Seriously! Was it not gorgeous?

I love snow.  With that being said how often do we get 60 degree days here in Ohio on January 31st?  Really?!  I can't think of any.  So, I trotted my little self outside and enjoyed the day.  Did a little 4 mile run.  I truly have NO CLUE the time or anything.  I wanted to take the day in!  Seriously.  It was spectacular! 

I brought up a little challenge to some of my Facebook friends for February.  Only water in February!  Milk and juice are allowed also.  No tea, coffee, pop, etc.  I'm planning to drink a cup of hot tea this evening as a "going away" party present for myself.  How sad.....  I had some takers and we'll see how this goes.  All on the honor system of course.  Anyone up for challenge?  The rest of the day was spent making a grocery list and figuring out calorie counts.  Do I need to go grocery shopping!  UGH!  I hate to shop but at times we must.  And I make so many homemade things that I need to add things to myfitnesspal.com.  BTW, if you want to log on over at myfitnesspal.com, I started a new account as LoveLaughSweatFuel.  Look me up!   

Here is a picture of two of my favorite things.......  

Wasa brand "crackers" and flatbreads.  Not every ones "cup of tea"!  But I love them.  Topped with tuna, chicken, cottage cheese and fruit, a little veggies, and sometimes as a treat a little flavored cheese wedge.  They come in many flavors and varieties.  I know in our neck of the woods you can find them all the time at Big Lots at a discounted price.  Give them a try and let me know what you think....

Also, I'm going to share a recipe here.  This isn't the healthiest recipe in the world.  But I guarantee you it is good and you WON'T eat a lot of it.  At least not a second time!  We'll leave the issues that can be caused out.  Use with veggies, on top of baked potatoes, with chips, anything really.  This is a Grimm family favorite!  My Aunt Lil shared this recipe with the family when I was around eleven.  Dear lord, that was twenty seven years ago.  Boy, oh boy ... do I feel old. 

Here is the recipe....take one packet dry Italian dressing mix, 1 cup buttermilk, and 1 15 oz. jar of Hellmans mayo ... mix, let sit overnight, enjoy!  This is a recipe that brand means a lot with ... stick with Hellmans!  All others have been tried and it changes the taste drastically.  As I mentioned earlier, not the healthiest.  But it is good and you won't eat a lot!  I don't eat it very often so the 93 calories and 16 grams of fat per tablespoon don't scare me that much.  It doesn't scare me because it makes me ill.  As you can imagine, my extended family isn't necessarily the pictures of health and wellness.  If the calories and fat don't scare you off .... let me know what you think of it! 

What a year can do, part 1

Here we are already!  Month #1 is in the books.  This first month was a little experimental.  Getting back into the swing of things and try to watch my nutrition.  Let me just say here and now, my nutrition sucks!  I don't eat enough.  I absolutely detest tracking my food.  Along with measuring it.  But sometimes we must do things we don't like!  So, I went out and purchased ......

My trusty new scale.  If food passes my lips it will either be weighed or measured in a cup.  No exceptions.  Again, I detest weighing my food.  DETEST!  But for this .... I'll make an exception.  As I said earlier .... sometimes you have to do things you don't like to get to your goal.  Next purchase....

Notebook where I plan to log everything.  I track my stuff online also.  Sometimes it seems like I'm always on the computer.  So, I will be jotting down and then at days end logging on.  Over the past month, I've logged 52 miles through today.  And did an additional 19 workouts ... mainly P90x.  Those miles will increase in the next month.  Here is my workout schedule for February....... 

It is pretty blurry.  I follow as closely as I can.  I did have issues with making a few excuses this past month.  I mentioned the other day that a fellow bloggers post pissed me off.  I know it was because I used excuses and felt guilty.  Won't happen again!  TRUST ME!  I'm ready.  I'm willing.  And I'm able.  Nothing is in the way.  Here is my today.......
 

Goodness, I take the worst pictures.  I know the photographer doesn't help.  But my double chin isn't that big in real life.  At least I don't think so!  I had to wear my new Nike pants.  I had asked for the orange ones at Christmas but my family thought blue was more my color.  I have not gotten to wear them yet.  They are for cold weather and have a thin layer of "fleece" in them.  It hasn't been cold enough for me to wear them.  And I feel guilty!  And yes, I'm rocking slippers with them for this picture. 

So here are the down right dirty details for January.......

Measurements

12-28-11 ..... Neck 14 3/4                                 1-30-12 .....  14 5/8
                      Arm  R 14 1/2 L 14 1/2                                    R 14 3/4 L 14 1/2
                      Thigh R 23 3/4 L 23 5/8                                   R 24 L 23 3/4
                      Calf R 16 1/4 L 15 5/8                                      R 16 1/2 L 16 1/4
                      Waist 38 1/2                                                      37 7/8
                      Weight  190                                                       188


I'm not really worried about the weight.  It is just a number.  I know my pants fit a little differently.  Which is good!  I have a hard time with pants.  My legs and waist don't wear the same size.  Very frustrating.  I haven't forgotten my motto for 2012......

