I've got to keep going ~ Jully

Friday, 8/21 was my birthday. Last year, I took the day off and went hiking ALONE. This year, I took the day off and went to Six Flags Great Adventures with a good friend of mine. You see the difference? I was NOT in good shape last year, mentally and physically.

At 32 -->

At 33 -->

Yeah, I've come a long way and still have a longer way ahead of me.

I've reached my next plateau. My first was when I was stuck at 188 for over 3 months and now 170 is the weight to beat. My goal WAS to be at 150lbs at this point, but it's been quite difficult. I've lost about 25lbs in about 10 months and still 35lbs more to lose... It's only normal that I get a bit discouraged, right?

Last week, I really felt like I needed to take a break after running the NYC Half Marathon. I felt a bit overwhelmed by everything I was doing: pilates, running, bootcamp, therapy, and trying to do well at work

I thought about just not going to bootcamp, missing my therapy session, and just taking a break... just a break from it all. BUT, something in me, made me get up in the morning and go through with the plan. Before I knew it, it was Friday and my day had arrived. My birthday was just what I needed to make it through the week and feel recharged.

The best gift I gave myself this year was giving me an opportunity to meet me. I'm more aware of my body and my mind than ever before and feeling excited to see what's in store for me.

Here are more pictures!!! ~ Jully

Click below for more!
http://www.brightroom.com/go.asp?57910449

I did it! ~ Jully

2009 August - NYC Half Marathon

On Sunday August 16th, 2009, I ran the New York City Half Marathon (13.1 miles). Oh yeah, I done did it! I have NO idea how... Well, I guess I do, shall we do a recap again?

About a year ago, I was way over 190 lbs. I tried to do things on my own, but was unsuccessful. Every morning I'd wake up and walk around the Fort Lee High School track. One morning, after months of walking, I remember saying to myself "I just wish someone would take me under their wing. I would absolutely do whatever they'd tell me to do. I just don't know what I'm doing wrong." In late September, I saw an ad on Fort Lee's Suburbanite.

In late September 2008, Jessica sent me the application. October, we met and she interviewed me in her Hybrid with the kids in the back seat... and by the end of our conversation, she said something in the lines of "I'd like you to be one of our SpokesPerson". Late October, Virginia contacted me and on Saturday, November 1, 2008 we had our first session.

As the Pilates sessions began, I picked running as my cardio. In the beginning, I couldn't even jog for 1 mile! On March 2009, my friend YoWon encouraged me to join the New York Road Runners (NYRR) Running classes on Tuesdays. Then, we ran a 4M race in April, 5M race in May, and 6M race in June. We signed up for the Half Marathon in May and I continued with 2 more sessions of classes which will end during the 2nd week of October.

Most recently, I joined a bootcamp. My cousin is getting married (YAY!!!) and I have to fit into a size 10 dress, so why not, right? The best part of it is spending time with her.

In addition to all these activities, I've also been careful about what I'm eating (Thanks Dr. Karen!!!) and also keeping myself sane by seeing a therapist.

Whew... so today, I may have not reached my goal, but I can proudly say that I'm doing ok. Taking good care of this body.

Weight: 194 down 170lbs, Waist: 37 1/4 down to 33 1/2, Hip: 43 down to 41, Arm: 13 3/4 down to 13 1/4, Thigh: 25 3/4 down to 23 3/4, Bust: 37 1/2 down to 35

Now back to the details of the Half, it was EXTREMELY hot. I did my usual run around the park, between the 6th to 7th mile I was worried. My energy was depleting pretty bad, but fortunately I was able to sense it and ate a gel given to me by a friend which arrived the Friday before the run (Thanks Jenny!). After I left the park, I was just praying I'd finish. Then, I saw my friend Julie waiting for me by Toys R Us. I didn't expect to get that emotional, but I had tears coming down my eyes while I ran away holding an ice tea box she gave me. The hardest part of the run was going towards the West Side Highway. I walked as much as I could. Finally, I got to the 9th mile. At each water spot, I took my sweet, sweet time. By the time I got to the 10th mile, I reminded myself that this WAS a race. So I started to push. At that point, my goal was to just finish under 3 hours and not get kicked out of the race. For the last 800m, I attempted to sprint. Once I crossed the finish line, I was breathing so heavily it sounded like I was sobbing (maybe I was crying just a little bit). Then I spotted my friend Angela where she greeted me with a beautiful bouquet. As we walked toward the exit of the race, I spotted my family. Check out the pictures, they'll speak for themselves.

I continued to sweat continuously for another 1/2 hour after the race and we went for brunch, then for my family birthday lunch, a cold shower, a long nap, dinner, and a nice ice cream treat. Next day on Monday, I was still feeling ok and headed on to the bootcamp.

So that's it! I did it! With the help of ALL the people around me, everything fell into place and I'm where I am today.

THANK YOU! :0)

14 days til the 1/2 Marathon! ~ Jully

Really, just one more week and weekend to train, after that I stay out of trouble for the run on Sunday, 8/16.
I WAS supposed to do a long run this weekend AND last weekend, but THAT didn't happen either.

Life has absolutely been fun though.

Here are a few things I've been up to:
Singles Mingle @ Iguana Bar - http://www.iguananyc.com/
PS1: http://ps1.org/warmup/
Dinner: http://forkingtasty.com/recap-reel-tasty-brooklyn-airplane/
Bowling: http://www.leisuretimebowl.com/

After drinking last Friday, I knew I could not drink anymore if I wanted to do a run.

