Day 30!!

Day 30!
Well I fell short on my blog, not because I lost my drive for my challenge but do to my chaotic life, and not having motivation to sit on my computer after a 12 hour work day.

Day 24 was my last day of blogging so I will briefly recap.
February 24th was a Wednesday, I was at the shooting range all day for security gun qual training it was such a long tiring day, I really was wishing I did the workout before my training.

Day 25 I woke up and my right collar bone/bicep was purple and blue from my shotgun qual, and working out directly after, I forced myself to do my workout.

Day 26 Today we had a huge snow storm, the roads were terrible, I had to be at work by 5-5:30am to arm up for security watch. It was so cold, but the day went fairly quick due to the fast paced environment for the watch. To bad it was my duty day, they ended up shutting the base down. I didn’t do my workout until late that night since I came home and went to sleep I was exhausted from being in the cold all day long.

Day 27 Saturday, I had a busy day, cleaning around the house, laundry, linens, tanning, hair appointment and to get ready to go out to dinner with some friends. I did my workout in between washes of laundry. I was so busy all day I don’t think my workout really fazed me. I did notice my clothes fit a lot nicer, my jeans weren’t snug at all, I felt more confident in my clothes. I love the results from doing this workout.

Day 28 I don’t really remember what I did Sunday, I think I slept my day away knowing it was my last “weekend” for a while. Since starting the new week we are working six days a week. I procrastinated all day doing my workout I think I did it at like 10pm haha before I went to bed.

Day 29 Today I decided to add running into my workout since I have to run a mile and ½ with my fitness test in April. The reason I started doing this is to workout with a lower impact on my broken foot. So today will be my first day back running. (I really REALLY need to get new running shoes. I am WAYYYYY over my miles.) I have been putting off getting new shoes, because I am cheap. But I ran anyways, my arches hurt, my foot hurts, my shin and knees hurt. I ran, went tanning, then did shred... needless to say my body was like an oven. It felt so good though, it was a great workout day.

Day 30!!!! Well my left shin is like destroyed from my running shoes. I has been sore all day. After work, I went tanning, and home to do my LAST DAY of the 30 day Shred. I need to take after pictures; I misplaced my camera so I am going to do it today. My Challenge is complete. Kind of sad. It went really quick, some days I will admit I didn’t have the drive to do it. I am trying to find another workout to do but all the videos are “dance” or way to aerobic-y for me. I will admit I did buy new bathing suits yesterday! Summertime is almost here. It kind of gives me the drive to continue to keep doing Shred until I find a workout to do.

I would recommend the 30 day Shred to anyone trying to get in shape, stay in shape, anything of that nature.

Level 3/ Day 24

What a tiring day!
I feel like as soon as my head hit the pillow it was time to wake up.

I got out of bed, washed my face, got together and was out the door. This morning I was dying for a cup of coffee; but I had to go to the gun range and that is never a good idea.

I spent all day on the range. Around 12:00 we breaked for lunch, and since I gave up fast food for lent I had to look for something else in the area that was quick. I stopped at Lee's hoagies. I grabbed a 1/2 Italian Sub and waffle fries, with a diet coke.
I went back to the range and ate my lunch. It was so freezing cold in the place, I think that was the only thing keeping me awake. I ate half of my sub and a few fries, I didnt want to over eat and get tired.
But about an hour and a half later it still hit me like a ton of bricks.
The exciting part of the day I shot the best, the shot gun though KILLED my sholder and my arm, 70 some rounds with a shot gun on an area that was already broken (my collarbone) driving home I could bairly lift my arm.

I took a nap for a little when I got home, then decided to get up and go tanning.
I got home from tanning and did Day 24!
I am so sore from the range my arms are dead, I almost didnt want to do it. But I am so close to the end. I forced myself to do some of the workouts with five pound weights. So when I cant move my arm tomorrow I know why.

I am so exhausted Im not eating dinner tonihgt, I had a little brownie when I got home from the range, but I need to go to bed since tomorrow is another long day and I will be on base until after 10pm AGAIN :(

I have to wake up extra early to do my workout before work, so I am off to bed!
Is it the weekend yet?!

Level 3/ Day 23

Tuesday, Level 3/ Day 23,

It took all the motivation in the world to get out of bed today to do my work out, thank God Kiel called and talked to me for a few and I woke up.

I did Level 3 at about 5:30am before I went into work.
I was so tired I could hardly keep my eyes open, after the workout and shower I was rushing so bad to make it into work on time, I felt like I was still sweating. It did wake me up though.

Tuesdays are such long days because I have a big workload and then have to fit in school work on top of it.
For some reason I was real hungry today, for breakfast I had a small bowl of Captain Crunch, later on before lunch I snacked on a piece of Banana bread I made.
For lunch around 1230 after I got back from security training with the Air Force, and dropping my car off at the auto shop, I ate a salad a packed with oil and vinegar dressing.
I left work at 5:30 and ran to WaWa to grab a quick sandwich to take to class, I got a tuna sandwich on wheat toast, lettuce, tomato and pickles. This has become my new favorite “class night” dinner. Oh yea, and I also had a “personal pack” of the fat free fig neutons.
I didn’t get home until 1030ish, still in uniform exhausted.

Level 3/ Day 22

Today was a classic case of the Mondays, after such a long stressful weekend.
Kiel called to wake me up (thank god) I guess I set my alarm for "pm" instead of "am" God only know what time I would have woken up. This whole insomnia thing is getting on my nerves, my mind is on over drive; I toss and turn all night long.

I decided to do Shred before going into work, I planned on going to the gym to run also but it was my Chiefs birthday so I had cake and balloons to bring with me.

This is defiantly a hard workout, all the plank exercises are shredding me! haha. I love how well this program works, I think I am going to continue to do the Shred after the 30 days, I may start over my goal is to be able to make it through the whole three levels with my five pound weights.

I got sick to my stomach for some reason after the workout I couldn't eat my breakfast; I got a banana down and a glass of water.
I am not sure why, I am thinking it was from being dehydrated and not eating alot over the weekend.

It was such a busy and long day!!
Yesterday I had a fat day; I ate Five Guys, burger and fries for lunch.
Then a cupcake, and a few peanut M&M's.

I felt like a cow by the end of the day.
By the time I got out of work, and went tanning it was around 7:00

For dinner I had a real small steak and a piece of corn. I wasn't even that hungry but I took the steak out on Saturday and didn't want it to go bad since I would not be home to make it Tuesday night. It was yummy though.

I ate, watched about a half hour of TV, and showered. Then I was in bed.
After I showered I realized it was pointless since I would have to do my workout in the morning before work.

Level 3/ Day 21

Well I think I finally am out of my slump.
I nothing is final yet, but I am feeling better about everything.
I didn’t go to church like I was thinking, I actually thought about it a lot the past couple days. I am going to look into churches in the area, ask around a bit. I had a lot on my mind this past week, so I didn’t want to just jump into something.

