Thursday, December 31, 2009

26 weeks belly shot and update...


Today I am officially 26 weeks or 6.5 months along! I cannot tell you how fast this time has gone by. It literally seems like yesterday I found out I was pregnant and now I am almost entering the 3rd trimester!!!

I have had several request for a belly shot so I figured now is a good time to start doing those every couple of weeks or so. I have so many photos of me during my pregnancy so far, but I wanted a close up of my ever growing belly!

I feel really good this morning in terms of my energy. I am heading out for a 3 mile walk in just a bit. I know it is not the long walks I have done in the past but at least it is something. My next apt is in 2 weeks and I am hoping for another good report from my doctor. I may have to lower my calories a bit if I am not walking so much in the third trimester but we will see what he says.

Now for the beloved weigh in! I am now showing a 15.6 pound gain! I am GROWING! I have gained 1.8 pounds in the past two weeks and I am perfectly happy with this. First of all, I am in that big growth phase where I am supposed to be packing on a pound a week. Then you add in Christmas and our anniversary trip and I have only gained .9 pounds each week, therefore I am right on track! Thank goodness the holidays did not put me over. If it did, it would not be the end of the world, but it does feel good to still be on track!

I found a good chart to track my weight gain. It shows you the high end and low end of typical pregnancy gains, then of course the average or middle ground where you should be. I am right in the dead center for 26 weeks! Yea! Would I like to be towards the bottom or the low end, well sure, who wouldn't, but I happy with where I am. I just need to keep going strong with my goals and stay on track, so far so good! I really do think I can stay within my range of 25 - 30 pounds.

Click HERE for a link to the chart for those who are pregnant and would like to use it!

Only 98 days left to go until my due date of April 8th! As I am writing this blog, my little girl is moving and kicking around, her usual morning exercise routine! She is saying a BIG hello to all of you!

I am now off to finish 2009 STRONG! A good 3 mile walk for me and my baby, drinking all my water, getting my fiber in and staying on track with my calories!

Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Rest day but still have goals to reach...

I am taking today off. Why? Well because I feel tried and it is a cold, rainy day here and it just feels right. I am going into town to run some errands and sit at Starbucks to read one of my baby books then try to get an appointment for a prenatal massage later before my husband comes home to paint. My husband told me to take it easy today and well if I am a good wife I need to do what he says, right?!?

Even though I will not be walking today, I still have goals I need to reach. Staying on track with my water, foods and so on are just as important as fitness, even more now so that I am feeding my little angel!

Goals for today 12/30 -

1. Eat at least 5 servings of fruits and veggies
2. Consume at least 35 grams of fiber
3. Consume at least 90 grams of protein
4. Drink at least 128 oz of water (1 gallon)
5. Log all foods and stay with in calories - 1,600 - 1,800

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Workout results 12/29

Today was wonderful. I was able to get in my 5 miles despite the bad weather here. I do think I am going to take tomorrow off, rest and take it easy. Tonight I am feeling tired and with all the errands I have to do around town tomorrow, I think that will be enough work. Then I can come back Thursday for another strong day. I am also going to get another massage tomorrow, I am due for another and those are just the BEST!!

Hope everyone has a lovely night! Thank you for your very sweet comments on my blog regarding our anniversary. It meant allot to me. You guys never cease to amaze me with your outpouring of support for every aspect of my life!

Total time and calories for the day -
Time - 99 mins - 5.12 mile walk
Calories burned - 462
Miles for the week - 13.12/30

Goals for today 12/28 -

1. Walk 4 miles - 5.12 miles DONE for today!!!
2. Eat at least 6 servings of fruits and veggies - Did not do only 2 servings today
3. Consume at least 35 grams of fiber - 56 grams DONE!
4. Consume at least 90 grams of protein - 146 grams DONE!
5. Drink at least 128 oz of water (1 gallon) - DONE!
6. Log all foods and stay with in calories - 1,800 - 2,000 - Just under range - 1,678 Calories consumed.

10 year anniversary trip!!

This is a VERY long blog so forgive me but I am just so excited! I think love should be celebrated! As I look back on our 10 years of marriage I cannot express enough the joy these years have brought me. Fairy tales do come true!



Our anniversary celebration started a few days before the actual date. My husband told me we were going on a trip to celebrate. He said it was close, about a 3 1/2 our drive and it was a romantic place with Christmas lights somewhere in Texas. I had no idea where we were going and my mind was going crazy with ideas. By telling me about the trip ahead of time I was thinking this would be my 10 year anniversary present, well he is sneaky and had another plan! He surprised me with a new diamond anniversary band!!! It is so beautiful, I just love it! The best part is there are 10 princess cut diamonds across the top to represent 10 years of marriage! I was crying so hard when he was putting it on my hand, it felt like 10 years ago when we first said "I do". It was a very special and intimate moment that I will treasure always.

The morning we were supposed to leave, I woke up thinking I was getting ready to go somewhere close, in Texas about 3 1/2 hours away. We sat by the fireplace and he handed me a black book and he simply said to me,"Life is short". When I opened the book there were 10 envelopes numbered 1 - 10 representing our 10 years together. I was only allowed to open one at a time because each envelop would revel what he had planned for each day and night of our trip. As I opened the first envelop and read the card I was in shock! It was a photo of the White House and it said Washington, District of Columbia, December 19 -22, 2009. Below this he wrote, " On this journey that is life, I can think of no better companion to accompany me than you. The wonderment that I see in your eyes as we travel the world together is one of the many things that set you apart from everyone else - and draws me closer to you."

He then told me that our flight was leaving in a few hours and we were heading to Washington DC for our anniversary which is somewhere I have always wanted to visit at Christmas! He thought of anything for this trip from afternoon tea at the Oriental to seeing Handel's Messiah at the Kennedy Center. We headed off to the airport, our luggage packed with snow boots and jackets ready for the snow that was awaiting us! Our flight was pushed back by a few hours but that was ok, we were on our way to D.C. and I was just so excited!

When we arrived at the airport we were told the flight was leaving the next day because of the snow storms hitting the East Coast. They looked for another option such as flying into New Jersey or even New York but all flights were canceled. We had a choice to try and fly in somewhere close or wait and have the trip postponed. I was crushed seeing the look on my husband's face who planned everything so beautifully. We had to make a choice and so we did. The airlines could get us on a flight to Boston and that was as close as we could get. So we went to get on the plane headed for Boston and once again, it was delayed, then delayed again....and again. Now we were loosing time and concerned about arriving in such a storm especially with me being pregnant. We were watching CNN and the reports from the roads were a disaster, the train service shut down and so were many of the attractions in D.C that we were heading to see.

We once again had to make a choice. So my husband called the airlines and said we wanted to change due to the weather then looked at me and said "Where would you like to go?" I said somewhere warm, and next thing I knew we were heading to California!!! They quickly pulled out our luggage and we were re-checked in for a flight to L.A. Our suitcase was filled with cold weather clothes so we drove back home from the airport, took out the boots and replaced them with a pair of sandals and we were on our way!

We arrived in LA and went straight to the rental car place hoping there was a car for us. We were able to get a car, a bright green convertible VW Bug! We were laughing SO hard! It was PERFECT! We wanted to drive up the cost of California in a convertible and what better way to do that in the middle of December than a bright green VW Bug! The first night we stayed in the Hollywood Hills and drove through West Hollywood with the top down taking in the sites. The next morning we started early driving up the Pacific Cost Hwy towards our next destination.

The night before, my husband had called The Four Seasons Biltmore resort in Santa Barbara and told them about our anniversary and the airport adventure, and then surprised me that we were on our way to Santa Barbara! A women on the plane to California told us about this resort and how romantic it was and now we were on our way!! The drive to Santa Barbara was beautiful. With the top down we listened to a mixed CD I made him of all our special love songs throughout the years. It was funny how something so completely unplanned turned out to be SO VERY romantic.

We arrived at the resort and it was a stunning! It was right off of the ocean in a small area, called Montecito that proved to be our favorite part of Santa Barbara. There were so many little shops and restaurants all decorated with lights and it had a very small town feel which we loved. For our stay, the resort provided us with a beautiful room in one of the villas, sparkling cider and chocolate covered strawberries along with a card wishing us a great stay and happy anniversary. During our stay at the resort we were able to see Kevin Costner, and Jeff Bridges was doing a 10 at 10 spot from the resort for the Jay Leno show on our anniversary so that was kind of cool, but hey, it is California right!

The stay in Santa Barbabra was perfect! It was relaxing and VERY romantic! We strolled around town, relaxed along the beach, mostly staying around the resort. We also took a drive up into the mountains behind the resort the morning of our anniversary that again proved to be one of those spontaneous adventures that ended up being priceless memory.

After the most amazing stay in Santa Barbara we headed south to Santa Monica where we stayed for a couple of nights in an old historic hotel right down from the Santa Monica pier overlooking the ocean. We where only staying in Santa Monica at night as during the day was spent driving out to other locations. Rodeo drive was definitely a highlight as it looked so lovely decorated for Christmas. We shopped and had a dessert at The Beverly Wilshire which overlooks the big Christmas tree off of Rodeo. It was nice sitting outside watching everyone pass by while at the same time, we were lost in each other in our own little world. I treated myself to a Brioche Bread pudding and oh my mercy me it was good! But hey, it was my anniversary trip after all!

