Latinas Run Hot

Running Buddy, 1/2 Marathon, and Moving on...

2012-05-24T11:44:00.000-04:00

Hola Damas y Cabarellos!

I am happy to say that after a craptastic April, I am still moving along. As many of you know, God called three of my family members home last month, and just when I was getting a handle on that fact, God decided my running buddy Motoki had, had enough and needed to rest so, on the 30th, she crossed the Rainbow Bridge into Heaven, and is now playing with my other long lost fur babies. It hit me hard knowing I would not have her to run with when she stopped in November but, then on the afternoon of the 30th she developed "bloat" and the Veterinarian said the chances of her survival were slim so, we let her sleep. To say this was painful on top of the losses of my human loved ones is an understatement, she was my running buddy, and a part of our family that was most innocent. She is dearly missed.

With losing my Motoki, I had a huge hole in my heart, I needed to feel normal, and running does that for me but, it felt wrong, different without my fur baby to run with, I NEEDED my dog so, as crazy as it felt I began to think about getting another dog, only this time another rescue, NOT a purchased pet. After deliberation with TheHubs, we finally went to the pound and picked up our newest fur baby, meet Tori. Tori is a Dalmatian/Pitbull mix, and a totally lovey! She has been well trained by the rescue agency, Peace for Paws, and is Mommy's girl all the way. She follows me EVERYWHERE, (imagine shaving your legs as your fur baby stands watch by the tub) lol, yeah that's my baby! She loves to go running with me, and has been a real blessing to help me, and my family get through our losses. Everyone thinks of Pitbulls and Pit mixes as these horribly dangerous animals, well they are not. The breed is amazing, it is the peopel that train them, or ANY breed to be vicious, and abuse their abilities that are the dangerous ones. Off my soapbox to say, she is helping me to pick up my pace, and better my VO2 levels, at 41 years old, I am at a 41-VO2 level, lol, not bad for an old chic, and mother of 5.

Now, for the best news, I am running a 1/2 Marathon for Children's Hospital in honor of my little champion Micah. Micah's Mommy and I are friends, and Mr. Micah was born with Spina Bifida. Ah but, before you say or think, "poor baby" let me tell you he is amazing! He is smart as a whip, has a smile to melt your heart, and gets around in his little walker like a champion. Micah, walks the talk baby, and he gets around, and captures your heart. Here is the link to his story, and I hope you will read it, and consider helping me to help Children's Hospital as I run out my lungs in honor of "Micah's Mile" in the Nationwide Children's Hospital Columbus Marathon.
http://littlethings.nationwidechildrens.org/meet-miracle-mile-champion-4-micah-ross/

You can pledge here: Emeraldtress Children's Champion Donation Page!

s of now, I am comfortably able to push out 3-4 miles, and I am hoping to get my long run up to 6 miles by end of this month. I am pushing my body pretty hard, and as the weather gets more beautiful, and hotter I am finding that it is best to run in the many wooded parks here for the shade of the trees. I will be taking Tori on these runs and she can help me keep moving, lol!

I have until October 21st, to get to 13 miles, and raise $2,000. I have a few friends that will be running or walking this with me, and it feels good to see how people join in and reach out for such a beautiful cause. Thank you to each of you for joining the team, so far there are 8 people that will be joining the fight with me, from work.

Well, that is it for now, which is really quite a bit but, I am still moving along, and hoping to lose more weight as I take on this 1/2 Mary, your support has been amazing and I hope all of you are meeting your own goals as well. Drop me a line and let me know what YOUR goals are, and lets do this together.

"Corre Mami Corre!"
Emeraldtress

Loss, and Marathon Thoughts

2012-04-30T17:00:00.001-04:00

The last two weeks have been emotional, and mind blowing. April 13th, my Uncle passed away, and Uncle that always had a smile, and hug, and taught me how to fish for freshwater craw fish in Puerto Rico. He was always so kind to me, and treated me like a little Princess when my family got together to visit, even though it was not often with living thousands of miles away growing up in the Army, my Uncle never changed, and the memories have been cherished. The last time I saw my Uncle was two years ago, at my Aunt's passing, the family was devastated, that side of the family is very large, my Father is the eldest, and the occasion was painful. Little did I know it would be the last time I would see my Uncle as well.

Just as I was coming to the dark realization that this really had happened, my Mother called me at 3:30 in the morning on April, 15th to inform me that my Grandmother had passed away. My Mother's Mother had passed, and the sound of my Mother's voice would make me hold strong for as long as the call would last. I went up to tell my Husband who was fast asleep, and the world just spun, and I passed out. Woke in his arms, and told him of the next blow in my Grandmother's passing. My Grandmother, always treated me with so much love, cooked beans, and dumplines for me, and always had a doll I could play with. My memories of my Grandmother are just as dear as those of my Uncle but, different, I mean, she was my Grandmother.

I had gotten the privilege of seeing her last summer, and my children got to really know her while they were there for the summer with my parents. My heart told me, this would be the last time I would physically see her, and indeed, it was.

In 48 hours, I lost two cherished family members, and could not wrap my head around it all, it made no sense, and I wanted to do nothing. I did not want to smile, knit, or workout. My body was screaming to go for a run but, my heart and head, did not have the drive. With these thoughts, I reminded myself that to keep myself healthy, would honor my family losses because they had struggled with health issues, and so, I finally moved my body into motion on the 17th, telling myself to stop feeling sorry for myself because, the cycle of life, includes death, and I could not use the love I had for them, as an excuse to stop doing what I had accomplished and longed to expand so, I ran, poorly but, I ran, and it felt good...I would complete 2.5 miles, and not remember part of the run because, all I was thinking about was my Mother, and Father and how each of them had just lost a loved one, and the fear that one day, I as their child, along with my brother would lose them.

Blowing bubbles for our loved ones lost.

"C", one of my workout buddies.

It is amazing how running, working out can make you get away from everything if only for a little while but, away all the same. I pushed into working out again, treadmill, gym, friends, and the occasional tear, and kind gestures by those friends. One was a beautiful card left by one of my workout buddies, "C". I opened that card, and although I did water up, I felt that my friends cared and that made a huge difference. Next was my friend, "A" he and his family made a donation for my children to go out the following weekend, and celebrate the lives of our lost loved ones, and in doing so, made me realize that I had years of good memories and only a moment of their deaths so, the good would always out weigh the loss. Finally my buddy "H", he was my rock when I thought I would lose it at work, he would just talk to me, and comfort me with his words, and a hug when I would zone out. He put a lot of things in perspective for me, and gave his prayers to my parents and my family as we all tried to come to grips with so much so suddenly. The power of friendship, and the human touch is beyond explanation but, can do so much when needed, Thank you "H", you are always going to be an important person to me, and to my family as are "C", and "A", true friends/familia.

Fast forward two weeks, and things are much easier, I am working out again, did an "Indian Run" as we called it in the Army yesterday. I did a mile of very short choppy steps, making the mile seems like TEN! I was tempted so many times to open my stride but, resisted, reminding myself that I was taking more steps to strengthen my legs, with a concentration on my calves, it still sucked! A good part to all of this was that my eldest daughter, (seen above in the yellow chipmunk t-shirt) ran the whole thing with me...she is 10, and kicked my tail by at least 60 yards. This was her first time running with Mommy, and it didn't even make her sweat! I think, with those long legs, swan arms, and thin, TALL frame, she may just be a natural distance runner...goodness I hope so! She would be in much better shape then her Mama was growing up, I HATED running.

