Workout - check

Have been up since 3 a.m., when I got up to nurse Carter. For whatever weird reason I just couldn't go back to sleep.

As I was climbing back into bed at 5:30, the little man woke up again. So I fed him, AGAIN and then decided to tackle Jillian.

New sports bra helped! yay!!!

I did 5 whole pushups in a row. Real pushups. And I am dang proud, because before I would stop and do like, every other one--halfheartedly. :) My legs felt super weak today after finishing. Wanted to crumble up in a ball on the couch. :)

But I got the workout in, and then walked Jenna to school. Good start to the day!

UPDATE!

I also went running tonight...ran .8 mile without stopping. {I know, it's not much to most of you--but having never been a runner, I am slowly working up to big things!} Aiming for a mile tomorrow...

very excited.

Late Night Workout

I just finished my workout, and it's after 11:30. I really wanted to stop after the 2nd set. Definitely think it is harder on me to do it in the evenings, but I feel really good that I still got it in today! Maybe it will discount the 2 rich cookies I ate earlier. My husband bought a CASE of the Nestle chocolate chip cookie dough, cookies ready to put on the sheet. Yikes! I'm already getting a little tired of them, though, so hopefully I'll be able to pass them up fairly easily.

The past two days I've gotten a small cramp in my right side - haven't had a cramp there in many, many years. Anyone else get side cramps? I wonder if I'm drinking too much during my workout....

Marisa- Question

Ok, I have a question before I REALLY sign off.
Postpartum bellies. My youngest is 15 months now. Not to get TMI on you, but I really want to know from other women if it ever gets better.... I lost 25 pounds this spring/summer but I still have that dang pooch and the skin on my stomach is still all yucky loose. If I work on it, would it get better?? What's been your experience?

My 120 pound journey. Here's some motivation for you all. In case you haven't seen it.

Ah. I see Sarah posted it awhile ago. Did EVERYONE see it, though? Because, you should.

Marisa- Just checking-in

Hi all,

I know I seem MIA for awhile, so I just wanted to let you know I'm still around and riding my bike every time I need to go somewhere within walking distance. And I fully plan on getting my running shoes on beginning October 4th (because then the husband will be done with all of his marathon training by then).



P.S. Anyone else out there following Biggest Loser this season?

Worn out

I tried to do too much this morning and didn't get my workout in. But I just finished Level 2 - arms are a little sore, but I feel good that I got it done. If I could ever leave the sugar and carbs alone, I might lose a little weight! Thanks, Sarah, for keeping us going!

P.S. I DON'T care for those squat thrusts (I think that's what they're called.)

WOWZA!

So excited this week.

I've tried to be more gentle with myself about the workout thing...because truth be told, the little guy has basically been hooked up to me non-stop for the past several days. Growth spurt? Possibly...or maybe just a really, really hungry baby. But since I have been struggling with the nursing thing since having my appendix out in August, so I am glad he is wanting to nurse--even if it's an inconvenience sometimes.

Just threw in some activity when I could--went running, walked extra, did stairs. Ate well.

(and nursed like a manwoman! lol)

Weighed in tonight...lost 3.2 pounds this week.

Got my new sports bra in the mail today (had to order on the internet because they didn't carry my cup size in the store. boo to the big chest!!!) and am hoping that will help in my quest to be active!

Just a good weekend...and feelin' a good week ahead. :)

Sarah Day 14- Anybody Out there still???

I've been thinking the last few days that we haven't seen you guys on here as much anymore. So, I hope that means we're all just busy, and not that everybody's stopped working out.  :)   I know for me, I'm just losing my momentum...still gonna finish my goal though!

So yesterday I tried to work out in the morning. I've just resigned myself to the fact that I am going to get interrupted during my workouts. And I need to be okay with that. So, yesterday I stopped the video about 5 times to take care of various things for the kids. But I made it to the end.

We've been running all day today, so I'm going to try and squeeze in my workout tonight. I'm hoping it cools down by then, because I have no motivation to work out when it's 100 degrees outside and we don't have air conditioning!

Nicia- Day 7

Well, this is technically Day 7, but I have only actually done the DVD 4 times now. Oh well. I'm not worried and I don't feel bad. I was having tummy issues all weekend long, so of course was in no mood to jump up and down and such. But I still got out and walked/held the 20 lb. kiddo all day long, etc.
Today though was great! I did Jillian and felt a HUGE difference! I was able to keep up and it didn't hurt much at all! I have considered moving to Level 2, but I can still feel it a bunch with some of the exercises. No grunting this time even. :)

Millbrae- I'm still here!

Report:
-Day 11- Friday, 9/24/10
Didn't get a workout done, but did some running around in the morning hours

-Day 12- Saturday, 9/25/10
Still didn't get a workout done. But it was laundry day, and since I didn't do a workout, I couldn't allow myself to take the elevator. So I took the stairs for all of my loads of laundry, and I was up and down those 3 flights of stairs at least 10 times, maybe more.

-Day 13- Sunday, does that count when we're not working out on Sunday?

-Day 14- Monday??? 9/27/10
I woke up early and did level 3, with the 3lb weights. It really kicked my trash since I took so many days off. Plus, I woke up so early, and wasn't quite awake yet. But I got it in! I also did the second half of Ab Jam!

-Day 15?- Tuesday 9/28/10
I again woke up early, got level 3 done, and used the 5lb weights on a couple of parts. It's amazing how much more exhausted I get, and how much more I can feel it with just adding on those couple of lbs per hand. I also woke up early enough to get all of Ab Jam in. I hope I can start shedding this gut I've got.

Sarah- What day are we on? IDK if we're counting Sundays as a 'day' or not, since nobody's really committing to workout those days (unless they've missed so much they decide they want to.) So does that not count as a day? Or do we still count it as a day, but it's just a 'free' day? Just wondering.

I GOT A HIGH YESTERDAY!

So I've convinced my husband to go to Disneyland for T1's bday in Oct. I'm SO EXCITED! I love Disneyland all decked out in their Halloween gear! It's my favorite time to go to Disneyland. My dad and step-mom have been wanting to go to Disneyland with us for about a year or two now, and they've not been able to go when we have gone for one reason or another. So when I informed them yesterday of the dates we'd be going, I  was on the phone with them on and off all evening, because they're coming this time!... Anyway, none of that matters for why I got a high, I'm a horrible story teller, sorry... On to my high...

I was so busy on the phone I didn't have time to get dinner. So I decided I was going to run to the store real fast, pick up a few things we needed, and then go grab some pizza for dinner.

I'm at Safeway, I see my friend, Crystal, is working right by the red box, and I return my movies to the red box and say 'hi' to Crystal. She asks how much weight I've lost. I tell her the scale isn't showing any weight loss, and I'm not feeling any difference since I started this challenge. She says, well maybe you're toning up or something, cuz you're looking slimmer. I say thanks and go grab my few groceries.

I start on one side of the store with the produce, got my banana's and apples, and I'm headed to the other side of the store, to get some bread. I stop real quick half way through the store to grab a gallon of milk, and I'm on my way rushing to the bread section. Well, this handsome guy is on the same route as I am, over to the bread. I'm laughing to myself that he and I are both rushing to the bread. I hurry and grab my two bags of bread, throw them in my little basket I'm carrying, and start rushing back to the other side of the store to get in my friends cashier line. Well, seconds after I get there, I see this handsome man right behind me! (BTW, I don't wear my wedding ring... It hasn't fit me since I was prego with T2). At this moment I'm LOVING IT! He bumps me a couple times, so I finally look at him. He's giving me this strong, longing stare like, "Hey, how you doin'? Are you as interested in me, as I am in you?" At this moment I'm kind of wishing I wasn't married, only for the fact that it'd be SO FUN to start flirting! I miss flirting SO BAD! I use to be a big flirt. (For the record, I'm not really wishing I wasn't married.) Anyway, these glances kept happening. IT MADE ME FEEL SO GOOD!!! I just wanted to wait for him outside the store and say,"THANK YOU for making me feel so great! I'd totally be diggin you too if I weren't married."

I walked out of there feeling so great! Made me feel great the rest of the night! I haven't been checked out like that since before I was expecting T1! He'll be five in Oct! So it's been almost 6 years! Crystal texted me on her break "The guy behind you in the check out line was checking you out!" So that just confirmed it all for me! So later I wouldn't be saying to myself, "Was I just full of myself?" "Did I have a big dried booger in my hair?" "Did I have something on my butt?" Ya know those kind of questions. She just confirmed it for me!

IT WAS SO SWEET!!!!!

