Bootcamp 101 - First Class

Today was the first day of the rest of my life. You know how "they" say things like that... At any rate, I went to boot camp this morning and I am dead-tired. I never knew that so many people were up and out, working up a sweat and getting their workouts done before 6am... while my lazy butt lays asleep, resting in the warmth of my bed.

So, of course I would be late on my first day. I thought I had given myself plenty of time but something unexpected always comes up. Something like... meeting at the wrong parking lot. I didn't exactly know where to go since the bootcamp was in a different neighborhood. I saw some ladies that were congregating in a parking lot and they looked like they were ready to run, with their short shorts on and water holders strapped around their waists. So I mosied my truck over to where they were, parked, got out and just to confirm said "This is the bootcamp right?" They all shook their heads no and one lady approached me and told me to go down to the next stop sign and told me that I should see the bootcampers there.

And I did. And by this time they were already in full workout mode. All 20 of them. I parked as fast as I could and hopped out. I had already missed the first 7 minutes so I had some catching up to do. Run there and back, do these exercises, then run there again... and back.

Everything was a blur. It went so fast that I couldnt even really tell you any exercises that we did except push ups and something called a lazy dog. Oh wait, I also know the squats and super jumping jacks and a whole bunch of ab exercises. Maybe they were called something else. Regardless, we did so many that I lost count. JC, the instructor, moved from one exercise to the next - 60 secs, 45, secs, 30 secs, 15 secs, next exercise... It was all so overwhelming. It was hard and even harder without a few key necessities: workout gloves, a mat, and most important - WATER!

But, I know for next time. I will be early and well-prepared. 5am is way too early. but seeing the sun rise somehow makes it all worth it.

Wish me luck!

Let's talk about 'Sex'

Sex and the City is coming... it's coming... it's coming... and I can't WAIT! Thanks, Nicole, for inviting everyone to see the movie as a group and hang out for dinner and drinks afterwards.



I remember way back to the finale party that I had in DC. We were all huddled around in my small living room watching my even smaller TV. We had Chinese food and Cosmos because, what else, we were watching Sex and the City! When it was all over, we just couldnt believe that we would never see what happened to the characters.

Then my husband bought me the complete DVD collection and I started watching from Episode 1. I had never seen the first 1 (or maybe 2) seasons so I was completely engaged. I watched and watched, eager to put it all together. And once I got to the last season, I was saddened. Where was the conclusion? And now there's a movie... and again, I can't WAIT! But I hardly have to wait any longer. I'll see it on Saturday and not look at any reviews before then.

At any rate, I still dont know who I see myself in most:

Carrie (Fashionable) - I have never been THE most fashionable of my friends. I am always looking for advice on what to wear. I stick to what's "normal" and don't really distinguish myself on the fashion front.

Charlotte (Prissy) - I am not very prissy either. I grew up with all brothers and boy cousins. When they were outside playing football and basketball, there was no way that you would catch me inside playing with my Barbies. I mean, I had everything Barbie - but who was I going to play with?

Miranda (Boring) - Just what is Miranda known for? Hmmm I guess some people like her but I think she's boring. And she's not pretty. Not in the slighest. And she's mean. OK so I am considered "mean" by some people... Yeah, yeah, yeah. But I like to tell it like it is without holding back. Feelings? Who cares about hurting feelings? They should be hurt every now and again.

Samantha (Extra-Sexual) - And then there's Samantha... Ms. Let's Do the Horizontal Mambo. This is not me. For sure. Enough said.

Hmmm. Who is Jennifer Hudson's character? Maybe I'd play a supporting role. Maybe she'll just be a regular gal hanging out in the city. We'll see!

Sprint for Life - My first 5K!

We did it!


Toya (and baby Bryson), Isjonle, Tamesha, me, Stacey, Traci, Tone (in the back)

First, I'd like to take this time to thank my team of runners (Cocoa Cruisers) in the MD Anderson Sprint for Life 5K Run/Walk. I appreciate you all stepping up to the plate and adding to the excitement of my 1st race.

Next, for everyone wondering... YES I fell off (I'll talk about that in the next post). I havent really kept up with the 5K program but I was still determined to do the race. I am not a quitter completely. Anyway, my time was 45 minutes so I am averaging a little under a 15 minute mile. Which isnt that good really - but I am holding strong. I ended up running the first mile completely... and felt good doing it. This was also the first water stop.

(Sidebar - You know, I've always wanted to run by someone handing me a cup of water, grab the cup and take a swig, and throw it on the ground like they do in the televised marathons. It's like they dont miss a beat. Unfortunately, it was not like that in this race. No one was cleaning up behind us so we had to toss the cups in the trash. Period.)

At any rate, it was Houston - and although the race started at 7:30 in the morning, it was hot by start time. And by the time I got to the second mile, it was really hot. So I sipped on some water and walked... ran a bit longer then walked. I never really could get that stride back that I had in the first mile. Either way, here I am crossing the finish line and I've decided to run again over Father's day weekend. Enjoy!

Dru Hill Reunion? Not so fast!

It's Our First Anniversary!

Toni! Tony! Tone! - Anniversary imported by people

Week 6, Day 2: Twice for 10

Workout was uneventful:

Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then:
* Jog 1 mile (or 10 minutes)
* Walk 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes)
* Jog 1 mile (or 10 minutes)

I think things are breezing by now. I think that the next hurdle to come is running for 25 minutes. That will be another major milestone.

BTW, Congrats Isha on completing the half marathon!

Week 6, Day 1: The Day After

So, yesterday I started taking my exotic aerobics class - Can I just tell you that I am huuuuuuuuuur-ting. My legs are hurting. My arms are hurting. And my abs are, well, WACK! I did not realize how much fat I actually had around my abdomen until the wackness was tested yesterday.

At any rate, I did my running workout today.

Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then:

* Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes)
* Walk 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes)
* Jog 3/4 mile (or 8 minutes)
* Walk 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes)
* Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes)

It wasn't so bad, even after a week. I guess that once you get past that first 20 minute run, you know that you can tackle the rest.

