Lately, I've been having quite a few people ask me questions about how to eat healthier, reach their weight loss goals and change their body composition. I find that my answer is generally always the same. Eat healthy..food! Drink healthy...water! Do cardio and weight training most days of the week. Plain and simple...no magic pills...no special powders...no secret.
When people ask me how many calories I eat, they seem quite shocked when I tell them it's about 2000 calories per day. When I was training for the competition, it was around 2500 calories per day. (Friend me on the "my fitness pal" app and see what I eat :)
Another common question is: Did/Do I take supplements? The only "supplement" I used/use was/is protein powder to help me reach my daily protein goal. I do not have different bottles of different pills lined up in my bathroom, I get my nutrition directly from food...the "pills" I take are the ones prescribed by my MD...plus, fish oil, Vitamin D and Target Brand Multi vitamins.
I love it when people ask me questions...I enjoy sharing my struggles and successes...what has worked, what I doubted and what has also shocked me (ie: eating MORE resulted in a lower body fat and higher muscle weight...probably the healthiest I've EVER been in my life).
I will be starting a "transition" nutrition plan on Monday. Christine has written out guidelines for me to reach on weight training and non weight training days. Both with different Protein, Carbohydrate and Fat targets. The intent of this plan is to provide the nutrition needed for me to continue to add on muscle weight. I will be eating a lot more...again!
I still get "cheat" meals...which tonight was homemade chocolate chip~oatmeal~peanut butter cookies--my favorite!! The dough tasted incredible!!
I am trying to "enjoy" food, but am still recovering from pneumonia, so, the focus of my eating the last couple weeks has been to give my body healthy foods to hopefully help me recover faster. It's been a slow process...Patience...I'm working on it...
I plan on tackling each day with a positive attitude and will be thankful that I have the ability and support to continue on my fitness journey.
Let's see what this ol' body can do...again...
Sunday, November 17, 2013
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
Just in case you were wondering..Yes, I am stubborn!
I've been asked a couple times when I'm going to start blogging again...well, might as well be now!
I can't believe it's only been 3, almost 4 weeks, since Brittani and I walked on stage. I keep looking at the pictures and thinking back to that day and still can't believe it is already done!
So, now what? I've met with Christine since the show to get some help with the off season time. From the judges critiques, I need to work on growing my shoulders and arms to make my physique look more balanced. I don't have a waist...that's just how it is...but I can change how my upper body compares to my lower body by building up the muscle bellies above the navel!
Recommendations are to put away the food scale..enjoy food...don't worry about lifting and just get back to "normal" for a couple weeks. Well, that's kinda hard to do after 12 weeks of structure. Even for someone like me that really isn't a "structured" person. Yes, I do like to keep things in order (to a certain point--my house is NOT always tidy:)...and I do like to keep appointments (but don't really LIKE to be told what to do!)...so, when you've adapted a lifestyle that revolves around eating, measuring, lifting, scheduling, counting and posing...it's hard to just quit!
Our bodies are funny...the mind may say one thing, but the body can really tell you what to do...for example...I did stay away from lifting (for about a week). I did put away the food scale, measuring cups and spoons. I did enjoy treats and sweets and a beer or two. I returned to teaching my balls-to-the-wall~let's get this~ high energy~pinging off the walls ZUMBA classes. Then what does the body do? Says "hold on their, Missy, I have another plan for you!"
It started with a sinus infection...then, just yesterday, was diagnosed with pneumonia. Did I feel this coming on?? Yep...I can tell when my body is tired, when I'm pushing it too much, and when I'm starting to feel like I need to rest (it's ONE of the positives for having Rheumatoid Arthritis)...but did I listen..of course not. I kept going...pushing forward and now along with an inhaler and a strong Kick-the-bug-in-the-ass antibiotic...I'm recovering.
I guess you could say I am lucky...I really haven't had a fever..maybe catching the sinus infection early and starting on one antibiotic contained the sickness.
I'm looking forward to spending some down time this weekend with my hubby...removing me from my daily schedule is a good thing. Looking forward to getting back to normal and working on filling up my muscle bellies for my next upcoming competition...
I can't believe it's only been 3, almost 4 weeks, since Brittani and I walked on stage. I keep looking at the pictures and thinking back to that day and still can't believe it is already done!
So, now what? I've met with Christine since the show to get some help with the off season time. From the judges critiques, I need to work on growing my shoulders and arms to make my physique look more balanced. I don't have a waist...that's just how it is...but I can change how my upper body compares to my lower body by building up the muscle bellies above the navel!
Recommendations are to put away the food scale..enjoy food...don't worry about lifting and just get back to "normal" for a couple weeks. Well, that's kinda hard to do after 12 weeks of structure. Even for someone like me that really isn't a "structured" person. Yes, I do like to keep things in order (to a certain point--my house is NOT always tidy:)...and I do like to keep appointments (but don't really LIKE to be told what to do!)...so, when you've adapted a lifestyle that revolves around eating, measuring, lifting, scheduling, counting and posing...it's hard to just quit!
Our bodies are funny...the mind may say one thing, but the body can really tell you what to do...for example...I did stay away from lifting (for about a week). I did put away the food scale, measuring cups and spoons. I did enjoy treats and sweets and a beer or two. I returned to teaching my balls-to-the-wall~let's get this~ high energy~pinging off the walls ZUMBA classes. Then what does the body do? Says "hold on their, Missy, I have another plan for you!"
It started with a sinus infection...then, just yesterday, was diagnosed with pneumonia. Did I feel this coming on?? Yep...I can tell when my body is tired, when I'm pushing it too much, and when I'm starting to feel like I need to rest (it's ONE of the positives for having Rheumatoid Arthritis)...but did I listen..of course not. I kept going...pushing forward and now along with an inhaler and a strong Kick-the-bug-in-the-ass antibiotic...I'm recovering.
I guess you could say I am lucky...I really haven't had a fever..maybe catching the sinus infection early and starting on one antibiotic contained the sickness.
I'm looking forward to spending some down time this weekend with my hubby...removing me from my daily schedule is a good thing. Looking forward to getting back to normal and working on filling up my muscle bellies for my next upcoming competition...
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
The Day of Many Firsts....
The Big Show is done. Saturday was a day that is still replaying in my head. The nervousness before going on stage, the shaking legs, the quivering lips while trying to smile, the lubed body and taped down suit, peeing through a cup (so you don't wreck your spray tan), getting spray tanned naked!!!, the pretty make up, dolled up hair and the BLING!! It was a long day that went by very fast.
The event on Saturday was the largest to date for the NPC North Star Event. I had 12 girls in my Figure Masters 40+ group, and 10 in the Figure Class D group. Brittani had 12 in her Figure Class C group and 5 in her Physique Class B. The different class letters represent height classes. Sometimes, due to number of participants, they can change which class you will be put in. This happened to Brittani. Based on her height, she should've competed in Physique Class A(under 5'4"), but they moved her up to even out the two classes. I placed 4th in both my classes, Brittani placed 5th in her Physique class.
I was nervous all day..from the time we work up, 4:20am, until we walked off the stage one last time, I kept having to do my etch-a-sketch shake down to keep my body relaxed. I wanted to make sure I went out there and performed how I had been practicing...relaxed, strong, confident...but when you walk across the stage and into the little box and it's only you in front of 10 judges...it is definitely a different feeling. I remembered what Brittani and Christine told me..look at the judges, don't look out at the crowd. Smile. Pretend you are practicing at home and go through your quarter turns and model poses looking relaxed. Flare your legs, grip your hamstrings, spread your lats, relax but pop your shoulders...and...I feel I did it!
In my first blog post I stated that I wanted to go through this journey giving it everything I had, no regrets, no complaints, no cheating, being true to me and most of all to have FUN. I can honestly say I accomplished all of that. There is nothing I would change about the process. I followed the nutrition guidelines to a "T"...didn't skip a weight training session...followed Christine's weekly suggestions, cut down on my cardio...and Practiced!!!
This was all new to me. Before I started, I really didn't think I could do it...but as time progressed and I started to see the changes, I began to believe that what I was doing was working. My daily motivation was fueled by seeing, feeling and knowing that all my daily Fitness Pal logging, cutting down on cardio, weight training and practicing was paying off. It was worth my time and effort to continue the journey (I call that a good ROI-Return On Investment!!). The hard work was worth the end result...I am proud of myself...that is hard for me to say, but, I'm making myself acknowledge it.
I set daily, weekly, monthly and "by show time" goals...yes, it was hard at times. I encountered many challenges. I travelled to Denmark for my work and had to plan my nutrition, cardio and strength training sessions accordingly. I travel a lot with my job, and had to make sure that even after a LONG day, I still had my training sessions on my schedule. I packed my food and water every morning. I planned ahead and made sure I was set up to succeed.
My message to anyone is that if I can do it...so can YOU! It's like any decision you make in your life...to get married, have children, go on a vacation, to work out at night, or, even a simple date night..you PLAN, PREPARE and make sure you know what you need to do to make it successful.
Don't look at the end of the journey and make the decision...divide it out over a course of a day, week, month...even hours...my "real job" time was challenging, especially when I had to make sure I ate "my food" when doing programs in clinics...the food you love will always be there, it's not going to disappear if you don't have it today (that's what I would say to myself), or, I used the reverse psychology method and would tell myself that I had already ate it and was so full I couldn't take another bite!!
