MaretHouse Mama

Making a move...

2010-04-28T13:19:00.003-05:00

For all of those...12 people following...LOL...
I have stopped blogging on Marethouse Mama for a while now. I was having writer's block big time, when trying to think of things to blog about.
It is so crazy to think this time last year, I was a week away from winning the Marethouse Fitness Challenge. I have been able to keep 30 pounds off of the 42 that I lost year, and that is something that I have never done....kept weight off.
I owe Marethouse Fitness for teaching me and encouraging me and helping me learn that exercise is the ONLY way to stay healthy and lose weight. I thank God everyday that I was chosen for such an amazing journey.
However, I have decided to start blogging on my family blog for now...
it was time for a change and I have enjoyed writing about the ins and outs of the Farrell Family. I am definitely not finished with my weight loss journey, in fact I know it will be a life long task ahead...but I am ready for it thanks to Marethouse. I shudder to think of where my life would be this year, had I not been chosen.
Thank you Marethouse and thank you again to ALL of my awesome supporters!

If you have interest in following the Farrell Family...www.collegestationfarrells.blogspot.com

Sick of being SICK!

2010-02-17T11:00:00.002-06:00

I didn't make it on Monday to train with Paul. I was going to try my hardest to power through...but on my way home from work, I was feeling so bad and started to run fever...I figured it was best to cancel. Yesterday, I felt worse. Still coughing, fever, sore throat. It seems to be going around.

BUT...today I woke up feeling much better. I plan to meet Paul tonight at Aggieland and get back in gear! I am finally not sore any more, but I am sure Paul can change that, he is so good at that.

The fitness challenge contestants seem to be doing great! I have kept up with their blogs and enjoy reading about their journey.

Ready to Run

2010-02-15T13:22:00.004-06:00

I am ashamed to admit how sore I was from last week! But I am feeling much better today in that department...now I am just sick :(
I think I am battling a sinus infection, and I think the germ carrier was my son! I took him to the doctor on Friday, he was incredibly congested and had an ugly ear infection. He seems to be feeling MUCH better, and now I am not feeling so hot.
It is not going to hold me down though! I am headed to the gym after work to meet Paul for week 2. Last week, despite the soreness, it was not bad. I didn't throw up, and can definitely tell that my strength has improved throughout the past year.

...the is random, but I have been thinking about it a lot...I am not nor have I ever been a runner. But I wish I was. I am making a new goal for myself. I want to be able to run. My cardio has always consisted of high intensity elliptical training, stairs, short sprints, etc...I have always had it in my head that I "can't" run. Well...maybe I just haven't tried. After talking with my cousin this weekend, she suggested that I start on the treadmill running for a minute or two...then walking...then running...
I think I am going to try it! Why not, right?! We will see how it goes!!

Seriously SORE

2010-02-10T09:08:00.002-06:00

Oh man, I woke up this morning and could barely crawl out of bed!!! I am in some serious pain people! I knew I was going to be sore again, but I forgot exactly how bad it was going to be. Holy Moly.
I made it to the gym last night, finally...after 45 minutes of convincing Charlie....like I said he is a little scared of the gym for some reason. He hates being dropped off at the daycare. He is the same way at church too. He freaks out when we drop him off. I don't understand it because he does great at school everyday. The boy is like his mom and doesn't like change! After I bribed him, and pleaded, he FINALLY agreed to get in the car! When we got to the gym, I could tell he was nervous. He kept a tight grip on my leg as we walked in and then the lip started to drop! I walked in and tried to show him all of the sweet people, and fun toys, etc...but he wasn't having it! Thank goodness Jill (the manager at Aggieland) swooped him up and I snuck away. As I made my way upstairs it sounded like the screaming stopped. Good grief! After about 5 minutes I saw Jill walk out of the daycare and gave me the thumbs up and said he was happy. Wheeeew. He is such a mess.
I got in my good cardio workout on the elliptical, and hurried to save the sweet girls in the daycare. When I went to pick him up he was having fun! They have an ADORABLE "little" gym set up in the daycare, along with a lot of other fun toys. They have kiddie size bicycle, treadmill, weights, etc...It is so cute! Charlie said "Look Mommy, I am working out like you!" It seriously cracked me up.
We saw Paul on the way out and Charlie jumped in his arms and told him how he "worked out", he even showed him his muscles. That kid is so funny! But hopefully now he will like coming to the gym, and not cause a scene next time. I am not going to hold my breath!

I meet Paul this evening for my upper body workout. Great.

One day at a time

2010-02-09T09:57:00.003-06:00

Last night I started training again with Paul. I was nervous, but all in all it wasn't that bad! This week we are starting back with only 30 minute sessions and then next week I will move to one hour sessions again. We focused on lower body and started off the fun with leg press. FYI- I still don't enjoy it! We then moved on and I got reacquainted with the stairs. I remember my first experience a year ago with the stairs...not pretty. I could not run up the stairs, it took everything I had to walk up and down them as I grasped the rail because I was not only out of shape but had zero balance in my overweight body. While I still don't look incredibly graceful I am running up and down the stairs and not touching the rails. Don't get me wrong...still huffing and puffing when I finish! We continued on with wall squats and for the grand finale we went to the middle of the gym where I completed 3 sets of 24 lunges....and I didn't collapse! And my 30 minutes was complete!
My goal is to be in the gym everyday the contestants are. In order to pull this off I am going to have to take Charlie back to the gym. Let's just our last experience at the gym was less than enjoyable. He pooped on Dave, then cried the entire time I worked out...I am hoping that time has given him more courage. If not, I am in trouble!

Day 1 for the New Contestants!

2010-02-08T10:11:00.003-06:00

I couldn't help but think about the new contestants this weekend. They officially start their 12 weeks of training today! I think I am nervous for them! I just remember so vividly this day last year for me...
I was so nervous, and anxious I thought I was going to be sick! Haha! I had never really worked out before. I was scared of the gym, scared of personal trainers, nervous I would make a fool out of myself, nervous I would let my friends and family down, just all in all...very anxious about the challenge that was in front of me!!!
Wow was it all worth it. I am starting my training again with Paul this evening as well. I am determined to get down to my goal weight.Something I have wanted to do for about 5 years. I lost 4 pounds last week!
Today, this year, I am feeling confident, I am feeling motivated, and I am excited for my challenge ahead. Ok...I am still a little nervous about the wrath of Paul...but at least I know I will survive!!!
I wanted to reflect on this day last year just to explain how far I have come:

Last year on Feb. 9th 2009 I walked into Aggieland Fitness, weighing 220 pounds, depressed, ashamed, scared to death, for my first workout in the Marethouse Fitness Challenge. Paul was very nice (this was before he got comfortable enough to tell me I ran like a duck), he took my measurements, blood pressure, heart rate, etc...and then we headed out to the gym.
(this is from my blog on the first day of my fitness challenge last year:
Paul was very friendly, and kind, he didn't make me feel uncomfortable at all He explained we were going to warm-up on the treadmill and then we would be working on my legs today. Little did Paul know he had A LOT of work to do!!! I was already winded after my short warm up but trying to hide it from my new fit friend...he lead me over to the leg extensions. I did several sets with ease (or so Paul thought... :) ) he seemed impressed and that made me happy. He was very motivating and positive. On to our next exercise....on a roll, I felt confidence seeping through my veins. He lead me to the middle of the gym (surrounded by what felt like millions of people staring at me!) and he told me that we were going to attempt lunges, 12 down and 12 back. He demonstrated them for me and feeling like a fitness queen already with my new found confidence, I smiled and began lunging.....8 down...really hurting, but all the while smiling....Paul said lets turn around and do 8 back (I guess my smile wasn't fooling him, he could see me sweating and struggling!) I began my journey back, after my 2nd lunge I collapsed! That's right- fell to the floor, legs did not work, in front of the whole gym. I quickly tried to jump up, for one, because I was so embarrassed and for two, because out of the corner of my eye I could see the head trainer running towards me in a panic. Paul grabbed my arms to help me up.....BAM, collapsed again! I couldn't stand, I couldn't get my legs to work! I was mortified....all the while still smiling! I finally was able to get on my feet. Poor, sweet Paul was pale and assured me that I was still doing well. We continued to attempt a few more exercises and at the end of my first hour, I realized this was not going to be easy. In fact, it might be the hardest thing I have ever had to do.

Last year I collapsed on my 8th lunge...I was so out of shape and unhealthy I was exhausted after the warm up. I still have a long way to go, but it is so nice to reflect on how far I have come. Don't get me wrong, tomorrow I will probably be crying because of how much I hurt...but at least I know that I will not collapse...and I will survive...eventually!

Good Luck to all of the new 6 today! I am pulling for you, supporting you, and so proud that you are taking this first step to change your life!

Off to a great start (again)!

2010-02-05T09:09:00.002-06:00

I have accomplished my goals this week. I have drank all of my water, exercised everyday, and stayed under 2000 calories everyday....and I must say it feels so good to be back in a healthy routine. And it feels good to be proud of my self again.
I have done strictly cardio everyday this week, each day I have increased my time and intensity. I am pretty sore, but nothing compared to how I will feel next week when Paul gets back at me for slacking off these last few months! I start training with Paul on Monday. We will train twice a week and I will be doing cardio the other 3 days.
I have spoken with several of the new contestants about their approaching fitness challenge. They are very excited and anxious and terrified too! I am not going to lie, it is indeed a CHALLENGE. But I am thrilled to watch and support them through their journey. And they are motivating me too!
I am going to try to enjoy my weekend and I am going to try not to think about my impending doom(Paul) that awaits me on Monday! Just kidding Paul...(not really)

Day One...2010...

2010-02-01T16:32:00.002-06:00

I met all 6 of the new contestants for the Marethouse Fitness Challenge on Saturday and what a WONDERFUL group of people they have this year. They all have different stories and challenges and I am thrilled to death for them as they begin this awesome journey.
I am officially back on track as well. I have even started my food journal again. And I am going to the gym straight from work today! A little nervous, it has been a while...but I have to get back in a routine of regular exercising. It not only makes me feel better, look better, and function better....but I owe it to Marethouse and myself to continue this journey and lose my last 30-40 pounds.
I am so excited to see what this year brings! I am going to sign up for more training twice a week. I need the push!

My goal is to workout everyday the new contestants do...and to make as much progress as I did last year, or more.
Last year at this time I needed to lose 75 pounds, which seemed so far and unattainable. This year I need to lose 35 pounds....sounds much better!!!

A New Year, New Contestants, New Goals...

2010-01-29T11:31:00.003-06:00

OK, so it has been a while. But I have decided that since the 2nd annual Marethouse Fitness Challenge is right around the corner, that I would set new goals for myself too. Tomorrow I am attending the orientation for the new six, extremely lucky contestants of the next Fitness Challenge. I am going to help them create and manage their blogs during the challenge. I am very excited to help in any way I can. And I am also thrilled to meet, support, and watch their life changing journey begin.
Blogging definitely played an important role in my success. It is not only a wonderful outlet to document, vent, and journal your emotions...but it is also EXCELLENT for accountability too. Believe me, the contestants will be held accountable, especially this year, having to meet and train 5 days a week. But blogging their journey will give their family and friends and opportunity to learn firsthand what they are feeling, what they are going through, and just how hard this whole process is! My husband learned a lot...sometimes more than he wanted to know...from my blogs! My blog definitely took off and it became more popular than I ever thought it would be. If I skipped a day, I would catch grief from co-workers, family members, and friends!

I am also grateful to be involved in the new challenge, so that I can become accountable again too. I still have a ways to go to meet my goal weight, and I need the extra motivation too. I have decided to use this new challenge with the new contestants as a new goal for myself. Utilizing my membership that I won last year, and the knowledge that I have learned, I feel like my goals are very reachable! I received notice this morning that my high school reunion is JUNE 4th....holy crap.I have four more months...EXCELLENT MOTIVATION.

So the bottom line is: It is a new year, new contestants, and I have set new goals too. I look forward to meeting them and blogging this new journey with them.

Happy and Hurting!

2009-10-30T09:36:00.002-05:00

SO, I had my first workout in a while with Paul! And it feels.....PAINFUL! I was SO nervous when I walked back into the gym yesterday evening to train. I was literally shaking. I don't know why, just intimidated again. But once Paul and I got started, it was a happy, familiar feeling. I felt like I had accomplished something difficult. And Paul was very encouraging and made it doable. I was cussing his name this morning when I got out of bed though. I am SORE! Although it makes me feel like I worked hard.
I am so happy and appreciative to be back in the gym, even if it does hurt!

I will be taking new measurements on Tuesday, and also taking my blood pressure, to make sure that I am still running good numbers.

Marethouse Mama is BACK!

Finishing what I started...

2009-10-20T13:30:00.002-05:00

It has been a while, in fact it has been months. I am sure that by now I have lost my blog audience completely! But initially I started the blog for myself and to keep me on track and it spiraled into something I did not expect. The blog helped me journal my thoughts and feelings during this journey....and I am not finished! This time last year I was 40 pounds heavier....and I intend to lose the last 40-50 and reach my goal. The last couple of months I have struggled, like so many of us in real life...something happens to set us back and then we never pick ourselves up and end up right back in the position (weight) we started at...if not weighing more. I have seen this cycle before. I have traveled this road and I have decided I have worked too hard and come too far to let this pattern reoccur. If I write about it, admit to it out loud, it helps me feel accountable to get back on the wagon, keep going, and finish what I started.
A few months ago, as I have talked about previously, my boss lost his fight with cancer. It affected me more than I could ever imagine. Being at his bedside the last weeks of his life and watching him literally die...was something I have never faced in my life. He was one of the most caring, kind-hearted, and brilliant people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. And I do feel blessed to be one of the lucky ones that got to know and be touched by him. But after his passing, I sort of shut down...I slowly stopped working out as much...and slowly started to slip back into a disease I have fought most of my life, depression. Returning to work came with many more obstacles that ultimately lead me out of the gym. After not exercising for a few weeks, I found myself climbing deeper into my familiar past. Thankfully my husband stood by me, he supported me, and told me I needed to find a new job. He told me that I deserved to be happy again...
SO- after a long two months, I have accepted another position within the Health Science Center! And it is wonderful so far. I feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders, it is exactly what I needed. Now....next step: START EXERCISING AGAIN!
Ryan and I both decided to get back into our healthy routines, we both agreed that is when we were the happiest. I went to the gym last week for the first time in a while. And I was extremely nervous to get back on that dreaded scale. But to my surprise, I had not gained any weight. I had not lost any weight either. Thanks to the Fitness Challenge, I have not completely gone back to my old ways, and even though I have not been exercising regularly, I have been able to maintain healthy eating habits for the most part.
So, I am happy again, motivated to finish this journey...

More to come from Marethouse Mama!!!

My Progress and Michael Jackson

2009-07-29T08:24:00.003-05:00

I have been doing better, getting back into the routine of exercising at least 4-5 times/week. I was slacking for a while, only making it to the gym twice a week. It is so hard to get motivated again and back into the swing of things once you are out of your routine. But my journey is not over...and will never be...
Things I have really enjoyed this summer (compared to last summer):
- shopping for new clothes, smaller sizes!
- taking Charlie to the pool (wearing a swimsuit in public!)
- wearing sleeveless shirts
- attending events and ENJOYING them...not worrying about what I looked like the whole time
- seeing people I haven't seen in a while...and their reactions

I still have about 30 more pounds I would like to lose, but from where I started...that is a small feat! I go back to see my doctor next week and I am looking forward to seeing how much I have lost since my last appointment with him.

