The Spin Chick - Off The Bike

JULY 1ST SPIN RIDE

2009-06-30T14:00:00.000-07:00

Warm-up: Another one bites the dust 3:37
Jog: magic carpet ride 4:28
Climb: Take it to the limit 4:46
Climb: Free falling 4:09
Jumps: temperature 3:32
Run: bad girlfriend 3:29
Jog: Hot in here 3:49
Sprints: sin wagon 3:41
Jog/run: live and let die 3:14
Climb 20/20: Beat it 4:19
Climb: Picture 4:59
Sprints: Something in your mouth 3:41
Jog to run: proud Mary 4:58
Climb: Old black water 4:17
Sit, Stand, Hover: Save a Horse 3:22
Jog: Super freak 3:41
Run: rock and roll 3:41
Cool down: Arms wide open 4:35

Wed spin ride for May 27th

2009-05-26T09:46:00.000-07:00

Balls to the Walls Birthday Climb!

Warm-up: Calling all Angles: 3:49
Jog: Don’t do me like that: 2:42
Climb: Eye of the tiger: 4:04
Climb: Come together: 4:19
Jumps: My sharona: 4:56
Climb: fame: 4:20
Sit/stand/sprint: (20 seconds each): Still of the night: 6:41
Jog/Recover: Freeze Frame: 3:58
Seated Climb: Magic Man: 5:27
Bounce climb: Blame it: 4:51
Switch backs: Only the good die young: 3:56
Climb: finish what you started: 4:25
Sit/stand/hover: All summer long: 4:55
Jog/recover: crossfire: 4:08
Standing climb: right round: 3:26
Frozen Jog: only God knows why: 5:27
Seated run: know your enemy: 3:11
Cooldown: I don’t wanna be: 3:40

Here it is May 6th!

2009-05-04T09:17:00.001-07:00

Wed ride (80-mins)
Warm-up- Honkey Tonk woman 3:05
20/20 Climb- Money 6:23
sprints- top gun 3:35
Jumps- Dirty Deeds 4:13
Flat to Jog – Slow Ride 3:58
Climb- Blaze of glory 5:36
Run - I want you to want me 3:44
Switch backs- It’s your thing 2:58
Bounce climb- New sensation 3:40
Sprints- kryptonite 3:58
Frozen Jog – Fat bottom girls 4:17
Flat to Jog – Keep rocking me baby 3:07
Climb- Dream on 4:28
Sit/stand/hover- I want a new drug 3:31
Jumps- Pump it 3:37
Jog- Rubber band man 3:33
Run- a little less conversation 3:36
Cool down- Bobby Mcgee 4:33

April 22nd spin

2009-04-21T08:19:00.000-07:00

Warm-up: Good Vibrations
Jog: Back in the USSR
Climb: Summer of 69
Climb: Soak up the sun
Jumps: Tush
Run: What I like about you
Jog: hot in here
Sprints: something in your mouth
Switch backs: The boys are back in town
Climb 20/20: Running with the devil
Climb: smooth
Sprints: The devil went down to georgia
Jog: sinner man
Climb: Love shack
Sit, Stand, Hover: You may be right
Jog: Crazy
Speed play: Meatloaf
Cool down: centerfold

Spin Ride for Wed the 8th

2009-04-07T08:24:00.000-07:00

This spin ride is 1.3 hours long according to my ipod!

Wednesday Ride (ride of ages)
Warm-up: Rubber band man: 3:33
Jog: Brick house: 3:37
Climb: Superfreak: 3:41
Climb: I’m your boogie man: 4:05
Jumps: Come on Feel the noise: 4:20
Run: Doctor Feel good: 4:50
Jog: Rock of Ages: 4:08
Sprints: Kick start my heart: 4:43
Climb pyramid: November Rain: 8:56
Jog: Allstar: 3:23
Climb: Enter Sandman: 5:32
Sit, Stand, Hover: That’s all: 4:28
Speed play: Rebel Yell: 4:48
Jog: Steve McQueen: 3:26
Climb 20/20: Can’t always get what you want: 7:33
Run: Rock and Roll: 3:41
Cool down: bobby Mcgee: 4:33

DO blonds have more fun?

2009-03-31T11:15:00.001-07:00

OK, here I am straight from bootcamp class.....

And here is the beginning of the foil nightmare--- good thing TVs aren't picking up reception this way any longer.

Still getting foil.

OK- I"m pretty sure I look like I"m from outer space in this one. Boldy-go?

Almost there, the blow drying has begun!

Ah yes, a pretty blond head. Thank you to Melissa from Appearances for making me look so "fun"!

Wed Spin Ride

2009-03-30T08:19:00.000-07:00

Gives you hell
Hit me with your best shot
Cold as ice
Moulin Rouge
Black Horse
Mr. Brownstone
You really got me now
something in your mouth
redneck woman
magic carpet ride
all summer long
great balls of fire
crazy little thing called love
crazy
save a horse
should i stay or should I go
all for you
welcome to the jungle
let me be myself

It was something to look at.

2009-03-27T13:35:00.000-07:00

I thought this was a cute sign to post in the restroom. I mean, we really need some "entertainment" while we're in there!

Yes, I was seated for the entire performance!

Mother of the Year

2009-03-19T14:45:00.000-07:00

So, my children were playing outside in the warm weather yesterday. They were on the trampoline with their purses and they decided to take the straps off of the purses and wrap them around one of the girls neck and pretend they were dogs.... Needless to say this was not a good idea and it ended in injury. One of my children got a huge scratch on the side of her neck.

So, while I was nursing her injury and explaining to the girls that it wasn't a good idea to do this, I also suggested that she not go to school and tell all her friends she had a leash around her neck and got scratched!

Well, she comes home today and says "I didn't tell any of my friends mom, just my teacher". WHAT?!? You told your teacher you had a leash on your neck?

Alright, lucky for me (not really)-- her teacher comes to my classes at the gym, so I took the walk of shame across the floor to explain to her teacher that I DON'T let me children walk around with a leash!!!!

When I was younger, thinking about parenthood and how fun it would be to raise children, I never, ever, ever thought I would have to have a conversation with my child's teacher where I had to say "I don't keep my children on a leash"....

Yep, Mother of the Year-- that's me!

Lettuce

2009-03-19T10:32:00.000-07:00

I just had to share this. My friends daughter had to do a project for school and she had to list 5 reasons for lettuce. Reason number 5 was: So vegetarians have something to eat! Ha Ha Ha!

My reason, to scrap off excess mustard and ketchup from Wendy's cheeseburger!

Your questions answered!

2009-03-11T17:53:00.000-07:00

Many of you have asked me about this 'bar', so here is the scoop.

We stopped at every bar along the route from Key Largo to Key West, it's about 108 miles.

We saw this bar on the road and it was called "Woodys". We pull off and then we notice it is a strip club. So question Number 1. NO, I didn't know by the name that it was a strip club. Question Number 2. NO, I didn't go in.

This sign was on the outside of the door so I snapped the picture. It says Bar/Lounge/and Restaurant. Question Number 3: I have no idea what kind of food was on the menu.

Finally, the band name: Big Dick and the Extenders... Question Number 4: I don't know what kind of music they play, and I've been to afraid to "google search" the answer for fear of what might show up if I type in "big dick and the extenders". If anyone is brave enough to find the answers to these questions, please let us all know. IN FACT, if anyone has ever BEEN to the place, I would LOVE to hear about it.

I've seen everything UPCLOSE now!

2009-03-10T17:13:00.000-07:00

If you remember, or refer back to, my blog titled "now, I've seen everything" you will be able to understand this blog post alot better....

So, S and D hand me this package today in this mornings bootcamp class... And this is what's inside!!!! S ACTUALLY ordered it for me. Now, if you can read the photo below you will see some information and a money saving coupon for future purchases of "go girl".
On this back of the above photo is information for a SWEEPSTAKES to win "lifestyle packages". I don't think I even WANT to know what that is.
You can also win some cool GoGirl GEAR! I am actually wondering that the t-shirts and hats have on them? NOT!!!!

OK, so if you look at the outside of the tube you will see all the things you will be able to do if you have, buy, and/or use GoGirl...

Is that a guitar? Will I be a better Guitar Hero player if I use this?

It also states on the TUBE that it contains one gogirl, a tissue, and a baggie for disposal.

Wanna see what's inside?

And there you have it. A rubber funnel, toilet tissue, and a bag for disposal, but that's not all....

Just in case you weren't sure what to do, there are step by step instructions....

