Through the Storm

Lord You are so faithful !  I love you more and more each day !  You show me Your power !  I believe in You even when the storms of life are unbearable.  You never give me more than I can bear.  I know this because even though I fall short You are there supporting me, encouraging me and pushing me forward.  Allowing me to know and work in my purpose.  Awesome God !  Lord I am excited to know that I have a relationship with You.  Without You I would be hopeless.  I stand on Your promises to never leave or forsake me!

Well hello, everyone, I have been out, when I am out pray for me.  When I don’t write I am either in a funk, scared or depressed or some of all that.  I thought nothing else could throw me for a loop, but I was wrong, over the last year I have been fighting to stay in my HOME !  Yes my home, the home my mother left me.  Not to get all into it, I almost lost it, the thought of losing my home was running me crazy in March 2012, when is when I began to receive serious notice.  My anxiety levels were SKY HIGH.  I did not share this info with anyone as my pride would not allow it and I felt like what could others really do. I do not like being a victim, never have, but I knew when God brought me through I would share the good news.   I did open up to one or two people, and the one person I humbled myself to, lowered my pride with was able to offer me words of love, encouragement and support.   This person is a woman of God whose kindness compares only to my mother.  My mother’s legacy of giving and caring lives on in this woman.  My mother showed this individual’s God’s love throughout her life and in return she gave me love.  God provides, what God enabled her to do is something only my mother or should I say a mother’s love would do.  I no longer have a mother, but God showed me I can still expect that type of love in my life.  God is a provider, he fills our needs.  During this situation I needed a mother and He gave me one.  I love the Lord !  As I write this I am only writing it because there maybe someone out there that needs the reinforcement of knowing GOD IS TRULY AMAZING !!  In my life the Lord has worked two miracles for me; one when my son went to court and he got probation and now God has allowed me to stay in the home my mother left me.  God builds me up through my storms I know this to be true.  He works in my life and shows me in ways in which I KNOW he and ONLY He did it. 

Yesterday I heard the news and I had one of those moments that I feel guilty about.  I have the faith that God is going to provide for me, and when he does, I say thank you but I feel it is not enough.  This is when I realize I can NEVER do enough to show God my gratitude.  But what I can do and what he requires me to do is to GIVE HIM THE GLORY and tell others of His goodness.  So this is part of what I will do.  I am a vessel of God, God give me boldness, loose me of pride and humble me to tell of Your goodness. 

There are details of this storm that you may identify with, if God has moved in Your life in a miraculous way, please let others know, so they can be blessed.  If You feel He hasn’t read these words and know that God is faithful.  This experience has helped me understand God’s written word and His promises.

I could go on and go !  God is Greatly to be Praised !  I had to praise God through the storm, through the rain, I had to praise Him in advance knowing that my blessing was coming.

So I Live - In PURPOSE

Chirs and I at his High School Graduation Party 2009 - a few months before he passed away

Thank You Lord for courage and strength!  I appreciate Your goodness, love, mercy and grace!  I love You Lord I appreciate You so very much!  You are the God above all things, You reign Lord, YOU!

Well this morning started off slow but steady.  I got up and got myself together and went to see my personal trainer at 6:30 a.m.  Boy it was tough getting up, I always say the hardest part for me is to get up and put on the sneakers.  Once I am at the gym I’m ok. I did a lot of free weights and ab/core work.  Ab/core work is so hard for me, my core is a mess, but I will continue to work on it, it is definitely a process.  I definitely need the push, I am gonna have to begin a routine at home too.  I keep saying it but not doing it.

Today makes 3 years that Chris passed away.  This morning I started by trying to ignore it, but by 10:30 a.m. I began to think about it.  I upload a photo of me and Chris on facebook and put it on mine and his timeline.  I did not want to draw attention to it for me.  But in his memory I wanted to acknowledge his life.  I love and miss him so much.  God has worked in me and given me the Peace that surpasses all understanding.  He has given me strength and courage to face each day.  I am surviving, God has a purpose for me, so I live.

I joined Planet Fitness online this morning for the 20 buck plan, that is much better than me paying out 66 per month for lifetime.  I thought it was a wise economical move for me right now.  I am looking forward to going, getting it IN   LOL

I have a busy weekend, I am going to the 730 walk but I am not walking, Blondell is doing a 30 mile bike ride so I am standing in for her as the ENCOURAGER.  Awesome Right !  I love the team of walkers and what it represents so yes I will get up and be there at 7:30 a.m. ready to pray, snap photos and encourage. 

Last night’s Fit for the King was really nice, the potluck was awesome, great turnout and the documentary Forks Over Knifes was so educational.  It allowed us to see that we HAVE to make better choices with our food.  The foods we eat are directly related to our health and healing.

Tomorrow I will go to 7:30 a.m. walk, meet with a friend for lunch and help her develop her blog/website for her business.  I have a 4:30p.m. massage scheduled.  I need it so bad.  My cousin is having a skating party starting at 11:00 p.m. til 2:00 a.m. REALLY, is she serious.  I may try and hang, we will see.

Pray for me this day!  See ya

Out of Control

Lord You are teaching me patience as I go through this storm.  I am learning that things happen in Your perfect will.  Lord thank You for teaching me the importance of patience.  Lord bless those that I am surrounded by Lord give Peace when there is no peace, give comfort when there is none.  Lord continue to prepare me in my passion and purpose.

It has been about a week since I have blogged.  I can tell when my life is spiriling out of control because I do not write.  I am back today as I need to focus and get back right.  It seems as though when I found out I had a injury to my ankle and cannot do cardio I got depressed and sort of gave up.  Also this is a difficult time of year for me.  Chris was killed on Oct. 5, 2009 so the Fall of the year is crazy for me.  I think I am doing better then through my out of control eating I see that I am not.  Because I am an emotional eater so when I am down the scale shows it and I eat without focusing.  I think about the bad foods I am eating but at that moment I do not care enough about myself to stop myself.

So here I am writing my feelings.  I need this, I need to write, I need to get it out, because I don't talk about it easy.  It's too difficult.  I will stand back up with the strength God gives me.  I will do it.  I cannot linger in this moment.  I need to be freed of these feelings.

