I'm here. I suck. I know it! I've been lacking blog motivation lately and haven't been wanting to write. I think I've found it again though. Stay tuned.
Sunday, April 6, 2014
Saturday, February 22, 2014
How 'bout that!?
First of all, I have to be a homer for a minute. My 'Hoos men's basketball team makes me prouder by the day. They won a big one against Notre Dame today and showed some serious heart and selflessness. They are total class and composure on and off the court! This does tie in to my post, I promise.
So, as I'm cheering them on today at the arena for the millionth time I realized something as all of the seats filled up around us. I wasn't hot and sweaty. I wasn't touching my neighbor on either side. I could cross my legs. I did not have armrests digging in to my sides, and I didn't have to 'plan ahead' by wedging myself way forward on the seat if I wanted to stand up. I guess this has been the case for a little bit now, but somehow I just took notice today. I was comfortable, and I didn't even think about how I was fitting in the seat or anything else but the game. I remember my first season there. I had to push myself in to the seats and wiggle myself out. Not anymore. How cool is that? Little victory.
I also realized, when I changed clothes after the game, that I'm able to see progress again. Remember those button fly jeans I talked about back in the fall? I was wearing those - with a saggy butt and I could take them on and off without undoing any of the buttons! How 'about that, y'all? Very cool little victory. I need some jeans. In fact I am almost out of non-gym clothes. This is great! I'm not going to go crazy though, don't worry.
I had a good night on my own at the gym tonight after a good weigh in this morning. -Down 2.2 from last week. That was a nice start to my Saturday!
I committed to my two goal races this week by forking over the cash and officially signing up for them. I'm going back to basics for my 10k and am training "from scratch" using intervals. I have moved away from that later and I honestly think that works better for me. I have a decent guide app. (10K Runner) that I'm using and I'm pleased with it. Once i finish this program, I'll roll right in to training for my <eek> first half marathon!! I still giggle every time I say it or type it. There's a partner app. (21K Runner) that piggy-backs right on to the 10K app. that will take me through to October and my 13.1 miles. I'm so excited about both of them and can't wait to finish them- I don't care how fast! I know I can do it, I just have to put in the work. Also, knowing that some special people will be running with me makes me so happy!
Nothing crazy going on for the upcoming week - just gonna keep grinding as my student-athletes at work say. Here's hoping for more good results this week!
So, as I'm cheering them on today at the arena for the millionth time I realized something as all of the seats filled up around us. I wasn't hot and sweaty. I wasn't touching my neighbor on either side. I could cross my legs. I did not have armrests digging in to my sides, and I didn't have to 'plan ahead' by wedging myself way forward on the seat if I wanted to stand up. I guess this has been the case for a little bit now, but somehow I just took notice today. I was comfortable, and I didn't even think about how I was fitting in the seat or anything else but the game. I remember my first season there. I had to push myself in to the seats and wiggle myself out. Not anymore. How cool is that? Little victory.
I also realized, when I changed clothes after the game, that I'm able to see progress again. Remember those button fly jeans I talked about back in the fall? I was wearing those - with a saggy butt and I could take them on and off without undoing any of the buttons! How 'about that, y'all? Very cool little victory. I need some jeans. In fact I am almost out of non-gym clothes. This is great! I'm not going to go crazy though, don't worry.
I had a good night on my own at the gym tonight after a good weigh in this morning. -Down 2.2 from last week. That was a nice start to my Saturday!
I committed to my two goal races this week by forking over the cash and officially signing up for them. I'm going back to basics for my 10k and am training "from scratch" using intervals. I have moved away from that later and I honestly think that works better for me. I have a decent guide app. (10K Runner) that I'm using and I'm pleased with it. Once i finish this program, I'll roll right in to training for my <eek> first half marathon!! I still giggle every time I say it or type it. There's a partner app. (21K Runner) that piggy-backs right on to the 10K app. that will take me through to October and my 13.1 miles. I'm so excited about both of them and can't wait to finish them- I don't care how fast! I know I can do it, I just have to put in the work. Also, knowing that some special people will be running with me makes me so happy!
Nothing crazy going on for the upcoming week - just gonna keep grinding as my student-athletes at work say. Here's hoping for more good results this week!
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
Keep it moving, people! Things to do!
Another week down and another pound and a half down, too!
