tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35501406699789901362024-03-21T13:51:07.112-07:00BTWG: No excuses!Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.comBlogger50125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-37349471864377281652010-01-12T13:35:00.000-08:002010-01-25T11:13:32.559-08:00Forty five and having some fun!This month I turned 45, and I could not be happier about it.<br />One year ago, I sent an mail to Chris, my application to The Project, BTWG. I had the chance to read it again this month, with gratitude and awe. Here are some parts I'd like to share:<br /><blockquote> "Okay, I’ll admit it. I am scared. Anxious, maybe is a better word. <br />I don’t do things half-assed. When I commit, I commit. And I have <br />been batting about committing to the Project for some time now. I have<br />no excuses. I have the support of my husband. I have good health. I <br />have a good pair of sneakers. What I don’t have is time, and I have to<br />believe that time devoted to this Project is time not sucked away from <br />my life, but time devoted to the betterment of it ..."</blockquote><br />YES, I HAVE THE TIME, ALWAYS DID. AND NOW TIME COMES WITH SOME MUST MORE ENERGY, PURPOSE AND INTENTION ... <br /><blockquote>"I am also overweight. (I really want to say FAT). Not obese,just<br />overweight. Not a medical problem per se, but I do believe the <br />extra weight has caused problems with my workouts. More back strain <br />when I run. Poor posture. Pure disgust any time I look in a mirror. <br />This may sound strange, but I feel like I am trapped in a fat suit.<br />Like an athlete hiding in the body of a flabby middle-age woman..."</blockquote><br />I AM NO LONGER OVERWEIGHT. MY BACK DOESN'T HURT WHEN I RUN. AND THE FAT SUIT IS TUCKED AWAY WHERE THE ATHLETE ONCE HID. I AM 45 AND NEVER FELT BETTER. <br /><blockquote>"I do work out. I’m game. I try anything and everything at least<br />once. (Except maybe spinning, honestly) But I swim, run, and do <br />yoga, Pilates, weights. I just don’t do any of it very consistently,<br />I guess, or at least enough to satisfy my inner athlete/warrior...."</blockquote><br />IN THE PAST YEAR, I HAVE RUN MORE MILES THAN I EVER HAVE BEFORE, LIFTED MORE HEAVY STUFF THAT I EVER THOUGHT I COULD LIFT AND LOVED EVERY CRAZY MINUTE! ME? HEAVING 40-POUND BAGS OF WOOD PELLETS OVER MY SHOULDERS? ME? DEADLIFTING MY HUSBAND'S BODYWEIGHT? ME? RUNNING THE EAGLE CREEK TRAILS WITH THE DEER. IT FEELS AMAZING, AND LITTLE BIT BADASS.<br /><blockquote>"I eat OK, not horrible, not great. Evenings are the worst: <br />There are times I come home and could just eat the sofa.<br />I need better control in this arena as well. I need to eat for<br />sustenance and not for emotional release ..."</blockquote><br />I COOK SO MUCH MORE NOW, AND SO MUCH BETTER! MY HUSBAND LOWERED HIS CHOLESTEROL SIGNIFICANTLY JUST BY EATING THE FOOD I MAKE. NOW I CRAVE PROTEIN INSTEAD OF CARBS, AND I KEEP MINDFUL OR WHAT GOES IN MY MOUTH ...<br /><blockquote>"So I am fat. And tired a lot. And stressed. And sometimes too busy <br />or tired or stressed to exercise regularly and eat right. <br />And there’s more. I am perimenopausal, and it is making me insane.<br />Everything is exaggerated: Bad food has bigger effects; good exercise <br />has less effect and PMS lasts twice as long..."</blockquote><br />IT IS ALL GETTING SO MUCH EASIER. IT IS ALL FALLING INTO PLACE. I AM AGING AND OKAY WITH IT. I REFUSE TO BE TOO BUSY, TIRED OR STRESSED TO NOT TAKE CARE OF MYSELF.<br /><blockquote>"So I am exhausted as I write this. And I think it is time. <br />Not to look like a model or fit a certain size. But to be truly <br />who I can be: a woman of infinite jest and energy. I miss that. <br />I need to get it back ..."</blockquote><br />I AM FREQUENTLY EXHAUSTED AFTER CROSSFIT TRAINING WITH CHRIS, OR RUNNING WITH THE GODDESSES, BUT IT IS SUCH A BETTER EXHAUSTION. I FEEL LIGHTER INSIDE AND OUT. I LOVE SHARING SHRIEKS OF LAUGHTER ALONG WITH THE KETTLEBELLS AND JUMPROPES WITH MY WORKOUT BUDDIES. YOU INSPIRE ME AND MOTIVATE ME EVERYDAY.<br /><br />Happy one year anniversary to everyone who started with Project BTWG last January! Thanks a millionth time to Chris for your guidance and support!