I plan to go to church tonight for prayer service.  I am expecting God to pour into me.  I know He has not left me or forsaken me.  I do believe this.  But often I leave myself and forsake myself.

You know what I like about myself is that I know God is good, God is able, God is the God above all and He and He alone will carry me through just because he cares and loves me and understands me.  I have hope.

Lord give me strength to move forward and push on.  Thank You

Live Life on PURPOSE

You have provided for me in so many ways.  I need a healing Lord !  I need a healing !  I want to continue to workout and honor my vessel.  Lord my ankle is sore and swollen Lord, I don’t know what caused it Lord but You do, Lord I am asking for favor and healing in this situation.  Heal my body Lord !  Thank You Lord !  Thank You Lord !

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About two weeks ago something strange happened to my ankle.  Some say it has been overworked !  Me overworking LOL  I need to find a balance as I do not want injuries, I am healing from my right fractured foot, which does not bother me and now my left ankle is sore.  I need a fix, it hurts, but it is not unbearable.  Just enough to hinder my workouts.  Could this be a message for me to slow down ?  Tomorrow morning I will be taking an x-ray to determine the seriousness of my injury.  It's rough being an ATHLETIC LOL

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Yesterday I began reading the recommended reading for Seed Team. This book help to move you toward your God given purpose and passion.  This book is so timely for me.  I am building a relationship with God, understanding His will for me and my life.  I tell people that I am always fascinated to see God work in my life and the life of those that I know.  He works things out if you let Him.  Get out of his way and let Him make a way OUT of No WAY.  God is truly amazing.  I wish I had this book on my kindle fire where I could check it out throughout the day.  I can't wait to go home cuddle up on the couch and continue to read it.  I am so excited about !

I advise you that if you haven't picked up this book please do.  It is easy to read and follow, as I am not one to read touch stuff, it is humorous and straight to the punch, not hard to figure out.  It is bibically based and scripture is given throughout to support.  God has given me what I need at the time I need and made it understandable for me.  I love to read and this book has brought that passion for reading back to me.

Oh Yes !  On Saturday I had my massage.  It was great, so relaxing and worth every penny.  This morning I met with my personal trainer and he had me do a plank where I was extended in air and had to do a crunch in my plank.  I didn't last, I fell, but I tried again and did 30 seconds of it.  When I master this I will have the abs of steel, I'm just saying.  I don't even know how he thought of this but I will work at it again.  

Massage - Deep Tissue

Lord you are magnificent !  You have ALL power and You are in control.  I thank You for Your many blessings, more than I can count Lord.  You are such a loving Father growing and developing me in my passion and purpose.  For this I thank You.  For giving me Peace through my storm I thank You !  For blessing those around me I thank You Lord !

Yesterday was so wonderful “Fit for the King” is awesome !  Lord thank You for blessing our group with such wonderful women who are anxious and ready Lord.  Thank you for placing in me what I NEED to educate and motivate these Women of God !  I am so grateful !

Our group is growing they shared a lot during group and they appear to be bonding to one another.  This is great !  I need the Lord in this group and to pour into me !  God showed up and showed out.

Our workout was really good.  We did a one mile walk video.  I thought it would be light weight for me “Ms Fitness” but I broke a hard sweat.  The ladies enjoyed likewise.  Today I ordered 25ft of flat resistance bands.  For us to go into the next level of the walk we need the flat resistance bands so they will be here in a two day shipment.  YES !  We can go to the next level, thank the Lord for blessing me with the funds to place the order.  We will also do hand weights next week.  I am in pursuit of a small suitcase with wheels to wheel around my sets of hand weights.  I will keep a look out in the thrift stores, if anyone has one to donate let me know.  I would appreciate it very much !

Tomorrow I will be doing the 5 miles at Euclid Creek, I am excited I have not ran/walk on my ankle since Monday.  I have seen my trainer, but no real cardio.  So hopefully tomorrow I will be fine.  After Euclid Creek I may be going downtown for a 2.5 walk for Nami which benefits Mental Health Services.  Most likely I will not, may be too much for my ankle. 

I made an appointment to take my Mac Book in to the apple store it needs upgrading.  Looking forward to this I love the apple store, customer service is the best I have ever experienced.

THEN at 6:00 p.m. I am scheduled to have a 60 minute deep tissue massage.  I am buying a packet of 4 massages for a reasonable price.  If any of you are interested let me know, they have a referral program, for every referral you get a free one.  Great Deal RIGHT !  I have NEVER had a deep tissue, I heard it can be painful, I am use to the Swedish ones.  But I am sure it will help my body, with all the workouts I need massages in my life LOL

I will keep you all updated.  See ya !  Have a wonderful weekend !

Holding it DOWN !

Pat Hitchens, Andrea Wallace, ME, Rose - we walked the 4 miles - it was great to  walk and not  RUN !  After the race Pat invited me and Andrea Wallace to her house for Chicken and Dumplings (yummy) !

Lord I am grateful !  You are teaching me patience.  On the other side of this storm I will know true patience.  You are a loving God.  I stand on Your promises to never leave or forsake me.  Forgive me of any sins that I may have committed.  I do want to live in Your will Lord. Lord I ask a special prayer that you resolve conflict as YOU are the Prince of PEACE !  Amen !

Well I haven’t blogged since this weekend.  I have been on course and holding it DOWN !  This week has been somewhat busy as usual. God gives me strength to carry on.  On Monday evening I met up at Shaker with the NCBF Team, we all walked, for me it was a recovery walk from my race on Saturday.  I have to be mindful of my ankle.  On Monday morning I met with Eric, personal trainer and worked out it was great. 

This morning I met with Eric and it was crazy, I thought I was getting ready to leave and his assistant comes out with a mat.  I am thinking REALLY ! WHAT !  She asked me to give her a 2 minute plank, she said Eric wanted to increase the intensity.  OK WELL !  Planks take a lot of all over body strength from your head to your toes and all in between, especially the CORE.  It takes good body formation and slow steady breathing.  Your MIND has to connect with your BODY to get you through.  Eric reminded me of my faith and asked me to rely on it to get this plank done.  Well I did it without falling, and I am still living.  Then his assistant asked me to do 1 ½ minutes, then a 1 minute.  I got them all done without falling and with pretty good formation.  Eric said he may have to give me a plague that says BAD A___ ! 

