Healing magic

Good Thursday morning.  We took Ava to her first Nashville Predators hockey game Tuesday night!  Last year, we had partial season tickets, but this season that took a backseat for our new addition!  Clint's work has a box and he got tickets for us to take Ava.  Like Father like Daughter.

Poor thing FELL ASLEEP in the 3rd period.  Who does that? hahaha  We did leave early, don't worry.  I am so glad she got to and will continue to experience this with Clint.  He loves hockey.  When we got together I had NO IDEA about hockey, but now I enjoy the game.  Plus, it gives me something to share with him.

I officially have off of work until next Tuesday!  My time off actually started yesterday.  Ava had been kind of stuffy on Tuesday at my parent's house and she took 2 really long naps.  (Clint's family was sick on Christmas Eve and as much as you try to clean hands and not pass germs, you can't keep them all away.)  Her body seemed to be wore out.  Yesterday morning, when she got up, bless her heart, had snot and crust all on her face where she sleeps on her belly.  I immediately squeegied her nose with the "boogie getter." (I think we used this about 76 times yesterday.) 


Source

Since I only had two patients yesterday and my mom would be taking Ava to my sister's wisdom teeth surgery, we decided that I would stay home and not get her out.   It was a great decision.  We stayed in our Jammies all day and I loved on her like a mama does.  I did give her some

Source

(WARNING.....going into mama talk mode.)

She sucked it right up. Although, the meds will help some, I think I am her best medicine.  I don't say thay because I am Super mama.  I say that because breastmilk has a healing effect.

According to pregnancy-info.net,

 

Does Breast Milk Really Heal?

"Many doctors, researchers, and scientist agree that breast milk does appear to have healing properties that can prove beneficial when it comes to treating minor illnesses and injuries. This is because of the antibodies that breast milk contains. Just as breast milk provides your baby with necessary antibodies to fight off infection, it can also work to kill off bacteria and viruses when applied topically to problem areas.

Nevertheless, breast milk is probably not potent enough to completely kill off infections and other illnesses. Most health care providers do recommend that you seek traditional medical care for these problems, in order to ensure that they completely heal. However, two common illnesses that appear to be helped by the use of breast milk include pink eye and sore nipples."

So basically, the more I nurse her, the better off and faster she should get better.  It seems to be working.  I don't think it is a miracle drug, but I am an avid proponent that breastfeeding does help a sick baby as well as a healthy baby. 

Ava truly is an amazing baby!  Even though she is snotty and crusty, she is still all smiles and happy as a clam.  At least, we have the next 5 days together to get her better.  Although, my throat started hurting last night, ugh!!!  That is typically a prerequisite to getting a cold for me.  Hopefully, I can ward it off.  She is sleeping in her swing right now.  We are going to stay in again today to try to get her over this completely.  No Spin class last night!  I didn't want to leave her and didn't want to take her to kidcare.  We will see about tonight though. 

Are you off of work yet for the week??

Have a great Thursday!

Xmas in review and making plans

Hi there!  I took a much needed break from Blog world.  When I came back, I was overwhelmed by all of the posts in my Google Reader.  So instead of stressing out to get them all read, I "Mark all as read."  (GASP!!) I know.  I am awful, but it is something I felt like I had to do for my sanity.  Do you know how stressful it is to try to get through about 200!!!  posts?!?!  Valium worthy, I tell ya!

How was everyone's Xmas??
Ours was great.  We are too blessed, let me tell ya.  We are going to need an extra room for all of the things we accummulated over the 3 days.  I did get some zebra print stuff( I am a Jersey girl to the bone), workout gear(i needed this), and we got some new kitchen appliances (George Forman, Grinder/brewer coffee maker, Deep Fryer(Clint has wanted one for a while) and we got the KINECT.  It is the XBOX 360 version of the Wii. There are no controllers, but it picks up your body.  It is pretty neat, if I do say so myself.  Let's just say we got more than we needed.
It was good to spend time with family.  It did go super fast though.  Those 3 days flee by.  Ava did so good!!  We were so proud of her.  She was up and awake at every event and woo'ed the crowd.  (the ham that she is!)  She caught up on her sleep Sunday night and yesterday. 
Clint's family had colds, and she is starting to get a little stuffy/snotty. Clint stopped and bought a humidifier yesterday, so hopeful we can cut the cold off at the pass. 

I was sooooo ready to get back to eating "my comfort food" and working out yesterday! It was like a breathe of fresh air.  I had a really good workout!

Cardio:
20 min on ellip.

Weights:
Circuit 1:
Chest press on ball-2x10, 2-20DBs
DB Pullover into crunch on ball-2x10, 1-20DB
Squats w/ alt. knee lifts-2x10/leg, 2-20DBs
Squats into alt. front lunge-2x10/leg, 2-20DBs

Circuit 2:
Plank-2x1 min (15 sec regular, 15 sec forward back motion, 15 sec right leg lift, 15 sec left leg lift)
Up and over pushups-2x15
Side Planks-2x1min
Mt. Climbers-2x50

My arms were WORE out!  I am in a workout rut though.  Because I personal train during the day, I need a little extra push.  I am where I want be in the looks dept., but I feel like I am just wading in water.  I can't decide on my next goal.  I have been wanting to take the classes at our gym, but either the times don't work out for me or they get started late and with Clint at the gym doing his thing and Ava in kidcare, I don't like to spend more than an hour working out. I really need a workout partner, but that isn't going to happen, I'm afraid.  I am VERY picky about workout partners and I don't know anyone that I am willing to share my time with OR that would push me harder than I push myself. (If only we lived closer, right Melissa?!?!)
I need to figure something out though.  I am going to decide on a new goal by January 1st.(that's a goal, right?!?!)

Do you do New Year's Resolutions?
I used to, but I stressed myself out "having to get them done."  Now, I make mini goals throughout the year.  That works better for me. 

Well, one of my patient's is set to arrive shortly!  Have a great Tuesday!!

Vacation from Xmas vacation??

Merry Christmas Eve Eve. 
Are you finished with work for the week?
Yesterday, was my last day for the rest of the week.   My boss gave us an unexpected little extra bonus for Christmas.  SCORE! 

Last night, I went to the gym for Spin.  Clint and Ava stayed home to get a little snoozer. At first, I felt guilty for going.  We all usually go together so I can at least know those two are in the same building.  But after talking it through, Mama needs to get out on her own every now and again. 

I usually get to spin class early.  First of all, I hate being late and will not go into a class if I am.  I don't like to feel like I am interrupting.  Second, I like to get the same bike each time. Remember, I am creature of habit.  Lo and behold, myu fave teach is out again.  Insert, yet another sub.  At least, they keep me guessing huh?! 

There were only 4 of us in class.  I was kind of off myself and the other 3 were grouped together.  The first thing the sub teach said to me was, "are you sure your seat it at the right height?"  I responded, "yes, I am pretty sure." That was IT! No "hi, my name is"......or "I don't know you, welcome to class."  So of course, she rubbed me the wrong way from the start.

Her class was pretty good. We did some big hills, jumps, and sprints, BUT she would fail to tell us what level we needed to be on, i.e. "give me a 5" or "turn the knob to a solid 7."  Knowing this helps me figure how to gauge how hard I need or should be working so I can go above it.  I felt a little out of sorts. Plus, I felt a little sluggish.  I don't know what my deal was.  I pushed myself hard, but it wasn't my best performance.  Some days are like that unfortunately.

Moral of the story, I like being challenged with different teachers, BUT my fave teach A is my cup of tea!

What are your Christmas plans?
Here is our schedule for the rest of the week.
Today:
 Me, Ava, my mom, and sister are going to the mall(I know we are nuts).  Last minute pickups and me some jeans.  I am excited to see what size I am.  Then we going to my great aunt's house. My mom and her have been exchanging cakes for years and we are exchanging them today. 
Then we are coming home and getting busy(well, that's later, wink wink) baking, laundry, last minute present wrapping, and cleaning house.
Peanut Butter Blossoms
Diabetic Chocolate chips cookies(our nephew has Type 2 diabetes)
Chess squares
Veggie Corn salsa

Friday:(about an hour drive)
Clint's Bro's house around 1ish to gift open and eat.  Driving home before the "snow" hits.

