Sunday, October 27, 2013

2 More Hikes in the Book!

Hey Hey!

Fall is upon us here in California.  The weather is definitely cooling off, its dark in the morning, getting dark in the evening and it makes me sad!  I miss my sunshine!  My outdoor adventures will have come to an end...I think!

Well I have not been posting too much, and for that I truly do apologies!

October has been a fun month!  I hiked twice this month.  Last Saturday, I hiked Fryman Canyon, it is my second time doing this hike.  Yesterday, I did a hike in Rancho Palos Verde.  It was beautiful!  The course runs along side the coast and is near by the Trump National Gulf Course. My tour guide for this trip was my friend Beverly and I went with Dionne and Hailey.  This was also my first hike with hiking boots!  Yup...I now own hiking boots!  I got a deal at Big 5 Sporting Goods....$19.99!

The weather was not on my side.  We had a very very thick layer of fog so we didn't have great visibility.  Normally on a clear day, I am told you can see out to Catalina Island and as far north as Santa Monica.  Now the day after the hike...not too terribly sore.  My sorest area..my calves.  

So here is me and Hailey, in what we called, Natures Living Room.  A spot we found on the hike, looks like someone built a little temporary shelter on the coast!

It was a very foggy day, the pictures of the scenery probably not as nice as they could have been, but here are some pictures I took on the hike.

Rancho Palos Verde Hike Pictures
Saturday, October 12, 2013

Long Run Weekend #1

LOL! It's kinda sad that I am even calling this a long run. But it is...for me! It is more miles that I have one in a really really long time. With the days getting shorter and its getting darker, I only have time to get in extra miles on Saturdays and Sundays. So today I ventured out there, I had no goal in mind, I just said I would walk until I didn't want to walk any more.

Well I walked 6.7 miles today, and I am happy to report, I could have walked more, but I didn't know where else to walk to. My body felt okay, I actually felt like I had lots of energy.  So maybe I can accomplish this 1/2 marathon after all! 

Technology aka my Endomondo App says I did an average pace of 4.5mph. 6.74 miles total in 1:29:58!

Not a bad starting point, in my humble opinion!

http://www.endomondo.com/workouts/257285984/1940300

Thursday, October 10, 2013

The Day In Review

I know its a boring title for this post, my creative juices aren't flowing. Today mixed emotions. A friend has passed. No warning, she was not sick or ill. Just got a phone call and a text that she died this morning. She will be missed! Wierd cravings this week: 1. I am craving Kale 2. I am craving protein in the morning Breakfast: White Chocolate Latte, Bagel w/ Cream cheese Mid AM Breakfast: Omelette with cheese, green & red peppers, onions, mushrooms, tomato (remember I said I was craving protein) I was surprisingly still hungry after my bagel & coffee so this was breakfast #2! Lunch: Baked Chicken with Yams Dinner: Tuna Nicoise salad Workout: I had planned to go to spin class....BUT got stuck at work late so I went for a walk. 3.81 miles completed! As I was walking tonight trying to sort through my feelings and emotions from my friend passing away, I got to thinking October is almost 1/2 over. December 8th will be here before I know it...how the heck and when in the world will I be able to increase my mileage for the 1/2 marathon? Oh I need to get with it quickly! Time is going by so quickly!
Sunday, October 6, 2013

Where's the Blogger?

Hello? Hello? is anyone still out there? I know I have gone AWOL again, my apologies yet again. This time it was due to technical difficulties. I did not have internet at home so it made it difficult to post regularly. I have internet access now, so I hope I can get back on my daily routine of posting about my journey. The bad thing about journeys is GETTING LOST! LOL! Yes I got lost along the way. Oops. But I have made a u-turn and am returning to right road that will get me to my destination. So here is my welcome back! I know I start off the year with another set of goals, I don't think many of them will be completed, but I will contine to strive to complete them. One new goal has surfaced over the last few weeks. I was asked to do a 1/2 marathon, with a friend. Yikes! My friends it has been a while, since I have done one. If my memory serves me right my last one was in 2007. Here I am 5 years later dreading the idea of putting in 13.1 miles in one day! But as with all things with proper training, and a positive outlook, I can conquer. So stay tuned! I'd love to hear what you have been up to during my time away! Peace!
Saturday, August 10, 2013

I've been a bad little blogger again!

Hello folks! It has been such a long time! Wow. Sadly I only have a few updates. But I had to come on and make some updates and post some pictures. Well the big news of the day is that I completed the Beach Babe cycling classic! 36-miles of bike riding! Yes...36 miles, it's not a typo. I did not stop much to take pictures. A few times along the route, I did a grab the camera and just snap a shot and hoped for the best. Surprisingly, that method kinda worked. I got some decent scenery pictures, which I will gladly share at the end of this post. The ride was very exciting and nerve racking at the same time. The butterflies in my stomach were fluttering all before the race. I began to think, what the heck was I thinking when I signed up for this race! It almost seemed to big to conquer! But once I got going and took about 20 deep breathes, I gathered myself and had the ride of my life! I had a good time! It is something I would love to do again! Since that lovely bike ride journey on July 14th, I have ventured into a new adventure. Golfing. Yes, Golfing...again, not a typo! LOL! I spent almost all day at the Golf course in Arcadia! We had a quick lesson with Andrew at the driving range and then we were left to our own devices to play 18-holes of golf. I will be the first to admit that golf on tv looks really boring and rather easy. I mean come on how hard can it be to hit a little ball into a hole? Well I am here to tell you, it is rather hard to hit that little ball into a hole. And let me tell you, I broke out into more of a sweat playing golf than I did bike riding. And let me also tell you I was sore for 2 todays after golfing and didn't have any soreness after my bike riding. So ummm...don't underestimate the workout playing golf could be! My next update is non-weightloss related, but it is still an update! I started a new job in June! It is exciting to try something new, but at the same time, I am so terribly nervous! So I am running out time, so I must leave you. So as promised, here are the quick shots I took along the path. Enjoy. https://plus.google.com/photos/103845743747978049274/albums/5910564354532631457?authkey=CIDtvtmBkNW9pAE
Thursday, July 11, 2013

Why Do I Eat When I'm Not Hungry?