LEVEL THREE!! I made it! Haha

I will say Level 1 and 3 are my favorites. This one is defiantly hard. I think Level 2 was to “aerobics-y” I have to do the workout in my apartment without annoying the hell out of my neighbors below me; so the whole jumping around “explosive movements” aren’t possible. I don’t want to be homeless by the end of the 30 days from being evicted.
I took pictures before my workout. I couldn’t find my tape to tape myself, so I will have to get one tomorrow at work or stop and buy one.
I did notice how much toner I am, not so much from the pictures but I noticed it when I got out of the shower. My core is definitely a lot toner then before starting. I am excited to see how I look at the end. Hello! Bathing suit shopping : ) haha!

I am not sure what I am going to do after this is over. I really have to start looking for a new challenge haha! Or start over with this one?!

Today I was so crazy busy I really didn’t have much time to eat. In between doing laundry and finalizing my paper to be submitted I stopped and grabbed a small light latte; only 70 calories (it said it on the window! Haha and they are only 99 cents!)

I baked banana bread and cheese cake brownies to send ½ of each to Kiel : ) for a snack with his box I am sending out this week.
Although, I did not get to eat any of them haha! I am taking a piece of bread to work tomorrow, they both smelled so delicious.

But I was baking and working out at the same time, so I would have time to shower and get ready to meet my friend for dinner at 5:30. We went to Chili’s.
I had the guiltless chicken platter, grilled chicken topped with salsa, steamed broccoli and carrots, with rice. I get the same thing every time, since I LOVE there chips and salsa.

Well I have to round some things up for work tomorrow. I think I am going to do Shred in the morning and then go for a run after work.

I am praying this nice weather sticks around, I missed the sunshine all winter.

Level 2/ Day 20

I didn’t get to much sleep last night, I had a lot on my mind.
I watched the whole third season of Army Wives, in my daze last night ah! I hate how they end haha it leaves me hanging anticipating for the next season, I got sucked in. Thank goodness it starts in April : ) But I need to re-watch the season since I wasn’t really watching the whole time.

I crawled out of bed around 8ish, super exhausted.
I spent about an hour on the phone with a lady from H&R Block, I’ve been waiting for my return since mid January. This is why I always have someone do them, but oh well. I wasn’t “hurting” for the cash, so it doesn’t really matter that it is taking so long. But at least I know for next year how to do them.
I had a bowl of cream of wheat, with some cut up peaches and strawberry juice for breakfast.

I worked on my paper all day long until I got so tired of looking at it. I could probably submit it tonight, but I may wait until tomorrow to review it one more time to make sure.

I got myself together and went tanning to get some fresh air since it was a little warmer outside then it has been.

Level 2/ Day 20!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :)
TEN DAYS LEFT, so awesome! I did my last day of Level 2, my arms are still the sorest part of my body but I can definitely do more push up then before. I am excited for my PRT in April to see how well I am going to do. I am starting to look for different workouts to continue after the 30 days. I am not sure if I want to stick with Jillian Michael’s or look for something else.

I didn’t have time to take pictures at day 10 since I was in route to go see Kiel, so I am going to tape myself and take pictures tomorrow morning.

After dinner I had a small bowl of tuna helper, and two pieces of buttered bread.
Today I did a bit more snacking than usual; I had a handful of Twizlers Bites, and three pieces of Valentines chocolate. Today I also had two glasses of water with juice from a whole lemon.
I relaxed a lot today, I am in bit of a slump.
I showered and didn’t feel like going out to get something to eat for dinner so I just put some stuff together, I made a grilled cheese and some slices of tomato and corn.

I am just having a cup of hot green tea and going to relax the rest of the night.

Level 2/ Day 19

Level 2/ Day 19

I couldn't fall asleep for the life of me last night, I tossed and turned until about 0600, and just gave up and got ready and went to work.

I stopped at Dunkin Donuts on my way and grabbed a large latte, one spelda, and skim milk and a reduced fat blue berry muffin; sounds healthy probably not really though.

I went to work my first day back from leave, played catch up for a while until we had a safety stand down at 845. Quarters and training, actually, wasn’t that bad considering we sat there half the day; it might have been the fact it was negative degrees in there, I was so cold I went into shock. The heat is broken in the auditorium.

After we got back from all of that it was a little past lunch so I sat and had a small salad and a few cocktail shrimp.

It was a pretty hectic afternoon and evening I was really busy, later on in the day I snacked on a nectarine.

My day was up and down, but an overall good day until around 4 when I got some really bad news from my detailer about our re-location/co-location..
I was really upset leaving work so went tanning after work around 5:30 to try to calm down a bit, since I wanted to talk to Kiel but he was really busy at work.

Level 2/ Day 19!
I got home a little after 6 and did Jillian, I worked out really hard to try to relieve some stress but it didn’t work, I am just sore now. One more day of Level 2.

Afterwards I just relaxed not really hungry, or in the mood to eat.
I talked to Kiel for a while tonight about everything; I started to feel better but not really so much now… the more things came up; I realized more how messed up everything really is..

Over the past month and half there has been more happening in my personal life than I've felt that I could handle. It’s not so much handling it, because everything that is happening is out of my hands. I can’t control any of it. I'll admit that I've been angry, bitter, depressed and confused as to why everything has happened. My year ended so amazingly, it just seems like everything has turned haywire, every time I get my hopes up something seems to go wrong.

I had such a wonderful trip to see Kiel, it was like a fairytale, I couldn't have asked for a better time together... and today everything just crushed me; I had something to look forward to, and was excited about everything; our deep conversations, and starting a family. It’s like taking one step forward and two steps back.
I just don’t understand why things just keep getting harder. I just don’t understand why all this craziness is happening all at once.
I am emotionally exhausted.


"No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it."
Corinthians 10:13 (NIV)

..I know God wont give me anything I can't handle.

Level 2 / Day 18

Level 2 / Day 18
My sleep is so messed up, I can’t fall asleep at night, but hopefully tonight will be different since I need to get up early for work. I think I just have a lot on my mind with being away from Kiel, school, going back to work tomorrow…

I woke up today around 9, but laid in bed until 11. For breakfast I ate a small whole of cream of wheat with some strawberry juice, and a peach on the side.
I didn’t do much today, I worked on my paper a bit but am going to finish it tomorrow since some of my work I need to finish it is on my work computer. For lunch I snacked on celery and blue cheese since it was getting a bit late. I went through my memory card on my phone and went through some pictures. I really need to get pictures developed to work on our scrapbook.

I got myself together around 2:30 went tanning; I am actually getting my base tan back since I haven’t tanned very much this winter. Being tan makes me feel so much better. I stopped at Giant on the way back to grab a vegetable to have with dinner, some lemons, and some things to make banana bread this weekend.

Plus I thought it would give me time to cool down before my work out.

I got home and did Shred Level 2, before I started I planned on doing Level 2, then one.

But I was so sweaty and tired from just Level 2, I had to stop after that. My body was still extremely heated up, I guess the plus to it I probably burned twice the calories, or at least sweated the extra calories.

I am going to start going to the gym next week on top of my workout at home, I have a PRT (physical readiness test) coming up in April, I need to add running into my workout. So Monday, Wednesday, and Friday I am going to start running in the morning.
I started dinner after my workout, I ate two shake and bake chicken legs, a piece of sweet corn on the cob, and a couple slices of fresh tomato.