While in Southern California visited Newport and Laguna Beach along with an amazing day trip to Palm Springs and Big Bear. This was a day to remember for sure. We arrived in the morning to the Palm Springs tram and much to our surprise there was snow at the top of all the mountains. That morning there was a windy advisory for the area and once we arrived I could see why. I have NEVER been in wind like this in my life, it was crazy! So one moment we were in a sand storm in the dessert of Palm Springs, then a few minutes later we were high above the mountains in the snow, then back down in the sand. It was incredible....only in California!

After a lunch in Palm Springs we headed to Big Bear. Once we had passed the wind and sand storms we put the top down and traveled up to Big Bear where it was COLD! There was snow all around and we started noticing cars pulling off to the side to put on snow chains. As I said before, we were in a convertible VW Bug so needless to say we did not have any chains. We kept going up and up but finally stopped as we were seeing too many people turning around. The California Highway Patrol was up ahead turning everyone away who did not have snow chains on because the ice was so bad further ahead. So we took some photos of us in the snow and headed back down. We then proceeded south and made it back to Laguna Beach for a beautiful sunset and what proved to be one of the most romantic nights of our trip.

While in the LA area we did see the standard sites of Hollywood and Beverly Hills, but we were mostly focused on slow walks, romantic drives up the coast with the top down at night and most of all, being with one another. I will forever hold in my heart the memories of this trip!

I cannot think of a better way to end this special blog than by sharing the tenth and final card my husband gave me. Inside the card was a photo of us from our wedding day and below were a few words he wrote from his heart and I will treasure always..."Time moves too fast, and before we knew it 10 years have somehow gone by. But when I look back at how we spent that time, I truly feel that we have seized the life God blessed us with and embraced it head on. We did it together, with you by my side, in my arms, and in my heart."

A few memories from our trip



































Monday, December 28, 2009

Workout results 12/28

Today was wonderful. My energy was high and I felt fantastic! During my walk I was doing SO great in the beginning. For a few minutes I walked a 12:01 pace UPHILL! It was amazing. Then of course I started getting super tired and I had to drop my pace down big time to a 15 mm. But it was wonderful while it lasted! I was missing my runs today seeing people out running and training for the upcoming marathons here. But I will have my turn soon, for now, I am walking for my baby and I which is far more important to me!

I had another great day in terms of my nutrition and when I finish dinner my fiber intake will be a whopping 88 grams for today! GOODNESS!! My calories are on track and so is my protein intake. I am having cravings though. BIG TIME! There are times where these commercials come on for pizza or something and my mouth starts to water. But I am staying strong and if it is not in the house, I am fine. That is key for me.

I hope to have another strong day tomorrow and end 2009 with a bang! Now after walking 8 miles today, doing 3 loads of laundry, a load of dishes plus raking leaves outside, I am zapped!

Workout for today - 8 mile walk

Morning walk - 5 miles
Time - 80 mins
Calories - 499

Evening walk - 3 miles
Time - 54 mins
Calories burned - 283

Total time and calories for the day -
Time - 134 mins
Calories burned - 782

Goals for today 12/28 - ALL GOALS REACHED!!!

1. Walk 6 miles - 8 miles DONE for today!!!
2. Eat at least 6 servings of fruits and veggies - 6 servings DONE!
3. Consume at least 35 grams of fiber - 88 grams DONE! WOW!
4. Consume at least 90 grams of protein - 125 grams DONE!
5. Drink at least 128 oz of water (1 gallon) - 1 gallon DONE but hoping to get in another 64 oz before bed time for a total of 1.5 gallons.
6. Log all foods and stay with in calories - 1,800 - 2,000 - DONE! 1,815 Calories consumed.

Goals for today...

I love writing my morning goals out for each day and posting them. During the day if I am slacking I hear this little voice that tells me I have announced what it is that I want to accomplish and I better stop procrastinating and GET IT DONE! It really helps me not only with my workouts but with my foods as well. We all have different things that motivate us but for me, blogging and being accountable does it!

Goals for today 12/28 -
1. Walk 6 miles - Morning walk 3 miles/ Post lunch walk 3 miles
2. Eat at least 6 servings of fruits and veggies
3. Consume at least 35 grams of fiber
4. Consume at least 90 grams of protein
5. Drink at least 128 oz of water (1 gallon)
6. Log all foods and stay with in calories - 1,800 - 2,000

Sunday, December 27, 2009

My goals for 2010!

"I shall shape my future. Whether I fail or succeed shall be no man's doing but my own. I am the force; I can clear any obstacle before me. Or I can be lost in the maze. My choice. My responsibility. Win or lose, only I hold the key to my destiny." - Og Mandino

I am getting a jump start on my 2010 goals! This next year is a HUGE one for me in many ways. First of all my life is about to change in the most amazing way!! We are excepting our little girl April 8th. Our life will never be the same and we cannot wait to meet her!

I have so many goals that I want to accomplish in 2010 and it will require a great deal of planning, patience and consistency on my part. It will not be easy to workout in the beginning as I will have to plan out my runs, swims and bike rides far more than before...BUT, it can be done! I have a gym here in my house with a treadmill so on days when I cannot get out with my baby jogger, I can hit the treadmill for a few miles. My husband has told me on weekends he can take our little girl for a walk in the stroller while I get some miles in outside either through running or biking. For my swims, I will have to hit the pools while she is in day care or my husband is watching her at night or on the weekends. The gyms here have a great day care center so that may be my best option once she is at least 4 months old or so.

Well, here it goes. I am stating it here as you know how accountability motivates me!!! My big goal for 2010 is to swim, bike and run/walk 2,010 miles!! That is right, I am reaching for 2,010 in 2010!! I CAN DO THIS!!!! Starting January 1st, my miles will begin. I will not be able to bike and run until after I give birth early April/late March but for now I can walk!

In terms of my weight training I am going back to what worked so well for me back in Russia where I lost all my weight...CATHE and P90X!!!! Both dvds were extremely helpful to me and it is time to start them again! Cathe's Butts and Guts and Drill Max are some of the best dvds I have used and let's face it, they are just so much FUN! I also have her STS series which is a very intense weight training program sure to get me back on track. P90x is just the best and results WILL HAPPEN with this program, trust me! I just love it!! So while my sweetie is napping or sitting with me in her swing or bouncer, I will be doing plyo and pushups . I am sure she is going to look at me like I am crazy but someday she will understand!

So here it goes! Here's to a year of amazing blessings, loosing weight and reaching goals!

Personal Goals for 2010 -
1. Do everything I can to be the best Mother and Wife I can be.
2. Focus on keeping a strong relationship with God and to read the Bible more
3. Continue to keep in touch with my family. Write more and call often.
4. Try every day to make a difference in a someones life.


Weight Loss and Fitness Goals for 2010 -
1. Swim, Bike and Run/Walk 2,010 miles in 2010!!
2. Complete at least 2 sprint triathlons
3. Return back to pre baby weight and loose an additional 10 pounds
4. Run the Dallas White Rock Half December 2010

Saturday, December 26, 2009

Fitness schedule for the week

We are back from vacation. It was a dream! I will write a blog all about it along with photos this week but for now I want to get back on track with my walking and fitness schedule....

Goals for this week -
1. Walk 30 miles
2. Consume at least 35 grams of fiber each day
3. Drink at least 128 oz of water a day
4. Burn 2,500 calories
5. Log and stay within calories each day

Sunday - 3 miles
Monday - 6 miles
Tuesday - 4 miles
Wednesday - 6 miles
Thursday - 4 miles
Friday - 6 miles
Saturday - 3 miles

Thursday, December 17, 2009

6 month checkup....

Today was my 6 month doctors appointment and it went very well. The appointment was like others where they begin with checking the heartbeat with the Doppler. Well as usual our little angel was kicking up a storm! They were having a hard time getting a reading as she was moving so much, this lasted SO LONG! She would not stay still. Then they found a steady reading to get her heart rate recorded and she started kicking the Doppler! LOL The nurse would press down and she would kick back! Needless to say her reflexes and movements are great! I do think she will come out running! I better start shopping for a little pair of Nike's and a Just Do It T-shirt!

My uterus is measuring perfectly and they are keeping the due date as of now for April 8th. So only 112 days so go!!! I am officially 6 months pregnant today! My weight is also going well. This morning I weighed in and I was SOOO happy to see a total gain of 13.8 lbs! Which was a bit lower than my goal! I have really been watching my sodium levels and increasing my fiber and it seems to be helping.

My doctor gave me the biggest compliment when we were talking about weight gain and all my walking. He said I should teach a class to pregnant ladies on how to have a healthy pregnancy! WOW! I was so honored! He complimented me on my motivation and said to stay the course and keep doing the same thing I have been doing. I may need to lower my miles from week to week depending on how I feel but, I can continue walking as much as I am able to.

This week is an easy one for sure as my energy has been off. I am wondering if I was fighting off a bug or something. Regardless, my miles are FAR off track for this week but I will come back next week swinging I promise! I do not want to get sick for our weekend getaway we have planned for our 10th wedding anniversary. I need to just watch my foods this weekend while we are away and not go crazy! Treats are fine, great in fact but I have to watch my portions and just remember my little princess needs good nutrition....with a few treats here and there for our anniversary!

My next appointment is January 14th, when I will be 28 weeks/7 months. My goal is to weigh in and show a gain of 16.5 - 17 pounds at 7 months.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Workout results 12/15

Goals achieved 12/15 -
1. Drink at least 128 oz of water a day - 128 oz DONE!
2. Complete scheduled workout for each day - Did not do
3. Log all foods and stay within range - DONE! 1,759 calories consumed
4. Consume 35 grams of fiber a day - DONE! 47 grams consumed
5. Consume 80 grams of protein a day - DONE! 129 grams consumed

After posting my blog from yesterday I took a bath and went to bed, so I did not get my workout in after all. I needed the rest and I have to listen to my body. Today I am doing the same. My goal is to walk 3 miles, nothing more. I will not meet 30 miles for this week and I am ok with that. So here is the new schedule for the week....