I wish I only knew! But a good read!

http://greatist.com/health/why-do-i-eat-when-im-not-hungry
Sunday, July 7, 2013

New running shoes!

I did it! After eyeing down all the cool colorful running shoes I see on people, I've decided to take the leap!

My first pair of bright colored running shoes! I can't wait to go run on them tomorrow!
Monday, June 24, 2013

I Had Way Too Much!

I can't remember the last time I felt this bad. But today I know without a shadow of a doubt, I've over done it! 

Yesterday I had that heavy feeling. My stomach feels like there's just stuff sitting in it not moving and today I had lunch with some friends for a birthday celebration. I ate way too much and I feel HORRIBLE! 

We had lunch at 11:30 and it's almost 9pm now and I have not been
able to eat anything else. I'm sipping on a probiotic drink right now and I don't think I can finish the 12 ounce bottle. I feeling so sick, so heavy. Walked for almost an hour this evening hoping it would help the digestion, and no such luck so far.

After this feeling I've had all day, I said its time to detox-lemons, veggies, greens...bring them on. I decided to start with this probiotic drink and tomorrow morning I'll start off with my detox teas. I gotta get rid of this feeling!
Thursday, June 20, 2013

It Pays to Do Your Own...

Not to sound ungrateful, but I ventured to the cafeteria at my new work location. I saw on the menu board Protein Salad. I was excited and sad I had to try it.

Please tell me why I got to my desk to eat opened my contain and there is watermelon & cantaloupe on my salad? 

Do these fruit have protein content that I am unaware of? 

Despite the fruit in my protein salad, it was tasty! 

Monday, June 17, 2013

Healthy Women?

Lol! I should have called his post something else! believe me it's not gonna  be what you are expecting!

Today after 2 yrs of living in my complex my neighbor summoned me over. after asking questions and talking about our lingering plumbing issue in the building she says,  I have another son, he's 45 and he be checking you out. yes she said it just like that! Lol! She, continues, He likes healthy women. 

At this point I am baffled. Me healthy? Never! so, Is "he likes healthy women" the new polite way to say he likes big girls? Please enlighten me & educate me for I am out of touch with the modern day jargon! 


Monday, June 10, 2013

Paying for my Laziness!

Omg! Last week was PMS week and I hate to use that as an excuse for my laziness and inactivity, but I am going to this time! I had a horrible week last week. Hate like crap and did no physical activity..well I did one day. Last Monday. So today, I said to self, "Get moving"! So reluctantly, Self said, okay. So at the but crack of dawn, I made it out of the house for a walk. As I was walking I kept telling myself that I must be crazy to be outside at 5am walking! Call me Clinically insane! But I did it. 52 minutes later, I had a little over 3 miles completed. That being said, I was not walking that fast or briskly. But here I am at 11:40am, and my legs are sore. Isn't that pathetic? It does not pay to get lazy! A lesson learned today! I have the day off today, so I am taking it easy. Gonna run some errands, go to the eye doctor, do a couple loads of laundry and hit the pavement later on this evening. See ya next time! Kyra
Tuesday, June 4, 2013

I humbly plead for your mercy...

Hello, my long lost Blog family! I would apologize for my non-posting. But I seem to be apologizing for that alot lately, so I won't bore you with another apology! I had a bad week food wise...I gave in to every PMS craving I had. I am not going to lie, I enjoyed every scrumptious bite! LOL! It tasted oh so good! Other than this past week, I have okay with the eating and the exercising! I have not tried any new adventures as yet, but now that summer is upon me, its time to get to Kayaking, rowing, and rock climbing! And I am but a mere 6 weeks away from my 36-mile bike ride! I can't wait, I am so excited! Since my last hiatus, I have stumbled upon a few things that I thought I should mention! First...Robek's Juice! I never knew they made fresh juices! Completely accident that I found this out. I was trying to go to Jamba Juice after a beach walk and Jamba Juice was closed so I went to Robek's Juice and to my surprise fresh juices! I tried one, I forget the name of the one I tried, but Its good to know that I can get my juices on the go, when needed! It was not overly expensive. Not expensive like the juices at whole foods. It so hit the spot after that walk on the beach! I found a new website/blog that I enjoy! I am going to add it to my blog page, but its called http://thankyourbody.com. I found so many useful tips and resources on that page! It is becoming a daily read for me! If you have time you should definitely check it out! My curiosity for Raw food is growing, and well...I think Its time I invest in a food dehydrator. I really want to try one! LOL! I am thinking of all the healthy snacks I can make myself instead of buying them pre-packaged and filled with preservatives. I can make my own jerky, my own dried fruits, and I am thinking that Kale chips would come out excellent in a dehydrator. So stay tuned, as you know if I go down the food dehydrator road...you will be reading about it! That's all for now, just wanted to make a quick update now that we are in June! See you next time!
Monday, May 20, 2013

Daily Mile Weekly Training Summary

Okay I know I mentioned I signed up for this challenge where I am to complete
1013 miles before the end of this year. 

Well Daily Mile sends a weekly report on my mileage for the week. I must admit I am behind schedule, half the year is over so i should be at like 500 miles and I am barely hitting 200 miles!  Oops, gotta kick it up a notch. 

Well now that I learned how to do screen shots on my IPhone here is this past weeks report. 


Saturday, May 11, 2013

A Day of Firsts!

What a Saturday this turned out to be!