I just have to figure out how to do it!  This month will bring some more changes.  I plan to be much more diligent with my nutrition and workouts.  Also, my hubby has decided to come along on the ride.  I did take before pics but he doesn't want me to share them.  He makes me laugh!  I told him it will take me a year to show a real change.  While with him, he'll be there by April!     
  

The Muscles and Killer finale.....

Today concluded Muscles and Killers wrestling season.  The Medals Tournament was held this morning in Canfield.  They were both excited.  Muscles REALLY, REALLY, REALLY wanted to win!  Did I stress REALLY, REALLY, REALLY wanted to win?  I really mean it!  Killer doesn't quite understand yet.  After this morning, she gets it!  Muscles, on the other hand, has a little stash of medals from other sports.   

Here are just a few pics of the day...................

Only time I've ever contemplated long hair.  She blends right in with the boys! 

At least she doesn't have to wear a bonnet! 

Waiting patiently for his second match! 

There are times things don't go as we had planned.....

He was excited that they pronounced our last name right! 

Like a mug shot.....

What a season! 

Muscles shed a few tears between matches.  It is good for him to learn that not everything goes as planned.  As in life, we have to work hard toward our goals.  He was a little disappointed in the color of his medal.  But it meant the world that Pap Grimm told him how proud he was.  At the end of the day, they enjoyed themselves and gave it their all.  Both said next season will bring different spots on the podium.  We were just happy to hear them continue to speak of next season. 

With wrestling over, we will work on a few things and prepare ourselves for the next sports season.  Summer track has been chosen by Muscles and Killer.  Should be interesting.  Muscles is older now and will be able to compete in a few new events.  And he just happens to have a Momma that knows a thing or two or three about one of those events.......

Check in tomorrow for my "What can a year do" monthly update........UGH! 

Something has been bothering me!

I know you're worried the complaints are going to start!  Nothing like that.  In this world of blogs, there are a few that I follow daily, some weekly, and some I just check in on occasionally.  On Tuesday of this week,  MomSwimBikeRun had a blog post about excuses.  I believe it was Excuses are for Dummies.  Don't hold me to the exact title.  Let me say .... it really got under my skin!  That blog post has been lingering in the back of my mind ever since. 

Guess one could say it made me think?  Or I agree with it?  Or maybe it bothered me because I've used some excuses myself.  Oh who am I kidding!  It pissed me off because I've used excuses myself.  Now, I had just come off of four days of doing nothing when I read it.  The first two and a half were justified.  I like to be able to breathe out of my nose.  The rest.  Well yeah.  Um.  I could have done more.  I guess a thank you is in order to MomSwimBikeRun for that post.  It put my a@@ in gear! 

I have this on my motivation wall.  I urge people to not make excuses.  What is your excuse?  Too tired?  Kids have activities?  Too busy?  Not enough time?  And the list goes on.  Trust me, I've used them all.  Really and truly, I do believe in the power of good nutrition and exercise.  It may not cure all but it sure the heck isn't going to hurt.  I'll admit to using it as therapy.  I mean after a craptastic conversation or encounter where you just want to scream.  What is better than a little physical exertion to get the anger out?  I just imagine that my weights are hitting them ever so gently upside the head.  Or maybe, I'm running over them.  During Kenpo, I have to aim for something when punching and kicking.  Right?! 

Do you think I would ever do that?!  So next time you are thinking of using that lame excuse.  You know the one.  The one that even you don't buy.  Just think about how much better you will feel after even 30 minutes of movement.  Really?  Won't it make your day better? 

Because you know what?  It comes down to .......

Pretty much this applies to every single thing in life.  Nothing is going to be handed to you. 

Get up off your a@@ butt and work for it! 

     

   

Let me tell you a story about a man.....

He has been part of my life for over fifteen years, a little over eleven of those have been in marriage.  Over that span of time, I've seen him do many things.  We'll just end that there.  He has his interests.  I have mine.  Of course, we share some.  The one thing that I haven't really seen him do is exercise.  That is right my husband DOES NOT share my passion for movement.  I can count on my two hands the number of times I've seen him workout.  I've never bothered him about it. 

This is John..........just being himself

That is my LOVE acting goofy!  I wouldn't want him to be any other way.  Don't be jealous....JK! 

Over the years, he has supported me in whatever struck my fancy.  He has watched me go out the door for numerous miles.  Listened to me talk about P90X.  Purchased my much loved dreaded hamster wheel.  Listens to me complain about needing heavier weights.  Doesn't care that I purchase heavier weights.  Only questions the date and time when I tell him I've signed up for something.  And told me at the height of my marathon training how great I was doing. 

