Thursday, August 11, 2011

healthy, vibrant and beautiful

workout
Week 1 Thursday
Strong is Sexy Fitness Challenge  
REST DAY. Easy Walk or Yoga
Get outside, breathe some fresh air, play with friends and family, and enjoy your down time.  Meditation would be a great choice today.

I went thought some of exercises DVDs to pick out a Yoga workout for today.  The only one I had was a Gaiam Yoga Dance Fusion.  I wasn't sure what to expect, but thought it would be a good choice.  Though after completing a 30-minute workout wasn't to impressed with the DVD.  It's  not one I would do again.  I think this workout would have been better in a studio where I could better see the instructor or if I had a projection screen using the wall.  She wasn't very good at giving instruction on when to move to the next position.

* completed a 30-minute Yoga workout.
* bowled 3 games after work between 9:30-midnight.

daily affirmation
I am radiantly alive. I am strong, healthy, vibrant and beautiful

daily review:
* read Scale Down part of ch. 7 pg 79-86 (22 minutes)
* Tomorrow's Workout: Tone, Trim & Tight + 10 minute weight loss Yoga video 
* in bed by 12:15am and lights out by 12:30am
* repeated the daily affirmations throughout the day
* noted my workouts and meals in my journal
* eats were mostly on.  Splurged and ate a powdered cream filled donut
   and split a plate of supreme nachos with 2 friends

eats:
View Daily Eats

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

norish, support...be your best

workout
Week 1 Wednesday
Strong is Sexy Fitness Challenge  
I wasn't' sure if I would have enough time to get everything in this morning since I was late again getting up and about.  I completed my workout on the porch and it was definitely another killer workout.  My arms and shoulders were still sore from yesterday and my legs followed shortly in the afternoon.  I can understand how Zuzana stays in such amazing shape.  The routines require your full attention and focus in order to complete them properly and truly build on your strength.

I only managed 4 of the 9 rounds for part 1 and 2 and by then it was 7am.  I should have hit the showers, but I decided to go for a 10 minute run.  Though to be honest after that workout I'm surprised I was even able to run for that long. 

I found this really neat online timer last night and used it this morning. It's super easy and portable, because you can also download it to your pc and use it offline. I like it because it's very basic and gives you 3 voice options (man, woman & fight bell) so you can focus on your workout, but the screen also changes color depending on if your on (green), off (red) and resting (yellow).

* Fat Fighter Workout: 12 minute Bodyrock interval workout
- completed Part 1 & 2 - 4 rounds each part w a few modifications
- the side lunge jumps were confusing me more than they really should have
- the push-ups in part 2 were mini's, but not modified girl style.
  I've still not worked up to a full push-up.
- My pike jumps didn't have much jump/kick to them.
* 10 to 30 minute brisk walk/easy jog/hike  
- completed 10-minute jog
- after the fat fighter workout my legs were so exhausted and tight.  

view daily workout

daily affirmation
I choose to eat foods that nourish and support me to be my best.

daily review:
* read ch. 6 pg 68-86 (50 minutes)
* Reviewed + set up workout for tomorrow
* in bed by 10pm and lights out by 10:50pm
* repeated the daily affirmations throughout the day
* noted my workouts and meals in my journal
* eats were pretty on. 
  Did have 2 cups of coffee (I think I felt less energetic after my afternoon cup)

eats:
View Daily Eats

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

enthusiasm is calling

workout
Week 1 Tuesday
Strong is Sexy Fitness Challenge  
My alarm went off at 5:45 this morning and surprisingly I wasn't as tired as usual.  However, I still hit the snooze a few times and finally found the motivation that I need to move myself out of bed closer to 6:30am.  First thing I did was turn on my laptop.  I had my internet tabs saved and set to open up to my morning workout.  It was a way to not make any excuses to skip my workout.  I debated on whether I was going to workout on the porch or my room.  I opted for my room since my roommate was up and didn't have to worry about making noise.  I put on a basic workout outfit and set my cooking timer for 20 secs.  Yes, it would be far easier if I had a gym boss timer, but don't have one and not sure I want to buy one.  However, I do remember someone posting a link to a free interval timer online....really wish I could remember where I saw that. Does anyone use the gymboss?  or have another option they prefer using for interval workouts?