Today was my first bike ride on the local streets of my neighborhood. I was riding from my house to the Westfield Culver City Mall. Extremely nervous, fearful of being hit by a car, and with no helmet I left my house at 7am. Challenge #1 navigating the sidewalks on my street. it's a downhill ride at first and they quickly an uphill ride. I made it! Without hitting
any fire hydrants or light poles!

So now I'm on a major street: Centinela. I'm feeling a bit more comfortable and beginning to enjoy the ride and next thing I know my front tire is stuck and I'm flying face first to the street! I feel my right thigh hit the handle and down I go! Crap! well I survived the fall other than the bruise on my thigh which is now kinda painful no other injuries. My bikes Front tire, didn't fair so well. I have to get a new tire but I am hoping a tube repair will do.

Based on my GPS tracker my first bike ride on the mean streets of Los Angeles lasted exactly 8 minutes!

With a busted front tire and a meeting with a friend at 8:30am. there was no time to return home. I walked my bike to the nearest bus stop and hopped on the bus! The buses have bike racks on them, I had no clue how use them but today...I learned! My first bus trip using the bike rack! Thankfully the bus was not
crowded and the bus driver was patient with me and gave me instructions on how to work the rack!

I meet with Hailey for our planned workout. our many laps around cheviot hills park in Century City. By the time I meet with her I was already exhausted from the bike situation, then having to walk my bike to the bus stop it was already a full day! So with no breakfast in me, no water in me, we walked like 5 miles today! And why of all Saturdays it's like 80 degrees at 8:30am?

Bus journey home begins. Hunger pangs have flared up, I could eat a whole cow right now! I made it to the mall stopped by a tire place and asked them to put air in my front tire. My curiosity wanted to see if it was really busted. fret not Kyra, it's really busted. Off I go to lock up the bike and made a b-line to the food court at the mall!

Chicken Now is where I ended up. Never heard of them until today. My first meal of the day and my first time at this place. Got a BLT wrap with fries...Delish! Fed and Full, energy restored journeyed back home safely!

THE END!
Friday, May 3, 2013

A perspective change...

I have always hated taking pictures. I try to avoid them at all cost. I am overly critical of myself so in every picture I judge, I criticize, I put myself down. Always full of shame, always embarrassed. I did not like the me that I see.

After being on this journey of taking control of my health, I know in my head much progress has been made but when I look at me very little progress do I see. I still judge, criticize and put down and still don't like the person I see.

So here we years years into a journey and here is a picture of me. The first of pictures where I first see the change that has happened to me. My first thought was not a thought of judging and criticizing, it was a though of awe and realization . I saw something I had never seen before, A changed me. I even said to myself that I looked pretty in the picture. Words that have never been thought of and definitely not words ever spoken from my mouth. But the thought came and I hope in time that that thought will take a place in heart and become truth I can embrace. Yes a truth I can embrace...after so many years of not liking the person I see...I want a truth I can embrace.

I can't stop crying! I'm typing on my phone and in tears. I don't even know if these are tears of joy or tears of sadness...but years none the less. I feel like today, well last night May 2nd, the hate I have for myself was changing. I never thought that my self perception would or could change. This is truly so shocking for me. I never expected this, never knew this was possible.

My Destination was fitness and HIS destination is transformation ...inside out and in all areas. Continue to change my mind, my thoughts, and my heart. Transform me!



Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Detox Day #2

Well I have made it to day 2.  I am amazed how excited I am about juicing again.  My last juice detox was in December 2012.  So today I made the same juice and had it for Breakfast & for lunch.  This one does not have a name, I did not make it from a recipe, I just picked out some veggies and hoped for the best.

Today's Juice:
2 apples (Fuji)

1/2 bunch of Spinach
Handful of Parsley
1 inch of Ginger
1/2 lemon
4 stalks of celery
1 Large Collard Green Leaf

This made just a tad bit more than 16 ounces of juice.  Also a yummie juice.  I loved it! 

Today some friends and I attempted to get onto Price is Right.  We didn't get in, we ran a tad bit late.  But while we were on our way to the CBS studios we decided to get silly and pose at a waterfall! LOL!  Here is my picture.  The whole time all I could think, was please don't fall back into the water! 
Okay today's physical activity is the walk from the Grove Parking lot to the CBS studio.  It was about 1.76 miles.

Water:  Didn't do so well.  Only one liter.

Now its time to prep my veggies for tomorrow and get to bed. 
Monday, April 22, 2013

Detox Day #1...Gone Awry

Hey there!  Well Detox Day #1 is almost to an end.  Things did not go 100% according to plan.  But at least I have finally started my detoxing.  I made 2 juices today, the Mean Green Juice and a Green Lemonade Recipe that I modified to my purpose! LOL! 

So the first drink of the day made a nice big 20 ounce cup of juice.  Perfect for starting the morning.  The Mean Green Juice as featured in the DVD Fat, Sick, and Nearly Dead.  In all honesty, this is the first time in almost 2 years of juicing I have actually made the juice!  It is excellent! 

Recipe:

6 stalks of Kale
4 Stalks of celery
1 cucumber (my cucumber was not organic so I peeled it before juicing)
2 Green apples
1/2 lemon
1 inch of Ginger

I was truly amazed on how good the juice was!  I was missing out on a great green juice all these years! 
 
 
 
 
My second juice of the Day is my Modified version of Green Lemonade
 
3 leaves of Red Leaf Lettuce
1 stalk of celery
1/2 lemon
handful of parsley
1 apple
 
This made about 6 ounces of juice, also very yummy, and my first time juciing parsley!  I forgot to take a picture so please forgive me. 
 
Can you believe after I finished my Mean Green Juice and got to work, I had the audacity, to still walk my greedy butt into Coffee Bean and get a Latte & a croissant?  Bad choice!  I have decided that while on this detox..cash and debit cards are staying at home.  I can not face the temptation of Coffee Bean on daily basis! 
 
