to this day, I am still unable to eat green beans. And - throughout this pre op diet period, I didn't miss a workout. I even worked out the morning of my surgery at 7am! Yeah - it was a pretty tame workout, but a workout nonethless!
The lap-band by no means, is a quick fix...it's only to be used as a TOOL. It has taught me to eat more slowly and savour each bite. I have had my "stuck" issues and have been freaked out - but have learned from them. I am still able to eat those nasty "slider" foods too - and that's something that I've been trying to train myself not to do.
So there - I'm done...and I won't be discussing it anymore - if you feel the need to say to me that I took the easy way out - please keep it to yourself. You have no idea what I have gone through to get to where I am now.
Alright...on to my week...it was BUSY!! My workouts were awesome...my friend Angela joined me in spin class on Monday - she was a trooper and did so well! Tuesday and Thursday I did Kendra's Bootcamps...Wednesday I tried another class at the YMCA which I actually wasn't really fond of - so I will be doing Wednesday evenings on my own from now on. On Saturday I went to the YMCA for an appt with one of the trainers there to show me how the FITLINXX System works. He sat down with me for 30 mins and discussed what my fitness experiences have been. He helped incorporate some of the exercises I have learned from Ben. It went a lot quicker than I thought as Ben has taught me well. It's going to be awesome to be going back to some of the exercises that Ben and I used to do. In fact, I went to the YMCA this afternoon, and tested it out. I was excited to be doing lat-pull downs and seated rows again! I am also thinking of picking up another class - a cycling one that is held on Sunday mornings...I can't believe it, but I think I am getting addicted to cycling/spin...who knew!
Work has been CRAZY...but yes, the answer is...I am still happy and know that it's been the best decision by far that I have made.
Woohoo! I'm getting my exercise routine back...I am starting to feel more confident and definitely more happy.
Happy week everyone!
Sunday, September 18, 2011
My week in a nutshell
I can't believe September is more than half over! In just a few weeks, we will be digging out the parkas, mitts and boots...where did the summer go? I can't believe how quickly it has flown by.
I checked out my first spin class ever on Monday. The class itself is called Turn and Burn. About 70 percent of the class is on the bike and the other percent is spent doing strength/resistance exercises. I was worried that the biking would be hard on my knees...boy was I wrong! It was a great overall workout - great cardio! I enjoyed the strength training exercises too - even if planks were involved! lol...The instructor was awesome too - she went around to each participant and made sure they had their bike set up properly - this made me feel secure knowing that she knew what she was doing. She was also really enthusiastic and motivating...it was also great that my buddy Lorraine joined me - I can't wait until my next class - tomorrow!
My Tuesday/Thursday bootcamps with Kendra were the usual crazy brutalness - Tuesday we did TRX and Thursday we did kickboxing with heavy weights. It was the last two classes until the next round that starts this Tuesday - so she kicked it up a notch.
On Wednesday, I went to my Lap-Band Support Group Meeting. We spent most of the class talking to each other about our experiences - it was neat to see all of the support we show for each other. Wendy, one of the dietitians, brought a few receipes that were on the Lap-Band Connect Website - she actually cooked them and brought them in. I think I enjoyed the Pumpkin, almond oatmeal the best! I was also happy to see that the Health Region is putting more funding into the Calgary Weight Management Program. Not only are they funding 50 surgeries for this upcoming year instead of 25, they are also in the planning stage of looking for an exercise specialist or personal trainer for the program. I think that would be awesome and a great resource!
Friday, I was supposed to have my fifth fill. After waiting for almost three hours, it was decided that there was a clerical/scheduling/communication glitch and the surgeon was in fact, not coming. I was pretty annoyed to say the least, as I had taken time off of work to go there. They are supposed to be rebooking me for this upcoming week. I think I am finally getting close to my "sweet spot" - which would be great as the weight is not coming off as quickly as I woud like. Last month, for instance, I only lost two pounds...I was a bit upset and frustrated when I was talking to the dietitian about it. She told me that at least it wasn't going up and was going in the right direction - that I am doing what I am advised to do that that's all I can do. Then she told me I need to be more gentle with myself. Uhhh...she obviously doesn't know who she is talking to lol...I can't believe the amount of people in the last 6-8 months that have told me that - including my surgeon. I'm not expecting rapid weight loss - in fact, I don't want that at all. But two pounds in a month??? Give me a break!!
Friday evening I headed to the YMCA...all by myself! I started out on the eliptical and rocked it. I was surprised how great on my knees it was. I then proceeded to do three rounds on the strength training machines. I did it by myself and I am proud. I have come a heck of a long way since the beginning of this year. I am no longer nervous about doing it on my own - I can't wait to get hooked up with the FitLinxx System...then I will REALLY rock it!
Saturday I went to my early kickboxing class and loved it. After that, I went and got my knees x-rayed. They have been giving me a lot of problems lately. They are now scraping - bone on bone. I see my doctor in three weeks to go over the results and figure out what the next step is. I just want some progress made - I want to be able to run up and down the stairs and not be in pain. Time will tell...