Saturday:(this is the busy one)(about a 5 min drive)
Santa at our house.
Breakfast at my parent's house and gift opening.
Come home. Put the weenies in the crockpot. Take a nap?  At least Ava will.
4pm (thanksgiving type) meal and gift opening at my parent's house with aunts, uncles, cousins.
HOME finally.

Sunday:(about a 45 min drive to FIL's)
Church
Lunch with Clint's dad's side of the family
Home to recoop!

I feel like we need Monday off just to take the weekend all in.  I thought holidays were supposed to be relaxing.  Guess not, huh?!?
What are holiday chain of events???

Have a great Christmas eve eve!!

Friends forever..cheesy but true

Tuesday or Thursday?  In this short work week, today really is my Thursday!  Oh yeaaaaaa (in my best Pauly D voice). 

Last night at the gym was ok. I have had better gym-time and I have had worse.

Cardio:
Dreadmill-1.5miles
Ellip.-15min

Weights: (all with 2-12lb DBs)
SS-Front lunges 2x10/leg
      Reverse lunges 2x10/leg
SS-Hammer curls 2x10/arm
      Bicep Curls 2x10/arm
SS-Deadlifts 2x20
      Fire hydrants into donkey kicks 2x15/leg
Mountain climbers 2x50

Cardio:
Ellip. 10 min, then 10 min in regular and reverse mode.
(That reverse mode is so awkward for me.  I feel like a complete idiot doing it.  Plus I feel  like I am going to fall.  But hey, I need to use the hammies every now and then right!?!)
*I typically do not do this extra cardio after weights, but Clint wasn't finished with his workout/wallyball so I jumped on the ellip and took advantage of some extra burnage. 

Tonight, we are having supper with 3 of my best friends and their husbands, well 2 of them have husbands.  We usually get each other gifts, but this year we decided to all get together and go to a nice restaurant and just spend time together.  We always have a great time when we get together!!


                                            Here is a picture of us 4 at Clint and my wedding.

Here is the 4 of us at M's wedding.

And us 4 at L's wedding shower.

Me, M, and L, and literally grown up together.  My parents and M's parents went to high school together.  Me, M, and L all met when we were about 7.  We all met R in high school.  So needless to say, we have been friends for a long time.  I consider myself lucky.  Most people don't have friends for as long as we have been friends.  M is now pregnant and just found out she and her hubs are having a little girl!!  I am so excited!

Do you have friends from childhood that you keep in touch with?

Have a great Tuesday!!

  

Can't think of an exciting title.

Monday, Monday....do do, do do do....
How was everyone's weekend??  Ours was good, but always so short!!!  It would be nice to have 3 day weekends, but then those would be too short too right?!

Saturday is Clint's WallyBall day, so I thought that I would take Pump it up, which is our gym's version of Body Pump I suppose.  Well, I wasn't sure what to expect.  I have never taken a weight  lifting class.  There is something about having someone tell me what to do that I feel kind of iffy about.  Maybe it is the Personal Trainer in me or my Type A personality or even a combo of both. 

The instructor, which is my favorite spin instructor was out sick, so who is the sub, the hummingbird on crack.  So, right off, I was thinking there is no way I am taking spin with her after this class and WHAT HAVE I GOTTEN MYSELF INTO?!?! 

The class was very structured and the music was good.  I didn't know we would do a whole song for one body part and I think I overestimated the amount of weight for some of those parts because ladies, I AM STILL SORE!!!  My legs felt good and a smidge tender, but oh boyo my biceps and chest.  I feel like every muscle fiber was shredded into bits and pieces.  I am super stoked about this though because I got a great workout.

Will I take the class again???  Probably on Saturdays to switch things up, but I like to make my own workout and I like to take spin class.

On a different note, I was looking in the mirror at the class because let's face it (ha, pun) you can't help but look at yourself when a mirror is put a few feet away.  I never thought I would say type this but I might be getting too lean.  Yes, I said it.  My arms are, might I say starting to look like this:

Source

I like the way they are looking these days, but I do not want to be anymore lean.  My nutrition since I had Ava has been based on the 40-40-20 rule.  That is 40% protein, 40% carbs, and 20% fat of my daily intake of foods.  This has worked so well for me.  In fact, I am proud to say I got back and in better shape at 4 months postpartum eating this way and exercising an hour 3-4days per week.  That is not the norm.  So, I am Uber proud of myself and my achievements.  I am glad that Christmas is almost here, because I got in shape for Christmas haha!  Bring on the food.  Well, to be honest, I will eat what I want, but won't overdo it that much.  I am probably going to start alternating days with 40-40-20 and 40-30-30 at the first of the year to maintain the hot bod I have now. 
Are you content with how you look?


Ava news: Last week, she had three days of CRYING from around 6pm -8pm.  I am glad to say that that stage is OVER!  My heart goes out to families who have babies with colic or acid reflux.  You truly are amazing people.  I couldn't stand the 2 hours a day that she cried, let alone all of the time. 
She is back to happy and content Ava and I couldn't be happier.  I am excited to have almost 4 days of family time starting Thursday.  I am not excited about how her schedule is not going to happen for those 3 days.  It is going to be a whirlwind of family, activity, and loudness.  I want her to experience what she can, but as her parents we are going to have to put our foot down and do what is best for her.  If that means she naps during one of my family's meals, then so be it.  If that means we leave a little earlier than expected then so be it. 
If you have kids, how do you adjust to holiday craziness and kid's schedules?

Have a great Monday.  How many days are you working this week?

Garth and crying

Happy Friday everyone!!  I hope everyone's week has been great and you are looking forward to your weekend.

Clint and I had a date night last night.  It was our first official date night since Ava Quinn arrived.  What did we do might you ask?!?!?!
Source

This was Clint's first concert.  I know, that is crazy.  It was an early Xmas present for us him.  Garth put on an amazing concert.  He played all of his best hits.  His wife Trisha Yearwood came out to sing with him and OMG her voice is AMAZING!  She sings live just like she would on the radio.  That is the sign of a beautiful voice!

My sister and her fiance Ava-sat last night and I checked in to see how things were going.  Ava has been having a rough time the past few nights.  She is the happiest baby I have ever seen.  She gets a little fussy when she is hungry, needs changing, or is tired, but the past few nights around 6:30ish until 8:30ish she just cries.  Well, last night was no different.  That is why I checked in and my sister said she was a little fussy.  Ok!  Good deal.  I can relax a little and continue to enjoy the concert.  Well, when we got home we found out the truth.  She was crying so bad my sister thought something was wrong with her and my parents came over to help.  The tried everything from changing her to playing to trying to feed her a little.  Finally, she got to sleep.  I felt so AWFUL.  I hated they had to see the "Jekyll" side of Ava that she has been portraying the past few days.  I felt guilty for going off and having fun while she was home crying.  Clint helped me relax and remind me that my parents didn't mind coming over to help.  This is some phase she is going through.  We waited 4.5 months to have a date night.  Plus, it was great birth control for my sister and her fiance!

We researched and there are a number of things that could be going on with her. 
-Teething
-Overtired
-Gassy
-4 month transition is big for babies
So, no definite answer.  We are going to take each day and thank God she is only like this for a couple hours a day.  I can't/don't want to imagine what parents go through with babies with Colic who cry ALL OF THE TIME.  No wonder mamas go through post partum depression and need drugs to get through.  It is awful listening/watching your child cry and you can't for the life of you figure out how to "fix it."  Being the fixer I am, it is horrible.  The whole notion of "crying it out" that all of the books teach in my opinion are crazy.  We will  let her fus, BUT when she starts really crying, uh-uh no way.  We will go get her.  It is torture to "let" her cry to me.  I know this is a big debateable issue, but that is my opinion on the situation.  My heart can't cope with the "cry it out" method.
Thoughts?
Advice?

No workouts the last couple of days.  Wednesday, was a chance of freezing rain, so we stayed home to play it safe.  Last night was the concert and tonight is my great uncle's surprise birthday party.  But come hell or hight water, we will be at the gym tomorrow morning!  I think I might try the Body Pump class. 
Any advice on the body pump class?
Is it worth it to try?