I am pretty tired though, hopefully it’ll last until bed time…
I am going to watch TV for a few then shower and get stuff rounded up for tomorrow.

well that Is all for today.

Level 2/ Day 17

Well I couldn’t fall asleep at all last night, which resulted in me sleeping half my day away. I planned on writing my paper all day but that didn’t happen; thought about it a lot but didn’t get motivated enough to finish it.

I was talking to Kiel around 11, laid in bed watching The Breakup eating a small bowl of cream of wheat with strawberries until I finally got a spark to clean my room, put all my clothes away, unpack my suit case, my room was feeling cluttered… that turned into a whole house cleaning. Now my house is pretty much spot-less; I just have to mop the floors tomorrow.

I went to Walmart around 2:30 to get some odd and ends to finish cleaning, and some food for the week. I stopped and went tanning on the way home; short therapy session. haha I got home, I put my stuff away, filled my fish tank, and cleaned out my fridge.

I did Level 2 / Day 17.
My arms are totally DEAD haha, even with the three pound weights; she just kills my arms! I am feeling better my body is getting stronger, I am sore all over during the workout.

So this topic of lent has been on my mind all day, well I guess it started last night..
Ash Wednesday starts the beginning of lent, the 40 days leading up to Easter; the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
It was discussed in my class last night, all of the things people are giving up; i.e. steak, dessert, Internet at home, and so on. All of these things; the people giving them up are truly passionate about.
Lent is supposed to represent the forty long days, that Jesus spent in the desert, where he endured temptation by Satan.

I truly don’t know anything I am truly so passionate about that would suffice to “a sacrifice” to give up. I think the 30 day Shred has made me realize a lot.. I am so "time oriented" due to being in the military but when it comes to my "real life" I have no concept of "time management." ...When I am discourage and don't want or feel like doing the workout I convince myself by saying "it is only 20 minutes"...

So I pondered the thought of instead of giving something up; maybe “start something”. I thought about starting to go back to church on Sundays. I have not been a practicing Catholic, Christian, or anything in some time, I have had mixed feelings about the church. Other then my wedding day. I am not sure if I want to go back to the Catholic Church though, I may look into services in my area; I have until Sunday to decide… It is something I have been thinking about for some time, but always seem to make excuses when Sunday rolls around. Everything in my life is going so great, but maybe I am missing spiritual peace. My mother was a very religious person and I know it would mean a lot to her. But this is something I want to do for myself, and my future family.

Other than that, for now, I guess I will conform to everyone else’s generic sacrifice; No Fast Food, Deep Fried foods. I love happy meals, they make me happy. So-long! For 40 days!

I had a nectarine for a snack since it was almost dinner time; I made some Tuna Helper (No meat today!)
Kiel even joined in the Lent celebration and didn’t eat meat today and gave up something; he is not a very religious person, but me being raised Catholic I still like to follow my parents and families teachings of religion. It makes me happy to know Kiel is okay with everything, and usually goes along with things; with me.

Well I am off to watch some tv. : )

Level 2/ Day 16

Level 2/Day 16

Tuesday February 17th

Literally drug myself out of bed this morning, wasn’t feeling like doing much of anything. Really wasn’t feeling life, I was emotionally and physically exhausted; I probably wouldn’t of got out of bed today if I didn’t have to.
Still really sad, I had to eat something today so I had a small bowl of cream of wheat, while working on my school project/presentation.
I set up my meeting with my group for 2:00.. I still needed to do my work out, go tanning and shower. Plus finish this whole presentation.
I ended up sitting on my couch watching the real world, really frustrated with this whole distance thing. I talked to Kiel throughout the day, which put me in a better mood, but its still not the same without him with me.
I finally got the motivation around 1:00 to do my workout, then went tanning on the way to base for my meeting.
From there my day was just chaos. I was late for my meeting, late for setting up my project.
I just have no motivation, half of me wants the care the other half just wants to cry. For dinner I had some random little samples from the group presentations at class today for dinner. I went to Target and Walmart after class to look for Army Wives season three, but couldn’t find it. I got three pound weights, and some other random things but I think I am just going to watch a movie on demand until I am tired.

Good Night

Level 2/ Day 15

(Late Post)
Level 2/Day 15

Monday February 15th

Well it is leaving day, these days are never good days, it is a day of holding back tears, trying to get in as many hugs and kisses before it is time to head to the airport. These days NEVER get easier, you never get used to saying good bye. It’s just draining, emotionally. My heart hurts thinking about it. I’m not even going to lie I cry from the moment I walk away from him, until I am home. I try to force myself to sleep on the flight, but it is hard. This trip just, didn't seem long enough. And my heart hurts thinking about how long it will be until our next visit.

Kiel made me breakfast in bed, he made my delicious cream of wheat with strawberry and peaches. My favorite.

We went out to a Thai/Chinese restaurant for lunch by his house so we could go back and lay down and cuddle for an hour before I had to leave.

This is so crappy, I am so tired of the distance, and leaving him. Sometimes the military really does suck, especially on days like this.
After all evening of flying, I finally got home... my car unfrozen from the economy parking lot. Thank God I was able to catch a bus (quickly) from Delta terminal, unlike having to walk the three miles, like I did when I parked there to make my flight.

I can't believe all the snow PA got, I haven't seen this much snow since 2007. I had trouble finding a place to park since my parking lot is a mess with all these snow piles. I got home took care of my babies, and then did Shred, Level 2. Honestly I wanted to cry the whole time. The only thing on my mind was Kiel and how much I miss him.
I figured if I got anything from this workout hopefully it would be tiredness. I hate sleeping alone, not having his arms around me. I love waking up to him kissing me.

I don’t understand how couple allow themselves to lose that spark, I long for his touch ever night before I go to bed. I cant imagine us not being so in love… He is my other half.

I did not eat dinner, I snaked on some naked almonds on my way home, didnt have much of an appetite.

Level 2/ -Day 15

(Late Post)

Level 2/ Day 15

Sunday February 14th
We woke up had breakfast in bed from the hotel, Raisin Bran cereal, a small beagle, coffee. On the drive home I had the worlds worst hot dog, from a crappy gas station haha!
Well sadly, I did not do Jillian today, Kiel and I got home from our drive from Wilmington and we cuddled all day on the couch spending time with each other. We ordered dinner so we didn’t have to leave the house. That evening I got treated and pampered to a candle light bath, and a romantic evening, massage; just the two of us wrapped up in each other. He is so wonderful. I couldn’t ask for anything more, he is everything I could ever wish for in a husband.

I am upset I missed a day but spending time with my husband is more important to me. It is our first Valentines Day married. <3 and it was perfect! I will just back up a day.

