Can exercise be considered pampering oneself?

I wanted to search some benefits of pampering yourself, and I found some. But I found an interesting twist. Many sites considered eating healthy and exercising "pampering." Now, while I can see where they are coming from, that's not necessarily the pampering any of us here want. No! We want massages, 30 minutes alone, relaxing in a tub with a good book. But it brought an interesting point to mind, pampering is anything that you do that makes you feel good about yourself, and of course, when you exercise and eat right, you feel better about yourself.

As mentioned in the before post, I sort of hard core went off the bandwagon, but as part of pampering myself this month, I'm going to make it a point to get back to eating healthy and exercising regularly. I can't believe how many articles mentioned exercising as a form of pampering. So, if you're feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or anxious (and yes, thinking you're too busy for exercise is considering stressing out), head to the gym for a half hour. It counts as pampering!!

Of course, straight up traditional pampering is good for you too and is obviously lots of fun!!

A

Audrina Patridge - googleimages search

google images search

March weeks 1 and 2 check in

So, I know this lately has become sort of a disaster blog. I'm half tempted to just say "forget about it" and never write another post. I'm losing momentum, and I know you out there are too. How did this start off sounding like such a great idea, and here I am, barely 1/6th of the way through the year, and I'm ready to throw the towel in?

And I did ponder throwing the towel in. In fact, just mere minutes ago before I started typing this, I was thinking about what I would say, but then I realized, no, it's time for me to get remotivated. Sure, I have a few set backs, my accident, then a birthday disaster, but I'm ready to get back serious about this.

So, we will check in with this month's challenge. This one was pretty easy, obviously. But I noticed that this time, when I got my manicure/pedicure, and highlights/hair cut, I made sure I was more aware of this being a treat, rather than something I just needed to do to look good. I sat there actively thinking "this is a rare treat that not everyone does." And it made it just a little bit more special.

Well, there you have it for me. The first weekend, I got a manicure and pedicure, then this weekend, I got my hair cut and highlighted, AND took a two hour nap, which is unheard of in my house hold. But I feel relaxed, pretty, and ready to get face the world.

In other news, I sort of fell off the workout bandwagon after the accident, so starting this week, I'm going to get re-energized to hit the gym every day. I also haven't had a good day of clean eating in over a week, so I'm committing myself to eating healthfully this week. I'm also committing to doing a better job of this blog. In fact, I think I'm going to research some stuff to post right now. And later this week, I have an interesting article/challenge that if you think exercising and not eating chocolate is hard, try this one on for size! Sort of puts things in perspective!

March 1

Here it is, the beginning of a new month, a new start. For some, the beginning of a new decade of being alive. Time to reward yourself for being so great. Time to take a little "me" time out. Many of us have so many responsibilities and things to do that we forget to take some time out to take care of our own well being. That's what the point of this blog was, to hopefully entice you to start caring about yourself. However, taking care of oneself is more than being healthy and eating right, it's about having a healthy soul as well.

Now while pampering yourself may not give you the same overall health benefits that eating right and exercise does, it does contribute in a major way by lowering your overall stress levels. High levels of stress are linked to many health problems including insomnia, back problems, stress eating (or weight loss for the other stress type), high blood pressure, depression, and even gastrointestinal disorders. The list is really extensive. Therefore, it's very important to take some time to de-stress every now and then. And this is not meant to be a stressful event (how am I going to fit in my stress relief into my busy schedule? will just leave you ending up more stressed).

Obviously eliminating stress is not possible. There's always going to be car trouble, a late deadline at work, a hormonal teenage, but we can strive to mitigate some of the stress though stress management techniques. And that's what this month is all about. Taking some time, not feeling guilty, and doing something that makes you feel relaxed.

My first pampering of the month will be getting a haircut. Yes, I know we get them every so often, but this time, I'm going to really enjoy the experience. Get that glass of wine, not worry about where I need to be after wards, or that my hair dresser keeps raising his prices! I'm going to just enjoy the over all experience. So, I'm set for week 1. How about you?

Week 4 Check in and March challenge

So, I'm getting the feeling this month was a disaster for everyone. Like I said, who would have thought it would have been that much easier to exercise everyday than to change your eating habits!? I guess I did okay this week, but the month in general was not good, meaning I did not accomplish this month's goal. Not even close. And I know it wasn't for at least 5 others of you out there. I won't name names though, so you can breath a sigh of relief! Did anyone manage to succeed? I think we'll have to try this one again another month, and this time actually stick to it!

As far as March is concerned, this month we're going to focus on our inner wellbeing and take some time for ourselves. Each week, you should do something to pamper yourself. This could be obvious, such as a massage, pedicure, a hair cut, highlights, or something less obvious, but still manages to give you that sense of "ahhhh." This could be taking a bath, reading a book, taking a nap one afternoon. All of these things without feeling guilty like "omg, I have sooooo much to do!" But once a week, you should do something just for yourself and not worry about it, not feel guilty. You deserve it. And it's part of the total wellness package we're working on.

So, what do you have in mind? I'm thinking a massage, pedicure, and I'll have to think of two others, but I'm good for the first half of the month.

Ok, two more days left in February (including today). Let's try to hold out with no C's this last weekend! Come on! We can do it! Two more days, that's all I'm asking of you!

Late week 3 check in and other miscellaneous items

I know it's been over a week, but I have to be honest, I was disappointed in myself and didn't want to admit it to the blogosphere.

I officially went off the No C's bandwagon 4 days in a row! But I learned a lot from this experience.

1. I learned that I am like an alcoholic when it comes to food. I can't have just one. I had chocolate on Valentine's Day and rather than satisfying me, it only set off the out of control behavior that followed the next four days.

2. It is easier to work out every day than it is to make diet changes.

3. Therefore, I agree with all the experts that say losing weight must be 90% diet and 10% exercise.

So, what am I going to do with this new found knowledge? For one, I have decided that I can't have treats. I overdose on them, and that's just not good for anyone. Secondly, I am going to get back on the bandwagon and say no treats until my birthday (which is March 7). - Side note, I haven't had any since the 17th, meaning first no C day was on the 18th. Are these sweets really worth it? I mean, is my life incomplete without them? I say no. I say I am doing fine without them, and I need to avoid them at all cost! I just need to remind myself that C's are poison in my body.

I'm not going down with out taking others with me. Okay, I won't name any names, but you can probably guess.

Suspect 1 convinced me to have some King Cake on Fat Tuesday. I told her no, but she persisted and eventually wore me down (okay, to be fair, it didn't take a lot of persuading). I think she thought if I had some, it would be okay if she did too. Suspect 2 found me eating the King Cake and had a piece herself! I will say that suspect 1 went off the bandwagon a few more times than me (I think 6 total month to date), while Suspect 2 is doing slightly better than me at 3 times.

What about you? Are you doing as terribly as me? I should have listened to Tanya who suggested we do one treat a week. Dang it!

