DISCLAIMER:
This blog talks about periods, pads, and tampons. If any of those make you uncomfortable I suggest you read further and join in the hilarity. :D
Ladies. Maxipads. Uuuggghhhh. RIGHT? We all know the doctors advise not to sleep with tampons hanging out in your body but we all do it anyway. That is until we start having some possible issues which cause us to remember those important words and which then cause us to succumb to purchasing these miniature diapers as our mothers did for us when we were but a wee tween.
Now men, just so you know, buying tampons is TOTALLY accepted these days. You go in, you grab a box, you pay, no one looks at you twice. BUT when you venture out of the feminine hygene aisle carrying a package of these bright colored, "They aren't diapers but they SOUND like diapers when you walk"/ "Have a happy period said no one EVER", contraptions, women will completely clue in to what you have in your hands. Not only that, they KNOW the color combinations for the different varieties as well. So when you walk out of that aisle, trying to conceal the package under a magazine, know that even the women at the other end of the store can see the bright orange tab indicating "OVERNIGHT PROTECTION" and look at you with a face of "Oooooohhhhh noooooooooo" like you've tucked your skirt in to the back of your underwear.
Being that I have ignored my doctor's advice for years, I am no longer privy to the details of said items, especially the OVERNIGHT PROTECTION version I have been forced to acquire. Details, you ask? Actually more like DETAIL.
Just one.
Which one?
THE ONE WHERE SOMEONE FORGOT TO TELL ME THE THING IS 12 INCHES LONG!!!!
That's right. 12 INCHES. 1 FOOT for those who need to compare the measurement with a sub sandwhich.
It could be that I grabbed the wrong size. I don't know IS there even sizing for these things?? In tampons we have the following:
Light: "It's just sprinkling"
Regular: "Nothing out of the ordinary to see here!"
Super: "Don't worry it's just a flesh wound"
Super Plus: "You might want to get that looked at but they make the size so I'm sure you're fine."
These can all come in one package too in case your body has NO idea what it's doing and you need to prepare boy scout style.
Anyway, back to the maxipad. I could use this sucker to treat a head wound! I could use it as a HAMMOCK for Barbie Dolls (why didn't I think of that when I was a KID???). I could even use it as a beer coozie. I would too.
So ladies, for those of you who wear these ridiculous, diaper wannabes, on a regular basis I am standing up RIGHT NOW and starting a slow clap. I'm serious. You can make these as thin as you want "Always" but they STILL CRINKLE WHEN YOU WALK! Like a small plastic bag hanging our in your crotch. It's like trying to pop out a piece of gum in the middle of a quiet movie theatre except in this case NO ONE is going to want a piece.
At all.
Ever.
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
Friday, November 22, 2013
Basic Curvatures
The state of the "basic curvature", if you will, of women is something that is CONSTANTLY being talked about. Are models too skinny? Are "plus size" models too skinny? What IS plus size anyway? Are Lululemon pants just expensive clothing made for skinny people? If you've seen the news lately then you know that last one is a HUGE issue right now and many a Facebook rant has been posted.
The Lulu issue has sparked a few of my friends on Facebook, who have amazingly honest and "Stop feeling sorry for yourself" attitudes like my own, to post on the subject which then makes me post on the subject because the rants are incredible. What is ironic is I was having a conversation with a girl friend of mine about how fit chicks like us have issues just fitting in to "normal" clothes because of our curves. I came to the conclusion that all women have issues with clothes regardless of the size of your pants and that we need to start letting go of that stupid tag number and just wear what FITS.
I had that very idea pointed out to me by my good guy friend, Shane. He said "For guys, we have NO idea what the tag says. We go in, pick something out, if it doesn't fit we find a size larger and continue on." You mean they don't DWELL??? They don't have a minor melt down in the change room over the fact that the size 6 pants they've been wearing for a year suddenly don't fit in the ass or quads because of our glorious, hard earned, muscle? That their favourite dress hanging in the closet no longer fits in the back because of the pull ups they've been desperately trying to complete?
Well first of all I don't think they would be looking at a dress in their own closet (well maybe, I don't know lol) but you see my point. We put so much focus on that stupid number it drives us to eating disorders, to break downs. I am an advocate of being healthy at whatever size you are. My weight fluctuates more than I'd like and I have a bit more curves this year than last and, yes, I did have a week of minor melt downs and tantrums when I couldn't fit my favourite dress, but I also have to look at the bigger picture. WE have to look at the bigger picture. My goals currently are muscle building. That results in certain changes. Suck it up buttercup.
Ladies I urge you to start dressing for your body. Buy clothing that fits and not something that gives you an instant muffin top. If you're not fitting in to your current clothes, assess the reason why and possibly make some changes. Either in your routine or your clothes, whichever way you want to go. Don't get mad at large corporations for being honest as to the fact they don't carry sizes larger than 12 or whatever it is they're saying. Business it business, it's not supposed to be personal. What's personal is how you feel about yourself. Know that ALL women are having the same issues you are in that change room. I have gotten stuck in a shirt because of my back. I almost got stuck in a pair of pleather leggings because of my ass, ok? I'm there with ya!
Be healthy, be happy, be yourself, and be happy with being yourself.
The Lulu issue has sparked a few of my friends on Facebook, who have amazingly honest and "Stop feeling sorry for yourself" attitudes like my own, to post on the subject which then makes me post on the subject because the rants are incredible. What is ironic is I was having a conversation with a girl friend of mine about how fit chicks like us have issues just fitting in to "normal" clothes because of our curves. I came to the conclusion that all women have issues with clothes regardless of the size of your pants and that we need to start letting go of that stupid tag number and just wear what FITS.
I had that very idea pointed out to me by my good guy friend, Shane. He said "For guys, we have NO idea what the tag says. We go in, pick something out, if it doesn't fit we find a size larger and continue on." You mean they don't DWELL??? They don't have a minor melt down in the change room over the fact that the size 6 pants they've been wearing for a year suddenly don't fit in the ass or quads because of our glorious, hard earned, muscle? That their favourite dress hanging in the closet no longer fits in the back because of the pull ups they've been desperately trying to complete?
Well first of all I don't think they would be looking at a dress in their own closet (well maybe, I don't know lol) but you see my point. We put so much focus on that stupid number it drives us to eating disorders, to break downs. I am an advocate of being healthy at whatever size you are. My weight fluctuates more than I'd like and I have a bit more curves this year than last and, yes, I did have a week of minor melt downs and tantrums when I couldn't fit my favourite dress, but I also have to look at the bigger picture. WE have to look at the bigger picture. My goals currently are muscle building. That results in certain changes. Suck it up buttercup.
Ladies I urge you to start dressing for your body. Buy clothing that fits and not something that gives you an instant muffin top. If you're not fitting in to your current clothes, assess the reason why and possibly make some changes. Either in your routine or your clothes, whichever way you want to go. Don't get mad at large corporations for being honest as to the fact they don't carry sizes larger than 12 or whatever it is they're saying. Business it business, it's not supposed to be personal. What's personal is how you feel about yourself. Know that ALL women are having the same issues you are in that change room. I have gotten stuck in a shirt because of my back. I almost got stuck in a pair of pleather leggings because of my ass, ok? I'm there with ya!
Be healthy, be happy, be yourself, and be happy with being yourself.
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Music For My Soul
It's been a bit since I blogged. Heck it's been a bit since I steadily worked out! But today's blog isn't going to be about fitness, no, today's blog is about getting back to something I've been missing for a while.
Music.
For those who don't know, music has been a part of my life from a very early age. At 7 I "discovered" my voice. At 16 I decided to finally take vocal lessons after singing with the likes of Celine Dione, Whitney Houston, and Maria Carey in the comfort of my room for the previous 9 years. At 17 I finally took the leap into public singing by entering my hich school's talent show. At 20 American Idol was all the rage and singing competitions of the like were popping up all over Winnipeg. I entered every.single.one. and didn't win anything until 2004 at the age of 23. About 4 years ago I stopped singing publicly altogether, due to the lack of joy it brought me, minus a large country music festival's contest which I entered mostly to get tickets for the weekend.
I have NO shame admitting that by the way. :)
In the last 5 months I did some thinking and reflecting on my years of the competitive fitness lifestyle and on how many things I didn't have time for while training because of it. I then made the decision I was going to take at least a year off from competing to focus on my relationship with working out and food, then re-evaluate my feelings after that. In the meantime I vowed to engage in something I have missed out on.
I decided to join a choir! :D The Stonewall United Church's Christmas Cantata choir to be exact!
I haven't been this excited and nervous in YEARS. Nervous because choirs are serious business. I have been singing country music for 12 years with one other choir experience probably 6 years ago. I haven't hit my soprano high notes since, well, 6 years ago. Oddly enough, though rusty, they were still there last night. I actually managed to keep up with the well seasoned singers! lol To hear the harmonies of my soprano group against the female altos and the tenor and baritone men was music for my soul and made me feel complete again.