Along, our journey he has thrown in a 5K or two.  Both with none to very minimal training.  Completed them in under 28 minutes each.  Trust me when I say ... that makes me SICK!  I work daily at it and then he comes along ..... oh, I'm getting off track.  Last October, I ran the Wineglass Marathon in Corning, NY.  Now, no race would be complete without family there.  The day did not go as planned for me.  I struggled.  But when I came across that line ... there was this man.  Big smile and open arms.  And he said "I'm so proud of you.  The only thing that tops this was watching you have our children."  On the ride home, he told me of families out there running together.  Couples crossing the line together.  He looked at me and said "I want to do that with you."  Now, I knew he meant it BUT .....

The following happened this week, not once but twice.......

Yes, he did get a hair cut.  He was on the treadmill!  Now, it is like a car wreck for us.  The kids and I just sit there and stare.  I've taken numerous pictures.  At one point ... no joking ... the dog was sitting there just watching him.  I don't know that our kids have ever seen him workout.  Maybe a couple of push-ups or crunches but nothing else.  I find it nerve racking having him on there.  I worry more about him falling then I do the kids!  And that he is going to break it.....he is a bit accident prone. 

Today, he asked me if I would take official before pictures.  He wants to join me on my "What can a year do" challenge!  I will be including him in my post on the 28th of each month.  After eleven years, I've inspired him to MOVE!  See what persistence can do.  I WISH!  Now not only will he be joining my on my challenge but also in a 1/2 marathon in April and a full marathon in September.  This should be an interesting challenge.  Follow along as John goes from "Couch Potato" to Marathoner in under a year!           

The end of the regular season.....

A little of my LOVE today.....

Today was the last "regular season" wrestling matches.  Now, both Killer and Muscles have enjoyed themselves this season.  That is not saying there haven't been a few tears shed.  It has been a learning experience for both of them.  Going into our first wrestling season, I wanted my kids to learn a few lessons.  For Muscles ....  needed to learn that being physically strong doesn't always insure wins and that you are in charge of the outcome.  See wrestling is different for anything he has done.  With football or baseball, it is a team effort.  This is you and you alone.  Yep, your teammates may be cheering you on but there is no one else in the circle with you.  And for Killer ....  needed to learn that she is capable of  many things and that no matter others opinions if you like something DO IT! 

Pit stops have been made.  Uniforms have been checked.  Can we go already? 

Off they head into the unknown...at least to us it is unknown.  God forbid a parent without proper papers walk close to the officer! 

They are over there.....trust me! 

TRUST ME!  Killer really wants that IPOD touch.....

.

  

Killer was up first!  UGH!  Killer, Killer, Killer.  Where do I begin?  It has been a long season for Killer.  She really loves it.  But we really have had our ups and downs.  She was ready for practice daily and LOVED Sundays.  You couldn't tell either once we got there most times.  BUT, she did.  Her first match of the season was great!  Then after that .... well let's just say she was like a turtle when it flips over on its back.  If you remember a few weeks back, I resorted to bribery.  My deal was if she WON ONE MATCH during the rest of the season .... I would buy her a IPOD Touch.  Now, even my husband said that a snowball had a better chance in ..... You know the phrase.  But secretly we really wanted to pay up on this deal.  It is all she has talked about for the past two weeks. 

Last week there were no matches in her favor.  So, it all came down to today!  The last regular season match!  I told her the night before and this morning...REMEMBER I'M PRETTY STRAIGHT FORWARD....to just go bat-shit crazy today.  Work like she had never worked before.  Push those little boys around.  Don't, don't, don't leave with anything but a win.  I know pretty harsh for a six year old but I REALLY WANTED HER TO WIN ONE MATCH THIS SEASON!  We headed into the first match.  Looked pretty even size wise.  I could tell the coaches were pulling for her.  Apparently, all other girls that have went out for the team in the past have never finished a season.  And there were other fans in the stands!  It was back and forth.  TRUST ME...NO PICTURES WERE TAKEN!  I was on my feet, hiding my face, breathing heavy, and going crazy.  First round....no pin either way.  We made it to the second round....no pin either way.  WTH, she made it to the third round!  No pin either way.  It scored 14 to 6 in her opponents favor.  NOW, we saw this as a win!  She didn't get pinned and made it the entire match. 

So, we waited for the second match.  Amazing how like twenty minutes can seem like hours!  She was up!  First round....no pin either way.  We made it to the second round....no pin either way.  WTH, she made it to the third round again!  Again!  There was so much heavy breathing, panting, and sweating!  You would have thought I was at the end of my marathon.  Pap Grimm was screaming!  Grandma Grimm was screaming!  Dad was screaming!  Her friends family was screaming!  Her coach was on the floor screaming at her.  There were so many OMG's said in the stands.  I heard her name being yelled from another part of the stands.  The time ran out and there was no pin either way.  The scoreboard read 10 to 7.....