Level 2 / Day 14

(Late Post)

Level 2 / Day 14

Saturday February 13th

This morning I got woken up by breakfast in bed by my wonderful husband. Two eggs over easy, bacon, and bread. We had a busy day since Kiel treated me to a “Sweetheart Dinner Cruise” we did Level 2 right after breakfast since we were getting a hotel in Wilmington, and spending the night after the cruise so we could have a night out : ) it was wonderful. I love him so much, I never knew it was possible to love someone as much as I love him. He is the greatest person in the world. We had such a great night, it was more then I ever thought. I love how we can get dressed up go to a fancy dinner, then go out bar hoping talk all night, be best friends, and lovers. He is perfect to me.
The cruise was beautiful, dinner was great, dancing, then out to the bars. We drank quite a bit but to splurge once in a while, since we don’t drink when we are apart isn’t too bad.

Level 2/ Day 13

(Late Post)

Level 2/ Day 13

Friday February 12th

I lounged in bed most of the morning and afternoon until Kiel got out of work. I did pull myself out of bed for a few to try to tackle this Cream of Wheat situation. I made it again on the stove, I think it is the brand, I mean it was good, but not as good as the stuff I have at my house. Oh well. I had a small bowl of that with strawberries and watched Hell Boy in bed until Kiel got home from work.
Kiel got home from work around 12ish, we made sandwiches for lunch.
We ate then worked out. Level 2.

Today we only did Level 2, my arms and shoulders are a bit dead from doing both Levels for two days in a row. I don’t want to over kill myself, I am still on vacation : )

I made Kiel sausage, potatoes and sauerkraut for dinner, since I was telling him about how good it was when I made it for myself.

Lots of cuddle time.

Level 2/ Day 12

Posted Late:

Level 2/ Day 12

Thursday February 11th, I woke up this morning with Kiel for work. While he took a shower I attempted to make him my favorite breakfast cream of wheat with strawberries and peaches. The only problem is he does not have a microwave; it is very different making the cream of wheat on the stove compared to the microwave.. I guess we get to dependant on everyday technologies. Needless to say the cream of wheat was not that great. Oh well! Haha
I slept away most of the day while Kiel was at work, still trying to kick this head cold. I got rounded up around 1030ish since he would be home around 1145 to have lunch with me. I did the dishes, washed up and pretty, made tuna pasta salad.. I had it at the airport in Philadelphia; I love tuna salad.. This recipe had shell noodles, tuna salad, fresh tomatoes, onions, olives.. it is really good, so I made some for Kiel and I to have for lunch. I had a small bowl and a slice of 15 grain bread with butter. I also snaked on some things from Kiels candy gram I sent him, we shared two cookies and a brownie. Since I have been working out twice as hard I don’t feel as guilty snaking a bit.
I went back to base with Kiel after lunch was over, I sat in the café on base since they have free internet, so I worked on my school work while Kiel was at work. I got a lot done which was good; since I cannot afford to slack on my school work even though I am on vacation.
After I picked Kiel up from work we went to Walmart, to look for weights so he could do my work out with me today, also rice noodles and peanut sauce, since I kept bragging about how much I liked the Thai Chicken with peanut sauce; he wanted me to make it for him. We ended up running to Dicks sporting goods so he could find the weights he wanted.
We got home and did Level 2, and then Level 1... It was pretty rough, but a good workout. That is two days in a row I did Level 1 and 2. I can tell I am getting much stronger and my endurance is a lot higher since Day 1. It is crazy how fast the days go.
After our workout we cooled down and cooked dinner, the Thai Chicken was delicious as always : )
We showered and I worked on my project for school a bit more, then we were off to bed since Kiel had work in the morning.

Level 2/ Day 11

I got to North Carolina late last night, finally after such a long day. But every bit of it was worth it to be in my husband’s arms. I landed around 1015 in Jacksonville, NC. My wonderful husband greeted me at the airport; with pretty flowers and chocolates.
When we got to the house we exchanged our Valentines presents early. Kiel got me a beautiful heart ring and matching necklace. It’s perfect. I love it.
I woke up this morning with Kiel for work, it was fantastic to wake up next to my husband. You truly never get used to distance, and it never gets easier. For breakfast I had a few bites of Kiels bowl of cereal while laying in bed watching him get ready for work. I drove him to work so I could have the vehicle for the day to do errands. My head cold is twice as bad today, flying definitely did not help. We ran to the Marine Corps Exchange to look for mats and weights. They didn’t have what we were looking for so I dropped him off at work and ran to Walmart. They had yoga mats on sale for $9.00 and I mistakenly bought the wrong weights. So later on I ended up taking them back.
I got home did Level 2 for the first time. I wasn’t really thrilled about it since my foot is still broken and it was a lot of hard impact exercises and “planks” where it strains my foot; badly. So I ended up doing Level 1 again, directly after Level 2. I felt good. My weights weren’t heavy enough they were only 2 pounds Haha.
I went and met Kiel for lunch we ate sushi, yum. It was delicious for Americanized sushi. : )
After lunch with Kiel I ended up driving home and sleeping off my cold until 4:30 when I left to pick Kiel up from work.
For dinner, Kiel made steaks and scalloped potatoes and we watched Segregates.

Level 1/ Day 10

Level 1/Day 10

Today started off horrible, I went to bed so sick with a head cold and not every optimistic about my trip to see Kiel. Every time I checked the weather last night I had new updates with bad news and more snow in the forecast.
I woke up extra early to fit my workout in before work since today was going to be a long day with school and everything.
I was really pushing myself the whole time since I am not feeling the greatest; I was hoping to sweat out my sickness. I don’t have time to be sick!
FINALL DAY 10, it didn’t even hit me until I was done and I realized I am moving on to Level 2!
I was supposed to tape and weight myself today, but with this crazy day I may not get to it until tomorrow.
I feel great (besides my head cold), and I am excited to see the results to come. I defiantly feel more tone then before I started the program.
I recommend it to everyone who asks about my crazy workout I am doing. Haha, I bitch about it a lot but secretly deep down I love it. haha!
I went into work and was going crazy checking flight schedules and delays due to the fact we are getting hit with a NOR-EASTER AGAIN!
Around 9am I got confirmation my flight was CANCLED. Work was wearing me thin, everything was just going wrong. I was flipping out.
So upset and irritated I went a little nuts and began looking at all possibilities for me to get out of Philadelphia TODAY. Since rescheduling my flight for later Wednesday was not really looking like a good option, with road conditions, would the snow be cleared up in time, would I even be able to get to the airport! So many factors NOT going in my favor at all! I needed to leave today to see my husband.

Then my reservations for the park –n- ride tomorrow, class tonight.
But at the moment all I was thinking was I needed to see Kiel, and I needed to leave Philadelphia today.

