My Journal

[StlBarbie]

Well, don't keep us in suspense..... how did the hair turn out????? :D

[Ms. Lucy]

Hey Girls!

I had a great weekend. Got my hair done--chopped off about 8-10 inches, got lots of blond highlights and just had some fun!

Hubby and I got into an little tiff Friday--but it was one of the better ones--where we were able to talk about stuff that's been going on. As for training, I took a mini break from all the cardio--instead just shopping, cleaning and family stuff. But I'm back in the game today! Got my new foods and I'm ready to start. I'm still at 126--but honestly can't complain--the bad weekend I had a few weeks ago just slowed me a down a little, but I FEEL good! I think that's the best thing. SUre, I'd like to lose a bit more, but I'm very happy with how I look. Regardless of whether I lose more weight or not before the trip doesn't really matter--which I think says a lot about my progress (I'm so glad we don't have TV anymore--it helps when you're not watching ET or something stupid!).

ANyways, this is the basic breakdown of my new plan--though I haven't done the macro's yet:

MEAL 1: 1 serving cream of wheat; 1/4 cup blueberries
MEAL 2: 5 egg white omlet with 1 cup spinach
MEAL 3: 30g protein shake
MEAL 4: 3.5 oz tuna; 10 asparagus spears
MEAL 5: 6 oz tilapia
MEAL 6: 4 oz Chicken; 4 oz Yams; 1 Cup SPinach
MEAL 7: 2 egg whites; 3 oz tuna (made into patty)
MEAL 8: 30 g protein shake if still hungry (I can't imagine being hungry--this seems like a ton of food)

Still doing a 5 day split. However, my evenbing cardio is now mainly 30 minutes of walking at about 3.5 with a 6% incline. I will stick to my morning routine with the short intervals and 1 or 2 spinning sessions.

We're supposed to get some snow over the next few days--hopefully I will still be able to get to the gym!!!!

Hope you all had a great weekend!

Lucy

[Jennifer-Lynn]

Hey Girls!

I had a great weekend. Got my hair done--chopped off about 8-10 inches, got lots of blond highlights and just had some fun!

Hubby and I got into an little tiff Friday--but it was one of the better ones--where we were able to talk about stuff that's been going on. As for training, I took a mini break from all the cardio--instead just shopping, cleaning and family stuff. But I'm back in the game today! Got my new foods and I'm ready to start. I'm still at 126--but honestly can't complain--the bad weekend I had a few weeks ago just slowed me a down a little, but I FEEL good! I think that's the best thing. SUre, I'd like to lose a bit more, but I'm very happy with how I look. Regardless of whether I lose more weight or not before the trip doesn't really matter--which I think says a lot about my progress (I'm so glad we don't have TV anymore--it helps when you're not watching ET or something stupid!).

ANyways, this is the basic breakdown of my new plan--though I haven't done the macro's yet:

MEAL 1: 1 serving cream of wheat; 1/4 cup blueberries
MEAL 2: 5 egg white omlet with 1 cup spinach
MEAL 3: 30g protein shake
MEAL 4: 3.5 oz tuna; 10 asparagus spears
MEAL 5: 6 oz tilapia
MEAL 6: 4 oz Chicken; 4 oz Yams; 1 Cup SPinach
MEAL 7: 2 egg whites; 3 oz tuna (made into patty)
MEAL 8: 30 g protein shake if still hungry (I can't imagine being hungry--this seems like a ton of food)

Still doing a 5 day split. However, my evenbing cardio is now mainly 30 minutes of walking at about 3.5 with a 6% incline. I will stick to my morning routine with the short intervals and 1 or 2 spinning sessions.

We're supposed to get some snow over the next few days--hopefully I will still be able to get to the gym!!!!

Hope you all had a great weekend!

Lucy

Sam - sounds like a nice weekend even with the tiff :0) sometimes that is good ya know...get things out in the open and actually resolve things instead of letting them stay inside bubbling like a volcano. That's great about your weight staying stable and remember its not how much you weigh anyways. You new diet looks good, are there any fats in your diet? or are you just getting fats from the meat etc...?

Have a great Monday...we are getting snow now too...I hear Baltimore is getting slammed right now, I'm scared :) Well not really, you know us Buffalo people we can handle anything. Chow!

[Ms. Lucy]

Hey Jen!

Yeah, I always forget--I'm supposed to take lots of fish oil capsules--I'm just bad at that. The diet is pretty low in fats, and this version is lower in carbs, so we'll see how I go. I'm not "dieting" on vacation, so I'll give this a try. It's a bit less cals too, but more food throughout the day--8 meals, so I'll be eating every 2-2 1/2 hours instead of waiting 3.

I just had my first spinach omlet--very good! My next meal is plain tuna and (left over green beans today) asparagus. I may this week add a teasp of nayonnaise and a few celery pieces--I really don't care for plain tuna. (and I get angry looks from coworkers-lol). Tilapia is also new to me as will be the tuna/egg omelet. We'll see!!!

No snow yet--though they're calling for 6-8 inches overnight. Hopefully I can get to my spinning class in the morning!!!

Later!