In her favor!  Did you hear that?  IN HER FAVOR!  She won!  She won!  She won!  She won!  And I have to purchase and Ipod Touch.  I've never been so happy to part with money.  I can't tell you how happy she is.  And how ready for next year!  Isn't it amazing what one little ribbon can do?

After a long wait!  Long wait!  Long wait!  Muscles was up.  He was ready.  My deals with him were if he won two matches during the rest of the season I would purchase two DS games for him OR if he finished his last two meets with all pins (total of 4) then I would get him a IPOD Touch.  I had to make his deal harder!  He didn't think the IPOD was within his grasp.  And I told him as long as he thought that ... he would never get it.  I explained to him that when we doubt ourselves, we beat ourselves.  Told him of entering many competitions in the past knowing full well I wasn't the best.  But knowing that the best was going to have to beat me.  I wasn't going to give the win away.  He will learn this more as he gets older.  Last week saw one win for Muscles.  So, going into today, he only needed one win.  I told him that the pot would be sweetened if he got two pins today but he doubted himself again.  So, I wasn't worried.

He's over there patiently waiting!  The first match came around.  First round....no pin either way.  Second round....no pin either way.  Muscles was down many times.  Pap Grimm yelled, sometimes under his breath "Stand up!".  Muscles did.  Pap then replied, under his breath, "Damn that boy is strong."  Third round....Muscles was down many times.  Pap Grimm yelled.  Grandma Grimm yelled.  Dad yelled.  Hadley yelled.  I yelled.  Others yelled.  The match was called at 16 to 3 in the opponents favor.  We don't know why it was called.  There was no pin.  But hey, one thing is for sure, the score may look really loopsided but that boy worked for each and every single one of those 16 points.  Muscles watched me from the stands.  I nodded my head and shook my fist.  He nodded his head and smiled.  I knew in my heart of hearts ... Muscles wasn't leaving without some type of a win.  After another wait....we were up again!  First round....no pin either way.  Muscles was getting mad!  Pap Grimm yelled and said, under his breath, "Get mad and take this boy down."  Second round....PIN.  Yeppers, Muscles pinned his opponent!  It was great.  He was so excited!

I mention the comments from my Dad, Pap Grimm, for a few reasons.....1.  I have been really afraid of how Pap would be with Muscles when it came to sports.  Pap was a wonderful athlete and not just in his mind.  And he had a tendency to really push and be annoying with my brother and I.  and 2.  I love to hear the little comments under his breath.  I don't usually sit beside him and love to hear that he is amazed by my child.  So, here we are at the end of the regular season.  We may not have come out with as many wins under our belts as wanted but we learned what it takes.  And that bribery works.  Lord knows my wallet is going to be lighter!.  Now next weekend there might be a small tournament but we aren't sure.  I will be more than happy to report any wins that may come.  As of right now, Muscles and Killer are looking forward to next season.  Can't wait to see what it may bring!     

What do you do when.....

When it FINALLY looks like this outside?

Just for the weekend.  They say high 40's next week!


We do a little of this......

 Kreos ... he quit right after this picture! 


And this.......

 Backpack clips and headbands....YEAH! 



Then this.....

 Tortilla chips and "cheese" dip



While watching....

Gotta love Winter Wipeout! 

Just your typical snow day in the Brereton house!  Well with a special snack.

Snacks were Mission brand tortilla strips and cheese sauce.  We love Mission brand snacks because they are not greasy or salty.  Almost like when I make my own.  I went all out and purchased the fake cheese.  You would have thought it was Christmas morning!  And I had a glass of hot tea.  Wonderful evening!   

Having a hard time.....

With the blogging world lately.  I'm kinda perplexed at what to write at times.  Do you want to hear about P90X Back & Shoulders and my run AGAIN?  Not really.  Right?  Don't get me wrong, I plan to talk about that stuff still but there are only so many ways to say it ... right now.  It is harder than I thought to wrangle my thoughts.  I get ideas for a post but then question if anyone will be interested.

Today a little FUEL conversation is in order.  I came across this "sign" the other day......

It spoke to me.  In the past, I would attend a Weight Watchers meeting.  Go out to eat.  Hit the grocery store for snacks.  Drive home.  Then eat it all because I had lost 3 pounds that week.  Does anyone else see some thing wrong with that?  Needless to say.....things have changed a lot! 

I LOVE GOOD FOOD!  I LOVE TO EAT GOOD FOOD!  I LOVE TO COOK GOOD FOOD! 

That is my reality.  Just told my husband the other day that if I couldn't cook more than likely life would be a lot thinner.  He just chuckled!  Seriously, no one in this house is wasting away.  We like to eat.  We have family meals every day.  I believe in them.  I'm one of those ladies that picks up a cookbook, turns to a page, and makes it!  You see that recipe in a magazine?  Yep, I've more than likely made it.  My kids, ages 6 & 8, are very willing to try every single thing.  Sorry, my son will not eat beets.  Long story that involves my brother ... blah, blah, blah.  He will eat them eventually.