Now, is the off season. I've been asked if I plan on competing again. There are a couple shows in the Spring (Duluth, Fargo and Minneapolis)...I will be at one of them for sure...keep following me on my blog to see which one it is :)
Thank you for all your support for my first show. Your feedback was and is very motivating to me...more than I think you realize. Hearing your encouraging words, sharing that it made you laugh while you read it, or, that it explained/clarified some of your questions about my process, was so helpful to ME! I look forward to sharing many more "firsts" with you...
The event on Saturday was the largest to date for the NPC North Star Event. I had 12 girls in my Figure Masters 40+ group, and 10 in the Figure Class D group. Brittani had 12 in her Figure Class C group and 5 in her Physique Class B. The different class letters represent height classes. Sometimes, due to number of participants, they can change which class you will be put in. This happened to Brittani. Based on her height, she should've competed in Physique Class A(under 5'4"), but they moved her up to even out the two classes. I placed 4th in both my classes, Brittani placed 5th in her Physique class.
I was nervous all day..from the time we work up, 4:20am, until we walked off the stage one last time, I kept having to do my etch-a-sketch shake down to keep my body relaxed. I wanted to make sure I went out there and performed how I had been practicing...relaxed, strong, confident...but when you walk across the stage and into the little box and it's only you in front of 10 judges...it is definitely a different feeling. I remembered what Brittani and Christine told me..look at the judges, don't look out at the crowd. Smile. Pretend you are practicing at home and go through your quarter turns and model poses looking relaxed. Flare your legs, grip your hamstrings, spread your lats, relax but pop your shoulders...and...I feel I did it!
In my first blog post I stated that I wanted to go through this journey giving it everything I had, no regrets, no complaints, no cheating, being true to me and most of all to have FUN. I can honestly say I accomplished all of that. There is nothing I would change about the process. I followed the nutrition guidelines to a "T"...didn't skip a weight training session...followed Christine's weekly suggestions, cut down on my cardio...and Practiced!!!
This was all new to me. Before I started, I really didn't think I could do it...but as time progressed and I started to see the changes, I began to believe that what I was doing was working. My daily motivation was fueled by seeing, feeling and knowing that all my daily Fitness Pal logging, cutting down on cardio, weight training and practicing was paying off. It was worth my time and effort to continue the journey (I call that a good ROI-Return On Investment!!). The hard work was worth the end result...I am proud of myself...that is hard for me to say, but, I'm making myself acknowledge it.
I set daily, weekly, monthly and "by show time" goals...yes, it was hard at times. I encountered many challenges. I travelled to Denmark for my work and had to plan my nutrition, cardio and strength training sessions accordingly. I travel a lot with my job, and had to make sure that even after a LONG day, I still had my training sessions on my schedule. I packed my food and water every morning. I planned ahead and made sure I was set up to succeed.
My message to anyone is that if I can do it...so can YOU! It's like any decision you make in your life...to get married, have children, go on a vacation, to work out at night, or, even a simple date night..you PLAN, PREPARE and make sure you know what you need to do to make it successful.
Don't look at the end of the journey and make the decision...divide it out over a course of a day, week, month...even hours...my "real job" time was challenging, especially when I had to make sure I ate "my food" when doing programs in clinics...the food you love will always be there, it's not going to disappear if you don't have it today (that's what I would say to myself), or, I used the reverse psychology method and would tell myself that I had already ate it and was so full I couldn't take another bite!!
Now, is the off season. I've been asked if I plan on competing again. There are a couple shows in the Spring (Duluth, Fargo and Minneapolis)...I will be at one of them for sure...keep following me on my blog to see which one it is :)
Thank you for all your support for my first show. Your feedback was and is very motivating to me...more than I think you realize. Hearing your encouraging words, sharing that it made you laugh while you read it, or, that it explained/clarified some of your questions about my process, was so helpful to ME! I look forward to sharing many more "firsts" with you...
Week 1 Versus Week 12
Friday, October 11, 2013
My Boys...
Today, we venture off to Eagan. Making our final food preps and packing all our bling!
Did I sleep last night...no! Between getting up to pee at least 5 times and not being able to turn off my brain...it was a long night.
The best way to wake up (besides Folgers in your cup- actually, caribou in mine:)...is to a lovely bouquet of flowers and a card waiting for you, from your husband...Yep, that's how my day started :).
Such encouraging and sweet words that man can write...he has been so supportive throughout the last 12 weeks. He's been my weight lifting buddy...my grocery guy...my running errands man and my best friend. Always asking, what can I do for you this week? What do you and Brittani need help with? I'm going to the grocery story, do you need more protein??
He's watched me practice my posing, and even though he always gives me positive feedback, he's also been honest to tell me if I need to adjust anything. He doesn't know exactly what to look at, or how something should actually look, but when I tell him what to evaluate for me, he has been honest to say what I need to hear...the truth.
He has kept the food he likes to eat (chocolate, cookies, doughnuts and gooey desserts) out of our view...he will bring them to the basement so we didn't have to look at them. He will ask "Can I have some of that fish, or do you and Brittani need it?"
I couldn't have come this far without his support and encouragement. On the weeks where I felt that I was not progressing, was frustrated with my progress,~he was there to tell me to keep at it, keep going, your doing great..you got this!!
The support from him and my boys has made this journey bearable. I am a lucky girl! I know that know matter how tomorrow ends up, I am coming home to a house that will still be the same...full of love, support, laughter and good food :)
Did I sleep last night...no! Between getting up to pee at least 5 times and not being able to turn off my brain...it was a long night.
The best way to wake up (besides Folgers in your cup- actually, caribou in mine:)...is to a lovely bouquet of flowers and a card waiting for you, from your husband...Yep, that's how my day started :).
Such encouraging and sweet words that man can write...he has been so supportive throughout the last 12 weeks. He's been my weight lifting buddy...my grocery guy...my running errands man and my best friend. Always asking, what can I do for you this week? What do you and Brittani need help with? I'm going to the grocery story, do you need more protein??
He's watched me practice my posing, and even though he always gives me positive feedback, he's also been honest to tell me if I need to adjust anything. He doesn't know exactly what to look at, or how something should actually look, but when I tell him what to evaluate for me, he has been honest to say what I need to hear...the truth.
He has kept the food he likes to eat (chocolate, cookies, doughnuts and gooey desserts) out of our view...he will bring them to the basement so we didn't have to look at them. He will ask "Can I have some of that fish, or do you and Brittani need it?"
I couldn't have come this far without his support and encouragement. On the weeks where I felt that I was not progressing, was frustrated with my progress,~he was there to tell me to keep at it, keep going, your doing great..you got this!!
The support from him and my boys has made this journey bearable. I am a lucky girl! I know that know matter how tomorrow ends up, I am coming home to a house that will still be the same...full of love, support, laughter and good food :)
Thursday, October 10, 2013
Who's counting??
I wake up everymorning, feeling like P-Diddy...no, not really...I wake up every morning thinking...what day is it? How many days til the show? What can I have for breakfast today?
This morning breakfast consisted of sweet potato, egg whites and asparagus...and of course, black coffee :). Today and tomorrow are days of real prep...certain foods at certain times...no more oatmeal or added fats (That means Peanut Butter!!)...decrease in water (thank goodness-I was peeing it out as fast as it was coming in the last couple days!). Practice, Practice, Practice!
We had our last appointment with Christine yesterday-final day to have her fine tune our poses-words of encouragement-review of nutrition guidelines for the next couple days and prepare us mentally for our stage performance. She will have another "look" at us on Friday and Saturday, but the prep now involves having the body rest and following the final nutrition roadmap.
As I drove to the appointment, I thought back to how I felt the going to the first one with her...nervous, unsure, anxious, tired from not sleeping the night before...but on yesterday's drive, I was excited to show her (and Brittani) how hard I have been working on making my poses look relaxed and natural, show her my confidence in knowing that what I've done up to this point has been the correct path to bring me this far. I'm still fine tuning the "relaxation" part~ relax the hands, relax the shoulders-but still POP the deltoid, spread the lats and flare the quads...
A good friend of mine is a model and I asked her what she thinks about when she's in front of the camera to look so calm and relaxed (and beautiful!)...her reply is advice that I am using, she said "You need to tell yourself that you DESERVE to be up there! You've worked hard, you look great, you need to keep telling yourself that you DESERVE this!"
Two Days from today is the show..but, who's counting? I am!!
This morning breakfast consisted of sweet potato, egg whites and asparagus...and of course, black coffee :). Today and tomorrow are days of real prep...certain foods at certain times...no more oatmeal or added fats (That means Peanut Butter!!)...decrease in water (thank goodness-I was peeing it out as fast as it was coming in the last couple days!). Practice, Practice, Practice!
We had our last appointment with Christine yesterday-final day to have her fine tune our poses-words of encouragement-review of nutrition guidelines for the next couple days and prepare us mentally for our stage performance. She will have another "look" at us on Friday and Saturday, but the prep now involves having the body rest and following the final nutrition roadmap.
As I drove to the appointment, I thought back to how I felt the going to the first one with her...nervous, unsure, anxious, tired from not sleeping the night before...but on yesterday's drive, I was excited to show her (and Brittani) how hard I have been working on making my poses look relaxed and natural, show her my confidence in knowing that what I've done up to this point has been the correct path to bring me this far. I'm still fine tuning the "relaxation" part~ relax the hands, relax the shoulders-but still POP the deltoid, spread the lats and flare the quads...
