"The pessimist complains about the wind. The optimist expects it to change. The leader adjusts the sails." ~John Maxwell

Monday, February 28, 2011

Did I make my February goals?

My #1:  Maintain my weight above 140 lbs
Did not do, was 137.5 (Should have known better)

2:  Lose last of cellulite, yes I know this is gross, but it is just about all gone only a little left I can see and I want it gone.
Honestly, it is gone.  There are only a couple of small dimples.  Thanks to a ton of clean eating and cardio.  Should be no problem getting rid of what is left this month.

3:  Stick to training schedule.  Not that this has been a problem, but I can see where this month it is going to be tougher because of the add ins.
No problem here, I did rearrange a bit as needed or had a “make up” day, but got it all done.  I am quite happy about this.

4:  Would love to see all ab detail well not detail, but all cuts by the end of the month.  This one truly is a want, not a need.  :)
They are not ALL the way out, but they have made an appearance.  J

5:  Stick to only 1 cheat day this month.  I had only one last month and I think I can do it again this month.
I had 2, and think they benefited more than hindered.  I am planning another when I am 9 weeks out and it will be by ear after that one.  (Probably no more at that point)

February was a grueling month for me with the sleep issues and how that was playing mind games on me.  March is where it is at!  I am looking forward to all I can get accomplished this month.  Honestly not looking for MAJOR stuff.  Would LOVE to build a little size, Harley says those days are over for me that it is down to a conditioning game.  I am going to have faith my body still has a bit left in it to add a tiny bit more size.  :)

How are your plans coming along?  Are you still on track?  Are you more motivated than ever with the gorgeous weather we have been having?  Shorts, Capri's, tank top, bikini, etc...season is right around the corner.  If you start now, you will still have time to change your Summer.


Even if you have to feel like this for a few months, it WILL be worth it!  :)

Saturday, February 26, 2011

12 weeks out (new plan)

                  Now   was at start of February    Difference
Weight:      137.5                           142               <4.5>   
Chest:        33 1/2                         33 6/8              <2/8>
Waist:      26 2/8                           26 3/8              <1/8>
Hips:        36 1/2                           37 1/8              <5/8>
Thighs:     21 7/8                           22 3/8             <4/8>



(I had my 1st competition spray yesterday that is why I look like I have some color, but I did shower this morning and ALOT come off.  Going back to be sprayed 2 more times today.  I will take a pic for you tomorrow :)  Hannah was saying I looked like an oompla loompa.


This will more than likely be my program until I get to 8 weeks out.  (Wow, that seems like tomorrow!)

Exercise program:
Sunday:  AM 45 min cardio/ PM Legs (weights)
Monday:  AM 45 min cardio/ PM Chest & Tri
Tuesday:  AM 45 min cardio & butt
Wednesday:  AM 25 min cardio/PM Legs (plyo) 20 min step mill
Thursday:  AM Back & Bis/ PM 45 min Spin Class & Abs
Friday:  AM Shoulders & 45 min cardio
Saturday:  AM or PM 300 Workout (done with weights, but I consider it a cardio workout)

Diet:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Saturday:  Low carb
Cal 1292
Fat 43.5
Carb 37
Protein 173.5
Thursday, Friday:  Mid carb
Cal 1482
Fat 41.5
Carb 83.5
Protein 184
Sunday:  High Carb
Cal 1632
Fat 44.5
Carb 111
Protein 189
Foods include: CHICKEN, CHICKEN, CHICKEN, egg beaters, natural peanut butter, protein powder, broccoli, almonds, oatmeal, blackberries, avocado, & spinach.

Starting my thermos Sunday and seriously considering DIM.

Friday, February 25, 2011

Pics 2/25

In the gym this morning at 4:00.  Got bored between sets.  :)



6 pack not out yet.  I think they are hiding on purpose just to make me go sweat more.  They will be punished!



Sloooooowly coming together.  I am a very impatient person.  Maybe I should send a memo to my muscles. 














Girl, you better get to work on those calves!

Thursday, February 24, 2011

Diindolylmethane (DIM)

Guys, this is a very long read and I wish I could have shortened it, but it has information that just floors me.  Why does our (women's) GYN not tell us these things or at least discuss it? 
Anyway, even if you have to read this in sections please please find time to read this.  Follow up with your own research and by all means please let me know if you know more about this good or bad.

