I'm Still Alive

Asics Gel- Noosa Tri

Well, I completed week one of couch to 5k!  I am feeling on top of the world!  I decided today to take my workout outside.  I've never really been able to get into running before.  I've always wanted to, but just haven't been able to do it!  I don't know why it's so different this time, but it just is working, so I am sticking with it!  I think a lot of it stems from the fact that my friends are doing this online with me.

My problems with plantar fasciitis are really flaring up, so I decided it was time for some new running shoes.  After lots of online research, talking to friends, consulting LOTS of running sites,  I decided to order the Gel Noosa Tri from Asics.  I know, all of you real runners are groaning and going "what?  you didn't try them on??????"  I know, I know.  I hate going to the store to buy shoes because I always end up feeling so pressured by the sales person that I always end up buying the wrong thing.  So, I like to do my online research, and then buy from Zappos.com.  They have free shipping and then if I hate them, I can send them back for free.  Been shopping there for years.  So, wish me luck that these will be my proverbial glass slipper!

Couch to 5k - Day 1

I did it. I completed day 1 of the Official Couch to 5k app.  For some reason, I really like Sarge yelling at me.  And not only did I finish, but I didn't stop and I am still alive to tell about it.  Don't tell my inner lazy diva, but I actually enjoyed it.    I decided to use the treadmill because I am not really ready to run outside yet. My neighbors are very nice people and they really don't need to be exposed to that.  I did the "walk" part about 3.6-3.8 mph and the job part 5mph. Nothing earth shattering, but I made it through the whole workout without stopping. Whoot whoot. Things I learned today.
1. I like my running shoes - they work well with my feet. I didn't hurt at all.
2. Remember to breathe. I think this is my biggest problem.
3. As soon as I start jogging, I instantly have to poop. WTH?
4. Thank you Stacey! You made a comment the other day about wearing 2 sports bras, and that was the best tip I've even gotten. That's always been my worst problem with running - it hurt because of my boobs. It really wasn't bad at all with wearing two of them!
5.  Having a large mirror right next to your treadmill is very humbling and motivating all at once.
6.  I need to get a headband or something.  I sweat like a pig!  LMAO!

Change In Plans

Well, my friend backed out on me for reasons of her own that I won't go into detail about.  I am REALLY bummed.  I hope that she finds the courage to do a 5k with or without me, though of course, the selfish part of me wishes it was with me.  She's certainly inspired me!  I am still going to start training for this and hope that she will change her mind and re join me.  I hope she knows how very much I love her and what an inspiration she is to so many people.  Love you, M.

But, with or without her, I have to do this for me now.  I have watched too much life pass me by wishing I was someone else.  It's time.  I have had health issues.  Injuries.  Emotional issues.  Guilt issues.  But, I have to get past all of that.  Step by Step.  I have had real things that have prevented me from exercise, but more than that, emotional blocks and a giant pile of excuses.  As of today, I am vowing to myself, no more excuses.   

I am starting slow as I am not very healthy.  I have walked the last three days, building up each day.  I started with 1.5 miles, then went to about 2 miles, and today about 2.5.

Tomorrow I am going to start the couch to 5k program and actually incorporate a little bit of running slowly into it.  I am very overweight so I would advise all of my neighbors to keep their blinds closed for the next few weeks.  This isn't going to be pretty.  I apologize in advance for anything you or your children might be exposed to in the coming weeks.  LOL!  Love you all!  

Couch to 5K Here We Go!!!!!

Download in the iTunes store!

Well, what have I done?  LOL!  I am NOT a runner.  I'd LOVE to be a runner, I just hate running, with a passion.  However, one of my best friends in the entire world lives, give or take, 1500 miles away.  I am in Minnesota, she's in Arizona.  She's been on a very amazing healthy journey the last few years, amazing me every step of the way.  Her determination and drive is VERY inspiring!  However, she's never done a 5k.  One challenge she's always wanted to do, but never done.

She told me if I train with her, online, via the Couch to 5K app we found, she will fly out here in October and we will do our very first 5k together.  How in the heck could I say no?  I always have tons of excuses NOT to exercise - finally I have a very good, very accountable reason.  Since bringing it up, my husband and daughter and several friends have said they will too!  I am so excited to know I am not doing this alone!

