2009 Goals

I have important weight related goals for 2009. 

• Sign up for my first marathon training that begins December 30th.
• January 2nd, no late night eating (nothing past 9 pm will go in my mouth except tea or water)
• January 2nd - 23rd! HIGH INTENSITY eating plan/workout plan for wedding!! I want to look (and feel) fabulous on Amy's wedding day January 24th!
• Run 3-4 x's per week:  Tues, Wed, Sunday (and one additional day--Friday nights)
• Lose the balance of the weight by February 28th, 2009 - Including the Christmas bloat I would estimate just under 20 pounds. 
• Goal Weight 140 pounds
• Run my first of two marathons this year. One in May and one in October
• After my marathon training/races get on the surgery list for my veins  for the late fall/early winter (hopefully done before Christmas or new year 2010 injections and everything complete)
• Start doing sit ups (100)/push ups (25)/squats (25) daily again. 
• Incorporate strength training 2x per week (go to a gym early am before the family is up)
• Get my kids out more often and active on a daily basis, and MAKE IT FUN!

Bloated

Oh...uggghh. I am ready for the new year that is for sure! I have put on the pounds, I can feel them everywhere. I haven't been able to run. I haven't been motivated, and realize it is SOOOO easy to get out of a healthy plan. Just so very easily. Back into the old habits. The habits I have worked so hard to change. BUT...the new year will be here, I have a new clinic starting. I have my GARMIN. I have the determination and I will change my though process again!

I look forward to 2009!! It is going to be super! 

I miss running

I feel bloated, full and just yuck. Eating too many sweets and servings this Christmas season. I think I have had enough carbs to last a year today. And this is only mid afternoon. Tonight is our full on Christmas dinner being brought in by 4 x 4! LOL. We are pretty snowed in here. What a white Christmas!

I wish I could run but the road is way too snowy. I could get on the treadmill, but I feel too full. All I know is that January 1st is a new start. And I plan on removing this 'spare' tire just in time for my sisters wedding on January 24th, 2009.

I have a dress fitting on January 10th and I know the dress will fit. But still. I just want it to feel good and comfy. 

I will be recording my current weight on January 1st, and doing so every Monday until 'Wedding Week' and I hope to show you all a photo of me in the most beautiful dress! Woot!

So, come January 1st this blog will be very active. I will once again be recording daily my exercise, my eating plan etc.  I am totally looking forward to it.

I will be back under the 150 mark that is for sure. I am WAY more comfortable there. 

PS. Santa brought me a 205 Forerunner Garmin. I love my Santa. He rocks! 

PPS. My marathon training begins December 30th! I cannot wait!

Run in the snow

I just got back from a 14 km (almost 9 mile run) in the snow. It was pretty good. I was really cold for the first half of the run, but I was toasty warm at the end of it all. The snow started coming down towards the end of the run. There were only a hand full of 'die hard' runners out today. I am glad I made the trek out. I know when I do runs like this that I will appreciate the warm weather running even more.

Today I felt hard core. That felt good, especially because of the missed hill training last Wed (due to blizzard conditions!) I hope we can run on Monday and Tuesday outside. I think we may have a White Christmas this year! Wow.

End of the year of 2008?

I started this year with a big goal. A goal to lose approximately 80 pounds. And I have met this goal, and took it even a bit further with an almost 90 pound loss. I want to lose another 7 -10 pounds in the new year. I watched a great episode of XWeighted on Slice last night. It motivated me (as I sat and ate my weekly nacho splurge with Cliff.) She lost 63 pounds in 6 months. Sometimes I watch that show and the don't get even CLOSE to their goal weight. But she sure did. I thought 63 pounds is so much to lose. And yes, I lost even more than her. I still don't see that weight loss or feel it except when I look at the photos from my before.

PS I did run 14 kms in the cold weather yesterday morning. In fact it was so windy that my hat blew off, and I couldn't feel my cheeks from the cold. 

Anyways, as I was saying I suddenly felt motivated to get to my goal. Once my daughter is successfully weaned from breastfeeding (I am certainly hoping to be done January just in time for my sisters wedding!!) I am going to kick up my goals a bit in 2009.

I think I am just going to stay right around here for now, but on January 2nd I am going to start kicking my own but again. It is hard to believe that it has been one year almost since I started my own journey. I am still learning and growing. 

December 30th I am starting the marathon clinic (that will be a 42.2 km marathon race in Vancouver in the beginning of May 2009) My eating will be back on track, and I will be tracking my calories etc. again. Time to get back on track.

I am going to do a resolution run on New Years day (5 km) at 11 am. I am also going to do another half Marathon the day after Valentines day! So, I have a lot to work towards. I am so excited! 

I do not like feeling tight pants, or this muffin top. It is going bye bye! I need to be ready to get myself on that surgery list for my veins this year. Another thing to get checked off my list.

Time to start working on not only the rest of the weightloss, but work harder on myself. 

I am kicking up my running right now. I am running tonight, tomorrow and Wednesday. Maybe even Friday. Then I am starting to get up there in distance again with my long slow distance runs on Sunday. Next week it is 14 km (but I will most likely run there instead of drive again like I tried to do yesterday, but Cliff and the kids grabbed me about 2.5 kms into my run)

PS Santa if you are listening or reading my blog I would really REALLY love a Garmin for Christmas. xo

Freakin Muffin Top

Yes, I said muffin top. These extra few pounds are literally weighing me down on my runs, and in my mind. It is like I have reverted back to the 'fat Cathy' that I was months ago. It is like I have lost all control in the eating department, and I do not feel like getting back on track. I know that in times of stress food is my comfort. But, seriously I HAVE to get back on track because I have a dress I have to fit into for my sisters Wedding at the end of January 2009. 

I have still not hit the 155 mark, but I am close enough to go what are you doing to yourself Cathy?! Why?! So, at some point I have to say no to the full fat Peppermint mochas, and the extra cookies etc. Just because the season is festive shouldn't give me license to just fill my my face with unhealthy bad food choices. 

I do have to say that I was very 'on plan' for MANY months. Rigid plan. I was eating so healthy, and on my plan for almost a whole year. That is certainly a whole lot of being 'good'! and so I guess I figured that I could just let myself go a bit.  Well, obviously I have no sense of control. My life has been chaotic, stressful, boring, ground hog like. And I guess food has really been my companion through all of those feelings. And this depressing weather is not helping either. 

Now, I have to find another way to charge through all of the above emotions sans food. Running helps, and I have been doing less of that. Only 3-4 times a week. Unlike in the past where I was running almost every day. And, my breastfeeding of my daughter is dwindling (FINALLY) and also I experienced my first 'cycle' and that made me crave the usually salty chips etc. It is hard to stay on track. I am getting lazy, and that is not how I want to be.

Anyways, I am going to add in an extra run on Friday and try to just get eat healthy, add in more fruits and veggies. Drink a lot more water and hopefully doing so will sort of put me back on track. I need to be moderate, and not extreme. 

I need a plan, and I need one fast. I do not want a muffin top. Oh no I do not. How to motivate myself during the holidays is going to challenge me. That is for sure. I have worked too darn hard to let this all go.

Creeping, creeping

slowly creeping upward. I am nearing my 'danger' zone in the weight department. And I don't really FEEL like working hard on anything weight wise. I have a dress I need to fit for my sisters wedding. That is stressing me out.

I think I have the fall/winter blahs. Food has taken on a 'comfort' role for me again. I have to stop the madness. Nip this in the bud. Crack the whip and stay motivated.

I did it!

Well, today (well yesterday now) was my darling Coco's 1st birthday party and I promised myself that by the time she turned one years old that I would reach my weightloss goal and look the best I have ever looked. I reached that goal. Now it is time to set new ones.

I also ate cake today, and I skipped a run! I will work harder this week, and throw in an extra run to make up for the party time LOL!

Thursday

Well, I am still here. Just not on the bandwagon as much. Not as interested in this process, and choosing to concentrate my efforts on my other interests at this time.

I am still right around 150 pounds. I am running like crazy. That is good enough for now!

