Then you stand

February Exercise challenge

2012-02-01T09:41:00.002-05:00

February is 29 days this year. I am vowing to exercise 29 times this month.

My rules... double workouts count for two days (there are some days that I won't be able to do it - just means that I have to work out one more time on another day).

EVERY form of exercise counts. It's about moving... not running.

I need to log into My fitness pal daily! 29 days to make a difference in my life.

It's on.

Pilates hurt people :)

2012-01-11T11:00:00.000-05:00

In a good way.

I did my first pilates video yesterday. Beginner pilates for weight loss. It was a 45 minute workout that went by quickly. I didn't feel any tightness until today. That's good and bad lol.

I also went for a walk last night. So yes, people that is two forms of exercise yesterday.

Pilates is a winner, though. I need strength training badly and toning and I think that this may be the ticket.

So for today, I have a form of exercise planned... not sure still what it will be. I am going out for lunch with a friend and having a healthy dinner. On track, no?

What do you have on the go today?

Check, check, check and errr...

2012-01-10T08:51:00.002-05:00

OK... What I need to do better is plan for better snacks.

Last night ended in chips. It shouldn't have. I didn't have the calories left for them (even after my run) and well... I could have chosen better.

Today I am headed out to get some better snacks on hand for when I need a snack.

Today I am going to pull out the Pilates DVD I bought months ago and do it. I may then run after it.

We will see how I feel. So far I have tracked for yesterday (1/7 check), ran (1/3 check) and gotten lots of water (no checks but good for me).

Today will be better. Today will be better.

For Realsies...

2012-01-09T09:01:00.000-05:00

I have come to the conclusion that the last week was not a for real effort in losing weight.

I kind of knew it wouldn't be with the kids at home and hockey tournaments going on, etc.

This week is for real.

My plans;

Three runs
The workouts that aren't running.
Track every day
Eat three meals a day (this is honestly a problem for me - I pick)

I have three weeks until the next hockey tournament so that is lots of time for me to get into healthier habits before I go.

I am still job searching but while I am searching, I will make healthy living my job.

More later but I just wanted to tell you where my head was at :)

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T11:27:00.001-05:00

New start, new year.

New weight 187.2.

I ended 2011 on a bit of a low note, I lost my job. I had been 14 + years at my job and it came as a total surprise to me. My job was restructured out.

What I did do... I went off the rails a bit and ate what I wanted to. I exercised here and there but nothing too exciting to speak of.

Somehow I managed to only gain a bit of weight. That is a good thing.

Last night I ran the Resolution run. What a great way to start 2012. I got up in a positive mood today and am ready to rock my new year.

I do have one question, though... what happened to Syl's blog? I went to read it last night and it is gone.

Hope you all have a great and Happy New Year!

One more thing... in 2011 I walked and ran 380KM. I would like to double that this year. Doable, yes it is. That is my goal!

Healthiness by the numbers...

2011-10-18T17:08:00.003-04:00

Since the scale is not moving a lot these days I thought I would share some of the things that are better since I lost weight.

My blood pressure was 190/95 today it was 106/60

My first week of running doing run 1 walk 2's my max heart rate was 176 - doing the same thing with my sister last week - my max heart rate was 156.

I can run 50 minutes now without stopping. I had a hard time pushing through 1 minute at my highest weight.

And my wedding rings fit :)

I have lost 26.4 lbs and 27.5 inches :)

That puts it in perspective quite nicely - what things have you achieved with weight loss?

Consider the bullet bit.

2011-10-16T11:00:00.001-04:00

I signed up for my first 10K.

New years eve 2011.

I told you I would do it... and now I am :) So the training begins.

I haven't posted much this week - there hasn't been much to post. I fell off my bike on Tuesday night and bruised my tailbone so I have been resting a bit.

I have a 7K run on tap tomorrow :)

Happy Turkey Day!

2011-10-10T15:51:00.000-04:00

What a lovely Thanksgiving weekend it was weather wise. It has just been plain hot outside. Thank God for Indian summer!

I really, really wanted to run yesterday but time just ran out and trying to sneak one in would have just upset the apple cart so I waited until today to go.

Oddly, my sister wanted to come. She doesn't run. So I ran to her house - 1.6 K and then ran/walked with her 2:1's for 3K and then ran home 1.4K. Total 6K. Take that apple pie that I ate last night :)

Then I came home and decided to have a tub with a book and got so into my book I emerged over an hour later (after putting a mask on my face - what is this? spa day??).

Now I have a small turkey in. We had Thanksgiving with the family yesterday but Ryan wanted his mama to make him a turkey so he could eat it all week :D

And now I wait for dinner and think about how quickly this weekend went. It was a good one, though. Filled with lots of time with great people, lots of hockey and great food.

I hope all you Canadians are having a great Thanksgiving. I have plenty to be thankful for these days and I hope you are finding light in your days as well.

I end this with the realization that in less than two weeks I will be in Toronto with my friends spending time with some of the best women I have ever met. I am so excited!

Ah... my favourite weekend of the year...

2011-10-08T10:21:00.000-04:00

I love Thanksgiving weekend.

I love more that the weather is slated to be beautiful today!

Plans for today are hockey and then more hockey... after that we plan on doing some yard work and then going to the fair.

The Bridgden fair is my most favourite fair ever.

And I am so indulging in a caramel apple from there.

There won't be any exercise for me today... just a day of fun and moving.

Have a great day, all!

Well aren't I just impressive...

2011-10-07T16:08:00.000-04:00

Well... in my own mind anyhow.

This girl ran 6K today.

All at once (well I stopped for lights).

And in the spirit of the week - this is what I looked like after it...

I would be lying if I said that I was feeling like this above... this is more like what it felt like!

I am pretty happy. I finished in 45 minutes and 12 seconds. I will be doing the 10 K at the Resolution run - how's that for an endcap of the year?

Hope you have a great Thanksgiving weekend all you crazy Canucks!

Woke up this morning...

2011-10-05T12:00:00.000-04:00

To a lovely 184.6 on my scale!!! WOO HOO!!! That means that I am back to 25 lbs lost. Does that mean that I can slow down and coast? No way, man...

Yah... I know a lot of people don't like the word fat but I have chosen to embrace it.

It is what it is, man.

And for today's sweaty picture... here it comes...

Must shower now... 3K has me all warm and misty. Hope you are having a great day! Get out and see some sunshine!

I challenge you...

2011-10-04T14:37:00.001-04:00

(totally ripped off from my friend Niffer)

Show us your sweat.

Get out there and do something today, post a picture as proof.

How bad can it be?

Dare you :)

The sun is going to come out today...

2011-10-04T08:53:00.000-04:00

No really ... it totally is :)

We haven't had sun in days and days and I am pretty pumped to see it.

I am even going to celebrate it with a run - just a 3K - maybe 4.

Yesterday I wasn't feeling very well... I felt like I was getting a chest cold and had a massive headache but today all seems to be well.

So tell me... all you that have fitness and weight goals... what are you going to do about it today?

You've come a long way, baby!

2011-10-02T17:44:00.000-04:00

And look what you can do!

I set out this morning (4 degrees outside, I will have you know) to London to do the Run for the Cure. I donned my pink and said get 'er done.

My goal for time was 38 minutes or less. My time last year at this race...

was almost 42 minutes. Little did I know in this picture that I was moments away from being the sickest I have ever been. But it got done.

This run was different, though. I may have done 5K before but I had never run 5K without stopping at least 5 times. I knew I could do it now and set out to do what I knew I could do.

So off we went. As soon as I started going, I noticed something different... my pace was speedy (well for me). I thought to myself... self, you had better slow down... you're going to wind yourself.

Oddly, I didn't wind myself the first KM went by very quickly. The second one... well it seemed to take forever but now that I look at it... went by quickly also.

Then I was on a roll... movin' right along at a way quicker than normal pace... ducking between dogs, strollers and pedestrians. Somewhere around 4K I realized that I was not only going to finish this race, I was going to finish it in record time (compared to my training times). I was ecstatic! I teared up a bit and kept on trucking.

Then I got to the finish line (where everyone was stopped??? who stops in the way of the finish line?). I had to basically stop and dodge people to get through it. I won't lie - this annoyed me because it took the wind out of my sails a bit.

Then I stopped and looked at my garmin.

Oddly the course was a little short - or maybe it should have been longer but everyone was stopped before the finish line.

BUT look at the time. Goal was 38 - I did it in 35. 35! Well... 35:09

I can remember looking at a friend's blog before we had even met and thinking that a 35 minute 5K race was something that I would like to do.

It was something that I never really thought I would do but a goal, none the less.

This same person was the one that ran with me last October in Toronto... she stayed with me every step of the way to finish that race.

What I wanted today was to be able to hug her at the end of this race (and the rest of the Toronto run crew) and tell her that I did it. And that she was the reason I ever wanted to in the first place. So I did... this is what I sent to her...

Let me tell you a story. When I first started to read your blog you had run a 5k. It was 35 mins. I said to myself I'm going to do that. 35 is my goal. I never came close.Then you dragged me through 5k last year almost 42 mins last year. I loved you so mich for pushing me. Today you carried me through 5 k and 35 mins. I have you to thank. Thank you for inspiring me.

I was just that happy today.

So very happy.

So here my friend, Sarah and I are at the end of the race...

And this is what victory looks like... no not the type where you win the race... the type where you beat the pants off the odds.

