Operation Roxy - In Progress

I've gone Public

2009-01-03T00:58:00.001+11:00

Hey guys I have decided to return to a public domain. This blog will always be here and maybe I will return but from now on you can follow me or blogroll me or whatever you like right at www.jadeyonline.com

I hope everyone has a very happy new year.

Jadey Updated :)

2008-11-25T18:13:00.001+11:00

I'm getting better at this :)
http://jadeyonline.blogspot.com

Big Photo Post!

2008-11-16T17:28:00.002+11:00

Well a few things have happened around here recently. Check it all out at Jadey Online

2008-10-20T00:00:00.000+11:00

Yup
See another update over at Jadey Online

2008-10-17T21:05:00.001+11:00

Hey all! I have updated my blog in more ways than one :)

SOME GOOD NEWS!

2008-07-08T19:43:00.001+10:00

Have a look at http://jadeyonline.blogspot.com
You might be just athe person I need for some help!

I updated!

2008-07-05T19:40:00.000+10:00

Shock Horror
http://jadeyonline.blogspot.com

An update

2008-06-24T22:32:00.000+10:00

If you can be bothered I updated over at http://jadeyonline.blogspot.com :)

Updated

2008-04-25T17:25:00.000+10:00

I've updated!

More Ramblings :P

2008-04-18T22:17:00.000+10:00

Jadey Online

Another Update

2008-04-16T12:54:00.000+10:00

Wow - I never realized how much I miss blogging.

Midnight Ramblings

2008-04-13T11:11:00.002+10:00

http://jadeyonline.blogspot.com

Catch Up

2008-04-12T15:45:00.002+10:00

I got to catch up with a few people. See more at http://jadeyonline.blogspot.com/

Just when you give up.....

2008-04-07T12:50:00.001+10:00

Check out the post over at http://jadeyonline.blogspot.com

Where Are You?

2008-03-06T12:31:00.001+11:00

I am SO SORRY for the lack of posts. I've updated. Will try to do so more often.

Flashback

2008-01-26T22:21:00.000+11:00

Reminiscing at Jadey Online

INVITES

2008-01-20T21:07:00.000+11:00

Please give me your email if you want an invite. I have only invited those that have given me their emails on this blog as I do not have a computer at the moment so I do not have anyone's email address to invite you all.

Some ramblings

2008-01-19T20:33:00.001+11:00

Some Ramblings going on over at Jadey Online.

Oops I forgot

2008-01-19T18:36:00.000+11:00

I updated Jadey Online

UPDATE

2008-01-12T13:20:00.001+11:00

I got something about PETA in my inbox today. This is an organisation that really really grates me. So I've had a rant and posted the info over at Jadey Online read if you please but it may very well stir up emotions.

Update

2008-01-10T21:59:00.000+11:00

I have updated at Jadey Online

On The Move

2007-12-31T18:25:00.000+11:00

This will be not only my last post for 2007 but my last post for Operation Roxy. I will return no doubt but it is time for a fresh start. I cannot ride on the successes of my past because they are well behind me.

I can't continue with Operation Roxy when I can't get my beloved jeans past my knees now.

Unfortunately I don't know how to wrap things up here. 2007 bought me happiness and heartache.

I started working at Fitness First in March and took the step from Membership Consultant to Senior Membership consultant quickly. I was hoping I would have been an Assistant Manager and Club Manager by now but nope that's where things have stalled. I'm sure it's not too far off. I enjoy my time there and I must say even though I am working some stupidly long hours, the staff there are a tight knit bunch (those that survive anyway) and I have never associated or become such good friends with people I have worked with before as I have there.

Not long after I started at Fitness First I found my ankles which had been giving me trouble for years on and off really started kicking up a stink. I tried a podiatrist, and physio for about 6 months before seeing a sports physician as there was no improvement. An MRI discovered that I had "disintegrated" the tendons and ligaments in my left ankle and the surgeon said it was like a tent with no guideropes. I'm now trying to get on a waiting list for surgery but the public system is disgusting. I haven't even seen outpatients yet and they have had a referral for months. I fear a 2 year wait.

This has played havoc with my emotions (everydy life being difficult to extremely difficult at times) and ongoing from that my weight has skyrocketed and I am HUGE which leads to depression which leads to further weight gain. Arghh bad cycle.

I'm fairly determined to fix it though. I have been doing alot of preparation in the last week or two to help me get back into it like I used to be in January. I turned 27 this past weekend and I had a bit of a breakdown yesterday which was probably mostly hormonal but also had a lot to do with weight issues, and where I am in life in comparison to where I think I should be by now.

Good luck to everyone in 2008! I pray 2007 treated you well and 2008 is truly magical.

I haven't yet decided whether my new blog will be password protected or invite only or totally open so leave me your email if you wish to keep reading just in case.

NEW YEARS EVE

2007-12-26T14:13:00.001+11:00

Are there any bloggy plans for New Years? I was seriously hoping there'd be a repeat of last year with the Bendigo girls cause it looked like the perfect NYE and I missed it!

I have a rare day off NY day so I'm pretty keen for a get together.

2007-12-25T19:30:00.000+11:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS

I know I've been extremely quiet lately and I really and truly

apologise. I miss you all so much.

Stay tuned I will return in the New Year

when Christmas Cheer and Birthday Celebrations have passed.

Fitness Expo

2007-11-09T22:42:00.000+11:00

I had a day off today (one of those rare things for me) so I packed it FULL to the brim of things that were just begging to be done.

First off my hair that was in BAD need of some loving. I had roots poking through my pinkish (faded Red) hair that were about 1 Inch long! OMG some TLC from my dear friend Kylie and 5 or so hours later a gorgeous Blonde has emerged! Thank God we started early! It's no where near done yet. Probably go at it again in 3 weeks then again 3 weeks after that.

Then it was off to Fitness Expo. This was my first Melbourne expo and I have to tell you it's less than a quarter of the size of the Sydney expo and it's got NOTHING on a motivational or discount level like the Sydney one does. However it is still motivating to have something like this to attend.

I was so happy to see Tim from EAS. He has and always will be a great influence in my life. He runs Body-for-Life Australia and is a big hand with all the questions I have had. It's been such a long time since we have caught up.

I also bought a couple of things. Wraps for boxing with Sanjay and an Ultrafit subscription. (Only Ultrafit and Runners Mag were there :-( In Sydney you could go to any of probably 10 magazines for subscriptions! ) Now I need someone to teach me how to wrap my wrists so I can punch harder. I was going to buy some pink Boxing Gloves but they only had 14oz and I wanted 10oz gloves. I wasn't going to take home 14oz gloves (they felt too big) and I wasn't going to settle on black or red when I really want pink so they stayed there.

Then it was off very quickly to pick up the car before the repairer closed and we finally got back home around 8:30pm. It's been all go since 8am so a big day all in all. But I have chosen my foods well. Drank my water and had my supplements. I am calling using crutches around fitness expo a workout though thats for sure. My hands are killing me! I think I should use my weight gloves on the bigger outings with crutches.

I can't believe how well I have been doing in the last couple of days! It's like something in my life has done a u-turn and now I have found the right road and it's all downhill right now. Easy (did I just say that?)

I'm training with Sanjay everyday next week until I drive to Sydney on Friday to see the boy :p I need to go shopping for something to wear between now and then.

Lets keep fingers crossed for a continuation of this trend.

HEY HEY!

2007-10-21T15:48:00.000+10:00

Sorry I promised to post at least once a week and now I've left it two. I had issues with Gastro which I am still suffering 1 week later (ugh) and my wireless connection. And I simply hate working at a desk! I haven't seen the surgeon yet so Im still in the dark a bit as to whats going on. LBTEPA sent me some absolutely FABULOUS information and questions to ask etc. (Thanks babe!)

SO far people I speak to have waiting lists into next year just for an initial consultation. I think my Dr. is organising something else for me though which will be cool.

Nothing much has been happening this past couple of weeks. Was working the week before last that's about it. I took Mum out to see the Nanny Diaries which was a great film to watch with you Mum. (They are hard to find! always too much swearing or sex scenes or blood and gore) I started getting depressed as Mum bought up the fact that this time last year we were climbing the thousand steps and doing classes at the gym together and being generally very active and now all of that is hugely limited. I can't wait to get back to it though! It's a wonderful way to live life.

Last weekend I was struck down with Gastro which peaked about 5am Monday morning and has been bothering me all week so I have just stayed in the easy chair in front of the tv all week watching tv and dvd's. I've hired more dvd's this past week than in the last 2 years! I now have aboslutely nothing left in the new release section I have any desire to watch.

I'm also reading alot of magazines and books etc. Thank God there's a daily newspaper. HAHA.

I'll be going back to work tomorrow though. I'm still dizzy but mostly recovered. Yay! Now I might go and catch up on some of your blogs now I'm sitting here.

Love ya all!

Hi ho Hi Ho - It's off to the surgeon I go.....

2007-10-07T13:42:00.000+10:00

All I ever said I wanted was answers and a solution to the problem and now I have them :)

I went and saw the Sports Physician last week to get the results of my MRI and they showed that two of my ligaments were completely torn and in his words had "disintegrated". He is sending me a referral to a surgeon but tells me they will need to harvest tissue from elsewhere to transplant to my ankle. I was worried that sounded painful but he said it's the recovery that sucks.

