Biggest Loser Princess and Tinker Bell 2011 and 2012 -- OLD please see NEW thread

[mommyof2Pirates]

Hi Ladies.

Lisa- I was thinking maybe our numbers being so close has to do with our last names??? Either way I think its cool that are numbers are only 2 apart.

Great Job on the 10 miles!!!!!!! Now its all down hill for awhile. Enjoy the taper!

I got my shorts in the mail today. I really love them but I still want to run in them obviously on the TM to make sure they are not going to be annoying. I am still waiting for my tiara.

We ended up going out to eat with my in laws at texas roundhouse. I am stuffed but it was all pretty healthy choices. Salad, filet, baked potatoe. I did have a few fried pickles. I must say those babies are yummy. I also did not order soda and drank 3 huges glasses of water. I think I will be good to go tomorrow. I am a bit nervous about running outside due to all the ice we got recently but I think if I run in the non-busy streets around my house I should be ok. I am thinking of doing a 1.5 or 2 mile loop and just repeating it. I thought if I do that my dh could run some gatorade and water out to me each time I pass the house. I still did not get any energy things to try either. I might just grab some pretzel m&m's like rose tried and see if that does anything. I thought if this works I can have my mom take a pack and hand them off to me when I see her in MK. I guess with that I always run the risk of not seeing her and than I wont have anything.

Ok well I am now babbling so I am heading to cuddle with my boys and watch the disney toy story marathon. Have a great evening.

 

[Rose&Mike]

Lisa--I am so happy for you! 10 miles is fabulous! Congratulations!

Lindsay--have a good run tomorrow. Mike will eat the pretzel mms during a run. I stick with gu. (Too many stomach issues.) I have eaten them afterwards.

So here's my day. I am thinking about starting a journal so I don't drive you all insane. Lots of changes coming our way, I think. I hadn't eaten much gluten last week while Mike was gone. I had rice and beans for dinner every night. I had some gluten, but not much. Anyhow, last night we had thin crust pizza. And I felt awful. Just cruddy, like I had swallowed a bowling bowl. It was a personal thin crust pizza that we split--and I only ate 1.5 pieces. So after talking about it a lot and doing a lot more research online, and a lot of gentle prodding by Mike I decided to go gluten free for a while. You can be gluten sensitive even without testing positive for celiac (though I still don't have my results). I think for the first time today he realized how much hair I had lost--I pulled it back and showed him and he said I have a widow's peak, and I've lost a bit of weight over the last month. The brain fog seems to be getting worse, (Mike said I am "distracted" meaning I forgot something just a little too often), there's the running issues and I guess I could go on, but I won't bore you all.

So, I'm a little overwhelmed and sad. Mike keeps saying, if this makes you feel better, who cares what the diagnosis is, and if it doesn't then we'll look for something else. We went shopping today, which was a nice distraction. And I must say, I am looking kind of skinny, and really need to find a way to eat that doesn't make me feel like crap. Because I am not eating, because I don't feel good after I eat. We went out to eat at a restaurant that has a gluten free menu and gluten free beer and cider. Which was fun. And I'm feeling a little better about things. Maybe the tests will show something else definitive and this will be a non-issue, but I'm not holding my breath. I want my positive attitude back. And I want to not feel so worn down all the time. It's my fault, because I waited so long to go to the doctor. My favorite thing to say--Denial is a river in Egypt.

We are running tomorrow. Which should be fun. And I will seriously consider a journal, so I don't drive you all insane!

Have a great evening everyone!

 

[mommyof2Pirates]

I am thinking about starting a journal so I don't drive you all insane. Lots of changes coming our way, I think.

Rose you are not driving us insane. Dont feel that you have to write somewhere else because you dont think anyone wants to listen. I dont mind and am truly concerned for you. Im sure you will be fine and if you could change your diet to be vegetarian I am sure you will do ok adapting to a gluten free. It really does make sense with what your saying. There also is more of an awareness now with gluten free diets over the past few years I have seen so much stuff that says gluten free. We even have a pizza place near us that is gluten free. Hang in there. If this works you will feel so much better both physically and emotionally.

 

[mommyof2Pirates]

I did it!!! 10 miles I was determined to do it outside and that I did. It was beautiful weather. Sunny and almost 40 but the roads and sidewalks were horrible. I had to stop very frequently to ice skate. My pace slowed a bit due to this but at least I didnt break any limbs. I really needed to do it outside mentally. I felt really really good during my run but the last 2.5 miles were a bit painful. The last mile I had to start talking out loud to my legs because they wanted to stop. But I made it and Im sure given the adrenaline of the race I will be able to add another 3.1 onto it. As for today I was thrilled to be done at 10.

Now I am trying to plan some healthier versions of our usual superbowl food. I think we may be going either to my moms or my nanas for dinner and part of the games.

I hope you all are enjoying your sunday.

 

[lisah0711]

So, I'm a little overwhelmed and sad. Mike keeps saying, if this makes you feel better, who cares what the diagnosis is, and if it doesn't then we'll look for something else. We went shopping today, which was a nice distraction. And I must say, I am looking kind of skinny, and really need to find a way to eat that doesn't make me feel like crap. Because I am not eating, because I don't feel good after I eat. We went out to eat at a restaurant that has a gluten free menu and gluten free beer and cider. Which was fun. And I'm feeling a little better about things. Maybe the tests will show something else definitive and this will be a non-issue, but I'm not holding my breath. I want my positive attitude back. And I want to not feel so worn down all the time. It's my fault, because I waited so long to go to the doctor. My favorite thing to say--Denial is a river in Egypt.