These are so funny, it takes the cake! Adjust clothing? (you can't do it through your outfit?), AIM? (what woman learns how to aim?) and if you CHOOSE not to reuse use the bag for disposal... oh, I'm sorry-- discrete disposal, as if the fact you just peed standing up wasn't strange enough!!!!

I cannot wait to hear the comments on this one!

The Burnout Pit

2009-03-09T17:18:00.001-07:00

This is the "Iron Horse Saloon" in Daytona Beach, a very famous place and-- as you can see-- a huge hangout for bikers during bike week! Here is a small caged in area called "The Burn Out Pit". Basically, bikers get in there and hold the break, rev up the back tire and make lots of noise and TONS of smoke. It usually gets alot of attention and screams, and some women show their boobs. (Not me of course).

Here is a guy in the pit on a nice Harley Davidson.

Below is the pit after he had been in there about 20 seconds. I'm almost sure there is/or will be NO tread left on his back tire!

It's actually pretty fun if you're there in person. I imagine SEVERAL Corona lites help with the festivities!

fun stuff to and from

2009-03-05T16:20:00.001-08:00

We stopped at a 'bar' on the way to Key West and it turned out to be a nudey place, but I loved the name of the band that played here... big dick and the extenders...

This was a cute shirt I saw in Key West. Thankfully, I didn't actually get to see the county jail.

If you remember from my last trip to Florida in November, I seem to have a knack for finding huge tatas on mannequins and here is one for you...

You do know those are fake, right?

Another cute shirt, anyone know any lawyers?

I snapped this pic of a giant flip flop, just outside of Margaritaville.... Don't think you can blow out THIS flip flop.

2nd day through the keys!

2009-03-05T05:02:00.000-08:00

We made it all the way to Key Largo, and parked the trailer. Unloaded and headed on a 108 mile journey through the keys... pretty much stopping at every bar (ofcourse we left at 9am and most places don't open until 11, but we managed to find a few). My only problem was that once you're on the bike, it's whatever you can carry in a back pack to get you through the night-- that means, no curling iron, blow dryer, iron, and only ONE pair of shoes... Here we are sitting at some seafood place, and I snapped this shot-- that's ICE COLD BEER!

Here are the bikes parked at the southern most point--- however, I've heard that the "true" southern most point is in Hawaii and that Cuba isn't really 90 miles from that point, but 98... Still a great place for a picture!

And I know I shouldn't complain, because you can drink anywhere on Key West, but really... Corona in a CAN? It just didn't seem normal. And I haven't choaked on the lime yet...

Check back later to see some pics of the sites I saw on the road trip down!

The road trip from hell

2009-03-04T04:58:00.001-08:00

Yep, that's my luggage and yes that is one bag just of shoes! I didn't drive at all, I was way too sick... there were trailers everywhere!
Even when we stopped for gas, they were there.

This made me very nervous, because we "thought" because of the economy that not many people would be here this year... of course we don't have a hotel booked yet...

Is sleeping on the beach illegal?

And you can see the small sign out of the window that says "welcome to FLORIDA". Mind you this is like 430am on Monday!!!

And this one was taken about 5 hours later, around 930am... let the vacation begin.

I also want to say that I've really enjoyed this beer while looking at all the snow pictures of my snow bound friends in Maryland!

OW!

2009-02-26T15:14:00.001-08:00

Yes, I know you've seen this picture before, but....

Here is it again with a bandage... So you know what's next, right?

You guessed it, I DID IT! Gina couldn't be there today, but her sister-in-law Genna took good care of me, held my hand, told me I was going to live, had the paramedics standing by just incase...

Genna was laughing at me. Gina told her how nervous I was and Genna was like"Tiff? I thought she was hard core!" Well, now you know.... I get my strength from the bandanna..

Now all I need is alittle Florida sunshine to tan up the mid-section.

It is done...

Tee-Time

2009-02-26T10:46:00.000-08:00

Here is a great website for some cute, maybe never seen before, shirts-- www.snorgtees.com

Here are some of my favorites!

I may even have to order a few of these-- Iwould love to hear which one's are your favorites!

The Ride of Your Life

2009-02-25T04:31:00.000-08:00

Here is an idea that S gave to me and I just LOVE it!

I will carve out about a fifteen or twenty minute portion of my class to “The Spin of Your Life.” Kind of like this portion of our program is sponsored by "your name here". Music is a big part of a lot of people’s lives. They mark the time by what song was playing went an event occurred in their life. If I could incorporate those songs within a program and share with the class why and what this song means to them I think it would jazz the class up and make it even more fun.

Which is what you want to do is make fitness fun. A couple of rules: 1) only three to five songs. First you don’t want to be spinning to county music for 80 minutes and second people will be more likely to participate if it only involves a couple of songs.

2) You have to be willing to tell why this song was important to you and agree to let me share it with the class. They can be happy moments, funny moments, inspirational moments, maybe try to keep the depressing moments out unless maybe it is a short recovery or something. You probably don’t want to depress the class.

I love the song "drift away". I always say its the "military wife song". The words means so much to me and helped me through many, many nights alone.

I like the song "loose yourself" by emenem. That song drives me so much, I could climb to it, run to it, and even if I'm on my last drop of energy, that song can lift me out and take me to the finish line-- I feel like I don't want to miss one opportunity in life and that song helps me when I'm feeling down and out!

Don't read if squeemish!

2009-02-20T10:15:00.000-08:00

So I am home today with a sick 4-year old, but I have to tell this cute/funny, but maybe alittle TMI story:

She comes to my bed last night at 1240am and says "Mom, I don't feel very good". I sit up and look at her just as she VOMITS into my lap -- she looks up at me and says "I'm serious Mom!".

What do you say to that? My pajamas are a mess, she's crying, I'm not even awake yet and she gives me grown-up sarcasm!

Um, you had me at hello?!?

You gotta love that! "I'm serious guys"

Now I've seen everything!

2009-02-18T17:08:00.000-08:00

I can't even BEGIN to tell you about this site, and I'm pretty sure it's no joke!

Be sure to check out the 'video'.... It's pee your pants funny!

www.go-girl.com

I'm not backing out!

2009-02-18T04:06:00.000-08:00

Alright, so I didn't make it in to see Gina last night, but I've got a firm appointment and babysitter for next Tuesday to have my belly button done! I'm wasn't chickening out-- I just couldn't make it!

How Much is Too Much?

2009-02-17T17:04:00.001-08:00

I'm teaching alot this week. 8 classes in 5 days, plus combat practice on Thursdays to get ready for the launch. Now, I AM whining, but I wouldn't change it for the world-- I love teaching and training with you all... however...

What I want to know is if I'm doing too much? Are you tired of seeing me? Are my classes not as upbeat or exciting because I'm over doing it? Is it starting to feel like "ground hog day?"

I have so much studying to do for Combat, but I'm still wasting so much time on Facebook-- what is the infatuation with that site? Do I NEED to know that you're cooking dinner, or watching sesame street, or shaving your legs? Why am I so hooked? Does that mean I need a life of my own?

Underwear Etiquette

2009-02-13T10:39:00.001-08:00

Sorry, no pictures of me this time, do you have any idea what you look like after a massage?

So after a THREE day weekend of NINE hour day training days for Body Combat, followed by a full week of aerobics work, and a few extra Body Pump classes I was due for a massage!

I headed down to Jaquelin Morgans in Prince Frederick-- Shelby and Heather are the BOMBS!

Anyway, I am getting ready for the massage, they call me in the room tell me to undress and get under the sheet. Shelby, the lady doing my massage, says "underwear or not, your choice".

Hummmm, what do I do? Now, I don't usually wear ANY, but going to a massage, I threw a pair on. So here is what I need to know, I didn't want to make HER uncomfortable by laying there with no underwear, but at the same time I didn't really want massage oil all over my Victoria Secrets, so..... dilemma...

What do you do?

Yeah Kids!

2009-02-12T14:53:00.001-08:00

A Few Launch Pics

2009-02-11T17:33:00.000-08:00

Look at Keri Jo and Suzy, still smiling-- we must not have started yet!

We launched the newest LM Body Pump routine this morning at 9am.

It was me, Niki, and Craig-- your superstar body pump instructors!

We had a full class and LOTS of fun!

First we showed them all the HORRIBLE tricep push-ups, and you all stuck right to it! Nice!

The Bicep track was ROCKING!

How many bottom halves did we have to do? UGH!

Just keep smiling, it will all be over soon!

FINALLY, my turn to talk, I had to be silent all that time... almost a miracle!

Lunges, for me and man look at those smokin' hot legs!

We did some 'front loaded' squats in the lunge track (You Saturday peeps, beware).

You guys look AMAZING! I'm so proud, almost brings a tear to my eye!