I can't wait for this referral though. I just want all the information I can get and there's not much info available online surprisingly. The only thing that sucks now is the wait and the pain. I stupidly let my private Health lapse at the start of the year and even though this pre existing condition dates back to when I was insured I'm not covered.

SILVER LINING = THERE ARE ANSWERS!!!

Other than that things are going well. I still love my work. I am training 3x a week with a personal trainer and slowly but surely pulling myself back into line diet wise. I love the fact that we have a pool at work cause I can get some swims in as well.

My brother moved to Perth this week with work so this place has been quiet since he left. He hasn't had time to check the place out properly and my Uncle and Aunt are over there so at least he has family close by. It will be good for him to stand on his own two feet and work pays him some allowances for being away from home (plus they have supplied the house).

Jason and our friend Nick drove down to Melbourne yesterday and last night we all went out to The Social in Mornington for dinner. It's fast becoming a favourite of mine even without the Vodka Infusions. Although their Matador cocktail is fabulous! Crushed strawberries with Raspberry and Lychee Liquor topped with redbull. Yummmmm!

We didn't get much time together Jase and Nick waited to see the start of Bathurst before leaving this morning albeit alot later than they first planned. It gave me some cuddle time so I didn't complain. Now I have his car and he has mine again as he roadworthies and registers my car for me. Such an Angel my boy is. I cried as I watched them go out of view. Such a sop I am.

I'm off for a quick nap and Mum and I are going to go watch the Nanny Diaries at Europa this afternoon. 93 laps of 161 done so far in the race and it's been quite uneventful.

Have a great week all. I will try and at least blog weekly and I am slowly getting through yours too.

Hugs and Kisses.

Hi All!

2007-09-30T17:55:00.000+10:00

Sorry guys I have been chasing my tail at work ALL MONTH and I'm having annoying computer issues as well. Not much has been happening outside the office (because I never am) so I don't have all that much to blog about.

I have seen a sports physician about my ankle and had an MRI scan done. The chances of surgery are very high and yesterday was probably the worst for pain I have ever had.

Thats about it for my news though. I hope you are all well! I haven't been reading unfortunately I haven't even had a chance to check the forums.

2007-08-26T22:19:00.000+10:00

Log Onto www.livinginthesuburbs.com and join us on our 12 week challenge! Prizes are up for grabs! This is huge!

I am a proud freezer owner.

2007-08-24T21:28:00.000+10:00

Well GE is anyway. haha. I have ONE of these (The above is fridge and freezer)

It is just perfect for what I need right now and I so dearly wanted to buy the matching pair of fridge and freezers I talked about earlier. But that was about 4x the price so this well make do (plus you can buy bracing to make it look like a part of the pair I want too nice huh)

Now I just need to wait for delivery.

It's close though to the pair huh! (see below)

Hello!

2007-08-22T22:53:00.000+10:00

Well it's more of the same. Things are going fairly well at work which is brilliant. Josh has returned to normality. I am in the process of pulling a menu plan together and I unfortunately haven't got in to see the Sports Physician just yet.

Short and sweet but I better do this plan before I don't do the plan.

Does ANYONE have a frost free freezer that you are thinking of getting rid of? I am in the market.

More Miscellaneous.....

2007-08-17T23:34:00.000+10:00

I did nails for a friend on Wednesday. French tips. They turned out surprisingly well and they didn't take me as long as I thought they would, being that I haven't done nails in quite a long time. And I enjoyed it!

She is also the lady I would love to buy anther Rotty from. I got to play with one of the dogs from the litter I was going to pick from awhile back and she has grown into one of the most friendly and vivacious as well as GORGEOUS Rottweilers I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. Storm and her are so similar. I just wanted to bring her home.

I would love to learn some martial arts. Have wanted to learn since I was a kid but it has never happened for one reason or another. It will definitely be something I enroll myself in when I finally get back into my exercise program properly and have recovered from these injuries. I like the sound of Jeet Kune Do which is a street based Mixed Martial Arts so a real training on how to look after yourself. My boss has trained in this for a long time, my other boss is a Kung Fu Instructor. So I have some people to help me along the way.

I have had more physio today and afterwards I feel so nauseous. He has written a letter for a sports physician and is trying to get me in to see him ASAP for a further opinion. The course of action from the Doctor to the Physio to the Podiatrist is ALL different which just adds my my sheer frustration and I'm over it. Apparently this person should be able to give me the final say. Fingers crossed people. I need to get in this week! Otherwise I might get in on the 11th of next month and I JUST CAN'T WAIT THAT LONG. This is driving me Nucking Futs.

Missed a good friends birthday drinks tonight to come home and curl up in the recliner. I don't think she's happy with me. Best I buy her a good present. (any suggestions for a work colleague who turned 26 today?) I'm thinking of making her an infusion but I think they take awhile to be any good. I also missed a night out with the girls (So sorry Beck). Pain takes over my life.

Anyway my lovelies I have work again in the morning so it's definitely bedtime for me. Sweetest Dreaming!

A Blurt It Out

2007-08-16T12:50:00.000+10:00

I think maybe Jules is right. I have always shared everything on this blog. Good bad and in between and I haven't had time for it recently. So this is going to be a down post but it's a buildup of a few things that have me where I am.

First of all I am missing my boy like crazy! I was supposed to see him at the end of last month for a rally and we ended up hiring someone else to do it for us (big mistake in the end but can't fix that now) which means I don't get to see him again till the end of this month and there's no time to spend together during that as he has to come in the day of the rally and leave the moment it all finishes. It's just a bit frustrating.

Then I have been in so much pain with my feet and ankles since March or so. I have been seeing a Podiatrist and Physio since April and I'm still in lots of pain. I have paid out for Orthotics and various other treatments. And I've been at a deadlock for a couple of months now. I'm suffering constant pain which is with me always. I suppose this is the biggest one for me right now. The fact that we keep trying things that aren't working is annoying the crap out of me, and NO ONE understands the amount of pain I am constantly in.

Then I had a huge fight with my brother. It was just like old times. Just like why I moved out of here in the first place. The bit that hurts the most is not the bruises or the stuffed back. It's the emotional. The fact that I thought that we were finally past this crap and the fact that I thought we were actually mates. And then this. He obviously has no idea!

So I want to go home to Sydney and leave my brother and his BS behind (although he's gone back to being fine again as per normal until next time) and into the arms of my awaiting boy. HOWEVER I do not want to go home to my mother in law now or ever. It's worse than putting up with my brother in my books. At least it's good here when my brother is normal but its always walking on eggshells when I'm in Sydney.

I really need to stick out my time at work until I become a club manager also. Its a promise I made to my boss. It's a promise I made to myself in order to succeed in my career. But also and finally to be able to afford my OWN house in Sydney I need to succeed so none of this is an issue.
I have been offered a bed and a roof in many friends homes here if I need it. including my bosses. I have put a lock on my door so I can stay in my room when he's here. I have lots of options. I'm just pure lost. In so many areas of my life I feel like I have no real answers.

I am determined to succeed.

I am determined to be well.

As I was saying...

2007-08-14T23:48:00.001+10:00

Great friends.

Thanks so much to all of you.

I just don't know what step to take right now it's a lock on my door and a clearing of some clutter.

Tomorrow I have a Doctors appointment and I need to organise a bone scan for my ankle. Yay.

I'm not suicidal or anything. Just lost. The chat I had with CKK both in texts at 2am this morning and over the phone this evening were brilliant (thanks babe)

I still have no idea. So I might just sit back and figure it out.

Head Space

2007-08-13T23:44:00.000+10:00

I love my Mum and Dad, I love Jason, I love Storm and yes I love my brother despite our issues. Work is going well, great even. I have great friends and some good support, But my head well that's in a nasty place. Maybe it's holding me back from my dreams. I know its tearing me into pieces right now.

I don't know where to be.

I don't know how to be happy.

I feel kind of numb and very sad all at the same time.

Life is one big head fuck.

The plan...

2007-07-26T00:01:00.001+10:00

Life is not following the plan right now.

I haven't picked up emotionally from yesterday at all. In fact I think I may have gone backwards.

I think the problem is that I like to micro plan and I haven't done that for quite awhile. Plan my day, plan my food, plan my workouts, plan my work, plan my social life, plan my everything.

I just haven't had two seconds to sit down and do this stuff and it's showing in all aspects of my life.

It needs to improve. I need to make time for me to organise me or it wont happen. Nothing will happen.

Nothing is pretty boring.

Thanks so much for the comments!

2007-07-24T19:11:00.000+10:00

I know I can always count on my friends to be supportive no matter what stage of my life or journey I am in.

Today at work I grabbed some Berry Scrolls (2) which happen to be my fav's and they stopped baking them for awhile. I planned on eating 1 and sticking 1 in the freezer for a free day when I was spotted by a colleague who literally fought them off me and threw them in the bin.

Arghh. I'm such an IDIOT! My workmates thought it was pretty funny and laughed about it for awhile but after the laughs died down I felt like a complete FOOL!