I will update again at some point :D

Fun with my four girls

This evening, I got onto the treadmill for about 35 minutes. The weather was brutally wet, and I want to ramp up my exercise again. So, on I got. And it felt great. Lately I have only been running 3x's per week. So, this week I decided I wanted to up my exercise again to allow for more fall/wintery treats. 

So, whilst I was kicking it on the treadmill at 7.5 mph straight run...my girls skipped and danced away. And gave me some woot's! And you are going fast Mommy! And more cheers. (It is so nice to have my own personal cheering squad!) 

At the same time, they had some fun. Burned some extra energy. And after they copied me with my push ups, crunches and squats. Then, I broke out the 80's aerobics moves. THEY LOVED doing it with me. At one point I called Cliff into the garage to see us all in action. It was adorable. 

Anyways,

A teachable moment! Activity is fun with your kids! It was great and I plan on doing that again!

Thankful

I am so pleased that I can run, and that I remain injury free. I am thankful to the support of my hubby who sacrifices his time so that I can go and take care of my own needs. That would be my running and my photography.

I am thankful that on January 24th, 2009 I will be able to be the MOH to my sis Amy at their wedding. Wearing a black strapless gown that looks AWESOME on me. I am so happy to not wear maternity or breastfeeding attire to the wedding like I have done for the past 10 years of family and friend weddings. I can enjoy all of the hard work AND effort that I have put into myself over the last year.

I am happy that my journey here has not ended, yet keeps on helping to motivate others to create their own programs to get their bodies healthy again.

I cannot believe that in 10 short days my 'baby' Courtney will be 1 year old already, and one year ago I weighed 238 pounds and wore plus size, xxl maternity pants. 

I am so thankful to be right where I am at. So far, I have accomplished so much, in so little time. Already training for a second half marathon, and a marathon in the next year. 

I would never have guessed just how wonderful life would be for me today. But is! My heart spills over with gratefulness and happiness. I am so thankful.

I look forward now, and not backwards realizing these could be the last few times that I sit and blog one handed as I breastfeed my Coco.

As that part of my life will be behind me soon too. But again, so much good stuff to look forward to.

So much.

Where I'm at

I took a day off of running on Sunday. It felt weird to do so, especially because Sundays are generally my 'long runs' but I really needed it. I think my body is reacting to stress, and lack of sleep. I have also developed a twitch in my eye. It goes away (mostly) when I am running and away from the house. BUT, when I walk through the door it starts up. Especially twitchy eye when it is loud in the house. And, that is just part and parcel with having a large family. I also would think that just the general busy that is constantly part of my life. Our life with six kids. Has something to do with it all. 

SO, I slept in (well till about 8 ish -- thank you hubby!) that felt good. But weird. But the twitch is STILL there.

I then decided that I would sign up for another half marathon clinic. So, on Tuesday I started running/training again for a goal race the day after Valentines day. Closer to home. 

So I ran a little 3km straight run on Tuesday with the group. And then on Wednesday (last night) I ran 6.3 km straight run. That felt great. My body CRAVES fitness and exercise. Everything just feels better when I exercise. Everything keeps in balance. That is the mental, the exercise, the food and water intake. And just a general sense of well being that I cannot get from anything else than you guessed it...running. I am a better Mom and person when I run. Again, that whole 'guilt' thing comes back, but it is something I have scheduled into my ical. And I love having something to look forward to. I strive to keep doing better, and trying to get as fit as I can. Once I stop breastfeeding my oh so attached Coco. I will be putting my name on the list FINALLY for my vein surgery. I will call the office After February once my run is done. I am hoping I can have the surgery done in between clinics, or at least in the lower km runs. I will be out for a week of running for the surgeries. And with the injections I hear 2 weeks. Yikes. I will go coo coo. So, I will just focus on today!

So, I am back on the wagon and running. Training for my next half marathon. Now...who will come on out and cheer me on?! It is a VERY hill course! LOL.

Quote

Whenever you feel uncomfortable, instead of retreating back into your old comfort zone, pat yourself on the back and say, “I must be growing,” and continue moving forward.

~T. Harv Eker

This is it...

This is the ONLY photo of me from the official race photographers. I was just nearing 5 km to go, and I stopped to have some water and I was charging up on gu and thinking about what I had to do in the next 5 km to reach my goal of under 2 hours. I wish I had one of me going through the finishing chute. Oh well.

Creature Comfort

I don't know about you, but when the weather turns to fall and winter I no longer wish to drink water, eat salads, eat healthy period. I want to eat warm casseroles, pastas, hot cocoa's etc.

Thankfully because I run, I can get away with eating a treat or two and pay no consequence. But, I find lately I just eat more. I am busy, I have six kids, I have house to tend to, husband's needs to tend to. Family stuff, photography stuff. But, it just boils down to the fact that I have to care for myself, and in turn I can care easier for others who need me at all times. Like my Courtney who is still breastfeeding. My little leach LOL!

I have developed an eye twitch in my left eye. It is driving me NUTS! I know I need to slow down...I need to care a bit for me again. Take the time to just treat my body right. That includes eating right, and exercising more etc. But boy oh boy is that tricky when all I want to do is flop over on the couch with a hot yummy drink, and a bag of potato chips. (NO I have NOT done this but the thought is there!)

Just an update :D

My weight is right at 150, and I figure this is where my body likes to be so I will not fight with it. Now is not the time to fight my body! I have to WORK with my body. I am not going to be so hung up on the numbers on the scale.

I am 'in between' clinics right now. I ran 7 kms last night and I felt great! I am starting my second half marathon clinic next week. That clinic will prepare me for another half in February 2009. I cannot wait! And, I have decided to do one more half after that...either Vancouver Half, or Scotia Half. And, in June 2009 when the marathon clinic starts up I will train for 18 weeks to prepare for my very first MARATHON to take place in Victoria on the very same place I ran my first half marathon (and LOVED it!) in October 2009. Perfect birthday present!

So, all good!

A couple of photos for now...from my half marathon

The top photo was me heading out the door, with about 40 minutes before the 7:30 am start time. The bottom photo was only one of me actually running in the 21.1 km!  Cliff took this with the camera phone. I was literally less than a minute from the finishing chute. Hopefully there will be more eventually! 

I have a half marathon under my belt

*photos to come*

I had a fabulous first half marathon this morning! The gun went off at 7:30 am.  The weather was cool, but bright. I felt great! What a thrilling experience to run with SO many runners etc. Wow. I highly recommend the Royal Victoria Marathon/Half Marathon! Victoria, BC is just beautiful. I look forward to racing here next year! I hope Cliff can run the half, and I can run the full! Bring it on!!

My official chip time for 21.1 km was 1:53:36 with an average pace of 5:24 km. I now have the racing bug that is for sure. I have plans to run one more half marathon in February 2009. And then, it is time to train for my first marathon.

I just wanted to say congratulations to my running buds who ran so well! I am so proud of all of you marathoners, and half marathoners. Way to go! 

I especially want to say a special thanks to my darling husband Cliff for supporting me, and watching all of the kids so I could go out and do my thing! I love you! And thank you to Cameron and Courtney for cheering me on too! I have had the best weekend!

RVM here I COME!

Well, I cannot believe we leave tomorrow for the race! I am so full of emotion! All good emotion! This race is so big to me! I am FINALLY reaching a goal I have had in my heart for several years! 

I have everything purchased, the kids are organized, my husband is organized. We had a setback with my daughter Catie jumping off the couch and putting a huge gash in her forehead last night. She required 7 stitches to close up the hole. I have never seen so much blood. Thankfully today she is 'back to normal' with everything. Just wound  care. It could have been SO much worse.

Anyways, so today we rested with Catie, ran errands and got our stuff ready. Tonight, after the kids are all in bed we will pack and get our stuff all ready to go. Cliff has a dental appointment in the am and then we head! 

I am unsure of what to run in, but I heard the weather will be beautiful so I will pack everything to do with running! LOL. I also bought a throw away shirt with hearts all over it, and I bought myself a new set of bottles, and a race number thinger. It is cool. Anyways! Mentally I am so there, now the pack up and we are good to go!