I did a lot of arm work today, which I needed.  I don’t go back until Monday, so on Friday I will go to Lifetime and do the machines !  I got to get it IN being consistent.  My Friday trainer is on vacation, so I will encourage myself through my workout at Lifetime.  They have tons of really cool machines.  I will do upper body focusing on arms, and big body muscles.  I am learning the language LOL   Hopefully I can get a yoga class in at Lifetime.  I would love this. 

This week I will try and work in a massage.  I plan to buy the 4 package deal that will be a nice reward for myself instead of shopping.  I will make the sacrifice, I will probably get a massage every other week until I use the 4 up.  If I refer someone I will get a extra one for every person that signs up, Great Deal !

Thursday night is Fit for the King !  I am excited about the group. I am trying to keep my energy level up and stay positive and prayed up !  Tonight is prayer meeting , I’m IN !  I am excited, I need to pray about some things and connect myself in prayer with my church family. 

Yesterday I got a call from a sister at the church saying First Lady had asked that I serve and commit to pray for a couple special events that are coming up.  This is great I know the power of prayer works.  I am pleased to be a part of this group. 

Don’t Judge Me PLEASE – I know I am pushing myself, but it is a good push I could be doing lots worse.  You know I use to eat for breakfast 2 egg mcmuffins, lunch was fast food (big mac) and dinner was mostly pizza or fast food.  I now try to practice clean eating for the mass majority of my meals.  Smoothies for breakfast, lunch salad with chicken breast, and dinner is usually smoothie or salad.  Dinner is tricky if I go out with friends I order not so wisely LOL  But I am working on this !  SO when I run/walk, race, train I am sometimes over doing it I need to recover.  I have to find a balance.

Now here I go this is why I say don’t JUDGE me.  This Saturday I am training with the NCBF Team at 7:30 a.m. for a 5 mile run at Euclid Creek.  YES !  Excited ! YES ! 

Now here it is at 10:00 a.m. I have a 4 mile WALK for Nami.  Nami is a mental health organization that my agency supports.  So I will be WALKING WITH MY CO WORKERS.  I haven’t even posted this on our GROUP Run page, because I am DOING TOO MUCH LOL  Pray for your sister !  But I love being active and the causes are for such good reasons. 

I will keep you all posted.  After the race hopefully I will have a massage scheduled. 

Sunday after church I will be attending my friend Michelle’s H. picnic at Euclid Creek.  Pray I don’t go sprinting up the hill LOL   See ya’ll

God is FAITHFUL

Lord You are victorious in ALL that You do.  In this I have victory !


I remember as a child when my parents were happy and excited I was blessed by it.  Now that I don't have earthly parents, I look to God for my blessings.  The Lord is victorious and so I am also victorious.  He is creative and created me in His image, so I have the character of God.  I am learning to believe this and hold God to his promises.  God is FAITHFUL !  The

GOD blesses me way more than I deserve.  HIS love is beyond anything I can image.  I am learning to Love the Lord as my creator.  Again since my earthy parents are gone I see God as my father who loves me, protects me and provides for me.  I have learned to rely on God and I am grateful that he loves me.

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I am writing my third blog this weekend !  Why, because I need to express myself and this is where I put it out there.  Today I was not able to attend church services so I need to give God the glory.  I need to thank the Lord for everything.  I know that He is a miracle worker because he works miracles in my life.  When I am unsure what to do with situations, if I sit still he will work them out.  I have learned not to panic or fret.  I have learned healthy ways of handling stressful situations.

God has surrounded me with me that care about me.  God shows His love through people.  I do believe this.  When people put me in stressful situations I know it is not of God and eventually He will help me free myself of them.  Most people have my best interest I can tell.  God will reveal those that don't so I don't worry or fret.

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This has been a stressful year for me.  I have had worries and frets, but day by day God took me through.  I am nearing the end of a storm in my life, which should end tomorrow God's will be done.  For this I rejoice.  Rejoice Rejoice Rejoice.

Long story short, God is Faithful and I turn it over to HIM !

Remembering Monica Bellamy

Monica a year ago today - Missing You !

This weekend a year ago I traveled to Grand Rapids to attend my cousin's reception.  It was one of the best times of my life.

Monica, Nique and I shared a hotel run.  Now Monica lived in Michigan but we all wanted to be together so she stayed in the room with us and we hung out all weekend.  This day we had some of the best quality time ever.  We did girly stuff.  She watched me while I did my makeup and for the first time ever she asked me to do hers.  Now she use to be a makeup artist so I am amazed at her request, I remember her watching me in the mirror apply mine.  I said to her why and she said I like the way you do it.  I know I know !  We GOT each other !  We appreciated each other's gifts and talents.  We encouraged one another.  Well this is the night of my after photo, I was rocking the makeup and the look and she was right there watching me pull the look together.  When I finished my make I did hers and she loved it.

I miss her so much !  I remember that weekend like it was today.  I remember on that Sunday she got sick and did not have her medication, we found a drugstore and the pharmacist knew the seriousness of her medical condition and he gave her enough meds for the weekend.  We were so grateful.  You see Monica really never talked about her medical problem, she didn't want to be a victim, she wanted to live life with no limits.  She did not want us to baby her so she didn't talk about it much.  So when she passed away we were shocked, left without her and missing her.  Well the other day her mother called me from her phone and her name came up in my caller ID, oh how I wished it was her, so badddddd.  Her mother was using the phone because her was broken, I had to call her back on it one or twice and Monica's voicemail came on.  It said this is Monica from Special Occasions........., I heard her voice and I was excited but also so said.  God give me peace with this, I miss her so much !  She was so special to our family and me.

I always want to call her and tell her stuff we use to talk for hours, hours and hours.  We use to run around shopping and do everything.  She showed me I had talents with my hands and that I was creative.

She always let me know she was proud of me, always !  I want to tell her about my running because we would talk about it, it mattered to her.  It didn't bother her to listen.  I enjoyed listening to her things as well.  We cared and loved one another.  Yesterday her mother and I talked her mother is alot like my mother, very kind hearted and loving and keeps God and family as a priority.

