Jiggle and Giggle

Well, you know you're entering a new phase of life when certain things happen during your exercise class. I was able to head back to the gym this week. YES - we survived the winter and now B is feeling much better. He got tubes in his ears and we are able to head back to our local Y and have some fun!

I started a new class today - Body Attack. It's much like Body Pump, but it's all cardio. Talk about a serious work-out and sweat-fest - SHEW! This class is awesome and I just know it will help with the last few pounds. It also helped open my eyes to a few new things about MOI!

First, during the winter I took hot yoga and there are NO mirrors. I had no idea what I looked like and I grew to not care - it was fabulous! Well, hello mirrors again! Good gracious , I looked like my mother. Yes, I did! I used to make fun of my mother for some of the faces she could make when exercising and I, too, now make many of those same faces. Made me giggle!

Second, EVERYTHING and I do mean everything jiggles. Gross! This just has to stop and I'm doing my very best to make this happen. The 'hi helens' (you know the upper arm wave), the bottom abs, and the bottom were just not cooperating. We are putting an end to this immediately. I do not care for this stage at all and I refuse to go down this road any further.

Third and last, I know I have entered into crazy woman stage of life when I let out the woo-hoos during a really hard work-out. I thought this was reserved for only the really nutty, but alas, I am there. This too might just have to come to an end, but it did make me giggle as I jiggled and I had a blast in this extremely difficult class!

I must look on the bright side of things. I have decided to always end my posts and my days on a positive note and here is today's : I didn't pee my pants in class. That is an entirely different stage and I hope to never be there.

Hope you're laughing with me today!!

I hate winter and snow

It certainly has been a while since I've written, but I have a doozy for ya in this new year of 2011!

We loved moving into our new CT home in late fall. What a beauty of a season - gorgeous colors and brisk days! Then, it happened. Winter showed its ugly, nasty face. After a beautiful first Christmas with our little family the snow started coming, and coming, and coming. And, it has not stopped!

It's no secret that I really don't care for cold weather and snow. Most that know me know that I like one snow or two just for the pretty of it. I like to go sledding, have my hot chocolate, watch movies, and cook. I also like having a cocktail or glass (bottle) of wine while I cook and watch those movies. It's fun!

But, this is just complete CRAZINESS! I have run out of craft ideas for O (he's 3 now). This didn't take long because I'm not a crafty person. We've danced, we've painted, we've watched Toy Story 3 about 300 times. I've even got him doing a little yoga. A bright spot in our gray, cold days is when he passes by, puts his hands in prayer and gives me a calming, "namaste". Pretty cute.

Here's where the worst comes in. B (he's 1) got a nasty little thing called RSV. He was sick from Monday night to Friday and by Saturday we found ourselves in the ER. He was admitted that night and we're still here today -- it's Wednesday! Let me also mention that we have a terrible ice storm outside at the moment. Awesome!

So, have I lost it?? Well, not completely. This momma came prepared. Yesterday I was most productive. I sat in the bed they so graciously had for me showered, make-up on, and curlers in the hair. One must at least try!!! The nurses giggle at me when they see all the products I have scattered around the bathroom (moisturizers, serums, industrial strength hair dryer, and the velcro rollers)

I was even conducting business. I am an independent stylist (my hubbie loves that term) with Stella and Dot. I sell jewelry and I love it. Well, I decided where better to conduct a few sales than a place filled with darling nurses, PA's, and doctors? So, business as usual for me. We've had a ball chatting about the pieces and setting dates for trunk shows.

The only thing - and it's a big one - that I'm missing is my wine! This whole experience would just be fine and dandy had I been just a bit more prepared. I do love it that I have made girlfriends up here that have tried to get the wine to me. Drats that ice storm that prevents everyone from driving!!

And the very final thing that I'm happy to report is that while being here I have lost a pound, because, really, who likes hospital food? I try to think and stay positive!

VICTORY

In case you feel a bit of chill in the air this afternoon it may just be because Hell froze over a little today. I, Kelly, tried on a pair of skinny jeans and they actually fit! In fact, they fit so well that I went down a size! Did I buy these jeans? Sadly, no as a skinny jean just does not look best on my 'shape'. I did, however, buy 2 new pairs of dark wash jeans in a size 6!!! WOOOO-HOOOOOOOO!!! I was so proud of myself that I even shared my excitement with the sales lady at Gap today. A big congratulations came my way from behind the cash wrap.

