Alright, it's been WAY too freakin long since I've posted.... Long story short... 2 weeks ago I weighed in at 159lbs... GROSS! Now, I understand there are some people that would love to wake up and be 159lbs... however, on a 4'11" body, 159 is no bueno. So, thanks to the inspiration of my friend, Melissa for her daily motivational posts and her recent joining with Weight Watchers Online, I decided to join WWO (Weight Watchers Online), too! Last Thursday (weigh in day) I weighed in at 155 (minus 4lbs!) and yesterday I weighed in at 154.6 (minus 0.4lbs)... OI. This is going to be a LONG road...
I ran yesterday. I can barely move today. Ok, I can move, but man am I sore!!!!! It feels great though..... I definitely will be getting back into it... I just hope I can find an equally beautiful route in Roseville as Napa.
Now for goals: This one is a little far fetched, but I'm really hoping that by next Thursday, I weigh in at 150.9 or below. I know, that's a lot for a week, but I'd really like to be in the 150 range by Cynthia's (my aunt) wedding next Saturday. That means, lots of salad this week and definitely putting in some more miles! by September 1, I would like to be below 145, and by October 1, I would like to be below 140. Five pounds a month should definitely be doable, right?
NO MORE EXCUSES! I really am not sure what else to post in this, but all I can say is.... NO MORE EXCUSES!!!!!!
Friday, August 2, 2013
Monday, April 22, 2013
Running, running all the time... challenge?
OH man! Where do I begin? So.... we had a garage sale, but ya'll already knew that! So, with part of my money (and mom chipped in THANKS, MA!) I bought a Nike+sportwatch. In white. AMAZING! Holy freakin cow.... I love that thing and I think it loves me, too. I think about this watch all the time and wanting to put more miles on it. I know, that if I have 45minutes to spare... BAM! I'm out for a run. It tells me how many calories I've burned, how fast I'm going, it tracks my time by miles, it just does everything (except move my legs), haha! When I'm done, it'll say stuff like, "The crowd goes wild!" "Fastest mile!" "Record breaker!" Then, as a treat for running those 3 miles (I have a 3 mile loop).... I get to walk the whole thing again and relax and take in the scenery. Not only does this add more miles to my watch, it keeps me away from food, AND burns more calories. Win-win-win! Now, I just need to start using my dumbells again and start toning up.... Starting tonight, I will be doing between 10-15min of arm exercises at least 4x a week. Tanktops, watch out.... I'm coming for ya and I'm gonna make you look GOOD!
So... I'll fully admit, I've been posting some pre-run pics on facebook and instagram because a) I'm damn proud of what my body is able to do, b) it's holding me accountable and c) I love the feedback and sometimes, that's the ONLY thing that motivates me to keep going. So, to all ya'll cheerin me on... thank you. You have NO idea what it means. Which brings me to Mary. Mary is a girl I went to hs with.... Mary played soccer, and was always sweet and of course, very athletic and I've always been soooo envious of her physique (no, I'm not lesbian not that I have anything against them). So the other day I posted a picture and she commented on it saying how she had been keeping up with my posts and that I was inspiring her! WHAT!?! Yea. I did a triple take on that one! I..... ME.... MOLLIE..... have been inspiring Mary! Whoa... to say the least.... and I took a screenshot of that post and her comment and have looked at it everyday and as a result, ran my fastest mile yesterday! So, thank you, Mary!
I've really been trying hard to not go in the direction of rewarding myself with food. Last night was an exception (I went to Rutherford grill and had a french dip and spinach artichoke dip... amazingness!).... so instead, I've been trying to buy tangibles....like underwear and bras. Yep. I said it. I realize this is public knowledge, and what the public now knows.... Mollie wears damn cute underwear and bras. Why? Because it makes me feel good... It's kind of like.... my little secret (I know, it's not so secret anymore)...but whatever.
I also got a couple new shirts and a pair of shoes and well.... I'm trying to step it up a notch appearance-wise as I approach 25.... I'm really starting to feel better and more confident than ever and I don't care who knows it! Mama told me not to become anorexic or anything and I assured her that I love food WAY too much for anything like that. Now, I'm balancing my love for food with a growing love (did I really just say that?) for running and walking and exercising in general. I'm challenging myself more and more, and can't wait to see just how far I can truly push myself. I'm not so focused on the speed of my running at this point, but rather the fact that I'm able to run longer stints at a time. It's truly started becoming a part of my day... a part that I look forward to (who AM I?!) almost everyday. I turn on Pandora, put on my watch and I hit the pavement.
The big 2-5 will be here in 20 days (where the eff is time going?) and my goal is to put in 24miles per week until then (that'll be a total of 72miles). Then I think... what if I challenged myself to 100miles before then? It's totally do-able! 6miles 5x a week and then once a week throw in another 3... then the day before my birthday, I'm doing a 1-mile walk for Breast Cancer... how cool would that be to have that be the 100th mile before my birthday!?! Hmmmmmmmmm..... I think I just might have to do this. I'll see how tonight goes, then I'll decide tomorrow..... Or maybe I'll facebook about it and see what people think.... This could be freaking awesome! :D Well, I've gotta get back to the girl..... her french fries are almost done.... Blog ya later! Now go out and get movin! ;)
So... I'll fully admit, I've been posting some pre-run pics on facebook and instagram because a) I'm damn proud of what my body is able to do, b) it's holding me accountable and c) I love the feedback and sometimes, that's the ONLY thing that motivates me to keep going. So, to all ya'll cheerin me on... thank you. You have NO idea what it means. Which brings me to Mary. Mary is a girl I went to hs with.... Mary played soccer, and was always sweet and of course, very athletic and I've always been soooo envious of her physique (no, I'm not lesbian not that I have anything against them). So the other day I posted a picture and she commented on it saying how she had been keeping up with my posts and that I was inspiring her! WHAT!?! Yea. I did a triple take on that one! I..... ME.... MOLLIE..... have been inspiring Mary! Whoa... to say the least.... and I took a screenshot of that post and her comment and have looked at it everyday and as a result, ran my fastest mile yesterday! So, thank you, Mary!