I ended up with a migraine after that and ended up coming home from work early due to it. Im just waiting for some drugs to kick in before going to bed. I think I may have bought the migraine on myself with the stressy thoughts about weight and how stupid I just was.

STUPID STUPID STUPID!

So what if....

2007-07-24T01:30:00.001+10:00

What if we were to talk weight for just a moment? For some of us we are proud of our achievements, for some frustrated with a lack of results, others have reached their goals while yet others are having no trouble maintaining. But there are a few of us who did extremely well only to have something switch and do a back flip on us and leave us back where we started or close to that or for some miles behind the starting line.

I'm lucky I'm not back where I started, but I am not far off it.

It disappoints me and I have avoided the scales and the question of weight for so long.

I can't even say how much I weigh right now. It disgusts me! I work in a gym helping others achieve their goals. When will I work on mine?

It's becoming a priority it really is.

400g lost this week.

I plan on buying myself an iTrip if the downward trend continues so I can listen to my iPod in the car. My stacker is crap (I HATE STACKERS) so I reckon this is my best option. Holds more songs than any cd anyway.

Then I plan on setting goals for each pay day (fortnightly) as long as my weight is below the last payday there's a reward. If It's above I need some kind of punishment other than my own self loathing.

Work is super hectic. End of month time now. I have some Family and Friends vouchers that gives you a massive dicount if you ar looking to join. They expire on the 31st.

Bad influences

2007-07-15T02:21:00.000+10:00

They are all around me I'm sure! After a big weekend last weekend, I decided to back it up with another one this weekend even though I'm still crook AND I'm working all weekend. Oh well's. It's he bosses fault.

He decided to have a birthday this weekend (haha)

Most of the clubs staff and those from other clubs also under his control gathered together to help him celebrate. A better boss truly has not been had. I can't be more thankful.

We were supposed to be at The Saint but having come straight from work we were quite peckish and The Saint didn't have proper food. So we moved across to Cushion Lounge which served up a beautiful meal! It also became very funky when meals were finished and we stayed there for the night.

I had a few too many cocktails with names like "Meet me on the Dance Floor" and "Sex on The Beach" amongst others my bank balance certainly suffered.

I was so lucky to wake up this morning feeling relatively well and just tired. If only this cold would go away. I am limiting myself to home and work and no more partying until it's gone!

Last night surrounded by at least 15 people I know I was just so comfortable in the club. It was nothing like The Bay. People were polite if they ran into you and no pushing and shoving going on for space even though the place was packed. I didn't freak out and I have started to see how going out like this could be fun. It took a few goes at it first for me though.

I also think it's time for me to get back into healthy eating and training again. Now! Not Later!

I hope you are all well!

Hugs and Kisses

The Melbourne Take Over!

2007-07-11T17:38:00.000+10:00

What an amazing weekend! I have never had such a good time.
We just didn't stop!

---------------------------------------------------------
THURSDAY

Thursday night Loz and Nick arrived from Sydney on a virgin flight and we headed into the city to our lodgings for the weekend.

Unfortunately the Mecure decided to screw us around on our entry and charged us more than the rate we booked at. Had cancelled our booking for not being there by 6pm (why were we asked what time our flight arrived on the website if they don't listen) AND they downgraded our room and charged us extra for the 3rd person! (We had it booked for 4 people) But we settled anyway.

Got up to the room and then decided to check out what was open in town. We started off at Transport opposite Flinders st Station and then moved on down the river to Crown before walking back home again. This is where I discovered that Panadeine Forte and Alcohol don't mix. I was wondering why I felt trashed before I finished my 1st drink. I was lucky not to be sick!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------
FRIDAY

Friday morning started with a buffet breakfast in the hotel, before we decided it was the day for a drive to Phillip Island.

With all the traffic etc we got there at 1:30pm and settled in at the local pizza place for one with the lot. It was divine!

It was pouring all morning so we were very happy when we came out to find that it had cleared up and we raced towards the go karts. This has changed a bit since I was a kid. They used to be in Cowes and indoors! Now it's at the race track (which is not the whole of Phillip Island despite what those who haven't been there thought apparently) and it's a miniature version of the racetrack. It's awesome!

It was so wet though so we basically slid the whole way around the track. Poor Loz was given a 6hp go kart so she was a bit off the pace which would have been super frustrating.

From there we were all a bit wet and cold and ready to head home as we had a dinner booking and thought we were running a bit late. Got home and had a bit of extra time so the gorgeous Nick set up my wireless router for me and now my hard drive recorder works! PLUS I am sitting in the easy chair with my feet up tping away on my laptop which is awesome!

Then we went to "The Social" in Mornington for dinner and drinks. What a nice cosy place. WITH an awesome cocktail menu too!

Unfortunately I decided on driving for the night (boo hiss) So I had a French Martini with my entree and switched to Diet Cokes. We met up with another one of my best friends, Rikki and a friend of hers Bianca who I hadn't met before and all had great meals and a good time. I had an awesome meal of Morton Bay Bug tails and a creamy pasta, while Loz had a house special Chicken Breast on a strawberry Risotto. And Nick the Lemon Pepper Fish Skewers.

After dinner there was a guitarist start playing some really good music in The Social so we sat and listened to him for awhile and then moved next door to The Bay Hotel (The Social and The Bay are joined together). I couldn't believe how young people are! I am sure that half of those in there were under age!

While the band was setting up I discovered a little back room called "The Vodka Bar." Inside we discovered Vodka Infusions. I have never heard of such things! But what delights. THIS was when I was starting to spew about the decision to drive. I settled on demanding Loz buy a Musk Stick and a Chico Baby Vodka Infusion and tasted hers. (It really didn't take any convincing :p) They are amazing! Something I have researched today to learn to make myself. YUMMMOOOO

The Band at The Bay was pretty darn good with some easy rock and oldies playing it was great. Me being the crowd phobe though I didn't last long in an area where people are pushy and rude and wanted an exit fairly early on. I think we left around 11:30 and headed back towards our hotel.

After parking the car we all decided we were darn tired and couldn't be bothered heading back out again (it was COLD!) Dropped into bed contemplating our age amongst other things for dropping into a warm bed so early.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SATURDAY

We started off at the Tourist information centre at Federation Square. I hadn't been downstairs before and I was pretty impressed with the place. I bought some more Secrets cards which are pretty handy and we grabbed a couple of brochures for things to do before looking for Breakfast.
Breakfast was at some cafe in the square. NO idea which one. We stopped for some photos beforehand and I was starving by then :p I polished off a Big Breakfast as I couldn't decide what I wanted for the life of me.
Then we caught a tram or two up to the Queen Vic Markets. It's unbelievable how much time you can spend there! We didn't get half way through before it was lunch time! Loz bought some clothes as did I and I got Storm a new collar and bought me a single seater hammock! While Nick bought a really nice ring. I was so upset when the coat I had seen only went to a size 14. (That's not going to happen this season) But it's a good reminder of what I let slip.
We went to Blue Fire Grill at Docklands for lunch. They carve the meat at your table. It was so funny us in a posh restaurant in our market clothes carrying our shopping hauls around with us. Me in a HSV jumper (of course, it's my favourite!) We didn't fit in but it gave us a giggle and we really enjoyed our lunch. It comes highly recommended but it does cost. We were all suitably full though turning down any chances of their gorgeous dessert menu.

We headed back into the city with a plan of going to Koko Black but managed to get their during a chocolate tour. Totally insane! So we walked back to our hotel

Outside David Jones in Bourke Street Mall were the Free Hug people. I have seen
them on You Tube before and GEEZ they are popular! Who could resist?
Then we caught a taxi out to St Kilda pier to jump on a boat to see the Penguins. Our Taxi driver stuffed up. We almost missed the boat. And then it was full of kids having a Birthday party. It rained the whole time and the spotlight didn't work. Im sure the boat was almost not seaworthy. Then I got pissy cause there was a nicer boat we could have taken from Docklands with No kids, and a spotlight. But hey Nick and Loz had a ball we saw penguins AND it had "character".
Hot chocolates were the immediate call of the day though as soon as we disembarked before jumping on a tram back to the city.

When we got back to the hotel I could feel my layers thaw as I jumped into the hot shower. (Loz and Nick kind of know what I'm talking about when I say it's cold now)

Then it was time to hit the town again. We went through the secrets cards to figure out a couple of places we definitely wanted to visit then narrowed that down and ventured on from there. 1st Stop was the Ding Dong Lounge. But at 9pm at night they wanted us to pay a cover charge. We'd all previously decided pooey to that so moved on to the next on the list.

The Red Hummingbird opposite the QV building on Russel Street. Cosy with a big cocktail list, but not your normal stuff. The rooftop terrace is lovely though. The music more suited for a wind down than a start to your night however so we wandered on.