When I began this blog my goal was to wear leggings with boots zipped up over them. Oh how I prayed all summer that leggings would still be in this season so that I could partake in fun fashion as all my friends do. Well, sure enough Kohl's had a huge selection for me to choose from. But, let's start with the boots...

When I was home in Roanoke in august (i'm actually from salem) I went to Yarid's to find a pair of fun heels for a party I was attending. As I walked in, there was a fabulous pair of everyday boots in black and brown, low heel and zipped to the knee. I got the courage to try them on. I just didn't know if I was ready -- had I exercised enough to lose the dreaded cankles? Would they zip up past my mid-calf?

The sales gal, Kelly, brought them out to me and I slowly put my foot in. I took a deep breath and in one smooth swoop I zipped them up! (if i could suck in my calves i would have, but i didn't need to) I let out a victory squeal, and my sister-in-law, Astrid cheered me on. We had the staff at Yarid's celebrating and laughing with us!

Now for the true test.. would they fit over leggings? The answer is.... YES THEY DO!!! And, I have to say the 'look' doesn't look half bad. I am now in search for a stirrup. Such a shame that I didn't save mine from 6th and 7th grade (sigh).

I'm happy to report that I met my goal, but more importantly I feel great! I'm still doing the yoga and it has done wonders for my body and my soul. My family and I are moving into a new home next week and we're making tons of new friends. I've started selling the jewelry line, Stella and Dot. I'm sure you'll be hearing more about that from me in the near future.

Tomorrow is my birthday and I will be celebrating by prancing my size 6 (long and lean style) tooshie all over NYC with family and friends. I do still plan on enjoying a yellow cupcake with chocolate icing, because, for heaven sakes, I've haven't totally lost my mind!

Success!

The diet was a success as was the hot yoga. I didn't have time to write at the beginning of the week when the 'diet' officially ended, but it really didn't end, at all. I really enjoyed the way I was eating and the things that I made, so I just kept going. (i did add back in some wine, though)

drum roll please........ I LOST 4 POUNDS in the 10 days and more keep coming off!

Hot Yoga has been beyond fabulous for me. In a short amount of time it has begun to transform parts of my body and it has done wonders for my nerves. I had to step out of my sweet little comfort zone, but I'm glad I did. If you have this in your town I highly recommend you trying it out. Usually, these places have some sort of trial period, which is great to take advantage of. On the last day of my 14 day trial I purchased the 10 class card. I never, ever thought this would happen! Give it a try! Did I mention that I now lose a pound when I take a class and I manage to keep it off. Gotta love losing the water weight :)

Have a great weekend!

Feelin' Hot, Hot, Hot!

Shew-weeee, that Hot Yoga is something else! I stepped out of my comfort zone yesterday to try something a little different. Usually, I like the fast paced classes (kick-boxing and bodypump used to be 2 of my favs), but I was intrigued not only by the slow movement of yoga, but doing it in a 90 degree room. I mean, who doesn't want the look of Madonna's arms or Jennifer Aniston's legs. I'm not sure if they do the hot version, but they are always singing the praises of yoga, so why not try it?

I took my booty over to Bhuddi Mat, http://www.buddhimatyoga.com/, here in Ridgefield yesterday. From the get-go it was a peaceful, calm, informative experience. The gal behind the counter checking me in looked fabulous, so now I have high hopes!

Into class I go. I calmly laid down my mat on the designated area and sat down to start getting my breath on track in this rather warm room. Cozy and comfy - I could have napped right there and then. Watch out! In comes Miss California Perfection (tan and toned) and chooses the spot next to mine. Oh God, NO! I now know that I will be comparing myself to her all class; after all, it's what I do best!

We begin. It takes me all of maybe 2 minutes before I start seriously sweating. I look around and no one else seems to be fazed by the heat. I figure they'll catch up later, but oh no, I do believe I'm the ONLY one turning into a puddle by minute 7! I would usually laugh this off, but if I even begin the slightest giggle I know that it will turn into crazy laughing while everyone is calm, COOL, and collected. I decide to just keep my nervous giggles inside, besides I'm not too hot and sweaty to think straight.

