Week 4 - Complete!

Yesterday was my last run at level 2. For as hard as it was on that Monday 2 weeks ago to get started at that level, it ended up being a pretty easy run. I actually probably could have gone longer and I noticed at times that I'm trying to increase my speed. I'm down at least 1 pound (234.4) from the last two weeks. I don't really have an accurate measure from those 2 weeks because I didn't eat so well and I was kind of afraid to look. Life has been hectic and stressful (in a good way, though) but when the pressure is on, I tend to eat junk because those are comfort foods for me. I have got to stop doing that. I'm working on managing my time better and being better at asking for help. That should help :-)

I'm starting fresh with a new eating plan starting Monday. This weekend is no time to try to make a change. Charlie is smoking a brisket for the 4th out at his mom's and I'm bringing some sides. On the list for me to make today is my favorite bacon ranch pasta salad, apple pie ('cause what's more American than fresh apple pie?), and little creamy cheese fruit tarts with strawberries and blueberries that will look like the American flag when they're arranged on the tray. None of those things are really good to be eating (except maybe for the fruit tarts..... they seem semi-healthy). So I'll make a fresh start on Monday with the new level in my running. I don't think I'm going back to the old eating plan. It's just a little hard to stick to because it's so structured. I need a little more flexibility in my life. But I am going to find a way to take those basic principles and modify them to fit my needs.

There is soooo much going on right now. I'm a full-time mom this summer, I'm taking two summer classes, taught VBS last week, and I'm planning my sister's housewarming party. Things are going well, but it's crazy! But that's no excuse to eat junk. I had some much needed girl time last night with Lindsey and I'm really really looking forward to our girly day next Monday to shop for decor for her new place and pedicures :-) I really wouldn't be able to stick to this at all, except I have amazing support from my friends and family. Allison has gone running with me for every workout except for the two where she was away at drum major camp. Charlie is supportive in so many ways... he was surprisingly more supportive than I thought he would be about me feeling the need to buy yet another pair of shoes. He thinks I have too many and I get a little grief when I come home with extras, but he didn't say anything about the running shoes :-) And he tries to cook yummy healthy meals for me too. I know I can talk to Lindsey about anything, and I've interested another friend in trying it out. Plus, I have one more thing in common with the rest of my friends who already have been running and it gives us one more way to bond. I'm doing awesome, except for the eating part :-)

More to come soon... today is devoted to cooking for tomorrow and homework, so that I don't have to do it tomorrow!