OK- on to more important news: Last weekend we welcomed a new addition to our family!
Introducing.....

Michael Jackson Farrell (MJ)

MJ has been a great addition to our family. He is incredibly sweet and very tolerant of Charlie. He has not hissed once! And as soon as you touch him, he is purring. Very sweet kitty. Charlie wakes up each morning asking for him, and goes to bed each night talking about him. I know the new will wear off soon, but he is really enjoying his new kitty!
His name: Those of you who know me, know that I have been ...well...a little obsessed with all of the Michael Jackson hoopla. I have watched every 20/20, Primetime, Dateline, 48 Hours, YOU NAME IT....I could write a book on Michael Jackson! When I saw our little kitty for the first time...he was black AND white...and it came to me instantly....MJ!

Rough Patch

2009-07-20T09:12:00.003-05:00

I don't even know where to begin! I know I have not posted in a month. My plan is to get back on track. The past month has been filled with all sorts of emotions. I lost my dear boss to his fight with cancer on July 1st. It has been harder than I ever imagined.
I have continued to work out as much as I could this past month, but I have not been consistent or on the pace that I need to be. Surprisingly, I have not gained weight...however I have not lost much either.
I have 12 sessions left with Paul and I need to make the most of it. I need to work as hard as I possibly can. Lately that has been difficult for me. I have had a hard time concentrating. There has been a lot going on, and its clear Paul has been disappointed in me. Our relationship has suffered due to my lack of effort lately. It has been weird because I have felt lots of anxiety everyday about working out. I guess all I can do is work hard and try my best. But with everything I went through this past month, the last thing I needed was to be given a hard time about my workout schedule, I was doing the best I possibly could. And to my defense, I think a lot of people might have just given up, gone back to old ways of NO exercise and bad eating habits...I think all things considered....I haven't done so bad. Don't get me wrong, Paul was very understanding through the hospitalization and death of my boss, I just don't think he realized how hard it has been for me to bounce back and get over it. I don't blame Paul for giving me a hard time, I know that he means well, and I guess I am just sensitive...especially lately. I don't handle criticism very well, I need positive motivation. Being given a hard time might motivate some people, but it makes me want to quit. And lately that is how I have felt.
With that being said I also need to say I know Paul has had a lot to deal with lately too...and my issues are the least of his worries! I just want to continue to make the Marethouse team proud and to continue on my journey to getting healthy.
I do owe all of my success to Paul, he has helped me achieve and reach goals I never thought possible. I would have NEVER made it to this point without him. And his friendship has meant the world to me. I don't want to let him down or disappoint him or myself. I thank God everyday for Marethouse Fitness. What a blessing!
Yesterday I sat down and decided I need to get out of this funk!!! I planned out my schedule for the week (meals, workouts, etc..). I went to the grocery store and loaded up on all my healthy food for the week. It actually feels like I am getting a grasp on things again. I am getting my life organized....and back on track!!!! I have a ways to go to reach my weight loss goals, and the key for me is to follow a routine. This past month I have been off my routine, and because of that I have felt every part of my life spinning out of control. It's not fair to Paul, David, my family...or ME. I want to continue to inspire others on their journey, I want to continue to make my family proud. And most of all I want to live up to my name...MARETHOUSE MAMA!!!
Thank you for all of your prayers and support through this difficult month.

A few HAPPY memories that I need to post:

Charlie's FIRST trip to the beach: he LOVED it!!!

July4th!!

Charlie and Daddy reading the newspaper together

Cousins trip to see New Kids on the Block for my birthday!

Ryan's 30th birthday!

Outside and Uncoordinated

2009-06-18T08:52:00.003-05:00

Yesterday...outside Wednesday...100 degrees (ok, 99)....I SURVIVED!!!

Paul was actually nice and only made me do three sets of exercises instead of the usual four sets we normally do outside. I was still dying...but there was a nice (warm) breeze the whole time, don't get me wrong, it was still very hot, but bearable! I think he was hot too. :)
He still made the usual positive comments about how uncoordinated I am, and how he has never seen anything like it before. He told me that he has never had anyone who CAN NOT do an exercise in a straight line...EVER. It is just my thing, I don't try to veer off...I just do!
It's ok, if Paul was not giving me a hard time, it just wouldn't be the same!

Dave told me yesterday that he is going to make a page on the website completely dedicated to MARETHOUSE MAMA!!! He is going to post info and pictures on my progress. That is nerve wracking and exciting at the same time. It definitely gives me motivation to reach my goals, people are watching!!!

Thank you so much for the continued support, this journey is not over and will never be. The positive comments and huge support system I have really keeps me going.

Soakin up the sun in Sargent!!!!

2009-06-16T09:59:00.007-05:00

Hawaii???.....nope Sargent Sunset!

This weekend was a blast! We have decided to make it an annual "cousins" event! My cousin, Amy, thinks that we should plan it somewhere a little less "outdoorsy"...with better accommodations next year, i.e. Vegas! Sargent's accommodations are a little rough!

In addition to all of the fun, and NO KIDS...the weekend took on a much deeper meaning to me. It was the first time since I can remember that I actually enjoyed myself, and felt comfortable. I wasn't worried constantly about how tight my clothes were, or worried about everyone talking behind my back at how much weight I had put on. It was actually quite the opposite!!!
I wore my new bathing suit (which was a little too big!) most of the weekend, and didn't feel uncomfortable...or like I was wearing a tent. ALL weekend I got compliments on how great I looked, and how hard I have worked, and it was the best feeling in the world. A couple of my cousins were even asking me advice on keeping the motivation, exercise, and eating...unbelievable. Never in a million years did I think anyone would ask me for exercise advice! Paul might agree that it is still too early for that! Ha! But, it was a wonderful feeling, and it only made me more motivated to keep going!

I have lost 41 pounds since January, I still have 35-40 more I want to lose. I can do it!!!

Pray for me today: It is outside day, and I don't know if anyone has checked the weather channel, but it is supposed to be TRIPLE digits. I am going to die!!! Probably a good thing I enjoyed myself this weekend, it might have been my last!

Below are a few pics from the weekend:

My brother, Chad, and me

Ryan and I at the fancy restaurant!

Cap'n Chad

My cousin Kelly and me on the boat

Trucking along...

2009-06-10T09:24:00.003-05:00

This week has been good so far! Paul and I had a great workout on Monday....no throwing up. So that was good news. I am working very hard on not throwing up ALL week, it will be a record. I am a little nervous though, because today is outside day...and its 96 degrees! I can do it. I hope I can do it.

I am very excited about this weekend. We are headed down to Sargent, TX for our 1st annual Cousins Weekend! If you know my family...it should be a good time! There will be around 15 of us going....with NO kids! The grandparents have all volunteered! I am looking forward to actually wearing a bathing suit this year, not a tent.
For those who are not familiar with Sargent---
It is a SMALL, Po-dunk town off Matagorda Bay with a population of about 500. Our family owns a bay house on Caney Creek, and we have made many great memories there growing up! Sargent is known for man-eating mosquitoes, gorgeous brown water, and most of the permanent residents don't own a bra. BUT...it is fun!!!
PICTURES TO FOLLOW!!!

Its been a while....

2009-06-04T13:33:00.005-05:00

I have to apologize for the lack of blogging. Work has seriously been super ridiculously crazy. AND...I am having trouble thinking of something creative to write about!
But I am getting complaints again from my loyal readers so here ya go: A re-cap of this week!!!
Monday Paul killed me in the gym, I seriously felt like I had never worked out before. It was ridiculous! I struggled through the entire workout...
Paul asked what the deal was? I don't know, maybe I was just tired. I'm not sure!
Tuesday I met Britta at the park at 5:30am for some cardio. It was good. It actually feels SO good in the mornings before the sun comes up.
Yesterday I stayed home from work with Charlie. He was sick, poor baby. We snuggled and cuddled, but by the end of the day I was actually looking forward to getting to the gym for my workout! There is only so much Dora, Diego, Wonder Pets you can take before you feel like you might need someone to talk you off the ledge...
Wednesdays as you know are outside days, which I was a little nervous about considering that it has been SOOOO hot here the last week or two. I was already sweating just getting out of my car which is not a good sign! But something miraculous happened at 5 o clock yesterday, the clouds covered the sun and there was a nice breeze the whole hour we were outside!!! God was looking out for me. I also had a workout partner join me yesterday, which was fun. Karen, the operations manager at the gym, and a very good friend of Paul's decided to join us. Let me just start by saying her entire body is about the size of ONE of my thighs...so I was a little hestitant about running next to her! As everyone knows...I run like a duck. But having her out there was very encouraging and helped me push myself harder so that I didnt look dumb. And by the end of the workout, Karen was gasping for air as much as I was, so that made me feel better too!
AND...Paul told Karen she runs like a gazelle! Random, but funny! And it was nice for him to pick on someone else for a change!!!

Below are few cute pics from the last week of Charlie!!!

Fun in the sprinkler

The house got quiet...I went looking for Charlie and this is what I found. He said...he was stuck!

Driving his big red car

Playing at the park

Feeding the ducks...

Charlie and Poppa hanging out

Charlie on the tractor at Poppa's house

This sweet little guy lives in our backyard, we see him all the time, and daily Charlie screams out the back door "Where are you baby bunny?"

CONGRATS KAT!

2009-05-29T08:21:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to my little sister, Katy!!!!
She made Senior Lieutenant Officer, for her dance team next year! This is a big honor and we are all very proud of her.

Positive Thoughts...

2009-05-28T10:12:00.002-05:00

I am feeling MUCH better today. I had a great workout with Paul yesterday afternoon and although, I did throw up outside, I felt like we had a productive workout. It was very hot and I think that might have had something to do with it.
I was able to get in another GREAT workout this morning (5:30am) at a park right by my house. I walked a mile, did sets of lunges, squats, high knee skips, and other fun exercises! It was a nice morning and it was a beautiful sunrise.

Positive thoughts:
- I have a great husband and happy, healthy little boy
- I have lost 38 pounds since Jan. 1
- I wore a skirt to my nieces dance recital on Saturday that I haven't fit into since my honeymoon
- I have an AWESOME trainer who will never know how grateful I am
- I have a wonderful support system (MOM!, Family, friends, etc..)

Looking forward to another great workout tomorrow morning and afternoon. I have started back on a great exercise routine this week. I have lost weight, and I feel more organized. I know I can reach my goals by the end of summer!!!

The Climb

2009-05-27T11:54:00.003-05:00

I am really, really not trying to be negative...I enjoy writing about positive things and staying upbeat....but I am not feeling super upbeat at the moment.
Yesterday Paul and I worked out, and I felt like we had a great workout, although I threw up at the end.....again. For some reason I am STILL throwing up usually about once a week after a hard gym workout. And I think it is not only frustrating me, its frustrating Paul too. He doesn't understand why I am STILL throwing up after 15 weeks of training. He thinks it's psychological, which is possible, I guess....but made me mad. I don't want to throw up, I don't enjoy it, in fact it I hate it. I just feel like I am letting him down. I need to be getting stronger, lasting longer, doing MORE....not throwing up. Ugh.
I'm just having an overall bad few days. Work has been crazy busy (hince the not blogging!) And I am feeling a bit down. I need to snap out of it. Ryan seems to have a lot going on, golfing, fishing, etc...and maybe I am just feeling over worked and jealous!
I know people are probably reading this and saying...waaawaaa, get over it! Sorry for being so negative and whiny. I promise I will be happier tomorrow :)

I heard this song on my way to work this morning and it made me cry...don't know why I am being so dumb today! But I think it is an awesome song, even if it is by Hannah Montana! (Confession: I did see the movie and loved it!)

"The Climb" (by Miley Cyrus)

I can almost see it
That dream I'm dreaming but
There's a voice inside my head sayin,
You'll never reach it,
Every step I'm taking,
Every move I make feels
Lost with no direction
My faith is shaking but I
Got to keep trying
Got to keep my head held high

There's always going to be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always going to be an uphill battle,
Sometimes I'm gonna have to lose,
Ain't about how fast I get there,
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb

The struggles I'm facing,
The chances I'm taking
Sometimes might knock me down but
No I'm not breaking
I may not know it
But these are the moments that
I'm going to remember most yeah
Just got to keep going
And I,
I got to be strong
Just keep pushing on, cause

There's always going to be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be an uphill battle,
Sometimes I'm gonna have to lose,
Ain't about how fast I get there,
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb

There's always going to be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be an uphill battle,
Sometimes I'm gonna have to lose,
Ain't about how fast I get there,
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb

Keep on moving
Keep climbing
Keep the faith baby
It's all about
It's all about
The climb
Keep the faith
Keep your faith

Jealous Competitor!

2009-05-27T11:35:00.004-05:00

After having training from MaretHouse Fitness, going to Aggieland Fitness Dome is the only place I want to work out. I actually have a membership at Gold's Gym too, I have just never used it...thats what fat people do, they get memberships with good intentions, but don't use them! Ryan goes to Gold's Gym, only because he gets a super cheap rate through his job. So anyway, Ryan walks into Gold's one evening last week wearing a MaretHouse t-shirt(one of mine...yes I used to wear an XL 4 months ago!) and a trainer came up to him and said "That is like wearing a Longhorn t-shirt". Ryan looked down and smiled and said "He trains my wife, and I pay my dues like everyone else here, so I can wear what I want". The trainer rolled his eyes and walked away!

Nice, huh????

Happy Friday!

2009-05-22T08:36:00.002-05:00

I'm back in business!
The workouts have been tough this week. Here is a quick re-cap:
Tuesday - HORRIBLE!!! I finished by running (like a duck) to the locker room and throwing up more than I have ever thrown up before. It was bad.
Wednesday - Better...outside day, I worked hard and got in a great workout. We finished up by going inside and doing abs. Paul was in rare form...making lots of motivational comments.
Thursday - I was VERY sore from tues,wed workouts. I was able to get in cardio.
Friday - cardio in the morning and I look forward to a nice, hard workout this afternoon with Paul.

I have tried to get myself organized and back in the "serious" working out mode. I would really like to reach my weight loss goals by the end of the summer. Which I think is doable if I work hard.

I am looking forward to a nice three-day weekend!!!

Blog UNDER CONSTRUCTION

2009-05-20T10:54:00.002-05:00

Sorry, I tried to get fancy and download a new design background for my blog....didn't turn out so well. So I tried to go back to my original template...and it erased all of my side pics and font colors and font sizes, etc... :(
I could cry, but I know...its only a blog...and it will be okay! It might take me a few days to get up and running again! NO MORE FANCY BLOG DESIGNS FOR ME!!!!!!!

Fun Weekend....getting back on track!!!

2009-05-18T08:52:00.002-05:00

This weekend I decided to throw caution to the wind and eat like a cow and drink like a fish....both, not brilliant on my part. My body is not happy with me at the moment.
I have 40 more pounds to lose...and in Paul's words, I have been mickeymousing around for 2 weeks and I have to get serious again! I have been training hard and eating right, don't get me wrong, I have just slacked off a little since the real "competition" ended. I have only been working out 4-5 times a week...compared to 8-10 times! And as for my diet...I BLEW it this weekend. Although in my defense, it's Paul's fault! Haha! It was his graduation that sent me to alcohol and fried food!!! I know, I know...not his fault...but he did have something to do with it!
What I have to do now is not to dwell on my mistakes...and focus on today. I am determined to be back in gear and in the frame of mind to keep going on this journey.
I am ready.
I work out with Paul today at 5:30...it is going to be tough...but mandatory. The good thing about Paul is he will give it to me straight. He doesn't sugar coat anything or let me off the hook when I start slacking. I just thank God that I won the fitness challenge and still have him around to train me for three more months because I need it! I need the tough love! He and Ryan are good for me.

