Fitness Friday: Find Your Motivation

www.kimdolanleto.com

Things have been slightly difficult in the fitness category because of the weather around here. It basically rained for two weeks straight only letting up the weekend, when I already had plans for a big birthday camping bash! 

Needless to say...this has drained my gun-ho motivation a little. I still get some workouts in at home but for some reason I have a really hard time finding the ump to cross train if I'm not out running! (Anyone got a treadmill they want to mail to South Africa!)

So today I want to focus on what gives me motivation! 

This woman here....she gives me motivation! Because you know what....I want to be proud of my body! I am a type of woman that I need to be healthy and in shape to feel proud. It isn't about how society sees me but how I feel about myself. 

Tuesday Tunes: Roar

It's been a while since we had a Tuesday Tunes around here but YouTube is working again! So, I couldn't wait to start sharing my song of the week!

Katy Perry's Roar is exactly how I've been feeling lately in my mind....ready to conquer! Now if I could just get my body to agree! ;-)



Check out my highlight sponsor this month!!

XOXxx

Shana Danae..

Fitness Friday: Are We Coping?

Fitness Friday: Getting Refocused

whatismotivation.org

So it’s been a really....rrreaaaallly long time since I posted a Fitness Friday, but guess what my peeps? You’re going to start seeing them regularly again! Fitness Friday is all about US and our lifestyles! It’s about what we (you and me, peeps) are doing to become healthier, get ourselves (or keep ourselves) in shape and bring us some motivation from around the www! It’s all about the journey!

Chocolate and Excuses Fitness Friday {week 14}

Oh my! My first 5k is in less than three weeks! I can't believe how fast the time has flown! I know that for many women in this running community, my 5k goal is still small; but on the grand scheme of things it is huge to me! I haven't stuck with all my goals as closely as I'd hoped but meeting this race is evidence of a changed me!

It is success just to get up and finish! It is victory that I proved to myself that my body could 'bounce' back from the birth of my second child. It is evidence that I CAN work, be a wife, be a mom, live a faith filled life and set examples for healthy living!

It is my happiness.

Running started out as a mission. It wasn't something I loved to do. It was something I wanted to love to do. I kept getting out there and doing it like I enjoyed it. And slowly....with each pat of my foot to the tar...with each drop of sweat falling from my body...a love grew. I nurtured it. I took care of my body so that we could enjoy this...body and mind together as one.

And sure enough....I love it! I need it...I'm addicted to it! Maybe even more than coffee...okay not more than coffee but still! 

What is so amazing is that Hubby Dearest has decided to get moving again too! He has joined a local rugby team! I am BEYOND SUPER EXCITED for this! I get all twittery thinking about going out there on Saturdays to cheer and scream for my Hubby! I can't wait to see him in action!

The idea is that we're creating a lifestyle that is mentally AND physically good and appealing to our boys! We want them to want to move! We want them to want to be healthy. Therefore we want healthy to be FUN!! 

And it is!!!!

Recap:

March 25- March 31

Did I mention last week about it raining?? Oh...yea. It seems to do that A LOT. Like today...it has rained THE WHOLE FRACKIN' day! {BTW I'm writing this on Wednesday...so I don't know the forecast for Friday!} I did some cross training. I actually got in 3!!! 

I've avoided all tempo runs thus far. I just...grr. I want to want to do them. But I can't get myself motivated! 

I did a nice long 8km run!! It was slow but it felt great....and then...

Then we went away for the weekend and I ate chocolate. And I chatted and visited with Ma. And I drank coffee with friends...

and I didn't RUN AT ALL!! I'm very disappointed in myself. I let life get in the way too much. This is suppose to be incorporated into life and instead I'm using life as an excuse. Which I don't know why because I want to run....I just don't want to miss whats going on in my home too! :-/

Future outlook:

April 8- April 14

2x cross training (1x full body 1x core)

2x easy runs totalling 11 km

Speed: 5x 800m @4:35-4:40

Tempo: 5k tempo @ 6:00

8km long run

Wish me luck and stay tuned next week!

If you’re at all interested in what I’m doing or getting yourself back into shape can I please encourage you to check out two of my favourite mommy runners! These women love being mommies and their health and continually inspire me!

RunFasterMommy

MommyWith Her Running Shoes On

MCMMama Runs

Shana..

Why do I run? Fitness Friday {week 13}

You'll see I missed last week! Sorry peeps but it was an off weekend between school holidays and sickness...but I'm Back so relax! ;-)

WHY DO I RUN???