Sunday - Rest
Monday - 5.31 miles - DONE
Tuesday - Rest
Wednesday - 3 miles
Thursday - 6 miles
Friday - 6 miles
Saturday - leaving for a weekend getaway for our 10th wedding anniversary - Rest

New Goal for this week - 20 miles

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Super sleepy day for me but my little girl was VERY active!

This morning I had a doctors apt, nothing major just my normal checkup at the dermatologist. After for some reason my energy started going down hill fast. I came home and was exhausted as if it was night or something. I crashed and woke up this evening around 5:00 and now nothing has been done for the day! I drank most of my gallon of water because I started it early, but my walk, well, that did NOT happen. I am going to go out for a few miles tonight with my husband but it will not be the 6 miles I was hoping for. That is ok, tomorrow is a new day and obviously my body was tired and needed rest for some reason. Yes, I know I am pregnant but this was very out of the blue for me. I have had periods of fatigue but nothing like this. So now after sleeping the whole day I feel good but really I could lay down and sleep through the night, but I do need to get up so I can eat. This was just one really hard day for me.

On a lighter side my little girl was so active this morning and I felt her body move on the surface of my belly for the first time! I have been feeling surface kicks for weeks now but I have never felt with my hands on my belly her squirming and total body movements, if that makes sense. I was amazing, I wanted to both laugh and cry and the same time I could not believe it! It was as if I was feeling her rub up against my hands which were on my belly. It was a feeling that is hard to describe! I love her so much and we have not even met yet and every day she grows inside of me, I feel I grow to love her more.

I am off to get some food for my little angel. I promise to log my calories, walking and so on as I do everyday tomorrow morning. Despite being a total sleepy head today I will accomplish something! Well, really I think I already have. I have given my body rest and when pregnant, that is an important thing!

Monday, December 14, 2009

Workout results 12/14

Short blog tonight, getting ready to eat dinner then take a bath and rest. I am once again totally exhausted in a good way! I pre-logged my dinner and dessert for tonight to stay on track with my calories.

Dinner - Cranberry beans, 1 high fiber whole wheat wrap with 1 cup of chicken shredded over pico de gallo and sour cream.
Dessert - 1/2 large apple with 1/2 cup of plain yogurt and Bob's Red Mill high fiber cereal on top.

Goals for today -
1. Drink at least 128 oz of water a day - 128 oz DONE!
2. Complete scheduled workout for each day - 5.31 miles DONE!
3. Log all foods and stay within range - DONE! 1,825 calories consumed
4. Consume at least 35 grams of fiber a day - DONE! 62 grams consumed....WOW!
5. Consume at least 80 grams of protein a day - DONE! 125 grams consumed

Workout for today - Walked 5.31 miles
Time - 94 mins
Calories burned - 549

Weekend report and next weeks schedule...

This weekend was wonderful, my father and husband worked on the nursery and bathroom and the room is officially PINK! We used a soft pink, very light and it looks fantastic! We moved the recliner, ottoman, crib and changing table into the room and it transformed instantly into a little girls room! So cute! We still have work to do on the room but the good news is that we are ahead of schedule and everything will be complete by the time our angel arrives.

I was able to reach my 30 mile mark for last week despite terrible weather this weekend. I did not walk as long as I would have liked but my mom and I had a wonderful time together. It was cold and rainy here and I wanted to limit my time outside so that I would not get sick. Here is the breakdown of my stats from this weekend and my totals from last week -

Friday - Slow 2.5 mile walk
Time - 47 mins
Calories burned - 246

Saturday - 2.03 mile walk
Time - 37 mins
Calories burned - 194

Totals for the week -
Miles - 30.31
Time - 522 mins
Calories burned - 3,090! Yea!

Now I am once again looking ahead to this week. Thursday is my 6 month checkup at the doctors. I was pleased to see a drop in the scale this morning. Maybe it is from sodium or just normal bloating during pregnancy that made my weight higher on Friday, but my weight dropped back this morning to where I wanted it to be this week, a total gain of 14.6 pounds. I was VERY happy with this! I wanted to be at 14.5 for this week so I am almost right now track.

For my Thursday weigh in I would really like to keep it at 15 - 15.5 pounds. I think if I continue to walk and eat well this week I should be ok but then again I am in the big growth period so I may see I a gain of a pound this week, we will just have to wait and see. All I can do is my best. I have increased my fiber count and it really has helped. I have always consumed a great amount of fiber but I need even more. I started using a high fiber raw cereal from Bob's Red Mill. That is basically different wheat germs, oat bran and flaxseed together for a massive 10 grams of fiber for only 1/3 cup! I also discovered Cranberry beans. They are like pinto beans except they contain 9 grams of fiber for only a 1/4 cup serving! They taste fantastic. We are having them tonight along with brown rice.

For this week my goal is once again to reach 30 miles. I am trying to get in as many miles while I can. I know that during my 8th month I will probably NOT feel like walking 6 miles so the more I can do now while I can the better. I wish I started logging my miles when I first became pregnant but I only started logging at 4 months. It has made the biggest difference for me. I am one who is driven by setting goals. Doing this gave me something to reach for each week and while I cannot exercise to the level that I once did, it gives me a goal to strive for each day. To me, that is what making the most of out life is all about. Goals can be whatever we make them, the key is doing what we can each day to reach them! I am dealing with another stormy day today as well as more rain tomorrow so I may have to take my walking inside. Whether on the treadmill or the trails outside, I will make it happen!

Goals for today -
1. Drink at least 128 oz of water
2. Complete scheduled workout
3. Log all foods and stay within range
4. Consume at least 35 grams of fiber
5. Consume at least 80 grams of protein

Schedule for the week - 12/13 - 12/19
Sunday - Rest
Monday - 4 miles
Tuesday - 5 miles
Wednesday - 6 miles
Thursday - 6 miles
Friday - 6 miles
Saturday - 3 miles
Total miles for the week - 30

Friday, December 11, 2009

Weekend schedule and 23 week update...

My parents are coming to see us in a few hours. Here is the schedule for this weekend. I will report back on Monday my stats for the week as well as next weeks fitness schedule. My 6 month doctors appointment is next Thursday!! Praying for another good report. I have been trying so hard to stay on track with my eating and my exercise, so I hope it pays off! My weight continues to grow at a steady rate, now about 1 pound a week, despite all of my activity and efforts. Looking at all I have done, I am perfectly happy with this, my baby is healthy and growing...and so am I! It is just so important for me to stay on course! I have been walking, staying active and eating very well so if I look at all areas of my life, I really do feel that I am doing all I can. I am 23 weeks pregnant and this morning I weighed in showing a 15 pound gain. My goal is to be at 15.5 - 16 pounds for my weigh in next week.

I have now walked almost 26 miles this week. My goal is to reach 30 miles by Saturday. Today my goal is to walk another 4, then on Saturday walk at least 3 miles. I will surpass my goal if I do this!

Again, I will report back on Monday how the weekend went. For now, I am off to walk more and do that last bit of shopping before my parents arrive.

Hope everyone has a blessed weekend!

Weekend Fitness Schedule -
Friday - walk 4 miles
Saturday - walk 3 miles
Sunday - walk 2 miles

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Workout results 12/10

Short blog today. My parents are coming tomorrow to see us and the baby! I worked hard to get done everything I needed to do for their visit along with walking my miles and now I am truly zapped and ready for bed! It is only 6:15! Ha! It feels good to have done so much in a day.

Goals for today -
1. Drink at least 128 oz of water a day - 128 oz DONE!
2. Complete scheduled workout for each day - 7.53 miles DONE!
3. Log all foods and stay within range - DONE! 1,837 calories consumed
4. Consume at least 30 grams of fiber a day - DONE! 48 grams consumed
5. Consume at least 80 grams of protein a day - DONE! 114 grams consumed

Workout for today - Walked 7.53 miles
Time - 127 mins
Calories burned - 780

Breakdown of miles -
Morning walk - 4.01 miles
Post lunch walk - 1.27 miles
Evening walk before dinner - 2.25 miles
Total - 7.53 miles

Totals for the week so far -
Miles - 25.78/30
Time - 428 mins
Calories burned - 2,650

Wednesday, December 09, 2009

Workout results 12/9

Wonderful day, but I am so tired and ready for bed! I woke up this morning with a ton of energy and I did not let it go to waste. I walked 5 miles this morning, then went for a prenatal massage (which was amazing!) and by the time I came back to the house, I was totally exhausted. I wanted to go out for another 2 miles tonight after dinner but my body was telling me to stop. I listened and now I am resting. Tomorrow is a new day with new goals to reach, but for now I am proud of how well I have done.

Goals for today -
1. Drink at least 128 oz of water a day - 128 oz DONE!
2. Complete scheduled workout for each day - 5 miles DONE!
3. Log all foods and stay within range - DONE! 1,826 calories consumed
4. Consume at least 30 grams of fiber a day - DONE! 30 grams consumed
5. Consume at least 80 grams of protein a day - DONE! 130 grams consumed

Workout for today - 5 mile morning walk
Time - 84 mins
Calories burned - 507

Totals for the week so far -
Miles - 18.25/30
Time - 311 mins
Calories burned - 1,870

Goals for today...