My goals for this week:
- workout a minimum of 6 times...M,W,F (5:30pm with Paul) and T,W,TH,F (5:00am cardio) and possibly a kickboxing class on Sunday.
- DRINK MORE WATER (I have been slacking big time in this area!)
- Start keeping my food journal again (it really helps and keeps me accountable)

I feel that in the last 2 weeks I have eased out of my strict routine as far as knowing EXACTLY when and what time I am eating/working out/etc..
I think if I get back on my schedule, and feel a bit more organized, it will help. I did step on the scale this morning and I miraculously have not gained any weight. However I did not lose any weight this week either. I am still doing well, my expectations and standards for myself are on a different level than they were 4 months ago! Its a good thing!!! If you don't have high expectations for yourself or set high standards, you will never reach your goals!

More Motivational Moments...

2009-05-12T10:07:00.003-05:00

"That is the sorriest excuse for squat jumps I have ever seen"

"You have to grab the weights first, to do the exercise Ashley"

Mother's Day FUN!

2009-05-11T15:04:00.002-05:00

Mother's Day was nice and relaxing. I slept in until 9 o clock (when you have a two year old...that feels like NOON!) Charlie woke me up by jumping on me and shouting HAPPY MUDAS DAY!!! Good thing he is so cute, or I might of had to knock him out! After I got up, Ryan took Charlie to deliver a Mothers Day card to his grandmother and I was able to enjoy a shower by myself...without trying to get Charlie out of the bathroom cabinets, or keeping him away from my straightener, or out of my drawers, etc...I was HEAVEN!
My mom, dad, and sister came over. We left the boys watching the game....and us girls enjoyed Pei Wei and pedicures, it was great!

Pedis with my Favs....Katy and Mom!

Katy and I got matching pedis! My feet are the tan ones!

Relay for Life

2009-05-11T14:16:00.006-05:00

My workout on Friday ended with me throwing up in the locker room at 6:30pm and I had to be at Relay for Life at 7:00pm!
I signed up to be a part of Relay for Life a few months ago. An email circulated around and I skimmed through it and assumed I was signing up for fun run/walk on a Saturday in May. Well, that was not the case. After our first team meeting a month ago I learned that Relay for Life is an ALL night event, that's right people....ALL NIGHT. 7pm-7am!!!!
I was exhausted coming straight from my workout with Paul on a Friday afternoon after a long work week, but it was an awesome event and I am so glad that I was able to a part of it.
Relay For Life is the American Cancer Society’s signature activity. It offers everyone in a community an opportunity to participate in the fight against cancer. Teams of people camp out at a local high school stadium and take turns walking or running around the track. Each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event. 7am-7pm! Relay For Life is a life-changing event that brings together more than 3.5 million people to:

• Celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer. The strength of survivors inspires others to continue to fight.
• Remember loved ones lost to the disease. At Relay, people who have walked alongside people battling cancer can grieve and find healing.
• Fight Back. We Relay because we have been touched by cancer and desperately want to put an end to the disease.

Relay For Life is more than just a fundraiser. It’s a life-changing experience. At Relay, every person in the community has a chance to celebrate, remember, and fight back. And every person who participates joins others around the globe as part of this worldwide movement to end cancer.

I was fortunate enough to be joined by my boss, Dr. Donnelly, who has been battling esophageal cancer for over a year and a half. When he was diagnosed, he was given a 2% chance to live a year. Now, a year and a half later, he continues to fight. I was also joined by my another close friend and co-worker who lost her father last month to cancer. It was an emotional evening, filled with tears and laughter.

I did not last all night, but I walked for hours! It was an incredible event and I plan to participate annually. Below are a few pictures:

Dr. D sporting his Relay for Life Survivor shirt.

The bag we donated in Dr. D's name, honoring him in the Luminaria Ceremony. Hundreds of bags were lit to the sound of bag pipes playing, Amazing Grace.

We had bracelets made for our department and other faculty to wear that read, "Team Donnelly" That is Dr. Donnelly's hand on top.

Friday

2009-05-11T13:33:00.002-05:00

Friday workout with Paul was ROUGH. Unfortunately it ended with me sprinting to the locker room....Thanks Bo for cursing me!

Week 13!

2009-05-06T14:27:00.003-05:00

Paul and I had a great workout on Monday....just like nothings changed! Except now I think he is even harder on me! Which is a good thing. I have a ways to go to meet my goals and I am so incredibly excited and grateful I have Paul with me for three more months.
I know I have said this a million times but the outpouring of support has just been overwhelming. In 12 weeks I have become a completely different person. I can not describe the feeling of being healthy, the feeling of self worth and accomplishment, the excitement for the future. I had reached a point in my life that I no longer cared about myself. My life felt it really had no purpose other than Charlie. It wasn't fair to my husband, Charlie, other friends and family, and mostly myself. I had reached the point that I did not even want to be seen in public, for fear I might run into someone from my past who would gawk at the fatty I had become. There are no words that can describe the happiness that has entered my life again, the feeling that I can reach any goal I put my mind to. I never thought I would EVER be physically active and I WON THE MARETHOUSE FITNESS CHALLENGE!!!!
I am still floating on Cloud 9....

OK---I am done, sorry for the tangent! My journey is not over, it has only just begun. (OK, now I sound like a self help book, I apologize again!) But its true, this is something I will need to do for the rest of my life to stay healthy and happy. I have embraced that.

If it is OK with everyone, I don't want to stop blogging. It has been so therapeutic and helpful for me! I have come te rely on my loyal blog readers for advice and positive reinforcement!

Motivational Moments from Paul on Monday.....
- "You didn't win this thing by sitting on your butt...."

- "Ashley, how does that weight feel...(Ashley)Good....Good, because the weight doesn't get much lower"

May 2, 2009

2009-05-04T13:56:00.010-05:00

I am THRILLED to announce that I won the MaretHouse Fitness Challenge!!!!!

Poor Paul is stuck with me for another 3 months. And I received a free YEAR membership at Aggieland Fitness Dome! I am beyond excited! My dearest competitor and workout partner, Sterling Allen, was awarded 1st place for total weight loss and body comp improvement. Congratulations are in order for him too! Words can not even express how appreciative and grateful I am to Paul and David. They have saved my life.
The support I received absolutely blew me away. Here are a few pictures of graduation and some of the awesome gifts I was given...

Sweet card from my Mom...

WillowTree Angels from my Mom and Charlie

Lean Cuisine Dish Holder from my Mom!!! Is that not the cutest thing?!

Beautiful flowers from Britta along with a massage gift certificate!

Adorable flower plant with ducky (Paul always says/calls me "runs like a duck")
from Paul's Mom, Glenda!

Card from Ken and Nan along with spa gift card!

I also received support from many other people including my aunts, cousins, friends, and other family. It was amazing. I definitetly had the best support group. And I could not have won this challenge without all of the support.

Here are a few pictures from Graduation:

My awesome family (Granny...Father n Law, Ken...sis n law, Stacey...husband, Ryan...brother n law, Paul...stepmom n law, Nan!)

My adorable niece and nephew, Nathan and Natalie

Getting my diploma (Charlie wouldn't leave my side, when family tried to take him he would scream, so he sat in my lap and went up on stage with me!)

Sterling and David

Paul giving his awesome speech!

Paul, me, and Ryan

Group Shot!

Sterling and I showing off our guns (Friday before graduation!)

Positive Thoughts and LOTS of Prayer

2009-05-01T08:15:00.003-05:00

Ok, today is it. I have made it. Survived. Come farther than I ever dreamed I could in 12 weeks. I have been so blessed by all of the support, I can't even begin to figure out how I will repay everyone.
My progress since January....
- I have lost 34.2 pounds
- My blood pressure is PERFECT
- My cholesterol is lower than it has ever been, and I will not have to be put on medication
- My Body Fat % has decreased almost 10%
- I am healthy enough for fertility treatments
- Pap (female issues) went from abnormal in December, back to normal this month
- I went from not being able to walk up ONE flight of stairs, to running FIVE flights at a time (between exercises)
- I have gone down 4 pant sizes and 3 shirt sizes
- I have energy to play with my son
- My resting heart rate has improved from 100 to 63
- I have developed new friendships that will last a life time
- My self worth has improved tremendously

I could go on and on...
I can not even express my gratitude to MaretHouse Fitness, David, and especially Paul for saving my life. I have not only gained knowledge on physically how to become healthy, strong, and reach my fitness goals...I have completely learned to change my lifestyle and I have stuck with it. This is not a fad diet, or extreme measure to make a quick fix...this has been a COMPLETE lifestyle change for me. I am a different person entirely than I was 12 weeks ago. I will be forever grateful that I was chosen for this challenge.

Ok, now that tears are running down my cheeks as I type....I just want to ask again for PRAYERS. I will receive 3 more months of training and a year membership if I can pull off a win. Can you imagine where I could be in 3 months, or a year....it gives me chills just thinking about it. I have some very tough competitors, I hope what I have done is enough.

The winner will be announced tomorrow morning at the graduation ceremony.
A&M Methodist Church (located on Northgate)
The Great Hall
10 am

***At the beginning of this challenge, my husband took a "before" picture of me after my first workout. That night I stared at that picture and cried. I told him there was no way that I would ever show anyone this picture.
The next picture is me....this morning....

Red Eyes

2009-04-29T09:34:00.003-05:00

I woke up this morning with an eye infection :( it is pretty ugly. But did that stop me from going to the gym at 5am? NO WAY! I threw on my specks and headed out for cardio. I got some ugly looks, I guess I looked a little rougher than usual!
I am wearing no eye make up today and my glasses. I was hoping it would clear up on its own, but it seems to be getting worse. I guess I will bite the bullet and call the eye doctor.
If you know me well, you know that I do get frequent eye infections, at least two or three a year. And usually they are my fault, I am not the best at taking care of my contacts as I should. And let me just say, wearing glasses to work out is a fun experience. There is sweating and wiping, and it just doesn't work. But with out them, I'm blind so I don't have much of a choice. Regardless, I seem to have an eye infection at the best times....usually when I have something big planned, or somewhere important to go! I hate wearing my glasses and red eyes are not attractive! Maybe one day I will learn my lesson or go blind...one of the two.

Pray for my infection to go away quickly! Pray, Pray, Pray for me to continue to push as hard as I have been and finish.....FIRST!

***David mentioned me on the radio this morning! He told listeners about my cholesterol success! It was motivating and exciting to hear on my way to work. ***

4 days to go...

2009-04-28T13:38:00.002-05:00

Paul made me throw up again yesterday....three times. Of course, it was Monday and I always throw up on Mondays for some strange reason! But the good news is, I made it through the entire work out before sprinting to the locker room! He claims he doesn't "try" to make me sick.....but seriously, the lunge nazi would make anyone sick!?

I was at the gym for the second morning in a row and plan to be there tomorrow morning too! I need the prayers to continue flowing....I only have 4 more days to push as hard as I can. It's CRUNCH TIME!

The graduation ceremony is on Saturday at 10am. It will be located at A&M Methodist Church in the Great Hall. Feel free to get a group together and paint the letters of my name on your chest, make posters, t-shirts, etc....JUST KIDDING! I am excited about it. I still can not believe that 12 weeks has gone by. Think about the benefit of another 12 weeks with a personal trainer?!

Sterling had a very good prayer on his blog today:
"Almighty in heaven, thank you for the joy of living. Thank you for the people in my life who drive me to success and happiness. Keep me moving toward my goal and know that I do it all to restore your creation. In Jesus name...Amen."

Unbelievable Changes

2009-04-27T09:11:00.002-05:00

First of all, thanks for all of the positive feedback from my last post! I really thought...my mom and a couple of others kept up with my blog! I really was shocked at the response I got. And had I known, I probably wouldn't have shared quite as much with everyone as I did! Oh well! Ha!Ha!

Well ONE WEEK LEFT!!!!!
My measurements went pretty well Friday, I am down two more pounds and that it always a good thing! My resting heart rate was 63, which is fantastic (12 weeks ago it was averaging 100). My blood pressure was good too. I am hoping to finish strong this week!

I just received a phone call from my doctors office. My blood work results were in from last week. The nurse seemed excited, she said she was blown away by the improvement. My cholesterol in January (3 months ago) was 231. My LDL was at a high risk level of 166, my triglycerides were 112. Three different doctors told me that I had to be put on medication, that diet and exercise alone would not bring it down. My doctor said that he would give me six months to lower it on my own, and then we would have to start the medication. After three months, my blood work results last week showed that my cholesterol is down to 184!!! And my triglycerides are down to 59!!!!!!!!!
Is that not unbelievable????
That is the lowest my cholesterol has EVER been. YIPPEE!

Worst Workout EVER!

2009-04-23T15:19:00.003-05:00

OK....so I have contemplated blogging about this experience. But I figured, maybe one day in the far distant future I will be able to look back on yesterday and laugh. I am not ready yet....but I think I owe it to my loyal blog readers to have a good chuckle at my expense. SO if you are having a bad day, sit back and relax ---this is sure to make you smile.
Let me start by going off on a tangent (which my husband will tell you I am GREAT at), and explain my major issues with wearing shorts. I NEVER wear shorts, I dream of wearing shorts in the future, but it is one of my issues. I have fat knees (which is another issue and tangent all together) not to mention cellulite, fat thighs, calves, bottom line...ugly legs. And I am a freak and am terrified of wearing shorts. If you know me, this is no revelation.
Having said that...yesterday was wednesday and Paul and I train outside on wednesdays and it was VERY hot yesterday. SO, I decided after stressing and thinking and much deliberation that I would face my fear and bite the bullet and wear shorts...traumatizing. I mean, after all it was just Paul and I outside, the whole gym wouldn't be looking at me...I was going to do it, and I would surely live through the experience. I have been tanning so you know what they say "tan fat is better than white fat". Right? OK, I did it, I showed up for my work out in shorts. Paul was very nice and said that he could tell that I have lost a lot of weight. So I began to relax and we went outside to train. Well, of course....my luck, David (Marethouse) decides to video everyone yesterday and follows Paul and I outside to VIDEO tape me....in SHORTS. Ok, I took deep breaths and tried not to freak out. THEN Paul decides to start off with sprints and Squat JUMPS. For those of you who are loyal readers, you know I CAN'T JUMP! So, let's review...video of me in SHORTS doing JUMPS. OK....so I thought it couldn't get any worse than that, right? WRONG. David leaves after catching the flattering footage of me trying to jump in shorts and says that he will be back in a few minutes to get some more footage. Great. I proceed with my workout. I am mid sprint or lunge or something and I feel my stomach completely cramp up. (***STOP READING OR CLOSE YOUR EYES IF YOU ARE A MALE AND READING THIS***) So, yes...my monthly female friend decided to hit me like a ton of bricks in the middle of my workout. Of course, I didn't say anything to Paul, because I didn't want to gross him out or freak him out or all of the above. So I sucked it up and tried to finish the workout. So let's review again...video of me in shorts, jumping, and starting my period. Can't get ANY worse, right? WRONG. At this point, Paul is asking me, what's wrong? I think he could tell I was hurting (sucking at my workout). I said nothing, I am just tired. So we pushed on. That is when the boot camp came outside to warm-up right beside us. Let me rephrase that, that is when the skinny blondes in tank tops came outside with their trainers to warm up next to us. Awesome! And who else decides to come back out for round 2? DAVID. With the video camera in hand. I am breathing deep (gasping for air) and tired, and hurting, and wearing shorts, with and audience of skinny blondes in tank tops. Paul explains the next drill to me which includes, lunges, sprints, side strattle steps....so I begin. I am hustling trying to get through as fast as I can as well as impress my large audience. This is when I ATE IT!!! Thats right ladies and gentleman...I fell, HARD....I think the ground shook. On camera, in front of the skinny blondes in tank tops, wearing my shorts. Paul quickly helped me up, laughing, and said....its okay Ashley. He knew I was humiliated. I fake laughed it off...finished up my workout, went home and took some midol and went to bed. Worst Workout EVER.