A good friend of mine is a model and I asked her what she thinks about when she's in front of the camera to look so calm and relaxed (and beautiful!)...her reply is advice that I am using, she said "You need to tell yourself that you DESERVE to be up there! You've worked hard, you look great, you need to keep telling yourself that you DESERVE this!"
Two Days from today is the show..but, who's counting? I am!!
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Go! Pose! Win!
Still prepping...getting more nervous, and excited! Yes, excited! I have to keep telling myself that this is gonna be FUN! You get to dress up in sparkly clothes--I mean, sliver of sparkly cloth--wear 5in heels, have someone spray tan your WHOLE body, do your make up and fix your hair! How FUN is THAT!!??
Yep, I'm psyching myself up. Practicing inside and outside my head everyday. I wake up in the middle of the night to pee at least 3x and every time I envision myself walking out on stage (as I walk to the bathroom), going through my quarter turns (as I'm evacuating), and then walking back to my "place" on stage (as I walk back to bed)! Call me crazy, but, I am using EVERY opportunity I can to practice ;)
Teaching my last ZUMBA class last night was surreal- I kept thinking, "it's getting so close, this is the week!"...I was pretty low on energy, (no carbs on board), but seeing all the smiling faces and hearing the whoop-whoops just reminded me of how lucky I am to be surrounded by such a wonderful group of women! The energy at the studio is something I've never experienced in my 24+ years of teaching classes...such a buzz last night...two members/friends made a sign with body doubles of Brittani and I and members are writing encouraging words on it. GO! POSE! WIN! Another member/friend is making baked goodies for Brittani and me (we sent her our recipes of choice :). The hugs, cards and well wishes I am receiving is amazing!
I've tried to keep quiet about most of this journey, sharing bits and pieces to those that inquire, writing this blog to give some insight to what goes through my head and what I've learned along the way. But now I feel that the more I talk about it, the more real it becomes. I can now, finally, see myself going through with it. Sometimes, I may share too much??? yes? no?...my TRX class learned last night about how we have to prep the skin for the spray tan session (shaving and exfoliating best practices were shared! :).
Yes, I'm nervous....Yes, I'm scared...Yes, I'm excited...not only for me, but for Brittani too...I LOVE watching her compete and I am now practicing how to have a back stage quiet voice when I cheer for her. I am a LOUD and PROUD mama! She is and always will be my #1 (even though "A" is the second letter in my name and the first letter of the alphabet - those that were in our circuit class last week know what I'm talkin' about ;0). I'm ready to G0! POSE! and WIN!!
Yep, I'm psyching myself up. Practicing inside and outside my head everyday. I wake up in the middle of the night to pee at least 3x and every time I envision myself walking out on stage (as I walk to the bathroom), going through my quarter turns (as I'm evacuating), and then walking back to my "place" on stage (as I walk back to bed)! Call me crazy, but, I am using EVERY opportunity I can to practice ;)
Teaching my last ZUMBA class last night was surreal- I kept thinking, "it's getting so close, this is the week!"...I was pretty low on energy, (no carbs on board), but seeing all the smiling faces and hearing the whoop-whoops just reminded me of how lucky I am to be surrounded by such a wonderful group of women! The energy at the studio is something I've never experienced in my 24+ years of teaching classes...such a buzz last night...two members/friends made a sign with body doubles of Brittani and I and members are writing encouraging words on it. GO! POSE! WIN! Another member/friend is making baked goodies for Brittani and me (we sent her our recipes of choice :). The hugs, cards and well wishes I am receiving is amazing!
I've tried to keep quiet about most of this journey, sharing bits and pieces to those that inquire, writing this blog to give some insight to what goes through my head and what I've learned along the way. But now I feel that the more I talk about it, the more real it becomes. I can now, finally, see myself going through with it. Sometimes, I may share too much??? yes? no?...my TRX class learned last night about how we have to prep the skin for the spray tan session (shaving and exfoliating best practices were shared! :).
Yes, I'm nervous....Yes, I'm scared...Yes, I'm excited...not only for me, but for Brittani too...I LOVE watching her compete and I am now practicing how to have a back stage quiet voice when I cheer for her. I am a LOUD and PROUD mama! She is and always will be my #1 (even though "A" is the second letter in my name and the first letter of the alphabet - those that were in our circuit class last week know what I'm talkin' about ;0). I'm ready to G0! POSE! and WIN!!
Sunday, October 6, 2013
Peak Week...Bring it!
Today is our cleanse. Fish. Veggies. Water. The end...
It's a good thing that Brittani and I are doing this together. We just look at each other and know what we are thinking...Food!
I've kept myself busy today, which has helped keep my mind off of everything I'd like to be eating. When I have sat down, I remind myself that we are doing this for a reason. We are in the "peak week"..where we get to really see what the body will do and to prepare it for the event. Deplete the muscle bellies...then fill them up!
I love talking to my son, Tanner, about what we are doing each week. He is so encouraging. My conversations with him make me want to continue to do my best...mainly, so he wont be totally embarrassed to see his mom on stage with her sliver of sparkly material and hooker shoes on :).
Tomorrow is my last night of teaching classes. Feels strange to think I will be at the studio, not out of town for work, and will not be teaching my normal schedule. If I'm teaching, or not, I look forward to the time with my studio family. They are such positive, motivating and supportive people...and their energy is spectacular! How can you not want to be surrounded by such goodness??
This journey has almost reached it's final destination. Buckle up people, I'm looking forward to a smooth landing!!
It's a good thing that Brittani and I are doing this together. We just look at each other and know what we are thinking...Food!
I've kept myself busy today, which has helped keep my mind off of everything I'd like to be eating. When I have sat down, I remind myself that we are doing this for a reason. We are in the "peak week"..where we get to really see what the body will do and to prepare it for the event. Deplete the muscle bellies...then fill them up!
I love talking to my son, Tanner, about what we are doing each week. He is so encouraging. My conversations with him make me want to continue to do my best...mainly, so he wont be totally embarrassed to see his mom on stage with her sliver of sparkly material and hooker shoes on :).
Tomorrow is my last night of teaching classes. Feels strange to think I will be at the studio, not out of town for work, and will not be teaching my normal schedule. If I'm teaching, or not, I look forward to the time with my studio family. They are such positive, motivating and supportive people...and their energy is spectacular! How can you not want to be surrounded by such goodness??
This journey has almost reached it's final destination. Buckle up people, I'm looking forward to a smooth landing!!
Saturday, October 5, 2013
Have I Told You....
We are now one week away from the "Show". It's going to be quite an interesting week! I plan on blogging daily...so, be prepared for...well, anything!
Since Wednesday, I have been carb loading, up to 350g per day. ie: lots of oatmeal, brown rice pasta, sweet potatoes and rice cakes! I was given the clearance to up my intensity for a couple days when I teach, which has resulted in quite a few sweat puddles in classes the last couple days (sorry if I've christened you with my droplets, ladies :). Tomorrow is our cleanse...day of vegies, fish and water. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday is lower carbs days for me. Brittani is used to this type of schedule-it will be new for me.
The last 12 weeks has opened my eyes to see first hand how every body is different. Not only in the obvious, (physical appearance), but rather in how it "works". My nutrition guidelines have been so different compared to Brittani - almost to a point where I feel it is not fair. It's not fair for her to have to watch me eat large amounts of food, while she is so regimented in her day to day requirements. It's not fair to her that she has to work so hard with additional cardio sessions, while I had to scale back. I have watched her pull herself up and keep fighting over and over again. Her determination to stick to it is something I wish others could see. I don't think I could've done it if I was in her shoes. She is living proof that you don't let anything stand in your way of finishing what you started. Have I told you that I love my little girl?? :0)
So, now we prepare. My suit is ready to go. I have my bling-bling to make me really sparkle when I'm under the bright lights. I'm doing my mental imagery daily~practicing my posing~completing my last chance workouts~ still following my master's plan (aka Christine), and have accepted that everything I've done up to this point is going to determine how this journey ends.
I'm looking forward to being on the other side...I've been the nervous lady in the crowd fidgeting waiting for her daughter to take the stage...the LOUD lady that is right behind the judges yelling "Go Britt!!! NICE! Make it big!"...the HYPER lady that is running around doing what she can to help her daughter get through her day. I will always be that lady, but this time, I will be on the other side of the curtain...with my daughter...Have I told you... that I love my little girl?
Since Wednesday, I have been carb loading, up to 350g per day. ie: lots of oatmeal, brown rice pasta, sweet potatoes and rice cakes! I was given the clearance to up my intensity for a couple days when I teach, which has resulted in quite a few sweat puddles in classes the last couple days (sorry if I've christened you with my droplets, ladies :). Tomorrow is our cleanse...day of vegies, fish and water. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday is lower carbs days for me. Brittani is used to this type of schedule-it will be new for me.