Why would I do an "Indian Run"? Well, I have decided to run a 1/2 Marathon for my little buddy, Micah. Micah's Mommy "S" is a dear friend, who needed people to represent Team "Super Micah" for the Nationwide Children's Hospital Columbus Marathon.

Micah was chosen by Children's Hospital to be represented for a mile in the race, and I have decided what better reason to bite the bullet and make a huge stride toward my first marathon, then to run for an amazing little boy, who is part of an amazing cause?! So now, I am training for my first 1/2 marathon, and although I know going from 4 miles to 13 is going to be tough, I have 6 months to train hard, and do this little Champ proud, and raise money for an amazing hospital that dedicates itself to cures, treatment, and love of children who have challenges many of us would not be strong enough to handle as adults. If you feel compelled to donate, I will be placing a link very soon to allow you to donate, and support Team "Super Micah" in the coming weeks. I would also ask that you kick me in the butt to help motivate me to keep training, and allow me to run the entire distance, this is my goal.

Well, that is the long and the short of the last two weeks, today I plan on doing as long a run as I can. Just run till I cannot run anymore, then spend time with my family. My thighs are sore from yesterday but, they remind me, there is a good reason, and I will embrace it for the sweet Micah, and for my daughter Deanna who passed away but, was lovingly cared for by Children's Hospital in Akron.

"Corre Mami Corre!"
Emerald

I love the Sun!

2012-04-13T20:55:00.000-04:00

Today was one of those days that a person who longs to be a real "runner" lives for. Today, the sun shown upon the track, and I decided to take advantage of it's blessings. The clouds were puffy, and white/grey/light blue/silver, the sun was shining very brightly all day. During work, I had to go to another building a few times, and when I went outside, the sun was so bright, all I could do was hope it would hold out till, I got out to go to the gym, and hoped to hit the track. Wish come true!

Got to the track, and did 1.5 miles walking at a good clip, then 1/2 mile run. This was an easy day to allow my legs to have a bit of rest from the last two days of running. It felt good once I got warmed up but, warming up took a bit of time today. I do not know if it was from going at the rate I did Wednesday, and I was still recovering or if it was just a common way of my body saying, keep it calm because you are not 18 anymore, lol. Either way, I enjoyed the 2 miles of movement, and finished up with crunches. I look forward to the weather that is supposed to grace us Sunday of approximately 70 degrees, let's hope it happens. Looking at Sunday as a chance to do another 3 miles, at an easy pace, and lot's of rest.

How do you get YOUR pace? Do you run with a friend? Do you use a heart monitor? Or do you run with a group? Tell me how you choose to accomplish your run, and what has been your greatest feeling accomplishment in the running journey?

I have run with friends, and my dog, she is an Alaskan Malamute but, I am sad to say that our girl "Motoki" is getting old, and has given up on the running with me. It pains me to see her curled up on the run by the door, and standing up stiffly still trying to move about like a puppy yet, limping, and slowing down. She was a worthy running partner, and I miss her terribly out there on the cold nights, when I would wonder if I could handle the cold. She would set my pace, like she KNEW the right speed to go, and would look back at me as if to say, "Are you okay?" When we would make it back home, she would lean against my legs like she was warming me, I miss my at home running partner. I have been entertaining getting another dog via adoption but, TheHubs has put the parking break on the idea so, for now I will just run alone as the days get longer and the sun sets later. Motoki was my protector in the dark of Autumn and early winter, now it is time for her to retire. Mama loves ya girl.

The Menu:
1.0 Pineapples, honeydew melon, water
1.5 Granola bar, water
2.0 Steak fries with KETCHUP BABY...and water! lol
2.5 Cashews, water
3.0 Pizza, and potato wedges, and water!

***To date, I have lost 11lbs on the Vegan challenge, and am hoping it will be 13lbs gone but, it will take strictness. So far, it really has been easy so, we shall see.***

I was doing the girly leg maintenance thing, and had my leg up high on the tub ledge when Miss Moomoos came in...

Miss M: Mommy how do you do that?!
Me: What, shave???
Miss M: Yes, with your leg up that high..
Me: Flexibility honey.
Miss M: Your legs are like Twizzlers, all bendy and with lines. (Lines=shave track through the soap)
Me: Thank you sweetie....(I think, I wasn't sure if it was a compliment or not, after she left I got paranoid and checked to see if I was getting varicose veins or something. Luckily, no varicose veins. sigh of relief.)
Me: Thanks I think.

Corre Mami Corre
Emerald

The Day 15 Vegan...

2012-04-10T21:17:00.001-04:00

It has been as many days since I have blogged on my fitness journey. Since my last update I have joined another person in a 21 day vegan challenge. So far it really hasn't been so tough and I have lost 9 pounds! Yes, I am happy with the weight loss but, more so what it has done for he inside of my body.

I am feeling much better and don't feel gut wrenching puffy in the tummy off and on throughout the day. I can exercise and not feel weighed down and am feeling more energetic as well. Essentially, my body has detoxed quite a bit and it has improved many aspects of my general well being. Do I plan on staying vegan? Nope, I like burgers but, I do plan on keeping some of the tricks and wholesomeness that I have learned along the way.

When I HAD to exercise I didn't as much back in the military. This is a great friend, good times.

The running is still feeling pretty good I am still concentrating on speed but, soon I will shift my focus back to endurance, and distance again. More than likely I will be doing more sleds and pulling/ pushing exercises along with explosive exercises for my legs and core. I am hoping by changing things up between strength and speed and distance, I will have an easier time with the 10K and feel even more confident than I did with my first 5K. We shall see. 2 more inches around the middle and I may take the dive and get the tattoo I have wanted to honor all of my 5 children.

Latest exercises incorporated: dips with 25lbs weight across thighs between two benches, sleds, leg lifts, Russian twists without the box and running, always some type of running. Yes, I will run a marathon...

Menu:
1. Fruit, water
1.5 trail mix, water
2.0 salad, orange, water
2.5 cashews, apple, water
3.0 habichuelas y domplines! Giggle AKA beans and bread dumplings and it was Puerto Ricanly delicious!
7
Mister P to Miss M:
P: what is 12-4?
M: 8!
P: why is it 8? (trying to make her doubt herself)
M: because seven ate nine, duh!

Yeah, she used an old kid joke but, used it well. The three of us just laughed as we walked to their school bus stop. Life is good!

Corre Mami Corre!
Emerald

Run-Time, and Time Travel…

2012-03-21T10:10:00.001-04:00

Hola Damas y Caballeros! How are your fitness goals coming along? Well, I hope. Mine is on a steady uptick again, I have been picking up my distance, 3-4miles for a “long run” and

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to strengthen my long and short muscles for those hills.

The plan is to do the 10K in the Spring at some point, I am looking at the venues available, and particularly looking for a nice wooded park race. I have looked at many organizations and found that I liked Greenswell the best. They have beautiful wooded locations, laid back atmosphere, and well organized runs. They are hosting many runs under the, Wellness In the Woods” program, with run distances of all types with a focus on family events, and charities, to me that is a win/win for everyone.
Right now, I am working on improving my time at an 8K distance, to lead myself into the 10K distance by, doing many short runs with a focus on going just tiny bit faster to trim off, 10 seconds a week. I realize that does not sound like much to many people but, for me it adds up quickly as a month of doing this comes up at the end of this month. Nine more days, and I hope to have 30-40 seconds shaved off my 4 miles. This would get me to where I am able to run 4 miles, a little faster, and still be comfortable.