I've really been trying hard to not go in the direction of rewarding myself with food. Last night was an exception (I went to Rutherford grill and had a french dip and spinach artichoke dip... amazingness!).... so instead, I've been trying to buy tangibles....like underwear and bras. Yep. I said it. I realize this is public knowledge, and what the public now knows.... Mollie wears damn cute underwear and bras. Why? Because it makes me feel good... It's kind of like.... my little secret (I know, it's not so secret anymore)...but whatever.
I also got a couple new shirts and a pair of shoes and well.... I'm trying to step it up a notch appearance-wise as I approach 25.... I'm really starting to feel better and more confident than ever and I don't care who knows it! Mama told me not to become anorexic or anything and I assured her that I love food WAY too much for anything like that. Now, I'm balancing my love for food with a growing love (did I really just say that?) for running and walking and exercising in general. I'm challenging myself more and more, and can't wait to see just how far I can truly push myself. I'm not so focused on the speed of my running at this point, but rather the fact that I'm able to run longer stints at a time. It's truly started becoming a part of my day... a part that I look forward to (who AM I?!) almost everyday. I turn on Pandora, put on my watch and I hit the pavement.
The big 2-5 will be here in 20 days (where the eff is time going?) and my goal is to put in 24miles per week until then (that'll be a total of 72miles). Then I think... what if I challenged myself to 100miles before then? It's totally do-able! 6miles 5x a week and then once a week throw in another 3... then the day before my birthday, I'm doing a 1-mile walk for Breast Cancer... how cool would that be to have that be the 100th mile before my birthday!?! Hmmmmmmmmm..... I think I just might have to do this. I'll see how tonight goes, then I'll decide tomorrow..... Or maybe I'll facebook about it and see what people think.... This could be freaking awesome! :D Well, I've gotta get back to the girl..... her french fries are almost done.... Blog ya later! Now go out and get movin! ;)
Monday, April 8, 2013
Update :D
Woo! Sorry, guys... I know it's been a while, but man oh man has life been WAY busy! I think my next post will be simply about my schedule, haha!
Gosh, where to start.....I'll be honest, I haven't been to the gym in 3 weeks. I have done a few runs, so I haven't been a complete slug, but still..... I really need to get back to it since I only have like 3 months left of a membership...UGH.
So.....my mom and Bob have spent the last week here in town (Mom was on Spring Break) and we went through everything, packed a bunch of stuff up, then had ourselves a garage sale! Ok, before the garage sale while everything was packed up, mom completely cleaned the house and organized EVERYTHING and holy cow, that woman is amazing! I came home from work one day and was like, "HOLY CRAP! GO, MOM!" I felt totally bad that I wasn't able to help, but she had a couple of days after that where she didn't get out of her pjs so I'm glad she could relax! Ok, onto the garage sale... HOLY CRAP (again!)... I had a TON of stuff! We go rid of most of it, thank goodness, and made enough money so mom and I could do a little shopping yesterday- so much fun! I got a Nike+ Sportwatch so I can start tracking my runs and watch my progress (or lack thereof) and hopefully kick my a** in gear!
Alright, onto the emotional crap. Where to begin.... I broke down crying in the Target parkinglot on the phone to Gibs.... Everything is so real now. The house which I've called my home for the last 16 years isnt' my home anymore. I've moved away twice before, but have been able to come back and this time, I won't be coming back and that's a bittersweet feeling. I'll still be there for a couple months, but the house is packed up and so it's already never going to be the way it was. For the first 8 years of my life, I'd lived in 9 different houses in 7 different cities... so to be in a house for 16 years, well... it's been the most stable "home base" I've had. Because of that house, and Bob (who I will fully admit and forever be grateful for that I wouldn't be where or who I am without him), I've had the childhood that many would die for. I was home at 4:00, with my friends waiting on my front porch when I got home begging my parents if I could come play at the park accross the street. We would make up the most rediculous games, but they were so much fun and nothing in the world could stop us. I had the childhood I hope my kids will have one day. I think I am the luckiest girl in the world to have a Mom, Dad, and a Bob. I am equal parts all 3 of them. Seriously. Sometimes, it's a little freaky. During our garage sale, Dad came over and hung out for most of the day... he and Bob were chatting it up, Bob even helped load up stuff in my dad's truck and showed him where the electrical hookups were under the bumper. Quite a sight to see a 65 yr old (Bob) and a 59 yr old (Dad) both laying on the ground looking under the bed of the truck....Mom and I stood there and just cracked up. It is so wonderful to have divorced parents but yet they've all been quite the team in my upbringing and I wouldn't change any of it for the world. My new adventure is starting soon.... Living with Dad.... not working for NVUSD anymore, and of course, finishing the journey to graduation! I found mom's graduation gown from CSUS and she's going to let me wear it for mine... I couldn't be more happy about it! I told her I would never wear her wedding dress, so her graduation gown would be an awesome "tradition" to have. I was in 7th grade when she graduated and I remember that day fondly.... I didn't realize what an accomplishment it was back then, but I do now, and I'm so glad I was able to share it with her and that she will be able to share it with me!
Life is proving to be quite the adventure...there is SO much more to write... so many things to cover (ie-guys, work, random thoughts, money, etc).... but I'll save that for another post.. probably tomorrow! :)
Happy Monday! Toodles!
Gosh, where to start.....I'll be honest, I haven't been to the gym in 3 weeks. I have done a few runs, so I haven't been a complete slug, but still..... I really need to get back to it since I only have like 3 months left of a membership...UGH.
So.....my mom and Bob have spent the last week here in town (Mom was on Spring Break) and we went through everything, packed a bunch of stuff up, then had ourselves a garage sale! Ok, before the garage sale while everything was packed up, mom completely cleaned the house and organized EVERYTHING and holy cow, that woman is amazing! I came home from work one day and was like, "HOLY CRAP! GO, MOM!" I felt totally bad that I wasn't able to help, but she had a couple of days after that where she didn't get out of her pjs so I'm glad she could relax! Ok, onto the garage sale... HOLY CRAP (again!)... I had a TON of stuff! We go rid of most of it, thank goodness, and made enough money so mom and I could do a little shopping yesterday- so much fun! I got a Nike+ Sportwatch so I can start tracking my runs and watch my progress (or lack thereof) and hopefully kick my a** in gear!