A flip of the coin found us wandering down Lonsdale Street and as we passed Tattersalls Lane I decided to drag Nick and Loz down the dark alleyway to a place I had been past a few times but never stopped. "Section 8" is a funky bar next to "Shanghai Dumpling" It's a modified shipping container that's been thrown into a former corporate carpark with chep pellets modified to make seats and tables for patrons. The drinks are great contain generous amounts of alcohol at reasonable prices and the bar staff was cute. All were happy so we stayed until closing (about 12:30pm) by which time I was a bit the worse for wear and a little hungry.
After a Macca's stop we tried to go into Cookie but apparently someone had it booked for a 30th birthday party. Boo! So we moved onto Crown. I lasted until about 3:30am when I piked on Nick and Loz and left them at the Velvet Bar. The super cocktails looked tempting but I was stuffed!

My Taxi driver thought the speed limit down flinders st was 100km/h and sat on 90 the whole way. (I thought 40 was quick through there maniac!) When Loz and Nick finally packed it in for the night (5am) they too got a phycho who they thought wasn't going to make the corner onto Spring Street. I never heard them arrive!

-----------------------------------------------------------
SUNDAY

Sleep In!

Even thought there are posters through out the hotel advertising a 2pm checkout on Sundays we get a call at 11am asking when we will be leaving. Huh? Oh apparently you have to let them know (why can't they put this on their posters?)

After this it was time to pack up and head for a recovery breakfast. We drove down to St Kilda to Grcoery Bar. At the recommendation of the beautiful Phil. (Miss you heaps babe!) Then it was time for the jump! Yup we did it!
All 3 of us did 2 jumps from 7 storeys high! It is an awesome experience and one I am keen to do again many many times. (So which bloggers are up for it?) Nick showed graceful elegance his first trip down and he looked like a pro. Loz lost it a few times and kept spinning off the wall. And Jadey "doingk" I did a full 360°C turn at one stage and hit my head on the building. (That's what the helmets are for) The second jump was much better! We suceeded in making it look fairly easy. I am sure we could get better and better with the more jumps we do. It's a shame the weather turned or we could have done another one. I'm pretty sure when Macca moves to a Sydney location we will show up too :)

Thanks again Macca! www.rapjumping.com

Then we finally got to make a stop at Koko Black. And onto the Eureka tower. We went out on "The Edge" I wasn't all that impressed. But really things like that should be done before you jump off a building rather than after in a day :) It was something you had to do if you had paid to go up there though I'm sure.
We had dinner at Shanghai Dumpling, some buns for dessert and headed to the airport. I was a tad early so we headed for the viewing area to watch the planes fly in over our heads. It's such an awesome experience.

Dropping the guys off at the airport was so hard! I blubbered and cried. Loz and Nick gave me a taste of my friendships I have left in Sydney. And we had such an awesome time with so much more to do on our list we didn't even get to! It really is hard.

I miss my boy (who didn't come on this trip) like absolute crazy! And I just wish I could have more time. Soon it will all happen. It's just never soon enough huh!

I hope you are all well! Hugs and Kisses!

2007-07-02T17:54:00.000+10:00

Yay I ticked off another thing on my to do list. Are you constantly checking on yours to see what can be next in line? I have forgotten who was coming to the prom with me (Let me know again?)

My Tax is finally now in order. It really wasn't all that painful and I got it done just in time to deal with this years stuff.

I have been busy working my butt to the bone (although it's getting bigger instead of smaller, work that out!) But I finished on a record month for me and a record month for my club this month. Amazing work! My boss is also leaving us for a conference tomorrow ans trusts me enough to leave the club in my hands. How exciting is that exactly? TREMENDOUSLY!

I am going to start swimming again as of tomorrow. (I'm home from work already) And getting my life into gear. Career wise I am progressing well but my own health and fitness have been sliding. It's Jadey 100% all the way from here. I'm going to need a whole pile of help though.

Work supports it's staff with some free counselling I am thinking of taking them up on and I have a referral to a dietitian. I am already seeing my gp, physio and podiatrist to help with the chronic pain also. I don't think I am an emotional eater at all. I am just an eater.

On Thursday night Loz and Nick arrive in town and we are going to have a big weekend. It all Launches quite literally from 7 storeys high in the city on Friday. Yup! I am jumping head first off a 7 storey building. I am SO EXCITED! I'm also nervous as hell. This kind of jump is Rap Jumping which is where you basically abseil facing forwards and facing the ground. It looks awesome and it's great value at only $65 for 2 jumps! Hopefully I should have lots of photos and video to share when the weekend is over. Click HERE to see a video from getaway (only works in Internet Explorer)

I hope everyone is well and safe. I do work my way very slowly through all of your blog entries. I keep the commenting to a minimum though these days as I am sure you understand.

I miss you all alot though. I often think about you all.

TAGGED by EM & CAROLINE!

2007-06-08T23:38:00.000+10:00

Each player starts with 7 random facts/habits about themselves. People who are tagged need to write on their own blog about their seven things, as well as these rules. You need to choose 7 people to get tagged and list their names. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them that they have been tagged and to read your blog!

#1 I am currently working in the best job I have ever had as an employee. EVER!

#2 I am a heater hog and I love sitting with the heater right on my feet. Mmmmm Toasty!!!!!

#3 I like to jump into bed while it's warm but I like to sleep when it's cold outside of the covers and sometimes have a cool spot to roll into. I also toss and turn alot.

#4 Jason, My Family, My Friends, My Dog and My Car are my everything.

#5 I never know where all my pay has gone!

#6 I should have been in bed before I started this

#7 It's taken me over 2.5 hours so far haha

I TAG!

AILS
BELINDA
BROOKE
BECKIE
LIA
PIP
NANNETTE

2007-06-04T20:17:00.000+10:00

Yet again it's been awhile. I am always so flat out that my family doesn't even see me let alone me having time for blogging. My emails have been bouncing regularly too (oops). Sorry all!

Thanks so much for all of your support and friendship though. I miss you guys! If you ARE on MSN drop me your address and I'll add you to my list. I always log on when I am near the computer.

A pre warning I am going to get all the bad stuff out of the way then move onto a more positive note. So if you don't need to read this crud skip to the dotted line :p

So what's REALLY been happening in Jadey's life? I have had some fairly nasty foot and ankle problems. which may be coming partly from my back. In fact from the way my back and Neck feel right now I reckon my physio is ON THE MONEY!

I'm seeing a podiatrists and a physio regularly to try and get it all fixed up, but quite honestly I know the main reason I am in this mess. I had my weight down to 82kg last year. And I have slowly (though not as slowly as it takes to lose it) stacked a lot of weight back on. I recently weighed in at 104.5kgs. I am sore and miserable constantly regarding the pain I am in and the condition I am in. I have struggled to make it from the carpark to my desk everyday, it is THAT BAD. SO I am organizing some time with a dietitian also. I have banned crap food. And told the staff at the cafe at work not to sell it to me. (They won't either, isn't that good!) And we have a charity box at work with lollies and chips and stuff in it so I bought a packet of chips the other day and my colleagues stole it.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

IT HAS ALL BEGUN AND FOR THE BETTER!

Jason and I toured Goulburn, Queanbeyan and Sydney last weekend with the Du770n Rally NSW. Had an absolute blast too! Was probably the BEST rally we have had the pleasure of doing so far even though both of us were in so much pain doing it. ha ha.

Next stop is Perth at the end of July. Not going to have much downtime but I am really hoping and praying the Perth girls might drop into my hotel for a bit so I can meet them.

In other news I have been in my job for about 2.5 months now and it's been awesome the whole time. My boss is one of those people you are naturally drawn to and it is such a fun environment. My other colleagues are also awesome! It's a really nice place to work which makes a difference since I spend 65+ hours a week there :) I also had some fantastic news confirmed today. I have been promoted!

It's the same job just a seniors position which means I get to take on some management responsibilities. They are really happy with my efforts so it is all paying off. I'm one step closer to where I want to be and one step closer to moving home to Sydney.

I have made the commitment to stay where I am until I have my own Club Management position. I'm led to believe that's not all that far away (Only two steps up and I'm there :P) I'm hoping to be a nice skinny girl by then and wearing some roxy Jeans on weekends.

My 2nd birthday is coming up and I have kept this blog since the beginning but I am thinking of making a move. I will keep you informed, may not happen because I am quite attached. I hope you are all well.

I will do my best to catch up on your blogs asap. Hugs and Kisses!

2007-06-03T18:34:00.000+10:00

LIFE IS CURRENTLY BEING RECORDED
PLEASE CHECK BACK TOMORROW NIGHT FOR AN UPDATE

What I've Done - Linkin Park

2007-05-13T19:49:00.000+10:00

2007-05-12T20:35:00.000+10:00

“This too shall pass.”
Unknown

What Have I Done?

2007-05-11T15:21:00.000+10:00

This blogger has been avoiding the weight thing for quite awhile. I won't go so far as to say that's wrong as that's what this blog is about, but I should have always addressed where I am at. And maybe if I had, I wouldn't have fallen so FAR.

I don't know that I am in a state at the moment to share how bad things are. Let's just say I am not the old me yet. But I am not that far away from it.

I haven't had my eating under control. I haven't been working out properly because I hurt my feet and ankles pretty bad. No idea what the exact damage is at the moment and I'm going to see a podiatrist on Wednesday, but just standing up is a painful task. Walking is near to impossible and anything else is beyond me.