But of course, I didn't listen to my own advice. This past Friday, I went bowling and had Jagerbomb 5 minutes after my arrival, and a few more after that. Yesterday, I did go to my session with Virginia, but I was absolutely hopeless. I have NO idea how she was able to work with me. Eventually at 7pm, I was able to do 5 miles.

Today, I was SUPPOSED to run 13.5 miles... Yeah, right!

Anyways, tomorrow I'll pick up where I left off.

I'll stay focused and work on getting ready for the NYC Half Marathon!

Here's a clip from Juanita Hong from our Saturday's session. LOVE IT! ~ Jully

Sweat ~ Jully

Yesterday, Virginia gave me a great work out. I have gotten a lot more flexible, and I may be doing something right because she's been challenging me. I was dripping with sweat 1/2 way during the class.

Today, I had the training run in Central Park. 11 miles!!! I didn't think I was going to make it past 9 miles, but I just kept going. Needless to day, I was SWEATY!

Tomorrow, another week will begin. Wonder what other challenges will come my way to be conquered. Oh Yeah!

I've got issues. ~ Jully

Date: 7/11/09 - Saturday
Weight: 170.5lbs
Goal: lose 20lbs in 6 weeks

During the 4th of July weekend, I went to the "Lucky" jeans store. I headed straight to the sale section (50-75% OFF!) and I picked a few pairs from the 32 size section. I tried them on and picked the winning one. The next morning, I went to wear them and noticed it was a bit loose. I had to ask all my friends, "Is this big? I think it's big?!" I took the pants off and tried again the next day. It was still loose, but I wore it anyways. Part of me thought they might fit better after a meal. Well, here's what finally hit me. I didn't even THINK to try a smaller size, I've got myself convinced that I'm bigger than my actual size. I've now wore them 3x and am finally convinced I should have gone with 1 (or more) size smaller.

Starting Tuesday (7/7), I started the "revised" version of the Isagenix program. Yesterday, I didn't have ANY of the products with me, so I had to monitor the eating on my own. By last night, I really felt like I should just get off of it because I wasn't really feeling any difference, if anything, I've been feeling fatter. Today, after my pilates session, I went to check my weight and stood there for a solid 3 minutes just waiting for the weight to balance. "170.5, what does that mean. How much was my weight last week? Wait, did I just lose 4lbs in 1 week? huh?"

So I've got issues. I think I'm larger and heavier than the reality. Eventhough the loss has been gradual, my mind and body are taking a little while to synch up to each other.

In any case, I'm feeling pretty damn good.

My weight is... ~ Jully

I've reached 172.5 lbs. Yep, it's taken me 8 months to lose 15.5 lbs.

YES! I've lost over 15 lbs!!! Some of my clothes fit me better now than when I bought them.

In order to reach the 150 goal, I have to lose 22 lbs in 8 weeks. This means 2-3 lbs per week. I know that if I stay on track, I'll be able to do it.

The past month has been tough.

The pilates sessions have been, as always, therapeutic and enjoyable. Virginia has continued to maintain our sessions challenging without being extremely painful. Our schedules have gotten in the way, but by next week I believe we'll be back to normal.

The rain has decreased the days for running, but I did reached 8.8 miles last week. I still have about 1 month and 1/2 to the half marathon, so I've got tons of more running to do. Well, at least the physical discomforts have been manageable, meaning, I've stopped being a baby.

I have also added some tennis in the past weeks. My coach is out in Long Island, she's actually just a very close friend and a heck of a player. Tennis has been exciting, focusing on each move and my progress has encouraged me in other areas of my life too.

I have been paying weekly visits to a therapist. I'm still very new at this (4 sessions into it), but so far it's been challenging to understand the "why"s of me.

Our last Nutritionist session was this past Saturday. Dr. Karen has provided a few tips and recommended a few products to help me get to my goal. The photo above was taken by her, the weight on it is 125lbs, which is what I hope to be someday. She so confident I'll get there, that actually puts me at ease.

Listing all of this here, makes me realize there's a lot of "activities" going on, but it's hard to describe what's going on in my head.

I want to keep moving forward and want to reach a point where I am proud of who I am in all aspects of my life. I want to be physically healthy, and mentally focused and strong. Ultimately, I want to be happy (... and will always continue to be cheesy, I'm sure).

Are you connected? ~ Jully

Since the last posting, the pilates sessions have resumed regular schedule, running continues to challenge me, and I continue to explore ways to stay on path.

Let's do a quick recap (again), shall we? Last year, I was 194lbs barely running a full mile. Yesterday, I weighed in at 178.5 and completed a 10k (6.2m) race. In 3 1/2 months, I WILL be 150lbs and run a 1/2 marathon (13.2m). I should be at 176lbs at the next weigh in, this means losing 2.5lbs by Thursday. Well, let's get to it, right?

During our Thursday's session, we actually stayed an extra 30-40 minutes just talking. These past weeks, I also saw a range of all my friends, people who know me since I was 15, 18, 23, and so on. We are all at different places in our lives, but when we meet we revert to our true silly selves! (mostly, I'm the one who's silly!) Naturally, this Pilates experience and the people I've met are now part of my present and future. I hope our relationships continue to grow further.

Generally, something most people don't do enough of is to appreciate the experiences (including the bad ones, the ones that force us to grow), the people (especially the patient ones), and the incomprehensible connections we have with each other. All these people in my life have contributed to who I am today.

Anyways, on Saturday (5/16) I woke up at 7am and headed to the Healthy Kidney 10k Race in Central Park. I was actually very nervous about it, but I did it! I actually completed it!

