***EXCITING NEWS ALERT***

 

 

I don't know about you all, but I struggle during the holidays with food.  There are so many tasty things right at my finger tips and this time of year is really the only time I eat it...but I eat WAY toooo much of it! 

 

I'm SO excited to announce TWO, that's right TWO different challenge/accountability groups that will be starting soon! 

1) Starting December 1st we'll be doing a 3 Day Refresh group --- perfect re-start, that I know I'm going to need after the Thanksgiving Holiday.  2) Starting December 8th (the following Monday) we're doing a 60-day accountability challenge group.

 

I haven't done the 3 Day Refresh yet.... but I ordered it about two months ago and it's been sitting in my office....staring at me and saying "seriously, what are you waiting for????"  So, NO more waiting! 

 

I'd love to have you take part in one or both groups - if you're interested and/or want more details, I hope you'll reach out to me!  I'd love to help you stay on track and meeting/keep your health and fitness goals this holiday season :)

Day 47: Dynamic Core.

Day 47: Dynamic Core.

Wowza, I hadn't done this one yet....my abs are burnin'!!!!  I'm loving this workout, my core needs some attention so this is perfect!  Tons of new moves - you're on the floor, standing, and all over the place - it's great!!

I'm loving Beta and the change up in the workouts.  Thanks Shaun T for keeping me on my toes and challenging me :)

Day 46: Ript T Circuit.

Day 46: Ript T Circuit.

 

This workout is crazy but slowly becoming one of my favorites.  You do a little bit of everything and time flies buy.  You also introduce weights (or bands) into your workout.  This, I'm SUPER excited about!!  I used to always have weights as part of my workout to tone, so I'm really excited to know they're becoming a part of this!

 

I'm also glad I restarted month 2, I really would have been cheating myself out of progress and who want's to start behind?? Not me!

 

I have laundry and dishes to catch up on so I'm out of here #TheQuestContinues

Day 34. Double workout Thursday's = Total Body Circuit & Lower Focus.

Day 34. Double workout Thursday's = Total Body Circuit & Lower Focus.

 

Today was the last day of the end of Alpha/Phase 1 of T25.  Next week starts month two and the Beta Phase - bring it Phase 2!

 

I made it, work is done for the week and I couldn't be more excited to have a few days off before heading out of town for a work trip. 

 

Tomorrow is ND Deer opener and I'm even more excited to head out in the morning to find us some deer!  I stopped at Scheel's after work today and bought me some waterproof/super warm hunting pants.  I have my boots, good socks, pants, jacket, gloves, cap, gun, etc....oh yea and LOTS of orange :)

 

I have turkey Wildtree tacos cooking, so I'm signing off early to enjoy some good food! 

Day 33: Cardio.

Day 33: Cardio.

 

Yup, I'm exhausted and super sweaty once again after cardio. I really don't like this workout - as I've mentioned before indoor cardio just doesn't do it for me - but today I decided to not focus on the clock and challenge myself.  It did the trick, time flew by and I got a great workout in!

 

Tomorrow is my Friday and on the actual Friday of this week, I'll be going to hunt my very first deer.  I'm nervous, excited, and ready to get on the hunt! 

 

Happy Thursday friends! #TheQuestContinues

Day 32: Total Body Circuit

Day 32: Total Body Circuit.

 

Is anyone else having what feels like the longest week ever??  This girl is and I'm over it.  I was not looking forward to working out when I got home and it didn't help matters that I had to work right away.  BUT I did it --- I got dressed, push play and got in my 25 minutes of body circuit.

 

Speaking of work...I have more to do!  Happy Tuesday friends - tomorrow is finally the hump!

Day 31: Abs.

Day 31: Abs.

Abs, abs, and more abs!  This may be the workout that feels like it takes the longest...but that's probably because my abs need the most work ha! 

We're a bit behind on laundry so I didn't have my go-to workout shirts to grab.  I had to dig in the drawer and pulled out an old shirt.  I haven't worn this shirt in years...and it fit, like a glove.  Have to love it when that happens!

Anyways, as I mentioned above, laundry is waiting for me - so I'm off to launder some clothes and enjoy some supper.  #TheQuestContinues

Day 30: Total Body Circuit.

Day 30: Total Body Circuit.