Exotic Aerobics

Have you ever tried it? It's great! And it's a great workout. And I seriously needed one since I havent worked out in a week. Well, today was my first day and I am hooked. The workout started out with step aerobics. I had endurance from my running so I could keep up with that. Then we did some military type stuff shuffling across the floor, then lunges, squats, and ab work (which killed me) - a true workout indeed.

Then, it was time to show our "sexy". We started learning a dance routine to Cherish's song "Killa" featuring Young Joc:

06-Cherish-ft-Yung-Joc---Killa uploaded by nicko2601

After the workout that we had in the beginning of the class, learning the dance routine was hard. But the interesting thing is that we incorporated a lot of exercise moves into the routine.

Interested in finding out more about the Exotic Aerobics class? Here's a video of one dance routine that was taught.



Click here for more videos and information.

Thanks for introducing me to the class Hollywood Diva! Let's see if I keep it up.

Catch Up

So, I've been gone a week so let me catch you up!

• I havent done any of my Week 6 workouts so I'll start that back up this week.
• Tuesday, my daughter and I rallied for 'Change We Can Believe In' with Barack Obama at Toyota Center.
• My mom flew in town to babysit and spend time with her granddaughter.
• My husband and I flew to Las Vegas and stayed at the lovely Palazzo, sister resort to the Venetian.

Now, I'm back on my grind...

BARACK is coming...

Week 5, Day 3: A Natural High

Wow oh wow, how wonderful it is to finally be able to run longer than I have ever run before. Today was amazing. I actually completed my 20 minute run without stopping! I had to pat myself on the shoulder for that multiple times. One thing that I did differently today, though, was looking at the clock. I just decided that I would not stop until the 20 minutes ended. I tried to only look at the clock after about 3 minutes or when one of the songs changed. It worked. I kept my same playlist from the last time so I knew that when "Encore" came on, I was headed toward the home stretch. Anyway, I completed the 20 minutes and courtesy of my husband and daughter, headed to a Chinese buffet. Go figure!

Ain't no love...

Have you gotten your Jay-Z and Mary J tickets? I have! Go to Rocafella to get presale tickets if your city has not gone on sale yet! Beware, the tickets are EXPENSIVE! $125+

Quick Visit to Slackersville

Yep, I slacked this weekend. I didnt do my Week 5, Day 3 workout where I was supposed to run for 20 mintues straight. I didnt't do anything as a matter of fact. No working out whatsoever. I guess you need one of those weekends every now and again - or maybe that's my excuse of the moment. Either way, today is a new day and I am back on my grind.

I will be catching up on my 20 minute run in a bit!

Happy Valentine's Day!

We won't be doing too much. Just having dinner at home. What will YOU be doing?

Week 5, Day 2: Crazy 8s

I didnt believe it would happen, ladies and gentlemen, but YES - I completed both of my 8-minute running intervals without stopping. It was the biggest test yet and I did it! I guess it's mind over matter. I felt like stopping plenty of times and even my power song didn't hype me up for the final stretch. But, somehow, I got it DONE!

Hip hip hooraaaaaaaaay!

Power Songs

It truly is amazing what you can do when your mind and body work together. Today, I had an excellent workout. I was actually able to complete the 5-minute running intervals. I now realize that it's all in the music that I am listening to. At the end of the second 5-minute interval, I felt my mental game deteriorating. During the rest period, I convinced myself that I did not want to walk. I needed to run.

And that last boost came down to my power song. You know, a song that just makes you go longer, faster, harder... Mine is "Encore" by Jay-Z. And it gave me all the energy I needed to finish out my run.

Encore JayZ uploaded by nhennigan90

It only gets harder from here on out but maybe if I had more power songs, I'd be able to boost myself in my most difficult times.

So tell me, ladies and gentlemen, what's YOUR power song?

Week 5, Day 1: Nerves for sure

This week makes me nervous. 3 different workouts, 3 different days. Will I be able to do it?

Day 1:
Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then:
Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes)
Walk 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes)
Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes)
Walk 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes)
Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes)

Day 2:
Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then:
Jog 3/4 mile (or 8 minutes)
Walk 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes)
Jog 3/4 mile (or 8 minutes)

Day 3:
Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then jog two miles (or 20 minutes) with no walking.

Again, I'm following the time intervals. It works well with the playlist, which I've slightly updated again:

Stronger (Kanye West)-warmup
Flipside (Freeway)-jog 2.5 minutes
Show Me What You Got (Jay-Z)-jog 2.5 minutes
Yeah! (Usher)-walk
Touch the Sky (Kanye West)-jog 2.5 minutes
Promiscuous Girl (Nelly Furtado)-jog 2.5 minutes
Hollywood (Jay-Z)-walk
Check On It (Beyonce)-jog 2.5 minutes
Encore (Jay-Z)-jog 2.5 minutes

Extras include:
Good Life (Kanye West)-walk
Just Fine (Mary J. Blige)
Eye of the Tiger (from Rocky movies)

Monday morning

Way to brighten mine Cam!

Week 4, Day 3: All's well, at least for now

My workout today was pretty uneventful. I came, I ran, I conquered. There really isn't too much else to it. I have definitely bounced back from Tuesday's run. I was able to complete each interval and I even upped my speed slightly. Either way, next week is yet another big test. On day 3 we are supposed to run 20 minutes straight. Somehow, I think I might be stuck on week 5 for a while. Either way, wish me luck!

Viva Estados Unidos!

So, I was able to go to the USA vs. Mexico "friendly" soccer match yesterday (courtesy of Chi) and what a sight. The stadium was filled to the brim with mostly Mexican fans all dressed in their country's colors - green and red, truly a spectacle.

Chi's brother Oguchi also scored the first goal of the evening!



I was happy to be at my first professional soccer match. Unfortunately, I felt jipped. Nobody won. The game ended in a tie: 2-2.

But most unfortunate is that two people were shot after the game.

So sad, so sad.

Week 4, Day 2: Back 2 Back

What was I thinking? Today's workout was horrible. I was tired but tried to stick to my schedule. Since I can't workout for the next two days I tried to do a back to back workout. What a mistake. My legs were tired and my mind just was not in it. I actually made it all the way to the last 5 minute interval and then had to take a quick break. I couldn't run for the whole song. I guess that's why they say to leave a day in between workouts; so that you are refreshed with each one. Maybe I've learned my lesson, maybe not.