It was a simple question but it caught me off guard. Hubby Dearest and I were having a bumpy day (you could say) and fishing got brought up. Sometimes I get a bit frustrated because it feels like the moment Hubby Dearest has some time where he could just chill at home with me and the kids, he is off to go fishing!

I want to scream. I’m just like look..DUDE...I’m here all afternoon EVERYDAY and ALL weekend with them. I love them but they want some daddy time. You’re at work. You aren’t here with all the stress. Come on, man!

Then he asks me that. I’m like, umm duh! Because I need a break for just me. I need to do this one thing that is my time for me to be a little selfish in this parenting ordeal. I need to distress and forget about everything. It is just me, the pace of the music, my beating heart, the thrump thrump of my feet against the pavement, and that goal I’m trying to beat. It is me against the world. It’s....oh I get it now.

Sometimes, I forget that he needs some him time to. Running has become a necessity for my life. It is something I look forward to. It is something that helps me wind down and recharge at the same time. I can see things from a different angle when I’ve just had a run. New possibilities become visible and windows that seemed closed are now wide open. It just resets me back to well....a better me!

Why do you run??

Recap:

March 18- March 23

Have I mentioned that it has been raining....like constantly. EVERY FRACKIN’ evening! It is cramping my style. I am proud to say I’ve beat my goal and ran my 5km in 32 minutes! Whoop whoop! This is frackin’ awesome. If you don’t think so then quit reading! NOW!.....

I’m still trying to figure out the whole cross training with my littles..but we got our cable turned back on and that means I use the electronic baby sitter while I workout.

Problem...next week I go back to working FULL DAY!! I already battle to figure out how to fit everything in and am PRAYING that I manage to learn a routine that works.

Running during lunch is a severe possibility. It is already getting to dark to make long runs in the mornings. It just isn’t safe here to run when it isn’t light out. I’m considering buying a pepper spray to carry in my hand so I can at least get out and run the 1km loop that is my home street.

I did the following:

1x 5km run in under 35 minutes

1x 4km easy

1x yoga day

2x core workouts

It still isn’t near what I’m aiming for but I refuse to lower my goals. In other news....my first 5km is suppose to be in 3 weeks! EEEKK...but I haven’t figured out transport there as it is, duh duh duh 38km away from home! To be continued....

Future outlook:

April 1- April 7

3x cross training (2x full body 1x core)

2x Easy runs totalling 15km

Speed: 4x 800m @ 4:35-4:40

Tempo: 2x 2k tempo @ 6:00

12 km long run

Wish me luck and stay tuned next week!

Shana..

5 for FIVE....weeks FAIL

Do you tend to set goals only to see them slide down your priority lists? Do you want to make your goals each week to create a better more efficient you?
Do you want to start making goals?
Monday is the day for {5 for Five} with Jenn and Jessica! This link up allows you to come and share your top 5 goals for the week ahead. Link up with us and share what you accomplished last week AND what goals you're setting for yourself the week ahead.  (Still need a little clarification? That's okay! Check out Jessica's summary of the link up here!)

