busy busy, but not too busy to have.....

.....lost that 40th pound for the year!!!!! WOO-HOOO! I so can't believe it! That is how much Emma weighs. I literally dropped "her" off of me.....no wonder I can run better now! ;)

Busy time of year - I feel like our feet haven't touched ground in several weeks. And of course no time to slow down in the near future. Busy people....are blessed people. Right?! Of course!

Getting in time (and energy) for exercise is no secret VERY HARD these days. Stretching is sometimes all I can get in. With the holiday's nearing I am on the quest to find some low calorie snacks to make this year instead of the stand-bys of every year. Also looking to use as little preservatives as possible and go as natural as I can. I'll keep you posted on my findings!
busy bee,
Jill

EFF to ARK....

Congrats to Heather Steffey whom is now the Mrs. Heather Starkey!

Back from FL.....wedding was beautiful, Disney was so magical, and back home "enjoying" the, brrrrr, windy weather.

Good to see you WB girls!!!!! Praise God for the amazing friendships!!!! We missed you CA Carrie!!!!!!
more to come, Jill

Biggest Loser

Well last night was a two hour "almost" finale. Again, sooooooooooooooooooooo good! Anyone with the goal to get healthy should watch it. Anyone who needs the motivation should watch it. Anyone that has a passion for loving life should watch it. Just watch it.

Danny is amazing. Dad, husband, good 'ol boy. He saw himself dying. But the kicker is, he did something about it. And kept going. Last night we saw them go home for 60 days. While home, he lost 59 pounds!!! No trainers, no stocked kitchen.....just him. wow. you don't need the big wigs to help you, you just need to open your eyes and do it for yourself. I am so amazed with him. Danny, you have changed your life. You have changed your family's life. Forever.

I can tell withing the past 5 months of my journey a similar occurrence has taken place. Its not about being skinny or wearing those smaller jeans. Its about changing my life. And when my life changes so does my family's. I could not be more excited to feel this way. Life is so different from one year ago.
Heading to that Sunshine state tomorrow!
Jill

December is here!

Hey WB girls, can you believe December is here?!
See you all soon in FL!!!!!

Heather - enjoy those last few days as a single lady! HA!

Well ladies, I have finally surpassed the 35 mark! As of today I have lost a total of 36 pounds for the year. Whooooo-hooooo! Just think how much easier it will be for me to shake my hinny as we dance it up after the wedding!!!!!
Can't wait,
J

Thanksgiving Run. Commit and Deliver.

Wow. What a morning to be thankful for! Happy Thanksgiving - hoping each of you is enjoying family to the hilt!

My morning started off with a goal to finish the challenge of a four mile run. Never running that far in one continuous stretch, I wasn't sure it was doable. But what kinda thought is that? I couldn't stop! That's right 44 minutes and 8 seconds! Done. Did it. Never felt better. What an accomplishment. Love it.

Couldn't help spending those 44 minutes thinking and visualizing each of my WB Girls and their families, Ali running her turkey trot this morning, my beautiful family (Adam who was graciously tending to the turkey at home, and Emma standing on the porch yelling "GO MOMMY, YOU CAN DO IT!"). I was also thinking much of my sister-in-law and the whole Phipps' side of the family....a new weight loss challenge has been erupted this week and I am so excited to see life changing habits happen for the whole family.

Wow. so many people. So many good friends. So many lives. How could I possibly not be the happiest gal in the world?

Couldn't help but have Adam take a picture of me after the run. Wanted to find the "before" picture, there was a bit of a problem....I couldn't! For the past year I have hid from the camera...ashamed of where I had gotten. The best I could find was one from this past June. Keep in mind I had ALREADY lost 15 pounds by then! So excited to see the change. Feel the change. Live the change. Take that Satan... you can go in your corner and cry like a baby now.

Which brings me to a small reflection. Last weeks sermon was absolutely perfect. Titled "samshing Satan inthe Motuh." A clear reminder that Satan is here, feeding us lies nonstop. Our preacher didn't walk on eggshells when he spoke....he laid it all on the line. Satan is here to destroy us. And he will if we don't smack him around and let him know that God's will has more authority over any one of his lies. Man, it sure does....do i ever believe it. Oh what a six months it has been. I no longer let Satan run my health. He has taken too much away from me, but no more. No more.

As the sermon came to a close the praise band began to softly play their music in the background as the Pastor Mike gave a perfectly spoken conclusion. Heartwarming. Inspiring. Uplifting.

He finished with this sentence (and I would like to close today with it also);

"It's time to tell Satan, ' YOU CAN GO TO....

...well....HOME'."

***For the whole sermon, use this link. If anything catch at least the last ten minutes. :) http://www.vistacommunitychurch.org/sermon-audio/smashing-satan-in-the-mouth.html

Tuesday's Biggest Loser.

So am I the only one that cries in this show? :)
I just love it. These people have got it. They see what they are doing and why. It's not about losing the weight - it is about giving life back....to themselves and their families. I just love them all.

here are some figures for you from the show tonight:
- America spends over $147 BILLION on health care cost related to obesity a year. STUNNING. Now it doesn't matter what political party you are in favor for, but times are scary when it comes to American health care. Time to take care of ourselves and depend on no one!!!!
- 1 in 3 children in America are obese. So apparent when you walk in our schools. What are we doing to our kids?
- An average American family can SAVE $20 by eating at home rather than eating out. AMEN.

Wow. Wow. To change today is to change FOREVER.
Still drinking my water, still exercising, still centering meals around veggie and fruits. Still making a difference. Every minute. Everyday.
Love that show - how motivational. Find it on the web and watch it if you missed it.
Givin' life,
Jill

Couple tidbits.....

haven't put in a any tidbits lately...here are a few I found interesting today.
For starters, I TOTALLY agree with Mel that weight loss is 80% what you eat, 10% exercise and 10% genetics. As I look over my journey this couldn't ring any more true. Agree agree. With that being said here are a couple things to keep in mind on our healthy journey to come.

In a recent question to Women's Health Mag. Q&A, a person wrote in asking if you can have too many artificial sweeteners? The answer from Keriglassman, R.D., "YES". "Artificial sweeteners can actually curb your sweet tooth, and some research has shown that they may even trick your brain into craving MORE sweets! So wean yourself off sugar and sugar substitutes with naturally sweet snacks that additional dietary benefits, like fiber-filled berries or antioxidant-rich dark chocolate."

I'll add to that, don't forget artificial sweeteners contain aspartame which is very damaging to women's hormones, with in turn can affect your weight and cancer odds. Be sure to check and read your labels on EVERYTHING. Don't forget if you are a soda drinker....best thing there - kick it....don'tjust take my word on it read the article on Monday Nov. 2 blog posting....seriously read it.

Also here is a great link I found with Thanksgiving approaching: http://www.prevention.com/cda/article/your-stay-slim-holiday-survival-plan/0de77e643f803110VgnVCM10000013281eac____/weight.loss/strategies.for.success/emotional.eating?cm_mmc=Spotlight-_-11232009-_-Weight%20Loss-_-Holiday%20Overeating

Keep truckin' my friends. I have gotten word from my in-laws there is a new and upcoming challenge coming for the whole family to lose unhealthy fat and get the body working at its prime. Go Phipps' family....GO GO GO!

ahhhhh...Sunday Mornings.

Love Sunday mornings! (when we are home)
Usually a great time to get in that long walk/run since Adam is home with Emma, but today I simply rested and then got in a very good yoga DVD. I love that stretching and muscle burnin'. "Breathing" really does refresh me. Feelin' good.

And of course we go to the best church ever that doesn't start until 10:30. So I have prepared lunch (cooked the chicken and all!) this morning, dishwasher loaded and going, everyone dressed and looking good and simply enjoying the family....all before church starts.
And...I am wearing tights with a denim skirt that I use to teach in BEFORE Emma was born. Rock on new bod.....rock on.
Jill

ok - so editing the post a bit...it is now Sunday evening and just for the record, I want everyone to know we were late to church after that beautiful morning! :) Blaming this one 100% on my husband!!!!
ps - drank 96 oz of good 'ol H2O today. gonna pee all night.

Hey Class, Listen up, there's a new runner in town!

Hey hey - watch out Dublin OH...Ali Hooper is hitting the pavement! YEAH!!! Kudos girl! Keep it up!
Who else is out there stepping up the game? Heart rates up ladies - lets do it!

Can't wait to see you WB Girls in FL....just a few days away!

Long day here. Over six hours in car. -ugh- good thing I got out there with my dog this morning for some fresh air.....always starts the day good.
Off to bed my friends,
Jill

Good day, good day.

Heard last night there are a couple of OHIO-ERS running a turkey trot on Thanksgiving day - absolutely cool. They are awesome. Go Life Group. I love hearing about people taking control of their future!

Getting excited around this place. Brisk air will do that to you. ahhhhhhh - love this new running gig in my life, always have liked the outdoors....and no better time than the cool fall with a little Indian Summer.
God is good.....all the time.
Jill

Today's Motivation.