Of course, I look over at the true yogi next to me. Again, perfection. Each movement flows seamlessly into the next and still she looks as if she's floating through a 65 degree room. Me, I'm so wet that I almost break an ankle as it slips from underneath me as I get into downward dog, warrior, or second warrior - Whatever those positions are!

An hour and 15 mins. later I'm resting peacefully on my back as the instructor speaks slowly and peacefully to us. She sends us well-wishes as we continue our day, and you know I love the Namaste part - such a lovely greeting! Wonder if it would be too weird if I went around greeting others in public that way (hands folded and head bowed)? I just love it!

I pick my puddle-self up and head out into the heat of the midday sun. I return home to my 2 year old who has now had two potty accidents with the sitter. Usually, this makes me start to get worked up inside (why can't he just go potty in a public restroom??!), but I just shrug my shoulders and say, "oh, well. we'll do better this afternoon". Whoa - who is that talking?? Throughout the day this gal stayed with me - calm, collected, and now cool! Even C. noticed my happy demeanor when he got home.

This morning I woke up feeling tight and slightly sore. I love that feeling you get after you know you've had a great work-out!

Will I be going back? Yes, I will (with more towels in hand)! In about an hour and a half I get a good work-out and a calming sense which = happy, healthy mommy! I also hope to see Miss California again. She can bend and twist herself into some pretty awesome positions. If I can learn something from her then hubby could be quite happy! ;)

whoops

Oops - I slid off after a crazy day! Just a minor slip and nothing too major. I had a glass of wine - YIKES! O tested me all day with all of his 2 year old tricks, and boy, does he have a ton of them.

This child speaks in full sentences and paragraphs, and he knows what buttons to push (of course he does, we're so much alike) It was one of those, "No", "Please don't do that", "That makes mommy sad", "Stop" days that turns into "STOP DOING THAT", "I TOLD YOU NOT TO", "AAARRRGGGHHHHH", "DAMN IT!". I know the last one is going to come back at me soon. Yes, ladies, I lost it by the end of the day. By 7:30ish or so I was in full-on tear mode and that glass of red wine was all I wanted. I convinced myself that I, after all that, deserved it. Hubby did not even try to disagree with me.

I did however do great on the food! Last night's dinner was grilled shrimp tossed in a 'salad' of uncle ben's whole grain brown rice, cucumber, scallions, and a bit of feta dressed in 2 Tbsp. of olive oil and 1Tbsp of lemon juice (and maybe just a tad bit more of lemon juice). Delish and light - right on track. And, I was just too darn tired to even want something sweet.

Up again this a.m. to the oatmeal and off to try hot yoga. I wanted to go a few weeks ago, but didn't get to make it to class because of looking at a home to buy. Nothing should get in my way today.

Day 2

Day 2 (full day) of the extreme diet begins now and all seems to be going okay. I started this on Monday afternoon, and C and I have been enjoying some tasty meals. The best part is I'm never hungry. The last 2 mornings I have started off with egg whites and spinach (today i added lean turkey sausage) scramble. After that I have my 1/3 cup of oatmeal. Unfortunately, yesterday was a dreaded 4 hour day at the DMV. Thank goodness I did have some trail mix with me to hold me over since it was clear I was not getting out for lunch. Even though trail mix is not on the diet I figured that was a better choice than rading the junk food kiosk, or having my head spin around from the rage I was feeling toward the DMV employees, who all seemed like complete idiots yesterday. (do i seem a tad irritated about that part of my day yesterday - YES, I DO!)

Dinners have been great, as well. The first night I made a layered 'salad' of organic baby greens, brown rice, veggies (edamame, corn, turnips, and red peppers) and chopped chicken breast. I ate this again for dinner last night at 4:30 when I arrived home from that dreaded DMV and had a bowl of oatmeal at 7:00. The one great time saver is the packets of whole grain brown rice from Uncle Ben's that take 90 seconds to cook!

Heading to the grocery now to pick up tonight's dinner. Shrimp, veggies, and rice. Also need to pick up the protein powder.

Exercise is going great, too. Tons of energy lately, which is why I took one this challenge in the first place.

Once I feel in control of my body, mind, and health I shall tackle getting control of a two year old. So far that's the biggest challege of all. Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. This particular 2 year old does not want to share, listen, or follow directions. He is, however, dear and sweet at the end of a long day!