tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29922833573668456122024-02-19T04:23:07.541-08:00Lets Fight This..... Teamwork - together we can achieve the extraordinary !ddubsgirl4lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214665482706991846noreply@blogger.comBlogger71125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-88643099377753804642012-04-03T12:35:00.003-07:002012-04-03T13:00:30.412-07:00WOW What a time to relaunch !!<div>No excuses for our absence but sometimes life just gets in the way, life, families, illness etc ......but we are BACK - and what a time to relaunch !!</div><br /><br /><br /><div>The event that started the whole blog off is back and we are ON !<br /></div><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 246px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 91px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5727265828769027570" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQIw3lvY5DRQ0e_LYXMtuUsma_foH5eo05B4Gw5puKkqZULAckXoXB0AykxoN2xxLncRgozUVsUKhh0L3u-qK2z0A0opnO7-AMolLJg1f7PORVzGiMEK9DG3wnqLbsECTCy9EgCfL0c97f/s200/shine1.png" /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>back in 2010 a group of girls came together for the SHINE Moonlit Walk - a walking Marathon through the night - we had a blast - tough - but fun</div><br /><br /><div>2011 - work commitments meant that we were unable to take part.</div><br /><br /><div>2012 - we are BACK ON - and a team again - So 8th September 2012 will see our team of 5 uniting with thousands of others to raise money for Cancer Research UK </div><br /><br /><div>Again there is a half or full marathon (the half we didnt know about last time until the night !) but the way we figure the trains stop overnight so we will be waiting until the trains start running again to get home so we may as well go in for a penny in for a pound - and to be honest the whole team is of the understanding that the temporary struggle and pain of walking the full 26 miles is nothing compared to the fight that people face everyday in their battle against this terrible disease - LETS FIGHT THIS !</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Join us again on our journey through training /nutrition / races and out the other side - we promise to not disappear again :)</div>ddubsgirl4lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214665482706991846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-91722326968300603422011-10-04T12:31:00.000-07:002011-10-04T13:08:23.397-07:00Bug Run Review :)Since the kids have been on their 6 week Summer holidays I must admit the running has been very sporadic to say the very least and I have been desperately trying to get my running mojo back, but with 3 kids, (2 starting different schools) it hasnt been easy, but try I did and managed to get some sort of fitness back in time to sign up for the Bug Runs 10k in Speke Hall, Liverpool, and *holds hands up* it was a forced sign up, I didnt feel ready, but it was a sign up before I changed my mind and do you know I am SO glad I did it! FULL RACE REVIEW on <a href="http://letsfightthis.blogspot.com/p/race-reviews_2693.html">http://letsfightthis.blogspot.com/p/race-reviews_2693.html</a>ddubsgirl4lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214665482706991846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-22385110579952515752011-07-15T12:57:00.000-07:002011-07-15T13:27:23.611-07:00Operation Butterfly<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7uv69_F3a6-zWtIBbV9hjzTmFO6ty8-7vLEw4ga_oF148lL-lr0xdtLX-vTc7QrppDqd9yesnFx55okZA8cXsDPS56P_v27dppP7tPxki53mYCq30rwsv2ItgxYAkfGl0lUzKGOzmblJo/s1600/butterflies.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 301px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 165px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629675896890361090" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7uv69_F3a6-zWtIBbV9hjzTmFO6ty8-7vLEw4ga_oF148lL-lr0xdtLX-vTc7QrppDqd9yesnFx55okZA8cXsDPS56P_v27dppP7tPxki53mYCq30rwsv2ItgxYAkfGl0lUzKGOzmblJo/s200/butterflies.jpg" /></a>Recently at Slimming World Kate our consultant asked us to take 5 minutes and think about where we wanted to be by the end of the summer holidays (see told you I listen Kate !!)<br /><br /><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div>Little did she realise it reminded me of something I'd always wished for and hoped for way back when I was in school.</div><br /><br /><br /><div>I have always struggled with my weight, and every summer holidays, I dreamt about coming back after the 6 weeks holiday looking fab and gorgeous, like a butterly emerging from a cocoon, but then time went on, and the weeks past, start of new term and I was still in the same position. </div><br /><br /><div>Something has been stirred again, and this year as the summer holidays are fast approaching Operation Butterfly has been born.</div><br /><br /><div>I have my food plan in place, I have my exercise plan in place, and even have 5 free exercise classes & gym sessions at Fitness First to fit in.</div><br /><br /><div>Goals are:</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff9900;"><strong>lose 1 stone, </strong></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff9900;"><strong>get my 10% award </strong></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff9900;"><strong>gold fitness award</strong></span></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>7 weeks from now - the butterfly will finally emerge :)</div></div></div></div>ddubsgirl4lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214665482706991846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-85130277166487211392011-06-23T12:30:00.000-07:002011-06-23T13:23:13.681-07:00Saying goodbye to the Marathon :(<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd_6HY5ajwNRI1qJXBGllTFL4t9QiPNI4WGp1j76MMELfv3EDk17_Um0efaQ8E0JdbXmnSLFq3oWpuDR-vKOyaXbest41r9gqYAtb-6l6r3YkkCfsGyi2t2IwpLz5jiocj_E4h7XFqb_mO/s1600/liverpool+marathon.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 304px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 156px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621512929308354850" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd_6HY5ajwNRI1qJXBGllTFL4t9QiPNI4WGp1j76MMELfv3EDk17_Um0efaQ8E0JdbXmnSLFq3oWpuDR-vKOyaXbest41r9gqYAtb-6l6r3YkkCfsGyi2t2IwpLz5jiocj_E4h7XFqb_mO/s320/liverpool+marathon.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div>It is with a heavy heart that I have made the decision to not take part in the Liverpool Marathon 2011 - and I have to be honest .......I'm totally GUTTED :(</div><br /><br /><div>Ive been losing weight steadily for the past 2 yrs and to date have lost 4.5 stone but still have about another 3 (ish) to go, and yes running is great for toning up but, on my long runs I was feeling that I wasnt 'fueled' enough to last the distance.