 
Lunch went according to plan, ate my salad.  Had some zuchinni, and corn and some home made pico de gallo.  So all I have to do tonight is drink a cup of my Yogi Detox tea and its a wrap. 
 
Excercise:  54 minutes walking at a very leisurely pace
 
Water:  1.5 Liter
Sunday, April 21, 2013

Long Ride #2

This past Saturday went out for another long bike ride.  And by long...I really mean long.  It felt long, it was painful, my butt hurts...still hurts and I need rest!  I am getting closer to that 36 miles as July 14th quickly approaches.

So how long was this bike ride you make ask?  27.2 miles! 

The funny thing about this ride is that I truly did not set out to do so many miles.  I left the house with the intention of doing maybe 10 - 12 miles.  I set off to ride with the only goal of trying to figure out how to get around the Marina.  By George, I got around the Marina and my excitement got hte best of me, I kept riding.  Got all the way up into Santa Monica.  The ride up was a pleasure, but I can not say the same for the ride back.  I can honestly say, it is time to get a new seat!  

That is all I have for you.  See you next week.  I start a 7-day detox starting tomorrow.  So stay tuned!  Dueces!

Friday, April 19, 2013

Contemplation of the MInd

Last night it hit me that I had signed up for 7-day detox with the wonderful folks for Fitlife.tv, which is Drew Canole's company.  When this came to my mind, I started thinking, I have to prepare! I have to go shopping, I have to plan!   Sadly, when I have all this intense planning to do, I do it at work! LOL!  So this morning has been very unproductive work-wise, but very productive on a personal level.   7-day Juice Detox, it has been a while since I went 7 straight days on a detox, so there is a bit of nervousness in me.  But it is something that I must do.  I know I need it.

The first thing I did this morning is search through the sale ads to see what produce items were on sales.  Based on what is on sale, I will decide what I will juice for the week.  This is how I juice on a budget.  Much to my surprise, there are lots of goodies that I will need and use for this detox that are on sale!  Carrots 3 lbs for $1, Celery 2 for $1, Apples 2lbs for $1, grapefruit 3 for $1, strawberries 88 cents, Spinach 2 for $1!  I could go on, but you get the point.  So right now I think the only thing I will have to pay full price for are my beets, fennel and Kale.  I am excited and once I get to shopping this weekend, I will be set for my 7-day journey.

Last night I ventured out to a short neighborhood hike/walk.  I feel weird calling it a hike, after comparing it to Temescal, Fryman and Sycamore Canyon this was a walk in the park.  Well not a walk in the park, it was still a challenge, but bit as physically taxing or as long as the other hikes.  The elevation climb was about 400 feet and had beautiful views over the city.  I was so grateful, it was a clear day.  I was upset that I did not have my camera!  This place is fairly close to home, so I have no excuse to get out there more!   I even saw a cute little bunny rabbit along the trail!


Monday, April 15, 2013

Sycamore Canyon...Huh?

Well I am not sure what I was thinking but believe it or not, I did another darn hike!  That makes 2 for the month of April, and my 3 hike all together.  This one was at Sycamore Canyon in Malibu, CA! 

I know I swore off hikes after Temescal Canyon last year, but I ventured out to Fryman Canyon, and now Sycamore Canyon.  So let me rank these for ya...Temescal Canyon was the hardest, then Sycamore Canyon, then Fryman.  That being said, I felt like I was really gonna die up there on that mountain.  Help me understand the logic in having stairs on the mountain on the climb up?  Like climbing up 800 ft of elevation ain't hard enough!  I could not wait til the downhill!  Then the hike became a piece of cake.  I have come to the conclusion I need a hike that is downhill...both ways! 

The weather was not good.  It was windy, cold and drizzling the whole morning.  There was a thick Marine Layer too that took away all the lovely views of the city and the ocean.  I did get a few pictures, but nothing too stunning.  I am sure I could have gotten more stunning pictures on a clear summer day.    So here is the picture to the photo album: https://plus.google.com/photos/103845743747978049274/albums/5866553584030653937?authkey=CL26jMWXtciKpQE

That's all for me today!  Dueces!
Sunday, April 14, 2013

Hollywood 5K/10K Completed

I am way behind on updating this blog!  I just have not had the down time to sit and update so today I am finally getting to update you with the results from the Hollywood 5K.

I am not overly excited with my final time, but what, I got it done.  I injured myself in mile one so it was a wrap for me after that.  I was in pain for most of the race.  None the less, I had a great time at the race, and it is definitely a race I would repeat next year!

So here are the official results:


163      Clarke,Kyra     4586    Clock Time  1:07:02.2         Chip Time 50:45.6            Pace:  16:22

So my goal of 45 minutes or less has not been reached, so I gotta sign up for another 5K!  Darn! LOL!

 And the link to the few pictures caught of me along the route...


 






Friday, April 5, 2013

Ish Just Got Real! ... but I am excited!

Well it's official!...I am really getting ready for the Hollywood Marathon...the 5K race at the Hollywood Marathon!  Yesterday was packet picket up!   I love the shirt for this race!  It's so cute and I will definitely be sporting it when I go walk and jog on my own time!  Even though I don't feel prepared in any way shape or form for this race, I am kinda excited to do it.  We start at 6am...which is hella early, but I prefer that!

I am bib number 4586!  The "So-Called" Expo was rather boring...but we took a picture with the fake Johnny Depp!



After the long drive to Hollywood we went for dinner!  It was good food, but as you can imagine, I ate way way way way way way way too much! I even have left overs.  I ate so much bread, had pasta, soup, and tiramisu!



Tuesday, April 2, 2013

The Fish Swimming in Many Ponds!

That is what I am feeling like right now!  I hate to say it, but I have committed myself to so many things!