A few snow days and a nasty cold impeded my progress a bit but everything will return to normal this week. I think back to a year or two ago, and this cold I'm fighting off would have put me flat on my butt for a week and taking weeks after to return to normal. This time around, I needed just a couple of days and I'm slowly feeling better. That's a major victory in my book. Major.
I'm doing much better with food and am back on the track I was on before the holiday. I need to keep creating more good habits.
Major victory two? Blood.
I had a quarterly lab check-up with my primary doctor, Dr. Mom Jeans, this week. Unbelievable. All of my 'numbers' are not only normal, but better than that. It's the best blood profile I've ever had. EVER! My numbers had been great and I was off meds, which I wrote about before, but they're getting better. I was amazed and encouraged. I really wanted to cry. Dr. Mom Jeans even gave me a big ole hug! When I texted the news to my friend today, their response was that they were tearing up. Then I cried. Also, then I wiped my eyes with tissues infused with Vicks Vapo-rub. Then I cried again. Seriously though, I'm so happy.
Major victor three? Jumprope.
Yes, I have three victories to report. Tonight at boot camp I had a great time. Yes - I had fun. I jumped rope, y'all. This is a major win for your girl! And the second time around I did really well! Loved it. That was a big deal to this girl!
Major victory four? Team Cavanaugh
Ok this one isn't mine, but I need to send big big love out to the most wonderful husband in the world. Jason is finishing up his final projects and is about to finish his degree…with honors! I'm so proud!! I can't wait to celebrate with you officially and open up this next chapter for both of us. I love you to the moon and back x Pi!
So - lots of hard work. No feeling sorry for myself. No more road blocks (for all of Team Cavanaugh). We're doing it! I'm ready to keep going down this long road! Thanks for your continuing support.
With that I have a new theme song / jam! (Warning - cuss words!) I'm going to play DJ and send it out with a shout out to my trainer, my homey, my friend, Big A. {Y'all send him some good vibes too, because he sure could use them!} He's taking on a big challenge over the next few days, so send him some good thoughts and prayers, or whatever you do. He is my rock every day at the gym and beyond so I hope he knows how much he means to us. We'll be cheering you on from home. You got this, B! Here's my jam for you:
Here's a link for folks who can't get the video to play:
Kid Ink - No Miracles (Explicit Language)
A few snow days and a nasty cold impeded my progress a bit but everything will return to normal this week. I think back to a year or two ago, and this cold I'm fighting off would have put me flat on my butt for a week and taking weeks after to return to normal. This time around, I needed just a couple of days and I'm slowly feeling better. That's a major victory in my book. Major.
I'm doing much better with food and am back on the track I was on before the holiday. I need to keep creating more good habits.
Major victory two? Blood.
I had a quarterly lab check-up with my primary doctor, Dr. Mom Jeans, this week. Unbelievable. All of my 'numbers' are not only normal, but better than that. It's the best blood profile I've ever had. EVER! My numbers had been great and I was off meds, which I wrote about before, but they're getting better. I was amazed and encouraged. I really wanted to cry. Dr. Mom Jeans even gave me a big ole hug! When I texted the news to my friend today, their response was that they were tearing up. Then I cried. Also, then I wiped my eyes with tissues infused with Vicks Vapo-rub. Then I cried again. Seriously though, I'm so happy.
Major victor three? Jumprope.
Yes, I have three victories to report. Tonight at boot camp I had a great time. Yes - I had fun. I jumped rope, y'all. This is a major win for your girl! And the second time around I did really well! Loved it. That was a big deal to this girl!
Major victory four? Team Cavanaugh
Ok this one isn't mine, but I need to send big big love out to the most wonderful husband in the world. Jason is finishing up his final projects and is about to finish his degree…with honors! I'm so proud!! I can't wait to celebrate with you officially and open up this next chapter for both of us. I love you to the moon and back x Pi!
So - lots of hard work. No feeling sorry for myself. No more road blocks (for all of Team Cavanaugh). We're doing it! I'm ready to keep going down this long road! Thanks for your continuing support.
With that I have a new theme song / jam! (Warning - cuss words!) I'm going to play DJ and send it out with a shout out to my trainer, my homey, my friend, Big A. {Y'all send him some good vibes too, because he sure could use them!} He's taking on a big challenge over the next few days, so send him some good thoughts and prayers, or whatever you do. He is my rock every day at the gym and beyond so I hope he knows how much he means to us. We'll be cheering you on from home. You got this, B! Here's my jam for you:
Here's a link for folks who can't get the video to play:
Kid Ink - No Miracles (Explicit Language)
Saturday, February 8, 2014
Saturday part II - feeling like I'm back in the zone
It took a few weeks but I am feeling like I am back in the zone. I am motivated. I am working hard. I have having fun. I want to run. I want to be at the gym. I have 180'd my food in the past couple of weeks and I am seeing results again, inside and out. I think I can officially say I am out of my funk.