Last night we did in fact go to dinner, see I told you I know my husband! We picked up the crib then went to the Macaroni Grill. I was bound and determined to be good and so I ordered the Honey Balsamic Chicken and along with half of a house salad. Then we came home and I started to log my dinner and was in shock, that dish has over 1,000 calories!!! I did not eat all of it but still I consumed 1,175 calories for dinner when you include the bread and salad. WOW! I am so happy I walked those 8 miles! I was not expecting that big of a dinner. I am so happy that I did not get one of the many cheesy, yummy pastas they have there I have no idea how many calories that would have been!

Anyways, I promised last night on my blog I would update my stats after dinner as so here are the final day totals from yesterday....

Daily Goals from 12/7 -
1. Drink at least 128 oz of water a day - 128 oz DONE!
2. Complete scheduled workout for each day - 8.2 miles DONE!
3. Log all foods and stay within range - (1,800 - 2,000) - Did not do - 2,287 calories consumed
4. Consume at least 30 grams of fiber a day - Only 25 grams consumed
5. Consume at least 80 grams of protein a day - DONE! 127 grams consumed

Goals for today!
1. Walk 4 miles this morning then another 2 miles tonight for a total of 6 miles!
2. Make sure I get all my water in - 128 oz at least
3. Stay on track with my calories, NO macaroni grill...LOL

Reach high today!! Blessings to you all. I am off to walk my 4 miles and start reaching these goals! This day will only pass me by once, I intend to make the most of it! Whatever your goals are....GO FOR IT TODAY!!!

Tuesday, December 08, 2009

Workout results 12/8

I did really well today but I will tell you this, I am TIRED! I mean totally exhausted, but in the best way you can imagine! I feel like I really pushed it and worked hard, reached my goals and now I can rest in knowing that I did my best! I love that feeling. I walked 8.2 miles today!

It is crunch time for me in many ways. First the holidays are here and I need to continue to watch my foods and stay active or I can see my weight gain getting out of control VERY easily. Second, this weight gain time for the baby. This morning I received 2 emails, one from What to Expect and the other was from Fit Pregnancy. It was a email regarding my 23rd week which is this week, here is what it said.....

From Fit Pregnancy, "Weighing in at a pound, and at eight inches long, your baby is starting to really look like a baby! You can compare her size to a box of sugar or a bag of coffee beans. Her skin is filling out as the first layers of fat are deposited and her muscles grow. During the next month, her weight may almost double."

What to Expect, "At eight inches and slightly over a pound, your baby is the size and shape of a small doll when you are 23 weeks pregnant. (But then, you already knew that you were carrying a living doll, didn't you?) This week marks the beginning of some serious weight gain. Your baby's weight in the next four weeks alone should double (and you may feel as though yours is too)."

Ok, so I knew this was coming, and I love that fact that my baby girl is going to grow so much over the next 4 weeks. Now, if I continue walking and eating well I can easily handle the one pound a week suggested weight gain at this point. However if I give into holiday treats too much and get lazy, that one pound a week could easily turn into a 2 pound a week gain. My overall goal has always been to gain 25 - 35 pounds during this pregnancy, as of now I am on track to gain 25 or so but that is if I continue to stay on track! I have to treat this as if I was training for one of my triathlons. I make goals, I follow a specific plan and I work hard to do my best.

Now having said this, I am resting tonight after my walk today and tomorrow I am treating myself to another prenatal massage! I deserve it!

We are going tonight to pick up our crib! They called yesterday and said it was in. Here is a picture of it along with the color of pink we are doing for her walls!



Now, if I know my husband he will want to go out and celebrate after we pick up the crib! He celebrates every moment, I love it! So I will have to come back later and edit my calories as I have not logged dinner. Calories posted are those consumed before 4:38 pm....

Daily Goals from 12/7 -
1. Drink at least 128 oz of water a day - 128 oz DONE!
2. Complete scheduled workout for each day - 8.2 miles DONE!
3. Log all foods and stay within range - (1,800 - 2,000)- 1,155 calories consumed so far...
4. Consume at least 30 grams of fiber a day - will report back after dinner
5. Consume at least 80 grams of protein a day - will report back after dinner

Today's workout - 8.2 mile walk!!!
Time - 139 mins
Calories burned - 840

Breakdown of walk - I had to take water and bathroom breaks! What can I say, I am almost 6 months pregnant and I drink a ton of water! Ha!
AM walk - 2.3 miles
Lunch
Afternoon walk - 2.08 then water break followed by another 2.2 miles
Late Afternoon walk - 1.6 miles for a total of 8.2 miles

Workout results 12/7

Yesterday was a busy day for me and today is no exception. We have company coming over for dinner tomorrow night and then family coming to stay for the weekend. In addition to preparing for guest, I was out Christmas shopping yesterday. Between trying to find parking, the long lines and time searching for the perfect gift, my day started slipping away. I was able to get in a good 5 mile walk. I did 1 mile early in the morning and finished my miles with a good 4.05 mile walk mid afternoon. I did however fall short of reaching my 6 mile goal. I do wish that I could count all my walking around the mall towards my miles but that is just normal daily activity that we all need. My miles are EXTRA as they should be, so I did not reach my goal for yesterday but I was VERY active!

Today I am going to try my best to make up the miles and get in a good 7-8 miles if possible! I still have to head out to do some shopping as well as start cooking for tomorrows dinner but I think I can squeeze in a good long walk. I am planning my day right now and I think it helps with managing time. Making a to do list and planning is key for me and something I enjoy doing each morning. I am now off to do the first 3 miles or so of my walk, then off to Walmart, then back home for round 2 of walking!


Daily Goals from 12/7 -
1. Drink at least 128 oz of water a day - 90 oz done
2. Complete scheduled workout for each day - 5.05 miles done
3. Log all foods and stay within range - (1,800 - 2,000)- 1,877 calories consumed - DONE!!
4. Consume at least 30 grams of fiber a day - only 20 grams consumed
5. Consume at least 80 grams of protein a day - 99 grams consumed

Workout for the day 12/7 -
5.05 mile walk (in the rain!)
Time - 88 mins
Calories burned - 523

Sunday, December 06, 2009

Workout results 12/4 and 12/5 along with this week's goals...

I reached my goal for this past week! I feel fantastic and my baby girl is kicking like crazy this morning, telling me she is ready to join me on a run really soon!

Here are my totals from this past week -

Miles - 30.18 - DONE!
Time - 521 mins - DONE!
Calories burned - 3,078 - DONE!

Workout results - 12/4
3.6 mile walk - 15:41 mm pace
Time - 56 mins
Calories burned - 351

Workout results 12/5 -
Easy slow 2 mile walk
Time - 35 mins
Calories burned - 183

Goals for this week - 12/6 - 12/12
1. Drink at least 128 oz of water a day
2. Complete scheduled workout for each day
3. Log all foods and stay within range - (1,800 - 2,000)
4. Consume at least 30 grams of fiber a day
5. Consume at least 80 grams of protein a day

Fitness schedule for this week - Goal of 30 miles
Sunday - Rest or light 2 miles
Monday - 6 miles
Tuesday - 6 miles
Wednesday - 6 miles
Thursday - 4 miles
Friday - 4 miles
Saturday - 4 miles

Thursday, December 03, 2009

Workout results 12/3

I am posting my results super early today as I have to get started on hanging the garland outside in preparation for my husband coming home to help with the rest of the lights. Finally, the front yard will be done! Yea! Then we are heading out to get the last tree! A live Douglas fir for the living room. I am excited about this because while we were living in Russia we only had a fake tree! I now have 2 trees up so far but need to get the final 2 up and decorated as I am running late this season.

My day was a good one. Great in fact! I am really excited as it seems we are going to have SNOW here tomorrow! Yes, snow in Texas! We live north of Houston in a city called The Woodlands. For the northern counties, including us, they were saying there is a possibility for up to 2 inches of snow! I am just so excited you have no idea! You would think after living in Siberia for 3 years I would have had my fill of snow but NO! I just love it!

I am going to work on my garland now but I wanted to say another BIG thank you for all your comments on my blogs. I try and reply to them but if I miss you know that I read each and every comment. It makes my day!

I have prelogged my dinner for tonight so I can stay on track with my calories. I am craving a weird combo for dinner but what can I say, I am pregnant! So we are having Hodgson Mill's Whole Wheat pancakes with a side of scrambled egg whites with one egg yolk. Basically breakfast for dinner!

Goals for today -
1. Drink at least 128 oz of water - 132 oz so far this afternoon....DONE!
2. Stay within calorie range - DONE! 1,756 calories consumed.
3. Walk 6 miles - DONE! I did 7.03!!!!
4. Consume at least 70 grams of protein - 87 grams DONE!
5. Consume 35 grams of fiber - 43 grams DONE!

Workout for the day - 7.03 mile walk
Time - 116 mins
Calories burned - 712
Calories consumed - 1,756

Totals for the week -
Time - 430 mins
Calories burned - 2,544
Miles - 24.58/30

Wednesday, December 02, 2009

Workout results 12/2

Goals for today -
1. Drink at least 128 oz of water - 162 oz DONE!
2. Stay within calorie range - DONE! 1,854 calories consumed.
3. Walk 6 miles - Did not do, only walked 4.05
4. Consume at least 70 grams of protein - 104 grams DONE!
5. Consume 35 grams of fiber - 44 grams DONE!