Saturday evening, my friend Shane and I went to the Stamps game. It was great to people-watch and have a great time and relax...unfortunately tho, they lost - they can't seem to win at home and nobody seems to be able to figure it out.
This week I am looking forward to pushing myself more - I am capable of doing anything I set my mind to. I can do it and I AM doing it.
Have a great week everyone!
I checked out my first spin class ever on Monday. The class itself is called Turn and Burn. About 70 percent of the class is on the bike and the other percent is spent doing strength/resistance exercises. I was worried that the biking would be hard on my knees...boy was I wrong! It was a great overall workout - great cardio! I enjoyed the strength training exercises too - even if planks were involved! lol...The instructor was awesome too - she went around to each participant and made sure they had their bike set up properly - this made me feel secure knowing that she knew what she was doing. She was also really enthusiastic and motivating...it was also great that my buddy Lorraine joined me - I can't wait until my next class - tomorrow!
My Tuesday/Thursday bootcamps with Kendra were the usual crazy brutalness - Tuesday we did TRX and Thursday we did kickboxing with heavy weights. It was the last two classes until the next round that starts this Tuesday - so she kicked it up a notch.
On Wednesday, I went to my Lap-Band Support Group Meeting. We spent most of the class talking to each other about our experiences - it was neat to see all of the support we show for each other. Wendy, one of the dietitians, brought a few receipes that were on the Lap-Band Connect Website - she actually cooked them and brought them in. I think I enjoyed the Pumpkin, almond oatmeal the best! I was also happy to see that the Health Region is putting more funding into the Calgary Weight Management Program. Not only are they funding 50 surgeries for this upcoming year instead of 25, they are also in the planning stage of looking for an exercise specialist or personal trainer for the program. I think that would be awesome and a great resource!
Friday, I was supposed to have my fifth fill. After waiting for almost three hours, it was decided that there was a clerical/scheduling/communication glitch and the surgeon was in fact, not coming. I was pretty annoyed to say the least, as I had taken time off of work to go there. They are supposed to be rebooking me for this upcoming week. I think I am finally getting close to my "sweet spot" - which would be great as the weight is not coming off as quickly as I woud like. Last month, for instance, I only lost two pounds...I was a bit upset and frustrated when I was talking to the dietitian about it. She told me that at least it wasn't going up and was going in the right direction - that I am doing what I am advised to do that that's all I can do. Then she told me I need to be more gentle with myself. Uhhh...she obviously doesn't know who she is talking to lol...I can't believe the amount of people in the last 6-8 months that have told me that - including my surgeon. I'm not expecting rapid weight loss - in fact, I don't want that at all. But two pounds in a month??? Give me a break!!
Friday evening I headed to the YMCA...all by myself! I started out on the eliptical and rocked it. I was surprised how great on my knees it was. I then proceeded to do three rounds on the strength training machines. I did it by myself and I am proud. I have come a heck of a long way since the beginning of this year. I am no longer nervous about doing it on my own - I can't wait to get hooked up with the FitLinxx System...then I will REALLY rock it!
Saturday I went to my early kickboxing class and loved it. After that, I went and got my knees x-rayed. They have been giving me a lot of problems lately. They are now scraping - bone on bone. I see my doctor in three weeks to go over the results and figure out what the next step is. I just want some progress made - I want to be able to run up and down the stairs and not be in pain. Time will tell...
Saturday evening, my friend Shane and I went to the Stamps game. It was great to people-watch and have a great time and relax...unfortunately tho, they lost - they can't seem to win at home and nobody seems to be able to figure it out.
This week I am looking forward to pushing myself more - I am capable of doing anything I set my mind to. I can do it and I AM doing it.
Have a great week everyone!
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Tabata!
I've sure been busy this week! In fact, I worked out six days in a row...three out of the six days I did Tabata. Don't know what Tabata is?? See below...
From Wikipedia:
Tabata Method
A popular regimen based on a 1996 study[2] uses 20 seconds of ultra-intense exercise (at an intensity of about 170% of VO2max) followed by 10 seconds of rest, repeated continuously for 4 minutes (8 cycles). In the original study, athletes using this method trained 4 times per week, plus another day of steady-state training, and obtained gains similar to a group of athletes who did steady state (70% VO2max) training 5 times per week. The steady state group had a higher VO2max at the end (from 52 to 57 ml/kg/min), but the Tabata group had started lower and gained more overall (from 48 to 55 ml/kg/min). Also, only the Tabata group had gained anaerobic capacity benefits.
Doesn't make sense? Well basically Tabata is performing an exercise for 20 seconds on, then 10 seconds off - and doing that 8 times! On Monday, Damir had us do Tabata in Bootcamp. We each had a station we had to do - everything from cycling, to pushups, to plank rows, squats...I think the hardest one for me was the pushups - doing pushups using the Tabata protocol is killer - at least for me anyway.
Tuesday I opened my big mouth and told Kendra how much "fun" I had in Damir's class doing Tabata - so...of course she decided to teach a Tabata TRX class...it was insane...
Wednesday, my friend Lorainne and I headed to the YMCA and did a Muscle Works Class. While I did enjoy the workout - to tell you the honest truth, I'm not a big fan of the instructor. We both had a hard time understanding anything she was saying - and she lacked something big...enthusiasm! I'm so used to Ben's charged up classes and the intensity and enthusiasm that he shows each and every time he instructs a class. And boy do I miss it.