Breath, Val, Breath!

Yep, back to Keri Jo and Suzy, and they don't look so sweet and nice now. How are those shoulders feeling girls?

Me and Niki are feeling the burn!

And I got to do it all again at 4pm today... Anyone feel sorry for me?

Valentines?

2009-02-10T14:34:00.000-08:00

I took my 4 year old to the gym tonight for my 4pm spin class. After class I go to the kids club to get her and she runs up to me and says.."Mommy, I made something for you, it's your FAVORITE thing!!!". She hands me this pink paper....

I say to her, "It's beautiful, is it a Valentine card?".

She answers me in her sweetest 4 year old voice and says, "No, its a grocery list!!"

So, my favorite thing is a grocery list.... how do you like them apples?

Oil and Water-- no more

2009-02-09T08:19:00.000-08:00

No more oil and water for me-- it's kick ass and take names now!

Yea, I'm smiling, but I'm thinking about all the pain I'm gonna bring down on my Combat attendees! YOU ARE GONNA LOVE IT!

Beware!!!

2009-02-08T03:21:00.000-08:00

Morning of day three and yea, we are all dying. Did the Body Combat challenge last night, used the punching bags and I'm pretty sure I did jabs until my arm fell off-- I picked it up and put it back on and had to keep jabbing!

We are all very excited about Combat and bringing it to the gym, so watch out for us when we get back. We are gonna be like the people that just recently got 'saved'.... all we're gonna talk about is COMBAT!!

Lisa B can't wait to see how your jab form looks when you feel like you have glass in your muscles!

Combat Day 2

2009-02-07T17:06:00.000-08:00

Oh yea, I'm hurtin'! It's early in the morning, day two, I'm still sore from yesterday and my brain in full of combinations...

This is a quick picture of our room. We just finished the Combat routine for the second time- TODAY and now we are practicing the things we need to work on.
OK, another LONG day of combat. Punching, kicking, squats, lunges, yelling, training, hooking, uppercuts, jabs... (Need I go on?-- I think you get the point)

I know that doesn't end in O, however I was in need of some carbs... that's a baked ziti! (and a Corona-- It got cut out).

We are all so tired, we are just laughing at anything... Have you ever been that tired?

And here I am, laying in bed thinking about tomorrow and what I've got to present. It's tough learning other peoples choreography.. poor me..

Combat Day 1

2009-02-06T18:32:00.000-08:00

We are on our way! We met at the gym this morning at 5am!!!! Yes, our first stop was Starbucks in Dunkirk-- they open at 430, just in case you need to know. Here we are in the car on our way to training, feeling good, looking good.
This is me at 4pm, drinking a MUCH NEEDED red bull! Yes, it's sugar free.

Do these shorts make me look fat? Ha Ha Ha!

847pm and Lisa is ordering us a pizza!

I'm studying with my red wine in hand.

What's that? A knock at the door?

OH yes, thank you Lord!

And Kirsten and I sit and study and eat... it is now 937pm and we still have a few hours of work to do. I hope you all know I'll be taking this out on you when I get back!!!

PS. I did learn how to wrap my mittens!

The Barbie and Ken Saga

2009-02-03T14:45:00.000-08:00

Let me catch some of you up to speed....

I was playing a kids game on line with my children (webkinz quizzy's corner) and we came to a question about Barbie. We answered the question and then we received a fun fact that said...

Barbie used to date Ken, but they broke up!

What? When did they break up? I never saw this in my people magazine subscription!!!

So, I've told several people about this and here is what I've heard...

Yes, they broke up-- they have a divorced barbie now-- she comes with all of Kens stuff!

What? Ken didn't HAVE anything! It was the Barbie dream house, the Barbie corvette? What did Ken even HAVE?

I've heard that Ken had a car. I've heard that Ken had a horse, but Barbie has the horse and the stable now...

I cannot believe this? Didn't Barbie JUST get a belly button like 10 years ago? I remember the huge deal it was-- on the news and everything, but the break-up? I never heard a word!

I've also heard that Barbie had a baby-- there was a pregnant barbie and her belly popped off and there was a baby inside.

OK, that just sounds creepy-- I hope they took that off the market!

Here is a link I found about Ken and a make-over to win back Barbie:

http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=1303775n

So, I cannot wait to hear about what you know about the Barbie and Ken saga....

On a side note, I never heard anything about G.I. Joe!

I guess they will put anything on a bumper sticker

2009-02-03T14:42:00.001-08:00

And someone will put it on their car!

OK, my friend sent this to me and I hope they didn't get it from a car in Calvert County! I mean, really?!? Who has this on their car and can confidently drive down the street?

I also have to wonder if this excuse works on the cops?

Anyone know? Anyone seen worse bumper stickers? I've got to know!!!

Me and Combat (Oil and Water?)

2009-01-29T15:33:00.000-08:00

So many of you may know that I am about to venture to training next weekend for a class called Body Combat. If you haven't checked it out yet, you can click on the link of my previous post or go to the Les Mills Website and check it out (www.lesmills.com).

OK, so today I was out and I picked up the hand wraps I need for the class. I was told these are important because it helps the trainer to see if your hands are correct and your knuckles are striking the target correctly. It also makes you "Feel" like a fighter.

Funny thing is... as if you didn't know this was going to be funny... They don't come with instructions... I mean, how hard can it be? Just wrap it around your hand, right? Um, no!

I'm not trained in the art of Combat just yet, but I'm pretty sure the Everlast name shouldn't be on the back of my hand.
I don't think it should gap like this either. I feel like an idiot!!!!

Well, if all else fails find someone to find directions... (thanks T)
Welcome to www.ringside.com...

And look at me, 4 steps later and I'm actually feeling pretty cool!

That's where the Everlast goes!

You see that fist? I am one bad ass Combat ready girl!

OK, I still feel alittle stupid, but maybe I will grow into them!

Snow Day

2009-01-28T19:24:00.000-08:00

Shhhh! I got to sleep in alittle today-- I got to enjoy my cup of coffee in peace! Once she woke up she was ON THE MOVE.
My older two didn't want anything to do with the freezing cold, so it was just Sydney and Mommy!

While she was busy playing in the snow I was busy with my tricep and bicep workout of scraping 2 inches of ice off the front of my van so I could get the heck out of here!

And after a good 45-mins of scraping I was able to uncover one of my buried wipers only to find the rubber had come off.... Just my luck!

OK kids-- hop in the car we're going to Advanced Auto!

Next weekends training

2009-01-28T11:43:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm headed out of town next weekend for a tough training course in order to bring a new program to World Gym. What to see a sneak peak of our new class called COMBAT? Click the link and let me know what you think!

http://widgets.clearspring.com/o/488911ff5e784fa6/49809af6f1841e28/48c88ccc80ced15e/69198214/fav_class/bc/lang/en/country/world/-storeInPid/true

touch and go

2009-01-28T05:17:00.000-08:00

Well, it was on the fence this morning about m 930am spin, but all morning classes were cancelled. I plan to teach Body Pump at 4pm today.

Thank you and I'm sorry

2009-01-27T07:48:00.000-08:00

OK Guys, Thank you to all of you who braved the snow and came out for bootcamp this morning-- I had a great time and I hope you had a great workout!

I'm sorry, but our evening classes have been cancelled for tonight, so no 4pm spin. Keep checking my site for updates on classes tomorrow:

www.thespinchick.com

(click on the "schedule of classes" tab at the top of the page)

Stay warm, but not too much comfort food!

The Squat!

2009-01-26T11:09:00.000-08:00

A proper squat done in a body pump class... Heels are slightly wider than hips and toes are turned out just a bit. Elbows under shoulders, bar on the meaty part of your back. Abs tight!

(yes, I'm still freezing and my photographer extraordinaire kept making me laugh)

Try not to bend forward while squatting down, this puts a strain on your lower back. Your bar should be moving straight up and down.

That's better, keeping your chest lifted and pushing your butt back and down.

This is the top of the squat, it shows the bar on the meaty part of your upper back.

(Nice leg profile there if I do say so myself)

This picture shows the low position of your squat. You should never go lower than 90 degrees.

(yeah, I was already getting tired of holding the bar)

This is TOO low for a squat.

(I cut my head out-- I didn't have a very cute look on my face-- I was having MVA flashbacks!)

My last photo just reminds you how far apart your feet should be. Remember, slightly wider than hips, toes turned out a tad.
(Wow, I really need some new tennis shoes-- anyone know of some good ones?)

And my serious note, we push through our squat track very quickly in class, bottom half pulses produce alot of burn in our upper legs. Keeping the bar, upper back, and abs in proper form will give us the BEST results and burn the most calories!