Did some running in PA! Nothing noteworthy because I was there for a certification course in geek Dom and got back too late to enjoy the amazing weather for an outdoors run but, I did get the luxury of getting a room next to the gym! The funniest part was that it was on the third floor, when I would think many would agree that the gyms are usually on the first floor, lol. Anyhow, I was able to go and run 3 separate days while using my heart monitor watch. (You can see it on my wrist in the picture above.) I love this watch, it is accurate, and has helped to let me gauge when I need to kick things up a bit, or slow it down to avoid burning out.
The treadmill in the gym, had seen quite a few miles by many runners, and the belt slipped a bit until I got a good pace going that was friendly to the treadmill. This pace was a bit on the faster side for my ability but, I got through it all three times, and was quite happy that due to not having a choice, I made a better time.
While in PA, I was able to eat sensibly with less pressure to eat what was available for dinner. I went to the grocery store after the first day of classes, and bought natural foods, and lean meals for the microwave. Doing this really helped me not feel pressure to eat crappy food everyday. I did treat myself to lunch with my buddies two of the 9 days there, and two dinners, other than that, I was eating fruit, veggies, whole wheat, peanut butter, and lean meals with a case of water. It was a good healthy trip, and I detoxed quite a bit because, when I returned, anything heavy, hit me like a ton of bricks so, I was able to tell that my body was not use to the heaviness of some cooked foods.

Starting Monday, I go on a 21 day detox with my Jefita (little Boss Lady) who had suggested we go vegan for 21 days. She is using this method to jump start herself, and I am using it to rid my body more stringently of toxins, and lean out the tummy. Veggies, and fruits are great for this, and to wean myself from heavy amounts of meats and animal fats. I do NOT plan on living a vegan lifestyle because lets face it, I love a good filet mignon with wine! ;0)

Miss Moomoos: Mommy you are home!!! I missed you! Did you exercise while you was gone?
Me: Yes, Mama I did.
Miss M: What did you do?
Me: I ran on the treadmill and did some Russian Twists.
Miss M: That’s all? You dinent lose any weight that way did you? (look of disapproval)
Me: I don’t know baby. (Which made me avoid getting on the scale as I had originally planned. Stuck with gauging how the tummy looked than quickly put my shirt back down after looking in the mirror. I swear she is going to be an Olympic or Football coach, little bully!)
Corre Mami Corre!
Emerald

Running Without the Wind

2012-03-09T15:12:00.001-05:00

My newest obsession has been running on the very loved treadmill while watching Netflix on my laptop propped on a table, lol. I have been pushing out the mileage while watching, "Downton Abbey", a British mini series hosted on PBS from, Masterpiece Theatre...um, it is really good! I get moving along on the treadmill, and do not even realize how far or how long I have run while watching. I don't even notice my breathing, and before I know it I am hitting 3-4 miles, and feeling great!


Polar Heart Monitor

This is my newest addition to my jogging/running arsenal, the Polar Heart Monitor and I LOVE it! TheHubs bought it for me for Christmas as well, and I am just getting around to using it, I forgot it was in the box! UGH! Anyway, I set it all up yesterday for my 5:30am treadmill jog. I say setup because, you not only set the time but, your age, weight, height, and gender, and you have a strap that you snap around your chest. This strap has transmitters that one wets with water, and fits securely against your skin to monitor your heart, and sends the information to the "watch" and you are able to see all the information, and gauge your fitness level as you heart rate improves, and yes it keeps time too, lol. DIG IT!!!

I have two more pounds gone so, from the original 35lbs lost, I gained 8, and have again lost 2 putting me at DAMN IT!!!! 6 more pounds to get back to the original 35lbs gone, (freaking winter makes me hibernate in the worst way) I slip on my eating, with all the holiday meals, which turns into bad habits again, and I succumb to TheHub's fast food and sweets addiction. I have in the last two weeks started weening myself back down to proper eating, not starving myself by any means but, just getting back to egg white omelets, fruits, veggies, no sauces, gravies, added sugars, add salts, or processed foods, outside of my addiction to raspberry yogurt pretzels.

Moving on, I have been running in the mornings, and on most evenings, getting a total of 3-5 miles per day, I am concentrating on incline runs for muscle strength, and cardio strength. My incline is only up to 1.5 at this point, I am not trying to be Super Woman, only Wonder Woman, and we all know Wonder Woman can't fly so, there you have it, besides, I think Wonder Woman is hotter, brunettes are awesome, and throw in a tan, and a non-functional cape and WHAM! Smokin'! Chill out to all my Blond, Raven, and Red headed friends...I will admit it.......you are cuties too, sheesh, there I said it.

Next on the agenda, more weights, it is the season to start them back up again, with a concentration on core and legs. I won't be ignoring my arms, back and chest but, it will only be working to define them more, versus true strength like I want to do for my core and legs.

The Menu:

1. Egg White Omelet-turkey, ham, cheese, mushrooms

1.5 Water

2.0 Fried Rice...I know, should have been steamed...

2.5 Pretzels!!!

3.0 Cheese Pizza, (Just remembered I am in LENT!!! Darn it! Sorry God!)

Miss Moomoos - yesterday morning: How fast are you going? (As she sat watching me on the treadmill at 6:15)

Me: About 4.5 miles an hour baby.

Miss M: Is that slow? (She how much faith she has in her old Mom?)

Me: No, not really

Miss M: Is that lazy?

Me: (cricket sounds.....I stop treadmill at 2.6 miles, drop head and hit the shower....) Probably baby, probably.

I'm not sure if I want HER at the finish line for my 10K....she might tell me my time sucked! Kids, gotta love 'em.

"Corre Mami Corre!"

Emerald

Whiner!

2012-02-28T20:18:00.001-05:00

...iTouch-check, water-check, towel-check, Nike+ on-check, let's get moving. Trotting along, doobie doobie do! Singing to the music (in my head of course don't want to annoy other treadmill worshipers). 1/4 mile in, woo getting a little winded, WTH?! 1/2 mile in tummy is starting to gurgle a bit, 3/4 mile, nausea setting in, 1 mile tummy cramping full on, 1 1/4 mile... Screw this, I'm done!!!

The forces of nature continue to conspire against me, yesterday I was terribly sick to my stomach from a bug that hit family members at a rate of a new patient every 12-24 hours. I knew I would have to take it easy but, a mile?! The tummy told the brain,"Make it stop!" I did and feel like a punk!

I will give it a shot again tomorrow and everyday till I feel better, blah. For now, I will curl up on the couch,and wait for this to pass.

Miss Moomoos is sick with the bug, no quips. :0(

Corre Mami Corre!

Rib Cracking fun

2012-02-13T20:47:00.001-05:00

Tonight's workout: 2.4 miles, rib cracking abs workout, stair climber, and sauna. Oh goodness did the sauna feel amazing!!! When I grow up, I want a sauna in my workout room!

Menu:
1.0 fruit, fruit, and water
1.5 water, and granola
2.0 Sushi, and water
2.5 pretzels, yoohoo, and water
3.0 Cottage cheese, strawberries, blackberries,and yup you guessed it..WATER!

I need the water to detox, I've been SO bad with my eating that I've gained weight in my tummy, not good! Back to more packing, less slacking at lunch time. 24 more pounds to go. Shut it, I said I gained weight!!!

Miss Moomoos this morning as we were getting her ready for school:y teacher is going to ask about my hair Mommy! Me: Why??? Miss M: because, it's not a tangled bun. (WTG MOM!). Non-cool points for me for the day. Lol

Corre Mami Corre!
Emerald

Thank you Jillian Michaels

2012-01-30T06:53:00.001-05:00

Week1 day1 and it was definitely NOT what I expected. First off make sure you unlock SD card...then hold on. She took me to a 7% incline in no time with a 3.5 speed power walk. No big deal right? Not when you have a hamstring you are babying and you don't know how crazy she is going to get as she keeps adding to the incline, lol. There are reasons people fear her, she even tells you, "Don't get off!!!". Lol!!!