<br />Here's to 2010 folks, let's rock it! :)Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-26654696227866386692009-11-30T18:29:00.000-08:002009-11-30T19:47:44.833-08:00Home for a first "post BTWG" holidayDriving to New Jersey for a week at my mom's house is always a mixed bag. I enjoy some of the time on the road, as it forces me to be still and allows me to catch up on book club reading. (Read Pat Conroy's newest, "South of Broad," and it was wonderful) This road trip threw us a little curve this time when our water pump busted in mid-pennsylvania. We spent nearly 6 hours at a Sears Auto outside Williamsport getting it fixed. Two kids, one dog, and one crowded mall - not my choice of Sunday outings but better than being stranded elsewhere on Route 80.<br /> Once there, I get into "Jersey" mode: Big family, lots of energy (teasing), lots of fun for the kids with their cousins, lots of food and booze. I went prepared - running shoes, weights, Project workouts and food journal. I used everything but the food journal (started again today) and overall I did OK. I ate everything on Thanksgiving (in surprisingly decent portions) and everything all over again on leftover Friday. Happily, my biggest fears proved false: I didn't swell to the size of Kelly pre-BTWG in two days, and I didn't eat to the point of moaning and flopping on the couch in a semi-comatose state!<br /> And I worked out. There's a 4-mile run near my childhood home that I always thought of as "the run those runners can do, but not me." It's 2 miles up, up, and up again (to my brother's high school) and two sloping miles down. I did the run, in the dim of 4 p.m. and a light, chilly rain. My glasses were so fogged and splattered on the way back that I could barely see the sidewalk, much less the bumps and cracks. I followed Matt's feet and we made it back over the railroad tracks before the next commuter train rolled in. I was glowing with accomplishment when we got back to mom's, only to have her retort in her thick Joisey accent "it really isn't 4 miles, it's less than that, you know ... " (okay Matt GPSed it, and it was 4, but you really don't argue with my mom these days...)<br /> And I enjoyed a lot of folks telling me that I look great and asking about my diet and exercise habits. It felt fantastic to socialize with my glass of red wine in my 2-size smaller jeans - until I broke the wine glass. It slipped, I caught it, and it slipped again, crashing to the white tile and scattering shards of glass and merlot-stained splatters. (No, it was my first glass - honest - a half glass even) As I wiped up the mess, I heard my mom saying that it wouldn't be a party if Kelly didn't break a glass. Amid the laughter, she followed that up with a family fave about how Kelly would always bound down the stairs as a child and then hit her head on the overhang above the stairway. (I did.) Now, this isn't a 'my mom is horrible' blog: Teasing comes natural to the Rotas, mom is no exception. <br /> But in that moment, I was taken back to the clutzy, chubby girl who could never that 4-mile run. I'm almost embarassed to admit how much it upset me. There was just something in the moment that wiped out my confidence, along with every crunch and counted calorie. I felt like a fake - okay, Kelly, just go upstairs and put some baggy sweats on and fill your plate again and maybe spill some on yourself for grins. You are not fit: that is all fantasy.<br /> It took some time to work this through (the long car ride back to Indy) and a lot of willpower not to give in to the old voice in my head that wanted to eat my way out. This is the demon I wrestle - will I ever believe that I am this woman who can lift heavy shit and run PRs? I want to, and most days I do ... It's just a week home again in NJ really put it all to the test.<br /> When we got back to our home, Matt and I unpacked, unwound, and registered for the mini-marathon. Tonight, I started Crossfit training again with Chris and loving every stinking minute! This is me, and I am grateful. Perhaps I can learn to be a fit clutz?Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-42584746188961487282009-10-31T05:08:00.000-07:002009-10-31T05:18:42.833-07:00PR in the pouring rain ...What fun! I ran like hell in the Run Like Hell 5K last night on the canal.<br />Start time: a very wet 7 p.m.<br />End time: Ran it in 30.09, a PR for me - 9.40 minute miles! (and about 32 ounces of water in my shoes and clothes!)<br />I really think Chris' Cross Fit training is the reason. Why?<br />1. I never would have said "what fun!" about running in the rain (or doing burpees) a year ago!<br />2. It's all about being a badass.<br />3. Chris never stops challenging me to lift something bigger, do something longer, believe I can be stronger...<br />... Next running challenge: Thinking about a 5K trail run at Ft. Ben on Nov. 14 - part of the DINO runs and, again, all new to me ... Anybody? Anybody? :)Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-20150812673749122422009-10-24T03:54:00.000-07:002009-10-24T04:02:59.275-07:00wanna get high?Now that I have your attention ... :)<br /><br />Who wants to get "high" on Friday, Oct. 30 at the ropes course in Holcomb Gardens at Butler University? Friday is an "open climb" from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., which means that anyone can put on a helmet and harness and climb up to the playground suspended 40 feet in the trees!<br /><br />Before you climb, you complete a brief "ground school," so you learn how to move safely once you are up! It is amazingly fun and challenging -- and even better when a group can make it together!<br /><br />Let me know if you are interested - you can get there as late as 4 p.m. and still get on the course. I would suggest two hours - 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., if you can - so you have time to try the different challenges! Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes you can climb in!<br /><br />I hope to see you there!Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-89914365642665508492009-09-19T08:59:00.000-07:002009-09-19T09:20:45.249-07:00My first tattoo, and other news<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM0-WFfUI5OJklon9sUxFNZguozgGm9abfOQCOKX8BwSWzwhAJTY-H0yLUE-_9G5aecvtWSOS9vZM9S4XSk6YB1ah6jsp-lECvOIMwnFaHz7i3fzivqZhb77bby347MuZk4McNqQvh75U/s1600-h/DSCN3230.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383210550047335250" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM0-WFfUI5OJklon9sUxFNZguozgGm9abfOQCOKX8BwSWzwhAJTY-H0yLUE-_9G5aecvtWSOS9vZM9S4XSk6YB1ah6jsp-lECvOIMwnFaHz7i3fzivqZhb77bby347MuZk4McNqQvh75U/s200/DSCN3230.JPG" /></a><br /><div>Hi all!</div><br /><div>I've been trying to upload a slideshow from the Go Girls Triathlon for all BTWGers to see, but no luck yet! But check out this photo -- and my profile -- fishes Alison, Sherri and me, at the start of the race! I think our smiles tell it all - what a great day! So much energy, so much fun -- get ready for next years, gals - because we are recruiting already! :) I kept my "ink" (Sharpie marker tattoo) as long as I could to remind of the complete joy of sharing health, support, community and Eagle Creek with an amazing group of people! As Sherri says, "WE ROCK!"</div><div> Sherri and I also shared the Race for the Races, a 5K to benefit IPS last Saturday, the 12th. It was a beautiful morning for a run and again, such a positive spirit to the event! My kiddos Emma and Sam walked the 1-mile family fun walk in 19 minutes and were quite proud of themselves!</div><div> It just strikes me: I am not meant to do this isolation! Whether it's ganging up to test the triathlon waters, meeting a friend to run with a cause, racing down the highway to make one of Chris' yoga classes - it's all good. And it all feels better, funner, and more alive, because I can share this with you! Yes, there are days I like to sweat alone, singing badly or counting loudly to the tunes on the shuffle. But misery is the only reason to love company: Company/companions/compadres are also for celebrating, challenging (ourselves, each other) and creating new stuff in each of us -- and who doesn't love new stuff??