Need a kick in the pants here in Utah

Friday my alarm didn't go off, and time management for stuff just went downhill from there! Needless to say, I didn't get any kind of workout in that day except for a few sit-ups before my shower. Saturday I was up in Park City for the Bascom sisters retreat so didn't do the DVD workout, but did go on a nice run - gorgeous scenery, beautiful weather. My neice ran with me, so that was fun. Today is my day of rest, but tomorrow I need a good kick in the pants to get in gear and back on track. I also ate way too many yummy things at the retreat (so hard to say no!), so have to repent in that area too. My classes are proving to be a lot harder and more time consuming than I was thinking they'd be, so that has been extremely stressful, which has brought on the eating binges. Sometimes I wish I could put a lock on my mouth!

Sarah Day 12- Hanging My Head In Shame

I didn't work out today. On a Saturday of all days...what SHOULD be the easiest day to work out since Jon is here. But, it turned out that I got up at 5:30 with Matthew and Jon slept in till 8:30. When he got up we all started Saturday cleaning and then went on a little outing. Tonight was the Relief Society broadcast and I didn't get home and get kids in bed till 9:30. I am exhausted, tired, worn out...you get the point.  :)  And it's hot and I just can't bring myself to work up that much of a sweat. So, I'll do some crunches and climb into my bed and resolve to get back on track on Monday. In the meantime I'll be over here, hanging my head in shame...you know since I was the one who started this whole thing. I feel like such a failure...but I just don't care enough tonight to do anything about it. Good night and may next week be better!

Rachel - focus on the positive

Am not going to beat myself up over what I DIDN'T do.

What I DID do yesterday, was to walk to get my daughter from school, power walk/ shop looking for a sports bra, take extra trips from the car to my house, even though I could have gotten it all in one trip, and kicked the soccer ball with my little boy in the backyard for a bit.

Stayed good with food choices...knew I was going to be gone over lunch time (shopping), so I packed a sandwich to take, to avoid the temptation to eat out at some fast food place.

At dinner, we had an offer for babysitting, so we jumped at the chance to go somewhere! We went to Texas Roadhouse (if you've not been there, dang you're missing out! mmmm!) Hubby and I split an entree and I got a side of steamed veggies, and I only ate 2 small rolls. (if you've eaten these rolls before, ,you KNOW how easy it is to inhale them like popcorn. DELISH!)

Went to a friend's birthday party after that--didn't touch the bowls of candy in the center of all the tables, or munch on the cookies and such. SUCCESS!

Oregon - Day 11

I think this is day 11, anyway... I've lost track through not posting the last two days, sorry! I was here, though, and I try to keep up on the other posts and stuff. I have to admit, once school starts on Monday, along with my new work schedule, I am extremely unlikely to respond to other people's posts. I don't want anyone to get their feelings hurt if I don't answer something...

Anyway, I didn't get to work out on day 9, but I did work out yesterday. I haven't lost any weight yet, but I haven't changed my eating habits much and any time that I'm not actually doing workout I am sitting in front of the computer, since I've been doing job training all week. I have hopes of being able to ride my bike to campus and back once classes start next week, which will get me in another half hour or so (round-trip) on the 1 1/2 mile ride to the college. I'm still squeaking along on Level 1, grunting (and falling) on the push-ups, and gasping on the cardio. Wow. I must be even more out of shape than I thought... Ugh. I have to admit, though, I am pleased that I have managed a few more push-ups than I did on day 1 with Jillian :)

I haven't worked out yet today, but I have hopes of doing so once I get the kids to bed. Right now, they're bathed and pajama-ed in front of the tv watching G-Force. Steve has a late meeting tonight so I may be able to get my stuff in and shower before he gets home (fingers crossed).

And, just for the record, I would be interested in seeing a second challenge to change things up and keep us motivated when the 30 days for this is up. This has been really good, to have someone else to do the workouts "with".

Nicia- Day 3

Just finished Day 3! I didn't grunt and yell nearly as much today as I did yesterday. :) My hubby also gave my ache-e muscles a massage last night, so that might have helped. I know, I'm pretty much spoiled.
However, I definitely think it was better on me to workout in the early morning while the kids were still sleeping. I waited an hour after eating breakfast to do the workout, but I was still cramping and feeling like I had a ton of bricks in my belly, so I'm going to stick with your guys' advice and just have like a banana or something beforehand.
And I might do 3 lb. weights to ease into each levels. I don't know yet. I haven't decided. I think I'll just play it by ear.
Anyway, good work out today! Debating whether I should go on a jog too. That video Sarah posted definitely made me want to take advantage of the outdoor weather while I still can here in Cheyenne!

Sarah Day 11- My Biggest Challenges

I NEVER would have thought when I started this whole challenge thing, that my biggest challenge would be my kids. Seriously. I can't work out while they're awake, I can't work out while they're sleeping because I'm still asleep...or at least half asleep.  :)  Today Matthew was up early. When Jon got up he took him in the shower with him and then filled the bath for him. So I booked it to start working out. I figured that would give me more than enough time. But NOPE. I ended up pausing it halfway through when Matthew got out of the bath (shortest bath EVER!) and Emma woke up. I got them breakfast and then they wanted to take another bath. So I put them in and ran to finish the workout, which I finally did. But at that point I had completely recovered from the first half of the workout, so it just wasn't very effective. Very frustrating!

My second biggest challenge (a close second) has been motivation. I am getting tired of doing the same two workouts all the time (and I've tried level 3...not quite ready for it!). It may also be a combination of the half awake early mornings and getting bored of the workouts, that just make it hard for me to really get into it. Who knows???? If it weren't for this blog, and for the fact that I committed to doing the shred for 30 days, I would just quit. So when I start to slow down I just think of all of you, doing the same thing, and I make myself keep going. I am definitely looking forward to a new challenge in 19 days.  :)  Hopefully something that will work my abs more...any suggestions???  I can definitely feel my arms and legs getting stronger, but my abs, tummy, you know that whole middle area...that is my big problem area. And that's where I want to feel a difference.

Just wondering...and rambling

I know--2nd post today from me. But just had a bunch of random on my mind. :)

(This will be much more optimistic, promise!)

Am excited because my husband has the day off tomorrow--and so we get to hit up the fitness trail together. I had a great time last time and it really pushed me to run, which I am longing to do more! (Sarah is coming to visit me in a month and we were thinking of trying to do a 5k...so I am hoping I can work up to that, because I think it would be super fun!)

Also, getting to go look for a sports bra tomorrow--won't stop till I find one! :) I think that will make a big difference when I AM able to fit Jillian into my morning!

---what else? I have butterfinger bars sitting in my cupboard, leftover from an activity. I have refrained from eating one, haven't even been tempted--and am so dang proud. Those are my ABSOLUTE weakness (I would even pull a move like Kathy for one of those!!! lol)

--oh, and Nikki, don't be dissing your "flabby" size 8-10 because that's what I aspire to be at someday!! This is seriously the skinniest group of shredders ever (I was a size 4 in like, what, 3rd grade!?!! lol.) I am definitely the odd man (well, woman) out here. :)

And hey, on a completely random topic...

What happens with this blog after the 30 day challenge is complete? Will we all just start it over or keep going or have a new fitness goal? Just curious...

I would sure hate to see it disappear...because regardless of how often I can pull off the shred workout, I still AM trying to move more and be more healthy overall. And i love having this little place to talk about it....and I especially love "meeting" each of you.

Millbrae- Day 10

Another good day!

Stingray City, Cayman Islands

I got up and was exercising at 6:20. It sure does take a while for me to actually wake up that early in the morning. I was awake at 6AM, and I had to force myself to try and really wake up to get my workout done.

My report...

-Day 10- I did level 3 of The 30 Day Shred with 3lb weights again, and I also did the last half of Ab Jam again.

Me and my SIL at Stingray City, Sept. 28, 2009

I got T1 to school, came home watched a bit of Dr. Oz (I love that guy!... but I love the medical field too.) Got a quick shower in, got ready and went and experienced my first Farmers Market, with a friend, Crystal. She's invited me before, but this was something I always wanted to do as a family, and had declined the previous offers. However, if I always waited to do things as a family, we wouldn't get anything done, since the hubby is always working. It was fun!

Came back home and picked T1 up from school, and now I'm so ready for a nap. I wish my kids still napped, cuz I sure could use one, esp if I'm gonna try and stay awake to watch Grey's Anatomy tonight.... Wish me luck!

Kissing the stingray for 7 years of good luck! Better have worked!

Hope you're all having a great day today too!

Nicia-Before Pictures-9/22/10

Nobody laugh. I know I look like crap! I had just finished my workout. Anyway, here I am in all my glory! Can't wait to see some results!

Foster City

Today I was able to do Jane Fonda again. I still have not found the remote to my T.V. Maybe it is in one of the boxes I packed, but really don't need. I hope when we were moving I didn't throw it out because I didn't know what it went to. Oh well! I know it is not Jillian, but I am just glad I am doing something now instead of nothing.