So if ....... "adding 11 minutes of walking each day will reduce your risk of getting breast cancer by nearly 20 percent" -Journal of the National Cancer Institute

...and if...."carrying weight around your middle is risky because excess fat produces hormones and chemicals that can contribute to insulin resistance - which increases risk of diabetes, heart disease and cancer.....less than 35 inches in considered healthy" -Study in Archives of Internal Medicine

.....then I have some more work to do.
Perhaps more than 11 minutes a day. :)
Still No Excuses November,
Jill

LIFE.

So did anyone watch the Biggest Loser last night? Anyone cry? Man, I tell you the people on that show are amazing. I have the up most respect for them. THAT is what hard work is. You can all the best trainers and cooks in the world, but NO ONE gives you the motivation/determination other than yourself. I could not be more proud of the speeches they gave last night - so many involved their family.

I can relate. It isn't on as near big scale as they, but I can relate. A year ago this month, I lost the next precious member in our family when I miscarried. It happened at home. There is a moment when you are just standing there feeling hopeless. Hopeless. Hopeless. What I had done?
On that day I looked in the mirror and saw a very unhealthy person. Overweight. I was someone who wasn't healthy enough to carry that precious life that God was giving us. What had I done? I was cheating my family. Its not just my life but its theirs too. How selfish of me to let my weight get this way and do nothing about it. It was time for change.

One year later. 34 pounds lighter, taking my BMI from obese to just barely overweight. Still have some to go. Exercising every day....no matter what. Eating fruits and veggies every meal, all day....no matter what. My waist has dropped in inches - reducing my risk for cancer, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease. No trainers, no cooks, just me. Just me determined to make LIFE better and longer. I'm doing this for my family...for myself....for the family we could have had - I owe it to that little one.
Every time I want to give in or give up, I just think of that moment a year ago...standing in the bathroom - hopeless. I have to do this. I have a responsibility to do this. Getting healthy is not an option or something on my "to-do" list. It is my LIFE. My family's LIFE.
So go pick on someone else Satan. I am NOT letting you or your temptations take one more day away of anyone's precious life.
LIFE.
Jill

Catching up.

Playing catch up today. We were all in IN for a long weekend "house shopping". Emma stayed with Grandma and Papaw....and came home with stomach yucks. Puking and diarrhea....booooo - hate to see little one's sick! Ironically I just read an article on keeping kids from not getting sick this season.....top three things, wash hands, get plenty of rest, avoid lots of sugar....well that just might have tipped the burg this weekend! :) Weekends with Emma's grandparents usually mean extra sugar and late bedtimes! Hoping for a speedy recovery.....she only puked twice last night.

As for me, I am washing my hands like crazy and trying not to breath her air! Was able to get outside this morning for some fresh air which felt so good.
Boostin' the immune system,
Jill

See Adam run.

So the dog and child are at Grandma and Papaw's house.....therefor Adam was up and at 'em with me this morning for the four mile walk/run. A bit shaky, but he made it (well most of it) ;)
Good for you Adam, good for you - way to sweat!

The fresh air feels so good. I can't complain at all about the beauty God has planted right in front of our eyes. Such a perfect fall morning out.

Feeling a bit better. -shew- So hard. An indescribably hard. Not giving in though. Can't.
I AM NOT LETTING SATAN WIN. SATAN SUCKS.

rough couple days

Ok. I absolutely do NOT understand what is going on and more than it physically hurts, it is more frustrating.
My whole self feels like it has regressed back four months. the past two days have been torture. Back pain, breast pain, cramps, emotional downfall, absolutely no energy, hungry all the time, emotional eating, and absolutely no desire to do anything about it. It is so hard to feel this way. There is absolutely no control over my emotions (or lack thereof) and it is so frustrating. I feel like a failure. A bad mom. So frustrating. What is wrong with me? I am doing all the right things, right? Why is it constant punishment? So frustrating. I hate it. I hate everything about it. I don't understand. The weight is coming back on too. yippee. so much for diet and exercise, huh? I just don't get it. Exercise, nutrition, diet....that is suppose to get you fit and aid in baby making.....why is I work so hard and the reverse comes. kinda hard to encourage others when it doesn't work for me. Seriously, this isn't a step back....I feel like I'm all the way back at the beginning. -sigh-
Tried to do something uplifting this morning with a 1 mile walk and 5K run. Don't really feel anything...but tired.....and hungry. Just want french fries and a big mac.
So down, jill

11:27 PM

Just finished kempo of p90x. Sweating. but feel good. Especially since I was able to get in a 45 minute workout this morning, mowed the lawn and cleaned out the garage today! Burn baby burn! Mid-day....Kale Chips for a snack.

Soooooo love watching the Biggest Loser tonight. Those people are AMAZING. Their bodies HAVE to hurt. If they can do it - SO CAN I. Adam and I were sitting on the couch watching it when it dawned on me that we hadn't done our evening workout. it was near the end of the show and 10:00....could have easily gone to bed - actually wanted to....but nope, Shey inspired me. She so should NOT have gotten voted off the show tonight. KUDOS SHEY...keep up the good work. So 10:00 Adam and I started....and so glad we did.
BL fan,
Jill

Thanks Mel!!!

Let me introduce everyone to Melanie....she is a super good friend that I taught with at UC. (for those of you that have a baby quilt - she was my teacher!) Melanie is an outstanding role model when it comes to eating right, exercising, maintaining a healthy body and raising a family with these values. She is awesome!

Mel and I have been emailing over the recent frustrations of my "no weight loss" plateau. Here is a copy and paste job of her responses:
Plateau: You have to get the book The Eat-Clean Diet by Tosca Reno. It'll take you the extra few pounds. She has a cookbook too, but her recipes are often tasteless. Check at the library--they should have it. She says that your weight is influenced by 80% diet/nutrition, 10% exercise, 10% genetics. I believe this. I have worked out consistently since 1984 (literally) and my weight has fluctuated depending on my eating habits. She does emphasize that the 10% exercise is critical, but 10% nonetheless.

I have been "eating clean" since Aug. 1 and have lost 10 pounds. I can tell a huge difference in my body.

Here are my favorite, couldn't live without, cookbooks.

The Food You Crave, Ellie Krieger (I think you're getting her e-newsletter)
Fiber Up Slim Down Cookbook by Prevention Magazine
Fix-it and Enjoy-it Healthy Cookbook by Phyllis Pellman Good with nutritional expertise from Mayo Clinic

I think this is valuable information! Not to mention that when I went to the library today ALL the above books were already checked out!!! That's a good sign! I was sharing with Adam tonight and he agrees completely. His comment was "oh, totally agree. The Bible mentions nothing of exercise, but it does mention nutrition/diet. Exercise is something we have added to our life to compensate for bad eating habits."

Don't forget though, we are talking about weight loss here. Don't think twice that exercise isn't important or something we shouldn't do! When it comes to prevention of heart disease, cancer prevention, and all that stuff exercise takes a big role! Right? right. ;)
Anxiously awaiting on the books,
Jill

Switchin' it up.

The weather has been gor-geeeee-ous the past few mornings, so I have been out hitting the sidewalks. Saturday I got in a great 3 mile power walk with a 1 mile run, today I turned it around - ran 3 miles and walked 1.....gearing up for that Thanksgiving Turkey trot! ;)
Trying to stay positive,
Jill

Frustrated.

Today (and yesterday) have been a little low. Somedays I know why I am doing this. I know the big picture. BUT when taking it day by day, even with accomplishments, the road to getting back on track/healthy/fit is sooooo hard. I have injured my back....again. I am pretty sure this isn't from any exercise I have been doing....in fact that is the only time it actually feels good. Sitting and riding a car is very painful. Frustrating.
Started p90x this week with Adam. Two reasons....one was to add some more cardio into my routine to help with weight loss (still need to get to that healthy BMI), and the other was to add some variety to muscle toning. Well, with so much lateral movements in the program, my feet are very sore and I had to back off a bit this morning - felt the same pain in my arch that I did a few months ago when I tore the ligament. Frustrating.
Steps onto the scales today. Shouldn't have. Still 175. I have been stuck there for FOUR weeks now. Why? I am adding in more workouts, I am sweating more, I am doing what the books say, I am doing what the doc says. Why is the hard work NOT paying off???? I am taking this thyroid supplement to get it back in par to help with the metabolism issues....obviously not working. Frustrating.

Just a frustrating day all over. And the weather is beautiful, therefore I should be happy....grrrrrr.
Could use a pick me up, Jill

BRING IT.

Well, Adam and my goal of p90x three times a week has come down to still needing 2 with only 2 nights left in the week, crap. - NO EXCUSES - It's Friday, house is clean, I'm tired, we so wanted to give in....but we didn't!!!! It is 10:00 pm and we just finished...sitting here in my sweat as I type. Hated doing it, but FEEL SO GOOD for completing and not making up an excuse! ahhhhhhhhhh - lovin' it.