I can't wait for our performance in December. :)
Music.
For those who don't know, music has been a part of my life from a very early age. At 7 I "discovered" my voice. At 16 I decided to finally take vocal lessons after singing with the likes of Celine Dione, Whitney Houston, and Maria Carey in the comfort of my room for the previous 9 years. At 17 I finally took the leap into public singing by entering my hich school's talent show. At 20 American Idol was all the rage and singing competitions of the like were popping up all over Winnipeg. I entered every.single.one. and didn't win anything until 2004 at the age of 23. About 4 years ago I stopped singing publicly altogether, due to the lack of joy it brought me, minus a large country music festival's contest which I entered mostly to get tickets for the weekend.
I have NO shame admitting that by the way. :)
In the last 5 months I did some thinking and reflecting on my years of the competitive fitness lifestyle and on how many things I didn't have time for while training because of it. I then made the decision I was going to take at least a year off from competing to focus on my relationship with working out and food, then re-evaluate my feelings after that. In the meantime I vowed to engage in something I have missed out on.
I decided to join a choir! :D The Stonewall United Church's Christmas Cantata choir to be exact!
I haven't been this excited and nervous in YEARS. Nervous because choirs are serious business. I have been singing country music for 12 years with one other choir experience probably 6 years ago. I haven't hit my soprano high notes since, well, 6 years ago. Oddly enough, though rusty, they were still there last night. I actually managed to keep up with the well seasoned singers! lol To hear the harmonies of my soprano group against the female altos and the tenor and baritone men was music for my soul and made me feel complete again.
I can't wait for our performance in December. :)
Friday, July 26, 2013
Phase 2 - Week 2 ~ DO OVER
Since I'm going to be spending some extra time in Phase 2 anyway I figured I could get away with sacrificing this week because everything just got to be too much. I photographed a gorgeous wedding last weekend along with an engagment session, couple that with The Attack of the Killer Uterus and my full time job being a gong show, I am tapped.
Like a keg after a frat/sorority party........just blowing foam.
I took out alot of my starchy carbs for this week because eating them and not using my muscles would just make me fat and well, Jamaica is in 18 days. lol I'm not sure what this will do to my progress but whatever. In the third week of this phase we start to calorie count and do higher and lower calorie food days before we start carb cycling in Phase 3. I'm not going to switch to that until I get back from holiday so I can continue building muscle. And well not have to think so much about what I'm doing. lol
Like a keg after a frat/sorority party........just blowing foam.
I took out alot of my starchy carbs for this week because eating them and not using my muscles would just make me fat and well, Jamaica is in 18 days. lol I'm not sure what this will do to my progress but whatever. In the third week of this phase we start to calorie count and do higher and lower calorie food days before we start carb cycling in Phase 3. I'm not going to switch to that until I get back from holiday so I can continue building muscle. And well not have to think so much about what I'm doing. lol
Friday, July 19, 2013
LiveFit Phase 2 Week1 ~ CAAARRRDDDIIIOOOO and girly muscles
NEVER have I been more happy to see the word cardio before. Ever. Infinity. After 4 weeks of basically carb loading I was starting to feel pressurized. Though the muscle gains were welcomed the constant full feeling was not. That being said, it was required for 4 weeks to not do cardio. I can now see why people were having daily freakouts when this program first came out. It's a daunting task to eat all that food, lift all that weight and stay away from anything related to cardio.
This week felt MUCH different and the only changes were the cardio and no starchy carbs for dinner. What a DIFFERENCE! No pressurization, midsection is starting to tighten up, yet I'm still making gains. Happy, happy, happy!
So since Phase 2 ends close to my trip to Jamaica I'm going to continue for a bit in phase 2 and move on to Phase 3 when i get back. Phase 3 starts the serious leaning out process with carb cycling which would be too hard to keep up with while on holiday. The good part about staying on Phase 2 for a while longer is the extra muscle I'll gain, definitely not complaining there. :)
This week felt MUCH different and the only changes were the cardio and no starchy carbs for dinner. What a DIFFERENCE! No pressurization, midsection is starting to tighten up, yet I'm still making gains. Happy, happy, happy!
So since Phase 2 ends close to my trip to Jamaica I'm going to continue for a bit in phase 2 and move on to Phase 3 when i get back. Phase 3 starts the serious leaning out process with carb cycling which would be too hard to keep up with while on holiday. The good part about staying on Phase 2 for a while longer is the extra muscle I'll gain, definitely not complaining there. :)
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
Living Fit - Week 2
Week 2 is in the bag and we're on to week three. I will admit my diet blew over the weekend but I'm lucky I'm in the building phase. Some extra carbs never hurt anyone trying to gain muscle, right? lol
My body this past week really embraced the extra food as I figured it would. Now it's saying "FEEED MEEE" instead of "There's no room at the inn." I'm still feeling fluffy which I expect I will for a bit so during my Jamaica trip in 6 weeks I'll have to embrace the fluff. ;) It's giggly muscle fluff but it's still fluff. Whatever it's my body and I'm feeling really good about the progress I'm making.
So, on to week three of 4 in this first phase, not much is changing right now except for an added leg day, yay! lol I'm really impressed with the changes I've seen just in the last 2 weeks. It's amazing what simply eating more and simple lifting can do for the body. Over all VERY happy thus far and will obviously continue. I'll be bringing all the info I need to Jamaica with me because I still like to workout while on holidays. Hubby and I usually have the schedule of eating breakfast then we head back to the room, get our gym stuff on and hit the resort gym. I have the most energy at around 10am but every other day of the week I'm sitting at a desk. Like I am right now. lol So to me being able to workout when I feel the best is like a holiday. :)
Has anyone else started the program yet, or maybe completed the program?
C
My body this past week really embraced the extra food as I figured it would. Now it's saying "FEEED MEEE" instead of "There's no room at the inn." I'm still feeling fluffy which I expect I will for a bit so during my Jamaica trip in 6 weeks I'll have to embrace the fluff. ;) It's giggly muscle fluff but it's still fluff. Whatever it's my body and I'm feeling really good about the progress I'm making.
So, on to week three of 4 in this first phase, not much is changing right now except for an added leg day, yay! lol I'm really impressed with the changes I've seen just in the last 2 weeks. It's amazing what simply eating more and simple lifting can do for the body. Over all VERY happy thus far and will obviously continue. I'll be bringing all the info I need to Jamaica with me because I still like to workout while on holidays. Hubby and I usually have the schedule of eating breakfast then we head back to the room, get our gym stuff on and hit the resort gym. I have the most energy at around 10am but every other day of the week I'm sitting at a desk. Like I am right now. lol So to me being able to workout when I feel the best is like a holiday. :)
Has anyone else started the program yet, or maybe completed the program?
C
Monday, June 24, 2013
LiveFit - Week one done
I thought I would do a bit of a review of the first week of Jamie Eason's LiveFit program. The first thing that comes to mind is: FOOOOOOOD. SO much food. NOT a horrible thing I just still haven't figured out how to get all the meals in. The workouts are quick currently. There is NO cardio in the first phase, which of course makes you feel even more like a house because of all the food and carbs you're eating BUT there is a method behind the madness. :) The workouts themselves take me about 30 mins though they are effective. I'm not complaining at all though sometimes I feel like I'm not doing anything since I'm used to being at the weights for 60 mins at least.
Week 2 is going to be the same as last week though I think the workouts change slightly (I haven't printed them out yet. lol) It's 7 weeks until our trip to Jamaica for our 5 year wedding anniversary so I may not be as ripped as I was hoping but I'll be on my way. lol
So that's it for this week, I'll check back in a week to let you know how week 2 went. :)
Week 2 is going to be the same as last week though I think the workouts change slightly (I haven't printed them out yet. lol) It's 7 weeks until our trip to Jamaica for our 5 year wedding anniversary so I may not be as ripped as I was hoping but I'll be on my way. lol
So that's it for this week, I'll check back in a week to let you know how week 2 went. :)
Monday, June 17, 2013
Live Fit, Have Fun
Ever since Jamie Eason's LiveFit Training program came out through bodybuilding.com, I have been pining over trying it. Jamie "let herself go" to complete it herself, her now husband and family completed it as well and the results were fantastic. I've always like Jamie's way of thinking though. The "I don't count calories" way of life works well for me. Just tell me serving size and I'm happy. :) So today marks day one of me on the LiveFit Program! I'm super excited. There's alot of food in Phase 1 and by alot I mean 6oz of protein in one meal. That's alot of meat people. I think I may split it between my meat protein and some avocado come to think of it. Anyway, the program gives you alot of of wiggle room in the way of customization. There is a list of approved foods and you can plug them in where it's listed on the food guide. There is a women's and men's version by the way. This isn't just for the female folks.