[Ms. Lucy]

Well last night was interesting--showed me how far I've progressed. I am supposed to do a regular "long" run 2 days a week--about 30 minutes. SInce today is leg day, I thought I'd give a go at running last night--though not expecting to get far as I'm not, and have never been, a good runner. Well, I tell you what, I went for 35 minutes and wasn't even tired!!!! SUre, it was only 4.3-4.5 speed, but just that fact that I wasn't trying to catch my breath shows just how much my arobic capacity has improved. Yeah!!!

SO that made me happy!

However, this morning I had the WORST spinning class EVER!! This new woman comes in to fill in. Doesn't get started until 6:10 (starts at 6). Then she does this horrible program--barely changing anything up--barely getting us out of our seat--my ass was killing more than my legs! And she kept fiddling with her bike and asking if she could get anyone more water ( your supposed to have water). I was so peeved. I actually left before we started stretching because she was running so late and I had to go. That's so irritating. I know you can make the class as hard or easy as you want by the tension, but there was no variety--I could have sat outside to do that.

Oh well. Tonight I train legs--do a minimal amount of cardio and then we're going scuba diving in a pool to check out my new drysuit. I'll honestly be too tired, but I really need to get in the water this week and next before we go.

SO much to do.....

[Ivey_Itch]

Hey girl! Your hair sounds Cute! A new "do" can be so empowering! :) Congrats on the endurance of your run! That's great! Have fun on your vacation!! Scuba diving huh? I've snorkeled.. lol.. but I bet scuba diving is a BLAST! :)

[StlBarbie]

Isn't it fun when you finally get to reap the benefits of all your hard work?
Congrats on your aerobic efforts, you will be glad on vacation when you in shape to do everything you want to do!!! When are you leaving?

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks--I feel great! Though a bit of a headache today--um.

I leave Friday the 18th and get back the night of the 27th.

I've never itched so bad to go on a vacation--I'm almost glad we're busy at work--makes it all that much better!

[Ms. Lucy]

Well back to my own training! I guess my sessions are up!!!

No worries. I will actualyl be able to get intot he gym earlier now 5 instead of 6 and get home by 7 instead of 8.

I think I'm also going to go back to training heavier--and throw in some supersets once in a awhile. I liked what we were doing but I just wasn't feeling it. I guess everyone's different. We'll see. I'm also going to try and get to about 120-ish, or more importantly a real size 2 (hate being in between) and then modify the diet a bit. I want to go back to cooking my wholesome foods--I've been craving them lately.

But for now I'm sticking to this diet and training program (my own weight training) until vacation. This running has got me excited. Yes, I want to look good--competing has been somewhat of a goal--but almost the same as my desire to runa marathon or triathlon. I just want to feel good, look fit and have fun. SO we'll see. I'm becoming happier with my body everyday--I would hate to get so strict into a certain area that I can't enjoy others. Just my afternoon thought!!

Later

[Ms. Lucy]

Awesome leg workout on my own yesturday. I did 3 sets of 10 squats to start at 165lbs!!!My legs have gotten much stronger! I followed that up with stationary weighted lunges (25's). Then supersets of leg extensions and lying leg curls. It was short--but brutal. I'm already feeling it.

I did about 20 minutes on the elliptical to follow and then went diving with my hubby in the pool.

SO feeling good, strong. I really liked working out with the girls, but in reality, I can do it on my own--I just have to make sure I'm consistant and go!!!

Tonight is odd. I have to work late. But I'll fit in a bi/tri workout at lunch and then do my running this evening!

It's Wednesday already!!!

[Jennifer-Lynn]

Awesome leg workout on my own yesturday. I did 3 sets of 10 squats to start at 165lbs!!!My legs have gotten much stronger! I followed that up with stationary weighted lunges (25's). Then supersets of leg extensions and lying leg curls. It was short--but brutal. I'm already feeling it.



Wow 165lbs!!!! Is that a Personal Best for you? I hope to get my legs that strong over the next 2 months...sounds like a short but sweet workout!

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Jen--yeah it was--and 10 reps. It was a great feeling. I 've been training lighter than usual when I went to the other trainer, so now that I'm done, I wanted to crank it up again. Looks like I gained some strength!!

Ugh--and the legs are KILLING me today! Also, I'm not sure if this is related, but I came home and got into bed at 7:30 last night and sdlept til 7 this morning. Of course I missed last night's cardio and this mornings, but I'm thinking I needed the sleep. I really think it's one of 2 things. One, there's a thousand different flu's going on around here--so my body may be fighting them off. Or 2--I've been training too much, eating too little and my heavy leg day just depleted my energy (I remember the first heavy leg day with my old trainer--I was falling asleep at 4pm that afternoon!!!). Not sure, but with vacation just a short few weeks away, I can't chance it. As much as I was hoping to loose just a few more lbs, I just can't risk getting sick!

NOw....about that diet. It's not agreeing with me. I think the carbs are too low, and although I don't mind the tilapia--I hate how it makes the house stink when I'm done. SO I'm going to go back to the old diet and just change a few things--add some spinach to my omelets, switch the oatmeal with cream of wheat and raspberries and try having some more turkey. I understand it's good to change up--but I don't like the low-low carb stuff (also could be the fatique). It all comes down to cals in vs. cals out--and so long as I switch up some foods once in awhile I should be ok right? As I said before I like the bb thing--and I'll eat my protein. But I like fruits, lots of veggies and need more than 50g of carbs. If I can't lose more weight eating clean like this--it ain't gonna happen.