Set Position for Body Pump Class

2009-01-24T14:17:00.001-08:00

Proper Set Stance position for a Body Pump class...Heels under hips, knees are soft, shoulders are lifted, and shoulders blades pinched together.

(notice my lack of smile above? It was REALLY cold in the GE room Friday morning-- like 58 degrees)
From the side profile, chin is slightly tucked in.
(Just look at that tricep!)

Try not to hunch shoulders forward, this causes alot of strain in the upper back.

(oh yea, that's a cute picture)

Squeezing your shoulder blades together gets you set up to start your Body Pump class.

(That's better-- see how happy I am now?)

Again, from the side-- try not to roll or round your shoulders forward. Keep your abs in tight and shoulders lifted.

(that's how I look after eating at the Japanese steak house!)

Perfect set stance is how we start almost every standing track in a Body Pump class. Practicing good technique can help us get stronger!!!!

(on a serious note, proper technique is important and helps reduce injuries in our quick moving and very intense classes-- see you soon!)

4th times the charm?

2009-01-22T07:20:00.001-08:00

So after MANY attempts to get my Maryland license, I arrive at the ANNAPOLIS MVA at 9am this morning with my passport, social security card, and two pieces of mail ONLY to find out that I cannot have my mail sent to a Post Office box-- I have to have a physical address! Needless to say I was FUMING when I left. I went to the mall to my Navy Federal Bank and changed my address and printed a bank statement and headed back to the MVA-- FINALLY, I get through to sit and wait for my number to be called.

I mean really-- an illegal alien can get a drivers license easier than I can!

I go in, take my eye test and as I'm pressing my forehead against the eye test, I'm thinking that I'm going to have a red mark on my forehead for my photo-- I'm already upset, so I'm going to be frazzled looking too!

Than comes the bill-- $90.00!!!!!!!!!!!! It's $45.00 for EACH class you have on your license. Of course I ride a motorcycle too, so that makes 90 bucks! So, let's recap-- frazzled, stressed, pissed, red mark on forehead, and now mad that I have to pay 90 dollars for all this-- oh yea, my photo's gonna be GREAT!

But, finally-- here it is! I am officially a Maryland resident with a Maryland license and I am legal to drive again!

THE END!

I'm the White Sheep!

2009-01-21T16:29:00.000-08:00

OK, so my dad gets the Nintendo Wii for Christmas, along with the Guitar Hero game. For those of you who don't know-- it's a virtual game you play with little guitars. You get the option of choosing your charterer on the game. My Children and I walk into the house the other night, and my parents are the couch-- each with a guitar in hand playing the game. At first I laugh, than I look at the screen and see this!!!
I said "Mom, is that you?!?" She laughs and says "yes". I I I can't believe this! My 57 year old mother has chosen this leathered, tattooed, half dressed woman as her charterer!

She is strumming away, and i see the top of her thong coming out of the top of her pants! I said "Mom, your thong is hanging out!!!" She says "I know, that's how I win-- your dad looks at my butt and misses his beat"

WHAT?!? EWWWW! Did I need to hear this? I mean, I am scared for life now-- and my poor children!

I'm planning to show these photos to my shrink and hope she gives me a discount on my next session!

What can I say guys-- these are the seeds that sewed me!

Just my luck!

2009-01-19T12:04:00.001-08:00

As most of you know by now, my license is expired. I've been to the MVA TWICE and have yet to renew. The MVA is also closed today for MLK and tomorrow for inauguration day, so no chance of getting my new one until Wednesday.

What some of you don't know is that my van tags are ALSO expired.. it's a long story, but the van is in my ex-husbands name and the stickers have not arrived. They have been ordered and paid for, but I guess the postmen is WALKING them from Florida to Maryland (if you happen to see a postmen hitchhiking on 95, please pick him up).

Anyway, I was parked innocently at Starbucks this morning and I get stopped by a police officer. I assume he saw me pull in and noticed I had only a front tag, ran my FL tag and found it to be EXPIRED. Well, if that's not bad enough, he asks for my license which is ALSO expired! Yep, all this BEFORE I had my Starbucks coffee--- I'm thinking we are all lucky there were no casualties-- I mean, I don't even speak to people before coffee in the morning!

Well, it must have been my day because I got off with a $60.00 expired tag ticket and a warning on my expired license. What a morning!!!!!

I haven't gotten pulled over in YEARS!!!! Of course, as soon as all my stuff expires, here is Maryland's Finest-- oh well, I'm glad he didn't give me both tickets!

Oh, and my coffee and oatmeal were perfect!

Superbowl Food

2009-01-18T06:19:00.000-08:00

Our Prince Frederick Super Supers has put together a bundle for your Superbowl party! The thing I like most about Super Supers food, is it's all home made to order and you can pick and choose items, or spices to be added or deleted from the recipe to suit your needs. They have all the nutritional value listed on the food for those of us who count calories!

Have a crowd coming for the game and don't know what to serve? Need to take something to a Super Bowl party? We have your solution! Check out our assortment of appetizers, soups, chili's and desserts.

Superbowl Bundle Pack:
Cowboy Caviar
Cranberry BBQ Meatballs
BBQ Chicken Braided Bread
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Beef and Cheddar rolls
Serves approximately 10.Bundle Price: $ 50.00

Place you order by January 26th to ensure availability. You may order online www.supersuppers.com , by email princefrederick@supersuppers.com or by phone 410-535-6004. Please prepay at time of order.

Super Suppers Prince Frederick Super Suppers 410-535-6004
princefrederick@supersuppers.com
www.supersuppers.com choose Prince Fredercik as your location.

We are located across from Safeway, next to KFC, betweem Houligans and La Tolteca.

Tell them the spinchick sent you!

She's Funny!

2009-01-17T11:29:00.001-08:00

I know you've all seen the commercials, but the more I watch them the more I laugh and the more she "Flo" reminds me of ME!!!!!

She's annoying, yet funny- she knows her stuff, but can laugh at herself-- with her cool tricked out name tag to telling Santa she loves cashmere socks, to the latest commercial where she writes her own "noise maker" music!

So the next time you see Flo doing her Progressive commercial-- see you think she reminds you of anyone!

The Florida out of the Girl?

2009-01-16T15:01:00.000-08:00

Yes, I realized that it is freezing outside, but I just had to do it!

I know you may not see my toes during the winter, and it was way to cold to walk around outside today with just flip flops on. In fact, I went to Safeway in my sweatsuit and flip flops-- people did look at me funny...
but look at how cute they look... SO much better, I guess you can take the girl out of Florida, but you can't take Florida out of the girl!

Oh, and yea-- that's the same lady from the nail clippings in the cleavage post!

A mothers love...

2009-01-15T11:18:00.000-08:00

So my child gets a wonderful cupcake maker for Christmas. Most of you know that my birthday was this past Monday, so my child decides to make me a birthday cupcake....

Before I finish out this story, I want to publicly apologize to my parents for making them eat all the cakes and cookies I used to make for them with my easy bake oven...

Now, there is nothing even close to the taste of a cupcake that you can make in the microwave in 15-seconds. My daughter mixed the batter, put this "dough" into a cupcake paper and nuked it for 15 seconds. Than, she adds water to this gritty powder and mixes that and calls in icing. She pushes the icing through a tube onto the top of this so called cupcake and presents it to me singing "happy birthday"....

I realize this all sounds nice and sweet, but YOU didn't have to EAT the darn thing, and smile and swallow!

Please, let me know when its your birthday and I will have her make one special-- just for you!

The MVA

2009-01-13T10:47:00.000-08:00

OK, so here is the bottom half of my Florida drivers license-- I had to cut it off so my DL number wouldn't be out in cyber world.

As you can tell in this picture that my license expires on Jan 12, 2009-- that was yesterday!

Last Thursday I went to the MVA in Calvert county. Parked pretty far away from the court house annex. Walked to the door, only to see the sign that says, no cell phones. I walked back to the car, put my cell inside, than back to the annex. I entered the first set of doors and see another sign that says the drivers license office is only open Mon-Wed.... OK... I guess I'll be spending my birthday at the MVA.

I go to the MVA office yesterday-- without my cell phone, thinking I will be taking a quick eye test and turning over my sunshine state license for a Maryland one, but nooooooooo! It can't possibly be that easy right? Because I am from another state I have to have proff of residency here-- like an electric bill, and two forms of ID-- one of which can be a social security card. Needless to say, I didn't have a bill or a second form of ID with me. That pretty much means I am currently driving on an expired license until I can locate my passport.