So, the quotes on my calendars the past few days have been apropos. I will share.

"You can't hit a home run unless you step up to the plate. You can't catch fish unless you put your line in the water. You can't reach your goals if you don't try." - Kathy Seligman

"An archer cannot hit thebull's eye if he doesn't know where the target is." - Anonymous

"Nothing can stop the man with the right mental attitude from achieving his goal; nothing on earth can help the man with the wrong mental attitude." - Thomas Jefferson

So, yes, I may have hit a little bit of a patchy spot, but it's time to get my mental attitude adjusted back on track, decide what my goal is, and achieve it. I messed up. I need to add another week to the No C's. I'm getting back to the gym after my accident, and it's time to get re-energized on the wellness front!

Ok! Are you feeling pumped! No C's for you! Gym for you! We can do it!

Not-so-sweet truth about sugar

Did you know that the Department of Agriculture recommends no more than 6 teaspoons of added sugar daily? You remember the pyramid from elementary school? The "other" at the top just simply indicated "use sparingly." Well, when they revamped the pyramid, that last category was eliminated, and replaced with just oils. (See here for more information on the food pyramid.) Basically, what this tells me is that sugar should be used so sparingly that they don't even want to include it on the food pyramid anymore. However, the average American consumes 2-3 lbs of sugar a week! Hence the reason it's the perfect thing to eliminate from our diet for one month! 

A recent report from the University of Colorado indicated that when people consumed more than 42 teaspoons of added sugar a day, their blood pressure rose 5 points in two weeks.

How quickly does this add up?

2 tablespoons of sugar in cup of coffee = 6 teaspoons

2 tablespoons in second cup of coffee = 6 teaspoons

1 soda at lunch = 10 teaspoons

4 tablespoons ketchup on fries at lunch = 4 teaspoons

1 cup pasta sauce with dinner = 4 teaspoons

1 piece chocolate cake = 6 teaspoons

TOTAL SUGAR COUNT = 36 teaspoons!

Further online research found that there is no need for sugar in our diet. Sugars from carbohydrates and fruits more than exceed our need for sugar for energy. Additionally, Danie indicated that she remembered reading an article a few months ago that said that sugar added to the breakdown of collagen in your body, making you more susceptible to wrinkles, and who needs that? Other dangers of sugar include:

1. Suppressing of immune system, making you more vulnerable to infectious diseases

2. a significant rise in total cholesterol, triglycerides and bad cholesterol and a decrease in good cholesterol.

3. Sugar causes a loss of tissue elasticity and function (this relates to what Danie said about wrinkles)

4. Sugar is enemy #1 of your bowel movement.

5. Sugar can cause headaches, including migraines

6. Sugar is considered a poison because it has been depleted of its life forces, vitamins and minerals

7. Sugar aggrevates asthma

8. Sugar can contribute to hyperactivity, anxiety, depression, concentration difficulties, and crankiness in children

9. Sugar can promote tooth decay.

10. High intake of sugar increases the risk of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis

11. Ok, do I seriously need to continue?   

Don't ask me to cite where I got this information from, nor am I going to do any extensive research to determine the validity. The one conclusion I think we can all come to is that it's best to limit your sugar intake. So, regardless of how you've been doing this month, I hope you can vow to finish off these last 14 days with no sugary sweet treats!

Week 2 Check In

Well, this one was definitely harder than last month's! How can not eating sweets be harder than forcing yourself to work out every day one month? It just doesn't make sense!

I know Danie's already broken down and had sweets more than once this month. Anyone else want to fess up? Anyone!?

Ok, ok, you got me! I effed up this month! I did! :'( Yikes! I know! So, yesterday, I knew there would be chocolate cake for dessert after dinner, so when someone offered me a handful of some chocolate candies earlier that day, I did not say no. I figured yesterday was the day. But after dinner, I was just too full to eat the cake. Not wanting to be a party pooper, I told K I would have some today. And so while I haven't effed up just yet, I will tonight. I will have a piece of the cake, and it will have been two days in a row with a forbidden food item. And I feel guilty.

I especially feel guilty because I haven't exercised all month. That's right! Not once ALL MONTH. It's been a deadly combination of being snowed in, my accident (it's hard to want to work out when you can't move your arm), and numerous doctor's appointments. I think I'm going to head out there tonight, but I obviously can't do the rower, I can't lift weights, it just 100% sucks. Sucks. I guess it's back to the danged bike for me. Woo hoo, 150 calories in a full hour! I'm debating wearing my sling or not. On one hand it is a HUGE pain in the ass. On the other, at least people will recognize that I'm injured, that's why I'm so pathetic in there. I'm seriously afraid to go back to the James Center in the morning for fear of all the comments I'll get "where have you been all month missy?" Ugh! Why is my life such a hot mess?

Ok, well, enough rambling about me. How have you all been doing this month?

Oh, and I've tried to google search some articles about the perils of sugar, but haven't really found one yet. So, that's why there's been less education this month.

Stay safe out there people. And good luck for the rest of the month! I've decided the first half was a disaster, but I'm counting the pluses (for example, baking cookies without tasting one), and will resign to end the month on the right step! Back to the gym, and starting tomorrow, no more sweets, in fact, I'll extend it til my birthday in March, to make up for the indisgression this weekend!

xoxo

Week 1 Check In

Just wanted to see how everyone was doing with the No C rule.

I have to say, I am most disappointed in D, who had Cake at a Superbowl Party!!! Seriously! You can't make it one week!? One week, I ask!!!?

Anyways, this is very hard, I don't know if it's because I can't have it, or if I always am this crazed about sweets, but I'm finding the candies at the grocery store and the candy dishes around the office are calling me just a little more often and a little more loudly than usual!

Then, this weekend, being snowed in, it was very hard not to drink a nice, hot, creamy, delicious cup of hot chocolate! But I did not!

 

ehow.com

And I made chocolate chip cookies for my neighbor (see sidebar below), without a single tasting! This was a feat people! A feat! I usually eat at least half of the cookies I ever make, usually most of it in the raw form. So, needless to say, this was quite an accomplishment for yours truly.

 

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So, tell me how you all did, in the snow. Did you fall shamelessly for a cheap piece of cake, like Danie? Or did you stand strong and true to your values?

PS - Caroline, yes, you can have the treat during your friend's birthday later on in the month. Susan, yours is for your brother's wedding, but beware during Valentine's weekend, when the chocolate kisses will be beckoning!

30X30 Check in

So, there you have it folks! A log of an entire month of working out. All pretty intense, full out workouts, except for the last few, dark days. But all in all, I'm impressed with myself. I did it! I set a goal out and I accomplished it!

Now, onto February!

So, how did everyone else do? I think Scarlett, Erin, and Susan managed to also pull a full month of workouts in. Danie was very close, I think missed only one day. Caroline and Tanya get honorable mentions while Erica and Greta get an F from Coach Phillips. But kudos also to Carla and Becca who put forth some effort to this. Hey, anything is better than none! So, great job everyone!