Monica I love U

Susan G Komen 5K - 40:44 YES

                           Susan G Komen Race for the Cure - 9-15-12 with GoneGirlGo     

                              My last two race finishes:    40:44 9-15-12    42:03-Labor Day

Team Photo Race for the Cure : finished 40:44 YES

Lord I thank You for perfect running conditions, and surrounding me with inspiration.  Lord you blessed us today.  Lord You gave me to strength to race with a slightly injured ankle.  Thanks for all the survivors that we present and God bless those that have passed away !  Prayfully our efforts helped the cause and will result in a cure !

Where do I start ?  Today was an awesome day !  It started off without incident.  I did as I had planned, I made a powerful protein smoothie to fuel me throughout the race.  I prayed for strength.  And I took 2 Aleve LOL

Parking was easy for me I got there early $5.00 was reasonable.  But there was a nearer garage for 2.  Oh well !  As I approached I saw the REAL runners running the streets warming up.  Inspiration at it's best.  They came to race to compete and I respect that.  I will get there LOL

As I got to the location I put on my Team Captain Hat.  I organized the run for the team of GoneGirlGo and I took it seriously.  So I waited on 18th and prospect as each and every member came.      We were all excited anticipated the race.  There were thousands about thousands of people there, just masses of people.  Zoe took photos I will upload when she uploads them to facebook.  The crowd did not scare me as I thought it would.  Why, most likely because I was prayed up and I have participated in 3 other races this summer so I knew the format.  Line up and take off, look to the left and right for passer byers so you are not knocked about as everyone finds there pace the crowds dispatches.

I kept my pace.  Andrea Wallace is definitely my pace partner and we ran the race together.  Only speaking to each other a few times and only a few words as to keep our energy.  Mile one, was hard work, for me that is the warm up.  But as I reached the one mile mark the timer said 12:24 I was totally grateful, I usually run a 14:00 pace so I was definitely on course and in a good pace.  This encouraged me to push on.  I had been concerned if I could run because of my foot and I had not run this week due to my ankle.

Mile 2 was a trip, so hard knowing you have 2 more to go, but as I have been trained I think about how far I have come and don't focus on the remainder.  Bt this point I was focusing on those around me reading their t shirts of inspiration, memorials to love ones and friends.  AWESOME, it almost brought me to tears.  I was blown away by the love in the environment.  Also there was a fantastic band at 2 miles and there was a african american troop of females who were teen and preteen cheerleaders.  There energy excited me I always love cheering as I use to be a cheer leader.  So in turn I gave them high fives and pumped them up.  They loved it !

Mile 3 is the most almost mile I know.  It is down the road and I expect it to be there, I expect the crowd to be there.  At the finish a older guy came up to me and began talking, now at first it annoyed me because I had little energy to talk, I was conserving for a strong finish.  Then he said thank you, thank you for your pace, he said he had been behind me keeping pace with me and Andrea and knew he could make it if he followed us.  You never know who you are encouraging.  So many people went by me that had encouraged me with their strength that I did not get to thank.  When we crossed the finish line he came to me and Andrea and gave us hugs.

Now let's go back !  As Andrea and I approached the finish line I saw the digital timer, I knew this race was not being time for me, you had to pay extra for them to time you.   So I looked at the timer and saw 40:44 as I crossed.  I rejoiced in God.  I finished about little over a minute sooner.  For competitor this is WHAT'S UP !  Seeing improvement.  Now of course, running for the cause was critical but runners like to know their pace improved by race time.  I was grateful !  Everyone was pleased with their race.  Yes there race, when you compete you compete against yourself and do your race.  Running another's race or being over concerned with other's passing you gets you off course and ruins your race.

We had an awesome team !  We did a television shoot with Ramona from channel 19 it will air today.  Hopefully it will be on YouTube and I can upload.  She is one beautiful lady !

Now you know we went to lunch, FLYING FIG.  We all had omelets and potatoes, best omelets EVER !  We had great fellowship and encouraged one another and discussed God's goodness in our lives.  It is always nice to be in a group of same minded God loving people.

Zoe blessed me with the original copy of our team photo for being the Team Captain.  I was excited.  I went to Office Max and got copies to give to all in the photo.

Now I am at home and there is a mouse in my bedroom ! OMG !  See ya off to get traps.

Oh yeah my coworker Arielle Ballard ran with us, we had been training at Shaker, she has lots of good energy.  I like her alot.

THANKS TO ALL MY TRAINERS - BLONDELL HINTON - ERIC PRICE AND TERESA BROWN YOU ALL PUSH ME TO GET STRONGER

Rant and Praise - more Praise than Ranting :)

Walking Team on Tuesday 9-11-12 @ 6:00 p.m.  - I walked about a mile - I have an injury 

Icing my aggravated ankle - 9-11-12 - Lord I want to run on Saturday Race for the Cure !

Lord help me today to be NICE !  I was faced with some drama, that I didn't need.  But I was expecting it, but still find it hard to believe that people are so ungrateful.  Ungratefulness bothers me but I know I am dealing with man and man will disappoint.  I find it hard to believe people always have their hand out but don't feel the need to help others or even speak up to come to the defense of others.  It makes me feel under valued, and taken advantage of.  But again I can't make people treat me nice.  What I can do is remove myself and not allow myself to be used or swallow my pride and apology and keep it movin.

Well just as I was writing this today I got an important phone call and it was some of the best news I have gotten in a year.  It was the call I had been waiting for and it is over.  This rocky storm that I have been facing is coming to a close this week or the beginning of next week.  So I am grateful, I am so very grateful.  I cannot allow others to upset me because God is working in my life in a special way, showing me His love.  When other's aren't grateful I must continue to show gratefulness.  I cannot allow other's to take the JOY God gives me.

Last night I woke up about 2:30 a.m. to left leg pain.  My heel and ankle were hurting for no apparent reason.  I did not twist it or anything.  It is not even the foot I broke.  So this evening when I met with the walking team I walked 2 miles.  Feeling like a failure, because I enjoy a good workout.  I guess I have been doing too much recently.  Blondell gave me ice so I could ice my ankle while I waited for others to come across the finish line.  Tomorrow I will let my personal trainer know so my workouts can be adjusted.  I want to be able to at least walk in the Susan G. Komen race, right now my ankle is swollen.