</div><br /><br /><div>With me only starting Slimming World recently I dont feel confident enough to make the decisions on running diet yet, and yes in theory as per the earlier post it will be good to do the protein/carb days when I am in the swing of things but for this year and time ticking by I dont feel that I had the time to suss out the diet without having a negative effect on the diet as in eating the wrong things, but then I couldnt afford to have the running taking a knock because of lack of energy (if that makes sense?) </div><br /><br /><div>Now that the pressure is off I have the time to take stock of the diet, I know what I need to eat to fuel runs and I know the Slimming World plan, all I need to cross reference to maximise both.</div><br /><br /><div>Plus there is the heat ... I dont know if its the spare weight I have or just me, but I go down like a sack of spuds in the heat as it is without running in it, and have noticed a couple of times when Im running home from work its a real struggle</div><br /><br /><div>next up is family, pure practicalities kick in, if both hubby and myself are doing the same run then we need someone to look after the kids, plus there is all the long training runs, I did mine on a Saturday, hubby did his on Sunday = no family time, </div><br /><br /><div>Running is something that I have only just recently discovered first hand, spectator yes, participating only since March and is something that I want to fall in love with for many years, and dont want to put the pressure on so much that I dont enjoy it in the first 6 months</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I feel sometimes that Im using them as a cop out and making excuses but they genuinely aren't</div><br /><div>just the place where I am in my life at the moment. Its not over by any means and this is being treated like an obstacle that needs to be overcome. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>And overcome it will be, I am not saying no, im just re-adjusting, yes A marathon will happen, it wont be the Liverpool one this year but it will happen, I still have a 5K and 10k in the diary, and a half marathon in August, so for the remainder of the year is being spent on ME, losing the remainder of the weight and building up my base fitness, ready to train over winter for a spring Marathon, hubby can train during the summer months when its hot and I can train over the winter months when it's nice and cold - but watch this space IT WILL HAPPEN just needed a little tweeking around the edges</div><br /><br /><div>I remember Kate, my Slimming World consultant explaining (see I do listen lol ) about the journey we are all on, you can either take the direct route or the scenic route, unfortunatly, in this case Ive had to take a diversion but the destination is always the same , healthy living, healthy diet, healthy fitness - all in moderation</div><br /><br /><div>So to all those runners embarking on the 'Long and Winding Road' my hat is off to you, and I have so much respect for you all, I will still be there cheering you all on - saving my biggest cheer for my hero hubby.</div><br /><br /><div>Good luck to you all x x x x</div><br /><br /><br /><div></div>ddubsgirl4lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214665482706991846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-37319493867818505502011-06-20T13:39:00.000-07:002011-06-20T13:52:59.798-07:00Post Race Euphoria - time to get back to business<span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 255); font-family: verdana;">So, the races are done, for the moment, we have one more in the diary but it is a few weeks off. So now is the time to get back to business. Back to planning meals and training schedules, tweaking and trying to be a 'good' as possible. We've been discussing Protein/Carb balances a bit recently, via text! It's so hard to know in some ways. SO many diets promote low carb, high protein regimes. But that is no good if you're trying to train for longer distance runs, or even if you just run regularly - you need plenty of carbs to keep the energy levels high enough to be able to keep running harder for longer. I am an obsessive reader of fitness magazines, and every month every one has a new idea of a new balance, a new way to eat.... Carbs before, protein after working out. Protein before, carbs after. No carbs afer 7pm. No supplements and all fresh and natural v loads of supplements and meal replacement shakes. CONFUSING??? Oh yes!! </span><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 255); font-family: verdana;">So, after some deliberation, I concluded that really you just need to get a good balance. Nice low GI healthy low fat carbs (veggies, rice, cous cous etc), plenty of lean low fat proteins (fish, chicken, nuts, yogherts, beans) and tons of veggies, salads and pulses. Not rocket science, meat or fish and three veg perhaps!! </span><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 255); font-family: verdana;">For me, that means actually eating more proteins. I am a carb-aholic, so I'd like to swop some of the carbs (bread??!!) for more fish and pulses in what I eat - that is the goal for the next week or so!! </span><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 255); font-family: verdana;">Training? Well, that is all on track. A few runs (intervals, and longer runs), a couple of gym sessions (mainly strength based weights with cardio after) and swims, and on Monday evenings, Yoga with Patricia - who is 80 years old and fitter & more flexible than the 20 years old students in the classes!!</span>claireM74http://www.blogger.com/profile/10272098367360400523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-30687271064177854922011-06-09T12:38:00.000-07:002011-06-09T13:33:25.491-07:00Croxteth Park 10kInstead of doing seperate race reviews, we decided on a joint review, 1st timer V's Elite <span style="color:#cc0000;"><em>!( Elite???!!! Hardly, it was only my 5th 10K!) </em></span><span style="color:#000000;">to share the different experiences.</span><br /><br /><br />My Race day started OK - despite having the worst nights sleep ever - had my standard porridge (slightly more than my Slimming World allowance - sorry Kate !!) but stuck to the same breakfast - remembering the rules of not doing anything new on race day.....<br /><br /><em><span style="color:#cc0000;">I got up nice and early to have my usual bowl of museli with banana, seed mix and raisins with a coffee, then just before I set off to the park, about 2hrs before the race I had a small bowl of plain yoghurt with honey </span></em><br /><br /><br /><br />Then we were off.......<br /><br /><br />I met Claire at Croxteth Park Hall and then the nerves kicked in and I started having sneeky peeks at all the other runners trying to suss out how fit/fast they all were and trying to figure out where I'd come - I did the warm up run - talking 10 to the dozen - visited the bathroom...............and again.........and again .......and (you get the picture!)