</div><div> Here's to sharing new stuff, in all its wildest and wackiest forms! </div><div> </div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-78699416982320294172009-08-18T13:40:00.000-07:002009-08-18T13:47:36.615-07:00Open water swimAllison and I had a chance to practice our strokes for the triathlon on Saturday in some beautiful lake water. (Big thanks to her friend for the invite!) We missed you, Sherri! It's pretty clear that the distance is not an issue, but swimming straight without lap-lane lines is tricky! I'm feeling a little anxious about that "unknown" aspect of the swim, that I really can't prepare for: Will it be really warm? How many times will I get kicked in the face? :)<br /> Still have not heard who is meeting at my house before the race, and who is coming afterward to celebrate! Please, come after yoga class, too, all are welcome! I just need a rough idea of how many, so I can have some food ready!<br /> Hope to see you Saturday!Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-38869882759794082872009-08-08T09:28:00.001-07:002009-08-08T09:36:26.600-07:00Quick update for Go GirlsDon Carr of Tuxedo Brothers called back and confirmed that you have to pick up your race materials in person with ID.<br /> You can pick them up at the Julian Center on Friday, Aug. 28, between 12 p .m. and 6 p.m. Julian Center is at 2011 N. Meridian. OR, you can pick up your stuff on race day, that morning.<br /> Please let me know if you want to meet at my house before the race. Matt will get all of us to Eagle Creek via van, so you won't have to worry about parking. We can go in shifts to fit the bikes in the van - the park is just minutes away from our house.<br /> TO ALL BTWGers: You are invited to a post-Go Girl party at my house! Please come, feel free to bring kids, spouses, etc. We'll have some brunch food and drink and the cornhole boards will be ready for play!Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-71552024391049992192009-07-28T08:05:00.000-07:002009-07-28T08:19:15.393-07:00true comic relief ...This morning, I had the guilty pleasure of reading the newspaper (and sipping a non-fat latte) while my children play capture the flag and learn to identify animal poop at camp. Okay, it was the Indy Star, so it didn't take long -- so I glanced at the comics to prolong the bliss ... And, out of the mouth of Peanuts came some words I needed to hear and share:<br /> Charlie Brown is snuggled in bed with Snoopy draped over him. "Sometimes I lie awake at night and I ask 'What can I do to keep my life from going by so fast?'"<br />His answer to himself, as Snoopy slumbers on" "Then a voice comes to me that says, 'try slowing down at the corners.'"<br /> I am so grateful for the time I have had this month away from work - so spend with my children, Matt, friends ... to slow down, even if only a few miles per hour, (for me, progress) ... to wonder/question "what is next?" And I think that whatever is ahead, part of the answer is slowing down at the corners -- the pointed places where changes and challenges abound.<br /> So, next week -- when school starts (can you believe it?) and work resumes, I'm going to try keeping it in first gear, at least for a while...Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-61041282940545422652009-07-21T06:40:00.000-07:002009-07-21T08:09:41.522-07:00...the best laid plans ...After yoga class last week, Matt and I headed to Franch Lick, for a night away and the Lyle Lovett concert. (Got the babysitter, the directions, the non-fat latte for the road ...) We got to West Baden Springs and Resort and were treated like royalty from the second we stopped the car. The valet parking, the bellhop with our bags, guiding us through this AMAZING domed atrium and telling us the history of the restored resort. Matt and I were entranced - remember, we don't get away much! :)<br />We get to the reservation desk and the smiling clerk says, "Oh, I am sorry, you are not booked here, you are booked at French Lick resort, down the road ... " We are quickly whisked around and back to our car and headed to the "other" resort, which reminded Matt of Wishard or Methodist Hospital. (For me, a night away is a night away, but I will admit some disappointment) ... When we get there, our reservations are screwed up and we are in a smoking room! No can do! It took awhile and we finally got a room with two beds and no smoke (very romantic, eh?)