The last 12 weeks has opened my eyes to see first hand how every body is different. Not only in the obvious, (physical appearance), but rather in how it "works". My nutrition guidelines have been so different compared to Brittani - almost to a point where I feel it is not fair. It's not fair for her to have to watch me eat large amounts of food, while she is so regimented in her day to day requirements. It's not fair to her that she has to work so hard with additional cardio sessions, while I had to scale back. I have watched her pull herself up and keep fighting over and over again. Her determination to stick to it is something I wish others could see. I don't think I could've done it if I was in her shoes. She is living proof that you don't let anything stand in your way of finishing what you started. Have I told you that I love my little girl?? :0)
So, now we prepare. My suit is ready to go. I have my bling-bling to make me really sparkle when I'm under the bright lights. I'm doing my mental imagery daily~practicing my posing~completing my last chance workouts~ still following my master's plan (aka Christine), and have accepted that everything I've done up to this point is going to determine how this journey ends.
I'm looking forward to being on the other side...I've been the nervous lady in the crowd fidgeting waiting for her daughter to take the stage...the LOUD lady that is right behind the judges yelling "Go Britt!!! NICE! Make it big!"...the HYPER lady that is running around doing what she can to help her daughter get through her day. I will always be that lady, but this time, I will be on the other side of the curtain...with my daughter...Have I told you... that I love my little girl?
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Two Weeks...
Two weeks from today, at this time, I will be back stage and will be done with pre judging, or, still waiting to go out and compete. The morning session is when the judges make their placement decisions. Who will be in the Top 5, Bottom 5...then placing based upon comparison and symmetry the #1,2,3,4 and 5 finishers to receive the hardware!
I've been asked how I'm feeling...nervous? excited? ready to be done? And the answer is: TRUE! All of the above. I am nervous..I keep looking at my "suit" and pray that the glue gods will be at full strength and keep it in place while I have it on. I am excited...stage~bright lights~bling-bling~...but, ready to be done?? Not really! I have enjoyed this journey. I have found a new appreciation for eating healthy consistently and the importance of fueling the body appropriately. I look forward to seeing how my body responds when I push it just a little more each week to make it stronger and bigger~without feeling like a puffed up marshmallow.
My Rheumatoid Arthritis has not interfered with my goals each week. My shoulder joints have always been a bit of a problem area for me, but, through keeping up with stretching and doing my A.R.T. therapy with my wonderful Chiropractor, (Dr. Brian Paulson), it has not been a setback on building that area.
I have even adhered to the decreasing my aerobic output each week...we are now on week 4! At first I was very scared to take away something that I look forward to everyday...but, I do feel that having a couple days off is a GOOD thing to let the body recover and build between sessions. I love how my ZUMBA family is so supportive and are also there to make sure I don't get over zealous during our favorite songs!! That is soooooooo hard to dooooooo..... (I'm wining...).
I look forward to seeing Christine every week! This past week I heard the word that almost made me pee in my bikini...Perfect! That's how she described my posing...I couldn't believe it!! Seriously...Perfect!! She also gave me a lecture...I mean pep talk...about what is gonna happen on stage...ie: stop comparing myself to other competitors (esp looking at their pictures on Facebook-which, I haven't done since that one time!!). I really don't want to end my relationship with this wonderful person...so positive, inspiring, motivating and has a fantastic calming affect on me (I hear her voice in my head every time I practice...relax...spread...roll out..roll back...THERE! NICE!). If you are even considering doing a competition, you need to remember two words: Christine Bongiovanni!!
So..as we prep for the final two week, my nutritional requirements are up a little bit (more carb, protein and fat)~No Dairy or Wheat...amazingly, I feel more hungry!! I can't wait to eat!
I was asked today what I want to taste/eat "first thing" after the show...I really didn't know how to answer it, and after thinking about it for awhile, I came up with the perfect answer: the taste of VICTORY!!
I've been asked how I'm feeling...nervous? excited? ready to be done? And the answer is: TRUE! All of the above. I am nervous..I keep looking at my "suit" and pray that the glue gods will be at full strength and keep it in place while I have it on. I am excited...stage~bright lights~bling-bling~...but, ready to be done?? Not really! I have enjoyed this journey. I have found a new appreciation for eating healthy consistently and the importance of fueling the body appropriately. I look forward to seeing how my body responds when I push it just a little more each week to make it stronger and bigger~without feeling like a puffed up marshmallow.
My Rheumatoid Arthritis has not interfered with my goals each week. My shoulder joints have always been a bit of a problem area for me, but, through keeping up with stretching and doing my A.R.T. therapy with my wonderful Chiropractor, (Dr. Brian Paulson), it has not been a setback on building that area.
I have even adhered to the decreasing my aerobic output each week...we are now on week 4! At first I was very scared to take away something that I look forward to everyday...but, I do feel that having a couple days off is a GOOD thing to let the body recover and build between sessions. I love how my ZUMBA family is so supportive and are also there to make sure I don't get over zealous during our favorite songs!! That is soooooooo hard to dooooooo..... (I'm wining...).
I look forward to seeing Christine every week! This past week I heard the word that almost made me pee in my bikini...Perfect! That's how she described my posing...I couldn't believe it!! Seriously...Perfect!! She also gave me a lecture...I mean pep talk...about what is gonna happen on stage...ie: stop comparing myself to other competitors (esp looking at their pictures on Facebook-which, I haven't done since that one time!!). I really don't want to end my relationship with this wonderful person...so positive, inspiring, motivating and has a fantastic calming affect on me (I hear her voice in my head every time I practice...relax...spread...roll out..roll back...THERE! NICE!). If you are even considering doing a competition, you need to remember two words: Christine Bongiovanni!!
So..as we prep for the final two week, my nutritional requirements are up a little bit (more carb, protein and fat)~No Dairy or Wheat...amazingly, I feel more hungry!! I can't wait to eat!
I was asked today what I want to taste/eat "first thing" after the show...I really didn't know how to answer it, and after thinking about it for awhile, I came up with the perfect answer: the taste of VICTORY!!
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Day #2
The day is almost over and I still have 25g of Carbs to ingest. Yep, and it's gonna be oatmeal!
I woke up excited to eat my normal breakfast that consists of oatmeal, protein powder and peanut butter...but then realized I needed to choose something else to stick to my nutrition goal for today...so, egg whites and veggies filled me up!
I lifted today and actually felt pretty strong. I went up on weights on a couple of the exercises and didn't feel as fatigued as yesterday. I can visually tell that my body wants more of the "good stuff"...my muscles look a little flatter. I figure they are weeping out glycogen....trying to hold onto as much as they can as I make them work for me!
No cardio today, but from all my running around I did today, I'm thinking I did push it more than I should of...not really a "rest day".
Now tomorrow...we fill the tank!! I'll be traveling to be with family that hasn't seen me since I started this journey, so it will be interesting to hear their comments. I plan on cooking up my pasta and rice to bring along and have it ready to put down the trap (60g x 6 meals!!).
Hold on muscle's...carbs are a comin!!
I woke up excited to eat my normal breakfast that consists of oatmeal, protein powder and peanut butter...but then realized I needed to choose something else to stick to my nutrition goal for today...so, egg whites and veggies filled me up!
I lifted today and actually felt pretty strong. I went up on weights on a couple of the exercises and didn't feel as fatigued as yesterday. I can visually tell that my body wants more of the "good stuff"...my muscles look a little flatter. I figure they are weeping out glycogen....trying to hold onto as much as they can as I make them work for me!
No cardio today, but from all my running around I did today, I'm thinking I did push it more than I should of...not really a "rest day".
Now tomorrow...we fill the tank!! I'll be traveling to be with family that hasn't seen me since I started this journey, so it will be interesting to hear their comments. I plan on cooking up my pasta and rice to bring along and have it ready to put down the trap (60g x 6 meals!!).
Hold on muscle's...carbs are a comin!!
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Trying something out...
That's how she started it...Christine, my awesome trainer..."I'm thinking of trying something out with you"...I'm sitting in my seat thinking "hmmmm...adding chocolate into my daily nutrition goal??". Nope! "Taking away your cardio"...Nope! (thank goodness, I don't think I could live with myself-I'd be one crabby Schmabby lady!). "Let's do a couple days of low carb and then a couple days of high carb and see how you look?" BINGO!!
I've been pretty much following the same guidelines for the last couple weeks...shoot for 250g of Carbs, 120-150g of Protein and 50-70g of Fat per DAY! Yes, a lot of food (friend me on My Fitness Pal and check it out if you don't believe me :). I've gotten pretty used to eating more, and going against what you would think would happen (weight gain!), I've maintained my weight, my body fat is continuing to drop and I'm increasing my lean body mass (muscle mass/weight)...all good stuff if it's not too fast. So, when Christine asks me if I can do it..of course, I say YES!...I will do whatever she tells me to do. (She is my master...).
So, here's the plan...today, I dropped my carbs down to 75g and my fat to 50g..protein to stay at 120-150g. Now, that may seem like a pretty easy thing to do, but when you are used to having close to a 100g of carbs in you by early afternoon everyday, to have to drop it down to about a third for the whole day seems like you've lost a close friend...my bread rounds~my rice cakes~my rice medley~my morning oatmeal~~~I was so lonely today without them!!!
But, the day is almost done and I still have 25g of carbs to get in--YIPPEE! Gonna eat my oatmeal and fill my tummy before I go to bed tonight!
How do I feel?? Well, I taught class this morning-felt great. Taught TRX Fusion-drank my protein shake. Lifted weights and could tell that I fatigued a bit faster than normal. I usually eat 50g of carbs before I lift and 50g of carbs after I lift...but today, I only had 25g after I lifted.