I have three boys (3 years, 21 months, and 6 months). I was not able to drive my oldest to preschool today. Instead a friend did. After he had preschool they had a playdate. It is AMAZING how much I can get done with just one child gone. I was able to exercise (in peace), get some wash done, get most of the house clean, and give one on one time to the other two. However, as I am typing this my 21 month old is attempting to create disaster. Better go make sure he doesn't destroy everything.

Rachel - discouraged.

I just don't know what I was thinking when I set the goal to work out--let alone trying to do the shred.

I am struggling to find the time to fit it in--it is so dang hard because I don't have a choice but to nurse when the baby wakes up--so his schedule determines mine. If I don't get a workout in before getting the kids to school, Jillian just can't happen. I can only do that if I squeeze it in before school. (and I have to leave just after 8 with all the kids ready to go)

So today, I wish I had more to report. I came home from dropping everyone off and I had to still get myself ready for the day. By the time I did that, nursed again, and ran to a garage sale a couple blocks away (my sister in law had found some boy halloween costumes and I had to go pick them up), it was time to head back to pick up the boys from school.

We headed straight from there to a playdate, and by the time we got home, I had to nurse AGAIN and try to get Carter down for a nap.

I DID walk Jenna to school (instead of dropping her off on my way home from driving the boys to school) and when it was time, I jogged (in flip flops....lol) to the school again and she and I raced on the way back. So there was SOMETHING.

Just feeling discouraged that I can't have a set time, ANY TIME, to work out. I feel so lame compared to how well you all are doing with your level 3's and 5 pound weights! lol

Sarah Day 10- 1/3 of the way done!

I got my workout in, early in the morning before the kids woke up!!!!!!! If I had been awake enough to do it and do it right, it would have been better, but it was so much better than fighting off kids.  :)

And now, I'm 1/3 of the way through!

Nicia-Day 2

Nicia again. Just did Day 2 and YES, I used the 5 lb. weights still!! It's funny. There are some moves in the strength that I want to scream while doing (and to be honest, I sometimes do!) and others that don't bother me at all. But I am going to keep the 5 lbs. because I need a challenge.
I woke up this morning and didn't feel nearly as sore as I thought I would, so that's a good thing. Does anyone have a good website for good breakfast recipes/menus right before a workout? I don't want to eat something that's going to feel heavy as I workout. Thanks ladies!

Nicia-Day 1

Hi everyone! My name is Nicia Esplin. When Sarah posted this challenge on her blog I asked for an invitation thinking why not?! I had a baby 6 months ago, and I think nursing has really helped me drop the lbs. because I have not worked out at all, and my PRE-PREGANCY jeans fall off me now. I am very happy with my weight, I would just like to get toned up.
Anyway, to be honest I kind of forgot about the fact that I had agreed to do this challenge, so when my step-mom, Kathy Whittle called me out on it and noticed I was a follower, she kind of gave me that kick in the pants to go out and get the DVD. So...that's what I did today. I went to Walmart and bought my 30 Day Shred DVD and 5 lb. weights and I just finished my first workout!
Can I just say...IT WAS HELL! Sorry, I'm just being honest! I can't think of another way to describe it! I felt like such a wimp, but at the same time, totally hard core! My 3 year old daughter decided to join me, by the way, and used pencils for her weights! Totally adorable.
So, my legs feel like jelly, and I'm pretty sure my arms are shaking as I type. Yikes! Can't wait to start noticing it not hurting. That's always a good feeling.
I think what will motivate me even more is posting a picture of me before and after. So when my hubby gets home I think I will have him take a picture of me and I'll post it on here. :) Thanks!!

Millbrae- Level 3! for the second time.

I didn't get up early to workout, and be ready for the day today. I waited until T1 was in school. However, having gotten up at a decent hour (for me), instead of an insanely early hour, in my temporary opinion. I say temporary because, I'm hoping that I can get my internal clock to accept getting up early and getting ready before school, etc. I just had a much more productive day yesterday because of the great start. I also hope I can be disciplined enough to make myself do it.
Anyway, I didn't finish my thought, having gotten up at a decent hour, I felt like I was more awake, and had more energy, which is strange for me to feel energetic even to the mildest effect. So I was feeling up to working out. I decided since I'm trying the 3lb weights for a while, and since I was in such a great mood to workout, I'd try level 3 again. So I did. I remembered that it kicked my butt, but just wanted a refresher on it I guess. Haha! Then I thought to myself, 'we're only on Day 9! Why am I already wanting to attempt level 3!? I'm just as insane as Jillian! LOL! But I'm hoping that making myself work so hard today will help me not snack on the bad stuff so much today, and maybe if I can get somewhat good at level 3, maybe I can kick this plateau I'm on, and go down in my weight that I've been stuck at for months now.
I also did half of the Ab Jam... the second half, that's on the floor. I'm really tried to focus on using my abs. I felt my abs real good, I hope I can feel sore core muscles tomorrow. That would be awesome!
So short report now:
-Day 9- Level 3 of The 30 Day Shred, with the 3lb weights, and second half of Ab Jam.
Also, I'd recommend using the 2lb or 3lb weights when you get to level 3. I've been using my 5lb weights for a long time in Levels 1 & 2, but I sure don't recommend using that heavy of weights for level 3. Try it out, you'll see what I'm talking about. Haha!

My new bra!
I LOVE IT! I emailed Rachel the link to the one that looks the closest to what I bought yesterday. I couldn't figure out how to get the link on here. I'm not completely tech savvy. But I'm gonna try and connect the link here: http://store.nike.com/us/en_us/?sitesrc=usns_share_link#l=shop,pdp,ctr-inline/cid-100701/pid-283578/pgid-371394.
Well that was easy. But I don't know how to make it the word "here" and be able to click on that word to get to the web page. Oh well! Anyway, it's also got great ratings. I might buy a couple more, in different colors. I really was happy with how well it kept my girls in place. I bought a size smaller than I thought I'd need, and it's a good thing probably, because some of the reviews say then needed a smaller size too.
Sarah, I doubled up the sports bra's too, as you suggested. I think this new Nike bra did most of the work, but I did put my Champion sports bra on top of it, and I do think the two together did better than just the one of them could do. Thanks for the suggestion.

Something I forgot to mention yesterday... (I don't know HOW I could forget to mention this!)
While I was at Target, I bought some Pumpkin Spice Kisses! I was so excited, I'm afraid that the 'holiday's eating habit' is starting to set in ALREADY! Last year at one of my cousins weddings, these Pumpkin Spice Kisses were part of the center pieces. After the wedding I searched all of the stores! Target, Walmart, the local grocery stores, EVERYWHERE! for these puppies. I couldn't find them anywhere other than at the Hershey's website. I was in heaven when I found them yesterday! I grabbed three bags, held them to my chest and looked up in complete bliss. Then I threw them in my cart, and grabbed two more bags. That's how excited I was to see them!
I let my boys try them today, after lunch. They couldn't get enough of them either. I don't know what it is about pumpkins, but I am positive that my two boys and I are addicted to anything to do with pumpkins. Pumpkin pie, cookies, cakes, carvings, paintings, ANYTHING! We're so hooked it's pathetic. Anyway, if you see them in your store, get a bag and try them out.

Onto other randomness...
The heading doesn't really bother me. But I do like "Shredders Anonymous". Here's a pic that you might wanna put up instead. (I tried, but I don't have authority for it I guess.) I got this pic from googling "Jillian Michael's before and after" images.



While googling that I also saw a t-shirt that I thought would be another good option too, "Unless you faint, puke, or die, keep walking." -Jillian Michael's

See y'all again tomorrow!

Foster City

Day 2 Report:

Yesterday was not that great. About 10 minutes into the workout two of my three boys started crying uncontrollably. I did not have a chance to finish.

Day 3 Report:

Today I was able to workout for 30 minutes. Hopefully that will make up for the lack of exercising from yesterday. Before I had children I was able to do the whole hour of the Jane Fonda workout without feeling exhausted. Now I can only get through 30 minutes. The muscles in my stomach are probably the least toned. After doing crunches and the other ab exercises I could really feel the burn. I have got a loong way to go before I am in the same shape I was nearly five years ago.

Motivation:

I have a few motivation factors. * For two weeks in October my husband will be traveling for work. When he gets back I want him to be able to notice a difference. Most of the time if I loose only 5 lbs. he notices. So, if I lose 10 lbs he will really notice. *Over Thanksgiving my husband's side of the family will be visiting. *During Christmas I will be going to Las Vegas to visit my family. *Before we moved I was packing all of my clothes. It is amazing how many cute clothes I have but can't fit into. I really want to fit back into them. That way I will be able to use all of my clothes, not just some of them. *The last motivation factor is being able to report every day what I did. I want to be able to say I did exercise and it was terrific!

Need a Little Motivation?