So....I have an obsession with planners, journals, logs, and goals. I feel the insanity of it all is what keeps me sane! With all that I do (and don't do!), it's a great idea if I share some of my weekly goals with you and how I 'attack' them in my daily life. Goals are the structure to my life! { 1 for 5} 1) 4x Runs and 2x Cross Training I got two runs and two cross trainings in BUT it rained and rained and rained and since I don't have a treadmill this cramps my running a bit.... 2) Wash my face every night I'm so glad I've been doing this. My face and skin feels SO much better.  3) Have a date night This was not successful as I'd hoped. Our brother is staying at our house so there isn't really the privacy needed. I'm removing this however with everything that is going on in our home right now. Unfortunately I'm not willing to discuss it further. 4) Do a devotion every morning. 5) Establish a morning routine to fit everything in.   1) 4x Runs and 2x Cross Training I've decided to keep this goal another week. I will not change a goal until I meet it 100%!! I need to focus on my physical health. I LOVE running. If you didn't know that, clickity click that little tabby in the balloon over there >>>>>>>> that says running! I have to plan to get this in with two kids and a ful time job, but it is well worth it! I've cut my cross training back to twice a week. I did some research and with as much running as I'm trying to get in and I do yoga twice a week, 4 gym sessions aren't really necessary. Although I'd still like to get there! 2) Run 5km under 35 minutes I've managed to meet my goal of running a 5km under 40 minutes but I'd really like to shave off that little bit extra. I start with speedwork this week...it's going to kill since my weekly km is not where I'd like it to be BUT I can't wait to achieve this! 3) Finish sewing I have a few items of clothing that have little niggles that need sorted out. I HATE sewing and have been putting this off forever! But I NEED my clothes so it is important I get this done! 4) Do a devotion every morning. I've decided to keep this goal another week. I will not change a goal until I meet it 100%!! I have found an awesome daily devotional delivered right to my inbox! So excited to try it out for a few weeks. Will let you guys know all about it! 5) Establish a morning routine to fit everything in. I've decided to keep this goal another week. I will not change a goal until I meet it 100%!! Winter is quickly approaching here and it will be getting lighter later. I need to soak up the opportunity to run in the am while I still can. I need to establish LJ into a feeding routine that allows me to get out the door in the morning. Come winter, I will crosstrain in the morning and run in the afternoons. LJ is eating at my run time right now so I need to get him moved back by about an hour! (We've successfully moved back 30 minutes! Hopefully we can secure the hour by the end of the week!)   So, there you have it! Those are MY goals for the week ahead! What about you?! What are you setting out to do?!  Link up and let us know!  By the way, if you decided to link up with us today (THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!) we just ask that you follow good 'blogging manners' & do the following itty bitty things.... 1) Please use the button (see sidebar) and/or link back to Jenn's or Jessica's blog- or both! 2) Pretty, pretty please follow Jessica  & Jenn! It helps us get to know you better! Plus, we love having new friends! 3) Jump around! Go have fun and meet some new friends! Maybe you'll find motivation in someone else post OR perhaps you'll be able to offer them some encouragement. We have some wonderful ladies linking up with us so I'd encourage you to get to know them! 

MHO Monday Mingle #6 GOALS

Before I go all 'get your head in the game' on you....let me just address a small concern that seems to have overwhelmed the blogosphere!!
Yes...Google Reader is closing shop. No....it is not the end of the blog-orld!! 

Please...jump over to bloglovin and read me there. You know you want to. Just clickity-click that little button!! 

A weekly questioner with Funny Postpartum Lady and Story of a Girl!!

This Week's Theme: Goals

1.  Do you believe setting goals are important in life?
100%!! You can check out a weekly link up I'm in on Mondays for goals here. I am obsessed with goals and find myself setting them constantly. I love the structure and drive it presents to my life!

2.  Do you set time tables for your goals? If so is there one goal you are determined to meet in 2013?
Absolutely!! Each goal is broken down for me into smaller sections. I plan to run my first half by December of this year. I have it broken down into smaller goals of a 5km in April and building up from there with multiple levels.
I set daily goals, weekly goals, and monthly goals. I don't believe in todo lists....their goal lists!

3.  Are there any past goals that you are proud to announce you have met?
I wanted to be able to run a 5km in under 40 minutes within 3 months of LJ being born....He turned 3 months on Friday and I did it! 38:26!!!

4.  If you have children, are you teaching them about, and helping them make goals for the future?
Yes, I have two small boys. They're still to young to understand the concept of goals....Lil Mister is now 2 years old. Rather I teach him about continuing to try and not give up. I feel that is the basis for any good goal habits. When we practice throwing a rugby ball for instance...I cheer him on even when he misses and continuously say let's do it again!

5.  Do you have a bucket list? have you started to work toward any of the goals on it yet?
Of Course!! ;-) You can check it out here!!!

Okay, now it's your turn. Grab the button and questions and repost on your page!!! You don't have to answer the questions, you can just repost the button on your sidebar or in a post. Link your page or post up and mingle with other bloggers!!! No rules, just meet new people

Shana..

Fitness Friday {week 11}

I haven't got a lot to say this week....there is a lot going on at home that is affecting me and has thrown me right off my game. SO here is a quick recap and a look into what I want to achieve.

I've said before running is like therapy for me. When it becomes too much, I can hit the pavement and work it out. That seems to have halted. A lot is going on emotionally and even running just seems to be one.more.thing.

I hate this. I know that is a strong word...but running is suppose to be a release. It has nothing to actually do with running that I've hit a wall...it's me and my mind right now.

I need focus and nothing..NOTHING I do gets me out of my head. I'm praying constantly that relief comes, but each day it is like the load gets heavier.