Booty Firm Up
I swapped M/Tue since Fit Foodies met for our bi-weekly walk Monday.  
I only managed 4 rounds instead of 6, because the workout was pretty killer.
I also modified the Push Up/Monkey Push up (pike press) to just modified push ups since I was unable to complete more then just mini-mini's of the exercise.  


view workout log for today

daily affirmation (actually Mondays)
I greet each day with enthusiasm and as an opportunity to move my wonderful body!

Proverbs 4:11-12
I have taught you in the way of wisdom; I have led you in right paths.
When you walk, your steps will not be hindered; And when you run, you will not stumble

daily review:
* read ch. 5 pg 52-67 (35 minutes)
* Reviewed workout for tomorrow + added workouts for the week to my journal 
* in bed by 9pm and lights out by 10:30pm
* repeated the daily affirmations throughout the day
* noted my workouts and meals in my journal
* eats were pretty on.

eats:
Shortly after 2:30pm I started craving snack foods.  I didn't feel hungry, and I had a BIG and yummy lunch so the only other thing I could think of was that I had not consumed enough water.  I filled up my water bottle but still ended up having a snack (#4) just because the craving was pretty loud and glad that I didn't have any bad snackie foods, because I would have totally caved.  Then closer to 5 I another snack (#5).; mainly because I thought I was going to be working my 2nd job last night, but they canceled just after i poured the milk.  I also munched on more animal cookies  later in the evening; really need to stop eating them or better yet stop buying them and bringing them home.....they are just so yummy.
 
View Daily Eats

   cucumber & onion sprouts on oatmeal bread

Monday, August 8, 2011

move, play, create

workout
Week 1 Monday
Strong is Sexy Fitness Challenge  

Yesterday I a cute russell+hazel beige spiral notebook at Target and I'll be logging all my workouts and eats in for this challenge.  It's always exciting to start a new challenge, but the challenge really for me is sticking to it and staying focused for the entire 4 weeks.  This week is definitely going to add an additional challenge with everything I have going so I'm going to really need to stay focused  and motivated, oh yes and we can't forget getting up early, so I can be in great shape.

challenge goals
* know what motivates me
* finish reading & implement new habits from the book I'm reading
* review the workouts a week ahead & have a plan of action
* get sleep - lights out by 10pm
* increase arm and ab definition
* visualize myself toned and thin; NO MORE self-sabotage
* say the daily affirmations
* journal my workouts and meals

daily affirmation (actually Tuesdays)
I feel blessed to be able to move, play & create.

today's workout (actually Tuesdays)
I swapped Monday and Tuesday this week since Fit Foodies are meeting for our bi-weekly walk  tonight so I'll do the Booty Firm up video tomorrow morning. 
1.5 mile Walk w Fit Foodies
2 loops each on the blue trail
* 30 minute walk 
* 20 minute run

I stopped by Ollies yesterday and picked up Scale Down for $4.99.  I'd never heard of it before today, but was intrigued by the title and felt like I was supposed to buy it.   It's not a normal thing for me to buy a book since I typically get bored either half way or 3/4 into the book and don't finish.  I get bored  to quickly and end up giving up on the book, but last night when I started I was still reading over an hour and a half later.  I found this book to be very inspirational and emotional and I can't wait till I get home tonight to read more.

daily review:
* didn't get to reading my book. 
* Reviewed workout for tomorrow + added workouts for the week to my journal 
* in bed by 10pm and lights out by 10:30pm
* repeated the daily affirmations throughout the day
* noted my workouts and meals in my journal
* eats were pretty on.

eats:
View Daily Eats

Dinner/post-workout I had a chocolate protein shake and an apple.
I did also walk past some donuts in our administration office when I went to pick up the mail.  I almost grabbed one and am very proud that I didn't.  Around 9:30pm my belly was grumbling so I opened up a bag of animal crackers.  I ate two handfuls + a full glass of water.  Normally I would have eaten the entire contents of the bag, but I forced myself to put away the bag.  I still ate more then I should, but progress is still progress no matter how small.  The fact that I didn't eat the entire bag is a major step.  NO MORE self sabotage.  

GOAL: put animal crackers in snack bags so when I'm craving them I only eat a healthy amount versus mindlessly munching on an entire bag.

Sunday, August 7, 2011

running around town

This week has been pretty long and crazy once Tuesday night hit. I had dropped my phone and spent 4 hours at Best Buy trying to get a temporary phone until my replacement arrives. I'm not looking forward to being without my phone for over a week, especially since it's more than just my phone. It's my portal to so many things and life was far simpler when I didn't have a droid phone.