Right after the race, I headed over to my session with Dr. Karen (Nutritionist) which was very good. From her, I learned that certain foods can trigger the uncontrollable sensation we feel at times, which is why we have to be aware and avoid the bad triggers as much as we can. Eat what makes us feel good afterwards. Then after our session, Virginia was all ready for me.

This Saturday session was perfect for me! She had a bunch of new exercises and a few new props too. She customized the session for my post run, I know it was all just for me. I felt amazing during it and afterwards!

After the hottest shower EVER, I took the good long nap. When I woke up, it was time to have a great time with my friends.

Today, we (Shannon & Virginia) were planning to go to the "Run the Palisades" for Diabetes 5k race, but due to the rain we passed it up for the next one. Still determined, I did go for an easy run (3 miles) at Rockland Lake with my aunt. After that, my aunt put some needles in me (she's an acupuncturist) for a pulled muscle in near my hip (front thigh). It actually worked! I know, am I lucky or WHAT?

Below are some pictures, if you weren able to check them out from before: (brought to you by sister, Juanita)

At last, NOT LAST! ~ Jully

Surviving without our Pilates sessions has been boring!
Last week and this week, due to some conflicts in our schedules we were not able to meet.
I canNOT wait until Thursday's session. Catching up with Shannon and Virginia is what I look forward to the most. I go into the sessions thinking that I really don't have too many exciting things happening in my life, but I come out of there feeling like I didn't have enough time to tell them enough. I am absolutely lucky to have a great relationship with them.

Our nutritionist session with Dr. Karen will be in Mid May and I'm looking forward to it this time more than before. For the next sessions I have some records of my eating habits, and I'm already on my 2nd Ultra Meal. I really think that shake makes my stomach flatter. Is THAT even possible? I'll have to ask in our session.

Oh, I also went to dinner with my friend last night and here's her quote "Wow, this is a first. I ate more than you!". Ann has known me for over 7+ years now. She's seen and heard about ALL my struggles with food. It felt absolutely amazing to hear her tell me how excited she was for me.

As for the running...
I FINALLY didn't come in last at our Tuesday's class! Granted most people were too exausted due to the heat, and I may have an advantage due to the fact that I was born in South America (or not!). I didn't stop and kept on going. I felt like the tortoise trekking along. Although these classes are somewhat incomprehensible to most, they really challenge me each time physically and mentally.

Wanna hear something crazy? I registered to NY's 1/2 Marathon today. CRRRAZY, I KNOW!And what else is crazy? I am signed up for the following races:
5/16: 10k Kidney Run
5/17: (tentative, waiting on Shannon to confirm) 5k Run the Palisades for Diabetes
6/7: 5k Tenafly Run
6/11: 3.5m JP Morgan Corporate Challenge
8/16: 1/2 NYC Marathon

Yes, I know... Who is this, right? Well, I'm Jully.
I'm starting a new chapter in my life where I'm learning little things about myself SLOWLY. I'm opening up in every sense of the word. Welcoming suggestions, eager to take on new opportunities, and just learning to express myself.
And you thought I was already a happy, positive person? Well, now I'm all that inside.

Last year around this time, I was a completely different person. I had ended a great relationship with a great guy, I had 8+ weddings of family and close friends to attend and contribute to, and my weight just struggled with me.
I was so depressed that I had NO idea I was depressed. I just kept waking up and kept going through the motions.

With this new beginning, I've spent sometime thinking about this, and I've decided to set a goal for myself. By my birthday this year, I want to reach the lowest weight I can recall ever weighing: 150lbs
If I get to this point, everyone MUST come out to celebrate with me. Now, who needs more motivation than that?

And now... finally, here are some pictures from back in December 2008:

Pilates

Shopping around ~ Jully

For as long as I can remember, shopping for clothes was never an enjoyable experience for me...

I've rarely stepped out of my comfort zone, meaning the stores I knew carried my size. Once I would find something that fit, I would buy it in multiple colors, mostly black.

Buying jeans was the worst part of it all. Once the low hip jeans were in, forget it! I've had the same 3 pair of jeans for a few years now. Crazy, right? So many times I've walked in and out of stores and nothing fit right.

Well, this weekend I fit into a pair of 31 waist (actual waist is 34.5 and hip is 42) at our own Tenafly Street Fair. The SeeSaw Boutique were selling major brand name jeans for $20. Before, I wouldn't even bother looking, but now I have the courage to even ask "What's the largest size you carry?". So I try a few of them on and one of them fit. I mean, it zipped up and I knew that if I walked around in them at home, it would stretch and be wearable. I actually wore them that very night, and I wasn't out of breath!

Today, I shopped (actually, SHOPPED!) in Nolita. I even ended up with 2 cute summer dresses from Calypso, the outlet. It's a great feeling to have options and to buy outfits that make you feel perrrty.

As for the working out, there was running on Tuesday (4 miles), the last Salsa class on Wednesday, but no Pilates Thursday. On Saturday, I didn't have my session, but I weighed myself at the Studio and I was 181 lbs! I know it's still over 180, BUT I feel good about it... really good. I also ran 5 miles on Saturday and hiked today.

The eating part has been good too. I've replaced bad snacks with grapes, edaname, and I always carry a mix of Ultra meal with me. I've been eating slowly and more consciously. It's still hard to give up certain items here and there, but no overdosing.

Tomorrow will be the start of the last week of April and the beginning of May, I'll just keep going.