I'm just tired of living life by the pound!!! I LOVE lifting heavy and feeling good. But man, some of the people I've met are just so fanatical--to the point of being extremely unhealthy--and I don't want to adopt that attitude that I'll never quite be good enough. ANd I love eating clean--but I liked MY diet--when I made tofu and tempeh or turkey veggie meatloaf--or turkey meatballs over ww pasta. It was still 40-40-20 but more interesting.

So my plan is to still train but take it easy before vacation so I don't get sick. When I get back I'm going to do my cardio in the morning--then weight train right after work. Then I'm going to come home and cook something!!! I'm still going to eat clean--and I would still like to lose some more body fat--but I'm getting real happy with how I look, so I don't think I need to be so fanatical. Working out is part of my life--but not my entire life. It's just not me. My poor hubby and I haven't had a meal in ages--we don't cook together anymore because of my diet--and I miss that. I also haven't had a salad with my yummy tofu/dill dressing in ages--or brown rice and brocolli. ANd those are healthy foods!!!! SO yeah, that's my plan!!!

Yes, I'm doing great still, not complaining--just figuring out where I am!!

Later

[Ivey_Itch]

That's really great! That time I tried to cut out splenda for my own personal reasons.. ALMOST KILLED ME! lol.. sad I know..but I got to where I wasn't even enjoying my oatmeal... (LOOK OF PANIC AND DISBELIEF! ) I said...no.. i'm not doing this to myself.. not for no real reason anyway.. now when comp. time comes.. maybe.. but just for me.. no thanks.. I'd rather enjoy my meals! ;) and your eating healthy, so that's all that really matters! Your doing great!

[StlBarbie]

You are so...............right! Ultimately, it comes down to calories in / calories out, as long as you are getting enough protein to preserve and build your lean muscle mass - the rest is symatex unless you eat like crap all the time, which none of us do. It is more important to guarantee your health with healthy food choices and healthy carb choices are part of it! It is essentially fuel and nutrients and needs to be kept in that perspective! Life is way to short to have anxiety over oatmeal!!!!

Please guard your health - the influenza around here is a very nasty virus taking 10 days to two weeks to recover from. Your goal needs to be to stay healthy for your vacation, the last thing you need is to be feeling like crap after all! Don't worry about those couple of pounds and don't overtrain and deplete your body - I want to see GOOD pics when you return and not shots of your hanging over the toilet! lol

[Ms. Lucy]

lo.. Thanks!!! I agree.

I promise good photo's. HOwever, do you think it would all that bad to add a little vodka to my protein powder?? lol

No, I agree--if you're competing that's one thing, but I just want to be healthy and feel energetic. I think too much dieting and stress can deplete you. I remember my old training saying he couldn't function the last few weeks of a comp b/c of that--I'm not competing, so why feel like that? Again, if I eat clean and exercise, I'll lose weight--and keep the protein to at LEAST 130 a day.

I just keep having cravings--not for bad stuff--but ww pasta with tomato and clam sauce with sauteed shrimp, mushrooms, onions and garlic! I think my poor little body also needs variety---especially in terms of vitamins and minerals. If you eat the same thing everyday--you're missing out. (I hate taking vitamins too).

So thansk for the encouragementsand reassurance. I love this lifestyle--but I need to blend it into mine as well. And I love to cook--play around and be home with my husband.

And my energy is coming back--I feel good. just needed to sleep. We'll see how I go later. I'd love to get to the gym if possible--I just don't wan tto push it if I feel even slightly drained!

[Jennifer-Lynn]

Sam I just had to chime in here and say those are some great thoughts! I agree with you 100%...you know your body best and you have to do what's best for you and your hubby. Maybe your body has been slightly depleted so those extra carbs should do wonders for you! Enjoy your downtime and just enjoy waking up every morning and saying "I really can't wait to go the gym, eat my such and such meal, etc...." that' s what it should be about. WE should look forward to it!!! Not stress over every little thing.

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Jen!!

I went to the gym last night and did a back workout on my own (about 30 mins) and then did some walking/jogging intervals for another 30 minutes. I was home at 6:45--was a treat!

I think this will work out really well for me. I'm actually going to get up in the morning to do my cardio (been slacking here a bit--mainly from fatique--flu bugs are all around). Then I'll go and do my weights in the evening and be home. That will give me plenty of time to cook up something great!!!

I think as a matter of convenience, my meals from lunch til dinner will stay close to the same. I love my eggs--oatmeal/cream of wheat tec. I just want to make something nice and healthy for dinner! Lots of stir-fried veggies and such. If I work out how many cals I'm getting before that and my nutritional breakdown, I should know how to use my dinner to get any added protein/carbs/veggies I need for the day--or I should considering I've been tracking this stuff for so long!! We'll see!

Well Happy Friday. I'm so excited for this weekend. We're packing cause the hubby has a trip next weekend--so it'll be fun!!! TIme to buy another bathing suit!