I have big list, but it will be easy to pack up because I am prepared!  We will bring my new camera phone, and perhaps take a photo or two of the weekend away.

Happy Thanksgiving everybody!

Last run until race day...

Last night we did a quick six km run...that was my last run until my big race. As prepared as I am, I am getting mega butterflies! Kind of like the butterflies I would feel when I was in labour kind of feeling.

Anyways, I did well in labour, so I know the same will happen on Sunday. My running gear is clean and fresh and tomorrow I pack up my gear! I have my big list, I have reviewed my route etc. I am as ready as I can ever be!

Now...hurry Sunday! Hurry so I can use these jitters to push me fast through the course!! 

The guys and I

Well, I did a speedy almost 9 km run tonight with only 3 guys. It was dark, cold and windy. But, the run felt great. I cannot believe how our group has dwindled down to literally just a handful of us.

I woke up this morning kinda freaked, nervous. Kind of like thinking about Christmas morning. That kind of excitement. It was a great way to spend my birthday today.

Tomorrow, one more fast 6 km and then RACE DAY!

I am so ready to run! Run like the wind!

I am thinking ahead, and I am going to do one more half marathon, and then in the spring I am going to sign up for a full marathon. I am so ready! So, this next four months I will be keeping up my longer kms etc. Keep the momentum going. The next half I am going to run has a lot more hills. I want to be ready! 

This Sunday

I am running my very first half marathon. I have been wanting to do this distance of race for about three years now. Finally, it is the week before. Six day until I make my mark at the start line. 21.2 kilometres. 

I am a jumble of emotion, nerves, excitement. Woo! And, tomorrow is my 37th birthday. What a great way to start off my 37th year! 

I am just thankful to have legs, and a strong body that carry me day to day. Run while I am able. I try not to take for granted the gifts I am given.

I am blessed.

23.55 kilometres

That is what I ran this morning. It took me 2 hours and 29 minutes. I was only supposed to run 20 km with my group, but I decided to go with my bud Kevin, and the marathon group. It was a most excellent day for a run. The only thing crummy was that my watch which appeared to be working, stopped working and so I swore, and threw it into a bush LOL.  Anyways...

I am so pleased with what I have been able to accomplish in the last four or so months of my half training. I asked the guys not to tell me when I was past 20, 21.2 km. I just wanted to finish up strong. I managed to do just that, and I sprinted for a finish! It was a great moment. I actually welled up with tears during my run (but making sure nobody saw me LOL) I just thought wow! I did it. After three plus years of wanting to finish this distance, I managed to do it, and a bit more.

I am two weekends away from my half marathon in Victoria. We are going to go. We will go for two nights, bring our baby Courtney, and heck! We will enjoy our time! I cannot wait for race day! I know I will bawl my eyes out when I finish because this is what I have been working SOOOOO hard to do. And just knowing how far I have come in terms of health, all of these babies etc. I cannot wait. 

It is decided. We are going, we are going to have fun and celebrate my birthday in Victoria this year! Perfect way to celebrate my 37th birthday!

The official countdown is on!

20 km or 23 km on Sunday?

I am still wavering back and forth trying to decide which race to do. 

I am ready...on Sunday I am scheduled to run the longest run I have ever run at 20 km. But another group is doing 23 km and I kinda want to do that run just in case it does not work out for me to go to Victoria in 2 weekends.  Or, there is the Rubber Ducky Half the following weekend on the 19th that is all on bark mulch...hmmm not sure I want to run that?! So, I could just solve all of this and just run it on Sunday. But, my friends tell me I need to run a real race. To me, I just want to get the number under my belt and start increasing my distances further. Perhaps start my training for a FULL marathon for my next goal. I really truly feel ready to move forward...

My weight is holding steady at below 150 lbs. I am still breastfeeding my Coco. I hope to stop around her first birthday in a couple of months. 

Anyways if you told me one year ago that I would be ready to run a half marathon in most likely a sub two hour race I wouldn't have believed you. But, I am SOOOOO ready. I have been wanting to run this distance for almost four years. And in a few days, or a few weeks I will have that goal checked of my LIFE LIST!

19.2 km - the longest run

I completed to date in my whole running experience the longest run I have EVER completed. I feel so proud of my self. It was a great day for a run, and just to think that in a few weeks I will be running my very first half marathon. I have been wanting to do this for so long, and to think that it is weeks away feels just amazing.

Weight wise, I am hanging in at 147 pounds, and I didn't really care too much about my eating. I just went with the flow. But, it is nice to be consistently down below the 150 mark.

I still haven't decided whether to go or not to Victoria for my race. I am still trying to wean Courtney, and well I am doing my best as is she. We have about 3 weeks until I need to leave. And so I will keep working at it. I have cut out now 3-4 feeds and leaving a before dinner feed, a bedtime feed and a early morning feed. 3 weeks, 3 feeds to remove. She is doing OK with her cup! It it doesn't work out, I can a. bring her, or b. do the Rubber Ducky half on the 19th. But I REALLY want to do my big race because I am hooked up and I have paid for my race etc. So, that is where my heart wants to be. 

Anyways, I am just so pleased that I did my run today, and I totally look forward to my 18 ish next week, and the following week a 20 km. Then the race! 

About a week later update

Things are going very well over here. The scale FINALLY budged past the 147 mark, and I actually saw 145.8 this morning after my 12 km run. That was really a good feeling! It seems that I have FINALLY pushed past this 3 month plateau that I have been desperately working through. It has been an exercise in patience that is for sure.

My eating has been good. 

Kashi, skim milk and berries for breakfast

protein bars for snacks

yogurt, ground flax and raisins for snacks

and a salad or lean cuisine, or whole wheat pasta with totmato sauce for dinner. 

I supplement with fresh fruits, lots of water, my vitamins, an iron supplement and of course chocolate! And a couple of cookies with a decaf coffee in the evening with a splash of skim milk.

I have been exercising a bit more too. I have been out on my tempo runs, my hill training and of course my long slow distance runs on Sunday mornings. I really want to add in weight training too, but it is hard to 'fit it all in' so I run if that is all I can do. I have found adding in an extra tempo run with a big hill on Fridays to be just what I need. It felt great, so I hope to do the same on Friday. 

Race day looms closer, and I am still trying to wean but a little girl who shall remain nameless is not really game, but I keep moving forward. 2 feeds done, and we found an Advent cup that she really likes in fact on our errand drive around this afternoon she drank almost the whole thing on her own! So, I think I will buy a couple more to have on hand.

It feels so good to be back on track, and my momentum has kicked into overdrive! I am 10 pounds from my goal of 135! Seriously, I have 10 pounds to go! Boy oh boy does it feel great to say that finally!

September 2nd - Update

It is the fresh start, to a brand new school year. That means I have a fresh start, to get back into my 'healthy eating' program. I have extra motivation...my little sister Amy is tying the knot and she asked me to be her Matron of Honour at her wedding that will take place on January 30th 2008.

I will be wearing my first ever strapless dress in black to her wedding, and I cannot wait. For the past 9 years or so, I have been usually been pregnant or breastfeeding. And for her wedding, none of the above. 

I really want to get back under 150 pounds (closer to 145 if I can before my half marathon October 12th), and so today marks the first day of my 'get back at it' plan. I am back on track. The weaning of my daughter has also begun, as I have removed 2 feeds. And several, well more than several to go. I am hoping that will give my body the signal to let it lose again. As I have been stuck around 150 pounds for MONTHS. 

I am going to add on some extra exercise again. Three times a week does not seem like enough. So this week I am going to add on Friday, and the following week maybe one more day. 

I weigh 154 pounds today. Not liking that, as I am nearing that '5 pound' buffer zone. Too close for comfort! I am going to work those extras off this week! Woo!

I have bumped up my water (with lemon wedges) my vitamins. I had a Lean Cuisine for lunch, and for snack I had my yogurt, with ground flax and a handful of raisins. 

Changing my half marathon race!