From the jimmysmithtraining.com site:

Dim is a very good and effective product. before you invest in it however, you have to ask yourself a few questions?
Am I cycling my training properly?   yes
Have I switched up my rep ranges lately?   yes
Am I focusing on getting stronger?  most definitely
Am I taking my fish oils?  every single morning
Do I ingest enough protein?  app. 175 gr per day
Am I doing long aerobic work?  45 min 6 days a week


OK lets move on to what stirred me up on this to begin with:

Also from the jimmysmithtraining.com site:


Figure Competition Diet Tip # 2
Determine what areas that you need to improve and what areas have more fat on them then you’d like. I bring this up because while it’s heavily influenced by your training cycle it’s also influenced by your hormonal patterns.  Have hip fat that just won’t tighten up so you can see your hip flexors? (No problem for me here)Then your figure competition diet better be high in insulin managing supplement like r-ala, calcium-d-glucarate and omega-3 fish oils. What about your glute-ham tie-in? (Here is my problem) Do you need to make that area get tighter? (Definitely or else I will not be able to get on the stage) Well then you have to get rid of the extra estrogen that you have from hormonal imbalances. So you’d want to focus on using DIM, Omega-3′s and GLA.  (already taking an Omega complex daily (3,6,9) )

So what now?  More research!!
From:
http://www.energeticnutrition.com/vitalzym/dim.html

DIM™ is a naturally occurring phytonutrient that is found in cruciferous vegetables. Though discovered over ten years ago, the connection between plant-derived dietary ingredients and estrogen metabolism are just now beginning to be understood. Research has shown that DIM has the ability to act as an estrogen balancer (sometimes referred to as an estrogen blocker) in both women and men. It can be used by those addressing estrogen dominance problems and seeking to reduce conditions such as uterine fibroid tumors, fibrocystic breasts, and other women's fibrosis related conditions.
A slow metabolism of estrogen can result in too much active estrogen known as estradiol in the body; this can be problematic for both sexes.  In women, elevated estradiol levels have been shown to cause weight gain (waist, thighs, hips), moodiness, and breast pain.  Men tend to suffer from weight gain, loss of sex drive, prostate enlargement, and male patterned baldness, to name a few. 

Did you know there is good and bad estrogen in your body (kind of like good and bad cholestrol)?

Estrogens and Progesterone Overview
Two types of sex (steroid) hormones are estrogens and progesterone. There are three estrogens: B-estradiol, estrone and estriol.  B-estradiol is by far the most potent. It is 12 times more potent than estrone and 80 times more potent than estriol.  Any over exposure to B-estradiol can increase a person’s risk of disease.  Estriol is considered the “good estrogen.”  There is only one type of progesterone, and it considered a very safe hormone.  Progesterone is called progestin when it is in a synthetic form.

Hormonal Imbalance
From the time menses begins until menopause, levels of estrogen and progesterone ebb and flow in a manner which promotes reproduction.  At about age 35 to 40, women reach the time of premenopause, which is when their levels of progesterone and estrogen begin to reduce. 
Normal Hormone Progression
During this time through age 50,  there is a 35% drop in estrogen, but a 75% reduction in progesterone occurring simultaneously.  This is normal, and does create many premenopausal symptoms that we accept as part of the aging process. 
Many premenopausal women in their mid to late thirties, as well as many women in the menopausal stage are overloaded with estrogen.  At the same time they are suffering from progesterone deficiency because of the severe drop in physiological production during this period. There is then insufficient progesterone to counteract the amount of estrogen in our body.  It is most noticeable among peri-menopausal women who do not ovulate, which is quite common.  You may have a fairly normal cycle, but no egg is released and very little progesterone is produced. 
It is not the absolute deficiency of estrogen or progesterone, but rather the relative dominance of estrogen and possible deficiency of progesterone that is the main cause of health problems when they are not in balance.  The end result: excessive estrogen relative to progesterone, add up to a condition Dr. John Lee has termed “estrogen dominance.”  Dr. Lee’s books, What Your Doctor May NOT Tell You About Premenopause and What Your Doctor May NOT Tell You About Menopause explain this and more in-depth.  These books are available on our website.