Thursday I was back in Kendra's class and yup - you guessed it...we did Tabata again. I thought for sure by the end of the class that I was either going to pass out or throw up or both...lol I sure slept well that night!
Friday I took a much needed rest day...I went out after work with my co-workers and relaxed...it was great!
Saturday I was back at it and went to kickboxing. My partner had to leave part way through the class, so I had Damir for the last half. My hands and wrists are still sore from punching so hard...I think I will need to wrap my wrists and hands the next time for sure!
So...basically - I am back to my routine! I'm back to working out 5-6 days a week minimum and it feels so good! Today I was exhausted, but it felt good inside knowing that I have worked very hard. The past couple of months have been kind of hard for me to find my groove again and get back into my workout routine - but I'm glad it's back!
My nutrition has been better too...I still slipped up a little, but they were just little ones...nothing really overboard - besides...with all of of my workouts, I would have burnt that off in no time!
I feel good...and I'm happy... I'M BACK!
YES!!!
From Wikipedia:
Tabata Method
A popular regimen based on a 1996 study[2] uses 20 seconds of ultra-intense exercise (at an intensity of about 170% of VO2max) followed by 10 seconds of rest, repeated continuously for 4 minutes (8 cycles). In the original study, athletes using this method trained 4 times per week, plus another day of steady-state training, and obtained gains similar to a group of athletes who did steady state (70% VO2max) training 5 times per week. The steady state group had a higher VO2max at the end (from 52 to 57 ml/kg/min), but the Tabata group had started lower and gained more overall (from 48 to 55 ml/kg/min). Also, only the Tabata group had gained anaerobic capacity benefits.
Doesn't make sense? Well basically Tabata is performing an exercise for 20 seconds on, then 10 seconds off - and doing that 8 times! On Monday, Damir had us do Tabata in Bootcamp. We each had a station we had to do - everything from cycling, to pushups, to plank rows, squats...I think the hardest one for me was the pushups - doing pushups using the Tabata protocol is killer - at least for me anyway.
Tuesday I opened my big mouth and told Kendra how much "fun" I had in Damir's class doing Tabata - so...of course she decided to teach a Tabata TRX class...it was insane...
Wednesday, my friend Lorainne and I headed to the YMCA and did a Muscle Works Class. While I did enjoy the workout - to tell you the honest truth, I'm not a big fan of the instructor. We both had a hard time understanding anything she was saying - and she lacked something big...enthusiasm! I'm so used to Ben's charged up classes and the intensity and enthusiasm that he shows each and every time he instructs a class. And boy do I miss it.
Thursday I was back in Kendra's class and yup - you guessed it...we did Tabata again. I thought for sure by the end of the class that I was either going to pass out or throw up or both...lol I sure slept well that night!
Friday I took a much needed rest day...I went out after work with my co-workers and relaxed...it was great!
Saturday I was back at it and went to kickboxing. My partner had to leave part way through the class, so I had Damir for the last half. My hands and wrists are still sore from punching so hard...I think I will need to wrap my wrists and hands the next time for sure!
So...basically - I am back to my routine! I'm back to working out 5-6 days a week minimum and it feels so good! Today I was exhausted, but it felt good inside knowing that I have worked very hard. The past couple of months have been kind of hard for me to find my groove again and get back into my workout routine - but I'm glad it's back!
My nutrition has been better too...I still slipped up a little, but they were just little ones...nothing really overboard - besides...with all of of my workouts, I would have burnt that off in no time!
I feel good...and I'm happy... I'M BACK!
YES!!!
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Moving Forward!
Wow...what a week...and I made it!
I'm also happy to say I've been feeling more like my "old" self again, and when I mean "old" I don't mean my age. I am starting to feel like I am in more control of my emotions and actions and more in control of my life. For the past few months, I really haven't been putting forth as much effort towards myself as I would have wanted. I let my emotions get to me. I lost sight of why I am really doing this journey in the first place. Yes, I want to be healthy...yes I want to be happy...but most of all, I want to be in control. I want to be able to decline the piece of cake at work and be okay with it. I want to be strong and capable of anything I set my mind to. I know I have all those attributes I just listed - I'm just having "issues" putting them into play.
Monday I tried out a new bootcamp. My friend Jacquie found a deal off of Living Social - 20 fitness classes for 20 bucks. Jacquie was gracious enough and gave me her other passes that she had. The Bootcamp is called FitBody. The look on my face must have been priceless when I walked into the place and was watching the current class...the first thing I saw they were doing were bearcrawls - I immediately started panicking a little inside. I had done bearcrawls with Ben at Alive - and hated them. We met the instructor Chris and he told us what the class would consist of - then Jacquie blurted out that I wanted to do bearcrawls! lol...so yeah you guessed it...we did bearcrawls, and tractor pulls and side planks, and shoulder presses, just to name a few...the class kind of reminded me of Damir's bootcamp classes...lots of body weight drills and you feel like you just walked out of a torture chamber...lol The thing I loved most about the class, was that I was able to do just about everything I was asked to do and I did them well. I killed it on the bearcrawls too - and yes...I actually really liked them!