I cannot believe it has been 30 days already!  I'm feeling better and I can see my body changing - super exciting.  I'm in my last week of Alpha, which is the first four weeks of this 90 day program.  Next week starts Beta and a little tougher workouts...but I'm ready for the challenge :)

It's been a busy week-end with work, so between that and getting things done around the house I'm glad it's Sunday night and I can relax a bit.  On another note, I must say this day is taking forever with this time change. That extra hour of sleep was fantastic, but if today felt long I'm hoping tomorrow doesn't feel the same ha!

Well,  need to shower up and get supper going - Happy Sunday and November friends!

Day 27: Abs & Speed 1.0 = double workout Thursday

Day 27: Abs & Speed 1.0 = double workout Thursday.  Two workouts --- not what I wanted to do, but just what I needed.  It took my mind off things and I was in the zone!  I was in too much of a hurry to get going and once I was done I forgot to take any photos, so this T25 photo will need to do :)

It's been a long week, and I'm SO glad tomorrow is FRIDAY!!  Too bad I'm on call for the week-end, but I'm still looking forward to it.  Tomorrow we're going to Pollock to see my nephews, I'm super excited to see everyone and see those little fellas all dressed up for Halloween.

This post is short, I'm back on the early shift tomorrow and I need to finish a few things & get my bum to bed!  

Day 26: Total Body Circuit.

Day 26: Total Body Circuit. 

I've said it before and I'll say it again....these one-armed shoulder touch things are TERRIBLE!  I mean really, holding yourself up with one arm, while balancing on your toes, and trying to use your core to successfully touch your shoulder with your other arm without toppling over...who thinks of this stuff ha!  BUT...yes there is always a but....I LOVE how it works my arms and core!

Today was my Groundhog day...was just about as terrible as yesterday BUT (see there it is again), I did a better job of keeping my attitude in check and getting over what was bothering me.  Tomorrow is a new day and I'm hopeful for a better day :)

With that said, I need to eat some supper, do the dishes and finish some work.  Happy Hump Day Friends!

Day 25: Lower Focus

Day 25: Lower Focus.  Holy geez my lower body is feeling it! 

I had a terrible day at work, it was one thing after another.  But I'm trying this new thing where when something bad (or annoying) happens, I do my best to think of a positive and move on.  Well that did not work at all this morning, but by the afternoon I put my positive foot forward, and got back to it!

With that said, I really didn't want to workout when I got home --- tough workday, crummy day outside, long drive home and all I could think about was how I'd like to lay on the couch and be lazy.  Well I again, got over it.  I got home and first thing I did was put my workout clothes on and push play.  And once again, I did not regret it.  It was slow going, but after a few minutes I got my focus on and finished my workout strong!

Well I need to go get supper going --- have a good evening friends! #TheQuestContinues

Day 23 (Sunday) Cardio & Day 24 (Monday/Today) Total Body Circuit: Yesterday got so busy, I didn't get a chance to do my Cardio post so I'm including it in today!

Both days of workouts were tough - but in a good way. I love how T25 is ...consistently pushing me and making me work. This bod isn't going to get into shape by sitting around...I mean that's what got me out of shape in the first place.

Today is a day off from work and for the first time in a long time I'm actually NOT doing any work. I do need to later for about 15 minutes but other than that, and checking my email once earlier I'm NOT doing anything work-related and it feels great. Sometimes you really just do need to take a real day off and focus on anything but work.

I slept in today...which was amazing but it came with a sore back - not sure when I got so old that laying in bed for more than 7 hours becomes a problem ha! But minus the sore back it felt great! I was a bit lazy after getting up but then got my bum in gear. I'm almost done with the laundry, my workout is done, next I'm going to clean up our mess outside from putting the window in over the week-end and then I think I'm going to carve me a pumpkin. Yes, my name is Jessica, I'm 30 years old, and I'm going to carve me a pumpkin Other than carving one for a work thing to raise some money, I haven't carved a pumpkin in years. It's the little things in life that keep it fun!

Well I best finish my to-do list so I can relax before getting back into work-mode for the rest of the week. Happy Monday friends!

Meal Prep

If you want to be successful, I've learned you need to plan and prep.  

Today I made a plan for our meals this week.  Then I went to this store & then came home and prepped the meals I needed to. 

