Blastin My Bootie

Last year I was just in the process of letting my running take over my blog.  I had discovered Mel at Tall Mom On The Run and was instantly inspired.  The rest is history.  Thanks Mel!!!  You are truly an inspiration and through you I have ran more miles and met so many amazing friends.

Not long ago I stumbled upon this challenge and I instantly signed myself up.  When I originally began my running/weight loss journey in December 2005 I swore that if I lost the weight it would never return.   I was down to my goal weight by April 2006.  I worked really hard.  I ran my first 5K that month and followed with my first Portland Marathon that October.  Yes, I was a little crazy.  I felt great.  I maintained my weight for a long time.  Unfortunately, I am a stress eater and love chocolate.  Bad combination.  I have fluctuated +/- 20 pounds off and on.  I'm in one of those bad time frames right now.  I'm frustrated with the holidays coming up.  I can't gain anymore.  I know it has been a factor with my knee issues.  I'm hoping this challenge will keep me motivated.  My plan is to work my booty off.  

Holiday Bootie Buster Challenge

This is the 3rd annual challenge hosted by Amanda at Run To The Finish.  Click the link above for all the details.  The Challenge runs from November 20th-January 7th.  Perfect timing since it will contain the dreaded holidays and a 7 year olds birthday party.  I'm really hoping this will help hold me accountable and in the process shrink a little.

When my Dad called me last night to go on a hunting expedition today I knew it was the perfect way to jump start the challenge.  We were up at 5am.  Dad picked Jason and I up around 6am and we were out of the truck and hiking by 6:40am.  It was still dark and raining.  We started up a logging road that turned out to be 99% uphill for the first 1 1/2 miles.  I was fine with this.  I was burning more calories, right?  There were even mile markers on most of the roads we were hiking on so it made it easier to keep track.  Pretty convenient :)

Me & My Daddy.  Check out my outfit.  I should get extra credit for that :)  I was also wearing my camo Bondi Band under my hat.  It saved my ears from the cold.

Once we were done we hiked 7.5 - 8 miles but we were hiking for over 5 hours.  Very slow for running times but considering we climbed several mountains today, not too shabby.  BTW ~ We only saw 3 does and a million other hunters.  No deer for Dad.

Calculating Points

By Mile ~ 7

By Cross Training Time ~ 20

That's a huge difference.  I think today qualified for cross training points.  What do you think?  I was nasty sweaty and I'm completely exhausted tonight.  Plus, do you see all the clothes I was wearing?  I'm wondering what will be sore in the morning :)

Anyone else kick off their Bootie Challenge today?