There is nothing more frustrating then being in a gym for 60+ hours a week and watching everyone else train. This week I am determined to make full use of the pool however and I will swim at least 3 times.

I need to pull myself together food wise and start eating properly and heading down the right path. WHY is there a lolly charity container in the gyms kitchen? This is a place of health! The chocolates and ice cream in my freezer aren't much help either admittedly.

Speaking of freezers, I need one! Who has one lying around they aren't doing anything with? With the long hours I am working I need to have a freezer full of pre prepared meals. There's just no room in mine! (IF I take the ice cream out that would help a little though)

Anyway welcome to my emotional rant. I need to pull myself together and get it DONE!

101 THINGS TO DO IN 1001 DAYS

2007-05-09T20:32:00.000+10:00

Get to my Goal Weight
Maintain it
Swim with Wild Dolphins
~~Buy New Sunglasses~~
Buy new Glasses
~~Get a GPS Navigation System~~
Complete Cert III & IV in Fitness
Become a Success
Become a Success Coach
Buy a House
Throw a formal Dinner Party
Stay at Wilsons Prom
Get into my Roxy Jeans
Give Blood
Visit Darwin & The Alice
Visit Adelaide
Visit Perth
Learn to Budget
and Save
Learn Italian
Learn to Sew
Improve my Photography
Run a Fun Run - All the way
Get Engaged
Get Married
Get Pregnant
Have a baby
Have a Glamour Shoot
Start a Portfolio
Start an Investment Folio
Commence new Prescription Nails Service (Go30)
~~Expand Beauty Skills~~
Establish a Sleep Routine
~~Get my Tax in Order~~
Resize my Rings
Have 3 Months Wages in Savings
Enjoy A Health Retreat
Own Cute Workout gear
Enjoy a Spa Pedi from Someone Else
Complete City to Surf
Become owner of a Dellahar Pup
Participate in Creative Roadshow
Go on a Cruise
Go to Disneyland
Move in with my Boy
Build a Commercial Website
~~Buy a dress~~
Wear it Often
Establish a Skin Care Routine
~~Buy a new Car~~
Learn to use Photoshop
Participate in a Triathlon
Have a Technology Free weekend
Go to the Circus
Go to the Easter Show
Host a BBQ
Tour Fraser Island
Bungee Jump Again
Laser - legs & underarms
Buy and Wear my 1st Pair of Shorts
Attend Phat Camp
Learn to Knit
Knit something more complicated than a scarf
Eliminate Bad Debt
Get my Torana on the Road
Go Scuba Diving
~~Take a Helicopter Tour~~
Subscribe to my Favourite Magazines
Eliminate Clutter
~~Have a meal on Lygon Street~~
Go to the Melbourne Cup
Have my tattoo done
Learn to Airbrush
Decorate for Christmas
Host Christmas or Christmas in July
Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb
~~Take a Great Ocean Road trip with Jase~~
Eat at the Opera House
Eat at Level 41
Try Scrapbooking
Spend a whole day at a Day Spa (being pampered, not working)
Try every Gym Class at least once
Find Storage Solutions for EVERYTHING
Visit the Bendigo Bloggers
Don't stand on Scales for a Whole Week and still Lose
Go White Water Rafting
Go Rock Climbing
Learn to Ski or Snowboard
Learn to properly Style my Hair
~~Compete in something Physical to Win~~
Take a Term of Martial Arts
~~Get Senior First aid Certificate~~
~~Tick off a perfect week~~
Go Para-Sailing
~~Go to a Sydney Bloggers meet~~
Get Motorbike Learners Permit
Swim 50 Laps of Jubilee Pool
Do the coast road between Melbourne & Sydney
blank
blank
Write a new 101 Things to do in 1001 Days List

Fun and Proposals.

2007-05-09T20:05:00.000+10:00

Haha No I did not get engaged. You will have to read on.

I got to complete my senior first aid today ticking off number 92. on the 101 things to do list and so when I came home and altered my blog and read all of your lovely comments, my mind immediately turned to, "what next?"

So I looked down the list and the FIRST possible one that sprung up is Number 12. "Stay at Wilson's Prom"

Now I don't want to just stay there. I remember as a kid feeding the birds and having fish and chips and ice cream at the Cafe. I also remember staying in the Cabins and going on some awesome bush walks. Stuff I am dying to do again!

And I was thinking (and chatting with Bee) about what a wonderful venue it would make for our next sleepover. The cabins sleep 2 - 6 people each and when I did a price breakdown we are kind of looking at around/under $50 a head per night. (Obviously not including food, drink and fuel here) We could save money on fuel by carpooling down (everyone can chip in at the servo for the driver/s I'm sure) And if the weather is good there are some great walks we can do!

PLEASE let me know if you are interested in a 1 or 2 night stay down there sometime in the next couple of months.

New Hair

2007-05-08T23:06:00.000+10:00

Hopefully I'll post a proper update (which will probably just say I've been working) in the next few days. So do we like the redhead?

How Nerdy Am I?

2007-04-29T20:32:00.000+10:00

Stolen from Tina

2007-04-29T17:49:00.000+10:00

Not all that much has been happening lately. Work work work. Oh did I mention work?

Unfortunately I went down to the marina for lunch one day this week and my phone fell into the water never to be seen again :( So I haven't contacted anyone or anything this week. Hopefully I'll get some time to find a replacement next week.

Last week I hurt my foot / ankle and it has been giving me hell all this week and I have felt quite ill the last couple of days (not fluey, nauseous) so I can't wait for that to all end. I wantt o get back into my training.

I haven't had a day off in awhile now. And my roster for this month hasn't been released yet so I have no idea when my next day will be.

The plan is go become a redhead sometime this week though ;p It's a much lighter colour so it should be a big change for me.

I was at Maccas today looking across the car park to Jenny Craig. Which made me burst into uncontrollable laughter thinking about how cruel that is.

I hope all is well with all of you.

Sending hugs and kisses.

ANZAC Day

2007-04-25T07:45:00.000+10:00

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.

Lest We Forget

So it's way past time for an update....

2007-04-22T18:21:00.000+10:00

I have missed blogging and reading blogs and I really miss the internet altogether. It really has dawned on me how much I use this as a communication form. In fact I hardly ever call people instead opting for msn or blogs rr even email for communication and I have going to have to change that.

Plus I need to get out more!

I have had an amazing couple of weeks! Work is flat chat but when I haven't been there I have either been with good friends or asleep.

It all really started during Easternats. I have unfortunately killed my ever reliable D60 camera. I did this in the middle if day 2 of a 3 day event. I was pretty stressed out not knowing what on earth I was going to do without a camera at one of our biggest events for the year. When I remembered the lovely Bee also shoots with a Canon camera. So 1 quick phone call later this amazing woman who I had only "met" once was lending me her baby.

The power behind the blogging friendships never fails to knock me on my arse. What an amazing woman!

When I arrived at Chez Bee later that night I discovered it was now Chez Bee and Phil. They were a new "couple". This was something I had missed having not read anyone's blogs for sometime. So it was quite a welcome surprise to see the lovely Phil especially with her departure date so close.

Wednesday night a dinner was organised with the lovely Shona from New Zealand and Jac from Queensland. So even though I was way too late for that some directions from Phil later and I found myself on Lygon Street in Carlton with the girls for Chocolate pizza. Yay finally I'm on Lygon Street! One thing off my 101 list!

I also got to meet Jac and Shona who are both wonderful women and catch up with Bee, Phil and Brooke at the same time. I had a small taste but I definitely didn't indulge like I normally would have. I was too busy enjoying the girls company.

Friday night I met up with Phil, Bee and Mark at Grill'd in Ackland Street St Kilda. Again with more directions from Phil I did finally make it there. What awesome burgers they have! And no fat, lean options with wholemeal buns as an option too. Yummo! Their chips with herb salt were awesome too. A little too awesome.

Then onto Phil's farewell where I thankfully had a ball with the girls and guys that turned up to Armello at the StKilda Sea Baths. Unfortunately my night ended all too soon as I had to work the next morning. But I really really loved catching up with all of you. And I didn't get to speak to some people as much as I would have liked to have. From the accounts I have heard though looks like I missed out on alot!

I also found out that the lovely Shawnte had her baby! The wonderful Nathaniel! And he is such a cutey.

So Saturday after I finished work I gave her a call and headed to the hospital. Got a few photos and hung around for a feed. Shontie looks honestly like one of the most amazingly well adjusted new mothers I have ever seen.

Last Sunday Bee, Phil and I had planned to go to Puppet Up! The x rated Muppet show that was in town and I had bought a ticket for Bee as a thankyou for lending me her camera. We made a whole day of it. Ails had come to town and was staying with Phil and Bee and brekky had been planned for Sunday morning in St Kilda. So with some direction (from Phil again, are we seeing a theme here?) I arrived at Grocery Bar just in time for the girls to finish up their brekky.

Then I threw the keys to Phil and she drove my new wheels around the corner for a free parking spot so we could trawl the Esplanade Market. So much lovely stuff! I really am a sucker for a good crafty market. I saw so much I wanted to buy but walked away with just a recipe holder in the shape of a heart.