Snow and Pringles

Happy middle of the work week.  That "supposed" snow we were to get on Sunday turned into a family SNOW day on Monday.  We had about 2-4in of snow with ice underneath which makes driving on our hilly road very dangerous.  Although we were cooped up in the house and 15 degree weather, we had a great day.  Clint and I did mayja cleaning.  He went through papers that "we need to keep in case we MIGHT need them" so I can take them to work to shred.  We cleaned our closets.  We dusted of ceiling fans, vacuumed, went through Ava's clothes that she can't wear anymore.  Then we got out to the grocery way later in the day.
Funny story for you!  Clint typically pushes the buggy (or shopping cart, if that is what you call it) with Ava in it when we go somewhere.  I decided I want to push.  I was toodling along, chatting with Ava and (in slow motion) rammed the buggy into the Pringles display.  Pringles containers scattered all over the floor.  I couldn't stop laughing.  I am doubled over about to pee my pants while Clint is stacking them back up.  I finally contained myself to help him.  This woman and her kids start to go by and she picks up a container and I thought, that is nice of her to help.  Um, no she put it in her buggy.  Well, that is one less we have to stack.  Needless, to say it was one of my best moments and I am no longer allowed to push the buggy!!

Last night, we went to the gym.  The dreadmills I like and all of the ellips were taken so grudgingly I went to lift weights first.  This is not my favorite way to do things, but hey my body was confused in a good way.
Weights:
Combo-Palms facing in chest press into Butterflys (on the ball)-1x10, 10lb DBs, 1x10, 12lb DBs
Squats-2x20, 2-20lb DBs (weights on shoulders)
Chest Press(on ball) 2x10, 2-20lb DBs
Front Squats-2x20, 2-20lb DBs

Prone lying(on the ball) bent arm rows-2x10, 2-10lb DBs
Surrenders-2x10/leg, 2-8lb DBs (Holding your arms up that long is exhausting)
Ball exchanges-2x10 (love these)

Cardio:
The machines were STILL taken, so I got on the "other" dreadmills and made it work.
2.25miles
Ellip-15 min.

Tonight is my favorite spin class/instructor, BUT we are forecasted to get freezing sleet/rain this afternoon.  We will see what the weather does.

I will leave you with a youtube video of our athlete.  Too funny.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPUp0cDZYWA

Had any great workouts?
What is the weather like where you are?

Maintenance already?

Happy Sunday.  We are "supposed" to get some snow today.  We shall see.  I am not going to hold my breath!

Yesterday, although I had to work a couple of hours, I was able to get to the gym before I went.  I had a time limit so I got in got with it.

Cardio:
Dreadmill: Easy paced-1 mile
Ellip:15 min

Weights:
(sidenote: I DO NOT like machines. I know they can get the job done, but i rearely do them.  I hadn't planned out a workout, so decided I would change it up (and suck it up) and do some machines. I didn't write down the actual weight that I did, but it was enough to tire me.)
SL-leg extension 3x15
Bicep curls 3x15
Prone Lying hamstring curls 3x15
Rows 3x15
Shoulder press 3x15

I did have a revelation at the gym.  I was looking at the mirror(who doesn't) and thought, "I am done."  I am exactly where I want to be.  I don't want to lose anymore weight, I love all of my muscle definition, all of my pre-pregnancy clothes fit( and fit well.  No saggy booty britches from too much weight lost.) and I am happy.  I am at maintenance.  Of course, I wouldn't be human if I didn't want to tweak some things, but overall I can eat and workout to maintain where I am.  Unfortunatley, I am without a goal.  I do not have any right now.
* I am not(nor will I)competing. (I thoroughly respect anyone who does, but it just isn't for me.)
* It is too dang cold to run any races. 
*My abs are back, but I can't wear a bathing suit(hence the too cold) to "show off" my progress.
*Clint is happy with how I look. (this is quite important to me.)
*I AM HAPPY WITH HOW I LOOK.
So, where does that leave me.  I have NO IDEA.  So, give me your ideas.
What should my next goal(s) be?
What are your goals right now or at the 1st of the year?
Maybe I can borrow some of yours. 

We have church and then I have a wedding shower that I am helping with today.
What are your Sunday plans?

Spin, cereal, Eclipse(in that order)

Oh Friday, you couldn't come soon enough.  This week was soooo busy.  Tomorrow is my Saturday to work.  I only have a couple of patient's so it won't be too bad. 

Last night we went to the gym and I decided to try the Thursday night spin class.  I was kind of leery/nervous about taking a new teacher/class.  I have been comfortable with the Wednesday night class/teacher. 

It is amazing how different teachers can be.  This lady is all of 87lbs(ok exaggeration).  I have seen her around the gym, but had no idea she was the teacher.  Her class was hard but in  a different way.  We took a lot more breaks than in any other class I have taken and I didn't sweat buckets.  We "hovered" until her heart was content and my legs were spent.  My legs sure were tired by the end of the class, but weirdly enough I was sad I didn't sweat that much.  We finished the class with some abs and that was a love/hate situation, let me tell ya.  My abs aren't sore(yet), but we they were worked for sure.  This is where I got uncomfortable.  We started stretching to finish off the class.  Now, I am all for stretching, but the area where spin class is is surrounded by mirrors and the mirrors can be seen from many angles.  These angles are where "testosterone island" is.  So, they can clearly see the class.  We started stretching and the stretches I thought were a little um, how do I put it.....seductive?!  I do not like to draw that type of attention, well from Clint, but not other men.  I kind of "attempted" the stretches and counted down the seconds until I could get the heck out of dodge.  That part just wasn't my thing. 

I was telling Clint about it after and he said, "yeah the guys were all watching y'all!"  (Great!)  I liked the teacher and if need be will take her class again, BUT I prefer the Wednesday night class/teacher.  She is more my style and she makes me work hard.  You live and learn huh.

We decided to try and give Ava cereal for the 1st time last night.  We gave her

with breastmilk.  Our doctor said to feed her breastmilk(one boob), then halfway through her feeding to give her the cereal.  Then finish up(the other boob) with breastmilk.
She really enjoyed it.  I mean as far as we could tell.  She even grabbed the spoon from Clint at one point and stuck it in her mouth, haha.  She is growing up so fast.  All in all it was a great 1st time experience for her and Clint and I.

So, how do I feel about it?  Honestly, I was happy and sad at the same time.  We will continue to add to her diet from now on(steadily and one new food/texture at a time), but I am not her sole food provider any more.  I have taken such a serious stance to keeping my self nourished and healthy so I could provide the best for Ava through breastmilk.  Yes, the majority of her nutrition will be breastmilk, but this is the start of something new.  A new stage.  She is growing up and changing.  (for the better)  I am happy for her and how healthy and happy she is, but a small piece of my heart is sad.  This is how life goes and Lord knows there will be hard things we have to deal with, but for yesterday these were my feelings about feeding her cereal.
*Today, I am ok with everything. Not so sad.

Moving on.  Clint picked up

from the Redbox.  My review.  It was better than the 1st movie by far.  As mush as other people enjoy the movies, I am not a fan.  I prefer the books and my imagination in this case.  I honestly do not think Robert Patterson or Kristen Stewart are good actors.  If it was up to me, I would have pick better.  All in all, it was a pretty good movie and kept my attention. 
Have you seen it or any of the Twilight saga?  What did you think?

Have a great FRIDAY!!!

Fam time and Santa

Good Thursday morning.  It was a frigid 12 degrees this morning and I DID NOT want to leave the house, but I had to if I intend to get a pay check huh?!?

We have been so busy with parties, shopping, and funeral homes. that we haven't been home before 8pm the last 4 nights.  If you are an avid reader of mine, you should know that I spin on Wednesday nights.  It is my FAVORITE (well, the only) class I take at our gym.  Yesterday morning before I left for work, Clint and I decided that we were coming home after work and STAYING HOME.  We have missed just relaxing and being home together.  So, spin class occurred without me last night and I have no regrets about that.  I will either take a spin class tonight or workout on my own. 

Family time is very important to us.  Although, I do love me some spin-ness, it was NOT a hard decision to forgo the gym.  My, how priorities are different.
We all got home about 4pm and all got in our comfy clothes, Clint and I played with Ava, I made Clint pancakes, (I had a turkey burger and green beans), we put Ava down for bed, and then we wrapped Xmas presents.  It was a MUCH needed time together.  I wouldn't have traded it!
(if you celebrate Xmas)
Do you like wrapping Xmas presents?
I do.  It is so calming to me. 
Did y'all have presents under the tree BEFORE Xmas Day?
We didn't.  SANTA brought all of our presents, so there weren't any under the tree.  Clint's family had presents under the tree before Xmas day from his mom and then SANTA would come to bring more.
Was SANTA the only one who brought you presents or did SANTA and parents?
We only had Santa.