Oh yeah, and the gum does not make a difference for me. As a matter of fact, it lost it's flavor after the first 5 minutes and I had no where to put it.

Try, try again.

Week 4, Day 1: Press On

So, who's bright idea was it to train for a 5K again? Mine? Well, sometimes I reeeeeeeally want to rethink my decision. But, I have to press on. I am really impressed with myself that I actually made it this far. I have broken down my own mental and physical barriers to actually run, although I still do not consider myself a runner. Maybe after May I will.

Well, today's workout was very hard. I mean, I did it. But it was HARD. To start, the interval periods were very confusing to follow 'Run 3 minutes, walk 90 seconds, run 5 minutes, and so on'. I was trying to tell somebody what the intervals were before I actually got to the gym and all I could remember was the fact that I had two 5 minute running periods. That's it. There is no way that I could keep up with all the changing if I didnt have my trusted playlist changing songs whenever I was supposed to run or walk (thanks Isha!). That is indeed a big help with the workout plan.

And I started off really well. Remember I am not a runner. I did my warm-up, jogged for 3 minutes on 4.5mph, walked a little and got right into my first 5 minute interval as I sung along to Kanye's New Workout Plan. That song really keeps you going. You should give it a listen. Anyway, I moved right along through the workout and got to the last 5 minute running period singing along to Get Me Bodied. That's when I hit my brick wall. I started off running at 4.5mph, then went to 4.2, and then went to 4.0. I wanted to stop so bad but it wasnt necessarily because I was over-tired. It was because mentally I felt like I could not go on. I kept telling myself that I just had to get to the part where she calls all the ladies to the floor (you know what I am talking about...) And really, as soon as I heard that, I increased my speed back to 4.5mph and finished out the 5 minutes of the interval. Again, I knew I wasnt tired, it was mentally draining.

And again, I forgot my chewing gum. Now, I never even chew gum. I got it specifically to chew while running and for the past few times, I forgot to pop in a piece. Maybe next time I wont forget it. And maybe it will help with my mental stagnation.

Until then, Making the Band is coming up...

Updated Playlist

Well, who cares that it's updated only slightly? Since my running times are getting longer, I have to find longer songs that keep me hype. Yes, I know that I can split two songs up but why do all that when one song works just fine. Well, here it is. Do you see a pattern with me?

Stronger (Kanye West)-warmup
Flipside (Freeway)-jog 3 minutes
Good Life (Kanye West)-walk
New Workout Plan (Kanye West)-jog 5 minutes
Hollywood (Jay-Z)-walk
Encore (Jay-Z)-jog 3 minutes
Show Me What You Got (Jay-Z)-walk
Get Me Bodied (Beyonce)-jog 5 minutes
Want It (Danity Kane)-cooldown

I also have various other songs in case I want to run or walk a little extra. :-)

Week 3, Day 3: Skip a day, feel the pain!

So, I missed my original Week 3, Day 3 workout because my daughter had an ear infection and because of it, today's workout was brutal. I feel like it's been a week since I've worked out. I feel like I started all over again. Well, maybe it wasnt that bad. I was able to breathe through all of it. But it wasn't easy... or pretty. My legs felt like jelly. And I'm sure that I looked like it too. And of course, I forgot my chewing gum again. Well, it was in my purse and I didnt remember until I was struggling through the running intervals but I didnt feel like stopping the workout to get it.

Anyway, I guess that will teach me not to skip my workout days. But what's one to do when the kiddie gets sick?

At any rate, for the upcoming week, I have a lot to look forward to. I'm sure I'll be in pain:
Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then
Jog 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes)
Walk 1/8 mile (or 90 seconds)
Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes)
Walk 1/4 mile (or 2-1/2 minutes)
Jog 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes)
Walk 1/8 mile (or 90 seconds)
Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes)

I'll be using the time intervals. I dont think I am completely ready for the distance intervals yet. I'll work my way up to that soon. Wish me luck!

Oh yeah, the superbowl commercials were horrible. Did anybody else feel the same?

Week 3, Day 2: No gum, Have videos

Dangit, I forgot my chewing gum. But my workout was good. Making my own playlist really does allow me to just run freely. I know that when the music changes I should change as well. And with each new song comes a spark of energy so it keeps me moving. I wonder what it'll be like when I am running for 10 minutes straight or even 20?

I guess I'd better conquer 3 first. Oh and I'll start running outside in about a week or so (granted the weather is nice). The loop around my house is 2.9 miles. That'll get me started running outside and it's a good distance to train on.

Anyway, by popular demand, concert videos:

BBD - Poison (yes that is me singing all crazy)


Aaron Hall (the craziness that is him)

Doesn't he like boys?

OK, so before I get on the real topic of this post, my workout was GREAT yesterday. I really had to step it up. I was challenged mentally as well as physically. Running for 3 minutes sounds like a little bit and in the grand scheme of things it really is. However, when I was running for the 3-minute interval yesterday, I kept getting bored, itching to look at the timer to see how long before I could go to the next step. I am beginning to notice more and more that this running thing is a MENTAL task. My brother suggested that I chew gum. I'm sitting here thinking to myself, I already listen to music. Chew gum? But he says that it works and he ran for almost 20 minutes today. I guess chewing gum is worth trying, huh? I'd better get sugar-free...

Now, the subject at hand. If you saw Making the Band yesterday, then you know EXACTLY what I am talking about. Why was Q kissing Dawn? Am I the only one wondering about this? Throughout the whole show they were flirting and making out. Is this what reality TV does to people? Nevermind, I know the answer to that question. Maybe he is finding himself. Maybe he is changing his image. Hmmm, what do you think?

Anyway, can't wait to buy those albums (Danity Kane and New Guy Group, not buying Donnie). I really like how they sound :-)

Making the Band 4

Season 2 starts tonight at 9pm Central!

It should be a good one.

Week 3, Day 1: That girl is POISOOOOOOON!