So, my post from earlier today (http://angelcavanaugh.blogspot.com/2014/02/do-what-stats-tell-you.html) REALLY helped end this week on a high note. I have been having bad hip and knee pain while running so I got fitted for different shoes. Jackpot! I was able to do that 70 minute run (first 4 minutes were walking), get just over 4 miles in, and do a full hour of Big A training today. And I feel great!! No pain - just sweat and I'm sleepy. :) This gives me hope about my commitments to run the 10K and the 1/2 marathon! I WILL DO IT!
I was already motivated this morning when I weighed in and was down a little over 4 pounds since last Saturday! I had crept back up to 245.9 and am sitting at 241.1 today. I have found a way to jumpstart things again. Hopefully I'll have a few weeks of this and then I can consistently get rid of .5-1.5 a week after that and I'll be thrilled. It's all about food. I've realized during my little funk that I can use my crazy food obsession, but in a totally different way. I just need to obsess about broccoli rather than chips and dip.
I also now know that maybe my funk was a good thing. It made me realize that I have to start working a little harder and longer to get some more results. That's a GOOD thing. It means I have made progress and my body will not let me get by with minimum effort.
How am I going to keep this going? I'm going to an extra boot-camp style class for 2 nights during the week and I love it. -Just started that this past week. It's not crazy at all and there are people of all levels there so it's perfect! (By the way, if you live near me you are welcomed to come with me!)
I've got some motivation shout-outs to give today. So many of you keep me motivated and I appreciate it so much!! …from checking my desk for bad snacks and soda at work (Abbey) , to 'liking' Facebook posts or talking to me there about fitness stuff (TONS of you - but especially Missy, Teresa, and my new friend Sam who is killin' it in her gym across town!), calling me out on my lack of blog posts, telling me you're proud (My best husband in the world, and Mo Mo and Pete), reminding me how far I've come (Big A), or even telling me my ass looks smaller (You really think I'm telling you who said that??). Oh - and of course my mommas. All real G's thank their mommas. I appreciate all of you! Thank you! I do really love y'all. …and stop looking at my ass.
____________________
This week's obsession…my obsession for the past 2 months:
So, my post from earlier today (http://angelcavanaugh.blogspot.com/2014/02/do-what-stats-tell-you.html) REALLY helped end this week on a high note. I have been having bad hip and knee pain while running so I got fitted for different shoes. Jackpot! I was able to do that 70 minute run (first 4 minutes were walking), get just over 4 miles in, and do a full hour of Big A training today. And I feel great!! No pain - just sweat and I'm sleepy. :) This gives me hope about my commitments to run the 10K and the 1/2 marathon! I WILL DO IT!
I was already motivated this morning when I weighed in and was down a little over 4 pounds since last Saturday! I had crept back up to 245.9 and am sitting at 241.1 today. I have found a way to jumpstart things again. Hopefully I'll have a few weeks of this and then I can consistently get rid of .5-1.5 a week after that and I'll be thrilled. It's all about food. I've realized during my little funk that I can use my crazy food obsession, but in a totally different way. I just need to obsess about broccoli rather than chips and dip.
I also now know that maybe my funk was a good thing. It made me realize that I have to start working a little harder and longer to get some more results. That's a GOOD thing. It means I have made progress and my body will not let me get by with minimum effort.
How am I going to keep this going? I'm going to an extra boot-camp style class for 2 nights during the week and I love it. -Just started that this past week. It's not crazy at all and there are people of all levels there so it's perfect! (By the way, if you live near me you are welcomed to come with me!)
I've got some motivation shout-outs to give today. So many of you keep me motivated and I appreciate it so much!! …from checking my desk for bad snacks and soda at work (Abbey) , to 'liking' Facebook posts or talking to me there about fitness stuff (TONS of you - but especially Missy, Teresa, and my new friend Sam who is killin' it in her gym across town!), calling me out on my lack of blog posts, telling me you're proud (My best husband in the world, and Mo Mo and Pete), reminding me how far I've come (Big A), or even telling me my ass looks smaller (You really think I'm telling you who said that??). Oh - and of course my mommas. All real G's thank their mommas. I appreciate all of you! Thank you! I do really love y'all. …and stop looking at my ass.