We are running tomorrow. Which should be fun. And I will seriously consider a journal, so I don't drive you all insane!

Have a great evening everyone!

I'm glad that Mike is so supportive to help you get to feeling better, Rose. How did you feel after going to the gluten free restaurant? How was your run today? The important thing is that you take care of yourself and get to feeling better!

I did it!!! 10 miles I was determined to do it outside and that I did. It was beautiful weather. Sunny and almost 40 but the roads and sidewalks were horrible. I had to stop very frequently to ice skate. My pace slowed a bit due to this but at least I didnt break any limbs. I really needed to do it outside mentally. I felt really really good during my run but the last 2.5 miles were a bit painful. The last mile I had to start talking out loud to my legs because they wanted to stop. But I made it and Im sure given the adrenaline of the race I will be able to add another 3.1 onto it. As for today I was thrilled to be done at 10.

Woo hoo, Lindsay, for doing ten miles! I'm glad that you made it outside without getting hurt.

I'm thinking those folks with the training plan know what they are doing having us back off now. I feel strong but things are starting to ache more than they did. I have had quite a few interesting conversations with my various body parts since I started this process -- sometimes the body thinks the brain was crazy for coming up with this idea! A couple of times on my run yesterday I got a little choked up because I can't believe that I've come so far.

Kathy, I'm waiting to hear how your long run went!

Have a great day Princesses!

 

[Rose&Mike]

Lindsay--woohoo! Congratulations!

And I'm going to tell you girls I cried at the end of both of my races. Especially w&d. I think I cried the first time I ran 13 miles on a long run. Now, granted I'm a little emotional but I was so overwhelmed, because I have wanted this for so long, and really didn't think I could do it. So it was very emotional.

Thanks for all the support. I am feeling pretty good today. I won't say it's a miracle cure, but I don't feel like I have a bowling ball in my stomach. So that's good. I read it can take months to feel "better"--whatever that means. And that sometimes you have to cut out dairy for a while too, but I am ignoring that for now. Dairy free, gluten free, vegetarian might push me over the edge. We went to whole foods and got enough stuff to get us through the next couple of days. We are going to see Tom next weekend, and I still don't know what I am going to eat, but I'll figure something out.

The g-f restaurant had pizza. And I thought it was very tasty--really crunchy. I don't know how Mike felt about it. But he ate it. And I must say g-f cider is pretty tasty. I can force myself to drink it. Mike had g-f beer, and it's ok. Just will take some getting used to.

And I felt really good after my run. One tiny stomach cramp, and that was it. Which is better than it's been in I don't know how long. We haven't even been stretching after our runs because my stomach was such a mess that I wanted to get home to the bathroom. We actually stretched at the park and probably would have done a cool down lap if we weren't so cold. We ran 11 miles. I am really looking forward to 2 cutback weeks.

Kathy--hope your run went great!

Before I forget---HAPPY BIRTHDAY MIKE!!!!! You will always be my Prince!
(I'm going to make him some gluten free brownies in a minute and his Packers are playing--who could ask for a better birthday!)

 

[mikamah]

Good afternoon Princess!!!

Add me to the list of those who completed their long run this weekend and are going to be amazing at the princess!!!

I did my 12 miles. Love that banana!!! My friend came with me, and we did a 6 mile route from my house, came in stretched, peed and had a gu and banana and more water than my last long run, and went out again for the same route and did the full six. There is a loop in the route so I could have cut it a little shorter at mile 9.5 or so, but I didn't, and was happy when I got to the end of the loop because I knew there was no longer a possible short cut and I would complete the full 12, unless I called someone to pick us up. I feel really good, motivated, and confident that I can do the 13.1. After doing 10 miles 2 and a half weeks ago, I definitely could have gone another 1.1 today. Actually probably mile 8-9 was the toughest, and once I got past 10 I was pumped that I hadn't run that far before. I did longer walk intervals toward the end too. I timed the 6 mile loops separately, and was only 4 minutes slower the second loop, and came in at exactly 15 minute mile average for the 12. We were in my house probably 6-7 minutes, so I figure I'll be ok with portapotty lines. I'm thinking I may only need to go once, and can stretch while I wait in line.

I feel pretty good. My right hip aches a bit, and has in the past, and I know some ibuprofen with dinner will usually take care of that. My left foot that was sore last week, feels fine, so I'm thrilled. I got new shoes this week, and used them for half the run, and switched to the old one for the second half. So life is good!!! I'm getting so excited, and am thinking since we are all going to safely get to orlando without any snow delays, and have an amazing time!!!

Lisa-Whoo hoo!!!! So exciting we are done with our long runs!!! The taper will feel good, and it is such a great feeling to be done with the long one.

LindsayCongrats on your long run being completed too!!! I'm sure you feel so good too. Bummer on all the ice. I was thrilled we got all rain yesterday, so lots of our ice melted, and it wasn't too bad. My route is by the high school, so the streets are pretty quiet on the weekend and were pretty clear today.