I woked up on Tuesday with pain in my lats like I have NEVER had before...and I was excited. I always love it when my muscles hurt as I know I have worked hard. I did Kendra's bootcamp class that evening and we did a tonne of TRX drills...my lats have never had it so good! lol
Wednesday I went and saw my doctor about my knees. He gave me a requisition for another x-ray as he thinks the osteo has made more degeneration in my knees since my last x-ray a year ago. Depending on what the x-rays show, the next step would be cortisone injections. I think I would rather have Synvisc injections, but I will see what happens. He also wants to get an MRI done too. That will be up to a year wait to get that done...should be fun!
Thursday I did Kendra's class again...only three of us showed up, so we were at her mercy...we did tons of pilates drills, using our small core muscles and such. We also did lots of shoulder work...must be why my shoulders are still sore three days later! Good on ya Kendra!
Yesterday, Damir's Saturday morning kickboxing class started up again. I was excited as my Saturdays used to be dedicated to classes of some sort...He put me with a great partner (Jessica) and it was not only a great workout, but I laughed and had fun...it's been such a long time since I've had fun like that in a Saturday class...I can't wait for next Saturday!
And today...I am very happy to say...I finally joined the Shawnessy YMCA!! Brian and I went together - I started off on the bike - did 20 mins on that, and then we proceeded to work out together. I also got myself acquainted with some of the weight machines and Brian helped me out to get me to feel more comfortable using them. I've been so used to having Ben guide me and show me how to do everything, and for the first time on my own today, I think I did pretty damn good! I am also really looking forward to doing their classes too! Who wouldn't love to walk or run on a treadmill and watch a movie through their I-pod or whatnot? lol...my experience there was very positive and I'm really looking forward to going back and getting back on track. The front desk girls name was Samantha too! I cracked a grin when she told me what her name was. That was awesome.
So there's my week in a nutshell...I'm still loving my new job and am damn good at it. I am starting to really love my new routine and I know that in only a short time, the weight will start to melt off again.
I'm excited...bring it on!
I'm also happy to say I've been feeling more like my "old" self again, and when I mean "old" I don't mean my age. I am starting to feel like I am in more control of my emotions and actions and more in control of my life. For the past few months, I really haven't been putting forth as much effort towards myself as I would have wanted. I let my emotions get to me. I lost sight of why I am really doing this journey in the first place. Yes, I want to be healthy...yes I want to be happy...but most of all, I want to be in control. I want to be able to decline the piece of cake at work and be okay with it. I want to be strong and capable of anything I set my mind to. I know I have all those attributes I just listed - I'm just having "issues" putting them into play.
Monday I tried out a new bootcamp. My friend Jacquie found a deal off of Living Social - 20 fitness classes for 20 bucks. Jacquie was gracious enough and gave me her other passes that she had. The Bootcamp is called FitBody. The look on my face must have been priceless when I walked into the place and was watching the current class...the first thing I saw they were doing were bearcrawls - I immediately started panicking a little inside. I had done bearcrawls with Ben at Alive - and hated them. We met the instructor Chris and he told us what the class would consist of - then Jacquie blurted out that I wanted to do bearcrawls! lol...so yeah you guessed it...we did bearcrawls, and tractor pulls and side planks, and shoulder presses, just to name a few...the class kind of reminded me of Damir's bootcamp classes...lots of body weight drills and you feel like you just walked out of a torture chamber...lol The thing I loved most about the class, was that I was able to do just about everything I was asked to do and I did them well. I killed it on the bearcrawls too - and yes...I actually really liked them!
I woked up on Tuesday with pain in my lats like I have NEVER had before...and I was excited. I always love it when my muscles hurt as I know I have worked hard. I did Kendra's bootcamp class that evening and we did a tonne of TRX drills...my lats have never had it so good! lol
Wednesday I went and saw my doctor about my knees. He gave me a requisition for another x-ray as he thinks the osteo has made more degeneration in my knees since my last x-ray a year ago. Depending on what the x-rays show, the next step would be cortisone injections. I think I would rather have Synvisc injections, but I will see what happens. He also wants to get an MRI done too. That will be up to a year wait to get that done...should be fun!
Thursday I did Kendra's class again...only three of us showed up, so we were at her mercy...we did tons of pilates drills, using our small core muscles and such. We also did lots of shoulder work...must be why my shoulders are still sore three days later! Good on ya Kendra!
Yesterday, Damir's Saturday morning kickboxing class started up again. I was excited as my Saturdays used to be dedicated to classes of some sort...He put me with a great partner (Jessica) and it was not only a great workout, but I laughed and had fun...it's been such a long time since I've had fun like that in a Saturday class...I can't wait for next Saturday!
And today...I am very happy to say...I finally joined the Shawnessy YMCA!! Brian and I went together - I started off on the bike - did 20 mins on that, and then we proceeded to work out together. I also got myself acquainted with some of the weight machines and Brian helped me out to get me to feel more comfortable using them. I've been so used to having Ben guide me and show me how to do everything, and for the first time on my own today, I think I did pretty damn good! I am also really looking forward to doing their classes too! Who wouldn't love to walk or run on a treadmill and watch a movie through their I-pod or whatnot? lol...my experience there was very positive and I'm really looking forward to going back and getting back on track. The front desk girls name was Samantha too! I cracked a grin when she told me what her name was. That was awesome.