Just a week off ~ Jully

Last week seemed like everyday was an exception.
Weekends include big family meals, curious friends who like to try new delicious places, and more friends with incredible cooking skills.
Each Monday is a chance to get back on track, then Monday comes and goes. Tuesday, I try again. Tuesday becomes Wednesday and you know the rest. Before you know it, it's the weekend again.

So here's the lesson... there ARE no exceptions! There ARE no days off...

The good news, I didn't gain any weight this week.

I didn't attend running class on Tuesday due to the rain, but the Salsa class on Wednesday was still on. Dancing is absolutely fun and it's a crazy work out!
Thursday was the Pilates class. It was so good to see Shannon, she is one of those people that just bring a smile to your face. Our sessions are always very informative and therapeutic. At our usual weigh-in, I was at 182lbs (-1 from last time).

On Friday, I went to Pio Pio in Murray Hill with my friends. I did NOT have a single french fry nor a fried Yucca. Here's the bad part, I honestly had $1.00 ready in my hand for about 10 minutes to give to the couple sitting next to us for 1 french fry and yucca fry. I know this sounds psychotic, but I REALLY wanted it! But... I didn't do it. At some point in my train of thought, I realized how embarrassing that would be, did I really need it THAT bad? It was hard, but I didn't have the fry.

I had great session with Virginia on Saturday. She prepped me for my 3 mile run later that day. My legs were burrrning!

And today, I had a long run (1:10) under the gorgeous sun. I feel really good.

Anyways, if you're keeping track of your meals, I highly recommend My Fitness Pal. It helps me keep track of my work outs too. By logging everything, you'll notice things. For example, I noticed that I sometimes don't even eat enough. Who would have guessed THAT?

RUN! For the parks ~ Jully

Today, I completed a 4mile race in Central Park. (Picture above is of YoWon and me from this morning) My goal: run below 12min/m) and guess what? I'm came in at 11:40min/m!!! The run was called "Run for the Parks", but really it was a run for (or from) Jully.

Yesterday, I had my Pilates session where Virginia prepared for my run today. Thanks Virginia!
At the studio, Jessica (owner of JFP) and I talked about the nutrition part. She agrees, we ALL know what we should not do/eat, but it's so hard to be in control of it.
As of Monday, I did my best to keep to the Plan Dr. Karen prescribed. The first day, I was close to panicking. I felt like I ate all my allowables way too early during the day, and for dinner I didn't know what to do. For the rest of the week, I did a little better. Thursday and Friday, I added the "Ultra Meal" shake, which did fill me up before dinner. On Friday, I took my shake way too late into the night, which prevented me from going into deep sleep. It was like I had coffee at night. I'll have to adjust that this week.
So, April is here folks! Only a few more weeks before bikini season!!! Right...
I'm fortunate that I have friends who will keep me active. Running, Dancing, and now I've added TENNIS to the list. I really enjoy it! It makes me feel really active AND it allows me to catch up with my girls!
Anyways, now I'm off to get a "Chinatown" massage.
Enjoy the sunshine today!

I'm SO HUNGRY!!! ~ Jully

So much has happened this weekend.

On Saturday, I met with Dr. Karen, our nutrionist. I placed my order for the Ultra Meal, I got homework (plan my meals for the entire week), and clear instructions on what I need to do, eat, and not eat. Each time I meet with her, I get a bit intimidated. During this session (#3), I felt like I was more open to what she was saying. Usually, I assume that I know everything already. I guess the timing is right now, I actually listened.

After the session with Dr. Karen, I had my #33 Pilates session with Virginia and Shannon was able join us. The sessions with Shannon are always hillarious.

After the Pilates session, I had lunch and after it settled in, I went for my run. My goal was to do 3 miles, but I actually did 5! Go me! The weather definitely helped my cause.

Sunday was the Open House, here is some footage:



It was so nice to meet everyone. It was supposed to end at 2pm, but we continued chatting until way after.

After the open house, I got a quick bite and then I went to the Metro Golf gym. I attempted to stay on the bike for 1 hour, but my butt was hurting so I only made it to 45 minutes.

With all this activity this weekend, can you believe that today was actually the hardest part? I tried to stick to the my meal plan. By 5:30 I was starving and stressing out about dinner. I even wrote to Shannon! My email was titled "I'm SO HUNGRY!" I can push myself to run up to 5 miles, but ask me to balance and monitor my eating... I go crazy! Once I got home, it was all over. Mom had already prepared dinner for me. I did my best, I believe I am still within my caloric limit, BUT I didn't get to do my 40 min work out.

So tomorrow is another day, I'll keep give it another shot.

Open House! 3/29 - Sunday - Fort Lee Studio ~ Come ALL!!!

Here are a few dates to keep in mind:
3/26 - Thursday: I lost 1.5 lbs!!! I'm now at 184.5 lbs. I guess the eating a tiny bit less helped!

3/28 - Saturday: We have our nutrionist session. Can't wait!
Session #33!

3/29 - Sunday: OPEN HOUSE in Fort Lee from 11am - 2pm. COME BY!
(Location: Fort Lee Racquet Club / 532 North Avenue / Fort Lee, NJ 07024 - phone: 201.461.6212)

On a side note, I'm planning to run 3m on Saturday, and hopefully 5m on Sunday. Watch me running through the streets of Tenafly and its neighboring towns.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Proteins gives you energy. Really? ~ Jully

This is me August, 2008.

Six months later...

This is me January, 2009.

OH, much better!

