tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66701572903288249602024-03-05T23:26:28.520-05:00A work in progress...My journey toward a healthy and happy life.Laura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.comBlogger164125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-45904167158658114432011-10-10T11:21:00.002-04:002011-10-18T09:45:40.910-04:00Checking in / On the road...Oops... I am behind on my blogging. I'm going to have to work on that.<br /><br />Things have been coming along. My birthday came and I had a great celebratory weekend... and it showed on the scale. It's crazy how much of a change is seen with 3 dinners out (it turns out that most of it was water, but pretty disheartening nevertheless. What was worse was the struggle I had to get back on track the next week; I rely on that momentum to stay on track!<br /><br />Which brings me to now. On Friday I left for a conference for the medical informatics part of my job. Given my track record I was naturally apprehensive about the disruption in my routine... Not only that, but I would have limited control over what I would have available to stay on track. What's a girl to do?<br /><br />Well, I decided to develop a gameplan. First, I called on my support system to help keep me accountable. They have given me fitness assignments for the 6 days I'm gone. Also, I've been posting my food choices on our Facebook group page. So far, it's been pretty motivating to make a better choice knowing I have to report back later. Perhaps most importantly, I am focusing on doing my best and not beating myself up when I make a less great choice. There is always an opportunity to make a better one next time.<br /><br />Today is day four and I've been doing fairly well. I have exercised every morning except this one (I needed extra sleep). We are walking all of the time. Aside from the social alcohol, I have been making healthy choices from the available options. And I've been focusing on the positives rather than beating myself up for the mistakes.<br /><br />That's all for now... Happy Monday!<br />LPLaura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-37215860788873549332011-09-22T13:15:00.005-04:002011-10-18T09:46:12.003-04:00Catching up...Two more days until I begin the second-half of my thirties... (maybe I should stick where I am?). I've managed to keep my craziness at bay so far. I have been filling my time with friends and fitness, and to be perfectly honest, the season premieres on TV. Biggest Loser is so much better of a show when I am doing what I need to in terms of my health - there is much less guilt! I love how optimistic <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">everyone</span> is at the beginning of the show; I remember that feeling. Now my optimism is guarded, and probably will be until I reach that first very important goal (less than 300). <div><br /></div><div>Oh yeah, that's right... I never actually shared absolute numbers on here. Maybe I will catch you up. At my heaviest, I imagine I weighed 365-370 (I remember stepping on a scale once and it said 363, but I avoided them so I really don't know. That was in 2007. When I was having trouble walking from the back pain because of all that extra weight, I knew I needed to do something about it. I started with my first personal trainer on Feb 14, 2008. I weighed 359 lbs at the time. Initially, I had unbelievable results; in 9 months I lost 97.5 lbs. Of course, to do that I was a little neurotic - I was working out twice a day most days and taking supplements to keep the weight loss coming. I slowed down to a healthy and respectable pace, but then I slowly started gaining. It was really hard and disheartening -- I was doing everything I should, and I saw all my results slowly slip away. My trainer pushed me harder and harder and I tore my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">rotator</span> cuff because I didn't stop when there was pain. That was a bigger setback and more sadness. I'm not sure how I didn't completely throw in the towel when my weight crept back over 300 lbs, but my efforts were not the same. I would go to the gym and work with my new trainer, but I would never go to the gym by myself and I would make excuses not to go if I was too tired. And my eating pattern also reverted back to what I used to do. I was at the point where my life was closer to what it was before I started than when I had success. I had reached my breaking point. I knew I had to break the pattern.</div><div><br /></div><div>I started my first Body Back session weighing 354 lbs -- just 5 lbs less than my starting point. What a huge slice of humble pie!! (I'm pretty sure humble pie is calorie free, right?) The workouts were hard and I managed to get <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">tendonitis</span> in my hip from running almost immediately. But, this time I was smart about my injury and I <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">persevered</span>. I lost 15 lbs in that first session. I even maintained it during my 3 weeks of dormancy afterward (2 weeks on wards, followed by the hurricane with no power). I had never been so happy to not lose weight! But still, I was ready to hit the ground running and get serious again (no pun intended). I've lost about another 10lbs so far, and I hope to lose 20 by the end of the session. But more important than the numbers is the hope and faith that I have back in my life; I feel my goals are achievable even if it takes a long time. </div><div><br /></div><div>I love what Body Back has given me. Confidence, encouragement and support. I workout with some amazing women. They are super supportive and I am honored to have them on my journey. They even tolerate my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">nulliparity</span> (everyone else is a mom). These women showed up in my life at the exact moment I needed them most. Like I said before, I am blessed. </div><div><br /></div><div>So, Saturday marks my 36<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">th</span> birthday and I will continue celebrating my accomplishments and my blessings. I look forward to what the future holds, and with any luck I'll be even less crazy come next September...