One thing that I don't really buy is frozen foods.  Now, I have food in my freezer but it is meat, butter, bread, or things we have made and froze.  No frozen pizzas, hot pockets, Lean Cuisines, french fries, etc.  About the only thing you will find is ........

Good ole' imitation Chicken Nuggets!  Friends of ours told me about the Chik n' Nuggets a while ago BUT we didn't try them until recently.  I just wasn't a big nugget fan even if there is no chicken involved.  The kids gave them rave reviews.  I was impressed because they were actually crispy!  And as you can see on the box, they were given the Chefs Choice award for taste.  The taste pretty darn yummy!  

    
Now these Spicy Black Bean Burgers are SPECTACULAR!  We all love them.  MorningStar makes other burgers as well.  Tonight we had the Mushroom Lovers' burger for dinner.  My kids actually request bean/meatless burgers.  Not what you expect, huh?  They are quick to prepare, packed with protein, and very yummy!   

I know what you are thinking.....why on gods green earth would I want to try fake chicken nuggets or a bean burger?  Why would I want to step into the meatless section in the freezer aisle?  Really, why would any person want to subject themselves to imitation chicken nuggets?  Do you want to know why ... drum roll ... you can't judge it until you try it. 

Next time you are out grocery shopping just take a look around.  Find that meatless section.  Pick something out and give it a try.  Depending on what you purchase ... beans and/or tofu never hurt anyone!  Let me know what you tried and if you liked it. 

What I've learned today

Is that when you eat sugar, you crave sugar.  At least in my case.  Over the past several years, I've really cut out a lot of things in my life.  And continue to evolve in that way.  I normally drink unsweetened ice tea and water only.  Well, I do have milk in the morning.  When I go all out and splurge on Diet Coke ... it makes me burp something horrible.  I know TMI!  Now this is something that you will never hear me say ever again in life .... I am a huge McDonald's unsweetened ice tea fan.  Did you ever think I would mention McDonalds' and fan in the same sentence.  But who can pass up a large drink for $1.00?  They change that where I go and they are loosing a customer.

Only downfall, one trip they gave me the sweetened kind by mistake.  I seriously spit all over my car.  Gross!  There are a lot of people out there that love it but I'm not one.  I could see being addicted to it.  If I'm not mistaken there is a 5 pound bag per container.  Are you kidding me?!  Today, I wanted some hot tea.  So, I made a cup.  Now what you must understand is I MUST HAVE SUGAR IN MY HOT TEA.  I can handle a lot of things unsweetened but not hot tea.  BLAH!  BLAH!  BLAH!  One cup became two.  No big deal.  As the day progressed,  I literally found myself craving sugary items.  Something that I don't crave.  Salt and crunch, yes!  Sugary, no!  It amazed me how quickly that craving kicked in.  Just from this morning.  Who knows maybe the organic sugar is slightly sweeter?  Just a thought.  Spoke with my Momma and she gave me credit for realizing it so fast.  And stated that I know it now and can revert right back quickly. 

So, if you know of an alternative sweetener please pass it along.  Remember, only natural substances here.  No colored packets! 

Never judge a

There are a lot of people out there that determine the intensity of their workouts by the amount of sweat that is produced.  I remember while attending Weight Watchers, years ago, they had a listing of the ways to determine the intensity of your workout.  It said things like can you hold a conversation, lightly sweating, moderately sweating, out of breath, heavy sweating, etc.  And awarded exercise points by this chart.  Right off the bat to me this listing was NOT CORRECT.  Trust me!  You can't always judge a workout by the amount of sweat that you produce.  Take a look at this picture (graphic)...

This is all sweat....nothing was added for this picture! 

What do you think I did?  Full P90X workout.  Five mile run.  Full P90x workout and a five mile run.  Come on!  Take guess!  Did I bust a move and really push myself this day?  Have any guesses?  Guesses anyone?  Here is your answer .... this was from a three mile jog on my treadmill.  The miles were ran at about a 11:30 pace.  Not busting a move!  No P90x.  Just a short jog.  So, this was a "lolly gagging" day for me.  No pushing my limits.  But I still look like I've been drenched with water.  So, don't ever judge the intensity or level of your workout by sweat alone.  Trust me it can be very wrong! 

I'm thankful for .... Sweet Potato Fries! 

Set oven to 400, slice sweet potatoes into strips, place on cookie sheet (can cover sheet with parchment paper if you choose), spray a light coating of olive oil on the strips (if you don't have a sprayer, coat lightly in a bowl), sprinkle with Kosher salt and paprika, bake for about 25 to 30 minutes.  Time depends on your oven.  We like them with no dipping sauce!  Actually, we haven't found anything that sounds good with them.  Give them a try and let me know what you think!   

   

Titles are hard!