If you're wondering why I don't have more pictures, it's because I don't have a digital camera!These were all pictures taken by my friends. Anyways, in January, my weight reached a low (of course, for most it's not a low, but...) of 183 lbs. I remember how great that felt after being at 188 for 3 months straight.

On Monday I tried something new, I tried eating less during dinner. Who knew I could survive with just 1/2 bowl of Korean Kimchi stew? It was quite incredible.

On Tuesday, I had my running class. I ran 3 miles in total. I did ok on my 1st mile, but I was struggling on my 2nd. Yeah, I came in last. :-( But here's another thing I learned... Proteins! I didn't have any protein all day, and that was probably why I didn't have any energy by my 2nd mile. I had NO idea that food could actually GIVE you energy. Oh, what a concept!

For dinner tonight, I had the same 1/2 of bowl of Kimchi stew and... I'm not hungry!

Tomorrow will be Pilates session #33. I am NOT looking forward to the scale, but hopefully I'll be below 186 lbs.

So hard to stay motivated ~ Jully

Thursday was my 31st session, the weight is back to 186. I guess the numbers don't lie, right?

It is EXTREMELLY difficult to remain motivated at this pace. I know my body and mind have changed, still it's hard to keep fighting. It'd be SO much easier to just give up!

BUT now I can't even consider the thought of not moving forward.

This is a shot of my arm from my birthday last year. Look at it! Wouldn't you fight too?

On a more positive note...

On Saturday, I went for a 3 mile run and my time was at 11:10!!! Who would have thought that paying to learn how to run would actually help. I've been at over 12:00/mile for months! NYRR (NY Road Runners) offers classes each season, most people go there to train for Marathons and etc. Can you imagine where I'll be in 10 weeks? "Zoom, Zoom!"

Right after the run, I had my 32nd session. Virginia started me on the leg exercises. OMG, "it burns!!!" My leg circles decreased in circumference after each round, eventually it was the size of a Pizza Hut personal pizza.

I was also reminded of my posture and my neck issues. I had no idea I did this until Virginia pointed this out to me at the beginning of our sessions, that I extend my chin and neck (because of my double chin). It's amazing how clueless I've been of this, I would have NEVER known. Needless to say, it was a GREAT and insightful session.

Getting dressed this weekend was a bit of a dissapointment, it confirmed what the scale showed, some of the weight actually did come back. The jeans are tighter again. BUT not to worry, I will get back on the wagon again this week. I've cut out the ham-egg-cheese deli breakfast sandwich, the coffee, and next I'll go for 2-3 salads for lunch in the week, and replacing late-late dinners with some Ultra Meal, which I still have to buy from the Nutritionist. I've been told that eating accounts for 80% of losing weight. Right, I don't have a working out disorder, it's an eating one!

After a weekend of clothes not fitting properly, I am motivated once again... as Big Pun says, "It's so hard... yeah", but ain't nothing holding me down! Oh No, I gotz to keep on movin!

Become a FAN!

All the blog postings can now be viewed through FaceBook.
Just search for "Jumping Frog Pilates" and become a fan!

30 Sessions / 30 Postings ~ Jully

======STATS========
Pilates Session #1
Date: November 1, 2008
Weight: 194 ~ 196 lbs
Waist: 37+ inches
Hip: 44.5 + inches

In my very first session I asked Virginia, "What would be your goal for us?".
She said, "I just want you to see if you feel different" or something along those lines.
After that 1/2 hour session, I felt myself tightening my lower ab and needless to say, I DEFINITELY feel different and AM different.
===================
Pilates Session #30
Date: March 14th, 2009
Weight: 185 ~ 182 lbs
Waist: ~35 inches
Hip: ~43 inches

On this morning, I woke up and tried on a few dresses from my past to see if they fit for a wedding that night. Well, they all zipped up! After my solo fashion show, I went to my session. It's amazing how many more NEW exercises Virginia can come up with that continues to challenge and motivate me.
===================

I've decided this is now Phase 2 of this journey.
I will be having 2 pilates sessions weekly. A duet session with Shannon on Thursdays and a single session on Saturdays. I'm looking forward to both.
The duets are a lot of fun. Shannon, Virginia, and I just always have something to chat about. These sessions are fun and therapeutic! Even when I'm feeling down, once I get there I forget all the thoughts that weigh me down.
The single session is also great because it helps me focus on my strengths and weaknesses.

I have also signed up for a running class on Tuesdays. I bought a new pair of sneakers, my feet are now being takend care of. I started at 1 mile and now I've reached 5 miles a few times. I have a 4 mile race in April, a 5k run in June, and a 200 miles relay (each person would run 3-4 miles at a time)! CRAZY!!!

I want to keep going. I hope during this next phase, I continue to get better mentally, get stronger physically, and look HOT for the summer! Actually, I lie, the HOT part is not true, but I've decided that I want to keep getting better. I am a lot more concious of my flaws (tiny, little ones, OF COURSE!) now, and I want to make me better.

Phase 2, here I come! I hope I can fix my bad eating habits (eating late, eating bad), I hope I can continue to run, and get to 170 lbs for now.

Today, I start with my long run (5 miles) in my nice new sneaks!

Get OUT! ~ Jully

Wherever you are today, you MUST get out.
It's sO beautiful out there.

I just got back from my first cardio interval run. I ran 2.5, for each 1/4 of mile I tried to sprint.
My heart hates and loves me right now.

The difference from a 5 mile long run, is that interval running is very mental. You don't think you have anything left in you, yet you find a way to fight with yourself and complete and even surpass your goal.