Have a great Thursday!

workout to drive thru

Unfortunately, Ava didn't have enough votes to make the 4th round!  Thank you for those that voted.  We appreciate it!!   She is the cutest thing in a tutu I have ever seen!!  Although, I will think that for the rest of my life!

The gym, well cardio area, last night was pretty busy.  Especially, for 4:30 in the afternoon. 
Here is what I did. 
Cardio:
Ellip-30 min manual (dreadmills that I prefer were taken....rats!)

Weights:
Bulgarian Split squats-3x10/leg, 2-20lb DBs
21's-1 set with 8lb DBs, 2 sets with 12lb DBs
Step ups-3x12/leg, 2-12lb DBs
Pullovers on ball-3x15, 12lb DB
Hamstring curls on ball-3x20
Bent over rows 3x10, 2-12lb DBs
SL deadlifts-2x15/leg, 20lb DB (I completely forgot to do a 3rd set)
Russian twists-3x50, 20lb DB

I thought that I hadn't worked very hard because I wasn't very sweaty.  I have told y'all before I sweat like a man beast.  Last night, was only minimal sweat for me, which in reality is probably normal to everyone else.  We get in the car and Clint said, "was it me or was it cooler in there than usual?"  Yes!!!!  It wasn't just me.  Ok, so I did work hard, then.  I base my workouts on how much I sweat apparently.

We went to the funeral home after and spent some time with our friend and his wife at the visitation for his grandmother.  We left there about 8pm and we were ravenous.  Emergency run thru the drive thru!  We went to Burger King and I got a plain veggie burger.  Needless, to say I had a snack of protein powder and yogurt when I got home.  I have learned that I can always get a either a plain grilled chicken sandwich or at burger king a veggie burger when we HAVE to stop at fast food places. 

What are your go to foods at fast food restaurants? 
(Of course, that is if there is not a Subway around 15 miles! =)

How was your workout yesterday?

Weekend in a blur.

1st things 1st.  Ava made it to Round 3!  The next 4 rounds are 1 day each from 9am-11pm central.
 VOTE DAILY!

Ok Monday, ugh.  I looked at Clint last night and said, "did we have a weekend?"  Saturday Clint had to work.  Ava and I had a mama/daughter day.  It was fabulous.  This was the most I have spent with her by myself since I went back to work at 4 weeks.  I enjoyed every moment.  I didn't go workout because that would be a a couple of hours Ava would be in kid-care and I wouldn't get to spend time with her.  My priorities sure did change when I became a mama!
Clint got off of work at 2:30pm, but I had to go help/run a Christmas party from 3-11pm.  So, we tagged and Clint had daddy/daughter night. 

The Christmas party I was a part of, I have been doing it 4 years straight.  Actually, my mom and sister do it with me.  We get to the host's house a couple of hours before showtime and cook last minute dishes, heat and plate the table.  When it is party time, my mom replenishes the dishes and washes cups, etc., I bartend, and my sister is outside taking pictures of everyone who shows up.  It is a whirlwind event.  It is a "come and go" party, but the majority stay and drink.  I think I opened up 20 bottles of wine and went through 5 cases of different kinds of beer.  These people DO NOT mess around.  We definitely make our money that night.  The host does a Cinco de Mayo party every year too.  Clint helps me do that and we have so much fun.  Clint and I work so well together and we have a lot of fun.  The host was asked if she could give my number to people that had asked about us.  Um, yes please.  We will see if I get any calls though.  I wouldn't mind when my personal training career started slowing down picking up catering and party planning.  I do enjoy that atmosphere and planning.

Sunday, we skipped church and decided to have a family day.  I slept in until 7:30pm.  I don't really know the last time that happened.  Granted, I went to bed about midnight and got up to feed Ava, but still 7:30am!!
We decided to head out and do a little shopping.  We got our yearly ornament's from the mall and got Ava her "1st Christmas" ornament.  The only people left on our list is Clint and I to buy for each other and Clint's grandma.  Pretty successful so far!

We came home and watched the Kansas City Chiefs and Denver Broncos game.  Clint has and always be a Chiefs fan.  Through good times and bad!  This year is a good year.

Then, we made a trip to the funeral home.  I don't know if this is a southern thing or not, but I was brought up going to funeral homes.  My mom is a professional griever.  My grandparent's were too.  If you know "of" someone in someone's family that passed away, you go to the funeral home visitation.  My brother's girlfriend's granddad passed away so we went to support her.  My brother had to go show off Ava to her side of the family while we were there. 
Do you go to visitations at funeral homes?
Is that a Southern thing or just normal?

To the grocery store we went after visitation.  We went for the week's food and dinners for this week.  We get to the check out and we had no idea what we were having for supper last night!  haha Well, O'Charley's it is!  I get the same grilled chicken salad there every time we go and I couldn't be happier.

When we got home we made iced and decorated sugar cookies.  This was so fun. I love cooking/baking with Clint.  Ava sat in her bouncy seat and watched us.  She kept coughing and we thought, "maybe she is getting sick."  She kept coughing until Clint picked her up.  Miraculously, she stopped.  That little tyke was just trying to get us to pay attention to her.  haha. 

I work with a massage therapist and today we are changing out services.  I get a 30 min massage and she gets a 30 min training session.  Win win I think.  The last time I had a massage was I think 2 years ago when Clint got me(us) a couple's massage for my birthday. I would (and just might) have to have a trading of services once a week!!

We are going to the gym tonight!  Yay.  There weren't a lot of options I was comfortable with at the party Saturday night, so I ate my weight in sausage balls and pita chips.  I feel kind of sluggish and a good sweat session is calling my name.
After that we are heading to, yet again, a funeral home visitation. One of the guys in our wedding texted Clint yesterday to tell him that his grandmother passed away.  Not fun, but one of those things that is the right thing to do, well in my book at least.

How was y'alls weekend?  Did it go by in a blur like mine?

Vices and triggers plus a workout

It is FRIDAY. Oh yeah.  I do love me some Fridays. 
Ava made it to the 2nd round of the "Babies gone wild" contest.  The 2nd round is until 11pm on 12/4. You can vote once a day everyday.  VOTE HERE.

Ok enough pimpin' out our daughter.  Onto my workout yesterday.  I was completely flustered at the gym.  At home, I was chatting with Clint and ooohing over Ava and totally forgot to change my tee.  I had a black sports bra on and white tee.  GREAT!  FABULOUS!  I sweat like a man working construction in 120 degree weather at the gym.  Then, I forgot my workout that I had planned out.  Then, we get in the gym and I left my water in the Murano.  Luckily, I could go get that, but sheesh!  I was all out of sorts!

Cardio:
15 min dreadmill pyramid 6mph-9mph.  My legs were gettin it. whew.
15 min ellip. 

Weights: (really by what I remembered of my planned workout that I forgot)
Close leg squats- 2, 20lb DB, 2x20
Combo-Bicep curl into Shoulder press-2, 10lb DB 2xfatigue
Wide leg squats-2, 20lb DB, 2x20
Combo-Front raise to Lateral raise 2, 10lb DB, 2xfatigue
Stationary lunges-2, 20lb DB, 2x20/leg
Combo-Palm facing in chest press into flys-2, 10lb DB, 2xfatigue
Good mornings-2, 20lb DB, 2x20
Weighted crunches-20lb DB 2x30
Leg lifts on bench-2x10

Random questions of the day:
-Do you have any vices?
Splenda.  Caffeine.
-Do you avoid some foods because they can be problematic?
I know "they" say this can be unhealthy and that you should NEVER avoid foods, but in MY world, I know there are some foods that can trigger me to overeat or mindless eat.  I think there are 2 kinds of people.
1.Those who can have a little and be satisfied.
2. Those with addictive personalities and if you have 1 bite of one of those things you want more and more. 
I am #2.  I relate it to an addict.  I get a "taste" and don't want to stop.  Therefore, I stay the heck away.
Those things are:
-Peanut butter.  I can NOT be trusted. 
-Pretzels.  Not a problem to eat a whole bag.
-Trail mix.  Nope.  Can't limit the handfuls.
-Wheat thins. 
Am I the only one?  What do you avoid? (If you do.) 