Workout for the day - A slow 4.05 mile walk
Time - 74 mins / 18:23 mm avg pace
Calories burned - 442

Where on earth was my energy today? It just disappeared! I am doing well this week but for some reason today was just not my day. I was set to do 6 miles but I only managed to get in just over 4 miles. I gave it my best effort but between the cold and how I felt, I just could not reach my goal for today. The good news is that I ate very well and got in all my water, so it was a successful day overall. I am now heading to bed and hopefully tomorrow will be better! Here are my stats for the week so far....

Totals for the week -
Time - 314
Miles - 17.55/30
Calories burned - 1,832

Tuesday, December 01, 2009

Workout results 12/1

Goals for today -
1. Water - Drink at least 128 oz - 135 oz DONE!
2. Fitness - Walk 6 miles - DONE!
3. Food - Intake 1,800 - 2,00 calories - 1,906 DONE!
4. Fiber - at least 35 grams - 30 grams DONE!
5. Protein - at least 70 grams - 110 grams DONE!

Daily results -
Time - 104 mins
Miles - 6.03 / 17:15 mm avg. pace
Calories burned - 614
Calories consumed - 1,906

Totals for the week -
Time - 240
Miles - 13.55/30
Calories burned - 1,390

Goals for today...

Yesterday was wonderful, SO happy I worked hard and got in my 7 miles!!! Now for today I am set for 6 miles, I CAN DO THIS!!!!! I just need to focus and not get sidetracked with Christmas decorating and so on....

I am off to walk this morning! Hope everyone has a blessed day! Here is what I am aiming for today....

Goals for today -
1. Drink at least 128 oz of water, but aim for 192 oz - 1.5 gallons.
2. Stay within calorie range - (1,800 - 2,000) and log all foods
3. Walk 6 miles
4. Consume at least 70 grams of protein
5. Consume 35 grams of fiber

Monday, November 30, 2009

Workout results 11/30

Goals for today -
1. Water - Drink at least 128 oz - 169 oz DONE!!!
2. Fitness - Walk 6 miles - 7.02 miles DONE!
3. Food - Intake 1,800 - 2,00 calories - 1,911 DONE!!
4. Fiber - 35 grams - 25 grams DONE!
5. Protein - 70 grams - 136 grams DONE!

Daily results -
Time - 121 mins
Miles - 7.02
Calories burned - 720
Calories consumed - 1,911

Totals for the week -
Time - 136
Miles - 7.52/30
Calories burned - 776

Ultrasound photos of our precious baby!!

Well, I think it is safe to say I have made you wait long enough....

WE ARE HAVING A BABY GIRL!!!!!


Profile of our baby girl at 19 weeks...

This is a tremendous blessing for us! We are so very excited and overwhelmed with joy! When we found out November 16th, it was one of the greatest moments we have ever experienced. The ultrasound tech asked us if we wanted to know, and of course we said YES! OH YES! She started off taking measurements of the baby and checking the various organs and so on. Then out of nowhere, she said, "It's a girl" We just started crying as we were so happy. The best news came when all of the measurements and details of the anatomy came back healthy and right on track. This was our deepest prayer, to have a healthy, strong baby...boy or girl. That evening we went out to celebrate with a nice dinner. Before leaving, I gave my husband a present. A small pink pillow with a chocolate brown and white ribbon on top. Monogrammed on the pillow, it read..."My prince did come and his name is Daddy." My husband cried and the look on his face was one I will not forget. He was having a little girl, or his little princess as he would say.

Over the Thanksgiving holiday we were able to tell our family the good news. Everyone was very excited and it served to be a wonderful reminder of all we have to be grateful for this year. My Mom and Dad were the first to know and we presented them with a picture frame with our baby girls ultrasound photo inside. The frame was white with a border of pink and white with a stroller and baby items on the frame. When my Mom opened the box her first word were, "It's pink!" Then she and my father started to cry. I know this was a moment they have waited a long time for and it was so very special to us all.

Now for the fun details! Nursery decorating, shopping etc....

Since finding out we have been on a pink shopping spree! I have found some of the cutest outfits and things for her room. This weekend we started our registry. Now, I have to say that is has been a blast! We started off registering at Pottery Barn Kids, then Babies R US and finally Target. Babies R US has a great selection but there are not as many around compared to all the Targets, so we looked there and we were pleased with the baby products they carry. Yesterday we bought our baby girl her crib and changing table. We love the crib so much! It is a sleigh crib in antique white, perfect for a little girl!

We are starting to look at colors and themes for the nursery. We found a very light pink we like for the room. With this we are thinking of doing a washed/faux antique look to the wall faint stencil patterns scattered throughout the room and or above chair railing. We love to decorate so this quite fun for my husband and me. We bought a book on nursery design so it will be fun to see what we can come up with!

I have to say that since we found out it was a girl I have been watching all my favorite movies and shows I had as a child. Everything from Little house to Pollyanna, Mary Poppins to Anne of Green Gables...I just love the idea of having a little girl! We are just in a state of joy that I cannot explain. We feel blessed, truly blessed in every way. I thank God each and every moment for my healthy baby girl. I hope to be a good Mom, one in which she can look to for guidance, love and support...always and forever.

I am now 21 weeks along and going strong! I feel wonderful. I just want to soak up each and every moment! Thank for all for sharing this precious journey with my family. Your support motivates me each day to keep going strong! Many thanks for all your emails and comments....

Blessings! My little girl and I are now off to do some more Christmas shopping!

Workout schedule for the week...



"Our goals can only be reached through a vehicle of a plan, in which we must fervently believe, and upon which we must vigorously act. There is no other route to success." Stephen A. Brennan

Goals for this week -
1. Drink at least 128 oz of water, but aim for 192 oz - 1.5 gallons.
2. Stay within calorie range - (1,800 - 2,000) and log all foods each day.
3. Walk 30 miles
4. Consume 70 grams of protein each day.
5. Consume 35 grams of fiber each day.

Sunday - Rest day - easy .5 mile walk - DONE!
Monday - 6 miles
Tuesday - 6 miles
Wednesday - 6 miles
Thursday - 3 miles
Friday - 6 miles
Saturday - 3 miles

Goals for today -
1. Water - Drink at least 128 oz - 33.8 oz done so far this AM....
2. Fitness - Walk 6 miles - 2.55 done this AM so far...
3. Food - Intake 1,800 - 2,00 calories

Baby blog to come later this morning....PROMISE!!!

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

A thankful heart, my 21 week pregnancy update and goals for the day...

After yesterdays amazing 10 mile walk, I am setting a goal of walking 3 miles. We are driving up to Dallas today and my parents will FINALLY get to find out the sex of their grand baby on the way!! We are looking forward to a lovely dinner and special time with them as we present them with a gift that will tell them if it is a boy or girl!

My pregnancy is still going well and I feel great. My appetite is strong, make that very strong but I find logging my foods and making goals each day a wonderful way to control cravings and overall daily consumption. I have to keep this mindset this week as we attend 2 family Thanksgivings. The fist is at my in laws. For those who do not know my husband is half Thai. His Mom is from Thailand and makes the most amazing food! So for Thanksgiving instead of the traditional turkey and dressing, she does a Thai feast! Thai food is one of my favorites so I am going to have to be every aware of how much I consume! I am doing so well and I want to be able to stay on track despite being pregnant over the holidays.

My goal of gaining 1/2 a pound a week is soon to change. In this phase of the pregnancy it is not uncommon to see weight gains of 1 lb a week. I received an email from What to Expect and other pregnancy sites and they said this week my baby will be the size of a banana! I need to really stay focused as I enter into this next phase of the pregnancy which is weight gaining time! If I can keep a steady .5 - 1 lb a week, I will be on track for my pregnancy.

I hope everyone has a blessed Thanksgiving! I know this year my husband and I are so grateful for many things. It has been an incredible year for us. After moving back from Russia in February of this year, we were given the biggest blessing of all. In July we created a new life, our precious baby. This has been the most amazing and life changing event in our life together and it comes at a beautiful time for us. This December, we will celebrate 10 years of marriage and this anniversary will hold a very special meaning to us, unlike any other.

I am also thankful for life itself. Every morning I wake up, take a breath and give thanks to God for another day to live. Life truly is a beautiful gift. So this year I am giving thanks for many things but most of all I give thanks for my relationship with God and what it has done in not only my life but how it has blessed our marriage beyond anything we could have imagined over these past 10 years.

Goals to achieve today -
1. Drink 1.25 gallons of water - 2 liters done so far this morning....
2. Walk 3 miles - 1.55 done this morning so far....
3. Stay within 1800 - 1900 calories for the day

This weeks plan....

Monday - 10.12 mile walk - DONE!
Tuesday - 3 mile walk
Wednesday - 3 mile walk
Thursday - Early am walk - 2 miles.....Happy Thanksgiving!!!
Friday - 2 mile walk
Saturday - 2 mile walk before heading back home.
Goal 22 miles for the week

Monday, November 23, 2009

Workout results 11/23

I did it! I walked 10.12 miles today and that is NOT including all the walking around shopping I did! I had to break my walks up into 4 different sessions outside from the early morning to an evening walk. I am so proud I surpassed my goal for the day! Now I am off to take a bath and let my husband massage my tired feet!

Daily Goals -
1. Drink 1.25 gallon of water - DONE!!!
2. Complete scheduled workout - DONE!!!
3. Log foods and stay on track with calories - DONE!!!