As DIM works to regulate hormones by increasing the body’s production of healthy estrogen by decreasing the undesirable forms, cells are protected and tumor growth is inhibited.  It is important to remember that there are different forms of the three main estrogens that are important to women and they are estradiol, estrone, and estriol.
Research involving DIM has identified two good estrogens, 2-hydroxy estradiol and 2-hydroxy estrone. These are the antioxidants of the estrogen world and induce the self-destruction of tumor cells. When these two estrogens are low, tumor growth is more likely to occur. DIM increases the body’s production of these healthy estrogens.
Supplementing with DIM helps reduce the estrogen metabolites now known to be responsible for the cancer initiating and cancer promoting effects of estrogen by lowering the two bad forms, 16-hydroxy estrone and 4-hydroxy estrone, which are linked to tumor growth.  These so called “bad” estrogens can have a negative impact by allowing oxidation of cells, damage of DNA, and the promotion of cancer.  It can be said that DIM interferes with cells that are prone to divide and grow in the presence of these two particular forms of estrogen. 
In short, DIM increases the good estrogens, and decreases the bad estrogens. Some refer to this action as being an "estrogen blocker", but that isn't technically the proper term. Research suggests DIM may reduce the risk of breast, uterine, cervical, and prostate cancers. These cancers are estrogen related and that is why it is so important to reduce estrogen dominance in both women and men. 



I hope you found this as interesting and enlightening as I did and maybe it is something you can use.
Crystal

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Sleep issues part 3

On my sleep issue, I talked to Rocky and he recommended Cyclo Rem: (info from company website)

Catch some serious zzz’s. With Cyclo REM™ you’ll get improved sleep quality and mental clarity. Good refreshing sleep is essential for good health. Studies show that poor sleepers receive fewer promotions, have increased rates of absenteeism and tend to demonstrate poor productivity. Cyclo REM™ utilizes the best ingredients available to help you achieve a better quality sleep, quicker muscle recovery and heightened mental performance.
Cyclo REM™ works great for anyone feeling overwhelmed or over-committed; anyone coping with mental, emotional or physical stress; individual anxiety or other nervous disorders; people suffering from insomnia or poor sleep quality; or athletes engaging in strenuous activities.
Anxiety and stress are well-known for reducing the strength of your immune system. Cyclo REM™’s PharmaGaba™ is a natural calming agent that, unlike synthetically produced Gaba, can cross the blood-stream barrier to cause your body and brain to relax. Cyclo REM™ combines PharmaGaba with melatonin to help your body de-stress and wind down in preparation for a good night’s sleep. This combination of ingredients helps induce sleep by allowing you to relax so you can get a better night’s sleep.
Using the power of PharmaGaba™, Cyclo REM™ helps reduce the stressful beta brain waves that decrease your mental concentration and focus and increase your good alpha brain waves which lead to heightened mental clarity and concentration. With Cyclo REM™ you’ll be able to think clearer and perform better.

Now in all fairness, I took just the Cyclo Rem the 1st night and still had trouble sleeping.  Went right to sleep, but woke up several/many times during the night, so still felt like crap the next day.

Rocky had also recommended Humano Growth, so I talked to Harley and he just happened to have some.  The next night I took my Humano Growth plus the Cyclo Rem.  Let me just say, all BS aside, I have slept and I am more energized than ever, my cuts (leaness) are showing more and more every day.  Lack of sleep had really started to play games with my head in so many ways. 

Here is what one website selling Humano Growth said:

Are you not seeing the gains that want you to see no matter how hard you hit the weights? Yes  Are you having trouble shedding those few excess vanity pounds that seem to just stick around? Yes Have you become aware that your testosterone levels are lower then they should be? (giggle)  If you answered yes to any of the questions above then keep reading because we have the product for you. Humano Growth by Labrada Nutrition is a brand new product that will take care of those issues and much, much more. With Humano Growth you can naturally blast your testosterone and growth hormone levels into the mesosphere and beyond without any negative side effects. With Humano Growth you can increase your muscle building and fat burning abilities. Naturally, Safely and Legally.

  • Increase Positive Nitrogen Balance by 20%
  • Increase Protein Efficiency by 31%
  • Reduce Inflammation by 6.5%
  • Naturally Increase Testosterone and Growth Hormone Levels
  • Naturally Decrease Recovery Time
  • Balance Adrenal Functions
  • Remains Biologically Active After Oral Administration
Plus,
  • Raise testosterone

  • Reduce cortisol

  • Reduce oxidative stress, and thus, speed recovery

  • Increase sexual drive (Cyclo Rem mentions sexual drive as well.) 

  • Improve sleep



  • Honestly, I have not given much time to research these two, I have trusted Rocky and Harley.  Harley said Humano Growth was possibly one of the best supplements out on the market for many reasons.  To hear Harley say that was all I needed as he does not talk about supplements and such much.

    Happy sleeping!