I have decided, that I will decide closer to the 12th of October if Courtney will be OK with me travelling away for the RVM half in Victoria. I can cancel the hotel reservations 24 hours before if need be.

I have, however found a local half marathon that we can take the whole family too. That is the way to go I feel. It is on the 19th of October. So, one week later. I am excited about that.

My training is going well. We are doing longer runs, and hill training. Last Sunday I ran a 14 km run and it was awesome, and this week we did a 6 km tempo run, and on Wednesday we did hills. So a 3 km run there, 6 hills, and then a 3 km race back.

I am going to seriously consider doing some triathlons next year. There are several small ones I can do to get my feet wet in the sport again. And then in 2010 I want to do my first Half Iron in Oliver, BC. 2 km swim, 93 km bike, and 21.1 km run (half marathon) I know I can do it! It will just take some patience on my end, and just knowing I can do it! Yay!

My weight is up by about 2 pounds, but I feel that it is muscle I am putting on as my clothes all still fit the same. I changed my ticker to reflect that gain.

in my 20's and in my 30's

Thank you Yvonne for reminding me about this post. I am pretty happy with with my results so far. The photo on the left, I was taken in Hawaii, single, carefree and pre husband and six kids. And tanned, and lots of free time :D

The photo on the right is at home, married for 10+ years, busy, with husband and six kids. Pale, sunblocked and not a lot of free time :D

I am getting very close, but I don't think my body will EVER be the same.

I don't want it to be the same! This me, but better with age and experience. I know I can tweak, and I am working on a plan that will HOPEFULLY get me somewhat closer.

My run yesterday morning

I went for a 14+ km run that started out with thunder and lightening. Then a huge downpour of rain. More thunder and lightening, then sun! That was the most different run I have ever done LOL.

I have been keeping very well. My runs are getting longer, next Sunday I run 16 kms. This week a straight tempo 6 km on Tuesday, and on Wednesday is hill training. We are up to 6 hills.

My race day is about 8 weeks away. But, I am thinking weaning Courtney is not going as smoothly as I had hoped, and this race is not local. I have to go on a Ferry, and stay in a hotel. We were planning on staying for 2 nights (sans children), but now I am thinking I may not run the official race. Just keep with the training. I will be eventually running 20 kms so that will be a huge accomplishment for now. But, I have already paid 70 dollars to go there and do it. SOOOOO. Not too sure. We may just go on the ferry, with Courtney, sleep over, I race and then come home. Only one night. Just get it done!

Or, I continue on with my running. I join another half marathon training that starts end of October (I was going to do this one anyways) and do the Historic Half right in my town. It is on the Valentines Day weekend in February 2009. My breastfeeding will be over by then!! That might be a better scenario. Although not what I really wanted right now.

What to do. What to do. My husband has put on 20 pounds, so September 2nd I am going to try to help him get back on track. I know he is not happy with this gain, but his life has been pretty stressful since his Dad died. So, I am sure there will be some more bloggin' going on around here in the next little while.

I have found myself

I have found myself, and losing 10 more pounds will not change that. Therefore, I am considering this blog closed! I feel great at this weight, and therefore I don't need to go that route right now. That is not to say I won't be doing more in the future. Just not right now. I need all of the calories I can get with my training. My body is resisting the weightloss. I find that frustrating.

I thank you all for your comments, and cheers and support over the last months!

I wish you all the best as you continue on in your own adventures. I will keep checking in once in awhile with mini updates. But for now, I am happy that I found Cathy!

I am currently working on other ventures!

Cathy

Friday Weigh In - First week of the last 10 pounds

I am down .4 pounds. 9.6 pounds to lose. But I only started on Tuesday. I will not beat myself up over this amount. I have a COMPLETE week to lose more by next Friday. I have been fighting a cold it seems, and so I haven't had much energy to do DAILY exercise like I intended to do. But, I ran on Tuesday, and running an hill training on Wednesday. Yesterday I walked a lot, and lugged Courtney in her seat. I think I got about 20 minutes. :D

Tonight I am going to run at dinner time (kids having their pizza night, then I am splurging tonight with hubby. On Sunday I have a 12 km run to do. I look forward to increasing my distance again!

I am ready for a great week ahead!

Photos from the 20 Minute Challenge in mid July 2008

If you care to look really closely...you can see Cliff and I with the stroller on the right and two girls in pink shirts. There is our whole family getting out and healthy! It was a fun evening!



And there I am in pink, in fine form :D



Another action shot...


Me with Carly and Claire...



And, thank heavens for friends...that is my friend Louise with Catie on her shoulders! Thanks Lou! xo

Didn't feel like it today...

but I put my runners on and did it anyways. Tonight was week two of hill training. We ran four hot hills. Next week we run five hot hills, and continue up to nine hills. Today my nose has been rather stuffy, and I am feeling really worn out and tired. But now that my run and hill training is complete. I have energy.

I know running gives me energy! Thank you Cliff for making me go tonight. I was *this close* to not going out. No excuses.

So far, I feel good as I can. I know it is going to be a challenge to lose the last 10 pounds. Especially when I tell friends or family that I have only 10 more pounds to lose, and they ask me 'from where?'

Believe me, there are 10 or so more pounds on me. I felt every extra pound on my hill training, nearing the crest of the hill.

Stomach before and after (for now!)

The top photo was taken 4 weeks and 2 days postpartum, and when that photo was taken I was utterly depressed that I would NEVER get rid of that. And the bottom photo shows anybody that it can be done! I am now 8 months, 2 weeks and 5 days postpartum. I cannot believe the transformation! There is more work to be done!

The green heart bikini

Here is the green bikini! I really like it, and I cannot wait to wear this after my half marathon in October. I am going to wear this into the hot tub after my race! And after that a dip in the pool. I am excited for my race. This bikini is a medium and I am just so excited!

I chose to wear the blue one

We had a great day! I read on the waterpark website that you cannot have any metal on your suit, so that helped me solve my bikini dilemma. ;D

Today, I realized for a mom of six I look pretty darn good. I saw all sorts of body types at the waterpark today. But my weightloss was not really about looks for me. It was more about health. And today I was SOOOOO thankful that I did not have those 88-90 extra pounds on my body! I was able to run up the stairs and not be even a little bit out of breath. I was thankful that I fit on the waterslides, the tubes and that I felt confident to walk and run around in a bikini today. I haven't had the courage to do so before this. Today I was living my life to the fullest! That is how I want to live from now on! I was so pleased that I did not have to live my life on the sidelines feeling stuck in the body I had before.

I had a blast with my guys today! I felt like wow! I am wearing a size medium bikini and it fits well! Woot woot!

What a lovely day! I look forward to MANY MANY MANY more of the same! This past year I have had 'Lose Weight in 2008' up. Next year, it will be '2009 is all about good family times!' We are looking forward to moving forward and having so much fun! Bring it on!

2 bikinis are better than one!

I went to Winners today and I bought two new bikinis for the season. They were a good deal, and I think I really like them on. I even bought a pink strapless terry towel cover up/dress thinger.

One bikini is bright green, with hearts, and the other is a more Hawaii inspired 2 piece that is white with blue. Both halter style which is flattering and holds me in place LOL.

I think I will take photos in them too...they look SOOO much better than the old one. I think I am going to part with it after these next 10 pounds.

Tomorrow I am going to go to the waterslides with my husband and Cameron for his birthday.

Toodles! Now, I just need to decide which one will be the one for tomorrow...

The proof in pictures...my weightloss journey montage

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Please be sure to shut off my music player in the background to prevent two songs playing at once. I thought it would only be appropriate to use the music I played for Courtney's birth montage.

Enjoy!

As promised: The before and after shots!

150 pounds on the left today*, and 218.8 pounds on the right taken January 1st, 2008

*this photo is the after (for now) but I plan on taking another 10 pounds off by September 1, 2008. I will keep this bathing suit until then, take a photo and expect me to be in a brand new suit by then!