I check all the schedules and found one flight departing at 1130am, it was 930am at this point. TWO hours!! Could I possibly make it?!
My Chief and Co-workers ran through all the possibilities, I HAD TO GO! My Chief gave me the good-to-go, I ran out of my office, ran home (20 minute drive) grabbed my stuff threw my suit case and bag together, grabbed my computer, stripped down out of my uniform threw on some comfy clothes, fed my cats and was off to the airport. There was no time for extra ANYTHING.
I stopped for gas, and headed to the airport (in record time). I have never got to the airport so quickly, but with up to 20+ inches in the forecast I needed to get out tonight.
I had to park in the economy parking and RAN, with all my bags… about 2 –3 miles from my car to the airport; rather than chance waiting an extra 10 minutes for the bus from parking to the Delta terminal.
I got to the delta terminal sweating but freezing, tired, my legs, shoulders and arms sore! I expedited to the front of the line, due to military. I spoke with the lady and made it imperative I leave today. She put me on standby for a 1250 flight leaving Philadelphia to Atlanta. I got to my terminal and asked the counter lady what my chances were looking like for getting on the flight, she made a face that made my stomach turn, EVERYONE was trying to get standby flights everywhere. This weather is ruing everyone’s plans. After a few second pause… she says, your #8, there are 10 seats. YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Words cannot even express my excitement. So I boarded and was on my journey to go see my husband! Tired and exhausted, rushed and emotional… All this but at least I will get to lay next to my husband and extra night.

I slept most of the way due to this killer head cold, I happened to slightly wake up about half way through. The sun was shining so bright on my face I can see the sunshine through my closed eyes, it was kind of refreshing in a strange spiritual kind of way.
I woke up for the last 45 minutes of my flight and just gazed out the window at the clouds, I remember when flying used to be such an adventure to me; so exciting. Now it has just become a routine. I feel as we get older we lose certain things, and don’t appreciate little things in life. The clouds were so beautiful, like a blanket. A state of existence above the real world, no sound, no interruption, no pollution, no pain; just beauty in its rarest form. It was breath taking. Over the past couple years I feel as though I have over looked that. We become so consumed in everyday life, routine, and tasks at hand; we over look the simple things in life.
So I am now in Atlanta, relaxing waiting until my next flight, I am sitting in a southern restaurant in the airport eating country fried steak, mash potatoes and baked macaroni. It’s quite delicious. I am going to walk around the airport until my flight later on.
This is about the third?! Workout I will have today! Haha

Level 1 / Day 9

On top of getting a terrible sleep last night, and waking up still in a horrific mood; I woke up with a wonderful head cold, sore throat, runny nose; the works!

Talk about a case of the Mondays! My week couldn't be off to a worse start.
Besides not being able or wanting to get out of bed this morning, my wonderful day started off like this..
I recieved a court summins to my fathers house for a triffic citiation I recieved on the 24th of January; I thought was taken care of (I guess not!). So after a few minutes of him working my nerves.. I spent all morning, while getting ready for work trying to call between two numbers to find out where I need to go to pay this and get it taken care of. The stupis citation has two address and two numbers; apparently I sent it to the wrong one.
Then I get into my car, warm it up for a few and "attempt" to reverse out of my parking spot... WELL due to the OUTSTANDING plowing my complex did this weekend after the 2 feet of snow. My car gets stuck on the six inches of ice surrounding my vehicle. Soooooo after about 20 minutes of "forward, reverse, adjust the wheels, forward, reverse...." you get the point. So at this point I am so agrrivated, I find a shovel on the side of my building and dig out my tires as much as possible. Wearing just my cami's, no gloves, nothing; freezing my ass off, adding to my wonderful cold.
So then I finally get my car out and begin driving to work, and I realize my car is over heating. But since it took me so long to get my car out I continued driving. I am not sure if something is acually wrong or I just beat the hell out of it trying to get it "un-stuck".
I got to work and ate a bowl of Captain Crunch for breakfast and two handfuls of Pepperidge Farms gold fish.

It is now 1130, I am heading out of work to go to the court house to pay my fine, and then my car has a doctor's appointment at 1:00, I am getting the oil changed but I am going to ask them to look and see if they notice anything wrong that would make my care overheat.

The civilian I work with gave me and orange, she said it might help my head cold, that Oranges make your body like OD on vitamin C, hopefully she is right. I don't have time to be sick.

I am off to my appointments I am going to finish my blog when I get home.

Lets see where I left off, So I left work to go to the District Court office to pay my fine, to get this taken care of once and for all. That wasn’t too much of a hassle thank god.

So as I was walking back to my car I was thinking I wonder if my radiator fluid is low so my sensor is going off. I looked under my hood and it seemed to be a bit low, it was halfway below the “fill to here” line.. So I decided to go to Auto Zone to get some fluid, since I rather just put it in myself rather than pay someone $25 to do something I could do myself… Well I filled it and drove to Tire Plus where I was getting my “oil changed” at.. It was still “over heating” of course!

So I explain to the guy, I have this $19.99 oil change coupon so I want what it entitles NOTHING MORE. And then I continued to explain how my car is telling me it is overheating but I didn’t think it really is… He said they can run a series of tests; that take about 30 minutes to rule out any major programs and will find out what is wrong and we can go from there; of course that cost $30.00. Rather than have my car blow up; I was like why not. So my 19.99 oil change is already up to around about $55 including tax, along with my blood pressure and nerves.

An hour later this guy comes out with my “analysis” of my car… My thermostat inside my coolant tank is broken to replace it; the part is $89 BUT the guy said they never replaced one on my car so he can’t estimate how much labor will cost OF COURSE… the ridiculousness begins here: I couldn’t even break down the maintenance this guy went on about breaks, tires, blah blah blah.. my head almost exploded. So needless to say I guess I am going to take the list/estimate to my husband and we can discuss it, the prices seem outrageous to me, I may also call around to get quotes from other people in my area; just to see.

So after being stressed, confused, aggravated, almost crying in the waiting room of Tire Plus, I was at my wits breaking point. Another breakdown.

This has been by far the worst beginning to a year EVER. I cannot get a break, I am tired of being alone, I want my husband here with me.

I left the place so flustered... I didn’t know what to do, so I went tanning to relax and try to take a nap. Since on top of everything I have a nasty head cold. I have been putting off buying a new package since I don’t really have the money. Luckily, I am friends with the owner she let me renew my package for $25.00, and let me go in my bed I always use. That’s about the only plus to my day.
While I was waiting for my car, I ate and orange and then a small bag of raisenets ( I don’t know how you spell it) they were like 70 calories of fat, but whatever.

I then got home and did Level 1 / Day 9.

Almost to Day 10, Almost to Level 2.

I am sore, my arms are getting stronger. I had to find a way to modify the one set of lunges since my foot is beyond irritated today, and really painful, but I figured a way to do it. I got a really good workout even though I am not feeling too well. I think I need to start eating a little better. I don’t normally eat bad, but lately having a lot of stress in my life and eating junk food here and there. More than normal.

Wednesday morning my flight leaves at 715, but we are supposed to get another snow storm Tuesday into Wednesday, so I am not sure what to do. I am hoping for the best. This is just making my week wonderful.

For dinner I ate some ham and stir-fry veggies and a cup of green tea.
I about to go take a bath, take some nite quil, pack for my trip and hopefully wake up feeling better.

I have class tomorrow night so I am going to wake up extra early to do Day 10!! Before work! : )

Level 1 / Day 8

Sunday – I feel like I was robbed of my weekend. Where did it go! What happened.