____________________
This week's obsession…my obsession for the past 2 months:
Do what the stats tell you.
So the famous "they" say that one is more likely (like 80%) to achieve a goal that he or she writes down. -and even more likely to achieve it if he or she visualizes it and speaks it out loud.
Last night, I wrote down "4 MILES. RUN. 1 HR & 1/2."
I got up this morning and said to myself, "Self, I'm going 4 miles today without stopping no matter how fast or slow I move, I won't stop. I think I can do it in 90 minutes."
In the car I said it out loud to myself.
On the treadmill I just saying that the miles number will flip to 4. It WILL flip to 4 before I stop.
Boom.
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
In front of God and everybody.
I am struggling.
I love the gym. I love exercise. I love to run. Slowly.
I love the challenges from training; even when I can't do them well because I understand I'm so much better than I was last year at this time. I want to continue to get better, feel better, and look better.
It's not even booze.
It's food.
We're a year in and I'm still overly obsessed (the wrong way) with food! Even when I'm staying on my food plan I'm daydreaming about mother loving Ben and Jerry's and Swiss Rolls. Anyway - it leads me to cheat. -not treat. Cheat. Too much! Occasional treats are good and necessary…but bad habits are always trying to work their way back in. Stupid gnomes.
So. In front of God and errrrbody up in here:
If you see me with any of the following items in my hand you have my permission to snatch it, eat/drink it yourself in front of me, or poke me and make the 'hee-heeee' Pillsbury noise:
Dr. Pepper - or any soda,diet or regular, for that matter
Pizza
Chips
Whatchamacallit
Sweet Tea
Ice cream; any variety
Bread; any variation
Cheese. ( I know - cheese isn't horrible…unless one eats a whole bag of Kraft cubes with Ritz Crackers)
Ritz Crackers
Throw blueberries at me, for the love of God. I don't care! I have to do the work - but I'm not in this alone. Woosah.
P.s. - I got a ''complaint" that I stopped putting up what I'm obsessed with for the week (other than my lover, Papa John). So here's my latest music crush:
I love the gym. I love exercise. I love to run. Slowly.
I love the challenges from training; even when I can't do them well because I understand I'm so much better than I was last year at this time. I want to continue to get better, feel better, and look better.
It's not even booze.
It's food.
We're a year in and I'm still overly obsessed (the wrong way) with food! Even when I'm staying on my food plan I'm daydreaming about mother loving Ben and Jerry's and Swiss Rolls. Anyway - it leads me to cheat. -not treat. Cheat. Too much! Occasional treats are good and necessary…but bad habits are always trying to work their way back in. Stupid gnomes.
So. In front of God and errrrbody up in here:
If you see me with any of the following items in my hand you have my permission to snatch it, eat/drink it yourself in front of me, or poke me and make the 'hee-heeee' Pillsbury noise:
Dr. Pepper - or any soda,diet or regular, for that matter
Pizza
Chips
Whatchamacallit
Sweet Tea
Ice cream; any variety
Bread; any variation
Cheese. ( I know - cheese isn't horrible…unless one eats a whole bag of Kraft cubes with Ritz Crackers)
Ritz Crackers
Throw blueberries at me, for the love of God. I don't care! I have to do the work - but I'm not in this alone. Woosah.
P.s. - I got a ''complaint" that I stopped putting up what I'm obsessed with for the week (other than my lover, Papa John). So here's my latest music crush:
Sunday, January 12, 2014
Under the radar - But not anymore!
Soooo I AM still here! I've definitely not been holding up my of the blogging bargain. I'm sure some of you are please about that. Those of you, however, who actually like to read my nonsense will be pleased. I'm back to publishing at least weekly.
Don't think I've been completely lazy since November. I have been writing and tracking; and eating and exercising. It's just that didn't really feel like I had much to say that you all really care to read. Most of it was notes and progress.
Progress. So where are we? I've stayed committed to the gym and the road. I'm still working with Big A, but I have not been as good with food. Once I hit 50 lbs lost, I did creep back up a bit but am now back at 50 lbs lost and am extremely motivated!
So what's motivating me these days?
You guys. Many of you still check on me and send me messages, and I so appreciate it.