My future currently lies in someone else's hands. Their decision affects the lives of me and my children forever. This is putting me in a dark place. I do not like to feel so out of control. So...I've been sitting and waiting. I'm waiting for a sign as to which direction they will go. I've been waiting for words that have failed to arise. I wait in silence hoping that my WANTS for the situation will magically come forth.

I'm tired....of waiting...of hurting...of questioning.

So, I ran yesterday. (It didn't rain for a change!)

I went out for a slow, easy 5 km run. I got to the T-junction that loops me back to my house to finish my 5 km. Here is a decision point...one I don't normally think to much about. I can go forward and take the long way and do my 5 km or I can turn right and cut it short to 4 km. The thing about the short path...it hurts a little more. There is a hill. Not a big one...I can see the top of it, but it is enough to let my calves feel it. 

This time the decision struck me. I stood there looking at these two paths as if they're where I sit now in life. I could go forward...continuing on my easy path I've choosen in silence and battle out what I'd already set in mind. Take it for the long haul....

Or. Or I could cut it short knowing it is going to burn a little more and open up. I can voice up say what I want and let the cards fall where they may.

I chose the shorten path. And yes....my calves felt it a little more. But you know what else...I saw other runners. I never see them on my other forward path. Yesterday, I saw them. They saw me. It was like they were battling just as I was.....maybe.

Photo courtesy Google: My Motto for the coming week

Recap:

March 4- March 10

Dudes and dudettes....I've been slacking. 

It's been raining. It's late in the season for rain...but it's here....every...EVERY afternoon. I still haven't gotten the morning thing down to where I can fit in a run before work...so when Hubby gets home at 5:30pm is the only chance I get. If it's raining that means no run for me...since I still don't have a treadmill. I'm dying for one but they cost about 1/4 of my monthly salary! So until we're out of debt...that is a NO GO! :-(

Here is what I managed to get done....

2x 5km runs. Both were easy and done in about 38 minutes. I'm wanting faster for my April run...but since I'm not getting out there as much as I'd like; I'll take it!

1x 4km run. This was a fast run and I was back in 25 minutes! Yea for a little bit of speed.

1x yoga day. I learnt I can get some cross training done with the littles involved. Lil Mister enjoyed trying to knock me out of my poses...I enjoyed the extra challenge holding them while he rammed me!

1x core strength train....I really need to do more of this!

Future outlook:

March 18- March 23

4x cross training (2x full body 2x core)

2x Easy runs 4-6 km

Speed: 6x400m @2:25-2:20

Tempo: 2x 1k tempo @ 6:00

10 km long run

Wish me luck and stay tuned next week!

Shana..

Fitness Friday {week 10}

Hey guys! I'm also blogging over at Believe & Inspire today! Go check it out!

What is your niche when working out? You know...that thing that gets you in the groove. Something that gives you that edge to push a little bit further.

I’ve always admired those that get out there, sans headphones and run their marathon. I used to envision them as the ‘real runners’ as opposed to those of us who I guess were just pretending out there.

In reality, we’re all real runners. Some of us just go about it differently! I, for one, cannot hit the pavement without my headphones in my ears. I’ve read all the articles telling me how dangerous it is because I’m not paying attention to my body or that I’m drowning out the background noises. For the record, I only run with one ear piece in so I can still hear the cars coming up, the people singing in their showers, or that annoying mutt of a Jack Russel that swears my ankles are made of biltong.

The music puts a pace for me to hit. It places a beat in my heart to run by. And nothing....nothing can drown out the feeling of pain. You know when you’re pushing to far. Your mind, however, will give up long before your body. So, whoever said a little distraction from myself wasn’t a good thing....I don’t think they’ve spent enough time around me!

This playlist puts me just a few second over 42 minutes. With a warm up kilometre, it puts me at a perfect pace for a decent 5km run. However, you can find tons of suggestions for some awesome playlists just by Googling 5km playlist!

Lose Yourself-Eminem

Firework- Katy Perry

Funhouse- Pink

Welcome to the Jungle- Guns n Roses

I gotta feeling- Black Eyed Peas

Eye of the Tiger-Survivor

Moves Like Jagger- Maroon 5

Where’s you head at- Basement

Boom Boom Pow- Black Eyed Peas

Waka Waka-Shakira

Recap:

February 25- March 3
This past week was a joke. I don't know what is wrong with me. I keep finding excuses. Okay...LJ is feeding when I need to leave in the morning so there is nothing I can do about that except to keep trying to move his feed back. I wake him up at 4am but he just looks at me like WT-Frack is wrong with you and goes back to sleep. Then wakes up at 4:50 and eats. To run and be ready for work I have to be out the door by no later than 5am...This isn't happening! And three days last week it was raining in the evenings so no run there. Sorry but I'm not one for coming home soaking wet :-/ Plus the whole visability with the cars and all!
Our parents were visiting again with our brothers over the weekend so cancel Friday and Saturday. Where does that leave me....
I ran 2x 5km runs in under 40 minutes which does make me happy about spped!
I got in 2x cross training but really this is sad. I could totally do more since I do this at home with the kids. I have no excuse in this category.
If I don't step it up I'm not going to be ready in April!