You two, like I said, I know I could have done the other 1.1 today, so I know you both will be able to do the other 3.1 in 3 weeks. I was also thinking about all the mile markers, the characters and entertainment along the way. I mean we saw lots of people shovelling off their roofs and walking their dogs to pass the time, but I don't think that will be nearly as exciting as wdw!!!!

Wow, I'm so excited!!

Rose- I completely agree with Lindsay, and am always here for you to listen, so please feel free to vent away. It has got to be so frustrating to feel so lousy, and especially when the running that you love makes you miserable, it's got to be tough. Hang in there. I hope you get some answers soon. So glad that Mike is such a good support for you. Hey, speaking of Mike, when is he going to pop in and "meet" us here. I saw him on another thread and posted that he should pop over.

Chipper Jen- I thought of you during my run!! I thought, Jen said I'm strong enough to do this, and she is right, I am going to do it!! And I did!!

Well, I guess I should think about dinner. Though I'd like someone else to make it, but I guess I'll do it. Michael is out playing in the snow with a friend, which is great that I can hear them, so I don't have to keep getting up to peek out the window and make sure he's ok.

Have a wonderful evening Princesses!! Hope everyone had great runs this weekend!!

 

[mikamah]

Rose- So glad you're feeling better. I know I am going to cry at the end of the princess. I cried at the end of my first 5k just overwhelmed with it all, and now I'm starting to cry just thinking about how far I have come. I think my goal will be to only cry at the end, and keep it in check the rest of the race. Though when I see michael as we run into epcot, I can imagine that will get me going. It is amazing that we can do whatever we set our minds and hearts on. We are all strong and amazing women.

happy birthday to Mike!!!

 

[Rose&Mike]

Congratulations Kathy!!

I am so pleased for everyone! This has been such a rough winter to train. And everyone has stuck it out!

Hope everyone is having a good evening!

 

[jenanderson]

Evening everyone! I had meant to get back on but last night the boards were down and my days are just so busy. Yesterday after my run, I went to the Mall of America with a friend we walked around for about 2 hours. There was this great store with wonderful running clothing. I did buy a tank top but I think I am going to return it. I love that I finally found a tank top that is long enough for me and doesn’t ride up but it was just so expensive. So, I think it will be going back to the store even though it is a great top. Today knowing that I didn’t want to pay so much for a top, I went to Target. I did find a pair of running shorts to go under my tutu but all the tanks were again just so short on me.

Shopping totally frustrated me both yesterday and today and here is why….yesterday after my 10 mile run, I was happier when I stepped on the scale. I weighed 155 (I had been down to 153 in November). I ate really well all day and only allowed myself a small treat last night after burning off 1370 calories in the run. Still, when I was shopping, I will admit that I felt “fat”. I realize that I am not fat any more but I look in the mirror and see bulges. Today, I got up and weighed 157!!!! I was so angry. I have worked so hard this week. I have logged all my food and have been totally honest with every bite. I worked out 6 days out of 7. I am hungry and feel totally deprived. I look in the mirror and totally see someone who should be at least 4 pounds lighter but really I would like to be 9 pounds lighter. I know this seems so stupid with it being such a small amount but I am really struggling with the whole weight issue right now.

While many people will be worrying about the race (and not that I am not), I really am worrying the most about how I am going to look on vacation. I don’t want to look bad in the pictures – especially the race pictures and it is definitely a mental issue that I need to work on right now.

Alright, enough of this rambling on about all my crazy diet problems. Time to respond to everything going on here…

Lisa – GREAT JOB on your 10 miles! I bet it feels great to know that you are starting to taper! I am glad that you read my post last before going out on your run. I totally believe that we are all going to be crossing the finish line with smiles on our faces!

Rose – You totally are not going to drive us insane by sharing all that is going on (notice how much I shared tonight). I think coming here to share is a great way to help deal with all we are working through in life and everyone here truly does care about the struggles. I really think that part of the reason why I have been struggling lately is that I don’t type it all out here like I used to and work through everything. The WISH board is great therapy. Sounds like the G-F eating is really helping and it was great to read that you run was so successful without making you feel so bad. I am so happy that you had a good run!

Great reminder to everyone about how it is natural to cry at the end of a race. I will say that I think I have finished all of mine with a huge smile but this one might be different. This one is emotional for me. This is the one that made me start on the path to being healthy. It has been a long year of struggles and success and crossing the finish line at the princess might bring out the happy tears!


Lindsay – WAY TO GO! 10 miles is great! I am so happy that the weather and the conditions outside cooperated with you. I hear you about struggling with legs that want to stop! I had to have some serious talks with myself yesterday to remind my body that I am a warrior. I do a lot of self-talking and it really helps.

Kathy – YOU WILL BE AMAZING! I am so impressed with your 12 miles! Sounds like you had a great plan to get the miles in and I am so happy it went so well. I am glad you thought of me during the run. You are totally strong enough to get through the 12 miles and will have no problem with 13.1 on race day.

Well, now I have really gone on and on so it is time to sign off. One last note to share my race numbers - I am 3639 and Paul’s number is 3185.