  • In January I had committed to finishing 1013 miles before the end of 2013
  • Beginning April 1 (yesterday) I joined A Mile A Day challenge for the month of April  
    • Out of my ambition I ended up completing 5 miles on my first day of the challenge.  You may think this is a good thing, which in some sense it is.  But I have not covered this much ground in a while.  My hamstrings are tight, I am tired, I am hungry....and to think I gotta get my tale back out there today to put some miles in.  Eh?  Probably unlikely!
  • I have a 5K this weekend.  Normally this is a non-event for me.  But I have been sick for 3 weeks And my first attempt at getting back to exercising was my Fryman Canyon hike on Saturday. My other dilemma...One of my undertakings for this year was to finally finish a durn 5K in under 45 minutes!  Will this be the race?  Lord, I sure hope so! 
  • The girl who swore off hiking in August 2012; Did a hike last weekend, and has signed up for another hike in April.  Seriously, I am beginning to think I am not in my right mind when I agree to these things!

And this is just a few of the ponds...I'm swimming around like a fish without a head! LOL!  This is just the physically activity part of my life.   Let's not get started on the issues at work here in the middle of tax season!  Home life...a whole other issue.  But this Fish is determined to swim her way to victory. 


Saturday, March 30, 2013

Hike #2 Completed

Hello!  So far this Saturday is off to a great start!  I went on a hike this morning! 
Last year one of my fitness goals was complete a hike which I did.  I hiked Temescal Canyon in August.  I swore off hiking after that, but I mustered up some interest to try hiking one mo' time!

So today I hiked Fryman Canyon!  This is definately a better trail for the out of shape beginner that I am.  It was still a challenge, but definitely more doable!  I had my camera all aready to go to get views of L.A and Burbank but there was such a heavy Marine Layer this morning.  So disappionted....but that just means I have to go back! LOL! 

Nothing too exciting, but here is the GPS of the hike:  http://www.endomondo.com/workouts/171384160/1940300

This cold is finally at the end...I hope.  the congestion is almost gone and the coughing has left me!
Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Dinner & A Blog post

Again I have fallen off the Blogging Bandwagon.  Tonight I blog to you as I finish my dinner!  Tonight's dinner was one of my boiled dinner creations!  Chicken & Broccoli.   It's tasty and oh so healthy!

I filled one of my skillets with Chicken Broth added some Garlic Powder, Lemon Pepper seasoning and Mrs. Dash Chicken season, covered and brought that to a boil.  Added my chicken breasts.  Covered and brought to a boil and kept covered for close to 10 minutes.  Added my broccoli florets.  Covered again for 2 minutes and Voila!  Dinner is served!

Okay no more about food and dinner!  I have not gotten on the scale for the last 2 weeks, but I do have a progress report!  On Sunday I finally had to modify my belt! LOL!  Yes Modify!  I was at the last hole on my belt for a while.  Sunday when I put my jeans on, I couldn't do the loose belt thing I needed a belt that fits.  So I forced a new hole into the belt.  Much to my surprise when I marked the hole, its a good inch or so away from the last hole!  Woohoo!  Look See:





I don't have much to report.  My eating has been all over the place, I have not been able to work out as I would like too.  I have been fighting this cold for over 2 weeks now.  Made a visit to the doctor last week, but I am still struggling with this thing!  Hopefully I can shake it soon...I have a race next week!

That's all for now..see you next time!



Monday, March 18, 2013

Weekend Recap...


View from the Marina
Marina Del Rey


I have been fighting a cold, but I am at the tail end of my sickness.  Saturday I set out to get 12 miles in for my Bike race in July.  I headed out there and I was feeling pretty energetic, and got 19.38 miles in!  I was so surprised!  I am glad I covered that many miles...that is 1/2 way to what I need prepare for.  Unfortunately in my ambitiousness I ventured into Marina Del Rey.  I have never figured out how to get around the Marina, so in years past I have always ridden to it turn around and just head down south to Hermosa Beach.  This weekend, I decided to tackle to Marina.  I know there is a path that will get me around the marina into Venice beach, and I was determined to find it.  I found part of it..and then some how I ended up on the streets.  I was on Lincoln blvd, a narrow 2 lane street in Marina Del rey with no bike lane!  I was terrified, and thought I was gonna get hit by a car! I am happy to report I made it without being injured!  I really had a great sense of accomplishment after I did that ride...I really had no idea I could do that much.
Saturday Bike Ride

After my bike ride, I ventured down to Redondo Beach and hit the Sauna.  A nice relazing hour in the sauna to detox and destress!  I felt really good aftwards!  I made juice...Beets, carrots, ginger & apple.  I don't know why, but the juice tasted salty to me!  But I made myself drink it, I hate wasting things!


I then finished off my night with a movie...The Call!  It was really good, I was surprised that I enjoyed it so much.  It was a good suspense movie. 

Friday, March 15, 2013

Rethinking wearing Jeans....

Hmmm...not sure what to say.  But every now and again, I wear something that I feel makes me look smaller.  Now last week we had a function for the Arthritis Foundation, and in my true lazy form, I just wore jeans and a hoodie.  After seeing some of the pictures from the event, I was HORRIFIED!  What I say in the picture certainly did not match with what I thought and in all honesty, I looked like I was getting fatter! LOL!

So today, I decided to wear a dress to work.  The weather is rather nice here in Cali.  My personal opinion of this dress is that it is figure flattering.  I find it does a great job and hiding my hips!  So I ponder...Maybe Jeans are not a good clothing choice for me?  Maybe I need more dresses in my wardrobe?  Hmmm....So much to think about.





Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Monday, March 4, 2013

March is here!!!!

Oh crap!  March is year...the first quarter of 2013 is close to an end!  Time is getting away from me!  I see its been a few weeks since my last update.  So today will just be a quick recap and update!