Lets keep in mind that 10 months ago, I couldn't even get out of bed.

You can do anything... and I can, too.

I'm a lucky, blessed gal.

A swerve and a miss...

2011-09-29T08:57:00.000-04:00

I somehow swerved for a couple of weeks and managed to take control of the wheel again. 4 lbs gained - not so bad. So glad I got control again.

Lots has been going on, though. I am headed back to work late October. My daughter started travel hockey (and got her first goal).

We've had lots going on socially and with the kids schedules, new mortgage, etc.

So that's where I am at.

This Sunday is the Run for the Cure. I am looking forward to it - this will be my first race running non stop. I am hoping for somewhere around 38 minutes.

I changed my direction, though and am now using my fitness pal's website for tracking. I like it a lot better than sparkspeople for a couple of reasons... a lot less advertising, a really easy user interface and an awesome smartphone app.

That's about it for now... I am sure I will think of something to say at some point. :)

So... I did it...

2011-09-08T22:01:00.000-04:00

5K - straight running.

Felt AMAZING.

I got a stitch at the end of the run but I ran through it.

There really are no words for how I feel.

I can do anything.

Stay healthy,

XOXO

Blood, sweat and tears...

2011-09-05T10:06:00.000-04:00

So it happened. I gained 3.4 lbs this week.

I was pretty upset. I even changed to batteries to make sure it was true. This is my first gain on this journey and I will admit, at first I did not take it well.

While I exercised 4 times this week, I did not track a lot and well... that is the biggest part of it to me. Accountability and tracking.

I sat around and thought about wallowing but I didn't. I did something that I have never been able to do instead. I went out and ran until I could feel better about myself. That took about 2K. My run ended up being 4.67 KM. The farthest I have ever ran straight. All by myself. On a day that could have went to the pits because I was so upset.

My pace was 7:52 KM and by my calculations - about 1-2 more minutes of running and I would have gotten to 5K. I did not get there today but I could have. And well, I should have but less obsessing and more celebrating. I did it! This is an amazing achievement for me, who was bedridden in December and not able to keep my food down. For me that just had her gallbladder taken out in June. For me that has a chronic illness and could very well lay down and say that is that.

Today will not be about obsessing. Today will be about celebrating me and how far I have come and how much more I want to do.

Treat yourself nicely, people :)

XOXO,

Leanne

What a screwed up week...

2011-09-04T20:39:00.000-04:00

I ran only twice.

I still got 5 separate exercises done. 5 is good. But what's up with the running? I think it might have to do with a couple of things. I hate the humidity and I am just over it.

Kids are gearing up for back to school and days were busy.

For some reason I am gaining weight??? This kind of sucked. And what did I do with the knowledge that I am gaining weight? I ate, of course.

I know... this was not a great move and well... I can't take it back. Not sure I would if I could. It's a learning experience.

I did get a lot done this week - some sorting, some cleaning, all laundry etc.

What stopped the eating? I got on the scale and noticed that I might actually have a chance to at least stay the same tomorrow when I weigh in. Over and out. The kitchen is closed.

Regardless of what the scale says, I am not going to let it ruin my day. I am off for a run as soon as the kids go to the parade with my mom. Once I exercise, I don't overeat. It's just not what I do.

So cheers to a new school year. Cheers to self control before you do damage. Cheers to you and to me.

Have a great day!

The smell of success...

2011-09-01T12:57:00.000-04:00

Frankly it stinks... like sweaty stink.

But man does it feel good.

I just got back from my run that was a bit shorter than I had planned (poor planning) turned out to be a great run! Best pace ever 7:43 / KM. How you like them apples?

We are headed to go and pick up my kids tonight... I have missed the little goofballs :) and then it is Labour day weekend.

What do you have planned?

I know I have to get two more runs in and I would like to bike ride the other day.

There is honestly just so much positive going on in my life right now... my cup runneth over...

Fear.

2011-08-30T22:06:00.000-04:00

Are you afraid to do something?

Does it sit in your head like a block of cement?

Do you want to do it so badly it occupies your thoughts when you have a free moment.

I was afraid of going more than 3K. I did 3.5 tomorrow.

No stopping me now.

Yippee Kai Eh!

2011-08-29T10:37:00.000-04:00

Down 1.6 lbs and a couple more inches - grand total is 25.6 lbs and 25 inches now! That is 41 % of my goal! 41 %... incredible way to start a week!

I am pretty excited as one of my best friends and bridesmaids is coming to town with her kids to visit. I haven't seen her in at least a couple of years and I miss her like crazy. But she is one of the good ones... you pick right back up where you left off with this one.

Last night I went for a long walk with my best friend... 48 minutes to be exact at a hoppin' speed. It was great - we didn't stop talking for a WHOLE time and that is when I noticed that my fitness level has changed. When I was walking a lot back in June - It was hard for me to carry on conversation the whole time. We have said we need to do this once a week... us girls need the time to chat. Plus walking is different exercise than running... and different is a good thing!

Hope you have a great day!

XOXO,

Leanne

Plans changed...

2011-08-27T20:19:00.000-04:00

Started the day with a visit to the beach with friends and kids. Then dinner and a run was planned.

After dinner my hubby was supposed to go out with a friend to a buck n doe for the MC of our wedding way back when. His friend cancelled and guess who is now NOT going to be on the couch tonight. Me.

Oh well... I wouldn't have hubby show up on his own - that just plain stinks so off I go.

The real dilemna is can I do my hair straight? I have been doing my hair curly the last couple of days well... because it is easy but now I must take the time and do it correctly. lol... wish me luck.

So the real news is that I just got back from my run and it felt really good. I can't say it was a stroll in the park but what I can say is that I did it... I did it confidently and proudly. I smiled as I ran past people, spoke to a couple of people out with their kids and dogs and well... enjoyed myself.

Now... can I tell you a secret? I really want a race medal. I have never been in a race that gave a medal at the end of it. And I want one. I want one very badly. So that is my new goal - to obtain a medal after a race.

What a geek I am :) At least I know it.

Happy trails,

XO
Leanne

Friday Night Smiles

2011-08-26T17:49:00.000-04:00

So my weight was wonky this week... up and down a bit and I couldn't figure out the problem. Turns out TOM was making an appearance.

If you have but only one reason to start running (though I can think of many!!!) this is one of them... I have no before hand cravings, no before hand cramps, no pain and it only lasts two days. Kind of fantastic if you ask me.

Once I knew this I upped my water intake and life is back to good again.

Today is a rest day from running... kind of a forced one as I want to get out there. The family is headed out on bikes for a bit. Ryan is begging that we don't go too far lol... poor kid but a family that sweats together stinks together :D

Other than that... not a lot going on in my head and home today. Thinking of the people in the U.S that will be affected by Hurricane Irene. I do hope that it is not as bad as it is supposed to be. Regardless... take heed the warnings. Better to be safe than sorry any day when we are talking about Mother Nature.

XO

Leanne

The yo-yo day...

2011-08-25T19:14:00.000-04:00

Good day... turned to bad... and then back around to good.

Here's the play by play...

Up and at em today and Paige and I got haircuts... incase you need reference... here is how it looked before...

And here it is now...

Kind of looks rockin' eh? I am loving it... now to style it. As I have said before my hair has curled since Imuran... most days I will not straight iron it... but this is how it is supposed to look :P

THEN after doing some shopping with the kids and a visit to my parents... I went to the grocery store to get stinking milk AND had a collision - a lady and I were backing up at the same time... Here's what happened (and since it was backing up - we are 50/50 at fault).

It's not a lot of damage but unfortunately I got the worst of it. She was very upset because she had her new to her car for just one week and well - I was upset because my van had a lovely dent.

So I came home... fretted about hubby's reaction and well... we'll likely try to pop it out ourselves and deal with it because the van is a 2004... but his reaction was pretty decent. Phew.

Then I decided I needed a run. Yes... needed one.

And here is what I put up on daily mile when it was done...

3 km 00:24 07:55 pace

This was my fastest run to date *beams* proud of me! I needed a good stress release today and I sure got one. And all that keeps playing through my head is "I'm pretty fly for a white guy" lol... where did that song come from - not even on my Ipod lol. Anyhoo... another day another 3K

Hard not to smile after that.

And now my day is not ruined... I gone and fixed it with some runnin'

Did you make yourself proud today?

2011-08-24T21:07:00.000-04:00

I got up this morning and did some cleaning as we were having friends over for lunch for a playdate.

When they got here we had grilled cheese sandwiches!!! Yum and some fruits and veggies.

After a swim and some play time our friends left.

I love my life. I have good people in it. There are a lot of people I know that I am proud to have as friends.

Before dinner I headed out for a run to get it in before the thunder storms came. And man did they come.

Look at the skies...

And here is one I forgot to post from the weekend... isn't he cute?

Life is good. I am healthy and getting fit. I have great people surrounding me. I could not ask for more.

And yes... I am proud of myself.

Yesterday was a good day...

2011-08-23T13:13:00.000-04:00

First the kids and I made some muffins... blueberry banana muffins to be exact...

Here are my pj'd children cooking lol...

Fifteen minutes later and here is the result...

The kids and I had a lot of fun.

Fast forward to today and Ryan has broken a curtain rod by hanging off it... (Seriously????)

And my house needs to be cleaned. Parenthood is always amusing.