Challenging myself

I had lost a bit of motivation this past month (no doubt, life can do that to a person!) but now that July is almost out, I am ready to get back on my full program, and not the modified one. I am feeling mentally stronger today, after thinking a lot about my future, my health, my family. I am comfortable at 150 pounds. I know I have loose skin, but I should not let loose skin stop me. I will be beautiful no matter what. It is just skin. There is more to me than just skin!

So, come August 5th (a Tuesday) after our long weekend ends I am on my quest to lose 10 more pounds. When September 1st rolls around, school starts and I want be sitting right at 140 pounds. I think running my half marathon October 12th a bit lighter will take me a lot further, and I will run better. I have a better chance of running a sub 2 hour race. That is the plan!

I am not going to give up, and I challenge all of my faithful and caring blog readers to get on the bandwagon and do it with me! Let me know if you are in via the comments. Who knows, maybe I will send you a prize?! Seriously, if I can do this so can you. Start yourself a blog like I did back last year and document the amazing changes that will happen to you. Even if you do not make it open to the public! Do it just for you. If you decide to make it public, let me know the address and I will add you to my links section so I can check in on you from time to time.

Also, if you want to ask me any questions about my process please just send me a comment, and I would love to answer them. In fact, I was wondering if I put up an 'Ask Cathy Anything' would you use that?! Let me know because I would be happy to do that! If I can help just one more person, then YAY!!

Please take some time just for you, take the time to get to know yourself. You will be a better person, and that will make you a happier person. Spend a few moments every day just for you! You deserve that time!

Final Note: I promised you before and after bathing suit photos, and I will deliver. I just need a moment to get into the suit and have my hubby snap a photo. I seriously think I need to buy a new one because the changes are that drastic! or maybe I will wait until September 1st?! Let me know.

Toodles,

Cathy

not feelin' it

I am tired, I haven't been sleeping well, and when I do it is usually right on the couch. My running is going well, but my eating is not. I find myself eating 'bad' things when the moment strikes. Today it was an ice cream sandwich. Yesterday, a bit too much chocolate.

But like I have said before, I am not really in the weight loss mind frame anymore. I do not like the loose skin that is starting to hand on my stomach, hips, arms and legs. It doesn't feel very attractive. I don't feel attractive. At most times I do not. I feel that food is one of the things that makes me feel happy these days. Not the number on the scale, or anything else.

Anyways, today I took a tumble onto the tile floor, and my shoulder, arm and leg is sore. I run tomorrow, and I just hope I will be feelin' it!

I feel exhauted after the week we have had with all of the throw up. I am hoping and praying for a happy and healthy August.

I need to kickstart myself somehow. I need to re-b00t my drive again. I seemed to have lost it.

Uggggggh.

Holding Steady

We have been going through a rough patch with lots of sickness running wild through our family. Courtney and I are the only two (knock wood) that haven't got it yet. Since Saturday night at 9 until now, the wee hours of Wednesday sickness is still here.

I managed to get out to my clinic run today. It was a 5 km steady run (tempo) that I managed to run in 24 mins and 29 seconds. I know I am improving because my last timed 5 km race was 28 minutes something. And, I would have to say the run tonight was not so great. My stomach was hurting (or maybe sympathy hurting) tonight and I have been really TIRED (go figure) from all of this extra clean up/laundry and emotional drain on my system.

I feel proud of myself for still continuing with my running program. I think if I didn't I would seriously lose it. These past few weeks/almost four weeks have been very trying. To the point where I am having troubles falling asleep because everything creeps into my brain in the middle of the night.

Anyways, a quick little update on my weight. I have been easily maintaining my 88 pound loss so far. I seem to cycle between 149 and 154 at times. I am not ready to take my loss any further until September when life gets back to 'normal' for us. Well our new normal. I don't have the time to commit just yet.

I still need to have Cliff take a photo of me for my 'after' bathing suit photo. We took the first one on January 1st. I promise when the puke leaves the building I will get on that.

And, I have the honour of being asked to speak at my local Running Room as a guest speaker to talk about my journey from my Learn to Run days all the way up until today as my old instructor says my 'Sexy Sveltness' of today. So, in between puke sessions I need to prepare a little chat for her current running group. I will be doing that at the end of the week.

The machine is in its final spin. I need to take care of that, and get to bed as morning is already here :D

If you want

If you want to be interesting, be interested. If you want to be heard, listen.

If you wish to truly learn, teach. If you would like to be wealthy, be generous.

If you desire to be understood, take the time to understand. If you want to have many friends, be friendly.

If you want the world to change for the better, make a positive change in yourself. If you long for peace, be peaceful.

What you give to life is what life becomes for you. The treasures you accumulate all come from the good things you do.

Every day is your opportunity to raise your life to a higher level by giving the best that you have. Whatever it is you desire, give it, be it, support it, and you will enjoy it in great abundance.

-- Ralph Marston

*gulp*

I am officially registered into my first half marathon! Woo. I took the step, I committed and I will be ready. Training is in full force. I ran a 9km run this morning in the heat, and boy was it a struggle. Wow.

But, I did it. It can only get better (and cooler as the race day of October 12th approaches!)

I will be able to cross this off of my 'to-do' list finally! Woo!

LETTING PASSION FLOW

Article on PASSION written by life coach Lindsay Sukornyk.

“What are you passionate about?” – one of my favorite questions that often stops people in their tracks. People often reply, “Passion? What’s passion? How do I know I have it? I don’t think I have any – how do I find it?”

What is passion?
Passion: feeling alive, fulfilled and full of energy. The buzz you get when you’re truly excited – about a thought, a relationship, a feeling or an activity. It’s turning on the faucet of joy when you’re engaged in what excites you.

How do I know I have it?
You may feel a sense of calm. You’ll feel it in every cell of your body, feeling lighter, freer and at peace. Time seems to stand still when you’re engrossed in a passion. If you make a living doing what you’re passionate about, you’ll find yourself saying, “I can’t believe I actually get paid to do this!” Passion can be experienced as a moment of bliss – a feeling that everything is exactly as it should be.

How do I find it?
The road to living a passion-filled life is one of ongoing evolution. Here are some of the steps of this journey:

Reflect. Think about the people, places, things, ideas and activities in your life that have made you feel alive.

Tweak. Notice where you incorporated the things that light you up and adjust your activities to allocate more time and energy into the things that bring you passion

Eliminate. Sometimes the path to passion is blocked by negativity. To eliminate these blocks, shift your thoughts to ones of possibility: redesign relationships that consistently bring your down: change your life circumstances – job, lifestyle, location – to provide a framework for passion. Take a stand for your passion by doing the tough work of eliminating the blocks.

Leap. Living a passionate life is not for the faint at heart. Take risks, do things differently and be open to the vulnerability inherent in living a full, passionate life. Without risk there are no returns.

Notice. Over time, your passions may change. What worked five years ago may no longer light your fire. That’s evolution. Notice what’s real for you now and make the necessary adjustments to realign with the “new you”.

Savour. Be grateful for all you create – it’s essential. Bathe in the experience of living a life that reflects you, at your best. Being true to yourself creates a flow that will have you constantly feeling lucky, as you attract more and more of what you want into your life.

The good news: the more you practice, the easier it is to live a passion-filled life – creating a life of fun and ease!

Running Room 20 Minute Challenge!

That’s Right the 20 MINUTE CHALLENGE is BACK! On JULY 16TH at every Running Room Location across Canada we will be giving away free Running Room Hat with Registration. And YES registration is FREE! Just come and Walk or Walk/Run for 20 mins….

You can sign up online. Register your kids and just go and be active as a huge group for one evening. All details are online @

www.runningroom.com

We are going to be there, and eight free green hats! Woo!

Go for it! Have fun with your family!

I am happy! I think I have found most of me!

Well, today is July 5th. I have been in the process of losing a lot of baby weight since the birth of my last baby on November 16th, 2007. I have lost close to 90 pounds since then. Since January 1st 2008 I have lost 33 inches and I am currently in a size 6/7 from my old size of 18/20. I have six kids, I have some loose skin, I have sagging breasts. Some wrinkles. But I can run! I can run uphill, I have strength. I am strong! I am starting to be able to do full bodied push ups. I have figured out the things that make me tick. I think I can almost say I have be able to "Find Cathy!' and I am pretty pleased with my results.