</div><div><br /></div><div>Happy Thursday!</div><div>LP<br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Laura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-13116116124418447662011-09-13T16:39:00.002-04:002011-09-13T17:05:12.500-04:00I'm still here...So, this is going to be a crazy fall. September is here and it is my birthday month! I do try and celebrate me all month long, mainly because I tend to get really sad and a little crazy. Before I tell you why, let me acknowledge a few truths... I have been blessed in many ways. I have friends and a family who love me, a successful career which I worked hard to obtain, and a strong (relatively) healthy body that allows me to do a lot. I thank God for all of these things in my life, and I trust that he has a special plan for me. But every year around this time, I am reminded of how many things I had hoped to do in my life by now (well years before now). I thought I would have found love and had started a family of my own. I thought I would have reached my healthy weight goal (and probably, if the jouney had been hiccup-free, I would have). And while most days I try to put on a happy face and be optimistic and hopeful, sometimes (especially this month) it's harder than others.<div><br /></div><div>A friend of mine posted this <a href="http://blog.pigtailpals.com/2011/08/waking-up-full-of-awesome/">blogpost</a> that really struck home... I have definitely lost my awesome, and I am fighting to get it back. Maybe writing here and recounting my journey will help.</div><div><br /></div><div>I started my second session of BodyBack. The first one was a success (I lost 15 lbs, and improved on all of my fitness tests including shaving a minute off my half-mile walk/run). I learned that I have a lying scale -- it was too kind to me and told me just what I wanted to hear even if it wasn't true. The doctor's scale is what I use for accuracy now (although I keep the other around just to make me smile when I need a little white lie...).</div><div><br /></div><div>My goals this time:</div><div> - lose 15-20 lbs.</div><div> - run the entire half-mile</div><div> - keep up my healthy habits while on business trips or on breaks from class.</div><div><br /></div><div>My plan:</div><div> - journal my food everyday</div><div> - workout 5x a week</div><div> - blog once a week</div><div> - utilize my support system when I need it</div><div><br /></div><div>Well, wish me luck...</div><div>Happy Tuesday!</div><div><br /></div><div>LP</div><div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Laura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-2028307166773591682011-07-07T08:13:00.006-04:002011-07-07T09:00:15.194-04:00My friend Lisa...So, I went back to Body Back class this morning. I had to modify just about everything, but it was good to be there. It's great to be with all of these wonderful, supportive women. Everyone cheers each other on and it is just such a positive environment. I'm grateful that they've taken me in even though unlike everyone else, I am not a mother.<div><br /></div><div>Which brings me to Lisa... She is a rockstar! She is only 9 lbs away from a big milestone and I am 100% certain that we will be celebrating this milestone really soon. She is truly amazing. Lisa pushes herself each and every day and always with the biggest smile on her face. She is such a fighter; today we were doing (or really, <i>they were doing...</i>) these crazy crabwalk/dip things across the room. There was a modification that we could do if we were not at that level yet but rather than opting to take the modification, she perservered and did it. I admire her resolve so much; I think of her every time I want to say "I can't" (and then I do it!).</div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you Lisa for being an inspiration. I am honored that you are on this journey with me. Rock on!</div><div><br /></div><div>Happy Thursday!</div><div>LP</div>Laura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-8434203501764675092011-07-05T20:58:00.002-04:002011-07-05T21:12:38.800-04:00UpdatesHope everyone had a fabulous fourth of July weekend!<div><br /></div><div>Mine was rough... work has been very busy and I am tired. I was supposed to have today off, but I worked today, too. It's just been exhausting. Plus, morale has been low. I am looking forward to the weekend, so that I can relax a little. </div><div><br /></div><div>The hip is slowly on the mend... I have been trying to be good with my prescribed rest and scheduled ibuprofen. It's hard to rest a hip, especially when your job entails walking 3-4 miles a day (I wear a pedometer; that's how I know). Most of the time I'm pain free, but every now and again I feel it...</div><div><br /></div><div>My nutrition has been okay. I have been good about making healthy choices. I have avoided my common pitfalls like ordering-in or indulging in the goodies that nurses bring in. I have packed my meals each day, including healthy snacks. The problem is I find it hard to hit my calorie target -- one day I was over, but the majority of days I have been under. Writing down my food makes me honest, and my "all-or-nothing" mentality makes me choose better foods. </div><div><br /></div><div>I know I need to fix this way of thinking... it is the trap I have fallen into many, many times. It's great in the beginning -- my motivation is high and there is a definite honeymoon phase. The scale rewards me with positive results and I keep going. BUT EVENTUALLY, it all falls apart... I plateau, start taking shortcuts, and then the downward spiral. You would think that if I can identify the pattern I should be able to fix it, right? Easier said than done, but I'm working on it.