[StlBarbie]

Two weeks to go and counting down .... I am sure you are getting so.........excited! Remember, I am going along in your suitcase! Are you serious about doing a marathon or tirathlon? In my younger days, I did triathons and loved the challenge .... both mental and physical .... strength, endurance, and tenacity all in one! Correct nutritional input at the right times becomes a real science for triathlons. I have toyed with the idea of doing another triathlon but I have to wait until I have a greater range of motion in my shoulder for the swim. I will be anxious to see if it is something you choose to pursue. Have fun buying that new suit - I am sure the hubby is as excited as you! :D

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Barb! I was actually toying with the idea the other day when I was running. I've never been a ble to run before and just the fact that I was able to run for 35 minutes and not feel exhausted was such a thrill. I also love the spinning classes and can't wait to get on my hybrid this summer (though maybe I should have gotten a road bike--but oh well!). I used to swim, so I'm sure I could get into the swing of things. The CLeveland marathons have a 1 mile swim, 25k bike ride and 10k run I think?

Buy hey--I was looking online, do you know of any support groups or training groups for those. I just wouldn't have a clue where to start, how to train or anything. I couldn't find any, but there must be some out there?

[Jennifer-Lynn]

Sam - There are usually local Bike or Tri clubs in local areas...look them up on line or call a bike shop and ask them about the clubs. We have the BBC (Buffalo Bicycling Club) and a local Tri Club as well (I can't remember the name of it right now) any ways, they meet a few times a week and work on running, biking, swimming etc...Hope this helps.

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks! I tried looking online and couldn't find any. HOwever, I should call the bike/running shops--they should know!

[StlBarbie]

Sam,
I really agree with Jen - find a local group that you can meet with and train with. The support and knowledge they will be able to share with you will be priceless. Not to mention they can critique your form and set up your training bricks for you. I belong to a traithlon group from the local Y and train with them all summer. They have taught me so.....much and the energy you get from training with a group of people with the same goals is just what you need for this kind of endeavor. You can certainly get a lot of information online but the one on one support is so.....motivating! If you capable of the running, enjoy the bike, and are not intimidated by the swim you will LOVE a triathlon!!!! :) If you have a local Y, it can be a great resource for finding such groups. Best of luck, I hope you do it so I can live vicariously through you! :D

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Barb,

I think I may look into that when I get back. I haven't been running long at all, and I run slow and get tired (lol) but I think it would be fun. I have to keep in mind though--I've also never rode a real bike before. I have my hybrid--but need a road bike for those. HOwever, if I find a group, I may try and train for one a year out or so and give myself time to build up my endurance and learn all the rules!!! But what a fun thing.

I used to be a smoker (10 years) and smoked even when I ran track. Everyone said I was athletic and talented--but I never got too far because of my bad habits. Ever since I quit I've had this crazy urge to run a marathon or triathlon--just to prove to myself that I could. The trialthon actually sounds more fun to me--I like breaking things up--and it seems like a bigger challenge. I'll definetly look into it!

[Ms. Lucy]

This weekend went ok. I'm a little under the weather and diet was not spot on. I think I overate Saturday and underate Sunday-lol. I also slept a lot!!

I'll be training after work today--probably shoulders. I really want to mix up my slip, but may wait til I get back.

I'll start tanning Wednesday. Also make an appointment for my first ever Brazilian wax just before I go. That should be interesting-lol!

This weekend we have to pack and I'll probably get a new bikini. I've never been to target--but some people say they have cute suits there. I don't want to spend a fortune--so I may check it out!

That's about all the news on my end. Hope everyone's doing great!

[Jennifer-Lynn]

I'll start tanning Wednesday. Also make an appointment for my first ever Brazilian wax just before I go. That should be interesting-lol!



Wow, let me know what that is like would ya? I hope your workout tonight made you feel somewhat better.

[Ms. Lucy]

lol--I sure will. I talked to a girl at the gym who had it done and she RAVED! I think for me it will be kinda like realy sexy underwear. No one can see it but it makes you feel sexy!! We'll see!

Last night I did arms at home and WOW--I got the biggest pump I've ever seen--I had little rocks on my arms-lol. It looked great! Then I did a short 15 minute running session with my puppy. It started raining so we sprinted and called it a night!

Of course this morning I had the best spinning workout ever--which really made up for last weeks dismal class. The instructor pushed us the entire way and my heart rate stayed at about 175-177 the whole time. I felt good!

Tonight I train legs with no extra cardio since this morning was pretty intense. We're scuba diving tonight in the pool for a refresher before we go. Less than 2 weeks now!

I can't wait to start tanning!

Enjoy that digital camera Jen--they help a lot! Especially if you don't like the picture--just erase and take a new one!

[StlBarbie]

I am leaving for New Orleans and then Gulf Shores, AL on the 26th - I need to get my rear to the tanning spa as well - I still have the remainder of my cycling tan and it looks so.........goofy!!!

Nothing better than a great spinning class to get the heart rate up and to push that cardio endurance up a notch ... was your class like an interval session? Was it more standing hills and sprints or high resistance in the seat?

Have a great day and enjoy that tanning bed - soon enough you will be on the beach!!! :D

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Barb--the class was pretty full on.

We divided it into 2 sessions. Teh first--26 minutes was mainly hill climbing and some mini sprints--but no breaks. After the first 26 minutes we took a 1 minute cool down (hr--down to 156). Then we did seated sprints, followed by running sprints and then the last 5 minutes was a climb at low cadence with the highest resistence you ould manage. I think my hr was 185.