Another of my favourite aspects of this program is that for all of Phase 1, that's 4 weeks, there is NO cardio. None. Nada. Don't you dare step on that treadmill. I read ALOT of comments when this program first came out and people's heads were exploding over this concept. When you've spent as much time as I have waking up at 5am for fasted cardio, regardless of how good you feel when you're done, you do a little happy dance to just be focusing on weights. This phase is crucial for building muscle and there is a science behind it so trust the process, follow the rules, and detach yourself from the literal rat race. ;)
I'm going to take progress pictures tonight though I'm not excited about that. No I haven't been diligent the last 2 weeks that I've been out of the "gym" due to an over zealous Costco shopper who slammed her cart in to my heel. No shoes with backs for this lady. That being said I have enjoyed myself. No take backs. lol
If anyone is interested in checking out the LiveFit program go here http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/jamie-easons-livefit-introduction.html. Read all of the info watch all of the videos and get your butt moving. Then come back and check in. :)
Another of my favourite aspects of this program is that for all of Phase 1, that's 4 weeks, there is NO cardio. None. Nada. Don't you dare step on that treadmill. I read ALOT of comments when this program first came out and people's heads were exploding over this concept. When you've spent as much time as I have waking up at 5am for fasted cardio, regardless of how good you feel when you're done, you do a little happy dance to just be focusing on weights. This phase is crucial for building muscle and there is a science behind it so trust the process, follow the rules, and detach yourself from the literal rat race. ;)
I'm going to take progress pictures tonight though I'm not excited about that. No I haven't been diligent the last 2 weeks that I've been out of the "gym" due to an over zealous Costco shopper who slammed her cart in to my heel. No shoes with backs for this lady. That being said I have enjoyed myself. No take backs. lol
If anyone is interested in checking out the LiveFit program go here http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/jamie-easons-livefit-introduction.html. Read all of the info watch all of the videos and get your butt moving. Then come back and check in. :)
Monday, May 27, 2013
Money Doesn't Grow On Bikinis
But it SHOULD. Unless you have a competition bikini and sell that bikini then well technically money comes from bikinis but that is NOT the point I'm trying to make here.
If you haven't figured it out yet, competing costs money. LOTS of money. And while my husband and I are financially stable we have had some life events and added responsibilities that have caused us to take a step back and say "Not gonna do it" a la Dana Carvey. What I'm saying is that I have decided to post pone my next competition by not competing in Fitness Star Winnipeg September 14th 2013. As much as I was looking forward to stepping on that stage as a Level 3 competitor there will be time for that in the future. :)
In the meantime, my focus will turn to maintaining and bettering my current physique. As well as working with my sponsors, Gorilla Jack, on column writing as well as some vlog opportunities with my fellow Gorilla Girl, Chelsea Shand. If anyone has any ideas for vlog content such as product reviews, question answering, or just straight up shennanigans, let me know!!
If you haven't figured it out yet, competing costs money. LOTS of money. And while my husband and I are financially stable we have had some life events and added responsibilities that have caused us to take a step back and say "Not gonna do it" a la Dana Carvey. What I'm saying is that I have decided to post pone my next competition by not competing in Fitness Star Winnipeg September 14th 2013. As much as I was looking forward to stepping on that stage as a Level 3 competitor there will be time for that in the future. :)
In the meantime, my focus will turn to maintaining and bettering my current physique. As well as working with my sponsors, Gorilla Jack, on column writing as well as some vlog opportunities with my fellow Gorilla Girl, Chelsea Shand. If anyone has any ideas for vlog content such as product reviews, question answering, or just straight up shennanigans, let me know!!
"Desire increases when fulfillment is postponed"
- Pierre Corneille
- Pierre Corneille
Monday, May 13, 2013
16 Weeks
Do you know what kind of people diet over the summer?? CRAZY people! Or crazy smart people. That's right, it looks like I'll be starting prep for the September Fitness Star show THIS Saturday!! Oddly enough I am ridiculously excited. There are a number of firsts happening for this show that are going to blow everything out of the water.
1) I am currently 135lbs. I have NEVER started a show prep at 135lbs. This means I have 16 weeks to dial in to about 120-122lbs. Insert evil laugh here. ;)
2) As I mentioned above I am dieting through the summer. Crazy? Maybe. Crazy smart? Definitely. Who doesn't want a wicked beach body for summer? I feel mentally balanced enough to not worry about what I could be missing. I see summer like Christmas at this point, and I ALWAYS diet through Christmas. I got this.
3) Ok so this one is and isn't a first but my hubby and I are training together AGAIN! That's right, not only are we doing 1 show together this year but TWO shows this year! We made a ridiculously good team and I am so excited to do it over again.
I'll take progress pics on Saturday. I am pretty soft around the mid section but that's to be expected since I'm not doing any extra cardio to keep me really lean. I'm happy right now with how I look and when I REALLY clean up my diet things will pop back in to place. :)
1) I am currently 135lbs. I have NEVER started a show prep at 135lbs. This means I have 16 weeks to dial in to about 120-122lbs. Insert evil laugh here. ;)
2) As I mentioned above I am dieting through the summer. Crazy? Maybe. Crazy smart? Definitely. Who doesn't want a wicked beach body for summer? I feel mentally balanced enough to not worry about what I could be missing. I see summer like Christmas at this point, and I ALWAYS diet through Christmas. I got this.
3) Ok so this one is and isn't a first but my hubby and I are training together AGAIN! That's right, not only are we doing 1 show together this year but TWO shows this year! We made a ridiculously good team and I am so excited to do it over again.
I'll take progress pics on Saturday. I am pretty soft around the mid section but that's to be expected since I'm not doing any extra cardio to keep me really lean. I'm happy right now with how I look and when I REALLY clean up my diet things will pop back in to place. :)
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Check Up and In
So we are almost 3 weeks post competition, I'm sitting around 135lbs which is an extremely manageable spot for me. My waist measurements are up about 3 inches because honestly I can't maintain a 26" waist. I just can't, and that's fine. Between PMS bloat, carb bloat, "I don't like what you just fed me" bloat, etc, etc, it's not possible. It might be eventually, but right now it's not. I can't explain what it is with my midsection, I'm not a doctor, I'm back to crapping once a day, whatever. Moving on.
I have yet to do the morning cardio thing, maybe THAT would take down my midsection an inch or two. I just love sleep right now. lol That being said it's getting brighter earlier in the mornings and as soon as my dogs see sun they are up with the birds. (which also piss me off when I have the windows open. Late to bed early to rise, what the hell?? Chirping at 5am is NOT cool people) My food intake is streamlined during the week, I have my plan, I like the food, I don't feel like I'm restrained, it makes me happy. Ketchup on my egg muffins at 10am makes me HAPPY. Like Phil Robertson from Duck Dynasty happy.
Fitness Star International Winnipeg is about 4 months away, that's the ultimate goal right now, so the plan is to maintain until my trainer extrordinare tells me otherwise. Hubby and I are heading to Jamaica for our 5 year anniversary on August 13th which will be 4 weeks away from the show. I plan on enjoying myself. That doesn't mean stuff my face but I'm going to enjoy myself. :) I paid for the damn trip, how much damage could I really do in a week anyway?
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Balancing Act
Some days this post comp balance shit can really suck. Let's be real, most of us can't just go back to "normal life". I still have to weigh my food, portion everything out, and keep the junk to a minimum. In truth I don't mind really, I've been doing it for the last 5 months so I feel out of sorts if I don't plan things the same way. But my body is still adjusting to food in general and my appetite is INSANE! I inhaled 6 pieces of pizza last night and stopped myself for going back again because I knew it would be bad news. Oddly enough my body didn't blink an eye at the pizza but it reacts over protein pancakes. Go effing figure.
I'm back to working out this week, which feels fantabulous. Again one of those things that made me feel out of sorts, not hitting the weights right after work. I may do a couple of sessions a week of morning HIIT just to defluff a tad plus I just feel better when I wake up early and do something with myself. Don't get me wrong, I love sleeping, and I'm REALLY good at it, but the day just goes better when I've done a few interval sprints in the morning.
For now the plan is maintenance. WAY easier said than done but I think I'm doing relatively well considering. I haven't touched my scale in about 5 days which is the way I want to keep it. I know those things are pure evil so why not practice what I preach?? I think it's currently hidden under rolls of toilet paper which, for a procrastinator, is clearly too much work. ;)
I'm back to working out this week, which feels fantabulous. Again one of those things that made me feel out of sorts, not hitting the weights right after work. I may do a couple of sessions a week of morning HIIT just to defluff a tad plus I just feel better when I wake up early and do something with myself. Don't get me wrong, I love sleeping, and I'm REALLY good at it, but the day just goes better when I've done a few interval sprints in the morning.