</div><div><br /></div><div>Speaking of honeymoon periods and positive reinforcement... by my scale (I didn't register on theirs) I have lost 12 lbs since starting the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">BodyBack</span> program! That's pretty cool. I think I'm going to enjoy my success while it lasts...</div><div><br /></div><div>Happy Tuesday!</div><div>LP</div>Laura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-82002104156445133702011-06-29T16:21:00.002-04:002011-06-29T16:30:23.719-04:00That which does not kill us...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; ">"You're on the road to success when you realize that failure is only a detour."</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; ">Went to the doctor for my hip pain; it turns out I have tensor fascia lata tendonitis. And the prescribed treatment was complete rest, ice, nsaids for at least a week or until pain is gone. Then I can stretch and walk, and then I can start training again. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; ">I was so frustrated I cried in her office. I just got the enthusiasm up. I am determined and going strong and now, ROADBLOCK! I don't have a good track record with when I lose momentum... What was I going to do? I was able to negotiate the ability to do upper body workouts and swim if it doesn't hurt. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; ">So, I went to Mom's Treehouse and talked to Alex and Rachel (my Body Back trainers). And I cried again when I told them. But then I was able to calm down and develop a game plan. I will focus on my nutrition, do upper body workouts, and just keep the routine of doing what I can.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; ">I realize that I have a unique opportunity for growth. I can let this defeat me (as I would have so many times before) OR I can persevere and come out the other end stronger and better for it.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; ">Well, that's all for now...</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; ">Happy Wednesday!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">LP</span></span></div>Laura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-14053411384042477952011-06-27T20:19:00.002-04:002011-06-27T20:26:52.434-04:00Good News / Bad NewsLet's start with the good...<br />I've been going strong for the past week. I am energized and excited still. And, although I may be imagining things, my pants feel a little looser today :)<br /><br />And the bad...<br />My hip HURTS! It's been hurting off and on since I started this class. I have a hunch it's from running (I vaguely remember a similar pain the last time I tried to run). I'm really hoping that there is an easy fix (like some stretching that I should be doing), because I don't want to stop now (and I don't really want an EGD or kidney problems from all the advil I've been popping)!!!<br /><br />Happy Monday!<br />LPLaura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-39595069044654490792011-06-25T11:08:00.004-04:002011-06-25T11:21:00.822-04:00A surprising decision and starting points...Finally, a decent night's sleep!<div><br /></div><div>I woke up this morning and decided to do a 5K... One of my new friends in my Body Back class organized the 'Jack and Abby 5K' in memory of her twin babies that became angels while in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">NICU</span>. I wanted to show my support and also, get my exercise in for the day. I decided to walk in honor of Delaney Hope, my friend's daughter who spent her entire life in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">NICU</span>. </div><div><br /></div><div>It was a lovely day and a beautiful event. There were lots of families and everyone was very friendly. </div><div><br /></div><div>Not having trained or prepared for the race, I decided to just see what happens. My goal was to finish it and I hoped to finish it under an hour. I figured that it would be a great place to start -- I can't wait to see myself improve!!</div><div><br /></div><div>And I did it! Finished in 57:55. Lots of room for improvement, but today I will celebrate my success. </div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you Stefanie for hosting a wonderful event and to Jen from Body Back who rooted me on!</div><div><br /></div><div>Happy Saturday!</div><div>LP</div>Laura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-25913195604849498532011-06-23T08:18:00.005-04:002011-06-23T09:30:07.813-04:00Starting over with a renewed spirit...I had to get honest with myself... <div><br /></div><div>My journey has taken a serious detour for the worse. Since I was still going to the gym, I tricked myself into thinking that I have been doing what I know I need to to be healthy; I knew in my heart this was not true. All of the healthy habits that I incorporated started to slip out of my life, until I got to a point where my lifestyle was pretty close to what I was doing before I began. And as a result, my weight is pretty close to my starting weight... very disheartening. </div><div><br /></div><div>But, I could either continue my pity-party or do something about it... and I'm choosing the latter.</div><div><br /></div><div>One of my neighbors, Rachel P, has taken her Stroller Strides business and expanded it into much more. And even though I am not a mother, I decided to challenge myself and enroll in her Body Back class (even though I don't remember when I actually had the body in the first place). The first day wasn't a full class and I was sore! Today was the second class and it's hard - but I am doing it! I've met some super cool women - they are always cheering me on! Thank you Lisa, Rebekah, Stephanie and Alex for getting me though today's workout...