Once the crockpots are done, all I need to do is dish up the food in containers - so easy and it took me less than 2 hours 😃

It's been a busy Friday and Saturday so far!! 

Yesterday in my challenge group was flex Friday, so I just had to share my flex pix...finally a little muscle peeking out!  Also yesterday, we went to an amazing concert: Cassidy Pope, Randy Houser (LOVE him), and Dierks Bentley (new found LOVE for him).  They put on a hell of a show and I had a great time 😊

Today was busy but soon it will be fun.  We got another window in at the house so I'm glad that's done and the mess is cleaned up. This afternoon, since the weather is amazing out again, we're going on a Ranger Run.  Good friends and good times - going to be a fun day!

Day 19: It's Thursday so that means DOUBLE workouts! Total Body Circuit & Abs today. It was a tough workout, but that just means I have the next two days break from T25, woot!

It's been a long work week and I'm ready for the a long week-end and to not be on call any longer. Even better, tomorrow night is concert night - SO excited to see Randy Houser & Dierks Bentley :)

This girl is exhausted and is checking out early tonight. Happy Thursday friends!

Day 18: C-A-R-D-I-O.

 

Seriously I have a major love/hate relationship with this 25 minute workout.  I like cardio....the kind where I'm running and enjoying a change of scenery.  Don't get my wrong, during T25 Cardio you're working and moving but I just can seem to enjoy myself during this one. What keeps me going is knowing I'm burning those calories and how I feel afterwards, which is AMAZING! 

 

Today was one of those days where I was SUPER busy at work, but I didn't feel like I got anything accomplished until about 1/2 hour before I left.  Do you ever have days like that?  It seemed to be just as I was focusing on something and getting a good run at it, the phone would ring, or someone would come over to my desk, ect. Oh well, I know even though it doesn't feel like it I did get a lot done - so I guess I'll take that as a successful hump day in the books!

 

Supper is just about ready so I'm off to enjoy that and a little well earned relaxation!

 

PS: There should be an app to amplify how sweaty one is after these workouts...that after photo doesn't do any justice #justsaying

Day 17: Lower Focus.  My legs are a'burning!!  This workout has two burnout rounds and it makes you earn a fit lower body for sure.  It's only 25 minutes, but those burnout rounds make you give just a little more and doing it twice wore this girl out!

 

I like this particular workout, as I'm all about getting one's lower torso in to shape.  One workout I've enjoyed are the 1 leg calf raises --- I've always neglected my calves so I'm digging this move. 

 

I know this post is short, but I have some work to do tonight - so I best get to it!  #TheQuestContinues

Day 16: Speed 1.0. Today's workout felt GREAT!  I was super excited I was able to keep up the entire time except a bit toward the end.  The last few weeks it's been touch and go, so it's SO awesome to know I'm improving :) 

 

Beings yesterday was treat day and we went out for supper last night, I didn't have any leftover for lunch today.  I had errands to run today, so had to grab lunch.  Before that would have been fast food, chips, gas station foods...so junk ha!  Well today I got some chips and dip - health style!  Carrot chips and hummus and it was so, so good.  It filled me up and I was good to go until snack time. 

 

For a Monday today wasn't too bad of a day, and with that I'm off to enjoy supper! 

Day 15: Total Body Circuit. Oh man I needed this workout today.  I'm oncall for work and it's been steady busy so I squeezed my workout in but didn't have time to take some fun photos. So today's picture is to document the AWESOME weather we're having today. Middle of October in ND and I have the windows open and flip flops on...I could get used to this but know it is short lived, so I'm enjoying it! 

Today is my treat day and so we're going out for supper!  Not sure what I want to splurge on yet but I know I'll find something.  Happy Sunday friends 😃 

Where do you stand when it comes to scales???  Do you determine your progress on them OR do you look to a combination of measurements, how your clothes fit, and how you feel overall? 

 

I used to be 100% set on the scale, as in it would not only be what would determine my progress, but was also ALWAYS seem to derail what I was trying to accomplish.  I was too focused on a STUPID number, seriously it’s SO stupid.  In my mind I thought: well if I weigh 120 pounds, then I’ll be skinny and happy.  Um ya that number on the scale doesn’t determine your happiness, nor determines if you’re skinny or not.  Everyone comes in different shapes and sizes, that’s just how we work.  If I didn’t see that number go down (mind you I weighed myself every chance I got) I would resort to starving myself which only led to ridiculous over-eating and being even more miserable.  And here comes in my derailment of my progress --- well the number isn’t going down or it isn’t going down fast enough so I’m quitting.