I have been trying unsuccessfully trying to lose the last 15 pounds and they do not want to budge, and I don't want to become crazy over the last pounds. I am still breastfeeding, and maybe my body says ENOUGH. Not worth it right now.

So, I am going to maintain this huge loss through healthy eating, and my running. Hopefully some weight training too. I am training for a half marathon this October and I need to concentrate on keeping my body strong, staying stress free. And, injury free.

Do I feel sad about not reaching my ultimate goal of 135 pounds? Nope. I feel so PROUD of my many accomplishments. Being able to do this with all of these kids, illness, and now a death in the family. It is time for me to step back a bit and just be me. And keep maintaining until I finally say to myself it is time to get the rest off.

Things are going really well in my life, and I want to be sure I will be ready for the good things ahead. I think that in September when I have three kids in school full time might be the time to go forth and lost the last 10-15 pounds if I feel that desire to do so. I want to give my body time to heal, and get used to this large weight loss. See if my skin might bounce back a bit. I will still get on the scale to see where I am at from time to time. I will not let myself go more than five pounds over my 150 mark. So at 155 pounds. IF I see the scale creep upwards I will exercise more and record my eating again. You betcha I will be blogging about it too!

Anyways, so I think it is time to just be with my family for the time being. Help them get over all of this sadness. It is almost too much to bear at this time.

I will check in from time to time, and I will be back most likely after the summer is over. I will hopefully find the motivation to keep trucking forward.

I just wanted to say thank you to all of my faithful readers of my blog and all of your support. Wow. Who knew!?! I feel so humbled and happy. Remember if I can do this, so can you. Be proud of who you are and move towards your goal starting today, and not next week or on Monday. Life is too short.

I promised you a bathing suit photo, and I will do that as soon as I am able!

Blessings to you all!

Cathy

PS I updated the panel on the right with the new stuff in green!

Canada Day and I worked out!

Finally another workout done

5 km run
100 crunches
25 push ups
50 squats

The challenge was officially over, but I am going to keep going. Feels good.

I am doing OK, just laying low. Eating too much you know. Peanut Buster Parfait today...well, it is Canada Day OK!

Cheers!

Sunday check in

7 km run 39 minutes or so
100 crunches
25 push ups
50 squats

Friday morning at 1:07 am

I have to stop this cannot sleep business. It is tiring me out. I have a plugged up ear, congestion. Eating foods that are not the best for me. What can I say. I am stress eating these days. I know I will get back on track, but for the past two days I have been unable to do so.

I did not exercise today, and most likely not tomorrow either. I will run my 7 km on Sunday morning.

Day 24 and 25 out of 30

Well, here I am. I finished my two days of exercise for the June Challenge.

I ran 4 km yesterday, and 5 km tonight and all of my sit ups, push ups and crunches/

Day 23

Day 23/30! WOOO!

25 min power walk on treadmill at 4.5 mph
3 km walk (6 small walks back and forth to school with and without stroller)
100 crunches
25 push ops
50 squats

Day 22!

42 minute 7 km run
25 push ups
100 crunches
50 squats
stretch

Sunday Weigh In - Week 25 (weigh in one day early!)

I have lost just over a pound in the last two weeks. I weigh 148.4 pounds this morning. I wanted to record my weight today, because it is a splurge day today at the beach with the kids, family and friends. I already did my workout this morning. So, I will try to feel no guilt. :D

I am trying my hardest to remain motivated. Not very motivating when I have only lost just over a pound in the last TWO weeks. I know I have been pregnant and carried many kids, but I am not liking the loose wrinkly skin on my stomach when I bend forward. There appears to be quite a lot. I do not like the way my underwear cuts into the loose skin. I do not feel good about that. I am also seeing a bit of loose skin on my upper arms, and also on the back of my legs. I do not like that look at all. It doesn't make me feel good. I will keep forging ahead. I know there is surgery for that if I need to. BUT I will get to my goal before I make any decisions etc. Maybe it will shrink up a bit more. I just don't like it when I pull up me jeans and my whole bottom half seems to 'lift' into the pants. Yuck.

I really want to do more weights. I think that will tone me up. I have to try to make time to do that for me. Hard, but I really think this part of the workout will be a must. I have to try my best to do EVERYTHING I can before resorting to surgical means. But I also don't want to have the skin of an 'older person' meaning like somebody who is in their 90's etc. It is just not a good look for me in my 30's.

What keeps me going? Reaching my ultimate goal of 135 pounds. Why should I NOT get there. I WILL get there. It is just taking more time than I would like. That is all. This in my exercise in patience, which I do not have a lot of these days. But I am sure trying that is for sure.

Tomorrow I have a 7 kilometre LSD (Long slow distance) run with my half marathon group. I am looking forward to it. I am truly pounding the pavement, and with each step I picture how it will feel to run 21.1 kms in about 2 hours. 2 hours 14 minutes. How it will feel to receive a finishing medal, and how good that hot tub will feel after my big goal race. It will be something I can FINALLY cross off my 'life list!'

With each passing day, I feel stronger and healthier and more excited about my body. I could do cartwheels for days on end! I also am getting really close to doing my splits again. SOOOOO close. I keep stretching in hopes that I can get back to where I was when I was 16/17 in terms of flexibility only. I have my old grad dress in my closet, and I will be trying it on again to get a visual as to where I was back then. I never weighed myself back then. I never had to worry about what I ate etc. Oh, the joys of an older body LOL!

Twenty One!

Day 21 outa 30! Woo!

30 minute run at 5.6 mph on TM
10 min brisk walk at 3.6 mph on TM
125 crunches of all sorts
50 girl style push ups
50 squats
deep stretching
tri/bi work this morning with hand weights (5 pounds) need 12 pounds now to make it count!

Day 19

Day 19 of 30

walking pushing stroller coupla times
playing at the park (does that count?)
10 min walk 3.5 mph
25 min run at 4.5 mph
50 push ups
50 squats
core twists with stick (just like Mariah Carey LOL)
100 crunches
stretch

Over half way

Day 18/30

4km run - straight run 25 mins
25 push ups
50 squats
100 crunches
stretch

Day 17 of 30

Clinic night tonight! So exciting! My first half clinic has begun! June 17th - October 7th!

16 weeks of training has begun!

4 km straight run 23 minutes
100 crunches
25 push ups
50 squats
stretch

16/30

Day 16/30

30 mins on treadmill brisk walk at 4.0
and then a bit of a run (like 7 minutes of it at 5.5 mph)
100 crunches
25 push ups
8 pound weights arm routine
50 squats
stretch

Monday again

It was a big eating kind of weekend. And a weekend with wine, oh yummy glasses of wine. I think we had a great weekend. I exercised only once over the weekend, but who cares. It was an active weekend, just not totally 'formal' exercise plan.

I am feeling really good at the weight I am at. I am having a hard time getting any lower. So, I think I will be sitting here for a bit. Maybe when I stop feeding Courtney, and I get onto my longer runs closer to my birthday the rest will come off, or maybe it won't.

Well, anyways. That is that. I am back to my healthy eating plan already this morning. I am looking forward to going for a run tonight, doing my June Challenge exercises. And, tomorrow half marathon training BEGINS! I cannot wait for October to do that race!

I am concerned with loose skin on my stomach, and fear that should I lose any more that it will be even more loose. Don't like that so much. So I am going to work more on weights and strength training along with my running/half training and see how I fare. IF I cannot get to be where I want to be skin wise, there is surgery called a tummy tuck that I will seriously consider. I bet you there are pounds of skin there :D

Day 13 and 14 of 30

Yesterday I took an 'allowed' day off, but I was on my feet with the double stroller pushing atleast 60 pounds around the events of Sports Day x 3 kids in different events. That equalled a lot of pushing and walking! I was tired. I also ate an ice cream sandwich. Yummy.