I LOVE me some New Edition and BBD. And they can still move like they did back when we were younger. I mean they are a lot older, look a lot better, and still got that NE swagger. Whew! They performed on Saturday with Toni Tony Tone minus Raphael Sadiqq, Guy featuring Aaron Hall minus Guy, and Keith Sweat. The show was good but BBD was great. And I was so close they could probably hear me singing all the songs. Anyway, Aaron Hall is a mess. Can someone please tell him that he is not 25 anymore? Why are you still bringing freaky women up on stage? That was way too much to handle, especially while he was showing his little bird chest. Anyway, I diverged...

So back to the task at hand, here is this week's workout
Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then do two repetitions of the following:
* Jog 200 yards (or 90 seconds)
* Walk 200 yards (or 90 seconds)
* Jog 400 yards (or 3 minutes)
* Walk 400 yards (or 3 minutes)

I need the New Edition and BBD old school songs to help me along the way tonight while training! Check back for photos and video from the concert. And Aaron Hall, keep the stank out of your concert!

Week 2, Day 3: Uneventful

I went to the gym today after work - and it was very uneventful. It was just rainy, dreary, nasty outside (and I had just gotten my hair done). So the hairdo lasted thru the workout. I think I am on a roll with the 90 second runs. I am now ready to push myself to the next level. 3 minutes, here I come!

Week 2, Day 2: No rest for the weary

Tired. Sleepy. No food.

Maybe thats why my legs felt like jelly yesterday when I started my workout. I was so busy toward the end of my day that I forgot to eat. Since I work out around 4:30-5 I normally try to eat an apple or some other snack right around 3 or so. I had the apple in my purse and I was tempted to eat it on my way to the gym but I didn't want to catch a cramp - that would be even worse for the kid. So I just went without... And I felt it in every step.

Of course I forgot my towel too so I looked down at the timer on the treadmill multiple times. That made a short workout way too long. But, I finished the workout feeling great. I'm even pumped about getting to week 3.

How will I ever run for 3 minutes at a time? I guess that's nothing compared to 30 minutes at a time... Which songs will I listen to then? In a few days, we'll find out.

What Doesn't Kill Me Can Only Make Me Stronger

Day 4 went well. My workout gave me a boost of confidence - I feel like I can actually do this.

Some people have been asking about my playlist, so here it is (and yes, I know that I have my fill of Bey). She's a great motivator. :-)

(Warm Up) Stronger (Kanye West)- great motivation song to start the workout with
(R) Flipside (Freeway)
(W) Lost Your Mind (Beyonce)
(R) Big Things Poppin (T.I.)
(W) Upgrade U (Beyonce)
(R) Check On It (Beyonce)
(W) Heartbreaker (Danity Kane)
(R) Hollywood (Jay-Z f/Beyonce)
(W) Ring The Alarm (Beyonce)
(R) Show Me What You Got (Jay-Z)
(W) Freakum Dress (Beyonce)
(R) Suga Mama (Beyonce)
(W) Want It (Danity Kane)
(R) Just Fine (Mary J. Blige)
(W) Encore (Jay-Z)
(R) Get Me Bodied (Beyonce)
(W) My Love (Justin Timberlake)
(Cool Down) This Love (Maroon 5)

By the way, this playlist is actually 2 songs too long - but I couldn't decide which songs to throw out so I kept all of them. It's 3.5 more minutes of working out.

So, have you been working out? Running? Walking? Doing something? Need help? Contact me and we can motivate each other.

Stay tuned for 5K race information!

Week 2, Day 1: The second week begins

It's already been a week and here I am headed to do my 4th run/walk. This week should definitely be harder since there is a longer run interval.

Brisk five-minute warmup walk. Then alternate 90 seconds of jogging and two minutes of walking for a total of 20 minutes.

I'm hoping I can keep up.

Week 1, Day 3: Welcome to the AAAAAA!

Today I flew in to HOT-lanta to take care of some business and it is FREEZING! Not just cold, freezing. My flight left late because of weather in Houston so I am already making excuses about why I cant get on the treadmill tonight. "I'm too tired", "it's too late", "I haven't eaten", "I want to play with the baby". The excuses are overflowing.

So I get to Toya's house and rest and relax for a few minutes. I play with the baby and he slowly falls off to sleep a little while after. So there I am. Me, Toya and Tone just sitting aorund talking. And I remember my overall GOAL. I want to actually RUN the 5K. And it takes everything in me to decide to put on my clothes to workout.

Thanks To Isha, I was able to create my own iPod playlist and have the songs switch when I am supposed to walk and run. So, I get on the treadmill, turn my iPod on and guess what? It freezes up. My iPod is frozen! "If it ain't one thing it's another..." (I hear that in my head) What the hell? It is of course the excuse of all excuses not to run. So I had to take a break to go look online to figure out how to un-freeze my iPod. The instructions were clear and it didnt take too long (move back and forth from 'hold' position, then push 'menu' and center select button at the same time - in case you ever need it). Again, I was ready to roll.

Having the iPod playlist made my workout so much better. I didnt have to look down at the screen to figure out when to change and I could focus on my overall goal. The workout itself was actually ok too. I guess I am building up a little stamina. I guess the true test will come next week when I am running for 90 seconds instead of 60. Let's see how it goes. I'd better make the next playlist now.

The best salad since... EVER!

Recipe:
50-50 mix of baby spinach and mixed greens bag salad
corn
peas
mushrooms
crumbled feta cheese
diced boiled egg
diced avocado
dried cranberries

All topped off with Kraft Light Red Wine Vinaigrette.

It's to die for... Not in the mood to make your own? Head to Panera Bread and get the Orchard Harvest salad. It's different but from which I got the inspiration.

I didnt say it was low calorie, but definitely lower than the fried chicken that I could eat. :-)

Week 1, Day 2: Drop down low!

Today was my second 5k training session. On day 1, I had forgotten my iPod so I was completely focused on the clock. This time I knew which speeds I would be running so I could get a little loose. I started off strong after setting the timer for 25 minutes. I turned on my Beyonce to get me hype. I did my warm up and started the running/walking intervals. I did the first couple alternating cycles and then I seemed to have gotten a little too loose.