Have a great Friday.

4 month check up and spin me

Well good morning lovies!  It is a cold one here in Nashville this morning.  27degrees of brisk December weather.  Definitely makes Xmas feel like its on its way. 

Ava had her 4 month check up yesterday. 
Weight: 13lbs 3 oz
Height: 1st measurement was 22.25in.

Dr. Jay came in and asked if we had questions for him.  Um of course I do. 
Questions and answers:
Do we need to clean her ears? No!  The only thing we should do is if we see wax on the edge of her ear to get it with a cloth.  Otherwise, no cleaning inside.
Her pooping is every day OR every other day.  Is that normal? Yes,  she is at the stage that they become less and less.  If they start to become hard and pebbly then that might be cause for concern.
Her poop is less seedy that it was. Is that normal?(breastfed babies tend to have liquidy poop with grainy poopyseed thingies in it.) Yes, that is normal as well.
Her poop is changing smells(like whew Ava, something crawled up your rear and died).  Is this my fault?  Is this normal? It is not my fault since I RARELY change my eating habits.  Her bowels are getting stronger and her poops are less so it will not smell like perfume. (We thought so, but my mom swears every time she poops it is MY FAULT. )
Should we start feeding her cereal?  How much?  When? We can start any where from 4-6 months.  It is up to us.  He recommended rice cereal that is iron fortified.  1 tablespoon once a day for a couple of weeks to see how she takes it.  It will take an adjustment for her since it is a different texture.  We are to add breastmilk to it.  We can steadily add veggies(yes!) but no more that 1 new food every 5 days.  Just in case she has a reaction to a certain food. 
Clint asked if my flu shot gives Ava the antibodies to fight of the flu? (great question!)  Dr. Jay really didn't know, BUT breastfeeding is amazing.  For instance, if Ava is sick and she breastfeeds, my body AUTOMATICALLY starts making antibodies to fight off her germs so that the NEXT feeding the milk is full of antibodies to fight whatever she has.  I think that is AMAZING!

Dr. Jay recommended we give her a vitamin D supplement.  Polyvisol is what he recommended we give her. I am going to research this today and learn more about it.  He did say that breastmilk doesn't transfer a lot of Vitamin D to Ava.  I am going to google that for sure today.

After our questions were answered he evaluated Ava.  She is such a ham.  Reaching for his moving fingers, sitting up when he tested her strength, smiling when prompted.  She is healthy as a horse.  He then told us that her weight was normal but her she had shrank some!  Huh WHAT??  He said, we are going to take her measurements again, and if it is the same we might want to watch that.  um Ok.  After he was finished with us, we went and got her length again.  The nurse was off by an INCH!!!  She was 23.25 in.  Perfectly normal growth. SHEESH LADY!  Way to give mama heart palpitations. 

Now it was shot time.  I got the flu shot while I was there.  (boy, is my arm SORE this morning.)  She had to have an oral cocktail, 2 shots in her right leg and 1 in her left.  Poor baby.  She CRIED this time.  I felt so bad.  But after we picked her up she calmed down. 

Our next appt is in 2 months at her 6 month birthday.  She wasn't nor hasn't been fussy since her shots.  She slept like a rock. Oh and now that she is rolling over from her back, it takes all of 5.2 minutes for her to roll to her belly to sleep in her crib.  She is her mama's daughter.  I am a belly sleeper.  It was torture while I was pregnant, let me tell ya.

Last night was spin class.  Woop woop.  I was a gloriously sweaty mess.  I have made friends with the instructor and another girl in class.  We "bonded" last week since we were the only 3 in class.  I like them because they push me in class.  I can't let either of them out do me.  Heck no. 

Tonight will be cardio and weights at the gym.  Not sure what I am going to do, but stop by tomorrow and see how I made my hour of working out worthwhile.

Randomness... Do you love to read?  What book are you reading these days.  What genres do you love??
I love love love to read.  I am a bookworm all the way. 

Xmas list?

Have you VOTED FOR AVA YET?


Yesterday at the gym was a sweaty mess of goodness.  I was tiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiired when I left.  And a little pissy. I blew something way out of proportion.  Of course, Clint got the misfortune of getting the verbal attacking.  Needless to say, there was lots of apologizing on the way home after the gym.  After thinking it through, I think I was hungry.  Anyhoo.

Cardio:
3 miles on the Dreadmill
2.25 miles after weights

Weights:
Tabata style(sheesh this is hard)
Split jump lunges
Squats (35lb barbell)
Calf Raises (35lb barbell)
Plie squats (35lb barbell)
----3x through

Pushups
Dips
Bicep curls on ball (12lb DB)
Shoulder press (12lb DB
Mt. climbers
Planks
----3x through ( I had to talk myself into the 3rd time)


Clint wasn't done playing wallyball with his buddies, so I thought I would kill time on the dreadmill.  2.25 more miles later, I was spent.  (hence when i got pissy)

Moving on....
What is on your Xmas list?
Do you make a list?

I have high heels on my list for sure.  I didn't really buy shoes when I was pregnant because I didn't know how they would fit and if I would be able to wear them after I delivered.  Although, I was wearing 3in heels the week I delivered.  Who says you have to skimp on fashion because you are pregnant?!?!  Not I!!! 

Clint and I make a wish list folder on our computer to give each other ideas.  My mom has to have an actual list of things we want and she gets everything on the list.  Always has.  So, there are very few surprise from my parents.  Clint and I tend to get a few things that aren't a surprise but there are some gifts that only someone who truly knows you can buy you that you love and wouldn't have thought to ask for yourself.  These gifts I love.  They are so much more meaningful and special.  But the best is to see the surprise on Clint's face when I get him one of those surprise gifts.  Priceless!!

Do you like surprises??

Contest

We entered Ava in a "Babies Gone Wild" cutest kid contest.  This is the pic we entered.  Voting starts today at 3pm central time and ends December 12th.  The contest is set up in 2 day stages.  So to move on you need to get enough votes each stage.  If you get a chance, head over to 107.5 THE RIVER and vote!!  Look at that face.....how could she not be the cutest kid?!  (that's rhetorical, haha)

Perfect days

Well, I hope that your bellies were happy and full after the Thanksgiving celebrations.  Ours were here at the Ferrell household.  We had a great time at my MIL's new house and she outdid herself with the spread.  The Chocolate Truffle Dessert was ehh-ok.  Apparently, I am not a truffle fan.  Ava was definitely the center of the world at Thanksgiving.  She would "talk" on demand, laugh when she was tickled, and pretty content when passed around the family.  She is such a good baby. 

My sister spent the night with us Thanksgiving night, so Clint and I could get up at the butt crack of dawn and head out to shop Black Friday.  We left the house at 4am.  Actually, it felt like a normal day of mine!  I am usually up with Ava around that time and my alarm during the week is set for 4am or 4:20am depending on if I need to wash my hair.  I woke Caitlin up and gave her a brief run down on the feedings and routine.  I'm not going to lie, I was a little nervous.  Babysitting at 4am is not the usual babysitting experience.

Clint and I shopped and shopped until about 7:30am.  We had such a great time.  I wouldn't spend Black Friday with anyone else.  We laughed and laughed at each other and ahem other people!  People watching is definitely a hobby of mine!!

We had most of our shopping done and decided since we had a babysitter, we would go to breakfast.  Boy howdy, was it gooooood.  I enjoyed every carby starchy item on the breakfast buffet.  This is the longest we have been out by ourselves or anywhere since Ava was born.  We usually just take her with us.  It was the best Balck Friday we have had together. 

We came home to this face!!

Then it was family naptime!  For ~2 glorious hours all 3 of us napped.  We got up and got busy( not that busy, wink wink).  Busy with Xmas decor!  Clint got all of the decorations out of the attic and I got to work unpacking and fluffing the tree while him and Ava watched the Iron Bowl.(Alabamaa vs Auburn).  During half, Clint helped me put the lights on.  The decorations are up and "its beginning to look a lot like Christmas."

Yesterday, was one our my perfect days.  Date with my husband, shopping success, great breakfast, Xmas decorating, spending time with our fabulous Ava, and we stayed in our pajamas ALL DAY!  Perfect day!

Today, we are getting back to the gym and "getting in shape" for Xmas day foods. Haha Hey everyone needs a goal!  Not sure what else we are doing, but I won't be disappointed with Clint and Ava in tow!