My old roommate posted this on Facebook and I thought it was really appropriate for this blog. Very inspirational! Love the story, love the song! I just want to cry and then get out and run.  :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8SbXgQqbOoU

Sorry, I can't figure out how to put the video on here, but the link should work.

Sarah- Day 9- Almost a Repeat of Yesterday

I'm still holding out hope that someday morning workouts will work for me. Now that Jon is home in the evenings I don't like working out then. Guess we'll see though.

Got up at 6:40 this morning and started getting ready to exercise. Before I even had time to change, I heard a little voice and then little feet pattering down the hall. UGH! Emma followed right behind him. So, I got them fed and then put a movie on for them and started working out. Got halfway through when Matthew came in and wanted me to play. Instead of trying to fight him off of me, I paused the workout, played with him for a couple minutes until he was occupied, and went back to working out. I got through the rest of it okay.

I am seeing progress with the workouts. I can do more without getting winded as fast, though I still take little breaks and change out exercises. And as a bonus, I've lost another pound in the last couple days!



So, on a random note, does anybody have any suggestions for our blog title, or is it okay how it is? I know...it's a silly little thing. But it drives Jon crazy! He thinks it should be titled Shredders Anonymous (since that is our blog address) and then have a subtitle. I could care less either way.  :) I just threw something up when I started the blog and didn't think it was going to go anywhere. SO...if you have a suggestion let me know, or feel free to change it. And if there are any other changes that you would like to see...background, layout, whatever, just shout it out. I'm open to changing things up.  :)

Rachel. up early, :)

Carter woke up to nurse at 4 a.m.

Have been up since then. (That to me is the WORST time to wake up, because once I feed him and get back in bed, my body is awake enough that I just can't get back to sleep.)

I got some stuff taken care of, and then was lounging on the couch in the dark watching Oprah when it struck me that I could actually be working out--and SHOULD be working out! So Oprah took a backseat and Jillian entered center stage. The kids got up shortly after, but they went to the playroom for most of the time, which I was glad about.

No school here today--so it was nice to not have to rush somewhere!

I did level 2. I really hate some of the moves--but there are actually some I do like more than level 1. Like the climbing pushups. At least I felt like I could do them!! (comparing to regular ones, where I am completely weaksauce!)

So, got the workout in, got the day started. Feels good.

Also, been wondering. Do you guys always put tennis shoes on to workout? I often don't, but wondered if it makes a difference.

Millbrae- Productive!

Okay, so I've got a lot to ramble off. Just because I want to have an adult conversation. But first my report for the past couple days...
-Day 7- (yesterday, Monday) I didn't workout. I was so tired, I just slept until I HAD to get up to get T1 to school. Kept trying to make time during the day, but that didn't happen.
-Day 8- (today) I ROCKED IT BABY! I woke up, a little later than I was suppose to, but still I woke up, got my Jillian Level 2 done, but didn't have time for my Ab Jam. Got showered, part of my make-up on, T1, T2, and I walked T1 to school, came back and finished getting my makeup on, blew my hair dry, and was ready for the day a bit BEFORE 9AM! This is a big deal for me. I don't even remember the last time I was ready that early for no good reason. Just to have the rest of the day ahead of me! Felt great! (just wish it all came natural to get up and going this early.)
So I went to Big 5 today, and got another sports bra $35... better be worth it! Seems to be a more supportive sports bra than usual. I hope it doesn't disappoint me. I also got a pro-roller. It was normally $25, but 'on sale' for $20. I also saw them at Target today for $25.
After that T2 and I went and picked up the mail, did some grocery shopping, then picked up T1 from school, and had lunch. Then my hubby came home from work, he'd been working since Sunday @ 9pm. I let him stay home with the kids while I went shopping. I went to Old Navy, got their Halloween costumes and other things too. Then to NY&Co. my fav! Got a couple things there, and then to Target, got some things there!


Oh! I got a 15 oz. pumpkin spice candle, for $5.99, there was also a 15 oz. winter pine candle... which rang up for the $5.99, but I argued with them because on the shelf it shows the price as $1.48. So I got it for cheaper than the tiny candle was worth! I was stoked about that!
I also meant to go to GNC and get some protein shake drink powder, or something for protein shakes, but totally spaced it. Maybe I can get to that tomorrow? We'll see.
Anyway, I feel like I had a productive day. Got a lot of running around done!
Well, I'm beat! I'm gonna go to bed now...
See y'all tomorrow!

My Reeses Story

Okay, I'll put off studying stats and tell my Reeses story - what I can remember anyway! This was a LONG time ago - like almost 20 years ago! Annette (Sarah & Rachel's mom) and I are riding along a neighborhood road. Annette is driving, and I'm in the passenger seat when we pass a small orange thing in the curb gutter on the right - I barely notice it - just a flash of orange as we drive by. But it's enough of a flash that I'm thinking, "Could it be? Could it really be......a Reeses?" "Hold on, Annette! Back up! I think that's a Reeses!" Being the awesome sister that she is, Annette comes to a stop, backs up for me, I hop out of the car, and sure enough, it's a Reeses, UNOPENED!! Of course, I snatch it up, open it, eat it, and get my sugar fix for free that day! (Don't remember if I shared with Annette or not!) I must have been pretty desperate.

Then there was the time that Annette and I bought a 4-pack of Haggendaz ice cream bars at the store (I think that was the brand) and each ate 2 before we ever got back to the house. Actually that probably happened more than once! Another time we stuffed ourselves at Olive Garden (NOT the soup and salad), then had a huge piece of cheesecake (each of us), and literally WADDLED out of the restaurant. We have Lots of stories!

There you go - I've since come out of the closet and am fairly open about the fact that I'm totally addicted to sugar and will do some pretty wild stuff to get some, including eating chocolate chips right out of the bag, mixing Cool Whip with peanut butter, and fooling myself that eating frosted mini wheats is okay because it is, after all, nutritious hay bails. :)

Does Jillian drink water?

Did my workout at 6:00 this morning so felt good about that. But I'd like to know how these ladies get through the workout without any water?? Maybe they're pausing somewhere in the video, getting a drink, and then putting all the filming together, but there's definitely NO WAY I can get through my workout without water!

Rachel - some days...

I cannot even express how much I wanted to work out this morning. I really did.

But it was a very frazzling morning--rushing, rushing, feeding a baby and getting breakfast for the kids and trying to get myself ready.

And as the stress of the morning wore on me, I just had to let go of something...exercise was it.

I felt guilty much of the day--but I DID walk/jog to pick up my daughter from school, and when I went grocery shopping I did slight lunges while walking on empty aisles. :) That's going to be it from me today...that's what I could give on a day like this.

As I was shopping, however, they had a promotion from Special K that with the purchase of any 3 Special K Products you get a free workout video (it has four different 10 minute workouts on it). So I was stoked about that--and having something else to throw in the mix, especially this winter when we can't be outside as much.

And my highest point of the day was weighing in--I lost 2.4 pounds this week and I am down 21 pounds total now!! And am super excited... :) progress.

Back on the workout bandwagon tomorrow. :)

Oregon - Day 8

Alright, so I was off to a slightly later start today, but I made good use of my 1 hour lunch by doing my workout and shower then. I did better on my push-ups today, and I'm getting better at not gasping. I'm definitely going to be on level 1 for a bit longer, but I can see some improvements in the way that my body is responding. My walk has been a little slower yesterday and today, because the outer muscles on my calves are feeling the jumping jacks, but I don't mind that when I know that it means I've been working them :)

Sarah Day 8

I got up early to work out this morning...6:20, which I know isn't early to some of you.  :)  I had great plans for working out and showering and being all ready for the day before the kids got up. But my plans were ruined 10 minutes into the workout when I heard Matthew's little voice calling for me. UGH! He came wandering in and I tried to talk him into sitting down and playing with toys. I even bribed him with chocolate. He took the chocolate and then stood right in front of me, grabbing my legs or sitting on my stomach the whole time. Totally lame workout! I'm definitely going to get at least one more little ab workout in today. I realized this morning that I am not sore anywhere. I'm hoping it's because I'm used to the workout and not because I'm not doing anything effective anymore!

Oregon - Day 7

Sorry I'm rather late posting today! I did get up and do my workout this morning. It was hard, and I was gasping for breath in the middle of a lot of it, but I did it. I was not good at all about my eating today, snacking on things that I shouldn't have, and my only excuse is that I was sitting in front of a computer all day today doing my training. It was rather boring, and I just wanted something for my mouth to do. Note to self: keep gum or hard candies handy to keep my mouth busy instead! I can definitely feel my calves more than I did yesterday, but I am looking forward to my body acclimating so that I can move forward :)

Posting from Utah

I didn't get my workout in this morning, and was so tired after tucking Emily in, I want you guys to know that this blog and knowing all of you are making an effort to work out every day is the only thing that got me starting that DVD! I got through Level 2 and did a little more ab work at the end, those bicycle things with the legs in a sit-up position. I have to say, Jillian gets a little annoying at times, but sometimes her nagging talking actually keeps me moving!