</div><div><br /></div><div>I am so proud of myself for stepping out of my comfort-zone! I am so excited and enthusiastic of what is to come...</div><div><br /></div><div>Happy Thursday!</div><div><br /></div>Laura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-3840072022053028382010-08-04T09:48:00.002-04:002010-08-04T10:06:25.704-04:00It's been a while...After a few people asked me if I ever planned to blog again, I figured I should probably check in (especially since my last post was so negative). My friends were beginning to worry if I had given up. Truth be told, it was touch-and-go there for a while... but I had accomplished too much to let it all slip away (luckily I realized this before I was at my original starting point). <div><br /></div><div>So, an update... after I left Sean and started on my own things got pretty rough. I had trouble motivating myself and I was not as strict as I needed to be. I lost more ground, and began to feel sorry for myself. And while I am truly happy for everyone else's successes, reading about them made me feel even more like a failure... so I stopped. I stopped blogging, stopped going to the gym, stopped paying attention to what I was eating. Naturally, I backslid further which made me feel pretty lousy...</div><div><br /></div><div>In mid-June, I found a new trainer. Her name is Rebekah and she works at my gym. There has been a period of adjustment (her style is very different than Sean's), but working with her has at least got me back on the path. I am getting myself to the gym more consistently, and slowly getting the nutrition down again, too. It's a little humbling that I can't lift as much as I used to, but then again, I think being pushed too hard was what caused some of my injuries and my failure. I know it's going to take time, but I have hope that I can once again achieve my goals. </div><div><br /></div><div>Anyway, Friday is my first fitness assessment since coming back to training. I am not sure that I have made much progress, but I am at peace with whatever the results may be. I plan to chalk it up to experience and keep going...</div><div><br /></div><div>Well, that's all for now... Happy Wednesday!</div><div>LP</div>Laura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-1650127464283361502010-05-10T12:11:00.002-04:002010-05-10T12:20:34.444-04:00Rock Bottom...(I guess you can probably tell how this post is going to go...)<div><br /></div><div>I'm in one of those moods. I honestly was revved up to go exercise this morning. I went to the gym and hit the treadmill and I was "rewarded" with knee pain. Aggh... seriously? As if finding the motivation to do what I need to isn't hard enough. I'm beginning to think I'm never going to reach my goals... I'm slowly unraveling all of the hard work I've done. I'm watching my dreams fade away.</div><div><br /></div><div>I am down in the dumps. I guess I'll ride it out (not that I have much choice)... a positive attitude is bound to return at some point, right?</div><div><br /></div><div>Here's hoping your Monday is better than mine!</div><div>LP</div>Laura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-72166580044688439692010-05-01T09:27:00.002-04:002010-05-01T09:37:57.980-04:00Getting there...Hey all -- <div><br /></div><div>It is a beautiful Saturday morning here in Richmond, VA. The sun is out and it's warming up -- and to risk sounding like a rhyming dork -- spring is in full swing!</div><div><br /></div><div>I had a lovely walk/run this morning. Since I slacked off 2 weeks, I went back to week 1 of the C25K program. I found a couple of new <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">podcasts</span> with music that is more my style (the first one worked, but the music was a little too new-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">agey</span> for my tastes). It was great, but harder than I remember. Payback for taking such a long break, I guess. </div><div><br /></div><div>As I've mentioned before, I love when I am in this enthusiastic and positive <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">headspace</span>! I wish I could keep it sustainable. But maybe the better way to deal with this is by accepting the lows with the highs. Learn to work through the lows because the highs will return soon enough.</div><div><br /></div><div>Cheers!</div><div>LP</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Laura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-75017126349929448502010-04-29T10:12:00.002-04:002010-04-29T10:47:53.285-04:00Coming out of hidingWell, 2 weeks has come and gone... I just finished a 14 day stretch at work. This was the most emotionally, physically and mentally draining stretch ever. I had some really sick patients and some really stressful days; I don't really want to get into it, but suffice it to say that I am glad that it is over.<div><br /></div><div>As far as fitness goes, I haven't done anything in 2 weeks. It's the longest that I have gone without working out since I started my journey in Feb 2008. I went to the gym the first day of the stretch, but the I fell and hurt my knee that night It was nothing serious... I just wanted to be safe and rest it for a day or two. Two days then turned into four, which turned into seven which turned into 14. I just couldn't stomach the idea of getting up at at 4am when I was just so tired! Maybe my not getting to the gym added to my exhaustion and stress, but I felt that it was the right decision at the time.