FAITH : FAMILY : P90X

INSANITY

2010-06-25T13:59:00.007-05:00

I did it... I completed Insanity! Ok, so it's been a few weeks but I did do it :) Insanity, in my opinion, is revolutionary. It is a workout that takes the average person, whether they're in shape or not, and takes them to a level never thought possible. Especially when you're doing it in you own home. This is the kind of program you would expect pro or Olympic athletes to go through. It's challenging but totally validating. I LOVED it.

As the pic to above says, TO DISCOVER WHAT'S POSSIBLE WITH YOUR BODY, YOU MUST FIRST CONQUER YOUR MIND. I can't even begin to tell you how true that is. There are so many times I would see the exercise I was about to do and I thought "no way!" but, once I got that thought out of my head and went for it, I would accomplish what I set out to do. Mental strength is key and your body is capable of so much when you first decide and commit to doing it.

The week before I finished the program, I ran a 7k for a fundraiser here in town. I hadn't trained or ran in months and I went out there and ran the entire time and could have kept going! It was all due to the work I had just put in. Now, I'm not the best or fastest runner by any stretch of the imagination but I finished strong and that's all that matters.

If you are considering a program that will test you mentally and physically, Insanity is it. I wouldn't recommend it to those who are just beginning a work out regimen though. Many of the moves are not easily modified.

So, what's next? I'm going to be running and training for a half marathon in September (I think). I am also gonna get in another round of Insanity and then on to Turbo Fire!

I'm so thankful to be a Beachbody Coach which is what motivates me to try all these amazing programs! Send me a message if you have any questions or would like to know more :)

First 2010 Blog!

2010-01-15T09:44:00.003-06:00

Where does the time go??? I can't believe how I used to update this blog every single day and now I'm am dragging!!! So sorry *embarrassed*

Well, I've started yet another round of P90X and am on day 9. Classic version of course and I'm excited to see the results at the end. I have a friend doing it with me this time because my regular workout partner, my husband Jeremy, just had shoulder surgery and will be out for several months. He can start biking on his trainer so he's excited about that but bummed that he can't do much else. Thankfully, his recovery is going really well because he was fit and flexible thanks to P90X. Check out his blog when you get a chance!

I think this year will be an exciting one for me fitness-wise. I've set a goal of completing a sprint triathlon and a half marathon this year. For me, setting goals is crucial. I like to try and accomplish something to give me motivation if that makes any sense. Some people like working out just for the sake of working out and they really, really enjoy it. I WISH I was one of those people. I do like working out and the benefits from it but it's not something that I just thoroughly enjoy. I think there are a lot of us out there like that and I'm not ashamed to feel that way. I absolutely LOVE the energy it gives me when I work out and eat right so I'm going to stick with it! Do any of you have any major fitness goals this year?

To try and stick with my daily posts, I'll hopefully post again after my workout which is the fabulous Plyometrics. I hope y'all have a fantastic day and don't forget to push play!

Oh, I also want to give out to my awesome friend Demi Bean who made the latest P90X infomercial!! Way to go Demi.... love you girlie!!

Still Here!

2009-10-02T22:24:00.004-05:00

Wow! I sure do let this blog get away from me!

I'm now in my 3rd week of Insanity and it's going great. Lots, and I mean lots, of sweat has poured out of my body and onto the mat. It has been extremely hard and I'm still not at the point where I can make it all the way through a workout without extra breaks. I finally can make it through the warm up without having to stop so woo-hoo, a little victory for me to celebrate! I am having one not so little problem though. My feet are KILLING ME! (I know, not a very fun thing to talk about.) I'm on my 3rd pair of shoes with no relief. I'm thinking, it's me. I have been pounding them into the ground for weeks now and I guess I'm getting old LOL! Any suggestions would be welcomed!

I really am enjoying the high calorie burn/short workout aspect of Insanity but I'm missing Tony. I need some good ol' fashioned resistance workouts so I'm thinking if I can't solve my tootsie issues, I'm gonna have to go back to P90X for a while. We'll see how it goes because honestly, it would KILL me not to finish something I've started and I'd feel like a bit of a failure.

Also, I miss my workout partner, aka, Jeremy :) He's been into biking lately and he's really enoying it. I'm glad for him but it's hard not to go onto that new journey with him. I felt sorta left behind but I'm over that now and I'm really excited for him and his dedication to staying fit. If you have him as a FB friend then you are getting his updates on how long his rides are, his HR, and his crazy calorie burn. The boy is killin' it and I'm oh so proud!

On a side note, (way off subject here) I have to tell you about my new "job". As you know Jeremy and I attend a very large church here and we are really involved doing many things as well as leading a large lifegroup. Well, a few weeks ago I was asked to go on staff as the new LifeGroup coordinator and I accepted. I'm so excited to be more involved in something I'm so passionate about. We'll see how it goes! I really don't see it as a job but just an extension of the ministry I'm already doing.

I guess that's it from me for now. I hope you all are doing well!

Cardio Power & Resistance

2009-09-10T21:16:00.003-05:00

Holy Muscles Batman... I AM SORE!! Not only that but sore in places I never knew existed! Thank you Insanity... thank you muscle confusion! I tell people who are just starting P90X not to let their soreness stop them. So, I took my own advice and pushed play. As soon as I warmed up, my legs felt better and I was able to hit it hard.

Cardio Power & Resistance is a heart thumping good time. Jumping, pushups, hurdles, globes and more is what is waiting for you. I burned over 500 calories in 40 minutes and boy did those minutes fly by! You are movin' groovin' so hard with tiny little breaks and before you know it your doing your stretch and cool down.

I found out I for sure need to get some new shoes. My feet are killing me when I work out and I know I'm just not getting enough support or the slope of my shoe is wrong. I'll go shopping this weekend and try to find something that will get me in the pain free zone.

If you have finished P90X I highly recommend this program. It's such a good change and you still get that validated as an athlete feeling. I'm gonna take the advice of others and throw in some arm workouts, somewhere along the way, to keep up my strength and tone. But so far so good! I love this program!!

Let the Insanity Begin!

2009-09-09T22:54:00.006-05:00

After much anticipation, finally the UPS guy delivered the box I've been waiting on for what seemed like forever. Insanity! I tore into that sucker like a kid on Christmas morning and may I just say... niiiice packaging! I decided to watch Plyo Cardio Circuit just to see what I was getting myself into and OH-MY... I think I burned a few hundred calories just watching the thing!

So ok... I was trying to go over the days and decide when I should start. It would be nice to have Sunday as my rest day but I'm so busy on Wednesdays that it would also be a good, logical rest day. But in all my excitement, I decided to start right then. It makes my rest day on Tuesday which makes absolutely no sense for me so I might have to do some juggling to change it. Anyway, I popped in the fit test DVD and had at it! It was late and I'm sure my numbers could have been better but that will just make my improvement look awesome right? LOL! I don't have my stats here with me now but I'll post my numbers soon. It was quite a workout in and of itself and it made me hungry for more! (I know, I'm getting a little nutso here.)

Today, I have to admit, I was a little nervous to do the first hardcore workout, Plyometric Cardio Circuit (PCC). I pushed play and thought, there's no turning back now! I tell ya, I was huffing and puffing during the stinkin' warmup! I finally hit my stride and I was feeling pretty good. My HR got up to 174 which is pumping pretty good for me. I had to take a few too many breaks for my liking but I know that will improve. Right?

People keep asking me if it was harder than the Plyo from P90X but it was so different it's hard to say. I would say it was a harder cardio workout but I think the One on One Plyo Legs is the mac-daddy of them all. I would not recommend this (PCC) to a person just beginning to workout. It would be too discouraging because you'd be stopping all the time. It's intense, it's insane and I LOVE IT!!

I did it!!

2009-09-03T09:48:00.005-05:00

I ordered Insanity! It should be here on the 8th (I hope) and I'll be starting on a new 60 day journey. I've heard so many great things about it from all my Beachbody friends and I feel just as excited as I did before I started P90X. First off, I want to say that I absolutely LOVE all the Tony Horton programs I've been doing, P90X, P90X+, and One on One and I know I'll continue to do them after Insanity. I just need something new and fresh to keep my momentum going. Jeremy has recently started biking with a friend of ours and has really benefitted from the new change and I admit, I became a little bit envious of his new found challenge so I want to challenge myself with something new. I hear it's tough, that it will probably shred me to pieces, but in a crazy, messed up way, I'm looking forward to it!! This time last year, I never thought I'd be at this place.

I'll begin blogging about every step of Insanity as soon as I start it but if you ever want to ask me about P90X or anything else, please don't hesitate! Also, if you're out there thinking that these programs are too tough, then fine. Just get moving and go for a walk at least. Get started today with something that will get you on the right track. Make yourself a priority and don't let all the hoopla of these programs intimidate you. We all have to take a first step so take that first step today!

Be blessed!

Ninety Days

2009-08-24T13:22:00.014-05:00

90 Days... 90 days to a new life. 90 days to a new you.
90 days to reach something you never thought possible.
90 days and you'll never look back.

Does it really seem like a long time to you? When you think
of 90 days are there only excuses that come to mind? It doesn't
have to be that way! 90 days isn't that long compared to the rest
of your life. If you do nothing, then in 90 days you'll be the same
way you are now. Unhealthy, maybe unhappy. All you have to do
is DECIDE and COMMIT. People do it everyday and so can you.

If you're cruising the Internet looking for anything related to P90X
and stumbled upon this blog, then this post if for you. You're out
there right now trying to decide if this thing is for real or just
a stupid infomercial. Or, maybe you know of someone who's
doing it and you're thinking of giving it a try. Well, this is the
real deal and you can get phenomenal results. IF, you give it your
all. Who wants to do something halfway anyways??
Comment here, find me on Facebook or sign up to have me as
your free coach while you're trying to decide.

Beachbody has a lot of different workout programs with
different trainers so there is something for everyone.
They know how to put out a program that will change your
life. The time is now to make a decision to get your
life and health back on track. YOU CAN DO
IT!!