    My life as a work in progress

    This morning the thought about this blog popped in my head and I decided it had to be done.  This may seem random a bit, but I hope you follow through to the end. 

    I get all kinds of questions about my life.....from what am I doing with my hair, to how are my girls and if I am going to get married, to what is going on with my contest prep, to am I going to buy a house or car anytime soon, etc....  So, I have considered how my life is one HUGE work in progress.  Will there ever be an end to the work and if so does that mean my life will be over at that point?  (I don't mean that in a gloom and doom way, but in a philosophical way)  For example, my hair.  It has been a work in progress all my life it seems.  Most recently, I have decided to go back to my natural color.  Well I mentioned to my mom the other day my goal was to keep cutting it till all the damaged portion was off and then highlight it.  (She never likes to hear me changing anything about my hair)  So at this time I am waiting till March to go back cut a little more off, then for April to cut a little more off and highlight it.  Then the thought hit me this morning how much easier it would be if I do not highlight it....... :)

    My contest prep is completely in the air right now.  I have decided to make even more changes to my diet, but have not had the time to research it to make sure of what approach I want to take.  Always in the back of my mind there is what "the experts" say we must eat and can not eat in order to prepare for a show and I understand, but I think each person's body reacts differently and should be treated differently.  What works for one may not work for another, so I am about to get a lot more scientific.  (Sweet potatoes have GOT TO GO!)

    I do not know about you, but there is always something in my life I am working towards.  To me that does not mean I am willing away the present, but I have certain goals and I want to see them accomplished.  I am 100% positive once my current goals are met more will follow.  And I think what I am trying to say is it is OK with me to live my life that way.  Anything worth having is worth working for and the working for it is what makes getting it all that much sweeter.

    So, what are your goals and what are you doing to get there?  More importantly, are you on track and if not what are you going to do about it?




     

    Monday, February 21, 2011

    Update

    Hey guys, today I am home with my youngest daughter she is not feeling well.  So I have been using the day to "catch up".   I installed some shelves in the nook in my laundry room.




    On Saturday I went with my oldest daughter, Cierra, to her ball tournament. 






    On Sunday, we all went to Harley's mom's house to celebrate his and his aunt's birthday.





    On to the big question everyone is asking these days.  How is my dieting and workouts coming along?  Are there any changes.  Well, not sure how to answer that.  Remember this is my 1st time.  Here is what I can say.  My weight and measurements are basically the same as they were at the beginning of February.  I have been told my chest is striated, even I have noticed it is more so than ever.  My butt is smaller and firmer.  My arms are my pride and joy right now, they are shaping up well.  My shoulders will be what they will be.  My abs are still not "out" as I would like, but I am 13 weeks out.  My legs are definately stronger than ever.  My workouts are exciting and hopefully as I lean down more, more defination will show in my legs.

    Friday, February 18, 2011

    I am sooo sleepy! Part 2

    I pulled this off the jimmysmithtraining.com website today: 

    Missing sleep, even for one night,wrecks your immune system and increases the stress on your body ten-fold.
    So what happens then?
    Well as we don’t sleep, we increase our insulin resistance which raises cortisol(that nasty anti-muscle hormone) and leads to more and more fat finding a home on our waistline. High levels of cortisol, over time, actually rip apart our collagen which leads to “swiss cheese” legs in women and overall bad skin, everywhere.
    Look at sleep as two phases (there’s actually five), REM sleep, not Michael Stipe, and deep sleep. Once we hit deep sleep our body will start changing hormone patterns and will put us into a even deeper sleep, almost like a coma. It’s during this period that that our body will try to repair, recover and grow. Once we progress to REM sleep we actually start to wake up, our body starts go through more normal functions (blood pressure increases as does heart rate).
    Taking about 2-3 grams of glutamine pre-bed in water and on a empty stomach has been shown in research to increase growth hormone.

    Needless to say I did talk with Rocky today and he suggested a sleep aid until I can get back on track and I will be so glad to try it tonight.  My voice is even starting to get raspy, so I know I am getting pretty bad off.  Now I think about how I have been so down on myself all week and I am sure it is because of my lack of sleep.  UGH!!  Do everything right and one little thing can make all efforts seem for nothing. 

    Well momma is about to fix that and should be right as rain by tomorrow.  ;)  Thanks Rocky.