Have a great weekend!!

Enjoying the day.

Are you ready to gobbbbbbbbllllllllllllllllllllle?  (Imitating the voice... Are you ready to rummmmbllle?)  I am excited about Thanksgiving eats today.  We are just going to Clint's mom's house and will only have one meal at 4pm!  Thanks-giving!  It is so miserable having to do multiple meals.( we have done this in the past!)  I am actually going to savor all of the foods that I don't get to have all of the time and enjoy myself.  I love all forms of sweet potatoes and can't wait for those. What are you looking forward to?
I have worked so hard to get my pregnancy weight off and I think I deserve a day where I can eat what I want.(in reality there is no way I will be able to eat the average 4500 calories that Americans tend to eat today!)  Can you believe that??  I don't even know if I could eat that much in two days let alone one!!  I did come across this great article about tsk'ing the "diet" methods at holidays.  The place I am now in my life, I totally agree with what he has to say.
What do you think of the article?

Clint and I will be heading out to Black Friday tomorrow.  My sister is spending the night tonight with us, so she can be here with Ava while we are gone.  They will more than likely just sleep, since we will be getting up at the butt crack of dawn to venture out to crazy-town!

Here is some fun info for you......One year ago today, I saw 2 pink lines!  Talk about being thankful!!  We told our parents the day after on Thanksgiving.  It was such a wonderful holiday. 

As I sit here on the computer at 6:30am,  (Yes, it is only 6:30am.  Ava let me sleep in until 4:45am!)  Ava is asleep on her bobby (in our house it is the bimbo)beside me.  I am so thankful for her.  She has brought so much joy into our lives.  She is a wonderful, healthy baby and I couldn't ask for better.  Even when she peed on herself, her jammies, and the changing table this morning(right after I removed her already wet diaper) all I could do was smile and laugh at her.  She truly is a blessing to Clint and I.

Now Clint is the best blessing though.  I love that man more and more every day.  I am so thankful for him and our relationship.  We have been told we are that annoying couple.(in a good way!)  I will always and forever love our daughter with my heart, but her daddy has my heart!
What or who are you thankful for today??

From our house to yours, enjoy your day today however you celebrate!!

Wet t-shirt and crib christening!

Ugh it was nasty coming to work this morning.  It stormed most of the night and has finally slowed down a bit as of now.  Last nights gym routine.

Cardio:
15 min- run on the dreadmill
10 min level 4 on Ellip.

Weights:
Single leg(SL) sits to a bench (harder than you might think) 2x15/leg
Walking lunges 2x20-30lb barbell
Wide squats to bench 2x15-30lb barbell
SL Good mornings 2x10/leg 30lb barbell

Incline bicep curls 2x10/arm-12lb DBs
Tricep kickbacks 2x10-12lb DBs
Incline flys 2x10-12lb DBs
Front raises 2x10-12lb DBs

Bob's Cardio pushups minus the pushups 30sec
Pikes on ball 10x

Good workout.  My biceps are sore this morning.  It is amazing how a changed in the angle of an exercise can cause such an effect.  It was extremely hot in the gym last night.  I made the mistake of wearing a white tee to the gym.  Not a bright idea, unless I want to enter into a wet t shirt contest.  Holy cannoli!  Needless to say I put my sweatshirt on to head outside haha!

We are going over to our photographer, Eva's house later to pick out our pictures and Xmas card picture.  Cint and I sat down the other night and picked out the ones we wanted.  Jiminy crickets that was difficult.  I didn't ever think we would do this, but I think we are going to enter one of Ava's tutu pics into a contest at one of our local radio stations.  Why not right?  What do you think?

Amazing Ava has found one of her feet!!!!  It is the cutest thing!  She has been sleeping in her pack n play in our room, but last night Clint moved her crib into our room so she would maybe be more comfortable on the comfy baby mattress.  She slept like a baby, hahah!  Although, this morning she christened it with poop up her back and on the never been slept on sheet!!!  Awesome Ava!  Way to go. haha.  Hey, if you can't laugh at these kinds of things right??!?!

Have a great Tuesday!!

Turkey Trot to Turkey Day.

Good Morning.  It is Monday yet again.  Not my favorite day, but what can you do?!?! 

Updates....I ran a 5 Mile Turkey Trot on Saturday morning.  It was I think 40 degrees.  Needless, to say I didn't get warmed up until about mile 4!!  My college roommate and I ran together.  It was the farthest she had EVER ran...EVER.  It was the farthest I have ran since before getting pregnant.  Plus, I have not ran outside yet.  So how did we do??  We ran it in 49:33min.  I just wanted to be about to do it in under 50 min.  I ran the trot because my friend A asked me to run it with her.  I ran to support her as well as why not?  It was a goal I could work towards.  Granted it wasn't fast , but I ran 5 miles straight almost 4 months post partum.  In reality, I am pretty deadgum proud of myself.  I am in the best shape I have ever been in, both physically and mentally.  Being mentally happy is still so weird to me.  I look back and remember when I was NEVER happy.  I ALWAYS had something to nit-pick about myself.  So, now being at the place I am, it is just an amazing and weird place to be.  Yeah, I have a few things that could use improvement, BUT all of my clothes FIT and aren't saggy butt pants that they were.  I have muscle definition back and my abs are better than ever.  I like this place!  Plus, Clint is not minding AT ALL!!!

Ava is doing great. She is almost(like days) to the point of finding her feet.  We have found she is ticklish on the bottom of her feet and under her neck.  But Clint is the only one with the "touch".  It is by far the BEST SOUND IN THE WORLD TO HEAR HER LAUGH!!! 
All three of us had a great weekend together laughing, going to Costco(one of my favorite places in the world), cooking together, and just being a family.  I dread Mondays because I am spoiled spending two whole days together.

I am so looking forward to Thanksgiving.  This year we are just going to Clint's mom's house in Bowling Green.  This is the 1st year ever that I won't be at my family's for Thanksgiving.  We didn't get to see Clint's family last year, so it is only fair that his family is priority this year.  Compromise is one of the keys to a happy marriage(just my two cents). 
Are you making anything?
Where are you spending Turkey Day?
My family usually splits everything up to bring that way one person isn't stuck with all of the food. Clint's mom is making the entire spread.  We called her last night to ask what she was making so we could bring something. I want to contribute somehow.  After she told us the extensive menu, we decided we would bring a Chocolate Truffle Dessert and rolls.  It is a small contribution, but she has it ALL covered.

Do y'all do BLACK FRIDAY? 
Clint and I do.  We have since we got together.  It is "our thing".  Some people might think we are nuts, but it is fun for us.  We usually don't have certain things we go out for, we just go to go.  We will probably have my sister or my brother's girlfriend stay the night Thursday night and stay with Ava that morning we are out shopping.  I am usually up that early anyway these days!

Have a great start to a short week!!

My daughter does "duct" work.

Friday? Please and thank you!

Holy Mother of Joseph and Mary!!!  I am gloriously S.O.R.E!  I deemed yesterday, "kick my rear-lunge day."  I did not disappoint myself. 

Cardio:
3.25miles in 30 min.

Weights:
Reverse lunges(haha I typed lunches at first) 2x10/leg-30lb barbell
pushups-2x20
Split Lunge jumps 2x1/leg
Dips 2x15
Curtsy lunges 2x10/leg-30lb barbell
pushups 2x20
Swing through lunges 2x10/leg 30lb barbell
Dips 2x15
V-ups 2x15
Russian twists 2x30sec.

Let me tell you, my rear loves me and hates me.  I'm pretty sure the soerness will be gone by tomorrow because I am running in my first race since I got pregnant with Ava.  My roommate from college and I are running in a 5 mile Turkey Trot in the morning.  The longest I have ran is over 3 miles but I am not worried.  The only reason I stop around 3 is because I ONLY do 30 min of cardio at the gym.  So however far I get in that 30 minutes is how far I run. Last night, I could have kept going, so I am not worried at all about tomorrow morning.