Future outlook:

March 11-March 17

4x cross training (4x full body)

3x 5km runs combined with 6x strides work

6 km run with 2x 10min bursts at SS

10 km ‘long run’ at a slow, steady pace (last 15 min @SS; 15 min core workout)

Wish me luck and stay tuned next week!

If you’re at all interested in what I’m doing or getting yourself back into shape can I please encourage you to check out two of my favourite mommy runners! These women love being mommies and their health and continually inspire me!

RunFasterMommy

Mommy With Her Running Shoes On

MCM Mama Runs

Shana..

Fitness Friday {week 9}

If you weren't aware, I am currently going head-to-head in an uphill battle. I have PPD. This wasn't an easy thing to accept and the feelings of failure wer quite overwhelming. Yes, I said failure and I will address that in another post.

I use running as a form of therapy. For me, the goals I lay out infront of myself are motivation. For me, the repetative process of putting one foot in front of the other over and over again is relaxing. For me, the victory of having pushed myself through another boundary is freedom.

I take joy and accomplishment in pushing myself past what I feel I can do.

Your body will argue that there is no justifiable reason to continue. Your only recourse is to call on your spirit, which fortunately functions independently of logic.

Tim Noakes, author of The Lore of Running

This quote resignates with my soul. PPD is scary. It forces me to face demons within myself that I didn't know existed. I feel lost and hopeless at times. However, running gives me a victory.

Each time I hit that tarmac, I restore belief in myself.

Each time I push past a limitation, I gain victory in my life.

Each time I refuse to allow the mental barriers to stop my body, I heal myself.

I refuse to accept that I will live inside a dark hole for the rest of my life. There are bad days and there are good days and then there are terrible days, but when I push myself and believe in myself....I gain a little bit of myself back.

Each time my foot hits the asphalt, I've taken another step forward towards a renewed me.
I've started a no coffee Friday because I drink WAY too much coffee. I figured this out through my food journal. Honestly, I already knew this but the journal put it big and bold in my face! So...on Fridays...I DO NOT drink coffee. I will share with you how this makes me feel each week! ;-)

Recap:

February 18- February 24

This week went a little bit better. I didn't get to my goal of 4 runs this week but I did...i DID run a 5km in 38 minutes and I did a nice 8km long run.

I'm enjoying more cross training but really want to look into getting some nice videos like a Zumba. I think that will interest me more! I need to build my strength though. I can feel myself loosing form on the long runs!

Monday- 5 km run 38 minutes/ Bootcamp cross training

Tuesday- got an early morning run in. Only did 15 minutes of running with 10 minutes of walking but I made that 15 minutes count!

Wednesday- Yoga rest

Thursday- 30 minute casual run. I think I hit about 4 km.

Friday- Bootcamp cross training (I love this!!)

Saturday- nothing :-/

Sunday- 8km long run...I did it in 45 minutes! Whoo-hoo

Future outlook:

March 4- March 10

4x cross training (4x full body)

2x 5km runs combined with 6x strides work

6 km run with 3x 5min bursts at SS

8-10 km ‘long run’ at a slow, steady pace (last 15 min @SS; 15 min core workout)

Wish me luck and stay tuned next week!

Shana..

Fitness Fridays {week 8}

Recap:

February 11- February 17

This was a hectic week and signified week two of being back to work. We have yet to get a morning routine down for me to run/train in the mornings and I’m on the verge of giving up! GRR!!!

Okay, you know I won’t give up, but really…it is SO hard to change an infants sleeping patterns. Then he smiles at me with this naughty little smile every morning when I finally pry myself from our duvet and his love to go shower as if he has once again won the battle.

You may have won the battle little dude but I will win this war! ;-)

I got 3 of my 4 runs in and two cross training days. Not as good as I’d hoped but I slacked the weekend. MIL and Vin came to visit us again so I kind of threw my plans out the window. We only see them once a month right now so I wasn’t wasting any time away from them! I don’t regret it mentally but I can feel in my body I’m regretting it physically!! Long breaks are not good right now!