Big A. He and I both have work to do and have been working out a lot together. It's nice to have a partner in my trainer, especially because he does understand what I'm trying to do. Also, my picture that's still up at the gym. I still don't want to look like a fool.
My husband. Because when I tell him that he is not to allow me to have any cheetos, he doesn't.
New friends. There is a delightful young woman that I have been introduced to that is just starting her journey; and she is rocking it I might add. I reminds that I'm not alone out here!
So what's coming up?
Keep working, keep girding, and get stronger!
Really, REALLY work on my food and get back to the basic plan I had working earlier this past year.
Run! I have set some running goals and will be doing some big deal (to me) races this year!
That'll do for now. I must get back to Downton Abbey. I'm obsessed. Completely. Ya'll.
Don't think I've been completely lazy since November. I have been writing and tracking; and eating and exercising. It's just that didn't really feel like I had much to say that you all really care to read. Most of it was notes and progress.
Progress. So where are we? I've stayed committed to the gym and the road. I'm still working with Big A, but I have not been as good with food. Once I hit 50 lbs lost, I did creep back up a bit but am now back at 50 lbs lost and am extremely motivated!
So what's motivating me these days?
You guys. Many of you still check on me and send me messages, and I so appreciate it.
Big A. He and I both have work to do and have been working out a lot together. It's nice to have a partner in my trainer, especially because he does understand what I'm trying to do. Also, my picture that's still up at the gym. I still don't want to look like a fool.
My husband. Because when I tell him that he is not to allow me to have any cheetos, he doesn't.
New friends. There is a delightful young woman that I have been introduced to that is just starting her journey; and she is rocking it I might add. I reminds that I'm not alone out here!
So what's coming up?
Keep working, keep girding, and get stronger!
Really, REALLY work on my food and get back to the basic plan I had working earlier this past year.
Run! I have set some running goals and will be doing some big deal (to me) races this year!
That'll do for now. I must get back to Downton Abbey. I'm obsessed. Completely. Ya'll.
Sunday, October 13, 2013
Starting fresh....
Here I sit at the Outer Banks finishing up a weekend of birthday fun and complete laziness. It was perfect, and just what I have been desperately needing. I ate a little too much, and drank too much water. :) The only downside, though, was that my hubs didn't come because he volunteered to "babysit" Team Cavanaugh.
I'll be heading back to reality tomorrow evening with a clear head and motivation to start the second year of my little blog-supported journey. Where's the motivation coming from?
First, I've come so far in this first year that I only want to top myself. But second, and most terrifying, is that my face is now on the wall at the gym as a 'success' story. So there I sit - looking right at me every time I walk in to the door there. My before and current pictures cuttin' their eyes at me! I definitely don't want to look like a fool and make Big A have to take it down!
I have 5 weeks until my 8k and I'm behind on training. Cross your fingers!
I'll be heading back to reality tomorrow evening with a clear head and motivation to start the second year of my little blog-supported journey. Where's the motivation coming from?
First, I've come so far in this first year that I only want to top myself. But second, and most terrifying, is that my face is now on the wall at the gym as a 'success' story. So there I sit - looking right at me every time I walk in to the door there. My before and current pictures cuttin' their eyes at me! I definitely don't want to look like a fool and make Big A have to take it down!
I have 5 weeks until my 8k and I'm behind on training. Cross your fingers!
Sunday, October 6, 2013
Long, strange trip. Long post. Year in review.
Whoa. I've been at this for a year, y'all! Don't want to read all 50-something posts to catch up? Well here's the review for you:
On October 7, 2012 I had had enough. I was about to turn 35. No chair was comfortable. I couldn't sit like a lady. (And you all know I am a proper lady) My monster calves had eaten my ankles. I couldn't walk up the stairs or through the parking lot at work without huffing and puffing. The last time I had been on a roller coaster, the Rams were in the Super Bowl and Pau Gasol was drafted by Atlanta.
I was on 4 different medications for different issues. I was wearing a size 26 (sometimes 26/28). I knew I wanted to change things but really had no idea how I was going to do that. -So I started typing.
As I began to write blog posts and receive tremendous report from those close to me and strangers alike, things started to fall in to place. I started to research, move, make different food choices, and try to establish even a hint of a good habit or two. I set some reasonable "loose" goals so that I wouldn't set myself up for failure. My husband supported me 180% (because he's wonderful!!) and I joined forces with two great friends to start Weight Watchers and have a support team in them that cannot be beat! Go Team JAG!