This morning which is day 14 I ran for 30 mins, 100 crunches, 50 push ups and 50 squats and I ate a McD ice cream cone. My idea, and it was good. Then, I did many cartwheels on the front lawn with our kids! So much fun! Tomorrow is half way through the challenge already!

Tonight we are having sushi, and drinking a bottle of wine (well not the whole bottle LOL) to celebrate Cliff. Tomorrow will be more treats so NO WEIGH in. Nope.

I start my half clinic on Tuesday! Very excited about that.

Day 12 of 30

Day 12/30

4 walks back and forth to school pushing double stroller with 3 kids in it LOL
11 minutes brisk walking outside
10 minutes stair step ups
100 crunches
50 push ups
50 squats
stretch

a photo op...

So, here I am post race/3rd female finisher overall. In the picture is Deputy Mayor Grant Ward from the Township (he was attending on Mayor Alberts' behalf) and Mayor Fassbender from the City.

Oh, and my new pink hoodie, and my running skirt! Isn't the skirt cute! So there you go.

Oh, I was also in the local newspaper yesterday at the beginning of the race. My parents discovered that! Too bad I was cut out of the online article. Well, my eyes were closed and I looked funny LOL. It is funny because now my kids think I am a celebrity LOL. The article is up on the fridge.

I am just thankful for the support I get from all around! I couldn't have done this without the support of my husband and my kids.

Day 11 of 30

Day 11/30 - Cathy

6km run (tempo/hills) 32 minutes
50 squats
10 full push ups
100 abs

10/30 complete and it's Tuesday

Cathy - Day 10

30 minutes on TM incline and 3.8 mph
100 deep squats with baby in arms
50 push ups
100 crunches

Monday blah...

Day 9/30 Complete

(Cathy - who didn't have the gusto tonight...but forged ahead anyways and feel way better after a crap day!)

Walk to and from school briskly
35 minutes on the treadmill (20 mins running at 5.5 mph)
100 crunches
50 girly push ups
50 squats
tri/bi weights
stretch

****
I didn't want to do my challenge tonight. With all of this blah rain outside and wind. I was ready to eat until the cows came home (we don't have any cows LOL) so I MADE myself get on that treadmill for the min amount of time, and ended up doing more. (Always happens to me! I can trick myself into it)

After all of the good eats on the weekend, and controlled eating...planned eating. And my nacho and dark choco splurge I am still up in bloat weight. Sucks, but hey I chose to eat those things eh! Yup. That might teach me for next time?! There is always a next time when it comes to eating issues.

But, I did it. I feel good. I am happy I kept up with it.

Sunday Weigh In - Week 23 RACE DAY!

Race day today! I did a 10km race (spare of the moment idea - like last night LOL) and came in 3rd in the females overall! I am pretty happy about that. I got a photo op with the mayor,

a 20 dollar gc to RR and I got a key chain that says '3rd' and the hospice logo on it. Even the kids got door prizes. In fact, too many door prizes. I felt embarrassed so I had a couple of the kids choose another child to give them too. That felt better. 5/6 kids' names were drawn if you can believe that! I should go buy a lotto ticket!

Here is the gang of all 8 of us. We got lots of looks, especially when we had well-behaved and quiet kids. It was something else. I felt so proud of my family. I was so happy to have the support of my husband, and the kids! They all had such excitement watching me cross the finish line strong! This in fact, was my best race time ever of 56 minutes and something. Almost 90 pounds lighter and six kids! A great combo!

****

Well, I will say this! I am officially out of the 150's! I am just under in the 149.6 yesterday morning. I weighed in early because I knew there was the party going on, and after a good party there is usually bloating! Good plan because this morning I was up about a pound but that is because I ate a bit of salty stuff. Salad, 1 piece of chicken, water. 10 tortilla chips (small rounds) with salsa. AND...a piece of cake with fruit and real whipping cream. I have to say it was a party and it was too good to pass up. I haven't really had cake since last year! So, I had a piece. No regrets.

This morning was really good. I was trying out a race that I want to do yearly to honour my FIL Earl. Next year I plan on raising some money, and having the kids help or do the 5k walk part. I hope my MIL will do it too! It could be something really positive in light of all the bad stuff going on at home.

I am also on day seven of thirty in my challenge:

56 minutes running

100 crunches

50 girly push ups

about 200 squats to music with my hubby, the baby and the girls! It was fun! I love seeing the kids get all active and excited when I am active! BONUS!

PS...my hubby took a photo of me crossing the finish line, but there was no CF card in there, and then he took one at home with the CF card in, but the camera was set to 'manual' and I was WAY over-exposed. I wanted to show you my running skirt and new hoodie. Oh well, next time eh!

Saturday 7th Day

Cathy - Day 7

35 minute run 5-6km
4 minute cool down
100 crunches
50 push ups all girly
50 squats
arms with hand weights

stretch!

Glad and thankful for my ipod!

Friday FUN!!

and a run in partial sun! Day six of thirty done!

Cathy - Day 6

10 min walking to and fro school
32 minute run 5-6km
4 minute cool down
100 crunches
50 push ups all girly
50 squats with weights - 10 pounds
stretch

Thursday Daily

I did my daily routine today! I actually look forward to it now and this is only day five of thirty! Loving the motivation it brings me! I am feeling strong like an athlete these days!

Cathy - Day 5

10 mins walking outside
35 minutes treadmill - 5 mins walk to warm up then 1 minute run at 6.5 mph then walk 1 minute at 3.5 mph then 5 minute walking cool down (GREAT WORKOUT btw!!) 2.45 miles
100 crunches
50 push ups (20 full body) and the rest girly
50 squats with 10 pound weights on shoulders
tri/bicept with hand weights
stretch

Wednesday work it out

I have been doing my DAILY cardio. This is day 4 of a 30 day challenge that I want to complete this June. I did my stuff yesterday, and today I got on the treadmill did a brisk run, and then my 100 crunches, 50 push ups, 50 squats and free weights for my tri's and bi's. It was quick but very effective workout.

I feel really good!

Monday Monday

Had my splurge last night and I totally enjoyed it! Once a week nachos...mmmmmm

Today after school I took my three eldest kids out for a 20-30 min 'jog' and walk. The point of it was to start regular exercise with them because they asked to run with me. So out we went. They enjoyed themselves and so did I. When Cliff got home I took off for a 22 minute run and it was nice. I did 100 crunches, 50 push ups and 50 squats. I hurt/muscles sore from yesterday.

Tomorrow I will do kilometre club with the three eldest like we did last week. They are all excited, and so am I!

I need to go stretch a bit!

My new purchase...a running skirt

For all of you that are curious as to what I have purchased and ran in today:

A running skirt that I have in black.

and the hoodie I am going to buy for myself when I run 21.1 km in a few weeks. Or, maybe this one!? in pink of course.

Sunday Weigh In - Week 22 (Changed weigh in day to Sundays)

I wanted to be 135 pounds by July 1st. That is 30 days to reach my goal of 135...I cannot see that happening as the weight loss is slowing as mentioned before. So, I am going to go back to my original date of October 1st. But hey, if I manage to take the balance of the weight off before that...awesome. I am taking the pressure off for now.

This morning I weighed in at 151.2 pounds and down a couple more pounds. So, as you can see I am so close to the 140's! But tonight we rented a movie and we are changing our nacho splurge night to Sunday nights. No more Tuesday weigh in and nachos anymore. I am mixing it all up! Shakin' things up!

Speaking of mixing things up in my exercise...100 crunches/sit ups, 50 push ups girly style and 50 squats after my 18 km. I am going to do this daily now for the month of June...woot!!! I will also be doing a MINIMUM of 20 mins cardio daily.

Oh, and I am now officially in the 'healthy' range for my BMI...happy June! I am off to a good start. This month I hope that my body will get past this plateau of sorts and allow me to get to where I want to be!

18 km Sunday

Today I did an 18 km with my friend Kevin. Today was awesome! I ran in my skirt, my new fuel belt and my gu's. I was set and felt fab.