So there's my week in a nutshell...I'm still loving my new job and am damn good at it. I am starting to really love my new routine and I know that in only a short time, the weight will start to melt off again.
I'm excited...bring it on!
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Small Victories
The scale...why must we always rely on that thing to gauge our success when it comes to our weight loss?? We step on and off that thing - sometimes there's a celebraton to be had...but then there are the times when the scale isn't so nice to us and the numbers go up, or just stay the same - such is the case for my weight loss (or lack of) lately.
The scale hasn't budged much for me the past couple of months...and I've been so frustrated...so frustrated in fact, I have almost packed it in and given up. I will lose four pounds one week and then gain back two...etc etc etc...
I have however been able to celebrate a few non-scale victories...
1. I did my measurements last weekend and I am down a total of 13.5 inches everywhere since my surgery in February.
2. As of this evening - I am now into a size 20 jean! When I started my weight loss journey, I was wearing size 32 jeans!
3. My cardio endurance is the best is has ever been in my life.
4. I can walk 10km - I've never been able to do that...ever...
5. I have shown myself that I can work out on my own - don't get me wrong - having a personal trainer was by far one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life - but it's time to branch out on my own.
6. My range of motion in my joints is a lot better.
7. I don't have stomach issues anymore - I used to have GERD so bad that I would aspirate at night - not so fun...
8. My blood pressure is the best is has ever been in my life.
9. I enjoy exercise - I'm no longer afraid of it.
10. I am independent...and proud of it!
So the next time I am frustrated and want to give up - I am going to think back to these NSV and celebrate how far I have come...how incredibly hard I have worked...and how much harder I am going to work to reach my goals...
That - and I'm gonna throw out that stupid effing scale!
Have a great week everyone - and celebrate all those NSV!!
The scale hasn't budged much for me the past couple of months...and I've been so frustrated...so frustrated in fact, I have almost packed it in and given up. I will lose four pounds one week and then gain back two...etc etc etc...
I have however been able to celebrate a few non-scale victories...
1. I did my measurements last weekend and I am down a total of 13.5 inches everywhere since my surgery in February.
2. As of this evening - I am now into a size 20 jean! When I started my weight loss journey, I was wearing size 32 jeans!
3. My cardio endurance is the best is has ever been in my life.
4. I can walk 10km - I've never been able to do that...ever...
5. I have shown myself that I can work out on my own - don't get me wrong - having a personal trainer was by far one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life - but it's time to branch out on my own.
6. My range of motion in my joints is a lot better.
7. I don't have stomach issues anymore - I used to have GERD so bad that I would aspirate at night - not so fun...
8. My blood pressure is the best is has ever been in my life.
9. I enjoy exercise - I'm no longer afraid of it.
10. I am independent...and proud of it!
So the next time I am frustrated and want to give up - I am going to think back to these NSV and celebrate how far I have come...how incredibly hard I have worked...and how much harder I am going to work to reach my goals...
That - and I'm gonna throw out that stupid effing scale!
Have a great week everyone - and celebrate all those NSV!!
Sunday, August 21, 2011
4th Fill...small loss!
I had my fourth fill this past Thursday. I saw a different surgeon this time - Dr. Mitchell. He heads the lap-band program for the region and trains new surgeons that come through the program. I liked him. He was blunt and to the point and answered all of the questions that I had. When he was going through my chart and saw how much weight I had lost from last month - I was worried he was going to be disappointed with me. To my surprise, it was the total opposite. I had lost 3 lbs. I wasn't very happy about it, but Dr. Mitchell was. He told me that losing the weight slowly will ensure that I won't ever gain it back. He gave me 0.3 cc's in my band for a total of 4.1 cc's. I feel like I can finally feel some restriction, and I am not hungry for about 3-4 hours after I eat. I am feeling optimistic and know that I am following the right path towards meeting my goal.
My weigh in days are on Fridays - and I was pretty happy this past Friday when I stepped on the scale. I was down 3.6 lbs from a week earlier. I worked hard this week - both on my food and my exercise program. My exercise this week consisted of Kendra's Bootcamp on Tuesday and Thursday, Wednesday I went for another great walk in Fish Creek - came across a mama deer and her baby. I love walking down there - it's so peaceful and it helps me to walk off the stress...Friday I did Damir's bootcamp class - lots of spin bike and upper body stuff...I'm still feeling my upper back muscles this morning - so obviously it was a good workout! My knees are now making scraping noises whenever I walk now. I have an appt with my family doctor - I'm actually feeling a little scared about it....and I'm also feeling a bit frustrated too. I thought that taking some of this weight off would help my knees, but so far, I haven't seen any good results. The osteoarthritis is startng to take over my left knee now too...I guess I will just continue to stay active and keep moving - I hope the doctor can shed some light into this for me. I have something planned every evening this upcoming week - and I'm looking forward to it!