I just know that I was sweating the whole time. Is spinning good conditioning for regular riding. I assume it is. I just wonder if I tried a regular bike, how it would feel. I've never used gears before--lol. I was also reading about passing and such for races and it seems liek it would be great to ride with a group for awhile to figur eit out.

Ah--and the intructor has GREAT musci--very inspiring and on-tempo with the ride. Not be-bop crap that makes me feel like I should be stepping!!! I'll have to find out her schedule.

Later

[Ms. Lucy]

Tired, tired, tired, tired.

It's 4:00 and I'm EXHAUSTED!! I can't keep my eyes open adn I feel kinda dizzy. I sleep GREAT--get 8 hours and don't have an insuline problem. Only thing I can figure is that my carbs are too low? I've sorta forgotten to eat my yams for a few days (ok, was not in the mood for yams) and switched from oatmeal to cream of wheat--a big difference in carbs.

Could that cause my fatique? Honestly, I think I'm going to go home and pass out.

I guess my only carbs today were 3 packets of cream of wheat (about 17g a serving), an apple and my veggies.

I think I'll eat oats tomorrow--and make some brown rice tonight.

Really strange. VERY tired. I guess my leg workout will be first thing in the morning.

[Jennifer-Lynn]

Tired, tired, tired, tired.

It's 4:00 and I'm EXHAUSTED!! I can't keep my eyes open adn I feel kinda dizzy. I sleep GREAT--get 8 hours and don't have an insuline problem. Only thing I can figure is that my carbs are too low? I've sorta forgotten to eat my yams for a few days (ok, was not in the mood for yams) and switched from oatmeal to cream of wheat--a big difference in carbs.

Could that cause my fatique? Honestly, I think I'm going to go home and pass out.

I guess my only carbs today were 3 packets of cream of wheat (about 17g a serving), an apple and my veggies.

I think I'll eat oats tomorrow--and make some brown rice tonight.

Really strange. VERY tired. I guess my leg workout will be first thing in the morning.

Yep I would say carbs are really low. I hope you carb up on leg day, eat carbs before lifting legs.

[Ms. Lucy]

Yeah--I went home and passed out. Then I got up--got a slice of bread and went back to sleep!

I'm actually eating a cup of oats right now--I'll make some rice this afternoon and hopefully feel good enough for a tough leg workout.

I love the cream of wheat--but I think the oats have a better energy source. I hope that's what it is--I was exhausted.

Aside from that feeling just ok. I've been a bit bloated lately--still skinnier but I don't "fee" skinny if that makes sense!

I'll work on the energy first!

[StlBarbie]

Please don't do the leg workout if you are feeling tired ... refeed on your carbs, get your rest, and work them when your body says it is good to go... we have to keep you healthy for this trip girl!!!! I told you I am waiting for some good pics... tan hot bod, highlighted hair, sitting in a bikini on a beach with hubby .... boy do you have a lot to look forward to!!!!!!!!!!!! :)

[Ivey_Itch]

Yeah! Powells2 is right! Get those carbs up and rest some! Remember Carbs = Energy! and you need it for those intense workouts!!! :D

[Ms. Lucy]

lol--I'm working on it!!

I had a big bowl of oats this morning (however, I ate so many I couldn't eat my 2nd meal-lol). AT lunch I'll have my eggs and veggies and then I'll have some cream of wheat right before my leg workout and see how we go!

SO far, I'm ok today. I've been a little stressed though too, so maybe that's it! DOn't know!

But thanks, I'm eating away!

[Jennifer-Lynn]

lol--I'm working on it!!

I had a big bowl of oats this morning (however, I ate so many I couldn't eat my 2nd meal-lol). AT lunch I'll have my eggs and veggies and then I'll have some cream of wheat right before my leg workout and see how we go!

SO far, I'm ok today. I've been a little stressed though too, so maybe that's it! DOn't know!

But thanks, I'm eating away!

EAT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Ms. Lucy]

DOing ok.

Had a great leg workout and 20 mins on the elliptical.. ANother 3 sets of squats --160# for 10 reps. Then some superset leg extensions and one legged squats. Then lying legs curls and deadlifts.

SHort but sweet.

I also made a brown rice and chicken stir fry last night! Yum. ANd I already have lots of energy back. Love that oatmeal.

Well, busy day--hope everyone is doing well!

[StlBarbie]

Oh.. the power of oatmeal!! I have made it the mainstay of my diet mixed with protein powder and I am surprised at how it has seemed to lean me out! I had not anticipated that effect but I wanted the complex carbs and decided that was one of my best choices for long lasing power.

Don't you love the one legged squat?? I think those and the lighter asg squats really create the desired effect!!! Have you tried the one legged db deadlifts? They are awesome as well and man do they burn!!!!!

Glad to see your energy level has returned - you are doing a tremendous job as always!!

[Ivey_Itch]

Oatmeal...it's what life is all about.... ;)



...



......i just realized how boring my life really is with that statement..... LOL :D

[Ms. Lucy]

lol Ivey--I hear you. Besides, who else sneaks healthy foods in the restroom when everyone else is eating cake.

Barb--never tried the one legged deadlifts--sounds fun. I love when my hammies burn! I'll have to look it up. DO you just keep a db on one hand?