I was pretty much home late every night this week, except Thursday so I didn't have much time or energy to put anything away so my room was looking pretty disastrous. Though I did have a fun night out with the girls and even made it out hiking with one of my meet-up groups and made some new friends.

My 2nd job is now back up and running with extra hours and so I worked this weekend and have several days next week already on the calendar. This is going to be a huge help in saving for my future house.

I still feel like I'm flying on a cloud when I think about being approved to buy a house. This week it's become more of a realization after my Realtor sent me several listings to review. I'm getting a little closer to owning my own house.   Though I am trying to remember that their is far more responsibility in owning a house then renting and keep praying that I'm moving in the right direction. 

planned weekly eats
breakfast: bagel w pb + chia seeds + strawberries
snacks: cereal + soy milk
lunch:   Cucumber & Sprouted Sandwich w tomato soup

snack: Chia Pudding

dinner: Quinoa Summer Salad

workout
 I did not workout today, but will be posting a new routine Monday I'll be working on.

Saturday, July 30, 2011

weekend adventure

It seems like it was only a few hours ago that I rolled out of bed, but it’s almost 8:30 in the evening,  How did a day that started out so slow end so fast?

My alarm went off at 7:30 this morning, but I refused to get up and hit the alarm several times before finally rolling out of bed shortly after 8.  Once I had my morning coffee I was awake enough to begin my laundry.  It made things easier since all my laundry fit into one load.  After breakfast, English muffin with plain Greek yogurt, honey and sliced strawberries, I hung a few things on the cloths line and put the rest in the dryer. 

The plan was to be at my friend Andrew's by 9:15, which gave me enough time to stop by city island to make sure no one was waiting there to carpool for the hike, but it ended up being the time I left the house causing a bit of delay to the schedule.  I arrived at 10:35 and was greeted by one of his roommates who said neither Andrew nor Dave were there.  I called Andrew to find out where he was at, especially since I talked to them just two days ago and said I would be here at 10:30 to pick him and Dave up.  He vaguely remembered me saying that a few minutes later and apologized for not calling to tell me they had decided to go kayaking.  He did say they were thinking about going hiking tomorrow and if I as up for it I could join them.  It hurt knowing that he forgot and also because it meant he wasn't looking forward to hanging out with me as I was with him.   He's one of my only healthy lifestyle guys who actually enjoys doing things outside with me and it's been a month if not longer since our schedules have worked out for some hang time.

I decided even though I was going to be late to make a pit stop at city island.  I didn't want anyone there waiting and I was relieved to see non one so I followed the sign to hw22, but it felt like I was being led int the wrong direction, which then only frustrated me.  I finally arrived to the hiking location apologizing because I was 30 minutes late.   At least the girls were there and we ended up having a really great time.  Jen is a new member of my Fit Foodies Group and and Janean has been a regular since we started in May.  It’s nice to finally have some of the new members come to the events and seeing how the group is starting to bloom.  Jen was really cool and I’m glad I had an opportunity to get to know her today.  It was a very fun and challenging hike and we ended  up missing a few blue marker and found our way onto the white, and pink trails.  The bugs were out in high numbers today and it felt like they all had their eyes on us.   I even had a big spider land on my hand; yes I jumped and screamed like a girl trying to fling it off.  I'm sure it was a funny scene. 

We had several conversations of topic we discussed during our hiking adventure from Yoga, work and the group.  Jen talked about some ideas for group events and it made me smile to hear the same ideas that drew me to start the group.

After the hike I headed home and began packing for my house sitting adventure.  A friend is heading out of town for a few days and I’m watching her dog for her.  If you don’t count her eating my bagel out of my grocery bag the dog has been very well behaved.  I’ve already started settling in and even cooked tonight surprise-surprise, especially since I just haven’t been in the cooking mood.   I made 3 batches of Oatterific Banana Scramble,which I’ll have for breakfast on an English muffin with plain Greek yogurt and strawberries.  Yes, I actually put together a meal plan for the week and I’m pretty excited about it.  Hopefully, some time tomorrow I’ll make the Tenley Salad.

It’s now closer to 10 and I made sure to take the dog out one more time and came back to finish the post and now my eyes are telling me it’s time for bed.