Body Image

2009-08-16T17:24:00.003-05:00

Why do we do what we do? Why do we work our rear ends off and sweat buckets? For health? Muscles? Looks? Some sort of high? I've been thinking back to before I started this journey, when I was searching for something to help me get on the "right track". What were my reasons? I know I kept hitting a painful plateau that seemed to be insurmountable and I needed something more. I wasn't happy with how out of shape I was and needed a breakthrough. Was it purely vanity? Maybe. Probably. I really never thought about the health benefits that I would receive as far as learning about good nutrition. I never thought about what it all would mean for the inside of my body, I just wanted to get into some cute jeans and have sexy arms! But now that I've come this far I can honestly say for me to continue in this healthy lifestyle it can't be purely vain mainly because I'm never going to be completely happy with the way I look. Even now that I'm the size I am I still see things so wrong with my body. I guess society has trained my mind in a warped way to see myself less than what I am. There are some things I'll never be able to change no matter how well I eat or how many times I do Ab Ripper or kill myself in Intervals. It is what it is and while I know I need to get over it, it's so hard. I'm working out now solely because it's what's best for my overall health and well being. I'm eating right because I know that what my body needs to function at it's best. Thankfully, I understand that all now so even though the mirror doesn't reflect what I want it to, it doesn't matter (as much). Why did you really decide to do P90X? Are you still unhappy with your body even though you can do a zillion push ups and get through Plyo without breaking a sweat? What will it take for you to finally be happy with yourself and if you are one of the lucky ones who have no complaints, how did you get there? I'm anxious to hear your thoughts on this subject because I know so many struggle with body image even when their body is in tip top shape.

Take care!

Summertime

2009-08-04T09:14:00.010-05:00

Well, I haven't kept up with this blog through the summer like I was hoping I would but here are some pics so you can see what we've been up to. We've done some camping, jeeping, swimming, and Jeremy and I teamed up in a mini-triathlon. We're also still leading our LifeGroup and are gearing up for some awesome things in the fall. God is so good!! We've had a great summer so far and we still have a few weeks to go. Some friends of ours were here this past weekend and more company is coming this weekend. I guess I'll still have a bit of trouble posting regularly for a while. We've still been working out hard and if you're new to my blog, please feel free to read previous posts and ask any questions that might be burning on your mind. Jeremy and I have had a wonderful time being Beachbody coaches so far and we love hearing about everyone's success. Please find me on Facebook... I'm usually there more often. You can get my email address there or on my Beachbody site if you need to get in contact with me. I hope you all have a great rest of the summer and keep pushing play!!

INSANITY

2009-07-30T09:51:00.001-05:00

People have been asking about Insanity and honestly, I haven't done it yet so I can't really give any educated answers but I can show you the promo so here it is...

I'm Feelin' It...

2009-07-16T10:23:00.003-05:00

That seems to be the phrase that everyone says after a P90X workout. They actually say it during, after, and the next day! Well, I can tell you, we've been working hard since January and we STILL say it. In fact, I'm really feelin' it today... I know I haven't been posting like I used to and I'm hoping that will change soon but I promise, we've been working hard and getting people on board the Beachbody/P90X train like nobody's business! Yesterday we had Shoulders & Arms and Abs Core+. To me the combo was hard because my arms were noodles after S&A and then I had to hang on the pull up bar to do the ab exercises. The day before we did IntervalX because we were short on time but that workout is so tough I feel like I worked out for hours. Jeremy has a heart rate monitor and could see how many calories he burned. I really need to get one so I can keep track of my HR as well as calories burned. If anyone has suggestions on what to get, I'd be glad to hear it!

I'm gonna keep this post short and maybe add more later. Gonna take the boys to the pool today so this house will stay clean. The only way for that to happen is if we aren't at home!

New Hybrid Round

2009-07-08T15:45:00.002-05:00

Ok... I'm here finally typing a new blog post. Is anyone even still out there reading? I'm friends with a bunch of you on FB so if we're not friends yet, look me up!

Jeremy and I have started a new round but we're doing a P90X/P90X+/One on One with Tony Horton hybrid. Jeremy has come up with a killer schedule and today was day 3. Shoulders & Arms and Abs Core+. It was brutal but I LOVED it! Here is the schedule he came up with. If you want to do it with us, feel free! Haven't heard from anyone in a while.... post a comment and let me know how you are!

Phase I
Weeks 1 & 2: (OOO = One on One w/Tony Horton)
Day 1 - P90X - Chest & Back and Ab RipperX
Day 2 - P90X - Plyometrics
Day 3 - P90X/P90X+ - Shoulders & Arms and Abs Core+
Day 4 - OOO - Fountain of Youth Yoga
Day 5 - P90X - Legs & Back and Ab RipperX
Day 6 - P90X+ - Kenpo Cardio+
Day 7 - P90X - X Stretch

Week 3
Day 1 - OOO - 30/15 and Ab RipperX
Day 2 - P90X+ - IntervalX+
Day 3 - P90X/P90X+ - Shoulders & Arms and Abs Core+
Day 4 - Day 4 - OOO - Fountain of Youth Yoga
Day 5 - P90X - Legs & Back and Ab RipperX
Day 6 - P90X+ - Kenpo Cardio+
Day 7 - P90X - X Stretch

Week 4
Day 1 - OOO - Fountain of Youth Yoga
Day 2 - P90X - Core Synergistics
Day 3 - OOO - Plyo Legs
Day 4 - P90X - XStretch
Day 5 - P90X - Core Synergistics
Day 6 - OOO - Bun Shaper
Day 7 - P90X - XStretch

Phase II
Week 5 & 6
Day 1 - P90X/P90X+ - Chest, Shoulders & Tri's and Abs Core+
Day 2 - P90X - Plyometrics
Day 3 - P90X - Back & Biceps and Ab RipperX
Day 4 - OOO - Fountain of Youth Yoga
Day 5 - P90X - Legs & Back and Ab RipperX
Day 6 - P90X+ - Kenpo Cardio+
Day 7 - P90X - X Stretch

Week 7
Day 1 - OOO - 30/15 and Ab RipperX
Day 2 - P90X+ - IntervalX+
Day 3 - P90X/P90X+ - Shoulders & Arms and Abs Core+
Day 4 - Day 4 - OOO - Fountain of Youth Yoga
Day 5 - P90X - Legs & Back and Ab RipperX
Day 6 - P90X+ - Kenpo Cardio+
Day 7 - P90X - X Stretch

Week 8
Day 1 - OOO - Fountain of Youth Yoga
Day 2 - P90X - Core Synergistics
Day 3 - OOO - Plyo Legs
Day 4 - P90X - XStretch
Day 5 - P90X - Core Synergistics
Day 6 - OOO - Bun Shaper
Day 7 - P90X - XStretch

Phase III
Week 9
Day 1 - P90X - Chest & Back and Ab RipperX
Day 2 - P90X - Plyometrics
Day 3 - P90X/P90X+ - Shoulders & Arms and Abs Core+
Day 4 - OOO - Fountain of Youth Yoga
Day 5 - P90X - Legs & Back and Ab RipperX
Day 6 - P90X+ - Kenpo Cardio+
Day 7 - P90X - X Stretch

Weeks 10 & 12
Day 1 - OOO - 30/15 and Ab RipperX
Day 2 - P90X+ - IntervalX+
Day 3 - P90X/P90X+ - Shoulders & Arms and Abs Core+
Day 4 - Day 4 - OOO - Fountain of Youth Yoga
Day 5 - P90X - Legs & Back and Ab RipperX
Day 6 - P90X+ - Kenpo Cardio+
Day 7 - P90X - X Stretch

Week 11
Day 1 - P90X/P90X+ - Chest, Shoulders & Tri's and Abs Core+
Day 2 - P90X - Plyometrics
Day 3 - P90X - Back & Biceps and Ab RipperX
Day 4 - OOO - Fountain of Youth Yoga
Day 5 - P90X - Legs & Back and Ab RipperX
Day 6 - P90X+ - Kenpo Cardio+
Day 7 - P90X - X Stretch

Week 13
Day 1 - OOO - Fountain of Youth Yoga
Day 2 - P90X - Core Synergistics
Day 3 - OOO - Plyo Legs
Day 4 - P90X - XStretch
Day 5 - P90X - Core Synergistics
Day 6 - OOO - Bun Shaper
Day 7 - P90X - XStretch

This Chick Is Feelin' Strong!

2009-06-30T09:36:00.002-05:00

Last night I rocked Kenpo Cardio X+ with weighted gloves and I loved it!! There is something about that workout that makes you feel super strong and validated. Like you could actually use some of those moves to ward of an attacker or win a fight if you got tossed in the octagon. Watch out GSP!! I don't know how many times (jokingly of course) that I've told Jeremy I was gonna Kenpo his behind if he didn't quit buggin' me!! Anyway it's a hard, sweaty, fun, heart thumpin' good time and if you haven't tried it yet, you need to!!

I haven't decided what I'm going to do today as far as a workout. I probably won't until I'm all ready to go and start flipping through my DVDs. It will be a resistance day, that much I know. They main thing is I KNOW I'll be pushing play because it's just what I do now. It's just been added to the list of things that are a "must do" during the day.

Now I have to run and do the other "must do" things on my list. Cleaning, laundry, and of course some pool time with the boys. Y'all have a great day and don't forget to push play!!

Where did June go?

2009-06-29T10:55:00.002-05:00

Things have been pretty busy around here. Jeremy's mom, who lives in Oregon, came to heat wave central to visit us for a week. She had a sweet time with the boys while Jeremy and I got to go on a little quick getaway. We enjoyed the time together and Symon, Jake, & Tommy enjoyed the time with their Nana. We all got to visit with her for a few more days before she left and really enjoyed the time with her. It will probably be another year before we see her. I'm hoping to win the lottery one day so we can fly up there to see her as much as we want!! LOL! Like that will ever happen!

Well, the Team Beachbody revolution is for real folks. Jeremy and I have counted so many people we personally know who are doing P90X or some other Beachbody program that we lost count around 50. People are getting healthy and it's an awesome thing to see. While there have been some who haven't committed fully, it's interesting to see the ones who have. Some people have really, really shocked me. People I thought would quit on day 3 have pushed through and commited to their success like nobody's business!! Awesome! I've never been so happy to be wrong! I have really loved coaching and it has actually been more fulfilling than I ever thought it could be. Before I had my kiddos, I was a recruiter for different companies and the thing I enjoyed most about that was helping people. I guess this is no different and it has been a perfect fit for me. If you're reading this and you need a coach, feel free to let me know!