Future outlook:

My training to run 30 minutes in 6 weeks is completed now! I’m super excited and although it is still difficult I’m achieving it! Since I got a week behind, I have to make that up now. This was suppose to be a little bit of a rest for me where I dropped down to only running 3km per run and work myself back up. However, I’m scratching that plan and jumping right in. Let’s see how it goes right! ;-)

February 25- March 3

4x cross training (2x full body 2x abs)

2x 5km runs combined with 5x strides work

6 km run with 2x 5min bursts at SS

6-8 km ‘long run’ at a slow, steady pace

Wish me luck and stay tuned next week!

If you’re at all interested in what I’m doing or getting yourself back into shape can I please encourage you to check out two of my favourite mommy runners! These women love being mommies and their health and continually inspire me!

RunFasterMommy

Mommy With Her Running Shoes On

MCM Mama Runs

Shana..

Fitness Friday {week 7}

Recap:

February 4, 2013-February 10,2013

Not to much was happening. I am proud to say that I got in 3 runs during this week and doubled my distance! It was great.

Pa measured the circle around our block that I like to loop quite often. It is exactly 800m. So that gives me a rough idea of where my km stand. Hubby Dearest and I will take a drive this weekend to measure the longer routes that I tend to frequent so that I can be more accurate.

As for now, time is still my main focus but I am happy to know what distances I am reaching. This will give me a more accurate fixture to go on once I start building distance.

Otherwise, things are pretty slow and I’m still struggling to get out in the morning. LJ wants to feed when it is time for me to be leaving! Therefore my runs cram into my evenings and unfortunately get lost some days!

Future outlook:

I’ve acquired a plan via Womens Health about getting yourself running 30 minutes in 30 days. You can check it out here for more details to how the plan works. I’ve incorporated this into my plans along with some strength training.

As I’ve said, these are my goals. Everything is subject to change based on how my mind and body copes. Instead of a strict day by day plan....I’ve listed my workouts as goals I want to achieve this week!

18 February 2013-24 February 2013

4x runs totalling a minimum of two hours. This week I will hit 30 minutes solid running. For a lot of you this isn’t a lot but for me just having had a child less than 3 months ago this is a really big deal! No breaks...just running!

4x cross training totalling a minimum of two hours! I’m not meeting this goal as of yet so I’m still working on it. It will continue to remain here until I reach it!

Wish me luck and stay tuned next week!

Shana..

{5 for Five} Linky!!

Okay...you're probably totally sick of linky's by now with me this week! But I've found so many great ones I just cannot decide! I'm going to try a few out and narrow them down over the next couple of weeks. But in light of my Fitness Fridays I thought this was a great one!

Monday is the day for {5 for Five} with Jenn and Jessica! This link up allows you to come and share your top 5 goals for the week ahead. Link up with us and share what you accomplished last week AND what goals you're setting for yourself the week ahead.  (Still need a little clarification? That's okay! Check out Jessica's summary of the link up here!)

So....I have an obsession with planners, journals, logs, and goals. I feel the insanity of it all is what keeps me sane! With all that I do (and don't do!), it's a great idea if I share some of my weekly goals with you and how I 'attack' them in my daily life. Goals are the structure to my life!
1) 4x Runs and 4x Cross Training I need to focus on my physical health. I LOVE running. If you didn't know that, clickity click that little tabby in the balloon over there >>>>>>> that says running! I have to plan to get this in with two kids and a ful time job, but it is well worth it! 2) Drink 6x glasses of water a day This seems so simple but jeeze I love my coffee. The more coffee I drink the less I drink water! So...I decided to drink a glass of water with every cup of coffee. 

3) Clean and prep at night! By the time Lil Mister and LJ are asleep, I'm ready to pass out on the couch. However, this ruins my mornings as then I am pressed for time with so much to do and end up not running! So rather I've rallied Hubby Dearest in to help me and we are doing everything at night. Together it takes 30-40 minutes. This is cleaning the kitchen, making lunches, packing school bags, laying out clothes, and ensuring all toys are packed away! It is actually a lot to do if you saw my house by 8 pm! 4) Make cookies with Lil Mister. It seems silly to make this a goal but I must! If I don't plan to do something structured the afternoons will fall into nothing but free play. He needs some structured activities with me. This is a two day project as the dough must sit 24 hours! 5) Organize kids closets Especially LJ! There is so much clothing, toys and blankets it looks like a ToysRUs explosion! It must be sorted....NOW!
So, there you have it! Those are MY goals for the week ahead! What about you?! What are you setting out to do?!  Link up and let us know! 