Although I wanted to continue working out once the goal was completed, clearly I need a break. It's February 3 right now. I did not do any form of exercise Monday or Tuesday. Today I did get a 30 minute walk in with Becca, but it was low impact, and just something to get me moving.

I have wanted some chocolate in the past few days. I think since I can't have it, I want it more. And it's only day 3. But I'll manage. I completed January, and now I'll complete February. Who is with me?!  Remember, you get one cheat day over the Valentine's Day weekend, or if it's your birthday, I'll give you two days.

I'll find some articles on the perils of sugar and high refined carbs and post sometime this month.

Happy February, and remember, if it starts with a C and is delicious and tasty, you'd best not be eating any of it!

xoxo, Sarah

30X30 and 31! (Also known as Worst Day Ever)

My flight on Saturday was canceled, so I was "forced" to spend a mini-vacation in Albuquerque on Saturday. 

For my 30 minutes, I have to admit, it was a little weak. I didn't have any work out clothes, I was expecting to get back around noon on Saturday and would go to the gym then, but as they often do, things do not always go as planned.

I spent Saturday visiting the Sandria Mountains. These mountains were formed over 1.4 billion years ago and boast some of the highest elevation in New Mexico. The rocks are mostly mica and granite, and apparently turn pink when the sun sets, hence the name Sandia, which means watermelon in Spanish.

Here's a view from the base of the mountains.

 

This is also the home of the world's largest passenger aerial tram way, the Sandia Peak Ski and Tramway. It also has the world's third largest single span for a tramway. I heard this was a must do attraction while in Albuquerque. The tram goes up 2.7 miles to the top of the mountain, and raises 3,819 feet. It was completed in 1966 by a Swedish engineer who thought these mountains deserved the same sort of tramway as the Alps. This is not something to do if you are afraid of heights, but it made a magnificent and very picturesque ascent up into the mountains.

 

Here's a picture of the tram from the top of the mountain. 

 

I thought I'd be able to get some hiking done up here, but no such luck. The trails were all covered in snow. So, I did not count any of that time as my exercise. Instead, I went downtown, where Central (part of the old Route 66) crossed the Rio Grande, and walked along the paved pathway along the banks of the river.

And in case you are wondering, I felt only slightly lame doing all those touristy things alone!

So, although not as intense as some of the other days, I did manage to get 30 minutes in. I spent the rest of my day getting a manicure and shopping. And as all you folks were probably stuck inside with no way out because of the snow, I felt like it was a pretty perfect day.

As I found out later, Saturday was the calm before the storm.

On Sunday, I get to the Albuquerque airport around 5 am, as my flight is scheduled to leave at 6 am. Nothing unusual about my day so far. I get some water, get my book out and sit at the gate. Around 5:45, I hear an announcement that there are some technical issues with my plane, and we're going to be delayed about an hour! Well, that was settled, I was going to miss my flight! I went to the counter and the woman told me the 2:20 was booked, so she would hold me a spot on the 6 pm! 6 pm! I cried! That's nine hours in the airport! At this point, however, I'm still optimistic. I'm a sucker like that.

The plan arrives at 9:20 am  in DFW on the dot. My connection is at 9:25, but I'm hopeful it's a little delayed. After all, both flights to Albuquerque were, my first one back was also, plus there's the snow issue. So, I'm thinking, maybe, just maybe I can make it!

I get off the plane and I start hauling ass. Full out sprinting through the airport.

Suddenly, and the details here are a little murky, I find myself tumbling toward the ground. As I see the floor rushing up to meet me, the thought running through my head is "wow, this is going to be embarrassing." I don't manage to catch myself and I slam hard into the floor. As soon as I made contact, there was no room for thoughts of embarrassment, all thoughts were turned to intense, excruciating pain like I don't remember ever feeling before. Some kind strangers help me up, and my knees, shoulder, hands and head are all throbbing. I sort of half jog/half miserably walk to my gate, and of course, the plane has left.

At this point, I start crying. Well, I went into a little corner and start bawling. I'm in intense pain, I have 9 hours to spend in the airport and I'm a hot mess. A good cry always makes you feel better, well, sometimes anyways.

After I calm down a little bit, I go back to the desk, and she informs me there is in fact seats available on the 2:20. I am mixed between relief at not having 9 hours at the airport, and livid because I probably wouldn't have been in such a panic mode if I'd known there was this earlier flight.

The woman at the American Airlines counter was very helpful. She got me some bags and filled them with ice, and I spent the next four hours alternating between icing my knees, my shoulder, and walking so my knees didn't get stiff.

Did you think I didn't get my 30 in? No! Remember the number one rule!? Despite my pain, and yes, it was painful, I managed to get a hour and a half walk in. I walked around the entire airport, lugging my broken and bruised self all the way around the DFW airport. I was a pitiful site. I wasn't walking smartly or with any sort of bounce. My eyes were brimming with tears. I was hunched over trying to ignore the pain. I know I looked like a pathetic site, but I did it! I completed my goal of moving every single day for 30 minutes in January!!

Here's a picture of my knee. Lovely, isn't it?

 

And don't worry, my shoulder hurts worse than this looks!

Days 30 and 31, while complete, were hardly a success.

30X29 - Albuqurque style

So, true to my word yesterday, I got my hour in today at Petroglyph National Monument. If you're ever there, make sure to bring a hat, the sun was KILLER. I think I got a little sunburn today, even though it was about 40 degrees out, that sun was strong.

The elevation in Albuquerque is 5,000 feet above sea level, and even though I wasn't totally exerting myself, I was getting a little out of breath. I was in Albuquerque for a client meeting, and one of the guys in the meeting said (a little snippy, I might add), that "Denver always gets the credit for being the 'mile high city', but Albuquerque is a mile above sea level also!"

When I got to the park, it was deathly still. The silence was palpable, eerie, yet serene all at once. The sun beat relentlessly on the sand and the rocks of the canyon. Albuqurque is nestled in the Rio Grande Valley. If you look west, you see high desert, quite and still. If you look to the east, you see the magnificent Sandia Mountains rising well above 10,000 feet, covered in white snow that glistened in the bright desert sun. It really and truly was a beautiful sight to behold.

The petroglyphs, while a little anti-climatic, were pretty neat. Most of them were carved by the Pueblo people, and most have spiritual meanings behind them. I don't think anyone knows exactly how old they are. Most were of spirits, human faces, serpents, and what I felt were random geometric shapes, but I'm sure it had some sort of spiritual significance, worshiping the sun, or moon, or whatever. Unfortunately, there was also a lot of graffiti. Isn't that sad? Yes, there was "Steve was here" and random initials. Over one particularly intricate petroglyph, someone had scratched many times so that it looked like at least a dozen thin lines etched over the ancient rock drawings.