We've been all over the map on when and where we've worked out lately. When we were on our little trip, the hotel had a fancy, schmancy workout facility that we took advantage of although I wasn't quite sure of how to use the machines. Give me my P90X DVDs and some bands any day! Jeremy has been having some back issues which have caused him to lay off a lot of the resistance workouts but he has picked up biking again which he really enjoys. He needs a good road bike so if you have any suggestions... feel free to let me know! I've been concentrating on some areas that are a bit tough for me. Like, pull ups. I've really improved since the beginning but I still have a ways to go so I've set some goals for myself and I'm gonna reach 'em!! You've got to be confident right?! I've also been using a few of the One on One DVDs and I love them. If you've been thinking about ordering those, quite thinking about it and just do it!! They're awesome!

I guess that's it for me right now. I hope your summer is going well and you are having a great time in the sun with those you love!

Summertime is Killin' Me!!

2009-06-20T00:10:00.003-05:00

Nah... it's great, but it is keeping me far away from this blog!! I'm so sorry and I'm sure you're sick of checking in here with no new news. But I'm still here working my tail end off and running around after 3 boys who have cabin fever if they are cooped up in this house for more than 5 minutes! So, let me know if you're still out there reading. Drop a comment just to say hi if nothing else!

Ok... The night before last I hit the One On One 30/15 workout. OH. MY. GOODNESS. That is a wicked tough workout and I have to admit I was a little skeered before I got started. It is comprised entirely of push ups and pull ups and some of the moves are sooooo tough. So, I heard Tony saying, put a number in your head and just get to that number. I'll be honest and say the number in my head was 20 push ups and 10 pull ups instead of the 30/15 he had in mind. After all, I wanted to at least make it through without passing out!! I pushed hard and almost 48 hours later, I am mega sore. I actually kind of like that. It's a sickness, I know. In keeping with the OOO theme, I cranked out Plyo Legs tonight and as I sit here chugging down my yummy P90X Recovery Drink, I'm wondering why I would want to continue on this soreness train. Well, choo-choo, I MUST improve! Can't do that if I don't push myself right? OOO Plyo Legs is a quad burning good time and he ups the intensity big time from Plyo X in P90X. Love that. If you are almost finished with P90X and wondering what to do next, get the OOO series. You can't go wrong with it and you'll continue on with the muscle confusion.

I hope you all are doing great out there. Oh, and if I'm your Beachbody Coach, shoot me and email and let me know how you're doing or you can always comment here.

Like a lot of you, I'm looking forward to hitting some goals I have set for myself this summer. For me, setting my sights on something helps motivate me and with all the distractions I have, I need all the motivation I can get!

Be blessed!

Looking Good Isn't Good Enough

2009-06-16T22:23:00.004-05:00

This was posted on FB today by Tony Horton... thought I'd share it with you all.

I've been sitting on this title for weeks and I've been having the toughest time trying to figure how I want to approach this topic. I like to focus on tangible ideas that help me live the lifestyle I preach about. I was in Atlanta last week at a Team BeachBody event talking about the effects of fitness and clean eating on the body and brain. My mantra is based in the belief that if you exercise today you get fitter today. If you exercise and eat whole foods today, your health improves today. If you exercise today the quality of your lives improves today because the area inside the temporal lobe of the brain releases proteins and chemicals that make you happy, confident and productive. And last but not least is the effect of exercise on your bodies ability to fight disease and injuries. All these amazing things will (not might) occur the same day you choose to exercise. Wow! So good!

What makes me crazy is that most people on this planet are so hung up on their looks. I'm one of them. Who am I kidding right? I'll show off my biceps and 6-pack at the opening of a letter. It feels good to look good. I understand this as well anyone. The problem lies in the thought that changing your looks is going to make your life better or more manageable somehow. Or that thinking a better body in the future is a sustainable motivator right now. Wanting to look good is great. Thinking that looking good is the end all be all holy grail is disastrous. If looking good is your first priority then it's probably also true that you live your life for others. It means that you care more about what others think of you, than what you think of yourself. This typically results in behavior that is contrary to consistent healthy living. Weight lose thru diets, diet pills, starving yourself before events like weddings and reunions, living and dying for the numbers on your scale all reflect the vicious cycle created by the look-at-me world we live in.

I think our egos can coexist with a more important and powerful energy that can give us purpose on this planet. This energy is the desire to be better. To be stronger, healthier, smarter, more patient and more productive. It's the desire to figure out what you're fighting for. What are YOU fighting for? Is it shapelier calves or to enter and finish your first 10K? Is priority 1 to lose the belly or to do 40 perfect push-ups? Is it looking good in a red dress at a wedding in front of a bunch of people who care too much about what they look like in front of you? BORING! I'm more impressed with the fit girl who can do splits on the dance floor. Success comes from a very gentle shift in priorities. From look-like to can-do. For some this shift is as simple as an on-off switch. For others it will be like cracking a safe. If you find that life has been filled with too many ups and downs then it might be time to make the shift. Constant focus on looking good will only disappoint you. Discover that fighting to be better, brings thrills and chills you never thought imaginable.

"Are you gonna do more exercising?"

2009-06-14T22:23:00.005-05:00

That is something our little 3 year old son, Tommy, says as soon as he sees one of us change into our workout clothes or if he sees us rolling out the dumbellls and put in a DVD. I thought it was cute and I couldn't think of a title for this post so there ya go!

So things were a little bit crazy for me this week and a little bit slow. I had a tiny little medical issue that caused me to miss a couple of workouts but I will be back full swing starting tomorrow!! I think my body was actually grateful for the rest and I need to remember that rest is OK. Jeremy was in the same boat actually. Back issues has caused him to take a break but it's funny, he's had some good muscle growth during his time off I think! Crazy!

It's so funny, we were talking to another fellow P90Xer last night and he and a few other guys do the P90X workouts together at a gym. Well, some tough high school guys decided they were gonna join them and see what this P90X was all about. They came in the first time for Legs & Back and one of them puked right afterward. They came in again the next day for Plyo and yep, you guessed it... puked again. Of course, he said he had eaten like 30 minutes before and we all know that Plyo and too much food on the stomach do not do well together! If you wanna blow chunks, then give it a try. LOL!

It's amazing how on fire P90X and Beachbody programs are right now. Jeremy and I counted like 40 people we personally know who are pushing play with P90X. Just this morning at church we heard of another group doing it together. We also have friends doing 10 minute trainer and Slim in 6. Both excellent programs that are working for them. The main thing though is that so many people are wanting to get healthy and change their lives. Jeremy and I are honored to have been a small part of so many people's transformations. We are humbled when someone approaches us to tell us how we inspired them to get healthy or just made them start exercising again because if those Branson's could do it... so can we!! That is so AWESOME!! I can't imagine what it must feel like to be Tony Horton, Mark Briggs, Chalean Johnson, Shaun T, Debbie Seibers, and all of them... I love being able to represent them all so to speak being a BB coach. What an opportunity!!

Ya'll have a very blessed week and remember your mental attitude is everything so stay focused!

New Pic

2009-06-09T18:31:00.002-05:00

Here's a little sneak peek at some new pics I just took. I'm not used to showing so much skin!! Be kind... I've been working really hard!! For those of you seeing this blog for the first time, this is after one round of P90X and 30 days or so of P90X+. I had just finished working out and it was hard to even flex!!

P90X Attitude

2009-06-09T17:28:00.003-05:00

Whatever we're doing in life, a good attitude is a big factor in it's success. Whatever task, workout, job, etc., if we go into it with a defeatist attitude, then guess what you'll get... defeated. If you keep your head up, stay focused, work hard, and have a positive outlook, success isn't far behind. I think we have to apply this to our P90X workouts as well as our nutrition. Of course there are times when I don't feel up to sweating buckets and making my muscles burn like they're on fire, but I know that when I push play, I better make the most of the time I'm setting aside to do that workout. I know that if I go halfway or have a bad attitude about it, I'm just totally wasting my time, my family's time, and that just isn't gonna cut it. Same thing with what I eat. I can't look at food as a mountain whenever I'm faced with it. Nutrition isn't that hard if I just see it as fuel and if I know not to put anything in my mouth that isn't going to give me the most energy. A candy bar sure might sound good but it is absolute non-food with empty calories that will just end up dragging me down. The 10 seconds it takes me to scarf it down might be a nice 10 seconds but it really isn't worth the bonk!! I'd much rather eat healthy and have energy that will help me push hard during Plyo, Chest, Shoulders & Triceps, or IntervalX. Stay positive, eat clean and things will be much easier on you in the long run.

That was just on my mind so I thought I'd post it. We're still working hard here in Branson-land and we're loving our improvements. I have to admit that during Plyo the jump knee tucks were tough for me this whole time but I finally got them down!! So, after 1 1/2 rounds of P90X, I can finally do them right!! We all have areas we need to improve in and it's really nice when we finally do!! Yay me!!

Gotta run... Jeremy will be home in a few and we're gonna rock out some Chest, Shoulders & Triceps. Gonna get my mind right and bring it hard!

These Days Are Getting Busy!!

2009-06-04T10:23:00.002-05:00

Ok so here's my dilemma... It seems like when I stay home all day with 3 restless boys, my house is destroyed 24/7. No matter how hard I work, I just can't stay ahead of the mess and it's drinving me CRAZY!! So, for the past few days I've been working like a woman on a mission getting this house in shape as well as the outside. My back is killing me from bending over, pulling weeds, planting flowers, cleaning the house, etc. Well, everything is finally tidied up and so yesterday I got out of here. I had these boys busy... we ran errands, met Jeremy for lunch, fed the ducks, went to the discovery center, did some shopping and when we got home, both my little ones were exhausted. Jake hit the couch and Tommy went to my bed and they both took naps... ON THEIR OWN!!! I wore them plum out! Yippee! Where I'm going with all this is when I'm not home, I'm also not on the computer. I don't post or keep up with much. So, I have a feeling my posts my be pretty scattered over the next few weeks. If anyone needs to chat with me, feel free to email me or find me on FB. I can always check those on the 'ol I-Phone. I can get online with it too but I'm sure not going to write a long blog with it! We also just got a membership to the Amarillo Town Club so we'll have a pool to go to all summer and that will just add to my absence so I'll be going through some major computer withdrawls!!

So, yesterday Jeremy and I knocked out some lovely IntervalX+. It's a favorite of ours but what made it interesting was the tornado sirens going off while we were doing it! I would stop, run outside, and if I didn't see any rotation over our house then I'd run back in and we'd push play. Crazy I know but tornadoes have just been a normal thing all our lives so unless we see the funnel cloud about to land on us, we're just thankful for the rain.

Looking forward to today... going to take the boys to the pool before it storms again and just enjoy our Friday night. I hope ya'll do the same!