<br />We decide to bring some relaxation to us by checking out the spa and trying out a "mineral" bath from the famous Pluto spring at French Lick. (supposed to cure what ails you, and then some) ... It was actually a 20-minute soak in water that smelled like rotten eggs and looked worse than my well water - but we hadn't showered after Chris' class, so really it was all good ... :)<br />Next up, fancy schmancy dinner before the show ... we got to the fancy part, but never got to the dinner! We were seated at 6:30 and by 7:45 had to ask for the check (for drinks, bread and butter) and run to the show!<br />Okay, if you are a Lyle Lovett fan, the show made up for everything! He played for hours and he played blues, folk, gospel, bluegrass, all his fun stuff - I tried to attach a video, but no luck...<br />The rest of the weekend went off without a hitch! We worked out in the cool fitness center on Sunday a.m., and enjoyed the long ride home together. The kids were happy, and it was good to be home.Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-31009922411055659562009-07-15T18:22:00.000-07:002009-07-15T19:04:57.657-07:00seasonal sentiments ...As I read Rob's blog about his mother turning 80 and heading East to celebrate, I was struck by the realization of how seasonal my memories are -- how the changing seasons can stir up so many emotions. Two years ago, I drove Route 80 to NJ for a family beach vacation. All six of us children and families, plus mom and dad, stayed for a week at an amazing home in Long Island, in celebration of their 50th wedding anniversary. It was the last time I had with my dad, as he died very unexpectedly in August 2007. I miss him everyday, but more so in the heat of July, when the world smells of BBQ and chlorine, and the sun beats down until 9 p.m., and then the fireflies take over. It's like the bittersweet memories of my dad are captured in July - playing badminton, flying paper airplanes, drinking red wine and singing off-key - and I can feel them again, like a warm breeze. Dad would have been 75 this October and I am blessed that my last memories of him are so peaceful and fun. <br />I took a lot of time off this July, to reconnect with my kiddos and rejuvenate and ready myself for another year with IPS! Thusfar, I have fought the urge to fill every moment with action-packed adventures for the kids and long overdue home projects. And still the days whirl by, don't they? ... making way for more seasons, more memories ...<br />... so I've been swimming a bit to get ready for the Go Girl - how is everyone else doing? And I can't seem to get enough watermelon or tomatoes! They are both so delicious right now!<br />... time for bed, thanks for reading ...Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-87432461981441418542009-07-14T07:46:00.000-07:002009-07-14T08:10:49.693-07:00Where have all the (cowboys) bloggers gone?Where are you, fellow blogmates? I am loving Chris's salad ideas, but it also would be great to hear from anyone out there and how things are going ... ok,ok. I'll start ....<br /> Today is my daughter Emma's 8th birthday! Just typing that fills my heart and eyes. Can she really be 8 already? She is so excited, a few girls are coming over to sleep over, and that is a big deal for Em! (along with making sure her little brother is kept busy during her girl party!) ... This weekend, we hosted a reunion for many of the families we adopted with from China. It was crazy fun: Picture 11 girls running around the house all weekend, creating "shows" and playing basketball , painting the fence with chalk, and eating s'mores while the moms and dads cook, catch up and relax. I got a lot of questions about my weight and wellness -- and a lot of teasing, too! For the most part it was all in fun, but sometimes it felts like folks who are not happy with themselves were throwing some pretty pointed barbs! Mostly, I feel grateful for the folks I have in my life with whom I can share my passion for exercise, nutrition and overall well being. Thanks to all of you! :)Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-18613530498685516152009-06-30T18:59:00.000-07:002009-06-30T19:17:30.453-07:00What the ... ?It happens everytime ... I think I am in pretty decent shape, and then -- WHAM -- Chris sends a workout that kicks not just my ass but my entire quivering, can't-move-another-muscle body! :) What a challenge, what a different kinda hard - and, it's all good!