Here's some photos of the Rinconada Canyon that I hiked in. And yes, I tried to be artsy with the first one! 

 

  

  

Here's some of the pictures of the petroglyph's that I took. Apparently I didn't get into the heart of the park where the really good ones are. The last picture is courtesy of Wikipedia under Petroglyph National Monument

 

 

  

  

 

 

Ok, I know I got off topic, so I will end by saying even on business trip, I managed to get my 30 in! What was the first rule? NO EXCUSES!! Tomorrow's going to be a bit of a challenge. I'm flying back to Virginia tomorrow, and it's looking a little dicey because of the weather. If my plane gets diverted and I'm stuck on a tarmac for hours, I'm not sure what I'll do, but I will manage, after all, no excuses right? Although, I am tempted to say that sitting on a tarmac count where it's physically impossible to get up is pretty darn good as far as excuses go.

February's Challenge: No C's

Well, it's finally almost here. February! Does anyone else feel like January just CREPT by? Not sure if it's because it was sort of slow at work, or because it was so freaking freezing, or potentially because I spent every waking second at the gym, but this was a tough January! I'm thankful it's over and one month closer to spring!

Well, I hope everyone has been enjoying the daily workouts! Only 4 more days and you're done! Don't you feel awesome! I know I do! I really feel like I accomplished something, and I love bragging about it. But I love bragging about everything and anything, so not sure if that really means anything. But I do feel great, and honestly want to see how long I can keep this up, or at the bare minimum, reduce the number of times I don't workout, especially on the weekends, and especially since I stopped running.

Ok, on to February since I know you're waiting with bated breath. February is a nutrition goal, so we are going to go with "No C's." What are C's you may ask? Well, I will tell you. C's are: Cookies, Cakes, Chocolate, Candy, iCe Cream, and Circles (i.e. pies). That's right. Straight up, none of those. NONE.

I will allow one "cheat." During Valentine's weekend, you may have ONE of the above ONE time during that Friday through Sunday. Then that's it, done. I'm not expecting that I'll have any over that weekend, but I know a lot of you might have a sweetie that might buy you some chocolate, and I want you to enjoy it. But then, you're done, back to the strict limitation.

I know this is going to be IMMENSELY hard for me. As Susan put it, it's going to be straight up brutal. I love love love candies and cakes and treats of all kind. But that's the very reason why it's a perfect goal. I can never say no, and once I have one, I totally binge, and that is not healthy for anyone. This month's goal will require a LOT of self control! But I know if I have you all's support, I can do it!

pastaqueen.com

 

collegepulse.net

 

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So, what do you all think about this month's challenge!!! Are you game? Do you think it'll be easy? (BTW, who are these people that don't like sweets? I just want to punch them in the face everytime I hear someone say "oh, sweets just don't tempt me." Jerks!) Do you think it'll be brutal? What's the verdict folks?

Love to all in February! Be well!

30X26,27,28

I'm sitting here at the Richmond Airport getting and realized this is the perfect time to catch up on my blogging! I'll see how much I can get through before we start boarding in about 20 minutes.

I definitely made it Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday (today). Although today, I have to admit was pretty weak. Under normal circumstances I probably wouldn't have even gone. I just didn't really get anything from the gym, but because I am dedicated to this, I plowed on through the most uninspired workout ever. But, as I have mentioned several times before, anything is better than nothing! Even if I didn't even sweat. But after the 30 minutes was up, I did stretch for about 15 minutes, which felt soooo good. I've been really sore lately, I think it's from the increase in the intensity from Danie and my workouts. But anyways, that at least made it worthwhile, I feel much more limber these days.

I'm heading out to Albuquerque today for work!! I love it out west, I really do. It's just so serene and beautiful and there really is something about the stillness of the land that is beyond words. You can almost hear the traditional tribal music with the beat of the drum and the soothing melody of the flute in the quiet background as you look over the desert. I love all the Native American jewelry too and definitely packed all my silver and turquoise I bought back over a decade ago from the last time I was in New Mexico. I think the client will appreciate my trying to fit in!

Since neither Richmond nor Albuquerque are major airports, I have to fly back Saturday even though the meeting is over around noon. So, I did some research and am going to spend some of my afternoon by getting in my 30 minutes (at least) at the Petroglyph National Monument. There's lots of trails there that I can go hiking on and check out all the petroglyphs. Sounds awesome huh? Do you think the Indians thousands of years ago would imagine we'd be here studying and visiting their scratchings?

 

images from google image search

I did remember to bring my camera and hope to have some photos of my own to share next time!

In other news, does anyone else feel like there's an awful lot of stories on the news about a young woman in her late 20s/early 30s disappearing from some sort of nature trail and it's always out west somewhere!? Yikes! Not being paranoid or anything... I'll be fine!

Have a great day!

30X22,23,24

I am getting slack on these posts! Also, I have a guest blog to do (yes, I know, I'm sooo popular), and I just can't seem to find the time to do it! But I guess that's because I'm spending my extra time working out! :)

Regular weight workout Friday.

Saturday was a super fun 30 minutes in, or make that 2 hours! I went biking along the Capital Trail. We had a super fun time and I love that I was able to get my 30 minutes while still having a really fun outing. It was a little chilly, but we warmed up from the biking and it turned out to be an incredible day (both weather and otherwise). Anyways, my butt is still a little sore today, but it was totally worth it.

The trail is going to be so nice when it's finished. It'll run from Richmond to Williamsburg sort of along Route 5, down by the Plantations and River. I think the final trail will be about 40 miles, but even if you don't do the whole thing, they'll be lots of parts to just drive down and get a quick run or bike in. For as long as I lived here, I always thought that Richmond was missing more trails along the river, so I'm very happy to see this development.

Oh, and what are your thoughts on bike helmets for a leisurely afternoon bike ride? We weren't wearing any, and I definitely was making fun of the thought of us wearing helmets (plus, I don't even own one), but every single person we passed on a bike had a helmet on! Every last one of them! Were we wrong to not be wearing helmets? Was it National Helmet Appreciation Day and we didn't get the memo?

Here's some photos I found from theaellen fliker's page (popped up on google image search). Obviously this is in spring and we had a little bit of a different view. I have GOT to start remembering to bring my camera along.

 

Today, Danie and I went for an hour walk, we both had lots to catch each other up on from our weekends, so it was a nice walk down and around Byrd Park.

Anyways, that's my weekend, how did everyone else do!?
xoxo, Sarah

30X21, and Jillian Michaels No Excuses

First things first: 1. Welcome Carla! I'm sure you'll be great! 2. I just found out I need to add Scarlett to my list of people that have been diligently rocking the 30X30 so far, so major props to you! 3. Caroline and Tanya, where are you guys? Hope you've been keeping up! ;) 4. Guess E&G fell off the face of the earth?