Kenpo CardioX Plus

2009-06-01T06:11:00.003-05:00

Had a crazy busy day starting with church and then a lifegroup gathering at the park for some yummy ice cream and watermelon. How old fashioned is that?! We had a good turnout and all was going great until the rain came in. It made for a short time together but it was fun nonetheless.

Got home and rested for a short bit and then hit Kenpo Cardio X Plus. I'm not sure if that's what we were supposed to do today but we were tired and needed to get in a good quick workout so that's what we chose. I'm not complaining at all though because I looooove that workout! I used the hand weights again and the burn was intense. I finally have the workout down now where I don't have to think about the moves, I just do 'em! So, I went as hard as I could and burned some of those nasty calories I ate at the park. I think I could do that workout everyday it's so good!

Looking forward to the week ahead. We're starting our lifegroup back up for the summer semester so if you need a group, I don't care if you live clear across the country, you're always welcome! We could get you the lesson somehow or maybe we can start recording it. Now that's an idea!

Ya'll have a great week and I look forward to reading all about it!

Getting Behind!

2009-05-29T10:10:00.002-05:00

I'm slacking on this blog BIG TIME! That isn't like me at all! I guess I've been a bit preoccupied with other things but I have been here working hard like always. Let's see, I've gotten in some good workouts from Hip Hop Abs Cardio to Chest, Shoulders, & Triceps. Wide range I know but that's ok. Today I'm gonna hit One on One Plyo. I'm so excited about that because my legs have been in major pain for several days. I over trained and was beyond sore for a long time. Lesson learned.

It's crazy, but lately the biggest topic in our household has been about nutrition. People call, email us and yes, today their are some ladies coming over to talk about it. It's the number one question, by far, we get on a daily basis and that's no lie. Check out Jeremy's blog to read further about that.

I guess I don't have that much more to report. Oh- I took new pics yesterday and will maybe be posting those in the next few days. I'm loving the improvements I've made in the last few weeks and it just motivates me more to continue to push play!

What a LOOONG Weekend!

2009-05-26T10:44:00.003-05:00

Were you wondering if I was every going to post again?! Well, here I am and I'm trying to think what all I need to catch you up on. We had a great weekend and I can't believe it's already over. We took kind of a breather with the workouts, well, I did I guess. I ran on Saturday and went 2 miles before I just got too bored to go on. It was nice to realize that I could have probably went a couple of more miles though without even thinking about it. I'm so glad to have P90X because running just isn't my thing. It's soooo incredibly mind numbing (to me) and is really hard on my knees. Now, I know there are a ton of you who LOVE it and I am really so glad for you. I WISH I did but it just isn't the case. If you have any suggestions on how I could like it more, feel free to pass them along to me! Anyway, on Sunday we left right after church and drove 3 hours to visit some friends who are in their first week of P90X. They had a ton of nutrition questions for us and since we're their coaches, we thought we'd just go see them in person. We had a great time and in fact cooked (Jeremy did) for them to show them how a nutritious meal could be oh so good and satisfying. Jeremy whipped up his famous Salmon Santa Fe with grilled veggies (asparagus, onions, & squash) and brown rice. They really liked it and so did their kiddos! They are such a precious family and we're so glad we went to see them. So, K & J, if you're reading this... thank you for having us over and we love you guys!!

Yesterday, we had some friends over and in between getting the house clean, getting groceries, and cooking, time just got away from us. We had great intentions of getting a workout in, but it just didn't happen and we ate WAAAY too much to do it after everyone left. We'll just chalk it up to a bad (good) holiday weekend and start fresh today. Life is life and just because things come up, doesn't mean we change back into the old person with all those bad unhealthy habits! I hope you all had a great weekend and are ready to buckle down again like we are and bring it hard this week!

"This ain't some silly little class!"

2009-05-21T22:15:00.003-05:00

You got it... Legs & Back. Whew! Love that workout even though I know my rear and legs will be screaming at me tomorrow!! Felt good to get my sweat on and release some tension from the day. It totally gets me how working out with such an intense program makes me feel validated. Like I'm really doing something that would be tough for any athlete out there! Thank you Tony Horton! I also did some AB Jam from Turbo Jam to top things off. It was really great! Talk about muscle confusion... my abs were like, "hello, this isn't Ab Ripper X... what are you doing to me??!!"

Several people contacted me today about P90X. As I've told you before, this is a regular occurrence (yay!). The one thing that resonated with them was how they seemed to be needing me to talk them into it. This is the thing, this is not a program that you can sell, or talk someone into doing. They have to decide they want to change their life and commit to the program and that has to be done solely by themselves. I can tell them about it, how it's worked for me and so many others but it's not some magic box that shows up at your door. YOU have to put the work and effort into it and if you do, then the results will be inevitable. It's funny, I had on my P90X t-shirt the other day and a lady saw me and was like, "Is that P90X from that infomercial? I just don't have time for something like that! There is no way I could ever do it!" I'm like "hey lady, I'm not trying to sell it to ya!" I think people automatically get defensive about what they do or don't do for their health and fitness... it's like they put time and effort into everything BUT that and they know it. The excuses start rolling out before anyone even says one word. Crazy. I'm sure I was like that at some point but there came a time when the decision was made that it was worth it for me and my family for me to put some effort into getting healthy and fit. It was one of the best decisions I've ever made. :o)

Ok... so have you seen Jeremy's blog lately???? He posted a couple of new pics and whoa!... He's lookin' good if I do say so myself! The guy has been working HARD and that is no lie. He is motivated and dedicated and I'm so glad because he's been pulling me up a lot lately when I've been down and out not feeling quite up to popping in the DVD. Thanks Jeremy... I love you!

A Little Taste of Everything

2009-05-19T12:46:00.003-05:00

After a few days of travelling and being overwhelmed by 3 boys, I needed to work out some frustrations... I accomplished that last night with a P90X sweatfest. We started off Branson style with Interval X. We only did half because we wanted to get in a little Chest & Back. We did just that and pushed through half of that workout. Then to top it all off, we rocked out Ab Ripper X. Nice. I noticed that Jeremy showed improvement on the wide leg situps. He always had trouble going straight up with his arm... emphasis on had. His arm is shooting straight up and I'm so proud of him!! You're doing great Jeremy!

I do have to say, I did not fuel my body enough yesterday. We've been behind on our grocery shopping duties so we've just made due with what we have in house. Not enough food! Fuel your bodies people! We both bonked big time and even though we made it through, we could have done a lot better and burned more calories if we had eaten more through the day. It is so important to eat enough good, whole foods throughout the day so that your body has enough energy to maximize results from your workout. Anyway, just thought we'd let ya'll learn from our mistake!! We aren't perfect by far as you can see, and we can all keep improving!

A Note to all My Athletes...

2009-05-18T14:16:00.004-05:00

Yes, I said it... ATHLETES. I'm following the lead of one of my upline coaches, John. He also posted about not being able to contact some of the people he coaches because they are listed as restricted because they've marked not to be contacted.

So... I'm directing this post to all the athletes I'm assigned to. If I haven't contacted you it's because you're listed as restricted which means I have your name but no contact information. You'll have to be the one to contact me first so if you have any questions at all, please email me. I'd love to help you out and encourage you while you're on this exciting journey! The support I have gotten from my coach and from all the other "Xers" out here has been crucial. When I'm down, I get lifted up, when I have questions, I get answers. I don't feel like I'm floundering by myself... ever.

Now, if I have contacted you in the past, please know this coaching thing is for real. I really do want to hear how you're doing and if you have any questions or issues. What you see is what you get with me... a real person who cares about you and your fitness success.

I also want to say I'm trying to workout with as many Beachbody programs as I can right now to familiarize myself with what they offer. So, if you see on this blog that I'm a P90X girl, don't let that stop you from contacting me. I just may have done the program you're on and could be of some help! Regardless of what you're doing, keep it up and I'm sure with it and a healthy nutrition plan, you'll find great success!

I'M STILL HERE!!!

2009-05-17T22:05:00.003-05:00

Hello all... just a quick post to tell you that I haven't fallen off the face of the planet. With Jeremy gone for a few days, and the boys and I taking off on a road trip, I have fallen way behind on my blogging duties! We're back home now, finally, and I'll get caught up soon... I promise!!

I have to go now and check up on all of your blogs... I hope you've been pushing play!!

Interval X Plus and so Much More

2009-05-13T08:25:00.003-05:00

Love this workout! You jump, squat, lunge, run... and everything in between. It's awesome! I wore my trusty weighted gloves again and my arms were on fire! I told Jeremy I felt like I had lost 5lbs when we were finished. Good stuff.

We got our workout in during lunch because we had a hot date last night! We went to see REO Speedwagon and Styx in concert. I'm totally suffering from a time warp hangover!! The music was good and Styx really puts on a good show but the best part by FAR was the people watching! What are people thinking??? I swear I've never seen so many people stuck in the 70s thinking they're still the cool kid like on Dazed and Confused. The mullet spotting was unbelievable but there was one good mullet feel good story. A guy like 2 rows up and across from us had THE BEST MULLET EVER and was dancing like there was no tomorrow. He was probably in his early 50s or so and was rockin'. He had (I think) his kids with him and his hot (not really) little momma by his side. Next thing I knew the guy went from jammin' on the floor to rockin' on stage when both bands came out to sing together!! He danced like a maniac and I haven't laughed that hard in a long time!! It was the best! Ya'll will get to see what we saw cuz we have pictures! I got really lucky when the drunk guy next to us didn't throw up and his wife took him home early. I kept praying the huge beer belly, sweat soaked, screamer wouldn't die of a heart attack from jumping up and down the entire concert. I was sweatin' it when the grandma in front of us got on her chair and started dancing after pounding beer and tons of "little bottles" from her purse. I just knew she was gonna fall and break a hip. I could go on forever... HILARIOUS! Oh, I can't forget about the chick who had to make sure and flash both bands... her grandkids must be so proud.

I'm sure ya'll wanted to know all that but I was kinda out of blog material so you get what you get!

Working Hard

2009-05-11T22:08:00.002-05:00

I started to post last night but in between putting the kids to bed and watching 24... I was pooped! I read what I had started this morning and I don't have a clue where I was going with it so I'm starting over. Ha!