Motivating Moments during the worst workout ever (by Paul):

"It's not a squat jump when you don't squat before you jump...."

"We are not going to get any work done laying on the ground...." (this was after the big FALL)

The good news is, I made it to the gym this morning at 5am by the grace of God. And I plan to pick Charlie up and walk to the park and run around this afternoon for more cardio. I will have the 2nd to last "weigh in" in the morning.....please say lots of prayers. And I hope that I can black yesterday out forever!

Midweek Motivation

2009-04-22T09:36:00.004-05:00

Last night I put in a HARD two hour cardio workout at the gym. I don't know if I have ever sweat that much in my life. I pushed myself. And it felt good.....until this morning when I rolled out of bed, super sore!
I went to the hospital before work and had my blood drawn, I am hoping for good results. I am hoping that I have made a significant improvement in my cholesterol.
I have training with Paul at 5 and it is our day to go outside....not a good day for me to be sore! I know he will push me hard. I am actually looking forward to it.
I have been so anxious and nervous nearing the end of this competition. I am trying to do everything I can to make every day count. This has been a rough road, but SO worth it. And I know it is only the beginning. I am not finished. I have a lot more work to do once this competition is over. I never thought it possible that I could be so unhealthy and over weight at my age. But I also never thought it possible that I could be a Mom, work full time, and be able to exercise regularly. This competition has taught me so much not only about eating right and exercise (because I have never exercised in my life), but it has taught me so much about my self. I have learned that I can do anything if I put my mind and heart into it and if I want it bad enough....and I do! It's been a wonderful, eye-opening experience.....and its only the beginning.

"Winning isn't everything....but wanting to win is."
-Vince Lombardi

This next quote reminded me of something my Dad would say...(he was a highschool baseball and football coach)

"Don't bunt. Aim out of the ballpark"
-David Ogilivy

Countdown to the end...

2009-04-21T14:42:00.004-05:00

Paul made me throw up yesterday. Not just throw up, I ran to the locker room and threw up about 3 times...not pretty. The workout was ROUGH,but good! He keeps telling me, that its not playtime anymore; the funny thing is that I never thought we were playing!!!
I had an appointment to see Dr. Gayle this morning at 11. Good news! I have lost 17 lbs since I saw him last, six weeks ago. I have lost 31 pounds since my appointment in December. My blood pressure was 160/100 in December and my blood pressure today was 128/76. Unbelievable, huh?

I am going in tomorrow, before work to have blood drawn to check my cholesterol levels. I was tested in January and it was dangerously high. My doctor is giving me 6 months to lower it, or I will have to start cholesterol meds. I am hoping I can lower it with diet and exercise. I don't want to start cholesterol meds, especially at my age.

I am working as hard as I can, I am killing myself in the gym, my eating habits have been awesome, and I am drinking so much water I might drown! Any advice or suggestions for the last two weeks would be greatly appreciated....I WANT TO WIN!!!!

I came across this quote today and it grabbed my attention, this is something I need to remember:

"You have to get up every morning with determination
if you are going to go to bed with satisfaction."

Just another Manic Monday....

2009-04-20T08:52:00.003-05:00

This weekend flew by too fast!!! On Saturday morning we celebrated our 2nd annual RE-EASTER with our good friends, the Stanton's! Last year we began this awesome tradition and it was such a huge success we decided to make it an annual celebration. The definition of RE-EASTER: an Easter RE-do. Last year our kids were at such a precious, precious age....and Easter came and went and we were disappointed that our kids missed out on all of the traditions. So Heather and I decided that we would have an Easter Re-do (hince...RE-EASTER). We dressed Charlie and Katie up in the Easter outfits and colored eggs, had bunny pancakes, hunted eggs, etc...and it was AWESOME. So awesome in fact, that we did it again this year! And this year Charlie (2), Katie (2), Baby Jack (9months) and Chelci (13)...all had matching outfits! Yippee!!!! P.S. Charlie and Katie are boyfriend/girlfriend and have been since they have been born --- it's adorable. :)

Ryan and I went to Academy Saturday evening and bought a medicine ball that we could both benefit from and use together for ab workouts. We also bought some resistant bands that I can use at home and take to the gym too.
Yeasterday Ryan and I had a productive day...we worked hard! We cleaned out drawers, closets, dusted, cleaned bathrooms, finished every piece of laundry we own, vaccumed, Ryan mowed/weedeated the yard.....AND I went to the gym yeasterday evening and had a good cardio and ab workout. I figure one day, my abs will show them selves again!!! I know they are under there somewhere!
This is the beginning of the last two weeks of the competition. I am SO anxious. I did not make it to the gym this morning (had a very rough nights sleep for some reason...exhausted from yesterday, I guess) but I meet Paul this afternoon for our training session and if the workout is anything like it was on Friday, it will kill me! Friday's training session with Paul was by far the hardest workout I have had in the gym, but I felt so good afterwards. I will attempt to put in a little cardio this evening after our session to make up for missing this morning. I will also make sure I get my tail there tomorrow morning, thursday morning, and friday morning at 5am!!! It's crunch time......no excuses.....no playing around....if I want a chance at winning this I have to stay focused.

Any supportive advice or helpful hints would be appreciated. Once again, thank you to everyone who has been by my side through this awesome journey.

Reaching Goals

2009-04-17T15:29:00.002-05:00

This morning I got to the gym at 5:30am...I guess I was still a little sleepy because I walked in and Dani (the sweet girl who works there) said: "Uhmmm Ashley, I think your shirts on backwards and your shoes are untied!" And sure enough, she was right! I was a mess!!! I laughed and headed into the locker room to weigh in and get myself together!
I was SO excited to see that I have lost another 2 pounds this week which pushed me over a milestone that has been haunting me for almost 3 years. I am under 200 pounds again and I am vowing to NEVER be above that AGAIN!!! Even when I am 9 months pregnant....I do not want to ever be over 200 pounds again. As excited as I was, I tried to hold it together so that my blood pressure would be good! I met Paul in the office and told him the good news. I think he was extremely pleased. He knew that was a very important milestone for me too. He was all smiles and for Paul...that is excitement! My blood pressure and pulse were AWESOME...lowest reading yet! Wahoo! My body fat percent is down too. All in all, great results. I just need to keep it up these last two weeks and finish as strong as I can.
Thank you SO much to everyone that supports me. I don't say nearly enough that I could not be as successful as I am without everyone's support. It is truly been awesome. :)

I will meet Paul again at 5:30 this evening for Round 2. Yippee!

Radio Debut

2009-04-15T08:46:00.003-05:00

Last night I made it to the gym and did a great cardio workout while watching the "biggest loser". Its a very motivating show to watch while you are working out. It really makes me push hard when I see how hard the contestants are pushing on the show! I was pumped, my girl Kristen, did not get sent home. I think she has a sweet heart and deserves to change her life!
This morning I met Sterling at the radio station at 7:10....ok 7:14! We had a segment on the air with the Morning Candy Show, Frito and Alli (the best morning show in College Station!). I was nervous! I'm not the public speaker type...Sterling is! But it went great, and Alli even said that she thinks I might be the "dark horse" in the competition!!! Did I mention that I love her??!! Sterling and I both discussed our progress and talked about the challenge. He has lost 45lbs! It was a motivating start to the day.
I will meet my long lost trainer Paul this afternoon, 4 days away....I am missing him! I'm sure he has welcomed the much needed break from me! Sorry Paul, breaks over....back to your high maintenence, needy, runs like a duck, incredibly graceful and coordinated, FAVORITE client....ASHLEY. :)

Happy Easter!

2009-04-14T10:16:00.004-05:00

Easter was great! Charlie was just at the best age this year. He LOVED every second of it...except for the new shoes and dressy outfit....I guess because it wasn't his cowboy hat and boots.
We went to Ryan's Dad's house in Pearland and had a very fun day! After lunch we took a walk...which was nice. After the long drive home, Ryan, Charlie and I went for another walk to the park for a little more exercise! I ran half way home and even put Charlie(30lbs) on my shoulders and did squats! He thought it was fun going up and down! I tried to do lunges with him on my shoulders but after I almost dropped him, I figured I should probably put him down. I finished my lunges without him!
Monday I made it to the gym at 5:30am for a good 30 minute high intensity cardio on the elliptical. I had an extremely busy day at work (didnt even break for lunch) and went straight to the gym for my 5pm workout. Paul had my workout written out for me. (He was out of town for his grandmother's funeral) I was a little nervous at first, but it was fine! I worked really hard, and was soaked with sweat when I finished. I missed Paul, but I made it!

I will be back at the gym tonight for a good cardio/ab workout. :)

Egg Hunt

Posing on the swing!

Playing Wii with Daddy

GOOD Friday

2009-04-11T12:45:00.003-05:00

I met Paul bright and early at the gym yesterday for measurements and cardio. I was SO pleased to see that my blood pressure was PERFECT! And....so was my resting heart rate!!! Which we have had trouble with both of those the past 9 weeks. My resting heart rate has been 90-100....and yesterday is was 71! Paul was pumped. My body fat % has also drastically decreased. I have lost another pound as well. All in all, good results. It gave me a new burst of motivation to finish these last few weeks strong, and hurdle my competition for the WIN!!! At this point I have accomplished more than I ever thought I could and anything is possible. With the help of my husband, trainer, and the supportive family and friends...these last 9 weeks have changed my world compeltely-for the better. When I started I didnt even think I could finish, now I am in the running to win the whole challenge!
9 weeks ago when this competition began I worried that I would not be able to compare to the others, I worried that all of my hang ups I have had in the past would yet again be an excuse for me. My goal was to stick with it, not give up....and that is what I have done. I am a mom, wife and I work full time... I have always thought that I never had time to work out...nor did I really want to! I made my mind up at the beginning of this challenge that I was going to devote myself and work hard. And to my surprise I have made a complete lifestyle change. My eating habits are great, and I am in the gym EVERYDAY, even if I can only get there 30 minutes...I make what time I have count. It has paid off. I am at the end of this challenge and for the first time, I am not terrified. I feel I can keep these new habits and lifestyle and continue to improve on my own. I am excited to see what the future holds.

Back to yesterday....sorry I get off subject quickly! (ask my husband...)
I took my niece, Natalie to see the Hannah Montanah Movie! It was awesome!!! We loved it. As soon as the movie ended I rushed home, changed and headed back to the gym for round 2. Paul and I went outside and took advantage of the nice weather. He worked me HARD...skips, hops, lunges, push ups, squats, resistant bands back and chest exercises, sprints, etc...
The good news is he says I am not running so much like a duck anymore. I guess that was a compliment! He will be gone until Tuesday which means that I will be doing my workout on my own Monday. 6 weeks ago, that would have terrified me...but I think I can do it. He wrote everything out for me and we went over each exercise, and I think I will be just fine.

I plan to work out this afternoon, and again tomorrow. I am in it to win it! I am going to bust it these last few weeks. I am the "dark horse"(american idol lingo) in this competition....watch out Sterling and Eaphrame....

News Update

2009-04-09T16:02:00.003-05:00

FUNNY NEWS:
I had a great work out with Paul Wednesday afternoon...he made fun of me as much as possible and I called him the lunge Nazi.

SERIOUS NEWS:
Paul's grandmother passed away at 3:45am this morning. Glenda was by her side. Please continue to pray for Paul and his family.

My grandmother went to the eye doctor yesterday because she was seeing spots in her left eye. My mother had taken her 3 months ago and she had a perfect exam, was seeing 20/25! Yesterday the doctor determined she was completely blind in her right eye and her left eye was showing signs of damage. After seeing a retina specialist today, it was confirmed that the medication (cumadin) she is taking caused the hemorrhage in her eye and the damage. However with out the drug, she will have a stroke. Please pray for her vision in her left eye. Pray for her to cope and understand.

THIS MORNING:
I went to Charlie's Easter Egg Hunt at school. It was adorable! He did great! I can't wait for the weekend to see him in action again. He really has the hang of it this year, it is so funny!

Charlie and Gabby

Charlie and Riley

Cheeeeese!

Wow!...loooook!!!....EGGS!!!

Blog Withdrawl Complaints

2009-04-08T11:06:00.003-05:00

I have received several phone calls and emails this week regarding my lack of blogging! It is cracking me up!! I have been SO busy at work the last few days, I have not had a chance to update. I apologize to all of my loyal readers...hahaha...I am laughing as I type. I feel like a celebrity!

Hmmm where did I leave off??? Friday's work out was good I think....can't seem to remember back that far! We took Charlie on Saturday to meet his cousins at the Easter Egg hunt at George Bush Library. It was fun! The funny part about Easter Egg Hunts is that it started at 10:00 and ended at 10:01! Those kids are crazy! Luckily, they had three different circles roped off for the different age groups. And Charlie totally rocked the 0-3 age group! Last year he picked up one egg and was satisfied and amazed....this year he grasped the concept a little more! Although he did not enjoy the Easter Bunny! The Easter Bunny rode into the library on a fire truck and waved to all the kids....Charlie (from a very far distance) waved furiously from Ryan's shoulders and the whole time he was waving said....no easter bunny, no easter bunny.....it was hilarious!
I made it to the gym Saturday afternoon and got in my cardio! I also made it back to the gym Sunday for more cardio and I also played with Sterling and Jennifer outside using the weighted ball. It was fun!
Monday was busy, busy, busy at work and I was happy to leave and meet Paul for my 5pm work out. It was a good one! We did lots....lunges, push-ups, cable row, stairs, lunges, weighted squats, wall squats, more lunges, back machines, dumbell press, more lunges, high knee steps, more lunges...you get the idea!
Last night I was able to make it to the gym for some cardio. Sterling was there, of course (I think he lives there, maybe he is renting an office upstairs that he sleeps in...) He was a good motivator for me to push harder, and keep going on the elliptical.
Today...I await my fate. It's wednesday, which means....outside(running, drills, squats, more lunges) day! Yippee!
I am becoming more and more anxious about the competition coming to an end. We are in the home stretch, only 4 more weeks. It terrifys me. I need more time! I need Paul longer! I have so much more I want to accomplish! Paul assures me that I can do this on my own. And he is right. It is just a little scary to think about!

---PRAYER---
Please continue to pray for Paul's grandmother. The doctors beleive she has suffered another stroke. She is unable to talk or move. Last night they moved into the next stage at the hospital, and they are expecting her to go today or tomorrow. Please pray for Ann to be comfortable and at peace. Please pray for Glenda, and the rest of her family as they sit at her bedside and endure this time.