I've kept myself busy all afternoon-taking care of "stuff" that I haven't been able to get done during the week. Mainly, so I wouldn't wander into the kitchen and stare at the fruit on the counter. I swear it was calling my name..."Caryn...I'm so sweet and full of natural sugar...Come Eat me!!". But I held off and had a nice bowl of oatmeal while I sat around the campfire with my fam! I told them I was eating my 3rd s'more while I spooned in my carb loaded concoction! (was practicing my visualization techniques!).
Tomorrow will be like today. I know I will get through it. I'm looking forward to Monday and Tuesday when I will balloon up like I've put the life vest on from the airplane. I'll put the little tube in my mouth (carbs) and blow up my muscle bellies. They will be so happy to have their glycogen stores filled back up. I will be with my family so I hope they are ready to eat...a LOT!
I'll let you know how tomorrow goes...but for today...40 more minutes until I get oatmeal!!
I've been pretty much following the same guidelines for the last couple weeks...shoot for 250g of Carbs, 120-150g of Protein and 50-70g of Fat per DAY! Yes, a lot of food (friend me on My Fitness Pal and check it out if you don't believe me :). I've gotten pretty used to eating more, and going against what you would think would happen (weight gain!), I've maintained my weight, my body fat is continuing to drop and I'm increasing my lean body mass (muscle mass/weight)...all good stuff if it's not too fast. So, when Christine asks me if I can do it..of course, I say YES!...I will do whatever she tells me to do. (She is my master...).
So, here's the plan...today, I dropped my carbs down to 75g and my fat to 50g..protein to stay at 120-150g. Now, that may seem like a pretty easy thing to do, but when you are used to having close to a 100g of carbs in you by early afternoon everyday, to have to drop it down to about a third for the whole day seems like you've lost a close friend...my bread rounds~my rice cakes~my rice medley~my morning oatmeal~~~I was so lonely today without them!!!
But, the day is almost done and I still have 25g of carbs to get in--YIPPEE! Gonna eat my oatmeal and fill my tummy before I go to bed tonight!
How do I feel?? Well, I taught class this morning-felt great. Taught TRX Fusion-drank my protein shake. Lifted weights and could tell that I fatigued a bit faster than normal. I usually eat 50g of carbs before I lift and 50g of carbs after I lift...but today, I only had 25g after I lifted.
I've kept myself busy all afternoon-taking care of "stuff" that I haven't been able to get done during the week. Mainly, so I wouldn't wander into the kitchen and stare at the fruit on the counter. I swear it was calling my name..."Caryn...I'm so sweet and full of natural sugar...Come Eat me!!". But I held off and had a nice bowl of oatmeal while I sat around the campfire with my fam! I told them I was eating my 3rd s'more while I spooned in my carb loaded concoction! (was practicing my visualization techniques!).
Tomorrow will be like today. I know I will get through it. I'm looking forward to Monday and Tuesday when I will balloon up like I've put the life vest on from the airplane. I'll put the little tube in my mouth (carbs) and blow up my muscle bellies. They will be so happy to have their glycogen stores filled back up. I will be with my family so I hope they are ready to eat...a LOT!
I'll let you know how tomorrow goes...but for today...40 more minutes until I get oatmeal!!
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
The List....
It's posted..the list...Caryn Locke #27...Brittani Locke #23...it's getting real. Real scary...Real nervous..real! There's a lot of names on the lists, many competitor that have done this type of thang many times already. I bet they aren't nervous. I bet they looked me up on Facebook just like I did to find them and try to figure out what I'm bringing to the stage. If I had a heart rate monitor on, I'd definitely be in my training zone...
So, I'll push that out of my head and focus on the next 3+ weeks. My suit arrived on Saturday and after digging in the envelope to see where the rest of the material was, I have accepted that it's made to accent my assets. Which I am hoping will be stage worthy to wear that bedazzled sliver of cloth!
I meet with Christine tomorrow and she wants to see me pose in my new suit (I hope it stays put!!).....OMG...I'm FREAKING OUT!!!!!!...ok, refocus...Let's remember what I have done up to this point. I've followed my lifting schedule and feel stronger and that my "muscle bellies" have filled out (Brittani's goal for me!). I've followed my nutrition guidelines and the last two weeks have stuck to decreasing my cardio so I can increase my muscle weight. My body fat has gone down and my posing has become more relaxed. I've learned to twist, turn, smile, and walk in my hooker shoes. Check~Check~Check.
I've received such awesome encouragement from so many people and I feel much more comfortable talking about what I'm doing. I do feel like things are falling into place and I've come farther than I thought I could..but...I'm now at a point where I want to WIN! Ok, I admit, I am a smidge competitive. (Thus the FB stalking...). I'm hoping that smidge will take me all the way to having a piece of hardware placed in my hands...I'm going to work hard the next couple weeks, so watch out!! COMPETITOR in TRAINING to WIN!!
So, I'll push that out of my head and focus on the next 3+ weeks. My suit arrived on Saturday and after digging in the envelope to see where the rest of the material was, I have accepted that it's made to accent my assets. Which I am hoping will be stage worthy to wear that bedazzled sliver of cloth!
I meet with Christine tomorrow and she wants to see me pose in my new suit (I hope it stays put!!).....OMG...I'm FREAKING OUT!!!!!!...ok, refocus...Let's remember what I have done up to this point. I've followed my lifting schedule and feel stronger and that my "muscle bellies" have filled out (Brittani's goal for me!). I've followed my nutrition guidelines and the last two weeks have stuck to decreasing my cardio so I can increase my muscle weight. My body fat has gone down and my posing has become more relaxed. I've learned to twist, turn, smile, and walk in my hooker shoes. Check~Check~Check.
I've received such awesome encouragement from so many people and I feel much more comfortable talking about what I'm doing. I do feel like things are falling into place and I've come farther than I thought I could..but...I'm now at a point where I want to WIN! Ok, I admit, I am a smidge competitive. (Thus the FB stalking...). I'm hoping that smidge will take me all the way to having a piece of hardware placed in my hands...I'm going to work hard the next couple weeks, so watch out!! COMPETITOR in TRAINING to WIN!!
Sunday, September 8, 2013
5
Five weeks...Five weeks...Five weeks...actually, 4 weeks and 6 days until "The Show!". Brittani and I meet with Christine every week now. She continues to evaluate our progress, refine posing, restructure nutrition schedule (NOT diet!) and make recommendations to prepare the body for the next 5 weeks.
It's still work..it doesn't get easier, just more refined. My nutrition needs have been shifted to try to slow down the pace that my body is transforming...CRAZY to have to decrease my cardio and increase my carbohydrate and fat intake so my body will not get too lean. But, I am behaving...NO cardio on Thursday's and Sunday's-these are the days I do not teach ZUMBA-and, during my ZUMBA classes I'm instructed to decrease my intensity, which I am still figuring out! It is very hard for me to not get pumped up when I teach. The energy in the class is contagious and I love getting into the music and moving thy body! Brittani is my moderator...she will catch my eye and say: "stay low!", or, "you're not supposed to be doing that!", or, "you need to tame it down, cha cha!"~ I'm TrYiNg!! If my Body Fat and weight are stable at my next appointment, then we know we've found the right mix for the next couple weeks. So, fingers crossed that my good behavior will pay off...
I am proud of myself for not giving up and cheating on this journey..yes, I've watched people eat carrot cake with 1" thick cream cheese frosting, chocolate cake that looks so moist you could ball it up and eat it like a huge snow cone, tator tot hotdish (I made it and didn't even do a taste test!), peanut butter M&M's, and ice cream cake from cold stone creamery. I've thought about having 'just 1' adult drinkey-drink, I've walked past wonderful looking pastries and homemade cookies and bars, and inhaled the luscious smell of gooey, cheesy, loaded with goodness, pizza....but, when I decided to do this "thing", I decided to do it all the way. I don't like to deprive myself of anything, and know that on October 12th, (that evening-in fact), I can decide how I want to start eating these "foods that do not contribute to my fitness journey right now".
For now, I will continue to log my food in my app (friend me on 'my fitness pal' if you want to see what I'm eating), continue to work on creating a "V" with my back (lift those weights, gurl!), walk in my 5" heels (I actually look somewhat normal now!) and practice my quarter turns and model poses.
I'm can almost (almost) feel the well endowed lady with the long flowing hair being placed in my hands...
It's still work..it doesn't get easier, just more refined. My nutrition needs have been shifted to try to slow down the pace that my body is transforming...CRAZY to have to decrease my cardio and increase my carbohydrate and fat intake so my body will not get too lean. But, I am behaving...NO cardio on Thursday's and Sunday's-these are the days I do not teach ZUMBA-and, during my ZUMBA classes I'm instructed to decrease my intensity, which I am still figuring out! It is very hard for me to not get pumped up when I teach. The energy in the class is contagious and I love getting into the music and moving thy body! Brittani is my moderator...she will catch my eye and say: "stay low!", or, "you're not supposed to be doing that!", or, "you need to tame it down, cha cha!"~ I'm TrYiNg!! If my Body Fat and weight are stable at my next appointment, then we know we've found the right mix for the next couple weeks. So, fingers crossed that my good behavior will pay off...