Have a great week everyone!
Jen

 

[mommyof2Pirates]

I'm thinking those folks with the training plan know what they are doing having us back off now. I feel strong but things are starting to ache more than they did. I have had quite a few interesting conversations with my various body parts since I started this process -- sometimes the body thinks the brain was crazy for coming up with this idea! A couple of times on my run yesterday I got a little choked up because I can't believe that I've come so far.


Have a great day Princesses!

Lisa you should be very proud of yourself. I am proud of you It is a bit emotional when you think back to when you first started and where you are now. I do this often and have to fight back the tears.

And I'm going to tell you girls I cried at the end of both of my races. Especially w&d. I think I cried the first time I ran 13 miles on a long run. Now, granted I'm a little emotional but I was so overwhelmed, because I have wanted this for so long, and really didn't think I could do it. So it was very emotional.

Oh I know I will have tears as I cross the finish and most likely as I run through the castle, oh and probably when I see my mom. When I did my first 5K a few years ago I was at my heaviest 217. I think by the race I was down closer to 200 and I really didnt know if I could finish it. I only trained on the treadmill and didnt run outside until the wk of the race and it felt awful. I finished the race...my time was something around 46 or 47 minutes and I bawled when I crossed the finish line. I mean sobbed. I remember even tearing up as I waited for my race to start. I have not felt like that since but I am sure this race will bring that same emotion back.

I am glad you are feeling better today, and I hope Mike had a wonderful birthday and enjoys the brownies you are baking him.

Add me to the list of those who completed their long run this weekend and are going to be amazing at the princess!!!

I did my 12 miles.

Yay!!!! Way to go Kathy! 12 miles is so awesome. Boy you were almost to the end. You are going to do so awesome at the princess!!!!!

Shopping totally frustrated me both yesterday and today and here is why….yesterday after my 10 mile run, I was happier when I stepped on the scale. I weighed 155 (I had been down to 153 in November). I ate really well all day and only allowed myself a small treat last night after burning off 1370 calories in the run. Still, when I was shopping, I will admit that I felt “fat”. I realize that I am not fat any more but I look in the mirror and see bulges. Today, I got up and weighed 157!!!! I was so angry. I have worked so hard this week. I have logged all my food and have been totally honest with every bite. I worked out 6 days out of 7. I am hungry and feel totally deprived. I look in the mirror and totally see someone who should be at least 4 pounds lighter but really I would like to be 9 pounds lighter. I know this seems so stupid with it being such a small amount but I am really struggling with the whole weight issue right now.

Ok jen if it makes you feel any better I am having the same issues too. I really decided on doing the princess so it would give me motivation to loose all the baby weight I had gained with my 2 pregnancies. I wanted to loose 60lbs. I have lost a total of 35. I am really proud of that but I have struggled over the past few months. I think running these longer distances just isnt sparking my metabolism. I havent been eating any differently and even if I do watch every bite I put in my mouth I seem to stay the same weight. It has been really frustrating. I am actually a bit sad and disappointed in myself that I am not closer to my goal. This also has me worried about how I will feel about my pictures. I actually have been putting on my outfits I planned to wear and having my son take my picture so I can see how they look. I am starting to realize that there are other things that I need to be proud of that I have accomplished and I know I will keep working towards my goal. I just wanted to say I know how you feel and it is frustrating but be proud of what you are doing and the obstacles that you have overcome. You are awesome and I am sure you will look awesome in your pics too.

Well I am surprised at how good I feel after my long run. My legs a just a bit stiff when I sit for awhile and try to get up but otherwise I feel great. I forgot to tell you about my energy supplements during my run. I went real technical. At mile 5 I ate about 6 small pretzels, and at mile 8 I had a small bite size pack of twizzlers. I also looped past my house about 6 times and I had my water bottle and gatorade on my car so I kept myself hydrated. I did notice the gatorade made me feel a bit nauseated but only for about a 1/4 mile or so afterward. I think I either may skip it all together or only take it once or twice during the race. I think my plan will be to take some pretzels and twizzlers and have my mom hold onto a pack of pretzel m&m's to hand off to me if I need it. It seemed to work fine for me.

Well its back to the work week tomorrow! I hope the next 2 weeks go quickly. I am getting so excited I can hardly contain it anymore.

 

[jenanderson]

Ok jen if it makes you feel any better I am having the same issues too. I really decided on doing the princess so it would give me motivation to loose all the baby weight I had gained with my 2 pregnancies. I wanted to loose 60lbs. I have lost a total of 35. I am really proud of that but I have struggled over the past few months. I think running these longer distances just isnt sparking my metabolism. I havent been eating any differently and even if I do watch every bite I put in my mouth I seem to stay the same weight. It has been really frustrating. I am actually a bit sad and disappointed in myself that I am not closer to my goal. This also has me worried about how I will feel about my pictures. I actually have been putting on my outfits I planned to wear and having my son take my picture so I can see how they look. I am starting to realize that there are other things that I need to be proud of that I have accomplished and I know I will keep working towards my goal. I just wanted to say I know how you feel and it is frustrating but be proud of what you are doing and the obstacles that you have overcome. You are awesome and I am sure you will look awesome in your pics too.