30X21 was a success today. I am reading this new book that is so freaking funny, so I did the bike so I could get the full 45 minutes worth of reading. How embarrassing is it when you are actually laughing out loud, not giggling, not smiling, not sort of chuckling under your breath, but straight up laughing while reading a book at the gym? Please say not too embarrassing because that's what I was doing.

I also found this great article from Jillian Michaels on yahoo. The title is "Jillian Michaels Debunks Your Top 8 Reasons for Not Working Out" and basically it goes back to the main principle for what January started out with: NO EXCUSES. You all remember that post, right? You were all excited, you were all geared up, I had us all pumped! We were going to do this! Yes We Can!! (No Obama relation there!) Then, one by one the list got smaller and smaller until it was a core group of dedicated machines!

Here's the article hoping it will revamp that feeling from earlier this year and get you in the mood to finish out the month strong! We can do it!! And this is the article. It reaffirms everything we talked about earlier this month, and yes, it was only a few short weeks ago that we discussed the NO EXCUSES mantra!!

 

Jillian Michaels Debunks Your Top 8 Excuses for Not Being Fit

SELF.com

By Lucy Danziger, SELF Editor-in-Chief

When it comes to getting fit, you know what you should do (hint: move more and eat less—or at least better). It's actually doing it that can be so difficult. Cold morning? I'm the first one to want to sleep in! My muscles will be too stiff to jog in the park, I tell myself. I know, I know—just get on the treadmill.
If only it were as easy to make it to the gym or order the salad as it is to concoct reasons not to, we'd all look like, well, Jillian Michaels. Which is why we went straight to the Biggest Loser trainer and SELF contributor—a woman who simply doesn't do excuses—to get her cures for wavering willpower. Keep Michaels' stick-with-it advice in mind when you're looking for a way out. Staying the course will come more easily, and so will getting a standout body!

Excuse: "I have zero time to exercise!"
Michaels says: "I feel your pain—my life is crazy, too. But good-for-you habits are the last thing that should go. If you don't take care of yourself, you'll have less energy to be that supportive person in your loved ones' lives. I tell working moms to ask for help. It used to take a village to raise kids; you can't do it on your own."
Identify your personality type for a willpower makeover. 

Excuse: "I can’t afford a gym or fresh produce."
Michaels says: "Commit to a $100 investment in 10 fitness DVDs and you'll have enough variety for six months at least. You can do a whole workout—sit-ups, jumping jacks, squats—without any equipment. And imagine the cost of taking diabetes meds for the rest of your life—much more than the extra $50 a month you should spend on groceries and fish." Try this free, do-anywhere workout created by Michaels to get started.

Excuse: "The cookies in my cabinet are calling me!"
Michaels says: 'I don't keep junk in the house or let waiters bring bread to my table. I have no discipline, so I protect myself from temptation." Stock up on some of these 30 healthy snack options instead.

Excuse: "I can’t get up early to work out, and I’m tired at night."
Michaels says: "When the alarm goes off, ask yourself, 'Will going back to sleep help me reach my great goal?' If the workout isn't attached to a larger reason—like having the confidence to get back in the dating game—it won't stick." Got 10 minutes? Try this superfast workout you can do in your living room.

Excuse: "I've hit a plateau; I give up."
Michaels says: "Get selfish! Don't think you're asking too much of the world or of yourself. Push through by believing the new, improved you is your destiny. There's no reason you can't have it all."

Excuse: "I start off Monday with the best intentions, and then life takes over and I flake on my workouts."
Michaels says: "Set a daily or weekly target and reward yourself every time you meet it. I get my eyebrows done or download songs from iTunes."

Excuse: "I get so bored counting all those weight reps or running."
Michaels says: "As you exercise, think about what you're trying to achieve. Having intention behind your actions is extremely powerful. And nothing beats a good beat to keep energy high. I want to die when I don’t have my music! Any song by The Roots totally gets me psyched. Finally, you don’t have to kill yourself to get a workout. Running is one of the best ways to get smaller, but I hate it, so I do only one 10-minute mile."

Excuse: "But the couch is so comfy!"
Michaels says: "If you need a couple days off, take them. You don't want to get bitter or burn out."
For a workout so fast, fun and effective, you won’t need any excuses, try Michaels’s do-anywhere circuit-shape up at Self.com.

30X19 and 20

So, as I wrote about earlier, I am obsessed with the rower at the gym. I totally love it! Here's what to expect if you try it. 5 minutes seem pretty easy. 10 minutes and your back starts to feel it. 15 minutes and your back and arms are burning. 20 minutes...well, I haven't gotten there yet.

Yesterday, got in a full hour round-the-gym. 15 minutes rower, 15 minutes bike, 15 minutes elliptical, and 15 minutes arc trainer. I find that it helps me sometimes to get through the routine if I can break it up. 15 minutes sounds doable. 1 hour does not.

What is your favorite gym machine? Mine is the rower and kickboxing class.

Today was the usual Wednesday morning weight training. The gym was packed with newbies, ugh.

Don't I just sound like such an obnoxious gym rat?

Danie, me and a few of the regular guys were bitching about it. (once again, don't I sound like an obnoxious gym rat?) Were these new years resolutioners? Or maybe there was some sort of convention at the Omni? Whatever it was, they were crawling all over the place. (oh, and as a side note, these guys also agreed with our assessment of the Tuckahoe YMCA and agreed the James Center was clearly the superior Y in the Richmond metropolitan area).

Back to the new people. This one guy was totally hogging an incline bench press. We go to do some different moves and literally a full 20 minutes later, we go back and he was still on it!! Seriously, what are you doing on one machine for over 20 minutes?! It was ridiculous. Then, another guy was wearing the most obscene outfit. Admittedly had a pretty hot bod, but he was wearing the tightest bike shorts I have ever seen. They were short and tight and made of spandex. It was odd. He seemed like a man's man, not someone I would have guessed would have been of the spandex persuasion. The real reason they were so obscene was he had the biggest bulge in his pants (not that I was looking, but...) Completely inappropriate. Of course the sexual deviant gym rat was there being sick as usual. But yea, just an unusually large amount of people we'd never seen before. Don't they know the unspoken rule of the James Center YMCA? You let me and Danie do what we want and you get out of our way!!

This is what I felt the gym was like this morning.

collegepublisher.com

And just because I love me some Britney Spears.

  

x17.com

Is 35 the new 40?

Whaaaa!? Yes, you did not read that backwards. I did not mistype it. According to a new survey from Royal Philip Electronics, I am a mere 5 years and 2 months from being considered "middle age."

Basically, the survey found that respondents aged 35-44 showed more levels of job-related stress that directly leads to a decrease in physical and mental wellness. The levels this age bracket is reporting used to be limited to the traditional middle aged and coined the phrase "the new age for middle age."

What happened to all the reports of "40 is the new 20!"? What does Demi Moore and Jennifer Aniston have to say about all this?