In January I was finally brave enough to join a gym - Anytime Fitness. I could barely go for more than 2 minutes on the elliptical machine. I did have the desire to do things and get stronger, but I realized I needed some help. Enter Big A, the trainer. My coach. My gym security blanket. My homey for life. And, now, a wonderful friend both inside and outside of the gym; along with his family. I started training last winter with Big A and have been challenged and sometimes frustrated. I have, however, gotten stronger and I continue to do new things and get better at tasks I could barely do a year ago. I keep wondering how this is working when nothing else has? First, there was no intimidation, only encouragement. Big A has been a crucial part of my support system. Why? Absolutely. No. Negativity. -And she smacks me down why I try to let anything negative slip out. Second, there has never been pressure about specific goals or specific weights (unless it came from me), but instead he helps me focus on challenging myself and simply getting better every day and remembering where I started. -That simple. He has to remind me of that often. The man also has the 'patience of Job' to be able to deal with me and my bullshit multiple times per week. I will never be able to thank him enough. I share my silliness and my little victory moments with him all the time, but I don't know if he'll really ever know just how much I appreciate him for helping me save my life. Big, big fist-bumps to you, Big A.
Yes, it has put a financial strain on us to train, etc. but it is worth it many times over. Thank God for my sweet husband and his support of all that I do.
Outside the gym and training, I have learned to love running and want to get better at it.
So a year is now behind me. I turn 36 in a few days. My God, 36 seemed like an eternity away even just a few years ago! So I'll spend a few days by the water to celebrate (thanks to the bestest friend ever!) and then I'll get back to work to begin a new year of challenges. I will continue being coached by Big A. I will continue with WW and my Team JAG girls. I'll learn to be a better runner, especially with my new running partner, Bear Cavanaugh. I'll continue to FEEL BETTER and get stronger.
So what else is there to say? Oh yeah - F I N A L L LY -
I hit 50 pounds lost. When I wrote my first post I was sitting at 288 pounds on my home scale. I stepped on that same scale on September 30th, and saw the cutest number ever: 237.5. Exhale! That's huge. Huge! I've never, ever lost more than 5 or 10 pounds and it always came back and them some. This is so, so promising. It definitely doesn't mean that I'm finished. -But it means that I can do it and I can keep going. I have (probably) about 70 more pounds to go before I can say I have reached my weight goal and can start working to maintain that. There's another year or two of work to be done to get there I think. I'm happy with slow and steady; though I still reserve the right to complain every now and then if I'm frustrated. :) Oh, and the Redskins shirt - I'm not quite there yet but almost. It goes over my boobs and my guts now! -Just too tight to wear to the Food Lion, though I'd fit right in on some days. I'll get there. I'm happy with my size progress. I'm now in an 18. In fact, my friend just gave me a pair of size 18 jeans. Button fly. That's never gone on this body before, and I may never take them off. I told her I was so excited because I didn't even have to lay down to try and button them!
Side Story: When we were in high school and even a little after, I was always so sad that I couldn't shop at American Eagle with all of my friends. That store was the stuff in the 90's in Charlottesville. If you didn't have a few outfits from there, at least, you could kick rocks. I owned one, ONE, item from that store back then. It was a men's flannel shirt (I LOVED that thing) that I wore, unbuttoned of course, to death. Guess where those button fly jeans are from, y'all? Now I may be to too old to shop there, but I don't care, I will anyway. I promise, though, not to go out and find a HyperColor body suit on Ebay to wear just because I may be able to.
I'm also happy with my general health progress. I'm taking no meds, except for the unexpected few I had to get this past week. Grrrr! -But I'm done with those and learning to de-stress. Hopefully that won't happen again.
My cholesterol, blood sugar, blood pressure and thyroid levels all came in at "Girl, who are you? Did someone else take this test for you?"-numbers a couple of weeks ago at my latest screening.
I feel good right now. I'm so thankful for all of the support that all of you (who take the time to read my craziness) have given me.
Stay tuned for more updates; major, minor, odd, and unecessary. It's going to be a good year.
I'm not one to wait 'til the end of a project for thank-you's. Thank you all (and I hope I forget no one) for the help, the kind words, the laughs, the Tweets, the challenges, the "just checking on you", the "I'm proud of you", and the thoughts/prayers you sent my way this past year. Many of you have/had more important things to worry about but you took time out for me and I appreciate it.