So hey - did you eat an apple today? YOU SHOULD! Here is a very proud mom moment....
Emma and I took a walk today around 3:30 then a short bike ride. She wanted to turn around and go home before we got to the end of the road....she said "I want to go home now...I need an apple for some more energy, then we can go again!" Right on Emma!!! But here is the kicker - Adam pulled in home right as we were going inside - with potato chips left over from his office lunch. So here we have an apple AND open bag of chips on the table......Emma said nothing and took THE APPLE. For any of you that know my daughter and her love for chips this was MONUMENTAL. I am so proud of her. As a family, we all lead by example - our kids learn from us.
Applelicious,
Jill

today's run and tid bit...

brrrr again - Hank and I were up at at 'em this morning....catching a two mile run before Adam went to work. Wore my gloves for the first time this season! Well worth it though - my day is off to a great start and feeling great about myself.

Today's tidbit......
Every woman produces estrogen, but not in the same way. Adult women are prone to cancer if there is an imbalance......women who produce the "bad estrogen" are at greater risk for breast cancer. Organic brussel sprouts and kale can benefit your estrogen metabolism....tipping the delicate balance of estrogen in favor of the good form.
--Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2000 Aug;9 (8):773-9

Did everyone see the yummy recipe below in yesterday's blog on how to make kale chips??? Emma and I can down a large bowl of these in one afternoon! So good, and GOOD FOR YOU!
turning green,
Jill

No Excuse November continues...with potato chips???

....ok ladies....just to add to yesterday. I saw this in a mag. today and couldn't help but rip it out - here are your pep talks to get you out of excuse mode!

you think....Life is short - I'm going to enjoy my favorite foods.
instead tell yourself....I don't need to use food for entertainment. I can eat right and live longer with my family!

you think....I already had an unhealthy lunch, I might as well get pizza for dinner.
tell yourself.....one meal will not mess up my lifestyle, but lets move forward and not make it two!

you think.....I'll never be skinny anymore, so why not order the fries?
tell yourself.....I'm going to eat right and exercise so i can be fit at any size!

you think....just one more spoonful.
tell yourself...this isn't the last time I'll ever eat this, I have tasted it today, so lets move on.

There you have it ladies....just one more way to get it going on! wink wink! Don't you just hate me! HA! Well let me tell ya, I am LOVING life and LOVING my new jeans....it is such a good feeling and I hope that every person that reads this can make the moves to feel the same way!

Craving potato chips? try this.......Buy a bunch of fresh Kale Greens. Wash/rinse and break into "potato chip" sizes off the stems. Spread on cookie sheet, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with a tad of sea salt. Bake at 400 degrees for 10 minutes.....woo-la! yummy treat - like eating air and kale is SUPER FOOD jammed with great stuff for keeping us healthy. Emma LOVES them! Me too!
crunching away,
Jill

Reflection and Soapbox

So with the goal of 5K completed and a week of reflection, I have discovered some new things about myself and set some new goals for November.

I'm becoming a big fan of the Biggest Loser show. Last week one of the contestants said "I don't want to exist anymore, I want to LIVE." How inspirational. This could not sum up my past four months in the quest to become "alive" again. With the past two years, the battle with my health - both physically and mentally - has taken me to the lowest of lows. Everyday was a struggle. To be where I am now is an absolute turn around.....and to think that no one made me do it, I just decided it had to be done. And how thankful I am for that decision.

So can not help keep thinking of my precious Emma standing at the finish line of the 5K jumping up and down, yelling "you won mommy you won!!"....when in fact, around 20 runners had already crossed the line. But you know what, she was right. I did win. I won my own personal race. I beat every thump Satan has thrown my way the past couple years. No more will he knock me down like that. I won. I beat not being able to run to running 34 minutes. I beat a knee injury, a torn ligament in my foot, hormone imbalance, thyroid issues, and much more. I beat depression that I have never felt before. I beat over 30 pounds. You are right Emma, mommy did win. She beat her old self. Couldn't be more perfect. I'm so thankful to have her.

Which will bring me to my soapbox. Most of my post have been more on the uplifting side with tidbits to help along the journey. Not today. Today is about EXCUSES.
Setting the goals I have the past four months has been a lonely road at times. Not too many people in the world think nutrition and exercise is a priority. It is hard to make changes and set goals with few friends that really support and understand the importance of it all. These are the ones that hold no excuses in their own lives.

Excuses. The devil was very gracious to lay out several for me over the past four months. It would have been sooooo easy to give in, just for a day, just for a week, or all together. Here is some of my journey with him.

Injuries: I tore up my knee extremely bad the first phase of running. It hurt so bad that walking up stairs was tough. Didn't care. Kept going. I got help from a chiro and continued to build up the muscle in my legs to support my knees. A torn ligament in my foot occurred in August...hurt so bad many days I limped just in the house. Could have easily thrown the towel in and caved...but I got some laser treatment and ran with pain. Pain "just weakness getting out".

Physical pain: Going through all the hormonal pain, I began running when hot flashes were at their peak. Breast so tender it felt like there were clothes pins on them with rubber bands attached to my toes (sorry for the description but its true). Cramps. Back pain. You name it, Satan handed it out. ...and just for the record, my pain tolerance is pretty high - two kidney stones will do that to you!
Many days when running, I could feel all this pain and be so close to home....I wanted to walk soooooo bad. But what good would that have done. When you set a goal, you do it. Looking back, I am shocked at the mental and physical lows I beat....that surprises me. Proves that where there is a will, there is a way.

Time: So easy to get caught up in the day. Caught up in the week. Where does time go? Could have easily said "tomorrow"....or "i have until October". No way. Everyday counted. Whatever it took to exercise just a little bit. Getting up 10 minutes earlier, or staying up an extra 10 minutes before bed. Walking at the park with weights on my ankles while Emma played. Time.....if you want, you commit and you do not make time and excuse. I definitely could spend more time moving than sitting here on the computer typing this blog! ;)

Traveling/out of town: hey, shoes go anywhere! And hand weight do too. I can remember a 4 hour drive to my in-laws where I spent one hour of it doing arm curls in the car while Adam drove! And I will say, there were many trips I have packed up some of my own food.....not everyone has apples in their homes believe it or not. Prepare, plan and commit. Its all about self discipline.

Weather: Too cold. ohhhhh how easy it would be to stay in that warm bed. But what good was that going to get me. God gave me the will to get out and hit the pavement when it 90 degrees and when it was 38 degrees. If my legs worked, then I had no excuse.

Money: Hey no expensive trainer here! No fancy equiptment other than our treadmill (but what does the outside sidewalk offer that the treadmill doesn't?) And for those of you who have never met my husband...he is the Dave Ramsey Jr in the world. Our monthly grocery allowance hasn't changed. There are no excuses that eating healthy is more expensive. I've sacrificed some areas to be able to buy more healthy - but hey, cutting out frozen pizza and mac 'n cheese so Emma can have organic milk with no added hormones is worth the move...and didn't cost a dime.

No excuses. I look over the past four months and can not believe the opportunities to quit. To quit for just a day or just a week......anyway it would be quiting. I can't let that happen. It is too important to my family to not quit. With everything that I have learned the most important thing is that with good nutrition and exercise I am adding years to my life and significantly decreasing my risk of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and much more. And if I do ever get cancer or sick, what I am doing now with my body is going to make it that much easier to fight and beat. That is is something that can not put any amount of excuses on. I am so excited to say that I am on the way. My family is on the way. We are all living. Living for a better life. To feel good. To win. For me it is as simple as waking up each day and loving my family.

Well, that my friends was my soapbox speech. Are you up for a "no excuses November"? I am.

Here are my November goals.
Run four miles Thanksgiving morning.
Do P90X three times a week in the evening with my husband.
Workout 6 mornings a week, alternating running/walking/weight strengthening/pilates
Stretch every morning out of bed, stretch every night before bed.
Drink 64 ounces of water a day.
Keep learning new and yummy ways to eat right

The game face is on my friends! last night was the first P90X with Adam - went good, but today is killing me!!! Feel the burn! Didn't stop me from getting up and out this morning though! Very very cold, but got out and walked/sprinted 2 miles with Hank. Love that dog.
Feeling it tonight....in a good way though. Hoping I can get this latest back injury snapped out of my system soon!

Come on gang, lets do it!!!! Make your November a no excuses month!!!
I DARE YOU.
Who wants to be able to say "I WON" at the end of the month?
Living, not existing,
Jill

I'm back....