<br /><br /><em><span style="color:#cc0000;">Although Ive met friends at other races before, this was different, It was great to do a warm up jog (something I mean to do but usually fail at), and standing in the start-up crowd chatting with Andrea was great ! The crowds at the hall were small compared to my 'usual' races, the atmosphere was relaxed and friendly, and there were no queues for the toilets at all - Bonus !!!</span></em><br /><br /><br />I must admit my nerves had gone at the start and suddenly after the start everybody started whissing past me - aaaggghhhhhhh - so what did I do ?? - after all the preparation - and talks from hubby ( who is a seasoned runner was getting antsy watching from the sidelines rather than being involved) - I did the fatal mistake, panicked and started off too fast trying to keep up with the pack, breathing went AWOL and took until about 2k to sort it out again...... <span style="color:#cc0000;">(<em>same thing happened to me, but realise THIS time that it will always do that, so instead of letting it put me off, I just went with the erratic breathing and wobbly legs for 2k until I calmed down and settled into the run).</em> - </span><br /><br /><br />But we did it I finished whoop whoop go me !! I beat my training PB by 6 minutes <span style="color:#cc0000;">(<em>I somehow beat my PB by very nearly 5 min and got a SUB 55 mins time !!! I have to put this down to weight training - legs of iron and a relaxed start). </em></span><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm093SjVJn3G7qNydsYYA4nLvHFk70kn20q32rsE4pH1ChqUBrZMUiIlcGRASPKBveD4Jjn_4a-Q87ZAMbdx8QWk-k3iLOF20GqytiOlt7smIpBlTKuJ0ia-2THWKbpuiA4SkU8R2Tn3r8/s1600/bugrun.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616319315925536418" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm093SjVJn3G7qNydsYYA4nLvHFk70kn20q32rsE4pH1ChqUBrZMUiIlcGRASPKBveD4Jjn_4a-Q87ZAMbdx8QWk-k3iLOF20GqytiOlt7smIpBlTKuJ0ia-2THWKbpuiA4SkU8R2Tn3r8/s320/bugrun.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><em></em><br /><br />Here is the photo to prove it !!!!<br /><br /><br /><br /><em></em><br /><br /><br />The course was a surprise. I assumed that it being a park race that it would be on paths - I bimbled down the paths only to find myself running on trail tracks and across fields - good job it wasnt raining ! - this was probably ok for me because of being a beginner im not stuck to just one style of running - and because of where I live and where Im doing my normal training runs Im up hill and down dale as it is )I did worry about dirtying my trainers though - Im such a girl running lol !!)<br /><br /><br /><em><span style="color:#cc0000;">Im not usually not a fan at all of anything remotely 'off road'. The park-y trails were fine, really nice actually and the fields were a surprise (note to self - find route map before run). In the end I wound up enjoying the field tracks, they were a bit uneven in places (I did stumble once, and there was a bit of an obstruction at one gate) but thankfully it had not rained enough recently to make them slippy at all. The views were nice, it felt nice to be out in the countryside a bit, and although it felt a bit narrow in places with not much passing space at times it did ensure I paced myself a bit. The race marshals were encouraging, they clearly indicated where we should be running and there were plenty of them, the signage was clear, and saw all the km markers (does not always happen).</span></em><br /><br /><br /><br />The only thing I was worried about was coming last <em><span style="color:#cc0000;">(I knew she wouldnt, and she didnt!).</span></em> and to be honest I think I should have concentrated on my own game rather than what everybody else was doing and worrying about people watching me - I think I just need to boost my confidence in my running and my abilities.<br /><br /><br />Yes it was my first 10k running - but have been on the sidelines as a spectator for many years, and I personally thought it was extremely well organised, water at 5k, timings and photos were up on the website really quickly - I have a special thanks to the marshals who were brilliant and really encouraging - especially the one who told me to pretend it was a steeplechase when I asked him if he was having a laugh expecting me to get over a sty at about 7k (whoever you are you made me chuckle !)<br /><br /><em><span style="color:#cc0000;">This was a fab race to do and it'll go in my diary to do agaim, just need to remember to get trail shoes if it rains next year - there was even a free post-race massage available from Gina (of Mossley Hill Athletics!)</span></em><br /><br /><br />So BIG THANK YOU'S to Bug Runs for making my first 10k a really great day - and in the words of Arnie - 'I'll be back' - LOVED IT - thank you x x<br /><br /><br /><br /><em></em><br /><br /><br /><br /><em></em><br /><br /><br /><br /><em></em><br /><br /><br /><br /><em></em><br /><br /><br /><br /><em></em>ddubsgirl4lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214665482706991846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-44239051952950690632011-06-01T13:14:00.000-07:002011-06-01T13:57:05.388-07:00Because you're Amazing !!!I have been going great guns over the past year with my weight loss, I have been tracking my calories on my fitness pal and if I do say so myself have been doing brilliantly and have lost 4.5 stone but now am finding myself struggling to lose any more (I have about another 3 to lose )<br /><br /><br /><div>The thing with calories is that they are in everything, and everything you pick up has the calorific value on the side so that they are easily checked and recorded, the issue I have found with that is, you are allocated a certain amount of calories per day, and it doesnt matter if you eat X amount of calories in fruit and veg or solid chocolate as long as you record the calories, it is up to you to make the right decisions on what is best way to use your calories to maximum results and if you havent been 'taught' the right choices then you arent going to get the correct nutritional needs, especially with the training side coming in.</div><br /><br /><div>So I've found myself floundering a bit and feel like im going to need the support of a group or run the risk of going off the rails. I looked at all of the usual suspects and found Slimming World to be the best to fit in with 'real life', it teaches all of the fundemental food rules (which are the standard, fresh fruit and veg and lean protein).