Puddles, my sweet husband Alfred (Big A) and Julie
My Momma Genevieve
My Momma-In-Law and Pops Sloane
Missy Michelle
Jaime The 2 Angies in my life - Angela & Angie
Corey Erin
Ana Gloria
Rosita Lynette
Sharon Jenna-Jean
Teresa Butch
Amanda Flip
Heidi Justin
...plus anyone I can't think of right now with Sunday brain, and of course many of you who sent me private messages who would kick my butt if I mentioned you here.
On October 7, 2012 I had had enough. I was about to turn 35. No chair was comfortable. I couldn't sit like a lady. (And you all know I am a proper lady) My monster calves had eaten my ankles. I couldn't walk up the stairs or through the parking lot at work without huffing and puffing. The last time I had been on a roller coaster, the Rams were in the Super Bowl and Pau Gasol was drafted by Atlanta.
I was on 4 different medications for different issues. I was wearing a size 26 (sometimes 26/28). I knew I wanted to change things but really had no idea how I was going to do that. -So I started typing.
As I began to write blog posts and receive tremendous report from those close to me and strangers alike, things started to fall in to place. I started to research, move, make different food choices, and try to establish even a hint of a good habit or two. I set some reasonable "loose" goals so that I wouldn't set myself up for failure. My husband supported me 180% (because he's wonderful!!) and I joined forces with two great friends to start Weight Watchers and have a support team in them that cannot be beat! Go Team JAG!
In January I was finally brave enough to join a gym - Anytime Fitness. I could barely go for more than 2 minutes on the elliptical machine. I did have the desire to do things and get stronger, but I realized I needed some help. Enter Big A, the trainer. My coach. My gym security blanket. My homey for life. And, now, a wonderful friend both inside and outside of the gym; along with his family. I started training last winter with Big A and have been challenged and sometimes frustrated. I have, however, gotten stronger and I continue to do new things and get better at tasks I could barely do a year ago. I keep wondering how this is working when nothing else has? First, there was no intimidation, only encouragement. Big A has been a crucial part of my support system. Why? Absolutely. No. Negativity. -And she smacks me down why I try to let anything negative slip out. Second, there has never been pressure about specific goals or specific weights (unless it came from me), but instead he helps me focus on challenging myself and simply getting better every day and remembering where I started. -That simple. He has to remind me of that often. The man also has the 'patience of Job' to be able to deal with me and my bullshit multiple times per week. I will never be able to thank him enough. I share my silliness and my little victory moments with him all the time, but I don't know if he'll really ever know just how much I appreciate him for helping me save my life. Big, big fist-bumps to you, Big A.
Yes, it has put a financial strain on us to train, etc. but it is worth it many times over. Thank God for my sweet husband and his support of all that I do.
Outside the gym and training, I have learned to love running and want to get better at it.
So a year is now behind me. I turn 36 in a few days. My God, 36 seemed like an eternity away even just a few years ago! So I'll spend a few days by the water to celebrate (thanks to the bestest friend ever!) and then I'll get back to work to begin a new year of challenges. I will continue being coached by Big A. I will continue with WW and my Team JAG girls. I'll learn to be a better runner, especially with my new running partner, Bear Cavanaugh. I'll continue to FEEL BETTER and get stronger.
So what else is there to say? Oh yeah - F I N A L L LY -
I hit 50 pounds lost. When I wrote my first post I was sitting at 288 pounds on my home scale. I stepped on that same scale on September 30th, and saw the cutest number ever: 237.5. Exhale! That's huge. Huge! I've never, ever lost more than 5 or 10 pounds and it always came back and them some. This is so, so promising. It definitely doesn't mean that I'm finished. -But it means that I can do it and I can keep going. I have (probably) about 70 more pounds to go before I can say I have reached my weight goal and can start working to maintain that. There's another year or two of work to be done to get there I think. I'm happy with slow and steady; though I still reserve the right to complain every now and then if I'm frustrated. :) Oh, and the Redskins shirt - I'm not quite there yet but almost. It goes over my boobs and my guts now! -Just too tight to wear to the Food Lion, though I'd fit right in on some days. I'll get there. I'm happy with my size progress. I'm now in an 18. In fact, my friend just gave me a pair of size 18 jeans. Button fly. That's never gone on this body before, and I may never take them off. I told her I was so excited because I didn't even have to lay down to try and button them!