I am proud of myself for not giving up and cheating on this journey..yes, I've watched people eat carrot cake with 1" thick cream cheese frosting, chocolate cake that looks so moist you could ball it up and eat it like a huge snow cone, tator tot hotdish (I made it and didn't even do a taste test!), peanut butter M&M's, and ice cream cake from cold stone creamery. I've thought about having 'just 1' adult drinkey-drink, I've walked past wonderful looking pastries and homemade cookies and bars, and inhaled the luscious smell of gooey, cheesy, loaded with goodness, pizza....but, when I decided to do this "thing", I decided to do it all the way. I don't like to deprive myself of anything, and know that on October 12th, (that evening-in fact), I can decide how I want to start eating these "foods that do not contribute to my fitness journey right now".
For now, I will continue to log my food in my app (friend me on 'my fitness pal' if you want to see what I'm eating), continue to work on creating a "V" with my back (lift those weights, gurl!), walk in my 5" heels (I actually look somewhat normal now!) and practice my quarter turns and model poses.
I'm can almost (almost) feel the well endowed lady with the long flowing hair being placed in my hands...
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Influences and Attitude
There are some days where you just need a little nudge, glimmer of light, slap on the back, or, just a smile to get you through. What helps you get through those kind of days? Caffeine? Phone calls? music? a good nap??
I'm still trying to figure out how I cope with the many situations that I seem to encounter..sometimes daily. Anger, stress, unplanned events, disappointments, anxiety, fear and everything else that is part of a normal day. I think my response may be dependent on where I am in my "monthly gift" cycle--one of the weeks I'm too tired to really follow through, the next week I'm ready to take on the world (and the planets), the next week I can't remember why I walked into a room, or, where I put my ipod, can't finish telling a story because I forgot what point I was trying to make, and feel like I'm chasing my tail. Then there's the week where it's: "LOOK OUT!! YOU WILL NOT WIN THIS WEEK!!" (I've actually used that line with my family members...or, they say I give them "the look" and they know to not go there...I have not idea what they are referring to....)
I like to look at situations and treat them as an individual file in my huge filing cabinet (inside my head).. look at each one separately, what can I do about it, what is out of my control, is there a silver lining? Is it really as bad as I think it is, or, am I overreacting? Would be nice to say that this is an easy process....but, um..no...
I have watched my sister cope with the loss of her husband to cancer...then, her oldest son was diagnosed with cancer...watched her put herself through LPN and RN school, and, just recently passed her RN boards. We met for lunch a couple weeks ago and while I was driving away, I had an overwhelming feeling of gratefulness to have such a strong role model in my life. I have always looked up to her, we have been there for each other and I know that know matter what life throws her way--she's going to be just fine!
I have watched another sister lose a child after 3 days of giving birth. The dark pitted sorrow that she felt and what she went through will always be in my heart. However, she choose to use her experience to help others and be the person that would be there for you in a second if you needed her. She is my rock, the one I call when I just need to cry and know that she will understand. She has taught me how to cope when things seem so gray that you don't know if there is another side.
I feel blessed to be surrounded by supportive people that are also a positive influence in how I choose to live my life. I do not tolerate negativity very well...if you have spent time with me, I'm sure you witnessed me saying "NO NEGATIVITY!" I've had my share of dealing with negative personalities..they are everywhere. But I choose to not let them influence me.
I am an educated woman, I know the difference between right and wrong and I have always felt that I can read people pretty well...so I thought...I've been in a situation where I was totally fooled by another persons sincerity. To find out down the road that discussions that you felt were private-were actually made public...emotions that you felt were respected-were actually the center of stories told about you...and values that you uphold in your life-were ridiculed and twisted to become an entertaining conversation subject when you weren't around...oh yes...I know negativity and the impact it can have on someones life. NOT FUN!
I am in a better place, surrounded by a family that I love, friends that understand what being a "friend" truly means, and work with people that encourage success. I have no room for Negative Nellie's! I realize that what I went through has made me stronger and allowed me to challenge myself with goals that a year ago I didn't think I could reach (ie: the upcoming show!!!!!).
So, even when I'm tired, assertive, hyper or determined-I know that my actions and words are all dictated by me...I choose how I live my life, I will spend time with people that encourage and support one another, I will cheer for everyone that needs a lift in their day...and will always smile and be pleasant to grumpy people (that really gets them!).
So...there you have it...Deep Thoughts by Caryn Locke...
I'm still trying to figure out how I cope with the many situations that I seem to encounter..sometimes daily. Anger, stress, unplanned events, disappointments, anxiety, fear and everything else that is part of a normal day. I think my response may be dependent on where I am in my "monthly gift" cycle--one of the weeks I'm too tired to really follow through, the next week I'm ready to take on the world (and the planets), the next week I can't remember why I walked into a room, or, where I put my ipod, can't finish telling a story because I forgot what point I was trying to make, and feel like I'm chasing my tail. Then there's the week where it's: "LOOK OUT!! YOU WILL NOT WIN THIS WEEK!!" (I've actually used that line with my family members...or, they say I give them "the look" and they know to not go there...I have not idea what they are referring to....)
I like to look at situations and treat them as an individual file in my huge filing cabinet (inside my head).. look at each one separately, what can I do about it, what is out of my control, is there a silver lining? Is it really as bad as I think it is, or, am I overreacting? Would be nice to say that this is an easy process....but, um..no...
I have watched my sister cope with the loss of her husband to cancer...then, her oldest son was diagnosed with cancer...watched her put herself through LPN and RN school, and, just recently passed her RN boards. We met for lunch a couple weeks ago and while I was driving away, I had an overwhelming feeling of gratefulness to have such a strong role model in my life. I have always looked up to her, we have been there for each other and I know that know matter what life throws her way--she's going to be just fine!
I have watched another sister lose a child after 3 days of giving birth. The dark pitted sorrow that she felt and what she went through will always be in my heart. However, she choose to use her experience to help others and be the person that would be there for you in a second if you needed her. She is my rock, the one I call when I just need to cry and know that she will understand. She has taught me how to cope when things seem so gray that you don't know if there is another side.
I feel blessed to be surrounded by supportive people that are also a positive influence in how I choose to live my life. I do not tolerate negativity very well...if you have spent time with me, I'm sure you witnessed me saying "NO NEGATIVITY!" I've had my share of dealing with negative personalities..they are everywhere. But I choose to not let them influence me.
I am an educated woman, I know the difference between right and wrong and I have always felt that I can read people pretty well...so I thought...I've been in a situation where I was totally fooled by another persons sincerity. To find out down the road that discussions that you felt were private-were actually made public...emotions that you felt were respected-were actually the center of stories told about you...and values that you uphold in your life-were ridiculed and twisted to become an entertaining conversation subject when you weren't around...oh yes...I know negativity and the impact it can have on someones life. NOT FUN!
I am in a better place, surrounded by a family that I love, friends that understand what being a "friend" truly means, and work with people that encourage success. I have no room for Negative Nellie's! I realize that what I went through has made me stronger and allowed me to challenge myself with goals that a year ago I didn't think I could reach (ie: the upcoming show!!!!!).
So, even when I'm tired, assertive, hyper or determined-I know that my actions and words are all dictated by me...I choose how I live my life, I will spend time with people that encourage and support one another, I will cheer for everyone that needs a lift in their day...and will always smile and be pleasant to grumpy people (that really gets them!).
So...there you have it...Deep Thoughts by Caryn Locke...
Sunday, August 25, 2013
Challenges
It's been awhile since I've put my thoughts down...I've been BU-ZEE!! My real job took me across the big pond to Copenhagen, Denmark to see where insulin is produced, packaged and then sent all around the world! It's was truly amazing to see the simplicity in something that saves my son's life everyday. Our second child, Tanner, was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes when he was 4 years old. I'm so proud of how he's taken control of his life and is a strong, healthy 20 year old man :)
It's quite the task to take time away...even though I was excited to have this opportunity presented, it was also a change in my routine. How would I get my workouts in? What kind of food will be available? How will I adjust to the time change? Will my family survive without me? (haha! that's an easy one!). Amazingly~~~everything worked out.
I planned on bringing over what I needed if I couldn't find it...you know, TRX Suspension Trainer and door adapter, oatmeal, peanut butter, protein powder, raisins...all the good stuff!! Then I made my "plan" of attack for my workout...I would stick to my lifting schedule (even though I had no idea what weights I'd have access to-hence the TRX Suspension Trainer!) and plan on getting at least 30 minutes of cardio each day. I think telling myself that this WILL be part of my schedule, just like my meetings were, made me feel better about the break in my routine.
The fitness center had weights--in kg--so my wonderful math skills were put to use...amazing how smaller numbers can make you feel like your not doing what you should (22 kg = ~48lbs, in case you are wondering...), and, after getting asked a couple times if I do Crossfit!!, I had to school some big boys on what I do.. "There's no way you do ZUMBA and can do look like that...you should do Crossfit!" Really...so, I'm doing ZUMBA and lifting weights and seeing results (I look like "that"), but I should still do crossfit??? My response was "WHY?" What will Crossfit do for me that I'm not already getting results from?? ...Yep, they were speechless...
Now, don't get me wrong, there is definite benefits from Crossfit--if done correctly--IF done correctly, (I typed that twice on purpose)...and, my philosophy has always been: if it gets more people to become more active, then by all means do what excites you. But, for me...I do not see the benefit of jumping up onto big boxes, flipping over tires, and lifting any heavier than I am right now...so...I'll stick with what excites me.