In preparation for the Beach Babe Cycling event in July...I bought a new bike!  I got to ride it twice so far!  The weather is all over the place, so I am trying to ride while the weather is nice!  My brothers were here visiting.  We had a good time.  They went to an L.A. Kings game, we ate, we were merry, we had fun!  I did get them bot to join me at the beach for a ride!  Overall it was a great visit!  It was the first time my oldest brother came to visit me since moving to California.  So it was a little special moment for me.

Not much new on the workout front.  Still doing the same things, walking, running, spinning, and weight training.   I did make it out to a BGR event this weekend in Griffith Park.  This was my first time at Griffith Park.  It is a nice park!  Here is a pictures of the group on Saturday

BGR Griffith Park 3/2/13


These last few weeks have been a little emotional!  Luckily not for myself, but so many friends are going through things and they are just hurt.  I've been spending so much time listening to their pain, listening to the hurt and sometimes its a bit overwhelming.  But everyone needs an ear that will listen and not judge.  And I know it's time to pray and intercede for people.  It hurts me to the core of my heart to see so much pain in the hearts of my friends.  It is a surreal, for the lack of a better word, to be in this situation.  My friends are hurt, I'm hurting and going through, and they come to me for comfort.  I had to remember, I am not on this earth for myself, but I have a purpose to fulfill! 

Well that is all for now. I hope the days ahead are better and I can stay on track with my posting!  Take Care
Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Scale Whisperer...

Finally posting a weigh in for 2013

This morning the scale said...261.0
Not much movement on the scale from last week.  No big surprise, I only worked out twice last week, and I have been eating out alot, and well...STRESS!  Which always has a negative effect on the body! 

So the target weight for 2013 is to get to 180 lbs!    So 81 more pounds to go!

Excitement is in the air...

February is almost to an end!  Can you believe it?  I can...and it excites me!  That means spring is right around the corner!  Everytime I think about it, I just get all giddy in the inside. 

Today, I ordered an Amazon Deal for 2hour Kayaking!  I have never been Kayaking, but I want to try it!  Ya know me and my obsession with the water!  It has been a while since I did back to back days of running.  But I ran yesterday and today.  And I feel it all in my legs!  Reminds me, that i need to stock back up on my protein shakes.  My muscles will need it!  I wanted to go do some training tonight, but I think I will hold off.  Give my body some time to adjust, and since I am moving around stuff in my apartment...I am lifting and pushing things, so that will count as my weight lifting unofficially!  I will get some ab work in tonight.

I was talking to one of the other BGR girls today while I was running and she gave me some tips on training for my bike ride!  So I am excited yet again, that spring is right around the corner!  So much I want to do!  I had an eye doctor appointment today, and I had my discussion with him today about biking riding and my glasses, and my swimming lessons and contacts and well, He was not on the same page as me.  I so want to have Lasik surgery, and now 2 years in a row, I have gotten.  I can't have it yet.  He also tells me its best that I wear my glasses when I bike ride!  Really?  That is so not what I wanted to hear!  Sigh!  Well me being the stubborn, set in her ways type of person...I will be wearing my contacts when I ride! 

Oh and I will be updating the weigh in page, I just realized I have not done that all year so far.  oops! 
Saturday, February 16, 2013

Quick Update...

Hello!  Some days life just does not allow me to sit down behind this computer and update you on this journey! 

Fret not I am still in the game!  Still juicing, working out when I can, and working on better eating habits!  I am struggling with the workouts!  Things have been crazy crazy crazy busy at work.  I have been stuck with some 12-13 hour work days.  But the time I leave to go home, I don't have much energy for working out!  So right now the level of workouts have decreased, so I have to stay on point with my eating. 

THe juicing is still coming along!  I love juicing!  I am thinking about investing in a new juicer, but I am not sure which one to get.  I am also venturing into one of those delivery services for my produce items.  I can get a box of produce for $40 a month, all locally grown here in California and its organic.  I'll give it a shot and see how it works out. 

I tried a new class at the gym this week...It was called Crunch.  Its a new offering and well it was a bit unorganized.  But a good workout!  My quads & triceps are so sore!  Well that is all I have for now.  I promise to do better about the updates! 
Wednesday, February 6, 2013

It's Official...I am Registered!

Just a quick post!  One of my goals for 2013 was to complete in the Beach Babe bicycling Race! I am officially registered!   Hooray!

I am part of a team, we call ourselves Shocks & Giggles.  It's gonna be so fun!  I am shooting to complete the 32 miles!  The event is July 14th





Tuesday, January 29, 2013

I am counting this day...A VICTORY!

Well gang, Today for me, was a day from the pits!  I will give you the cliff notes version...I had a 12 hour work day.  Highly stressed!  I can't even explain!  But none the less, I told myself we are sticking to detox mode.  Again, not a perfect day, I had a mid-afternoon slip up.  My co-worker and her kind and generous self offered to buy my coffee & a cookie!  So you know I could not resist!  That was the slip up for the day, and even after 12 hour day at work...I made to to spin class!  I got to spin class late, but I made it!  This was my first spin class since, I don't know when.  I am so out of practice!  Oh my!  

So a quick recap of today's eats just to keep me accountable:

Pre-Breakfast (eaten before leaving the house)
 Detox Beetroot Juice
  • 1 carrot
  • 1 apple
  • 3 celery stalks
  • 1 small beet
  • 3 leaves of Kale
  • 1/2 of a fennel bulb
Ran all through the juicer for a nice glass of yummy-ness and liver & kidney detoxing! 

There was no-mid morning snack

Lunch:  my prepacked veggie tray.  Cucumbers, celery, carrots, black beans, salsa & some hummus 

Mid Afternoon Snack:  White Chocolate Latte & a chocolate chip cookie from Coffee Bean

Dinner: the other 1/2 of my chia seed pudding

Workout:  55 minutes of Spinning
 

Monday, January 28, 2013

Trying to make a U-Turn

Here it is the end of January and I have finally decided it time for me to get back to the pre-holiday me!  Over the weekend I told myself its time to get back to my clean eating.  So like the eager beaver I tend to be, I bought lots of produce and was determined to get back on track starting today. 