TGIF

2009-04-03T12:51:00.002-05:00

No worries....Paul did not kill me on Wednesday afternoon. I'm sure everyone was worried, and lost sleep because I didn't post yesterday! Yeah right. Well, the April Fools joke was probably not the best idea, BUT in my defense I had no idea it would get out of hand like it did! I think Paul tried to break my legs on Wednesday afternoon to get even. But I survived and thankful I am still here to talk(type) about it!
I was able to get in a good cardio workout last night and again this morning. Paul met me at the gym at 6, and we did the high intensity interval training on the elliptical. It was good! I burned almost 300 calories in 25 minutes...not bad! Paul rocked, he burned well over 300 calories....showoff.
I will meet Paul again tonight at 5pm for our training session. And it is....WEIGH IN DAY, so everyone keep your fingers crossed! I am hoping for more progress.
I am looking forward to the weekend. Ryan, Charlie and I are going to try and get out for a while and enjoy this beautiful weather. Of course, I will still get in my workouts both days as well.
I am starting to feel confident that I will be able to keep this new lifestyle change up after the 12 weeks is over. That has been the most terrifying thing for me...the reality of doing this all by myself. The healthy eating is not difficult for me. Don't get me wrong...I would prefer Mexican food 7 days a week. But I like healthy food, and it is easy for me to eat healthy once I get into the habit. It's the working out that is the HUGE change in my life. And I can actually say for the first time in my life....that I am starting to....maybe a little bit.....beginning to.....become addicted!!!! I have heard crazy rumors of people actually enjoying this...but I always assumed those people were psycho. Who would actually enjoy putting your body through that....on purpose?
But the benefits are unbelievable. I think I am becoming addicted to the results. Pray I can hold on to this feeling, dedication, motivation, and I WILL REACH MY GOALS!!!!

***SPECIAL PRAYER REQUEST***
Please pray for Ann, Paul's grandmother. She lives with Paul's parents. She took a turn for the worse last weekend and this week suffered a stroke, and is in the hospital. She is in need of prayer for healing and comfort. Please also pray for Glenda, Paul's Mom. She is in need of rest, strength, and peace of mind during this difficult time.

April Fools FUN

2009-04-01T12:24:00.003-05:00

Let me start by saying that Monday's workout with Paul was a killer...I didn't even make it home to throw up. Fortunately I made it to the locker room! Yesterday evening I got in an hour of cardio. All was going well....until
This morning when I arrived at work I was trying to think up great April Fools jokes to play on everyone. I am always the gullible one, falling for everything...always being fooled. Well, not this year!!! I had the great idea to text Paul and pretend I broke my leg! I thought it was going to be so funny...I was even worried he might not believe me because it sounded so ridiculous. And because I can never pull anything like that off, I am not a good liar. Well he fell for it and I did pull it off...and in a matter of 20 minutes, it spread like wildfire! Basically Paul read my text and then told David (Marethouse) who called Sterling who canceled meetings to go to the hospital!!! What a mess!!! I meant to play a silly joke on Paul...just Paul. And I received calls from Karen, Dani, Sterling....
I am actually fearing for my life this afternoon when I get to the gym for my workout. So if I don't blog tomorrow, you will all know what happened, Paul killed me. :)

Good Weekend, Good Workouts

2009-03-30T09:52:00.006-05:00

OK...first I need to explain how committed I am to the challenge! On Friday afternoon I received a phone call from a professor that works in my dept. who had been away all week at a conference. He called my office phone around 4pm and told me that he was flying back to College Station and that JASON CASTRO was sitting next to him on the plane! He told me to meet him at the airport to meet him and his band and to get some pictures and autographs...I was so excited....EXCEPT he was landing at 5:15pm. I meet Paul at 5. I told him I couldn't do, I had to workout...I think he was a bit surprised! As was I. Paul wasn't super impressed.
Paul and I had a good workout Friday, I am still trying to gain all of my strength back from being sick, but feeling good. We had another great workout Saturday morning. We did a bunch of things that we had not done before. Which evidently is working because I AM SORE! And I know everyone will be pleased to hear I have a motivational comment from Paul:
"OK, so we have definitely determined you are not a power lifter"
He is sooo sweet, huh?
Ryan and I enjoyed ourselves Saturday night! We met Paul, Karen, Sterling and Jennifer for dinner at Cafe Eccell and it was delicious. I was a good girl and ordered red snapper and grilled vegetables. It was really good...and surprisingly filling. After dinner we headed to the concert. Jason was great! I have never been to Rudder Auditorium for a concert, and it was good and the sound was good...but different. It was a little hard for "concert Ashley" to come out at Rudder Auditorium. So, the good news is that I don't think I embarrassed anyone!
Sunday Charlie woke up with another draining ear infection. I am SO upset. I feel so bad for the little guy. We started the dreaded drops again. I was able to escape to the gym for cardio last night. And I did the high intensity interval training Paul showed me on Saturday. I am encouraged, it really burns calories....FAST!

I will meet Paul this afternoon for our workout, and hopefully get motivation from him. He is so good at it! I actually think he should write a book.

Diet Coke Update: 8 days strong...Wahoo!
(Saturday Sterling decided to come in to the gym with a HUGE fountain drink of diet coke...and then proceeded to open a can of diet coke right next to my ear...I think I might have even felt a drop or two on my cheek. If that wasn't enough he enjoyed THREE diet cokes at dinner Saturday night. I just thought everyone should know that.)

Making Progress

2009-03-27T12:00:00.004-05:00

I LOST 4 POUNDS THIS WEEK!!!! I know it doesn't sound like much, but I have been barely losing...and I am HAPPY with any number bigger than one! The only thing I have changed this week is: I have cut my calories down a little bit, and as I have mentioned once or twice or ten times...I QUIT THE DIET COKE. Maybe it does make a difference?!

I worked out last night for an hour and a half. I did some good cardio on the elliptical. I was also able to make it to the gym at 5am this morning for a little more cardio. I am looking forward to my workout with Paul this afternoon, hopefully I wont regret saying that! I feel almost 100% recovered from my strep throat, so that is good news! I could feel that I had more strength and endurance last night. Paul and I are also meeting at 8 in the morning to make up for the workout I missed on Monday.

Tomorrow night Sterling, his girlfriend Jennifer, Ryan, myself, and possibly Paul and his date will be going to the JASON CASTRO concert. For those of you who are living in a black hole...Jason Castro was a finalist on American Idol last season. I am a SUPER FAN! And I am super excited. Jason went to school at Texas A&M, and so his first stop on his first tour...is good ole College Station. I am the only super fan in the group I am going with, hopefully I won't embarrass them, but I am not making any promises!

Ode to Sterling...

2009-03-26T10:24:00.001-05:00

Sterling Martin Allen is the greatest, he not only went 2 hours on the elliptical at an incline of 10...he is unbeatable...a machine in the gym!!!!!!

Regaining my Strength

2009-03-26T08:34:00.003-05:00

My workout yesterday with Paul was good. Being sick really wipes you out...it is crazy. I was struggling. But Paul took it easy (easier) on me and told me not to worry, that my strength would come back quick. I will do some cardio this evening on my own and get a 5am workout in the morning and then another 5 pm workout tomorrow with Paul. We will make up our missed workout from Monday on Saturday morning at 8. And hopefully by then I will back up to FULL speed!
I can't believe tomorrow is already weigh in day!!!! I am really anxious to see if sacrificing my beloved diet coke makes any difference. I know it is not good for me, and ultimately beneficial for me to give up the caffeine completely. BUT man....it is HARD!!!! For the first time this week, I actually don't have a headache, so I am hoping they have subsided. Yesterday afternoon, I think I would have paid a million dollars for a diet coke....but the moments passed and I am still alive to talk about it!!!

Prayer Requests:
- NO DIET COKE or caffeine
- My strength to come back quickly
- For Charlie and Ryan to stay healthy and not catch the funk
- My competitors to fumble and give me the point lead (sorry....not very christian like...)

BLUEBONNET BABY

2009-03-25T14:15:00.005-05:00

A few pics, taken this weekend, courtesy of Whoop-sie-Daisy Gallery (Charlie's Nanna)

No Diet Coke and Strep Throat....

2009-03-25T07:56:00.000-05:00

OK...so the good news is: I have been off DIET COKE for three days....and I am still alive!
The bad news is that I came down with strep throat....not good.
Sunday evening, I went to the gym and made myself finish an hour on the treadmill. I wasn't feeling great, but I thought I was just tired. Monday morning, I made myself get up and to the gym by 5:15am. I was very achy and could hardly swallow. I thought maybe because...it was 5am! I struggled through 45 minutes on the elliptical. When I left the gym, I felt worse. I could hardly swallow or move my neck. I was achy all over. I thought for sure I might have the flu. When I got home, I took my temp...102. Not good, this is not what I needed to kick butt in the gym this week!!! All I could think about was working out! Who am I?! I put in a call to the doctor and before they called me back, I headed up to urgent care. Not the flu, strep throat...the doctor must have thought I was crazy, because I told him I had to get better FAST. He gave me a shot and a strong antibiotic and said that I did need to take it easy for a couple days or I would have a relapse. Ugh..
I talked to Paul and he agreed with the doctor. I was bummed! Paul also said that he would be calling my work and checking with my supervisor and co-workers regarding the diet coke issue! Hard core? I told him I HAVE NOT HAD ANY FREAKING DIET COKE!!!!
My husband was a super hero and took care of Charlie while I was sick. Charlie was only able to escape into the bedroom two or three times to jump on top of me and say...."Mommy get up, Mommy get up....Mommy NOT sick....get up Mommy!!!"
I am back at work this morning, and feeling much better. I plan to meet Paul at 5 for our workout. Hopefully he will not make up for lost time! I am looking forward to getting back into the swing of things. And Paul and I are going to make up our missed workout sometime this weekend.

Ups and Downs

2009-03-20T21:07:00.002-05:00

Today was a long day....full of ups and downs. I was off of work today for Spring Break, only one day off on spring break...but I will take it! It was a gorgeous day. I spent the morning with my mother-n-law and Charlie at the Antique Rose Emporium in Independence, TX. My mother-n-law is a local photographer in College Station. We dressed Charlie in his white pearl snap and cowboy hat and boots and she took some great pictures of him in the bluebonnets. She also got him in action as he toured the Rose Emporium. I will post pictures soon!
I met Paul at the gym early today around 2:30. It is weigh in day, and when I arrived and put my things away I anxiously hopped on the scale. The verdict was another measly pound. I have to admit, I was very dispointed. I know the weight is coming off at a slow pace, and that is good. It is just hard to swallow when I am putting in 10 hours a week at the gym and following my diet so well. I have also really let the "points" stress me out lately. I am so OBSESSED with holding on to second place, it was making me crazy. I guess I have never really had this freaky competitive streak before, and it has been a little out of control. I have spent so much time worrying and obsessing over Eaphrame's points...it really isn't healthy! When I walked into the Marethouse office, Paul knew immediately that I was not pleased. He assured me I was doing great, that I was the only competitor that has consistently lost every week, that was eating right, etc... For some reason, I was really upset. I was frustrated. I hate that I was feeling that way. I don't like to show that kind of negative emotion at the gym, when this opportunity that I have been given is something to only be positive about. But I couldn't hide my feelings today. I even had to swallow hard to hold back tears....what a loser huh?! My blood pressure was high, my pulse was high. Not good. The office was full of people, so Paul got up and took me outside to take some deep breaths and talk about my concerns. I told him that I didn't know why I was acting or feeling this way. I explained my unhealthy obsession with the points! I also finally confessed my biggest vice....diet coke. Paul forbid any carbonated drinks 6 weeks ago when we started. I conveniently have left it off my food journal each week, thinking that it really wouldn't hurt...no calories, right? WRONG. I felt guilty, I told him. He wasn't happy. We had a good talk, we agreed that I would quit the diet coke (starting monday...as I sip my 32oz...while I am typing). I am hoping this will help my weight loss. It will be a rough week, I will have advil on hand for the caffiene headaches, but I will do it. I have to. I have done all of these things that I never thought I could do, I can stop drinking diet coke. I dont think I was strong enough 6 weeks ago to let go of this addiction, but I am motivated enough right now...I can do anything. Paul and I also agreed that I needed to focus on ME...not the points, not Eaphrame, Sterling....or anyone else. He doesnt want me doing crazy 4 hour workouts. He wants me doing realistic time in the gym, a realistic schedule that I will be able to sustain even after this 12 weeks is over. This is a journey and lifestyle change and will not end at the end of the competition. I need to be forming habits that I can keep. After our talk, I felt much better. He has a way of calming me down. And no tears. :)
Unfortunately he punished me for the closet diet coke addiciton and put me through a TOUGH workout! But I did feel good after I left!
Ryan, Charlie and I met the family for dinner at Casa Rod to celebrate my mother-n-laws birthday. After my spirits were lifted, it was actually easy for me not to eat chips and make healthy choices and stick with my diet. It felt good.

Sorry for the long sob story....promise to be only POSITIVE from now on!!!!

Ashley's Got her Groove Back!

2009-03-19T07:55:00.000-05:00

I am out of my funk, and back to being motivated! Thanks to everyone for all of their support. As soon as I walked in the gym yesterday David (Marethouse) jumped on my back...FYI- he is crazy! It was a nice welcome though! I went to put my stuff away and met Paul in the office. Paul was in a great mood which I have said before makes me nervous sometimes...but it's usually a good thing. It was our "outside" day. I like outside day, but Paul works me to death. AND don't worry, he didn't disappoint. I keep thinking that the workouts can't get harder and they KEEP GETTING HARDER!!! It was a beautiful day and the best part was that Paul put together a texas country mix for us to listen to. Paul and I LOVE country music and everyone else pretty much gives us a hard time for it. But I think it really helped me yesterday....pumped me up and I pushed myself hard. Almost too hard. I thought I was going to throw up....but I made it. Our last set Paul asked me if I wanted to quit and go in, I told him I AM NO QUITTER! Although I truthfully wanted to quit. I wanted to throw up and quit. But I didn't. I finished.
I think in my previous post I gave Paul a bad name from some of his "motivational" comments...let me set the record straight. He is AWESOME. He tells me constantly how much I am improving and how proud he is of me. He knows that I need the attention! BUT...we are quite comfortable with eachother now, so he does like to slip in the occasional comments that are less than complimentary! He thinks he is really funny, and I make sure and tell him HE IS NOT!
Yesterdays "motivational" comment for the day...."Ashley, its not actually jumping when your feet don't come off the ground".....nice huh?! For your information Paul --I have a lot to lift off the ground!!!
It is exciting to see my progress outside. Although it is incredibly tough. I am recovering between exercises a lot faster. I am able to practice better form on my exercises, and I am able to attempt more challenging exercises. I think it was exactly what I needed yesterday, I am offically out of my funk. And my competitive juices are flowing again...I WANT TO WIN.

Another side note....just because it has been on my mind. I have the most wonderful husband in the world. He has been more than supportive through this journey than I ever thought possible. Not only has he stepped up his game at home...helping a ton with Charlie and housework....he listens to me talk non-stop about my progress or concerns. He has been nothing but positive and cheering me on every step of the way. It has brought us closer and I appreciate him so much for that. He knows how important this is to me, and I think he is proud to see me so passionate about something. He has always been active...hunting, fishing, golf, softball,working out, etc...he leads a fun life! It has been hard for me in the past to feel like my extra curricular activities only included laundry and changing diapers. My new lifestyle change is helping my self confidence, making me a better and more active mom and wife, and opeing avenues for me to enjoy life.

Like looking in the mirror...