With this much trouble, I can't even imagine what my Russian sister-in-law had to go through to get a drivers license here. At this rate, I'm thinking it will be faster to hop a Southwest flight to Florida and back...

Wipeout!

2009-01-10T15:01:00.001-08:00

This show on abc cracks me up. Contestants have to go through an obstacle course and one at a time they are eliminated until there is only 1 standing. First off, they have to stand on a pedestal, in a sack and jump over a fast moving pole...

Each time around the pole gets higher and faster-- that is waist high there!

To make this even more funny-- there are commentaries that show instant replays of people falling... over and over and over... it's hysterical!
IF they make it past that, they go onto something called the "dreadmill". It's a belt moving at 15 miles per hour. They have to run, pass through three doors, and avoid tennis balls. IF they fall, they get tossed backwards into a pit of FLOUR-- so their face is all covered in white!

The final 4 go through a huge course, of whipped cream slides, barrel jumping, they get soaked and have to jump onto a fast moving spin wheel, it is so so funny!

Of course the best part is when you get to see the instant replay of them wiping out over and over again! See the flour on his face?

Your World Gym Trainers

2009-01-08T14:55:00.000-08:00

We had a trainers meeting in the Owings location today. All the trainers get together to learn new things, discuss problems, and get questions answered by the big man himself.

Here we all are above, listening intently as our future is discussed. That sure is alot of red and black!

And that's JP addressing us all, telling us how well we are doing, where we are slacking, and what the new policies are for our new year. AND THAN..... He tells us he has ordered lunch for us...

That's right, he has ordered PIZZA-- right there in the gym-- FIVE LARGE PIZZA'S to be exact!

I don't see any veggies on this pizza....

And here is one of your trainer extraordinaire chowing down!

Got a sweet tooth? Don't worry-- we've got chocolate chip cookies!

Ever heard the saying "Do as I say, not as I do?" I think that is one to be followed here.

And here is what's left from Holloways plate-- two crusts and an empty amp can-- is that Amp sugar free?

So! Now you know I'm not the ONLY one that eats bad.... At least I don't do it right out in the open in the middle of the gym floor!

My New Years Resolution

2009-01-08T04:21:00.000-08:00

Many of you have asked me, so here it is:

I plan to be the kind of woman that when your feet hit the floor each morning the devil says "oh crap, she's up!"

Damn Wipers!

2009-01-07T03:53:00.000-08:00

I'm getting sick of all this rain, I just have to rant about it for a moment. As most of you know, I drive a Nissan Mini-van... It's the top of the line Nissan van.. it has ALL the bells and whistles! That means that I have about 87 speed choices on my wiper system and NONE of them are EVER the correct speed. Too fast, too slow-- how can that even be?!? I've even tried adjusting the speed of my van to get the right consistency.... its infuriating! Even the times that I DO get it just about right, I will be stopped by a traffic signal and all the people around me will have the wipers set at a good speed and mine look like they are going 90 miles an hour-- like I'm afraid to have even 1 drop of rain on my windshield.... UGH!

Please tell me that I'm not the only 1 with this problem. Is there anyway to get 'rain censored' wipers?

Where do they come from?

2009-01-05T13:20:00.000-08:00

Over the last several days, I've over heard, or said one or more of these strange sayings. I had to stop and think about where they actually came from...

1. Spitting image... Hum.... again, this doesn't sound like a compliment to me... I mean, spit? All I can think of is the sound of someone hocking up a spit ball... Gee, your child is the spitting image of you...

2. Shit eating grin.... What kind of person eats shit? And than has a special grin about it? What kind of a face must you be making in order to HAVE a shit eating grin? 57 squats just because you have a shit eating grin on your face! OR Wipe that shit eating grin off your face... That doesn't even sound sanitary!

3. More than you can wave a stick at... OK, what?!? Who started this? Is there a certain number that you CAN wave a stick at? There were more people in that spin class than you can wave a stick at? I need to know so I don't try waving a stick when the limit has been met! Let's see, for me that number is ZERO... I don't want to go in waving sticks around... Who started that?

New Gym Workout

2009-01-01T16:37:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure I REALLY want to go down this road, but this was too funny to pass up...

http://www.easycurves.com/?gclid=CL-RtsPI7pcCFQMnGgodohebDg

I can't WAIT to hear your comments on this one!

Ryan? Really?

2008-12-31T16:18:00.001-08:00

As I relax in my PJs trying to get the kiddos settled down for the night-- hey, this sounds like the night before Christmas poem...

Anyway, I am looking on-line to see what the New Year TV line up will be and I see that Dick Clark will once again be rocking in the New Year! I'm excited to hear this (I'm sure he won't be playing ba donk a donk), even though I liked Regis in '04!

After reading more about this, I see that this will be Dicks last Rocking Year and they are thinking of replacing him with RYAN SEACREST! NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

I prefer to see a smooth, older, distinguished host preferable in the music business....

MSNBC: The torch hasn't been passed yet, but Seacrest has his hand out. He's been added to the title of Clark's annual New Year's Eve special, making it official that he'll take over as host when Clark steps down.

So what do I watch now? Teli Tequila?

Country Music and Me...

2008-12-30T16:40:00.000-08:00

I'm sure you are all aware that I don't care for country music. It's not that I think it's bad, but I prefer other types of music-- I like my 80s and my 70s. I've always said I should have been a teenager in the 70s! (I've heard it was fun). Anyway, my point is this... I was out over the weekend and this country song came on over the speakers of the bar.... Here were the lyrics.... Honky Tonk, Ba Donk a Donk... Is that a compliment? I'm not so sure I would want someone talking about my Ba Donk a Donk? Than he goes on to say Who Wee-- that's an actual lyric in this song-- Who Wee? I'm not ever sure I've even spelled it correctly... THAN it says Slap your grandma-- OK, I've heard enough-- And just than he uses the word britches!!! I mean, britches? Who uses that word? I just don't understand HOW a singer/song writer can walk into the music company with THOSE lyrics and get a record deal.... I think I may have to write my own song!

PS. Kathleen-- I missed you in spin tonight- Sorry I haven't blogged much lately-- there were NO frozen jogs, just for you!

No Body Pump

2008-12-26T04:26:00.001-08:00

I'm sorry all, I'm really sick today. Took my NyQuil last night, but still can't get going this morning. Craig will be kicking your butts this morning...

See you Tuesday!

Letter to Santa

2008-12-25T09:31:00.000-08:00

Dear Santa, Please send me a little brother.... Santa wrote back:
"Send me your mother..

Merry Christmas!

Winter Wonderland Part 1

2008-12-24T04:30:00.001-08:00

I took the girls to Watkins park last night... I only had my cell phone, so the pictures are not that great, but you get the idea. Let me set the tone, the kids had dinner, showers, and they were in their pajamas, slippers, and robes. The van was warm and I had holiday music playing from my XM radio as we enjoyed these sites...

The entrance... It cost $5.00 to go through and it is totally worth it!

Penguin and igloo

Arches that we drive through-- some of the arches had lights flickering across...

Candy Cane lane...

A mushroom and butterfly and a snail off to the left.

Winter Wonderland Part 2

2008-12-24T04:25:00.000-08:00

Santa playing basket ball- it was really cool because the lights would have him jump up from the ground!

Of course I had to get a shot of the gingerbread man (person) lifting weights!

The spin bike!

And the beautiful city of lights in the end!

Mr. and Mrs. Gingerbread waving goodbye!

OK-- so now that you have seen the sites and heard how I set the tone, I'm going to give you the real deal... If you remember from part 1, I had the kids ready for bed, holiday music, warm toasty van... You would THINK it was nice, the kids were excited to see the lights pointing out all the cool things, but NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO-- it went more like this!

MOM! She won't stop looking on my side

MOM! Tell her that's not a real reindeer

MOM! Tell her to stop singing in my ear

MOM, do we have anything to drink?

MOM! She's aggravating me

MOM! MOM! MOM! MOM!

OK, what was I thinking?!?

Wed Ride-- LOTS OF CLIMBS!

2008-12-23T16:39:00.000-08:00

WED ride LOTS OF CLIMBS!!!! (90-mins)

Warm up- Ticket to ride 3:07
Jog- Old time rock and roll 3:15
Climb- Wanted dead or alive 5:10
Jumps- In the Ayer (switch backs?) 3:39
THREE TURNS UP- No satisfaction 3:46 (STAND CLIMB 45, down 1 SEAT CLIMB, down 1 STAND RUN, down 1 SPRINTS)
Climb- Alright now 5:34
Jog- Take it easy 3:31
Sprints- One week 2:47
Climb- Ignition 3:09
Run- I want you to want me 3:44
Frozen jog- Crazy in love 4:08
Climb - Benny and the Jets 5:11
Jog- Low 3:53
Climb- All summer long 4:55
Sprints- Aint going down 4:32
Climb- Rag doll 4:25
Jumps- Your mama don’t dance 2:59
Climb- Take it to the limit 4:46
Jog – Run it 2:53
Run- You’re the one that I want 2:50
Cool down- Turn the page 5:06

So TRUE~

2008-12-22T12:54:00.001-08:00

I love these Santa sayings (thank you D)... This one ranks right up there with:

Dear Santa, I can explain

and

Dear Santa, do you think I can get a list of the men on the naughty list?