 

So to not ramble on about my dislike for scales, a few years ago I did the best thing ever…I beat that scale with a hammer and tossed it in the trash.  Talk about freeing!  I would still be tempted to weigh myself at the gym, but as with any bad habit the more I didn’t do it the easier it got to not want/need to do it.  I made a choice to determine my progress to be based on my measurements, how my clothes fit, and how I was feeling both mentally and physically.  Best.choice.ever!

 

I’d say about a year ago I did go out and buy a scale and only use it for the following reasons.  Each time I start a new fitness program I take my before photos, measurements, and weight & then when I finish the program I take my after photo along with measurements and weight.  You need to know where you’re starting so you can determine if what you’re doing is working or not.  With that said, if there is anything I hope you get from this is that you take a chance and base your progress in your journey anything but your weight (especially if you are like I used to be and are constantly weighing yourself).  I challenge you to try this for one month: weigh yourself, take measurement, and your before photos.  Then use that month to base your progress on fitting into something you haven’t worn for a long time, how you feel, inches you’ve lost, increase in your energy, you can run faster, you can do more reps, etc --- this list could go on and on.  Then at the end of those 30 days, then take your after photos, your weight, and measurements.  I can almost bet that you’ll feel better, look better, and have a new way of thinking about how to determine you’re progress. 

 

Point of my story here, would be my most recent victory that has to do with this photo. Two years ago I bought the shirt I’m wearing, it’s a spandex-type material so it’s not forgiving it what it shows.  I was able to wear it for about 6 months and then I didn’t feel comfortable in it any longer as it showed everything I was trying to hid under my clothes.  So at that point it went to the back of the closet...you know out of sight, out of mind type thing.  Well this morning I was looking for something to wear and happened to see it.  Thinking it wouldn’t fit yet, but I was curious, I grabbed it along with one of my go-to Friday casual work shirts.  Well I put it on and BAM, fits…and even better, it’s loose 😊 I don’t have to hid anything or suck anything in all day either.  It fits so nice and I’m 100% comfortable in it and super excited to be wearing it again.  It’s the small victories in life that last a lifetime, and I hope you can find them too!  Happy Friday friends!

Day 11: Cardio....and today I felt like Amy when I read I had to do cardio tonight. Ever since I stopped running (reference my Fox run-in), cardio is LAME ha!  But I still do it....every day Shaun T makes me :)  PS Best part it's only 25 minutes, love it!
Tomorrow should be my 1st rest day, but because I wasn't able to workout Tuesday, tomorrow shall be double workout Friday!  I'm on call for work all week-end so I may as well start it off with some amazing workouts.
Well I'm off to make supper and enjoy my night #TheQuestContinues

Day 10: Speed 1.0.  I missed day 9, that thing called life happened.  I got home much later than planned and with my commute each morning, I needed to get my tail to bed.  So I used yesterday as one of my rest days and am shifting my workouts one day.  So, today was day 9's workout. 

I'm so sore after this workout, it's just amazing!  It's all about speed and stretching.  That 25 minutes flew by, but I was so ready to be done with it. 

 

I've had a semi-productive evening: I worked out, did the pile of dishes waiting for me and after my post here its off shower.  Even better, it's leftover night at our house...NO way i'm cooking after doing all those d*mn dishes LOL!  So I'll be raiding the fridge after my shower and relaxing in for the evening.

 

We made it over the hump friends, bring on Thursday!