Alright, onto the emotional crap. Where to begin.... I broke down crying in the Target parkinglot on the phone to Gibs.... Everything is so real now. The house which I've called my home for the last 16 years isnt' my home anymore. I've moved away twice before, but have been able to come back and this time, I won't be coming back and that's a bittersweet feeling. I'll still be there for a couple months, but the house is packed up and so it's already never going to be the way it was. For the first 8 years of my life, I'd lived in 9 different houses in 7 different cities... so to be in a house for 16 years, well... it's been the most stable "home base" I've had. Because of that house, and Bob (who I will fully admit and forever be grateful for that I wouldn't be where or who I am without him), I've had the childhood that many would die for. I was home at 4:00, with my friends waiting on my front porch when I got home begging my parents if I could come play at the park accross the street. We would make up the most rediculous games, but they were so much fun and nothing in the world could stop us. I had the childhood I hope my kids will have one day. I think I am the luckiest girl in the world to have a Mom, Dad, and a Bob. I am equal parts all 3 of them. Seriously. Sometimes, it's a little freaky. During our garage sale, Dad came over and hung out for most of the day... he and Bob were chatting it up, Bob even helped load up stuff in my dad's truck and showed him where the electrical hookups were under the bumper. Quite a sight to see a 65 yr old (Bob) and a 59 yr old (Dad) both laying on the ground looking under the bed of the truck....Mom and I stood there and just cracked up. It is so wonderful to have divorced parents but yet they've all been quite the team in my upbringing and I wouldn't change any of it for the world. My new adventure is starting soon.... Living with Dad.... not working for NVUSD anymore, and of course, finishing the journey to graduation! I found mom's graduation gown from CSUS and she's going to let me wear it for mine... I couldn't be more happy about it! I told her I would never wear her wedding dress, so her graduation gown would be an awesome "tradition" to have. I was in 7th grade when she graduated and I remember that day fondly.... I didn't realize what an accomplishment it was back then, but I do now, and I'm so glad I was able to share it with her and that she will be able to share it with me!
Life is proving to be quite the adventure...there is SO much more to write... so many things to cover (ie-guys, work, random thoughts, money, etc).... but I'll save that for another post.. probably tomorrow! :)
Happy Monday! Toodles!
Thursday, March 14, 2013
Hot, sweaty mess....
I'm talking about my post-workout self! (Get your head out of the gutter)....sheesh! ;)
Well, I'm here at the girl's house, just delivered my first batch of fries and completed Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred Level 2 for the first time. EVER. Holy cow! So.... I remember when I first started it (2 years ago... yea yea, I never got past level 1, ok... shut up)... ANYWAYS..... I remember the first time I started it and I was on level 1 and DYING....gasping for air, swearing I was on death's doorstep, praying to God that Jillian didn't kill me just then...... and I was so proud when I happened to whip it out the other day and I was like "oh man... piece of cake!" Now, it's a small step, but a step in the right direction and seeing I've definitely improved and that's a great feeling! I can't wait to look back on this blog and this day and thinking "Yea, level 2 was almost traumatic and now it's also a piece of cake!" Lord, please help me on level 3, but my goal is to definitely have level 3 be a piece of cake within the next 58 days! (seriously, where the *EFF* is time going?!)
So, forget the Atkins..... I'm still watching my carb intake, but just trying to eat healthier in general..... Though I'm currently obsessed with roast beef and cheddar cheese with green bell peppers..... amazing. My diet has consisted of a flax waffle, greek yogurt, bananas, apples, salads with chicken (not to be confused with chicken-salad), and vegetable lentil soup I made on Sunday with a couple of Atkins bars thrown in to satisfy my sweet tooth :) My lunches are probably my favorite.... Arugula with cherry tomatoes, lemon pepper chicken breast and Marzetti Veggie Lite Ranch dressing.... freakin out of this world!!!!! Anyone that knows me knows I love to eat LARGE portions...... I always have. Salad is a great way to eat a large portion and not feel guilty (especially since most of it is just arugula). I'm not going to lie, I've been on this "eating healthy" journey for a good 10 years... Yep... at the ripe ol' age of 12, I used to be able to eat an entire "sampler" from Denny's..... and at 6, I could eat an entire French Dip by myself (with 3 rounds of Au Jus because I would drink it. I loved it sooooo much)! OH, and hand me a Dr. Pepper or 5, and root beer.... At 13, I wanted sooo badly to be skinny like my stepsister... she could always wear the bikini and would complain about being 118lbs.... Psh... If I could go back, I'd slap her now ;) I've always been the "chunky monkey" of the fam.... and she never drank soda.. so at 13, I said "no more soda." 3 years later, I tried a Dr. Pepper and the carbonation just messed me up like nobody's business. So, that cut out soda for me! Next was cutting out the junk food... and to be honest.... It took a good couple weeks of eating better to realize I was feeling better...... You truly are what you eat. Now, when I want to eat 'crap' food, I think about it in terms of being hungover... I call it a food-hangover.... "is eating this crap worth feeling like sh*t tomorrow?" MOst of the time... it's not.
Don't get me wrong, it's a daily struggle and probably always will be..... but, for the next 58 days, 1 amazing cheat meal a week and that's all I'm allowing....... and working out hard core! The other night, I went for a 3 mile walk/run and man I can't wait to hit that pavement again! I'm constantly inspired by MamaLaughlin (www.mamalaughlin.com) who started running to lose weight and she makes it so real... she hated it at first but did it because she hated being fat more... and that's me. I now look at every opportunity I can to squeeze in a few moves here and there... like today before the girl got home, I ran up and down the stairs a few times.... when I blow dry my hair, I'll bust out some squats.... watching tv, I'll do some crunches, situps, or my personal favorite... picking up my dumbells and doing simple arm toning exercise..... let's face it... even a T-shirt can look sexy when you have toned arms. 58 days is coming fast!
Speaking of which.... So, I've yet to accomplish doing any sort of race that benefits any cause this year.... and yesterday I was asked to join team: For The Mama's And The Tata's and it's a 1k in Sacramento on May 11..... yes... 57 days from now (for you non-mathemeticians, that's 1 day before my 25th Birthday-which also happens to be Mother's Day this year)! What a better way to end my 24th year on this earth and start this "accomplishing the goals I've set out to do" mindset I'm adopting for my 25th year! I've also decided to dedicate the run to a woman I met briefly (she's a friend of a friend who I went to Tahoe with a few years back to watch their kids)... I just found out she has cervical cancer and only has a few months left to live... leaving her 13-year old daughter without a mommy (don't worry, she will be well taken care of by the mutual friend we went to Tahoe with). Now, the 1k is for Breast Cancer, but it's still a cancer cause, and it's my first run ever and I'd love nothing more than to be able to put forth my best in her honor. Kelli, my first run is for YOU!