2009-03-18T10:16:00.003-05:00

Here is a clip from "The Biggest Loser"...it is me and Sterling to a tee!!! Sterling sent this to me this morning and asked if it reminded me of anyone???!!! I had to post it for all to enjoy!

http://www.nbc.com/The_Biggest_Loser/video/clips/week-10-siones-advice/1057469/

Happy St. Patty's Day

2009-03-18T07:53:00.002-05:00

No green beer, no parties....not that I normally celebrate St. Patrick's Day that way! But this year my green spirit consisted of avocado (with brown rice of course...), salads, and envy for the 3rd place point holder that is on my heels!
Unfortunately Charlie decided to wake up around 3 this morning and my 5 am workout went down the tubes... I am taking him this afternoon for a check up with the ENT to make sure the infection has cleared in his ears. Poor little guy can't seem to get over this.
I made it to the gym last night for a great cardio workout, an hour and fifteen minutes on the elliptical. I am actually pretty sore this morning. I am looking forward to another great workout with Paul this afternoon. And hopefully if my strength holds up, I will be able to put in another hour after our workout tonight as well.
Sterling is still in a comfortable lead in the points. I am holding on to 2nd place right now for dear life! Eaphrame is on my heels! I beat him the week before last by a point and a half and this week I have a 4 point lead. I also need to mention that he has hit some sort of an energy rush and has already put in 6 hours in the gym this week as of yesterday!!!! I have only put in three. SO....I have some work to do, I can't lose my 2nd place standing.
In the past couple of days I have began to feel I have hit a wall in the motivation department. I am dragging. I am finding it hard to get to the gym, I am still working my tail off and getting there...but finding it very hard. I have been working harder than I have ever worked in my life and the weight is coming off at a super slow pace. Which I know is good and the healthy way...but it is easier said than done. When you are surrounded by shows like "The Biggest Loser" and people are dropping double digit weight loss each week, it feels like I should be putting up bigger numbers than 2 pounds per week. I am having a pity party...I know I am. I will keep trucking and keep giving it my all. I know this journey will not be over at the end of 12 weeks. I know that it took my a long time to put all of this weight on and it will take a while to work it all off. But I will get there. I am strong, stronger than I ever thought. I have the support and the will power to achieve this, I just have to keep going.
Perhaps what has made these last few days more difficult is seeing my biggest competitor (new favorite workout partner and motivator), Sterling, struggle too. You would think this would make me happy...but it doesn't. Sterling had a very rough day yesterday and fell off the diet and made some bad food choices. He was very down on himself last night and it broke my heart. I tried to be motivating and cheer him up, but he is not very good at listening to me! He is a leader, the motivator, and I realized more than ever how much he helps me. He is a great cheerleader and with him so down, it made it hard for me to get out of my funk too.

Prayer Requests Today:
- Pray for my 4 year-old nephew, Nathan he is having his 2nd set of tubes put in his ears this morning
- Pray for Charlie to receive good news from the ENT, and for the healing of his infection
- Pray for 5 am workouts....BIGTIME
- Pray for motivation and positive thinking
- Pray for Sterling to forgive himself for his one day of bad choices, to learn from his mistakes and jump back on the bandwagon, and start motivating me again!!!!

Sunday

2009-03-16T07:48:00.000-05:00

I was able to get to the gym this evening and put in an hour and a half. Hopefully it will be enough to hold on to 2nd place. Sterling was up there too...of course. We were both having rough days. I think we worked ourselves so much this weekend, we were really dragging yesterday. I swear I felt like I had been drugged yesterday, I could hardly keep my eyes open all day, and just felt....blah. The weather didn't help either I'm sure. I am ready for some sunshine!!!
Although Sterling and I were "debbie downers" yesterday our convo was hilarious and I thought I should share: (he put it on his blog as well)
We came up with our favorite Top 5 foods that are sure to take years off your life! Keep in mind, these are the types of foods we were eating before we began this journey....no wonder we were picked!

TOP 5 FOODS IN COLLEGE STATION THAT WILL TAKE 10 YEARS OFF YOUR LIFE (but we thought were worth it!):

5) El Mobley- from Casa Rod - Large plate of mexican rice, topped with beef and chicken fajita meat, grilled onions, covered in queso, and sliced avocado....served with flour tortillas
4) Chicken Strips w/ gravy - from Chicken Express - served with FRIED okra, mashed potatoes and GRAVY...oh, and a buttery biscuit
3) Chicken Milano - from Boston's - Bow tie pasta tossed with chicken strips, roasted garlic, sautéed red onions, fresh basil, mushrooms and fresh Parmesan in a rosemary-sage CREAM sauce
2) Pepperoni Rolls - from Double Daves - Pizza dough rolled up filled with mozzarella cheese and pepperoni and grease....mmmmm...and FYI, Tuesdays are buy one, get one free :)
1) Craw fish Enchiladas - from Ninfa's - two or three enchiladas filled and covered with cheese, cheese, and more cheese...and craw fish, served of course with rice, beans....a basket of chips and yummy green sauce...of course with queso too...

OK, I am now #1...hungry, and #2 completely disgusted with myself! The sad part was it was hard for me to list just 5 things! Yuck.

I am also going to post one of my favorite classic prayers, that applies to me DAILY...no matter what mood I am in. I think it also hits home for a lot of other people, no matter what your struggles are.

May today I have peace within.
May I trust that I am exactly where I am meant to be.
May I not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.
May I use my gifts that I have received, and pass on the love that has been given to me.
May I be content with my self just the way I am.
May I let this knowledge settle into my bones, and allow my soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. (and workout!)

Making Progress...and working hard!

2009-03-14T20:59:00.002-05:00

It has been an eventful couple of days! Yesterday after work I met Paul for my workout. He took my measurements, body fat % and blood pressure before we got started. And although I have only lost a pound this week, my measurements brought a smile to my face! I have lost 4 inches in my waist, I have lost an inch of each leg, and 3 inches in my hips. I still have a long way to go, but the measurements fueled motivation and I was proud of my progress after 4 1/2 weeks in the fitness challenge.
Paul proceeded to put me through a grueling workout. I was winded to say the least when we finally finished! It was a great workout. I was finishing up my last set when Sterling hobbled into the gym. I tried not to notice, but my heart broke for him as I saw how much pain he was in as he limped to a machine. What a trooper. David followed closely behind him and I heard him telling Sterling that he did not think it was a good idea to workout today, that he really needed to take it easy. Sterling was not listening, he asked for help and held on to Davids shoulders as he struggled to even sit on a machine.....I looked over and dropped my lip, I felt so bad for him, he looked like he was in SO much pain......THEN he jumped up in the air and yelled "JUST KIDDING!! I AM FINE! MY KNEE FEELS FINE!".....David and Paul broke out into laughter...the joke was on me. He was fine, he just wanted to see the horror and guilty look on my face!!! NOT FUNNY. I fall for everything.
After my workout, Sterling invited Ryan and I to join he and Jennifer, David Marethouse, and his girlfriend (another awesome trainer) Lindy, and Lindy's two daughters at Ninfa's. I am so glad we did, we had a blast! I don't think Ryan and I stopped laughing between Sterling and Madison (Lindy's oldest daughter) telling their funny jokes! From Ninfa's we went to Grand Station and enjoyed a game of laser tag and bowling. AND FOR THE RECORD....I BEAT STERLING IN BOWLING BIGTIME!!!!!! He was disgusted, and the victory was SWEET!!!!!
Sterling and I met at the gym this morning at 9. He was actually there at 8, but you now how he is....likes to one up me. We put in another awesome workout. And 3 1/2 hours later....we were finished. I just hope it is enough to clinch second place for another week. I plan to put in at least another hour of cardio tomorrow.

Monday will begin Week 6....can't believe it.....

Finally Friday...

2009-03-13T11:36:00.002-05:00

It has been a long week! Charlie is feeling a lot better, except for his right ear is now draining, so I think we have an infection in that one now....ugh. But Mimi (my mom) insisted on stealing him for a couple of days and so we met her last night to pick him up. He was super excited...anything goes at Mimi and Poppa's house! I will pick him up tomorrow, and it should only take a week to un-spoil him from the weekend!!! I am so grateful to have them close, Charlie adores his grandparents.
After I met my mom, I went to the gym to meet Sterling for our workout. We did a great combination of arm, leg, and heart rate increasing exercises, finishing each set with 10 minutes on the elliptical. The smack talking was flying as usual (although at times I was too winded to even give him a hard time!). He really pushes me when it comes to the upper body exercises, I am SO weak! And I push him a little more on the cardio. We are a good balance and great motivators for each other. Unfortunately I made a bad judgment call and wanted to finish one of our sets with "step ups". Sterling has knee problems, and I should have been more attentive to that. Instead I told him...come on...lets do it! Of course, he never backs down from a challenge and on the third one, his knee gave out. He bent over in pain and quickly made it over to the bench. My stomach dropped. I felt terrible. Sterling being the kind of guy that he is...instructed me to finish my set. I did, and then went to find Dave to take a look at his knee. It was already swelling. He put ice on it and we are hoping it is just a sprain. I felt so bad for him and guilty I had pushed him, I was sick. I truly didnt really want the poor guy to get injured!!!
Hopefully I will have a positive knee injury update to report tomorrow! I need my workout partner back!!!
Tonight, I don't know what Paul has in store for me. I am looking forward to getting my measurements taken to find out what kind of progress I am making. I plan to put in a full weekend at the gym. Sterling and I planned to meet at 8 (depending on his condition) and working tomorrow for a few hours. Then I will put in a good hour on Sunday too. I have to hold on to my second place and work as hard as I can....I have competitors on my heels!

Please continue to pray and support me through this journey. I am almost half way finished (although I know it is only the beginning!) And please pray for Sterling, pray for the healing of his knee and for the lifting of his spirits. I need my motivator and workout buddy back!
Pray for all of us who are on this journey together, and remind us how lucky we all are to get this opportunity to change our life.

Abandoned Blog, NOT workouts

2009-03-12T13:00:00.000-05:00

I have abandoned my blog for the last three days...not to worry, I have NOT abandoned my work outs! Monday Paul and I had a great workout. Tuesday I was able to get in a 5 am workout AND another hour Tuesday evening as well. Paul called on Tuesday with the points update, it seems I am only in second place by the skin of my teeth!!!! I have to step it up a notch if I want to hold on to 2nd. Sterling has now jumped ahead over 100 points. He is unbelievable. However he deserves every point. He works his tail off....
I have not updated in a couple of days because Charlie has been sick, he had another ear infection! My mom came up and stayed with him on Tuesday and I stayed home with him yesterday. Although he was sick, he was a very sweet boy for me and we enjoyed our day together. I got a lot done around the house that has been lacking due to my sore muscles! But before I knew it, I was due at the gym for my 5pm workout. Paul had a huge smirk on his face when I came in...which usually means one thing...he has torture in store for me! And I was right! We did a few exercises in the gym, then headed outdoors. (Never FUN!) He had me doing a ton of squats, lunges, sprints, etc...I was dying! But I guess that means it was good for me.

Here are a few sweet moments from my motivational trainer, Paul, yesterday:

- "Move your arms when you skip, like you are running.....not so goofy though!"

- "When we started this set, I didn't think there was any way you would finish..."

- "You run like a duck...."

I am so lucky, huh?! Just kidding! He really is positive too!Poor Paul has his hands full dealing with me. And he is doing great. Yesterday it was amazing how fast I was recovering and catching my breath after each exercise. Paul said that my body is becoming better conditioned. I am going to meet Sterling at the gym tonight to get in a hard workout and then I will see Paul again tomorrow for some more fun! He will be taking all of my measurements tomorrow, and I am really looking forward to that. Hopefully I will see some great results!

Ruff Day

2009-03-09T07:46:00.001-05:00

Charlie's outfit sums up my day yesterday and this morning!!! After my crazy workout on Saturday with Sterling, I woke up very sore! And bruised from my monster tire flipping...what was I thinking?! And the time change definitely did not help matters. Charlie and I made it to church, and my prayers included my sore muscles! My prayers have been answered and I am glad to say that I am feeling much better this morning.
Yesterday evening we celebrated Ryan's grandmother's birthday....at CASA ROD. That's right, my favorite mexican food restaurant. And are you ready for this??? Drum roll please......
I did not eat ONE chip, I did not eat one drop of queso(which the table had three orders of), or one tortilla....I ate grilled chicken, lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, and avocado. That is it!!!!!
AND one more thing.....NO CAKE either. Did I mention that I bought the cake (with the good icing) and it looked amazing???
OH AND I went and worked out after we got home too!

Thank you for all of your prayers and support, it is working!!!!

P.S. If you are wondering why Charlie is wearing cowboy boots with shorts....
We pick and choose our battles with him these days, he threw a huge fit and refused to let us put any other shoes on his feet! I love two year olds!!!!

Super Saturday!

2009-03-07T14:03:00.004-06:00

Yesterday evening went well. My body fat is down another percent and I have dropped another pound too. Paul has me up to 2,000 calories a day and it is actually really working. We had a tough workout and he incorporated some new exercises that were tough! And the best news is that I didnt throw up! Paul will probably be disapointed in that, but I you know I can't please him all the time.

This morning I even surprised myself. I met Sterling...yes Sterling and his awesome girlfriend at the gym at 9. I know what a struggle it is for him to make it there so early and I felt really, really sorry for him (insert...very sarcastic tone...considering Charlie decided to wake up at 5:15 this morning!)
We kicked butt! We started off with supersets working arms and legs...after an hour we moved outside and did some biometrics (killer). Sterling had the brilliant idea that we should flip tires...not just your average tire, I think it fit an eighteen wheeler! We then finished up back in the gym with a tough ab workout. 2 hours and 20 minutes later...we were DONE.
Sterling is making it very hard for me to not like him! He is a great person, motivator and works me as hard as Paul (if not harder!). Don't get me wrong, he is a competitor and he likes to dish out a lot of smack talk, but I feel very blessed and fortunate to have teamed up with him this morning for the great workout. We are good for eachother, if I did 20 of something....he would do 21, just to make me mad! And If he did 20 or 30 of something I would do 21 or 31...just to make him mad! We are good for pushing eachother. Although if he gets any further ahead of me in points in this competitionI might be forced to drastic measures of sabotage! Just kidding!

While my husband is at the basketball game right now, and Charlie is taking a nap...it has been nice to sit on my sore behind in the peace in quiet! I am hoping the scale is nice to me on Monday and reflects all of this hard work.

Mingling with the Competition...

2009-03-06T12:28:00.003-06:00

I made it to the gym last night and again this morning! Hooray! In fact I am super sore from my cardio workout last night. It might have something to do with .... me staying on the elliptical for and hour and 20 minutes! This is what happened....
I'm going along minding my own business trying to get my cardio workout on, and in walks "Mr. Machine in the Gym" himself...that's right... Sterling. He and his better half marched up stairs and surrounded me on the machines, one on one side of me, and one on the other. No where to go, no where to hide.....
I'm kidding! Sterling and his girlfriend were great! We chatted for a while and then tried to out do each other on the cardio! I have to admit, it was major motivation having him next to me. I have never been on the elliptical for over an hour. And I felt it this morning! Of course I was trying to whisper sweet nothings about Casa Rod in his ear, and fill his head with images of enchiladas and queso...we will see if it works! Ha! Ha!

I just barely made it to the gym this morning, I sincerely wanted that extra hour of sleep, but I made it! I decided because I was so sore from last night that I would change things up a bit this morning and hop on the bike. Well, keep in mind it was really early...and I was really tired...and sore...and you know how graceful I am....I sat down and adjusted the seat and started pedaling away. Well...I adjusted to far...and my knew slammed into the machine and not only left a big red whelp, but it started bleeding! But I am so strong that I was able to toughen it out for 30 minutes! Lord help me :)

Hopefully tonight will be more successful!