Listening to my music, I must have forgotten what I was there for. I was walking and then I just completely forgot when I was supposed to start running. Had I already been walking for 30 seconds or a minute already? So I am re-counting down from 20 minutes in my head as I am listening to "Get Me Bodied" extra loud and I got all out of balance. Apparently, I didnt have my Ipod strapped on properly so it went tumbling down on the treadmill and ended up on the floor while I was left with the earbuds dangling, not plugged into anything.

Soooooooo, I had to push the big red STOP button on the treadmill in the middle of my workout (losing my mileage count and calories burned), get my iPod from off the floor, plug my earbuds back in, figure out which song to play and the volume to play it at, restrap the iPod holder, reset the treadmill timer (who knows exactly when I got thrown off) and figure out whether I was actually supposed to be running or walking...

This is way too much to have to deal with. Maybe I am better off without the distraction of Beyonce...

Seems easy enough? Not so fast...

IT.WAS.BRUTAL!

That's how I would describe my first day of training. For a couch/Tivo potato like me I thought I was gonna die.

So I walked in the gym all pumped up and ready to go. Given that most of the time I just hit "Quick Start" on the treadmill, I had some quick learning to do. I had to figure out my good jogging speed and "brisk" walking speed. I settled on 3.5mph for walking and 5mph for jogging.

So I set the timer for 25 minutes (5 minute warm up and 8 sets of alternating jogging/walking for the remaining 20 minutes). The brisk walk got the heart pumping, not too much but just enough for me to believe I was actually moving. I completed the first four alternating sets and was thinking to myself... "I can do this".

Then all of a sudden it was like I got hit by a brick wall. Remember I am by no means a runner. I prefer the elliptical trainer. Well, actually I prefer the couch - but I have a little wager going on and since I looooooove my Tivo, I make it a point to at least get on the elliptical while I'm watching TV.

So back to running into that brick wall... I still had 10 minutes to go. All I kept thinking was breathe... walk... run and dont stop for 1 minute. It got to the point where I could not even look at the timer. I forced myself to look away until I thought I was almost done with the running part.

And guess what? It worked. I finished the whole 20 minutes without giving up and giving in. I felt so good afterwards. Now I am not really a sweaty person either, even when I work out. But today, hmmm, that was another story. I was drenched. I guess I havent worked this hard in a while. And 1.5 miles is not bad either. Thats what I covered today.

At any rate, stay tuned. I wonder what training Day 2 holds.

Week 1, Day 1: The Race Is On

So, I happened upon a site Couch to 5K and was immediately inspired to get moving. What better way to lose weight than to run? And even better, I have recruited a few people to train alongside me. :-) We're planning to run a 5k in early May. This will be interesting. I am not a runner and have not really run anything since junior high school track team sprints. I was never one to run long-distance cross-country although I've always admired the people that did...

Today is my first day of training. It seems easy enough to do:
Brisk five-minute warmup walk. Then alternate 60 seconds of jogging and 90 seconds of walking for a total of 20 minutes.

We'll see how it goes. Wish me luck!

First post in a few years

It's been a loooooooooooong time since I've blogged. My life has changed so very much. It's all been amazing. I'll fill you in on the details as time progresses.

But for now, it's 2008 and time to set new goals, resolutions, whatever you call them.

Here are my resolutions:
1) Lose weight (inevitable)
2) Cook and eat healthier meals
3) Take a sewing class
4) Foster and cultivate relationships

I'll keep you posted on how I am doing.

Happy Birthday to ME (Continued)

For dinner, we enjoyed an elegant evening at the Melting Pot! It was soooo romantic. It was definitely an experience to share with your significant other for the first time together. We had lots of food too. We had "The Big Night Out" 4-course meal. For an appetizer, we created a cheese fondue with mexican spices and jalapenos. Then we both had Caesar salads (one of those no-nos while being pregnant :-)). For our main course we had an array of items: teriyaki sirloin, chicken breast, shrimp, filet mignon, ny strip steak, chicken potstickers, and lobster with potatoes, broccoli and mushrooms on the side, all cooked in a spicy caribbean bouillon. For our decadent dessert, we enjoyed pineapples, strawberries, bananas, cheesecake, brownies and poundcake all dipped in or drizzled with milk chocolate fondue swirled with marshmallows.

You, too, should spring for an elegant night out at the Melting Pot. Beware though, its not for those scared to spend money or those who are in a rush. :-)

Happy Birthday to ME!!!

One step closer to the big 3-0!!! Scary!!! At least I got these delivered to my job from the love of my life. :-) I wonder where we are going for dinner tonight. It's a suprise. I just know that we have reservations at 7:30. Yaaaaaaaaay! He also got me some Victoria's Secret Dream Angels Heavenly perfume (I looooooove that scent) and "Girl, Get Your Money Straight" (a financial management book) since I love all thing money related.

Big Baby

4 lbs 13 oz so far and I am only 31 weeks. I think I am on the way to having a 9 lb baby. At least she won't be scrawny! :-)

Which will come first?

They tell us that we should go to settlement by the end of September. Which do you think will come first? The baby or the house?

Final Countdown

I've gained 4 more pounds... I guess "they" say a pound per week in the third trimester is normal. Overall, I am up 10 pounds... but I feel extra heavy. I had my gestation diabetes glucose screen today. All is normal. My glucose level (or whatever they measure) was only 110. So I am straight in that department. After today my appointments are every two weeks. Maybe I will perk up about the next appointment because I get another ultrasound at the radiologists office. :-)

I am getting lazier and lazier about my blog (notice all the pictures lately?).

Oh To Be Showered!

The infamous shower hat!

Paradise

Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas

It's official!

So today I got the biggest surprise of my life (well outside of finding out about the new bundle of joy). Jerry and I went to our new house thats being built. We went to go look around to see the progress that had been made. Things were looking good. We noticed that most of the plumbing had been completed and we even had all the bathtubs in the house installed. We walk all over the downstairs part of the house and decide to check to see what had been done upstairs.