Yesterday was a pretty good workout day for me. I felt good and got a really motivating call in the morning that made me want to crank up the intensity! So, around 10:30am I popped in Kenpo Cardio X+ and got an awesome burn and sweat going only intensified even more by the 100 lb weighted gloves I was wearing. Ok, so they are that heavy but it sure felt like it!!! I LOVE that workout Gladiator move and all. Then, around 8pm, Jeremy and I finally got started with Back & Biceps and finished the night with Ab Ripper X. I was feeling the effects of doubling up during the V-up Rollups... the tank was getting empty. I pushed hard though and finished strong and it felt GOOOOOD. For those of you who keep wondering what P90X + is, watch this so you can see what I'm talking about all the time...

Going on a hot date tonight with my honey so I'm headed to the mall in a bit to find something to wear. I'm still in a wardrobe crisis and I never have clothes that fit! Good problem to have but man, it gets frustrating!!

Ya'll have a very blessed day and I just have a quick prayer request for Demi's daughter, Alana... She was sent home sick today from school. I just had her on my heart and thought I'd pass that request along! Take care everyone!

What Have I Been Thinking????

2009-05-08T23:12:00.002-05:00

Ok, it's time for me to get real, I've been DOGGIN' it!! Tonight I finally used weighted gloves for the first time ever. We did Cardio X and I of course didn't use them during the Yoga portion but the rest of the way I had them on. Oh my goodness... talk about upping the intensity, heart rate, sweat... I have been missing out! I guess I just really hadn't thought about using them but I'm glad I finally have! They will be a must have for me from now on and I highly recommend them to anyone who is anxious to get the burn going.

Many of you have probably used them a lot and for a long time but I know there has to be some out there like me who really never thought about using them for whatever reason. So, give them a shot people!

I want to give a shout out to Jamee... Your blog is so wonderful and I would love to post comments to you but it doesn't allow it I guess so... I'm not sure if that's how you've set it up, and if it is, then great, but if you want comments from us loyal followers :o), something in there needs to be changed. :o) Ya'll really need to check her blog out!! I hope you don't think you've been ignored because there haven't been any comments! Keep up the great work my friend!

Post #2

2009-05-07T21:13:00.004-05:00

Well, I'm gonna make this quick but I decided to throw in Hip Hop Abs: Hips, Buns & Thighs. Got a good sweat going and you could feel it in all those areas. Fun to move like that even though I kept looking over my shoulder to make sure no one was watching me! Seriously... I'm weird. I think I burned some crazy calories today!

I'm wiped out tonight. Spent a lot of time outside today in the hot sun cleaning the front of the house, sidewalks & driveway, and painting some wicker chairs. They turned out really nice, thank you! Now hopefully I can get somewhere and pick out some flowers to plant. That's probably what I'll be doing on Mother's Day!

Now, I'm going to relax while I'm waiting for Jeremy and Symon to get home from the Skillet concert. Have a great night!

Chest & Back : Ab Ripper X

2009-05-07T11:21:00.002-05:00

What a nice morning so far! I got to workout with the best partner in the world, Jeremy! We had Chest & Back and Ab Ripper X on the schedule and we rocked it out. Mr. Man is getting C-U-T!! His hard work is definitely paying off and I'm really proud of him. I'm having some wrist issues, not exactly sure what's going on, but I pushed through the pain. I know not to push too hard and injure myself so I'm being careful. It's my right wrist and it isn't even swollen but man, it smarts!

I'm for sure going to do some type of cardio this afternoon, I just haven't decided what yet so stay tuned!

It's a beautiful day here in Amarillo USA and I think I'll spend some time outside pulling some more lovely weeds. Doesn't that sound like fun? Thrilling. At least I'll get some sun and the boys will get some exercise. Ya'll have a great day and I'll be posting more later!

Doubled up today!

2009-05-05T20:15:00.002-05:00

I'm trying to catch up with Jeremy so we can be on the same schedule again so I knocked out Chest, Shoulders, and Triceps this afternoon and then this evening we crushed some Interval X Plus. Now, my arms are noodles and the rest of me is still thumpin' from all the cardio craziness. Oh, drum roll please, I finally did a clap push up on my toes!!! A lot of you chicks out there may have already been able to do that, but it's been one of those tough moves for me. So, I'm officially patting myself on the back and taking that small victory :o) !! Yay me! Alright, enough of that.

For the next couple of weeks (at least, maybe longer) I'm going to be doing cardio and strength training each day. I just want to go a little further in pushing myself and we'll see how I do. I'll probably throw in some different Beachbody workouts here and there so I can talk about them to people and actually know what some of the different workouts are like. Did that make sense? I think my brain is on overload too.

I posted earlier today about a woman and her husband that we coach... if you haven't read it, then scroll on down! It's awesome!

P90X : CHANGING LIVES

2009-05-05T15:21:00.001-05:00

I just had to post this real quick for ya'll... This is an email from a lady Jeremy and I coach- it's AMAZING!!

Hi Guys! Another day in "X" Ville!!! Woo Hoo!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am getting ready for CORE WEEK!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Yikes!!!

OK, you two already know how great P90X is and I certainly don't have to tell you about the change it makes in people's lives...however, I do want to tell you something that has happened to me and my husband personally. I don't know if this is something you already know about the program, but it is HUGE for us!

My 47 year old husband has been on Metformin for Diabetes for several years and has been told to add Actos to the Metformin (another blasted pill everyday). This medication is the last thing you get before you have to start the daily shots. At that point, you start losing toenails and toes, feet, ankles and so on if you don't control your diet and get plenty of exercise. Shawn has already noticed decreased eyesight and he was tired all the time. With medication, he still had blood sugar levels in the low to mid 200 range and some spikes to over 400 EVEN WITH THE MEDS!!! I want to tell you an amazing thing...(yes I am tearing up)...after just three weeks of the nutrition and workout on the P90X, his blood sugar has dropped over 100 points and has been consistently in the normal to just a little above normal level. Ok, now the tears are going down my face.......Girl! This is my husband's life we are talking about! What can I say?

Anyway, I know there are success stories by the hundreds on the website and THANK YOU GOD FOR THAT!!! But my husband is not a website...he is real...he is a person...and this program is helping us save his life!!! I thank Jesus everyday for you and Jeremy and P90X and girl, I will continue to send people your way so you can coach them along and get them back amongst the living!!!

Have a Blessed Day!!!

Theo

Hip Hop Abs... yes, you read it correctly

2009-05-04T09:33:00.002-05:00

Hello there X fam! In an effort to familiarize myself with all things Beachbody, I just rocked out Hip Hop Abs Cardio Burn. As you can imagine, it's totally opposite from anything Mr. Horton would put out, but to me, it was refreshing. It was fun, I worked up a sweat, and I got to get my groove on! Ha! I don't think I would rank it up there with Ab Ripper X or Abs Core + in difficulty but that's ok. You definitely feel your core working and it gives you a good cardio workout. Looking forward to trying the rest of the Hip Hop Abs workouts! I would highly recommend this workout to mix things up in your routines or to those looking for something to start out with.

Ok... now I want to talk a bit about the X. If you are in your off season of whatever sport you play or if your High School (or Jr High) athlete is looking for something to keep in shape with over the summer... consider doing P90X. The whole time Jeremy and I were going through the program we kept saying "if only we had this in high school!!" The summer would be the perfect time to go through it and then when you get back to your sport, you'll be shocked at your improvements. This would also be a great graduation gift for a senior trying to avoid the freshman 15 when they get into college. Just some ideas for ya'll!!

Looking forward to working hard this week... hope ya'll are too!!

Kenpo CardioX +... again.

2009-05-01T08:28:00.003-05:00

Jeremy had Kenpo CardioX + on the agenda for him yesterday so I joined him. That workout is so GREAT!! It's a non-stop sweatfest that leaves you feeling strong but totally worked over. Some of the combinations are still awkward for me and I'm waiting for my mind and body to get in sync. I know I felt the same way with Kenpo and then just one day it "clicked" and I didn't have to think about what I was going to do, I just did it. I'm hoping that will happen again soon with Kenpo CardioX +. I hate having to think too much when I work out (not sure if that's good or not!). I'm the kind of person that needs to zone out so to speak.

Jeremy wrote a really good post on his blog and if you haven't had a chance to check it out, please do!

I also want to welcome a new Coach to the Beachbody family... Fred Todd. I first met him on the MFP boards and then over here in blog world. He's a great guy and I know he will make an excellent coach. Congratulations Fred!!

Well, that's it for me... ya'll have a great weekend!!

Shoulders & Arms : Ab RipperX

2009-04-29T00:37:00.002-05:00

After a day of boys screaming, fighting over toys, making a mess, riding a scooter through the house, not taking naps... I was not in the mood to work out. But, Jeremy came home ready to bring it so I summoned up the energy to join him. It's funny though, before we could even start, Jeremy got a call from yet another person wanting to know about this crazy thing called P90X. It happens everyday!! We can't go anywhere without P90X totally dominating the conversation or we'll get a call at home from someone asking questions wanting information. It's great! So, we were a bit late getting started but that's ok. We knocked out Shoulders & Arms and felt the burn. Ab Ripper was modified by Jeremy who had us throw in Banana Masons in the place of wide leg sit ups. Nice. It was great working out together again. We hadn't been able to for several days. When my friend was here, she and I worked out together and Jeremy flew solo.

Looking forward to lifegroup tomorrow. Jeremy is working on the lesson now and I'm staying up with him offering some support. I think I'm gonna have to bail on him soon though... this chick is tired!

CardioX

2009-04-27T07:39:00.011-05:00

I wasn't sure exactly what I was gonna do yesterday but Lori had never done CardioX, so we popped it in. We had quite the sweatfest and Lori really liked how hard it made her work. It was so fun working out with her and I'm going to really try and help her when she goes home to Pittsburgh. She's a beautiful person (and single if you know of anyone!) with a great smile and I want her to feel better about herself and I know she will if she makes the X work for her. I wish she lived closer so she could just work out with me all the time, but we'll just have to make the Amarillo-Pittsburgh long distance thing work. I set her up a blog last night so hopefully she'll start posting and get much needed encouragement from ya'll too! I'll give you the address of her blog as soon as she gets it going.

This morning as I've been sitting her waiting for Symon to get ready for school, I've been thinking back to 3 years ago today when we had our 3rd son, Tommy. I can't believe he's 3!!!! He's a funny little boy that reminds me so much of Jeremy. He LOVES his brothers and wants to do everything with them and like them all the time. He's always excited to go to church and play with his friends. The teacher told me yesterday that ALL the little girls love him because he's so sweet to them. (That ALSO reminds me of Jeremy! Ha!) He loves to cuddle with me and is super smart. I'm so thankful to be his mommy!!