Good to be back in the world where there is Internet! ;) I didn't cave to exercising though - Friday morning a 2 mile run at mom's and Saturday my sister-in-law went with me for a FOUR mile walk! All the while there was crunches, stretches and little muscling strengthening things I did without any weight or equipment.
A lot of reflection the past week and i am super pumped for November. I will have to share more later, for right now I have a little lady waiting on me to take her to the park ( a good mid-day exercise for me as I walk laps with weights velcroed to my ankles!)......but anyhow here is a MUST READ IF YOU DRINK POP/SODA OF ANY KIND!!!!!
http://health.yahoo.com/experts/drmao/20270/what-soft-drinks-are-doing-to-your-body/
Catch ya later,
Jill

11 Minutes

"adding 11 minutes of walking each day will reduce your risk of getting breast cancer by nearly 20 percent" -Journal of the National Cancer Institute

11 minutes...that's all?!?! Who can't do that? I mean really, do it not only for yourself, but do it for the ones you love in life.... think about how cancer doesn't just effect the person that has it - there are spouses, children, parents, friends.....so lets do it ladies - JUST 11 Minutes!!!!!

Got out this morning with the dog. A great 2.5 mile run. Feels good. Came back in and did some weight training. Enjoying my blueberry smoothie right now.

Heading to my mom's for the weekend. No Internet there, so will have to catch you all up when I get back. Still going to work it hard while there too - that is the one nice thing about running/walking....all you need is shoes and pavement. No fancy equipment, no DVDs, no instruction....NO EXCUSES.

New jeans, new goal.

Just got back from Kohls...purchased a size 12 jeans. Kerrrrwow. Started off the year in size 18. yippie...more to go though, now I am just more pumped.

Went to the Chiro today....he is my running "coach"....he has laid a new goal out on the table - a four mile run the day of Thanksgiving. He wants me to be able to ask everyone at the table as they are eating their pumpkin pie what they did this morning, just so I can reply with, "I ran 4 miles". He cracks me up. But ok...I can do that. Our addition is a horse shoe shape that is exactly 4 miles if ran in a loop. GAME ON.

Traded in the capris for long pants - its getting cold out ladies,
Jill
ps - anyone out there every do P90X? Did my first one last night....now THAT was a workout!

Give me a string of pearls and an apron!

....and call me June Clever! I just made pumpkin bread with a REAL pumpkin! I feel so "thats the way grandma did it"! :) It was real easy to do the fresh pumpkin and it made tons - apparently you can bag it up and freeze it for future use. And how that it is FRESH with NO preservatives!!!! I love that!
Still finding that it IS possible to make small changes in everything,
Jill
....now roasting the seeds -full of good nutrients and fiber - yum!

Outstanding tips here!

Check out this article!!! Great tips on "not having time to workout, flattening belly, getting arms to stop jiggling," and more!
http://www.prevention.com/cda/article/start-your-fat-burning-engines/b3e9adab7684b110VgnVCM20000012281eac____/news.voices/in.the.magazine/september.2008.issue/0/0/1
Still burning for more,
Jill

What now?

Still moving to a healthy BMI.....so now what? Is running still the plan?
As it get colder out, running is less attractive for sure! I'm thinking this week is a chance to test out some other exercise options and see what the next goal can be. Today I took a nice break from cardio and did all muscle strengthening with some yoga stretching. It was a nice switch.
Here is a two minute read on some GREAT tips for boosting that metabolism.
http://www.prevention.com/cda/article/24-hours-to-the-body-of-your-dreams/0ef288dc78803110VgnVCM10000013281eac____/fitness/body.by.design/0/0/0/1
Cheers, Jill

Four Months Later....

"...but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint."
-Isaiah 40:31

YEAH! The goal was officially conquered today. I complete the "Race for Grace" 5K.....running the whole way! My time was exactly 34 minutes.

Not the fastest on the trail, but nothing speaks louder than my four year old daughter who yelled (with arms in the air) as I crossed the finish line,"Mom, you did it, YOU WON, YOU WON!!!!"

It was so cold! Race started at 9:00 and still frost on the ground! I could see my breath as I got going....but what a great way to start the day, right?! Bummed the IPod battery died right as the race started though...music has been my pace setter and a big help in motivating each step. This run was just with the sounds of nature (Scioto River was next to the running trail). Thought of my WB Girls most of the way!!!

In four months I went from only being able to run 2 minutes with a lot of pain to now....running 34 minutes with no pain. And I am down 34 pounds for the year! Overall, my health has made leaps and bounds....but I'm not done yet, still more to accomplish. However I have discovered that proper nutrition and exercise is ESSENTIAL for a healthy future. I love that my daughter asks me everyday "mom, did you exercise today." Living better isn't just for me, its for my family and the ones I love, too.

After the race was completed, Adam drove us to a nearby (empty) parking lot where Emma and I changed into our church clothes in the car. After fanning the sweat off my face I was able to slap on a little makeup and spray on some "smell-goods" ahhhhhh....
nothing like getting all fixed up. wink wink!
Here we are arriving to church in my new Race for Grace shirt.
Feeling like a winner,
Jill

Get your Blueberries!

Any of you live near a "Trader Joes" Grocery? They have frozen blueberries for LESS than $2!!!!!!!! That is a STEAL compared to any store brand I have found. Buy a ton and keep 'em in the freezer to throw in smoothies, oatmeal, cereal, top of yogurt, you name it!
Blueberries are a super fruit - full of antioxidants and loads of good nutrition to boost your immune system, and who doesn't need that?
I have one cup of blueberries everyday now....throw them in my post workout smoothie - YUM!
turning blue, Jill

and there goes the weather again...

woke up this morning and pouring rain was flooding. I was not going to let it stop me though - come too far for too long to let weather be my excuse! So put the rain coat on and out I went (no dog, he would freak). I did walk instead of run....saving up fuel for tomorrow.....pray for no rain!!! I have a feeling though it is going to be FREEZING....yuck!
If the mailman can deliver, so can I....
Jill

SHINE.

"SHINE. Make 'em wonder what you got.
Make them wish that they were not.........on the outside looking bored.
SHINE. Let it shine before all men. Let them see good works within.......
Let them glorify the Lord..... SHINE."
-Newsboys, Shine

I absolutely LOVE this song....it is my motivation...it is the song that makes me do what I'm doing.
Whats on your ipods? Here is my running tunes - love them all, great get-up-and-go songs, not to mention very uplifting!

Everlasting God - Lincoln Brewster
Shine - Newsboys
Sing a Song - Third Day
He Reigns - Newsboys
Blessed Be your Name - Tree 63
A New Hallelujah, featuring the African Children's Choir - Michael W. Smith (A GREAT wake up song for those morning runs!)
Peaceful World - John Mellencamp.....hey, gotta have a Hoosier native in the mix!

When I first started running straight 5K's (I am up to 6 now!!!) I had to repeat a song or two because it just wasn't a long enough list. Yesterday I ran another 5K outside before Adam went to work and made it all 3 miles before my list of songs ended!!!!! Yay!
SHINE, Jill

Feeling the burn....and Kale Greens?

The weights are working...well in the sense that I am feeling the burn.....now if they start melting that fat away we will be in business!
4 days and counting until the big race. Even though I have done 6 practice ones, I still feel like for me to reach my goal it has to be the real deal. Ready to make it happen!

I've been eating Kale greens......reading how healthy they are for you and their benefits to weight loss and hormone levels. Not bad stuff....really don't notice when i mix it in with salads and such. Also made a broth type soup with it in there chopped up - that was pretty tasty too.

I am learning that you CAN live our fast pace lives healthy and with the right foods. There is also much GOOD taste in things that I normally would have curled my lip up at. Eggplant stirfry anyone???? IT IS YUMMY - not kidding, the whole family LOVES it....and the best - all ingredients are natural with no preservatives. Learning to prepare food differently has made me realize too that it IS possible to do, even with a busy family always going every direction.
Giving me a happy mind to know what taking place in my family' stomachs,
Jill

weights????

On advise from my "coach", I have incorporated more weights into my exercise routine. Ouch-ee-mama! That is hitting some spots that haven't been hit yet! Hope this will trigger some more increase in metabolism!
Todays the week - count down till Saturday - yippie!

39 freakin' degrees

and I just got in another 5K practice run outside in our housing addition this morning. Seriously, is the real race here yet???? I'm ready for a new kind of cardio!!!!! :) One that is inside and doesn't make my chest burn because I have sucked in so much freezing air!!!
Such a complainer, I am today. hee hee.
I should be thankful I have the endurance to do such - looking forward to next Saturday.
Got to go....off to make this years Halloween custome....I have a request from a certain 4 year old to be a cupcake. Ya, go figure....such a tease...wink wink.
Jill

Its on the schedule now...

I just registered for the "official" 5K...."Race for Grace" http://premierraces.com/2009Races/RaceforGrace.html
It is Sat. Oct 24...pretty excited about it....I know it is going to be freezing cold, so keep my chattering teeth and muscles in your prayers!

I am still doing 30-40 minutes cardio everyday and watching what I eat. The weight loss has come to a halt AGAIN. GRRRRRR....so frustrating. Hoping the thyroid medicine kicks in soon to help out, but in the meantime trying to step over Satan's discouraging tactics and not give in to him! Many days I want to give up so bad!!!!!! -ugh- Gotta keep going....have 19 more pounds to go to get to that healthy BMI....what a long road it seems. How did all this happen?
trying to stay on track,
Jill

Notes from FL...