Woke up today at 9, once again no sleeping in… Got out of bed; made breakfast. Two eggs over easy with two pieces of toast threw out the extra oak I didn’t use to dip my toast in.
Laid in bed for a little bit and relaxed, I guess. Finally, got out of bed worked on my school work for a bit.
Pulled myself together washed my face and put my hair up; off to do errands.
I dropped my laundry off, ran to Model’s to look for workout clothes; people always tell me good things about that place. Honestly, I have never bought anything from that store! It is low quality items too expensive, and overpriced.
I then ran back to the laundry mat, turned my laundry over; went home and ate some lunch while it was in the dryer. I ate a sandwich; turkey, bologna, American cheese and mustard on a 100 calorie flat bread roll.
I went back to the laundry mat to pick up my dry clothes. I got ambushed by the girl scouts, and usually my excuse is “I don’t have cash” BUT today sadly, I did. SO I got coned into buying some. THOSE THINGS SHOULD HAVE A CAUTION LABEL ON THEM. End of story. Haha, just kidding I no lie, I probably ate about 10 cookies. Thank God I don’t have diabetes because I would have been keeling over and still shoving one last cookie in my mouth during my last dying breath.

I stopped at Ross on my way home and found ($1.00 Adidas stay dry pants on the clearance rack), and an awesome “juicer” for $2.00 ( I have been looking for one everywhere since I like to drink the juice from one lemon daily, but every night it gets to be a hassle doing it by hand every night. Got the hubby a thing or two for Valentine's day.
I stopped at TJ Maxx to return something and noticed they had weights so I grabbed them for my exchange, but I didn’t read the fine print it said “THREE POUND WEIGHTS SET” meaning it was two 1 ½ pound weights; but It won’t be a total loss I will just use them to run on the treadmill.

After all my errand and putting my clothes away I finally did my Day 8 Shred.

Level 1 / Day 8, I didn’t realize I was actually as sore as I am until I started. My double workout yesterday was killer. My arms are officially dead! I think my body is getting tired.

After my workout, I decided to go out for a few to watch the super bowl, showered and got ready to go out.
I had chicken bites and fries for dinner and drank vodka/cranberry.
Should of just stayed home,
trying to stay together when it feels like everything around me is falling apart.

Sorry this blog isn’t the greatest it is late, and I’m not feeling too great about anything right now… and I am tired.
Until tomorrow...

Level 1 / Day 7

Woke up to over a foot of snow, and it continued throughout the day.

Needless to say I am snowed in! My phone began ringing at 7am, yes on my day to sleep in; I cannot win. It was my dad to ask me about the snow; because obviously that cannot wait until a reasonable hour?!

I just relaxed in bed for a few hours this morning I was not in a hurry to do anything considering I would be stuck inside all morning. I made some cream of wheat topped with warm peaches and strawberries for breakfast. SO good! :) Cuddled with my babies Chaos and Tuxedo, ate breakfast in bed, talked to Kiel for a few, called my Dad and Kiel’s mom to chat for a bit, since I have been meaning to call them both all week but my schedule is so chaotic I just didn’t have time throughout the week.

It seems like I wake up and go to work and it is dark out, work, get out of work it is dark, do errands or go to school, talk to Kiel for an hour; go to bed. I feel as though I am stuck in this suspended state of existence. My “real life” is when I go to visit Kiel, and I am happy and where I want to be.

I cleaned my apartment; I feel so much better.

Late afternoon, I did my Day 7, Level 1 and Trouble Zones.
Shred went really well today, I feel better every day about the work out, my arms are getting stronger, my whole body feels better. I am actually anticipating Level. ALMOST THERE. :)

I am not even half way there and I am starting to see some definition in all of my muscles. I am excited to go see my husband on the 10th, which will be day 11 of Shred. I wonder if he will notice, sometimes it is hard to tell when your own body is changing because you see it every day. On day 10, I will also take pictures and tape myself again.

After I did the 20 minute Shred I was pretty tired, and felt as though I had a good workout. I convinced myself to do the other DVD since I am snowed in and will be lazy today and tomorrow. So I wont be as active as my normal everyday life; at least I worked out 3x as hard today.

She is a MONSTER with the arms; in Trouble Zones I really need 3 pound weights to do the whole 40 minutes. (this is an ongoing argument I am having with myself; subconsciously I am trying to convince myself it will get better, haha) I make it through the whole DVD I just have to take a couple seconds here and there to rest my arms but I don’t ever completely stop the workout. She mentions “…your arms are the only part of your body that even strangers see naked, so you should take care of them..” which is completely true. It just hurts a lot haha!

I took a shower it was wonderful I didnt feel like getting out, especially in this cold weather! I got myself together, my arms were sore holding up my blow dryer to do my hair, haha!

I ate some crackers cheddar cheese/cream cheese for lunch. I cuddled up on my couch and watched some tv, I think I fell asleep for about an hour, until Kiel called. I talked to him for a bit until I cooked dinner.
I ate a small steak, small salad, and some red beats for dinner.

After dinner I went out and cleared the mound of snow off my car, so I wasn't chiseling out an ice cube tomorrow. That felt like another workout. Haha

I am just relaxing right now, not sure what I want to do, I am pretty bored. I think this is all for my blog today. :)

Level 1/ Day 6

Finally Friday!

Day 6, I actually originally put Day 5; again. I am losing track of my days!

I woke up and reset my alarm I think 5 or 6 times, possibly even more, I think this is the second time I have done that in 3 years! And it has been within a month. That is bad. I slept so great, but it just wasn't enough.

Level 1 / Day 6.
I worked out before I went into work. I can tell my body is getting used to the work out; I just push myself hard to get a good workout in. I am totally seeing results. I love it.

I was once told.. “anything that is worth value in life, takes hard work..”
It was in reference to my military career but it can be taken into context for anything.

This morning I ate a cinnamon raisin beagle, a small piece of watermelon and cantaloupe.

Worked all day, I had to take my hubbies package to UPS for lunch and I was strapped for time so I stopped at Mc Donald’s, I got a Happy Meal with chicken nuggets. Not the greatest lunch but it was a small portion of food. I later had a Kit Kat, for a bit of a sugar rush since I was crashing at work, I shared it with people I work with so I did not eat the whole thing.

I totally didn’t drink enough water today; I have been so busy and tired. I had a cup of green tea this morning and a diet coke with my Happy Meal.

I printed off a coupon for Kohl’s, I think I am going to try to go look for some comfortable workout clothes. It makes me sick how expensive they are! $40.00 for a pair of yoga pants! Seriously!
My civilian I work with suggested looking at Ross or TjMaxx; that I might be able to find “good brands” really cheap. So I may stop there also.

We are supposed to get a nasty snow storm; there is a sever warning this afternoon until Saturday at 7 pm.

After work I did some errands, ran to TJ Maxx, Kohls, and Giant.
TJ Maxx was a failor, the stuff definitely wasn't worth the prices.
Although Kohl's was a success they had 40% and 50% off all workout gear. So I got a pair of comfy Nike yoga pants (I actually am wearing :) haha), TK Gear yoga Capri's, two workout tank tops with built in sports bras.. I also got the hubby a nice shirt. I figured since I am going to be working out every single day I should be comfy. :) Plus I had an additional 15% off everything coupon!