The first pic is of Tommy around 2 months old... The 2nd is of Tommy a few weeks ago.

Kenpo CardioX +

2009-04-24T22:47:00.003-05:00

Ok... My very good friend Lori is here visiting from Pittsburgh, PA. She and I worked together at Brooks AFB in San Antonio back in the good 'ol days. Jeremy was in the AF and Lori and I worked together in an Epidemiology Lab, she was in the AF and I worked for a company that had people in that lab. Anyway... we've known each other since 1994 and while we've lived apart the majority of that time, we've remained friends and will always be close. Lori got P90X a while back and tonight we knocked out Kenpo CardioX+ in style. It was so great sweatin' it out with her and feeling 19 again (don't laugh!)! Man, that was quite the workout. First time for me and it was intense. The time flew by and before I knew it we were finished and gulping down a dreamy recovery drink. My knee is feeling the after effects though because I couldn't find my knee brace for the life of me! Not good. I have got to find that thing before I do anything else.

Yep... I guess you probably read Jeremy's post and saw that he's not feeling that well. I'm trying to steer clear of him but he kinda makes it impossible when I'm always doing stuff for him!! Ha! He knows I'm kidding and of course I'll take care of him :)! All of you wives out there know what I'm going through though with a sick hubby in the house. Joy!

Looking forward to hitting it hard again tomorrow. I'm gonna have Lori thinkin' twice about coming for a visit! She thought she was on vacation and I'm making her work hard!! It's so nice having her here and hopefully you'll get to know her as soon as I talk her into blogging!

Have a great weekend everyone!

Back & Biceps - Ab Ripper X

2009-04-22T10:14:00.005-05:00

I'm crazy to think I have time to post something so I'll make this short. I rocked out Back & Biceps last night along with Ab RipperX. It had been a while since I did either and I am ultra sore today! Jeremy was a monster and had an abfest with Abs Core+ AND Ab RipperX. I thought I might join him but then decided otherwise. I'm glad I didn't do it because I probably wouldn't be able to move today if I did!

Looking forward to an awesome night of testimonies from the women who went on retreat. Looks like we'll have a like 40+ people here tonight and I can't wait!! Want us to record it for you? So, I guess I don't need to tell you how much I need to get done around here today plus, we have tile guys in here laying tile in my hall bathroom!! Yeeeesssssss!!!! Finally!

I hope ya'll are well and you have a great day!!

Oh- sorry to make you endure all the pics of my last post and yes, I am a DORK!

Women's Retreat Pics

2009-04-21T14:01:00.014-05:00

Here are a few pics from the Women's Retreat I just went on... thought some of you might enjoy them! They're out of order probably but oh well...
Above is me getting ready to leave Amarillo... Can you tell I'm way excited to get out of town??

Below are a few of the women I rode with to Glorieta, NM.

These 2 lovely ladies are Amber and Thelma. Amber just finished her first round of P90X 1 week ago and Thelma is the one that introduced me to it. Thanks Thelma!!

Me & Amber right before the first service. We're so ready!

Karaoke night at the Chuck Wagon Cafe. Someone put my name in to sing but lucky for everyone, I got out of it!

In the room right before people started showing up for my workshop. These ladies were such encouragement to me!

Amber took this pic of me right before I started... can you tell I'm about to puke?

Christine Caine from Hillson Chruch in Australia. She was phenomenal!!

This is the silly, goofy, real me... thought you might like to see what I'm actually like... just press play! ;0)

Back from the Mountain

2009-04-20T10:21:00.004-05:00

Ok... I'm back!! I'm NOT the same person though. God showed up and transformation occurred! I had an absolutely amazing experience that has me so on fire I can't even justify it with words. First of all, I'd like to thank you for your prayers and support. I covet them and am so amazed at how God can knit people together through technology!

I could totally write a novel on here and tell you about all the wonderful things that happened but I have laundry to get to and I'm sure ya'll have workouts to do! Let me just talk a little about my workshop because I know you could tell how nervous I was about it. I really felt prepared and the Lord even gave me specific scripture just a couple hours before so I know His hand was on everything. Unfortunately, I felt like I was gonna throw up right before I started! The nerves were apparent for the first couple of minutes but I quickly settled in and we got going. Funny thing happened at the beginning though... I had sent the wrong handout copies to the staff so they had printed out a life group lesson I had taught on a few weeks ago!! I had NOTHING to give them!! It really made for a good icebreaker and a nice way to laugh off some nervousness. So, I get going and it was wild when I would say something and then see everyone start taking notes!!! Crazy!! They were actually getting something! I stayed on point for the most part... got emotional a few times... quickly composed myself... kept it moving. I was allotted and hour but we went over by like 20 minutes. I have never talked that long in my life!! Strange thing was it felt like it had only been 15 minutes... the time flew!! So, after I finished the lesson so to speak, I gave the words and scripture the Lord had given me knowing it was for someone specific in the room. After it was over, there were women that came up that KNEW that word was for them. Their heart was beating out of their chest and they felt healed from emotional wounds that had been open and bleeding for so long. It was amazing. Through all the tears and brokenness, God moved, strengthened women, and healed despair that was running rampant. He is soooo good and faithful. He was waiting on those ladies to take a step and meet Him. They had to be a part of their restoration and by being there, they were. My heart is beating out of my chest just now writing this because I'm just so honored that God used me. I now believe He wants to use me and I'm going to step out and let Him do just that. I'm not going to stay stagnant in my "comfortable Christian life". I'm not going to just go to God when I need Him to do something for me. I'm going to step out of my comfort zone and use everything good and bad I've learned and gone through for HIS glory. It's not all about me even when I receive a blessing. I have to then in turn bless others for Him and grow the kingdom. It's simple really, LOVE GOD, LOVE PEOPLE. I truly had and wonderful encounter this weekend. I can't say enough about our speaker, Christine Caine. She spoke some life changing words and if you don't know who she is, you need to!! I LOVED her... her passion was contagious and I'm happy to have caught it! I feel passion on fire in me people!! Passion I never knew I could muster up and I'm gonna use it. I'm sure I'll remember more stuff to tell you and post about it from time to time.

Well, I guess I should write a bit about P90X since that what this blog is about! Unfortunately, I got no workouts in while I was there. I did jog a tiny bit on Friday but that was it. The choices I had for food was horrendous and I starved all weekend because I'm so used to eating a ton!! Anyway, last night Jeremy and I did IntervalX and it felt so nice. My legs and rear were on fire!! I'm ready to hit it hard now and I can finally concentrate on it again with the retreat behind me. I have a lot of catching up to do with all of you! I'm off to do some reading (and laundry)!!

Be blessed and thanks for reading if you made it this far! I'll post a few pics of the weekend later!

A Releasing is Coming!

2009-04-16T01:15:00.002-05:00

I'm headed to the mountaintop... will be back in a few days. Looking forward to an amazing weekend and intimate time with God!!

P90X Total Body +

2009-04-14T16:16:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was a blah, blah day for me. I was feeling super sluggish and thought I may be coming down with something but I know I was not at all myself. My boys were in rare form and not helping the situation. So, I was not up for any kind of P90X sweatfest. I felt so bad making Jeremy fly solo but he was so understanding and didn't push at all.

Today, I really wasn't feeling a whole lot better and I wasn't sure if I'd be able to push play but I got some loving encouragement from my husband and I decided to put in today's workout, Total Body +, and bring it the best I could. I feel better now that I got it in but I wouldn't have even done it without Jeremy cheering me on. Thanks darlin'!

Now the workout... whoa! Crazy intense... so many moves that just seemed wrong!! I mean a pull up and then lift your knees to the bar... what???!!! I felt like I was at square one again because I wasn't keeping up with 'em at all. Ugh. I know I'll improve but I'm feeling all those "I want it NOW!" feelings.

On a side note... A friend of mine called me today who is on week 3 of P90X Classic and she was so discouraged because the scale hadn't budged at all. I talked with her about her nutrition and stuff and then I told her to measure herself after we got off the phone. I mean, she was on the brink of quitting thinking she was the wrong "type" of person for this program. Well, she measured herself and LOST 7 and a half TOTAL INCHES!!! When I talked to her she was on cloud nine and had her husband measure her again just to make sure she did it right. He came up with the same thing and she said she'd take inches lost over what the scale said any day!! I was so proud of her and that was just the motivation she needed to keep going. She said she was ready to bring it today! So, if any of you are hating the scale right now, measure yourself and see if there are any changes. More than likely there will be and it will be just the boost you need. Celebrate the victory and let it motivate you to get to your next goal!

Gonna do some X Stretch tonight I think... looking forward to that cuz I'm super sore from all this muscle confusion!!

P90X+ Bring on the Muscle Confusion!

2009-04-13T13:25:00.002-05:00

Alrighty then... We popped in Interval X+ yesterday and it worked us over pretty good!! It was so intense and has you "bringing it" from start to finish. I definitely need to work on my technique in a few of the exercises but I pushed myself hard and I'm really feeling it today. I'm excited to see the improvements brought on by this round. I'm so shocked to even be saying that!! I'm so glad we decided to do this instead of another round of regular P90X because honestly, I needed a little break from the same old funny jokes and the "kids"!!

Looking forward to the busy week ahead. I have to get everything in this house in order to make it easy on Jeremy and the boys while I'm gone with the girls at Women's Retreat. I can't tell you how much I'm looking forward to that!!!

I hope everyone had a Happy Easter!! We really did and I can't wait to celebrate a whole lot more this weekend with my girls!!!

Day One? Day 91?

2009-04-12T00:25:00.004-05:00

Just like Jeremy did on his blog, I want to congratulate our friends Ken & Alana on finishing their first round of P90X!!! They showed true dedication and determination and they are a great example to many out there reading their blog. I hear Ken is also doing an amazing job as a Beachbody coach. Click here to go to his coaches page!

Well, the fast went well. I dropped 3 pounds and I can easily see how someone could drop up to 7 like it says. The drink itself was very smooth and satisfying and while last night I admit eating something "real" sounded good, I didn't. Thanks Jeremy! I would highly recommend this product!

Today we started our next round with "+". I kind of don't want to say day one... it's too depressing to think of it that way... should I say day 91? Anyway, we did Upper Body & Abs Core +. Whoa. It was tough and I wasn't sure if we were gonna make it through the whole thing. We pushed hard even though we were still recovering from our 2 day fast. I don't think we'll be working out that hard after doing another fast. Lesson learned. I have a feeling I'm gonna wake up in the morning a little bit sore. Ok, maybe a lot sore. My arms are pretty stiff right now and my abs are definitely upset at me. Good stuff. Looking forward to pressing on and making more improvements.