No on to mama matters.... 
(FYI-This part is about my boobs, so if you care, continue on, if not, see you at the next post =)

Last night, my right boob started getting sore on the way to the gym.  You will probably find this hysterical, but our routine to the gym is Clint drives and I pump.  Yes, I pump.  My pump has the car attachment, so I don't have such heavy boobs when I workout.  I notice the right was still sore and kind of hard.  I got in the shower as soon as we got home, thinking the hot water would loosen up the milk ducts before I was to pump again.  (Ava had had a bottle in kid care at the gym.)  So, I get to pumping and pumping.  I squeezed and massage the heck out of that thing.  Cringing in pain because there was this golf ball size lump.  Great!  Flipping FANTASTIC.  I have a clogged duct or many it seems like.  I started to cry.  There are SO MANY reasons why one get get clogged on you, so I couldn't really narrow it down.  I got the heating pad out and massaged the fire out of that sucker.  Time came for Ava to eat again.  Come on Ava, help mama out.  I let her feed off that one boob for as long as she could and that champ of mine, worked her magic.  My boob was clog free.
What I learned.....
-try heat
-try massaging the boob into submission
-let your child drain that puppy dry!

I will let you know how I trot tomorrow at the race.  I really don't have a goal really.  Just running to run.
Have a great Friday.  See you tomorrow!

Lazy? Me?

This week is almost O.Vah!!!  yep yep yep! 
Last night's spin class, whooped my tail!!  I loved it!  The regular teach was back thankfully and no substitute hummingbird on crack!  We got to the gym about 30 minutes before class was to start.  I was able to lift some muscles in my arms.
Skull crushers 3x10 10lb barbell
Chest press 3x10 20lb DBs
Combo-bicep curls into shoulder press 3x8 12lb DBs
Bent over rows 3x10 12lb DBs

I was the first to arrive to class, so I got a good warm up in before class started.  Good thing because this class was GLORIOUSLY HARD!.  I felt like really hitting it hard on the cycle.  Although, we did levels of 7-8 most of the class, I made this class hard on myself.    I was struggling!!! The teach even had to slow it down and "rest" between a few of the songs.  That motivated me more.  If she was struggling, I was going to as well.  BRING IT SISTA!  We ended up doing up/down hills, strength hills, into a 6+ flat ride into sprint hills.  I was a sweaty mess!!  Light grey shirt turned into a dark grey shirt, but I didn't care one bit. 

Clint and I are going to change our workout days to Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturdays now.  We were working out on Fridays right after work,  but we both feel rushed to go pick up Ava at my parent's house and then if we do something that night, feeling rushed then. Plus no kiddie care on Friday nights.  I'm thinking this is going to work better.

Thank y'all for all of the sweet comments about our pictures.  It is hard picking the favorites.  I will post our Xmas card when it gets close to Xmas. 

Other randomness.  Do you ever feel lazy??  I have been feeling super lazy this week.  For the record, I am not a lazy person.  I don't like sitting around that much.  I get stir crazy and "have" to do something.  This week though, my chore chart has been kicked to the curb!  I don't know what it is, but I just don't want to do anything.  Obviously our house is suffering, poor thing.  I would be EM...BARRASSED if you were to see our house.  Although, it does look "lived in" I have hit my "ok enough is enough, Courtney, get your tail up and clean the house phase.  So tonight, ladies and (gentlemen? you never know who reads this thing) our house will be getting a swift kick of cleaning, after the gym that is.

Do you have lazy days?

PICTURES!!

Hey we got our pictures back!  There are AMAZING.  Eva did such a wonderful job.
 Here is the link!

Workout yesterday.
Cardio:
Dreadmill: 3.15miles in 30 min

Weights:
Circuit
Front squats-2x20 25lb barbell
Isolated bicep curl 2x6 20lb DB, 2x10 12lb DB
Deadlifts-2x20 25lb barbell
Shoulder press 2x20 12lb DBs
Plie squats 2x20 20DB
Chest press 2x20 12lb DB
Fire hydrants 2x20
Plank 2x1min
Good stuff!  I wasn't super exhausted, but I did get a great workout in. 

Sidenote: Ava slept 8 hours straight last night.  My morning started at 3:45am this morning though because
a)to check on Ava.  Just to make sure everything was ok.
b)to PUMP.  Holy cannoli.  Those bad boys turned in to D's and were hard as stone!!! 


Did you have a great workout yesterday???
Which pic is your favorite for our Xmas card?

Cooking together? Um yes please.

It is Saturday!  Yay.  I am at work right now.  I work every 3rd Saturday now since my schedule changed.  Not working the past 2 has spoiled me, seriously.  I have had 2 whole days with my two loves and today I am missing out of that precious time for at least 6 hours!  gaaaaa-leeee I hate it!  But, you know the old cliche..."you do what you gotta do." 

Yesterday's workout was superb!  I channeled my inner P90X and I was not disappointed.  This is what I came up with.

Cardio:
20 min manual on Ellip.
12 min sprints on Dreadmill

Weights:
Reverse lunges-2x10-20lb barbell
30sec high knees 2x
Single leg Deadlift squat-2x10-12lb DB
30sec buttkicks 2x
Lateral Lunges-2x10/side-20lb barbell
30sec Mountain climbers 2x
30sec Plank 2x

Static Arm Bicep Curls (sheesh lady, hard hte 2nd time) 2x10/arm-12lb DB
Upright Rows-2x10-12lb Barbell
Skull Crushers-2x10-12lb Barbell
Plank Rows-(whooo) 2x6/side-12lb DB

Good and healthy sweat going on.  Sidenote:  Do you sweat more in certain areas?  I sweat on my stomach the most and it ALWAYS is in the shape of a heart. And yesterday, I had back sweat in the shape of a huge "y".

Clint texted (is it text? or texted?) me yesterday about really cooking a meal together tonight.  We cook together but it is quick and easy and not with recipes.  My girly parts melted at the thought that my husband wants to spend time together cooking!  So we went through some recipes and the menu for tonight will be:
Chicken Parmigiana
Salad
and wait for it......
CHOCOLATE CHIP PIE.

Oh mother full of grace am I excited.  Alabama football comes on at 6:15pm and you know for sure we will be glued to the tv.  Especially, Ava.  It is so funny to watch her.  She loves football.  A girl after her daddy's heart!!

Have a great Saturday friends!
Have you done something together with your significant other?

um, really?

Thursday already?  Whoohooo.  I had a super busy day yesterday at work.  Today, I have a little bit of downtime to play around with.  (hence the blogging at 9:41am. haha)

Last night was SPIN CLASS!!  I was super excited because I missed last Wednesday because of being sick and Saturday I goofed and messed up the times of the class.  So after a long 2 week hiatus, I was ready to get my spin on. 

I got there about 15min early to pick a cycle to adjust and get some warm up in.  I was listening (ok eavesdropping.  Hey I am nosy!) to some of the women's convo while they were arriving and getting their bikes ready.  I heard them say that Amy (the instructor) was stuck in major traffic and wouldn't be getting to class on time if at all.  WHAT????  NOOOOOOOOOOO.  My heart plummeted to the floor.  Luckily, one of the other class teachers just so happened to be in class and was going to be a participant.  So, she said she would  sub for Amy.  AHHHHH, the heavens opened and angels started singing.  Com on calorie burn.  Well, although I did get my sweat on, the lady is in her 50's I would guess and was like a freaking hummingbird on speed with a boob job!!  She had no rhyme or reason to structure.  I was in front of the lady, and I couldn't tell what she was doing half the time.  During spin, I get in the zone and go at it.  I don't necessarily look at the instructor, but with this lady, apparently you need to watch her because she would sparatically use her hands to guesture what to do.  Um, how in the hell am I supposed to know what to do if I am in my zone focused on a point in the carpet.  Exactly, no way you can find a focal point with this bundle of energy teaching.  And then she started doing "chest press" on the cycle.  First of all, I get nothing from that and second, you look like an idiot!!

As I said earlier, I did get a great sweat on, but I feel like I taught my own spin class.  I was so confused sometimes that I cranked it and did my own thing, especially while she was doing the "chest press" thingies.  (she looked hysterical by the way!)  Needless, to say I like the other 2 instructors.

After, I went and did a few "real" arm exercises with weights, just so I got in a little full body. 

Have you been to a spin or other class where the teacher was not your cup of tea??? 
I can now say I HAVE!

Have a great Thursday.

Intimidation

Wow, was yesterday a busy day for me.  I was slammed with patients and 4 personal training clients.  I love being busy though!  I would much rather be running around like a chicken with my head cut off than sitting and twiddling my thumbs.