On the downside, my weight was up yesterday and today - Dave says maybe it's because muscle weighs more than fat so maybe I'm toning, but I'm afraid part of it is from eating too much sugar and carbs over the weekend. On the upside, I think I feel energized enough to go through my next Stats chapter. Bye for now!

A Good Day

Jon finished his part of the movie at work, so he is done with his 70+ hour work weeks! When he left work Saturday afternoon his supervisor told him to call in sick today and enjoy the day. So he did and it was SO nice.

I was able to get my workout in in the morning with no kids under my feet. It was great. I did level 1 today...and I have to make a confession. There are a couple exercises on each of the levels that I just don't like. At all. On level 1 it is the side lunges and...oh I know there's something else, just can't think of it right now. So, instead of doing those I substitute for an exercise that I like better. Maybe that's cheating, but it works for me.

(Oh and after I worked out and showered, I got to go shopping for 4 hours BY MYSELF and FOR myself, with birthday money that Jon's parents gave me. It really was a good day!)

Late coming....

My name is Connie. I am a friend of Sarah's in Foster City. Last week was crazy, plus it was my birthday. My mom sent me one of my favorite cakes in the whole world, so I knew I wouldn't be exercising or eating well. Over the weekend, I purchased my DVD. I went to workout today, but when I put the DVD in I couldn't find the remote to scroll down to the workouts. So, instead of "working out" with Jillian, I worked out with Jane Fonda (love her). My boys were surprisingly good and didn't bother me. I love feeling the tightening and stretching of the muscles.

My goals for this challenge is:

1. I want to lose more of the weight I gained after having my three boys.
2. I want to get my muscle back. I am tired of feeling squishiness.
3. I really want to feel sexy again. I can't do that when I know I am not as in shape as I use to be.

Now I will go and try to find that silly remote so tomorrow I can workout with Jillian. Best of luck to everyone :)

(Rachel) taking a beating...

I didn't get to sleep until 3 o'clock this morning. So this morning was a rough start for me...

I was THANKFUL the boys didn't have preschool, because it meant only having one person to get to school.

I got the 30 day shred started. Wondering if you guys know how to pass the whole intro. It makes me watch it every time and it's quite annoying!!

I used the workout as leverage to get the kids dressed--they were all so anxious to work out with me. And they looked really cute doing so.

Still no sports bra, so I ended up wrapping my arms in a self hug during all bouncy activity to keep the girls in place...Spencer followed exactly, and was SO proud! Made me laugh.

I was interrupted by 2 phone calls. sigh.

And during the cool down, Spencer (3) accidentally dropped my handweight right on Jenna's face. So, that was the end of it. She has a big black eye--showed up right away. It's going to be a bad one...darn it!

But I got it in for the day, the best I could.

The pushups kick my trash big time...will I ever be able to really complete one that isn't totally weaksauce? I am wondering. And I am desperately trying to figure out how to do GOOD crunches that don't make your neck hurt.

Who's Who

Since today is my day off from exercising, and everyone has been slowly introducing themselves, I thought it would be fun to tell who's who and how we're all connected (or I guess how I know everybody, since everybody knows me).

Rachel is my older sister. And she is awesome and fun and always does super cool things with her 4 really cute kids. She lives way over in Ohio, but hopefully she'll move a little closer when her husband finishes med school next year. :)  She just had her fourth baby (and 3rd BOY!) and is doing an amazing job losing weight.

Kathy is my aunt, who lives in Utah. She's got 4 kids and 5 stepkids and 4 really cute grandbabies. She is gorgeous and super skinny and doesn't look old enough to be a grandma.  :)  I was able to get to know her pretty well growing up and then she was my Utah mom while I went to BYU, which I was (and still am) incredibly grateful for. She is going back to school AND working. Super mom!

Calista is my cousin...actually my oldest cousin.  She lives in Oregon, has 2 really cute kids, and is also going back to school and working (but you all knew this already!). Another super mom! She is incredibly involved in scouting with her son, which I really admire.

Nikki lives up the road from me, in Millbrae. We were in the same ward for 2 years, but sadly I didn't really get to know her until right before we moved (only 10 minutes farther but in a different ward now). She has two adorable little boys, loves Halloween and Disneyland, and goes to Utah a lot to visit family. I think she is SO brave to do that drive by herself with kids, but maybe her kids are just a lot better in the car than mine.  :)  She is so sweet and funny and makes really good granola.

Marisa (Marisa, are you still here???) was my roommate for a year-ish while I was at BYU. She is from a lot of different places, but currently lives in Colorado with her hilarious husband and super cute little boy and girl. She can do a really good English accent and is just an all around great person.

So there you have it. 5 states. An age range from early 20's to late 40's. All in different stages of life, but all with kids and all wanting to tone up and/or lose some baby weight.  :)

I am SO glad you guys are all along for this crazy little journey and I am so glad this little blog has been such a success so far. Sadly, I have to admit that I didn't really think it would take off, but this has been AWESOME so far! It has been so fun to hear about everyone's progress and to be able to get to know everyone a little better...and to see you all get to know each other. I love that we can open up to each other and share pretty much everything. I feel like we have a great group of friends.

So, here's to 24 more days of craziness! I'm excited to see (and hear) how it goes!

Oregon - Day 6

I did it! I got up at a quarter to six this morning and went through the 30 Day Shred for the first time! Not too bad... The push-ups kill me, and I'm definitely gasping for breath during the cardio, but I'm feeling good about the sore muscles, since they're my indication that I'm doing something :) That may have to be my regular time every day, since we all have to be out the door at about 8am during the week for schools and work. If I don't do it in the morning, I won't get it done at all because I lack all motivation by the time the evening hits. By the end of the day, I'm ready to just sit and veg in front of the tv with Steve. Dual reason is that he'll sit and watch whether I do or not, which means that the tv is occupied regardless! I was really enoying some of the stretches in the glutes today because my backside is still quite sore from yesterday's ride, so it was a very good start to the day!

Utah - Feeling it Today

So this morning I was definitely feeling my workouts from last night. I only did 2 last night because I wanted to see how far I could push myself. Now I know, so no need to repeat that. :)
Timewise, I will usually only be able to do one workout anyway. I did Level 2 this morning with some extra sit-ups at the end. It's a challenge for me right now because part of the time I have to do the low intensity, so I'll stick with that one for awhile with 3 lb weights. I did great eating healthy until I went to help in the kitchen for a funeral lunch, and they were serving the BYU brownies. (Anyone who has had those knows how scrumptious they are). Ate 3 of them!! Dave made cookies AGAIN, and of course, I ate 3 of those too. Did have a salad for dinner, though.

Millbrae- Day 6

So, I like how Mrs. Oregon puts "Oregon" at the beginning of her posts, just to kind of identify her even more. It's hard enough not having faces to put with the names (other than Sarah's of course). So I think I'm gonna copy her, and start putting "Millbrae" at the top of mine. I was just going to put CA, but I'm not the only one from CA, so I decided to put my city instead.

January 2004, Our Wedding Day!!!

Walking out of the Oakland Temple

I also haven't given much of a background of myself. So here's a little bit about me...
I am Nikki Nelson. I'm 27 years old, and have been married for almost 7 years (will be 7 years in January). I have two boys, T1 is almost 5 year old, and T2 just turned 3 year old.
I have lived in CA since my husband and I got engaged in Oct. '03. We married in the Oakland Temple. My hubby grew up in Northern CA, I grew up in Salt Lake County, UT. I have known my husband since I was 13 years old, however I didn't like him at that time. It wasn't until he returned from his mission, and he met up with my brother (they were best friends their senior year of high school in CA), that we started hanging out.
I am a stay-at-home mom, and I love it for the most part. I love that I get to raise my kids, and not let someone else have that blessing. However, as much as I love it, it's definitely not an easy thing to do. I have found through the years that I have lost my identity. I check in with myself sometimes, and wonder 'Who am I?' 'Do I even know who I am anymore?' I have changed over the years of marriage/ motherhood. A good part of that change is for the best (in my opinion. Hubby might have a different opinion. Haha!).

Sept. 2010, We like to get this particular wedding day pic 'updated' whenever we're there as a family.