Day 8: Total Body Circuit.  This workout is NUTS!  You're up down and all over the place, but time flies by...so I like it ha!  I was so sweaty when I got done, it was crazy.  Today was a LONG Monday, so this girl is going to eat some supper and relax until bedtime. I will say that my workout cured my stress and I'm looking forward to my evening now.  #TheQuestContinues

Day 7: T25 Cardio...ya, that was zero fun today ha!  Yesterday was ND Pheasant opener and we walked for 3+ hours and this girl was hurting.  It was like this cardio workout but instead of 25 minutes it was 3+ hours.  My legs are still sore, but it was a great experience and added workout for my rest day! 
This morning we went out and hunted a bit, but otherwise it's been a pretty lazy day.  I am excited for the pheasant and rice that's cooking in the crockpot!  We also went to town and rented a movie, so our lazy day shall continue. #TheQuestContinues

***Last call***  There is still time to join our FREE 7-Day group.  It's all about doing Just One Thing each day for seven days to being a healthier Y-O-U!  Contact me today and I'll get you set up to start the group tomorrow. I'll be in the group as well, and doing this right along with you - I'd love for you to be a part of it! 

Days 4 & 5:  Sorry for no post last night after my workout, but we got home late and when I got done I needed to go to bed.  Today's workout was a double since I have the next two days off.  So it's great I get a two day rest BUT I had to workout twice as hard today.  Cardio was first, followed by Lower Focus...I really don't know how I got up off the floor after my workout.  I laid now to relax & cool off....and well it wasn't easy getting back up haha!  My legs and abs are killing me, but I'm loving it as I know I worked the last two days!  I can't believe it's already Thursday, this week was long and stressful and I don't' know about you all but I'm ready for the week-end.  Pheasant opener Saturday --- look out birds we're coming for ya!  Happy Thursday all!

T25 Day 3: Total Body Circuit. Yup total body it was!  I was up down and all around with this workout, it was crazy and time flew by - LOVE it when that happens. I'm sweating and my body is feeling it.  Have I mentioned how much I love this program?  I'm only in day three and I can't wait for the next day to do another workout.  Ya, never thought I'd say that about working out...but it's true!  I love my new normal and the way it's pushing me and my body.  Day three in the books and I'm off to make supper and do the dishes, YUCK!  Did you make time for you today and get some activity in??  Let me know what you did for Y-O-U today :)

Day 2: Speed 1.0 was filled with another day of moving along with some awesome stretches.  I'm loving how this program is pushing me and making me WORK!  What I love even more is there is 'nada' equipment needed...how great is it to just be able to use nothing more than yourself to get an AWESOME workout in!  By the way, I think doing Piyo prior to T25 was a grand plan!  My core is super strong, I have fantastic strength and flexibility too --- this is all coming in hand with these workouts.  I've been able to start out strong and keep up with about all the moves!  We made it through another Monday friends, cheers!

T25 Day 1: Hello Cardio!!!  Now I see why they call they put the word FOCUS in the name of this T25 program.  You need to focus otherwise you're not going to make it through this 25 minute workout!  I had to catch my breath more than once today (a painful reminder that I haven't run since my outdoor run vs. coyote incident....#rurallifeprobs).  I'm so glad there are many elements of cardio throughout this program, this girl NEEDS it!  I can already tell these next 90 days will be no joke, but working out shouldn't be easy. It should always challenge you and make you work - that way you appreciate being FIT even more.  Day 1 was a huge success, but you can see below I'm SO sweaty ha!  With that I say, bring it day 2!

Last day o'Piyo!  I cannot believe I just did my last Piyo workout...I must say you have to work extra hard to finish as the last workout is Drench.  45 minute of WORK but it was great.  I've had a stressful day and I'm feeling so much better now. In the last 60 days I've lost 10 pounds and 14 inches...AMAZEBALLS!  I had great days and bad days with both workouts and my nutrition. Regardless, I kept doing it day after day and when I missed a day, I went harder the next day.  Dedication, hard work, and determination will always pay off.  All it took was all of those combined with Piyo & my yummy Shaekology and I have the photos along with a slimmer bod to prove it :)  I'll be taking the next few days off to prep for my next challenge group, go on a little mini-vacay with Todd, and then come Sunday this girl starts T25!!  So I hope you'll stick around and follow along for Phase two of the quest for a FIT Jessica!  I'm super excited to start that crazy fun workout for the next 90 days.  And FYI, I am planning to follow it up with Piyo to trim, tone and sculpt!  #TheQuestContinues

Only one more day...wow!  This has been an amazing journey and I loved Piyo SO much I've already scheduled it to go through it again after my next workout, T25. I know it'll be just what I need after :) Today I was having on of those 'can anything else go wrong' kind of days.  With that said I'm going to call it an early evening and get some much needed sleep.  I didn't get any last night and am soooooo looking forward to my bed tonight!  Happy hump day friends!