Prayers are much appreciated for Kelli and her daughter and family. I will be posting a link on my facebook page (coming soon!) https://www.facebook.com/mollie.gustafson so feel free to give a shout out to Kelli and team: For The Mama's And The Tata's!
Well, I think this is it for today.... I'm off to make another batch of fries for the girl.... and get in a good workout as I have a few hours left here! Hope everyone's week is going great!!!!!!!
Well, I'm here at the girl's house, just delivered my first batch of fries and completed Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred Level 2 for the first time. EVER. Holy cow! So.... I remember when I first started it (2 years ago... yea yea, I never got past level 1, ok... shut up)... ANYWAYS..... I remember the first time I started it and I was on level 1 and DYING....gasping for air, swearing I was on death's doorstep, praying to God that Jillian didn't kill me just then...... and I was so proud when I happened to whip it out the other day and I was like "oh man... piece of cake!" Now, it's a small step, but a step in the right direction and seeing I've definitely improved and that's a great feeling! I can't wait to look back on this blog and this day and thinking "Yea, level 2 was almost traumatic and now it's also a piece of cake!" Lord, please help me on level 3, but my goal is to definitely have level 3 be a piece of cake within the next 58 days! (seriously, where the *EFF* is time going?!)
So, forget the Atkins..... I'm still watching my carb intake, but just trying to eat healthier in general..... Though I'm currently obsessed with roast beef and cheddar cheese with green bell peppers..... amazing. My diet has consisted of a flax waffle, greek yogurt, bananas, apples, salads with chicken (not to be confused with chicken-salad), and vegetable lentil soup I made on Sunday with a couple of Atkins bars thrown in to satisfy my sweet tooth :) My lunches are probably my favorite.... Arugula with cherry tomatoes, lemon pepper chicken breast and Marzetti Veggie Lite Ranch dressing.... freakin out of this world!!!!! Anyone that knows me knows I love to eat LARGE portions...... I always have. Salad is a great way to eat a large portion and not feel guilty (especially since most of it is just arugula). I'm not going to lie, I've been on this "eating healthy" journey for a good 10 years... Yep... at the ripe ol' age of 12, I used to be able to eat an entire "sampler" from Denny's..... and at 6, I could eat an entire French Dip by myself (with 3 rounds of Au Jus because I would drink it. I loved it sooooo much)! OH, and hand me a Dr. Pepper or 5, and root beer.... At 13, I wanted sooo badly to be skinny like my stepsister... she could always wear the bikini and would complain about being 118lbs.... Psh... If I could go back, I'd slap her now ;) I've always been the "chunky monkey" of the fam.... and she never drank soda.. so at 13, I said "no more soda." 3 years later, I tried a Dr. Pepper and the carbonation just messed me up like nobody's business. So, that cut out soda for me! Next was cutting out the junk food... and to be honest.... It took a good couple weeks of eating better to realize I was feeling better...... You truly are what you eat. Now, when I want to eat 'crap' food, I think about it in terms of being hungover... I call it a food-hangover.... "is eating this crap worth feeling like sh*t tomorrow?" MOst of the time... it's not.
Don't get me wrong, it's a daily struggle and probably always will be..... but, for the next 58 days, 1 amazing cheat meal a week and that's all I'm allowing....... and working out hard core! The other night, I went for a 3 mile walk/run and man I can't wait to hit that pavement again! I'm constantly inspired by MamaLaughlin (www.mamalaughlin.com) who started running to lose weight and she makes it so real... she hated it at first but did it because she hated being fat more... and that's me. I now look at every opportunity I can to squeeze in a few moves here and there... like today before the girl got home, I ran up and down the stairs a few times.... when I blow dry my hair, I'll bust out some squats.... watching tv, I'll do some crunches, situps, or my personal favorite... picking up my dumbells and doing simple arm toning exercise..... let's face it... even a T-shirt can look sexy when you have toned arms. 58 days is coming fast!
Speaking of which.... So, I've yet to accomplish doing any sort of race that benefits any cause this year.... and yesterday I was asked to join team: For The Mama's And The Tata's and it's a 1k in Sacramento on May 11..... yes... 57 days from now (for you non-mathemeticians, that's 1 day before my 25th Birthday-which also happens to be Mother's Day this year)! What a better way to end my 24th year on this earth and start this "accomplishing the goals I've set out to do" mindset I'm adopting for my 25th year! I've also decided to dedicate the run to a woman I met briefly (she's a friend of a friend who I went to Tahoe with a few years back to watch their kids)... I just found out she has cervical cancer and only has a few months left to live... leaving her 13-year old daughter without a mommy (don't worry, she will be well taken care of by the mutual friend we went to Tahoe with). Now, the 1k is for Breast Cancer, but it's still a cancer cause, and it's my first run ever and I'd love nothing more than to be able to put forth my best in her honor. Kelli, my first run is for YOU!
Prayers are much appreciated for Kelli and her daughter and family. I will be posting a link on my facebook page (coming soon!) https://www.facebook.com/mollie.gustafson so feel free to give a shout out to Kelli and team: For The Mama's And The Tata's!
Well, I think this is it for today.... I'm off to make another batch of fries for the girl.... and get in a good workout as I have a few hours left here! Hope everyone's week is going great!!!!!!!
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Spring is in the air...
Everywhere I look around......
Be GLAD you can't hear me sing because I can't. Well... it's Tuesday and what a week so far! Yesterday I got off work pretty early so I decided to go on a 3 mile run! (Ok, when I say "run" I mean both walking and running)... haha! I'm not super proud of my time, but whatever. 3 miles in 40 minutes.... I walked the first 10 to warm up then did 1 minute run and 1 minute walking intervals for 30 minutes. It felt GREAT! I don't think I'm going to have the same luck with getting off early today, so I put the girl's fries in the oven and completed a Jillian Michaels 30 day shred workout! Woo! I'm hoping to get another 15-20minute workout in before the day is over, but if I don't, I'm not too worried about it. The next couple of days will be long days so as long as I squeeze in something, even if it's just 20 minutes, it's better than doing nothing!