What type of adventure did you guys have this weekend?  Did you try any fun or delicious recipes?

upcoming fit foodies events:
1) Panera Bread gathering.  I’ll be offering 3 dates, most likely the week of August 8th.  A Monday, Wednesday and Sunday to see what date is better for everyone so we can get together and discuss ideas and give suggestions for events and to see what people feel about the option below.

2) We are hoping to have an ongoing meet-up either weekly, bi-weekly or monthly depending on the availability and want for those who are interested.  The purpose as Jen put it would be like a Weight Watchers meeting without the public weighing.  A place where we can encourage each other on staying fit and healthy.  Hopefully, others will like the idea and we can host it at a different person's house each meet-up.  We would also bring ingredients for a meal that we will prepare and share that night.  I suggested using Toneitups.com Tenley Salad which also has a side of Asparagus.  There are enough equally priced items in the recipe that everyone could bring them and not be overwhelmed with the cost of the meal and its home cooked and qualifies as a love me recipe.

planned weekly eats
breakfast: Oatterific Banana Scramble w english muffin

snacks: chobani plain yogurt w granola + blueberries
lunch:  Tenley Salad w asparagus
snack: pita chips and mango salsa
dinner: can't remember, will add later

strong and sexy challenge
I also came across a 4-week workout challenge called Strong and Sexy by Casey Lorraine.  I'm going to look more into to it and maybe join for a week or two just for something new.  She has a mantra for you to say everyday of each week during the challenge and assigns a bodyrock workout or a rest day (or other workout) for you to complete for the day. 

Friday, July 29, 2011

ready, set, goal

It still seems unreal how things are unfolding in my life. It was only last week I was wondering if buying a house was even an option for me and now I'm super excited to say IT IS! Just Tuesday a friend recommended a real estate agent, who then referred me to a broker who worked his magic. I almost fell off my seat when he told me I was pre-qualified for a 100k.  I know it's not much, but it's all I need for what I'm looking for.  I'm not looking for a family home, just a 2 bedroom with all the modern features. and it's more then I thought I would qualify for.  I  don't much a year, especially working for a non-profit then tack on my student loans and credit card debt and I thought for sure I wouldn't be able to qualify for anything especially on my own. Luckily, I've been paying down my debt, which in turn has been creating a better credit report/score (now 666), which has definitely been a huge benefit. God knows your path even when you don't. I would never have qualified if I hadn't paid off as I did this last year.

The broker gave me 2 requirements before I can actually buy a home.
1) pay down all my credit cards to $0 and DO NOT close them.
2) have 3% in cash, whether by gift or savings


After paying a few bills and zeroing out 2 credit cards with my tax return I still had some left over, which I decided to use as a buffer, since my evening job wasn't producing any hours.  When we began searching for an apartment I knew it would come in handy for a security deposit.  Then when my mom and I started talking about buying she felt it would be best used for part of the down payment.  I had in mind what I wanted to do, but wanted to see what my broker felt would be the best way to use my savings.  He advised me to zero out my cards now that way while I'm saving for my down payment my credit report/score can be repairing itself.  He strongly advised me NOT TO CLOSE my cards, as it would hurt my score.  I took his advise and used the $800 I had left over to pay off  my larger and older cards and what I had left over I used to make a payment on my newer ones (see table below).  Once our hours begin up again in August I'll be  working extra hard to raise enough money in the next few months for my down payment and selling a few things to help add up the balance. 

I'm so proud of the progress I've made only in the span of 1 day and it's so beautiful to finally see my lasik balance zero'd out and eliminate the $40 a month I was paying the consolidation company that I can now put in my own pocket.   Here is my current progress and the pay down date I have scheduled.

cardbalancepayment new balancedate of payment
best buy$181.44$181.44 $0 08/01/11
bill me later$120.36 $60 $60.36 07/28/11
TJ Maxx$133.53$0 $133.53-
lasik $715.21$715.21 $0 08/02/11
totals$1150.54$956.65 $193.89

My TJ Maxx card I sadly just got.  I saw a patio set there that I sooo wanted and it would have been perfect for the apartment we were looking at off Trindle, but now that I'm looking at buying I'm most likely going to just return it.  Though depending on how many hours I can get I may just pay if off and keep it.  Still undecided on that one.  I'll try to post a pick soon so you can understand why.