Once we got upstairs, we walked thru the baby's room and into one of the guest rooms. While in there Jerry said casually... "Are you gonna marry me dear?" I didnt think too much about it because we had talked about it before and I knew that he was preparing to ask me. I just didnt know when. I said "Yes" and we kept it moving. We walked into the other guest room to check things out. And finally, we walked into 'his' rec room... We looked around and took pictures. We always do that so I didnt think too much about it. As I was about to walk back downstairs, Jerry came up behind me and put his arms around me and asked me right then and there if I would marry him. I said "Yes" immediately. He had the box in his hand and when he showed it to me I almost fainted. I opened the box and WOW - he did an excellent job.



I was slightly blinded for a moment but then I got my composure and he put the ring on my finger. It was perfect! Proposing at the site our our new home - our foundation in more ways that one... Next stop... Bahamas - our last trip before the baby comes...

14 and counting...

This is me at 6 months (26 weeks) and only 3 months left (14 weeks). At my doctors appointment yesterday, the nurse told me that I've only gained 6 pounds so far but I think that this last trimester is gonna get me. I'd better watch out. Everything else was normal... blood pressure, fundal height - all that good stuff. At my next appointment I will have the glucose screen which tests for gestational diabetes and then after that I go for an appointment every two weeks. Yaaaaaaaaaay. Counting down... AND I get another ultrasound. Cant wait for that!

Prego Police

They are OUT! And it's really starting to piss me off...

"Dont do this", "be careful doing that", "don't eat this", "you should try to eat that", "you shouldnt drink caffeine", "don't eat tuna", "stay away from deli meats", "dont eat shellfish", "dont eat any salt", "drink water all day long", "dont put your hand above your head", and last but not least... "make sure you walk..."

Make sure I walk? Are you serious? Do you forget where I am? It is hot as hell in Houston right now and the humidity makes it feel even WORSE. Everyday. It doesnt matter the time of day or night. It's hot. Plus we are in the midst of a drought. The ground is hot... hella hot. I hadn't even been shopping in forever until yesterday (had my $25 DSW voucher). It's just too hot when you have to walk from the car to the store and back. TOO DAMN HOT. So, expecting me to go take a walk out in this Houston heat is out of the question. Period. I dont think baby Cameron wants her mom to pass out just so she could go walking.

On another note... why are people (other women) so rude to pregnant women? We are already in a fragile state and people just feel the need to comment on our size. When it comes from someone you know, you can take it as a joke or you can tell them to kiss your @$$ but from a complete stranger to say... "you are huge", "you look like you are ready to drop at any moment now" or "are you having twins" (when you're only having one baby) is just ridiculous. I told Jerry that the next time some woman I dont know comes up to me and says something like that, I am going to look back at them and say, in all seriousness... "Oh, I am due in October... having a baby girl. When are you due?"

That'll shut them up. At least I hope so.

Werehavingababy Itsagirl

Remember that long distance commercial - I think it was 1-800-Call-ATT when the guy was making a collect call and when asked for the name he responded... "Wehadababy Itsaboy"? Anyway, I thought that was pretty comical so I thought I'd bring it back up.

Today was the day. We found out that we are having a baby girl. Awwwwwwwwww That's too precious. Jerry says in the famous words of Chris Rock... "gotta keep her off the pole". As if that's not crazy enough, my mother is CRAZY.

I called her as soon as we left the radiologists office. The only thing that she said out of her mouth when she answered the phone was "TELL ME IT'S A GIRL." Not 'hello', 'how'd it go', nothing like that... just "TELL ME IT'S A GIRL". I didnt want to disappoint and I wanted to tell her what they told us. I said... "It's a girl". She told me that I was lying and she didnt believe me. She asked to speak to Jerry. After talking to and threatening him, he told her it was a girl too. Then she said that she kinda believed us. See, my mom has 3 grandsons and 3 great nephews already. I guess she thinks it's time for a girl. I must be the chosen one...

For my mother's sake, I hope baby girl doesnt end up being baby boy.

Boy or Girl?

Disregarding the fatness, what's in that belly? Stay tuned... We find out on Thursday.

My brush with death

I am so happy to be alive. I tossed and turned all night on Wednesday. I woke up to use the bathroom about what seemed like a million times. The last time that I woke up I felt cold chills so I turned off the A/C. I think I went back to sleep for about an hour and then it was time to get up to go to work. But when I tried to get up, I just couldnt. I felt HOT... burning up HOT but not just hot... I still had my cold chills. My first thought was that I must be coming down with the flu.

So Jerry got my trusted thermometer and took my temperature. 102. WTF? 102. So he is basically like, you need to go to the doctor... I'm like well, maybe I will but I ask him to call his cousin because she is a nurse and worked with a lot of pregnant women. So as I lay freezing and hot, he calls and asks her a few questions. After all is said and done, he gets off the phone and tells me that I need to call my doctor. I agreed but the doctors office didnt open until 8:30. So I had about an hour to wait. I tried to drink water just to try to help cool me down and I took two extra strength Tylenol (one of the few medicines deemed kinda safe for prego women).

At 8:30 on the dot, Jerry was calling the doctor's office. Then he tells me "I dont know what to say" and hands me the phone so that I can talk. Luckily I wasnt really dying. Of course, this day, of all days, my doctor is on call at the hospital so I speak to her assistant. She tells me to take Tylenol (I had already done that), stay well hydrated (was in the process of doing that), and try to rest until she can make contact with my doctor.

So she calls me back in about 20 minutes and tells me that I need to come in to give a urine sample. Apparently, fevers are a great indicator of an infection and one of the more common is a urinary tract infection in pregnant women.

So I decide that I'll take a slightly cool/warm shower so that I dont raise my body temperature anymore. I get out of the shower, lotion up as usual, put on my undies and sit on the side of the bed. Then I cant seem to do too much. I just sit there for what seemed like at least 5 minutes. Jerry looks over at me and asks if I am alright. I told him to hand me some water. I start placing it on my forehead and my chest just trying to cool off... Then I feel like I am about to pass out. I have NEVER felt like this before. I started seeing white spots or something like that. All I could think about at that moment was an ambulance coming to get me and them seeing me in my underwear. Here I am about to be a goner and that's what I think about. Too funny. Anyway, at that moment I started feeling sick in my stomach... and then what happens? All the water that I had been drinking presented itself again. Water was all over the floor, the dresser, my shoes... At least it was only water. Right after that I felt a little better. So I laid on the bed until I could finish getting myself together. Then I went to the doctor's office.