So..... this move to Lodi is becoming more and more real everyday.... and I think the move itself is a physical symbol of changes that are coming to my life in ALL areas. I've been having conversations with my mom about what stuff to keep, what stuff to take, what stuff to get rid of... etc. I've also been having conversations with my dad about the move and how I want to fix up my room and such and I've just kind of been thinking about everyday life and what that'll be in Lodi..... It'll be wonderful not to have the stress of having to work all the time (I'm building up my savings) but I'll be able to really focus on school. Let it be said... I'm shooting for a 4.0 both semesters to really finish out strong. NO EXCUSES! I'm excited to live with my dad (for those that don't know, the last time I lived with him it was for 2 weeks and then his now ex-wife kicked us both out). I'm loving that I'll be close to my Aunt Suzie and Uncle Paul's house and hopefully see them a lot more than I do now. And of course, can't forget Grandma.... Once I learn the route, I'm thinking I might do some runs (literally, running on my 2 legs) to go see her... not only will it get me out and about, but I'll be exercising as well as spending time with her. Who knows, I might even head over during the day and bring my stuff and just study there to simply spend as much time with her as I can. If it's one thing I've learned over the years, it's that time goes by too quickly. Life is too short. I've been a workaholic since my first job, but really, where does work get any of us? Granted, we need work to make money and survive, but when I die, it's not like everyone I work with or for is going to show up at my funeral. It's time I start building relationships...starting with Grandma. I don't care if she falls asleep in her chair, hell, I might fall asleep, too.... but just being able to spend time with her will be such a wonderful thing to have.
Now... as much as I'm looking forward to this new adventure..... I can't help but feel a bit sad about leaving the place I've called home since I was 8. I can't say thank you enough to my Mom and especially Bob (it's his house) for putting up with me all these years... and they've always been there when I've come crawling back. If there's one thing I want them to know, it's how much I appreciate ALL they've done for me. They've let me fall on my butt a few times (some lessons just simply have to be learned the hard way), but they've always helped me get back on track. Knowing I'm leaving the house and forever this time, will take it's toll on me for sure as it's the longest I've ever stayed in one home, but the memories won't leave, and the fact my relationship with both my mom and Bob is in the best place, is truly what matters more than anything. So mom, and Bob... this one's for you!
Happy Tuesday everyone!
"The best and most beautiful things in life cannot be seen, not touched, but are felt in the heart."
-Helen Keller
Be GLAD you can't hear me sing because I can't. Well... it's Tuesday and what a week so far! Yesterday I got off work pretty early so I decided to go on a 3 mile run! (Ok, when I say "run" I mean both walking and running)... haha! I'm not super proud of my time, but whatever. 3 miles in 40 minutes.... I walked the first 10 to warm up then did 1 minute run and 1 minute walking intervals for 30 minutes. It felt GREAT! I don't think I'm going to have the same luck with getting off early today, so I put the girl's fries in the oven and completed a Jillian Michaels 30 day shred workout! Woo! I'm hoping to get another 15-20minute workout in before the day is over, but if I don't, I'm not too worried about it. The next couple of days will be long days so as long as I squeeze in something, even if it's just 20 minutes, it's better than doing nothing!
So..... this move to Lodi is becoming more and more real everyday.... and I think the move itself is a physical symbol of changes that are coming to my life in ALL areas. I've been having conversations with my mom about what stuff to keep, what stuff to take, what stuff to get rid of... etc. I've also been having conversations with my dad about the move and how I want to fix up my room and such and I've just kind of been thinking about everyday life and what that'll be in Lodi..... It'll be wonderful not to have the stress of having to work all the time (I'm building up my savings) but I'll be able to really focus on school. Let it be said... I'm shooting for a 4.0 both semesters to really finish out strong. NO EXCUSES! I'm excited to live with my dad (for those that don't know, the last time I lived with him it was for 2 weeks and then his now ex-wife kicked us both out). I'm loving that I'll be close to my Aunt Suzie and Uncle Paul's house and hopefully see them a lot more than I do now. And of course, can't forget Grandma.... Once I learn the route, I'm thinking I might do some runs (literally, running on my 2 legs) to go see her... not only will it get me out and about, but I'll be exercising as well as spending time with her. Who knows, I might even head over during the day and bring my stuff and just study there to simply spend as much time with her as I can. If it's one thing I've learned over the years, it's that time goes by too quickly. Life is too short. I've been a workaholic since my first job, but really, where does work get any of us? Granted, we need work to make money and survive, but when I die, it's not like everyone I work with or for is going to show up at my funeral. It's time I start building relationships...starting with Grandma. I don't care if she falls asleep in her chair, hell, I might fall asleep, too.... but just being able to spend time with her will be such a wonderful thing to have.
Now... as much as I'm looking forward to this new adventure..... I can't help but feel a bit sad about leaving the place I've called home since I was 8. I can't say thank you enough to my Mom and especially Bob (it's his house) for putting up with me all these years... and they've always been there when I've come crawling back. If there's one thing I want them to know, it's how much I appreciate ALL they've done for me. They've let me fall on my butt a few times (some lessons just simply have to be learned the hard way), but they've always helped me get back on track. Knowing I'm leaving the house and forever this time, will take it's toll on me for sure as it's the longest I've ever stayed in one home, but the memories won't leave, and the fact my relationship with both my mom and Bob is in the best place, is truly what matters more than anything. So mom, and Bob... this one's for you!
Happy Tuesday everyone!
"The best and most beautiful things in life cannot be seen, not touched, but are felt in the heart."
-Helen Keller
Monday, March 4, 2013
Soon to be a Lodian!