The best part of yesterday was that I got a run in last night. I felt strong and well during my run. We changed locations and I went with Shawn and the kids down to the water while they rollerbladed. It was so much fun to run into the gang when I was about 2/3 done my run and Paige rollerbladed with me while I ran to the end. Great time.

Also I weighed in... I was down 1.4 lbs and now my total is 24 lbs total and 22 inches. YAY me!

Hope you have a great day! I am off to clean and buy new curtain rods.

OK... I'll admit it...

2011-08-21T21:25:00.000-04:00

Since my scope and the day before it I ate without tracking.

There was pizza on the day of my scope.

There was ice cream on Friday night.

There was ice cream on Wednesday night.

There was movie popcorn (The Help was amazing!) on Wednesday afternoon and McDonald's.

There was fish and chips on Wednesday night.

Tonight the hubby and I were at Walmart (kids were seeing the Smurfs again) when we ran into a friend. He was preparing to start a cleanse tomorrow. Now... I am not a cleanse person... I personally feel that it would be irresponsible of me while having Crohns/colitis regardless of whether or not my disease is in remission to do a stringent cleanse. I think that eating clean will do enough for the average person. Disclaimer aside he was prepping for one. The food plan that went along with it was very similar to a 17 Day Diet plan.

Of course his cart was full of very healthy goods. Mine was full of school supplies and two bags of chips as I thought I would have some tonight.

I left our conversation thinking... hmmm... I should put one of these bags back. I didn't... BUT I came home and had one handful of salt and vinegar chips. I plan on starting on the straight and narrow NOW.

No sense in ruining all my hard work. My body needs fuel, not crap.

So that is that.

I am running tomorrow.

Back to my reality and my plan.

Anyone want to hop on the wagon?

Good news...

2011-08-21T12:57:00.000-04:00

My scope came back clean. My Crohn's/colitis is in remission. I sure do hope it stays that way.

I have been spending the last couple of days getting rehydrated and renourished. I am not expecting a loss on the scale this week. It is more important to nurse my body back to health.

So that means that I should be back to work very soon.

I have very mixed emotions about that. Some of you know my work gave me a very hard time about being off when I was first sick. I am nervous about walking back into that office.

On the other hand - I am not cut out to be a stay at home mom. With the kids going back to school it is actually the perfect time for me to head back to work.

Now - the perfect time to head back to exercise? I think tomorrow. I will give my body one more day to bounce back and go from there.

I think I will start with an interval run to start with - 8 and 1's maybe? After all it has been almost a week since I ran.

Looking forward to getting back into the swing of things.

The Run for the Cure is coming up soon and I want to be ready for the 5K :)

Hope all is well in your world.

No exercise for me..

2011-08-18T13:56:00.000-04:00

I am currently prepping for a colonoscopy which ends all thoughts of exercise. As soon as I feel strong enough I will be back at it.

I miss it. I do.

But I am also fighting a cold and well... my body is telling me something.

So I just wanted to let you know that this is where I am... I'll be back soon :)

Hope you have a great weekend!

You take the good...

2011-08-16T16:43:00.000-04:00

You take the bad... you take them both and there you have...

The facts of life... How's that for an earworm.

I just got back from a truly sucky run. I actually hated it.

I'll try again tomorrow but really... it sucked. Just sayin'.

And running time is severely limited this week as I was booked for a colonoscopy and a gastro scope on Friday. I will run on Wednesday and Thursday but likely not on Saturday.

It's a good thing that I am having those done but I also dread the process.

Today was full of all sorts of good news... but right now - I only have a crappy run to talk about. So there you have it :)

It's like the lull after the storm...

2011-08-15T15:48:00.000-04:00

I did not run yesterday - I thought maybe my body should get a rest day.

And today, well... I am not sure I am feeling it.

Weird... I finally do what my goal for the summer was to do in way less time than was expected for me to get there and well... I am not feeling it today.

Maybe it is time to make a new goal.

Speaking of which I am rounding the corner of my weight goal (which is 60 lbs in no set amount of time). Today I got on the scale and much to my surprise I was down 2.2 lbs. I am now at 22.6 lbs and 19 inches lost. Go me :)

Paige has her final soccer game tonight... it is a make up game for the rainy start we had to the season. Then that is it for her soccer for this year.

I go to the doctors tomorrow and should know when I am to return to work after that appointment. My nerves are pretty worked up about it... so wish me luck. I don't think it is the appointment I am worked up about - it's the going back to work. My workplace is not an easy place to work. Mentally.

That's about all I got today... I'll post back tomorrow and let you know if I gave in and ran today :)

Have a good one,

Much love,

Leanne

Seems to be a pattern...

2011-08-14T12:40:00.000-04:00

I have read on 4 blogs today about new starts. Starting... well not today.

Why not today?

What is stopping you?

Why do you feel that today you are not worth the effort but in a month you will be?

It starts with baby steps. I started walking, gosh 6-8 weeks ago and wasn't even worried about my diet. Guess what I found out... when I am exercising, I don't want to fill my body with junk. Simple starts can make a lasting impression :)

I am not here to pick on people or be mean but... You are worth the effort. Even if it is one small change for today... You are worth it.

Why do people feel that they are not?

Find something in yourself that says you are worth the effort and put a plan into action.

And good luck.

Much love,

Leanne

Ahem... I have an announcement...

2011-08-13T20:04:00.000-04:00

I just got home from running 3K straight.. no walk breaks no vomiting, no dizziness, no nausea, no pain.

I freaking did it.

Me.

Leanne.

Did it.

This is the longest I have ever run without a walk break and in honor of the event - I got Paige to take a picture of me after I cooled down a bit.

You will notice it is out of focus and because she is shorter than me - the angle is a little humpty dumpty :)

I had to revert to other options...

Can I compare this to a picture that was taken at me right in the middle of the prednisone...

What a difference, eh?

I will leave you with a few more focused pictures...

What seems impossible one minute becomes,

through faith, possible the next.

Source: Norman Vincent Peale

So... it's Thursday...

2011-08-11T13:47:00.001-04:00

Which means really nothing to my family right now - well maybe to Daddy but not to the kids and I.

What it means to me right now is that I am not running today. BUT... my kids are a nightmare today so I think we are going to head out for a bike ride. A long one. These kids need to be tired.

Later on tonight I may go for a walk with a friend but if not no worries.

My run tomorrow will be in the early morning as the evening is jam packed with soccer and a bonfire.

Have I told you how much I like sleep and don't like early morning runs? I'll do it - but I won't be happy lol.

So lots of activity today and of course - 10 push ups and 25 sit ups.

Lord help me if this bike ride doesn't tire my kids out, though.

The morning after...

2011-08-10T13:50:00.001-04:00

They say no pain no gain... well I feel as if I have gained and there is absolutely no pain :)

I had considered making today a rest day but why? I feel great.

That evil little gnome ain't got nothing on how I feel today.

I'd like to say that I kicked 8:1's arse yesterday :) I was certainly tired and hot when I was done but that is to be expected when it is 32 with humidex.

After the run the boys went out and played roller hockey with a friend and his son. I went out with the mommy and daughter of that family to the lake.

Our intention was to play at the park and then walk on the beach but as soon as we got out of the car thunder struck.

We decided to watch the storm from a safe place. It got crazy windy and stormy.

To say we were a little soaked is an understatement. On our way back to the car - we found a great big puddle. And well - when in Rome - do what the Romans do lol..

It was a fun night!

The girls had a water fight and then we came home for a warm bath :)

Apparently the boys went for ice cream.

So today - the kids decided to have a hair salon in the house... they did my hair - paying close attention to all the details.

I think it is time for a head to toe picture of me - I feel really different in this picture :) But didn't they do a great job??

And here is one of Paige grooming Ryan lol. Such concentration.

Hope you are also having a great Wednesday!

Wordless and Proud!

2011-08-09T17:45:00.000-04:00

8:1's start...

2011-08-09T16:47:00.000-04:00

And man am I all up in my head about it.

I have never gotten to this part of the running thing.... Can you believe that? And I have ran four 5K's. I know I can do it. I have trained well for it... but it is a two minute jump in ability and I am used to a one minute jump.

My alarm went off this morning and it was POURING down rain. There was no way. Spitting or a light drizzle - heck ya... pouring... no thank you!

So here I am - waiting for my hubby to get home so I can go out and run. It ALMOST would have been better if I went in the rain - then it would be over and I would be here telling you that it wasn't too bad.

Other than that I am doing just dandy :)

Any tricks to keep out of my head for this stinking run?

Weigh in...

2011-08-08T12:33:00.003-04:00

Down 1.4 for a total of 20.4 lbs now and 16.5 inches.

My weight is now 189.8.

Out of the 190's.

Headed out with the kids to the library for some reptile exhibit... yuck!

Then Paige has her last soccer game and pizza and maybe a run tonight.

That's all I got for now... few words today :)

Ups and downs to running without music...

2011-08-07T11:02:00.000-04:00

Pro's

you pay attention to your body
nothing to fiddle with on your run
you are your own playlist
I could hear the cars sneaking up on me instead of just zooming by me and scaring the shite out of me
I know I can do it now but I'll choose not to :)

Cons

different songs motivates me and keeps my mind off my breathing, my body and how hot I am
it distracts me from the lawnmowers - the fact that my water bottle is now half empty, the wondering if my pace is good enough
its fun to listen to music - it makes me happy and pumps me up

As you can see I had the misfortune of not having an IPOD for my run today. While I loved the freedom of being able to run without fiddling with it I wouldn't trade it for the world. I hate how heavy of a breather I am when I run. I don't need to hear that... my head perceives that I am working harder than I am.