Thanks for sharing this. I know that I need to be proud of what has been accomplished and I know that I am not going back in the wrong direction. I think it is just so much the point that I thought at this point I would have lost the whole 50 pounds - 41 pounds is great but it just seems like I came up short of my goal. I am working on trying to focus on how much I have accomplished this year. This leads me to the shirt that I am working on and I will share parts of it because it is something that I need to remember for myself and is true for everyone here. The back of my shirt will say (I am still working on it):

This princess....
Used to cry running around the block
Lost 40 pounds
Never gave up
Believes in herself
Finds magic in running
Is strong
13.1 is just the beginning!

 

[corinnak]

Hi Princess Racers!

It's been wild and crazy timese here (as usual, I guess?) I just had to chime in and say that I'm still here and starting to get excited for Princess! The waivers with bib numbers are up. I am 2324 this year - which is over 600 higher than my number last year. I think the race has grown, cause my proof of time was actually faster than for 2010.

Regarding losing weight while distance running...I know I started running because I figured if I could run, I would lose weight from the activity. Which has so not been the case. I know a lot of people find that it is the opposite - that they end up gaining a couple of pounds during marathon training, especially, for whatever reason.

I had intended to be a lot smaller at my first half marathon than I ended up being. It wasn't until AFTER that race that I managed to get my act mostly together. It's so much more about food and portions and consistency than it is about activity, at least for me. Which can definitely be frustrating and disappointing, I know, but whatever our weight at the start-line, the fact that we are THERE at the start line is a victory. I know that while I wasn't thrilled with my appearance in my photos in 2009, I was still glad that I had them and proud of the accomplishment the photos represented. This race is a HUGE reward, so let's get out there and savor it and remember just how far we have come.

I actually did a half marathon this morning. There was snow on the trail, and my knees are not thanking me tonight. Hopefully they will feel better in the morning. I am going to try to baby them this week!

 

[mikamah]

This princess....
Used to cry running around the block
Lost 40 pounds
Never gave up
Believes in herself
Finds magic in running
Is strong
13.1 is just the beginning!

This is just beautiful, and made me cry. You have come so far, and are such an inspiration.

Hi This race is a HUGE reward, so let's get out there and savor it and remember just how far we have come.

I have gotten so much inspiration from you corinna, and how far you have come, but especially from your first half marathon. It has really helped me to believe in myself when I look at you and others who have done so much, at higher weights. Today I definitely feel stronger, healthier and more fit at 206 pounds than I felt at a time when I weighed 160.

I am starting to realize that there are other things that I need to be proud of that I have accomplished and I know I will keep working towards my goal. I just wanted to say I know how you feel and it is frustrating but be proud of what you are doing and the obstacles that you have overcome.
:

You have so much to be proud of, and are an amazing woman, wife, mom, and princess. You so deserve this weekend away with your mom and aunt, and are going to be amazing at the princess. You should be so proud of all you have done, and go back and look at the pics in your journal, you are going to look great in those princess pics because you will have a big, proud smile on your face.

I am so pleased for everyone! This has been such a rough winter to train. And everyone has stuck it out!

We are amazing, aren't we all! I still can't believe we're in the final countdown!!! So exciting.

I feel pretty good today, but know I should have moved around more last night. Just a little achey, but my hip is much better, and I would be able to walk around MK no problem if we were there right now.
On the pictures, after my first race, I did print out my picture as I crossed the finishline, and I looked like crap, beat red face, I look fat not fit, and though I don't like the pic at all, I do like what it stands for, I put myself out there, I got out and did the c25k, and stuck with it, I completed what I started out to do. I had hit a personal low last winter, and the c25k got me up and motivated to do something about it, and helped me to believe in myself again, and know that I can do what I set my mind to do.
Each successive race, I've liked the pictures better, I'm still overweight, but I've toned up more each time, and for the princess, I've tried on my outfit several times, the first time I put on the sparkle skirt, I didn't like how it made my hips look fatter than just the capris alone, but have decided that the skirt is more about my spirit and how far I have come, and so I won't look like ariel on race day, I will feel like the crazy, funloving princess I am when I cross that finishline.

Thank you all again for all you share with us here, all the support, the hugs, the inspiration. I know I would not be here, ready to run a half marathon without all of you. I love you guys.

 

[lisah0711]

Good morning Princesses!

I'm so proud of all of us for getting those long runs in this week-end! It takes a lot of determination and perseverance to train for a winter run. I didn't really appreciate that before!

Thanks for all the support. I am feeling pretty good today. I won't say it's a miracle cure, but I don't feel like I have a bowling ball in my stomach. So that's good. I read it can take months to feel "better"--whatever that means. And that sometimes you have to cut out dairy for a while too, but I am ignoring that for now. Dairy free, gluten free, vegetarian might push me over the edge. We went to whole foods and got enough stuff to get us through the next couple of days. We are going to see Tom next weekend, and I still don't know what I am going to eat, but I'll figure something out.

The g-f restaurant had pizza. And I thought it was very tasty--really crunchy. I don't know how Mike felt about it. But he ate it. And I must say g-f cider is pretty tasty. I can force myself to drink it. Mike had g-f beer, and it's ok. Just will take some getting used to.

And I felt really good after my run. One tiny stomach cramp, and that was it. Which is better than it's been in I don't know how long. We haven't even been stretching after our runs because my stomach was such a mess that I wanted to get home to the bathroom. We actually stretched at the park and probably would have done a cool down lap if we weren't so cold. We ran 11 miles. I am really looking forward to 2 cutback weeks.