By now you know I am gonna tell the truth...I got an A for effort and a D- for actual execution. Would you like to hear how this clean eating day went?  Of course you do, this why you are reading this blog!  LOL!

Breakfast:  White chocolate Latter & a Pepper Jack Cheese Croissant Grade: F

Mid Am Snack:  Ginger Tea with Lemon & a Green Apple  Grade:  A (being generous here)

Lunch:  My prepacked veggie plate consisting of celery sticks, tomatoes, and baby bell peppers, and 2 tablespoons of Hummus Grade A

Random Mid Afternoon snacks:  2 small fudge brownie bites; snack bag of Sour Cram & Onion Chips, 2 hard boiled eggs, and a whole avocado

Dinner:  Sauteed Mushrooms, 2 hard boiled eggs and Chia Seed pudding

Finished out the evening with a nice walk in the cold and man it was cold and very windy! 

So like I said, I am trying to make a U-Turn.  Todays attempt was not the greatest, but its a start.  Hopefully as the week progresses this will get better, and I can tighten up this eating thing. 
Friday, January 25, 2013

Choice: The Key to the Journey!

Today I woke up very proud of myself!  I made it to the gym last night, did some cardio & some weight training.  Then I got up this morning and was at the gym @ 5am.  Some more cardio and some more weight training. 

So after that great start to the day...Bad Choice...White Chocolate Latte and a Cheese danish for Breakfast!  After I ate, the little voice within said, you just undid everything you did this morning at the gym.  While that may very well be true, I did better for lunch.  I did not pack a lunch, so I went to Piknik, as restuarant in our office building and got what they call the Power Lunch.  Grilled Chicken Breast, Steamed Spinach, and Brown Rice.  Good Choice!  And may I add, it was very very tasty!

At about 2pm Kate says, I am going down to Mickey Fine do you want anything?  Bad Choice...Sour Cream & Cheddar Potato Chips & a bottle of pepsi!  And to finish off the Bad Choices:  Dinner..a Double Cheeseburger, fries, and a coke for dinner!

So tonight, I remind myself I can not out-train a bad diet!  I don't strive to be perfect and make good choices at all times.  But definately the good choices should definately outweigh the bad choices.  Unfortunately, right now the scale is tipped to the wrong side!  Must do better!  I have been a tad bit out of control since being on Vacation for Christmas.  So I know now its time for a nice good Detox, starting on Sunday! 

Time to ride my tongue, stomach, and mouth of all it's bad cravings!

Power Lunch from Piknik!
Wednesday, January 23, 2013

Measurement Log Updated...

As I mentioned last night, I finally sat down and took my measurements.  For some odd reason, I could not get unto Scribd to upload my spreadsheet, so I am going to try to copy & paste it here and hope for the best.  As soon as my computer decides to cooperate  with me, I will get it uploaded and it can be viewed on under the Weight & Measures Tab.


Date   6/13/2011   7/6/2011   8/12/2011   1/22/2013   Net Change
Wieght    371.9 289.8 (82.10)
Neck   16.25 15.5 15.25 16.6 0.35
Chest   57 52 51 48.3 (8.70)
Bicep   22.5 20.5 20.25 18.1 (4.40)
Forearm   13.75 12.5 12 --
Waist   59 52 50 44.6 (14.40)
Hips   66 59.75 59 61 (5.00)
Thigh   40.5 37 36.5 30.5 (10.00)
Calf   21 19 19 21.3 0.30
BMI    53 50.2 47.6 41.6 (11.40)

Overall I am happy with the numbers.  It sounds stupid to say since I weigh myself on a regular basis, but to acutally see that there is 82 pounds less of me in almost 2 years!  WOW!   I am a little disturbed by the hip number...Overall it is a loss, but its still 2 inches bigger than it was 2 years ago! OH NO!  I am going to tell myself its 2 inches of muscle! LOL!


Tuesday, January 22, 2013

New Toy: Digital Tape Measure

Well I am sure we have all heard the usual antics, weight loss can't only be measured by the number on the scale!  I had a desire for months to get back start taking my measurements.  It's hard this time around cause I have no one to take my measurements!  My little eager mind went to google and after literally seconds of searching, I found a digital tape measure!  I can now measure myself!  No need for a companion. 

Here it is on the Walmart Website, I did however buy mine on Amazon, it was a little cheaper, but now the price on Amazon has skyrocketed!  http://www.walmart.com/ip/Health-o-Meter-Digital-Tape-Measure/20512802

So I tried it out, and wow, it is so easy to use!  I am impressed!  Well My measurements have been taken and I decided to go back to my last measurements, which sadly was in August of 2011!  I will update my measurement spreadsheet in the morning, I don't feel up to it now.  But there was some losses and some increases in my measurements!  LOL!  Of course this would only happen to me.

So over all after my first try with the tape measure it does the trick!  If you are looking for a way to measure yourself, I recommend it!
Sunday, January 20, 2013

Week in Review...

 What a week...It had many ups and many downs!  But a few things started back up this week!  I started juicing again, and I really did mean to blog every day about the juicing and as you can see that did not happen.  I tried a few new recipes...and they were all yummy!  Started back up my neighborhood walks, not really by choice, but I started them back up!  And today it was almost 80 degrees in Southern California so guess what I did...BIKE RIDE!  My first ride since October 2012..got a tad bit over 10 miles in. 

New Thing #1...Crock Pot Soups Returned!  
I bought a small personal crock pop maybe 2 years ago, that I keep at work.  The beginning of the work week it was extremely cold so I decided to pull out the crock pot and make some soup for lunch.



