The Biggest Loser

So, I just thought of something else of interest. I joined in on a local Biggest Loser contest in August, and we just completed week 7 of 12. It has been one of the best things that I have ever done for myself, and I have had great support from my friends and family alike. I, along with 19 other ladies and 3 men are vying for the "Biggest Loser" for Dye Hards Gym here in Pea Ridge. We began on August 8, and end (ironically) on Halloween. As of yesterday, I have lost 10 pounds and over 14 inches total body. I have a long way to go, but this is a huge start, and I can tell that the changes I have made in my diet, as well as my exercising habits are making its way into becoming habit and enjoyable. I work out 6 days a week, 4 of which are with a trainer. My biggest accomplishment so far is working up to 45 minutes on the elliptical machine....that thing is a doozy!! I can also tell a huge difference in my endurance and strength. With the trainer, we rotate through core workouts, yoga, and full body resistance workouts (including some crazy-hard pushups). I have dropped from a 16 to a 14 in my pant size. My hope is to get down to at least a 10. Anyway, I will post some before and after pictures when I get them. I just wanted to give a head's up on what I have been up to lately!

It's Been A While....

Things are back in full force around the Mardis household. School is in full swing for Berkeley and I as well as the twins and their pre-school.

Fall softball has started back for Berkeley, but we have yet to play a game due to all the rain we have been having. We are hopeful to actually get to play this week, though. She is gonna be playing some first base this season, along with short stop, and maybe dabble in some pitching opportunities.

McKinley is in full swing of potty training. She is going all day, most days with no accidents. Her friend, Lakyn, and her are making it easy for their teacher (Ms. Carrie), because they have pretty much trained each other at school (which makes Sarah [my friend and Lakyn's mom] and I very happy). Bennett, on the other hand, is not even worried at potty training. He could care less, right now. I know that when the time comes, he will be ready, so I am not pushing it.

We have participated in two 5k walks for two very dear to our heart causes. The first one was the JDRF walk with Berkeley's friend, Avery's, team. This is the 2nd year we have walked with her team, and Berkeley is very aware of the importance of this cause. Avery was diagnosed a few years ago with juvenile diabetes, and has done fantastic advocating this cause that is her life.


The second 5k that we walked this year is one that is a brand new foundation. Hannah's Hope Foundation (http://www.hannahshopefoundation.org/) was founded this year after Hannah lost a very strong fight with cancer. I will let you read her story in the link above. Hannah is the niece of a very good friend of ours, and was just a few months younger than the twins. It has been something that has impacted my life tremedously, and I hope to do all I can to support this cause.

So, I think we are updated, now. It has been a little hectic. But, after all, how fun would life really be without a little chaos! As always, I try and keep this updated, so check back often to see what we have been up to...

Back to School

Yep, it's that time again. I actually caught a few sales today and got myself some new "school clothes". Berkeley found her a book bag, as well (we will take her school shopping closer to time for school). I leave on Sunday for a really awesome workshop (from what I hear) that is actually a 3 year commitment's worth of paid training. I will be gone through Thursday, and then I start back with faculty professional development meetings the following Tuesday. Berkeley begins 5th grade on August 19th. I can not believe I have a 5th grader. She is growing up in so many ways right before our eyes. Fall Softball practices also begin this coming Tuesday evening. I am excited, but at the same time, thinking...."Didn't we JUST get finished with Spring ball?!?!?!" The twins are dabbling in potty training, but we have a loooooooonnnnnngggg way to go, still. They like sit on their potties, but that is about the extent of it so far. We have has some occaisional successful Potty Times...but nothing consistent enough for them to put all the puzzle pieces together. As much as I would like to be over the diaper stage, I know they will do it in their own time, and I am in no hurry. It'll happen when it happens....I guess that is all I have to report for now....Check back often....there's always something going on 'round here!!

CHECK OUT THE KIDS' PAGES

I am finally trying to finish up getting caught up on the kids' blogs. We have been going non-stop all summer, so now that things have slowed down, I am getting some time to organize all the pictures I have taken and getting them out on the blogs. So....check out the links the the kids' pages and see what they have been up to. Check back often, because I hope to keep things going a little bit regularly!