    Changes to diet

    I said from day one that if I started to plateau, I would shake up my diet and or exercise to shock my body back to moving again.  It seems that time has come.  I have not had any serious changes over the last two weeks or not enough for me to be happy, so here we go.
    I was doing 3 low carb days, 3 mid carb days and 1 high carb day per week.
    Here is what my new schedule will look like:
    Sunday & Monday mid carbs
    Tuesday & Wednesday low carbs
    Thursday mid carbs
    Friday & Saturday low carbs
            Low carb day:                            Mid carb day:
    Calories   1641                                        1658
    Protien      199                                         213
    Carbs        23                                           107
    Fat            77                                            36
    (pretty close)

    Plus, I am not sleeping which I know has ALOT to do with possible weight gain and higher levels of cortisol.  So, I have a call into someone who hopefully can recommend me something very natural preferrably herbal to help me sleep at least for a few nights. 

    I actually love my training schedule right now.  Last night I did my version of a plyo workout and was completely drenched when I left the gym.  (A good sweat always makes me feel better)  And I want to give a thanks here to Gary for stopping what he was doing to help me recreate a particular move.

    Always open to suggestions.

    Thursday, February 17, 2011

    Being hard on myself

    This week has not been the best in terms of how I feel I look.  To me the changes are not coming quickly enough.  Yes I know this is a process and takes time, but ______________________well the list could go on and on. 
    Here are some things I am thinking about:
    Are my shoulders going to be big enough by show time?  I considered adding in another light shoulder day to my routine before I remembered I am already doing a full shoulder day, plus the 300 workout which has a good bit of shoulders in it, and I am using shoulders a bit in my ab workouts too.  Do I really need another shoulder workout?
    When, oh when, are my legs going to look like they should?  I keep hoping by having this extra plyo day they will trim down so I can see more cuts, but it hasn't happened yet.  On a slightly better note I am seeing the side sweep of my quad and that makes me somewhat happy.
    Booty, well, let's just say I have already added back in a few exercises each week designed to target the booty.  Maybe I will see a change in a couple of weeks.
    Chest, fine.
    Back fine.  Want a little more V shape in my back, but I know it will come.
    Arms, good.  Probably could use a little more definition in my tris, but that will probably show as I lean down.
    Abs, are getting there.  Not too worried here either.  Again as I lean down, they will be fine.

    I know at the 12 week out mark I will make more changes that should help me see results.  It is almost as if I am wishing away the next 9 days, so I can make those changes already. 

    Patience grasshopper!  It will come!  (see I know, just needed to voice it)

    Tuesday, February 15, 2011

    My Valentine's present & the view from my "home" gym

    Isn't he the sweetest! 


    The skyline here is amazing.  Wish this picture would have done it justice.




    Just outside the gym.  The waterfall was on, but you can't see it here.  I really love this place.



    Monday, February 14, 2011

    "Don't let what you can't do, stop you from doing what you can."

    I have had several conversations with people around me about their diet and exercise plan.  Even though I may have had this conversation with you personally I wanted to recap for those who didn't hear.  Maybe something in here will help or apply to you no matter where you are along this journey.

    All of these I personally use or have used:
    • 1st set clear cut goals.  Make sure you know exactly where you are going and how long you want to take to get there. 
    • Create a book for all things fitness to you.  Motivation pictures, thoughts, sayings, workouts, recipes, etc...
    • Get a calendar and schedule your workouts for at least a week out.  Consider both AM & PM workouts or both if necessary to get them all in.
    • Hold yourself accountable.   
    • Cook your food in advance.  This one key to success.  Every time I talk to someone I try to stress this point and feel like I can never do it enough justice.  If your food is not ready when you are, the likelihood of you grabbing whatever is on hand is high.  If your food is ready to go when you are, you are much less likely to "cheat".
    • Give yourself a cheat meal.  How often is up to you, but I suggest you stick to your allotted diet for at least 2 weeks before even considering your first cheat meal.  (Again, meal, not day!)
    • Write a food journal.  To thine own self be true!  At the end of the day or whenever it works for you write all the food you ate for the day down.  At the end of the week, look back over it and see what you can add or leave out to make next week better.
    • Have a well rounded workout plan:  Diet, weight training, and cardio.  One won't work without the other for very long.
    • Take progress pictures and/or measurements.  No one ever has to see these unless you want them to. It is a great feeling to see or know how far you have come.  (Forget the scale)
    • Make sure you are taking your vitamins.  I take a handful of vitamins, herbs, etc... every morning.  My girls always give me a hard time about this, but I do not want my body to do without anything while my diet is so strict.  (Plus I make them take a multi-vitamin every morning too)
    •  Like a well rounded workout plan you must have a well rounded diet:  Protiens, Carbs, and Fats.  (Proteins are a must!!!)  Also, try to eat at least 5-6 meals per day.
    • Drink LOTS of water!  Why waste your precious calories on a drink?  Save them for your food/fuel.  Limit your caffeine. 
    • Get your whole family on board or at least make sure they understand your goals.  This is tough to do alone, much less if you have people in a household with all different diets.  Everyone can benefit from a cleaner diet.
    Take care and best of luck!