BUT all in all.. I got up... I ran and I did it without music. This is a big deal for me. I will have to work it into my training plan once I get going further... I do think it is important to be able to run without music.

My next run is going to be an 8:1. I am almost there. Cheers to me!

To run or not to run...

2011-08-06T17:20:00.000-04:00

For some reason today my get up and go got up and went...

I intended to run this morning and then slept late...

Then it was super hot and sticky when I got up so I thought I would go for a later run...

Then the kids and Shawn went for a bike ride (which I should have went on) and I opted to hang out on the couch and subsequently fell asleep...

Now they are home and it is raining...

I could still go...

or not...

I just don't know...

blargh...

oh yeah :)

2011-08-05T10:44:00.000-04:00

Stepped on the scale today (not WI day) and it is showing 189.6!!! WOOOT. It feels like so long since I have been below 190's.

Today we are going for a family bike ride. Not sure how far we are going to go but my husband wants to attempt to get to Walmart - I think it might be too far for the kids.

Then Ryan has soccer tonight - playoff time.

Tomorrow I am going to get in run number 4 :) and then chill for the day.

I am just so very excited that the scale is moving... I can not even get the words across properly.

My bed is crazy comfortable this week...

2011-08-04T12:09:00.000-04:00

I just don't want to get out of it. But I must because it's dang hot out there when I go for my runs.

Today's run was "ok". My breathing sucked - humidity and heat got the best of me. My legs felt good, though. It has been a bit since I had both breathing and legs... hoping to get up earlier tomorrow and see if I can get both at the same time.

Not much on the go for today - I have a doctors appointment this afternoon and nothing going on tonight.

I think I might just chill by the pool for the better part of a day...

Nothing like a pool for recovery on a hot day :)

I wanted to run today... I really did...

2011-08-03T23:14:00.000-04:00

But hubby talked me into a rest day...

Did I need it? Maybe? Can't tell.

Did I enjoy it? Sure... but I won't lie... I like the days better that I run on.

How does this happen? How does an activity that makes you sweat, make funny faces, feel like you are not ever going to be able to breathe again, tax your body and well... stink make you want to do it again and again and again?

I don't know but I don't ever want to stop.

Random things I have come across on my run...

2011-08-02T11:16:00.000-04:00

- underwear

- brand new pair of adidas sandals

- socks

- dressy sandals

- free firewood

- same guy riding his bike almost every day with a Macs milk bag (I run at odd times so I find it funny I run into him all the time)

- pokemon cards

- lipstick and lipgloss - lots of this!!

This is just a fraction of what I come across when I am running. And I really don't run in an odd area.

Just finished my run and I feel good :)

I am not going to lie - I am a total reality TV fan. It shouldn't come as a surprise to you that I was enthralled in last nights finale of the bachelorette. I was a total JP fan and I am very pleased with the ending. I feel like a goof saying this but I actually think this relationship is going to last.

All that aside and I should tell you that I got to update my kilo's in my garmin today :) 87

I realize this is kind of a random post but that's all I got.

Have a great day!

You know what?

2011-08-01T15:20:00.000-04:00

I am a dough head... I weigh in early to ease anxiety. I have a really fun day on Sunday and keep the food in check and don't drink (drinking ain't gonna do me any good). I wake up today and well... my weight was exactly the same as it was on Sunday morning lol. Seriously... girl - get out of your own head.

Yesterday was a really fun day! We did Tie Dye with the kids (and one for me also!!). They really enjoyed it and did pillow cases also for their beds :) They were so proud to wear their shirts.

I got up this morning and ran even though I had no desire to get out there in this heat. 6 and 1's. Go me.

I am very proud of myself. I know it may sound shallow and well... self absorbed but honestly this is the most determined I have been in years.

Someone asked me yesterday how I get out there all the time. I just do. I refuse to live my life at this size (even though I am almost 20lbs lighter). I know where my body needs to be and I know what I need to do to get there. And I will get there.

So you just do what you need to do. Nike says it best... Just do it! :)

Weigh in completus...

2011-07-31T09:18:00.000-04:00

I usually weigh in on Mondays but I have decided that if I have big plans on the Sunday (which sometimes we have dinners or parties, etc.) that I will just weigh in on the Sunday to avoid that gain that really isn't. Saturday parties I can water off on Sunday... Sometimes on Sunday you just don't have a chance in hell.

Ready for this?

191.2

That's two more lbs down bringing me to a total of 19 lbs lost and 14 inches lost.

I am so close to getting out of the 90's I can taste it.

We are having friends over today for dinner and a swim. I am pretty sure (although I have the right to change my mind) that I am not running today and will just wait until tomorrow morning when it is cooler. Still not sure, though. Maybe a walk. One thing I do well is confusion.

We are also doing tie dye shirts with the kids! I haven't done this since I was a day camp counsellor :) Should be fun!

This is going to sound like a grumpy post...

2011-07-30T19:54:00.000-04:00

But it's really not...

I just kind of think that maybe I should have stayed in bed today.

Day started off okay... still on a high from my most amazing run yesterday !!!!! I got up and did a few things around the house and then went for my run - which wasn't great but I was done. You gotta have the crummy ones to really appreciate the good ones :)

Had a small swim and then my mother asked me to go to the U.S with her to pick up some things so she wasn't over her allotment. So I did. Reluctantly.

On the way I dropped off my sister's prescription. U.S was okay but I was kind of over it as I was there um... last night!! And where I really wanted to be was with my family by the pool. Hubby and I don't get much time together and he is on vacation.

Then when we got back, I decided that I had better get some groceries so that I don't have to be grumpy tomorrow.

Once at home, I was accosted by some hungry lions??? When is dinner - no rest for the wicked. Pizza was made. Just as hubby and I were about to eat.......

The loser that is my husband!!!! broke a glass all over the place - splashed it in a candle!!!! and made a freaking mess.

No... I was not happy. Neither was he.

Once done clean up (which was a bitch!) I decided to make some salsa. YUM!

So right now I am eating my pizza in peace and well I really did have something positive to tell you.

I have been getting by with just one pair of shorts lately. Today I tried on one of my bigger pairs and guess what???? they fit!!!!!

Thank God that happened - seems as if it is the best thing that happened all day.

I think I need Calgon and a bath :)

Hope your day went better than mine... better day tomorrow.

It just was not going to happen

2011-07-29T14:22:00.000-04:00

I set my alarm for my run this morning and well... it just wasn't going to happen.

I was crampy (TOM) and tired and just overall blah.

And now I am awake and well.. feeling pretty good. I just must have needed to catch up on some sleep.

I think I am going to go when Shawn gets home from work - at about 330 today.

It's a long weekend in Canada and we are pretty happy to have almost no plans. How exciting, eh?

My hubby is also off on vacation next week and I am looking forward to having some time as a family. Since he started working on the shed we have had almost no time together.

Hope you have a good weekend!

Today is a better day...

2011-07-28T18:19:00.000-04:00

Not that things are any better... if anything they are more confusing...

But I have a handle on my head and am feeling more positive again.

Today is a rest day and I am pretty happy about it ... it's amazing how much you don't think you need a break and yet you do.

I am feeling really good about my weight loss and pretty excited to be soon in another weight zone... it has been a long time since I saw anything in the 180's. Within the next couple of weeks I should be there.

That's all I got today... It is wicked humid here again... I did not miss the humidity... not one bit.

My anxiety is through the roof...

2011-07-27T10:12:00.000-04:00

Nothing to do with my body, my weight, my exercise, my life or my health.

It shouldn't even involve me... but for some reason it is circling my life.

I will not let it derail me.

I have come too far.

I woke up and went for my run today. Tomorrow was supposed to be a rest day but I may need the exercise... it's the only thing that is helping right now.

My run was great by the way... I just need to keep focused.

Week 6 day 2 complete...

2011-07-26T06:58:00.000-04:00

It went well... I am just for some reason not really chatty about it.

The weather was nice and cool getting up this morning... that was nice.

I was reading the new book that I bought last night and it has the training plans up to marathon in it. Not that I ever intend to go that far... but it has it.

My point is that the 5K program ties in nicely with what I am doing right now so when I am done this program (soon I am almost half way through) I will jump into the 5K program somewhere in the first quarter of it and keep on truckin'. It feels good to have a plan.

Touch wood... this is the farthest I have ever gotten without getting injured and it feels great.

Paige asked me if she could run a half marathon. She's a kid... she doesn't get the distance (but saw the Disney one on TV last night) but I told her that when she was old enough she could train for one and do that. This made her happy.

She's a good kid :)

As a side note... my iritis is back. I am a lot beyond frustrated about it and don't want to put anymore steroids in my eyes due to the cataracts but have no choice. What do you do... I was hoping to not have to deal with this again.

Oh well... keep on keepin' on...

Surprise!!

2011-07-25T10:19:00.000-04:00

Weigh in today and I was down 1.4 lbs!

How the hell did that happen????

To date... 12 inches lost and 16.9 lbs down. I am so doing this.

Yesterday I bought this book... Running room's book on running...

I have read some chapters and skimmed through some others. What a great book! Has all the training plans for all the distances that you would need as a runner.

I have decided that when I am done the current program I am on I am going to dovetail into the 5K program. I am pretty excited about it (especially because I realized that I am over half way done the program I am doing!).