Okay, I have to admit that some days the titles are hard to come up with.  Heck, coming up with things to talk about is hard some days.  More wrangling collecting my thoughts.  But for some reason the titles don't just roll out!  So, last time I left with the "whys".  Some days are just filled with those!  I'm really trying to put my all in for the year. I'm aware we are still in January.  My diet, I HATE THAT WORD,  is where I struggle the most.  Back in the day, while attending Weight Watchers, I was told more than once that I don't consume enough especially for the amount of exercise that is done.  The last leader told me to stop exercising as much and eat more.  WHAT!?  Honestly, who has ever been told that at a Weight Watchers meeting?

I was not even close to my points for the day.  And that didn't include those bonus exercise points.  Many times, I was eating until I literally felt sick.  I don't know about you but that really isn't an enjoyable feeling for me.  So, I struck out on my own.  Now don't get me wrong.  I eat a lot!  A lot!  But apparently not enough.  Myfitnesspal.com is telling me the same thing.  I'm really liking how I feel on this mostly vegetarian thing.  I do eat meat on occasion but I'm picky.  This is turning out to be harder than I ever thought.  Should be interesting to see how this year goes!  I'll figure it out sooner or later!  Let us all hope that it is on the sooner side.......

Yesterday, I had to make up some miles from Tuesday.  I VOW TO NEVER EVER PUT OFF MY RUN UNTIL THE EVENING!  IT NEVER WORKS FOR ME!  I've been going into daily workouts with the mindset of all in or nothing.  I had just 2 miles on schedule and had 2 make up.  I decided to push it.  Push it hard!  I completed my 4 miles, including a 1/4 miles walking warm-up in 40 min. and some odd seconds.  OMG!  Did you hear that!  40 minutes and some odd seconds.  Not bad for a "chubby weight girl"!  I figure the only way I'm going to get faster is to push myself on occasion.  I give props to any and all that run below a 10 minute mile.  That is amazing and I am in awe of you!  Hit my P90x shoulder and arm tape also!  Gotta love the "glamour" muscles! 

Today, just a short 3 miles around 11:3? a mile.  My legs were tired.  Heck, I was tired!  Then Ab Ripper.  I hate dislike ab work!  Ironic because it is the one area, other than my double chin, that I have always had issues with.  I passed on Yoga X today.  I'll regret it later.  Well, the kids are heading off to bed ... a little late tonight.  They are not so secretly wishing for a snow day or delay tomorrow.  I'm not telling my wish.  Well, 5:15 am rolls around quickly.  I'll be up with Tony and hitting the legs and back tomorrow!

Hope all of you had an active and event filled day!  With the weekend rolling in, WHAT ARE YOU BIG PLANS FOR IT?  Do you have any fun activities planned?  I'm thinking about taking the kids ice skating.  They will love it.  John will hate it! 

I'm thankful for Morningstar Spicy Black Bean burgers ..... YUMMY!  Toasted bread, little mayo, thinly sliced red onion, and lettuce.  Can't get better!  Well, actually if you are lucky to eat them with in season tomato ... even better!  We love Morningstar products.  Give them try if you haven't already!     

A good case of the WHYS?!

As a parent you quickly realize that children seem to love the word why.  I understand.  Truthfully, you don't learn if you don't question.  That is part of how we grow.  I suffer from a good case of the WHYS' today. 

Why did I not do my run this morning? 

Why did I think it could be done in the evening?

Why does food tracking suck so much? 

Why can't there be an easier way to count calories other than weighing & measuring food? 

Why can't I just loose fat (not weight) eating what I do? 

Why am I one of the oddballs that eats too little calories??!?!?!

Why do the things I want to do in life not correspond with the amount of money I have to spend?

Why are there not any events closer?

Why can't there be exercise/workout classes around here I'm interested in attending?   

Why are running events so pricey? 

Why would I want to follow my desire for a career when I don't know if I would make a dime at it around here?  

If you can provide any insight, I would really appreciate it! 

I'm thankful that my kids are happy, healthy, ornery, and irritating at times.  It makes life interesting! 

And we have a WIN!

This is my LOVE for the day!  I love me Muscles and Killer! 

Short and sweet!  Today we watched Muscles and Killer.  What fun!  What fun!  Just touching on Killer....she is really missing that killer instinct.  I'm not to proud to admit to bribery.  I told her today, after her matches, if she wins ONE match.  JUST ONE MATCH during the rest of the season, I'll buy her an Ipod Touch.  Sadly, the phrase "a snowball has a better chance in ...... " comes into play.  Let's hope she proves me wrong!  She tells us she loves it and is having a good time.  Guess that is what matters at her age. 