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Today’s session with personal trainer was tough as usual.  My left ankle is swollen and in minor pain, I have been icing it, elevating and taking pain pills.  During the session he modified my workout to avoid so much pressure on the ankle.  He feels the lunges we did on Monday may have aggravated it.  This morning I had mixed feelings I felt successful at doing a 2 minute plank without shaking with good form.  My body is definitely stronger to maintain the hold.  But yet when I had to do women’s pushups I did horrible, I explained to him that I have not had to incorporate pushups in my routine.  Well today I did.  They were not perfect, but I am sure he will continue this and get my body ready to do them better.  I do know that I am stronger or I could have been a mess at the planks.  Also today instead of stepups to keep my heart elevated I did a cycling bike, WOW WOW WOW !  I rode it 3 times for 2 minutes, doesn’t seem like a long time, unless you are doing the 2 minutes.  I was on there thinking shouldn’t two minutes be over by now.  But again the planks showed me what my body could do.  When he first asked me to do a plank weeks ago, they were a mess, I was a mess, I couldn’t handle the two minutes.  So all these things will get better with time and work. 

As my cool down I did 8 minutes of the stair climber, this is the roughest, toughest cardio I have done.  But I absolutely LOVE it, what I love is when it is over I feel so good and successful.  This machine kicks butt for real, sweat drips like crazy, it is funny how I am not jumping all over the place but it is cardio and burning.  I have been use to jumping jacks and other cardio moves to get the heart racing.  In eight minutes I burned 289 calories.  YES !  On Monday I burned 208 in 8 minutes.  Amazing ! Amazing ! 

Monday I decided not to return to Nulife and renew.  The cost was a lot and I now see I don’t have to work that hard to burn calories.  Personal training is teaching me to work smarter.  I will miss Nulife, but for this season of my life I am cool.  I will keep it moving, I do appreciate the kick start it gave me.  The trainers there do kick butt, but I am chilling on this due to time, money and I can burn doing other things, like running, PT.  Life Groups and prayer meeting are resuming this week and I cannot keep the pace of boot camp 3 to 4 evenings.  It is time for me to pay personal trainer and I needed to reduce fitness budget.  I want to have monies available for some deep tissue massages.  Also I am a member of Lifetime Fitness and I have resumed working out there, they have all sort of cardio classes, machines, pool, cycling, sauna everything.  Everything except a indoor track for running L  Oh well I will work it out.  It’s cool.  I have options.

Today I picked up a copy of Cycle magazine.  I am going to do some research and save up for a bike.  I plan to be ready for this by the spring of 2013.  I need a comfortable old school type bike.  Comfort is crucial, comfortable seat.  I will ride on path by my house, Cumberland and up to Cain Park eventually venturing to other trails.  I am a bit leary of riding in traffic.  This will not work for me J  I am excited about this, and look forward to cycling.

Pray for Life Groups Fit for the King begins tomorrow night.  I am excited, we will be doing a nice ice breaker that will allow us to discuss fitness and what the word says about our vessels.  We will be making yummy smoothies, I picked up some peanut butter today.  I will pack up some of the items tonight which will be exciting.  We will most likely do a light weight workout as my friend is making me a music track for a cardio workout.  I am grateful or we will do a Zumba tape, or who knows we may go outside and walk the neighborhood. 

See ya !

Next Level

9-5-12  5 mile Run - 1/2 way there !

9-5-12  Finish Line

Running Team for 9-5-12 - Rose joined our weekly group

This is sort of part 2 of today's 9-10-12 blog. I got to thinking about I didn't post Thursday photos and I wanted to say a few words about the NEXT LEVEL !

Eric Price - Personal Trainer All About U Fitness

Over the weekend my commitment to working changed.  After our run in the rain, it confirmed to me I was a Fit Chick !  Now this morning when I worked out with my personal trainer Eric he confirmed that I was doing alot better.  His words were very encouraging, well that is what a trainer is suppose to do.  And it works !  At the same exact time we both said I am a the NEXT LEVEL !  Now for me that means, I am feeling stronger in my mind and body.  As I spoke in my previous blog today that the mind controls and navigates the body to push on, through the pain.  Well today things kind of came together, as I did my chest presses, I knew how to lift the weight, I knew how to take it up fast and bring it down slow, breathing on my way up.  I did my best with my mind telling me to go, my mind saying it is ok you can do this.  I listened to my mind.  Along the way Eric encouraged me telling me I work hard etc.  But at the time he put me on the stair climbing machine and I did it without whinning like a baby, we both knew I was ready.  Now ready for what I don't know what the next level in his mind means.  I feel like I sort of graduated this morning to the Bigger Girl Class.

Am I ready to move on up ? YES  Will the next level be hard ? YES  I know it will be harder and more challenging.  But I will work through it with prayer and support.

Here is one last thing, on my way out the door he said Wednesday will finish this set.  I knew that meant it is time to reup (money).  The financial responsibility made me think is this worth my money and time?  YES !!!

So I will reup next Monday and get ready for the NEXT LEVEL !

Mind and Body Working Together

9-9-13 Shaker Trail in the Rain - Thank You Lord !

All Praises be to God !  All Praises be to God !  ALL PRAISES BE TO GOD !  Lord you continue to amaze me.  Why do I worry when you constantly show me you love me and provide for me.   Lord You  your protection covers me constantly.  I am so grateful and I thank you in advance for  your plans for my life. 

Registration for Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure is this Saturday and registration is going well.  If you would like to walk/run, jog or trot  please register with the team of GoneGirlGo.

Yesterday’s sermon was so on point for me.  Through the last 6 months God continues to show me his promise to never leave or forsake me and to provide for me.  There have been times when I have been uncertain about my security, finances, etc.  When  I  realty be still and listen to God in obedience leaving the fear behind he shows me.  This morning I had mail on my table that had been there since last week, in fear I didn’t open it, but I didn’t throw it away.  I was not at a point to open it, this morning I heard the voice of the Lord say “go ahead I GOT YOU “  I also heard the voice of my deceased mother say “fool open that letter “  LOL  So I went with the courage of the Lord , I had to remind myself that God was with me and had not forsaken me.  I opened the letter and to my amazement it was good news.  It was news that was far better than I could have imaged.  It was GOD !  I thought about yesterday’s sermon, and the words of bible saying I will never forsake you.  Through this I have another testimony, more confirmation of God’s goodness to energize me and push me on to Kingdom bui8ld.  I want to always stay humble knowing that God has a hand of favor on my life.  It may not appear like it from the outside but God has given me PEACE with my life and for this I am grateful beyond words. 