[Jennifer-Lynn]

Samantha,

Regarding bicycles -

Chris is offering up his advice.....there are 3 basic categories of road bikes not to be confused with mountain style. First being Comfort Hybrid, Second being Performance Hybrid, Third being Road. The major difference between hybrid and road is simply body position. Hybrid's will give you a more upright position and a straight bar. Comparing the two types of hybrid's the comfort hybrid would give you a cushier more recreational ride the performance hybrid would give you the ability to be more efficient and enable you to ride faster. He would not recommend either of these bikes to do any type of competition. But for sport and fitness riding He feels the Peformance Hybrid would be a good choice.

Chris's recommendation for both fitness sport and competition would be a road bike. With a proper bike fit keeping comfort in mind (usually done at a local bike shop)

Chris recommends that you go ride both styles of bikes, Road and performance Hybrid and see what you like best. An example of a Performance Hybrid would be a Fuji Absolute ($500 to $550)...For a beginner road bike he would recommend a Jamis Satellite ($650ish)...Many shops will be able to give you better prices on 2003 and 2004 model years if available.

Sam I hope this helps and good luck bike hunting! If your interested in Buying a bike from the shop Chris works at, they stock both kinds of bikes let me know and we can work something out!

[StlBarbie]

http://www.bsu.edu/webapps/strengthlab/exdetails.asp?exid=172

Single Leg Deadlift
I like to use a #40 db and trust me, you will feel it!!

http://www.bsu.edu/webapps/strengthlab/exdetails.asp?exid=17

Overhead Squat
Sam, I love to use these just to "shake things up"! Emma turned me onto this incredible compound lift. I use a lighter barbell #50 (preweighted) and go asg! It incorpates all the stablizer muscles and is quite challenging! Try it for fun - I bet you will love it!!!

Just some fun things to keep the body guessing! :)

[Jennifer-Lynn]

Barb & Sam,

I've done the single legged dead lift they are fun! in a weird way...I also have down the overhead squat back in my powerlifting days...tough stuff but so effective.

[StlBarbie]

Barb & Sam,

I've done the single legged dead lift they are fun! in a weird way...I also have down the overhead squat back in my powerlifting days...tough stuff but so effective.

Jen,
I did not know you were a powerlifter back in the day!! You wild thing .. what haven't you done?? Or do we want to know??? ;)

[Emma-Leigh]

Barb & Sam,

I've done the single legged dead lift they are fun! in a weird way...I also have down the overhead squat back in my powerlifting days...tough stuff but so effective.Don't worry Jenny - as soon as your shoulder is up to it, these will be back in your workouts! ;)

[Emma-Leigh]

Oatmeal...it's what life is all about.... ;)



...



......i just realized how boring my life really is with that statement..... LOL :D
LOL.... That sounds oddly familiar.. I believe I said something very similar not 48 hrs ago HERE!!! (http://forum.bodybuilding.com/showpost.php?p=5091905&postcount=16)
:D

[Jennifer-Lynn]

Don't worry Jenny - as soon as your shoulder is up to it, these will be back in your workouts! ;)


YEAH, I didn't think I would ever do them again.

[Ms. Lucy]

lol you guys are great. Overheads look FUN! BUt seems like you really need to watch your form. BUt I'll definetly give them a go next Tuesday. I did a simialr workout this week and wanted something new next.

Single leg deads look good too!

ABout oatmeal--can I tell you all how much better I feel already having gone back to eating it!! I still have some of the cream of wheat but in the pm before my workout--stuff is tasty but not the same as oatmeal. I wish I could eat cottage chesse. Just can't get my taste buds around it!

[Ms. Lucy]

Jen--thanks a lot for the reply. Right now I have a Schwin hybrid--though I've never been on it--it was an X-mas present. I don't know the model though.

I'm hoping to start riding in April when we get back depending on the weather. If I love it I will most likely look into another bike mid-summer. It may also be wise for me to look into a bike group and see what everyone rides and just listen and learn a bit. BUt I'll definetly let you know!

[Emma-Leigh]

Just bumping Sam's journal - Don't want it to drop off the end of the board!! :)

[Jennifer-Lynn]

Just bumping Sam's journal - Don't want it to drop off the end of the board!! :)


Yeah I know, you don't post for 24 hrs. and you fall into the black hole!

[StlBarbie]

Where did you go Sam?????
Are you trying to sneak to that beach ahead of schedule???????????? :D
You better at least tell us "bye" before you head out for that dream trip!!!

[Ms. Lucy]

lol--thanks for the Bump Emma!

Yes, actually Barb--I think I did head off a bit early for the trip.

I know it sounds strange but my hubby and I just met a fantastic person--great new friend. Anyways, we got together this weekend and had a little party all weekend long--I treminded me of being back in college--out til 4am and just being silly but having fun. I had few beers and some-not-so-great foods but I feel really good. Still bought a bikini!! ANyways, it has been the first weekend in a long time where I wasn't 100% obsorbed by what I was eating or when to exercise--which is how vacation will be! SO yeah--oops I think I started partying a little early!lol. Of course I don't plan on becoming a crazy party girl and such, it was just a nice break. I hope that makes sense.