Have mentioned I love the treadmill coupled with this software? The SW controls everything, I never had to touch the console. VERY COOL.

Hopped on at 530hrs and now to shower and get kids off to school and myself to work. Gym workout tonight...yay!

Good morning family and friends!

Corre Mami Corre!!!
Emerald

The Stretch

2012-01-24T22:23:00.001-05:00

Today's workout took an hour and a half...elliptical (2 miles), abs circuit, leg press, finished with treadmill. As I was finishing my mini run ( 1.2 miles), the hamstring that has mocked me since last april, started acting up so, I pushed through the warning and when I finished I immediately stretched.

Stretching is vital in keeping the muscles and tendons healthy so, make it an integral part of your workout.

Don't forget to STRETCH!!!

This photo shows my last stretch where, I sat on the bench in the locker room and pressed my legs out as far as my hamstring and hip flexors would allow and held it, no bouncing, for 30 seconds and did this 3 times. If you would like to add MORE to your stretch, lean forward, touching your tummy to the bench.

This allowed me to walk without pain from the muscle shortening up from only stretching in a straight leg position. Add stretching it makes a huge difference!

I will be adding, specific shots of exercises, and stretches to give an idea of the ~~hell~~ fun, I have when I workout. Join me, and tell me how it works for you!

The Menu:

1. Fruit and B4

1.5 water

2.0 Hotdog!

2.5 Water!

3.0 Salad with chicken

3.5 Water with lime...mmmmm!

Miss M: You look pretty! Me: Thank you baby. Miss M: But you

Are stinky... Me: Thanks baby....blah

Corre Mami Corre!

Emerald

MIA Chic, is back…

2012-01-23T21:23:00.001-05:00

Yes, I realize I have been lax on my blog. It has been a crazy few weeks, (illness, work, vacation, getting kids back on school schedule, and knitting orders like crazy, and a surprise birthday party thrown for me by TheHubs, awwww!) so, now I am back, and still at it.

I have continue the workout, the runs, and am at 3 miles comfortably without feeling like I am going to lose a lung but, that is about the point that I do feel I have work to do to get to 4 miles, lol.

So, did I tell you the awesomeness I got for Christmas?!

Isn’t she gorgeous?! Yes, she IS in my all purpose craft room but, the plan is to clean it up so that she will fit comfortably and I don’t knock my head on the ceiling fan. ;0)

She has all these gadgets that I will have to figure out, easy enough, (tech chica here) but, the fun is just beginning. As you can see to the right, it brings satan’s trainer herself, Jillian Michaels. Write up:

Jillian Michaels Lose Weight iFit® Workout Card

Drop pounds and transform your body with workouts that deliver real weight loss results. The Jillian Michaels Lose Weight iFit Workout Card includes 24 progressive workouts organized into an 8-week fat-burning program.

The way I see it, I will have these 19 last pounds gone by Spring! Yes, folks, I am a happy camper!!! 19 pounds, and running 7 miles comfortably by Spring’s end hopefully. So, what are YOUR goals? Did you make a resolution? I will be honest, I did not. I started this a year ago December, and it became an addiction that I love. When I can’t workout at the gym, I take a run outside when the weather allows, and now that the weather doesn’t allow, I have the treadmill….YAY!!!!

Joined a soccer team, games are on Fridays so, I will workout at the gym, then have my soccer game. I have never played before so, when my friend asked me, of course I was skeptical but, what the heck, why not?! So, I had my first game this past Friday during a freak sleet, ice onslaught that caused a 25mins drive to become a 55mins drive to the soccer location. Anyway, I got in there, played defensively as best I could, and offensive when I had a chance, and it was a BLAST! We won by 1 point and I was on top of the world knowing I had tried something new again. YAY!

First Soccer Game!

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The Menu:

1. Pineapple chunks, grapes, and V8 Juice Fusion

1.5 Water w/lemon

2. Chicken sandwich, fries…yes, I know!

2.5 Yogurt covered pretzels, YUM, RAZZZBERRY!

3.0 Water!

3.5 Breakfast made by TheHubs – waffles, scrambles, and bacon…FAIL but, hey he cooked, I didn’t have to, I ate it! Yes, I’m human, I eat not so great stuff at times, and then exercise like a devil on crushed Pop Rocks! Let’s do it!

Miss Moomoos: How much pounds did you lose Mommy? Me: None. Miss M: Try again tomorrow…I ran fast at recess today, I can beat you Mommy. (Thanks for reminding me that love is made of the words from babes.)

Tomorrow: Pound more WATER, and run like a cat in heat!

Corre Mami Corre!

Emerald

Out Due to…. PLAGUE!!!

2012-01-02T14:05:00.001-05:00

First of all, HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! I hope all of you were able to ring it in surrounded by family and true friends.

Something tells me 2012 will be quite interesting, let’s make it memorable!

Okay so, maybe “PLAGUE” is a bit dramatic but, DAMN! I have been sick, (head/chest/throat) for 8 out of the 10 days I took for vacation with my family, WTH?! Waaah! Today is the first day, I have felt relatively decent, and still have a headache that pops in and out, and sound like a Soprano version of Darth Vader…not pretty.

I went and worked out on Wednesday with my buddy, and may have to admit that, THAT WAS STOOPID! I honestly felt much better, only felt like a little of the head cold still left, versus pounding headache, body aches and the such so, I went to work out. I wanted to sweat a bit of this jungle rot out, and although I admit, the body felt much better, the head seemed to have rebounded on me. Lesson learned…

Look what Santa brought me!!!! Yes, he does love me!!! This is to my girlfriend who I’ll call “Miss C”, I will nag you about an amount till you tell me! I killed it so, I will pay sweetheart…(I think I killed the treadmill she loaned me. ;0(

So, Santa brought me an AWESOME treadmill, and I am itching to play with her, BTW THERE IS A CONTEST COMING SOON!!! “NAME THE TREADMILL” I will let you know when it begins, I will have a nice little goody to give to the winner. I will have all of you email me the name you think we should name her, then I will post the ones that make the cut, then everyone will vote on their favorite. The one with the most votes wins, easy enough. The winner will receive a fitness goody of some sort. When I start the contest, I will give details and picture of the goody. ;0) So, start thinking about good names folks!

I have gotten a few good runs in but, getting sick really slammed me so, I will start back up with a 2 miler, and hope to get back to 3-4 miles with in a week or so from there. Working myself up to 7 comfortable miles to prep for the 10K=6.4 miles, I can feel it getting easier but, I won’t count my chickens before they hatch.

Abs are coming back after a craptastic food folly that put a layer of chub on the definition. They are poking back through, and although some of it is due to being sick, I will revel in the fact that the other part is I have been eating much better again. Detox is coming though because, I feel sluggish, time to break out the juicing machine. Awesome juices, and multivitamins for this chica with small lunches/dinners and juice drinks, and water in between them. Gotta LEAN OUT MORE!!!

The Menu:

Yeah, right, Christmas and New Years gorging, kinda…so, I’ll leave it to:

Christmas=Beef roast, rice with pigeon peas, rutabaga, biscuits, asparagus, sweet potatoes….(COOKIES, COOKIES, COOKIES)

New Years Eve=Veggies, cheese/meat tray, crackers, Deviled Eggs, Cali Dip/chips, I didn’t touch the brownies, and Tylenol Cold with Butterscotch chasers. ;0)

New Years Day=Pork, Sauerkraut, and Bread Balls…AKA Bread Dumplings. Thanks Mom T, it was yummy.TheHubs brought some home for me because, I felt like hades yesterday so, I didn’t go to the IL’s for dinner as we do every year, it sucked…I wanted to eat so bad but, my body said, stay home. My family was able to enjoy it though so, it’s all good.