I then went to Giant to do some food shopping since I may be snowed in for the weekend and did not want to live on veggies. That was a total disaster, next time I may consider starving since the whole Philadelphia area was jam packed in Giant. It was very chaotic and flustering.

For dinner I had a small salad with light olive oil/red vinegar, cheese tortellini and a glass of wine. I am going to eat a small piece of cheese cake with strawberries after I am done.

The workout is going really well. I think, I enjoy doing the workout in the morning rather then after work. Although it takes quite a bit motivation to get out of bed to do it. Once I am up and it is over with I feel great :)

Well I hope everyone has a great weekend. I am going to curl up on my couch eat my cheese cake and see what new movies are on Demand. ;)

Nighty Nite!

Level 1/ Day 5

So it’s Thursday, Day 5.

I feel as though work has consumed my life, I have so much to get done but no time to do it, and I don’t know where to start first.

Kiel called me this morning to wake me up, he's so wonderful. I felt like I just hung up the phone with him and it was still the night before, I had no consciousness it was already morning and no recollection of sleep. That’s pretty bad. I couldn’t pull myself out of bed to do my work out this morning, it was imperative I got that extra 30 minutes of sleep. I was grateful all day at work for that power nap.

This morning I was soooo hungry when I woke up for some reason! I had an apple when I got into work and then had cream of wheat topped with frozen strawberries. Surprisingly it has become one of my new favorite breakfasts. It is SO quick and delicious.

Once again I was too occupied with work to realize if I was sore at all.

I took one of those Campbell’s 100 calorie “soup on the go” and come celery for lunch but it was the civilian I work with, her birthday. So she wanted to go to the dining area on base, so my whole office when to lunch there. I had more carbs then anyone should intake, in one sitting. Just kidding, but about an hour or two later it felt like a brick in my stomach. I had one stuffed shell, half a piece of lasagna, and a few bites of ziti, with steamed veggies on the side.
When we got back to the office; a tiny piece of birthday cake, thank god I needed the sugar rush! Haha

About the only positive thing to come out of today was being in contact with my detailer, hopefully I will be in route to go to my next duty station around December; where my husband will meet me. :)

After getting home from work I did Level 1/Day 5.

Honestly, it wasn’t really that hard, still struggling a bit with the weights but I can defiantly tell I am getting stronger and building my endurance. My little arms are getting tough. (I think and/or my body is just too mentally and physically tired to feel pain) I have a feeling as soon as Level 1 becomes easy, I will be moving on to Level 2. I guess that is a good thing though because that’s how the program is designed.

I just took a bath and am ready for bed, I don’t think I am eating dinner tonight I am too tired! I might have an apple or some fresh veggies but I think that is about it.

Thank God tomorrow is Friday, I hope.. Unless I am working Saturday. Hopefully not the Marines even canceled the drill weekend due to this crazy snow storm coming tomorrow night / Saturday day. Granted we need to get things straightened out at work, and Saturday would help but I really need to write my papers for school and do a project.

Six days until I see my love, I hope these days go fast. And our days together go slow as possible!

Well all, thats a wrap. Nighty Nite!

Level 1/Day4

Day 4

I laid down to bed last night completely exhausted, and next thing I knew my phone was ringing. Another day already, another wake up call from my wonderful husband.
I honestly did not want to get out of bed this morning, but after a brief phone call I began to get myself moving.

I looked out my bedroom window, there was snow in the forecast last night.
We only got around an inch, but my complex is sluggish with salting, plowing; really any kind of maintenance.

So I decided to workout only at my house, rather than going into the gym.

Level 1/Day 4

The work-out, honestly, just wasn’t feeling it today. I think I am just burning out from my everyday life and work is stressing me, being away from my husband. I totally believe a good attitude helps, working out is a lot of mental games. When I am in a great mood and totally happy; my workout is so much smoother.

I forced myself to do Shred, and then the whole “trouble zones” DVD. I sincerely thought about quitting several times through out the 40 minute workout, but convinced myself to stick it out to the end. Now that I actually did the whole thing, I may double up on the videos on Wednesday's and possibly Sunday.

After the workout I went and cleaned the snow off my car, showered and headed off work.

Today, I had a late breakfast, some cream of wheat topped with frozen strawberries.

My day at work today was so hectic I didn't really have time to realize if I was sore throughout the day. I guess that's a plus to being busy.

For lunch scarfed down some Thai peanut rice noodles and a peach in between maintenance; my work is wearing my thin. Tuesday’s just impair me. :(

I was a bit emotional after work, my patients and energy were at an all time low. I had a few pieces of Chocolate during my break down.

I got myself and some things together and went over my friend Steph's house for a girls night and to put together some awesome Valentine's Day boxes for our hubbies that are away.

For dinner I had a piece of pizza and a couple bites of a salad.
Drove home, put my laundry away, talk to my love, really need to do the dishes but that will have to wait until tomorrow, I am too tired!

One thing I will add I am definitely getting stronger.

Well this is all I have for today. I need some shut eye.
Night ;)

Level 1 / Day 3

Day 3

This morning I woke up around 0520, to get my workout in prior to going into work.
It wasn’t too bad waking up considering it was only 20 minutes; but me love me some sleep! I am still motivated to completing the challenge, not to mention it was nice to get a wake up call from my husband.

I felt fatigued late last night/all night; I woke up twice during the night to grab a new glass of water.

This morning the back of my calves were sore.
I think my abs are becoming more dominate, which is nice! It’s motivating to continue on.
My arms are still the sorest part of my body. But! I will add I was able to do more pushup/ more easily today.

This morning I did Level 1/ Day 3. I might add, Jillian and I need to have a talk, the techno/porno soundtrack HAS! GOT! TO! GO! Haha. So I listened to Ke$ha’s – Animal CD, I needed some upbeat hip-hop in my life :)

This morning I ate 2/3 cup dry Captain Crunch (due to the fact the geedunk was all out of milk today of course the day my milk is expired!) a small piece of cantaloupe, and a cup of hot green tea .
*geedunk – snack store: for non-military

This morning my husband gave me a boost of confidence, and reassurance. I am not one to quite something but a little motivating words go a long way. I was slightly concerned with getting off track do to a trip I have planned February 10-15th to go visit Kiel. But this morning he was talking about how he is going to start Level 2 with me when I go and visit him, since I cannot slack on my challenge due to being away.

I went home on my lunch to pay my rent and get some information off my computer. I had a piece of melon; while waiting for my computer virus to load.

For lunch I ate 3 left over buffalo chicken strips, celery and blue cheese.
The juice from one lemon in my water bottle.

It is 1245, I am writing my blog throughout the day today since I will not have time once I get out of class.

Today, I am completely exhausted; I don’t think it is directly from the workout… I am sure it has something to do with it, but it is a combination of trying to write a paper, put together a presentation; both for class tonight. Work/my job, and lack of sleep this week. Not to mention I am emotionally exhausted; patiently waiting to go see my husband on the 10th. Normally I am not as enthusiastic for the weekend since I enjoy the company of my co-workers, and workdays make the days go faster until I see my husband. But this weekend laundry, homework, and sleep are my only priorities. And my workout of course!