<br /><<br />Okay, BTWGers! Here are your teams for the GoGirl Triathlon!<br />** Balance Through Wellness Gals 1 (BTWG 1): Kelly Rota-Autry, swim; Ginger Schonberg, bike; and Joyce Hertko, run ...<br />**Balance Through Wellness Gals 2 (BTWG 2) Alison Cole, swim; Margaret Fallin, bike; and Cindy Boll, run ...<br />** Balance Through Wellness Gals 3 (BTWG 3) Sherri DeCoursey, swim; Lisa Searles, bike; and Jen Johansen, run<br />When: Saturday, August 29, 2009<br />Where: Eagle Creek Park<br />Time: 8 a.m.<br />All proceeds to benefit the Julian Center, for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.<br />Come and join us in the fun!<br />Go Girls: Team registrations is $90, or $30 each. Some of you already paid, thanks! I am getting everything sent to my address, and will forward information and stuff as it comes in! Thanks for doing this, I think it will be a blast!Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-32894807636535840002009-06-04T15:15:00.000-07:002009-06-04T15:19:24.033-07:00team names for Go Girl triathlonGo Girls:<br />I was in the process of registering our teams and drew a blank for team names! We need 2 team names and I am not feeling real creative right now, so anyone, please, chime in with ideas.<br />I think we should use BTWG....we can be "Bridging the Wellness Gals??" "BTWG: It's a lifestyle!"<br />See, I know someone can do better than this!<br />We do have 2 teams for the event, and and all ideas are welcome!Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-25051098661310304542009-05-27T17:26:00.000-07:002009-05-27T17:31:52.740-07:00Way to Go Girls ...We have a team!<br />We need another team!!!<br />Did I mention the $$ all goes to the Julian Center, the domestic violence shelter for women and children in Indy?<br />Did I mention that the distances are not bad at all?<br />--500 meter swim - about 20 lengths in a 25 meter pool....<br />-- 10 mile bike<br />-- 3 mile run<br />Yes, support crew, and yes, I KNOW there are at least 3 more women out there that can do this!! (don't make me call you out by name! :) Come on, really, it's for the fun of it, for the charity, for the chance to try something completely new!! What have we got to lose?Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-60391560560591612312009-05-23T12:42:00.000-07:002009-05-23T13:02:27.710-07:00Hey BTWG women - why not?During our "summer school" meeting today, I was incredibly inspired by all of you who have committed to do future races/events. (Especially our fearless leader Chris!) I love exercising with folks and thought it would be really cool if we could get some BTWG teams out there having some fun.... So what do you think about a triathlon? As a team! Or maybe a couple teams? Take a look at this link, I think this one would be a fun one to shoot for: the Go Girl Triathlon at Eagle Creek Park!<br /><a href="http://www.tuxbro.com/go%20girl%20entry%20info.htm">http://</a><a href="http://www.tuxbro.com/go%20girl%20entry%20info.htm">http://www.tuxbro.com/go%20girl%20entry%20info.htm</a><br />I am game to swim, and have heard from at least one runner (right, Joyce?) and perhaps a few cyclists. I would be happy to register, etc., so if you are interested in joining in the fun, please let me know! <br />Happy holiday weekend to all!Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-11728815583713403522009-05-14T04:58:00.000-07:002009-05-14T05:03:03.826-07:00motivation ...<p>Hope you enjoy this!</p><p><a href="http://www.simpletruths.com/flash_files/ibCTHB/ibCTHB.html">http://www.simpletruths.com/flash_files/ibCTHB/ibCTHB.html</a></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-17275030255070115622009-05-09T18:03:00.000-07:002009-05-09T18:21:02.713-07:00Summer school challenges/goalsHey there!