I feel great.

Go out there and enjoy this day,

The journey continues ... ~ Jully

This week, there is no Pilates...
Oh, but don't you worry:
- I ran 5 miles on Sunday
- I was on the bike for 1 full hour and tried to keep my pulse at 120-130, which is what Virginia explained is the level I want to be in to burn fat
- I've also done a few mat exercises in the morning with the help of my bands

Fortunately, I've been able to go to the Metro Golf Gym, especially with all this snow outside!

A few things have been happening to me outside of the fitness and nutritional world. I've been taking a lot of time thinking about myself, and challenging myself. I remember when I was younger, I really thought I had it all figured out, but recently, I've been feeling like I'm re-learning everything. Like learning how to walk again, it's been quite a trip so far.

Friday, I was challenged to go to a bar and speak to 5 fellows. I was a bit nervous, but I did it. I mean, it wasn't about getting the numbers this time around, but I was able to do it. Thank you for all those helping the "Let's get Jully her Mac ON!" Cause!

On Saturday, I went to Employees Only where I had dinner and drinks with some friends. This night wasn't about boys, but something did happened. One of my friends (really, my friend's friend) upset me and left.
The next day, I really tried to deal with it the same way I've ALWAYS dealt with situations like this. I just keep it inside, tell myself it's not a big deal, that it'll pass and make a conscious decision to not put myself in that same situation again.
BUT, here's what happened instead...
I've decided that if people upset me because they do something wrong, they should know about it instead of having me carry it inside, while they go on completely clueless.
SO, I did. I confronted that person and right away they explained themselves... and I immediately felt better.
Granted it took me ALL day to decide to confront the issue, but the fact that I did, to me was amazing.
I don't know if it's Pilates giving me the "cahones", but now I have the strength to face myself. If there are problems, people should know about it and the sooner it happens, the easier it is.
AH! what a revelation!

Thinking about what's to come. ~ Jully

This week is potentially my last official week of Pilates.

We started this journey back in November and now 4 months / 30 sessions later, we've finally arrived to what may be the final week.

Of course this doesn't mean things will stop for me. I'm going to continue to attend pilates at least 1x week, and improve on my running. We have 2 more sessions scheduled with the Nutritionist and possibly an opportunity to work with the Personal trainers from the gym downstairs.

I have really come a long way.
Can't write too much right now, but I've realized the postings have decreased so I'll make an effort to update more often. Trust me, I have Lots to share. As a bonus... here's that picture of me jumping off the cliff in Hawaii.

Here's the latest! ~ Jully

Uh, I actually ran 5 miles on Saturday.
Then, on Sunday... I ran about 5.5 (1.5 on the threadmill for warm up + 4 run from gym to my friend's house) and worked out like I was in the Biggest Loser.
Of course on Monday, I HAD to have a Five Guys ginourmous CheeseBurger and Maggie Moo's ice cream right after.

Regardless, I still feel great and as my friend's kids told me this weekend...
"Aunty Jully, you are still chubby, but a little skinnier. Last time... you were pretty big!"

Oh those kids! So funny.

Yeah, I know what you're talking about ~ Jully

Today was my 23rd session. I missed Thursday's session to visit the lovely city of Chicago for work.
Since I was still recovering from my cold, Virginia took it easy on me (or so she says!), but I still got a pretty full work out. The arms are very hardest part for me right now, making sure I don't raise my shoulders or tighten my neck.
She asked me if the experience was what I expected and I immediately said no. I didn't expect to liking me the way I do now.
She mentioned how much of an improvement she has seen in me, internally and externally. She notices my posture getting better, but also my gradual growth in self confidence.
She's right, I am getting better at being me.

After our workout I went over to the Tenafly Studio to meet with our Nutritionist.
We've already scheduled our next 2 appointments, and she's going to keep an eye on our http://myfitnesspal.com/ updates. We had a very good session.
MaryEllen from the post natal group was there too. She is MUCH smaller than I am, but it was very interesting that we both had the same issues. Keeping up with the workouts and the right eating has been absolutely challenging for all of us. I gave her (really to remind me) a good pep talk. We're back on track!

The reality has been that I haven't lost that much weight in pounds (really, just 5 until now), but my body HAS changed. My clothes actually take shape on my body. HA! shape + body, this would never be 2 words that could have described me in the past.

Well, Happy Valentine's Day! I spent mine with me, and I was suprisingly pleased!
Ah! one more note, I ran 5 miles today. OH yes... CINCO miles!!!

All better now ~ Jully

I've decided to not beat myself up anymore. I will treat each day as a brand new day, a chance to get better and better at being good to me.
I didn't run at all during the weekday, but I had fruits for breakfast (lots of them) and salads for lunch on most days.
I did go running Saturday for 3 miles and another 3 1/4 miles today. I feel good.
At my Thursday weigh in I was at 185lbs and my waist, hips, bust, arms all decreased by at least 1/2 inch. The thighs for some reason went up 1/4 inch. In our Saturday session, we didn't even do the hundreds exercise! We've been getting intoduced to many obliques, shoulder blades, and arm exercises. Pilates continues to be challenging for me. With each exercise, we focus on the body part and evaluate it in detail. We also go over our progress during our sessions. I have to say, we've really come a LONG way.

I am better. I am dressing better, I take care of my hair, clothes, and shoes... just a tid be more than before. I even curl my lashes before I walk out the door.

Better than where I was before.