Ok, let's be honest here. Clearly, I'm not going to get all depressed based on one survey. I choose to believe the talks about looking better with age, and if a few more levels of stress accompany growing older and wiser, than so be it. This generation is reaching these levels earlier because we're doing better financially than previous generations. But the one point we can take from this article is it is just another reason why it's important now to start taking care of oneself, eating right, exercising, and not neglecting mental health as well.

So, how am I doing? I've worked out every day this month so far for 30 plus minutes. I gave up diet soda since December 28, and have only had water and wine going into this body as liquids. I've "cleaned" up my eating habits, and I will tell you what, I am feeling great!! Time to be 30 and fabulous!

Hope everyone is enjoying the journey as much as me!

 

 

30X18

Please please please tell me you did something today for your 30. Even if you haven't been doing anything yet, haven't been doing it religiously, gave up, whatever, please tell me today, on a holiday, when the weather was soooo unbelievable, you got outside and enjoyed the day and did SOMETHING.

Danie and I hit up the gym at 9 am to get in our weights. The gym was definitely odd. Very empty, and none of the usual characters were there either. Not sure if they didn't go at all, or still came in at 6 am.

Later this afternoon, I just had to do something outside, so a friend that lives nearby and I took our bikes and rode around town, down to the park, down by the river. It was so freaking unbelievably gorgeous! I just felt like a red and white polka dot dress was all that was missing!

Guess that's it for today! Enjoy the short week!
xoxo

30X15, 16, 17

Yes, yes. Just because I haven't posted in a long time does most certainly not mean I haven't been very diligent!! I went each of those days. Weight training Friday morning, as usual, and cardio Saturday and Sunday.

Today, I went to the Tuckahoe Y. The James Center, where I go every work day is closed Sunday, and the Downtown Y, where I go after work or weekends opens at 12. I had a lot to do today and needed to get in my workout earlier and the Tuckahoe Y opens at 8 on Sundays.

Do you ever get nervous when you go to a new gym? I definitely was. Fortunately, I went with Danie, otherwise I think I'd be too nervous! The Y was HUGE! There was two huge pools in there, all sorts of gyms, and a two story fitness center with rows upon rows of machines. Now, I know this is normal gym, that's how I think the American Family ones are, how the Y in Lynchburg is, etc., but I was overwhelmed!

First, we parked at the wrong door! We entered in through the back and found our way through to the front desk. Then, literally there was a maze to get to the fitness center. Well, once we found the center, one would think our worries would be over, but no. Now you have to figure out how to navigate the equipment. Is there a signup sheet, is there some sort of unspoken rules that everyone follows that we were about to break? We find some empty machines, fill out the sign up sheet and start working away. But instead of enjoying a nice workout, this was when the vultures swooped down. People would come up to the machine, stare at the log to see when you'd be getting off, look at the clock, stare rudely at you, then walk off, only to come back by again in a few minutes. I wanted to be like "Dude, sign up for the next slot and come back then, don't be hanging out around my machine." It was different.

Anyways, I'm sure that's the gym experience most of you have, but for me it was different, it was odd. I really like the friendly atmosphere at the James Center, and the more laid back attitude at the Downtown Y. But that is not what happened at Tuckahoe. It was very much get in, get down to business, and get out the door. Even the people at the front desk weren't nearly as friendly!

The other huge difference is there were children at this Y. Swimming lessons were going on in the pool, a boys' basketball game being played in one of the gyms. Seeing these kids laugh and splash and play on the court reminded me of my youth. I learned to swim at the Y from my aunt Susan who worked there. I played in my first co-ed basketball team at the Y. I was the only girl on the team, and from what I remember, I kicked some ass! My day camp took field trips to the Y where we played on the playground, in the pool, etc. I had some good memories at the Y.

So, mid-month check in!! How are we doing!?

30X14

You know how when you're just feeling really good and happy and want to work out even more? Something about the endorphins are running wild and you just feel so good you want to work out? Has that ever happened to you? Well, I'm there.

Also, you know when you're just having a busy week and don't know if you can get a workout in? Well, I'm there too.

I didn't make it to the gym this morning!! And I know I will be hearing it tomorrow from everyone from my bus driver, to the people working at the Y, to the fellow gym-goers. Also, I can't do it after work. But that does NOT mean I did not get my 30 minutes. I just couldn't live up to the shame if I didn't do this.

Danie and I went for a walk today at lunch, which was really nice, once again. The weather was perfect, I love walking down along the river. There was a group of school kids on a field trip. It's just really nice to get out and be outside and away from the office.

I'm digging this lunchtime walk and even though it isn't nearly the cardiovascular workout I would have liked, it's still moving, and that's all I asked for this month!

So, what is the point of this? I know we're all busy, I hear you. I'm busy too, but there's always time to get in a mere 30 minutes. At least for this one month.

And c'mon! The weather is warming up. The sun is shining. You should be feeling good right now. Maybe you faltered a few days this month, but that's okay. You know what you need to do. So do it!

Constitutional Success and 30X13

As you may remember, today was the deadline for getting in a constitutional for the first wellness shot. I'll admit, I went right up to the deadline and didn't know whether I'd do it or not. It was so cold, I was busy, blah blah blah. EXCUSES. But I'm always one for obeying rules and meeting goals, so during lunch, Danie and I went out for a brisk walk around Brown's Island. Success is mine for the first Wellness Shot Challenge! Also, I used the word "constitutional" at least a dozen times over the past week, including today when several coworkers mistakenly said "you two going for a walk?" We made sure to correct them real quick.

The constitutional ended up being a great idea. It was so nice outside, the sky was perfect blue, there were other fellow walkers/runners out. We decided it was also beneficial because we got our daily allowance of Vitamin D as well. But no worries, our face moisturizers have SPF, so we were covered, although, I'm never one to shy away from unprotected sun exposure! (Bad, I know, I know!) But all in all, we returned to the office rejuvenated. I'm thinking another fitness challenge will be to take a constitutional (aren't I obnoxious with that word?) maybe three times a week or something like that. But that's for a future month.

Danie had a great idea. I should have brought a camera to document this very special occasion and post on this blog. I didn't even think of that! So, in the future, I will be better!

Also got in the regular Wednesday morning weight training this morning at the Y, so today was a pretty good day.

So, some of you are keeping up with this. I think Caroline had a constitutional when she walked to the grocery store a few days ago. In the bitter cold, no less! How's everyone else doing!? Gotta stay motivated!  Sheesh, it's only the 13th. You're not telling me you couldn't stick with this for less than two weeks, are you!?

30X10,11(2), and 12

Well, so far things are on track. Went Sunday, Monday (twice!), and Tuesday!