</div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 290px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 174px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613356554301658546" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ZOnzL_bRvt28W5lfPPZBHqUNu7Yp2rK_hmUtuE_II6jX4u6XbVXE4Pw0uczNMqKY15GkcyVh6-zAoJf8NCz6ba2TvYzmt43LiJr8r5829qlYDWZ_ycMlDFBghmMdjHxIQkOFlCU5ZGF_/s320/slimming.bmp" />The beauty of this is that Slimming World have the 3 plans to choose from and can be adapted depending on your daily needs and requirements.<br /><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#33cc00;"><strong><em>The Green Plan</em></strong> -</span> higher level of carbohydrates, limited protein</div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><em>The Original Plan</em></strong></span> - Higher level of protein, limited carbohydrates</div><br /><br /><div><strong><span style="color:#ff9900;"><em>The Extra Easy</em></span></strong> - Mixture of both protein and Carbs</div><br /><br /><br /><div>For the majority of the time I stick to the <strong><span style="color:#ff9900;"><em>Extra Easy</em></span></strong> and find that this fits in REALLY easy with family life and I dont eat anything different to the rest of the family (to look at anyway- I have quorn sausages instead of 'normal' ones) - I have 3 children - 2 of which are girls and I have a real problem with them having any future body issues and dont want them going through what I have been going through, I really dont want them to see mummy eating something different to the rest of the family.</div><br /><br /><div>But its great in that as time goes on and I get closer to the marathon and up my long runs Im going to have to 'up' the amount of protein for muscle repair, which is where the <strong><em><span style="color:#ff0000;">O</span><span style="color:#ff0000;">riginal plan</span></em></strong> comes in and closer still when I'm carbo loading is where the <span style="color:#33cc00;"><strong><em>Green plan</em></strong></span> comes in, so in theory I can get to the marathon, still losing weight, and sticking to the plan.</div><br /><br /><div>It also helps that the group I've found is great with a really friendly consultant - Kate - who is always at the end of a text to talk you down from a (Non Quorn) sausage butty ! - Im really lucky to have found the group and each week come home really fired up full of hints and tips</div><br /><br /><div>Looking forward to sharing this journey with you as well as my training schedule - all part of the big picture, weight loss and training all ready to come together - yipeeeee cant wait so excited x </div>ddubsgirl4lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214665482706991846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-65623990204878526052011-05-31T12:54:00.000-07:002011-05-31T13:06:49.702-07:00Going gets toughIve also signed up for the Croxteth 10k on Sunday - must have had a moment of madness lol - I know I can run 8.5 miles and the 10k is only 6 (and a bit) miles - but I went out today and couldnt even manage 2 ?? - my breathing was all over the place, felt like I was going so slow I was nearly going backwards.<br /><br />I had such a tizzy with myself on the way back to the car, whole mix of angry with myself, frustrated, crying, wanting to give it all up - all of the above.<br /><br />Spoke to hubby who has done loads of running and apparently everybody has days like this, when its a struggle and you want to give it up but you just have to accept it - try and power on through and if it doesnt work accept that today it isnt happening and put it behind you.<br /><br />I tried but it just wasn't happening so it is time to accept, deal with and move on .<br /><br />This wouldnt be a problem if i didnt have the 10k on Sunday, my FIRST 10k race, and to be honest its making me doubt my ability to finish on Sunday.<br /><br />Postive thinking, and onwards and upwards - I CAN DO THIS !!!!!!ddubsgirl4lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214665482706991846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-45556195425673435852011-05-29T01:35:00.000-07:002011-05-30T13:29:51.177-07:00Working up to Croxteth Park and Mersey Tunnel 10k runs for Alzheimer's Research<span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">Well, I signed up for a couple of 10k races, and decided to make them my charity runs for the spring. I lost my Granny to Alzheimer's, and it is a really traumatic condition, especially for the loved ones of the sufferer, watching my mum and Grandad go through so much pain was terrible. So, I'm doing what I can to help - just £100 funds a day of research, so I'd like to at least get that much, hopefully a lot more!</span><br /><br /><a href="http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-web/fundraiser/showFundraiserProfilePage.action?userUrl=ClaireM"><span style="font-weight: bold;">http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-web/fundraiser/showFundraiserProfilePage.action?userUrl=ClaireM</span></a><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">So - training for it. Well, I kept things up ok in Egypt doing a specific strength training program, classes and the 'Quick-Slim' program at STEP center, Giza, Cairo.</span><br /><a href="http://www.step-center.com/"><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">http://www.step-center.com/</span></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">In Miami I did a few morning boardwalk runs (very very enjoyable!!).</span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg40v2eA_YywOi69lB9g-ARURJTX8c8KgXOtzz8DaaegE8IYv6-CCi5VikjnrUX9MDlcTcFKViVcEw5JgfAuzMZsMHCRGq604YLCnUwdwUS2CWu4efR0YGOvIRzlzlxJqkw2R_UB6cfuypc/s1600/running.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg40v2eA_YywOi69lB9g-ARURJTX8c8KgXOtzz8DaaegE8IYv6-CCi5VikjnrUX9MDlcTcFKViVcEw5JgfAuzMZsMHCRGq604YLCnUwdwUS2CWu4efR0YGOvIRzlzlxJqkw2R_UB6cfuypc/s320/running.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612590992453910530" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">I also went along to Ironflower Fitness for a 'Cheerfit' class, with instructor Tiffany (see pic below), which was really great fun.</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidHuOzBzIYo6R8KUC-Ho7ToV7ebtfenNLkfmExd1D8S7DJRfsSqdAQRN0ScYnlgTQF_zTu70ZFzrBCtNiJcjT_VoxPEFTGIbxUqmu3cE3fWmAj4Z42h8y361JEkYKI33pr5arjpTev3hFs/s1600/Me+amanda+and+Tiffany.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 279px; height: 186px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidHuOzBzIYo6R8KUC-Ho7ToV7ebtfenNLkfmExd1D8S7DJRfsSqdAQRN0ScYnlgTQF_zTu70ZFzrBCtNiJcjT_VoxPEFTGIbxUqmu3cE3fWmAj4Z42h8y361JEkYKI33pr5arjpTev3hFs/s320/Me+amanda+and+Tiffany.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612592782199813506" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.ironflowerfitnessmiami.com/">http://www.ironflowerfitnessmiami.com/</a><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">The Studios are really amazing, and the girls there were so welcoming and friendly!!