From St Kilda we headed in to Carlton again in Phil's capable driving hands to find another free parking spot. You know this woman was in Melbourne for a mere 18 months (or so) and knows more of it than I do and I was born here!

Ails had decided to join us at Puppet up and we were having huge trouble getting through to them on the phone so we headed towards the theatre to see if we could buy tickets there. But they were closed :(

So we headed back towards Shanghai Dumpling the much talked about Chinese place that I had made Phil promise to take me to one day. We met up with Jac there (Well done on finding the place my love) And although it's up an alley off china town and looks dodgy as hell, the food is amazing! I am definitely going to go back. And I tell you this much, I will always think of Phil when I go there.

After we were all well satisfied (We left the ordering to Phil and it was not disappointing) we headed off again in search of Puppet Up Tickets for Ails. Myer was the first stop and we were turned away as it is a ticketmaster and not a tickettek. How annoying. So off in search again we finally got Ails a much wanted ticket. She unfortunately couldn't sit with us but I think she ended up with an even better seat. In the end she could have sat next to us as the couple that was supposed to be beside us never turned up.

Princess Theatre is a bit of a dodgy set up. Not raised enough to see past people's heads properly but it was still the most amazing show. And I got to share it with 3 amazing women (even if one was a zillion miles away, who talks during a show?)

We finished off with Pizza and Pasta at Mercadante on Lygon Street again. It was delish but huge so I asked for a doggy bag and sent half my pizza home with Ails. I also managed to draw with the owner in noughts and crosses and score a voucher for a chocolate pizza. To be indulged with blogger on another night.

When we all finished up it was a short walk to the car and I dropped the girls all back at their apartment. And we said our farewells.

All week was spent working hard! All work and no play makes Jadey a dull girl so I ensured that on Saturday I headed in to Chez Brooke to wish Phil farewell. Ash and Molly were there which was awesome too! Molly is getting so big. And she is so switched on! Brooke invited me to join them for lunch which was lovely and we headed into Footscray to a lovely Vietnamese soup / noodle place. I enjoyed gorgeous chicken and beef noodle soup with the girls (again after Phil directed me where to go :p)

After walking Ash and molly back to their car with the girls I decided it was time for me to say my goodbyes. (It was starting to get really hard)

I said goodbye to the girls and then turned towards Phil. Ever since I first started reading her blog and met her there was something very special about Philippa to me. (I'll always remember her saying with one L and 2 P's haha the small things) She was a woman I REALLY REALLY always wanted to be very close to. Here I was having been closer to her in the last 2 weeks than ever before and now this wonderful woman was heading O/S, for quite some time.

It is so true she isn't gone forever and we will always be a part of each others lives through the glory of the internet and our blogs. And she will always and forever remain a true and close friend of mine no matter wherein the world we are.

Phil and I enjoyed a long cuddle and a gorgeous goodbye in the rain. I turned and walked away with the tears brimming in my eyes. They didn't spill over but Phil has definitely left a mark on my heart.

I then headed towards the city to meet Bee with Steamed dumplings. We had a quick chat as she was working. But it was lovely to see her.

Then into work on the way home for an intense workout.

Today I have packed up the stuff from my old life as a distributor (31 boxes!) And watched TV all day! I showed Kylie my pictures for my hair colour and she's going to sort that during the week.

I missed the last couple of biggest losers I think. I went from seeing Kimberlie eliminated to "hearing" Munnalita had just been eliminated (WTF!) And seeing the wrap up.

Won't Wednesday night be exciting?

Now I'm typing to all of you and watching Big Brother all at once. I love Big Brother. I'm hoping for a good series.

Does anyone know anyone?

Emma looks hot. I would love to look somewhat like that.

Have a great week people. Thanks for listening to my blabber.

BTW - while uploading photos I have come to realise I don't take enough. I need to steal them from others now. Girls send me your pics haha

The Secret

2007-04-06T23:07:00.000+10:00

I first heard about this on Bri's blog. It sounds fantastic and I had forgotten a bit about it until I heard it mentioned in the media a few times. (Bri you were WAY ahead of them!)

I've been pouring over the website tonight www.thesecret.tv absorbing and learning along the way. I will download and watch the movie soon!

Who else has seen it or heard of it and what are your opinions?

Exhausted!

2007-04-01T18:54:00.000+10:00

Ok so most of you already know I am exhausted! I am someone who is used to setting my own appointments and my own hours. And they weren't that long and they didn't start that early. Now things have changed! ALOT!!!!

My hours are now set for me. And they are LONG! I'm loving it but it's going to take some getting used to that's for sure.

On the downside, I haven't had much time for TV, blogs and the forums I manage / visit. On the upside. I no longer use my counting thing to get to sleep because I'm exhausted. I am also sleeping better without as many wakes or tossing and tuning. (Boo Yeah!) I'm also gunna end up with more money. (hell yeah baby!) Happy and in control of my life a bit more. I'm also in a great environment to get fit and healthy and reach my goals! Plus I don't have to pay for a gym membership anymore. (well after my notice period is complete :p)

I sent an email and an sms to most people but if you wanted to know where I am now just zip me an email and I'll be happy to tell you (Away from my blog)

I'm looking forward to doing great things.

Today I have chopped my hair off again. Ok I didn't do it. Kylie did it. But she is brilliant when it comes to cutting and styling my hair and in the next couple of weeks it's going to get a hit of colour too. It took hours to cut it so we always do my hair in 2 - 3 stages. Those of you that know me know it is THICCCK! I took a photo with my phone of some of what was on the ground at one stage. Unbelievable. I could give wigs to 3 or 4 people from my haircuts I'm sure. What once was blonde (long before I blogged) has now finally all been chopped out and I am left with basically my natural colour. (A bit of mahogany red remains) But not for long :P

Jason is coming down next weekend for our next big photography event. And bringing my new car with him! YAY!I'm so excited to be finally seeing it in the flesh and getting to take it for a drive. He tells me it's damn big though. I might need to organise some parking sensors as the parking at work is tricky even for a small car. I can't wait to wrap my arms around my boy either.

Training has been going well. Not great but well. And I have only a few more classes to try before the whole list is ticked off. BodyPump, BodyStep and BodyJam will tick off my list. But we also offer aqua, pilates, AbBlast, HiLo, LoLite, TaiChi & Step left for me to try. I love ticking things off my list :p

I moved onto week 4 of the Couch to 5 km program this week and I am really feeling it. I got through it (just but that's all that counts right :p) And I'm starting to think it's a good thing that we have a physio and a massage therapist at work (I wonder if they offer us a discount)

I hope everyone has a great week! Go Hard !

BODY ATTACK DONE!

2007-03-26T22:00:00.000+10:00

Tonight I tried a Body Attack class. Not by choice but I'm glad I did it! It ticks another class off my to do list and it provides great experience. It was made even more brilliant by the fact that the class was quite small. And I burnt 1417 Calories. Yup you read right! Insane!

Just got home from work and I'm totally wrecked. So I will catch up on your blogs when I can.

HELLO!

2007-03-25T17:23:00.000+10:00

I can see my blogging being a bit few and far between while I get used to the new schedule. Unfortunately it hasn't even started yet as I get another shake up for the next week or two before I get to start the settling.

I'm looking forward to that bit.

I've been so exhausted the last week as I cram to pass an exam to end my initial training. I passed! YAY!

The new job looks great! Heaps of opportunity for advancement and it's fast moving too. (Bonus) I've got heaps to learn yet though.

OH and Paul (a good friend) has found me a car! YAY! - It's a 2000 Mitsubishi Verada so it's got lots of the Luxo stuff I was hoping for (boo yeah) He has driven it down from QLD to Sydney and I will get to set my eyes on it when it he hits Melbourne for Easter.

Looks pretty good in photos though don't you think?

Not much else has been happening this week. I have been so damn broke that I was begging and borrowing money to get to and from work. I was so thankful I had decided to catch the train into the city on Friday with the events in the tunnel. I was standing on the railway station platform at Richmond when the first siren went past and still standing there 20 minutes later as the sirens gathered more and more. We had no idea what was going on but on that platform was a sense of shock and fear amongst most people. I feel so sad for those people that were involved.

I unfortunately missed an amazing BFL event that Kek had organised just due to a total brain fart regarding time. And I was going to kick on from there to Ails house for a sleepover but money has completely held me back.

I think that missing the BFL thing was probably fate stepping in because I wouldn't of had any petrol to get to and from work next week and that's pretty essential if I'm to actually receive a paycheck LOL.

Still so upset I missed both things. I haven't even heard how the evening went at Ails yet but I heard the BFL group had an amazing and inspiring time! I suppose when it's not meant to be it's just not meant to be huh.

Anyway all - I hope you all have a great week! I know I'm going to be aiming for big things.

2007-03-21T06:29:00.000+11:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY RAE!!!!!
You are such a beautiful person and I hope you are spoilt beyond your wildest dreams.

Sorry I've been quiet. Job is great but I am yet to adjust to the early mornings! Dad is having his operation today to remove gall stones. Took every test under the sun to find them but that's what I said was wrong (Go Dr. Jadey :p)

Hello All!