Leaving there, we picked up some fruit and juices... I wasnt in the mood to really eat too much so I just tried to drink water and eat my fruit... Also took my Tylenol every 4-5 hours and slept for what seemed like hours.

Then at about 10:00 it was about time to take my last two Tylenol. Jerry sat there and watched me take them. (For whatever reason, he thinks I wasnt really taking them - although my fever was under control.) Anyway, I am not a pill taker. The taste of them makes me feel like vomiting... but I know I had to do what I had to do. I put one Tylenol in my mouth, and got it down with the water. I tried to do the same with the other, but somehow it got stuck in my mouth... I kept drinking water but the pill was not going down. It started melting in my mouth. It was the nastiest taste. And I started vomiting that crap up. Right there, right in front of Jerry again. So he hands me a towel (in case I vomit again), goes into the bathroom to get some stuff to clean it up with and then something overcame me and I dropped the towel and just threw up all my fruit. I couldnt even make it to the bathroom. It was the worst. He gets me into the bathroom and puts a cool towel on my back as I put a cool one on my forehead and neck. I try to get everything else out of me over the toilet but of course... I am already done.

Anyway, he cleaned up all that nastinest - got down on the floor and started scrubbing then vacuumed. What else can I say but 'I love that man. ' :-)

162 and counting...

We had another doctors appointment. This time we didnt have an ultrasound done. Apparently, insurance companies dont really like to pay for that stuff at EVERY visit. One thing that we did get to do was to hear the heartbeat. Can you believe that a little one inside the womb can have a heart beat as great as 162??? Imagine if one of us had a beat count of that much... Well, we would be here no longer.. but that's what it was. It has to work extra hard to pump blood and stuff initially. Well, thats the explanation that we got. We only heard the heartbeat for about 5 seconds before the baby decided to move. And we couldnt quite find it again. Maybe next time. One thing that I have noticed though, is that I am getting FAT. Very FAT!!! I think I've doubled in size since last week although Jerry tells me that I'm crazy. I've gained 4 pounds since the last doctor's visit... and "they" say that I should gain a pound each week until the baby is born. If my calculations are correct, that means that I will have gained a total of 26 pounds by the time the baby is born. 26 added to what I weighed before getting pregnant and THAT is an ugly sight... I'd better watch what I eat from now on. I dont wanna get Supersized...


This is me now :- and I have 5 months to go...

2nd Trimester

So, the thought that all your morning sickness ends as soon as the first trimester is over had me longing for the weeks to pass by... Amazingly, I have made it to 14 weeks in one piece BUT the sickness has not stopped. Just last night, well, I got sick. Could it have been the porterhouse steak that I cooked to perfection? Or could it have been those horsepill vitamins that I am forced to take every night? They are the worst. It would seem as though technology has evolved enough for all the nutrients to be packed inside of a little tiny pill instead of the monstrosities that they are now... Just my two cents. I am still hoping and praying that the sickness is almost over. Whew! Please be over... This is nothing nice. Plus I have a few trips planned in the upcoming months and I cant be sick during my travels.

Sweet Mango Cafe

I can taste it in my mouth. I have been wanting spicy food for the longest time... especially Sweet Mango's jerk chicken... The taste is like none other. You just cant understand if you've never had it before. Could this be my first craving? I dont know but I got a taste for it and going to DC is gonna settle that. I'm off on a plane and will be back on Sunday!

And counting...

So much time has passed by... One, because I always forget about this blog and two, because time passes by quickly when you're having fun. Ok, so, I'm not really having fun. My body is not adjusting too well to this pregnancy thing. I am nauseated ALL THE TIME... and everybody has a different remedy for me. I've got the seasick bands, preggie pop drops from Motherhood Maternity, ginger tea, ginger ale, dry ass crackers, gum, mints, water... you name it and I've tried it. Too bad none of it works. Well, maybe everything worked for a day and then that was probably only psychological. Sometimes you just loathe all the people that tell you that they never had morning sickness... great for them... still sucks for me.

Oh yeah, I also tried to start working out. I was pumped... I'm not gonna be one of those moms that doesnt work out at all during the pregnancy. So me and Jerry went to 24hr fitness - decided we were gonna try out a 10 day pass and then join... Well, we went on Day 1... and that's it ... havent been back since... hahaha not even to finish out the 10 free days... So, I tried... maybe I'll try again later. Coco has been harping on me taking pregnancy yoga... Maybe I will do that continuously. Too funny...

So, I go to the doctor again to get the usual 4 week checkup. Urine, weight, blood pressure. Wow, I dropped 2 pounds. That's from being sick half the time... Thats just the worst feeling... All the mothers that've had morning sickness... throw your hands in the air - we gotta stick together!

So at least this time when we did the ultrasound Jerry was there. He was scared to come too close... scared that he was going to mess up something... Was he scared when we were... (well, you get the point) Too funny. Did I mention that he made me steal a magazine while we were there? Will we teach our child that?


At least you can tell a bit more from this sonogram picture... the big head is obvious... The baby was jumping all over the place... Active little thing... Week 12 and counting...

The first visit

My first ob/gyn visit was very routine. I sat and talked to the doctor for a little bit. She delved all into my personal business and the nurse did the usual... urine sample, weight, blood pressure - stuff like that... Next thing I know I was getting undressed from the waist down for a total stranger getting ready for my first real ultrasound. Judging from my best friend, I thought I was gonna have to beat the doctor down to get that done at the first visit. I guess she figured aunt flow hadn't come in a while so I might be pretty far along. Anyway, I hopped up on the table, she placed the warm gel (yes, mine was warm) on my tummy and started poking around with the ultrasound machine. In about 3 seconds she found the little pea and I could see the heart beating extra fast. Too bad Jerry wasnt there. He missed the opportunity - work called... After the ultrasound and getting to see the little one that was growing inside of me I had to get blood drawn. Too bad that had to be the ending of the first appointment...



Can you understand this picture? Yeah I wouldnt be able to either if it wasnt for the ultrasound machine. I wouldn't know what the heck this little thing was if I hadnt seen it moving around. Well, the plus signs show where the head and tail of the baby are... just so you know! Pay attention, you'll have a quiz later! 8 weeks and only 32 (more or less) to go...