    Show a little LOVE

    As I was driving to work this morning it hit me....What better way to show someone your love than by becoming a healthier you.  Too many times you see couples get married, a couple of years pass, and all the weight gain begins.  Are you the still trying to keep the fire alive?  Forget the fire, are you living a healthy lifestyle so that your better half does not end up spending the rest of his or her life caring for you and all of your needs.  (A very selfish thingto do to someone you love in my book)

    When I worked at HL for that short spit of time I saw all sorts of wall placks saying, "Couples who eat together stay together", "Couples who worship together stay together", "Couples who play together stay together"........  How about couples who workout together, and fix & eat healthy meals together stay together......in more ways than one.  I can not think of anything I want on Valentine's Day....no flowers, no chocolate, no presents, nothing.  I have everything I could ever want.  My man takes very good care of himself, he works out with me (not near as much as I would like because of our schedules), he helps me cook, he goes walking on pretty days with me, and he lets me take him down in the floor to wrestle when I want (and LETS me win).  I am a lucky girl!  And I hope all of you are too.

    Saturday, February 12, 2011

    This morning.....couldn't sleep :)

    I thought this might be better than weekend measurements.   Things are progressing slowly but surely.   



    Still holding out hope all six children will be out by months end. 
     

    And as I said last time, those are one of a kind piggy jammies and no you can not have a pair.  :)

    (OBTW, I am 14 weeks out today)

    Friday, February 11, 2011

    Weight 138

    Slow and steady....I have lost 14 lbs since starting this.  Harley said he thinks I can go another 10 to 15 before my show.   That would put me at 123 to 128, on my 5' 8 1/2" frame.  We will see, but the main thing is now I can see that I am holding onto my muscle, in fact still gaining, and losing the fat layer on top of the muscle.  Quite happy right now because this gives me a goal to work towards.  :)

    On another note, the 300 workout this evening was pretty intense.  Had me sweating like crazy and at one point just about every muscle in my body was shaking.  Probably not the best of ideas to perform that workout on a low carb day.  (Live and learn)

    I found out a while back one of the guys from my gym will be competing in the Shreveport show with me, and just found out today another guy from my gym will be competing in the Metairie and Lafayette shows.  Although I am still undecided on those two it is good to know someone I know will be backstage with me. 

    OK laundry calls.....post later. 

    May have changed name of blog

    I am trying to get the name on my blog to read Dreaming of Arnold as that is what I intended from day 1.  So, if you see that name know it is still me.

    300 again today

    OK you are supposed to do each of these for 60 seconds, rest 15 seconds between exercises, and rest 2 minutes before starting the cycle over again.  I have done it in the past and it kicked butt.  Today I am going to set limits on each and go through the cycle however many times I can in 45 minutes.  (My version for a HIIT day)
    Goblet squat 20
    Mountain Climber 40
    Single arm DB swing 20
    T pushups with weights 20
    Split jumps/jump squats 20
    DB row 20
    DB side lunge & touch 20
    Pushup position row 20
    DB lunge & rotate 20
    DB push press 20

    Looking forward to this one.  Plyo yesterday was good, but will be leaving P90X next week and writing my own plyo routine.  If you have any serious kick butt moves please pass them on to me. 
    I do not think I am going to post measurements this weekend.  Maybe next, not sure.  May only do it at the start of each month with the update shots.

    VERY excited about my CHEAT MEAL tomorrow!  I think I am doing steak and seafood.  Can not remember how long it has been since I have had either.    

    Life is good!  

    And just because I am me and he is the greatest!


       
    Have a great weekend!

    Thursday, February 10, 2011

    For today

    For today,
    I will find time to get it all done...
    I will not hold a grudge against my little dog for cocking his leg up on my comforter this morning...
    I will not dwell on the muscles knotting up in my back...or my jacked up shoulder......
    I will find a way to get through to someone today...
    I will be more thankful for today than yesterday...
    I will bake 5-6 pounds of chicken tonight while I do my P90X Plyo...
    I will find 10-15 minutes to research more on my competition...
    I will desperately try to not compare myself to any other competitors...
    I will look over Hannah's ABC project....
    I will watch American Idol's Hollywood Week....
    I will think positive thoughts and take action in my own life...