5 AM Motivation

2009-03-05T11:08:00.001-06:00

Paul is going to KILL me...I didn't make it in to the gym this morning for my 5am cardio. I have no good excuse, just did not get there. I don't know what my problem is this week, I am having lots of trouble getting to the gym at 5am. I have worked out every single day for the last two weeks...BUT I wanted to get in a double day today and tomorrow. I will get there this evening, and I will MAKE myself get there in the morning and again with Paul tomorrow afternoon. I HAVE TO!!! I can NOT let my second place slip through my fingers. Speaking of second place; Mr. "Machine in the Gym" Sterling was pretty proud of his 77 point lead for first place!!! We have had a little friendly smack talk going on this morning....and the gloves are off! :)

Last night's workout was tough! I think Paul really got lots of enjoyment out of it though. When Paul smiles or laughs...it's usually not good news for me! We started off with push ups and pull downs in the gym. Then we headed outside for the torture session. Jogging, lunges, squats, hopping on one foot, sprinting, running backwards, side lunges, push-ups, oblique crunches, more squats, and ab taps....AND, I am still alive to write about it! Although the outside workouts are not what I would call enjoyable, they really push me hard and are a nice alternative to the gym.

Paul and I are working on adjusting my food plan. He does not think I was getting enough calories in daily. Sounds crazy, huh?! But I was actually only getting around 1,000 calories in per day and because I am working out so hard, and my body is not used to any of this...I could be burning muscle tissue instead of FAT, and that is not good. So we are making adjustments and hopefully it will make a positive difference in my weight loss.

Prayer requests for this week:
- motivation for 5am workouts
- strength and determination for hard workouts...the next three days
- support for me and my competitors to keep moving forward on this journey

U Tube Video

2009-03-04T11:16:00.002-06:00

I forgot to mention the video footage that David posted on UTube...seriously embarrassing! I think I am like the fourth one they show...try not to look directly at the fat rolls...(Paul and David would be mad at me for that negativity! I'm working on it.)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=seBT9mWvyrY

Birthdays and Blogs...

2009-03-04T08:00:00.003-06:00

OK....so I didn't make it to the gym this morning...HOWEVER, I got to work super early to decorate my boss' office for her birthday. I blew up about 30 balloons and taped banners, threw confetti, pretty much ran around like a mad woman and I do think I produced a few beads of sweat...so I am thinking cardio?! I even took pictures so that you can see the amazing birthday decorator's work!
In all seriousness, I will work my tail off tonight with Paul, and I will make Thursday AND Friday double days and go morning and afternoon to the gym. I don't want my second place to be snatched from me! I will also be in town this weekend, so I plan on making it both days to the gym as well.

Mondays work out was good. I went in to the gym in a bit of a bad mood, and my blood pressure reflected it. I have lost 1% of body fat and my grand total for the first three weeks of training was only 6 pounds...so I was having a pity party for my self a little bit. But Paul gave me my progress pep talk and when I left the gym, I felt good!

I received several emails and phone calls this morning about my debut on the radio! I was so disappointed I missed it. I was told that they talked about my blog, and even read some of Friday's post! It is so funny...when I started this blog I figured I was basically writing to an audience of ...my mom, maybe my husband....and that was pretty much it! I am just amazed at all of the support and people who waste a few minutes of their day reading about my journey. It kind of puts pressure on a girl! I really appreciate it, the motivation and support is what keeps me going. I am on Week 4...I have never worked out for 4 consecutive weeks in my life. Sad, but true :)

My Boys!

2009-03-02T14:15:00.002-06:00

***I have posted a few pics of Ryan and Charlie on my blog! Notice Charlie's awesome shirt!***

Ryan and I take turns on the weekends waking up with Charlie (6:30am-7). Well Sunday was my turn to sleep in! What a great way to start off the day. :) When I finally peeped my head out of the bedroom door, it was almost 9:00. For those of you with young kids know that is comparable to noon!
We went to church and were invited to go to Chuck E Cheese with my in-laws, and five of Charlie's cousins. Since Charlie is OBSESSED with Chuck E Cheese, we agreed. However, some how Ryan was able to weasel his way out of going....so I had the pleasure of chasing a crazy two-year old around that chaotic place for two hours! I think that should count as my pre-workout, I was sweating by the time we left. Of course people probably thought I was kidnapping my child, because when we leave I have to carry him out kicking and screaming...did I mention we are OBSESSED with ChuckE? It's so embarrassing! When Charlie and I finally got home, Ryan offered to feed and bathe him while I went to the gym...so sweet of him after my nerves were shot from screaming children and almost having a heat stroke chasing after his son!
I did get in a good hour of cardio, and it did take away the Chuck E Cheese stress! Paul was at the gym too, working out. He made me laugh because I watched him look at the clock and scan the cardio equipment upstairs, I don't think he thought I was going to make it!!!
Unfortunately I did not make it to the gym this morning at 5. I did not sleep well last night and could not seem to get there this morning. SO I will just have to make it there the rest of the week instead of taking Wednesday off...in addition to my workouts with Paul.
I'm looking forward to having my measurements taken today, I am very anxious to see if I have made any progress!

ALSO, VERY IMPORTANT: I was so disappointed that I missed meeting Paul's Mom on Friday! She came in to town, because Paul's sister had 12 inches cut off her hair and donated to Locks of Love. That is so awesome! Paul told me that his Mom reads my blog, and that meant so much to me. I wanted to meet her to thank her for raising such a wonderful son. And to thank her for her support!

Weekend Warrior!

2009-02-28T20:19:00.002-06:00

My Friday night workout...well it was rough! Paul tried to kill me! I was huffing and puffing and didn't know if I was going to make it through. I keep thinking this has to get easier but each workout is equally or more difficult! I guess that is a good thing. My body doesn't remember what it felt like NOT to be sore! THe soreness has definitely improved, and I am amazed in the strength I have already gained in such a short time. But, I have said it before and I will say it again: this is harder than I ever dreamed it would be.
The awesome thing is that I am approaching Week 4...I have never worked out four consecutive weeks in my lifetime...seriously, never! And I am working out 8-9 times a week! That is crazy talk. My schedule is Mon/Wed/Fri at 5pm with Paul for an hour and then cardio on my own Mon/Tues/Thurs/Fri/Sat...and if I can Sunday.
I will be honest and say that I did not want to go to the gym today. In fact I finally pushed myself (with the help of my husband) to the gym at 5:30 this evening. When I get there, and get on a machine...I do feel better and I was able to push myself an hour on the elliptical. It felt great when I was finished. I burned over 600 calories! It just boggles my mind that just a few short weeks ago I was unable to complete 15 minutes on the elliptical machine...or treadmill for that matter. Last night part of my nine exercises included the dreaded stairs. Paul reminded me that the first week, it was incredibly difficult for me to walk up the stairs once...and last night I was doing three sets of 4 flights at a time (I thought I was going to die!...but I did it!). It makes me more determined and motivated to push harder when I think about how weak I was that first day in the gym. I have a LONG way to go, but I am making progress.
I plan to make it to the gym again tomorrow. I am going to try and get in over an hour tomorrow, or possibly two workouts. As of last week I was tied in second place for points with my competitors. The points are based on our participation, food journal, and we get extra points for every hour OVER 5 hours in the gym. We get points deducted if we do not reach the 5 hours. I am trying to clinch second place this week...and of course Mr. Sterling is pulling away with the lead in points! I really do appreciate Sterling and I truly hope for him to acheive his goals, he is an inspiration, motivation, and seems like such a wonderful person who is loved and supported by so many....HOWEVER he is also my toughest competitor!!! The guy is a machine in the gym, he is there sometimes 3 times a day! But it's okay...he gives me inspriation to work harder!

Almost made it through another week!

2009-02-27T12:27:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I made it to the gym after work by 5 and did an hour on the elliptical! I was actually dreading it most of the day, but truthfully, it felt so good when I finished. I was also able to get out of bed this morning and back to the gym at 5 am. I got in a good 45 minute cardio workout this morning.
I am really sore today for some reason. My legs, and hips...weird. I guess because Paul tried to kill me on Wednesday afternoon, I don't know? But I guess sore is good! Except that on Wednesday Paul mentioned we would be doing lunges on Friday (today). And I have been dreading the "L" word ever since. Seriously, I'm scared :)

Specific prayer requests:

-that I will attempt the "L" word today without collapsing
-that Paul will not try to kill me
-that I will not throw up after my workout
-that I will remain positive even through the "L" word, and the "S" words...
-that I will make it to the gym both days this weekend

Everyone's support has been unbelievable. So many of you have told me that you are reading my blog, joining my facebook group, asking daily for exercise updates, motivating me, complimenting me....I could go on and on. It touches me more than you know. Thank you. It has only been three weeks, I will keep working hard and I am looking forward to reaping the benefits!

Inspired Again

2009-02-26T07:33:00.001-06:00

I started my day off yesterday still in a funk, and feeling frustrated with myself. I was nervous and anxious about my workout all day for some reason. When I arrived at the gym, Paul was already smirking, he was proud of himself for the torturous workout he had planned for me! I told him my frustrations and he assured me that I was doing very well. He said that he was pleased with my progress and very proud of my hard work. I have to admit, it did make me feel better.
After warming up on the elliptical, we started off with push ups and pull downs. I was already feeling winded and my heart rate was up! Paul grabbed four orange cones and said lets go outside. My heart sunk! Nothing good could come out of cones...or outside! I followed him fearing the worst, he set up the four cones in a line, 20 yards apart. We did 5 or 6 drills that included side lunges, jumping, running backwards, skipping, and sprinting. Yes...I said sprinting! I'm sure I looked absolutely ridiculous trying to accomplish these drills. Not only have I never been "athletic", I have NEVER attempted to sprint anywhere in my life, not that my attempt to sprint yesterday was very impressive! It kicked my butt to say the very least! Paul laughed because for the first time I was speechless (I couldn't breathe!). Although I would not say that I enjoyed that torture, it was a nice change of pace and it did make me feel very good after I was finished. I felt like I worked very hard, and it felt like I accomplished something I thought I could never do. But just when I thought the torture was over for the day....
We proceeded inside and ran stairs (8 times!). And if that wasn't bad enough....we finished up with another tough ab workout. Wheeeewwww. I made it!
The last three or four workouts have been extremely tough. Paul knows how to push me hard! After starting the day off in a funk, I definitely felt so much better. I was drenched in sweat and felt like I had accomplished a great workout. This experience so far has already had its ups and downs, and we are just getting started. I am already showing major improvement in my strength and stamina, and I hope to only get stronger and stronger. For the last few years I have neglected myself. I am always worried about taking care of everything else, and didn't realize in the mean time, my health, self worth and self esteem were diminishing. It is such a new and wonderful feeling to be doing something for ME. To hear people say they are proud of me, to see how much support I am receiving from my family and friends is phenomenal. I not only needed this physically, but I needed this just as much mentally. I am no longer just Ryan's wife or Charlie's mom, I am doing something just for me! I feel like it has brought my husband and I closer as well. He is so proud of me for working so hard, and not giving up. And I am so overwhelmed by his support. We are working more as a team and our family is running smoother because of it. The benefits are endless on this journey...and I am going to continue to push hard and give it my all.

Unfortunately I did not get in my 5 am workout, Ryan had an early meeting, so I will get in my cardio this evening to make up for it. I plan to get in my morning and evening workout tomorrow and I plan to be in the gym both days this weekend too. Who am I?!
I'm feeling inspired again and I want to WIN!

One day at a time...

2009-02-24T20:02:00.006-06:00

Yesterday was a very productive workout day. I started at 5 am and got in a good cardio session before work. I met Paul at the gym at 5 pm and we got started right away! Paul doesn't like to waste a minute and if we do get started a minute or two late...he has me working 10 minutes over...he's hardcore! But thats what I like about him and thats what I need! And we worked HARD. Starting with the "s" word of course....bench squats. From there we continued to fit in 9 different exercises and finished up with our best ab workout yet. And I was feeling it this morning too! I left the gym out of breath and unfortunately feeling nauseas again on my way home. I continued the tradition and threw up when I got home! I don't know if maybe I'm drinking too much water? or Paul is just trying to kill me? I'm not sure...but after I throw up, I do immediately feel better and I eat dinner and life goes on. Ryan (my husband) says.."Oh, it's normal to throw up after a good workout!". Have I mentioned that the post workout motivation from him annoys me a little?! I'm kidding! Ryan has been so wonderful and supportive throughout this fitness challenge so far, I could not do it without him! I'm a lucky girl.
This morning I hit the gym at 5 am again, my cardio workout was more of a struggle this morning, but I got through it and felt better after it was over. When I got home and Charlie(my 2 year old) woke up, I noticed that both of his eyed were crusted over and he had thick green drainage coming out of his nose...not good. Let me preface by saying that yesterday morning one of his eyes was crusty when he woke up, but I did what any great mother would do and wiped it with a hot washcloth and sent him to daycare! But it looked as though I couldn't mask it any longer. So I stayed home with him today and took him to the doctor. WHich actually turned out to be an encouraging trip, because both his doctor and nurse commented on how much weight I have lost( I don't see it, but very nice to hear). Charlie had a sinus infection, so I'm glad I took him in. It hasn't slowed him down a bit, or even seemed to make him feel bad at all. We spent most of the day playing outside (I walked him to the park about a mile away..) and it was a fun day to stay home and spend time with him. Although when Daddy got home, I was happy to hand him over! All in all, it was a good day :)

***Although I am feeling so proud and still very excited and motivated about this journey I am on...I have to admit I am feeling a bit dissapointed in my weight loss. I read my biggest competitor, Sterling's blog this evening and he has lost 20 pounds in 2 weeks! I know that we have different weight loss goals, and I know that I can not compare his success to mine. And I have to say that he seems like such an amazing person who I want to see succeed and meet his goals and he has been an inspiration to me. But I can't help but be frustrated with myself. At the end of the day, I realize that I am only in competition with my self and this is changing my life for the better in so many ways. BUT...I also want to win! Or at least be a close contender!!! As of Jan. 1st I have actually lost 17 pounds, but after my first two weeks of the fitness challenge...I have lost 5 pounds. Which I know is GOOD...but the pain my body has been through...I feel like I should have lost 100 pounds! I think when I get my measurements taken, I will feel more motivated. Paul is doing an amazing job, he pushes me and is so positive, and works me harder than I have ever dreamed I could work. I could not have hand picked a better trainer for me. We have only been training together for a few weeks and I feel so comfortable with him, and I truly feel like he dedicates so much effort to seeing me succeed. I feel so incredibly lucky to have been chosen for this amazing opportunity, not everyone can say that they just get offered an opportunity like this on a silver platter. I am so blessed. So I need to quit feeling sorry for myself and get my ass in the gym!!!

My AWESOME aunt sent me a quote that she uses all the time, I can remember her saying it to me before, and I think it is something that everyone can relate to and benefit from.
"IF YOU ALWAYS DO WHAT YOU'VE ALWAYS DONE, YOU WILL ALWAYS GET WHAT YOU ALWAYS GOT"

Cardio Queen

2009-02-23T07:50:00.001-06:00

Well....since I posted last (on Friday BEFORE my workout) a lot has taken place! Where to begin?! Friday's workout with Paul was rough. He pushed me super hard because I didn't get my 5 am workout in Friday morning....and boy will I not make that mistake again! Let's just put it this way, I went home and threw up 3 times, it was not pretty! SO on Saturday, I got my butt in the gym and finished the best cardio workout that I have ever had! I did an hour on the elliptical and burned over 550 calories! I was pumped up. And glad I pushed my self.
On Sunday Charlie and I went to his cousins birthday party in Spring. We didn't make it home until 6:15. I knew I HAD to go and get more cardio in... so I ran in the house and Ryan fed and bathed Charlie, while I went to the gym before they closed. I was able to get in another good cardio workout last night.
Then.....drum roll.....I made it to the gym at 5 am this morning too!
SO if your reading this Paul----BE NICE TO ME TONIGHT!!!