And it is official, I am a gym rat. I've been going to the James Center Y for 4 years now, so I know a lot of the people that work there and workout there. We all say hello by name and have the causal gym conversations. As the James Center Y is not open Sundays, I have to go to the Downtown Y (which incidentally is where I go when I go after work as well). On Sunday, I ran into 4 people I know: two from the JC Y, one from my office, and one from school that I hadn't seen in years. Of course I felt like Ms. Popularity in there! But it helps when you feel like you have a network of "friends" at the gym. And trust me, they keep you accountable if they don't see you in there for a few days!

So, I think I have a pretty good workout partner in Danie. And I used to have a good running partner in Erin (who, I will be back to running with soon, I know it!!). I always thought that they kept me accountable and on track. But I found some interesting news and may be thinking about getting that adorable 100 lb mutt sooner rather than later.

A University of Missouri study found that dogs are a better exercise partner than humans. Without getting into the numbers, the study found that those with pets were more likely to keep up with a regular routine. The humans were too easily persuaded by the other and they could easily talk each other out of it, even if one was in the mood, chances were higher than the one not in the mood would win the argument. I know for one I am guilty of that. I can just hear the same old conversation between Danie and I. "I'm not in the mood, are you?" "Well, now that you say it, maybe not." "Are we making the right decision here?" "Yes, we did good yesterday and we DESERVE a day off." "Let's go to Ross and Panera and Red Nails instead!" "Yea!" And all thoughts of the gym are loooooong gone!

How can you say no to running with this?

Finchester.org

Let me know what's going on!!
xo

30X9

Ok, we're about a third of the way in! Aren't you all feeling amazing!? I know I do! It's getting to the point where I'm now expecting to go workout every day, and if I don't, I feel like something's missing. It's a great place to be. Danie and I were talking today at the gym, and we're thinking we'll have our own internal challenge to continue this after January (but once again readers, no worry, I won't be expecting you do to the same. I think you'll find you want to though after January is over, you'll be so surprised at how amazing you feel). Anyways, we're going to add 5 minutes each month. That sounds pretty reasonable, doesn't it? And I really do believe by the end of January, going to the gym every day will be a habit, and that's a habit we can all live with!

In other news, I am IN LOVE with the rowing machine! Where has this machine been my whole life? I am just doing 5 minutes on it now, sort of just as a little extra when I'm done with my workout, but I'm definitely going to increase the time and incorporate it daily into my workout. It burns tons of calories without you really feel like you're working that hard. This is because it uses all the major muscle groups, and if you think about it, most cardio only does the lower half. So, if you engage more muscles, it only makes sense. Most people assume it only works your upper body, but that's not true. It works the thighs, butt, arms, back and core all together. In addition, it's low impact (perfect for my healing foot). Anyways, I'm obsessed with this machine! Love it! If you guys have one at your gym, just try it for 5 minutes, let me know what you think!!

found on several websites with no photo credit

 

30X8

Here we are, at the end of a full week (and then some)! I got in my early AM weights with Danie this morning and I am feeling pumped!


So, I have props to the following who have gotten to 30X8 with me!
Danie
Erin
Tanya
Rebecca
Susan

So the above get my endless gratitude as you are keeping me motivated!!!

I know there's more out there, like some people from work that are following. Let us know how you're doing!

I don't know about you, but I am feeling better already. My energy has soared! When I used to get home from work, I used to crash, but I am getting so much more done these days because I have so much more energy. And that's just from one week! I'm definitely hoping to continue this after January, hope that January makes it a habit that I go from. But no worries to you all, I won't be expecting you keep up with it, but I bet you'll be surprised to see you notched up your own workouts as a result. How are you guys feeling?

Today's quote: "An optimist is the human personification of spring." - Susan J. Bissonette

Why does this quote matter today? Because an optimist is definitely not someone who goes around "gosh, I'm sooooo busy. I don't have time to work out, blah blah blah." Anyone can get optimist and excited and find that 30 minutes isn't so hard to fit in. Plus, with all the energy you'll get from working out, you actually have more time since you're not vegging in front of the TV at 7 pm for the night because you're exhausted.

Found on random blogs with no photo credits

One down, three to go!
xoxo, Sarah

30X7

My day: Wake up in hotel room in Baltimore at 5:30. Shower. Meet for client meeting at 6:45, leave Baltimore around 2:30, get back to Richmond 5:30. Went food shopping, ate dinner, went to the gym, am typing quick blog, then planning on hitting the hay early.

I almost didn't make it today. I didn't want to do it, and honestly, the only reason I did is because I didn't want to have to tell you all I didn't work out! Can't say it was the best workout I ever got, but as you can see above, I had a long day and I'm tired! But what was the number one rule from day 1? NO EXCUSES! So, I gotta live by my own rules.

Short blog today, just wanted to give shout out to Tanya who is doing awesome! And Caroline, who still gets props for doing a great job! What about anyone else? How are you doing?

30X5 and 6

I didn't forget you all yesterday! I was just at work until after 8 pm!! And just didn't feel like typing when I finally got home. Anyways, success was mine both yesterday and today! 45 minutes cardio yesterday and 1 hour weight this morning. Both at 6 am! So, no excuses! But I will admit, it's easier to get out of bed when I know Danie is meeting me to lift weights. So, do whatever you can to remain motivated and held accountable!

I have a great idea for this week's wellness shot!! My word of the day (I receive via email) a few days ago was constitutional, and no, it has nothing to do with the gov'ment. This definition is "noun: a walk taken for one's health." How perfect was that word? So, this week's wellness shot is two part. One is to take a constitutional, and the other will be to use that word to describe your walk to someone in casual conversation and then report back. I already see mine going down. When someone says to have a good night when leaving for the day, I'll reply back with "I will! I'll enjoy a nice constitutional and some reality TV!" Haha, obnoxious! But improving our vocab is good for our mind/soul! This week's wellness challenge will expire Wednesday, January 13th, so get your constitutional in before then and report back with confirmation of completion of both taking the constitutional, and using it in a sentence!!

 

Walking photo: David Martinez

30X4

Ok, so I know some of you have been a little slack over the weekend. Hey, you were hungover, you had stuff to do, you'd rather start a workout regime on a Monday. Whatever the excuse is, I'm forgiving it. I'm saying "that's okay" and letting you off the hook. Your 30X30 can start today and be a 30X26. I don't want you to give up because you already messed up. That is no excuse. Time to get back off your lazy bum, get excited about the wellness movement, and get pumping. I hope everyone, no excuses this time, made it out today to the gym. So, tell me, what did you do!?

I went to the gym this morning and got 45 minutes generic cardio in. But I tried a new machine! Which was pretty exciting! The rower. I only did it for 5 minutes, but hey, it was something new, and I definitely could feel it even after just 5 minutes in my arms!

Erin gave me this calendar with quotes on it (for this very blog, how sweet!), and whenever a day comes across that is worth sharing, I will. Today just happened to be one of those days: "The indispensable first step to getting the things you want out of life is this: decide what you want." - Ben Stein. This couldn't have been more perfect if I'd planned it. You need to decide what you want. Do you want to get healthy? Do you want to lose weight? Do you want to run your first marathon this year? Do you want to be less stressed out and more forgiving? Whatever it is, decide what it is, then make it a priority. Like I've said several times, no excuses. The rest will naturally follow, I promise.