</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">I've done a few sessions since I got home, but not actually run 10k since the crazy seaside run in January, so this morning I went out for 1 hour 12 mins, and cracked 12k, so I should be ok next Sunday!! I've not been eating particularly well since Miami, the dreary British weather is not inspiring, so I'm starting afresh with a new summer work/training/study /healthy living program on June 1st!!</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">Please help me raise money and awareness of Alzheimer's, it can affect anyone, and it is truely devastating.</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-web/fundraiser/showFundraiserProfilePage.action?userUrl=ClaireM">http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-web/fundraiser/showFundraiserProfilePage.action?userUrl=ClaireM</a><br /><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">THANKS - together we are stronger, together we can achieve anything.</span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMn52JU1Dp8uaoKEMgsa2wZZ4mqJAiGqhZt2dJrmOgL5_PnSZm_Fw6r8peNWftujBsWi02BC8PRrW8FV_0tjYP88J4Wggoeesm0FVzLzZCrq4sN3qREZd2jVEczgLcsP1tM9RGFntsoGyk/s1600/running.jpg"> </a><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMn52JU1Dp8uaoKEMgsa2wZZ4mqJAiGqhZt2dJrmOgL5_PnSZm_Fw6r8peNWftujBsWi02BC8PRrW8FV_0tjYP88J4Wggoeesm0FVzLzZCrq4sN3qREZd2jVEczgLcsP1tM9RGFntsoGyk/s1600/running.jpg"><br /></a>claireM74http://www.blogger.com/profile/10272098367360400523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-61598085147115024432011-05-27T12:29:00.000-07:002011-05-27T12:34:13.117-07:00Sorry, sorry and sorry againWOW how long has it been ? and the longer that time has gone on the more things have happened and the more I have to let you know about and then I get all in a muddle trying to remember them all - I will write them all down and do a post on each of them probably not in the right order though - but me up to date in a nutshell is..... still training........diet good........toe hurt........toe doesnt hurt.........still training ....... oh with a bit of life juggled in along the way as the running/training season hots up there will be more posts and will bring you up to date... its one of those things though, been plodding along through the winter miserable months ready to emerge in the summer a beautiful toned, lean machine butterfly .......and I am ........until I wake up ! lol<br /><br />Until next time - keep healthy x xddubsgirl4lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214665482706991846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-43270106225426337472011-05-21T00:04:00.001-07:002011-05-21T00:09:33.514-07:00Name change and cruise report<span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204); font-family: trebuchet ms;">So, I'm going for a profile name change.... @joedannysgirl74 is now @claireM74</span> <br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204); font-family: trebuchet ms;">The cruise??!!! It was amazing, and provided the best workout ever - dancing for 7 hours a night!!! Since coming back I've been so tired it's hard to focus, BUT I feel so inspired by all the love I encountered and all the great people I met that I feel more determined than ever to keep it all up! I've already been for one training session - circuits!! I ache today!! I am setting new goals, a few 10k races over the summer to see me through the final stages of my studies. Hoping to get to teach a few sessions in the gym as well, I need instrctors to go on holiday so I can get their classes!!!</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204); font-family: trebuchet ms;">I'll keep updating! Together we can do anything!</span>claireM74http://www.blogger.com/profile/10272098367360400523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-2917120268454738492011-02-13T12:55:00.000-08:002011-02-13T13:01:37.456-08:00So much to catch up with !So since the last time I posted so much has happened, I have revised my training schedule - and have made a commitment to myself although I havent signed on the dotted line yet !<br /><br />The Liverpool Marathon is back for the first time for 20 years and have made the ultimate decision to run/jog/walk round. more on the cause that I will be running for at a later date - not that I am skipping over the reason - but it is a cause that has touched the people of Merseyside and continues to - so for that reason it will have its own posting.<br /><br />I also tried Zumba - eermmmm I'll let you know how that went when I stop laughing - So funny lol !<br /><br />I will be posting every few days - If Im doing the marathon - then you are all doing it in spirit with me !!<br /><br />keep you posted xddubsgirl4lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214665482706991846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-54117397019247662832011-02-03T06:42:00.000-08:002011-02-03T06:47:22.136-08:00Just a quick one !So just a quick on as a recap - I looked into joining a running club because I did enjoy the company of going out with hubby but he has his own training to do - but due to other commitments it was hard to find a club that fitted into family life - so after a quick search I found on Amazon a series of programs for MP3 download so I have 8 weeks to a 10k pride of place on my MP3 ready to rock n roll come Monday, followed by a half marathon program and a full marathon to finish with so depending on how training goes (and how my nerves hold up) would bring me nicely to the week before the Liverpool Marathon so Plan of action is to see how it goes and make a decision on the Marathon in a few months - I'll let you know how I get on - Wish me luck - eeeeekkkk :)ddubsgirl4lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214665482706991846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-53698819892772968882011-01-31T11:56:00.001-08:002011-01-31T12:00:47.363-08:00I DID IT !!!!Finally Ive managed to complete the 5k on the road !! -<br /><br />Ive had the route mapped out for a while and have been edging closer and closer to finishing it all the way ...... and today I DID IT !!!!! and I felt fantastic and actually (and never thought id say it) felt that I could go on.<br /><br />oh and on a funny note .... remember last post of treadmill not working - hubbys friend came round to have a look at it and ......it was a coathanger stuck in the motor lol - works fine now ! pity I prefer the open road (another thing I never thought Id say!) so I can see a treadmill coming to an ebay near you in the very near future !ddubsgirl4lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214665482706991846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-28870424660042957912011-01-11T12:03:00.000-08:002011-01-11T12:56:52.774-08:00Doing it the old fashioned wayWhy is it as soon as you come back fighting something comes up to test you ?? - I was back up on the treadmill going great guns and it broke :( never to return again....... so what did I do? (apart from nearly flying off the back lol) I got off and put a plan of action in place..... as you know hubby has done many many years running so Im off out on the open road... plus I figured that if I am going to reach my goals for this year of a 10k, half marathon and possibly *whispers* a full marathon then I will need to do proper 'real life' running.