Kathy--hope your run went great!

Before I forget---HAPPY BIRTHDAY MIKE!!!!! You will always be my Prince!
(I'm going to make him some gluten free brownies in a minute and his Packers are playing--who could ask for a better birthday!)

Glad to hear that you had your long run yesterday and no stomach problems! I think that you are on to something.

I bet there are gluten free items at WDW, too. You may want to call Disney guest services. I've heard that they are very accommodating.

Happy Birthday to Mike! A loving wife, brownies and your team winning what could be a better way to celebrate?

So life is good!!! I'm getting so excited, and am thinking since we are all going to safely get to orlando without any snow delays, and have an amazing time!!!

It will be here before we know it! And woo hoo for getting all the way to 12!

Evening everyone! I had meant to get back on but last night the boards were down and my days are just so busy. Yesterday after my run, I went to the Mall of America with a friend we walked around for about 2 hours. There was this great store with wonderful running clothing. I did buy a tank top but I think I am going to return it. I love that I finally found a tank top that is long enough for me and doesn’t ride up but it was just so expensive. So, I think it will be going back to the store even though it is a great top. Today knowing that I didn’t want to pay so much for a top, I went to Target. I did find a pair of running shorts to go under my tutu but all the tanks were again just so short on me.

Shopping totally frustrated me both yesterday and today and here is why….yesterday after my 10 mile run, I was happier when I stepped on the scale. I weighed 155 (I had been down to 153 in November). I ate really well all day and only allowed myself a small treat last night after burning off 1370 calories in the run. Still, when I was shopping, I will admit that I felt “fat”. I realize that I am not fat any more but I look in the mirror and see bulges. Today, I got up and weighed 157!!!! I was so angry. I have worked so hard this week. I have logged all my food and have been totally honest with every bite. I worked out 6 days out of 7. I am hungry and feel totally deprived. I look in the mirror and totally see someone who should be at least 4 pounds lighter but really I would like to be 9 pounds lighter. I know this seems so stupid with it being such a small amount but I am really struggling with the whole weight issue right now.

While many people will be worrying about the race (and not that I am not), I really am worrying the most about how I am going to look on vacation. I don’t want to look bad in the pictures – especially the race pictures and it is definitely a mental issue that I need to work on right now.

Jen, sorry about the clothes shopping issue. I think that it takes a long time for your brain to catch up to your body as you lose weight. Are you sure your weight gain isn't just water retention after a long run? My body hangs onto water for a couple of days after a long run. You are strong, you know that you can do this and you have to be kind to yourself because you've had a rough time.

Ok jen if it makes you feel any better I am having the same issues too. I really decided on doing the princess so it would give me motivation to loose all the baby weight I had gained with my 2 pregnancies. I wanted to loose 60lbs. I have lost a total of 35. I am really proud of that but I have struggled over the past few months. I think running these longer distances just isnt sparking my metabolism. I havent been eating any differently and even if I do watch every bite I put in my mouth I seem to stay the same weight. It has been really frustrating. I am actually a bit sad and disappointed in myself that I am not closer to my goal. This also has me worried about how I will feel about my pictures. I actually have been putting on my outfits I planned to wear and having my son take my picture so I can see how they look. I am starting to realize that there are other things that I need to be proud of that I have accomplished and I know I will keep working towards my goal. I just wanted to say I know how you feel and it is frustrating but be proud of what you are doing and the obstacles that you have overcome. You are awesome and I am sure you will look awesome in your pics too.

I'm glad that you are feeling good after your long run, Lindsay!

Add me to the list of folks who is wishing that they would be closer to their weight loss goals by now. But I'm not. And I'm closer than I would be if I would have given up so I try to be more accepting about it. I'm going to be over 200 when I do this race and that is just the way it is. I'm strong, I've done the training and I can do this!

Thanks for sharing this. I know that I need to be proud of what has been accomplished and I know that I am not going back in the wrong direction. I think it is just so much the point that I thought at this point I would have lost the whole 50 pounds - 41 pounds is great but it just seems like I came up short of my goal. I am working on trying to focus on how much I have accomplished this year. This leads me to the shirt that I am working on and I will share parts of it because it is something that I need to remember for myself and is true for everyone here. The back of my shirt will say (I am still working on it):

This princess....
Used to cry running around the block
Lost 40 pounds
Never gave up
Believes in herself
Finds magic in running
Is strong
13.1 is just the beginning!

I love your shirt, Jen! It's so true and is totally you!

Hi Princess Racers!

It's been wild and crazy timese here (as usual, I guess?) I just had to chime in and say that I'm still here and starting to get excited for Princess! The waivers with bib numbers are up. I am 2324 this year - which is over 600 higher than my number last year. I think the race has grown, cause my proof of time was actually faster than for 2010.

Regarding losing weight while distance running...I know I started running because I figured if I could run, I would lose weight from the activity. Which has so not been the case. I know a lot of people find that it is the opposite - that they end up gaining a couple of pounds during marathon training, especially, for whatever reason.

I had intended to be a lot smaller at my first half marathon than I ended up being. It wasn't until AFTER that race that I managed to get my act mostly together. It's so much more about food and portions and consistency than it is about activity, at least for me. Which can definitely be frustrating and disappointing, I know, but whatever our weight at the start-line, the fact that we are THERE at the start line is a victory. I know that while I wasn't thrilled with my appearance in my photos in 2009, I was still glad that I had them and proud of the accomplishment the photos represented. This race is a HUGE reward, so let's get out there and savor it and remember just how far we have come.