Anyone else seen some cute ones?

Martha Stewart? NOT!

2008-12-20T13:03:00.001-08:00

I'm no Martha Stewart NOR am I Puna (for those of you who read Puna's blog you know that she cooks like a chef-- fresh veggies and all)... Nope, that ain't me.

So when it comes to Holiday cookies, I'm all about the break and bake!

Some of the girls only like chocolate chip cookies, so we made half and half and they each took a turn sprinkling them with green and red sprinkles!

Oops! Too much on that one, brush some off... see my mad baking skills?

And they turned out GREAT! OK, so they're not in the shape of trees or stars or snowmen (snow people). I'm guessing they still taste great!

Yep, the girls give me three thumbs up! I'm Mom of the day!

Let's hope Santa gets some homemade cookies at someone elses house, because this is all I got!

The Sweet, Fun, Cute Letter!

2008-12-19T09:48:00.000-08:00

I got this letter from "K" who takes my spin class. Now, "K" didn't hand this to me, it was left at the front desk, so I didn't get to give "K" a proper thank you!

Inside my envelope was $15.00 cash and a cute letter that I put below...

"K" knows me so well... here is what "K" wrote....

Tiffiany,

I know it may not seem like much but look at all the things you can do with $15….

Buy one of those great Margarita’s from La Tolteca.

Salad and bread sticks (yummy) at Olive Garden.

1…. Maybe 2 pieces of Cheesecake from the Cheesecake Factory (alittle piece of heaven)

Another fabulous bandana… can never had too many.

Lot’s of Hostess Cupcakes…Chocolate and Golden (I prefer golden!)

Download some new tunes for class. (I want to hear George Thorogood… One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer).

Buy your daughter a scarf or something… you know she loves to layer!

Or a few Corona Lites… always a safe bet!

Thanks for all you do. You make me want to come to the gym which is not my favorite place. You’re good at what you do… keep it up. Have a happy and safe 2009!

"K"-- you shall have your song on our next ride.... I can't wait!

spin idiots!

2008-12-18T18:25:00.000-08:00

My T/TH class strikes again! Here are T and C getting ready for the 4pm spin class and they have on matching shirts.

Yep, I"m with the spin idiot (arrow)

I'm with the spin idiot! (arrow)

Yes, you can purchase these shirts-- email me and I'll tell you where to get them: Tiff@thespinchick.com

Now, I know you are wondering HOW you would know if you were a spin idiot-- well here's a list of ideas:

If you listen to music on the radio and you think "this would make a good spin song"

If someone in your office says the word "switch" and you stand up.

If you run down the alter at your wedding and you say "I'm sorry honey, but my spin class ran over".

If the story of you giving birth begins with "well, there was this spin class".

If you schedule work around spin classes

I'm sure you will think of more and I would love to hear them!

I knew it!

2008-12-17T15:36:00.000-08:00

I received these cakes at the gym this morning... Yes, at the gym. One of my members gave them to me.. I just know that was caught on the surveillance cameras and I'm going to be on YouTube later... Hey-- it's job security-- eat the cupcakes come to my class!

I knew they came in chocolate, as I posted earlier they don't JUST come in golden-- I love the chocolate on chocolate... goes much better with RED wine!

And my father-- who said hostess NEVER made these in chocolate-- was the FIRST one to have his hand in the box!

Thank you so much! I love 'em!

Thank you R

2008-12-17T03:33:00.000-08:00

I received this wonderful gift from "R" that attends my spinning classes.

Inside was a card, a blockbuster gift card, and a bag of microwave popcorn... How wonderfully thoughtful...

"R" knows me so well that the card has a picture of a young kid sitting on Santa's lap and the caption reads "define good". Ha Ha Ha, I love it! Thank you so much "R"-- I'm looking forward to many more spin classes to kick your butt!

Rainy Day at the Doctors

2008-12-16T09:27:00.000-08:00

This is how my morning started. A dry, yucky cough, wheezing, whiny child not wanting to open her eyes. Now, she's 4-- she still loves school at this age. She's usually up and getting ready when I want to sleep just alittle longer. This morning she didn't want to get up, she said her throat hurt and she didn't want to go to school..... Hello doctor? I was able to get her in at 1015. Her doctor is in Prince Frederick and after circling the parking lot in the rain about 18 times, I assume so is everyone elses doctor in all of Calvert.

Here she is with the blue gloves on waiting for her throat culture... As I snapped this picture I was listening to the children in the next room sneezing and coughing and blowing their noses-- I started to think I should be wearing gloves too.

Here she is getting a throat culture to check for strep... Her stick is GRAPE flavored... I never had that when I was a kid... we had wood flavored sticks, right?

Well, after waiting around for an hour, her strep culture came back negative and she just has a yucky virus, so we decided to go to Panara for some nice hot soup....

Sure, I'll go!

2008-12-13T22:52:00.000-08:00

I took a drive up to Dover New Jersey today. It's about a stones throw from New York City. It's a nice little town along the coast.

I went because I thought I would see several inches of snow along the way and I was looking forward to the sites.

Well, as you can see by my picture there was NO SNOW-- not one drop-- not even enough to make a tiny snow person! I did get a shot of this billboard on the NJ turnpike-- I thought you might enjoy this...

Yes, I had to pull off in order to get this shot-- see how I risk my life for you guys?!? New York and New Jersey drivers are CRAZY!

And the one good thing about traveling north is there is a rest area every 10-20 miles on the turnpike and they all sell CINNABONS! Yes, I know that it is located right next to a TCBY, but I mean really.... It's worth a few extra spin classes next week!

Yes, I ate the entire thing... it took me 3 hours, but I did it!

For Danny

2008-12-13T15:00:00.000-08:00

My Friend Danny asked me to post this information for you:

Dear everyone,

I am joining with photographers worldwide in the “Giving is Awesome ” call to action to help make a difference for one deserving individual or family this holiday season.

You know someone. You know someone who's experienced a tragedy, is struggling to stay afloat, is raising kids while holding down more than one job, or is volunteering selflessly despite extenuating personal circumstances. You know someone who can't afford custom photography, but who would cherish it this holiday season. You know someone who deserves a year-round reminder of their family's spirit, love, and beauty.

You know someone. I guarantee it.

I want to know who they are, and I want to give them the chance to experience complimentary custom photography --$500 worth, to be exact. Whether it's canvas or albums, prints for Grandma, or a slideshow to watch over and over, it's in your power to give them the artwork they deserve this holiday season.

Oh, and the best part? The person who nominates the winner receives a $250 print credit. What better reason to show some love could there possibly be, people?

The rules:
* You cannot nominate yourself, and the person nominated must sincerely be incapable of purchasing my services. (Being unable to make mortgage payments for a two-million-dollar-vacation-home in Paris does not qualify as sincere financial need.)

* The nominee must reside in the southern Maryland area (Calvert, Charles or St. Mary's counties). Tell me who you know, what they're experiencing, and why they deserve my artwork. Please include a way to contact both your nominee and yourself as well.

* You must e-mail me the full story : danny@studiodouglas.com
The winner will be announced on Christmas Eve (or shortly after that) -- get nominating! I can't wait to read all of your entries!
Open your heart to someone this holiday season -- and thanks for giving me the opportunity to open mine.

Please feel free to forward this e-mail to your family and friends.
Love wins,
Danny
+++++++++++++++

Fruits and Vegetables

2008-12-12T12:51:00.000-08:00

Ah, Body Pump is done... burned 600 calories, time to put them all back! Olive Garden for lunch with Tara.
...Fruits and vegetables... although we both fought over the croutons!

So remember kids-- eat LOTS of Fruit and Vegetables and have a great weekend.

The Car pool Mom

2008-12-11T13:35:00.000-08:00

To my 4pm classes! I must apologize for not being there the last two days as your fearless leader. The carpool mom that usually picks up my middle child has been sick. Now, normally my mom or dad or someone can pick her up in a pinch, but not the last two days-- it had to be me. So, here I am at the rainy bus stop.