Miss Moomoos: “Mommy, are you feewing better? Me: Kinda Miss M: Mommy “kinda” is not a wud, and you sound funny, stop talking.

Thanks kid, you chastising my laryngitis, makes me feel very loved. Why don’t you go tell Daddy to put Mommy’s treadmill together, you seem to have more pull around here. ;0)

Corre Mami Corre!

Emerald

Fun with Friendz

2011-12-19T21:27:00.001-05:00

There is something about working out with a friend, they keep you accountable, you can talk about dumb shit, and know that person who is your absolute friend, may still think it's dumb shit but, will laugh with you while panting like a gorilla in a steam room. So, my girlfriend and I got busy at the gym today, she has wanted to get her groove back on for a while, and can do so now. She has an amazingly supportive Hubby who watches the offspring so that she can get sweaty, and crazy doing, things the body should not be able to do while gettin' it at the gym, lol. Insert my "Chica-friend"

That friend that you can pick right back up where you left off at, every time, I love you "H".

Today was our first day working out together, and she went at it like a champ! She never complained, was perky the whole time, and never quit, she was really awesome. (Notice pink cheeks..) She worked her tail off, and when it was time to do the 2 mins drills on the treadmill, she kept going, it was awesome.

What we did:
Abs circuit-3sets/20 modified situps with ball
Legs-leg press 3sets/12 toe position in/out/straight
Calves-3sets/12 toe position in/out/straight
I ran a total of 3.25 miles today, and "H" did the 2 mins drills=2 minutes running/1 minute walk for 15 minutes straight. (Well done girl!)

The Menu:
1. Oatmeal, pineapple chunks
1.5 carrots, water
2.0 smothered chicken, corn bread, water
2.5 WATER!
3.0 3 cubes of pizza, WATER! (post workout)
and yeah, as I am writing this, I am still drinking WATER!

Miss Moomoos: I missed you Mommy, where you been?! Me: work, and workout Miss M: Ugh, same thing... (Nothing better than supportive kids, lol.)

Want some motivation? Look at these people...

If you want it, you can do it, I want this, I will do a marathon in my life sooner than later...I still have a long way to go but, I've have a lot behind me too. I couldn't run a 1/4 mile not too long ago so, I take it one step at a time, and feel joy now. 35 lbs gone, 20ish more to go...marathon....exercise, eat healthy, marathon...teach my children what passion is....marathon....5K done....marathon....training for 10K...marathon....one step/event/obstacle at a time.

Corre Mami Corre!
Emerald

The Weather Outside is........

2011-12-14T22:29:00.001-05:00

GORGEOUS tonight! I got this done! I love Nike+ apps!

Felt real good weather is amazing tonight. PERFECT!

I just finished my run

Distance: 2.71 mi

Map your runs, track your progress and get the motivation you need to go even further with Nike+ GPS.

After a long drawn out day, I got my tush outside and ran, it was perfect out, and I ran through my neighborhood looking at all of the Christmas lights on all of the homes. There are some that are well, gaudy of course but, I was thankful for them too because boy did they light my way! LOL I also had the pleasure of seeing some really beautiful light displays but, my favorite is the one, in front of the "Marine" house. Proud Marine flag waving in the breeze of the night, with Christmas lights in the background...I saluted as I ran past it....yeah, that's how I roll!

The run was really nice, felt great, layered a little and ended up breaking a good sweat. I am working my way slow and go to the 10K now, and hope to have nothing slower than 9 mins miles, we shall see. Yes, I am a slow runner but, I run, I don't stop, and I finish. I did have some motivation to move my ass a leeeeettle faster...as I was running, it became evident to me that it is time to make another visit to Victoria's Secret...my undies were doing the shuffle along with me but, not as well, I was ramping up on my run, as they were sliding down....yeah, there is nothing more comfortable and confidence building then having your undies sagging down the sides of your hips only to be held up by the inseam of your Nike running capris...THANK GOD! Now, could anyone have really seen or noticed? Nah but, I'm sure everyone is familiar with what Mama says, "Always have clean undies in case of an emergency." Yes, Mom they are clean but, you never said, they had to fit.... ;0)

Got home, and slammed on Wonton soup, Twizzlers, and Bolthouse Chai Tea, mmmm!

Wing Family Christmas party, yeah I was relaxing. This is one of the engines of the KC-135, BIG Old Girl can do some damage. Bring it, she has somethin' for ya! ;0)

The Menu:

1. Egg white omelette w/bacon bit, turkey, provolone, mushrooms.

1.5 WATER!

2.0 Dirty Rice!

2.5 Carrots

2.75 WATER!

3.0 Wonton Soup, Twizzlers, Chai Tea

3.5 WATERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!

Miss Moomoos: Mommy I missed you!!! Me: I'm sorry, I was outside jogging baby. Miss M: Next time run faster! (She will have me running 5 minute miles at this rate. Love these kids!)

Corre Mami Corre!

Emerald

WTH?!?!?

2011-12-07T21:47:00.001-05:00

Dear Nike+, freaking sync damn it! Or at least SHOW my damned run!

See the problem??? There is an indicator for a history of the run but, it doesn't show the freakin' run itself SOOOOOOOO, I can't upload it to Nike+ (rock kicking super pout!)

Okay, I feel better now, the freaking app won't sync to the site for some reason so, I ran 1.23 miles today, not a big deal right? Well to me it is BECAUSE, I did a speed drill, to see what my pace really was for my mile. I DROPPED 3 MINUTES FROM MY MILE!!! 3 FAST-TASTIC MINUTES! Yeah baby, I am the fastest turtle crossing the road that I know! Felt good, and the sweating like crazy was a good payoff, I LIKED IT! giggle.

In addition, the workout:

3sets/25 mod situps with weight ball on box, 3sets/15 lat crunches with weight, cross overs with 6lbs bar, rope jumping for 3 mins/3Xs, on to legs...leg press on incline 3sets/12 at 135lbs, Calves press 3sets/12 toes in, toes out, toes straight, felt good! I will admit the rope jumping SUCKED!!! These boobs are not made for all that up/down bouncy-bouncy without the super-athletic-bra, I think I pulled a boob, or bruised my Sternum. Either way, it sucked, remind me to work on this because, it took the damned wind out of me, and my calves burned like hades!

Visitor of the day???? The Schwans man, that we love tons! I could not resist documenting his Santa-ness...


Our Awesome Schwans man, and Veteran Marine!

Schwans has a lot of foods that are actually conducive to my dietary needs, great veggies, fruits, low fat meats, mixes, and goodies!

The Menu:
1. Egg white omelette, ham, shredded potato
1.5 water!
2.0 grapes, pepper jack cheese, carrots, celery, wanted fruit and veggies really bad!
2.5 carrots and water, thirsty so, I added lemon that sandwich guy gave me. :0)

Don't even start!

3.0 1/4 Pounder, yeah that was a fail. Hold up, don't judge me...

Miss Moomoos talking to one of her brothers: I can duhbow dip, it's MY ketchup, I can eben lick it if I wants to!

Pudge's reaction? Well, don't lick it here!

Yeah, life is good!