I also bought a new pair of socks... these are my favourite double layer socks and I only have one pair so you can imagine that I don't get to wear them often...

What's on tap for today? Not much... Ryan was up really early not feeling well this morning. I have a rest day scheduled. I may do a yoga tape or an arms workout :)

Have a great day!

Today is the day I feel like I am a runner...

2011-07-24T20:43:00.000-04:00

5:1's and I did it well. In the heat and humidity. After a day of activity.

I felt focused and in control. I felt like a runner.

It's hard for us LTR people to consider ourselves runners. There are people that think that in order to be a runner you have to run 5 minute kilometers. You have to win races. You have to be completely fit. I think these people have never taken up the sport of running.

I also find that runners are one of the most accepting groups of people. Always there with support and ideas. Never looking down their nose. Always encouraging new people to start their sport. It is a sport for young and old, fat and thin, confident and self critical.

Sorry for the double post but I thought I should highlight this moment with a post :)

Hope you all had a great weekend! Congrats to all of you who got out there this weekend - in whichever sport you feel passionate about.

XO,

Leanne

Stunned Sunday...

2011-07-24T11:14:00.000-04:00

I am feeling all out of sorts and wanting to spend some time inside to ???clean??? today... what the eff is wrong with me?

I got up in the morning and had no desire to shuffle on the pavement for my first day of 5 & 1's. I have decided that I will do it if it rains or tonight after the kids have hockey.

It's just too hot right now to do it.

Yesterday we went to a water park with the kids... it was a really great day! We were all done when we got home.

I am pretty sure that I am not looking at a loss tomorrow morning... TOM is a coming and for some reason I am just not headed downwards... I am actually about .8 up. Oh well... C'est la vie. I have exercised 5 times this week already and one more to go. I didn't have the greatest week food wise but I did not go over my points either. Such is life.

So I decided to sleep in today...

2011-07-23T08:00:00.000-04:00

But my stinking body woke up at 6AM... and I lay there thinking maybe I should go and run. It wasn't a scheduled rest day but last night decided I was tired and called off run # 4 of 5.

I tried to go back to sleep for a bit... no dice.

So off I went and ran.

It turned out to be a pretty good one after all. When I first started I thought uh oh... did I make a mistake? You see... I indulged in some chips and cookies last night. I had some pretty bad heartburn (that will teach me!).

By my second interval all was well :)

I am glad I went. Today we are off to hubby's work party at a water park. It's going to be a hot one... hopefully we don't get rain.

Hope you all have a a great Sunday!

Yesterday a picture popped up...

2011-07-22T07:08:00.000-04:00

I remember clearly thinking I was heavy in this picture - it is only about two years ago. I digress. I looked at a very healthy weight. (I am the one in the blue). This was at a Tim McGraw concert with friends.

How skewed was my thinking that I was thinking this is fat. Blows my mind. I think that I spend so much time in my head when I am losing weight that I don't stop enough to smell the roses. I may have been... I don't know 165 lbs?

I am hoping to sometime be able to look at pictures like this...

and not just see the fat but see the happy and the beautiful.

Love yourself today... and love your journey.

2011-07-21T09:44:00.003-04:00

Running should be a lifelong activity. Approach it patiently and intelligently, and it will reward you for a long, long time.

Michael Sargent

Don't run if you don't have to today. It's just not worth it in Southwestern Ontario. It's 9AM and already 86 feels like 108 with the humidity.

I went and did the 20 minute challenge last night and walked it with my BFF instead of running. I am glad I did. It was crazy hot out there last night. It was fun and I got a fun new orange running hat out of the deal.

And here's a tip I learned from Runners World magazine yesterday... eat a freezie or popsicle before your warm weather exercise to cool your core temperature. I did this last night and I think it really helped :) And who doesn't love popsicles??

The rest of the night was spent in the pool.

Today is a rest day tomorrow back at it. I won't lie... while I love the heat... I am not a fan of humidity. I am ready for mornings to be a little milder and dare I say cool.

My day will be spent in the pool with my kids with lots of water and fun!

Stay cool, all you affected by the heat wave!

Ahhhh... that's much better

2011-07-20T07:39:00.000-04:00

I ran this morning again... this time I slowed way down and ran. It is probably just as humid out there but the air was a little less heavy because there was no rain last night.

It went well... as well as it can.

I feel a bit cheated... I started running in the morning and the temps were so nice... and now they are pretty crappy at 6am. I am looking forward to cooler nights.

These are the days you wish you had a gym membership. I just want a treadmill to run on when these days come around. Running less than 4 days (currently I am doing 5) is really not an option so it is what it is and likely this weather will only help me in the long run.

Tonight is the running room 20 minute challenge... I am kind of excited to get a new running hat... even though I already have two. I am coming a bit dependent on my little running hat...

I have already decided that because of the heat and because I already ran today I am going to walk the distance. It will be good for me to stretch my legs out in a different way.

Another hot one today... Stay cool and have fun!

Well that was ugly...

2011-07-19T07:22:00.000-04:00

I ran this morning... at 530 in the morning it was already 90 with humidex - meaning we got virtually no break over night with the rain. I was actually looking forward to a run in the rain. Nope.

It was awful. I try to be positive about running but other than my pace there is really nothing positive about this one. I actually vomited twice at the end. I continued on after the first time... the second time I walked the last 20 seconds. I came home slithered into my bathing suit and jumped in the pool to cool my core off.

Am I glad I did it? Absolutely. Am I excited for tomorrow's run? for sure (humidity is going to break over night for a bit) Will this stop me? No siree.

So I had a bit of a gong show yesterday here. We bought the kids snorkel sets at Costco yesterday. Ryan's strap on his goggles. I called Costco (one hour away!!!) and asked them if they had any more (you just never know with Costco... 500 one day - none the next sometimes... they had one left in Blue in his size.

We decided to take off to London and go to Costco. I was a bit worried even though they said they would hold them that something would happen and my son would be heartbroken.

We had to hit McDonalds on the way back (blech!!) and that threw off my eating for the day... but Paige had soccer to get back to town for.

End of the day... I was zonked.

Yesterday was supposed to be a pool day... today is going to make up for it.

By the way... anyone doing the running room 20 minute challenge tomorrow? Walk or run... sign up and get a free run hat!! I am - although I will be walking as my run will be in the early AM.

Hope to hear you are going!

Why I post my Daily mile on Facebook and Twitter...

2011-07-18T09:31:00.000-04:00

I know that there are some people who might find this attention seeking or self gratifying but I must say it motivates me. It is a public place that I can post what I am doing... it keeps me wanting to do it. I often wonder about the people I don't hear anything from... are they exercising? How is their running going? I really do care and want to know. I hope people feel the same about me.

I also think it keeps me honest. No lying about how much exercise I am getting in. It is all there in black and white.

Speaking of running... today is a rest day :) I will run tomorrow bright and early again.

Speaking of bright and early... I got up bright and early to weigh in. I was really excited as I was seeing a downwards trend this week on the scale.

It was worth the excitement... last week... 198lbs... this week... 194.6 lbs. That's a loss of 3.4 lbs this week!!!! It is so nice to see my hard work starting to pay off.

Since I grabbed the horns a couple of weeks ago... I am down 15.5 lbs and 10.5 inches. Way to go, me.

This is a picture of me a couple of weeks ago. I was really embarrassed by it. I am not anymore. I am a work in progress that is progressing.

Cheers to all you in between bodies!

continuing on...

2011-07-17T11:10:00.000-04:00

With the rediculous running times...

Yesterday I ran at 6AM again... I did not want to but am glad I did.

Today I slept in (9AM) so it was 10 before I got out for my run... it was already 99 degrees with the humidex. Oy.

Not a bad run though... I took it slow and carried on. 4:1's don't feel that much different than 3:1's which is nice.

I had pizza and potato chips yesterday and could feel the puffiness today from it... no exercise was not an option.

Hope you are keeping cool in your neck of the woods...

Have a great day!

Oh my word...

2011-07-15T12:06:00.000-04:00

5:30 is too damn early.

I got up this morning and it was mildly dark out (I don't even know if that is a description or not!!). Threw on my clothes, set my garmin and grabbed my water and Ipod.

It does not help that I had a pukey child last night.

I guess the point of this all is that I did it and well... I actually liked it. My time was good... there was no humidity... I did not die of heat when I was done.

Here's a secret, though... I went back upstairs to go and watch tv in bed and ooops... I fell back asleep. My daughter came back in at about 9AM to wake me up and we laid in bed and cuddled.

I liked the time to run. In fact I may actually do it again.

I had some new tunes on my Ipod (thing Jackson 5!!!) and I boogied through my runs.

One more day of 3:1 and I will move on to 4:1's. So far so good.

Biking with kids...

2011-07-14T16:05:00.000-04:00

Somewhat akin to running with scissors :)

I took my kids for a long bike ride today it turned out to be 5K says my garmin. It went well. My kids can keep up fairly well.

Even if it wasn't the speed that I would normally like to ride, it was exercise and therefore it was good. And truthfully it was exactly what a rest day from running called for.

I am seriously impressed with my kids, though.

There were a couple of times I almost went arse over tea kettle trying to stop in time behind them... those weren't great moments lol... but we all survived.

Now tomorrow... back to running. I am going to get up at 530 AM to run before hubby goes to work. Lord help me but I am going to do it. It is just so much cooler at that time of day and we are squeezed for time with Ryan having soccer tomorrow night.