REST DAY:  Lately I've been loving my rest days.  Which only tells me that life is busy and I'm working my tail off in my workouts :)  I found some great inspirational posts today that I wanted to share.  Most rang true to me at one point or another and it was fun to see that most of them don't define me anymore.  I don't say tomorrow, I do it today - I still have off days, but i do my best to fuel my body with good things - I take pride in what I'm doing and want to inspire others - I don't let what others say, think or feel about me get me done, everyone isn't going to like me or approve of my choices, but I don't have to let that ruin my progress...and I DON'T!  Any ways, just remember to be true to who you are always and don't let others take away your sparkle! #questofafitdame

Holy bananas...I only have two Piyo workouts left!  This weekend I had Drench, Buns, and Sweat.  Today was core and tomorrow is rest day, YES!  We were super productive and busy this weekend, but I kind of slacked on my eating.  So, I made sure to get my workouts in and now I'm back on track with my nutrition too.  I LOVE Wildtree products and I finally used their fajita mix to make yummy chicken fajitas tonight. There were SO good and SO easy to make!  I wasn't sure if Todd was going to like them, but I was told I could make those again...so apparently this recipe is a keeper haha  I have some work to do and a shower to take as today's workout left me super sweaty.  Hope you're all having a great and productive Monday too!

This last April I participated in my first challenge group. In the last 5 months I have learned SO much information.  I've tried all the fads, spent hours in the gym, ran mile after mile outside, counted calories, tried weight watchers, the list goes on and on.  While all of these are very effective and are amazing tools out there, I would always stop after I started feeling good about myself and then slowly the weight I had worked so hard to lose would creep back on and then some. 
Now, for the first time in my life I can say this has NOT happened :)  I LOVE these challenge groups and the wonderful ladies I have met in the process.  We provide each other with the tools and support everyone can use to lose weight, get fit, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
***As a Beach Body coach I get to run challenge groups and I'm so very excited to open this invitation to you!***  If you would like to give this a try, want more details, etc please comment below or contact me directly.  I'd love the opportunity to help you reach your goals and have you join in on my upcoming challenge group I'm leading with two other amazing Beach Body coaches!

Happy Friday!  It's my day off and I planned accordingly.  I'm in my last week of Piyo workouts and I got up early to do my workout today.  I wanted to plan for a successful day, so now that my workout is done, I am now enjoying my breakfast of Shakeology.  Evening though I'm not working, I do still have to go to Bismarck today.  I have some scheduled appointments around town and some are no fun but one I'm SUPER excited about.  Even thought I turned 30 about a month ago, I still got spoiled with some great gifts.  One of them being a gift card to Spa D'Athena, so this girl scheduled a massage and I cannot wait!  I also got a gift card to my favorite store, Victoria Secret!  It's been so long since I've shopped there since I don't live in Bismarck anymore, so I'm VERY excited to go shopping. Another added perk, it sounds like my mom will be in town too so I'm planning to meet her and her friends for lunch!  Oh ya and I'm making today my treat day...look out Starbucks, we have a latte date :)  Happy Friday all - I hope you're planning for a successful, healthy, and fit day too!

7 days left...what, what?!  I cannot believe I only have one week left of Piyo.  As I'm sure most of you know this transformation photo trend seems to be on Tuesday's, but I've made an executive decision and I'm making today, Transformation Thursday!  My strength, flexibility, and results I'm seeing are AMAZING!  You can see what I've gotten out of this lower impact workout regimen and it makes me even more excited about starting T25 next!  Nothing is better than putting in hard work and daily effort and seeing actual results.  This wasn't easy, and I still have days that I struggle, but I get back up and make the next day count!  Believe in yourself and know you're worth it --- we all are!  #TransformationThursday

Day 44: Rest day...you are once again very welcomed!  Tomorrow is my Friday and it's been such a long week already.  So I'm welcoming rest day with open arms and ready for it to be my Friday tomorrow!  I have some work stuff to do so this will be a short post. Once that's done this girl is relaxing before bed :) #ILoveRestDays