For now the plan is maintenance. WAY easier said than done but I think I'm doing relatively well considering. I haven't touched my scale in about 5 days which is the way I want to keep it. I know those things are pure evil so why not practice what I preach?? I think it's currently hidden under rolls of toilet paper which, for a procrastinator, is clearly too much work. ;)
Friday, April 26, 2013
The After - Thank Yous, Details, and Ramblings
FINALLY I have gotten around to writing my post show blog. Now that the tan has mostly worn off and I've had the week to remind myself that eating crap will result in me looking like crap, I can reflect on the last 2 weeks. But before I do that I have ALOT of thank yous.
1) To my husband. When you and I decided we were going to do the show together the first thing that came in to my head was us not talking for 4 months. But something amazing happened, we had a BLAST! We became this well oiled machine that could workout, prep food, pack lunches within a couple hours. This show brought us to another level in our relationship and I can't wait to do it all over again for September. :)
2) My mom. My number one freakin fan 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Thank you for buying chicken when it was on sale. Thank you for watching our 3 dudes when we left for the competition. The words "thank you" don't feel like enough for all that you do for us all the time. xoxo
3) My friends!! Who listened to me whine, complain, babble about the same things all the time because I couldn't remember if I told you. Talked me down from food ledges, ALWAYS asked how I was feeling/doing. I love you all.
4) My sponsors Gorilla Jack. Martin the All Seeing All Knowing and Barry the Gentle Giant. You are more than just sponsors you are my friends. Always making sure I was feeling ok during prep, answering every question I ever had, and bringing me peanut butter for my birthday.
5) My trainer Ainsley McSorley. I was a basket case at the beginning of this prep. My mind would change from one minute to the next. I'm sorry I sent so many emails. lol You pushed me hard because you knew I needed it and I thank you. I haven't felt this good for a year and you helped me get back here. xoxo
6) Everybody else. There are so many other people who would check in through Facebook and email etc so I just wanted to say you are just as much a part of this as everyone above. Thank you. :)
NOW, let's get down to the good stuff.
The competition: Fitness Star International
The place: Brandon, Manitoba
When I saw the FS show in Winnipeg in November 2012 I KNEW I had to compete in it. Regardless of my loathing at the time for competitions, I knew FS was something different. It was just what I needed. Michael Ryan and James Erdt are the most down to earth people, REALLY wanting to connect at the ground level with the athletes. Being able to talk directly to the powers that be makes me feel like I'm really a part of something. That I'm not just another number on the stage.
The show itself is unlike any other show. There's a live DJ on the stage spinning tunes to get everyone excited and pumped. I don't think anyone realizes what up tempo music can do for a person who is dehydrated and full of rice and potatoes. lol The calibre of athletes is amazing, everyone so friendly and wanting to know your story. This makes for a great backstage environment!
Since the show was 2 hours away from home, hubby and I had to bring everything we needed with us. The hotel room was packed. We even brought our own blankets, sheets, and towels so we wouldn't get in trouble with the hotel for staining them with tanner. (that crap doesn't come out of anything). I have to say I thought being away from home would be stressful but it was fanastic. I did all my own hair and makeup which gave me time to rest a little more and really enjoy the process. My poor husband was so sick but he was an absolute trooper through the show. What he lacked this show he'll definitely make up for in September.
Fast forward to now, being a week post show, this part was the part that worried me the most. Last year I gained about 10-15lbs within a couple of weeks from stress binge eating. It hurt, ALOT. As usual I stressed and planned and made sure I constantly had an inner dialogue with myself about food. My mantra being "Food is not connected to your emotions." While I have indulged in a few treats and cheats, it has been NO where near the amount of food I ate last year. The majority of my day is filled with clean eats however it's just that second last meal of the day, supper if you will, that gets me every time. I did take the week off from working out to let my body recoup some. This was mostly due to a chest cough that intensifies the more I breathe. Awesome, right? It feels like it's starting to get better but regardless, Monday is my official workout start back date. I'm excited to be honest. I have felt WAY out of sorts letting myself rest this week. I know my body needed it, obviously since I haven't been sick in years, but knowing that I long to be up in the morning doing cardio and hitting the weights right after work tells me I am finally getting to the place I've been longing for. For right now I'm just trying to function as a normal, healthy person, prepping clean foods that I like to eat from a guideline my trainer has given me. For some dumb reason this is harder than it seems. For the last 4 months I've been reading my food off a paper on my fridge and to be able to plug in whatever protein/carb/fat I want makes my mind turn to mush. lol That being said, repetition should fix all of that. I hope.
SO! My current motivation for eating clean and working out is the FS show in September. Now that I've lost my 20lbs I am finally in the proper starting position for a really great prep. I am definitely on my way to finding balance this summer and just having an over all fantastic year. Thank you again to everyone who was a part of this amazing journey. :)
1) To my husband. When you and I decided we were going to do the show together the first thing that came in to my head was us not talking for 4 months. But something amazing happened, we had a BLAST! We became this well oiled machine that could workout, prep food, pack lunches within a couple hours. This show brought us to another level in our relationship and I can't wait to do it all over again for September. :)
2) My mom. My number one freakin fan 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Thank you for buying chicken when it was on sale. Thank you for watching our 3 dudes when we left for the competition. The words "thank you" don't feel like enough for all that you do for us all the time. xoxo
3) My friends!! Who listened to me whine, complain, babble about the same things all the time because I couldn't remember if I told you. Talked me down from food ledges, ALWAYS asked how I was feeling/doing. I love you all.
4) My sponsors Gorilla Jack. Martin the All Seeing All Knowing and Barry the Gentle Giant. You are more than just sponsors you are my friends. Always making sure I was feeling ok during prep, answering every question I ever had, and bringing me peanut butter for my birthday.
5) My trainer Ainsley McSorley. I was a basket case at the beginning of this prep. My mind would change from one minute to the next. I'm sorry I sent so many emails. lol You pushed me hard because you knew I needed it and I thank you. I haven't felt this good for a year and you helped me get back here. xoxo
6) Everybody else. There are so many other people who would check in through Facebook and email etc so I just wanted to say you are just as much a part of this as everyone above. Thank you. :)
NOW, let's get down to the good stuff.
The competition: Fitness Star International
The place: Brandon, Manitoba
When I saw the FS show in Winnipeg in November 2012 I KNEW I had to compete in it. Regardless of my loathing at the time for competitions, I knew FS was something different. It was just what I needed. Michael Ryan and James Erdt are the most down to earth people, REALLY wanting to connect at the ground level with the athletes. Being able to talk directly to the powers that be makes me feel like I'm really a part of something. That I'm not just another number on the stage.
The show itself is unlike any other show. There's a live DJ on the stage spinning tunes to get everyone excited and pumped. I don't think anyone realizes what up tempo music can do for a person who is dehydrated and full of rice and potatoes. lol The calibre of athletes is amazing, everyone so friendly and wanting to know your story. This makes for a great backstage environment!
Since the show was 2 hours away from home, hubby and I had to bring everything we needed with us. The hotel room was packed. We even brought our own blankets, sheets, and towels so we wouldn't get in trouble with the hotel for staining them with tanner. (that crap doesn't come out of anything). I have to say I thought being away from home would be stressful but it was fanastic. I did all my own hair and makeup which gave me time to rest a little more and really enjoy the process. My poor husband was so sick but he was an absolute trooper through the show. What he lacked this show he'll definitely make up for in September.
Fast forward to now, being a week post show, this part was the part that worried me the most. Last year I gained about 10-15lbs within a couple of weeks from stress binge eating. It hurt, ALOT. As usual I stressed and planned and made sure I constantly had an inner dialogue with myself about food. My mantra being "Food is not connected to your emotions." While I have indulged in a few treats and cheats, it has been NO where near the amount of food I ate last year. The majority of my day is filled with clean eats however it's just that second last meal of the day, supper if you will, that gets me every time. I did take the week off from working out to let my body recoup some. This was mostly due to a chest cough that intensifies the more I breathe. Awesome, right? It feels like it's starting to get better but regardless, Monday is my official workout start back date. I'm excited to be honest. I have felt WAY out of sorts letting myself rest this week. I know my body needed it, obviously since I haven't been sick in years, but knowing that I long to be up in the morning doing cardio and hitting the weights right after work tells me I am finally getting to the place I've been longing for. For right now I'm just trying to function as a normal, healthy person, prepping clean foods that I like to eat from a guideline my trainer has given me. For some dumb reason this is harder than it seems. For the last 4 months I've been reading my food off a paper on my fridge and to be able to plug in whatever protein/carb/fat I want makes my mind turn to mush. lol That being said, repetition should fix all of that. I hope.
