I need a doctor...and balance

I love writing this blog, but I seriously need a doctor.  A computer doctor that is.  My computer has been displaying a message that says the cooling system is not working.  Basically if I don't get it fixed it is going to burn up.  Grrr!  So I am writing this blog from another computer until I get a doctor for my laptop.

I have been running mostly on the treadmill for weeks now. Yesterday, however, I ventured outside.  It was a balmy (haha) 23 degrees, but it was nice to get out.  It really is more of a challenge to run outside then on the treadmill.  I think it is more so when it is cold outside.  It is much more fun though.  I can hardly wait to be out all the time.  Speaking of running, my sister who is now a certified personal trainer, designed a half-marathon training plan for me.  I plan on starting it tomorrow.  What a scary concept.  Considering my longest run to this point has been a little over 6 miles.  I would like to be ready to run one in July, as well as running a few 5k and 10ks.

I am still trying to find that balance between work, family, and time for exercise.  I started going to the gym twice a week.  I have to admit that I like it a lot.  I have been able to work on my arms, which have been seriously neglected, but also strength my legs so I can run farther and faster (well that is the plan).   

Can't believe we are almost into the second month of the New Year.  How are those resolutions going for you?  I am plugging along.  Well...I will let you know how my training goes...until next time....Chubby Girl...out!

How I joined a gym and my magic feet...

I heard a complaint that it had been awhile since my last chubby girl dissertation.  So here I am ready to awe and inspire.  What it new with me?? Well, I joined a gym.  I know some of you are saying..well isn't that expensive and blah blah blah.  It really isn't that bad.  I pay $20 a month and I have unlimited guest privileges, which means I can take a friend.  It has been really fun.  I have been a few times with friends from work and a few times alone. Having gym buddies is a good thing, but I also found out that it is okay to be alone.  The only hang ups are getting through those awkward stages..the one where you think that everyone there is going to be super fit and muscular...and the one where you don't want to make a donkey out of yourself when you are unsure of how to use the equipment.  The gym gives me the chance to work the arms and tone the muscles.

Oh and the other new thing is my magic feet.  Awhile back my dishwasher stopped working.  After about a week of doing dishes by hand (for a family of six), I got frustrated and kicked it.  Guess what?  It started up right then and there and has been working well ever since.  Before I joined the gym, I was wondering how I was going to run with the weather turning and my treadmill broken.  You can probably see where this is going.  Yes, I kicked that treadmill and it to started working.  Now it doesn't work as well as the dishwasher.  Every now and then it simply stops, which can be dangerous if you are in a full run at the time, but for the most part it works.

My goals for a healthy and happy new year are in full swing.  Looks like racing begins in March and I will be crossing many finish lines this spring.  Until then I will keep you posted on my training...Chubby girl...out!

Resolutions and Revolutions

It is the New Year...2012!  If you believe the hype then the world is going to end this year.  I personally think the Mayans got tired of doing a calendar.  I mean you have to stop somewhere, right?  I make resolutions every year.  The amazing thing is that I am also getting pretty good at keeping them.  The trick is to write a whole bunch, not just one or two.  That way you will be accomplishing at least a few of them and you won't feel like a complete failure.  Of the 11 resolutions I made for 2011, I managed to keep 3 of them.  That is not a passing grade, but it is progress.  My resolutions this year include continued weight loss and running.

My sister issued me a challenge last night.  She called it a "Running Streak."  I think we need a more clever name for it.  Anyway, she wanted to see how many consecutive days she could run without a rest day.  Now, I know you are thinking that it is crazy, and you need a rest day.  On our normal rest days we will just run a slow mile.  Still getting a run in, but in no way taxing ourselves.  I told her I would be more then willing to do it with her.  We will say it is one of our New Years Revolutions for 2012...get it???  I will keep you updated on the progress as we go along.

The race calendar at tetonrunning.net is just starting to fill up.  I am thinking my first race will be in March.  I am really looking forward to it....Keep your chin up and your running shoes laced...Chubby girl, out.