Hi Gals,

Read the last few posts in an effort to catch up a bit, but just can't quite keep up on a regular basis these days. So excited to hear about those healthy endeavors, Carrie's pregnancy progress, and so on! Michael is holding steady at the 50 lb mark, but hopes to push beyond that another 15 lbs little by little. We continue to walk the Ringling Bridge about 3 days a week - comes out to about 2.5 miles. I had my first dress fitting and it had to be taken in!!! Of course in the boobs, which I expected (no weight gain there), but also along the sides! I was so pleased! The toughest thing is the heat around here - it has been s SUPER HOT summer and we continue to set record highs when it comes to the temp! We are truly sweating the lbs off! Please send some of that chilly weather down here...at least for the wedding! Love you girls and can't wait to see those who will be representing the WG's down here in December! ~Heather

Weights on my ankles at the zoo?

Ok, so I have been cooped up in the kitchen all morning cutting garden peppers and getting them ready to freeze for future use....also made some hot sauce -zip zip! anyhow, need to get out of the house (adam is in WI for four days!) so heading to the zoo for a stroll with Emma...
....so going with weights on my ankles. :) yep, the 1 & 1/2 pounders....one velcroed to each ankle. Just testing the waters.
Jill

Quick update...

....just for the record, i did find the motivation for the last posting...it wasn't until 3 in the afternoon, but did it....RAN ANOTHER 5K on thetreadmill - this time uping my speed, burn baby burn! And just in case you were wondering, I can change a Barbie's clothes and not miss a beat while in the middle of the second mile. ;)

This morning was F-R-EEEE-EEEEE-Z-I-N-G! Sunday, so got up at 7:15, put onthepurple shoes and headed out with Hank - BBRRRRRrrrrrrRRRR!!!! Hated every second of it, but loved the way I felt afterwards. Thanks for the strength, Jesus! After the run, hopped in the car for a quick trip to the grocery (Sunday am - a great time to go by the way) , came home, put away veggies, and ready for church by 10:00. I am loving this new found energy.
Cold in the north,
Jill

please oh please read:

http://www.prevention.com/7foodsthatshouldnever/index.shtml

this is short and very interesting. I was totally shocked at the paragraph about microwave popcorn and canned tomatoes. Eye-opening to say the least.

rain today - finding it hard to get motivated. Need my girls.
Jill

Loooonnnnnggggg weekend.

Back and at it though! Went to in-laws in IN, so exercise was limited, but i didn't cave....took my arm weights in the car and did arm curls for an hour straight on the way there, then my sister-in-law and I got a good walk/run in on Sunday morning. I came home sick though - thought it was allergies, but broke a fever this morning. :( Needless to say that did not make me want to exercise! Tonight I bit the bullet and took Hank out....a 2 mile run, and of course it started raining 1 mile down the road! I am sure that did my already sore lungs much good!!! I was going to do the "official" 5 K this Saturday but think I may have to put it off do to this bug. Feeling better this evening though - I'm raking in the blueberries and broccoli!!!!

GREAT JOB HEATHER OF COMPLETING YOUR 5K COMMITMENT!!!!!!!! WOOOOO HOOOO!!!
And congrats to my mom who walked a 5K last Saturday with church members for the Indy School of the Blind! Go MOM! (even though she'll never see this since she doesn't even own a computer) :)
October is here - crunch time!
Jill

I AM NOT SEXY WHEN....

....I RUN! Oh, my friends....tonight Adam and i went to the gym (Emma is at Grandma's!). I did this one machine and after 30 minutes felt like I needed more, so I just ran the track. Well the outside of the track is lined with windows leading to the nice DARK outside, so you could see your reflection - eeeeewwwwwwwwwwwwweeeeeeeeeeee!!! I SO have much more work to do! ....and i REALLY should not go out in public in a tank top and tight pants! :) In a way a much needed reminder to keep going.
Too much stuff still jiggling,
Jill

More incentive...

1. way to go Carrie!!!! keep it up girl! Just keep in mind all that walking and exercise will help easy delivery....(or so they say) ;)

2. A just read...."want to save on gas $$ for your car? Losing 15 pounds will gain 5 mpg per month!

3. another just read..... "Taking care of yourself, exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight is THE BEST insurance again medical costs. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of care." Ellie Kay, America's Family Financial Expert

Going out in the windy, chilly air - catch you all later!
Jill

Back at it again

Hey Ladies.
Back at it again. After weeks of being sick, starting a new job, and being exhausted, I FINALLY mustered up enouh energy to get back moving again. I was in pretty good shape 8 weeks ago. It didn't go so badly, I guess. I did Denise Austin's Pregnancy workout dvd (which, after not working out for 8 weeks was sadly up my alley) on Friday and Robert and I walked about 2 1/2 miles or so tonight. It's a start. Gotta keep moving because 12 weeks into my pregnancy, I've already put on 5 pounds. :( Oh well.

Planning on hitting it harder this week. Hoping morning (evening) sickness will leave soon so I can not be so miserable. Trying to get a woman at work to do this 5k with me October 6. We'll see.

Carrie

Ever see those crazy people running in the rain?

Ya, today it was me! It had been misting all morning and I waited around till it stopped. Hank and I went out and after about one mile it started drizzling hard......no where to go other than home! :) It actually felt really good! Good enough that I went back home, dropped off Hank and then kept going until I hit my 3 mile mark. Too fun! I loved it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Singing in the rain,
Jill

ps - Audra, my sister-in-law gave me this easy to use info on helping to track calories in calories out...
"I actually found a site http://www.livestrong.com/ where I can track all of that. It shows calories eaten, calories burned, etc. Plus, shows a chart of what kind of foods you are eating (carbs, protein, etc.."

My Cheerleaders the WB Girls....

So this morning I didn't quite make it up in time to run outside before Adam left, so I hit the Treadmill. Since I was on there, I decided to go for the gusto again and just do the whole 5K - and yes I did - but more importantly, I discovered that my WB Girls truly ARE my cheerleaders....in my basement facing me dead on towards the treadmill. :)

See, we have some of Emma's toys down there in this cubbyhole/bookshelf thingy....and she has stuffed animals sitting on top....in a row.....but not just any stuffed animals - they are her "special ones". They stare at me while I run. kinda scary, but getting use to them. And today I named them.......
the Build-a- Bear Dog in the Colts cheer leading outfit is Sarah (Colts fan at heart no matter where she lives!)
the St. Louis "Fred Bird" that has a #1 finger is definitely Sham (just out of spite for not being a cardinal fan!)
the Build-a-Bear dog in the IU shirt with red bows is Carrie (Has freckles and is so gosh darn cute...not to mention those true Hoosier roots)
then there is the 2 feet tall Elmo that if you press his hand he sings...I call him Heather. (For starters isn't red a nice wedding color? and I can't help but think of this picture I have from college where heather has head phones on, i think lip syncing to Barbara Streisand?)

Those are my girls...alllllll cheering for me.....how could I stop running with that crowd????
Love you girls!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Jill

Christmas 2004

Trying on 'old' jeans today. Put one pair on...sqqqqeeeeeezzzeeeeeeddddd it on - but its on! something was in the back pocket.....a shopping list from doing Christmas shopping for the 2004 season! I was still teaching then (just weeks before conceiving Emma) - wow! That was an uplifter for sure. Lets hear it for good food and exercise!!!
Still moving towards smaller jeans,
Jill
ps - the list was water damaged, so yes I did wash the jeans before sending them in packing for 4 years! :)

Tidbits...

So heard this the other day about how crappy americans eat and thought it was good
"1/4 of everything you eat helps your body...and 3/4 of what you eat helps your doctor's business"

So here are some Simple Rules to help prove that wrong! (copied from BodyLogic website - my new HTR office)
The rules are simple, in fact, they may sound like something your grandmother might have told you.
Eat five portion controlled meals a day. So in addition to breakfast, lunch and dinner, have a snack between lunch and dinner, and a small snack before bed.
During your meals, your plate should be 1/3 protein (white meat: chicken, turkey, fish, soy, eggs, and lean pork) and 2/3 colored vegetables (any vegetable that is colored, not white, all the way through). Add a sprinkle of olive oil, canola oil, or almonds for your fat.
Avoid sugar and sweet snacks. If it says “low fat” or “instant” on the package, put it back.
Eat all your vegetables and two hard fruits (if it crunches when you eat it, it’s GOOD FOR YOU!) every day.
Have a tablespoon of cod liver oil (fish oil) every day.
Drink lots of water.

I JUST RAN....

.....5K!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Went to the gym - hit a treadmill hard. 4.5 mph + incline 2% = 5K in 43 minutes!!!!
WOOOOOO HOOOOOOOO!!!!
love love, Jill

ps - 5K is 3.11 miles

A must read...