I've been bang on with my food this week too. I've been treating food as fuel - and I'm so proud of myself.
So this week...my goals are:
1. Sip water throughout the day...not just when I feel thirsty.
2. Be active every day
3. Stress...BUST IT...
Have a great one everyone!
My weigh in days are on Fridays - and I was pretty happy this past Friday when I stepped on the scale. I was down 3.6 lbs from a week earlier. I worked hard this week - both on my food and my exercise program. My exercise this week consisted of Kendra's Bootcamp on Tuesday and Thursday, Wednesday I went for another great walk in Fish Creek - came across a mama deer and her baby. I love walking down there - it's so peaceful and it helps me to walk off the stress...Friday I did Damir's bootcamp class - lots of spin bike and upper body stuff...I'm still feeling my upper back muscles this morning - so obviously it was a good workout! My knees are now making scraping noises whenever I walk now. I have an appt with my family doctor - I'm actually feeling a little scared about it....and I'm also feeling a bit frustrated too. I thought that taking some of this weight off would help my knees, but so far, I haven't seen any good results. The osteoarthritis is startng to take over my left knee now too...I guess I will just continue to stay active and keep moving - I hope the doctor can shed some light into this for me. I have something planned every evening this upcoming week - and I'm looking forward to it!
I've been bang on with my food this week too. I've been treating food as fuel - and I'm so proud of myself.
So this week...my goals are:
1. Sip water throughout the day...not just when I feel thirsty.
2. Be active every day
3. Stress...BUST IT...
Have a great one everyone!
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Small Gain
I have had a pretty normal week - that is a good thing...
I know I have mentioned this until I am blue in the face, but I am totally loving my new job. I am so busy, that I do not know what to do with myself most days, I am learning a ton of stuff and I feel like I have actually contributed in a good way. I actually feel happy about getting up in the morning and going to work. I know this feeling will probably go away in a couple of weeks, but for now I am going to relish in it!
I have chosen Fridays as my official weigh in day. This week, I had a small gain though of 1.4 lbs. I am not going to get worked up about it, as I know what the reason behind it was...I only exercised three times this week and it was TOM. The first part I have control over, the second part I do not. There are some months where I actually gain between 5-7 lbs during my period...so I am lucky to get off with 1.4 lbs. Next week will be a better week!
My knees are giving me problems again. They now make the usual crunching sound, but now they are making a popping noise whenever I walk. Plus, there is pain behind my right knee now when I walk for long periods. My workouts this week frustrated me because my knees just would not do their job. I guess it is back to the doctor I go - I have been waiting to hear back about a referral to an orthopedic surgeon, so will ask when I go and see him. I want this taken care of and the sooner I do it the better. I am getting frustrated with my limitations - I watch everyone else jump, run and go the distance to get the most out of their workouts and I feel like I am behind - having to modify almost everything. I used to be able to do hamstring curls on the exercise ball - and I cannot do them anymore as my knees just crumble and crack and it hurts. I am looking at cortisone injections next - but if there is cartilage damage, which I think there might be - it will mean surgery. Osteoarthritis is an unforgiving condition - it is not reversible and I know eventually...down the road...I will need knee replacements. For now, I will have to do what I can to help keep them as pain free as possible.
As for my goals that I set for the week...I did not meet any of them. I find with my new job, I do not even have time to drink water throughout the day. This will stop - I have to make time. It does not take long to take a sip of water! And I do not know what I was thinking about cutting out carbs in the evening with TOM - that was kind of silly! lol...and I did not meet my exercise goal. So...I think for this week I will set some smaller goals. They are:
1. Drink as much water as I can throughout the day.
2. Stay as active as I can.
3. No stressing about small stupid stuff.
Alright...they look like pretty achieveable goals to me!
Hope everyone has a great week!
I know I have mentioned this until I am blue in the face, but I am totally loving my new job. I am so busy, that I do not know what to do with myself most days, I am learning a ton of stuff and I feel like I have actually contributed in a good way. I actually feel happy about getting up in the morning and going to work. I know this feeling will probably go away in a couple of weeks, but for now I am going to relish in it!
I have chosen Fridays as my official weigh in day. This week, I had a small gain though of 1.4 lbs. I am not going to get worked up about it, as I know what the reason behind it was...I only exercised three times this week and it was TOM. The first part I have control over, the second part I do not. There are some months where I actually gain between 5-7 lbs during my period...so I am lucky to get off with 1.4 lbs. Next week will be a better week!
My knees are giving me problems again. They now make the usual crunching sound, but now they are making a popping noise whenever I walk. Plus, there is pain behind my right knee now when I walk for long periods. My workouts this week frustrated me because my knees just would not do their job. I guess it is back to the doctor I go - I have been waiting to hear back about a referral to an orthopedic surgeon, so will ask when I go and see him. I want this taken care of and the sooner I do it the better. I am getting frustrated with my limitations - I watch everyone else jump, run and go the distance to get the most out of their workouts and I feel like I am behind - having to modify almost everything. I used to be able to do hamstring curls on the exercise ball - and I cannot do them anymore as my knees just crumble and crack and it hurts. I am looking at cortisone injections next - but if there is cartilage damage, which I think there might be - it will mean surgery. Osteoarthritis is an unforgiving condition - it is not reversible and I know eventually...down the road...I will need knee replacements. For now, I will have to do what I can to help keep them as pain free as possible.