SO! My current motivation for eating clean and working out is the FS show in September. Now that I've lost my 20lbs I am finally in the proper starting position for a really great prep. I am definitely on my way to finding balance this summer and just having an over all fantastic year. Thank you again to everyone who was a part of this amazing journey. :)
Monday, April 15, 2013
Peaka de Weeka
Well I have arrived. 5 days out from my competition, 2 days in to my peak week, and surprisingly yesterday's 8 litres were reasonably easy to get in. (about 2 gallons for my US friends). The only thing I hate is I become extremely tired during peak week. I really don't think I should be making my 25 minute treck to work, ESPECIALLY when there is a blizzard outside today, but I don't want to take too much time off work. However if I deem myself too ridiculous I will take an extra day for the safety of others around me. lol
Yesterday was my last posing class before the show. While I have my bikini poses down I haven't been practicing walking in my dress for the Glamour category. How does one pose with clothes ON?? ;) Seriously, I focused so much on our half naked poses I forgot about the clothed poses. Anyway, google and youtube are my best friends this week and my basement is now a runway. Which is really no different then usual because I'm CONSTANTLY posing. I'm a proud poser. :D
Since this show is 2 hours away from us I am taking half of Thursday off so that I can get my long winded workout in and start our food prep for Friday and Saturday that way hubby and I aren't running too far in to the evening. This will give us time to start applying our tanner etc as well and have some relax time before we leave Friday. All in all I think hubby and I are reasonably prepared for the fact we're going to be away from home for this show. We have such a great system down for our workouts and food prep, I don't think it will be a problem post show to continue with.
So, here we go! I can't wait for the team meeting on Friday to see everyone and converse! Oh and the 10oz of red wine I get Friday night. Weeeee! ;)
Yesterday was my last posing class before the show. While I have my bikini poses down I haven't been practicing walking in my dress for the Glamour category. How does one pose with clothes ON?? ;) Seriously, I focused so much on our half naked poses I forgot about the clothed poses. Anyway, google and youtube are my best friends this week and my basement is now a runway. Which is really no different then usual because I'm CONSTANTLY posing. I'm a proud poser. :D
Since this show is 2 hours away from us I am taking half of Thursday off so that I can get my long winded workout in and start our food prep for Friday and Saturday that way hubby and I aren't running too far in to the evening. This will give us time to start applying our tanner etc as well and have some relax time before we leave Friday. All in all I think hubby and I are reasonably prepared for the fact we're going to be away from home for this show. We have such a great system down for our workouts and food prep, I don't think it will be a problem post show to continue with.
So, here we go! I can't wait for the team meeting on Friday to see everyone and converse! Oh and the 10oz of red wine I get Friday night. Weeeee! ;)
Friday, April 5, 2013
Yet Another 2 Week Countdown
I'm pretty sure I post this video EVERY time I'm 2 weeks away from something. My birthday, a competition, a vacation, it works for everything. This is not only my 2 week go to "celebration" this is also me acknowledging that the original Total Recall was EPIC and extremely well done for it's time. Screw you CGI, you ain't got nothing on the 80's.
So, here we are again! 2 weeks out from competition. The point where you're either a) Extremely excited or b) Extremely annoyed that you decided to do ANOTHER competition. I switch between A and B constantly. Hubby and I still have alot of prep work we have to do outside of training. Shopping for category outfits, getting our tanning stuff in order, I have girly makeup stuff to purchase. You know, all the things you leave until the last possible minute. lol I'll probably start packing things up next week so I know I won't forget anything. It's not like we're a 20 minute drive from home this time, we're 2 hours away from home this time. If you don't bring it, you better figure out where to get it. ;)
Training otherwise is going well besides the constant hunger. I'm trying to remember to reach for water during those times and not stand in front of the fridge, staring at the peanut butter jar. WHICH I have since hidden behind stuff in the fridge. Now all I can stare at is tilapia, steak, chicken, and asparagus. Oh and occasionally eggwhites. Man I miss those. I don't know what my peak week looks like yet but I'm assuming the master mind that is Ainsley McSorely is scheming as we speak. lol Just putting this out there if you're reading this Ains: tilapia instead of tuna? hahaha!
Well here's to another countdown. I will probably wait until peak week to blog again since it's ALWAYS interesting what the body does when you're downing 8 litres of water a day for 2-3 days. :)
So, here we are again! 2 weeks out from competition. The point where you're either a) Extremely excited or b) Extremely annoyed that you decided to do ANOTHER competition. I switch between A and B constantly. Hubby and I still have alot of prep work we have to do outside of training. Shopping for category outfits, getting our tanning stuff in order, I have girly makeup stuff to purchase. You know, all the things you leave until the last possible minute. lol I'll probably start packing things up next week so I know I won't forget anything. It's not like we're a 20 minute drive from home this time, we're 2 hours away from home this time. If you don't bring it, you better figure out where to get it. ;)
Training otherwise is going well besides the constant hunger. I'm trying to remember to reach for water during those times and not stand in front of the fridge, staring at the peanut butter jar. WHICH I have since hidden behind stuff in the fridge. Now all I can stare at is tilapia, steak, chicken, and asparagus. Oh and occasionally eggwhites. Man I miss those. I don't know what my peak week looks like yet but I'm assuming the master mind that is Ainsley McSorely is scheming as we speak. lol Just putting this out there if you're reading this Ains: tilapia instead of tuna? hahaha!
Well here's to another countdown. I will probably wait until peak week to blog again since it's ALWAYS interesting what the body does when you're downing 8 litres of water a day for 2-3 days. :)
Monday, April 1, 2013
Doctor's Orders
In January of this year I started the process of finally getting my bloodwork and body checked by my doctor. Unfortunately it wasn't because I'm the type of person who regularly gets that done, no, it was because of depression, low libido, 2 to 3 week long periods and excruciating cramps. (though the cramping I've always had) I finally got in to the doctor's office today to follow up with him on my tests, a phone call I had to make myself by the way. According to the receptionist "No news is good news" if they don't call you back.
YeahIdon'tthinkso.
My doctor basically confirmed during our meeting what my husband and I were thinking all along; my fast tracked weight gain coupled by the huge stresses we were facing last year (a year ago pretty much to the date) caused my body to get supremely pissed off and pout in a corner like a toddler. This time last year I was 2 weeks post competition, stressed to the max with life stuff, and feeding my emotions with ridiculous amounts of food and wine. I had so much water retention that my breasts almost exploded. I swear to the Gods. It was painful. These habits continued and I continued to spiral and my body spiralled along with me.
Today however was good news. My hormone and iron levels are perfectly fine, my ovaries show no signs of polycystic ovary syndrome, and since getting back to a healthy lifestyle my mentral cycle is less crazy. As am I. :) My doctor has urged me to continue on the path I'm on which, after too much trial and error, is currently the plan. Operation: Balance will be in full effect post competition in 3 weeks.
If you're reading this post, and are feeling like I was feeling (tired, depressed, unbalanced, emotionally eating, wonky menstral cycles, cranky, bitchy, basically the 7 dwarves of a crappy lifestyle), take your life by the vagina (thank you Betty White), and do something about it!!! It's going to be HARD, you're probably going to cry a few times, you're going to fight cravings as you decrease the JUNK in your life. You're going to be too damn tired to be active but I GUARANTEE you once you start, the change will make you want to keep going because you're going to know I wasn't lying. If you don't know WHERE to start, ASK! I know professionals who can help you get started in the right direction. :)
Take my doctor's orders, get healthy, stay healthy, be happy. Find BALANCE.
YeahIdon'tthinkso.
My doctor basically confirmed during our meeting what my husband and I were thinking all along; my fast tracked weight gain coupled by the huge stresses we were facing last year (a year ago pretty much to the date) caused my body to get supremely pissed off and pout in a corner like a toddler. This time last year I was 2 weeks post competition, stressed to the max with life stuff, and feeding my emotions with ridiculous amounts of food and wine. I had so much water retention that my breasts almost exploded. I swear to the Gods. It was painful. These habits continued and I continued to spiral and my body spiralled along with me.
Today however was good news. My hormone and iron levels are perfectly fine, my ovaries show no signs of polycystic ovary syndrome, and since getting back to a healthy lifestyle my mentral cycle is less crazy. As am I. :) My doctor has urged me to continue on the path I'm on which, after too much trial and error, is currently the plan. Operation: Balance will be in full effect post competition in 3 weeks.