Corre Mami Corre!
Emerald

Tuesday's Trot

2011-12-06T19:34:00.001-05:00

So, the rain has not let up AT. ALL. This means I am stuck running inside, not really that big of a deal but, I have found I tend to prefer running outside, the peacefulness of it all, the ability to drop all the crap from the day on the trail, or road and leave it all behind. Today I had to settle again, just as yesterday for the treadmill, I do enjoy the treadmill in my home but, if the weather is decent I would prefer outside running.

Yesterday, I ran 2.56 miles, and did the following exercises...

3sets/25 mod situps w/weighted ball, 3sets/15 lat crunches, 3sets/15 boxer's leg lifts, 3sets/10 chair leg lifts, 3sets/12 leg press @140lbs

I felt great even with the fact that my tush felt like someone had punch me with brass knuckles, that feeling lasted till I took a warm bath and soaked till I had gills.

Today, I ran 1.7miles, it was stifling, and I was distracted, I felt good and wanted to go further but, I just felt like there was too much activity around me, and could not block it out for some reason. After finishing the tiny run, I got the sharpest pain in my right shoulder blade, I'm thinking muscle spasms, it's been coming on for a few days, let's see how tomorrow goes.

Tomorrow, I will run at least 2.5miles, and further if I can get a good breathing pattern going, I will have to remember my gum, it tends to help me not breath through my mouth, and not get so thirsty so that when I do drink water, I can sip and not chug, lol.

Looking at trails, and I'm hoping to run the Alum Creek trail, if I can get a decent freaking day in which to do it, I am hoping a buddy will run this with me. With winter setting in, the days of running outside without proper gear will be few and far between. I am looking at the Nike weather gear and backpack but, that will take time to save pennies to buy, till then I'll layer or run on the treadmill.

On the Menu:

1. Eggs, potatoes, bacon

1.5 Carrots

2.0 Salad with grilled chicken

2.5 Celery

3.0 Chicken soup/tuna

3.5 there won't be one...

Water intake: 32oz. yes, I fell short so, tomorrow 40+ oz. to prep for the longer run, and heavy calisthenic, and weights day.

Still looking for a good, shake, replenishing drink in addition to water because, I still feel wiped out certain days, meaning I need to regulate my electrolytes, and vitamin intake from food.

To get on the scale or not to get on the scale, that is the question. I am leaning toward the, don't do it, it makes you cry camp but, depending on how I feel after the workout, I will then make my decision.

Miss Moomoos: Did you whok out tooday? Me: Yes, why? Miss M: Well, yoour hair looks pretty good.

Thanks Kiddo, gosh I love my babies.

Corre Mami Corre!

Emerald

Weight gained, weight lost..

2011-12-01T21:19:00.001-05:00

Well, as many of us do, I gained weight during the hiatus but, I have since lost 2.5lbs, and am back on track to getting where I'm going.

Got my happy tush to the gym today after, being home with my youngest for 3 days, with fever, cough, and rash from hades. I am glad to say, she is doing much better, and went back to school. This meant I could go back to work, and the gym, boy did I need it.

Rash on her little cheeks. :(

Got on the treadmill, watched a lady get taken by medics for what I thought was a bit of a theatrical tryout, and non-believable one...but, she did give me enough entertainment to get the last 1/2 mile in. Now, don't get me wrong, I don't take any pleasure in people getting hurt, at all but, this chic totally played it up, and I felt the medics got punked, oh well.

LOVE my iTouch!

Left knee is a little tweaky, will take it but, got 2.03 miles in, and I feel good!

Tomorrow, weight training, crushing abs circuit, and more running to get my groove back in gear.

Still looking for a sports supplement and drinks that will work for me, and keep me in this game. If you have suggestions, throw them my way, just know I HATE Gatoraide's line of before/during/after workout drinks...tastes like kid's Pedialyte to me. Hey, I have kids, I had to "convince" them that stuff was drinkable when they were sick...bad Momma I know, because it is horrible tasting stuff, lol.

Corre Mami Corre!
Emerald

Post Thanksgiving

2011-11-25T11:53:00.001-05:00

...Thanksgiving. I hope everyone has had a lovely Thanksgiving, and were surrounded by family and friends. Perhaps a few prayers went out to our Troops that are far away from their families so that we may be with ours, and enjoying the freedoms that we do. I said mine, and hope that they can feel the love and pride that the U.S. has for each of them. God Speed to our Troops.

I spent the day surrounded by my children, TheHubs, and my Cubs, great food, games, and just simple happiness. I did well by not over eating, and for the first time in years did not have that feeling of wanted to hork when I moved because of the excess of food I had consumed, lol. I even treated myself to some pumpkin pie, or should I say, Cool Whip with Pumpkin Pie???

So, yes I NEED to go running, and do abs like a beast or I am sunk, lol. I am hoping to get at least 2 miles in, and enjoy the weather that is supposed to be our last one till who knows when or the rest of the year. The forecast for next week is high of 40s, and low of 20s, oh yay! (note extreme sarcasm) I need to get a treadmill so that I can get my runs in on the weekends. Am I the only one that worries about losing a groove if I don't workout at least one day out of the weekend???

I am working today, and it is very quiet, a peaceful quiet, and the sun is out. I should be outside running... :0( Will get abs workout in today, Russian Twists, modified sit ups, lat crunches, standing twists, and boxer's leg lifts, yes I love doing abs.

Miss Moomoos say of the day: (She is sitting on the floor at the IL's house, playing with a puzzle...) Miss Moomoos: "Mommy you should play with the puzzle with me." Me: Baby, I'm knitting see? Miss M: "It's just cause you can't do it." Me: NADA....had to just smile, and tell her I love her...

Corre Mami Corre!
Emerald

2011-11-22T21:23:00.001-05:00

The weather here is still, crap-tastic so, I went to the gym to do my treadmill run instead of praying the skies to stop their onslaught of tears. Got there, and as is the case on Tuesday and Thursday, the gym was near empty, perhaps 15 people in the entire building, and this is a sizable gym.

So, I get my gear on, sneakers, capris, matching neon pink and black socks, lol, and my grey/black old Army P.T. shirt. (Yes, I still have one...hush!) I go out to the floor and you can almost hear the water bugs, I LOVED it! Pick from the many treadmills, set my iTouch with Nike+ for a new basic workout, and listen to "Shutter Island" as I start walking for the warm up, 4 mins in and I start jogging, it feels good but, a 1/4 mile into it the air is thick and it is getting flapping hot in there! I know this will be a shorter run...I pay attention to my form, and shuffle along. I pump up the speed a bit, and regulate, pump up some more, regulate, and get it done...I only did:


Nov 21, 2011

I felt good though, and although I know I could have gone further, I chose not to because, I was really overheating and I needed more water. The last thing I want at this point, where I can run 2.5miles comfortably is to pull my hamstring again. I can not go through another setback like I did when training for the 5K, I have to stay healthy, and get this 10K done, and done within whatever self imposed time I come up with when I get closer to the race. I learned my lesson, and that hamstring cost me 4 weeks of not being to really put it out there. Tomorrow I will look for a treadmill by the windows, and do 2 miles...I will open that window, lol.

Menu:

1. Egg white omelette
1.5 Cottage cheese

2. Um- a Big Mac, boo hiss, I know...my options were limited because, the original plan of rice and fish got thwarted by a party of 15 that would have bumped my food delivery by 1/2 hour...I have an hour, not an endless "executive lunch". Dont' worry, my stomach hates me right now.
2.5-water, stomach was pissed.