I loved CA until I became a mother, and as much as I always thought I'd never want to move back to UT, after becoming a mother, I have realized that living close to family really doesn't sound like a bad idea, and it really would be nice. I've been yearning to move back to UT for about 5 years, and have desperately been wanting to move back for the past 3 years. I completely dislike CA.
Confession: (not so much for your sympathies, but just to be open and honest.) Having such feelings as being alone, because I only have 'loose' friends around here and really no family, and not having much of a social life has left me feeling pretty depressed over the past few years. Which has lead to me:
1- gaining weight, nothing I've ever had to battle with before having kids,
2- loosing my discipline for food, which has been surprisingly hard to regain that discipline with food/ diet.
3- not being as friendly and social as I use to be (which is a change that hasn't been for the best, and I really don't like about myself...well, none of these three changes have been for the best for myself or my family, really.)

So I guess that's more than just a little bit of info about myself. Hahaha! Sorry.

As I mentioned before, since the beginning of the year I have lost 18 lbs, and I'm hoping to loose another 15-20 lbs, and also regain my discipline for food. It's not that I eat junk all day, but I need to get my portion size back under control, and loose a quite a bit of this sweet tooth I've got. I eat somewhat healthy, but also snack on unhealthy things way too frequently also. So again, thanks to Sarah for getting this challenge started, to try and help me get re-motivated to loosing the rest of this weight.

My report for today... -Day 6- I didn't do any exercise. Nada. I decided to sleep in today, since it was the only day this week I'd be able to. Then I slept in way too late to get a workout in. I was going to try and get one in this evening, but I don't have the motivation to do it, and I'm still feeling sore enough to rationalize to myself that I can take a couple days off.

I'll catch up with y'all on Monday.

Oregon - Day 5

Alright, so I didn't get a real workout in yesterday... Bummer. But I was still feeling incredibly sore from the day before, so I'm not sure I'd have held out through another workout yet anyway. I'm kind of a weanie that way.

I didn't do an actual workout today, either, but did go for a 2 1/2 hour horse back ride at a scout camp. Steve's boss was providing a "fun day" for the employees and that included a ride on the camp horses, for those who wanted to go. Kellen wanted to go, but kids had to have an adult with them and, since Steve hates riding horses, I went with him.

I was rather excited this afternoon though when I checked the mail after we got home and found that Jillian had arrived! I'm hoping to actually start that tomorrow, although it will have to afternoon because getting us all ready for church and out the door by 830am gets a little cramped. I could manage it if I got up at 530am, though. We'll see.

In the meantime, I do have a new job. It's a legit work-from-home job as a "Business Support Associate". As a bi-lingual employee, I get $11/hour, and they require a minimum of 30 hours a week. There is a cable and phone hooked up to our wireless router, so that the calls come in via the internet. I have training from 9am-5pm (online) all next week, which means arranging for someone to pick Madison up from school every day. After that, I go online to schedule myself for the shift that works within my schedule (2-hour, 4-hour, and 6-hour shifts available), making a minimum of 30 hours and a maximum of 40 hours. When a call comes in, based on the number that the individual is dialing, a prompt shows up on my computer screen to instruct me on how to answer the phone. As I understand it, it is mostly people making appointments for things, requesting account information, or leaving messages (like the after-hours answering service at your doctor's office). It's not very interesting, but the money is decent, the hours are flexible (critical for working around all the schedules in our house!), and it lets me practice using my Spanish. It'll still be tough finding time for doing my homework, but that strikes me as the only down-side, at the moment. We'll see how it goes.

Day 6??? I'm not even sure anymore!

So I thought I was on day 4 or 5, but according to the calendar, which I trust better than my memory, it is actually day 6.  Hooray!

I am not feeling AS sore anymore, mostly just in my thighs...where I don't want to feel it. I have been walking/jogging/biking long enough now that I am happy with how my legs look. I don't want them to get all muscly and have huge thunder thighs!

I think my biggest challenge at this point (at least this morning) was motivation. I am really struggling with finding a time to work out. My old roommate and her sister came to visit and it has been SO fun. However, I knew that it was going to be tricky to fit in a workout every day that she's here and it has...more so than usual. Yesterday, they left early in the morning to go to the city and we met up with a couple hours later, so I was planning on working out during that little window in the morning. I put a movie on for the kids, got them snacks, made sure they were all set, but as soon as Matthew saw me working out he wanted to be held...UGH! I made it through 10 minutes of it before I just had to turn it off. And I never finished it. We walked all over San Francisco though, so I figure that made up for the missed half of the workout. There are some BIG hills there. Add a stroller and 50 lbs of kids to the mix, and you've got yourself a great workout!

This morning I had the same challenge as yesterday. I figured there's no way I'm getting a workout in tonight, so I tried this morning. Got the kids settled and started. Matthew lasted a few minutes longer, but I had him wrapped around my legs for most of the last half. And that doesn't make for a good workout...maybe THAT'S why I'm not so sore anymore!  :)

Looking forward to my Sunday off tomorrow and hopefully I'll have more motivation on Monday.

Jillian left for the weekend. ;)

I was all ready to face Jillian today.

Except then I realized I totally wasn't. As soon as my husband comes home from work, I am heading out to get a sports bra and some weights. I just don't know that I can do her workout again without some serious frontal support--(especially because I have been fighting off a staph infection in my breast and it is SUPER painful anyway--so adding all that movin' and grovin' and it was a world of hurt).

And even if I had been able to, my kiddos were up and needed breakfast and my husband was gone, and I had to nurse my baby--and the morning was slipping away so quickly!

So, I will be back at it on Monday.

I did, however, do my mile walk--hoping I can fit in another workout this evening, but not counting on it...bummer.

I've Now Met Jillian

My DVD came this afternoon! I just finished Level 1 and Level 2, although I had to do the low intensity part of Level 2 part of the time and took a few "rests" that were a few seconds longer than she likes. I'll probably be sore tomorrow, but for awhile now I've needed something that will make my muscles work, so here it is! Now if I could just eat healthier and leave the cookies alone!

Millbrae- SO SORE

I am still sore. Feeling very, very sore. In fact I made a comment about our challenge on my facebook, and one of my friends asked me if I knew what 'foam rolling' was.

Well, I don't know if any of you have heard of that, but I haven't. It's a form of stretching... kinda. The way I understand it is, you put pressure on your sore muscles, and kind of rub against it, back and forth. "It helps get rid of teh lactic acid in your muscles. It hurts like the dickens for the first few times you do it, but then it feels so good."- my FB friend says.

I googled 'foam roller exercises' and printed off a 8 page article type thing from http://www.performbetter.com/. I've only glanced at it, but it might be more of 'exercises' than stretches with the foam roller.

She explained that you can pick up a 'pro-roller' at any sports store, like Sports Authority, Big 5, etc. She ordered hers online, can't remember where online, but it has a # on it of... 800-367-7393, she remembers it cost her about $40, but she's seen them at Big 5 for around $20. I'm interested in it, and I think I'm going to be finding myself a 'pro-roller' to try it out. I'm more sore today than I have been since I started the challenge. So I'm looking forward to trying this out. If you try it out, or have heard of it, it'd be great to hear your input/ feedback. I'll let you know what I think of it when I try it.

Now to my report...

-Day 5- Level 2 of the 30 Day Shred. Still used my 5lb weights, but think I'm going to try my 3lb weights and see what differnce, if any, that will make... besides being lighter. I also started doing my Ab Jam workout and got about 70% through that, until my oldest needed a talk about school. So I stopped the workout, and we talked about school, and why he seems to not like it anymore, which also took up my shower time. I felt so stupid/ humiliated going to school with no makeup, stinky, sweaty, and yucky. That talk better have made some sorta difference. Haha!

Oregon - Day 4

Okay, so I totally blew stuff off this morning. I had an appointment about an hour's drive away this morning at 9am (the new job paperwork stuff) and I was barely getting out of the house on time as it was. I will try to fit in a workout elsewhere in the day.... Although, I have to admit, every muscle from my shoulders down through my abs were screaming at me today!

I also had lunch with Steve at Taco Del Mar and broke down in favor of my usual mondo burrito. Tons of calories there, but a stressed morning + relaxing lunch with hubby = total enjoyment of the food. I should still be okay if I take it easy on dinner and get in a workout this evening. (Sigh) I'll do better tomorrow :)

Day 4. Today, I met Jillian.

Video came in the mail yesterday. I was excited to do it today--but then I didn't wake up early, and had to nurse my baby after getting up--so it was a tight squeeze fitting in the workout before running the kids to school.

Talk about serious sweat! YUCK! lol

It was intense--and that's without me even using handweights! (need to pick some up this weekend!) wow. But my body feels good and I am glad I fit it in this morning.

I have to ask though, does anyone else have a serious pain issue when laying on their back to do the crunches? My lower back (more like the top of my buttox) is super sore to the touch, and trying to do the crunches is extremely painful!

Have GOT to figure out the bra situation too--because her workout is not for bouncy boobs! lol. My nursing bra that I bought 20 pounds ago was such a joke to try to do jumping jacks in. :) The search is on for a good workout bra--or doing the double thing. Something....gotta figure that out!