Why is there a wagon and why do I LEAP off of it! ~ Jully

Last week was a bad one for me. My workout and eating was all out of synch, and the more it was out of synch, the worse it got.

Here's what happened...

I missed a workout and ate a bit more than I should have.
So on the first day, I told myself "oh well, I'll work out tomorrow, and I'll eat better tomorrow"... by that night I was even worse. It was like it was my last opportunity to eat!

Next day comes, of course circumstances lead me to the same path. No workout and bad eating. On this day, I feel even worse, but somehow I can manage to eat just a bit more because I am absolutely sure that I'll be getting back on track the day after.

Yeah, so then next day arrives. There's a SNOW storm! Of course!

By the time the end of the week comes, I'm just overwhelmed with disappointment. I can't stop beating myself over it. I pout, I get angry, I just can't understand how I've let myself go this badly.

On Friday, I went to dinner with my friend. There she asked why I was so unhappy, and why I was beating myself over this. Of course my first instict was to defend myself and assume that she didn't understand. "It's like cigarettes, you quit and when you have that 1 cigarette, you just go for as much as you can, because you know you'll have to quit again, so you over indulge in that moment."

Here's what she told me, "Everyone has bad days too, but they don't beat themselves up for it".

When I started this journey, I told myself 2x per week I would run and up to last week, I kept to it. Now that I skipped that 1 week, I can't seem to be able to forgive myself for it.

Yes, now I realize I have a bigger problem and realistically, it won't be resolved overnight. But me harassing myself for it, won't do any good either.

So if I just think of food as food, then I really wouldn't have a problem. But right now, food is like a drug. I've been going to rehab and I leaped off the wagon at the first chance I had. I hope I can think of food as just food and not as this thing that controls me.

I know it's a sad entry, but I had to share this with everyone.

GoodBye to 1-8-8!!! ~ Jully

Couldn't wait til tomorrow to write this, I've lost 5.5 lbs.
I actually walked home today, and said goodbye to 188, 187, 186, 185, 184, and 183...
Counting it down like that makes me realize how much weight that is and how much weight that is not.
Anyway, I'm finally out of the 188!!! I have been feeling great, but this just helps.

And I'm back! ~Jully

My session Saturday was great, it was good to get back in the groove of things. Shannon wasn't doing push ups off of one pinky finger, but apparently she did try to do a few hanging exercises on the cadillac during the previous sessions.
I had trouble getting my chest, neck, and shoulders aligned, but at least I was aware of it and did my best to get back to the main position. As always, I did my best to focus on the "core".

Sunday, I went for a 3 mile run on the threadmill at Metro - Golf & Fitness gym and today I wanted to go for a yoga class, but did the bike and the elliptical machine instead. After lunch today, I got a bit restless and actually went to the mall voluntarily. For the people who know me, this is unheard of. I was actually able to find a few good things (2 tank tops, 3 cotton shirts, 2 long sleeve shirts, 1 wool skirt, 1 pair of black pants), and spent a total of $60. My new rule is, it's gotta be 100% for me to commit to clothes (and possibly other things too...).

Being at home definitely makes things harder, the snacks all over the place and the bad habits.

I've been feeling really good here and there (almost too cocky), then I remember that I still have SUCH a long way to go, and I get back to reality. I've avoided the scale all this time, but Wed's session will show me if I'm finally out of the 188lbs mark. I may just get REALLY depressed if I don't.

While I was in Hawaii, I took some time to reflect about the past few months. I really had the right people around me. They're the ones that woke me up and kept me awake this entire time. I needed that big kick in the A__ and I'm glad I had the right people at the perfect time to do that for me. I am very grateful.

All it took was one painfully delicious meal ~Jully

Before my trip to Hawaii, I was very concerned about falling off the wagon, but I am very proud to say that I did ok.
Tuesday 1/6, I spent the day going from airport to airport and I had salads! I didn't get tricked into adding the potato chips, cookies, and all other things that "seem" harmless. I did good that day.
Once in Hawaii, things were starting to look troublesome. For breakfast, I got macadamia pancakes with fried rice! Oh, this thing was SO ABSOLUTELY bad, but SO good. For lunch, we had a nice salad at a spa, and for dinner we went to Allan Wong's (from Top Chef) restaurant. Each and every dish had an element of surprise and it was AMAZING. For my entree, I chose to have the beet salad, but that too was incredible. We had 3 sets of deserts, AND after that a piece of birthday cake.
The next morning, I felt incredibly gross. My friend and I agreed that we would have to split meals from this point forward, and so we tried.
All it took was one painfully delicious meal and I was all set for the rest of the trip.

I didn't use my pilates bands once, but on the first 2 days I did do the "hundreds".
I made sure to do an activity almost daily. I ran about 3x, hiked, surfed (or tried), swam, walked (the mall), and danced.
I truly believe that I was able to do all these activities almost painlessly because of pilates. My body was strong. I snorkled for 1 hour and didn't get tired at all. The "swimming" exercise did come in handy for surfing to thread water. The day after I was expecting my arms to hurt, but nothing.

This trip was very good for me. I am liking myself more and more. While shopping, if things didn't fit me, I didn't beat myself up. I just moved on and said, well not everything was made for me, right? While mingling at bars, I was able talk to men with more confidence. I didn't doubt or even question why would they even be interested, which is something I'd always assume.
I met some great people throughout the trip. It could have been because it was just Hawaii, but in any case, I was open and was excited to meet so many interesting and NICE people.
I am more sure of myself and have started to learn about my limitations. Well, I learned that I really can jump off a rock (1), snorkle in the deeper side of the shore (2), and venture to a deserted mini island (3).