    What is your for today list?
    Does it include anything to make you a healthier you?  Or a better you?

    Wednesday, February 9, 2011

    Back & Bi Day

    Want to keep today's post short and sweet...

    My training, diet, and cardio are going well.  This weekend will be the end of the 2nd full week of this round of changes, so I can better track if it has made a difference or not.  I am planning a cheat meal Saturday and looking forward to it.  It has been 3 weeks since my last cheat. (Unless you count some dinner mints at a wedding last weekend) 
    I have decided to start taking my thermos at 12 weeks out; one per day.  And if all goes as expected I will increase to 2 per day at 8 weeks out. 
    Yesterday I talked to the lady who will be doing my spray tanning.  All was positive and on schedule to do my 1st trial color run through either the last week of February or the 1st of March.  Then I will do another trial run through in April.
    Speaking of, I talked to another lady who will be doing a photo shoot for me in April.  I am thinking I will plan it about 4 weeks out from my show.....if any of you have done this, please let me know when you took your pics for the best look.  (I don't want to be to hard or dry in these pics, but have clear muscle definition showing)  My photo shoot and 2nd color trial will be coordinated, so I have a pretty tan in the pics.

    What is going on with all of you?  Have you been finding time to get in the gym?  Eat healthier?  I really hope so, so much depends on it.



     

    Tuesday, February 8, 2011

    Change of mind

    I have decided to change my mind or rather my way of thinking.  Last year was kind of a tough one for me financially and in other areas.  Lots of "extra"bills, work slowed way down, took on a 3rd job, and missed time with my family.  Blah, blah, blah!  Well like the beautiful blue sky and sunshine out today, I have decided it is time to put all of that behind me and move forward.  Life is too short to pack around all sorts of unnecessary baggage.  So here is me throwing it all off, straightening up my shoulders and looking out through new eyes.  No longer will negative words come out of my mouth, all negative thoughts will be squished.
    Only I have the ability to change my life and the path I chose. 

    Notes to self:
    • My girls are growing up and I will have to accept that at some point, might as well be today.
    • There is only so much I can do in a day, but use every moment to it's fullest.
    • Be where I am...whether that is home, work, or the gym.
    • Workouts are something I need for my health, give them everything I have each and every time.  If I am not healthy all other parts of my life will fall apart.
    • Find more joy in the simple things life has to offer. 
    • Make a difference in someones life daily.  Even if it is mine.

    Someone told me they were reading my blog, it was someone completely unexpected, and it touched me.  I don't think I properly thanked them because I was caught off guard and it humbled me.  So let me say now, thank you to all of you who are secretly following because you are interested enough in what is going on in my life to read this blog.  Truly, I am touched.

    I leave you with this:
    What have you done to improve upon yourself today?

    Monday, February 7, 2011

    Where is your drive?

    Here we are starting the 2nd week of February.  The weather sucks in most places.  You have been dieting and exercising since January 1 for the most part.  You have already dropped a few or more pounds and people have been complimenting you on a great job.  You are feeling better, sleeping better, and maybe taking less medication.  So, do you slack off?  Do you say this is enough and slip back into your before January lifestyle.  Forget one cheat meal per week, it is a cheat meal everyday.  Gym, who needs that as much?  You can get by with a brisk walk a couple of days a week and maybe the gym once a week. 
    WAKE UP!!!!!  SNAP OUT OF IT!!!!!
    You just got sucked right back in where you were.  You can not let the weather, kids being sick, you feeling bad, work, spouse's schedule, etc.... keep you from moving forward.  Surely you have seen changes in your body and you want to see more.  Push past all of the daily issues life throws at you and get in the gym.  Don't settle for small change.  This is your life and you have all the ability to make a difference.  Just a couple more months till Spring and if you hang in there it will be your best yet. 
    Hang in there just a little while longer! 

    Sunday, February 6, 2011

    More Sunday Measurements

    This makes no sense to me, but here they are:
    Chest:  33 2/8             was 33 6/8
    Waist:  26 1/2             was 26 3/8
    Hips:  37 3/8              was 37 1/8
    Thighs:  22 3/8             was 22 3/8
    So to recap. UGH!!!!, 1 down, 1 stayed the same, and 2 went up!  WT......!!! 
    Harley says I look different and that I should go with that because these #'s are going to drive me crazy.  Which I hadn't believed until this week.  Harley asked how much more did I think I could lose on my waist, well I think I can get it to about 25 in. maybe less before competition.  Which of course I dodn't think will happen till the last month or so when I strip a lot more from my diet. 
    OK got to go Cierra's friend is coming over for breakfast.  Love Sunday breakfast.