Moving Right Along

I keep wanting to work out in the morning before the kids wake up, since they usually sleep until 7 or 7:30. But as soon as I decided to do that Matthew has woken up at 6 or 6:30...go figure! I can't work out while he's awake, because no matter what he's doing, as soon as he sees me working out he wants me to hold him or he wants to sit on me when I'm laying down. Just doesn't work! SO, the last 2 days I have worked out in the evening. I kind of like it, but I would like to be able to work out in the AM too. I tend to make better food choices when I start the day with a workout. Maybe I'll try going on walks in the morning and shredding in the evening...

As of day 3, I am SORE. Mostly just my thighs and shoulders. Wishing I was feeling it in the abs. I should probably throw in some extra ab workouts throughout the day since that's the area I really want to see a difference in.


(On a random side note, does anyone want to have comments emailed to them that doesn't know how to set it up? It's much easier to follow conversations, especially for this blog where we have a lot of questions and discussions going on. If you want them emailed to you and don't know how to do it, let me know and I can set it up for you.)

Oregon Day 3

I was out of the house all yesterday afternoon, which leaves few opportunities for snacking; definitely a good thing for me! And I was very good about only having one bowl of taco soup for dinner, but fudged on the cornbread and had two of those. It was still better eating habits for the day than I've exhibited for a while, though, so I'll take it.

I have a phone interview this morning for a job with a company called VoiceCurve (based in Boise, but you do customer service over the internet on your own computer) and an appointment on campus at 11am, which left me a little short on time, so I pulled up the instant view on the Netflix and did a 30-min boot camp style calisthenics thing. It was faster than spending an hour on the WiiFit for the same number of calories. Man, those push-ups were killing me! I can't wait for my muscles to acclimate so this is a little easier, but even saying that makes me feel like a major whiner. Also, like Rachel, I'm rather uncoordinated, so jumping jacks that have me moving my arms anywhere but up and down leave me looking ridiculous as I try to follow along. It's okay; it still got my heart pumping!

Did another fruit smoothie and a scrambled egg for breakfast, and I think I'm set for the day!

Millbrae- Day 4, and I'm already crazy

This morning my husband woke me up with a text at 5:30 (he was already at work) saying... "Hey, you should get up and do your workout, then you can shower and get ready all before T1 goes to school." I texted back, "Yeah. I know. But I don't wanna. I'm tired."




However, his text did come, right at the same time my first alarm went off. (I so wish I was a morning person.) So my alarms kept going off, and at 6:20 I was working out. The boys woke up during my workout, so I got them sat down for breakfast, then I did my Turbo Jam- Ab Jam workout, cleaned them up from breakfast, got showered (didn't wash my hair today, didn't need to.) got my foundation on, got dressed and walked T1 to school, dragging the sobbing T2 the whole way, and even carrying him for part of the way. Came home and made some scrambled eggs on sandwich thins (toasted), and a banana. Trying to start off healthy.

I seriously have no idea how I can still move. I am SO SORE still! I think I'm going down to the hot tub tonight. Hahaha!

-Day 4- Jillian's 30 Day Shred, LEVEL 3! It's intense! Just look at the warm up and you'll be afraid! I did the 'beginner' parts, with Anita, on most of the circuits. I've done about half of the things that she does in this level, on other dvd's I have of hers, but the rest of it was brand-spankin- new to me! It's KILLER! I wont be going back to that one for a while. I'll be sticking to levels 1 & 2. After I got done with Level 3, I did the Ab Jam also.


Sprots Bra- I bought a two pack at Costco of Champions. One black, one white. I would say that I'm pretty busty, and I bought a Medium to help hold 'em tight... It's a comfy sports bra, (for a sports bra, ya know) but I'm sure I could find something that would do a better job. It does good for walking and all, but running, and those dang jumping jacks, etc... I'm not as secure as I'd like to be. So I think that is a great question! I'd like to hear others input on your question.

DAY 3 - 17 minutes....and a BRA question.

Today I tried out a video on my Netflix instant queue--a dance video--I thought I would rock it. Instead I was just reminded of how uncoordinated I am. I spent most of the video making up my own moves because I couldn't follow the instructor's fast enough! lol. I was quite the sight!

After that, I started a 10 minute cardio kickboxing (also via netflix), and that just made me feel awkward and like I wasn't doing it right. I was hanging in there, but after a few minutes of listening to my baby scream, I gave it up and went to take care of him. So, I made it in 17 minutes...and plan on fitting in the other 3 by jogging to pick up my daughter from school later today.

Jillian should arrive in my mailbox today...so we will see how that goes. :)

I am wondering, as a total sidenote, if any of you can suggest a great sports bra. I have a "fuller" chest and it's impossible to find something that will hold the girls in place! Anyone else have this issue and know of a solution?

Day 3 - a new day!

Should just skip Day 2 (yesterday), since it was a total bomb for me (and not just in eating and exercise) Didn't get the workout in in the morning, but ate healthy until a previously arranged lunch at Olive Garden. Only ate 1/2 a breadstick and was so proud of that, but had two bowls of the nocchi soup, which is just laden with fat!! So good though. Was okay at dinner, but then Dave made chocolate chip cookies with dough he'd found for 79 cents! I ate 4 large cookies right off the bat.

Today is a new day, though, and I just finished 40 minutes of a Jane Fonda workout video with the steps and weights. Threw in some situps too. Here's hoping for a much better day!

Millbrae- Today is day 3... right?

I am SO SORE! It's pathetic. I'm remembering why I only would workout every other day. I am always so sore after doing a Jillian workout.
-DAY 3- I did the 30 Day Shred, Level 2. Sarah, Level 2 is my fav too (out of 1 & 2, since I haven't dared to even try level 3 either. lol!) However, I pulled out my 3lb. weights today, just in case I didn't think I could do my 5lb. weights. I did all of the strength with the 5lb weights, except for the last rep of strength. (The squat with the fly). I did the first rep of that with 5lbs. It was so hard. So the second round of them, I used the 3lbs. I was laughing so hard, I couldn't believe how much lighter they felt to me. LOL!
When I decided to take on this challenge, I wanted to do the Turbo Jam- Ab Jam workout too whenever I did a Jillian workout, since I'm really trying to target this belly, since it's my biggest problem. However, I really had to push myself to get a workout done today, and by the time I got done with the 30 Day Shred, I didn't have time to get the Ab Jam done too. I had to hurry and shower, and go pick up my oldest from Kindergarten.
Holy Cow though! I'm so sore! I'm not sure how I'm going to get a great workout done tomorrow. It's going to be a funny sight to see, I'm sure! Hahaha!



Rachel, I didn't like Jillian for the longest time. She bugged me for about the first month I did her workouts. But I bought 4 of her workout dvd's for $5 each, and I couldn't let that money go to waste. Plus I was really seeing results with her workouts. They just kick my butt every time I do them. It's easier for me now, because I just shrug it off as 'Jillian being Jillian', and she really doesn't bug me anymore... not that I watch the biggest looser, or that I'm a huge fan of her. I just love the change and progress I see in myself with her torturous help. Hahaha!

I hope I can find strength to get a workout done tomorrow. Maybe I'll be crazy enough to try level 3! Hahaha!

P.S.
Oh, and can I just say how much I HATE doing jumping jacks! I have to try so hard to do my kegel exercises at the same time... and I fail every time. It just SUCKS! I'm sorry if that's TMI for some of you. But I hope I'm not the only one that just HATES the jumping jacks. I have to wear a heavy pad every time I workout. What am I 75!? Sure feels like it when I do those dad-gummid jumping jacks!.... venting is complete now.

Here's to hoping I can move tomorrow!

DAY 1 AND 2 and an intro from me

My name is Rachel--(am Sarah's sister) and I am really excited for this challenge!

I just had my 4th baby just less than 2 1/2 months ago and since then I have been really trying to make better eating choices and be healthier as a family. Am happy to report that as of yesterday I was 18.4 pounds under my pre-pregnancy weight.

The food has not been as much of a challenge as the physical fitness. :) So I am hoping this will jumpstart the rest of my weight loss (I have another 22 pounds I want to lose).

Gotta be honest in saying that Jillian is probably one of my least favorite people. lol. So I am getting the video through netflix first to see what I think--but my goal, video or not, is to be ACTIVE for at least 20 minutes 6 days a week.

Yesterday I did the Leslie Sansone Walk at Home video--

And today I went out and did the fitness course at one of our parks--it's a mile path with intense hills and places to stop for push ups, sit ups, climbing ropes, etc. (I skipped all that for today! Just did my mega walk). I even RAN part of it--which is a HUGE deal coming from me. :)

Excited to see all your progress and get some fun new ideas for working out! :)

Oregon - Day 2

Obviously, still waiting for the Shred to arrive, so I went at the WiiFit again this morning. Today I did a lot more Yoga and Strength stuff than Cardio, falling just shy of 200 cal. Not great, but not bad, considering it's getting me off the couch and prepping for doing the Shred. I am definitely feeling my shoulders and hips from yesterday's stuff, so I was specifically trying to work different areas today.