.....it will only take less than five minutes....make sure to go through all the three pages - i found page two extremly benifitial.

http://www.prevention.com/cda/article/how-to-be-a-budget-organic/1b08a82c4343b110VgnVCM20000012281eac____/nutrition.recipes/power.foods/organic.foods/0/0/1

lets hear it for Bananas!

Go to: http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/food/recipes/rubys-lightened-mashed-sweet-potatoes/
and check out this recipe for mashed sweet potatoes. Instead of adding that oh so yummy touch of brown sugar to them, Rachel Ray adds a BANANA! I was flipping between Noggin and PBS for Emma this morning and caught a glimpse of her saying this.

Also, Emma is big on "I ate my veggies, so what is for dessert?" kick. So in place of that typical cookie or whatever, we have been getting creative....the latest - DIRTY LOGS. :) Take a banana and slice in 1/4 inch slices. Thread them on a toothpick to make the log, and then roll in cinnamon (not sugar cinnamon). How funny to see her eat these like there was no tomorrow!

Going bananas,
Jill
Don't forget to spend that extra 10 cents and go organic on them....if you look down on your way into the grocery, you are more than likely to find that 10 cents in the parking lot!!!!

Sunday Super Saver....

So we are a "momma don't cook after church on Sunday" family, and always hit a restaurant after service. We have lately found a good way to save some cash and help our health all in the same bucket.

For starters - order water. Soda really adds the cha-ching to the total bill and is nasty to the 'ol body anyhow. Even Emma' first pick is good 'ol H2O these days - so proud of her! But really, some places charge up to $2.50 for the drink! Between just Adam and I, that's a $5 savings!

Second - the kids meals....skip them! I have realized that portion control can be hard for me, so now we don't order a kids meal for Emma (which usually is an overpriced piece of deep fried chicken or mac'n cheese) and instead she and I split! I'm ordering a salad, or even Salmon and she is LOVING splitting with me. Again a big savings on the wallet AND I know Emma is getting something more healthy.

So there you have it - a win win for all! Dave Ramsey would be so proud. :)

And this is for funs : http://www.prevention.com/mvm/main.html
TOOO FUNNY!
Jill

7:00 am Run...

....felt GRRRrrrrrRRReat! :) And no my day is ready to go! Like an instant boost of energy - I love it! Man oh man was it cold though! I can now officially see my breath.
New news: I weighed in today at 179! That is 30 - yes 30 - pounds lighter than I was at the ringing in of the New Year! That is great encouragement to keep going....it gets frustrating when the scales don't move. But we are rolling again and I love it. Detoxing really opened my eyes to a different way of eating and exercising all together! Now, only 19 more pounds to go and I will have a BMI of "normal"....until then still "overweight" and at a higher risk for health problems down the road.....but I'm going to do it...PROMISE!!!!!!!!!!!! It feels soooooooo good!

Love you girls! Jill

toady's tidbit: a meat loaf recipe that has an easy couple swaps for a healthier meal http://www.prevention.com/foodflips/list/7.shtml

Please, OH PLEASE, put the toilet seat down!!!!!

So did you know that when you flush your toilet, bacteria shots up into the air up to 20 feet away?!?!?!!!!!!!!!! Don't know about you, but our bathroom isn't but four feet wide! So how do I know this you ask.....

Watching Dr. Oz show today while on treadmill.....he took items from ordinary people's bathroom. The most alarming was a lady's toothbrush (yes, my friends the thing you put in your mouth!) and it had three bacteria on it, E Coli., one from your gut, and another from the intestines...GGRRRROOOOSSSSSSSSSSS! The cup that held her brush actually had MORE nasty bad bacteria in it!
Then he showed a video clip from the discovery channel on how when you flush, all these nasty particles are shooting up in the air. So in conclusion - PUT THE SEAT DOWN BEFORE YOU FLUSH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

So simple and such a good way to prevent us (and our kids) from UTI's, poop infections, and all that other nasty stuff that can not make us feel so good.
Love this show....check out http://www.doctoroz.com/videos for some more clips and such....there are more on metabolism boosters, diets and exercise as well.
Remember:
Step 1: poop
Step 2: wipe
Step 3: CLOSE LID
Step 4: then flush.

and always wash your hands,
Jill
ps - kinda makes you think twice about public restrooms that don't have lids and strangers pooping, aye? ewewewwwwwwwwwwwwwww...........!

The hard truth.

"Women who splurged on french fries just once a week are 21% more likely to get diabetes than those who ate none.......actually eating five servings per week of any white potatoes-including mashed and bakes-raised the risk by 14% over those who ate less than half a serving per week." Prevention Aug 06.

I'm as guilty as the next girl at speeding through the drive through and grabbing the quick and convenient value meal! But how eye-opening can all this info be....especially when we had our moving sale before we came to OH and when cleaning out Emma's toys found BUCKETS of Happy Meal toys!!! THAT, my friends, made me realize that we WERE actually the statistic of the once-a-weeker-fast food stop person. Keep track ladies...put a paper in your car...see where you are on the greasy fast food list...how often and how much?
The Phipps' family is shaking this train up! When traveling we now look for Panara Bread or McCalasters....yum! But when McDonald's falls in the must have line, try a salad - they are good!....or a wrap....and apple slices...and don't forget the water!!!!!!!!!!

If it doesn't hit home for our health, lets think of our kiddos....they've got a lot of years ahead of them....give 'em apples. :)

Happy Birthday Emma!

The sassy WB Jr. is turning 4 today! She is the highlight of my life I tell ya! Yesterday we had a "get to know the church people" lunch at the church right after service. Standing in line she announces "I hope they have some healthy food to eat." When we got up to line they had subway and pizza....Emma says (loud enough for all to hear of course) "I'm not eating that pizza because its not healthy and today I'm eating healthy. Mom, you better drink your water" yep, that's my girl. :)

Today's tidbit: another GREAT (and a quickie to read) site of some good info on small changes to add to your life..... http://www.prevention.com/25healthyfoods/27.html

Four years yesterday, a high school art teacher....four years ago today, a job switch that I would never imagine could be so much more entertaining.
Love, Emma's mom.

Detox is done.

Day 21 finally ended last night at midnight. I celebrated with a bag of cheese puffs that had been taunting me the past 21 days in the pantry. This morning was not fun in the bathroom!!! Looked like an elephant sat down in there! ;) For breakfast I took it easy and had a small handful of granola cereal with a tad of milk....it is currently sitting in my throat like it wants to come up. What have I done to myself???? Oh yeah, got healthy and use to it! :) All I want right now is a piece of fruit.....yes craving fruit - yikes! :)

All in all VERY eye opening program. Highly suggest to anyone. Lost 10 pounds and have some regained energy I have been missing. Not to mention my health and hormones are closer to "back on track" than ever. What a blessing....it was worth it by all means.
Kissing preservatives good-bye,
Jill

Breaking in the new shirt!

Hey WBer's - the shirts are in and coming to a mailbox near you! The pic was taken after last nights 2mile run with Hank....he is currently in what we call "heart attack mode" in the picture! i love him though - he's my pace setter...we're a great team!

PS don't freak out sham, but I think there is a cricket on my head....oh wait nope, just a bobby pin! hee he heeee

kerrrrrr-wow

just a note:
Today was my first day running since the foot injury halt 6 days ago. i thought for sure I was going to fall behind, therefore I waited till Emma went to bed and ran on the treadmill instead of getting a mile away from home outside then having to limp all the way home.
......So I just finished.....RAN for 31 minutes straight..... 2.5 miles!!! Burned 404 calories! ahhhhh - FEELS GRRRRRRRREAT!!!! no pain no pain no pain!
Thanks for all you encouragement girls!
love ya! Jill

NEW HOPE.

Ok, so been detoxing for 18 days now....Friday is day 21 - YEEAHHHH!
Here is the status:
-more energy (especially the morning-get-out-of-bed-energy)
-sleep sounder
-loving life better
-feel "refreshed"
-LOST 10 POUNDS....so far........
-have a new love for plums and mangoes....and other veggies
-and got a period.

YES - YOU READ IT RIGHT!!!!!! Never been so excited in my life to get a period!! It had been 95 days since my last. Not to mention, I had my ObGyn tell me I was in "pre-disfunctional-ovary-failure"...aka menopause...and his plan was to shoot me up with a synthetic progesterone twice a day!
So against his protocol, I did no drugs, no meds.....just changed my eating habits and nutrition drastically and added in the extra exercise. LIFE IS GOOD! I am a HUGE believer in a healthy lifestyle now!!!!!!!! Unbelievable. I feel 20 years younger this week! Praise God!
Blessed beyond belief,
Jill

OHH - update on my foot....had lasar treatment #4 today and got the green light to start running again....AWESOME!

Josie and push ups

I have always done push ups, leg lifts, sit-ups, etc. at home. Sometimes Josie climbes all over me when we do it! very fun!
Yesterday, Jason and I were doing a pushup contest (HE KILLED ME) and Josie got in between up and tried to do them. We were CRYING w/ laughter!!! We then all did sit-up and stretches as a family!! It was so stinking cute!!!