Daily Totals -
Time - 166 mins - 10.12 mile walk
Calories burned - 1,011
Calories consumed - 1,862

Weekly Update -
Miles - 10.12/22
Calories burned - 1,011
Fitness minutes - 166

Monday - 10.12 mile walk - DONE!
Tuesday - 3 mile walk
Wednesday - 3 mile walk
Thursday - Early am walk - 2 miles.....Happy Thanksgiving!!!
Friday - 2 mile walk
Saturday - 2 mile walk before heading back home.
Goal 22 miles for the week

Goals for today and this weeks schedule...

First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do." - Epictetus

Goals to achieve today -
1. Drink 1.5 gallons of water
2. Walk 9 miles - 1.55 done so far this am - 7.45 miles left to go
3. Stay within 1800 - 1900 calories for the day

Next weeks plan....MUST stay on track for this week and watch out for too much turkey!

Monday - 9 mile walk
Tuesday - 3 mile walk
Wednesday - 3 mile walk
Thursday - Early am walk - 2 miles.....Happy Thanksgiving!!!
Friday - 2 mile walk
Saturday - 2 mile walk before heading back home.
Sunday - 3 mile walk -
Goal 24 miles for the week

Friday, November 20, 2009

20 week pregnancy update! Half way there...

Yesterday my husband and I attended our 20 week doctors appointment. The good news is we received more positive feedback from the doctor! In regards to my health, everything is on track. My weight gain, fundal height, blood pressure and over all well being is going very well. He said once again how impressed he was at how good I am doing with my exercise, nutrition and weight gain.

I am now half way through my pregnancy and it leaves me with many emotions. My first is a feeling of excitement because I am even closer to meeting my precious baby. However I am also a bit sad. I LOVE being pregnant and it is just going by so fast. To be honest, I wish it could last longer. I know some of you are thinking I am crazy but it is a feeling I cannot describe. I used to think if I was ever pregnant I would be counting down the days until I could be myself again but now, I feel totally different. I am a Mother to be and I wake up every morning with a purpose. I no longer workout for the sole purpose of reaching a PR, burning a certain amount of calories or even training for a race. Instead, I exercise for the health of my baby and to ensure that I am the very best that I can be for my child. I love the feeling of knowing that through God's wonderful blessing, we have created life together. So yes, I am sad, I am half way through this life changing and beautiful journey I have been on. The good news is soon, I will old my baby in my arms and begin a new journey, one that I am sure will be beyond anything I could have ever dreamed.

The doctor confirmed what the ultrasound showed us on Monday. The baby's health is wonderful! The weight, length, heart, spine, brain etc....are perfect and developing well for 20 weeks. My next appointment is December 17th which will be my 6 month checkup along with the standard glucose test for gestational diabetes. I am not too concerned with this but apparently it is done for everyone to ensure all is well.

After my appointment yesterday I went shopping and got my hair highlighted and I developed a terrible headache. I came home and went to bed at 6 pm! I was hurting so bad. But after a good nights rest, I feel far better today. As a result I was only able to get in 1 mile yesterday but at least it was something. As a result I am off my miles for the week so I have posted the new schedule I will be following.

Monday - 1 mile walk - DONE!
Tuesday - 4 mile walk - DONE!
Wednesday - 6 mile walk - DONE!
Thursday - 1 mile walk - DONE!
Friday - 2 mile walk
Saturday - 3 mile walk
Sunday - 3 mile walk
Goal 20 miles for the week

Monday - 3 mile walk
Tuesday - 3 mile walk
Wednesday - 3 mile walk
Thursday - REST! Happy Thanksgiving!!!
Friday - 3 mile walk
Saturday - REST!
Sunday - 3 mile walk -
Goal 15 miles for the week

I am now heading out this morning to buy our Turkey and all the yummy ingredients for our Thanksgiving we are having this weekend. It will just be my husband and I as we are going to Dallas to see the family on Tuesday. This weekend we are continuing a tradition we started 10 years ago when we were first married. We decorate while listening to the Carpenters Christmas Album and then we watch White Christmas and my favorite Little House on the Prairie Christmas special...yes, I am a huge fan! The wassail will be on the stove all weekend, pumpkin bread in the oven and I am sure many carols being sung throughout the house!

Off to shop for a perfect Turkey,Christmas lights and cranberries! Blessings to all of you...

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Workout results 11/18

Quick post for tonight, I am so tried and ready for bed and it is only 6 pm!!! It was a good day. My blister was a bit better but even after buying some special pads for it, I still had issues. It is on the back heel of my right foot and when I walk, it just hurts so bad. I was still able to do 6 miles for the day! Yea! I had to break the miles up between a morning walk and an afternoon walk due to my foot but I still made it and that is what matters! So far I am on track with my miles for the week so I am hoping by Sunday I will reach my 20 miles.

Miles for the week - 11.08/20

Daily Goals -
1. Drink 1.25 gallon of water - 124 oz done so far....(updating as I drink more)
2. Complete scheduled workout - DONE!
3. Log foods and stay on track with calories - DONE!

Daily Totals -
Time - 99 mins - 6 mile walk
Calories burned - 610
Calories consumed - 1,969

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Workout results 11/17

My walk for yesterday and today was hard. On Sunday I decided to wear some super cute shoes to church and it gave me a blister on my right foot. I was hurting so bad yesterday I could only do 1 mile. Today was a bit better but my pace was slow. I am hoping that tomorrow that it will be better. I was going to try to do another 2 miles tonight but I am calling it a day as my foot hurts. Other than that, the day was wonderful! I felt fantastic!

Daily Goals -
1. Drink 1.25 gallon of water - 140 oz done so far....(updating as I drink more)
2. Complete scheduled workout - DONE!
3. Log foods and stay on track with calories - DONE!

Daily Totals -
Time - 68 mins - 4 mile walk
Calories burned - 406
Calories consumed - 1,887....pre-logged dinner for tonight.

Fitness Schedule for this week - Complete at least 20 miles of walking. So far this week - 5/20 miles done

Monday - 1 mile walk (blisters on feet) - DONE!
Tuesday - 4 mile walk - DONE!
Wednesday - 4 mile walk
Thursday - 4 mile walk
Friday - 4 mile walk along with ST
Saturday - 3 mile walk
Sunday - Rest

Monday, November 16, 2009

The best moment of our life. Ultrasound and pregnancy update....

Today was by far one of the most amazing moments of our life! This morning we had another ultrasound of our baby to determine not only the sex, but to assess the fetal anatomy. The good news is that the baby is SUPER healthy in every way! From the brain to the spine and heart. We were able to view details of the brain, bones, kidneys, hands, feet, face.....everything! It was amazing! A true miracle from God. We were first and foremost wanting to make sure the baby was healthy and are so thankful to God that all is going well. The baby was kicking like crazy, grasping on to the umbilical cord and so on. To see this was beyond words. We were crying, laughing and holding each other in amazement. The lady who was performing the ultrasound said like 3 or 4 times how active my baby was! Maybe I do have a little triathlete on my hands!

Now for the part were I make everyone wait....SO SORRY! I am going to tell my family the sex of the baby at Thanksgiving so in order to keep things a surprise I am holding off telling online friends for now. I know, I know, I make you wait and then make you wait some more! SOOOO sorry!! Hope everyone understands but I have family members who read my blogs and I want to be able to call everyone and tell them first instead of them reading it online.

For our parents we are telling them in person on the 24th. We are buying a gift for them and when they open it, they will obviously know if it is a boy or girl! We are both only children so this is a HUGE moment for the grandparents and I want them to be able to share in the good news first. Now, as soon as my family knows I will broadcast it from the rooftops and we will also post the ultrasound photos as well. I cannot tell you what your emails and comments have meant to me. Thanks SO much for supporting me during this time.

I finished my morning shopping for the baby and now I am waiting for my husband to finish a meeting then we are off to do some more and celebrate tonight with a special dinner.

I am heading out now for a walk, my baby needs me to continue with my fitness schedule!

Thanks again for all your amazing support! More photos to come soon....

Friday, November 13, 2009

A busy weekend...

In a few hours I have my cousin and her husband coming to see us so I am blogging early today. I have pre-logged our dinner for tonight as we are grilling here at the house. Tomorrow my husband and I are going to Resistance Festival then Sunday we are going to finish painting and doing random thing around the house. Monday morning is our doctors apt where we finally get to find out the sex of our baby! I cannot wait!!!

I am going to try and get in another 2 or 3 miles today if I can get back from the store in time before they arrive. If not, then this weekend I will make up the miles. I have already met my 20 mile goal of the week so I guess if I needed to I could take today off.

Hope everyone has a blessed weekend and I will report back on Monday on how our doctors apt went.

Daily Goals -
1. Drink 1.25 gallon of water - only 1/2 gallon done so far
2. Complete scheduled workout - Rest day or maybe 2 mile walk if I can...
3. Log foods and stay on track with calories - pre-logged all meals - 1,936 calories for the day.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Workout results 11/12

Another strong day but as a result I am once again ready for bed, so this will be a short post. Here are my 4 day totals for the week as well as my results from today.

Weekly Totals - (M,T,W,TH)
Time - 394 mins
Calories burned - 2,492
Miles completed - 20.01...already reached my goal for the week!!

Daily Totals -
Time - 103 mins
Calories burned - 650
Calories consumed - 2,060

Daily Goals -
1. Drink 1.25 gallon of water - DONE!
2. Complete scheduled workout - DONE! 6.25 miles walked today!
3. Log foods and stay on track with calories - DONE!!!