It is nice to see progress whenever you make changes. People that hadn't seen me since I started this new journey were very impressed (and curious) about what I was doing. I assisted many with the process of uploading the My Fitness Pal app on their phones :). They started stealing eggs for me (just kidding...but, I definitely got looks when I grabbed 5 hard boiled eggs every morning) and asked questions about what they should or shouldn't be eating, and, when I was going to work out, and, what I was lifting and how much....and "can you eat this??" It was a challenge, but I'm happy to say I maintained my weight while being exposed to beautiful white wine and beer, luscious looking danishes and pastries, and saucy, cheesy, carb loaded dishes.
It is nice to be home...to know what my schedule is going to be...to understand the language that is being spoken around me, to see familiar faces, and sleep in my own bed.
I've realized that no matter what happens in my schedule, it is up to me to stick to my plan and know that in the end I will probably never look back and say "I should have eaten that pastry in Denmark...NOT!"
It's quite the task to take time away...even though I was excited to have this opportunity presented, it was also a change in my routine. How would I get my workouts in? What kind of food will be available? How will I adjust to the time change? Will my family survive without me? (haha! that's an easy one!). Amazingly~~~everything worked out.
I planned on bringing over what I needed if I couldn't find it...you know, TRX Suspension Trainer and door adapter, oatmeal, peanut butter, protein powder, raisins...all the good stuff!! Then I made my "plan" of attack for my workout...I would stick to my lifting schedule (even though I had no idea what weights I'd have access to-hence the TRX Suspension Trainer!) and plan on getting at least 30 minutes of cardio each day. I think telling myself that this WILL be part of my schedule, just like my meetings were, made me feel better about the break in my routine.
The fitness center had weights--in kg--so my wonderful math skills were put to use...amazing how smaller numbers can make you feel like your not doing what you should (22 kg = ~48lbs, in case you are wondering...), and, after getting asked a couple times if I do Crossfit!!, I had to school some big boys on what I do.. "There's no way you do ZUMBA and can do look like that...you should do Crossfit!" Really...so, I'm doing ZUMBA and lifting weights and seeing results (I look like "that"), but I should still do crossfit??? My response was "WHY?" What will Crossfit do for me that I'm not already getting results from?? ...Yep, they were speechless...
Now, don't get me wrong, there is definite benefits from Crossfit--if done correctly--IF done correctly, (I typed that twice on purpose)...and, my philosophy has always been: if it gets more people to become more active, then by all means do what excites you. But, for me...I do not see the benefit of jumping up onto big boxes, flipping over tires, and lifting any heavier than I am right now...so...I'll stick with what excites me.
It is nice to see progress whenever you make changes. People that hadn't seen me since I started this new journey were very impressed (and curious) about what I was doing. I assisted many with the process of uploading the My Fitness Pal app on their phones :). They started stealing eggs for me (just kidding...but, I definitely got looks when I grabbed 5 hard boiled eggs every morning) and asked questions about what they should or shouldn't be eating, and, when I was going to work out, and, what I was lifting and how much....and "can you eat this??" It was a challenge, but I'm happy to say I maintained my weight while being exposed to beautiful white wine and beer, luscious looking danishes and pastries, and saucy, cheesy, carb loaded dishes.
It is nice to be home...to know what my schedule is going to be...to understand the language that is being spoken around me, to see familiar faces, and sleep in my own bed.
I've realized that no matter what happens in my schedule, it is up to me to stick to my plan and know that in the end I will probably never look back and say "I should have eaten that pastry in Denmark...NOT!"
Thursday, August 15, 2013
Timing...
I feel like the last week has gone by in a snap of the finger. I'm so excited for tonights ZUMBAthon for Hope that I can't sit still.
This is the third year of doing this event and I get so fired up for it. It's so cool to be able to raise money for our community, hand it all over (cash and checks) and know that it will help someone in need. When people share with me how breast cancer took their mom, sister, friend, relative, acquaintance away from this world, it makes me want to make this event even more successful than the last.
If everyone just stopped and really thought about how it feels to be told...you have breast cancer and we need to start treatment immediately...everything changes-in a snap of the finger.
So far, knock on wood, my boobies (yes, I do have some under those padded bras) are cancer free and I do not have a sibling with breast cancer-yet- (I have 5 sisters so the odds are high that one of us should get it)...however, I did lose a brother in law to cancer, and have 2 nephews that were diagnosed with cancer (they are both under 28 yrs old). I can sum it up to say that CANCER SUCKS!!! It really does...it takes over and changes everything!! We don't get to choose when, what or how...and those that have been through these steps know how it changes your perspective on many things in life. What really matters comes front and center pretty quickly.
So, tonight I will give it everything I have...I will think of all the people that wish they could be there to dance, and for all those in the crowd that are thinking of those that they are dancing for..and know that I will DANCE for those that CAN'T for as LONG as I CAN! (Because I can!)
This is the third year of doing this event and I get so fired up for it. It's so cool to be able to raise money for our community, hand it all over (cash and checks) and know that it will help someone in need. When people share with me how breast cancer took their mom, sister, friend, relative, acquaintance away from this world, it makes me want to make this event even more successful than the last.
If everyone just stopped and really thought about how it feels to be told...you have breast cancer and we need to start treatment immediately...everything changes-in a snap of the finger.
So far, knock on wood, my boobies (yes, I do have some under those padded bras) are cancer free and I do not have a sibling with breast cancer-yet- (I have 5 sisters so the odds are high that one of us should get it)...however, I did lose a brother in law to cancer, and have 2 nephews that were diagnosed with cancer (they are both under 28 yrs old). I can sum it up to say that CANCER SUCKS!!! It really does...it takes over and changes everything!! We don't get to choose when, what or how...and those that have been through these steps know how it changes your perspective on many things in life. What really matters comes front and center pretty quickly.
So, tonight I will give it everything I have...I will think of all the people that wish they could be there to dance, and for all those in the crowd that are thinking of those that they are dancing for..and know that I will DANCE for those that CAN'T for as LONG as I CAN! (Because I can!)
Friday, August 9, 2013
Meeting with Christine
This week was another appointment with Christine. I never sleep well the night before. I wonder if I've made any improvements since the last time we met (which was 2 weeks ago). Will she see any change in my posing-THEY ARE HARDER THAN THEY LOOK! just sayin"...
What will she change? What will she write in my "book"?
The book: it contains my daily weight training sessions...which body part I am working, lifts/exercises, dumbbells, machine, barbell, & how many reps and sets. Christine writes down my progress when I meet with her...my weight, she takes my body fat using skin calipers and records my Body Fat percentage, lean body weight and Body Fat weight. She will also write my diet goals...ie: how many grams of carbohydrate, fat and protein I need to consume daily.
This week she has increased my fat and carbohydrate intake and posing recommendations~ I have a tendency to want to squeeze instead of spreading....pull in instead of pushing out...my left side turns more than my right side (need to get back into yoga!)...I need to "RELAX" my arms (but just from the elbows down!)...and I'm still getting used to standing in 5" heels...oh, and flare out my thighs...soooooo much happening!!! I had a decrease in body fat which is what we are working toward, and have increased my lean body weight (muscle weight)-all good stuff- so, I figure all the food I am eating (over 2000 calories per day) is working...
We are 9 weeks out from competition...at 8 weeks I start getting serious with the posing practice..hold each pose, run through the routine a couple times each day, stay focused...how am I feeling about all this??? I like it!
Here are the benefits I have experienced: My joints feel wonderful (in case you don't know, I have rheumatoid arthritis), I sleep like a baby (without ambien!), my energy level is up and I don't mind following the "plan".
I also feel like I've observed a lot of different situations this week that has really made me have some "deep thoughts with Caryn Locke"....will save that for another blog entry...time to eat again...
What will she change? What will she write in my "book"?
The book: it contains my daily weight training sessions...which body part I am working, lifts/exercises, dumbbells, machine, barbell, & how many reps and sets. Christine writes down my progress when I meet with her...my weight, she takes my body fat using skin calipers and records my Body Fat percentage, lean body weight and Body Fat weight. She will also write my diet goals...ie: how many grams of carbohydrate, fat and protein I need to consume daily.
This week she has increased my fat and carbohydrate intake and posing recommendations~ I have a tendency to want to squeeze instead of spreading....pull in instead of pushing out...my left side turns more than my right side (need to get back into yoga!)...I need to "RELAX" my arms (but just from the elbows down!)...and I'm still getting used to standing in 5" heels...oh, and flare out my thighs...soooooo much happening!!! I had a decrease in body fat which is what we are working toward, and have increased my lean body weight (muscle weight)-all good stuff- so, I figure all the food I am eating (over 2000 calories per day) is working...
We are 9 weeks out from competition...at 8 weeks I start getting serious with the posing practice..hold each pose, run through the routine a couple times each day, stay focused...how am I feeling about all this??? I like it!
Here are the benefits I have experienced: My joints feel wonderful (in case you don't know, I have rheumatoid arthritis), I sleep like a baby (without ambien!), my energy level is up and I don't mind following the "plan".
I also feel like I've observed a lot of different situations this week that has really made me have some "deep thoughts with Caryn Locke"....will save that for another blog entry...time to eat again...