I guess that's it for me tonight... I'm so excited to go to church in the morning and celebrate!!

Fast- Day Two

2009-04-10T09:15:00.005-05:00

I'm sitting here drinking my chocolate fast drink while I'm typing this and yes, I still think it tastes great! It went well yesterday and I weighed myself this morning and I've lost 2 pounds and some change. It's not really about that for me, but I thought someone might like knowing that.

I never struggled yesterday with feeling hungry or anything. I drank a TON of water and I'm sure that helped. It was just odd when it was supper time and Jeremy and I didn't have to make our big 'ol grilled whatever and tons of veggies. I gave all my boys haircuts instead! That was an adventure, let me tell ya!

I'm looking forward to finishing the fast today. My sister is on her way with her boys to celebrate this special weekend with us. I'm so excited to have them here! Oh, I went to Symon's school's Easter service yesterday and O-MY it was AWESOME!! To see all those precious children at praise & worship was just amazing. I had already been emotional from the day and that made me go over the edge. All of you out there reading this who are my brothers & sisters in Christ, understand what I'm talking about! This fast has come at such a significant time for all of us and it's made my heart stir in a special way. I also was reviewing my workshop for women's retreat next weekend and I cried almost non-stop!! That, is gonna have to change!! I can't be speaking through tears the whole time!! I'll have to keep working on it over the next few days so I won't be so emotional!! Ok, now I'm nervous again.

Well, I have to get housework done before my family gets here. I hope you all feel as loved as I do today. Jesus' Friday was the toughest thing anyone has ever had to go through and you may feel like you're in a "Friday" season right now. Just remember though, your "SUNDAY" is coming just as HIS did!! Look forward and rest on His promises.

Fast- Day One

2009-04-09T10:04:00.005-05:00

First let me say, I posted my fit test results so scroll down if you want to check them out!

This morning I woke up to do my normal morning routine and got Symon off to school. Came home and thought, crud... the fast starts today. Quickly, I shook off those negative feelings and got my heart right for the 2 days ahead. We got the chocolate flavor and I mixed 1 scoop of the powder with 8oz of water. I used the hand blender all the while trying to psych myself up for whatever I was about to taste. Took the first sip and was pleasantly surprised! It actually tasted chocolaty! Took a few more gulps and nice, no grit! This thing is actually smooth! I quickly drank the rest down expecting the worst as I got closer to the bottom but it stayed consistent throughout. Nice. They have really come up with something good here! Now, we'll just see how I react to it... know what I mean? Little bit nervous about that. I am however, looking forward to lunch when I can chug another glassful!

I'm going to take advantage of this and make it a spiritual fast as well. I need to press in and get intimate with Him about several things. When I've done a spiritual fast before, I never got hungry... I don't even fear that this time around. I'm just so pumped that using my new found excitement about my health can ultimately further my walk. Can't ask for more than that!!

Stay tuned for updates... :)

Crazy Busy Day

2009-04-08T17:11:00.000-05:00

Hey all! I've been meaning to get on here and share my post P90X fit test results but I've been running around all day!! Now, I have to finish some things before everyone gets here for Life Group. Hopefully when I get to sit down to finally relax, I'll have some energy left to post.

So excited to see what the Lord has for us tonight! Wish you were here with us! Have a great evening everyone!

Post P90X Fit Test Results

2009-04-08T08:11:00.000-05:00

We finally got around to doing the post fit test and it's quite a workout in itself! It was sure a lot different than the first time we did it and I highly recommend that you do this before and after the program. I'm sure most of you have, but if you haven't, check out Jeremy's blog to see his results!

Here they are:

Measurements:

Weight: (I'm ONLY putting this on here in case there's one person out there that might find motivation from this! This is a super hard thing for me to do!!!)
Day 0 - 149 lb
Day 91 - 134 lb - 10% loss

Chest: (Not sure if this is a good thing)
Day 0 - 36"
Day 91 - 32" - 11% loss

Waist:
Day 0 - 33"
Day 91 - 28.5 - 13.6% loss

Hips: (Still have my curves!)
Day 0 - 42"
Day 91 - 38" - 9.5% loss

Fit Test:

Chin Ups:
Day 0 - 0
Day 91 - 5 - Big Gain

Vertical Leap:
Day 0 - 9"
Day 91 - 12" - 33.3% Increase

Pushups:
Day 0 - 7 Knees
Day 91 - 45 Regular - 543% Increase

Toe Touch Stretch:
Day 0 - +3"
Day 91 - +5.5"

Wall Squat: (I was dying here and Jeremy was making me laugh because he was calling me stubborn!!)
Day 0 - 20 seconds
Day 91 - 3:28 - 940% Increase

In & Outs:
Day 0 - 18
Day 91 - 100 - 456% Increase

Overall, I'm pleased with the results! I'm really looking forward to what the next round brings and seeing more improvements. I've heard a lot of women say they don't want to do P90X because they're afraid of "bulking" up. That didn't happen in my case. I have gained muscle tone but no Arnold Schwarzenegger arms or anything... ha! So, that's another excuse you can scratch off your list for not getting it!

We're starting the 2 day fast tomorrow. (Yikes!) Looking forward to seeing what that's like. I've fasted before but never with a drink like this. I'll be sure to post to let you know how it goes!! I have a lot of things spiritually that I'll be dealing with as well and I'm looking forward to some revelation!

Had another awesome group tonight!! 5 new people!!! That makes 9 new people in the last 2 weeks! AWESOME!! Our group is up to 31 now... I think. It might be more. I'm so tired right now I could be missing someone. Anyway, we're just sooooo excited to welcome more hungry people into our home looking to further their walk and be in fellowship. Our group is indescribable and He's so forever faithful!!!

Ya'll... I'm headin' to bed.

Status Update!

2009-04-06T22:31:00.000-05:00

Bring on the Emeralds! My coach, Demi Bean, and I both have made Emerald status as coaches and I just wanted to congratulate her and thank her for all the help she's given me. You are crack-a-lackin good Demi!

This is the beginning of something great and I can't wait to help transform lives!!

ABS CORE + PREVIEW

2009-04-06T10:26:00.000-05:00

It is so weird! We are having such a hard time taking a break!! So, yesterday evening we decided to pop in Abs Core + just to see if we could make it through. We watched it first and I thought "There is NO way I'm gonna be able to do that!" But, with some encouragement from Jeremy, I got in there and gave it a go. You know what? I DID it! We struggled with technique at times but over all it wasn't as scary as I thought. Hard? Yes. But, very do-able. I just have to keep reminding myself what I went through with X and how I was so doubtful at first but I totally did it! I think it's as hard as Ab Ripper just in a different way. ABX is so fast, you seem to get a cardio workout as well. AbsC+ has more isolated moves that don't get you breathing hard but does provide a burn like no other. As my technique improves I'm sure it will get better and better. I'm getting excited now to go onto + and not feeling as nervous anymore! Yay!

I have a busy few weeks ahead of me... My sister and her boys are coming for Easter this weekend and then I'm off the following Thursday for Women's Retreat. I'll have to start reviewing the workshop I'm doing soon, like now! I wrote it a while back and the Lord just keeps revealing new things that I feel should be added so I need to get that wrapped up. Then, the following weekend and dear friend of mine from our Air Force days (Jeremy was in the AF) is coming to visit us. Can't wait! She also just started P90X because of us and I can't wait to talk about it with her and help her in any way I can. I also can't wait to have some late night girlie gab sessions!! Know what I mean girls??!! Anyway, I'm looking at a busy month ahead but I'm not complaining!!

Have a great day everyone and keep pushing play and pressing in!

2009-04-04T11:02:00.000-05:00

Jeremy did that last weekend...

It's been a couple of days since we finished up this round of P90X. I can't believe I can say that!! We've been taking a break from it all and I've been trying to take a mental break from it too but it seems like it's all anyone wants to talk about (we love talking about it too)!!! I guess it's good that people see us and want to know what we did, how we did it, and if we thought they could do it. That's what it's all about... right?! We're excited to see so many getting on board and deciding to get healthy. It's humbling to have been any small part of that decision.

If you've read Jeremy's blog, you'll know that we got "+" in the mail yesterday. We watched one of the DVDs and I well, I almost cried. It looks BRUTAL!!! I think I had the same feelings before starting X so hopefully once I start doing it my fears will subside. I look forward to working hard and continually improving. Jeremy is super motivated and he LOVES this new lifestyle of ours. It's so surreal to see him this excited about working out and eating healthy. I never dreamed it could happen and yet it has. One thing you should know about him is that when he gets into something, he's ALL in (our best friends here at home know that's true!). I love that so much about him even though sometimes I get a little grumpy when it means spending more money on the JEEP!! No, he's really great and I know he'll encourage me the way I need it through PLUS.

One last thing... I want to thank all you out there that have been a big part of our journey to a healthier life.

Ken... I feel so blessed that I met you out there in P90Xland and that Jeremy and I have gotten to know you more and more. You words of encouragement have meant so much and just hearing about how hard you and Alana work has been inspirational. I know God is moving in this and I can't wait to see where it leads!!

Demi... You are AWESOME! Just looking at you makes me want to work harder. More than that though, your leadership is a gift and I pray that God will continue to show you the way you can use that gift for His glory. Thank you for your support, guidance, and advice. We are gonna be in this thing for the long haul and I'm glad I have you there to go to. Keep up everything you do!

Jen... You are truly amazing. Your words and candidness make people gravitate to you and feel like they've been your friend forever. I have a feeling that's not the first time someone has told you that! Thank you for encouraging me to be the best I can be. God bless you sister!

David & Nikki... Thank you so much for making us feel like we are truly making a difference. That we are influencing people to make a decision to change their lives for the better. Your positive attitudes and kind words have made a HUGE impact on our hearts and has also motivated us more than you know. We pray blessings over you as a newly married couple and please know we think it's so awesome that you're also in this TOGETHER!!

Amber & Chris... I'm not sure if you'll ever read this but, there are no words I can type here to give justice to my feelings towards you. Thank you for everything and for going on this journey with us. It's been something else the Lord has used to knit us even closer together and I didn't think we could get any closer. We love you so much and I know you know that. Your grad day is next and we couldn't be prouder of our dear friends.

I guess that's it for now... I'm going to go and get some things done around this house unless it all gets blown away by this West Texas wind!!