I am also trying to find better ways of eating, starting with breakfast, which around our house isn't usually that healthy. We bounce around between hot/cold cereal, pancakes (or french toast, or waffles, or german pancakes) topped with butter and syrup (or some other sugar form), and the meat, egg, and potato combo. This morning was cold cereal, and I just didn't feel like loading in the carbs right off the bat; it makes me feel like a failure before my day has even started. Instead, I went for a breakfast shake of yogurt, frozen cherries, and a 1/2 cup of milk (passed on the sugar I usually add to that), and will scramble myself an egg. At the moment, I feel like those unhealthy carbs are stretching out before me like an impassable mine field, providing numerous opportunities for making unhealthy choices throughout my day. I need to find some ways around those, without bringing on mutiny from other members of the house... Maybe, for now, it needs to just be me making the changes... Not sure yet.

Introduction from Marisa

Hi all, here's my little intro and goal spiel:

I am 26, currently living in Boulder, CO while the husband gets his PhD in Physics at the University here. I have two kids, 3 and 1. I ran my first 5K in July, and was real proud of myself. I wasn't huffing and puffing, and made pretty good time. I have NEVER been a runner and for a long time I really hated it. Like, really really. I remember the school days in PE when we were supposed to run the mile. I dreaded it. I think I even tried to fake sick just so I wouldn't have to do it. Anyway, here I am in Boulder- the running town. I decided to overcome my anti-runner attitude and just try it by starting off real slowly- walking 90 seconds, running 60 seconds. I noticed that over a week or so, I could run a 1/4 mile without getting winded and loved that. So I kept at it. And the weight came off faster than anything else I've tried (and it seems like I've tried it all). One thing I've realized about myself is that I can't do fitness videos. So I won't be doing Jillian's shred. I have to be outside. I can't run on a treadmill either. Drives me crazy. But, I am glad to join you all in the goal of getting healthy! Thanks for the invite, Sarah.  :)

As far as my own goal, at least for now, will be just to get back into running or at least biking with the kids in the bike trailer every day. My husband is training for a marathon, so I haven't been able to find time to run like I did in early summer. He runs it on October 2nd, and that is coming up quickly. I plan on finding time to run after his marathon. For now, I am going to plan on getting on my bike and taking a ride with the kids along the Boulder Creek path--hopefully for at least 20 minutes or as long as my kids will let me. Fortunately, they love the bike trailer.

Joining in from Springville, UT

Hi all,
I thought I'd post a little about where I'm coming from. I'm 48 1/2 (yikes!) and have raised all my children but one, our 8-year old daughter, Emily. My husband, Dave, is self-employed. I work part-time and go to school part-time and the past few weeks have been getting into a rut of snacking on the wrong foods while studying. 2 1/2 years ago I was looking at pictures of myself and realizing how the weight had crept on. I got very motivated and lost 14 lbs and was 2 lbs short of reaching my goal when I fell off the band wagon and went back to no real exercise and not being careful about what I eat. Since then I have gained back 10 of those 14 lbs - :(

My long-term goal is to stave off diabetes, the silent killer that my parents and now 3 of my siblings have, and that I know I'll have if I keep gaining weight. My short-term goal is to lose 15 pounds which would put me at the weight I was 10 years ago when I got married. Of course, this would also help me fit in some of the clothes I have that are starting to look like they aren't really mine (don't fit right anymore), but I just keep wearing them anyway because I insist on not buying a bigger size! I also want to do more toning of my muscles.

Yesterday I did 20 minutes collectively on the step, squats, and some sit-ups. I ordered the DVD 2 days ago and am anxiously watching my mailbox!

Thank you, Sarah, for starting this challenge!

Two Days In

I just finished my second shred workout...I kind of like working out at night. It's hard to talk myself into working out when I'm tired at the end of the day, but once I do it I feel so good...and I usually sleep better too!

I did Level 1 yesterday and Level 2 today. I like mixing them up because each level works different areas. I actually like Level 2 better. Someday I'll be brave enough to try level 3...maybe tomorrow???

Starting out...

For my first post, I'm gonna go out on a limb and do a "Who/Where I am" sort of thing, because although I know some of you, I certainly don't know all of you. So, here goes...

I am a thirty-four year old mother of two, living in Western Oregon with my husband of (almost) thirteen years. My son, Kellen, will turn twelve in November, and loves participating in his Scout troop. He is also thrilled to be in the 6th grade now, with opportunities for playing drums in the school band (ugh!). My daughter, Madison, just turned five at the end of August and is thoroughly enjoying her first year of school as a Kindergartner. My husband easily works a 60-hour work week with a non-profit organization, which has a tendency to complicate my schedule because I am a full-time student, although if plans go right I will graduate in March of 2011.

Since Madison's birth (obviously 5 years ago) I haven't been able to get rid of the 'baby fat' and have put on a bit more on top of that. That having been said, my hope is to either A) lose about 40 lbs or B) fit back into a size 10 jeans. I say either/or because, of course, muscle weighs more than fat and it would be possible for me to fit back into the jeans without having lost the full 40 lbs, yadda yadda...

For today, because I don't have my dvd yet, I worked out on the WiiFit for about an hour (211 calories) and then went for an approximate 2 mile walk/run (which was at least half "walk").

I think that's about it for me today. I look forward to working out "with" all of you :)

Millbrae- Goals....

Me- 7 years ago...

... the me I want to be again...

...Someday.

Right now I have two goals... the usual effective things for getting healthy...

Goal 1- loose weight
Goal 2- eat healthier

Goal 1- is to loose another 15- 20 lbs. This is probably not completely realistic. But I'd love to have the body I had when I got married... and I've only been married for 6.5 years. So far I have lost 18 lbs, from the beginning of the year. At the beginning of the year, I weighed the most I have ever weighed, besides my pregnancies. I need to get rid of this double chin that creeping up on me too. Double chin = YUCK!

The ME Today...

It has been hard to stay motivated. Partly because I can't see much of a difference in myself after loosing the 18 lbs, and you expect to be complimented, but it doesn't happen. I've only had one person truely compliment me. I can feel a difference in the way my clothes fit though, and that's a great feeling.
So to try and keep myself motivated, besides willingly joining this awesome program,
I took a side and front pic of myself this morning. I'm mortified of this gut I've not gotten rid of after having kids, but hopefully those pic's will also help to keep me motivated. (I can't believe I just informed everyone that I took a 'before' pic! Don't expect me to post it! lol!)
Goal 2- to try and eat more healthy. Not that I'm a always unhealthy in my diet. But I definately could do more to make better, healthier choices.

To report for -DAY 1- (yesterday) I didn't get a good workout in, but I did walk my oldest to school, and ran some errands. I was exhaused yesterday from jetlag, and lack of sleep from a long weekend.

So today -DAY 2- I did Level 1 of the 30 Day Shred. I am surprised at myself and how well I did. It's been almost 3 months since I've been able to workout, for various reasons, and I'm impressed with myself! I also did a 20 minute workout from Turbo Jam called Ab Jam. I'm hoping I really feel sore in my core tomorrow. My core is what needs the most work.

Thanks for getting all of this started Sarah!

Welcome!

Welcome to our 30 day shred challenge! I am excited for this challenge and excited to be doing it with all of you.

So, why the challenge?  I have lost 33 lbs since March. While I was actively trying to lose weight I was really good about exercising. Now that I am focusing more on maintaining my weight, I have found that I am quickly losing my motivation to work out. And I'm feeling it. When I do exercise, I have more energy and it is easier to make good food choices. When I don't I just start to drag and then I tend to snack a lot to compensate for the lack of energy. So, in short, I just feel so much better when I'm exercising regularly. And this is where the 30 day challenge comes in for me. I needed to have a goal, something to work towards, and the accountability that comes with this blog and working together with you all. By doing this challenge, I am hoping to get more toned and to continue to maintain my current weight.

Feel free to share your goals, and your progress as you go along. Being accountable to other people is a great motivator!

And as a final side note, feel free to start the challenge today, or the day that you get your video. Or if you want to set your own 30 day fitness challenge and post your progress here that is great too!

So, my progress report for today- Day 1-

I did the shred in the morning. I don't know how well this is going to work for me. The kids were running circles around me and running through my legs and sitting on me when I laid down for the abs part. It made it hard to get anything done! So, I need to play around with times that work best, maybe get up earlier, before the kids...who knows. Even with the interruptions I am feeling the workout today...especially in my legs. It's a good feeling.  :)