<br /><br />So Hubbys day off work up and ready to rock and roll 1.5 times around the park is 5k dropped the kids off and it snowed, and snowed and then to top it off .....it sleeted, I thought we would be able to have the morning in the cafe, but NO I was cold, and wet but I did it 45 minutes walk/running - and do you know what I WAS ECSTATIC ! It felt totally different to the treadmill and the next day my legs ached in places I never knew could ache but Ive got the bug - since this I have been out again different route still 5k and did it in 36minutes ! a WHOLE 6 MINUTES FASTER !!!!!<br /><br />Bring on the challenges !ddubsgirl4lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214665482706991846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-64246330714790183602010-12-30T12:41:00.000-08:002010-12-31T02:47:47.402-08:00Pound for Pound - are you in??<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiju90IHsIjwIaRaa2hFbO-OLk8FbzatXWwgA0Fm1khq8NW8si1l09V2X7Tt35QXNs1K_Z0udSBqiK3GLb2FxrPORj3obZsIo1bRMh2HMFNORcCA3WoDF2JipOZKUtznVyY-WEyzJFGKOT/s1600/pound+for+pound+badge.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 206px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 141px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556584226034706386" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiju90IHsIjwIaRaa2hFbO-OLk8FbzatXWwgA0Fm1khq8NW8si1l09V2X7Tt35QXNs1K_Z0udSBqiK3GLb2FxrPORj3obZsIo1bRMh2HMFNORcCA3WoDF2JipOZKUtznVyY-WEyzJFGKOT/s320/pound+for+pound+badge.jpg" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><div>*Hands up* I am the overweight member of the group Im about haf way though my journey still a long way to go though, so with January right around the corner and the last christmas goodies finished its time to knuckle down. </div><br /><div></div><div>Its hard during the cold winter months to get motivated and to carry on the motivation for any length of time when you look outside and the sun of summer seem so far away - but how about losing weight for a good cause??</div><br /><div></div><div>Doesnt cost you ANYTHING apart from a commitment to lose some weight but could mean the world to others.</div><br /><div></div><div>The Biggest Loser have thrown down the challenge : for every pound in weight we pledge to lose until May 31st 2011 they will donate 11 cents to Feeding America (enough to secure 1 pound of groceries on behalf of local food banks) to a maximum of $1,040,000</div><br /><div></div><div>As you know we are not in the US but ours still counts as does ALL pounds pledged from wherever you are - we are raising for the Central Boston area Food Banks</div><br /><div></div><div><a href="http://www.pfpchallenge.com/">http://www.pfpchallenge.com/</a> here is the link to the page - join a team - register yourself and your pledges if we all use the same zip code of <span style="font-size:180%;color:#6600cc;">02108</span> which will link you into the Central Boston area food bank and search for team name <span style="font-size:180%;color:#6600cc;">'DOING IT FOR THE KIDS'</span> and it will join you in with other team members </div><br /><div></div><div>Together we can do this - great motivation - New year - cruise in May</div><br /><div></div><div>Come on Blockheads what have you got to lose - when families will gain so much - together we can do this x x x x</div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div>ddubsgirl4lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214665482706991846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-7734439996459329502010-12-27T09:43:00.000-08:002010-12-27T09:52:17.312-08:00Christmas???<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">So, Christmas - a tough time for us dieters!!! I had to stop running here 10 days ago due to the icy slippy pavements, but, while I was away for Christmas Eve-Boxing day I ran in the fields near where I was staying - that felt good, jogging along snowy tracks on Christmas day morning!!! I got through Christmas day without too much over-indulgence, but Boxing day included an entire Chocolate Orange - big oops. Annoyingly the gym I use is shut until the 4th January, but I'm hoping the pavements thaw out asap so I can get back to running, and I'm doing some band workouts in my flat in the meantime! I'm going to start planning my New Year New Body regime this week - in with veggies, pulses, whole grains, lean meat, plenty of fish and out with the crisps, chocolate and too much coffee!! In with a sensible daily workout and out with the crazy irregular bursts of over-activity. Let's hope that the lovely training diary I got for my birthday will help me stay on track!</span>claireM74http://www.blogger.com/profile/10272098367360400523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-30253356489212046222010-11-15T02:48:00.000-08:002010-11-15T02:58:25.612-08:00back on the wagonWell Ive managed to flag down the wagon and Im back on again !!<br /><br />Just been weighed this morning too see what the damage was and to my surprise I have only put 2lb on - not bad considering all the junk I have been eating - maybe chocolate IS one of the main food groups after all ??!!<br /><br />So anyway Ive faced the music - which is always the hardest part I think, when you have taken a hiatus and had a few weeks off for whatever reason (in my case cold that lingered and lingered.....) but you have to think - Right it is what it is get back on track and onwards and upwards -<br /><br /> I know some people dont agree, and I know its not the healthiest way to go - but Me personally I am better if I feel myself waivering on the diet, training to take a break completely and then come back to it fresh when you are in the right frame of mind rather then carrying on half- heartedly and getting nowhere.<br /><br />I already know that my training has taken the knock and it will take me a bit to get back to where I was before but I am postive that it is easier and better mentally to take a break, be a little out of condition and improve than run the risk of injury or even worse starting to resent the training and dread getting your trainers on - which if I have come this far I really dont want to do because Im really starting to love the training and the changes I can see - even if you had asked me a year ago I would have laughed at you !!