Where do I begin? After a completely hellish week at work last week, I have been blessed with the greatest news! No, I'm not with child, and HELL no I'm not engaged (3 times is enough, next time I'm skipping that part and heading straight to the courthouse)! Anyhoo, let's start with the weekend... (then I'll get to the good part). Last week at work was HELL. Everything I had worked so hard for felt like it was in shambles and I felt like I was in the center of this tornado, but had no idea how I got there. Let me tell ya, I love when the adults I work with are worse than the kids. Anyhoo, most of it was a HUGE misunderstanding, however it still doesn't take back the HELL. Luckily, it was a short week of school so we had Friday off. Woohoo! I ended up venturing out into the Marin Headlands with my Psychologist friend, Gibs. Sidenote: "Gibs" is not his real name. He resembles and is very similar in personality to Gibs from NCIS (who also happens to be my #1 celebrity crush)...anyhoo, he's a psychologist...No, he doesn't treat me (officially, haha!). He tries to throw in the occasional therapy session but I usually call him out on it and tell him to knock it off. Haha! So, the 2 of us went up to Marin Headlands... it was only a 3 mile hike, but holy crap, I need to start running hills or something! You have to understand, Gibs holds records for weightlifting and has done 100mile marathons.... ummmm, pass me the chips and dip! Yea.... so I, of course was yappin the entire time to shut my innerself up and so he wouldn't hear me huffin and puffin. When we were done, we cruised into Sausalito and had an incredible lunch at Napa Valley Burger. The lamb burger was seriously a work of art. The Marin Bleu cheese burger was pretty incredible, too! OH! And the waffle fries... holy freakin cow, batman! Those things were HUGE and cooked to perfection. I seriously think somebody studied how to cook waffle fries. Then it was back to Napa so I could go to work (Job coaching).
So, back in November I applied to Sac State (CSUS). Here's a little history lesson on my life.... I graduated high school a semseter early and jumped right into the Napa JC. 2 years later I had 2 AA degrees and transferred to CSUN (Northridge). Well, after 8 months of culture shock, I couldn't handle it and moved back home to Napa and transferred to CSUS because they had just opened up a Deaf Studies program! A year later, I applied for graduation...and then just never went back (due to personal problems). So for the past 4 years, I've had 17 units left to get my BA. Well, life has taken me to lots of places and holding lots of jobs to pay lots of bills... however, in November of 2012, I decided I needed to finish... and the first place to start is by simply applying. I even used part of my Christmas money from my Grandma to pay for the application fee (Thanks Grandma)! They told me I would be notifyed on my SacLink e-mail (you have to set up an account when you apply as that's their method of communication) on Mar 1. Then, on Feb 28 (last Thursday), I received an e-mail that said they'll start posting application statuses after 4pm on Mar 1 (Friday) so to keep checking back in the next few days.... So on Friday, at 4:00 I'm in Gibs' car (he was driving) on our way back from the piece-of-art-lamb-burger joint when I whip out my phone and start checking my SacLink....... nothing. No messages and no e-mail.... hmmm.... every half our after that, I was checking..... ALL DAMN WEEKEND I was checking and "no new messages" and "0 emails" tortured me. UGH!
Then I woke up bright and early at 3:30am today (Monday).. I know, what a way to start a Monday! 3:30am? Gross! But, I decided to check my SacLink acct and I was messing around and clicked on everything I could..... I clicked on "Student Center" then it took to me to some thing letting me know I could become a registered voter through the website.. no thank you (anyone who knows me knows I'm not registered to vote because I have no intention of ever voting).... I simply clicked "OK" and it brought me to the student center section and low and behold "Check application status..." HOLY CRAP! COULD IT BE?! HOW DID I NOT THINK OF THIS BEFORE!?!..... moment of truth.... "Admitted"...... "click here to accept admittance." BOOYA! I did it! I was accepted back into CSUS! Now, lots thought it was 'in the bag' but these days with all the budget cuts and so many schools not accepting transfers or anything, I honestly wasn't sure what was going to happen.... but it is official. I start school on Sept. 3! They have 3 of the 5 classes I need offered in the fall and the other 2 are offered in the Spring, but I e-mailed a professor to see if there was any way I could squeeze those last 2 in in the fall as one of them is a 1 unit course I've already taken (I didn't take the final so I automatically failed) and the other is an internship class so basically you just write reports on how the internship is going).... If it doesn't work out, I'm perfectly happy taking 2 semesters to graduate... then I'm immediately applying to UOP for their 2 year MA program in Speech and Language Pathology! Wish me luck!
With all this being said, I will be moving to my dad's house in Lodi where the commute is a lot easier and it'll be cheaper for me to stay there. I hope he can handle me for 3 years! Muahahahahahaha! What a way to start a Monday! And especially one after a hellish week....
It's funny how when you really set your mind to things, you truly can achieve anything.... I also believe the Lord has a way of providing you with what you need exactly when you need it... I always said I never wanted to hit the cap of my payscale (A-F and I'm literally on D as of this month)..... I enjoy my job, but am definitely ready for better things. I also have all my bills under control! No more credit cards, everything is caught up! I can officially live off just my check from the district (with putting money into savings), not to mention the other 2 jobs I'm working for gas, food, and fun! Just when I've gotten things totally under control (so I don't have to stress in school), and just when I've been needing to see an absolute light at the end of the tunnel (work).... it's all right there! 3 more months and I'll be finishing/beginning a new chapter. It's crazy because mentally I'm in such a better place to be in school.... I'm ready, I'm focused, and not just mustering through it..... and so while it feels like a beginning, it's really just picking up where I left off 4 years with a better head on my shoulders. I was dancing all around my house this morning, rocking out to loud music on my way to work, and have just been at total peace all day knowing my direction. It's a magical feeling!
I hope everyone else had a great Monday as well! Spring is near, running season is upon my poor fat legs, and soon, I will be a Lodian. :) Toodles!
So, back in November I applied to Sac State (CSUS). Here's a little history lesson on my life.... I graduated high school a semseter early and jumped right into the Napa JC. 2 years later I had 2 AA degrees and transferred to CSUN (Northridge). Well, after 8 months of culture shock, I couldn't handle it and moved back home to Napa and transferred to CSUS because they had just opened up a Deaf Studies program! A year later, I applied for graduation...and then just never went back (due to personal problems). So for the past 4 years, I've had 17 units left to get my BA. Well, life has taken me to lots of places and holding lots of jobs to pay lots of bills... however, in November of 2012, I decided I needed to finish... and the first place to start is by simply applying. I even used part of my Christmas money from my Grandma to pay for the application fee (Thanks Grandma)! They told me I would be notifyed on my SacLink e-mail (you have to set up an account when you apply as that's their method of communication) on Mar 1. Then, on Feb 28 (last Thursday), I received an e-mail that said they'll start posting application statuses after 4pm on Mar 1 (Friday) so to keep checking back in the next few days.... So on Friday, at 4:00 I'm in Gibs' car (he was driving) on our way back from the piece-of-art-lamb-burger joint when I whip out my phone and start checking my SacLink....... nothing. No messages and no e-mail.... hmmm.... every half our after that, I was checking..... ALL DAMN WEEKEND I was checking and "no new messages" and "0 emails" tortured me. UGH!