I actually did a half marathon this morning. There was snow on the trail, and my knees are not thanking me tonight. Hopefully they will feel better in the morning. I am going to try to baby them this week!

I know that you don't particularly like your 2009 photos, Corinna, but for me they are totally an inspiration. That is my plan to follow in your footsteps. With this Princess and the next!

Hope that your knees feel better soon! You're doing a half almost every other week, girl!

Maria and Jude, hope that you Princesses had a great week-end!

 

[Worfiedoodles]

Good Morning, Lovely Princesses!

Lisa -- A good weekend, indeed, I am feeling much better and starting to think more definitively about the upcoming race! I was a little disappointed when I got my number #8905, I had hoped to be up a bit -- but that was based on 3:11, so perhaps with my proof of time for 2:56 I might move up If not, no big deal. I think this race will be totally fun whether you start in Corral A or H!

Kathy -- You are totally a crazy fun-loving Princess, and you are going to squee when you cross the finish line! There's nothing like it, you are going to be so happy and feel like you can accomplish anything -- and the truth is you can!

Corinna -- Fabulous race placement, you will sprint through and run with the gazelles! Also great perspective -- you have accomplished so much, and I can only hope to follow in your footsteps. My goal is to run each Half lighter than the last, and I'm on target (knock on wood) for Princess. Of course, I don't attempt them 2 weeks in a row

JenAnderson -- Fabulous wording for your shirt! I sense some real magic in there

Lindsay -- I freely admit I cried the first time I ran the WDW Half, and I have been known to have some leakage ever since. It is very emotional, realizing that you just had a major accomplishment -- kind of a verification that you are a "real" athelete -- at least for me it is. Of course, as I'm waiting for the bus to my resort I always think, "Why on earth did I sign up for this? I shouldn't do this again." Then I get over it after a shower and a little rest.

Rose -- I'm glad your run was better. I do believe it can take quite awhile for your system to totally "settle down", so you should just be patient with yourself. Trust me, if anyone drives everyone insane, it will be me! Instead of talking through things, I "write" through them. It works for me, and if it works for you, you should do it!

Congratulations to Everyone on all the Fabulous Long Runs!

I was so sick last week, but I am at 95% today, and ready to move on with my training! I ran 4M this morning and 3M yesterday, so I'm running again. I missed my LR last week, but plan to do 12M on Saturday. I prefer Friday, but I don't see how I can make it work this week. Maybe something will come to me -- just hopefully not another snow day!

Now for the big news -- our family is expanding! We are now the proud and happy parents of a 10 wk old male grey tabby kitten . He has white socks and a white muzzle, and he is very inquisitive and loves people. DS has named him Chewbacca, Chewie for short. He sleeps next to me, he has already figured out that I'm the key to making sure all his little kitty dreams come true We could not be happier, and we already have plans to get him a companion -- their are 6 kittens that will be available at the end of March, and we hope to bring one home. I'll be naming this one, and yes, the sci fi naming tradition will continue -- I'm just waiting to see if we get a girl or boy, and what the personality deems appropriate.

Everyone have a Magical Day!

Maria

 

[lisah0711]

Now for the big news -- our family is expanding! We are now the proud and happy parents of a 10 wk old male grey tabby kitten . He has white socks and a white muzzle, and he is very inquisitive and loves people. DS has named him Chewbacca, Chewie for short. He sleeps next to me, he has already figured out that I'm the key to making sure all his little kitty dreams come true We could not be happier, and we already have plans to get him a companion -- their are 6 kittens that will be available at the end of March, and we hope to bring one home. I'll be naming this one, and yes, the sci fi naming tradition will continue -- I'm just waiting to see if we get a girl or boy, and what the personality deems appropriate.

Congratulations on the new family member, Maria! :kitty: For a second or two there I thought that you were going to tell us that you were having a baby! Isn't it fun having a new kitty around -- you get to find out about all the things that need kitty proofing that you took for granted with your older cat. He is a lucky kitty to have found such a good, loving home! Be sure to have a picture of Chewie when we see you!

 

[mommyof2Pirates]

This princess....
Used to cry running around the block
Lost 40 pounds
Never gave up
Believes in herself
Finds magic in running
Is strong
13.1 is just the beginning!

I love this Jen!!!!! You have come so far and you truly are an inspiration.

Regarding losing weight while distance running...I know I started running because I figured if I could run, I would lose weight from the activity. Which has so not been the case. I know a lot of people find that it is the opposite - that they end up gaining a couple of pounds during marathon training, especially, for whatever reason.

I had intended to be a lot smaller at my first half marathon than I ended up being. It wasn't until AFTER that race that I managed to get my act mostly together. It's so much more about food and portions and consistency than it is about activity, at least for me. Which can definitely be frustrating and disappointing, I know, but whatever our weight at the start-line, the fact that we are THERE at the start line is a victory. I know that while I wasn't thrilled with my appearance in my photos in 2009, I was still glad that I had them and proud of the accomplishment the photos represented. This race is a HUGE reward, so let's get out there and savor it and remember just how far we have come.