</div><div><br /></div><div>The good news? I managed to maintain my weight during this time. Over my month without Sean, I lost something like 8 lbs (8 from my last official weigh in -- it could be more or less overall since I can't remember if my weight was higher or lower when I decided to do it on my own). I'm even moved the ticker! And I'm on the fence of my initial goal again! I never shared it with all of you <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">because</span> it involves my actual weight... I got there once before on this journey and promised that I'd never get there again but then I backslid. Hopefully, I can make it stick this time.</div><div><br /></div><div>So it's back on the fitness trail today! I'm seriously considering going back to Sean, but I need to think about what specifically I need and want from him first.</div><div><br /></div><div>Happy Thursday!</div><div>LP</div><div><br /></div>Laura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-33519626041494273882010-04-14T11:45:00.003-04:002010-04-14T11:54:02.865-04:00Motivation/Consistency Problems... I guess this is where the trainer comes in handy. <div><br /></div><div>I am having problems getting it together. I know what I need to do, but making myself do it is another story. Yesterday, I kept telling myself that I needed to get to the gym to do my elliptical workout... I didn't listen. Today, I am supposed to do a run/walk workout. I also have 15 other things that I need to do before I start yet another 14-day stretch at work. Hoping I can find the time and motivation to actually do it. </div><div><br /></div><div><i>and now for the pity party...</i></div><div>What is wrong with me? I can't seem to figure out why I sabotage myself. I am my own worst enemy. I'm angry and disappointed with myself. Agghh!</div><div><br /></div><div>OK, now that <i>that's</i> out my system... what's next? I guess I have to just keep trying. After all, I'm in this for the long haul, right. If it were easy, I would have done it a long time ago.</div><div><br /></div><div>Happy Wednesday!</div><div>LP</div>Laura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-74917789653736919892010-04-12T10:06:00.002-04:002010-04-12T10:22:42.423-04:00C25K and My New GoalFor my next race I'm going to do the Susan G Komen Race for the Cure. It's a 5K on May 8th. It's probably premature for me to expect to run the entire thing, but I would like to at least run half of it. Hopefully, it will help me stay on track with my other fitness goals. <div><br /></div><div>I found a podcast to help me along the way. It's called C25K (which stands for couch to 5K). Basically the same premise that I have been doing with alternating running and walking, but what's great about it is that I don't have to time myself, because the guy tells you when to start running or walking. The first week in this program is 60s runs and 90s walks, so guess what? I graduated (I had been doing only 30s runs before this). It was harder than I thought but I got through it... I didn't have the energy to walk the extra time (the first week only calls for 30 min and I usually do more than that in my cardio workouts), but maybe I can go for a second walk later. </div><div><br /></div><div>Not a bad start to the week!</div><div><br /></div><div>Happy Monday!</div><div>LP</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Laura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-68799444740153392962010-04-10T13:47:00.002-04:002010-04-10T13:58:59.836-04:00The Importance of the Bounce-backWell, it's been a rough week... first traveling to NY and visiting with family (which always includes way too much food) and then working 2 night shifts really messed with my routine. I've been dragging. I still haven't gone grocery shopping and so my food choices have been crappy. I'm not proud of how this week has gone...<div><div><br /></div><div>... BUT, I can choose to start again right now. And when you think about it, isn't it what this journey is all about??? Recommitting to myself every day. Life happens. Stuff inevitably comes up that knocks you on your butt -- it's how quickly we can get back up that is the key. </div><div><br /></div><div>Time to go work out... catch ya' later!</div><div><br /></div><div>Have a great weekend!</div><div>LP</div><div><br /></div></div>Laura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-80711480193383216992010-03-29T10:47:00.004-04:002010-03-29T13:27:34.033-04:00Power of Positive Peer Pressure / Week 2 GoalsCan I just say, I love my neighbors! They are such a good influence. I don't think I would have ever aspired to do any races on my own without their example. Everyone is so supportive of each other... it's just the best (clearly I'm rambling, but I really can't describe how lucky I am to have moved to such a cool street). <div><br /></div><div>Anyway, one of my neighbors, Rachel P, is helping me get started on my own. She is also a trainer and owns a fitness company designed for moms called <a href="http://strollerstridesrichmond.blogspot.com/"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Stroller</span> Strides</a>. Be sure and check out her blog. I really appreciate all of her help and wanted to give her a little shout-out here...</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Here are my goals for week 2:</div><div><br /></div><div><b>MON</b> (done):<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Run<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; ">/walk workout on the treadmill - 60 min</span></i></div><div> - After doing the 10K, I wanted to be able to run more than ever. In the fall, Rachel gave me a training program to be able run the 8K, but it was a little too hard for me. So, I'm trying again, but starting out a little easier: run 30 seconds, walk 90 seconds for 20 min, then walk for the remainder of the time. </div><div> - It was challenging, but doable. I walked at 3.8-4 mph and ran at 5 mph all at a incline of 1. The second 20 minutes were a hill workout, with inclines of 2-10 and speed of 3.7-4 mph. The final 20 minutes were a brisker walk, incline of 2 and a speed of 4-4.3 mph. Calories burned: 825.