TGIF

2009-02-20T15:20:00.003-06:00

I will start by saying yesterday was a great day! I started with my 5am cardio session, which was a struggle to get to.....because mean old Paul made me super sore again! But it amazes me how working out in the morning energizes me the whole day. I have heard people say that before and thought, how absurd! How could exercise at 5am possibly energize me? But it really does!
Anyway, I also had a blood pressure check and consult with my wonderful OB, Dr. Justin Gayle. I have been looking forward to this appointment, so that I could show him my progress and tell him about the fitness challenge. Dr. Gayle has listened to me cry and whine for years regarding my weight. He told me at my last appointment, that I HAD TO STOP TALKING ABOUT IT AND DO IT. He was right. And he was truly thrilled that I have finally taken the steps to changing my life. I have lost 14 pounds since my last appointment with him in December. It felt good and at my next appointment in April, I plan to have lost at least 20 more pounds. He is a wonderful man, and I am so blessed to have him as my doctor. He encourages me, he comforts me, and he and his nurse, Donna, have always made me feel like a VIP. I was so proud to share this news with him, and he is pulling for me and supporting me like family.

Now...about today.....
I set my alarm for another 5am workout (4th in a row) and when that alarm went off this morning, my will power was overtaken by comfy bed for one more hour. I had a very important meeting today at work that I had so much to prepare for...the meeting involved many high executives in the oil industry as well as my entire faculty. And this meeting is generally from 10-3. So as I am typing this, I just returned from the dreaded meeting with more follow-up work than when I started....ugh. I am exhausted. And I don't want to go work out with Paul more than anything!!!

BUT....I am. And because I missed my 5am workout this morning I will be working out both Saturday and Sunday as well. I promise I will be more positive next post....that 5 hour meeting sucked the life out of me! I'm sure my sweet husband would rather me vent on my blog rather than when I get home!

PRAYER FROM STERLING'S(one of my competitors) GROUP PAGE:
(when I read it, felt like it was written for me!)
Here's my prayer for today:
"Almighty Father, thank you for a beautiful day, a beautiful life, and a beautiful Savior. God, I'm pumped today and can walk with less pushing from you. Stay behind me ready to catch me when I fall, to push me when I'm weak, and keep me encouraged when I'm down. Continue to bless me and all those striving to better themselves! Bless my trainers and their families that they continue with the desire to restore the beauty of your creation. In Jesus name...Amen."

No more mister nice guy...

2009-02-19T07:48:00.001-06:00

Yesterday was my toughest so far! Starting with a 5 am cardio session and following up with a 5 pm training session with Paul, I worked hard! When I arrived at the gym at 5 yesterday evening, I quickly put my things away and met Paul in the office with my food journal. He told me "know more mister nice guy (with a smile) and said that he was going to kick my butt today!" And.....he succeeded. After my warm up on the bike, we traveled down stairs to start with sitting squats (FYI- I don't like anything with the word squat in it). We moved on to the leg press...then to side knee raises on the steps. Now I have to stop there a minute and say that on my first day in the gym (after the lunge incident) I could barley do one knee raise on the smallest step. Yesterday I did 20 on each leg two steps high for three sets! I really pushed myself and it felt good (well, not good literally, but you know what I mean!) and I think Paul was happy with my progress which motivated me too. So at this point I'm already huffing and puffing and Paul takes me to the freaking stairs...I hate the stairs too by the way. And he made me run up and down three times, for three sets....and I use the term "run" loosely! I was clenching the rails and gasping for breath by the time I finished, but I finished!!!
Then on to arms...Paul said we would try to do some "super sets". Well that sounds like a fun term, but it is really not. We worked my upper body on four different machines with no rest in between (hence the fun name "super sets"). I was dying!!!
We finished up with abs and just before I felt I might throw up.....we were finally done for the day! Lesson learned: Paul is not as nice as he appears.

Side note: The top of my right leg has been hurting since Monday(after the graceful fall at work), so David took a look at it and he thinks I might have a minor tear. Nothing serious, it should heal fine and not hold me back!

And another side note: I'm only kidding about Paul. In spite of him being a Cowboys fan, I could not ask for a better trainer. He is motivating, positive, and believes in me . I appreciate how hard he pushes me, it only makes me more determined.

Morning Madness!!!

2009-02-18T07:36:00.001-06:00

I have come to the grim realization that I have to get in morning workouts in order to meet my exercise requirements for the week. I am currently working out with Paul Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 5pm. But we are required a minimum of 5 hours of exercise per week (including the 3 hours with our trainers) or we will have points deducted. And then if we complete any additional hours we will receive an extra 3 points per hour. The points are one of many aspects of the selection process to determine the winner of the 12 week fitness challenge. And unfortunately we have to complete our required hours and extra hours at the gym or we don't get credit for them. SO....back to my dilemma.....early mornings are going to have to be a must for me to reach my goals. The reason being, I do not enjoy working out late at night (after Charlie goes to bed) because it is extremely difficult for me to wind down for bed. Who am I kidding?! I dont enjoy working out at any hour!....YET. And I am already missing out on 3 hours a week that Ryan picks up and feeds Charlie, which he has been an incredible supportive husband by doing....but I don't want to miss anymore family time than I have to. When I work out at 5 am, I am not interfering with anyone (except my sleep!), and I have time to come home, shower, get Charlie ready, etc...
SO yesterday, I worked out at 5 am and I am still alive. So I guess it's not going to kill me. But today should go down in the record books, because I got up again (although EVERYTHING in me did not want to) and I worked out at 5 am and then I will go at 5 pm to meet Paul. Two work outs in one day? Who am I? This is a definite FIRST. In fact working out twice in one week is a first! If I'm being completely honest....working out twice in one month is a first!
I will update tomorrow if I have the strength to even type!

Day 8

2009-02-17T07:48:00.000-06:00

I drove to the gym straight from work. I was slightly disappointed with my weigh in but Paul and David assured me it was ok. I felt better. I warmed up on the elliptical and then we did a full body workout. It was a great workout, I was sweating like crazy! And exhausted when I left. My funny story for the day happened at work. I was walking down the hall and ATE IT, fell hard...the whole building probably shook! I quickly looked around hoping no one saw. I didn't see anyone, however I'm sure it was heard for miles around. And the worst part is it hurt sooooo bad! I made it to the bathroom to look at my legs to make sure they weren't bleeding! No blood, but my poor legs were throbbing once again. Great! Just when they finally felt like the soreness was easing up, I went and fell and probably tore something! I am a clutz usually. But since I have been working out, I have become a total clumsy mess. I guess throwing soreness and tightness in the mix is just too much for my graceful self. I told Paul about my big fall at work. He laughed and said maybe my legs aren't the problem, maybe I am just clumsy! Not funny Paul, it hurt! Paul is skating on thin ice....he laughed at my fall, made me do hack squats, and is a Cowboys fan. I told him we might not be able to be friends. Not good Paul. :)

Friday workout and my weekend away!

2009-02-15T20:48:00.001-06:00

I met Paul at the gym at 10 am Friday morning, to get my work out in before we left town. Paul was not going to let me leave without making me work! I started off warming up on the elliptical and felt pretty good. my legs were still killing me, but I had learned to cope at this point! We then went down to the middle of the gym...I felt me stomach turn when I heard the L word come from his lips... LUNGES. I told Paul that he was such a jokester, he assured me that he was not joking, we were in fact doing lunges. I refreshed his memory of the disaster that was me on Monday attempting lunges. He giggled and told me he remembered! My legs trembling, I began to attempt my nightmare. I ended up doing three sets of 12 down and back! Wahoo! I then finished 3 more sets of side lunges. Don't let the name fool you...a lunge is a lunge and it is not pretty. After my second lunge experience he continued to work me to death! I did knee raises, ran up and down the stairs 9 times, and more. It was a great work out. I was exhausted. One week down......

We left shortly after I got home from my workout for Louisiana. Ryan's dad got married on Saturday and we were excited about our weekend getaway! After the long almost 5 hour trip there, we finally reached our hotel around 7. We checked in, went downstairs to eat dinner and then off to the casino. I lost everything I touched, my beginners luck streak is definitely over! The next morning we woke up, ate a healthy breakfast and then headed to the gym for some cardio. Thats right.....went to the gym on my vacation!!!! Mark that one down in the record books, because I know that was a first for me. It felt good, and Ryan was proud of me too, which made me beam. The wedding was enjoyable and the weekend was wonderful. It was a much needed vacation. We arrived back home yesterday afternoon and reconnected with Charlie who we dearly missed, but thank Mimi soooo much for keeping him!

Back to reality tomorrow.....work out with Paul at 5.

2nd workout with Paul

2009-02-11T19:45:00.000-06:00

The second workout went much smoother than the first! We worked out my upper body today and I am proud to announce that I did not collapse one time. :)
My legs are so sore today, worse than yesterday and I did not feel like that was possible. BUT, I am still loving and plan to be at the gym tomorrow morning. Paul is very encouraging and motivating and he helps me stay positive. I sure can't wait until my body adjusts and I'm not so sore!

still alive

2009-02-11T12:39:00.000-06:00

The next morning after the dreaded first work out, I crawled (literally) out of bed and made it into the gym at 5:15am! I did some cardio and felt good....well sort of! I felt good minus the aching, throbbing pain in my legs!

The dreaded first day in the gym...

2009-02-10T08:00:00.001-06:00

Monday rolled around after not sleeping much the night before because I was SO nervous....I packed my things for the gym, ready to go straight from work! I was greeted at work by students, co-workers, professors, family, my husbands co-workers, etc...who all knew about the program. Most of them had heard it on the radio. I was shocked! And more motivated than ever to succeed! Everyone knew, everyone knows, it makes it real. It makes it permanent. I have to do this now.

I met Paul at 5:00 at the gym, to accomplish my first workout. We began by taking all of my measurements and of course, the dreaded first weigh in. He was very friendly, and kind, he didnt make me feel uncomfortable at all He explained we were going to warm-up on the treadmill and then we would be working on my legs today. Little did Paul know he had A LOT of work to do!!! I was already winded after my short warm up but trying to hide it from my new fit friend...he lead me over to the leg extensions. I did several sets with ease (or so Paul thought... :) ) he seemed impressed and that made me happy. He was very motivating and positive. On to our next exercise....on a roll, I felt confidence seeping through my veins. He lead me to the middle of the gym (surrounded by what felt like millions of people staring at me!) and he told me that we were going to attempt lunges, 12 down and 12 back. He demonstrated them for me and feeling like a fitness queen already with my new found confidence, I smiled and began lunging.....8 down...really hurting, but all the while smiling....Paul said lets turn around and do 8 back (I guess my smile wasnt fooling him, he could see me sweating and struggling!) I began my journey back, after my 2nd lunge I collasped! Thats right- fell to the floor, legs did not work, in front of the whole gym. I quickly tried to jump up, for one, because I was so embarrassed and for two, because out of the corner of my eye I could see the head trainer running towards me in a panic. Paul grabbed my arms to help me up.....BAM, collasped again! I couldn't stand, I couldn't get my legs to work! I was moritfied....all the while still smiling! I finally was able to get on my feet. Poor, sweet Paul was pale and assured me that I was still doing well. We continued excerising, finished out our hour....then I was out of there!
My first day had not been the success I had imagined, but it did show me that this journey was not going to be easy, and was indeed going to be a challenge.

Meeting my fate

2009-02-08T07:38:00.000-06:00

On Sunday afternoon, all of the 10 chosen gathered for orientation. We were given information about the fitness challenge ahead of us and a nutrition consult to help us get started. We were introduced to all of the trainers and then each contestant was assigned to a trainer. I waited patiently to hear my fate. To see which one of these guys or gals would have the huge task of getting my in shape! My name was finally called and David MaretHouse pointed to Paul and said that he would be training me. He explained that Paul was drawn to my story and he felt we would be a good match. I was excited! Paul was the one I had spoke to on the phone, he was the friendly face who met me when I walked in for the interview....I felt he really understood where I was coming from and he did genuinely pull for me to be chosen for the competition! Yippee!
I chatted with Paul for a while that afternoon about our schedule and nutrition. He seemed as excited about the opportunity as I was! I was pumped, ready, nervous....excited! Paul and I decided at that moment, we were not only going to be successful, we were going to WIN!!!!

Not just another resolution...

2009-02-05T21:48:00.001-06:00

Returning back to work in January after the holidays was extremely difficult. Not only did I not want my vacation to end, but I knew the dreaded "new years resolution" time had rolled around again. I thought to my self, how many years have I told my self that I was going to change? How many times I have tried to talk my self into eating better, exercising? How many times have I looked in the mirror and cried because of the person I had become for my self and my family? As the negative thoughts raced through my mind, I began to pray. I prayed for strength and motivation to really change this year. I prayed for my family and friends to really be supportive of me. I prayed that 2009 was going to be my comeback. My best year yet. My life had to change.
As I drove to work that morning, I listened to my favorite radio morning show, Frito and Alli (Candy 95.1) and they were advertising a 12 week fitness challenge. I listened closer and learned that a trainer in College Station was giving back to the community and offering an opportunity for 6 people to transform their life and be a part of the 12 week fitness challenge. Not only was I touched, I was moved to tears. This was the opportunity I needed...desperately. I listened closer and learned that David MaretHouse was accepting application emails until Feb.1st, asking listeners to write him and tell him why we deserved to be chosen. I rushed in to the office that morning spewing to my co-worker about the contest. I immediately sent in my email and hoped for the best.
I decided that day that whether or not I was chosen for the MaretHouse fitness challenge, I had to make a change in my life. I became more motivated and determined than ever. I joined weight watchers and changed my eating habits drastically. I was on a roll, and it felt good! There was only one important piece of the puzzle missing...exercise. I had the competition in the back of my mind, hoping and praying that I would be selected. February 1st finally came! I knew that this was the week I would find out my fate. My cell phone rang Monday afternoon, I jumped with excitement because I didn't know the number...it must be them, I was thinking! The guy introduced himself as Paul from MaretHouse fitness. He stated that they received over 300 applicants for the fitness challenge and they had narrowed the number to 30 people they wanted to interview. We scheduled our interview and hung up the phone. I was shaking with excitement! When I showed up for my interview the next afternoon, a bundle of nerves, I was again greeted by Paul. He expalined that another interview was finishing up and I could wait in the office with him. He was super friendly, asking me questions about my interest in the challenge, he could tell how nervous I was and assured me that the interview would go well. He explained that he read my email and was touched by my story and that he was rooting for me. I figured that he probably told everyone that, but was flattered by his gesture. I interviewed with David and Bear. They were so welcoming and easy to talk to. I answered their questions and plead them my case. I was releived when the interview was over, although the only thing left to do was.....wait.
Thursday morning finally came and the winners were to be announced on Candy 95 between 7-9am. I made sure I was at work by 7:00, to be in my office and listening intently awaiting their decision. At last around 7:40 the time had come for them to announce the first recipient. Alli began to read my email. I couldn't beleive it. I was trembling. Partly because all of College Station knew my weight, and mostly because I was chosen out of over 300 applicants to have the opportunity to make my resolution come true!