Workout 1 - AM walk - 4.25 mile walk/16:57 mm pace
Time - 72 mins
Calories burned - 448

Workout 2 - PM walk - 2 mile walk/15:39 mm pace
Time - 31 mins
Calories burned - 201

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Workout results 11/11

Another great day! Not as hard of a workout as other days but I was able to get a strong walk in and stay on track with all my goals! Tomorrow I am hoping for another strong day. My goal is to walk 4 miles and get some ST in as well. As of now, I am now ready for bed!!! This little pregnant lady is TIRED!

Daily Totals -
Time - 65 mins
Calories burned - 395
Calories consumed - 1,863
Distance totals for the week - 13.76 miles/20

Daily Goals -
1. Drink 1.5 gallon of water - DONE! I am going to float away...LOL
2. Complete scheduled workout - DONE!
3. Log foods and stay on track with calories - DONE!!!

Workout - 3 mile walk followed by 20 mins of yoga.
Time - 45:09 mins
Mile 1 - 16:01
Mile 2 - 15:27
Mile 3 - 14:01

Pregnancy Update...

Things are going very well for me. My energy is high and cravings seem to be in control. I have seen a HUGE difference in my energy levels, stamina and eating when I drink at least 128 oz of water. On days that I fall short, I am just not the same. I have now increased my water intake to 192 oz or 1.5 gallons a day. I am walking and working out longer and so my body and baby need to be hydrated! It is amazing the difference staying hydrated can make with snacking and eating throughout the day. I find myself very much in control by drinking a large amount of water with a piece of Ezekiel bread with some peanut butter or cottage cheese and fruit.

In terms of my workouts, I am very pleased with how my body is performing on my walks and runs. My runs are SLOW, and I do mean slow but I am in control and feel very balanced, well as of now! I usually run intervals were I watch my HR and stop once it has reached a certain point, then walk again to regain lower my HR and start again. My knee has been bothering me a bit but that is normal. If you followed my progress prior to my pregnancy you know that I have several knee issues so I guess the extra weight gain is taking its toll on my knee. I think it is time to break out the foam roller again! Oh joy!

Now for the numbers! I am almost 19 weeks now, just a few more days! I cannot believe that the BIG 20 week mark is only a week away! 5 months pregnant! It does not seem possible. It is just going by so fast.

Ok, here are my stats...
19 weeks - Weight gain total for pregnancy - 11.8 pounds
Chest - 5.5 inches gained
Stomach - 10 inches gained
Hips - 2.5 inches gained
Thighs - 1 inch LOSS! Yea!!
Arms - measurements the same

As far as the weight gain, I am ok with it. I just need to keep eating well, logging my calories, and exercising. My goal is to gain 25 - 30 pounds during this pregnancy. I am pleased with the areas I am gaining. I was very surprised to see how my thighs have gone down! I have been doing leg work along with all my walking and running so I am hoping that has helped. It could also be a loss of muscle in that i am not biking as I was before. When I was doing my triathlons over the summer my thighs were VERY toned, more than ever so that may be a factor in the loss. Regardless, I am happy with the progress and plan on continuing the leg work as long as I can throughout the pregnancy. Gotta have toned legs....even with a big baby belly! LOL

I am doing well this week with my miles. My goal is to walk/run 20 miles a week and so far I am at 13.76. I hope I can continue doing 20 miles a week throughout the rest of my pregnancy as it has really made a difference.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Workout results 11/10

I did well with my workouts today, then after I was done I treated myself to another prenatal massage. I just love getting those! So far I am doing really well, no back pain, aches or pains. I can only pray that it continues to be this way the rest of the pregnancy! I am almost 19 weeks now and I have to say, it feels amazing to be pregnant, far better than I thought it would be!

For my walk this morning I carried 5 lb DBs in each hand and did curls and shoulder work for 2.03 miles! It was a great burn! I then dropped the DBs and ran/walked the rest of the distance. My ST was good today but my arms where feeling fatigued after this mornings walk with the weights. Yesterday I drank 1.5 gallons of water and today I am aiming to do the same. I am already at 1 gallon so tonight I need to get in the other 64 ounces. My massage therapist said I need to be sure and get it in as I need more water on massage days in addition to my workouts.

Daily Totals -
Time - 108 mins
Calories burned - 664
Calories consumed - 1,960
Distance totals for the week - 10.73 miles/20

Daily Goals -
1. Drink 1.5 gallon of water - DONE!
2. Complete scheduled workout - DONE!
3. Log foods and stay on track with calories - DONE!!!

Workout for the day - 3.16 mile morning walk/slow run followed by ST
2.03 mile walk with 5 lb DBs - 17:38 mm pace - total time - 35 mins
1 mile run/walk without DBs - 14:21 pace with a .13 mile cool down - total time - 17:21mins

PM walk - Slow walk with husband and dog
Time - 36 mins
Calories burned - 173

Strength Training -
Pushups close grip - 2 sets of 10 reps
Pushups diamond - 2 sets of 10 reps
Alternating DB curls - 2 sets of 20 reps with 18.5 lb DBs
Bicep curls with squat - 2 sets of 50 reps with 5 lb DBs
Front raise with squat - 2 sets of 10 reps with 5 lb DBs
Laying down Tricep extensions - 2 sets of 20 reps with one 18.5 lb DB
One arm bent over row - 2 sets of 10 reps with one 18.5 lb DB
Shoulder press with squat - 2 sets of 10 reps with 5 lb DBs
Squats - 2 sets of 50 reps
Single leg squats - 2 sets of 20 reps

Monday, November 09, 2009

Workout results 11/9

Totals for the day -
Time - 118 mins
Calories burned - 784

Today was so fantastic! I started off the day running errands followed by a LONG walk, then some quick pushups and yoga. For my walk I did something different for today. After walking almost 2 miles I walked back to my house and got my wallet and a big bottle of water and walked to the store. I needed to get some hot peppers for tonight's chili and so i figured it was far better to walk there instead of driving. The store is only about 1.5 miles away so it was the perfect distance. On the way back from the store I felt amazing. The breeze was lovely and I was enjoying walking through the paved trails with the massive pines around me. All of the sudden off to my side there where 2 baby deer standing there in the front yard of someones home. Now, this is quite common here as where we live as it is very wooded and they are all over the place. This time they froze and just stared at me ( maybe they were in awe of my big pregnant belly! LOL) and they allowed me to get closer and closer! They were SO beautiful! I said Hi and one started to run away, then after speaking to the next one, he left as well.

I finished my walk with a short stroll with my dog and finished this morning walking 6 miles! A great start to the week for sure! I have also pre-logged my dinner for tonight and therefore I am on track for my calories for today! I am making a Chicken and white bean chili along with Mexican cornbread! YUM! After burning so many calories today, this little pregnant lady is HUNGRY! Which is one reason why I pre-log, to keep me accountable for my portions so I do not just eat whatever for dinner. Even when pregnant, you always have to be in control of what you eat and how much of it you consume!

I have to get cookin as my husband will be home soon! I hope everyone has a lovely night!

Daily goals -
1. Drink 1 gallon of water - 90 oz done already - 30 oz to go before dinner....
2. Complete scheduled workout - DONE!
3. Log foods and stay on track with calories - DONE! 2,013 calories consumed

Workout for the day - 6 mile morning walk - 98 mins/ 16:29 mm avg pace followed by 20 mins of yoga and ST - Pushups - 60 reps total -
Close grip - 2 sets of 10 reps
Diamond - 2 sets of 10 reps
Wide fly - 2 sets of 10 reps

A little motivation for this Monday morning...


"You may encounter failure at the thousandth step, yet success hides behind the next bend in the road. You will never know how close success lies unless you turn the corner." Og Mandino

Sunday, November 08, 2009

Weekend report and next weeks schedule...

First things first. Here is my plan for this week -
Sunday - Rest
Monday - 4 mile walk with ST
Tuesday - 3 mile walk
Wednesday - 4 mile walk with ST
Thursday - 3 mile walk
Friday - 4 mile walk with ST
Saturday - 2 mile walk
Sunday - Rest

Now onto the fun stuff!! This weekend was so much fun. My parents came down and were so happy to see me and my ever growing baby belly! They could not believe it! I think after seeing my husband and I married for 10 years and not really planning on having children, they as soon to be grandparents are in shock.....and SO excited! Oh, I should mention that my husband and I are BOTH only children so this really is a BIG deal for both sets of parents!

My mom and I went to the Christmas markets, baby stores and so on while my Dad and my husband worked on the house. We are painting the upstairs and downstairs right now in preparation for the baby. We picked out a beautiful color for my gym room called of all things Jogging Path! Ha! How cool is that?!?! The study is now a wonderful shade of dark cranberry red we found called Crabby Apple and it is the perfect color for what I wanted! We are decorating the study very dark with low lamps and dark woods so the deep red I feel wil really go well with the ambiance we going for.

At the Christmas market I bought this amazing candlelabra that is over 6 ft tall and holds 7 candles for my entry way, oh it is jus lovely! I am a candle nut so finding this made my day! I can just see it now draped with ribbons and garland for the holidays!!! We bought a few more things for the house and then heading off to the baby store the following day. We found a few more cribs that we liked and now we will have to wait and see if we are having a boy or girl before we decide which to buy! Only 8 more days and we will know!

In terms of my walks, my mom and I did an easy 4 miler on Friday which made my total for the week only 10.55. So I did not reach my goal for the week. This week I really need to get back on track with my walking, not only for me but for my growing baby! I feel fantastic and so happy! My husband and I both feel extremely blessed at this moment and are thanking God for every second we are able to share together. The closeness you feel to your husband as you are carrying his baby is something I cannot describe. I love it in every way! He is my world and now I have this little life that we created together growing inside, and it truly is a miracle. Our love and our life, will never be the same and we could not be happier.