Oh Muscles, my Muscles.....  First match was hard fought.  With about 5 seconds to go in the final period of the first match, he was up by the score of 4 to 3.  Talk about a grudge match.  Then at the last second, he let his opponent stand up!  Score two for the other guy.  He was beat by the score of 5 to 4.  UGH!  Second one rolled around and it was another push and shove type of match.  We screamed.  We screamed.  Then Grandma Grimm screamed.  Which almost scared the crap out of me!  I'm 38 years old and have never heard my Momma yell that loud.  He fought.  He got angry.  And then.  And then.  And then.  At the end of all periods...I don't remember what the score was but he had more! 

 It was nearly impossible for me to take pics.  This dang huge family in front of us.  I mean Grandma & Pap, their 4 kids and spouses, and their 13 to 15 grandchildren used match time to hug, stand up, take family pictures with their Ipads, play, pass the babies around, look at 31 catalogs and just be generally annoying.  And then during actual match time, truthfully, John and I were up on our feet screaming.  The "family" didn't like it.  Which made it even better!  He is liking it better each time.  Which I knew would happen!  He was happy and tired afterwards. 

WAY TO GO MUSCLES!     

I had planned to do a running "Thankful for" item but it seems to have fallen by the wayside.  Here is my newest installment. 

I'm thankful for my in-laws, Denny and Karen Brereton.  I have to be!  If it wasn't for them I would not have the love of my life, John.  And would have never gotten to have, meet, and LOVE Muscles and Killer!  

"Kidsday"

The entire week I've said .... "on Saturday, I'm going to make it all about the kids".  So, I dedicated this day entirely to them.  Well, not entirely!  I jumped right up at 5:15 to "hit it" with my morning date.  If you believe that full heartily, I'm pretty good at lying.  My throat has been hurting for the past couple of days, especially in the morning and at night.  Explain that?!  So when I actually rumbled out of bed at 5:45 .... I headed for my side of the playroom.  Legs and Back ... P90X style today.  As I decided a little while ago ... all or nothing!  I must have done it up right because my buttocks, hamstrings, and calves are hurting! 

The kids got up.  Had some breakfast.  Got dressed.  And out the door we headed!  Today was the first day of basketball for first - third grade boys at United.  Payne was ready!  It is coached by the father of one of his best buddies.  The whole lot of them was there...for a second I thought it was football practice!  More than half of the football team was there.  He was happy to see his buddies...especially out of school.  Hadley sat in the stand with me.  We talked to each other.  I talked to a few of the fathers...not to many mothers at a 9 am basketball practice.  She watched movies.  Colored pictures.  And made buddies with a few little, little guys that were there to watch their brother.  They enjoyed her movies and coloring books. 

Afterwards, we headed home.  The were nice enough to make me lunch.  DID YOU CATCH THAT?!  Yep, they made me lunch.  I'm not telling what it was because you can't turn down lunch made by your 6 and 8 year old.  We did a little cleaning and maintenance around the house.  Then we headed outside.  I moved the vehicles.  And then.....the electric scooters came out.  Grandma and Pap Breretons' Christmas gift has been christened! 

Thumbs up to Grandma & Pap Brereton!

How fast can I go?  JK She doesn't like the motor! 

Another thumbs up for Grandma & Pap Brereton! 

I read the box.  I know how fast it will go! 

Dang that Pap Grimm for leaving his truck in the way!  The best jump is under it! 

Not good!  He is contemplating something.....

You had to go outside today!  When is it 50 degrees in January in OHIO?!  Kinda scares me.... The boy had on shorts for goodness sakes.  While they enjoyed their little ride around.  I got the pleasure of doing this.......

Someone has to read them!

Next on tap, a trip to Calcutta.  Now for us that doesn't sound like fun BUT for kids with gift cards burning holes in their pockets.  It sounds SPECTACULAR!  John did join the picture at this point.  He came home from hunting.  We headed out to dinner at their favorite Chinese restaurant.  If one particular friend is reading...thank you for taking me to Szchuaen Garden oh so many years ago.  Now the adults did stop and get some new running shoes.  Yes, I said adults.  John purchased some Sauconys'....I told him they are the best!  Dessert at Brusters' tonight.  Hadley wanted ice cream.  How do you tell her no on the newly named "kidsday"?!  You don't. 

Off to Game Stop.  Now, normally it isn't my favorite place but tonight was different.  Our young man showed how thoughtful he is tonight.  Hadley had her American Express gift card earmarked for something BUT she changed her mind.  She made her first ever Game Stop purchase.  She bought a Nintendo DSI!  Now that used all of her card plus a little from Dad.  There wasn't enough for even a game.  Before either parent could step in Payne said and I quote "Hadley, since you don't have any money left, I will buy this game for you with my gift card."  We looked at him and said "What?"  Of course, he repeated the same thing.  He told me "Mom, she can't get a game system without picking out a game.  So, I will use my money to get one for her."  Can you imagine that?  Seriously?  John shook his hand and told him how nice that was.  I hugged him and told him that was very nice.  NOW, I will admit that I ended up purchasing the game.  Sometimes it is the thought that counts the most.  I didn't want him to use his Christmas gift on someone else.  Hadley thinks he bought it and that is all that matters. 