This Saturday the Team of NCBF women GOT IT IN in the rain.  We ventured out into the elements of nature in the rain.  We left home knowing it was raining and what we were in for .  But you see we knew God would be there to carry us through.  That’s what makes this team so special.  So we were not afraid to face nature.  And just to let you know it was 7:30 a.m. on a SATURDAY MORNING.  I say this not boasting but to show as an example that there are NO EXCUSES.  I am learning that there are no excuses.  Blondell herself even said she did not think no one would be there and at least 7 of us showed up and GOT IT IN.   As I prepare to  facilitating Fit for the King I am trying to nicely work in how I deal with excuses.  Yesterday I spoke with a woman  regarding fitness and she had excuses.  I use to have them so I DO understand.  Training with Personal  Trainers as helped me so much to leave the excuses behind and push past my comfort zone, leaving the weak behind.  I do not want to hurt feelings even as I type this I am wondering how I will deal with excuses in group.  I now understand one major reason Blondell was placed in my life, she encourages through her example and with kindness and with passion.  Thank You Lord for placing her in my life in preparation.  Because I want every woman to feel encouraged and walk away feeling great about their fitness wanting to come back and be successful.  I want them to be able to embrace the benefits of clean eating and develop exercise as a habit.  I want them to be able to see themselves as worthy, strong women created by a God that loves them.   Lord bless Fit for the King and every bible study group in the world.

This am at 6;55 a.m.  I was GETTING IT IN at ALL ABOUT U FITNESS.  Eric, PT was full of energy, good energy.   He had me do lunges with knee pads on across the parking lot.  Knee touch the ground.  Amazing !  It was good to be outside and take in the fresh air of the morning.  We then  worked with weights and I did squats.  I love squats but I don’t let him know LOL  I did 3 sets up step-ups and did 3 sets of chest presses.  My cardio at the end was the stair machine.  I had never ever done this before in life.  He told me to look out and explained that  I would more in 8 minutes of these machine vs 10 minutes of treadmill.  OK OK OK it was challenging but well worth it.  I dripped sweat, I know actually get off on sweating (I know I’m weird).  I did 8 minutes and burned 208 calories, 10 minutes of treadmill  burns 60 calories at 3.5 speed.  I walked out of there feeling strong and capable.  My mind and body are working together now.  I could tell when I was doing the chest presses, they have improved over the weeks.  My squats are good, he showed his assistant my squats and said they were good and done correctly.  Thumbs UP.  He encouraged me by telling me I was strong and a hard worker.  I was pleased. 

Enough said about this !

My eating is improving, I have been doing well.  Today I am pushing water, I picked up mint leaves and put in my water with a dab of lemon juice.  It is really good.  I drank a ½ of muscle milk before I worked out and made a smoothie to drink on my ride into work.  I have a salad for lunch.  Dinner to be determined. 

I Prayed for Deliverance !

9-5-12 - After 4 mile Run at Shaker Trail - We are training for the Susan G. Komen Race !

                                  Ariel Ballard and Vanessa Jordan
Below are photos of our pre workout smoothie- not to yummy but they are                         nutritional and fuel the body for a hard workout !

Lord I asked You for deliverance and deliverance You gave me.  You showed me in so many ways.  Lord give me the courage and strength to push forward. Lord I want to serve You and be a vessel .  Thank You for placing purpose in my life.  Thank You for the blessings along the way.  Lord thank YOU. 

Last week the Lord used another sister to help me realize my deliverance.  My deliverance in living as a healthy woman.  The Lord uses her to minister to me and I am open enough to listen.  She was explaining her deliverance from food addiction and through her journey I realized I too was delivered.  It was a freeing  moment for me and I accepted it and since then  I am seeing my journey through the eyes of a delivered free woman.  I then read another woman’s blog and she described herself as a FIT CHICK I then accepted that.  Then on Monday 2 women I talked to discussed their new feeling of being spiritually, mentally and physically good.  I also accepted that.  God used these three incidents to let me know I am living the life He wants for me.  This is my life of abundance, feeling good and serving God.  WOW !  WOW   I am not saying by any means that I am perfect but I am feeling good about me. 

I enjoy and have a passion for encouraging others to be fit and live a healthy lifestyle.  God has surrounded me with women with similar interest that encourage one another.  I am praying that FIT for the KING allows woman to connect with God spiritually and take on honoring their bodies. 

Yesterday I got a special blessing in the area of training.  I thank God for this.  Amazing story to add to my journey.

Now here it is fall is coming and it is getting dark earlier so our running/walking schedule is changing.  We will continue to Get IT IN  !  I will keep you all posted on the what’s going on of fitness.  I am ready for what God has in store; it will be exciting and inspiring.  Stay Tuned.

Yesterday we made pre-workout smoothies at work.  They were good; we will do the same today.  I have posted photos of the process.  

Protein powder, Chai ground, flaxseed ground

adding fruit - mango

added bananas - yummy 

adding peach slices, strawberries and more mango

adding spinach 

adding coconut water

finally added spinach and then we are blending -
oh yes I also added almond milk

This drink gives me the protein and nutrients needed for my 4 mile run .  I have found I have to fuel my body if I expect it to function and burn energy.  I must but good clean foods in my body.  

My friend/co-worker ran with me yesterday evening as we are preparing for the Susan G. Komen race on the 15^th.  We did 4 miles and it was an amazing experience.  It was rewarding to me to see her do the run and at the end appreciates the run and the time she had invested in herself.  I thank God for this !  She now feels more confident to do the 5K on the 15^th.