A little surprise

Today was a shocker... I found out that I am pregnant. Not exactly sure how far along but yep... all 5 tests said I was pregnant! 3 digital and 2 regular - You just cant ever be too sure... Jerry was grinning ear to ear. :-) I wish i could have captured that for when he has to change diapers...

Loser but not really

I havent posted since I first started. Guess I just havent been into it. Well, since I sit here at work all day and do nothing, I guess I'll at least try to write something everyday. I guess the first thing is that I was in Rome on my birthday. No, not Rome, Georgia... I was in ROME!

I went on a Mediterranean Cruise and I stopped in Barcelona, Spain - Marseilles, France - Villefranche, France (Nice, Monaco) - Livorno, Italy (Pisa) - Rome, Italy - Naples, Italy.

It would have been nice if I would have blogged during my trip. However, I didnt think about it and the time has passed...

The pics are lovely though.

For Money

Back to work and it sucks.  At least I'll be in Atlanta over the weekend.

Nuevo Latino

We heard about a concert down at South Street Seaport so we hopped the A train down there.  The Delpnonics were supposed to be perform but by the time we got there everybody was leaving.  We asked a couple people and they told us that the Delphonics never showed up.  Too bad for us... Not like I care for them that much but whatever.  I had never been down to South Street seaport area so it was an experience.  Since I'm a greedy girl I was a little hungry.  Amy Ruth's couldnt hold me all day, especially since I had a Cosmo during my SATC tour and an Appletini at Chetty Red's afterward.  So we get to Cabana - this nuevo latino restaurant.  From first scent I was in love.  We put our name on the list and headed straight for the bar.  So now I am about to start working on my third drink... this time a Mojito.  That was good and because I was so hungry I had my tastebuds set on something good.  So we were seated after we finished our first round of drinks.  We had an outside table overlooking the FDR.  We could also see Brooklyn in the distance... very romantic though I wasnt with my baby to enjoy it with.  The view was cool nonetheless.  If you ever go there, get the Paella Valenciana (without the squid, octopus and other nasty stuff).  By the time we finished eating, It was time to go home and recuperate...

The Life of Carrie

I signed up for the Sex and the City tour. Why? Because I had to fill my days with something when my conference was boring and all my friends were at work. It was a nice tour. $35. Not too much and it was 3 hours. Since I am a fanatic, I got to see all of the famous places of the SATC crew from Jimmy Choo's store, Carrie's stoop, Miranda's gym, Charlotte's art gallery to Sushi Samba ... We even had cupcakes from Magnolia's bakery and Cosmos from Onieal's. It was interesting to say the least especially since our first stop off the bus was the sex toy store. Great stuff if you have 3 hours and $35 to kill.

Greedy Girl

Amy Ruth's.  Chicken and waffles.  Is there anything better?  OK... well maybe Roscoe's but how can something be so good? I had the best lunch today up in Harlem.  Everybody had been telling me to go to Amy Ruth's since the restaurant has some good southern cooking and all.  I finally decided to try it.  So I get off the 2/3 train at 116th street with one of my friends and realize that I am no longer in Manhattan.  Harlem is truly a different world.  You can definitely tell the difference.  Harlem is, well, more like home.  A place where my heart was.  So we get in the restaurant and on my way to my table for two I glanced at all the wonderful dishes I was seeing, mainly chicken and waffles.  Since that was what I saw the most I decided I'd have to try it.  3 wings and a belgian waffle.  It came out and I got so excited.  The only other time that I'd had chicken and waffles was at Roscoe's over 6 years ago so this was a treat.  One taste and I was through.  Heaven.  Or at least I thought.  It was great.  I was full.  And on my way to my Sex and the City tour... 

Bad Boys

So I guess I got a hook up.  Maybe a hook up but probably not.  Anyway, I somehow got tickets to go see the P. Diddy Bad Boys of Comedy Show on Friday afternoon.  Well, 4:30 so I guess it's pushing "evening"... but afternoon nonetheless.  I hope the show is good.  Most of the stuff that Puffy, yeah Puffy - the original, does is pretty good.  I saw A Raisin in the Sun.  And while there were a couple questionable scenes, overall he did a great job.  So, I got these tickets for the show Friday at 4:30 and man oh man these people sound ruthless.  There are not putting up with CPT.  Nope... not having it.

"SHOW 11 - FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2004 - 4:30PM THIS IS A LATE AFTERNOON TAPING
Please email us back immediately if you can't use these tickets or if your entire party will not be in attendance. We will be forced to remove you from our list of free TV events if you do not attend with your complete party. IF YOU ARE NOT USING THE TICKETS, PLEASE WRITE CANCEL IN THE SUBJECT LINE OF YOUR EMAIL SO THAT WE CAN ACCOMMODATE OTHER FANS.

Congratulations! You and your 3 guests are confirmed to attend the P DIDDY presents BAD BOYS OF COMEDY 4:30 PM television taping on Friday, July 23, 2004. You must arrive for the taping between 3:30 and 4:00 PM. YOU MUST BE ON LINE BY 4:00PM. Doors Close at 4:15 PM. There is no late entrance or early exit from the show. You must stay with us for the entire taping, which will end no later than 7:30PM. The show is being filmed at The BAM Harvey Theater at 651 Fulton Street between Ashland Place and Rockwell Place.

Oh well, guess you gotta have rules or people will try you. Well, they still might.

Set it off

Heard about it alot.  Fights on the train in NYC.  Well, I witnessed my first "almost" fight and it reads a lil something like this:

young black dude and his girl standing in the doorway.  older spanish guy gets on.  bumps black dude.  black dude has words like "dont touch me. dont be pushin me."  spanish dude says something in spanish then walks up to black dude like he was about to punch him.  black dude is like... "you tryna go to 125th..."?  mind you, we are at like 110th and going SOUTH so i dunno what that question was meant for.  they have a few more words and spanish dude walks back to his side.  black dude's girl tries to calm her boo.

Up and running

So... This is my first post.  Interesting enough I guess.  Guess it gets better over time.