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>TUES</b>: <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">HIIT</span> on elliptical/ab workout</div><div><br /></div><div><b>WED</b>: <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>I'm considering taking today off, but if the weather is nice I plan on taking a walk after work.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>THURS</b>:<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Another run/walk workout. May be outside, but it's going to be an early am workout. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>FRI</b>:<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Either a swim workout or <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">HIIT</span> on the elliptical. Driving to NY, so will sneak small walks at a rest stops. </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:tahoma, times, serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;font-size:130%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:16px;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><b>SAT</b>:<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>If it's nice, I'm thinking about walking Lake <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Mahopac</span>. It's another long walk. If it's raining, I'm going to do a hotel workout (probably the elliptical, maybe the treadmill.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>SUN</b>:<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Rest, and enjoy Easter with my extended family. </div><div><br /></div><div>I anticipate a few challenges. First, I go back to working the day shift Tues-Thurs, which means I have to get up and exercise at 5am without having someone to meet. Second, traveling means I need disruption to my routine and having to improvise (staying in a hotel, probably going out to eat with friends and family). I think being aware of the possible obstacles makes it easier to overcome them... </div><div><br /></div><div>Happy Monday!</div><div>LP</div>Laura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-62754253114921394052010-03-27T12:26:00.004-04:002010-03-27T12:57:54.082-04:00Monument Ave 10K... with a little help from my friend!<div>Today was race day. Earlier this week I received FB mail from Kelly, a friend of mine from HS, encouraging me to go ahead with race whether or not I had prepared like I should. The gist of it was "if I have to drive my butt up to Richmond to do it with you, I'd be more than happy to"... Who could say no to that? Not only did I have someone to walk with me, but I got to catch up with a great girl that I hadn't seen in ages. I was in...<div><br /></div><div>Last night Kelly came up and we chatted, gossiped, and reminisced. I think we figured out that it had been like 6 1/2 years since we saw each other last. She's in school getting her PhD in physical therapy, so she came up after classes and got into Richmond in the evening. We tried to figure out our gameplan for parking and arrival times (it is a huge event with over 37,000 runners), and then off to bed...</div><div><br /></div><div>Bright and early we headed downtown. We were fortunate to find a spot pretty easily and so we had some time to kill in the cold. But it was a lovely sunny day here and we warmed up soon enough. We walked the most of it, but jogged a few little stretches to justify our wave (It was a jog/walkers wave -- 90 to 100 min). There were a couple of times that I thought I couldn't go further, but walking with Kelly helped pass the time.</div><div><br /></div><div>With all of the people I knew running today, I was surprised that we didn't see any of them. But we did see my friend Lydia at the end and she took this picture for us...</div></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfGBw3Nd8arCayMLa8PuYSwDaKz8xWzr5p2wco2H5rHXdYYkYbA8uzDDvxZ8jZlCPcptSKnN-qeKZOZnvlOQ3_aMpfR4KUSiQa-QBDa9VivoWGq2ybWnga-SCBr6hDbVvwB3SpHcGZKH0/s1600/IMG_1436.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfGBw3Nd8arCayMLa8PuYSwDaKz8xWzr5p2wco2H5rHXdYYkYbA8uzDDvxZ8jZlCPcptSKnN-qeKZOZnvlOQ3_aMpfR4KUSiQa-QBDa9VivoWGq2ybWnga-SCBr6hDbVvwB3SpHcGZKH0/s200/IMG_1436.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453356026537560802" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>So, before I started training, I had hoped that I would finish in 90 minutes (averaging about 15 min miles...). We all know how my training went (it fizzled) and so I was pretty pleased when I finished in 1:40:08 (averaging 16.1 min miles). And considering that my 8K time was 1:26, I did pretty well... </div><div><br /></div><div>So now the question is... when is the next race??</div>Laura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-72847753523152883052010-03-25T10:40:00.007-04:002010-03-25T11:11:21.373-04:00The Honeymoon High<div>If I could bottle the energy and enthusiasm I have for my workouts when I start something new...</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>1) Nobody (including myself) would be overweight or unhealthy again</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>2) I would be a very rich girl</div><div><br /></div><div>Alas, since that's not going to happen, I need to find a way to make this feeling last as long as possible. Momentum is KEY when it comes to my fitness endeavors... once I lose it, it is oh-so-hard for me to stay on track. </div><div><br /></div><div>Hopefully the excitement and new-ness will carry me through this latest life-stress... I got a call from my dad while I was at work last night telling me that my grandmother is not doing well. I don't have enough information yet, but hopefully the doctor will give me a call today. It's just so hard to piece together what is really happening when I get information third-hand (the doctor tells my uncle, who tells my dad, who tells me). And being a doctor myself, I always have a gazillion questions.