Preparation for Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure

Deliverance ! Deliverance !  Lord I want to thank You for who You are.  For creating me as the person I am.  For caring for me and the sacrifice for my sins.  Lord You  amaze me.  For being the true example, my hero.  For never leaving me alone, I love You.  For giving me a second, third and so many chances I can’t count.  For picking me up dusting me off and allowing me to move forward.  For allowing me to be a vessel for You Lord.  I want to thank You above all. 

Yesterday I ran  and I ran and I ran.  I ran a 4.18 mile in 00:57:08 minutes.  Yesterday’s group was much smaller maybe due to the rain prior to the run.  The weather for perfect for running, I noticed I sweated much more.  I pushed on through the run, reminding myself that God gives me the strength to run.  As I ran the scenery was so lovely and I went into thought about God and how he created this beauty and I was a part of it for those minutes to admire it and be grateful  for all that God has been for me and others.  I must say my focus was so good, I noticed when my focus was on God and goodness my run was less challenging.  God amazes me so much. 

Today, Arielle (co-worker/friend) will be running the Shaker train in preparation for the Susan G. Komen race for the cure.  We are both pumped.  She texted me yesterday to say they had mailed her t-shirt and bib, hopefully mine will come today.  This is her first race, I am so glad she will be a part of the team.  She rides bike, treadmills and does Zumba.  She is a fit chick so she should do good on the trail.  I believe she also power walks. 

I am excited about today, as I completed another workout with my personal trainer Eric.  He gave me lots of motivational speeches this morning.  He told me my right hand is my weaker hand and to lead with it during lifting.  I am like REALLY I don’t want to.  I was thinking this of course not saying it aloud.  We did arms, some cardio and hip and thighs. He was proud that I had lost 3 lbs last week.  He kept telling me this and I was encouraged.

Today for work, we are making healthy smoothies.  I will take photos and upload.  Arielle wants to see how to make them, I make them daily for breakfast and most days for dinner.  Another coworker makes them too so it will be our afternoon drink prior to our 4 mile run. 

The smoother will  consist of:  veggie: spinach, fruit:  pineapples, apples, banana, and mango

Protein:  protein powder, ground chia, ground flaxseed  Fluid:  plain unsweetened Almond milk.  I usually use coconut water put I ran out of supply.  I only brought a small container because I was not sure if I liked it.

It’s going to be a healthy happy day !

Drinking my proper amount of water is my goal for today.

P.S.  I made an appointment with my dermatologist I have an awesome breakout, I know it is because I have gone to bed with out taking my makeup off properly, and I need to clean my makeup brushes LOL  I will clean the brushes this weekend.

Love on others today, encourage someone !

Delayed Gratification - Fit Check vs. Scale

Monday 9-3-12 race time for me was 42:03.5 - 13.34 mile
OROC race I finished a little better 41:16.6 with a 13.19 mile
Escape on the Lake 5K results:  47:13.2 - I walked during this race

Last Thursday's Training Day - delayed gratification - I see myself  slimming down in this photo
or either Blondell got me at a good angle LOL

Lord I am so pleased that You are my creator.  You are a loving and forgiving Lord.  Lord forgive me to any sins that I have committed.  Lord please help me with family issues allow peace to continue and flow throughout my home.  Lord help me to properly help!  Thank You Lord!

Weight Loss Update:  On my Saturday weight in I had dropped 3 lbs from the previous weekend.  I was so pleased.  The numbers are beginning to show up on the scale.  With weight training I am building muscle and it weighs more.  I have not gained any week but one week I maintained and I was losing slower than usual. 

My total loss since July 1^st 2012 til September 1, 2012 has been a total of 13 lbs.  On July 1^st, I resumed working out feeling like my right foot had healed to the point where I could begin to workout.  Usually when I am working out I lose about 10 lbs per month.  So yes I was discouraged, but I realized one of these weekends I would see my reward//results. 

Delayed gratification is crucial while working out..  When working out you MUST know that you must be persistent, and determined, having faith that the results will be positively affecting your scale ONE DAY.  You  all know I work out a lot and for the scale not to move was driving me crazy.  Eric my trainer would reassure me I was building muscle.  I read something about pushing the scale away and find an outfit/dress that you want to look nice in and try it on every week instead of weighing.  I do know that throughout all of this I dropped a dress size.  So I was seeing results but I like the scale to tell me.  LOL 

Now I have a favorite pair of jeans, I only have two pair and these bad boys cost me 99 bucks.  Yes I am crazy, but they fit really nicely.  I tried them on Saturday and they did not fit as I would like, I don’t like to fight with my jeans.  I want to be able to pull them up and zip.  Ladies you know what I am talking about.  I tell you what I am not ready for these jeans yet.  So every Saturday I will try them on for a fit check.  Wanting to get into those jeans will help push me.  It may be winter time before it happens but the feeling will be great.

Speaking of feeling,, Monday at the race one or two women  spoke about how they feel so much better; physically, mentally and spiritually.  It is a total feeling of well being, feeling healthier and stronger.  When  I talked about this with one woman and then another, it made it real to me.  I too  am in a much better place in all these areas and I am grateful.  I am a fit chick.  I am a fit chick, I AM A FIT CHICK.    God is growing and stretching me and allowing me to have peace with me and discovery myself. 

My passion for fitness is growing and I love it.  No longer do I tread working out.  Now I am not in love love with it.  But I love how I feel when the workout is over. 

Stay in prayer with me regarding FIT for the KING life group.  This week I am putting together the syllabus for the study group.  I am asking God to pour into me and use me as his vessel to help others.  God is faithful so I am not fearful I am excited to watch the group develop.

See ya !  Chat with you soon.

Met the Team ! It takes an entire Village !

Blondell Hinton - Running Trainer 

Eric Price - Personal Trainer - Body Builder

Teresa Brown -Personal Trainer  

NCBF Team - run walk trot or jog - We get it in 5K 

Falanda Collins Fit Physique Boot Camp - Excellent Cardio 

Nulife Bootcamp - Miesha and Dee owner - Working it OUT !

Lord I am so grateful that You provide me with what I need to be help me spiritually, mentally and physically.  Lord You and only You give me the strength and courage to push forward.  I am so gratful.  I am grateful for what you plan to do in my life and those that surround me.  Lord I am asking You to continue to bless me, the NCBF Team and my Life Group Fit for the King.  Lord you are so kind and caring.  You show up and love all over us.  Thank You Lord !