By the way, if you decided to link up with us today (THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!) we just ask that you follow good 'blogging manners' & do the following itty bitty things....

1) Please use the button (see sidebar) and/or link back to Jenn's or Jessica's blog- or both!
2) Pretty, pretty please follow Jessica  & Jenn! It helps us get to know you better! Plus, we love having new friends!
3) Jump around! Go have fun and meet some new friends! Maybe you'll find motivation in someone else post OR perhaps you'll be able to offer them some encouragement. We have some wonderful ladies linking up with us so I'd encourage you to get to know them! 

Shana..

Fitness Friday {week 6}

There really isn’t anything to recap at the moment. To be honest I had a terrible time for a couple of weeks and totally got of schedule. It was hard trying to get all of us into routine for me to return to work and Lil Mister start back to school again. So I decided to repeat one week of my training. Since then I’ve gotten myself back on track and am looking forward to the next couple of weeks! They’re going to be tough but motivation is my focus!

Speaking of motivation....

I’d like to share with you some of the factors that keep me motivated!

I’m very results oriented. I LOVE to see that I’m getting somewhere. I don’t have a need to be the best but I like to know I’m better than what I was. I keep a journal. In it I record my runs each time and my cross training. There is nothing like looking back over a month and seen my time improve or my distance grow. Hey, I’ve doubled my amount of push ups in three weeks! ;-)

The next motivating factor for me is that after run feeling! There are days I literally try to talk myself out of running. I love running, however, work, kids and a house tend to get me down a lot. When my energy starts to fall, so does my desire to head out the door. I pick up my journal and look at my previous runs. I record notes after a run about how I felt and what I thought. It’s always positive because that is what exercise does! Check out a great idea here to keep up your post running feelings!

Another great motivational factor for me is positive self talk! Read a little by Kim about positive self talk...she’s a pro! ;-) As for me, I am more a visual person. I tell myself you are an amazing mother who is proud of her body. You gave birth to these beautiful boys. You are capable of this. This is nothing!

I love it...call me conceited if you want...when people look at me and say you’re running?!? How? When? You see, so many women have so many excuses why they can’t do it. Their weight, their hips or knees. They don’t have time with the kids. They don’t have money for gear.

Well, guess what! I was over weight before too. And I know lots of women who are out walking and even running REGARDLESS of their weight. If you have an ailment, typically you are told by doctors to exercise. So if that is your excuse then I’ll only ask what is your excuse for not getting to a doctor and finding out what physical movements you can be doing?!? And for the time one...well that I UNDERSTAND!

It takes self discipline and a strong desire. With two kids and a job, I have to PLAN and WANT to run. It takes some support! It takes some getting used to. But I truly feel that I am a better mom because I am taking this time to do something I love to do.

Exercise releases so much amazingly good energy. It doesn’t matter how bad my day has been, when I get out and run, I come back in a better mood.

So....what is your excuse for not getting moving? Can I encourage you to talk to me about it? Can I encourage you to change your attitude?

Or...if you are like me...a mom just trying to get out there...can I give you some support and encouragement too? Let me know!

Future outlook:

I’ve acquired a plan via Womens Health about getting yourself running 30 minutes in 30 days. You can check it out here for more details to how the plan works. I’ve incorporated this into my plans along with some strength training.

I’ve added in an additional strength workout on Thursdays this week. I plan to keep up the 4 days double a week.

As I’ve said, these are my goals. Everything is subject to change based on how my mind and body copes. Instead of a strict day by day plan....I’ve listed my workouts as goals I want to achieve this week!

4x runs totalling a minimum of two hours. These are still a combination of walk/run but I’m up to 20 minutes of running and would like to hit 25 minutes at a time. Distance is not a focus yet!

4x cross training totalling a minimum of two hours!

Drink 6x glasses water a day.

Wish me luck and stay tuned next week!

If you’re at all interested in what I’m doing or getting yourself back into shape can I please encourage you to check out two of my favourite mommy runners! These women love being mommies and their health and continually inspire me!

Pink Dryer Lint

RunFasterMommy

Mommy With Her Running Shoes On

 If you haven't already done it today...get a clickity clickin on that there button, kay?? ;-)

Shana..