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Mirrors....
I think I have a love/hate relationship with mirrors. Have you ever found one that you LOVE, then move to another one and you're like...wtf?? How did that happen??
I was recently working on my "quarter turn to the right" and noticed that when I was in front of one mirror, I was like "hey...not bad..". Then I did my lil walk and was in front of another one and was wondering which one was being the most truthful. Really..within a 10 foot distance my reflection changed that much?? Then I was like...wait a minute...I think I need to quit having the reflection dictate how "I" am feeling about me. Doesn't matter what image mirror #1 or #2 reflected, it's how I feel about what I'm seeing that should matter the most.
I do love mirrors for the fact that they can offer correction...like when I'm teaching, I rely on the mirrors so I can scan my peeps and make use what I'm doing and saying is being heard and seen correctly. It's also very helpful when you need to see if "things" are in their right places...or, do we need to PULL them OUT, or, put them back IN??
I also like mirrors for the many hours I spend driving to make sure Mr Po-Po is seeing that I am NOT speeding...and for Mr and Mrs Rural, that only take the car out on Senior Discount Day to do their shopping, to SEE ME when they PULL OUT right in front of me....seriously!
When we start to have the mirror control our emotions is where I think we need to do an attitude adjustment. Yes, you do look rested today...No, you do not need to curl your hair today...Yes, I am going to approach my day knowing I am fortunate for all I have, and blessed to be able to use what I got.
It's like those fabulous e-cards...the ones that say, "this is what I think I look like when I'm doing "x"...but this is what I really look like". I believe in the power of believing that I look that way I want to look...act the way I feel at the moment...and those that are joining me are realizing that the mirror doesn't control me---I do!
I was recently working on my "quarter turn to the right" and noticed that when I was in front of one mirror, I was like "hey...not bad..". Then I did my lil walk and was in front of another one and was wondering which one was being the most truthful. Really..within a 10 foot distance my reflection changed that much?? Then I was like...wait a minute...I think I need to quit having the reflection dictate how "I" am feeling about me. Doesn't matter what image mirror #1 or #2 reflected, it's how I feel about what I'm seeing that should matter the most.
I do love mirrors for the fact that they can offer correction...like when I'm teaching, I rely on the mirrors so I can scan my peeps and make use what I'm doing and saying is being heard and seen correctly. It's also very helpful when you need to see if "things" are in their right places...or, do we need to PULL them OUT, or, put them back IN??
I also like mirrors for the many hours I spend driving to make sure Mr Po-Po is seeing that I am NOT speeding...and for Mr and Mrs Rural, that only take the car out on Senior Discount Day to do their shopping, to SEE ME when they PULL OUT right in front of me....seriously!
When we start to have the mirror control our emotions is where I think we need to do an attitude adjustment. Yes, you do look rested today...No, you do not need to curl your hair today...Yes, I am going to approach my day knowing I am fortunate for all I have, and blessed to be able to use what I got.
It's like those fabulous e-cards...the ones that say, "this is what I think I look like when I'm doing "x"...but this is what I really look like". I believe in the power of believing that I look that way I want to look...act the way I feel at the moment...and those that are joining me are realizing that the mirror doesn't control me---I do!
Sunday, August 4, 2013
I'm doing what????
I've wanted to do this for awhile...blog...so, here it goes!
I understand that when you blog, no one can "like" your post, or, block you like on Facebook. So that makes me feel that I can really let the words hit the paper and have them reflect my thoughts. Let me repeat..."my thoughts"...I cannot guarantee what will be left on paper will always make sense, or seem reasonable...but, I give you my scouts honor (yes, I was a brownie and a girl scout!) that I will try to be the best new blogger that you may ever encounter :)
My latest adventure is that I've entered myself into a Figure Competition...I still have to keep telling myself that I'm going to do it! My lovely daughter, Brittani, has completed 2 Figure and 1 Physique competition in the last 2 years....and after her first competition, she was planting the seed of wanting me to do one with her. After watching her last competition in June, I decided that I wanted to do it. Watching her stay disciplined with her regime along with how proud I felt of her accomplishments, made me want to give it a whirl.
On July 1st, with only Brittani and my hubby knowing, I started the "eating clean" way of life. I don't like the word "diet"...so, I called it a "new way of fueling my body". I started keeping record of my food intake by using the My Fitness Pal App and added weight lifting back into my daily schedule. Brittani would review what I'd eaten each day and give me advice on what I should add, delete, get more of, eat less of...she also wrote out my weight lifting programs for me. After 2 weeks, I made my decision to do the upcoming show on October 12th.
I contacted Brittani's Trainer that she'd been working with for nutrition, lifting and posing consultations with the hope that she'd be able to take me on as a new client...and she did!
After my first meeting with her, I felt an uplift of confidence...yep, I can follow the program...I can get stronger...I can learn to walk in 5 inch heels (still practicing!)...I can learn to turn and twist to make this muscle look BIG and make other parts seem SMALL...and I've been practicing every day!
I look forward to my appointments with Christine, hoping she'll see the work I've put in and give me the look of: Yep, girl, you got this...
Brittani and I go to appointments together...while I'm standing in my 5" heels and a bikini going through my poses with Christine, Brittani is a second set of eyes and ears to what is happening...I kinda go tunnelly for awhile...all I see are my legs shaking from being so nervous, and my shoulder not high enough, and my left side not turning as easy as my right side, and trying to spread my lats!!!...all minor things I continue to work on.
I feel like I am eating all the time...did I get all my carbs in...all my fat...all my protein...such a science!! Eat this amount before you lift, eat this amount after you lift, drink this after you teach...take a day OFF-WHAT????
But, I do feel awesome! I go to sleep every night with a full belly and wake up counting down the seconds until my oatmeal is done...starving!!! I've seen results already...body fat is down about 2-3% and muscles bellies are filling up (Brittani likes to say that!).
I DO want to bring home a first place statue of lady that is well endowed and has long flowing hair and elegant muscles- who wouldn't?? But what I'd like to achieve even more is to be able to walk gracefully on stage in my 5" hooker heels while wearing a sparkly, fancy, less-than-a-bikini outfit, (Must not forget to kick up the heels so your hamstrings show, and sway your hips a bit..)...smile without looking like I'm faking it...and to look back and say I gave it all I had and I had FUN!
I understand that when you blog, no one can "like" your post, or, block you like on Facebook. So that makes me feel that I can really let the words hit the paper and have them reflect my thoughts. Let me repeat..."my thoughts"...I cannot guarantee what will be left on paper will always make sense, or seem reasonable...but, I give you my scouts honor (yes, I was a brownie and a girl scout!) that I will try to be the best new blogger that you may ever encounter :)
My latest adventure is that I've entered myself into a Figure Competition...I still have to keep telling myself that I'm going to do it! My lovely daughter, Brittani, has completed 2 Figure and 1 Physique competition in the last 2 years....and after her first competition, she was planting the seed of wanting me to do one with her. After watching her last competition in June, I decided that I wanted to do it. Watching her stay disciplined with her regime along with how proud I felt of her accomplishments, made me want to give it a whirl.
On July 1st, with only Brittani and my hubby knowing, I started the "eating clean" way of life. I don't like the word "diet"...so, I called it a "new way of fueling my body". I started keeping record of my food intake by using the My Fitness Pal App and added weight lifting back into my daily schedule. Brittani would review what I'd eaten each day and give me advice on what I should add, delete, get more of, eat less of...she also wrote out my weight lifting programs for me. After 2 weeks, I made my decision to do the upcoming show on October 12th.
I contacted Brittani's Trainer that she'd been working with for nutrition, lifting and posing consultations with the hope that she'd be able to take me on as a new client...and she did!
After my first meeting with her, I felt an uplift of confidence...yep, I can follow the program...I can get stronger...I can learn to walk in 5 inch heels (still practicing!)...I can learn to turn and twist to make this muscle look BIG and make other parts seem SMALL...and I've been practicing every day!
I look forward to my appointments with Christine, hoping she'll see the work I've put in and give me the look of: Yep, girl, you got this...
Brittani and I go to appointments together...while I'm standing in my 5" heels and a bikini going through my poses with Christine, Brittani is a second set of eyes and ears to what is happening...I kinda go tunnelly for awhile...all I see are my legs shaking from being so nervous, and my shoulder not high enough, and my left side not turning as easy as my right side, and trying to spread my lats!!!...all minor things I continue to work on.
I feel like I am eating all the time...did I get all my carbs in...all my fat...all my protein...such a science!! Eat this amount before you lift, eat this amount after you lift, drink this after you teach...take a day OFF-WHAT????
But, I do feel awesome! I go to sleep every night with a full belly and wake up counting down the seconds until my oatmeal is done...starving!!! I've seen results already...body fat is down about 2-3% and muscles bellies are filling up (Brittani likes to say that!).
I DO want to bring home a first place statue of lady that is well endowed and has long flowing hair and elegant muscles- who wouldn't?? But what I'd like to achieve even more is to be able to walk gracefully on stage in my 5" hooker heels while wearing a sparkly, fancy, less-than-a-bikini outfit, (Must not forget to kick up the heels so your hamstrings show, and sway your hips a bit..)...smile without looking like I'm faking it...and to look back and say I gave it all I had and I had FUN!
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