Here is the bus, kids running wild. Yep, that ones mine.
Here is the clock, so you know there was no way for me to make it to a 4pm class.

It was POURING on my way home, I could hardly see the road....

The entire time I was thinking about how much I've let you guys down by not being there screaming... go go go! bump it up! don't stop yet!

I'm looking forward to attending ALL my classes next week! See you then.

Golden Cakes?!?

2008-12-09T14:39:00.001-08:00

I have a complaint to make... didn't these used to come in chocolate? Who eats hostess cupcakes with "GOLDEN" cake? I like my chocolate cake with chocolate icing and the sugary filling. I looked all over the grocery store for the chocolate cake ones and my dad says they NEVER made these in chocolate.... Is that true? Besides, "golden" cakes don't go well with red wine... someone help!
Is there still a Hostess shop in Waldorf?

Is this helpful?

2008-12-08T15:42:00.000-08:00

If I were to set up our World Gym Schedule like this, would it be useful to you?

Fat or Weight Loss goals: 2-3 red classes and 1-2 blue classes per week.
Strength training/toning goals: 1-2 red classes and 2-3 blue classes per week.
Maintenance or beginning to exercise: 1-2 red classes and 1 blue class per week.
**NOTE: Green and black classes can be substituted for any color class. ALL SPIN CLASSES ARE RED CLASSES.

Tuesdays Schedule:
5:30am- LM Body Pump- Craig
7:00am- Yoga- Puna
9:00am- Boot Camp - Tiff
10:00am- Yoga- Cecilia
4:30- 20/20/20- Lisa K
5:30pm – LM Body Pump- Jan
6:30pm – Yoga- Beth
7:30- Zumba- Kendra

Wednesday's schedule
9:00am- LM Body Pump- Niki
10:15am- Yogalaties- Ceclia
4:00pm-LM Body Pump- Tiff
5:30pm- Yoga- Peg
6:30pm- Cardio Pump- Rhiannon

Thursday's schedule
5:30am- LM Body Pump- Craig
7:00am- Yoga- Puna
9:00am- Upper Cut /Rock bottom- Linda
10:00am- Yoga- Beth
4:30- Kick Box- Kristen
5:30pm- LM Body Pump- Niki
6:30pm- Yoga – Beth
7:30- Zumba- Kendra

You get the idea.... feedback?

The Snow...

2008-12-07T10:45:00.000-08:00

It snowed JUST enough while we were decorating the tree that the girls were able to go outside and make a snow man. To put the size into perspective, his hat is the top from a soda bottle-- YES, it was diet!

It's Tree Triming-- Spin Chick Style

2008-12-06T15:23:00.000-08:00

NO, it's not decorated with empty corona bottles!

It's CANDY! Sugar coated Gummies!
Gum Drops and M&M's!

Hershey Chocolate Bars!

Wrapped Hard Candy!

Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice (just like the spin chick)

Real Candy Canes, ceramic cakes, pies, and cookies, pretty red and white striped bows.

Chocolate covered strawberries!

And the tree is finished-- EXCEPT-- I have no topper for the tree, they just don't make a giant Hershey's kiss, or candy cane....

Anyone have suggestions for the top of our Christmas tree?

I hate this....

2008-12-03T05:38:00.001-08:00

I went out to the van this morning, smoke coming from my mouth, my hair, and my coffee mug. I get in and start it up to get the FROST off of my windshield so I can get out to work and I see this.... 29 DEGREES? Is this even LEGAL? My hands are cold on the steering wheel. I call my friend to complain... "wear gloves". I don't want to wear gloves, I want it to be WARM outside!

And just after my 5 minute phone call about how cold it is, I look down and see this...

I mean, really?

Get Ready For the Holidays

2008-12-02T08:07:00.000-08:00

Tiffiany’s 12 days of “fitness”

12 straight days of personal training sessions to get you ready for the Christmas break.
Sessions start on December 12th and continue 12 consecutive days until December 23rd.

Package cost is $420.00 ($35.00 per session).
Sign up a friend and you BOTH pay only $360.00 ($30.00 per session).
Package will include 12 1-hour personal training sessions, before and after weight and body fat measurements, nutrition advice, and fitness education.

Hurry up and book your time slot now!!

Have questions? Need more information? Ready to sign up and get started?
Please email me at: NavyFitness@yahoo.com

My tags were suspended

2008-12-01T18:16:00.000-08:00

I got a notice in the mail while I was gone to Florida and it said that my tags were suspended because I didn't have my emission test done?!? What is that? I've never heard of it? What do I do? Where do I go?

My mom says "Its a $14.00 test and it takes about 10-mins". "Take your car here, and do this."

OK, I said and I did.... Is this the only state that does this? Is this even for real? Apparently it's only $14.00 if you go on your due date-- since I was 3 months over due AND my tags had been suspended, it cost me $89.00! $90 bucks so they can put a tube in my gas tank for 3 mins? Can he fill it up and check the tires and fluids too?

Luckily, I past and I don't have to go again until August of 2010! A lesson learned-- get Florida tags on the car too!

She was ALWAYS active!

2008-12-01T06:50:00.000-08:00

SHELBYVILLE, Ind. – Edna Parker, who became the world's oldest person more than a year ago, has died at age 115.

UCLA gerontologist Dr. Stephen Coles said Parker's great-nephew notified him that Parker died Wednesday at a nursing home in Shelbyville. She was 115 years, 220 days old, said Robert Young, a senior consultant for gerontology for Guinness World Records.

Parker was born April 20, 1893, in central Indiana's Morgan County and had been recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's oldest person since the 2007 death in Japan of Yone Minagawa, who was four months her senior.

Coles maintains a list of the world's oldest people and said Parker was the 14th oldest validated supercentenarian in history. Maria de Jesus of Portugal, who was born Sept. 10, 1893, is now the world's oldest living person, according to the Gerontology Research Group.

Parker had been a widow since her husband, Earl Parker, died in 1939 of a heart attack. She lived alone in their farmhouse until age 100, when she moved into a son's home and later to the Shelbyville nursing home.

Although she never drank alcohol or tried tobacco and led an active life, Parker didn't offer tips for living a long life. Her only advice to those who gathered to celebrate when she became the oldest person was "more education."

Parker outlived her two sons, Clifford and Earl Jr. She also had five grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and 13 great-great-grandchildren.

Don Parker, 60, said his grandmother had a small frame and a mild temperament. She walked a lot and kept busy even after moving into the nursing home, he said.
"She kept active," he said Thursday. "We used to go up there, and she would be pushing other patients in their wheelchairs."

Gov. Mitch Daniels celebrated with Parker on her 114th birthday.
"It was a delight to know Edna, who must have been a remarkable lady at any age," Daniels said.
Parker taught in a two-room school in Shelby County for several years after graduating from Franklin College in 1911. She wed her childhood sweetheart and neighbor in 1913.
But as was the tradition of that era, her teaching career ended with her marriage. Parker traded the schoolhouse for life as a farmer's wife, preparing meals for as many as a dozen men who worked on her husband's farm.

Parker noted with pride last year that she and her husband were one of the first owners of an automobile in their rural area.

Coincidentally, Parker lived in the same nursing home as 7-foot-7 Sandy Allen, whom Guinness recognized as the world's tallest woman until her death in August.

Let me know if this works

2008-11-30T15:41:00.000-08:00

I've found a site that gives "fitness" horoscopes:

http://www.fitsugar.com/334142

I think it's time to come home

2008-11-28T12:04:00.000-08:00

The old "biker" folk decided to take me around and show me their old stomping grounds. They took us all to a bar on the outside of town. Now, when we arrived I saw this rooster-- yes, a rooster walking around out front....
At first I thought they were teasing me, but noooooooooo. We all went inside and had the coldest beer I've ever tasted.
Now, let me make this clear-- I am NOT in the Florida keys where this type of animal is normal, Im in a small town outside of Ocala.
So, really? A rooster? YES-- and I've got the pictures to prove it!
After this adventure, I'm thinkin' it's time for me to pack up and come on home!

The day of food, and I ate too much!

2008-11-28T05:55:00.000-08:00

All the food is on the table, the wine is poured and we are ready to eat! Here is the after dinner drink. It's called a cordial-- I guess it's what the old folks do here in Florida. I love this retirement community in the south-- I wonder if I can forage my birth certificate to say that I'm 50? I would love to Cordial-late every day!
And now the dessert makes it's way around. I skipped the pumpkin pie and had a slice of this "Kentucky derby pie". I'm not sure what's in it. Anyone had one before?

Man do I need a spin class!

The day of food!