Wish me luck.

Completion... not perfection, right?

2011-07-13T21:55:00.000-04:00

I did not run with my kids today.

I ran.

They ran.

We did not run together.

I just can't do the track. I mean... if I had no other choice and was a single mom? Sure. Otherwise. I don't know but never say never!

My run was great today but I am pondering a day off - maybe a bike ride with the kids or a walk. Back to running on Friday. It was a beautiful day... the sun was shining and the weather was nice. The humidity gave us a break... for a day. It is 18 degrees right now at bedtime. I love having the windows open.

I leave you with some pictures of my kids at the track from tonight...

On your mark...

Get set....

Go!!!!!!!!

And a little yoga zen stretching for afterwards...

I did not teach them this... I have no idea where this came from... but I will tell you... they are fast little monsters :)

Cheers and have a great day!

The post that has no name...

2011-07-12T21:28:00.000-04:00

So Sunday happened... and surprise... I did not gain a grand amount of weight. One stinking pound.

Totally cool.

I had a fantastic night out seeing The Hip. I drank far too much and paid for it a bit the next day. Luckily I had a planned rest day and boy, did I need it.

Today was back on track... my food was under control still (sometimes I come off of these things and end up in full binge mode... I did not do this), I ran (although it was way more hot than I thought it was out... wind can be deceiving).

I am pretty excited about my progress even though pictures don't really tell the whole story.

I am considering running with my kids tomorrow... Lord, help me. They have taken up an interest in running so my mom has taken them to the track. They do what they want to and then when they are done she brings them home. I need to run and they love to run so it is win/win. Plus the weather is not supposed to be bad. I am not jazzed about running a track tomorrow but whatever works, I guess. I'll just set my garmin for what I need to do and bring a soccer ball in case they get bored. I'll let you know how it goes.

I can do it...

2011-07-10T11:46:00.000-04:00

Do any of you practice talking nicely to yourself?

This is something I have been working on this round of running.

I have found that it helps so much in keeping my momentum going and finishing. I am really not that worried about speed (although I do look at it and track it)... I really work on completion. It doesn't have to look good... it just has to be done. I use my walk breaks with pride... I need them therefore I take them. I am no hero.

Today I finished my first day of 3:1's. And I did it with a smile on my face. And I did it with pride.

I told myself I was capable and dog gone it... I was.

It is very hot out there... already a balmy 93 degrees with humidex and I did what I set out to do.

If you don't talk nicely to yourself... try it on your next exercise attempt and see how it works for you.

Have a great day! I know I will... it's concert day!

I make the rules...

2011-07-09T11:14:00.000-04:00

I weigh in on Monday's.

Tomorrow I am going to see the Tragically Hip concert. It is an all day event and there will be a lot of drinking. Monday is slated to be a horrible weigh in as I normally do not drink and as much as I try and control what I am eating... I won't be able to be as strict.

So I thought... this is my journey and I make the rules. I am weighing in and taking my measurements today. I am down 2.2 lbs this morning for a total of 12 lbs and 8.5 inches.

I thought... why not? Why ruin a perfectly good night out when I know for a fact that the weight gain from Sunday is going to be temporary, sodium and alcohol. By Wednesday my weight will be back to the same. Why stress? I don't get out much with friends and I don't want my weight to rule my night. If this was happening on a weekly basis...well that would be different... but it doesn't so this is what I came up with for this week. It gives me peace and permission to have a great time (but don't kid yourself... overdoing it will be in the back of my mind... I have come too far to ruin this).

I saw a picture of myself yesterday that I was not happy with. So much progress but so much work to do still. I need to keep my eye on the prize.

My day in pictures...

2011-07-07T22:31:00.002-04:00

I had a shed this morning when I left. I returned to a heap of crud and a frame for a new one.

The beautiful Rock Glen Conservation area in Arkona, Ontario.

The falls. What a gem.

Fun in the falls.

My boy "Survivor" style.

Fossils.

And funnies.

And cherry picking.

Oh... And I finally broke 200 on the scale. 199.4 this morning. Booyah Baby!

Wednesday... middle of the week...

2011-07-06T11:45:00.000-04:00

And here I sit... waiting for my husband to get back from Home Depot so that I can go for my run.

I ran yesterday as well and it went ok. Nothing fantastic but okay.

It is crazy hot here in SW Ontario and runs are super hot but satisfying in the end.

Plans today are to head to the splash pad with the kids if the rain holds off. If it does rain.. I have some crazy amounts of laundry and cleaning to do.

Also Kiss is in town tonight. I am going to take the kids up to the park to listen to a bit of it tonight... I wouldn't take them into the concert... it's a little rauceous for my likings for them. I, myself loved the concert. So would my kids. The crowds can be nasty.

Pray for sun.

What's up with you today?

Sunshine overload!

2011-07-04T15:51:00.000-04:00

What a busy weekend.

I think I got too much sun... boo. I don't have a burn or anything but do I ever have a headache. I just can't shake it. Not dehydrated, I have ate enough and enough sugar... I did not exercise yesterday or today... not sure where it came from. I may run later today just to see if it will help with my headache if it is not gone.

It was a really great weekend, though.

Now lets get to the stuff I know you have been dying to hear. I weighed in today. I lost .4 lbs. Doesn't look good on the scale but I will take it. First off all... it was my time of month. Second of all, I had ice cream cake yesterday and lots of treats on Canada Day. A loss is a loss and I will take it.

As a side note: to all my American friends... Happy Independence day! I hope your day is as good as our Canada Day was!

This weekend is just too busy...

2011-07-02T21:21:00.000-04:00

So when I get a second... I am not doing the traditional things I would be doing. I decided to blog.

We had a great Canada day !!! I hope you did also!

I ran my first and second 2:1 and it went really well!!

I am currently trying to decide if I am going to run tomorrow or not.

My kids are getting baptized tomorrow afternoon. Another busy day after a busy day today also. All I really want to do is float in the pool in this glorious weather.

My hubby has the week off... I am looking forward to a whole lot of rest and relaxation :)

Have a great day!

Happy Canada Day!

2011-07-01T09:38:00.000-04:00

Get out there and celebrate in true Canadian style ;)

Celebrate you and where you live.

My day started with a run... running 2:1's for the first time. It was a great way to kick off the day. Next we are headed to the parade and then for some ethnic foods. Yah... Yum.

Our house for a barbeque and swim and then to the fireworks tonight.

I hope you enjoy your day! Be safe!

Cornucopia ♥

2011-06-29T09:34:00.000-04:00

This was my Tuesday...

Rested my legs... did some things around the house that desperately needed some getting to...

Recovered from the Tigers game the night before (which was SO much fun! I am so glad we took the kids!)

Went to the school... my baby girl got an award for Arts for her class. I am so proud of her. She truly is a windstorm in herself. Such confidence, such style, such grace (and she is a hockey player!!!). What a way to cap off your grade one year. Both my kids got great report cards and move to Grade 1 and Grade 2. They are getting bigger :)

And last night... well... I rested and chilled. This mama was tired. I did try and get out for some exercise but I was just too tired and decided I needed to listen to my body.

And today, well, I have an appointment with my running shoes. Legs are still a bit tired but I feel less tired than I did yesterday.

Hope you all have a great day. It's the last day of school :) No more packed lunches for the kids!!!

Dear legs,

2011-06-28T14:50:00.000-04:00

You are tired... I get that.

But I only have two days until I don't have my days to myself anymore and will have to run at odd hours of the day and night.

I am going to give you a break today and maybe just walk tonight but you had best be in tip top shape for tomorrow when I head out.

Thanks in advance,

Leanne

I feel revitalized!

2011-06-22T13:19:00.000-04:00

Fantastic.

Happy.

Healthy.

Like myself.

I am so happy to be back to doing things that are me. Not sleeping every day. Smelling roses along the way.

I am still running. Tomorrow I am going to head on to 1:1's. I can do this.

Do you practice positive self talk? I have been working on it. What kind of things do you say to yourself?

Happy Father's day!

2011-06-19T12:04:00.000-04:00

Wishing my Dad and my husband a very happy Father's day.

It's looking like a very low key day here at our place.

The kids have hockey at 3:00 and other than that... we have nothing special planned.

I should get outside for some exercise here in a bit but for right now I am comatose on the couch.

Wishing all you dads a happy Father's day and for those of you without, big hugs and fond memories.

Why you shouldn't eat pizza after running...

2011-06-18T19:14:00.002-04:00

1) you think you are REALLY hungry... you aren't

2) you eat 4 pieces

3) gut rot after eating said pieces because you aren't that hungry. Had you actually had some more water while eating, 4 pieces would not have happened and maybe you would eat the salad.

4) totally cancelled out my run.

That being said I went out again today. Lungs are beginning to help. The walking before this must have helped.

It was a beautiful day in SW Ontario and the pool is just what the doctor ordered after a run/walk session. Hope you are all having a great day.

Happy Father's day tomorrow.

Oh heck ya!

2011-06-17T15:02:00.000-04:00

The hood 3.11 km 00:28 08:59 pace

*tear* :D
First run/walk in a long time... happy sigh run 1 walk 2... gotta start somewhere

5 minutes ago via Garmin

I'm back, byches :)

A line in a song hit me quite hard on my run and I thought I would share...