MEET the Team !  This is how I GET IT IN !  I work it in running, personal trainers and boot camps.  To God be the Glory !  For me the team that surrounds me works.  I am able to maintain a healthy lifestyle with these various fitness activities.  I am so grateful for having all these people in my life right now.  You know I am a big fan of support giving and taking it in LOL I also know there are times when you have to encourage yourself and push through.  Sometimes when all these people and support are around and the workouts are challenge for a few seconds I do feel along, I have to call on God and then look next to me and see that others are struggles with the same challenge.

Today on Labor Day I ran a 5K (3.1 miles) it was a challenge even though we run 4 and 5 miles twice a week.  There is a difference in training and competing.  Today I experienced the result of training.  I was able to run/trot the entire race.  Yes I got tired, real tired, but I knew from previous experience the race could be completed.  I ran next to my pace partner, we only said a few words to each other as we had our focus on the race and our surrounding.  The words we did say were words to encourage and pull the other along.  I managed to beat my time from previous race a few weeks ago by 3 minutes.  YES !  good RIGHT !  YES !  I was encouraged.  Training is working,

I want to say that the NCBF Team is awesome, fantastic and wonderful.  Blondell leads us in a way that is so encouraging.  Her sense of humor is awesome.  Today many of us started the race fast without a warm up and within seconds we were going uphill.  She rode up behind us and said "FIND YOUR PACE".  This was a quick reminder to find ourselves and not bother ourselves with the other racers.  She knew immediately that if we kept our current pace we were in trouble.  As soon as she said the light bulb went off and I would MY pace, and I was then ok.

We ALL finished and had strong finishes.  Our fellowship before and afterward was amazing as usual. Many family members came to support their team members.  The group is growing, our first 5k had about 7 racers and today's 5K had about 19.  Amazing !  If you notice the photo we had on our NCBF Ts.  We represented NCBF well and God surely got the glory.

I introduced you to my trainers check them out on facebook they are awesome and gifted in their work.

Thank You Lord for this Labor Day a day of recognizes our daily labor and celebrating work.  I praise God for having my career and have been blessed to be at the same employer for 19 years.

Oh yeah my daughter moved home today.  I am happy to have her close as she was a west sider.  Pray for my family.  Thanks

Strong Finish

Strong Finish - We brought it IN

Yeah Boy !    The team approach is so inspiring.  I think Blondell was hiding behind a tree when she took this, she is something else.

Lord You are Good and your Mercy endureth  Forever !  Lord You are so magnificent, I love You Lord.  You are fantastic and forever showing.  I am living a life of abundance, living in my purpose and I am grateful.  You provide for me like no other.  You love on me and fill my voids.  Lord I am so grateful !  Lord thank You

I am standing as I go through the storms of life.  I want you to know that God is so able and capable of doing anything.  Lord I just too always remember to GIVE YOU THE GLORY and praises. 

Pace - Andrea and then you see me - finding a good Pace partner is  KEY

OK so yesterday, at our Tuesday run I am always challenged which is good, I don’t want to feel extremely comfortable.  Don’t let nobody fool you running is tough real tough.  I ran and had to throw a walk in every now and again.  But I made sure I got back to running, I don’t want to ever lose it.  I want to thank Andrea Wallace for her pace, I have learned a trick or two about running unlike walking.  Pace is important, finding  somebody who runs your pace is awesome.  Andrea and I seem to run at the same pace.  Running beside her in back of her ad in front of her helps us both to stay focus and we encourage one another when we see we are exhausted, yes exhausted.  We run our race.  It is a small world we were college cheerleaders together at Cleveland State in the 70s and now here we are more matured ladies still working out and doing it together. 

Now  about a ½ mile out for the finish line here comes young blood who is about 12 or 13 years old.  We like where you come from, she smiled and kept running with us.  Now as we approached the finish line she went into a sprint right next to me.  Now I am 53 but I was not going to let this young lady out run me.  Where she is young I have years of determination under my belt.  We both sprinted to the finish line together.  It was AMAZING.  It felt powerful and it let me know right then you can do anything if you make up your mind and do it.  Me and her gave each other high fives at the end she was a lot of fun.  I am sure she probably could have taken me but she was kind enough to let the old lady feel good LOL

This morning 7:00 a.m. I meet with Eric, I went in tired and I should have put something on my stomach.  I didn’t have dinner so I was on zero.  He pushed me on the machines and I lifted and I did step-ups.  I did treadmill 15 minutes before all of this.  He is working to strengthen my lower back and this was a good workout.  It’s tough but it is all GOOD.  I am excited  as I am growing stronger and feeling better emotionally.  My posture is better, I think I am gonna bring one of my big balls to my desk at work and sit on it during my workday.  I picked up some bands I will be also doing those on my breaks to strength my arms and legs. 

August 28, 2012 - NCBF TEAM - we get our Tshirts at Monday's Race  I am excited

This morning when I got home I was rushing  because I have to be at work by 9:00 a.m.  I finally got  items needed to make my morning smoothies.  I had to take the blender out of the box and put it together, but I did it.  I was determined to start today, I have been wanting to do this for 2 months, YES.  I used 2 scoops of whey protein powder, chai powder, blueberries, raspberries, almond butter (instead of peanut butter) and unsweetened almond milk.  It was delicious.  This will replace my morning oatmeal and eggs for a while.  I will although make oatmeal smoothies.  I will share recipe soon.  They are really good.  On my way into work I stopped at Whole Foods and picked up celery, Kale, and carrots, and banana, I plan to make a drink for my dinner this evening.  I also am giving up my morning cup of Ice Coffee with ½ and ½.  This is almost as hard for me to give up as PEPSI was, but I gave up PEPSI.  I am replacing ICE Coffee with Green Tea L  I can’t pretend like I like it but it will become a habit and I will do it.  I have to give up the caffeine.  OK I said it I put it out there so I will now work to do it. 

I will do my Boot Camp this evening at Nulife, I will not be able to make Falanda’s as I have to go to a prayer ministry meeting at 6:30 and her camp starts at 6:30. 

Let’s me strong and take care of our bodies.