As for my goals that I set for the week...I did not meet any of them. I find with my new job, I do not even have time to drink water throughout the day. This will stop - I have to make time. It does not take long to take a sip of water! And I do not know what I was thinking about cutting out carbs in the evening with TOM - that was kind of silly! lol...and I did not meet my exercise goal. So...I think for this week I will set some smaller goals. They are:
1. Drink as much water as I can throughout the day.
2. Stay as active as I can.
3. No stressing about small stupid stuff.
Alright...they look like pretty achieveable goals to me!
Hope everyone has a great week!
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Motivation
I had a pretty good week this week. I mostly attribute that to the fact that I stayed active four out of the five days and maintained a positive atittude...oh ya - and my new job! :-) I seem to be fitting in quite nicely at the DSC - the job is extremely busy, but I feel like I have contributed and done a good job. The girls there are super great to work with...when I walked in on my first day on Tuesday, this was on my desk!
By the time Friday rolled around, I was exhausted...but I was happy...and that's the most important thing to me.
I really enjoyed my exercise routine this week. Monday I participated in Damir's (my husband's trainer) bootcamp. There was lots of spinning, and he set up stations for each person - I remember doing plank rows, jumping jacks (which of course I had to modify) Rock Star Pushups, burpees, and other exercises I don't remember offhand now...lol I went home after that and collapsed and felt great. Tuesday I did Kendra's class...I remember it being hard, but I finished every drill she asked. There was a lot of leg work and my knee was not in great shape - but still I pushed through and got it done. Wednesday was probably my turning point to the week. I came home right after work and for the first time since I started my journey, I DID NOT WANT TO WORK OUT....and this upset me a little. I sat on my couch for about 30 mins when I finally decided to change my atittude, and I reached out to a couple of people. So I got up off the couch and headed down to Fish Creek! I only intended to go for a short walk (like an hour long), but once I got down there and started walking, and I felt my heart going I pushed on. Here are a couple of pics of my walk - the second pic is of the hill that I did right at the end - after walking for 90 mins - I wasn't so sure I could get up it, but I pushed myself and got er done!
This is the bridge where the C-Train goes over.
This is my own personal "Hill of Hell"...after walking for 90 minutes, this was kinda brutal...but I did it!
Thursday, I did Kendra's class again - Thursdays are fun...there is always some kickboxing drills with weight training of some sort. Kendra does this drill called Tower of Power - kind of like drop sets - I love doing her Tower of Power and I had a great kickboxing partner too...Then I got a nice surprise, when Ben walked in at the end of the class - he was going to do a workout and asked me if I wanted to work out with him...I thought to myself...really? I just did Kendra's class and you want me to workout again?! So ya...I did...and it was so much fun! My shoulders are still sore and that was three days ago. Friday I took a rest day as I needed it.
I've learned a lot about myself this week...I've learned that I am willing to do what it takes to finish and get the job done...and I will keep proving that to myself until I am finished this journey. I need to continue to motivate myself and keep going.
So...did I meet my goals from last week? Well not really...I didn't do Wednesday's class - I wanted to give my knee a rest - but I did do the walk in Fish Creek...my sleep wasn't great, but not as bad as it has been...and the carbs in the evening? Yeah I still had them. I do know that I need to buckle down when it comes to that...and I will...
So this week my goals are:
1. Cut back on carbs in the evening.
2. Find some form of activity to do four out of the five days.
3. Increase my water intake
Hope everyone has a great week!
Monday, August 1, 2011
More About Me!
So I came across this survey after reading a couple of my fellow "bandits's" blogs. Thanks for the idea Andrea and Jess!
1. What is your occupation right now ?
I just finished my position as an Administrative Assistant in Pathology at the Rockyview Hospital. Starting tomorrow however, I will be starting my new position as a Laboratory Support Clerk in Anatomic Pathology/Cytopathology for Calgary Laboratory Services - same company I have been with for almost six years. I am excited!
2. What color are your socks right now?
I'm not wearing any as I just got out of bed...however, I try to stick with black ones.
3. What are you listening to right now?
The TV. The Glades is on. Brian likes that show - I'm not a big fan of it.
4. What was the last thing that you ate?
Oatmeal - with some chocolate protein powder. Great to eat before the workout I am about to do today.
5. Can you drive a stick shift?
Nope.
6. Last person you spoke to on the phone?
That would be Brian - on my way home from yoga last night.
7. Do you like the person who sent this to you?
Of course! But I did steal it from them.
8. How old are you today?
39...one more year - well actually six more months until the BIG 4-0!
9. What is your favorite sport to watch on TV?
Hockey - especially Flames Hockey...but I also like to watch CFL Football...again - mostly when the Stamps are playing.
10. What is your favorite drink?
Coffee...pretty much any way I can get it.
11. Have you ever dyed your hair?
All the time...I usually do it every couple of months - if I didn't I would have a head full of greys!