My gym trip yesterday.  I am feeling so much better.  My workouts have been eh, kind of puny because my body was just wore out and I listened to the wise ole body to not force a hard workout.  That was not the case today.  I was ready for a good hard sweaty sesh at the gym.  Oh and that is exactly what I accomplished.
First, let me talk about my gym.  It is a pretty "meat-head" kind of gym after 4pm.  The gym is broken up into different sections.
-Women's only area( I call it vagina-land)
-Legs area
-Ab room
-Circuit machines
-Dumbbells and barbells
-Huge area with machines and free weights (this is testosterone world!)

Even though, I know what to do and how to lift and am in pretty good shape, I workout in the women-only area.  I am typically the only one in this room working out, so I can grunt and look ridiculous working out and no one knows any different.(really, NO ONE looks amazing doing burpees!!)  There are a couple of reasons why I work out there.
1. I am by myself, so I can focus on the task at hand.
2. I can look ridiculous and not worry about someone watching me.
3. I am intimidated by "testosterone world". LIKE A LOT!!
4. I'm not a huge fan of being noticed when I workout.
5. I am self conscious about how I look.  Like I can't go to testosterone world until I am in the best shape possible. (I'm nuts!)

Well, last night I did my cardio ( I will list it below) and then went to Vagina land.  There was this girl in there who had killer arms and I was immediately intimidated and self conscious.  Of course, burpees would be in my workout! (see above). I had two choices.
1. Continue to be intimidated and change my routine
         OR
2. Kick my ever-loving rear!

I picked option 2!  Even though, she intimidated me at first, I CHOSE to use that intimidation as MOTIVATION.  I CHOSE to focus on each of my exercises and do them hard and to the best of my ability.  I CHOSE to be happy with how far I have come. (I have my top 4 abs back!!!)  I CHOSE to love the fact that my baby girl was in the Kid care waiting on her mama to kick her own butt for her health and let's face it her sanity.

I am still intimidated to venture out into testosterone world, but for right now, in my journey getting me back, I am ok with the women only section of the gym.  I will get enough cojones to get to the intimidating sections eventually.  But bring it, killer arm girl, because I will be the killer arm girl someday soon!

My workout.
(I did a TABATA workout and holy Mary mother!  I was exhausted.)
Cardio:
Ellip for 18 min (random)
Dreadmill:
1 min 5.5mph
1min 6mph
1 min 7mph
1 min 8mph
repeat 6mph-8mph 3x
2 min cooldown

Cycle 1:
Speed squats
Burpees
Mountain Climbers
Squat jumps
-repeat 3 times
Cycle 2
20lb barbell
Bicep curls
shoulder press
bent over rows
laying flat chest press
-repeat 3 times
Cycle 3
Bicycles
In, up, outs
Flutters
Frog Crunches
-repeat 2 times.

DONE AND DONE! Thankfully!

Are there areas of the gym that intimidate you?
Are there people at the gym or otherwise that motivate you?

Have a great day!

Football and a tutu

Happy November 6th.  Holy guacamole!  Where has this year gone?  Turkey day is in less than 3 weeks.  My sweet Ava Quinn let mama sleep in until 5:15am this morning.   It was glorious!  How funny is that?  I used to be (in college) the one that slept in until noon without a seconf thought. Now I am excited to sleep in until 5ish am instead of 4:30am.  Boy how times have changed.  I think I like getting up early better than sleeping in.  By noon this morning I had fed Ava, ate breakfast, folded laundry, cleaned the kitchen, vacuumed the house, swept the floors, went to the gym, and took a shower.  I can definitely get more accomplished than the old me.  I like this version of me!!

So about the gym.  I was so excited about getting a spin/abs class in.  Especially since I have missed out on some good workouts because I have been sick.  I am not 100%, but feel tons better than I did.  Kid care at our gym starts at 9am and the class was at 9:30am.  I decided to get arms done before since I had some time to kill. 
Superset
-Decline chest press with inward turns 3x10 20lb DB
-Standing rows 3x10 20lb DB
Superset
-Standing Alternating Bicep curls 3x6 20lb DB
-Standing Shoulder press 3x5 20lb DB (these were Harrrdddd!)

For some reason I decided to check the schedule of classes.  The class at 9:30am was CHISEL, not CYCLE.  CYCLE wasn't until 10:30am!!!!!!!!!!  Horse CRAAAAAAAAAPP!  That really chafed my hide!  Now what?!?!  Ok back up and punt.  Cardio, until I can decide what to do. 
Cardio:
Elliptical- Fat burn 20 minutes
Ok since I have already done arms, might as well do legs right? 
Legs:
Giant sets with 50lb Barbell
-Good Mornings 3x10
-Squats 3x10
-Plie Squats 3x10
-Right leg stationary lunge 3x10
-Left leg stationary lunge 3x10

I called it a day and went to sit in the sauna to try and clear out my nasal passages and read a magazing while I waited on Clint to finish playing Wallyball.  Oh yes, there is an American Wallyball Association.  It is not my thing, but everyone who comes out is sweating buckets and is sore the next day.  Whatever rocks your world! 
Moving on.  We came home and showered to get ready for Ava's 3 month pictures!!!  Plus some family photos.  They were a.d.o.r.a.b.l.e!  She did so great.  When it was time to go she let us know!  It was so funny because she got fussy and fell asleep.  Once we got home (it was only a 5 minute drive home) she was bright eyed and bushy tailed.  What a faker!  haha
We have to wait about 2 weeks to see them, but for a tease she had one of these as an outfit.

I can't wait to see them.  Our family photos will more than likely be our very 1st Ferrell Christmas card. So exciting. Do you do Christmas cards?

Now we are at home having MDD (mama, daddy, daughter) time watching some

FOOTBALL!

ENJOY THE REST OF THE WEEKEND FRIENDS!

Elephant on my head

Clint and I share everything.  We share our bank account, our time, our food, our daughter, our household chores, and apparently really bad COLDS!!!!!
I work for a chiropractor and yesterday morning he massaged my sinuses and did diathermy on my forehead.  I felt so good after he did that.  But about and hour later, I got smacked hard in the forehead with a sinus headache.  I don't think I have ever had one this bad.  I felt like an elephant was sitting on my forehead.  I could barely keep my eyes open.  Clint suggested I leave work early, but I had a busy day and didn't want to leave the office short handed, especially since one of my co-workers left at noon.  I trudged along until the end of the day and went home.  I had debated whether or not to go to spin class earlier in the day. Spin class was the last thing on my mind when I got home.  I went and got into the most hideous sweats and my uggs and curled up in bed.  Clint and Ava joined me and spent time with me.  I need to brag about my favorite person in the world.  Clint was (and always is) amazing last night.  He folded laundry, made homemade chicken noodle soup (that sadly I don't know what it tasted like because I couldn't taste anything) as well as took care of Ava.  The only thing I did last night with her was feed her and play with her a little bit.  Sidenote: It is so hard to not kiss your baby girl!  I didn't realize how much I do until last night.  Sheesh. 
He wanted me to call into work today, which I had a hard time considering. I told him if I felt as bad as I did last night this morning, then I would call in.  It was THAT BAD!  Luckily, I woke up sounding gross but the headache was gone.  Thank goodness!  I still sound nasally and kind of manly but I will take that over the headache.

We decided to go the gym after work.  hahaha  I did the  elliptical for 40 minutes on level 1!!!!!  Talk about zapped energy level.  I guess something was better than nothing right?!

Funny story to end on.  I got ready in a hurry to go to the gym.  While I was sitting in the sauna to try and clear my nasal passages, I noticed I had 2 DIFFERENT SHOES ON!!!!  Granted they are the same colors, but still.  I didn't notice any difference throughout the entire cardio sesh!!  Good times!

Have a great Friday!

Gatlinburg, TN

 Here are some pictures from this weekend for your enjoyment.

7 out of 9 of us.  Pre-hike at the entrace to the park.

"Aunt" Leigh before we left Sunday.

Happy Ava hanging out with daddy.

Perfect chair size. Look at her sitting up!  (Not for long though.  I kind of set her up while Clint hurried to take the picture.)

Family pic during the hike.  Ava wanted to keep walking and not picture taking.

Hiking with daddy.

This is what we woke up to each morning. Gorgeous!

Ava with her cousin Roscoe!

Creek during the hike.

"Uncle" Shane's turn.

Beautiful color on the leaves.