</div><div><br /></div><div>For now, I will enjoy the stress-reducing benefits of my exercising, and pray that everything will be okay...</div><div><br /></div><div>Happy Thursday!</div><div>LP</div>Laura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-14591376452324189032010-03-23T09:09:00.006-04:002010-03-23T16:41:03.701-04:00Week 1's plans...So, I decided to post my weekly workout plans here... <div><br /></div><div>Monday: (done)<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"></span></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>25 min of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">HIIT</span> on the elliptical/10 min abs</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>55 min walking/3.25 miles.</div><div><br /></div><div>Tuesday: (done)<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"></span></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>90 min walking/5.5 miles</div><div><br /></div><div>Wednesday:<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"></span></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>elliptical workout. 30 min <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">HIIT</span>/15 min steady pace</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>abs/core workout</div><div><br /></div><div>Thursday:<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"></span></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>treadmill "hill" workout (speed 3.6-4, incline 5-10)</div><div><br /></div><div>Friday:<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"></span></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>swim workout/laps.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>abs/core workout</div><div><br /></div><div>SATURDAY:<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span>RACE DAY! Monument Ave 10K ***</div><div><br /></div><div>Sunday:<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: normal; ">rest :)</span></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div> <i>*** There has been a lot of inner debate about whether I should do the race or sit this one out. I definitely stopped training and feel a little unprepared. But after today's workout and after much encouragement from all of my friends and cheerleaders, I've decided to go for it!! If nothing else, I can certainly get a life lesson or two out of it (like the importance of follow-through and finishing something you started?)</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>So the promise I made myself when I decided to workout on my own was to do <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">cardio</span> at least 4-5 times a week, and some other workout (right now I'm focusing on core exercises <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">because</span> of all my aches and pains) 3 times a week. This week is ambitious... but I do have wiggle room if I need it. Just have to meet the minimum... the rest is bonus!</div><div><br /></div><div>Happy Tuesday!</div><div>LP</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:tahoma, times, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:-webkit-xxx-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;font-size:130%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:16px;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div>Laura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-27575685669694690092010-03-22T12:28:00.002-04:002010-03-22T12:50:35.181-04:00Branching out...I realize I haven't blogged in forever... Things have been crazy lately. I've had some struggles, and I needed to take some time to think. I've been meaning to give you an update (there were 5 half-started posts in my blogger account) but I didn't know what to say. And so many of you have been cheering me on... I really didn't want to disappoint you with my struggles and negativity... I needed some time to step back and think. <div><br /></div><div>My workouts at the gym have been schizophrenic... I could have an amazing workout one day and then an awful one the next. I have been having some pain issues and have been struggling with motivation. My trainer has been trying to motivate me "Jillian-style", which doesn't really work for me. I believe that I give my all every time I exercise, but sometimes I just don't have much to give. I've been frustrating Sean to no end... and one day the tension even came to a head! He heard me say something horrible under my breath, and our workout ended short that day. And while things were okay after that, it was obvious that something had to change... because it's only a matter of time before the next breakdown at the gym.</div><div><br /></div><div>I've been thinking a lot about the next step on this journey... Should I suck it up and continue the way things are -- you know tough it out? Should I find a new trainer and start over? Should I give in and make the appointment for gastric bypass surgery? What did I really want to do??? After much deliberation and prayer, I've come up with a new game plan...</div><div><br /></div><div>I've decided to take a break from working with Sean. I think I need to prove to myself that I can workout and exercise on my own without a trainer. It's not like I'm going to have a trainer forever, and I have to have learned something over the past 2 years... It's both scary and exciting, but I think I'm ready.</div><div><br /></div><div>I talked to Sean about my decision. He was very supportive and encouraging. We're going to try it for a month. I'll be checking in with him weekly to see how things go. If it's a disaster, the door is open to come back.