2007-03-18T12:36:00.000+11:00

I was so upset to be missing the party last night but in all honesty things around here have been so hectic this past week and I haven't had that much sleep to cope with it. So I was way too tired. Even a couple of red bulls had zero affect on me last night so I made the decision to stay home. I hope I'll see you all in Bendigo next weekend anyhow :)

I've been working hard on my km's for the Good Friday Appeal fund raiser. I think I may have clocked up 100kms now (YAY). Everyone is sponsoring a set amount though so it's more about me winning on the board than raising more money. (P.s. All going to Bendigo I will be looking your direction LOL) I'm also on pay pal so could take deposits that way if someone would teach me how (LOL)

Diet and training has been fantastic! I had a free night last night because I was really looking forward to my free night at Bee's party but it's the first time I've eaten anything remotely bad in almost 2 weeks! 3 cheers. Unfortunately it also meant I awoke totally bloated and crampy during the night. A few charcoals capsules down and I eventually got back to sleep.

I just won an eBay auction for this recipe book. I think I first heard of it through Lia's blog and there is a whole series of them I want to get my hands on. These were produced by the Australian Institute of Sport and there is "Survival For the Fittest" which is what I just bought, "Survival From the Fittest" and "Survival Around the World" which is on the hit list when I find them on eBay eventually (please don't bid against taintz )

If you are interested in this series also another "Survival For the Fittest" has just been listed and you can click the link to get to it and start bidding if you like.

Dad is back in hospital again. They have no idea what's wrong with him which is getting frustrated since he has been in hospital so often lately with the same thing. They thought it may have been gall stones but he only has small crystals that they can find. So that shouldn't be causing pain. His liver is playing up and generally he gets in a lot of pain. I really hope they find it and fix it very soon. They are talking about pulling out his gall bladder just in case at this stage. Bit odd but it's no major operation at least. I have kept training and eating well during this time (for once) and as you can see even ticked off a perfect week.

My chart looks all pretty decorated with stickers LOL.

I start my new job on Monday which I am indeed very excited about. Will have to report back to you all on how that goes.

I still haven't got a car. Buying Lozza's car fell through which I am so upset about and now I have less than half that money to spend. It's so annoying.

I am eying off different things on my 101 list to knock over. So that's well and truly started.

I am trying to uncurl from the foetal position after a particularly heavy training week so I can go for a run and continue the couch to 5km thing I have started. I love the DOMS (kind of) but I must be able to do my running too! Plus I have at least another lifetime of heavy training sessions in front of me LOL.

I hope everyone has had a brilliant weekend. Can't wait to catch up on your blogs.

2007-03-15T18:37:00.000+11:00

I have bumped up the 101 list :) Because I am ticking things off!

This week I achieved no. 93! Tick off a perfect week. I am working on no. 90 which is "compete in something physical to win". With my Good Friday Appeal Run, Walk, Ride or Swim so they may grow. I have done over 70kms so far and I'm leading the board at the gym. (And hoping to stay there too)

A huge thanks to all those people who have decided to step forward and sponsor me. No one is getting passed me at the moment without being asked. It's a great cause. So keep the pledges rolling in!

Today at the gym I moved on with the Couch to 5km program. YAY! I am into week 3! It's taken me all year to get here but persistence pays :) You don't have to move on to the next week just because it IS the next week. I figure there is no point pushing myself into more injuries (And I always go as hard as I can anyway)

I hope everyone is having a great week!

2007-03-14T14:48:00.000+11:00

Hi All!

My gym is running a fund raiser for the Royal Childrens Hospital Good Friday Appeal and I have decided to jump on board.

Basically I count how many kms I do in a run, walk, swim or cycle session everyday and put them on a board. I then have to go out and find some sponsorship! (The classes have a set km allowance also)

I am looking for people to either sponsor me per km I can put on the board or just sponsor me a set amount (say $20) It's all payable in the week before easter so even if you can't rake up anything now you might / should be able to by then.

No excuses if you live on the other side of the country to me either because I am more than happy to provide bank details or my address

I would love it if as many people could get behind me and the kids as possible!

There is a treadmill to be won for the person who raises the most money but I'm not holding my breath knowing how many gyms there are.

To sponsor me just post a comment here and include your email address (if it's not already linked through) or send an email to kitten _ jadey at hotmail dot com (obviously not in that format) And I'll send you the details!

IMAGINATION

2007-03-12T16:37:00.000+11:00

"Imagination in the beginning of creation.
You imagine what you desire,
you will what you imagine,
and at last you create
what you will."

~George Bernard Shaw

Thanks!

2007-03-11T13:57:00.000+11:00

I'm just going through and trying to set up the bloglines thingy now. All those people that were interested - check out the comments on my last post and you will find all the answers. Well most of them anyway. It is a tad confusing.

I was scheduled to do the couch to 5km week 2 this morning and it had disappeared off my iPod! I almost gave up and went home but I decided I know what I’m SUPPOSED to be doing so I set the iPod to shuffle and went at it as hard as I could anyway. After my body balance class my hips is feeling heaps better when I walk or run now and I got through it all! YAY!

I am feeling nauseous at the moment though. Not like the “worked too hard gunna chuck” kind but just nauseous. It’s been 4 hours since my workout now so the work too hard one wouldn’t still be going – I don’t think, but it has been awhile since I did work to that point.
(I just found out I can copy/paste smilies I hope it works)

I am NOT going to accept it and allow myself to get sick. Screw that!

Not much else planned for the weekend/ I have just done my measurements. Anyone care to cry along with me?

I still haven't bounced back from the other night. It was a pretty serious breakdown. I thought I would get out or even maybe hire a dvd and watch it with one of my best friends last night cause Mum and Dad were going out. But she wouldn't answer or phone or respond to my text messages. Still hasn't. Rikki is a bit unreliable like that. So I watched Honey on channel 10. Not bad. Then I took the dogs for a walk and went to bed.

I've got a new chart running (how many times can I do this to myself) Pretty determined to make this a success chart! I've been so good the last few days even through the drama not once have I touched anything off my diet or even over eaten!

Life will come under control gradually and I am sure Jase and I will get back on track when my new job starts paying.

For all those that asked, my job is in Melbourne but I won't post details as the last thing you need is for your employer to find your blog hey! As it's with a national company though I am hoping when the time comes (whenever that may be) I can have a pretty seemless transfer to a NSW Office.

I hope everyone is having a great weekend!

Blog Rolls?

2007-03-10T22:24:00.000+11:00

I believe (I may be very wrong) But there is something you can use to subscribe to people's blogs? So you get an email or notification of some sort when they update?

My blogspirations is getting out of control so can anyone help me find and use whatever this thing is? PLEASE

Body Balance

2007-03-10T18:04:00.000+11:00

"BODYBALANCE® is a revolution in mind-body training.

A dynamic, fitness-to-music program that leaves you feeling relaxed and renewed, BODYBALANCE® combines the best of eastern disciplines, like yoga and tai chi, with popular new methods such as Pilates.

Controlled breathing, concentration and a carefully structured series of stretches, moves and poses create a holistic workout that brings the body into a state of harmony and balance."

Today I honored 2 promises I have made to myself.

1) To try a new class every week
2) To do a type of Stretching class at least once a week

This week I thought Body Balance would be a nice relaxing start to my weekend. Easy going not hard if I kept to the easy stretches and good for my body. I had heard it was a bit of a cardio workout but seriously the moves are slow and controlled how much cardio could there be?

I really don't think I could have been more wrong about this.

Within the first track my heart rate had jumped and I was sweating profusely! Somewhere along the way I thought I was going to die! I couldn't hold poses as long as others and who knew that something that looked so innocent could so seriously challenge your quads?

But by the time we got to the relaxation I felt amazing. It really calmed me down alot. Last night I was screaming and a bit hysterical after yesterday had turned upside down on me in various areas of my life. This morning I did not want to get up but I remembered I had made this appointment with myself to try this class. And I remembered Excuses or Accomplishments the Ralph Marston quote I first read thanks to Rae.

I am so glad I did it. I may even make it a weekly event. Not sure how I'll go with the other "stretching" classes like yoga and pilates but I'll give them a shot in good time too. I feel like a new person after that.

So would you like to know just how challenging I found it?
I burnt 970 calories in my 1 hour body balance class. Amazing! I get 1100 out of a cycle class.

EXCITEMENT!

2007-03-08T17:57:00.000+11:00

I went for a job interview today and I was offered the position on the spot!

It's where I wanted to be. Lets keep out fingers crossed it's where I'm MEANT to be! I won't say anything about where I'm working (Cause I really don't need anyone finding my blog) but it is in the health and fitness industry and I start in a couple of weeks.

Hello!

2007-03-06T18:30:00.000+11:00

I haven't had a chance to read anyone's blogs yet. It might take me a week to get to everyone so I apologise for that. I am so keen to catch up on what has happened in everyone's lives while I've been away.

QLD rally was one of the best I think we have ever done. I really really enjoyed it but I was buggered by the time I got home. Then I had to sort and upload all the photos which took up every second of my time that I stayed near a computer.