Before and After....

2009-04-02T14:15:00.000-05:00

Ok... here are some "before" pictures. The funny thing I found was that I don't seem to have a lot of pictures of myself!! I'm always the one taking them I guess. Anyway, there's no way I'm posting my before sports bra pictures so these are gonna have to do!

Now, here are some "after" pics we took just a few days ago. Jeremy posted the one of us together on his site, but here are also some of me alone. Not a lot of skin showing but I hope you get you can see just how hard I've worked!
I went from a size 8-10 to a 4-6!! I'm 5'7 and I am really happy with that. I lost 4 inches around my waist, 3 inches around my hips, 4 inches around my chest (not sure if that's so good) and I lost 16lbs overall. You'd think with those kinds of inches shed I should have lost like 30lbs!! Not so! It's ok... I like my new muscles!

Day 89- ENGAGE

2009-04-01T23:46:00.000-05:00

Core. We all know it... it is what it is. TOUGH. We tore it up and I actually went deeper during stacked foot push ups hitting my nose on the floor. Thanks Jeremy for pushing me... I wouldn't have even tried if you weren't there encouraging me! I guess Tony's right when he talks about our mind telling us to stop doing something when we actually can do it if we just push ourselves. Great workout tonight.

Ok ya'll... I just have to say, life group was amazing tonight. Before people started showing up, Jeremy told me he felt like something BIG was gonna happen and boy, he was right! Crazy good ministry was going on for some people who were hurting and feeling lost. Jeremy brought it big time with a great message that touched a lot of people's hearts. He's really a fantastic teacher and makes everyone feel loved. Anyway, sometime I'll have to record it and send it to anyone out there who wants to listen... hmmmmm- that reminds me of something Jeremy. :)

I guess that's it from me. DAY 90 tomorrow... kinda feels like Christmas Eve to me right now!!!! I guess I better get my before/after pics up... I know, I know Demi... I need to get over myself and post 'em!!

Day 88

2009-04-01T08:32:00.000-05:00

Daaayyyy 8----8. I was just singing that and wasn't quite sure how to type it out. Ha! Can you tell I'm excited???? We Stretched last night right before bed and it was so nice! I was a little too chatty for Jeremy's liking and disturbed his chi or something so, sorry Jeremy! It really felt good and as we started, I realized I was a bit sore in some areas that I hadn't noticed until I started pulling on them. Looking forward to Core today... gonna push it hard and go out on a strong note.

Busy, busy day today. FINALLY getting our life group back here tonight after some weeks off due to spring break and a church function. We should be getting 4 new people tonight so I'm gonna have to figure out how to rearrange my living room to get everyone in her comfortably. Really excited to get our lesson going and hear Jeremy bring it. It will also give me a chance to practice speaking to a group again before I have to do it at Women's Retreat. Ok, now my stomach's nervous!

Ya'll have a great day... I'm gonna run and start cleaning this house from top to bottom! Later.

Day 87... The countdown is ON

2009-03-30T22:11:00.000-05:00

Kenpo was on the menu tonight and we actually got through it with limited interruptions. Jeremy about punched me in the face cuz he was jackin' around but that's another story. Feeling good and strong but am suffering from some serious hunger issues again. I have been starving all the time!! Gotta get a handle on that and figure out what I'm doing/not doing. Anyway...

Ok, I have to preface the rest with this... Those who know me know that I'm not a big complainer or griper, I don't rant, go off on people or anything like that. BUT, I have an issue that I think is safe to bring up here. I think I'll find more people that understand and can offer me some constructive advice if you think it's needed. I've been having a hard time handling people who think I'm JUST losing weight. For example, when I went home to Oklahoma on Spring break, one thing I heard was, "You need to quit sticking your finger down your throat!". Why??? Why say that? I said I'm getting healthy, not just losing weight and I'm working really hard. Another example is I posted on FB today that I'm almost finished with this round of P90x and am really excited or something like that, and I get a comment "so are you gonna start eating now?" Ugh. A few weeks ago someone came up to me and said "You're so lucky, the weight just seems to fall off you so easily." EASILY??? My ASHTANGA!! I politely said "Please don't take my hard work away from me!" And I think that's exactly it. When I hear comments like those, and there have been more, I just feel deflated. (Oh, I also posted some pics on my FB of Jeremy and the boys in the snow and someone even commented on how he looks so different and needs to eat! Ack!) My feelings get hurt because here I am working my rear end off trying to be healthy and fit... but I know I shouldn't let those comments get to me. Then why, why, why do they??? I am not a petty person but geesh I feel socked in the stomach. So, any wisdom you can throw my way would be much appreciated!! Believe me, I'm not wasting away. I'm 5'7 in a size 6 and some 4's depending on the style. I think that's healthy looking! I don't get it.

This won't get me down... there have been a lot more positives than negatives and I'm happy with my results so... oh well!

Day 86

2009-03-29T21:45:00.000-05:00

Core. Oh yes. Core. I forgot how tough it was and was quickly reminded!! Right before we started I just wasn't in the mood and I told Jeremy "I think I have short-itus". It's like when you give your 2 weeks notice at work and the last few days you don't want to do ANYTHING. That's what I'm diagnosing myself as having right now. I finally mustered up enough will power to get started and then I was home free. Glad we only have a few more days left because my mental strength is waning.

The workout was going along as usual and then Jeremy got a wicked cramp in his neck. OUCH! I had to stop and massage it out for him. Luckily, he didn't suffer any long term tweaking because there's nothing worse than a pulled muscle in your neck. It leaves you immobilized forever! Anyway, we had several interruptions from our oh so pleasant boys but finally got through it.

Went to church today and it was awesome as usual and then out to lunch with some dear friends. Watched a little basketball and cried as OU got spanked. Ugh. Jeremy did his magic on the grill and rocked out some oh so yummy grilled chicken and asparagus and I steamed some brown rice. Nice.

Looking forward to this week like no other since we'll be finishing up this crazy ride we've been on now for 86 days. Excited to move on and tone up some more before the dreaded swimsuit season!!!

Day 85

2009-03-29T08:54:00.000-05:00

My ashtanga Yoga is hard! We took a little detour from Yoga these past few weeks but we did it last night and I was surprised to find improvement! My balance is horrible but I was able to hold moves longer and go deeper. It felt sooooo good.

Yesterday we started our last recovery week! I can't believe it! The countdown is ON! If Jeremy and I could make it 90 days, anyone can, I truly believe that. We have all the excuses most people have, kids, work, church, activities, etc. and we have done it. So, it can be done. The only thing is that while Jeremy did get sick there for a few days, we really didn't suffer a bad winter with illness. Our boys have only had the sniffles here and there so we are very blessed in that regard. I know a lot of you out there have had to deal with illness during P90X and that is one obstacle you just can't get around.

Looking forward to the snow melting and Spring finally settling in. We had a wonderful day yesterday playing and well, getting stuck on some county road in a huge snowdrift. Thanks Jeremy. The boys thought it was some big adventure and I was well, let's just say, not happy. I was clearly outnumbered though by boys who thought it was the coolest thing to have a huge tractor clearing roads have to pull us out. Oh well.

I guess that's it... gotta get ready for church and Core Syn later! Have a great day everyone!

Day 84

2009-03-28T19:24:00.000-05:00

KenpoX... my fav. I almost gave up even doing it at all because my youngest son, Tommy, was well, how should I put this, NOT making it to the potty. Ugh!! THEN, when I got him in the tub to wash him up, I went back to the bedroom so he could soak a bit and he did it AGAIN in the tub!!!!! I wanted to pull my hair out. Needless to say, the boy was in trouble and he had to go straight to bed. No Rock Band for him!!

Anyway, Kenpo was good once I got going. I kept telling Jeremy to do it without me and I'd do it later but he wouldn't hear of it. It ended up being really nice to take out my frustrations with all those kicks and punches!

That's pretty much it. We enjoyed the rest of the evening by the fire and watched a little TV. We're so exciting. :)

HERE WE GO AGAIN

2009-03-27T14:17:00.000-05:00

Ok everyone... I'm baaaack! I finally finished up some things that were top priority for me so now I can start my blog again and not rely solely on Jeremy to keep ya'll informed how P90X is going. We have had an amazing time these past 83 days working hard and getting healthy. I remember starting day one full of excitement and anticipation of what the next weeks would bring. Each milestone we hit made us hungry for more because the results we were getting were so worth the effort. There has hardly been a time we've gone out that someone wasn't asking what we had been doing because the way we looked had drastically changed. We talk about P90X like 90% of the time when we're out... no matter where we go. And it's not even us bringing it up!! This program has been life changing and we are going to continue on after these 90 days and keep making improvements. We're sooooo pumped!

As most of you have seen on Jeremy's blog, we decided to become Beachbody coaches (thanks Demi!) because, like I said earlier, we are talking about it ALL the time. Why not try to capitalize on our time? We'll give it a shot and hopefully make something of it and if the Lord leads us in another direction, then by all means we'll follow that path.

Ok so the end of this round is in sight and I just can't believe it. We are actually gonna see this thing through and the amazing part to me is that we've done it together. I think we only missed doing a couple of workouts together when Jeremy had to go out of town on business and that was it. We didn't skip the workouts mind you. Jeremy was a trooper and did them in his dinky hotel room and I did them at home begrudgingly without him. I started this thing not really know what to expect with him as my workout buddy but I am soooooo glad his is!! He is an awesome husband, father, and friend to me... not just a good friend to others but to me and that is something that was strengthened in our marriage during all of this. We have done so many things together and for each other... laughed, sweat, grunted, complained about soreness, encouraged, bragged (on each other), and so on and so on. It's been amazing and I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world and now we get to continue on... fantastic.

I was talking to a friend of mine (she's on day 5) the other night at church, and she was so optimistic about it just because she saw the results I had gotten and also the results of my dear friend Amber who is just a couple weeks behind me. I got to give her advice and she was soaking it in. She's so excited to change her life and I remember feeling that same way. But the important thing is... I STILL feel that way! I'm so excited about what the future has in store for me and Jeremy. God has done mighty things on the inside of us and I'm just doing this small thing for myself on the outside but it all goes hand in hand. This isn't something that will overtake our lives and eclipse the love we have for serving, but I think it will just add to the list of things we have to offer others and bring them closer to the Lord.

Yes, I've rambled on forever... I didn't realize how much I missed blogging! Thanks for reading if you've made it this far and I'll be updating regularly again!

Be blessed!