Side Story: When we were in high school and even a little after, I was always so sad that I couldn't shop at American Eagle with all of my friends. That store was the stuff in the 90's in Charlottesville. If you didn't have a few outfits from there, at least, you could kick rocks. I owned one, ONE, item from that store back then. It was a men's flannel shirt (I LOVED that thing) that I wore, unbuttoned of course, to death. Guess where those button fly jeans are from, y'all? Now I may be to too old to shop there, but I don't care, I will anyway. I promise, though, not to go out and find a HyperColor body suit on Ebay to wear just because I may be able to.
I'm also happy with my general health progress. I'm taking no meds, except for the unexpected few I had to get this past week. Grrrr! -But I'm done with those and learning to de-stress. Hopefully that won't happen again.
My cholesterol, blood sugar, blood pressure and thyroid levels all came in at "Girl, who are you? Did someone else take this test for you?"-numbers a couple of weeks ago at my latest screening.
I feel good right now. I'm so thankful for all of the support that all of you (who take the time to read my craziness) have given me.
Stay tuned for more updates; major, minor, odd, and unecessary. It's going to be a good year.
I'm not one to wait 'til the end of a project for thank-you's. Thank you all (and I hope I forget no one) for the help, the kind words, the laughs, the Tweets, the challenges, the "just checking on you", the "I'm proud of you", and the thoughts/prayers you sent my way this past year. Many of you have/had more important things to worry about but you took time out for me and I appreciate it.
Puddles, my sweet husband Alfred (Big A) and Julie
My Momma Genevieve
My Momma-In-Law and Pops Sloane
Missy Michelle
Jaime The 2 Angies in my life - Angela & Angie
Corey Erin
Ana Gloria
Rosita Lynette
Sharon Jenna-Jean
Teresa Butch
Amanda Flip
Heidi Justin
...plus anyone I can't think of right now with Sunday brain, and of course many of you who sent me private messages who would kick my butt if I mentioned you here.
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| Progress... |
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| ...is a good thing! |
Saturday, October 5, 2013
Attack of my own brain.
So this week stunk to high heaven, with few exceptions. When we got cute little Bear Cavanaugh home, I fell and busted it hard on our ceramic tile floor after slipping in some water that the pup had splashed everywhere. He was in my arms when I fell! Luckily, he wasn't hurt but I banged my whole left side up pretty good!
Then, I experienced the worst migraine headache of my life! I started feeling ill Monday evening and had a very rough night. I pulled one of those in bed, in the dark days on Tuesday and wasn't able to go to work. It got a little better so I tried to go to work and about 30 minutes in I started rolling downhill fast! My doctor is amazing and took me right away when I called. I was anxious and full of nausea and every sight and sound was driving me nuts. I was certain I was going to get pulled over by the police for crazy driving. I'm really not sure how I made it there in one piece. Thankfully, I did. I was a hot mess and no idea what to do. For the first time, I had to have injections to treat me and also had to get two prescriptions and stay out of work for the rest of the week. Hard. Core. Awful.
Why? STRESS. Right from the doctor's mouth - "You are just stressed the heck out, sister!"
Yikes. I do have a lot of balls in the air right now. I need to learn how to juggle, I reckon.
The good thing is I do have good things happening and fun times to look forward to.
My husband is too sweet. All of our pups are adorable and we are enjoying the new little one. I spent time with some great friends today. -And I'l be spending my birthday weekend by the water with some great friends next week!
Let's hope this migraine business is behind us.
Then, I experienced the worst migraine headache of my life! I started feeling ill Monday evening and had a very rough night. I pulled one of those in bed, in the dark days on Tuesday and wasn't able to go to work. It got a little better so I tried to go to work and about 30 minutes in I started rolling downhill fast! My doctor is amazing and took me right away when I called. I was anxious and full of nausea and every sight and sound was driving me nuts. I was certain I was going to get pulled over by the police for crazy driving. I'm really not sure how I made it there in one piece. Thankfully, I did. I was a hot mess and no idea what to do. For the first time, I had to have injections to treat me and also had to get two prescriptions and stay out of work for the rest of the week. Hard. Core. Awful.
Why? STRESS. Right from the doctor's mouth - "You are just stressed the heck out, sister!"
Yikes. I do have a lot of balls in the air right now. I need to learn how to juggle, I reckon.
The good thing is I do have good things happening and fun times to look forward to.
My husband is too sweet. All of our pups are adorable and we are enjoying the new little one. I spent time with some great friends today. -And I'l be spending my birthday weekend by the water with some great friends next week!
Let's hope this migraine business is behind us.
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