Anyways, I'm crazy this week trying to get ready and do some dives in the pool--so excuse me for not stopping in often! We leave Friday morning and I'm counting down the days (while trying to pack, tan, buy food and cook dinners! lol).

Hope everyone is doing great!!

[Ms. Lucy]

Happy St. Patty's Day.

We're leaving tomorrow. Talk to you all after Easter!

Lucy

[Ivey_Itch]

Wooo! Have fun girl!! Have a beer for me the next time your out!! Heck..have 2! ;) Glad you met a great friend who could take your mind of things for a while!! Have a great trip! You've earned it!

[StlBarbie]

I am so... glad this day has finally arrived for you!!!!! Don't forget to let me out of the suitcase when we arrive!! ;) Have a great vacation Sam and we want to see LOTS of pics when you return!!! Travel Safely!!!!!

[Ms. Lucy]

I forgot to mention--I got my Brazilian wax yesturday and just received my first thong bikini today!

Belize--here I come!

See ya ladies!

[Emma-Leigh]

Bye Sam!!! Have a GREAT time!! WE WANT PICCIES when you get back!! :D

[Ivey_Itch]

Oh yah! Many many Pics!! :)

[Ms. Lucy]

I'm Baaack!!!

SO nice to be home (total lie)!!!

Vaction was WONDERFUL--so relaxing! We dove for 6 days and rested the others. Nothing too stressful. The Blue Hole was AMAZING. 130 ft with bull sharks swimming by. My hubby also saw his first turtle and a HUGE one at that--he was chomping on a conch shell!

The island itself is gorgeous--it was 95 and sunny everyday. Water temp was a warm 83. The people were friendly, our room was right on the water and I felt wonderful!

All the hard work paid off. I was bikini ready and felt good in it!! Looking back, I wish I got more pics--but I did get some and will post them. My hubby also took some "fun" pics with my new bikini that I must say I was actually proud of and felt good about--though it would probably not be best to post them here--but I felt sexy--so that's what matters!!!

As for the diet and nutrition. Well, I wish I could tell you I was a bit better! I tried at first, but our schedule was crazy with the dives. Although the eating wasn't too bad. I made a huge pasta salad with tuna and some reduced fat dressing for lunches. Had either peanut butter on bread for breakfast, cream of wheat, or eggs with cheese and ham (hey, it's vacation). However, I did have some fried conch once or twice and one night we got pizza-lol! Ok, so the food wasn't terrible. HOWEVER, did I mention they make damn good margaritas down there? Hmm. Yup, that kinda comprised a fair bit more of my diet than it should have, but that's ok!!! My pants still fit I just feel very bloated--but I'm also a week out from my period.

SO this week is detox for me. I'm back to eating my 6 meals--and I seem to be hungry all the time--shows I've been eating lots of sugar. But that should subside in a few days. I'm also pretty tired this week, so I'm also recouping a bit before starting my new program--and I have yet to figure that out. However I feel healthy and strong--even swam a strong current others had a hard time with, but luckily my training made it easy for me!

ALl in all I gained some good insight into myself and my relationship with the hubby down there. I've spent so much time focused on exact calorie counts and proportions this past year it's a bit silly. I love how I look. Yes, I need tweaking, but I'm happy.

My main goal this year is to be more holisically healthy. I love bbing, but don't think I want to compete. I like eating healthy, but I'm going to add more healthy foods. More veggies, whole grains and fruit. I feel I was too limiting before. I also want to cook fun, healthy dishes. I also want to improve my endurance significantly. It's always been a goal for me. I'm currently looking into mini-triathlons as a start. I like swimming, running and biking and thingk that, along with bbing, it would be a nice compliment and would lead to a stronger, healtheir me. I would actually rather compete in a half-ironman that be a size o. Does that make sense? I know this is a bbing site--but I guess bbing helped me find some motivation to lose the weight I did initially and now I'm just expanding my goals!

I sincerely hope everyone has been doing well. I look forward to catching up and seeing how everyone's been.

Pics will be coming very soon. I finally got my laptop fixed, so I can do it at home!!

Later

[Jennifer-Lynn]

WELCOME HOME - WE MISSED YOU!

Truly we did :0 ) sounds like you had a great vacation, lots of sun good food and some adventures too. Its also good to hear that your hubby and you found some spark :)...I like your new take on working out and eating sounds like a great plan...hey just welcome home! It must be warmer then when you left right?

talk to ya soon.

[Emma-Leigh]

SAMM!!!!! You're back!! Woo hoo!!!

WOW - it sounds like you had a blast - swimming with sharks and turtles you crazy woman!! :D We want to see lots of piccies ok!!

And I am so glad you are feeling so positive about your body and health at the moment - it is great to see! You have been working so hard and finally finding a place where you can balance health, your body and your life is fantastic.

As you can see - things around here have taken off since you left!! We have about 1000 more journals and all these new members - if you are not careful your journal will slip off the page in the space of 2 hrs!!!


Anyway - good to see you back! :D

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Guys--appreciate it!

Yes, Jen, it's getting warmer--about 50 now. The flowers are actually starting to come up as well it's nice!