For dinner, I’ve decided I am going to go to WaWa and get a sandwich and some fresh fruit.

As of right now I am undecided if I am going to go to the gym tomorrow morning (my command has mandatory PT Wednesday’s) and do my Shred workout after work or try to fit it in before I go to the gym.

I think that is a wrap for today, until tomorrow.

Level 1/Day 2

Day 2,

Woke up this morning, always a good sign :)

Although I was dead tired from lack of sleep, I don’t think I slept last night due to the nap I took the evening prior. Got myself together and out of bed, drank a glass of water.
My living room was un-usually freezing so I turned up my heat to 65/70 degrees (which not thinking about the fact I was about to work out, I turned my living room into a mini-sauna).

My overall upper arms were pretty sore this morning upon waking up, especially the little flabby skin/tendon that is between your front shoulder/arm pit and “side boob” Haha I apologize if that is not politically correct. But the rest of my body felt good.

So I did Shred Level 1, Day 2.

The exercise was still difficult, I need to hydrate more and build up my endurance. My arms were also very fatigued the whole time.

When I got to work this morning for breakfast I ate a nectarine and munched on some dry granola honey oat cereal around 2/3 of a cup. Also, I put the juice from one lemon in a water bottle to drink throughout the morning.

Today my dilemma was if I should tough it out with the 5 pound weights (safely of course, I do not want to chance injuring myself) But realistically, it is only 5 pounds; accumulatively holding 10 pounds for less than 20 minutes.

So I did a little research “how do you know if your weights are really too heavy for you?”
Working out with lighter weights and higher reps is a bad rumor. The reason is when you weight train your break your muscles slightly and them rebuilding is muscle growth (hence why you get “tone”). Heavy weights obviously stresses them more and will amount to more muscles being torn and rebuilt. Heavy weights will also speed up your metabolism which in turn will burn more fat thus helping you tone your arms. Your weights should cause a slight discomfort but not an “unbearable” pain. In Lamens Terms - use common sense, push yourself but don’t hurt yourself. No pain, no gain :) haha!
So the verdict says... I will tough it out with my 5 pound weights.

For lunch I had left over Thai chicken in peanut sauce with rice noodles. Which might I add it was even more delicious then the night before! Also, a small slice of watermelon.

After working out this morning I felt very refreshed and revitalized especially for having no sleep, and my energy level was high throughout the day.

My arms and thighs are pretty sore, my overall body feels like it had a good workout today.

For dinner tonight I am having skinless chicken strips in buffalo, garlic and herb seasoning (baked), celery and blue cheese.

I may have a glass of Lambrusco after my long day of work (I think I deserve it!), but for the most part my main priority is trying to drink as much water as possible.

Tomorrow (Tuesday) will be my biggest struggle with the program, due to the fact I will have to wake up extra early to get my workout in before work. Tuesdays are the longest day of the week since I have night class directly after work and will be at class until 9:30-10 pm. And by the time I get home and unwound I would not be able to do the workout until late at night.

So my goal is tomorrow morning!

Overall I think the challenge is fun (so far). I have good support system. I am getting people I work with involved and interested in taking on the challenge also. The more the merrier!

Well I am off, good night! :)

“30 Day Shred” Challenge

So today 31 January 2010, I am taking on the “30 Day Shred” Challenge.

DAY 1.

This epiphany came to me Saturday night as I was sitting at my computer, drinking wine, looking at things to amuse me; while being lonely missing my husband. Yes, it sounds as pathetic, as it really is. Haha!

So moving on, the past couple months I heard several people ranting and raving about this DVD, in the myths of their glorious New Years resolutions, they swear this year will be a keeper! (note: there are about 50% less people in the gym already since January 1st.) Or like myself trying to work off a little extra fluff I gained from too many Christmas cookies, and enough ice cream to pave the distance from myself to North Carolina where my husband is stationed…

So being skeptical, and continuing to read reviews; the major trend is people are not doing the work out all 30 days. The reviews all start off strong but almost all were like “I missed day 7, and 8.” And so on… People it is a 30 day challenge not a 25 ¼ day when I feel like it challenge. Hence why I am doing this blog so I actually am committed to do it every day. Lets face it life happens, I have a full time job, night school, every day incidents and not to leave out pure hearted laziness! Plus this will give me something fun to pass the time, not to mention get in shape for summer, and look sexier for my husband!

So this morning, I woke up made an awesome breakfast (slightly healthy) cream of wheat topped with warm frozen strawberries and one fresh peach in sugar. I then went to Wal-mart and purchased “30 Day Shred” and “No More Trouble Zones” (both $9), a tape measure, and two 5 pound hand weights. I wanted a scale also but I already have self body image issues; that is the last thing I need in my house. So, my weight will be done (at work) every 7 days with my taping. Since my apartment is carpeted I got to save the $15 I would have spent on a mat. Even though later on I started thinking, it may be a good investment due to the lack of hygiene and/or consideration for others, my outstanding fellow military members have at the gym and ALWAYS wipe down their mats and/or equipment when they are done. So that is on my top list of investments.

I purchased the “No More Trouble Zones” DVD due to the fact that I was swaggering about the shape I am in and thought the Shred DVD would not be a good enough work out by itself.

I popped in the DVD late this afternoon. I watched the introduction and was slightly thrown off. There are “three levels” you start with Level 1 and advance up to Level 3 but it does not tell you how many days it is recommended to stay on each level. And when you should progress on...

So… there I was… 20 minutes later… in my living room… dripping sweat, out of breath, and slightly screaming (under my breath) for mercy.

This workout DVD is no joke, needless to say, it is a good workout.
I realized during my work out, my weights are too heavy. I have always struggled with upper body strength. So I need to go purchase new weights tomorrow.

Also, I did the "chest and abs circuit" on the trouble zones DVD, but again my weights were causing discomfort.

After, for lunch, I had left over "sausage, sauerkraut, and potatoes" (one serving and used "lite" sausage) and a "sugar free-snack pack" - not quite sure if that is exactly healthy but it sure was delicious!
Dinner: One serving of home made "Thai chicken in peanut sauce with rice noodles"


(note: I am not changing any eating habits, although I was dehydrated during my workout; need to drink a lot more water)

I am going to do my Shred workout in the morning before work for PT (physical training: for non-military folks). I will be using the 5 pound weights for Day 2, but will be purchasing 3 pound weights to continue.


I took before pictures this afternoon, I considered posting but due to my lack of confidence in the Internet I do not want my body on inappropriate sites.. more to follow on this topic.


Taped myself: DAY 1

Weight (mid last week) 112.5 lbs (but due to my desert eating extravaganza before this started safely we can say 115)

Arms: 10 ¼”
Bust: 31 ½” (Victoria has been lying to me all these years I thought I was a 34, I guess it’s that extra “secret” lol).
Above Hips: 26”
Fattest part of Stomach/love handles: 32”
Booty: 35”
Thighs: 20”

Simply stated; I am Amy, a 23 year old female from Pennsylvania. I am in the United States Navy and live a very active and unusual lifestyle. This blog is purely for my own person way of tracking my progress through this challenge, and my own amusement. I am not a "fitness expert" by any means.