(1)


(2)


(3)



I met an amazing hula teacher and during her lesson she told her students "You don't know your body, you don't know yourself. You have to introduce yourself, TO YOURSELF!".

My friend said that she's noticed a change too. "It's a new you", but we agreed that it's not a brand new start, it's just been a continous path to get me here.
I cannot wait to my pilates session on Saturday. I'm sure Shannon is doing push ups off her pinky finger by now.

Aloha!

Happy Jully Year!!! ~Jully

This will be the Jully year. I feel it. Of course, this is my way to remain positive and to let the universe know that I'm ready to be happy.

Let me share with you where I've been the past few days.

On Wednesday's session (12/31/08), my sister came with me to take a few professional photo shots. Unfortunately, we'll have to wait a little while to get them posted here. We'll have pictures for the equipment, the exercises, our Instructor, Shannon, and I. The bad part of this particular session was my anxiety of having to miss the next 5 sessions due to my upcoming trips. Virginia; my instructor, assured me that I would be fine. I am just really nervous to break my flow.

That same day, my sister dropped me off in Manhattan so I could catch a ride up to Vermont with a few new friends. On the way, she mentioned how my body had changed. "I saw you in your yoga pants, and saw that you have a butt now!" According to her, I didn't have one before. Watch out Beyonce!

For New Year's eve, we went to a bar around in West Dover, VT. There I started the night by standing still in the corner, but by the time the new year came along... I was jumping and smiling.

New Year's day was too cold to hit the slopes, but I did take a 40-45 minute walk uphill. It felt great to get out and not slack on the first day of the year. I was extremely fortunate that the people at the house were so nice, and also very health conscious. All the meals had close to 0 fat, and the taste was absolutely AMAZING! Three of the girls there actively participate on triathlon, and what's great about them is that they're just normal people. They were so encouraging, it felt great to be surrounded by such strength.

Something amazing happened on this day. When we went to the farmer's market, I noticed that I didn't have to pull my jeans over my belly. I usually pull my pants up every 3-5 minutes because gravity (aka my belly) just pushes it down below my waist. I know, it's not a sexy visual. But not on this day, it actually stayed there. It was an incredible feeling.

On January 2nd, I hit the slopes on my snowboard. The bad news is that I still wasn't able to get up forward on a downhill, but the good news is that I was able to keep up with the group without having them wait for me too long. It was a great warm up day of the season for me.

The next day, I hit the slopes for a full day. On this day, I really pushed myself. Not just mentally, but also physically. I probably fell about 20 times, which really means, I did about 20 1/2 push ups. My arms are still sore today, but it is very interesting that I naturally used my arms muscles rather than my leg muscles. In the past, my legs would have the sore spots, but not on this trip. It's really been my biceps and triceps. Interesting, right?

On the last day of the trip, I went for another 40 minute walk up the hill before we headed home and only had 1/2 of my pull pork sandwich and 3 bites of the most amazing macaroni and cheese. I was trying...

On Monday morning, I went over to the track expecting lots of people to be there due to the all the New Year's resolutions, but I was the first one on the track. There usually is about 4 people when I go, but it was just me on this day. Since there was a bit of frost on the ground, it was so neat to see only my footsteps on the empty track.

Today, I am headed to Hawaii. I am armed with running gear and pilates bands.

I am STILL grateful for all the support and encouragement I've been receiving from everyone. It truly feels fulfilling. I no longer see myself as the fat girl... The one who's afraid to go shopping because the stores may not have my size, the one who can't imagine running, rollerblading, snowboarding, hiking, biking in the Palisades and more...

Although I wasn't 600lbs, I ALWAYS felt like I was in that category. Just felt completely helpless, hopeless, and blind. Now, I am probably still my 188lbs and I am just a bit bigger than the normal person, but now I'm excited of what's to come, to see what I can do for myself.

So, this is why I feel it's my year.

Feelin' fine in 2009 ~Shannon

Welcome to the new year everyone. 2009. My thirtieth year. I am excited by the new year because it is when you can reflect on the year that has passed and look forward to what is yet to come in the year ahead. I am so thankful for this opportunity to do Pilates with Jumping Frog and hope to reach my original goals set back in November. I have so far lost only about five pounds. However, I did my measurements again on Wednesday for the first time in about a month and a half. I am happy to say that my waist was -2 inches, my hips were -2 inches and my bust was -1 inch. Pretty exciting, huh? So, while the weight numbers aren't budging much, I see that there is a difference in my body size. I did not make a resolution for 2009. However, I did write a list of things I hope to accomplish, goals per se. First, I would like to do something creative once a day- whether it be write, draw, or take pictures. I was an art major in college and creativity is something that definitely feeds my soul, so I hope to do more of that in 2009. I want to make sure I contact my friends more often. I love my friends very much and they are valuable to me, yet sometimes I don't think my actions show that, since life gets in the way and I do not speak to them as often as I would like to. I also want to continue on my path to being healthier, which includes cutting back on the wine tasting and chocolates. I have an affinity for both and I know that it is holding me back a little, as far as my health goals are concerned. My number one goal for 2009 is going to be putting myself and my happiness first. Because if I don't love and care for myself, it is hard to let others do that. The Jumping Frog Pilates program has, and will continue to be, a very helpful and focusing part of my life. It is a time for laughs and exercise, but also for contemplative moments and hard work. Happy New Year- here's to health and happiness for everyone!