OHHH! CHECK THIS OUT!

http://living.health.com/category/everyday-health/

Was reading this mag. in the doc. office and wished i could remember everything that was in it! So came home and looked up the website. There is SOME FABULOUS info here.....check out the headline "walking can cut breast cancer deaths in half!!!!
I LOVE the sound of that - how about that for incentive!
Also, scroll down and see things on 4 don'ts of hormones, there are also recipes, and all kinds of stuff!

Dr. Oz quote of the day "just making teeny-tiny changes in what we do today can make a huge impact for us in 20 years".
So true I'm learning!

Everyone eat a plum today to celebrate the first "WB eat a plum day". :)
love you girls, Jill
p.s. - CONGRATS to my sister-in-law, Audra....she has rose to the challenge and has exercised 30 minutes everyday for over 10 days now....and lost 5 pounds!

x-nay on the foot surgery....God Bless my Chiropractors!

Ok, so went to Chiro today and shared with him my foot pains. He is an avid runner (currently training for the Boston Marathon), so he is really more of a physical therapist than "back cracker" for better terms. HE IS AWESOME...a out spoken Christan and a huge encourager. I just love his whole office!

Anyhow, through a intense examine, it was discovered that I tore the *#$@blah blah big fancy word**% ligament in my lower outer foot. Then some more examining and discovered it is a pretty good tear that would take several months to heal on its own. There was of course the option of foot adjustments from the chiro, but he himself said this could take up to a month to heal with that. He is aware of our 5K goal - yes he knows of the WB girls! So a month is just not good enough. He said I could opt for surgery, which would intell a pricey bill, pain meds, anaesthesia, and follow up PT work. OOORRRR, he is doing something new in his office with athletes (yes he called me an athlete!)...apparently the OH Bengals do this in their PT routines....it is Laser Therapy. It gets the relief without drugs or surgery and works quickly. So anyhow I get 7 treatments for $100 and according to the chiro doc. should be up and running after just 5 or 6 treatments! WOW - this beats the HECK out of surgery!!! I can't WAIT to be running again!!!!! (can you believe I just said that?!?!?) Had my first treatment today and heading back tomorrow for #2.

So THANK YOU FOR YOUR PRAYERS - God is Good and I am so blessed to have Dr. Moore working with me!
You gals are the BEST!
Jill

I PROMISE

Hey Girls,

I hope and pray our injured ones will be better soon!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Get some good R&R.

Just after Jill inspired me to get movin' again, the air got really nasty from the fires and smoke. Not so good for working out right now. Then we don't have AC so we have to open the windows at night. No fun. (We are out of danger, though. We are in a suburban area and don't really have to worry about wildfires. Praise GOD!!!!)

Today I've been purging stuff, putting stuff in storage, etc. Put my size 10s in a bin, but I PROMISE to wear them again!!!!! I never got back into them after Jackson, but I PROMISE to get back into them after whoever is in my belly is born. (Hoping for pink.) Just thought I'd share.

Well, I'm praying for you all.

xoxo-Carrie

some days are good and....

...some just suck.

Don't know if its the detoxing, if it's hormones (or lack thereof), or if it is my lame foot, but something is just horrible inside. mentally and physically. What's the deal with me? Seriously, started crying in the middle of supper and didn't stop until an hour after. Some days are just downers for me. I wish this was all over....for once I just want to be "well".

Oh yes, I have joined the lame. Something tore in the bottom of my left foot. Killing me...and of course I ignored it too for several days until today which is nonstop throbbing. opps. grrrrr.
what next? Come on Satan, just hand it over and be done with it already.
tired and just sad allover,
J

$1 Target bins....

I knew that title would catch your attention! :) Anyhow just passing on the word, that I was recently in a Target store and saw in the $1 bins at the front work out equipment. Now $1 is cheap so keep in mind this isn't state of the art stuff, BUT it s a cheap simple way to get you some added calorie burning going. They had 3 pound weights, 1 pound weights, resistance bans, and jump ropes.....I just read only 15 minutes of jump rope can burn an extra 200 calories!

Also here is a Prevention quick article on weight loss and cutting calories - good stuff...
http://www.prevention.com/caloriecutterstofightfat/index.shtml?cm_mmc=Spotlight-_-08312009-_-Weight%20Loss-_-6%20Calorie%20Cutters%20to%20Fight%20Fat

Keep on trucking ladies - we can do this! I just finished a 15 minute power walk on the treadmill, the 10 Arm dvd, 30 crunches, and several stretches....all before Curious George was over. ;)
love and miss,
Jill

dumb sham

1. I did not take care of my ankle initially, so it still hurts. I really did not think I hurt it that bad. I still have a little limp and the muscles hurt all around it. I am very hesitant to do much on it. I plan on heading to the gym today....but not to run. I am trying to be patient as I am now taking care of it. GGGGRRRR I SO KNOW BETTER.....anyway, I am thinking it will take another week or two to heal. I will ride the bike at the gym today and then head to the park w/ Josie. I am still getting exercise, but not the way I like.....double ggggrrrrrrr.
I did get a jogging stroller! My sister gave it to me...she had one in her attic!!!! It now sits in my garage mocking me for not taking care of my foot the first two days of it's injury.

2. There is a lot of poop talk going on. TOOOO FUNNY...well not really, I do pray that relief comes quickly for you girls!!!

3. Hey Jill - I am eating all that you are restricted from and let me tell you how bad I feel!!!!! JUST think what you are doing for your body!!! YOU hang in there!!!! IF YOU CAN RUN TWO miles (it was not that long ago, it was difficult for you to walk it); YOU can detox your body!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

4. I'm off to wrap my ankle and walk to the library (little less than an mile). This will be my first long adventure since the bobby pin incident of 2009.

Signing off - dumb sham

trouble with the shirts....

...ok ladies, haven't forgot about the shirts. However our logo is a bit complex for just silk screening. No fear though, we are working through some things and trying to come up with a way to get there....so in the end we will have something! Just hang in there on them and know that they are on the way!
J

and one more thing....

....so I had not exercised today and was realllly putting it off - even thinking of having that "seventh day of rest". But then I was reading the comments from our dear friend Carrie on my progress.....she got me sooooo excited that I couldn't let team WB down! I was hungry for that run, so on with the shoes and off Hank and I went. Thanks girls - knowing that you're there is awesome.....love love.

.....and also, on the run was praying for our preggo Carrie to get some good poop action going. It made me chuckle out loud since ironically I was caring a little bag of dog poop, bobbing with my pace in my left hand. :) So then I got to thinking....on the average, I run outside with Hank 4 times a week. Take that times four weeks in a month, doing this for three months...that approximately 48 baggies of dog poop I have carried with me. And to make this even more interesting, Hank ALWAYS poops in the first quarter mile, so think of it as running 84 miles with dog poop in your hand. hmmmmmmm....................................
poop in the bag, Jill

detox report from OH...

Hey ladies - good to hear from some of you. Don't distress, jump right back on the train and go for a new day!

As for the detox....one week down!!! :) Today was day 8, and so far I have lost 5 pounds! I haven't lost any real weight since last April! I am totally excited. Still missing salt and carbs A TON. .....and today was craving a big juicy hamburger and fries. :) BUT I know in the end it is allllll worth it. And by doing this I am seeing first hand the effects food play on our body. Pretty unreal. I'll share more as the days continue.

Carrie - I think its a girl.....none other to make #2 clog up. :) Grab some beets, girl, and down the H2O like its going out of style.
Love you all!!!!!
Jill Billy
p.s. "today's tidbit".....I run without wearing underwear. love it. Are you proud, Sham? hee he eheeeh eheehh hheeeeeeeee

Hey All

Hey Girls, it's Carrie.

Oh, how I miss you girls!!!!!! I'm so proud of you, Jill!!! You ROCK!!!!! And, you have inspired me. I've been MIA for a few weeks, and that includes exercise, too. I'm SO exhausted and nauseous all of the time, but am thankful at the same time. I'm praying for a couple other WBGs will join me in this PG thing soon. Jill, I saw Adam's post on Facebook the other day about going into the steam room at the gym. You need to tell that guy to stay out of there. Doesn't excessive heat kill lil spermies?

Anyway, I digress MAJORLY!!!! One thing you said about walking for 20 min. a day is a reasonable and attainable goal. I SO need to jump on board with that. SO starting tomorrow, I've GOT to get back to it. Maybe I can actually go #2 after I walk. Seriously. You know how people who have a baby "looking" bump but are NOT pregnant call it their "food baby?" Well, right now I have a "poop baby." Seriously. I'm 8 weeks and had to wear maternity pants today because I was so full of poop!!!! Sad, huh.

Love you girls!

back from nooooowhere land....

.....aka my moms! :) She has no Internet so I am having withdraw from my blog buddies! :)
So to catch up here I go....