Song: Uncharted, Sara Bareilles

"Compare, where you are to where you want to be, and you'll get nowhere"

It's a good one... enjoy :)

Roller blading = fail!!!

2011-06-17T13:46:00.000-04:00

But I will keep trying :)

I managed to make it around my block (which per garmin is 460 metres). I got to my house and promptly fell flat on my petunia saving my round bottom with my wrists (OWCH!).

I am going to try again this weekend. I think the family is going to go somewhere flatter for me to give it a go.

Since then I have been for a walk and then a rest day. Today I decided was eat my points day :) Or could be called indulgence day. Regardless, there will be ice cream and poutine and I will stay in my points for the week.

So in honour of indulgence day, I am headed out for my first run 1 walk 2 around my neighbourhood. If you are going to eat a big mac, you best be working it off.

Or some of it :)

What's up for Father's day for you guys? We have no plans yet but most likely will be hanging out by the pool.

So I bought some roller blades this winter...

2011-06-14T09:59:00.000-04:00

I am now sitting wondering why the heck I did that lol.

Today I am intending to get out on them. Apparently 15 minutes of them is worth 4 activity points to me. That's crazy talk.

So... please pray for no road rash for me?

And can I tell you something funny? My hair has gone curly from the meds I take lol. How very strange.

Tonight I am headed to the movies to see Hangover 2. I know it is not getting great reviews but I need to see it for myself. Tomorrow is my hubby and my 9th anniversary married. Time sure does fly by.

That's about all I got today. Pretty exciting, eh?

Weigh in day :)

2011-06-13T15:08:00.000-04:00

Notice the smile :)

In two weeks I am down 6.2 lbs. How's that for hopping on the wagon :)

I have been walking almost daily and even went to the WW 5K challenge on Sunday. I hurt afterwards but I hurt good :)

I do love a little pain after a workout to make sure that I got some spots moving that don't get moved.

I am following WW. Yes. Again. How many times will I restart some program or another? Enough times that I get it right.

I went and saw the surgeon today and he is very pleased with my healing. It's safe to say I am coming along well.

I can't wait to get out and run. I think I will wait until I am under 200lbs. Today was 202. Don't ask why... it is just some inane response and well... that's a girls prerogative, right?

Hope you are all having a great day and that the sun is shining where you are.

Love and hugs.

L

ahhh... I feel good!

2011-06-09T21:33:00.000-04:00

Anyone want to thank me for the earworm?

I just went out for a walk with a friend. I just looked at my garmin and my last exercise (when my doctor told me to stop) was March 23rd.

Man that felt awesome. I can't wait to go out again. Pretty sure I may hurt tomorrow but I have put on compression socks just in case. Plus I love these things.

Check this out :) I may or may not be back. I joined WW for the umpteenth time today. I am feeling all right for the first time in months.

Walk around the neighbourhood with Carol. Nice night after all... sweaty I was :) Can't wait to do it again.

Leanne walked 3.22 kilometers in 33 mins and felt great

Leanne posted a walk on dailymile

Leanne V. walked 3.22 kilometers in 33 mins. Walk around the neighbourhood with Carol. Nice night after all... sweaty I was :) Can't wait to do it again.

And just as quick as that...

2011-05-28T11:51:00.000-04:00

My gallbladder is gone.

I woke up in good spirits on Tuesday... looking forward to the kids going to school and me getting some things done around the house before Paige and I had eye doctor appointments.

9AM I get a call from the surgeon... I had expected that they were calling to give me 10 days notice. Nope.. they had a cancellation. Could I be there for TOMORROW?? Of course I could. So my slow day became very busy. I had a couple of things to get done, a pre admit appointment at the hospital, and two eye doctor appointments.

While I was at the hospital, the school called. Ryan was sick and needed to be picked up (what timing my little boy has). Luckily my mom got the call and took him to her house because she knew my phone would be off in the hospital.

So I pick up Paige and we go to the eye doctors... neither of our prescriptions have changed. That's good news, right? Then he looks at my eyes and tells me that I have a cataract... and apparently I can blame the steroids for this. Then he tests my pressure and it is way high...he believes that I have the beginning stages of glaucoma. Again, thank you steriods. I am pretty bummed at this point.

I did pick out some nice new glasses that I am super excited to get.

Wednesday comes and I go in for surgery. Routine, laproscopic... except for the doctor only gave me tylenol 2's. This lands me back in the hospital that evening in intense pain. The doctor at emerge laughs when he sees that I was only given t2's. He gives me some better drugs.

Thank god for better drugs.

So I am slowly recovering. Not much of an appetite yet which is weird. My biggest complaint right now is total nausea.

I am looking forward to healing, though and starting to feel healthier again.

So that's me. Surprise :)

Sigh... long weekends

2011-05-23T17:27:00.000-04:00

Usually Victoria Day long weekend is a busy one bustling from one thing to another... attempting to get some gardening done, fighting to keep the kids inside in the rain, fighting to keep them out of what we are doing outside.

Long.

I am usually so ready for them to go back to school and my husband to go back to work.

Couple this with feeling not very well these days and it is no fun.

Not this one. Not even a little bit.

I have not had a gall bladder attack in THREE DAYS! This is a record. What has changed? I don't know but I have had cereal all of these days in the morning??? You can bet I am in no rush to change that around. So cereal it is... who doesn't love cereal :)

The gardening is done. DONE. There is even mulch. The only thing I have to do are my pots and I have one bush to buy.

And we didn't even have to fight about it.

The fracking dandelions (which I HATE)... well I sprayed them with Weed B Gone. All of them. Next weekend if any of the little buggers lived through it... well they are getting it again.

The pool is opened.

The kids are old enough to play by themselves for the first time ever and are having so much fun playing in the trampoline that my parents bought them.

It was crazy hot all weekend. The entire weekend (save for a one hour nap from me today - which I totally needed after not napping for days! which in itself is progress) was spent outside.

The barbeque has been used all weekend and I have even indulged in a beer a day. Life is good.

Life is really, really good.

If this is a predictor for weekends to come... bring on the summer :)

Hope you all had a great weekend also!

Lets talk about clothes...

2011-05-20T10:49:00.000-04:00

And lets not forget that I am bigger than I have been for 8 years now.

So I go online to Old Navy to check out some yoga capris or shorts... my clothing is very limited right now because when I am having a gall bladder attack (which I will be having the surgery for within the next three weeks), my stomach distends to about a 7 month pregnant point.

OLD NAVY... listen to me. The fact that every single pair of comfy pants that is in size XL is completely sold out!!! should be telling you something. Stock up, their chump.

I know... I could lose weight but with so much going on health wise it is hard to focus on anything health related but what is smacking me in the face.

I just want something that is comfortable. I will check out walmart today to see what they have and even maybe check Oldnavy.com also.

How frustrating.

Wishing all you Canucks a very good Victoria Day weekend! I plan on getting a handle on some gardening this weekend! What are you up to?

So what's new with me?

2011-05-18T16:03:00.000-04:00

I will do this in bullets... it is a bit easier...

I am still off work recovering from my crohn's attack. I am still not 100 percent
I am seeing a surgeon tomorrow to get my gallbladder taken out
The doctor has asked that I be off until August at least
I now have a 7 year old and a 5 year old
she got an American Girl for her birthday and I am just a bit jealous.
This has been the rainiest spring ever, I swear
my hair has turned curly from the drugs... weird
I haven't ran - in fact I was asked to lay off the exercise until I have more energy... hopefully once I get my gallbladder out I will feel stronger
I have gained a lot of weight... in fact I am tipping the scales at 207 lbs on my small 5 foot 3 frame
I can not wait for summer
We bought VIP tickets for the Hip this summer at our local concert weekend - Bayfest
I hate the Hip... it is my husband's favourite band. This is payback for me for taking him to see Sarah McLachlan in January :P
I have been reading A LOT.
In fact it is my new re-found passion

And that is it... I think. Lots going on, I guess. So for now I won't be talking much about weight loss... maybe a bit about health but I thought I needed a place to ramble.

I hope you will listen :)

*waves* Hi to everyone!

I think I will come back to blogging...

2011-05-18T11:11:00.000-04:00

Stay tuned... first I must sleep :)

Lots has been happening in my life. I am still fat and I am still sick but life has been anything but boring.

Talk to you all in a bit.

I also have to spend some time catching up on your fabulous blogs. When I go missing... I really go missing.

L

I kind of suck at follow through...

2011-03-27T12:24:00.000-04:00

All right... I got to day 11 and I flunked out. Who does that?

It's day one again (yes... I sound like a frickin' broken record) but I firmly believe that starting again is about as good as winning. At least I am not letting myself get beat down, right?

I am up again... trying. And that is half the battle, right?

Well today I am 202.8. Day one cycle one of the 17 day diet.

And I will be back tomorrow... and then next day and then next day until it finally sticks.

Hold me to it.

(insert cheers of the crowd going wild!)

This post is brought to you by the words "oh brother"...

2011-03-14T11:54:00.000-04:00

Oh brother... my van is in getting fixed and even with the extended warranty (which is covering a lot of the work) it is going to cost 700.00

Oh brother... there is still snow outside

Oh brother... my kids are home from March break... my house is getting more trashed by the second

Oh brother... I need to go out and get blood work done

Oh brother... I also need to change the bedding on the beds today

Oh brother... day 6 of 17 day diet... down 6 lbs (this should actually be an Oh BOY!!!)

Oh brother... things in Japan are really scaring me. I really hope that things get settled over there really soon.