Day 42 & 43: Yesterday was Piyo Core and I did my workout but had zero time to post, so todays' post is a double!  Today's workout was Piyo Buns....wowza this one doesn't get any easier, but that's a good thing if you ask me.  My legs and bum are burning! I'm not sure how I'm going to peel myself off the floor quite yet to go take a shower...But I'll figure it out :)  I have a LONG work week ahead of me, but only going to be in the office 3 days - may be short, but the days will be busy, busy!  Thursday is new furniture day YAY!  We have a new sectional type couch and recliner coming...first piece of new furniture we've ever bought so that was it's own experience.  And FYI it's zero fun paying for something you don't get to see or touch for about 4 weeks after.  Happy Monday - #thequestcontinues

Day 41: Piyo Sweat.  I had to get up early today, well I didn't have to but I choose and planned to.  I'm headed off back home to Pollock, SD today for my great aunt's estate sale.  Not knowing how long I'll be down there and just thinking ahead that I won't want to workout when I got home, I chose to get up and workout before hand :)  I've learned planning is the key, and if you think there is any thing that may get in the way during the day, do your best to push play BEFORE you leave the house if you can.  Set yourself up to succeed always!  Today's workout goes through some of my favorite moves, Down Dog & Runners Lunge - they are both work, even though it's a stretch as you're consistently pushing yourself and moving.  But they offer the best stretches and this girl needed them both today.  By the way, happy Saturday, it's a nice day in ND and I hope it is where you live to!  Get out and get active friends!

Day 40: Piyo Sculpt --- I am finding I have a love/hate relationship with this workout.  I LOVE what it's doing for my arms and upper body, as well as my legs but.....I HATE push-ups and squats!  Well I don't hate them, that's such a strong word - but they're certainly not my favorite thing to do.  I made today my treat day, so I started my day with a Starbucks...SO good! It's been a long week at work and when I got back to town, instead of going straight home, I went up town for a few beers.  Now I had the option to tag along to the casino while the boys went to their rules meeting for the fishing tourney tomorrow.  However, I CHOSE to come home and workout and I'm SO glad I did!  I had a great workout and I'm ready to tackle my to-do list for the evening.  Happy Friday friends! #TheQuestContinues

Day 39: I don't know if it's due to this stressful, long week or me working on NOT getting sick but this girl is exhausted!  Today was Piyo Sweat and I really, really had to push to get through my workout tonight.  By the time I was done I didn't want to get off the floor!  But there was still things to get done, so I got up.  I made this tuna for supper with avocado instead of mayo....SO good!  Tastes WAY better and it's SO much better for you.  This tired dame is off to the shower and then going to relax before bed. It was a really nice day out here, I hope you found the time to be active outside and/or inside today too! 

Day 38: My day started out great and by the afternoon I had found out all the work in our new system I had done for the last week was GONE. I am conducting training and the next session is on Friday and all the stuff I need for it GONE. S...aying I was upset was an understatement and what made it worse is I had to find it on my own, it should have been brought to my attention...but no. Needless to say, the last thing I wanted to do when I got home was to work out. BUT I did and I'm SO glad I did!! Today was Piyo Drench and in this workout and a few others, there is this move in Piyo that goes from down dog, to one leg in air. Then you go down to plank position, but on only ONE leg while brining your other knee forward above your elbow. Take lots of focus, strength and focus. I used to only be able to do 1 or 2....well today did them all on both legs #nailedit I know what happened at work isn't the end of the world, but it's extra work that needs to be done that I don't have time for. So now I have to make the time and get it done so I'm ready to train 10+ people on Friday. Today is just a bad day, it'll pass and things will be fine. I'm so glad I pushed play, my mood has changed and I'm ready to enjoy my evening now --- happy hump day friends!