Thanks Emma--I love doing nutty things. I think the best thing about the vacation was the fact that I was happy with my body and how I look. SUre, there's lots I'd like to tweak, but geez, do you ever really get to the point where you're 100% happy with everything? Like everyone there are things I love and others we'll work on. BUt hey, I can tell you the hubby responded so well just to the positive attitude I had/have. He has always loved me, but it must be hard to get close to someone who is always complaining about themselves. So yeah, instead of him saying, "Your back looks great" and my yelling about fat bits or something stupid, I just say thank you--and then I get lots more!!

Yesturday we went grocery shopping! I bought lots of fruit and veggies! ALso lean turkey, a bit of lean red meat, some pork chops, eggs, salmon and chicken! I can't wait to cook something!!

Alos, now that we're back, we're going to take this weekend and do some spring cleaning in all areas! I will also use that time to set down a new plan. Again, I'm pretty happy where I'm at--by which I mean I could maybe lose more weight, but it's not killing me. I won't be getting on a scale for awhile either!! As I said I'd like to improve for aerobically--do some running/swimming/biking. Nothing in access--but just work myself up to the point where I could run for an hour if I want, or swim a 1/2 mile and bike a decent distance. I really think the triathlon's--short distances could be fun. I always liked competing!! Of course, weight training is still going to be a huge focus. I'll most likely do a 4-5 day split. I feel better doing the hard, heavy stuff, but also need to work on muscle endurance. So I'm playing around with doing heavy weight, low (6-10) reps one week, and lighter weight, higher (12-20) reps the next. I know we don't talk much about high reps, but I read that for muscle endurance it's good. ANyone know about that?

SO that's the basic idea. I'm going to try and not go nutty over the food stuff. I will make sure I'm getting enough protein and then focus on getting an equal number of good carbs and healthy fat. I'm thinking it will be about a 50/40/20 split p/c/f or 40/40/20. I know the endurance stuff will require more carbies and I'm good with that!!!

SO please give me til the weekend to organise stuff and get some pics up here. I didn't take the "muscle" shots down there--bicep pose stuff--but I'll take some with the digital camera. Also, I have my pics from last year--but need to find a scanner to post them. Again, let me check--but I don't want many people seeing them-lol!

Well have a great day--As there are now a 1,000 journals, I'll check back soon I'm sure!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Hmm, a bit bloated and tired and crampy--I know what that means-lol.

Otherwise I'm good. SO far eating has been back on track--had my first salad in awhile yesturday!!!STrawberries are also fresh right now and taste wonderful!

I am excited to get back into things next week. My body still feels off now, but that's also because I get extremely fatiqued before my period. HOwever, I'm going to do a bit of elliptical or jogging this weekend and have a new training plan typed in. Again, back to hard and heavy--I really missed that!

The weather is also shaping up--so I'll have to learn how to ride that bike of mine! ANd swim, it's been ages. I really don't know much about triathlons so I'll have to look into it more.

Funny thing about that... I was talking to a friend about wanting to try one for fun and they seemed dumbfounded. Kept saying, are you sure you want to do that? It's a lot of work. And I was like, yes--I'll try almost anything. ANyways, the main point they were trying to make was what if I trained for this for say, 6 months or a year and decided I didn't want to do them--would it be a waste of time? I was flabbergasted. HOw can training for a physically challenging competition be a waste of time--even if some poin into the program you decide not to do it? I've decided not to do figure competitions, but it doesn't mean all the work I've done has gone to waste--heck, I look alot better!! It just struck a nerve, he just said he wanted to know if I was really committed. I guess that makes sense, but it's not like my goal is to eat 25 twinkies in one minute--lol.

That being said--I realize I'm a very flightly person--my mind wonders like crazy (which is what my job requires!). So I'll earn about something and get consumed about it. Then get bored and start something new. Maybe that's what he was referring to. IN fact, I'm surprised I've kept this thing up as long as I have to be honest. It's great, it's just unlike me!

ANyways, enough blabbering for the day. Tonight I'm having salmon and baked veggies!! I wasn't allowed salmon on my last night. Should be good!

Later

[StlBarbie]

I am so glad you are back!!! :D
It sounds like you had a wonderful time!!!
I love strawberries and I swear I eat them like a damn fool!
I will love to follow your journal on your path to trainiing for a tri - I bet you will really enjoy it and I KNOW you will awesome at it! Just remember ... KEEP IT FUN!!!!!!!!!!!!

Where are those pics girl??????????????????????????????????

[StlBarbie]

Alright Missy... what have you done with those pics from Belize???
We have not forgotten if that's what you are thinking!!! :D

[Ivey_Itch]

Damn! I thought I already said welcome back!! I guess I just thought I did!! SORRY!! W E L C O M E B A C K!!! Glad you had a great time! :D

[Emma-Leigh]

Sam?? You ok??

[Ivey_Itch]

Hey Lucy! Just checking on you!

[StlBarbie]

Are you training for the tri????? :)

[beaner1]

Just wondering...are you not posting because you don't want to post the pictures everyone wants to see from your vacation?
I'm curious how your life/diet/training has changed since following your vacation, and your new view point on yourself.

Honestly, I have come to the same position as you. I'm not as happy when I have to measure and watch every single thing I put in my body, or feel guilty if I miss training weights a day.

But, I'm just wondering if that's the case as previously I noticed when pictures were asked for, and you said you would post them, then you went away again for a while. No pressure to put pics up if you don't want. Just wanting to know you are ok, and life is good.