Oh brother... what in the world is going on with Mother Nature?

Musing about...

2011-03-12T10:48:00.000-05:00

So most of you know I am doing the 17 day diet. I am day 4 back on track and back and I was when I was at day 10. 196.8 lbs.

I have been thinking a lot about what sugar does to your body. Refined sugars, that is. I have never considered giving it up until now. Now I won't lie. I love baked goods, candies, chips and all kinds of junk foods. I can not help but think, though that your body runs better when you don't add the processed refined junks into it.

Case in point... and this may be too much information so bear with me. My TOM. This time around it came with no warning. No bloating. No cramps. Coincidence? We'll see. I am interested to see what happens next month. I'd like to know if this was a fluke or a happy side effect.

This weekend we have no major plans. It is March Break for our kids here. I think we will likely just chill out today and tomorrow is hockey day and my best friend, Sarah's birthday.

Looking forward to relaxing and maybe starting a new book.

My woes seem insignificant...

2011-03-11T10:41:00.000-05:00

The world is waking up to news of a horrific earthquake and tsunami in Japan. And it is not done. Hawaii, California and Tofino are expected to see effects of the tsunami.

My prayers are with them.

The pictures are terrifying. I could not imagine.

Keep these people in your thoughts today. I can not imagine what they are going through. See pictures here...

I think my wagon has a tilt function...

2011-03-10T11:58:00.002-05:00

Sometimes the dang thing drops me off and I have to run to climb back on.

Here's what happened.

I went to Toronto to visit with some friends... specifically Mousie and Beesie. To start with... I was really on track. I ate lunch at Fresh! Fantastic!!! Like, really good. I had never been there and had so wanted to go every time I went to Toronto. Thankfully, my good friend Megan was excited to go there also.

I had a really awesome Thai salad with tofu crunch. Okay... confession time... I had never had tofu until this day. And, well... it was awesome.

Then I did some shopping... still on track.

Then we went for dinner... yep... still on track. We had Korean Barbeque. It was so much fun. I will go back there again. For sure. And because I was in the mood to try new things... I tried Squid. I was actually surprised because it did not have much taste to it. I wasn't opposed to it. But I can't say it will be something I will crave.

Then there was ice cream. And to be honest ... This is not really what threw me off. It was really good. As a sidebar... Did Tim Hortons really think it was a good idea to put ICE CREAM in their shops???? Holy cow. And so I was introduced to Cold Stone Creamery. It was fantastic.

Beesie and I stayed up well.... really late talking about well... everything. Then we went for breakfast.

I will say that being away for just this one night was so good for my soul. It was exactly what the doctor ordered. Good friends, lots of laughs, good food and heart warming acceptance. Yes... I am a cornball.

This is where it broke down. Somewhere along the way home, tired Leanne decided to throw everything out the window and get some sour keys at costco and some apple turnovers. And then there was pizza.

It really was a disasterous weekend.

Tired and one heck of a bad cold. That'll do it.

But I am on track again and back up to 199.6.

I'll get it off again.

Watch me :)

Kind of Amazing, really

2011-02-28T18:38:00.002-05:00

The drugs I am on deplete my immune system. In fact it suppresses it.

I have been expecting to get sick now since December but somehow our house was never invaded by the plague.

Until the last couple of weeks... Paige had bronchitis, then the next week Ryan got a cold, this week I have a heaviness in my chest and a cough. I have no doubt it wants to turn into something else. Hopefully it goes away.

So as of right now I am evicting this whatever it is.

I am not running so that I don't peeve it off.

But I am still eating right (aside from the sunflower seeds I got into during the Oscars last night :P).

Today I found banana yogurt!!! Superstore brand... with probiotics in it. Yep. I was excited. Then I added strawberries into it. Yep. Amazing.

Not expecting much of a loss this week as my friend TOM is supposed to be visiting... insert grrrr...

Hope you all had a great weekend. I know I did.

YAY!, BOO and YAY!

2011-02-25T10:35:00.002-05:00

YAY - my scale shows 196.6 today... that is a total of 6.2 lbs down in 8 days

BOO - I was all geared up for a run today and the freaking roads are full of snow again

YAY - my friend just dropped off a coupon for a two week free membership at the YMCA - the girl gets a treadmill to run on tonight!!

Somehow we got a lot of snow last night... and the buses were cancelled this morning. I took this opportunity to sleep in a bit (and let the kids sleep in a bit) and kept the kids home. They are now playing with their toys and having a blast. I think I made a good decision. They are only kids for so long... and I did not have too much to do anyhow.

Hope you all have some YAY's in your day!

Should I stay or should I go...

2011-02-24T17:59:00.002-05:00

I did yoga yesterday for the first time. It was oddly rewarding and I was surprisingly sweaty.

And a lot more difficult than I expected.

I did about an hour of a Lululemon DVD I bought when I was in Toronto in October. It is called The Pursuit of Happy Hips.

Well I can tell you that my hips were NOT happy this morning. They were not screaming but they were nagging for certain.

So all day I went back and forth on whether I should run or not tonight. I decided not. I just don't want to risk injury and seeing as I am not training for anything... I should probably incorporate one rest day a week into my schedule. I am only running every other day... BUT I am doing some sort of exercise including ice skating on the other days.

I think this was a good idea.

I am intending to play the Wii with Paige tonight :)

What was not a good idea was what I had for snack last night before I went to bed. It is like I was possessed or something. I couldn't help myself. For the first time in a week I lost control in a very controlled way. I ate 5 breaded chicken wings and some cheddar rice crackers.

I am not beating myself up about it. I am not even mad at myself. First... I chose food that really won't kill me. Also I stopped eating. Yes... I know that I am not supposed to have a lot of carbs on this cycle of the diet... but I did and I regained control. That is hugely important.

So I am patting myself on the back. But I am not intending to do it again any time soon.

Make sense?

Weigh in and Day 7 of 17 day diet...

2011-02-23T11:48:00.002-05:00

I am down 4.8 lbs in one week and I am ecstatic! I really and truly could not be happier.

I am not feeling the least bit deprived.

I have exercised each and every single day of this week and don't intend to change that. Today I am going to try a yoga dvd I bought last fall. Wish me luck!!

I went to the movies last night with my daughter and bought her a small popcorn. I had 5 pcs of popcorn. It was enough. I got the taste and did not want or need anything more. I had a pop and some water.

What did we see, you ask? Never say never. I will tell you... I have always liked Justin Bieber. I have never had a problem with him.

I walked away from that movie liking him even more. I might even have a cougar crush on him.

I have a few more of his songs that Paige now wants me to download for her. So that is in the plans for today.

Also... I need to clean today and do some laundry.

Hope you all are having a great day!

So I kicked the kids bums out the door today...

2011-02-22T08:53:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was family day here in Ontario. I won't lie and tell you that I had a bad time. I had a great time. We went skating and then we went to an OHL game.

But the truth is... I get used to my time when the kids are in school and I can get things done.

And when they are home with me (hubby had to work)... I don't get my naps in. And well... the truth is that I am not healthy enough to get away without a nap these days.

So today... I kissed their sweet little faces good bye... and secretly rejoiced all the way back from the bus stop.

What's on tap today?

Nap.

Run.

Doctors appt for the kids.

Dinner.

Then Paige and I are going to see the Beiber movie. I also won't lie. I like him. I think if I was a youngin I would be pretty sweet on him.

What are your plans for the day? Make it a healthy one!

I went... and I did :D

2011-02-20T12:52:00.002-05:00

And it was a good one.

I am glad I went out. Especially happy that I went out before the snow starts this afternoon.

Random things I saw along my run;

a hockey shin pad
a Pittsburgh penguins hat
a bag of dog poop
two bananas
a happy birthday balloon

And both shoes undid. Anyone else notice that shoe laces are being made shorter and shorter these days? What's up with that.

This run was my most steady one yet. My breathing was calm and controlled.

I am going to do one more week of run 1 walk 2 so that I don't overdo it.

Running makes me happy.

What makes you happy?

kick my behind Sunday

2011-02-20T11:55:00.003-05:00

Come on... tell me that I should get my run stuff on and get out there before the snow comes.

Do it.

Day three and going strong...

2011-02-19T16:37:00.002-05:00

17 day diet says 17 minutes of exercise each day.

Yesterday I went for another run... run 1 walk 2 (back at the beginning - AGAIN!) and MAN was it windy outside. It was great to be out, though. It was 10 degrees out but that wind was cold.

Today I went skating with the family for about an hour and a half. Skating is something that I took up again this year. I had not skated since high school. My calves are feeling pretty worked right now but that is a good thing.

Tonight we are going to rest and hang out as a family. I am so looking forward to a chill night.

After Ryan's hockey today we all came home and had something to eat. I made Shawn what I had been eating for the last three days for breakfast. An egg (sunny side up) served over some ham. It is so yummy and filling.

I don't feel like I am missing anything which is great.

I will leave you with this... did you know that sauerkraut is a probiotic?

One thing that I love is sauerkraut... Like I really love it. I will eat a bunch of it as a side dish.

17 day diet asks you to have two probiotics a day. I do love yogurt but I don't want to get sick of it so I was more than happy to add some sauerkraut into my day. Lunch today was chicken, cucumber and sauerkraut. How's that for yummy :P

Anyway, I hope you are all having a great weekend and getting out there and doing something active.

It really does make you feel better :)