<br /><br />So here's to the wagon and all who ride on her !!!ddubsgirl4lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214665482706991846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-77384110163577807262010-11-13T09:51:00.000-08:002010-11-13T09:58:23.797-08:00Back and on a new regime!<span style="font-family: georgia; color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">Well, I'm back, and am annoyingly 6lb heavier than I was when I left. I had a good trip, but did have some sad news while I was away, which came to it's (rather tearful) end when I went straight home to my parents to attend my Grandads funeral after I got back to the UK from Egypt.</span><br /><span style="font-family: georgia; color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">But, time to move on, and time to shift those pounds, and get back to fitness. While I was away I did manage 3 weeks of a 20-30 minute run every morning, then started travelling so spent hours sat in a car - eating junk snack food. Not good. </span><br /><span style="font-family: georgia; color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">I've devised a new meal plan, and a new workout plan which STARTS TOMORROW........!!!</span><br /><span style="font-family: georgia; color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">Soon I'll be setting some 2011 event goals (aiming for at least one half marathon and a minimum of a sprint distance triathlon or two).</span>claireM74http://www.blogger.com/profile/10272098367360400523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-54785980723832465592010-10-12T02:07:00.001-07:002010-10-12T02:24:15.252-07:00While the cats away LolWell we are down to 1 man (or woman) at the moment - Maz is tied up in family life, Joesgirl has shimmied over to Egypt to work - although its funny how she has to work as soon as the weather turns cold over here - hmmmmmm????<br /><br />Only joking -<br /><br />So its only ME at the moment and so I thought I would have a little spring cleaning (to go with my new years resolutions!) and to get some organisation to the blog (and before anyone notices !!).<br /><br />Which when you think about it is what many people tend to do with diet and exercise - start off with a basic plan and then as your body adapts to the changes you constantly tweek the plans and improve them to hopefully get the maximum results.<br /><br />Which leads me back to the blog - we started this as a personal account to see how far we have progressed and to look back and smile - It also helps US to all keep updated to what the others are doing we live near each other but not near (if that makes sense??) and with juggling life, jobs etc its hard to catch up as much as we would like sometimes- we have email-text-phone-twitter but this is somewhere that we can all refer back to, But now we are starting to make some progress and we have some readers to join us along the way - time to get organised.<br /><br />As you can see the background has changed in preparation for a slightly different format and in the new year this will be followed up with tabs across the top so if you are interested in the races, all our posts relating to that will be there same with training etc.<br /><br />so to co-incide with that we are going to try and cover certain topics on certain days so we will have:<br /><br />Monday : Diet<br />Tuesday: Exercise/Training<br />Wednesday: Teamwork/Races<br />Thursday: Dreams/Aspirations<br />Friday: any magazine articles/tips that we have picked up along the way.<br /><br />small print ! - subject to change !!!<br /><br />SO thats the plan of action so far, bear with us and stick with us -<br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;color:#000099;"><em>A journey begins with a single step</em></span> </div>ddubsgirl4lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214665482706991846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-89768030839998156922010-10-05T04:38:00.000-07:002010-10-05T04:49:40.363-07:00Keep on running (and swimming and cycling)!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioVTVZXLDm-nHhCZscJAT92HXWLnJ4e5tJ8_-HSHIZOiuwpri0iazeinIBpaOb7gPpmAdYYQdkpg_sBGg_N11D3ut7fQ0-6xNMp9BFz2MILBP1QbkwbdR-H3VbZKe8N8DUMjvd-UMqzWds/s1600/Ulverston+tri+1.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 247px; height: 292px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioVTVZXLDm-nHhCZscJAT92HXWLnJ4e5tJ8_-HSHIZOiuwpri0iazeinIBpaOb7gPpmAdYYQdkpg_sBGg_N11D3ut7fQ0-6xNMp9BFz2MILBP1QbkwbdR-H3VbZKe8N8DUMjvd-UMqzWds/s320/Ulverston+tri+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524526898272227410" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjStHclmP46TyttminlDXc4e8PNXh_hX4wHwzkD7aa4GArwnP22iKMG2yGShvK5_MY_0tgdMLWDXNFeVJFxDkZR4q2IKIK6IcJi5HLte12MPNic9qY8HrftVl6JLB5BaANKe3XOGJnhu0QF/s1600/Ulverston+tri+2.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 381px; height: 251px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjStHclmP46TyttminlDXc4e8PNXh_hX4wHwzkD7aa4GArwnP22iKMG2yGShvK5_MY_0tgdMLWDXNFeVJFxDkZR4q2IKIK6IcJi5HLte12MPNic9qY8HrftVl6JLB5BaANKe3XOGJnhu0QF/s320/Ulverston+tri+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524527010844270370" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Ooo it's been a long time since I posted!!! I made it through my very first Triathlon in one piece (just about) and then 3 weeks later <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQpB0fyheKVeIgp-vKeWt8zNVryj5GfPQXHNQ33JlBEReuoikiE0n1IdG3vkBXnzZo3uN3oRw39Aes-O0FZte6Z6AvVzcJrTCrO5tdrzaBI3tKivpuduMs_hfLohzdOhDkfkToqgJDnQgv/s1600/Ulverston+tri+3.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 322px; height: 298px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQpB0fyheKVeIgp-vKeWt8zNVryj5GfPQXHNQ33JlBEReuoikiE0n1IdG3vkBXnzZo3uN3oRw39Aes-O0FZte6Z6AvVzcJrTCrO5tdrzaBI3tKivpuduMs_hfLohzdOhDkfkToqgJDnQgv/s320/Ulverston+tri+3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524527104444060834" border="0" /></a>ran a 10k race IN THE POURING RAIN!!!<br />Now - time for a month working on my physiotherapy, then back to the newly updated and revised winter training schedule. I've had some expert advice and am inculding some more Tri-specific training sessions.claireM74http://www.blogger.com/profile/10272098367360400523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-4980454873597475292010-10-05T02:24:00.000-07:002010-10-05T02:41:39.459-07:00New Years Resolutions ..........In OCTOBER ???? - - - Continued .....Ive had a think and here we are on 5th October 2010 and Im sorting out my New Years resolutions (cue streamers and drunken rendition of Auld Lang Syne !!!) - some achievable for next year some I know will take time - so maybe they should be classed as ambitions?? either way they will be in black and white so here they are, some fitness, some life in general - in no particular order:-<br /><br />1. <span style="color:#663366;"><em>To continue with the fundraising</em></span> - Ive given myself a target of £1000 for next year - not too sure on either one particular charity or to spread it out over various?