12. Favourite food?
I love tacos - homemade ones. They make me happy.
13. What was the last movie you watched?
Hangover 2
14. Favourite day of the year?
I won't lie...my Birthday!
15. How do you vent anger?
Cry...then yell...then cry again...lots of crying...
16. What was your favourite toy as a child?
I enjoyed my Lite-Brite.
17. What is your favorite season?
Fall...not too cold and not too hot...PERFECT!
18. Cherries or Blueberries?
LOVE both but I guess Blueberries if I had to choose.
19. Do you want your friends to e-mail you back?
Nope they don't have to, but I always love to hear from my blogging buddies!
20. Where is you favorite place to escape?
The gym, or just go for a walk in Fish Creek Park
21. Favorite TV Show?
I love Amazing Race, Survivor and Hell's Kitchen...Reality TV is my kryptonite...
22. Living arrangements?
Own my townhouse with my husband, two kitties and leopard gecko.
23. When was the last time you cried?
Yesterday...I've been crying a lot lately...lots of stress that I'm trying to deal with.
24. What is on the floor of your closet?
Can't see the floor...I would say just clothes...lol
25. Who is the friend you have had the longest?
Gotta say Michelle...we've known each other since I was five...that would be 34 years! WOW...
26. What did you do last night?
Yoga, then came home and relaxed and watched TV...
27. What are you most afraid of?
I've always been afraid of deep, dark water...
28. Plain, cheese, or spicy hamburgers?
Used to be cheese...but can't eat hamburgers anymore...thank goodness!
29. Favourite dog breed?
Not a fan of dogs...but my sister and brother in law own a chocolate lab and a black lab...and they are nice dogs...
30. Favourite day of the week?
FRIDAYS!!!
31. How many states have you lived in?
I've only lived in Alberta - I'm a native Calgarian and am proud of it!
32. Diamonds or pearls?
Pearls...that is all...
33. What is your favourite flower?
Sunflower...love em!
1. What is your occupation right now ?
I just finished my position as an Administrative Assistant in Pathology at the Rockyview Hospital. Starting tomorrow however, I will be starting my new position as a Laboratory Support Clerk in Anatomic Pathology/Cytopathology for Calgary Laboratory Services - same company I have been with for almost six years. I am excited!
2. What color are your socks right now?
I'm not wearing any as I just got out of bed...however, I try to stick with black ones.
3. What are you listening to right now?
The TV. The Glades is on. Brian likes that show - I'm not a big fan of it.
4. What was the last thing that you ate?
Oatmeal - with some chocolate protein powder. Great to eat before the workout I am about to do today.
5. Can you drive a stick shift?
Nope.
6. Last person you spoke to on the phone?
That would be Brian - on my way home from yoga last night.
7. Do you like the person who sent this to you?
Of course! But I did steal it from them.
8. How old are you today?
39...one more year - well actually six more months until the BIG 4-0!
9. What is your favorite sport to watch on TV?
Hockey - especially Flames Hockey...but I also like to watch CFL Football...again - mostly when the Stamps are playing.
10. What is your favorite drink?
Coffee...pretty much any way I can get it.
11. Have you ever dyed your hair?
All the time...I usually do it every couple of months - if I didn't I would have a head full of greys!
12. Favourite food?
I love tacos - homemade ones. They make me happy.
13. What was the last movie you watched?
Hangover 2
14. Favourite day of the year?
I won't lie...my Birthday!
15. How do you vent anger?
Cry...then yell...then cry again...lots of crying...
16. What was your favourite toy as a child?
I enjoyed my Lite-Brite.
17. What is your favorite season?
Fall...not too cold and not too hot...PERFECT!
18. Cherries or Blueberries?
LOVE both but I guess Blueberries if I had to choose.
19. Do you want your friends to e-mail you back?
Nope they don't have to, but I always love to hear from my blogging buddies!
20. Where is you favorite place to escape?
The gym, or just go for a walk in Fish Creek Park
21. Favorite TV Show?
I love Amazing Race, Survivor and Hell's Kitchen...Reality TV is my kryptonite...
22. Living arrangements?
Own my townhouse with my husband, two kitties and leopard gecko.
23. When was the last time you cried?
Yesterday...I've been crying a lot lately...lots of stress that I'm trying to deal with.
24. What is on the floor of your closet?
Can't see the floor...I would say just clothes...lol
25. Who is the friend you have had the longest?
Gotta say Michelle...we've known each other since I was five...that would be 34 years! WOW...
26. What did you do last night?
Yoga, then came home and relaxed and watched TV...
27. What are you most afraid of?
I've always been afraid of deep, dark water...
28. Plain, cheese, or spicy hamburgers?
Used to be cheese...but can't eat hamburgers anymore...thank goodness!
29. Favourite dog breed?
Not a fan of dogs...but my sister and brother in law own a chocolate lab and a black lab...and they are nice dogs...
30. Favourite day of the week?
FRIDAYS!!!
31. How many states have you lived in?
I've only lived in Alberta - I'm a native Calgarian and am proud of it!
32. Diamonds or pearls?
Pearls...that is all...
33. What is your favourite flower?
Sunflower...love em!
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