She returned the favor in the next store!  Gotta love my kiddos!  Well, I better get off of here.  Saturday is "scary" movie night here.  And I hear them getting ready!  This is the one night they get to stay up this late.  And trust me ... there is NOTHING even remotely "scary" about these movies!  Hope everyone has a great and wonderful evening!  Off to watch Killer and Muscles tomorrow! 



 

This little girl.....

Earlier in the week this picture came across my screen.......

Now, I know there are more than likely many thoughts and opinions about this picture and the use of it.  Truthfully, it doesnt' bother me.  The truth hurts.  I know it is hard to be a little girl when you're not.  This picture has brought up many feelings for me.  I was this little girl.  Now, I may not necessarily have been shaped like her but I was a "big" little girl. 

My son is built just like me.  Imagine this as a 6 year old girl.... 

 
Mind you he is 8 years old in these pictures.  (I in no way shape or form think there is anything wrong with my son!  This just isn't the optimal little girl figure.)  When I look at her eyes......I go back to being her.  The feelings.  The questionable self-esteem.  The doubt.  The list could go on and on.  There are many reasons this could happen.  Inactivity.  Food choices.  Genetics.  Even finances.  Unfortunately, we have become a nation of excess.  A nation of laziness.  A nation of excuses.  No matter your feeling, one thing is for certain, people need to take some responsibility in our own lives.  Even at a young age, we are capable of making good choices. 

Now don't get me wrong, our "food system" needs work.  Most of the stuff out there contains questionable nutritional value.  Along with a slew of preservatives, additives, and chemicals that we DON'T know the long term ramifications of.  But that isn't what I'm talking about today.  Nothing pains me more than to see any child, regardless of size, walking by a cart at the store packed with cookies, chips, frozen pizzas, and pop.

What I want for you to take from this is a few things........1.  If you are the parent of this child, regardless of sex, please think.  You set the example they will follow.  I know change can be hard but it can be and will be worthwhile.  2.  No matter your size (2 or 32) don't involve your child in your constant battle with food or weight.  They pay attention to EVERYTHING.  To how you view yourself.  How you speak about yourself.  How you cope with things.  All of that will be emulated by them.  3.  Regardless of your relationship with this child ... don't judge her or him.  You haven't walked in their shoes.  And most of important of all 4.  Ingrain in this child......

We all have a light.  And we need to let it shine.  Support her or him.  Stand by her or him.  Regardless of your relationship with this child, let them know they are worthwhile.  Guide them in this world.  Take a minute and share something with them.  Even the smallest of gestures may turn out to be momentous.  I don't really know if I accomplished what the goal of this post was.  But this picture just brings back so many feeling and thoughts.  Some that I could never explain.  I grew up with loving and supportive parents.  Who tried to instill a good sense of self.  BUT little kids do know how to act.  I worked out my issues to a great extent.  Some may never leave.

Please just think before you judge!         

Cheating again!

Today was the day!  I started my "affair" all over again.  Yes, as I've stated before, I cheat on my husband regularly.  He is aware of it.  Actually, he really likes the fringe benefits from my cheating. 

Here is my morning date.....

Yes, it is a bad picture.  What can I say?  Tony is back and in full force in my life.  Been a couple of bad weeks without him.  I know some of you find him a little irritating.  I can agree with that.  He does talk an awful lot!  But when I'm with him....

I break a pretty good sweat.  Actually, not much in this picture but the others you could really tell.  Even for me ... they were a little up close and personal.  I really don't take the best pics.  And as you can tell, I'm a real "fashionista" in general.  If you are worried about how you look when working out ... you aren't really working out for the right reasons.  No one should look good!  I purchased my "desk calender" for my wall.  It is now filled out with pre-set daily workouts.  My plan is to follow them as directly as I can until April.  I know there has to be some give-n-take. 

I came across the following ....

This really spoke to me.  Can't wait to see what their February promise is!  Today, the kiddos wanted Potato Soup for dinner.  I know it isn't every ones thing BUT my kids eat just about everything.  So, I came up with my Loaded Potato Soup.......   

We have potatoes, celery, carrots, white corn, lima beans, natural ground chicken, garlic salt, onion powder, and a little chicken bouillon.  No dairy!  I added no milk or cream.  Trying a little healthier version of Potato Soup.  Who said you can't get a serving of veggies or a little protein in Potato Soup?  It was a hit.  Well, John thought the chicken was cheese curds.  IDK why!  I've never purchased cheese curds in my entire life and don't plan to anytime soon.  The kids don't understand that when I make most things, I don't follow recipes.  I just pick, choose, and add things until it tastes good.  So, it will never taste the same twice.  Most of our favorite meals have come about that way. 

Plyometrics and a short run on tap for tomorrow.  Hope everyone has a great and wonderful evening!