<br /><br />2. <span style="color:#663366;"><em>To continue on the healthy living track</em></span> ( I hate the 'go on a diet on Jan 1st') if I waited and only did it once a year Id get nowhere ! - and I know that it is going to be a long, long road which will never end otherwise I'll end up back where I was which I am determined not to do.<br /><br />3. <em><span style="color:#663366;">To carry on supporting my friends</span></em> in life, races, etc - this one is self explanitary<br /><br />4. <span style="color:#663366;"><em>To Run a 1/2 marathon and FULL marathon</em></span> - eeerrrrmmm.........I'll work on the full one, that one I'll give myself until im 40 so I have 3 years to build up to that one... the 1/2 I think will be achievable by the emd of next year ......if I give myself until Dec 31 st LOL!!<br /><br />5. <em><span style="color:#663366;">To Visit America</span></em> - OK its not working or Living there but it's the next best thing - this one I know is achievable in 2012 as we are saving frantically for a NKOTB cruise for that year - assuming there will be a cruise that year so if I dont make this resolution it wont be on my part !<br /><br />6. <span style="color:#663366;"><em>To continue on with my studying</em></span> - I started an Open university degree in Social Care and due to medical problems missed a year, and then never got back to it so challenge is to go back and finish it.<br /><br />And that is it to date if I think of any more Ill let you know, so as I said maybe not New Years Resolutions but that is my plan of action so far to fit in before I am 40 (3rd December 2013) - even though it sounds like im either having a mid-life crisis - OR trying to fit it all in before the BIG one !!ddubsgirl4lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214665482706991846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-82616682932438298122010-10-04T05:04:00.000-07:002010-10-04T05:25:24.577-07:00New Years Resolutions ..........In OCTOBER ????Yes I know it is only October but 2 things happened this weekend .... nothing serious but just made me think.<br /><br />1. I went to see the play Calendar Girls at the Liverpool Empire - Fantastic play - all about the antics of the members of a Womens Insitute posing nude for a calendar to raise money for a sofa in the relatives room of a hospice where one of the women' husbands died from Leukemia.<br /><br />2. When waiting for the play to start I was chatting to my mum about my sister and what she is going to do when she finishes University in 2 years time - and she said that she wants to go to America to Work.<br /><br />These 2 together made me look at my life ..... I no means regret anything that has happened in my life, I believe that things happen for a reason ... but it was ALWAYS me that wanted to live and work in America or Canada - even had the opportunity to go to the American College in London with the option of a placement in the States at the end, but I never took the opportunity and now my chance has passed, and I will have to now only visit.......<br /><br />As I said everything happens for a reason, If I had gone I wouldnt have met my husband and had my children, who dispite having their 'moments' are the best thing to happen to me - but what else do we put off because we dont (for whatever reasons)take the chance or seize the opportunity??<br /><br />In my case it was confidence....and years on I still have to work on my confidence but am all to aware of how quick time flies.<br /><br />So thats where the resolutions come in..... What 5 things would I do dream as big or small as you can and thats what I m going to aim for....... so If I do my resolutions now I can get all the groundwork sorted with a timescale then come January 1st 2011 Im ready to Rock n Roll rather than thinking of them on the 1st then spending the next 6 months planning on what to do or just charging in like a bull in a china shop.......<br /><br />So as soon as Ive made my list and plan of action i'll let you all know ......<br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;color:#000099;"><strong><em>x x NO REGRETS x x</em></strong></span></div>ddubsgirl4lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214665482706991846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-12848198464836326612010-09-26T05:19:00.000-07:002010-09-26T05:28:40.989-07:00Day of Rest ??Late night, 40th Party last night, in early hours..... still got up...<br /><br />I start my duathlon training properly tomorrow but I thought before I even consider the training for the bike bit, Id better make sure I can still ride, havent riden a bike for years so I took myself off to see if I could at least stay upright without making a fool of myself!<br /><br />Went to the local park that I normally do my running/jogging round to which is fairly flat ....and do you know what......its like riding a bike - you never forget !!<br /><br />I managed to do 3 times round the park which is the eqivilant of 10k legs were a bit like jelly at the end and what started as a slight incline was a vertical climb at the end along with the headlong wind that I was riding into<br /><br />But I stayed upright which was the aim of the game, and my training doesnt start at 10k it only starts off gentle and we have 20 weeks to do 16k in 1hr or less<br /><br />At least I have all the cycling uniform so if I fall off at least I'll look the part !!<br /><br />Training tomorrow let you know what im up to as regulary as I can<br /><br />x xddubsgirl4lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214665482706991846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2992283357366845612.post-85625512765399556802010-09-24T02:49:00.000-07:002010-09-24T02:56:23.945-07:005 Brothers and a Million Sisters xxThe Picture says it all - but just incase......<br /><br />I feel so lucky to have found my team-mates, maybe not the most conventional way of meeting new friends through the NKOTB reunion, but how lucky am I that I did !!<br /><br /><p><span style="font-size:180%;color:#663366;"><strong><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 329px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5520415517611538194" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipVNR5Wky_lSkoTbtTmVOcIH4FQv5OqiD27c93qf9w_mrw_9I_JL0-rfnnEPwTPIOk9vomXpb77v3oIK9jlA6gcoObQVkH30M-5kq6ATI99xksjR626_XRoD4fI2ToqmZXhcDRjDpESJn8/s400/friends.gif" /></strong></span> <span style="font-size:180%;color:#663366;"><strong>5 Brothers and a Million Sisters Forever x x</strong></span></p><p><span style="color:#000000;">@ddubsgirl4life</span></p>ddubsgirl4lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214665482706991846noreply@blogger.com0