Then I woke up bright and early at 3:30am today (Monday).. I know, what a way to start a Monday! 3:30am? Gross! But, I decided to check my SacLink acct and I was messing around and clicked on everything I could..... I clicked on "Student Center" then it took to me to some thing letting me know I could become a registered voter through the website.. no thank you (anyone who knows me knows I'm not registered to vote because I have no intention of ever voting).... I simply clicked "OK" and it brought me to the student center section and low and behold "Check application status..." HOLY CRAP! COULD IT BE?! HOW DID I NOT THINK OF THIS BEFORE!?!..... moment of truth.... "Admitted"...... "click here to accept admittance." BOOYA! I did it! I was accepted back into CSUS! Now, lots thought it was 'in the bag' but these days with all the budget cuts and so many schools not accepting transfers or anything, I honestly wasn't sure what was going to happen.... but it is official. I start school on Sept. 3! They have 3 of the 5 classes I need offered in the fall and the other 2 are offered in the Spring, but I e-mailed a professor to see if there was any way I could squeeze those last 2 in in the fall as one of them is a 1 unit course I've already taken (I didn't take the final so I automatically failed) and the other is an internship class so basically you just write reports on how the internship is going).... If it doesn't work out, I'm perfectly happy taking 2 semesters to graduate... then I'm immediately applying to UOP for their 2 year MA program in Speech and Language Pathology! Wish me luck!
With all this being said, I will be moving to my dad's house in Lodi where the commute is a lot easier and it'll be cheaper for me to stay there. I hope he can handle me for 3 years! Muahahahahahaha! What a way to start a Monday! And especially one after a hellish week....
It's funny how when you really set your mind to things, you truly can achieve anything.... I also believe the Lord has a way of providing you with what you need exactly when you need it... I always said I never wanted to hit the cap of my payscale (A-F and I'm literally on D as of this month)..... I enjoy my job, but am definitely ready for better things. I also have all my bills under control! No more credit cards, everything is caught up! I can officially live off just my check from the district (with putting money into savings), not to mention the other 2 jobs I'm working for gas, food, and fun! Just when I've gotten things totally under control (so I don't have to stress in school), and just when I've been needing to see an absolute light at the end of the tunnel (work).... it's all right there! 3 more months and I'll be finishing/beginning a new chapter. It's crazy because mentally I'm in such a better place to be in school.... I'm ready, I'm focused, and not just mustering through it..... and so while it feels like a beginning, it's really just picking up where I left off 4 years with a better head on my shoulders. I was dancing all around my house this morning, rocking out to loud music on my way to work, and have just been at total peace all day knowing my direction. It's a magical feeling!
I hope everyone else had a great Monday as well! Spring is near, running season is upon my poor fat legs, and soon, I will be a Lodian. :) Toodles!
Friday, February 22, 2013
Food addict.
My name is Mollie and I'm a food-a-holic. (This is where the group says: Hi, Mollie)
So, I didn't post yesterday because the girl (she's 13) I take care of (Job #2) was screaming for 3.5 of the 4 hours I was with her. The only time she wasn't screaming was when she was eating the fries I had to keep baking for her. I finally went up and sat next to her and started screaming with her..... she stopped and looked at me and told me to go downstairs and she was quiet for the next 10 minutes (her dad came home so I left). I went home and should've worked out but I didn't. I simply just had an Atkins bar and went to bed crying out of mere frustration. The good news is her mom (God bless her) sent me the best text this morning that said the girl had given her my picture this morning which in her language meant "no school, I want Mollie instead." Totally put a smile on my face and made my whole day better. I'm here now, she's screamed twice, but she told herself to "calm down." She had 2 things of Kraft Easy Mac (which, if anyone knows me, they know my FAVORITE food in the world is Kraft Macaroni and Cheese)... Now, I've never been a fan of their EasyMac, but man did it smell good.... Oh, Atkins, how I loathe thee sometimes... you've taken me away from Kraft. I had a moment of "you're an addict" while preparing it. Literally. I thought to myself.... "don't steal a bite because it will blow everything you've worked for the last 5 days." Then, I thought... "this must be what it's like for an addict.... 'that one drink will undo the last 20 years of sobriety,' 'that one puff will undo all your hard work in NA'..... damn! I feel for you guys! I'm a food-a-holic. Junk food JUNKIE. I won't even allow myself to have junk food in my pantry because it will be gone in one day. Seriously. I've been known (well, just to myself, but now to the world) to put back an entire pack of Oreos in a day. Plus a bag of Doritos. I used to buy Ho-ho's and eat them on my way to an ex-boyfriend's house to cook dinner. Pathetic, huh? Forget buying anything in bulk because it just means I eat that much more. I thought "instead of buying a single pack of ho-ho's at 7-11, I'll buy the 6 pack at Target and save some money....." yea, no... I'd have 2 packs gone by the time I went home... I literally go into a beast mode and it's really hard to control it. I'm not going to say I can't control it, because I totally believe I can, but it's too hard for me and well, now I just can't even go down that aisle anymore. That's another reason why I'm enjoying this Atkins... I'm not starving by anymeans... omelets for breakfast, salmon for dinner, an awesome chicken salad for lunch.. not to mention the snacks in between (I love snacking)! But I know that one bite of anything I'm not supposed to have will undo all my hard work and I will have to start all over.... my body should be in the stage where it's burning the fat for fuel as I've limited it's carb intake, and after 81 days, I will be ok with gaining a few eating something I really want, and I won't mind starting over again, but for right now.... this is where it's at. Anyhoo, she's upstairs now, quiet, and I've just delivered the first batch of french fries and the second helping of salami. Awesome.