3. Spaghetti-on the small scale
3.5, more water-between the sweat box run, and the spaghetti, the body wanted water...

Synopsis=not a good food day...tomorrow I try again. Veggies, veggies, water, protein, and more veggies. Leaning out begins...

Miss Moomoos: "Mommy, did you lose pounds today?" Me: No. Miss Moomoos: "Oh well." Gotta love it when you get a "Fail" from your 5 year old.

Corre Mami Corre!
Emerald

Spoiled Plans and Redemption Run

2011-11-21T20:11:00.001-05:00

The plan to run yesterday was spoiled, why? Because it wouldn't STOP or slow down in raining. Now, I originally planned to go before it was supposed to start well, it beat me!!! So not happy, I was looking out the window getting more and more irritated at the fact that I don't live in Puerto Rico, or Florida where at least if it rains I won't freeze my arroz and habichuelas ass off while doing it. BLAH! I would have gone for it anyway if it hadn't felt like I would get Jungle Rot as payment for motivation so, I sat....and pouted.

Well, today I said, hell or high water I would run, and I did. It was cold but, I layered and did it, felt good, even if my legs are a bit on the stiff side even from the walk I did well before it...dunno, it must have not been so much the cold as much as the moisture in the air. Note to self: Must look into true cold weather running gear...

Anyway, here I present my beloved iTouch with the happy numbers:


Yeah baby!

I won't lie, it was cold, and the air was moist but, it felt good, and I am thankful I walked quite a bit before doing the run later, it may have been a different story if I hadn't gotten a bit of stretching in with that walk.

(Tip for Veterans and their families: Veterans Advantage Card-NICE discounts at Foot Locker(s), Wendy's and a TON of other retailers for $50 a year...I saved $36 additional dollars just on my sneakers in the previous post. I have almost already paid myself back...GET IT, IT IS WORTH IT'S WEIGHT IN GOLD, AND MANY BEFORE US HAVE GIVEN MORE FOR PEOPLE TO RECOGNIZE AND CREATE IT. DIG IT! YAY!)

Menu of the day:

1. Egg White Omelette -bacon, mushroom, provolone (protein up for the day!)
1.5 - crackers

2. Smoothy-strawberry, orange, dried milk, yogurt, fat burner, and protein.
2.5 - cheez stick

3. 3 small Ravioli -mozerella stuffed, asparagus

Water Intake:
43oz, one with Lime...need more Lime.

Miss Moomoos (youngest daughter) said: "Mommy you smell like mud." Thanks baby girl, you smell like Baby Magic and Cheetos...God I love my kids and especially when they are smart@$$es and don't know it.

Corre Mami Corre!
Emerald

Treadmill Lust...

2011-11-19T13:05:00.001-05:00

I have a dear friend who let me borrow her treadmill, and it has been a Godsend but, I need to return it to her at some point, ya know? So, I am looking at one to purchase, I am all for used but, what I see on Craigslist are either almost as much for a new one, or need parts. :0( I jumped on Dicks Sporting Goods website and found this beauty:


LIVESTRONG LS8.0T TREADMILL

Click here for STATS: Looks amazing, and would support all the walking/jogging/running while being able to enjoy my iTunes, and not have the motor drowning it all out. I have wanted a treadmill for a few years, and now that I am serious about running, and it is a part of my life, I want one even more. I will have this gorgeous hunk of metal, plastic, and sexy technology. Time to save the pennies, or pray that Santa is real, lol.

With all the miles I will be putting on this baby(while dropping more of this insulation), I hope it holds up to the stats, once I am able to get it. We shall see.

Corre Mami Corre!
Emerald

Freestyle Friday!

2011-11-18T16:30:00.001-05:00

Freestyle Friday, is where, I write with no particular format, no thought process, just random thoughts so, here goes!

Ran 1.75 miles last night in the cold @$$ weather. Layered up, and hit the streets of my neighborhood, in the dark, then came inside to hit the treadmill. Why would I do both you ask? Even if you didn't ask... :D I wanted to try out my new "kicks" on both surfaces to see which one they felt best on.

Nike Air Max - Picked Pink to remind people of the "Boobies!"do your self breast exams ladies AND gentlemen!

I already have two other sets of Nikes that I LOVE. Including the ones that I got yesterday, I now have two of the three that have the Nike+ Sensor pocket in them so, I now have the recommended minimum of sneakers to switch out to keep my feet/legs healthy, and the both will calculate my distance/time and all that jazz. ;0) (Yes, I know there is Nike+ GPS... I have it too but, I find that my sensor can be more accurate.) Anyway...run on sentence style....the treadmill gave out, started erroring, "E3", ugh!!! So, back outside, only with MORE layers because this Puerto Rican chica, hates the cold...

Motoki, our Alaskan Malamute=instant warming blanket, and Super Dogette.

SOOOO, I get my running buddy, Motoki, and go back out, press play on the iTouch, (Martina McBride's Album, "Eleven") and get to shufflin'. The wind had died down a bit but, was still brisk on the first 1/4 of the run. It was blowing directly at us so, as Motoki was barely trotting along, I was shufflin' trying to regulate my breathing while trying to warm it into my lungs by bring in through my nose, and out my mouth. I usually breathe in and out my nose, 2 in/ 2 out but, the inevitable happened...I would try to breathe out through my nose, and moisture happened...not pretty or lady-like in the least. Back to breathing out through my mouth. :D Now, don't be fooled, if this were a marathon, as in oodles, and oodles of miles, the nose would be runnin' just like me, and I would totally wipe it with my sleeve. Don't even say ewww, you know you would too, unless you had the forethought to bring tissue...whatever! ;0)

Thoughts on the kicks? THE AWESOME! Nice spring, firm support, (I over pronate), and soft sides that breathe to avoid trench foot, (Army term) for sweaty, standing in water piggies that rot....okay, maybe a little over the top for runners but, the health of your feet is no joke. Good foot gear, and socks that wick are vital so, these shoes get the big PHAT thumbs up...only I can only give it one at a time because my right thumb, or "fum" as my friend says, is out of commission...(see previous post, lol).

Menu for the day:

1.Egg white omelette, (bacon, provolone, mushrooms, and a bonus green pepper that the cook slipped in)
1.5-water

2. Protein smoothy, raspberries, orange, yogurt, fat free dry milk, and protein powder.
2.5-cheez stick
2.75-water

3. Don't know yet, I have a hair appt. then I will figure out what I want...leaning toward nectarine, and skinless chicken breasts for dinner.
3.25 - 4.0 will most likely be water because I have to run after my hair appt. and I crave my water, with lemon/lime. ;0)

BTW- TheHubs, I bought new sneakers! Love you!!! giggle. (Chill, I got a discount!) ;0)

Off to the hair appt! Type ya later!!!

"Corre Mami Corre"
Emerald

What Now?!

2011-11-17T13:36:00.001-05:00

Three weeks ago, I was working out, (surprise) and moved on doing diamond pushups. I have done them many times before but, it had been a while, and as I got into position and attempted the first one, ***snap!*** a sound like a rubber band and a wickedly sharp pain ran up my wrist from my thumb joint...WTH?!
I stopped doing them, and felt all around like crap so, I was done for the evening.

Fast forward and I was in the hopes that it would just heal itself, a simple strain of the ligaments and joint, and time would take care of it. NAAAAAAAAH! It began to hurt so much last week, I finally went to the doctor Tuesday...he said I may have ^)(*&*&)_^(* some name I don't understand, and it has to do with the joint, and tendons, and it hurts...yeah, I knew that part so, stop tweaking the hell out of it, lol. Don't get me wrong, I ADORE my family Doctor, and he is awesome. So, he wraps it, and tells me to see if it starts to feel better in a few days and if not, I have to go in with the script he wrote out and get xrays...yay, (note sarcasm). My first question was, "Can I still knit?!" he says as long as it doesn't hurt...my second question, "How will I work out my arms/back/chest?" He says, "Not with that hand." URG!