 Juicing Restarted
Well as I mentioned, I re-started juicing. I only took 1 picture of my juice, and I have forgotten its name.  But here are the ingredients:
  • Romaine Lettuce 4 leaves
  • One apple
  • One Small Beet
  • 1/2 Fennel Bulb
  • 1/2 Cucumber
 





And the New Recipes
I can't remember if I have ever mentioned my love for Chia Seeds on this blog.  But please know that I love Chia Seeds!  I got an email about a 3-detox and one of the detox foods was a Chia Seed Pudding!  I finally Tried it!  The Ingredients:
  • 4 Tablespoons of Chia Seeds
  • 1 1/2 Cup of Nut Milk (I used vanilla Almond Milk)
  • 1 tablespoon of cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon Agave Nectar (but the recipe said honey)
Shake all the ingredients together and let it sit in the fridge for 30 minutes.  Believe it or not, it really does jell Up just like pudding and I promise you its tasty.  It has become a snack throughout the week and another way for me to get my Chia Seeds in!  Its a little sweet, so you really can have it as a dessert if you have a sweet tooth.  I know it looks nasty, but its good.  I promise!



For months I had been saving this recipe off of the Fitness Recipes page on Facebook, and agian, decided to try it.   It may sound odd, but the recipe calls for you to blend, spinach, and parmesan cheese in with your eggs and scramble it.  I took that Idea and did something a tad different:
  • 1/2 green pepper
  • 1/2 red pepper
  • handful of spinach
  • 4 eggs
I didn't add any cheese to mine, but I threw it all in and scrambled it.  It was very good, and I think I will do this more often.  It is a great way to get more veggies into my diet! 


My First Bike Ride of 2013
A lovely SO CAL DAY!  Headed to the beach and got 10 miles in!  WooHoo!
http://www.endomondo.com/workouts/152986615?user=1940300

Okay now that I have updated you with all things for the week, I guess I will wrap this up.  Have a wonderful day!
Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Crock Pot Soup...It's Back!

It has been unseasonably cold here in Los Angeles.   I think this is the coldest it has been since I moved here.  I am still trying to battle this cold, and I for a while I think I was losing.  I stayed home Monday and let me tell you that made a world of difference being able to rest.

So this cold weather and cold that I have made me make soup! I could not think of a better way to stay warm and to help me get rid of this cold.  So if you don't know, I want to inform you that I keep a crockpot in the office!  I almost have a fully functioning kitchen at work.  I have a blender, crock pot, and a skillet!  So it was time to pull out the crockpot and made my soup for lunch fresh in the office!

Sunday night I took the time to prep, washed all my produce, cut them up, packaged them into ziploc/hefty bags..and I was ready to roll!  So today's soup was a few handfuls of Trader Joe's southern Greens Blend, a hand full of red cabbage, some chopped red & green peppers, cilantro, chicken broth, lemon juice, chicken and brown rice!  In about 2 hours my soup was ready to be eaten and it was good.  Everyone in the office said it smelled really good!





Despite the cold, I decided to finish of the day with walking home from the bus stop instead of taking the bus all the way home.  It was a bit uncomfortable walking in my work clothes, coat, and my purse, but I got some movement in, and that is all that matters!   When it was all said and done, it was almost 2 miles done.  1.92 miles done to be exact!  Over all a good day!  



Saturday, January 12, 2013

Compliments and Butt Kicking!

Here it is 11am on a Saturday and I am laying in bed! Believe me when I say I am tired!  And that is an understatement!  I started the morning off with a weight training class, called the ABC workout.  It is only my second time trying it, and oh my goodness, it was harder than the first time I took the class!  I very good workout, but I am worn out!

While in the class a lady came over to me and said, "I just want you to know that you are doing very well", some of us have been taking this class a long time and its still hard for us!  Even though I appreciate the kind words of the complete stranger, I feel so incompetent sometimes in those classes.  I can't jump rope for 2 minutes, I can't do burpees and some of the other exercises.  I get an "A" for effort, but maybe a "C" in execution.

Also Thursday night when I showed up at the gym I ran into stranger gym guy! LOL.  I don't know his name, but he seem to be on the same gym schedule we end up on the elevator or the parking garage at the same time.  But he said to me on Thursday, that I was doing really well, and that soon when I turn side ways he wouldn't be able to see me!  HIlarious!  I have a long way to go until I get to that point.  But I guess people are noticing changes.  Unfortunately, I still am not seeing them, but oh well! 
Thursday, January 10, 2013

First of the Year...FLU!!!

Nothing exciting to report, but I am so bored!

Not much blogging going on, but I have been under the weather.  That is no excuse, but that is my reason for laying low.  Here I am 10 days into the New Year and I am still fighting off this pesky cold/flu!

I have been thinking about what my goals would be for this year.  I think my list is ready, but I will sleep on it for one more day.  The list will be short this year and I think my list is more personal growth items that weight loss items.  I only have one weight loss goal, and it's a big goal, but I can do it.  I have 365 days to get it done.

I feel that this is going to be a great year.  The year has started off with new friendships, which I am excited to see them grow.  My heart continues to desire more for myself, better for myself, and more importantly to draw closer to the true and living God.  It's time for freedom and it's time for release.  That word RELEASE..it's big one! It hold within it so much!  So this goal list is definitely short and more focused this year.

On a more on the spot note, I had the most wonderful salad for lunch today from Piknik, the Salmon Nicoise Salad!  It was and is truly the most amazing salad I have tasted in my life!  It was the lunch special for today, but I hope its a regular menu item.  I have to get that more often, or at least attempt to make it on my own!  I feel a day of cooking in my future!




Wednesday, January 2, 2013

What to do? What to Do?

Okay this is not much of a post...but it is now 2013!  WOW.
It is time for setting new goals!  I just don't know what they should be!  I am going to take this week to gather myself and come up with some goals.  Stay Tuned!

I hope you all had a great New Year!  Looking forward to completely LOSING it in 2013!!!!

Kyra