Reminiscing.....our last trip to London, December 2008

Thursday, November 05, 2009

Workout results 11/4 and 11/5

Yesterday I did not get my workout in. I stayed busy...VERY busy all day around town shopping for food as we have my family coming in today. Today I went for a 3 mile slow run/walk. I am off of my mileage for this week but I am hoping next week I will get back to where I was.

Results 11/4 -
1. Drink 1 gallon of water - Did not meet goal - drank 1/2 gallon
2. Complete scheduled workout - Did not do...
3. Log foods and stay on track with calories - DONE! 1,757 calories consumed

Results 11/5 -
1. Drink 1 gallon of water - Not yet...will post back after today.
2. Complete scheduled workout - YES! DONE!
3. Log foods and stay on track with calories - pre-logged all meals - 1,929 calories for the day

Workout for the day - 3 mile morning walk/slow run
Time - 44:41 mins/ 14:54 mm avg pace
Calories burned - 325

Tuesday, November 03, 2009

Workout results 11/3

A very short blog for tonight! I am doing very well, staying active and feeling fantastic! I just came home from a day of Christmas shopping! SO much FUN! We bought a tree for the formal dinning room, it is just beautiful and different than anything we have seen! Now I just need to buy the other 2 for the house. Looking forward to having Christmas in our new home and pregnant with our first baby. SO many things to be thankful for! I feel truly blessed!

Keep reaching and going strong everyone!

Daily goals -
1. Drink 1 gallon of water - DONE!
2. Complete scheduled workout - DONE!
3. Log foods and stay on track with calories - DONE! 2,201 calories consumed

Workout for the day - 3.1 mile morning walk
Time - 49 mins/ 16:03 mm avg pace
Calories burned - 313

Monday, November 02, 2009

17 weeks pregnant photo....

Here is a photo we took on Sunday before heading out to church....

Workout results 11/2

I am gearing up this week for a visit from my Mom and Dad! We are really excited as it will be the first time my parents will have seen me since I became pregnant! My mom and I are going to a Christmas market while my Dad and husband paint around the house.

I did not get my workout in today as I was busy moving stuff from the office to the game room upstairs.So even though I did not get my scheduled workout in I was very active all day. I am excited about finally having the study and gym room painted! Now, I can set up my gym before the baby is here. I have a big feeling my traditional gym days will be limited for the first few months after having the baby and so this home gym will be the best thing to help me loose my weight.

I will need to get back on track tomorrow morning with my walks in order to reach my mileage for the week. I did do very well on my meals for the day, eating about every 2-3 hours small meals like cottage cheese and pineapple with 1/2 of an apple. I find it helps my cravings to always snack on healthy foods along with drinking my water.

In terms of my pregnancy, I am still doing very well. We are now counting down the days until we find out if we are having a boy or girl....14 days left!! We are looking forward to going shopping the minute we leave the doctors office!

Have a blessed night!

Daily goals -
1. Drink 1 gallon of water - 1/2 gallon done as of now, will finish by tonight.
2. Complete scheduled workout - did not do - worked around the house.
3. Log foods and stay on track with calories - DONE! 1,826 calories consumed...pre-logged dinner (chicken gumbo, spinach salad and protein shake)

Sunday, November 01, 2009

Workout schedule 11/1 - 11/8

Goals for the week -
1. Walk/run - 20 miles
2. Burn 2,000 calories for the week
3. Drink at least 120 oz of water a day
4. Log all foods and stay within caloric range

Plan for the week -
Sunday - Day off
Monday, Wednesday - Walk/run 3 miles along with ST
Tuesday, Thursday - Walk/run 4 miles
Friday, Saturday - Walk/run 3 miles
Sunday - Day off

Friday, October 30, 2009

Workout results 10/30

So far I am doing well this week! I have almost reached my weekly goal of 20 miles! I am now at 19.11 miles, so by tomorrow I will have surpassed my goal! Yea! In terms of my pregnancy, I am feeling strong and very healthy.

Here are my weekly stats....
Week 17 - Total pregnancy weight gain - 11.6 lbs
Workout totals for the week - T,W,TH,F
Walking/running miles - 19.11 miles
Total exercise minutes - 383 mins
Calories burned - 2,800

Results from today 10/30 -
Daily goals -
1. Drink 1 gallon of water - DONE!
2. Complete scheduled workout - DONE! 6.2 miles done today! Yea!
3. Log foods and stay on track with calories - DONE....pre-logged calories for dinner

Totals for the day - 6.2 miles walk/run followed by ST
Time - 117 mins
Calories burned - 873
Calories consumed - 2,226

Workout 1 - Walk/run - 4.58 miles
Time - 65 mins/ 14:16 mm avg pace
Calories burned - 498

Mile 1 - 15:27
Mile 2 - 14:37
Mile 3 - 14:33
Mile 4 - 13:02
.58 mile - 13:12 mm pace

Workout 2 - Easy walk with dog - 1.62 miles
Time - 29 mins
Calories burned - 168

Workout 3 - Upper and lower body ST
Time - 20 mins
Calories burned - 207

Alternating DB curls - 3 sets of 20 reps with 18.5 lb DBs
Front raise with squat - 3 sets of 15 reps with 5 lb DBs
Lateral raise - 3 sets of 15 reps with 5 lb DBs
Bicep curls with squat - 3 sets of 50 reps with 5 lb DBs
Tricep kickbacks - 3 sets of 20 reps with 5 lb DBs
Incline close grip pushups - 50 reps
Incline pushup - 50 reps

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Workout results 10/29

Today's blog is super short as I am getting read to make dinner for tonight! Overall, I am doing very well and going strong, only 2 more weeks before we find out the sex of the baby! Cannot wait!!

Hoping the rain will clear tomorrow long enough for me to get in another wonderful walk in! Gotta meet my 20 mile total for the week! Almost there!

Daily goals -
1. Drink 1 gallon of water - half way there...will be done by tonight.
2. Complete scheduled workout - DONE!
3. Log foods and stay on track with calories - DONE....pre-logged calories for dinner.

Totals for the day - 5.56 mile walk/ 16:37 mm avg pace
Time - 92 mins
Calories burned - 558
Calories consumed - 2,123

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Slow cooker buffalo chili and cornbread recipe....

We really enjoyed this! I made several substitutions, as usual, but we were pleased with the results and it was far healthier than the original version.

Williams Sonoma's 6 hour Chili - Including my substitutions....

Ingredients:

* 5 lb. ground beef ( I used 16 oz of ground buffalo)
* 5 garlic cloves, minced
* 1 yellow onion, chopped
* 1 can (28 oz.) chopped tomatoes with
juices
* 6 to 8 Tbs. chili powder
* 2 tsp. dried oregano ( I used 3 to 4 tsp)
* 1 tsp. ground cumin
* Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste ( I also added a dash of garlic salt too)
* 1/3 cup cornmeal
* 2 cups unsalted beef stock ( I used 4 cups)
* Sour cream, chopped red onion, grated,
cheddar cheese and/or chopped fresh cilantro
for garnish

*** In addition I added 2 cans of red beans and 2 tbsp of olive oil.

Directions:

In a large saute pan over medium-high heat, brown half the beef, about 10 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the beef to a slow cooker. Repeat with the remaining beef.

Add the garlic, yellow onion, tomatoes with juices, chili powder, oregano, cumin, salt, pepper, cornmeal and stock to the slow cooker and stir to blend. Cover and cook for 6 hours according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Skim the fat off the surface of the chili. Ladle the chili into warmed bowls and garnish with sour cream, red onion, cheese and/or cilantro. Serves 8 to 10.

**** I cooked the buffalo over medium heat with half of the onions, garlic and 2 tbsp. of olive oil. Then I added 2 tbsp of the chili powder, salt and oregano to the mixture and browned the meat. Then I transferred it to the slow cooker along with the wet ingredients, cornmeal and the rest of the onions and garlic. I cooked mine on high for about 5 - 6 hours then on low/warm for another 3 hours or so, then I refrigerated it and reheated it the next day, it was amazing!

Nutritional info for the substitutions I made, based on 10 servings(from Myfooddiary.com) -

Calories per serving - 174
Total fat - 4.1 g
Saturated fat - 0.8 g
Trans fat - 0g
Cholesterol - 37 mg
Sodium - 389 mg
Carbohydrate - 15.9 g
Dietary fiber - 5.3g
Sugars - 2 g
Protein - 18.1 g

Cornbread recipe - From Eatingwell.com

* 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons yellow cornmeal ( I used Bobs Red Mill cornmeal)
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour ( I used whole grain flour)
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1 teaspoon sugar
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 cup buttermilk
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten
* 1 tablespoon canola oil

1. Preheat oven to 475F. Stir together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, salt and baking soda in a large bowl. Whisk together buttermilk, egg and oil in a small bowl. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
2. Brush an 8-by-8-inch square cake pan with oil and heat in oven for 5 minutes. Pour the batter into the hot pan and bake until the top springs back when touched lightly, 8 to 10 minutes. Let cool on a rack and cut into 9 pieces. Serve warm or at room temperature.

**** I made mine into muffins, this recipe made 9 muffins. For the muffins I cooked them for about 13 mins at 475F.

Nutrition ( from EatingWell.com)

Per serving: 81 calories; 3 g fat (0 g sat, 1 g mono); 25 mg cholesterol; 12 g carbohydrates; 3 g protein; 1 g fiber; 297 mg sodium; 50 mg potassium.