2008-11-28T05:49:00.001-08:00

Ah, my afternoon started with a nice glass of red wine and a special ice cube that lit up.

Here is the turkey just out of the oven. He is just one of two! Of course I couldn't wait, so I sat at the breakfast bar picking at it and trying to keep my fingers away from the knife.
These beautiful mushrooms will be our appetizer for the evening. They WERE SOOOOO good. Sausage, and pimentos and I'm not sure what else, but yummy! They went great with the wine.

Here are the sweet potato and green bean casseroles in the oven. Just a normal Thanksgiving feast!

And here is the beautiful table before wall sat down to enjoy the dinner. The conversations were great, telling old stories, and meeting new friends.

Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T04:12:00.000-08:00

They have beer here?

2008-11-26T11:44:00.000-08:00

Here I am at a CVS getting some Q-Tips when I ease by the soda isle and see this! They sell beer and wine EVERYWHERE in Florida-- 7-11, the grocery stores, gas stations, and even CVS! Tell me again why I don't live here?

PS. Puna-- I've run or walked everyday-- I'm always fitness first, but that's not always fun to blog about!

Hooters?!?

2008-11-25T21:16:00.000-08:00

I was shopping in the Harley Davidson shop-- I mean you know how I love the clothes and shoes from there-- I own just about everything. When I walk up the stairs to the "women's" section and I see this mannequin... HOLY BOOBS! I've never seen one with ta tas that big-- I was jealous! This is my dad and NO that isn't my mom.... just some random hot chick that he wants to pose in the picture with...
And as we are leaving the shop we see this sign... it reads: Free ride in a police car-- if you shoplift from this store. Just thought you would want to know what I'm getting in to...

Tuesday Morning-- Tiffiany Gump is running!

2008-11-25T13:11:00.000-08:00

It's the piercing sun yet again! I've decided to get up, out of bed early and go off on a short run-- I guess I'm missing my 9am bootcamp peeps!

It's a nice day here in Florida, alittle cloudy this morning, but GREAT weather for a 2 mile jog.

Not such a cute picture of the spin chick, but I was all alone-- everyone else staid in bed-- I guess I'm not that motivating outside of a class. They will be sorry when I'm eating Krispy Kreme donuts later with no guilt!

Ah! Much better-- a nice hot shower, a nice hot cup of coffee, and I should have plenty of energy for the day.

By the way, I will swear that I never worked out once while I was on vacation, so let's just keep this between me and you readers, K?

Just my friends

2008-11-25T07:30:00.000-08:00

Girls posed with this 1940 car. I'm taking the picture this time, besides-- you should be tired of seeing me EAT by now anyway!

Monday morning....

2008-11-24T19:09:00.000-08:00

Is it really morning? I'm up and dressed, but that sun seems to be piercing my eyes-- and for some reason, my head feels like it weighs 100 pounds on it's own. Ah! Alittle coffee, alittle computer... I'm starting to come around.
On the road! Coco or bust!

Um, yeah-- that's a corn dog and a Corona. Breakfast of champions!

Yes, women go there too!

2008-11-24T05:41:00.001-08:00

Quick lunch at Hooters across from the Dayton's Speedway! I ordered boneless wings-- Medium (yeah, I'm a wimp). But, where are my celery sticks?

They always have cute sayings on their wet naps....

And than there is the bill. 3 of us $90.00 with the $15.00 tip... I need to get back to work soon! For more reasons than one!

I think we are heading to Coco beach tomorrow... I'll keep you posted!

Sunday Morning in Florida

2008-11-23T23:48:00.000-08:00

We wake up in our hotel room on Sunday morning-- the sun is shining, the birds are singing, its a beautiful 77 degrees outside.... Time for coffee and breakfast!

OK, coffee and Mimosa's.... Nothing like a little champing to celebrate the start of a nice four day vacation. Hot coffee to curve the coffee headache later.

Yup, taste pretty good, think I'll have another before we head down the road!

The beach is beautiful- what a great view from outside of our hotel room. The prefect start to our Sunday morning-- what's next?

KRYSTALS WITH CHEESE!

2008-11-23T19:21:00.000-08:00

Those of you that know me, know how much I love my food. One of the BEST things about going to the south is KRYSTAL burgers-- I couldn't wait to get to this fast food joint! Krystals are open 24/7 and they have the GREATEST cheese burgers ever-- they are the inventors of "sliders".
I like to buy them by the "sack". That is 12 Krystal burgers in a bag and YES I can eat almost every single one of them!

They are mini-cheeseburgers. They are just like "little tavern" or "white castle" burgers. They are a thin slice of burger with onions, mustard, and pickles on a soft bun... I like mine with a small slice of cheese!

YUM! YUM! YUM! I cannot tell you how much I enjoy these tiny bits of heaven! Put it this way, I will get a sack EVERY SINGLE DAY that I am here...

I was only able to get 8 out of 12 down-- guess I'll have some left over for later tonight. Yea, you can microwave them too!

The Ride Down!

2008-11-23T07:17:00.000-08:00

We decided to leave Friday night to get some miles down the road. We had a hotel in Daytona Beach on Saturday, so there was really no rush. Here we are on the road late at night.

We stopped in SC, had a few drinks, took a rest and got back on the road after a good breakfast. I'm riding shot gun and as you can see-- I'm not a very good traveler. Not to mention the SUN is shining in my eyes!

New BP

2008-11-22T04:12:00.000-08:00

I just received my new Body Pump CD in the mail... Release #68. I feel like I JUST learned #67, but here it is and I'm already studying for the launch!

I'm not sure what's up with these boots, but don't expect me to wear these crazy boots!

My Friday

2008-11-21T14:48:00.000-08:00

That's Sydney, my youngest. She had a Thanksgiving Day show at her pre-school today. I went in to watch her sing and than we all ate a nice Thanksgiving feast!

Of course there were two moms and one grandmother there that are members at World Gym. I'm pretty sure they changed their food selection because of me!

Come on guys! I ate the pumpkin pie--- I'm just as normal as anyone else! You know what I always say-- You could die tomorrow, have a piece of chocolate cake today. Or pumpkin pie in this case!

Consistancy is the Key

2008-11-21T03:50:00.001-08:00

Just a note to my Thursday 4pm spinners. I sincerely apologize for not teaching for you yesterday. I know how frustrating it is when you come all the way to the gym for my class only to find that I'm not there. Please know that it pains me to NOT be there for you. I'm not making excuses, but keep in mind I'm a single mom-- of three-- and sometimes things come up at the last minute. On the upside, I've got a great class planned for us when I return from my trip to Florida.

I'm looking forward to class this morning, than a few hours at the t-shirt shop. I plan to be on the road late this evening or early tomorrow. I'm bringing my laptop, so I will keep you posted on my adventures. Please know, you will be missed!

Do You Read Yours?

2008-11-20T03:52:00.000-08:00

Take a break from all of the details and get grounded in your personal life again.

This is my horoscope for the day. Whenever I check my email it opens up on my front page and I usually glance at it. Today I need to get "grounded" in my personal life.

The following is my CHINESE horoscope:

You're ready for social and professional changes. You may want to make an effort to step it up at work, as there may be an opening for you to fill. Don't spend too much money on extras or petty items that will eat into your budget. Start with cooking at home.

This one tells me to "step it up" at WORK-- Is work my personal life? It also says I need to start cooking at home... I think I better start reading Puna's blog alittle more often-- she who has all those beautiful home cooked meals! Anyone got a subscription to "garden and gun" that I could borrow?

Do any of you read your scopes? Is there a "fitness" scope?

Never Drink Anything Bigger Than Your Head!

2008-11-18T14:38:00.000-08:00

This is the Margarita from the place I love to go to in Prince Frederick. The restaurant is called La Tolteca and this is the Jumbo Texans Margarita-- I like mine with no salt.

I mentioned this Margarita in my Tuesday 4pm spin class and I tried to explain to them how big it actually is! Please look below for a photo of ME and the Margarita! I told you it was as big as my head! No, I don't need any help drinking them!

Hope to see you there sometime!

The SpinChick is never board!

2008-11-17T04:41:00.000-08:00

It's a cold Sunday morning, nothing to do, no plans. My dad says-- Let's go to New Jersey and the next thing I know, I"m in the back of the car headed north!

Just about 3 hours later, I'm in Atlantic City and there are a few 20 dollar bills burning holes in my pockets!

BAR! BAR! BAR! Hey- where's the drink lady?

There's my mom playing next to me-- she won ALOT more than I did-- I think she came home with $120.00-- I came home with like $13.00

Back in the car headed SOUTH-- going to be a rough day tomorrow, I think I drank my body weight in Vodka Cranberry's.