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'll keep you posted on how things go! Wish me luck...</div><div><br /></div><div>Happy Monday!</div><div>LP</div>Laura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-54168950944802557402010-03-03T09:00:00.003-05:002010-03-03T09:06:27.294-05:00checking in...Wow, I hadn't realized that it had been so long since I've written... It's time to check in!<br /><br />Things are going pretty well still. I am still enjoying the new workouts. I am grateful for the cardio workouts that I am doing with Sean bc I haven't been very good about doing them on my own (although, I did twice last week go to the gym on my own... I can be proud of that). Yesterday we did a stretching/yoga-lite workout. It was good, although I think I may have to look into getting a block and strap to modify things a little. Some of the things I am not able to do just yet... <br /><br />Nutrition is going okay... Lent is helping me stay on track.<br /><br />Unfortunately, I found out that the person who was going to do the 10K with me is now unable to (he forgot that he was working in the ICU that weekend)... anyone want to join me? I'm signed up in the Walk/jog category, so it should be doable. I'd love the company!<br /><br />So, consider yourself caught up ;)<br /><br />Happy Wednesday!<br />LPLaura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-47819555346998688802010-02-23T11:42:00.003-05:002010-02-23T12:14:36.319-05:00Switching gears...Have you also noticed that every time I have a something positive to report it's almost immediately followed by frustration or setback? I have. I don't know if I get super excited, only to let myself down or I jinx myself or what... but I do know I'm over it. I'm going to practice some "guarded enthusiasm"...<div><br /></div><div>I've started my new training sessions with Sean... so far, so good. We're a lot of doing elliptical and treadmill workouts and it's been going pretty well. It's still early in the game, but it is nice not to have my shoulder hurting all the time. The only thing that is going to make the back pain go away is losing the weight again... and that is going to take time and patience mixed with hard work!</div><div><br /></div><div>As for my assessment, it went as expected. In a way, it was actually a relief to see my numbers in black and white... they weren't pretty, but they are my reality at this time. I've decided that beating myself up for them is futile. Live and learn and move on... </div><div><br /></div><div>Happy Tuesday!</div><div>LP </div>Laura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-69164276256292205142010-02-17T18:09:00.004-05:002010-02-17T19:41:46.461-05:00Time to rewind... (since I'm going backwards anyway)Things imploded yesterday at the gym... I've continued to have back and shoulder pain and it has been holding me back. The back pain is exactly the same pain I used to feel when I was heavier and I have no doubt that it is related to the weight that I have gained back. I used to be able to handle a lot heavier weights, and now I struggle with lighter ones. I was the elephant in the room (pardon the pun). <div><br /></div><div>Yesterday during my workout when my back starting acting up (literally bringing me to tears again), Sean said "I think we need to back off on the strength training for a while". This broke my heart... I know it's probably true, but I am afraid that without the strength training I am heading for disaster. I need to keep going. I need to lose this weight. I am DESPERATE to lose this weight... I tried hard control my tears the best that I can.</div><div><br /></div><div>So, what's next??? Lots of cardio, rehab exercises, and strict nutrition. I did HIIT on the elliptical training this morning for 30 minutes and while I worked hard, I noticed that I couldn't do as much there as I once could. How much exactly had I been slacking with the extra cardio?? Clearly, more than I led myself to believe. I'm going to persevere and get back to where I once was... it's just going to take patience.</div><div><br /></div><div>Wish me luck!</div><div>Happy Wednesday!</div><div><br /></div><div>LP</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Laura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6670157290328824960.post-17325843821955763202010-02-11T11:01:00.002-05:002010-02-11T11:34:27.702-05:00Things are looking up!Hello... it's been a while since I posted. My blogging and my 10K training have taken a long winter's nap.<div><br /></div><div>Sunday is a very special day for me (and it has nothing to do with that Hallmark holiday). It's my 2-year anniversary of going to the trainer and changing my life. Even though I've had my ups and downs on this journey, the most important thing is that I haven't given up! I have a long way to go on this quest for a healthier life and I'm pretty sure the best has yet to come...</div><div><br /></div><div>I had a good workout today with Sean. It was exactly what I needed. And while it's going to take more than one good workout to fix my current situation, I have hope that maybe I can still make training with Sean work. I need to figure out what exactly I want and need from my trainer, and communicate that to him. </div><div><br /></div><div>So I have an assessment on Saturday. I know that I've gained a bunch a weight and I think I'm going to keep the results of this one to myself... I should probably update the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">weight loss</span> ticker too, but I think I may just leave it where it is. Maybe I should take it down until I get back to losing again??? </div><div><br /></div><div>Happy Thursday!</div><div>LP</div>Laura Phttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08964643673179641167noreply@blogger.com1