    Friday, February 4, 2011

    Version of the 300 Workout

    Yesterday's workout was a little different for me, but was fun to do. 
    Pullips 25
    DB Deadlifts 50
    Pushups 50
    Bodyweight squat jumps 50
    V-Ups 50
    DB push press 50
    Pullups 25

    My weight was down to 140 yesterday.  Not all that happy about that, but I will decide if I am going to make any changes when I weigh on Sunday.  Tomorrow I will post this week's measurements.  Hopefully I will see a drop as I have been feeling changes.

    Today is Plyo, looking forward to doing this as I have not done it in a while.  P90X here I come!

    My tip:  If you are shut in because of the weather try a workout video.  Don't let the weather keep you from doing what you can.

    Thursday, February 3, 2011

    For today

    Guys I am excited about posting this weekend's measurements.  Already with the changes I made for this week, I have seen a difference.  This morning even though it was the coldest morning all year, I got up and walked over to my little gym and did my 45 minutes of cardio.  30 on the elliptical and 15 on the bike.  This afternoon I am skipping out on the gym for a date with P90X Plyo and then some Abs.  Today is my mid carb day and after the last two days of being on low carbs, I am ready for something to fill me up.  (Lots to be said for some extra oatmeal and a sweet potato)  
    Lately, I have been hearing lots of success stories.  People around me seem to be doing more this year to become more active and get healthier.  It makes me so proud every time I hear them tell me they have lost another pound or that they are having to double the weights they are using in the gym.  And you know what I think is even better?  They are all on their own path, using what they can do and making it work.  
    Way to go!  Keep up the incredible work all of you are doing and I know by Summer you will look and feel like a new person and wonder how did you ever not work out or eat so much unhealthy food.  You guys have really inspired me to push this to the edge and back.  Thank you!

    Wednesday, February 2, 2011

    What a day

    On my way to take my girls to school this morning, my car put me on the side of the road.  After finding out it is going to cost me another $550 (I just spent $500 2 weeks ago), I have decided it is time to seriously look into another vehicle.  I will let you know if I do actually get anything. 

    The stress of the matter makes me look forward to getting in the gym this afternoon.  A good Back and Bi's workout should cure all my woes.  :)
    Here is what I plan to do:
    Wide grip lat pulldown 3 x 10
    Under hand Pull down 3 x 10
    One arm row 4 x 8
    Dead Lifts 4 x 8
    DB curl 3 x 10
    Preacher curl 3 x 10
    Concentration curls 3 x 15
    Wide grip cable curl 3 x 15

    Yesterday and today has been a bit of a struggle with my diet.  As 2 of my 3 low carbs days of the week and being back to back, I am HUNGRY!  I keep thinking it may be because I have increased my cardio this month.  My abs are looking better for it though and this morning it was nice to see what I saw in the mirror.  Still makes me think you guys will be able to see all six of the children in my update shot next month.  :)


    Have a great afternoon!

    Tuesday, February 1, 2011

    Here it is!

    OK all of you know I do not like short hair, but since I have had no choice Ta Da!

    It feels so much better and it has movement again.  It was worth it for that alone. 

    Going to get my hair cut!

    This one was every one's choice yesterday when I sent an email out to my family and friends.  I like it alot for short hair.  Of course I would rather have it long again, but that is not an option at this point. 
    This one is cute.  Way too short for me, but going to be left on the table.  I am taking both pics to the hair stylist and telling her to try to do #1, if she can not cut all the damage out by doing #1 then she has full reign to go to #2.  Very nervous and excited all at the same time.









    I would post my shoulder workout from yesterday, but honestly it would include more explanations of exercises vs exercise names because I am Harley's guinea pig.  I must say, my boy more than delivered yesterday.  I complained to him about my shoulders being too small and that I would not have enough time to build any decent size on them before my show and he designed the most kick butt shoulder routine to date. 

    Oh, and hopefully we can do my body fat % tomorrow.  Keeping the fingers crossed.  :)

    And one last then I have to go.  I am soooooooooo proud of my family members who have really stepped up and taken action to get in shape this year.  If EVER I can help anyone PLEASE let me know.