I also like his idea of "first step." Because that's what this all is. Just one step after the other. No big bang is going to come and POW, just like that 30 lbs drop off. That's where the trouble begins. One of the many reasons resolutions don't work is people make resolutions, then get frustrated, bored, and off track when they don't see immediate tracks. But that's no way to win the race, you need to stay the course, baby steps. And the first step is the hardest, and as Ben put it, indispensable. Now that you've made that first step, you need to vow to stay on course. Realize there's no magic time machine to take you where you want to be overnight. It may be long and difficult, but it can also be tons of fun getting there. You're heading in the right direction, and the key is one step at a time.

I've decided what I want, it's not to get sidetracked on my resolutions (hence the blog, writing daily will keep me on track of it. I encourage you to do the same. Comment here, no matter what it is. At least writing it will keep you accountable).

One small step for Sarah, one giant leap for Sarah-kind.

30X30 may not be enough...try 60X365

Yes. Just when you felt like 30 minutes a day was impossible, and I was asking too much of you, I drop this bomb. Some new studies show that we need 60 to 90 minutes a day, every day!! This is true for everyone, but especially true for those who are trying to lose weight, or who need to maintain weight loss! Yikes! I know! That's a lot. If you don't believe me, read here, or here, or here, or here, or, okay you get the point.

In addition, this isn't the accumulation of 60 minutes throughout the day. Oh no, they want a pure, focused, intense 60 minutes in a row.

Fortunately, it's still a controversial topic, and many experts are disagreeing, indicating that 30 minutes is enough. But those that agree indicate that 30 minutes was the standard when Americans as a whole were much smaller. Now that we're bigger, it makes sense that we need more exercise.

Regardless, I think that this should put the 30X30 into perspective for you. Get healthy now, make the little changes now, before someone really is recommending 90 minutes a day for you. Because really, even I will say, who has the time for that!?

30X3

Definitely not in the mood to work out today, so I thought I'd knock it out with some quick on-demand videos. Wow, was I wrong about those.

Tried Yoga for beginners, which actually was really hard, but yoga was something I'd been meaning to get into for awhile. That was only 10 minutes, so for the other 20, I put on Carmen Electra's striptease and wow was that an eye opener. First, it really wasn't as much of a cardio workout as I was hoping (unless these on-demand videos aren't the real deal). But I seem to remember something about it being a core workout. Well, I didn't really enjoy it. First, I couldn't really do the moves (as indicated in earlier post, I'm not really coordinated with dance moves, which is why I prefer running, kickboxing and lifting weights). She was teaching a routine, but not giving enough repetition, so I couldn't remember what we were supposed to be doing. Plus I was prancing around in my living room with yoga pants and a sports bra, and let me tell, I didn't look a thing like Carmen Electra! Yikes! So, I was sort of feeling bad about myself which is NOT the point of exercise. I decided this did not count towards my 30 minutes since I'm supposed to feel better about myself, so I headed off to the gym and got in a good 45 minutes on the elliptical. I felt much better, and much sexier when I was done with that.

videodetective.com

There was some crazy guy on the machine next to me who kept talking under his breath. I kept thinking he was talking to me, or on a cell phone, but it was neither. It was to himself. Then all of a sudden, he said very loudly "G- D- it!!" It was so bizarre! The funniest part about it was he was actually really cute. About 5'11", really cute face, and nice, toned body. It just was a funny.

30X2

So, unlike yesterday, I was totally in the mood to work out this morning! I woke up to take the 8:30 Zumba class at the Downtown Y, and got a great workout in. Although I will admit, I'm not a coordinated little thing, and a casual passerby may have though I was having a seizure, but I worked up a good sweat. The class was an hour, so I more than met today's goal.

 

Tim Harrison/Special to The Plain Dealer

After the class, I did some extra stretching. I found that in classes in general, they never properly stretch you out, so I did an extra 10 minutes stretching. I'd neglected my iliotibial band and piriformis since I got hurt and stopped running, and had become very lazy about stretching, so today when I did those two stretches, man, it hurt so good. I need to get back into my old routine of stretching before I go to bed. Once again, laziness set up in when I stopped running.

After the gym, I raked my leaves, which is debatable whether or not that was a good move. It was really cold out there, there was some frozen water collecting by the shed, so I'm thinking it was below freezing, plus the wind was howling! But I needed to get up the majority of the leaves as the new grass seeds I planted this fall don't like having the wet leaves on them, not that I blame them. This took 45 minutes. So, not only did it leave me wondering with the wind if it was a good idea, but also if I should have waited and done that tomorrow to get in my 30 minutes. Now I need to find something new for tomorrow, dang it! :)

So, I'm not hearing a lot of noise out there. Is anyone there? Did you guys fall off the wellness bandwagon quicker than John Mayer goes through new women? C'mon! Get your butt in gear. You should be embarrassed!! If I can do it, trust me, you can too!

xoxo, Sarah

PS - officially completed 5 full days with no soda! I'm on day 6 right now. Please feel free to congratulate me! It was a double whammy withdrawal. Soda in general and all those artificial sweeteners, but also caffeine, since I get my caffeine from soda (I don't care for the taste of coffee). Look at me! Getting all healthy and everything.

PS2 - This morning, I officially weighed myself (YIKES) and took all my measurements and took some "before" photos. Now clearly, the "before" photos should have been taken back in something like 2007, when I first decided to "get serious." But that's not the point. The point is start now, fresh, and not worry about all the failure in the past! Oh, and if you think you'll EVER see the before pictures, sorry, you are sadly mistaken. But trust me, I'm putting your best interest, or more specifically, the best interest of your eyes, at heart here.

30X1

Well, I did it. Didn't want to, but I did it. I completed the first day of the 30x30! So 2010 is already off on the right foot. Since my gym was closed today, I knew I'd have to do something on my own, and in order to get motivated, I called Tanya, and we walked 3 miles together. It was fun getting out there and we had a good time talking and walking, and Tanya is a fast walker! Got a good workout in, even if it was just a walk. At times though, it was a little frustrating for me that I couldn't run, considering Tanya and I use to run together. But at least I was out there moving, and that's the whole point of this! Plus, I felt great when I got home. Great because I got my body moving, and great because I accomplished the first day of this challenge!

So, what about you!? Did you manage to get day 1 in?! If not, I'm terribly ashamed for you, but that doesn't give you a free pass for the rest of the month, get up and no excuses tomorrow or the rest of the month! You hear me!?  I know it's so easy to not exercise on the weekend. You have chores to do, you have stuff around the house to do, you don't want to move from the couch, etc. But 30 minutes isn't going to kill your whole day. C'mon! You can do it!! Think of the results!