<br />Still sore, especially in my quads ... took my off day today! We celebrated an early Mother's Day with a hike through Eagle Creek with the kids and some prime family time. Tomorrow, my greatest challenge during summer school begins: I am a single mom for three weeks while Matt teaches in Wisconsin. I know so many women who do this so gracefully, that I am almost embarassed to complain. I know it will take lots of scheduling and no excuses to manage work, workouts, homework, meditation, and kid time solo. My daily intention will be patience and a sense of humor! :)<br />Other goals for summer school:<br />1. To read "The Chi of Running"<br />2. To run at least one fun race or event<br />3. To try some new healthy summer recipes<br />4. To find freedom in meditation and stillness<br />5. To keep focused AND enjoy the journey!<br />6. To be joyful and grateful for this time in my life<br /> Mother's Day to all you wonderful moms !Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-69219352615418273582009-05-08T18:37:00.000-07:002009-05-08T18:42:20.875-07:00Gotta say...I am not usually a hater.<br />But I am a bit of a hater right now - with the new strength and toning workouts this week!<br />I can barely type the words "push up," much less do another one!<br />My legs alternate between numbness and soreness after Thursday's squats and lunges!<br />I miss my fun little circuit ....<br />ok, ok, I don't hate it. It's just all new, and all challenging - anyone else feeling this?Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-42798705794103571702009-05-04T18:07:00.000-07:002009-05-04T18:09:25.166-07:00Summer school!Hey classmates!<br />Can anyone please email me the aerobic workout for Level II, month II? I got the others from Chris, but somehow did not get this one!<br />email is <a href="mailto:krotaautry@comcast.net">krotaautry@comcast.net</a> - much thanks!<br />Happy interval Monday!Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-84855329153723842722009-04-27T20:42:00.000-07:002009-04-27T21:02:36.955-07:00the jeckyll and hyde of it all ....Chris is always saying "find your edge." I think I am on mine right now. Yes, it is true, what I last posted: I do have more energy and lightness. Yet, at the same time, I have never been more depressed, anxious and angry. All those extra pounds were a pretty good protective barrier from the deep crap inside. Now the barrier is down, and I am not sure what to make of how I feel. I feel better when I look in the mirror, dress for work, run faster, lift more, eat less ... and I feel so much worse when I test my husband's patience and support for the millionth time. Or I distance myself from my kids or my friends --to regroup, to make sense of it all. <br />I am familiar with this edge, and have worked hard to dull its cut. Guess there is more work to be done. With gratitude, I'll work this edge with this community. I think there is a light at the end of that rabbit hole, Patti, I really do.Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-89441923542729428532009-04-26T06:50:00.000-07:002009-04-26T06:59:06.910-07:00great day for the race, and more ...Patti and Kelly at Race for the Cure.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmvCg3hmtxOfgHphtSt_dnMPWLyu6jr3GqB7hj8YyRMBUlmI7XqloTd8yyj4-Ut80CDqqymnkh-yzdt1-Rshsxs5dGci_Sqq9UCgWo88KuZ8YnbzYWdfRDduUELCCQ9Qvx8rR2sLgw9Dc/s1600-h/146.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5328997166919870034" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmvCg3hmtxOfgHphtSt_dnMPWLyu6jr3GqB7hj8YyRMBUlmI7XqloTd8yyj4-Ut80CDqqymnkh-yzdt1-Rshsxs5dGci_Sqq9UCgWo88KuZ8YnbzYWdfRDduUELCCQ9Qvx8rR2sLgw9Dc/s200/146.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I can't believe a week has gone by! The Race was an awesome event, very inspiring, very emotional! It was great to see Patti at the start - I am definitely motivated and inspired by all of you BTWGers! I hope we can find more events to try together as summer arrives!<br />One week from our fitness test -- and I am holding on fairly well! I feel so good about how far all of us have come with our fitness and nutrition goals - can I ever say "Thanks Chris!" enough? :)<br /> This is the first photo of me that I have liked in a LONG time! I look lighter and more energized and I feel that way MOST of the time! Namaste all!Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-71806138053468863912009-04-16T18:18:00.001-07:002009-04-16T18:21:13.043-07:00Hey Racers!If anyone wants to meet for a pre-race photo, how does 8:50 a.m. at the fountain sound? The fountain is on campus right about at the start of the race! I will be there and would love to see you!<br />If I miss you, have a beautiful run or walk and enjoy the day! What a great way to start it!Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-5746265556265223042009-04-13T17:46:00.000-07:002009-04-13T18:06:41.949-07:00More fun with food: the lessons just keep on coming!I really missed everyone at yoga this Saturday - the comraderie and the sweaty detoxification! This weekend brought me two days of eating and learning that I intend to use the rest of my life.<br /> On Friday night, Matt and I went out with another couple to Rock Bottom. I did a nice run that day, and I decided not to sweat the food (but still eat consciously) so I had a pint of beer and shared nachos with my girlfriend. By dinnertime, we were not too hungry, so we split another appetizer -- titan toothpicks, anyone? They are fried tortillas stuff with cheesy goo and spices. I ordered another beer, and by the time I had finished eating, and sipped my ale, my stomach was in pain. Bad pain, like the I-can't-breathe-deeper-than-my-ribs kinda pain. I had to go home, take Tums, Pepcid, eventually tea. It took a few hours to feel any relief. As much as it hurt, I was kinda psyched afterward: I truly have changed how and what I eat, and my body cannot handle the rich and gooey and fried stuff.<br /> I didn't eat much at all Saturday, and then Easter Sunday, we made a delicious feast of basa (fish), salad greens and blueberries, potatoes, lean meat, shrimp, asparagus and pie for our friends and families. I ate a little of everything -- much more than I ate Friday night, and - no pain, no problems. The difference was the food -- all homemade, full of good stuff, made with love. Amazingly, I also did not gain a pound. Wow, the beauty of real food! I love to eat out, but I am feeling a strong desire to "cook in," "eat in," and be more connected to our food. Or maybe I should just give up Rock Bottom ??!! :)<br /> Thanks for listening and I can't wait to see folks on Sunday!Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-51629327242860937982009-04-08T18:19:00.000-07:002009-04-08T18:29:38.025-07:00Excited about the Race for the Cure, et al...I'm so glad so many of us will be at this event together! I am going to register through the Healthplex, and if anyone else needs help with registering, etc., please let me know. Maybe next week, we can pick a spot to meet at the start! (Ginger, you will be with all of us in spirit!)<br /><br />OK, so I guess I didn't realize that this is a recovery week. I did my intervals, my strength and toning and then went to Chris' Yoga for Crosstraining class tonight. Youch! My inner thighs are still aching from squeezing a block between them while doing many, many core exercises. It was tough and terrific -- and best of all, I got to sweat through it with Paul! :)<br /><br />I may not see all of you Saturday so let me take this time to chime in about this great, living community - I thank you all for this time, for sharing your victories and vices, for being an amazing and inspiring group of folks! As my kids would say, "YOU ROCK!"Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550140669978990136.post-38293041023747059872009-04-06T19:19:00.000-07:002009-04-06T19:27:47.246-07:00Race for the CureIs anyone interested in being part of a BTWG group to run or walk this on Saturday, April 18?<br /> This was my first run event, and I used to do it every year before I had kiddos. It is crowded, is not fast, but it is really satisfying -- running for a worthy cause and experiencing the joy and sorrow of cancer survivors and their families.<br /> Please let me know if you are interested. I am working to find runs/events to keep me challenged, and I would love some folks to share the fun!<br />Happy Monday!Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13928051688856263350noreply@blogger.com4