If you're reading this post, and are feeling like I was feeling (tired, depressed, unbalanced, emotionally eating, wonky menstral cycles, cranky, bitchy, basically the 7 dwarves of a crappy lifestyle), take your life by the vagina (thank you Betty White), and do something about it!!! It's going to be HARD, you're probably going to cry a few times, you're going to fight cravings as you decrease the JUNK in your life. You're going to be too damn tired to be active but I GUARANTEE you once you start, the change will make you want to keep going because you're going to know I wasn't lying. If you don't know WHERE to start, ASK! I know professionals who can help you get started in the right direction. :)
Take my doctor's orders, get healthy, stay healthy, be happy. Find BALANCE.
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
The Perfection Problem
Man I am on a ROLL! I don't blog for a month and now it's all I think about. :) What is the inspiration you might ask? For those of you not stuck being my friend on Facebook therefore forced to see me posting things, it's the post competition blues. Yes I haven't even gotten to my competition yet but I'm already thinking about afterwards. I'm starting to realize, no not starting to I already realize this, I am taking more stock in the fact that, it is THE MOST important part of this whole process. What is the point of spending 4 months dieting and working out for literally one day of fabulousness only to let it blow up (literally as well) when the day is finished? I let stress get the best of me last year and I spent weeks in horrible physical pain. My boobs felt like they were going to EXPLODE as the water, the fat, and whatever else leaves my boobs when I diet, came rushing back extremely angry.
Anywho
Whilst creeping Facebook over my lunch hour I was directed to the page of Brooke Erickson, an IFBB pro Figure competitor. Also a nutrition specialist AND a mother who has managed to find complete and utter balance in her life. A balance I am 100% envious of and vow to find this year. In her very first vlog she talks about the Perfection Problem that encapsulates us all, particularly women, and particulary women that compete in Bodybuilding type events. Though it does make a good point to everyone, including males. This vlog is complete perfection and her genuine way of putting it in to words is too. It had me crying at my desk at the end while she was staring right in to that camera and telling me to not strive for perfection, to be happy with who I am. That it's perfectly ok to not have a melt down should I not get my workout in one day. But to work out because I want to be healthy, do it because I love it and progress. She might have thought it was rambling but I could have sworn is was the word of a Goddess, I'm not going to lie. lol I don't know why the lightbulb didn't make the connection before but it's starting to now and that's all that matters. :)
Anywho
Whilst creeping Facebook over my lunch hour I was directed to the page of Brooke Erickson, an IFBB pro Figure competitor. Also a nutrition specialist AND a mother who has managed to find complete and utter balance in her life. A balance I am 100% envious of and vow to find this year. In her very first vlog she talks about the Perfection Problem that encapsulates us all, particularly women, and particulary women that compete in Bodybuilding type events. Though it does make a good point to everyone, including males. This vlog is complete perfection and her genuine way of putting it in to words is too. It had me crying at my desk at the end while she was staring right in to that camera and telling me to not strive for perfection, to be happy with who I am. That it's perfectly ok to not have a melt down should I not get my workout in one day. But to work out because I want to be healthy, do it because I love it and progress. She might have thought it was rambling but I could have sworn is was the word of a Goddess, I'm not going to lie. lol I don't know why the lightbulb didn't make the connection before but it's starting to now and that's all that matters. :)
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Unanswered Questions
I know this will be my second blog today however I have been seeing ALOT of posts regarding metabolic damage and eating disorders etc etc lately and it has me really doing a head check.
Disclaimer: this is in no way reflective on my trainer, this is just me spouting off my current fears which are being discussed with said trainer.
This is me asking myself a very honest question:
"What the hell are you doing to your body?"
It's a good question, right?? You damn right it is!! The answer is, I don't know. I truly don't know what all this dieting is doing to my body but I do know what it's doing to my brain.
I have always had a relatively unhealthy relationship with food, I think in a way we all have and do. We relate it to memories, emotions, dates in time. A simple smell can bring you back to any given moment at any time. Being a woman I am stereotypically emotionally attached to food. The biggest trigger is stress but happiness seems to have the exact same effect on my brain.
In 4 weeks I'll be faced with yet another post competition time period and another chance to do things properly. To transition back in to life without blowing my body up. Last year, I had and blogged about the same plan and then life's stresses came in and took over. I let them. And it hurt. The physical pain was pretty bad actually. Needless to say I didn't take the time to add my previous foods slowly back in to my everyday diet.
Why isn't there more plans for this??? More conversation about what happens when you're through dieting for a show?? We spend so much time preparing only to leave the last leg of the journey to chance. So much hard work for what?
A pint of ice cream, a giant Reese's Peanut Butter Easter Egg, a burger loaded with fries and gravy on the side, more chocolate, a bottle (or 2) of wine, a bag of chips, and a trip to kiss the porcelain God, that's what.
Fun right?
Let me leave you now with this video on Metabolic Damage by Layne Norton. One of these best videos I have seen on the subject.
Disclaimer: this is in no way reflective on my trainer, this is just me spouting off my current fears which are being discussed with said trainer.
This is me asking myself a very honest question:
"What the hell are you doing to your body?"
It's a good question, right?? You damn right it is!! The answer is, I don't know. I truly don't know what all this dieting is doing to my body but I do know what it's doing to my brain.
I have always had a relatively unhealthy relationship with food, I think in a way we all have and do. We relate it to memories, emotions, dates in time. A simple smell can bring you back to any given moment at any time. Being a woman I am stereotypically emotionally attached to food. The biggest trigger is stress but happiness seems to have the exact same effect on my brain.
In 4 weeks I'll be faced with yet another post competition time period and another chance to do things properly. To transition back in to life without blowing my body up. Last year, I had and blogged about the same plan and then life's stresses came in and took over. I let them. And it hurt. The physical pain was pretty bad actually. Needless to say I didn't take the time to add my previous foods slowly back in to my everyday diet.
Why isn't there more plans for this??? More conversation about what happens when you're through dieting for a show?? We spend so much time preparing only to leave the last leg of the journey to chance. So much hard work for what?
A pint of ice cream, a giant Reese's Peanut Butter Easter Egg, a burger loaded with fries and gravy on the side, more chocolate, a bottle (or 2) of wine, a bag of chips, and a trip to kiss the porcelain God, that's what.
Fun right?
Let me leave you now with this video on Metabolic Damage by Layne Norton. One of these best videos I have seen on the subject.
32 days
As I get closer to my competition on April 20th I find myself not focusing so much on the competition but what comes after. The after is always what scares me the most because it's HARD. I will be the first to admit I have no idea what to do besides eat. Which is NOT what you're supposed to do after dieting hard for 5 months. lol Jumping right back in to eating even normal clean foods can hurt just as much as jumping back in to eating junk. This I've learned twice now. Once again I have worked hard to build a body I'm proud of and once again I'm scared that my old habits are going to cause me to lose it.
Now that the "whoa is me" part of the show is finished let's get to the happy part! lol I AM excited for the show. I'm excited to be able to do this with my husband as well. I think with both of us having to deal with the post show rebound it's going to keep us both on track. I am also excited to travel for a show. It's only 2 hours away but I haven't experienced a show away from my house. I've been able to tan myself in my own bathroom, leave an ass tan ring on my own toilet, dirty my own bed sheets. Basically just get tanner everywhere and really not have to worry about a damage deposit. lol There are going to be MANY challenges this time around with the main one being, don't mess up the hotel room. lol I also get to travel with my team, Team JACT which I think is going to be a great experience as well.
Anyway with 32 days to go it's time to focus on getting through the next 4 weeks and on to the rest of the year. On to the rest of LIFE. It's time to change my relationship with food and stop living life around it. :)
Now that the "whoa is me" part of the show is finished let's get to the happy part! lol I AM excited for the show. I'm excited to be able to do this with my husband as well. I think with both of us having to deal with the post show rebound it's going to keep us both on track. I am also excited to travel for a show. It's only 2 hours away but I haven't experienced a show away from my house. I've been able to tan myself in my own bathroom, leave an ass tan ring on my own toilet, dirty my own bed sheets. Basically just get tanner everywhere and really not have to worry about a damage deposit. lol There are going to be MANY challenges this time around with the main one being, don't mess up the hotel room. lol I also get to travel with my team, Team JACT which I think is going to be a great experience as well.
Anyway with 32 days to go it's time to focus on getting through the next 4 weeks and on to the rest of the year. On to the rest of LIFE. It's time to change my relationship with food and stop living life around it. :)
Thursday, March 7, 2013
Pinholes, Perogies, and Countdowns
I'm at that point in my prep where I honestly have nothing to say. It seems to happen I've noticed as my concentration gets closer to pinhole tunnel vision. I know I haven't blogged as much this time around as usual and maybe it's because I've been in the pinhole the entire time. I akin it to something that the characters in The Vampire Diaries talk about from time to time. YES I am a teenage angst fan but that's beside the point. The vampire characters in the show are able to "turn off" their humanity. I've basically mastered the ability it seems to turn off my Carb Zombie-ism. ;) And with being able to do that I've basically turned off my ability to view things as funny. My ability to then write about the hilarity of week long constipation just isn't there. lol I can however write about the hilarity of the now perogi-stapled-to-a-wall-like appearance of my breasts. Breasts are fat and minus the fat, well, you get the picture. HOWEVER this means I am on the right track and not being able to fill up my bra makes me oddly happy right now.