First off - SHAMMMMMM, oh no!!!! Cricket, bobby pin, ankle? -sigh-.....take care my friend, I know you, healing will come quickly - be smart, you will be up and running before you know it. RICE it as much as you can....and I don't mean brown or wild.

Spent 5 days at mom's and exercised EVERYday!!! Took all my gear and adjusted. I did take the P90X ab ripper DVD (or so I thought) until after I got there and noticed Madagascar was in the case...hmmmmmm. But luckily a two mile run everyday followed by jump rope and my 10 minute Arm DVD (yep got the right one there), everyday was feeling the burn.

...feeling the burn....and TIRED TIRED TIRED!!! So I am in day 6 of my detoxing.....NOT FUN. I thought I was more prepared for it and didn't think it was going to be this tough. It is. Especially being at mom's and not in my own kitchen. Not to mention the grocery store (yes singular) in her town offers NOTHING but poptarts and frozen pizza....not on the list needless to say. So it has been a tough week. But hopefully things are working and I will soon get over all my craving for salt and carbs. I am trying to get in the recommended protein, but it is still making the exercise hard. I am fatigued a lot. ......which according to the doctor means it is working....just as if a smoker was trying to stop smoking.

Well, better jet....i have a dog sitting here waiting on me to head outside with him.
Love and miss you all, Jill

No Gym

I was supposed to go to the gym w/ a friend, but I worked yesteray = no sitting down all day and my ankle was swollen and was sore. I have stopped wrapping it up, although I am going to today if it hurts to walk. :) If that is all I have to complain about = good to go.
How is everyone?
LOVE YOU ALL

minor set-back

GGGGGRRRRRR I twisted my ankle. DUMB DUMB DUMB
LONG story, short - a bobby bin fell out of my hair, I thought it was a cricket (I have issues); it scared me so much I twisted my ankle. NO KIDDING!!!!
This happened Thurs. night. It feels better, but I still have it all wrapped up.
GGGGGRRRRRR I JUST got a jogging stroller from my sister!!!! DOUBLE GRRRRRRRRRR

Good news: Our school put in a cardio room for the teachers to use. It will be ready by January. Bad news - teachers can use it after school. I only have 30 minutes to pick up josie after school is over. This includes finishing class; getting all stuff cleaned up, etc. after class, getting to my office, gathering up everything AND driving to get her. I am hoping the room will be open, so I can use it during my prep...... :) we'll see. Cool though huh!

:)

detoxing the pipes, need prayers

Ok ladies. I have this new doc here in OH. We are really hitting this hormone thing hard. Which is starting with my liver, gall bladder and weight issues. So yesterday I did my spit test and got them in the mail. Next week I get blood work done (that's a usual for me every month!)......da da da daaaaaaaa....and tomorrow I begin the 21 day detoxing program. (this is where I'll need the prayers!)

21 days of hard core "cleaning" on the inside. Pretty strict on what I can eat, what I can't and full of nutrition. Tonight I had a good 'ol cheeseburger, onion rings, dt soda and ice cream with snickers on it.....won't see that for another 21 days!

The kicker....we are headed to my mom's for 4-5 days tomorrow....and I start this tomorrow. And Emma's b-day party will fall in the 21 days too. Please pray I can resist all temptations without hurting anyone!!! :)
I'll keep you updated.
cleaning out the pipes, Jill your #2 go girl.

hey girls.

nothing healthy or fittness'y' this time. Just wanted you to know I miss you all alot.
-hugs-
Jill Billy.

Spit and tidbit.

So today I am spitting in test tubes for hormone testing. Weird. Weird. weird. But cool and somewhat excited. New doctor, new tests, hopefully new answers....or just answers that work. :)

Today's tidbit - Move with a Mission
"You don't need to muscle-crunch at the gym; a daily walk will go a long way towards keeping you fit. Twenty minutes of brisk walking daily is a responsible goal. Its important to walk fast....it should be quite difficult to talk on your cell phone. Need more motivation? Think of all the money you're saving on a gym membership!" Health Monitor Vol 7 June/July 2009

picking up my detox kit this afternoon at the doctor's office. Keep me in your thoughts.....I sure am going to miss chocolate for 21 days, especially during the "princess birthday party". ;)
Sassy and Spitin', Jill

Today was the bomb!

So Library day...Emma got a new book and video....ahhhhhhh a video! :) So when we got home, the video went in and I got to exercising - a great, hard, push it work out. Love it. Incline 5.0 and feeling the burn 25 minutes later. Stretches, abs, and 10 minute arm strengthening. Then after super, I decided not to leave Hank out and got in a good 2 mile run outside. yes, run. Dude.....I think this is getting a bit addictive.

Then, my organic chicken that i got for $1.85 a pound needed to be put in the freezer for safe keeping. I was looking at it and discovered that it was skinless breast WITH the bone. Ok, so I started cutting the meaty portion off with my kitchen shears and then in one inch cubes for kabobs later. Done, in freezer. Then I took the bones and noticed still a good deal of meat stuck to them. So I cooked them in my fancy nancy Tupperware micro cooker. Done, chicken flaked right off in my hands...that will be good for some chicken salad tomorrow! Thennnnnnn, the gift just keeps on giving - I took my scrappy bones and currently have them in my stock pot boiling on the stove top, yep, you got it.....organic chicken broth! Can we say good soup this winter! Sooooooooo pumped!
Good day good day. Wishing and hoping my WB girls are having a good one too!
Jill

Did it.

Ran over two miles tonight. Wow. This is blowing my mind....how can 190 pounds of bouncing fat ran two miles when just two months ago I could not run to the stop sign an back which is only a quarter of a mile. It is unbelievable the mental difference in life this makes. It is unbelievable that despite everything that has physically gone wrong during these training days that perseverance has paid off. No pain, no gain.

My new favorite phrase for the day (Adam and I saw this on a shirt):
"Pain is weakness getting out."
How true....I like it. Two months ago, I was in so much pain in everyday life let alone during exercise. But despite I kept going...getting over the hump wasn't easy, but worth it. Most of the physical pain is gone now. wow. wow. ...wow. I can actually say I look forward to the exercise now.
Thanking Jesus for the strength,
Jill

Got 60 SECONDS?

Loving the Prevention website - full of very helpful info - I have found these 60 SECOND videos. Who can't set the alarm one minute earlier in life? :)

http://www.prevention.com/cda/categorypage.do?channel=news.voices&category=videos&videoID=49e108ed3edb2210VgnVCM10000030281eac____

Hope the link works. Enjoy.
Go Team WB

New outlook on Organic...

....YOU CAN GET THEM CHEAPER OR SAME AS REGULAR GROCERIES!!!!!! :)

I was so pumped today to have found some really good bargins at my favorite Kroger. They are running some items on sale, then on top of that if you buy 10 you get $5.00 cash back. On top of that I had tore off the coupons on the outside of the boxes to get an even better deal! I walked away with 12 boxes of organic breakfast bars, 5 organic cereals, two packs of organic yogurt, and organic tortilla chips (to go with my fresh salsa!) all cheaper than the Kroger brand of those items! The cereal was regular price $5.99 and in the end i got it for $1.49!!!!!!!! I LOVE IT! All in all in total, I saved $78 just in coupons and store discounts.

.....and there was a BUNCH of organic chicken on clearence for $1.89 a pound!!! Regular over 6 bucks! It had a sell by date of tomorrow, but I stocked up and went home to utilize my freezer! $1.89 was the same per ounce as the nasty stuff put in the economical Kroger brand bags of chicken breast "with rib meat"....gross crap full of hormones.

I have been reading a book called "Shop, Spend, and Save" written by a Christian author. She teaches how to grocery shop well beneath your means, but walk away with more than you ever have. Very interesting.

There is a phrase I like to keep myself reminded of..... "It isn't how much money you have, but what you do with your money." So true. All for getting the bang for the buck.

Seriously, Organic was wayyyyyy cheaper for me today than the generic regular brands. A double bonus on the pocket book and my families health. So cool.
Yum cha-ching yum, Jill

Oh ya baby!

So Sunday evening and still no workout for me. 9:30....I reallllllly want to skip. But no, can't. Gotta do it. Do it for my girls! So since it was dark out, I headed to the basement to the treadmill. My run two minutes, walk two minutes on an incline just wasn't burning too much anymore. I sweat, breath hard, get thirsty, but no burn....soooooo BRING IT. I bumped it up to Run 2.5 minutes, walk 1.5 minutes. Oh ya baby - I could feel it! Still was feeling good though at my normal 30 minute finish line, so I kept pushing. Went onto 40 minutes....got in the three miles! :) Kick butt. Shout to the Lord, man.
I ended out burning just over 400 calories. Awesome. Ended the workout with 20 minutes of Chiropractic stretches, some arm curls and 25 crunches on the bouncy ball. Love it. I know its late and i will probably be tired in the morning, but so worth it.
11:08 pm and sitting here enjoying my fresh blueberry/blackberry/banana smoothie. yum.
Thinking of my girls alllllll the time,
Jill