Next Sunday I will run my first 2O kms. I am really excited about that. The next week after that will be a taper. The following week Kevin and I will run the half marathon (our own run) of 21.1 kms. Just easier and around home and then I can knock that distance off of my list. That will feel good.

In two weeks the training for the half marathon. I will drop down to about 7 km and the build back up to the 2o kms again.

I am excited to move forward and keep up this momentum. I am HOPING that I will drop down UNDER these darn 150's. This week. I am so close, but it is taking me longer and longer to get there...over a month that is for sure. *fingers crossed*

Well, gotta get showered and ready for the day.

I did some shopping today

For myself.

It felt good to do that. I first got myself two new pairs of jeans. One size 7, one size 5. I then got two tank tops. One black and one grey. One size medium, one size small. I got two new skirts in size 8 from Winners (thanks Mom and Dad in law for those) and then I FINALLY got my running skirt in black size small, a new running bra and my brand new fuel belt in size medium. I also got my e-load for electrolyte replacement, some goos, and body glide. I am set for my hot weather 18k tomorrow morning. I cannot not wait to get out there and do it again!

Everything I got today was on sale! That is a bonus. I now have my eye on a white running jacket and a pink hoodie, both from the Running Room. Life is good.

Now, I must go drink some water to prepare for my big run tomorrow.

Current Cathy...

currently 152 pounds

217 pounds - 8 days postpartum November 2007

this outfit is getting lose already!

Friday and fine...

Well, life is back to normal around here. Cliff and I are back to normal. We were highly stressed and we took it out on each other, and those around us. But we are sorry for that. And we are back. Our differences worked out. Problems figured out.

What helped? A night out last night with an old girlfriend with the same name as me. Our lives couldn't be more different now...she is a doctor, and me a stay at home mom. But the commonalities were still there and we had nice glass of wine, a yummy salad. And LOTS of laughs and catching up. It was a lovely evening. When I got home Cliff and I were able to get out for a coffee together, and a treat. We were given a yummy choco/banana loaf (reduced fat) each for free by our regular place. So we had a mini date. It was good. We needed that, I need that. He needed that.

So here it is Friday, and I probably will head out for a run tonight. Most likely with my friend Lisa (the one with six kids and the SAME family LOL) so that will be good. Cliff will probably go out after us.

I have decided to wait on my half marathon on June 22nd. I know I can do the distance as I am a mere 3.1 km's away from my goal, but the timing is just not right. For me it is, but for the family it is not. I am still considering that mini tri. My son wants to do the kids version of it. So, that might be a go. BUT we need to wait and see how the family is (FIL) it is too hard to make plans like I have said before.

But I am happy to report that I have not given up. I had a moment of dispair and weakness when I said I was done. Well I am not done. Because yesterday I did kilometre club at school with two of our kids. We did nine laps around the field and it felt great. I cannot give up, because I, Cathy...I am not a quitter. I am dedicated to reaching my goals! And I am going to get there. Even if I am plateauing, or I don't get there as fast as I want. I will do what I need to do.

So, yes. I am back and I am feeling better than ever. This weekend I am going to get my new fuel belt, running skirt and possibly some size six jeans, and some extra small tops from American Eagle. If I can be a size six there, I am buying from them LOL. Remember around our anniversary (May 9th) I was able to fit into my little sister Amy's jeans...they were a six. So, off I will go to see if I can fit into them and find a pair for myself. My current size 9's are loose, and my tops well, they are loose too. I would have never ever thought that a size small would be too big LOL. Never!!

So, I know even if the scale is creeping slowly down, the inches are really coming off. I took a tape measure to my waist yesterday morning and it was around 28inches...and on January 1st of this year my waist was 42 inches. So, that is 14 INCHES off of my waist. That is just my waist. I am truly amazed at how far I have come...I am proud of myself. I measured my hips too, but I will save that number until my goal. Let me just say I was shocked...

One good thing...

This morning, our son asked my husband how old somebody has to be go running at the Running Room? We said about your age. So, I guess all of our healthy outings and running together is making our kids take note of how to be healthy. I guess that is called leading by example?!

I am pleased. We told him we will need to get new runners, and that he should be sure to participate in Kilometre Club at school. (2x's per week.)

That made my morning! I am excited to see that he wants to try running! How fun will that be to run with our son! I bet he kicks our but out there!! Oh to be young...

yesterday...

and I had a bad day. Yes, I Cathy had a really crappy day. Nothing seemed to go right in my world. It affected everybody and everything around me.

I let everything get to me. We even had my parents (who unfortunately saw our bad moods) come over to watch our kids so we could get out running together and go for coffee with friends. What a gift, but we ruined it. Well, our bad moods/fight etc. made us late for our run. We tried to get there and ended up doing a short little brisk power walk (me with my clenched jaw and balled up fists) and then back. We didn't talk rather ignore each other. It was not good. We picked up diapers and back home we went. Sent my parents home early. I bathed Caroline, and we got the kids into bed. I told Cliff I was going to bed after I finished feeding Courtney. So at 9:30 pm I was in bed. I did not say goodnight. I just went to bed in anger. Yup. Not a good way to do things.

So this morning, I heard Cliff come to bed really late. Then Courtney was up. I fed her, then the alarm went off. This morning there were few to little words spoke. I did however mutter yesterday after our walk that I was done. Done with everything. I told him I was done with running, exercise, and that I would consider selling my bike, my camera etc. Just so that things wouldn't be so hard anymore. It is hard to keep fit, and keep a family and keep a happy marriage. It is hard to balance EVERYTHING all at once. Yes, it has been trying around here. I truly feel it is the stress of everything to do with my FIL etc. Not good and creates stress in the family. Unfortunate but true.

Tuesday Weigh In - Week 21

Here is another week gone by. Really quickly too. We decided to have our splurge night on Sunday evening, after my 18 km run. We had nachos, tea and some dark chocolate. So, my weight today is a bit off. I was expecting almost a 4 pound loss, and it turned out to be less than one pound. Due to my splurge. Goes to show you what eating at night EVEN with exercise and lack of sleep does. Hardly any weightloss. I am only one measly point from the 'healthy' weight range for my BMI. A point. Grrhhhh. Tomorrow I am sure I will be under that. Darn splurge...

I was down to 154.6 this morning. I am OK with that. I am toning up that is for sure, because when I was running on Sunday my fuel belt fell down around my ankles because the belt is too large. Last week I could still use it (still too big) and this week cannot use it anymore. Cliff will take my current one, and I will get a new one I have been eyeing in the store. And a new running skirt is in my future. Too hot to run in black capri running tights (and they are too big for me now.)

I have to say I have been laughing how people address me these days...like SCRAWNY, SKINNY, HEY you are wasting away, What are you doing? Hot Momma! (yelled out to me with a thumbs up on my walk to school and back yesterday morning.) I have to think about those comments and accept them and realize that the person on the outside is different. I am just the same me, but different in a better way. I have to allow my view of myself to catch up with what others see. I still see me as the big preggo, extra weight, nursing mom. I find myself asking my husband Cliff who I 'compare' to as in size etc. I don't know where I fit in that way.

I don't seem to be losing the balance of the weight I would like to lose. It has taken me about 3 weeks to lose four pounds. I am not sure. Also, I am breastfeeding still and maybe my body is just holding onto my reserve fat stores for this. I am not sure. I was hoping to be under and into the 140's by today. As I said before, I was close but splurged after my long run and here I am.

Kind of frustrating because I am not slacking, I am eating like I was two months ago. I am exercising even more and still it is here. I am still stuck in the 150's. I will work really hard this week and see if I can get under. I need to see that at least. If not, maybe this is where I hold for awhile. Until I stop feeding etc. I will see.

I have to still remain positive because I have taken off 83.4 pounds since November 16th. I tried on my 'before' bathing suit for Cliff and it is hanging off of my body (two piece tankini style) and I still haven't taken my inches measurements for some time. If I do not lose more by next week I will measure and post that for further motivation. I have no idea how many inches I have taken off my hips since January 1st! It will be exciting to find out that is for sure.

Tomorrow I am back to a straight run with my running group. Cannot wait to get active again!