I went out today and walked for a mile and a half.  Not a lot, but it's a start!  Look out running, here I come!!!

Changing of the Blog ;)

Jen & Rick - ChildFun.com Owners

Well, this blog has always been just about my never ending weight loss struggles, but there's so much more to comment on in the world, that I decided to change it up and expand the things I talk about.  I'll still talk about my never ending struggles, but will talk about other things too!  Feel free to pin anything you see, share on Facebook or whatever!  I am delighted to share with you!

My hubby and I have been married for 20 plus years and I've learned a lot about life, parenting and being a wife.  We started the ChildFun website back in 1996 when we had three little ones running around the house.  It expanded from themed craft activities for preschoolers, and expanded into articles for parents, recipes, Coloring Pages, and so much more!

Nowadays, I still own the sites, but my kids are older and I've taken a different look at life then I did back then.  Hopefully I will be able to update this blog more often than I have in the past, and get to know all of you better.  Here's to the future!

It's Here!!!!!!!!

SO EXCITED! The new http://ColoringBookFun.com/ is now live. Stop by and check out our new supercharged high tech high speed site! Watch for amazing new changes, high tech fun, & TONS of new content. What do you think of the new design?  Please drop me a line and let me know!

24 Day Challenge - Who's With Me???

So excited to see my son getting his business off the ground!  :) I am going to do the Advocare 24 day challenge in August (have a family reunion and a small Vegas trip planned, and I don't plan on living very healthy at either one...LOL.)  If you'd like to join me mid - August on the challenge (or even if you want to start sooner) let me know!   I would love to have a group of people do this with me.  I know a few people who have done the challenge, and I've heard fabulous things.  I think this is just what I need to jump start me back into a healthy lifestyle!


Here's the info :

Days 1-10 Cleanse Phase:

The first ten days are about cleansing your body of toxins and preparing for optimal nutrient absorption, and you may enjoy weight loss as well!*

Herbal Cleanse -Citrus : helps to cleanse and detoxify your body.*
OmegaPlex®:essential fatty acids for increased overall wellness.*
AdvoCare Spark®:nutritionally-advanced energy*

Days 11-24 Max Phase
Give your body the best tools you need to achieve your next weight management goal during days 11-24!*
• Herbal Cleanse-Citrus: helps to cleanse and detoxify your body.*
• OmegaPlex®:essential fatty acids for increased overall wellness.* 

• AdvoCareSpark®:nutritionally-advanced energy*

Days 11-24 Max Phase
Give your body the best tools you need to achieve your next weight management goal during days 11-24!*
• Metabolic Nutrition System (MNS®): Your choice of Max C+ (appetite control), Max E+ (energy), or Max 3 – for weight management, appetite control and overall wellness.*
• MealReplacementShake-your choice ofnchocolate mocha, chocolate, vanilla, berry or non-dairy dark chocolate : Complete nutrition in a great-tasting shake!
• AdvoCareSpark®:nutritionally advanced energy*

Visit his Advocare Website for more info on The 24 Day Challenge

Summer Goes Too Fast!!!!!!

Oh man - how the heck is it already July 1st???????  Where in the heck did June go?!?!?  Here's where mine went:

Cleaning garage to get ready for son graduating from high school.

Making picture boards for son graduating from high school.
Made picture video of son graduating from high school.
Shopped for groceries for party for son graduating from high school.
Cleaned house for company coming for son graduating from high school.
Watched son graduating from high school.
Cried.
Had party for son graduating from high school.

Started prepping daughter for her first trip away from home.
Sent daughter to camp.
Sent daughter to California.
Cried.

June has been VERY busy.  BUT, on the bright side......

The re-launch party of ColoringBookFun.com is almost ready to reveal.  All I can tell you is that it's easier to navigate, faster loading, and gorgeous.  Nothing special, you know. *wink*

As for me and my weight loss, it's a never ending battle.  I'm very happy in my own skin these days and try to be as healthy as I can!