So, I have decided, I will keep my run going, to increase distance and endurance, and do my ab-tastic ab workout, and legs....for upper body, I will do planks on my elbows, and use a towel wrapped around my hands to do pull downs, and use a weighted ball that I can use my other 8 fingers, and 1 thumb, (lol) to manipulate and get some semblance of an arm/chest/back workout. I will not be denied!

Last night, I ran...ran 1.5miles, and listened to my new tunes by "Sugarland" on the trusty iTouch, love it! I was a bit colder than I had hoped but, the long running pants from Under Armor, and a hoodie worked out well. I then came inside, and did Abs, and got it all done with enough time to pick up some dinner for the kiddos, and TheHubs. Do you know, no one left me any shrimp? The nerve, lol.

Today, let's see what the magic number is on the iTouch when I am done assaulting, or be assaulted by the treadmill, because the weather outside....well, it SUCKS! It's cold, and I hate the cold.

My goal is 20 more lbs, and in reality I will probably go for more than that but, it will depend on how the clothes look.

"Corre Mami Corre!"
Emerald

Cheers to the NEW BLOG!!!

2011-11-14T12:54:00.001-05:00

So here it is, the first entry for my newest blog dedicated to my running, and workouts. I have decided to do this because my knitting, and common day blog Emerald Stitch N' Knits was getting too convoluted. I want to separate my craft hobbies, and home life from, my running, new eating habits, and workouts.

The Starting Line Looming!!!

Well here we go...as some of you know, I did my first 5K, and am now in the process of pushing myself on to a 10K in the Spring, at least that is the plan.


Happy Gal before the run...


The number for my first competitive run...REALLY?! Stayed positive...

and a HAPPIER GAL, after...I DID IT!!!

So, here is what I learned...NEVER QUIT! I went into this concerned that I was not ready, that after so many years of having babies, five (5) of them, and not having run successfully in a LONG time, I was biting off more than I could chew. Well, that was all crushed as I crossed the finish line, having never stopped, keeping the promise to my supportive husband to NOT WALK, and my workout buddy who has been a huge inspiration to me.

How did this all start? I started working out in December of last year, (2010) after looking at the possibility that I would have to go up another size in pants, ANOTHER DAMNED SIZE?! Talk about reality smacking of Suzie Q's, Oreos, and whatever else I thought at the time brought me comfort. After a really crappy year of losing family members to cancer on two separate occasions, losing my focus on juggling, family, work, hobbies, helping others. In the process, I had forgotten to take care of myself, feeding on the euphoria I get from helping others, I let myself become dependent on that, and forgot to recharge myself, and to care for my mind and body so, I continued to gain weight. In honesty, I had gotten to 202lbs, and I was not pregnant, when the only other time I had hit that weight was when I WAS pregnant in the past. Seeing that number was painful but, more so the way my clothes were fitting, or actually NOT fitting. The impact of being winded doing the simplest of things like running, playing with my kids, going up the stairs at home and at work, and the random tweaking pains that my knees were being so kind about giving me. Not cool...

Something snapped, something told me, you WILL get your tush out there, and get moving, do SOMETHING, ANYTHING but, get moving so, I did! That was a Sunday, and on Monday, having the option by my employer to use the free gym on the campus, I packed my workout clothes AKA OVER sized T-Shirt, and shorts, ankle socks, and old sneakers, and went to the gym the next day after work.

When I went into the gym, I was a bit more than intimidated. Here were these people that looked like the BELONGED there, moving, sweating, knowing what they were doing. What the hell did I know about getting all this insulation off? I sulked, and went back into the women's changing room...sat there....then got mad. I got mad at myself because, I have NEVER quit at anything, or let anyone tell me, I couldn't do something, or wasn't capable of doing it. I got my insulated ass up, and walked into the gym, and got on the treadmill.

You see, I had the know how, I had joined the Army at 18 years of age, finished my military career in the Air Force, and Air National Guard, and knew how to do pushups, situps, and run like any real Veteran so, excuses was not an option.

Back to the treadmill, my friend, the one thing that did NOT look overwhelming. I got moving with a WALK, yes just a walk, I knew running was out of the question for me so, I walked. I walked and told myself, I would walk for a week, and speed up every other day and add a teeny-tiny-micro-jog the following week...and I did. Each week I walked then ran for a little longer, one minute more at a time. Walked to warm up for 5mins, then walked faster for 10mins, and added a 3mins jog, and continued to increase my running time, and lessen my walking time. Yes, it worked...one day I got on there, put my iPod in my ears, and did my warm up walk of 3mins, and began to jog. Folks I had hit an amazing moment...I got lost in my music, could no longer hear my breathing, and when I looked down I had run a full mile non-stop, and felt great! Now, to some people a mile is nothing...nothing but, to me that was HUGE! I had done it, and THAT was all it took to send me into the behavior of addiction, and elation of working out.

Let's fast forward and now I run, do a ab-tastic ab circuit, leg workout, weights, weights, and more weights, and run! Now, here is an admission, the last few weeks have been scaled back because of life, and helping a friend but, Mama is back on the wagon and it feels GREAT!

I eat so much better, drink water, lots of water, workout 5-6 days a week, the run is not optional, and have lost 35lbs, with only one slide back of a 6lbs weight gain because of the above mentioned scale back. So, I am back at it, and am thankful to say, I am still in my size 8 jeans, and have no plans on going back to my 14s. Please do not misunderstand, I have always loved my shape but, I prefer it in a smaller model so, YAY!

My family is from Puerto Rico so, that means CURVES, which I am very fond of so, I am careful to not do weight training in a manner that will take away the hour glass figure I have, and just strengthen, lean out, and define it.

Well, I have said enough to familiarize you with my journey so, I will pull over photos from my hobby blog to this one so that you can see what changes I have been able to make then, I will tell you a little surprise.

Before


Now, and still working...

A little different...

Completed run at my parent's home Florida...it was incredibly humid but, felt good.

A little more insight from my other blog:

Workout insight from this past Summer...

First time in a swim suit in years!

Quick shout out to Nike sneakers for making sneakers that fit me really well, and my feet do not hurt anymore from "throwing on the OLD sneakers", I learned that the proper foot wear is vital! Also, my iTouch, with Nike+, AWESOME, my compression socks, that I LOVE, that my Son bought me at Target, fun colors, stripes, and I will not run without them so, I am looking for TONS MORE!!! Now to find sports bras to keep the twins comfy, happy, and wick sweat well enough while I barrage them with every bounce for the ounce that they have...Suggestions are welcome!!!

Last of all my PROTEIN SHAKES! I have been using some after my workouts from a local health supplement store but, finding one that actually tasted good, didn't make my tummy do flips, and wasn't something that I ended up choking down, or made me super thirsty before pulling into my drive way was a challenge so, here is the surprise....

I am talking with a young lady from a company that makes products that benefit the body before, during, and after the workouts! I will let you all know how that goes, and look forward to trying it out!!!

That is more than enough for now but, a tidbit on the title of this blog...a friend tells me that "Latinas run hot", and because I can have a wicked temper as is the stereotype, I use it to keep myself going. I think of myself as a furnace when I am working out so, my friend's little title for me, and this image I have of a furnace made the Blog title appropriate so, there ya have it.

See ya soon!!!

Corre Mami Corre!

Emerald