I brought my workout gear in today and got started immediately when I got here so by the time she got home, I had already completed 20minutes of working out my arms and legs! It felt great! Now, part of this is because the dad is now going to start texting when he's on his way home (the mom already does) so I can pack up my laptop and gear instead of being afraid he's going to walk in at any second while I'm working out... talk about an awkward moment! I feel great! I"m eating my turkey and cheese and in a bit I will eat my Atkins bar (I'm sort of addicted to them, they're quite delicious... especially the hazelnut one... almost reminds me of the Ferrer Rocher candies).
Today is Friday, and that automatically makes it a wonderful day.... afterall, I've been looking forward to it since Tuesday! I'm officially on day 5 of the induction phase of Atkins and I woke up feeling great... I love when you wake up and feel thin... it kind of makes for not wanting to ruin that feeling and definitely keeps me on track the rest of the day. Tomorrow I'm going to shoot for 3 classes at the gym, but I will definitely make it to 2 of them. I love gym classes.... they're much more motivating than a treadmill (which I have at home), or just walking the neighborhood. To me, the classes almost don't feel like exercise.... maybe because I just don't dread them. Haha! I have 81 days until the big 25... and I still can't believe it. I keep telling myself, "You can stick to this for 81 days.....don't start 25 disappointed in yourself." I've decided to take things day by day..... I know I overshoot things, "Oh, I'll take 8 classes at the gym this week," when in reality, I'll only do 5, but it's still more than my doing nothing like I've done the last couple of years, so hey... it is what it is. Tonight is salmon with dijon mustard atop a bed of spring greens! I'm stoked.... did I mention I bought a toaster oven a couple of weeks ago? Holy smokes, that thing ROCKS!
Well, time to go check on the girl..... wish me luck... and may she not ask for more Kraft....
So, I didn't post yesterday because the girl (she's 13) I take care of (Job #2) was screaming for 3.5 of the 4 hours I was with her. The only time she wasn't screaming was when she was eating the fries I had to keep baking for her. I finally went up and sat next to her and started screaming with her..... she stopped and looked at me and told me to go downstairs and she was quiet for the next 10 minutes (her dad came home so I left). I went home and should've worked out but I didn't. I simply just had an Atkins bar and went to bed crying out of mere frustration. The good news is her mom (God bless her) sent me the best text this morning that said the girl had given her my picture this morning which in her language meant "no school, I want Mollie instead." Totally put a smile on my face and made my whole day better. I'm here now, she's screamed twice, but she told herself to "calm down." She had 2 things of Kraft Easy Mac (which, if anyone knows me, they know my FAVORITE food in the world is Kraft Macaroni and Cheese)... Now, I've never been a fan of their EasyMac, but man did it smell good.... Oh, Atkins, how I loathe thee sometimes... you've taken me away from Kraft. I had a moment of "you're an addict" while preparing it. Literally. I thought to myself.... "don't steal a bite because it will blow everything you've worked for the last 5 days." Then, I thought... "this must be what it's like for an addict.... 'that one drink will undo the last 20 years of sobriety,' 'that one puff will undo all your hard work in NA'..... damn! I feel for you guys! I'm a food-a-holic. Junk food JUNKIE. I won't even allow myself to have junk food in my pantry because it will be gone in one day. Seriously. I've been known (well, just to myself, but now to the world) to put back an entire pack of Oreos in a day. Plus a bag of Doritos. I used to buy Ho-ho's and eat them on my way to an ex-boyfriend's house to cook dinner. Pathetic, huh? Forget buying anything in bulk because it just means I eat that much more. I thought "instead of buying a single pack of ho-ho's at 7-11, I'll buy the 6 pack at Target and save some money....." yea, no... I'd have 2 packs gone by the time I went home... I literally go into a beast mode and it's really hard to control it. I'm not going to say I can't control it, because I totally believe I can, but it's too hard for me and well, now I just can't even go down that aisle anymore. That's another reason why I'm enjoying this Atkins... I'm not starving by anymeans... omelets for breakfast, salmon for dinner, an awesome chicken salad for lunch.. not to mention the snacks in between (I love snacking)! But I know that one bite of anything I'm not supposed to have will undo all my hard work and I will have to start all over.... my body should be in the stage where it's burning the fat for fuel as I've limited it's carb intake, and after 81 days, I will be ok with gaining a few eating something I really want, and I won't mind starting over again, but for right now.... this is where it's at. Anyhoo, she's upstairs now, quiet, and I've just delivered the first batch of french fries and the second helping of salami. Awesome.
I brought my workout gear in today and got started immediately when I got here so by the time she got home, I had already completed 20minutes of working out my arms and legs! It felt great! Now, part of this is because the dad is now going to start texting when he's on his way home (the mom already does) so I can pack up my laptop and gear instead of being afraid he's going to walk in at any second while I'm working out... talk about an awkward moment! I feel great! I"m eating my turkey and cheese and in a bit I will eat my Atkins bar (I'm sort of addicted to them, they're quite delicious... especially the hazelnut one... almost reminds me of the Ferrer Rocher candies).
Today is Friday, and that automatically makes it a wonderful day.... afterall, I've been looking forward to it since Tuesday! I'm officially on day 5 of the induction phase of Atkins and I woke up feeling great... I love when you wake up and feel thin... it kind of makes for not wanting to ruin that feeling and definitely keeps me on track the rest of the day. Tomorrow I'm going to shoot for 3 classes at the gym, but I will definitely make it to 2 of them. I love gym classes.... they're much more motivating than a treadmill (which I have at home), or just walking the neighborhood. To me, the classes almost don't feel like exercise.... maybe because I just don't dread them. Haha! I have 81 days until the big 25... and I still can't believe it. I keep telling myself, "You can stick to this for 81 days.....don't start 25 disappointed in yourself." I've decided to take things day by day..... I know I overshoot things, "Oh, I'll take 8 classes at the gym this week," when in reality, I'll only do 5, but it's still more than my doing nothing like I've done the last couple of years, so hey... it is what it is. Tonight is salmon with dijon mustard atop a bed of spring greens! I'm stoked.... did I mention I bought a toaster oven a couple of weeks ago? Holy smokes, that thing ROCKS!
Well, time to go check on the girl..... wish me luck... and may she not ask for more Kraft....
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