We are currently 44 day or just under 6 1/2 weeks away from the Fitness Star Brandon Manitoba competition. Let the countdown begin!
We are currently 44 day or just under 6 1/2 weeks away from the Fitness Star Brandon Manitoba competition. Let the countdown begin!
Friday, February 22, 2013
Unos, Dos, Tres, Cuatro
We talk about 4 things over here:
1) Constipation
2) Menstration
3) Carb Zombieism
4) Everything else
And not necessarilly in that order.
So since I haven't talked about 1-3 in a while let's start at the top! ;)
We'll tackle numbers 1 and 2 in one fell swoop since I know both make a few of you uncomfortable. Me? As I always say, I talk about EVERYTHING because I know that someone is going through the exact same thing I am somewhere in this world and no one says ANYTHING about alot of the whoas of contest preparation. So, buckle up, read on, or skip to the next paragraph. Up to you.
The one thing I like, no love, about getting my period during contest prep is that I KNOW I will be guaranteed one really good bowel movement a month. I kid you not. My body is in top form when I am consuming carbs. As those amounts decrease my bowel movements follow suit. It sucks but it's a VERY real side effect that has caused so many women to feel the need to use an excess amount of laxitives. I do not recommend that. If you must, grab a bottle of Cascara Sagrada from your local herbal store and let it work it's magic. Or wait for your period like me, your choice. Anyway, sure the pain is ridiculous, and sometimes I have to leave work because Advil just isn't cutting it, but at the end of the day I know that for the next 22-28 days things are sloooooow going.
On to numbero 3. For those of you who haven't heard me use the word yet, I have dubbed my contest prep alter ego The Carb Zombie. It usually shows up as soon as my diet changes but this year I had a whole month with nothing. No cravings, and only slight irritableness. I was actually starting to get a little scared and wondering if I had actually mastered the ability to shut it up but I was oh so happy to learn it wasn't going to be that easy as it showed up last week. I was able to power through it though. I STILL don't have a craving for chocolate which has been my biggest weakness through all of the contests I've done. Currently I just want to eat in general. I want to go out and order an overly portioned meal and eat until I feel disgusting. lol Otherwise The Carb Zombie is strangely satisfied. :)
As for everything else, the above is my everything else right now. Hubby is still training hard with me and looking fantastic. I can't wait for the both of us to hit the stage in April and accomplish this contest as a couple!
1) Constipation
2) Menstration
3) Carb Zombieism
4) Everything else
And not necessarilly in that order.
So since I haven't talked about 1-3 in a while let's start at the top! ;)
We'll tackle numbers 1 and 2 in one fell swoop since I know both make a few of you uncomfortable. Me? As I always say, I talk about EVERYTHING because I know that someone is going through the exact same thing I am somewhere in this world and no one says ANYTHING about alot of the whoas of contest preparation. So, buckle up, read on, or skip to the next paragraph. Up to you.
The one thing I like, no love, about getting my period during contest prep is that I KNOW I will be guaranteed one really good bowel movement a month. I kid you not. My body is in top form when I am consuming carbs. As those amounts decrease my bowel movements follow suit. It sucks but it's a VERY real side effect that has caused so many women to feel the need to use an excess amount of laxitives. I do not recommend that. If you must, grab a bottle of Cascara Sagrada from your local herbal store and let it work it's magic. Or wait for your period like me, your choice. Anyway, sure the pain is ridiculous, and sometimes I have to leave work because Advil just isn't cutting it, but at the end of the day I know that for the next 22-28 days things are sloooooow going.
On to numbero 3. For those of you who haven't heard me use the word yet, I have dubbed my contest prep alter ego The Carb Zombie. It usually shows up as soon as my diet changes but this year I had a whole month with nothing. No cravings, and only slight irritableness. I was actually starting to get a little scared and wondering if I had actually mastered the ability to shut it up but I was oh so happy to learn it wasn't going to be that easy as it showed up last week. I was able to power through it though. I STILL don't have a craving for chocolate which has been my biggest weakness through all of the contests I've done. Currently I just want to eat in general. I want to go out and order an overly portioned meal and eat until I feel disgusting. lol Otherwise The Carb Zombie is strangely satisfied. :)
As for everything else, the above is my everything else right now. Hubby is still training hard with me and looking fantastic. I can't wait for the both of us to hit the stage in April and accomplish this contest as a couple!
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
You're Nuts
Just a quick update before I get in to my current rant, training is good. Dieting is weirdly good (another blog about that later), I feel really really good. I'm also lookin' real good. ;)
Anywho the latest ridiculousness to get me fired up, though I KNOW it doesn't usually take much, is Nutella's current marketing campaign to be a breakfast food. Yes, I said breakfast. Breaking your fast with sugar, palm oil "and a hint of coco".
Exibit A:
In the words of Grumpy Cat: NO. No no no no no. Even on the days post competition when I'm craving every horrible food imaginable, never have I started my day with the filling of Ferrero Rocher.
Exibit B:
Anywho the latest ridiculousness to get me fired up, though I KNOW it doesn't usually take much, is Nutella's current marketing campaign to be a breakfast food. Yes, I said breakfast. Breaking your fast with sugar, palm oil "and a hint of coco".
Exibit A:
In the words of Grumpy Cat: NO. No no no no no. Even on the days post competition when I'm craving every horrible food imaginable, never have I started my day with the filling of Ferrero Rocher.
Exibit B:
Notice they say "tasty" instead of "healthy". I already have an interesting time finding a breakfast for my 13 year old step son that is inbetween the healthy and tasty region that he'll eat. It usually consists of Mini Wheats but at least it's better then most of the other crap on the shelves. Now we have Nutella saying "Come to the dark side, we have hazelnuts."
In 2012 Nutella went on a breakfast tour of the Southern United States. A TOUR! When is the last time a company like Quaker went on a tour?
Something so simple as a bowl of oats, heck even those prepackaged flavoured oats, is 100 times better than serving your, quote, "loved ones" something that has sugar and palm oil listed as the first two ingredients (i.e. the base), in their product.
Educate yourself and your family about the difference between treats and proper nutrition and how to balance both. Your kids are the future and you are responsible for setting them up with the knowledge of forming a nutritious meal that is fuel for their growing bodies.
*The above is simply the opinion of someone who is striving to live a healthier life and sees the effects of advertising on young minds. If you want to eat Nutella for breakfast, have at'er*
Monday, February 4, 2013
Progressive Rant - 1 month update
Time for a 1 month update. I don't even know what to say anymore to be honest. I feel like I'm redundant. If you go back 2 years ago I'm still saying the same stupid crap. Still complaining, still struggling, still making excuses. How many times does a person have to burn their forehead on a curling iron before they realize that was a dumb idea. Usually just once because the scar that's left is a daily reminder. (true story, circa 1997) So how many times does a person have to outgrow their pants before they learn the same lesson???? So far it's 3 for me. While "third time's the charm", there are just some things that don't fit so well into that catagory. Marriages, heart attacks, strokes, and waist lines. Among others but you get the point.
Do I sound mad? That's because I am mad. I look at my progress picture and while I'm happy with my progress, I truly, madly, deeply, (also circa 1997) am, I absolutely loathe the before picture. Because it's the same before picture from last year, and the year before, and probably the year before that where a bag of chips a night was divine. So while the bright side is, chips last longer should they ever enter our household, I get bummed out at the reality of my lack of balance.
Do I sound mad? That's because I am mad. I look at my progress picture and while I'm happy with my progress, I truly, madly, deeply, (also circa 1997) am, I absolutely loathe the before picture. Because it's the same before picture from last year, and the year before, and probably the year before that where a bag of chips a night was divine. So while the bright side is, chips last longer should they ever enter our household, I get bummed out at the reality of my lack of balance.
That nonsense all being said, the progress below was made in a little over a month I realized but still, pretty freakin awesome if I can say so myself.
No my hair didn't magically grow by the way. Most of the time my hair is up in a bun, which I see is causing me to bald a tad. Meh.
So here's my ass all over the internet for someone to do unspeakable things with but that's the chance you take when you try to inspire people and frankly yourself. And if you see this and want to try to pass it off as you or as someone you're training, screw you. This is me and I'm trained by the one and only Ainsley McSorely suckers. Get off your own lazy asses and make your own progress and your own blogs with your own rants.