Fitness Friday {3}

Recap 7 January- 13 January:

Jan 7: 20 minutes walk/run; 20 minutes full body workout
I got in the walk/run. The workout unfortunately was missed because the kids were running a muk when I got back to the house! Hubby Dearest must still get used to being alone with both kids! ;-) I guess I must alotte for a time of adjustment for him as well! Definetly realized I need better sports bras! The girls are much bigger with me breast feeding and I need support I didn't use to need! ;-)
Jan 8: 20 minutes walk/run; 20 minutes abs workout
Again the run was a success! I was super into it and even pushed myself a little faster than I expected. Understand I'm not running at a fast pace or even the full time. It is a walk warm up then run one minute walk one minute rotations. Each run I add one more rotation. I got in half of my workout before the children were needing my attention again!
Jan 9: Semi-rest day 30 minutes yoga
I did manage to squeeze in a short yoga session but not the 30 minutes.
Jan 10: 20 minutes walk/run
This is where everything went wrong! Friends stopped by our house just as I was to be heading out for my run. Run was postponed until Friday morning!
Jan 11: 20 minutes abs workout
Unfortunately (actually we really needed this so it was a blessing!) we woke up to big thunderstorms and since I don't own a treadmill my run was postponed again! Yet, we had plans to braai Friday night again so another day of no training :-/
Jan 12: 20 minutes walk/run; 30 minutes yoga
Again this was a flop. I'm very disappointed in myself but I believe I set my expectations too high. Physically I feel I can handle the plan but schedule wise I wanted to much too quickly. This is a time of adjustment for my entire family and I need to be consious of the changes for them as well. However, I need to remember that this is the one thing that is strictly for me that I do and need to make it more of a priority!
Future outlook:
I’ve acquired a plan via Womens Health about getting yourself running 30 minutes in 30 days. You can check it out here for more details to how the plan works. I’ve incorporated this into my plans along with some strength training.
I’ve added in an additional strength workout on Thursdays this week. I plan to keep up the 4 days double a week.
As I’ve said, these are my goals. Everything is subject to change based on how my mind and body copes.

Jan 21: 30 minutes walk/run; 30 minute yoga aerobics
Jan 22: 30 minutes walk/run; 30 minute full body workout
Jan 23: Semi-rest day 30 minutes yoga
Jan 24: 30 minutes walk/run; 30 minute yoga aerobics
Jan 25: 30 minute full body workout
Jan 26: 30 minutes walk/run; 30 minutes yoga

Wish me luck and stay tuned next week!

If you’re at all interested in what I’m doing or getting yourself back into shape can I please encourage you to check out two of my favourite mommy runners! These women love being mommies and their health and continually inspire me!

RunFasterMommy
Mommy With Her Running Shoes On

Shana..

Fitness Friday {2}

I find myself through the first couple weeks of my new fitness plans. I assure you that it is more difficult than I had imagined (I’m a glass half full girl!) but I’m coping well! You’re probably eager to hear about how week one went?? Well...

Recap 31 December- 6 January:
It wasn’t as good as I’d hoped. My plans were to walk everyday and get in 2 workouts. I only got in 1 workout and walked twice. It is harder than I imagined to get the kids into a routine. I have a feeling this is going to take a few weeks to get down right. LJ was doing excellent since birth at feeding. His timing was perfect for me to get in an early run. However, now that I wanted to begin training again he has moved his routine around completely and is cluster feeding from 4am to about 10am! I can’t get him settled long enough for me to be out the door! I’m holding thumbs for the future weeks!
I will say my motivation is good. I’m eager to get out there and love the feeling I have once I’m done. It is bringing back a lot of memories and I enjoy that I feel I’m setting a good example about a healthy lifestyle for my children! I’m rewarding myself with ice cream since my usual Sunday night glass of wine as a reward for meeting my goals is out the window what with breastfeeding and all! ;-)
Future outlook:
I’ve acquired a plan via Womens Health about getting yourself running 30 minutes in 30 days. You can check it out here for more details to how the plan works. I’ve incorporated this into my plans along with some strength training.

As I’ve said, these are my goals. Everything is subject to change based on how my mind and body copes.

Jan 14: 25 minutes walk/run; 20 minutes full body workout
Jan 15: 25 minutes walk/run; 20 minutes abs workout
Jan 16: Semi-rest day 30 minutes yoga
Jan 17: 25 minutes walk/run
Jan 18: 20 minutes abs workout
Jan 19: 25 minutes walk/run; 30 minutes yoga

Wish me luck and stay tuned next week!



Shana..