Day 37: REST DAY...WOOT!  Some weeks I don't feel like I need a rest day and try to still do something active.  Today, my body and I NEED it!  It's been a stressful week, trying not to get sick (so far so good), so tired, and my body is just sore.  I didn't even have to make supper tonight, it was ready and waiting for me - SO awesome!  I have a pile of laundry to fold and some relaxing to do, so this girl is signing off early.  #TheQuestContinues

Day 35 & 36:  Sorry for not posting yesterday after my workout!  We stayed in Bismarck too long, had to go to Pollock to pick up the dog, we installed two more windows and then I worked out. By the time I got done with Buns, I hit the shower and went to BED!  Today was Piyo Sculpt and I'll tell you I'm super glad tomorrow is rest day.  Been tough workouts this week and I'm ready for a day off!  I'm running behind and need to get supper and dishes done so we can do some more work on the house.  Happy Monday and hope you pushed play today :)

Day 34 should have been Piyo Drench, but that was a bust!  Day 35 was Piyo Core and I got my bum out of bed this morning and did it.  The current challenge group I'm in is all about clean eating, fitness and most importantly accountability.  Today I needed to be accountable for myself, so here it is: Yesterday started off good until I went downtown for the street fair and ate a bad lunch. Then when I got home from work I met my boyfriend and his parents at the bar for a couple drinks and that turned into him and I taying TOO long! It was a great day and lots of fun but it left me with a 3 for the day yesterday - in this challenge group we base our days on points accumulated through exercise, challenges, water intake and nutrition. So, like i mentioned earlier, I made myself get up early.  Even though I wasn't feeling to well this girl got up and finally worked out! Yesterday was bad and today won't be a 10 as we're going to a concert tonight, but I will get better than sorry 3!  Part of this journey well have it's good days and bad days, it's all about how you pick yourself up after those bad days :)

Day 33: Piyo Strength.  Today's workout was just over 20 minutes and it's all about strength.  You don't use anything but your own body weight, so come prepared to WORK!  I had a LONG work day, had to travel to Dickinson, ND for a safety meeting.  Once I got home the last thing I wanted to do was work out, but guess what??? I did it - there is always going to be things that get in your way and excuses:  tired, work, kids, significant others, travel, etc.  Do your best to power through and commit!  If you ever need someone to keep you accountable let me know :) #TheQuestContinues

It's all about the.....BUNS!  Day 32 was Piyo Buns and mine are feeling it!  I have a love / hate relationship with this workout. It's super hard and challenges me every time to keep pushing through, but I love what it's doing to my legs and buns. This is a shorter post tonight but I have some work to do and laundry to finish.  Hope you're all having a productive hump day too!

REST DAY! Day 32 to is finally rest day.  It was a long week and my workouts were tough, but I powered through and I'm fully enjoying rest day. I'm to the point in this journey where on rest day I'm sitting here thinking I'm forgetting to work out.  I'm 100% all about a routine and even just one day off throws me.  Normally I go outside and do something active, but today, not so much.  It's super cold, windy, and rainy out, but even if it was nice I'm staying in and relaxing.  My muscles and I are tired and I'm milking my rest day for all its worth.  All I did after work was start the laundry, do the dishes, made some supper, did an hour of work and now I'm relaxing on the couch.  I will say, when I got home from work, I started changing into my workout clothes and then laughed at myself --- but this goes to show once you do something enough it's a HABIT and I am glad to be to that point!  I have a few more things to do on the computer and then I'm signing off for a little TV time before bed.  Don't forget with every fitness program/routine its SUPER important to take your rest day - your mind and body need it :)

Day 31: Piyo Drench...this workout gets me every time!!  It's pushes me to the limit and just when I don't think I have any more it's finally over ha!  I'm super sweaty after this one, it's hard to tell in the photo but it's running off me...ick!  It's the longest Piyo workout, just over 45 minutes long and I'm TIRED!  And I'm even more glad it's REST day tomorrow, WOOT!  Tonight I made fish tacos for supper (YUM), gave the dog a hair cut and bath, and gave the boyfriend a hair cut.  It's now time to clean up and relax a bit before bed.  If you haven't pushed play on your work out, went to your gym, went for a run or walk, etc I'm challenging Y-O-U to do sometime active this evening!  I hope you'll share with me what you did :) #TheQuestContinues

What, what....yup it's DAY 30!!  Piyo Core was today's workout and core day it sure was. It's amazing the exercises you can do to work your core.  I was always the sit up kind of gal...well my new favorite way to do those are standing up, ya, I said standing.  They're amazing and the results are WAY better in my eyes!  I love core day, as does my core :)  If I didn't mention it before, I'm oncall for work this week and so I have to make this post short. I need to do some work and then we have our last vehicle to wash and wax...I'll be SUPER glad when that's done.  I must say, one thing I wish about the big city is someone else washing my car ha!  Until next time - J