I promise next time I'll be happier. lol
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
Total Recall
I went for my assessment last night and though the results could have been better, they could have been worse. It is after all only 2 weeks since I started training hard again after becoming a lazy slob and drinking wine instead of water. Despite the short amount of training time, I think I had a bit of a Total Recall moment on the way home. (the original not the rebooted crap) If you need a refresher, here's the visual
It's only been 2 freakin weeks Chantelle.
On my drive home I had the time to reflect on the work I put in through those 2 weeks. Was I really pushing as hard as I could? No. Was I following my diet 100%? Yes. Do you even want to freakin do this anyway?? I really do.
Last year I said I would find balance and stop the horrible rebounding, I failed. I had a plan and I failed to execute it! The year before I said the same thing and the same thing happened. 3rd time's a charm maybe?? lol I guess we'll see.
It's only been 2 freakin weeks Chantelle.
On my drive home I had the time to reflect on the work I put in through those 2 weeks. Was I really pushing as hard as I could? No. Was I following my diet 100%? Yes. Do you even want to freakin do this anyway?? I really do.
Last year I said I would find balance and stop the horrible rebounding, I failed. I had a plan and I failed to execute it! The year before I said the same thing and the same thing happened. 3rd time's a charm maybe?? lol I guess we'll see.
Friday, January 18, 2013
Change Your Brain, Change The Game
We're over half way through January and I'm 2 weeks in to contest prep. Yup, I'm in it, living, loving it to a degree, and trying to not let it define me. I've been sitting here wishing I hadn't let myself get so far gone but there's no use in pondering it. I can' puke up the Tim Horton's breakfast sandwiches I ate, nor the wine I consumed (Both my 2 "foods I consumed in excess". Is wine a food though?), so why bother with the stress?
After 2 weeks of trying to time out 6 meals a day, one including salmon which I despise, and workouts that make me question my mental strength more times in an hour than I have in my whole life, I am down 5lbs. I don't know the measurements as of yet but my ass isn't as giggly and my muffin fluff isn't as, well, fluffy. I know that this season I 10000000% made the concious decision to put myself here. I wrestled with it, lost sleep over it, emotionally ate about it. This prep feels different in a way I have no words for currently. Check back later though as I plan on scouting the google thesaurus. :)
While I'm disappointed in how far out of control I got, I know what happened, I know EXACTLY how I got here, and I know that no weights and too much bad food make Chantelle go something something. ;) (If you got that, high five!) I currently like to think that I did a case study on myself and the effects that working out has on mild depression and stress. My conclusion is that eating good food and doing good work in the gym are two of the best drugs around. :)
After 2 weeks of trying to time out 6 meals a day, one including salmon which I despise, and workouts that make me question my mental strength more times in an hour than I have in my whole life, I am down 5lbs. I don't know the measurements as of yet but my ass isn't as giggly and my muffin fluff isn't as, well, fluffy. I know that this season I 10000000% made the concious decision to put myself here. I wrestled with it, lost sleep over it, emotionally ate about it. This prep feels different in a way I have no words for currently. Check back later though as I plan on scouting the google thesaurus. :)
While I'm disappointed in how far out of control I got, I know what happened, I know EXACTLY how I got here, and I know that no weights and too much bad food make Chantelle go something something. ;) (If you got that, high five!) I currently like to think that I did a case study on myself and the effects that working out has on mild depression and stress. My conclusion is that eating good food and doing good work in the gym are two of the best drugs around. :)
Friday, January 4, 2013
Bragg-ing Rights
If you have followed Tosca Reno, celebrity fad diets, or read a fitness magazine you have probably heard about Braggs Organic Apple Cider Vinegar. Or as the cool kids call it, ACV. In my usual fashion I've been "getting around" to trying this stuff because not only does it help assist in weight loss but it assists in digestion, wards off sickness, helps your skin, and a bunch of other fantastic things as listed in this article below. :)
http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-3598/7-Reasons-to-Love-Apple-Cider-Vinegar.html
If you haven't tried this stuff before don't let the name fool you. It does not taste like apples nor does it taste like cider. I'm starting to think the name is as it is just to get you to drink it. lol It actually tastes very similar to Balsamic Vinegar which makes me want to put it on my salad. Instead however I'm putting 2 tablespooons in a shaker cup with 5oz of water and downing it like an alcoholic downs wine. Or I guess like I down wine. ;)
I have just started this process yesterday and on average (by speaking to other people) after about 2 weeks you really start to notice a difference in bloating, skin texture, etc so I will definitely be keeping everyone up to date on my experiences. With my constant issues in digestion and bloating what do I have to lose by drinking this stuff twice to three times a day?
If you want to know more about Braggs ACV and it's amazing "Mother of Vinegar" that it contains go to the Braggs website or do a little googling. Then pick yourself up a bottle and try it out! Be sure to share your experiences with me as well!
http://bragg.com/products/bragg-organic-apple-cider-vinegar.html
OH! One tip, after you're done shooting this stuff back, rinse your mouth with water. The acidity from the ACV can erode your enamel. Happy drinking!
http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-3598/7-Reasons-to-Love-Apple-Cider-Vinegar.html
If you haven't tried this stuff before don't let the name fool you. It does not taste like apples nor does it taste like cider. I'm starting to think the name is as it is just to get you to drink it. lol It actually tastes very similar to Balsamic Vinegar which makes me want to put it on my salad. Instead however I'm putting 2 tablespooons in a shaker cup with 5oz of water and downing it like an alcoholic downs wine. Or I guess like I down wine. ;)
I have just started this process yesterday and on average (by speaking to other people) after about 2 weeks you really start to notice a difference in bloating, skin texture, etc so I will definitely be keeping everyone up to date on my experiences. With my constant issues in digestion and bloating what do I have to lose by drinking this stuff twice to three times a day?
If you want to know more about Braggs ACV and it's amazing "Mother of Vinegar" that it contains go to the Braggs website or do a little googling. Then pick yourself up a bottle and try it out! Be sure to share your experiences with me as well!
http://bragg.com/products/bragg-organic-apple-cider-vinegar.html
OH! One tip, after you're done shooting this stuff back, rinse your mouth with water. The acidity from the ACV can erode your enamel. Happy drinking!
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
Dear 2012,
Dear 2012,
What a year we had, eh? We learned that ALOT can happen in a short amount of time and that it can change our lives forever. We also learned that it can be the best thing that ever happened. We learned what it was like to feel so out of balance that it became destructive. We then re-learned that we are in control of our happiness and only we can change our path.
We learned that making time for our significant others away from the daily grind is extremely important and that it needs to happen more often. We learned that making time for friends and family is also just as important and that it too needs to happen more often. We learned that the definition of family is whatever you want it to be and that blood relations aren't always part of the mix.
2012 we learned that I have far too many things I want to do and that I can't do them all at once. Maybe 2013 will have some ideas on how to be in more than one place at a time. ;) 2012, I will not forget the lessons you taught me. I will not forget the struggles which taught the lessons nor the people who helped me through them.
Dear 2013, we have alot of work to do. This year is the year of balance, not balancing on the ball and hoping to the Gods we don't fall off. This year there will be more date nights, more family nights, less computers and iPads. However this year there will be more photos, photo shoots, working on the previous items, and more learning. There will be more morning workouts, more dog walks, more eating to fuel my body instead of my emotions.
In 2013 I will love myself as much as I love others, stress less, be more, and do my very best at achieving the goals I have set for myself. Let 2013 begin!
Happy New Year to everyone!
What a year we had, eh? We learned that ALOT can happen in a short amount of time and that it can change our lives forever. We also learned that it can be the best thing that ever happened. We learned what it was like to feel so out of balance that it became destructive. We then re-learned that we are in control of our happiness and only we can change our path.
We learned that making time for our significant others away from the daily grind is extremely important and that it needs to happen more often. We learned that making time for friends and family is also just as important and that it too needs to happen more often. We learned that the definition of family is whatever you want it to be and that blood relations aren't always part of the mix.
2012 we learned that I have far too many things I want to do and that I can't do them all at once. Maybe 2013 will have some ideas on how to be in more than one place at a time. ;) 2012, I will not forget the lessons you taught me. I will not forget the struggles which taught the lessons nor the people who helped me through them.
Dear 2013, we have alot of work to do. This year is the year of balance, not balancing on the ball and hoping to the Gods we don't fall off. This year there will be more date nights, more family nights, less computers and iPads. However this year there will be more photos, photo shoots, working on the previous items, and more learning. There will be more morning workouts, more dog walks, more eating to fuel my body instead of my emotions.
In 2013 I will love myself as much as I love others, stress less, be more, and do my very best at achieving the goals I have set for myself. Let 2013 begin!
Happy New Year to everyone!
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