Corina thank you so much for saying all this. It makes me feel so much better about myself. I have come to terms with the fact that I am not going to loose much more weight over the next few weeks. I am hoping after my next half on may 2, I can shorten my running for awhile and focus on loosing some more pounds.

I've tried on my outfit several times, the first time I put on the sparkle skirt, I didn't like how it made my hips look fatter than just the capris alone, but have decided that the skirt is more about my spirit and how far I have come, and so I won't look like ariel on race day, I will feel like the crazy, funloving princess I am when I cross that finishline.

Kathy I am so glad you are not going to hide your crazy inner princess behind plain clothes. I think you need to let it all out of race day and what better than your sparkle skirt. You will look great! and ariel is so overated.

[Now for the big news -- our family is expanding! We are now the proud and happy parents of a 10 wk old male grey tabby kitten . He has white socks and a white muzzle, and he is very inquisitive and loves people. DS has named him Chewbacca, Chewie for short. He sleeps next to me, he has already figured out that I'm the key to making sure all his little kitty dreams come true We could not be happier, and we already have plans to get him a companion -- their are 6 kittens that will be available at the end of March, and we hope to bring one home. I'll be naming this one, and yes, the sci fi naming tradition will continue -- I'm just waiting to see if we get a girl or boy, and what the personality deems appropriate.

How exciting. I want to see a picture too. He sounds cute and I love the name. I am glad you are feeling better and back in your running shoes.

I got my tiara in the mail today. It is a little bigger than the picture made it seem. I think I will atleast wear it to start the race but Im not sure how long it will last. I think I am going to try to get out this weekend to look for another shirt. I really just want a black running tank. I just dont think my cotton princess shirt is going to be comfortable.

I am so surprised how well my body feels today. My legs are not all that sore. I thought they would feel worse. I am still so pumped about my run. Today when I was driving home I tracked my drive on my car....when I hit 10 miles I was like "wow" that is a long run. I am just still amazed at myself. I think if I feel this good now I will feel on top of the moon after the princess. Bring it on....I am so excited I just cant control myself anymore.

 

[Rose&Mike]

Jen--I'm sorry about the shopping frustration. Should you keep the tank even though it's pricey? I live in my workout clothes and if it's something I like I consider it a great investment. Especially since you have so much trouble finding stuff that's long enough. Hang in there. I can't wait to see your shirt.

Oh I know I will have tears as I cross the finish and most likely as I run through the castle, oh and probably when I see my mom. When I did my first 5K a few years ago I was at my heaviest 217. I think by the race I was down closer to 200 and I really didnt know if I could finish it. I only trained on the treadmill and didnt run outside until the wk of the race and it felt awful. I finished the race...my time was something around 46 or 47 minutes and I bawled when I crossed the finish line. I mean sobbed. I remember even tearing up as I waited for my race to start. I have not felt like that since but I am sure this race will bring that same emotion back.

Tears and smiles. That's the goal. Thanks for sharing this.

Corinna--Goodness you are a running machine!! I hope the knees are feeling better.

but have decided that the skirt is more about my spirit and how far I have come, and so I won't look like ariel on race day, I will feel like the crazy, funloving princess I am when I cross that finishline.

Thank you all again for all you share with us here, all the support, the hugs, the inspiration. I know I would not be here, ready to run a half marathon without all of you. I love you guys.

This made me smile, too.

Hi Lisa!

Maria--glad you are feeling better. A new kitty! How exciting! Congratultions! We need pictures!

Good evening princesses! My body (specifically my foot--plantar fasciitis) is not happy that I did 14 miles last weekend and 11 this weekend. I have spent a lot of time today stretching my calf out to try to cut back on the soreness. Will probably be skipping my 4 miles tomorrow. Hopefully it will calm down quickly!

Today was day 3 of g-f. Wednesday I am going to call to check on my test results if I still haven't heard anything. The brownies were pretty tasty. Gluten free bread--NASTY! We bought it from a local bakery and I thought it was disgusting. I'm not a big bread eater anymore, so I can live with it, but it did make me a little sad that grilled cheese probably won't be the same. Who knows if it's working, but I feel like the food is not just sitting in my stomach like a big lump and my blood sugar doesn't feel like it's all over the place. Once I talk to the doctor, we will call Disney. Mike thought it might be easier to have the conversation if we have a better idea of what's going on.

I am so glad I had already started eating well before this all happened. It's much easier to give things up when you know that eating better really does make your body feel better and helps to fuel your exercise. Even this summer when everything started getting bad, I wasn't ready to give up so much food. It would have been much more difficult. And I don't even know if my doctor would have taken it as serious. It's not so much that I needed to feel really cruddy to give up gluten, more that I have learned I can live without it.

We are getting snow tonight. Yuck! I hope everyone has a good evening.

 

[mommyof2Pirates]

We are getting snow tonight. Yuck! I hope everyone has a good evening.

Sorry the bread didnt taste good. Maybe there are other companies or bakeries that make it more tastier. I am glad this change is at least making you feel better. I hope the PF feels better soon too.

I hope you are not getting too much snow. It has been in the 40's the past two days and it felt so good. Now its back into the 20's for the next few days but hopefully....crossing my fingers....for no more snow this week. So far it looks promising. Stay warm in safe in your yucky weather.