Yesterday I drove home from Sydney to Melbourne. Almost twice or so it felt like. The story goes a bit like this. I got in the car nice and early, had a few showers etc but when they cleared about 3 hours down the road I decided it was time for my sunnies. Reach into my handbag and.... Wait on. Where is my handbag? That's when I saw this image quite clearly in my head....

Yup my handbag was sitting on the bench at Jason's house with everything I needed in it. Lucky I didn't wait until I had to fill up to discover this!

So I turned around and got it. By the time I made it back to where I was I could have been over halfway home disappointing but that's life.

I continued this trip so well in torrential rains in the southern highlands with flooded roads. And Torrential winds in Northern Victoria with flying trees. It was white knuckle stuff I tell you and second time that same thing has happened in that same spot in Northern Vic to me! Surrounded by trees on the sides of the road so no place to stop, but they are also flying through the air and falling over!

I passed one car who was towing a trailer that had been blown on it's side by the wind!

Anyway I'm home safe and I'm way overweight. (102.9kgs)
I have a plan! I have sorted some help.

I will fill you in another time.

2007-02-20T14:12:00.000+11:00

It's another glorious day here. I have been up early to get Jason into work then pick him up again before 10:30am for a specialists appointment.

While he was seeing the specialist I wandered down at Dee Why beach and grabbed a couple of snaps. There is a hell of alot of seaweed on the beach at the moment I tell you!

I may just head back later for a paddle in the rockpool. Even in the middle of the day on a workday it's busy down there.

I really have discovered a new appreciation for the beach that was never there before.

My hips is still stiff and sore. I don't have a yoga video or anything but I will try some stretches thanks Amy! I really need it in good shape as we have the long drive to QLD tomorrow and then I will be on my feet from Thursday through to Monday night.

I'm really looking forward to the rally but praying it's not rainy or muggy in QLD. And I'm taking LOTS of sunscreen!

I wont be around until next Thurday probably so take care of yourselves till then.

Long Walk and a Dicky Hip

2007-02-19T14:36:00.000+11:00

Yesterday was another beautiful Sydney day. The sky was blue the sun was shining and it was mostly spent with friends.

We started the day going on a cruise with some of Jason's friends down through the local national park past the river (where we stopped for photos and a chat) and on to Palm Beach. No time to stop at my fav cafe this time though.

We were quickly off to meet with some other friends at the Mona Vale Hotel for lunch. I had an indulgent Beef Burger and a divine Chocolate Rocher Mousse cake. The waitress said it's called the Oh My God cake and I gotta agree. Yummy!

I came home a bit of a rest some waxing and I had to check emails and then I went for a really long walk. I walked all the way from Belrose to Dee Why Beach. About 10kms. That is HUGE for me and unfortunately my hip flexor has really suffered for it. I knew when I got to Beacon Hill that my hip was having issues but by the time I got to Dee Why I was in agony. This morning I can hardly walk!

I will do that walk more often though. I will do it with bathers so I can go for a swim when I get there too.

Sydney's beaches are just so pretty.

Now today I have discovered there is no cola of any sort in this house. This makes for an extremely grumpy Jadey and I do not have the ability with my current hip situation to resolve it! I hate the fact that I buy 2 x 18 packs of coke and everyone else drinks it. More that I find half empty coke cans around the place. What a waste!

I think however the time is coming for me to move back. I think waiting for Jason to sell the house will leave me waiting a long time. Me being away has gone from making us closer to making us fight again. More in frustration that neither of us know what we can do to make everything in our lives perfect. I know there are going to be things that I am unhappy about (like having Storm outside) but I can hopefully work through a few things with Jean and be a bit more "at home". I am going to ask that Storm be allowed in downstairs only at night or bad weather (hot or raining) We will see how we go.

I have applied for a few jobs and we will see how things pan out.

When I move there will be parties at both ends :P any excuse for a get together.

Great Morning!

2007-02-17T12:48:00.000+11:00

I think there is no better way to start the day than a walk in a lovely spot with friends followed by a wonderful and chatty breakfast where you talk amongst each other freely and comfortably. What is more remarkable (even though nothing new) is that this happens with people you have never met before.

Margaret, CKK and I all met up at Palm Beach this morning and walked the stairs. We only did one half up and back mind you because otherwise there would have been no returning to the car. (Not sure Im up for the walk twice yet)

We ended up on the beach (shock horror for anyone who knows me) with wet butts and smiles on our faces. ("Never turn your back on the ocean" ~ M) Then headed into Dunes for breakfast. What are my weekends going to be without that place? I am in love.

M sumped on the Smoked Salmon and Scrambled Eggs, CKK had a vegetarian big breakfast and I had a double serving of banana bread. Its a side dish really. Well I'll keep telling myself that anyway.

The conversation flowed and we talked about taboo topics sometimes with different views and no bitterness whatsoever. This is the way life should be.

M & CKK thanks so much for making the effort to drive up to Palmy. I can't wait for some beach cricket up there later in the year!

Another 2 Blogging friends convereted to true mates.

Congratulations Mr & Mrs S

2007-02-15T11:24:00.000+11:00

OMG!

To think I would be so happy and teary and everything all at once.

My best friend got married yesterday and the lead up had been waxing, tanning, nails etc. Plus I wanted to be there for her when she needed me (There were no official attendants).

I turned up to the Westin where Loz was getting ready. The makeup and hair lady had left and Loz was looking great in her corset and evo shirt. (its a car thing :p) Jon was still there (They both stayed the night so tradition went out the window) and of course wouldn't run away so we got her into her dress anyway.

She was so stunning. Absolutely every bit the princess of the day.

There was a beautiful ceremony at Observatory Hill overlooking the bridge from the rotunda, and a fantastic reception at Prime, a restaurant within the GPO.

It was a huge day for all involved. Obviously none more than Loz and Jon. They were actually going to elope and get married in some place far away to avoid the stress etc. Plus neither are keen on being the focus of attention. But I think in the end they are glad they did it the way they have and have no regrets. (I hope so anyway they looked really happy)

The one regret I have is that I should have had Loz's hair and make up lady look after mine. I still own no make up!

A Mixed Bag

2007-02-12T16:16:00.000+11:00

I finally got my hands on my camera cable and I have been "clicky" since I made it back to Sydney so be prepared for a mixed post. More a photo commentary of my recent life :p

First up when I arrived home from Sydney my Mum had missed me so much! She thought it would be wonderful to come into my room first thing in the morning and take photos of her sleeping daughter. Aren't I glad I taught her how to use my camera?

Some photos of the sunburn I got at the Palm Beach rockpool. Wearing 4 hour waterproof sunscreen and only being in the water an hour and a half! Brilliant! Sun Safety my butt!

I may or may not have mentioned before that my other half has a thing for redheads. I am a dark reddy brown right now but have decided to lighten it up again a little bit and go for a change. The closest thing to what I think I might do is......

I now have 2 dresses in my life. Working on crossing off some of my 101 things to do in 1000 Days list. I am going to wear the black and green one to the Wedding on Valentines day. I wore the other to the Kitchen Tea yesterday.

A couple of photos from our sleepover. I didn't take many at all!

Mum and Dad swear Storm is the naughty dog and Knackers can do no wrong. I took a quick video of him up on their bed to prove that he is a cheeky bugger. Much much loved cheeky bugger.

My brother decided to shave his head as it was getting annoying. He's had a few girlfriends that were hairdressers but since he doesn't talk to them anymore no one is cutting it right. He has never shaved it before so I snapped a shot.

Well so what's been happening? Not that much really. After I got up here on Friday I spent most of Saturday running around. Got new tyres and ran some neccessary errands. Then Saturday night my other half wanted to go for a cruise. So we drove all over the northern beaches. This is the rockpool at Palm Beach late at night.

We drove for hours and hours and really I was way over it. But anything to keep him happy since he hasn't left the house all week after hurting himself on the way to work last Monday and ending up in hospital. As you can see in the photo below I was a touch tired (check out those bags!)

On Sunday morning we all got up like good little chookens and went to Palm Beach to tackle the steps. Nick came up to our house and we picked Loz up on the way. Jason decided to come along this time and while there was no way he could attempt the steps himself due to his injuries he could still pick us up at the end and enjoy breakfast at Dunes with us too.

As per normal it's the hardest walks that give you the best results and great views.

At the top of the stairs (from the RSL side) Are houses and out the front of one house is this gorgeous little electric car. Apparently they can't be registered in Australia. (There was a guy in the paper that imported a whole pile of them that are stuck on the docks I believe)

Nick decided to have a bit of a run up the stairs and ended up in hospital later in the day having injured his back for those efforts. Lucky Jason came along because we were only half way and getting back down would have been much harder.

At the other end of the steps is the point at Palm Beach where the rockpool is. The Steps finish up at Horden Park which is opposite the pool. (Or start there if that's the direction you want to go)

On the way I picked this beautiful Hibiscus flower.

After our walk we all headed to Dunes for Breakfast. At Palm Beach in Governer Phillip Park (I never knew it was called that till now) Which is where we are going for Breakfast on Saturday (all those bloggers interested in coming should scroll down a few posts for details)

I enjoyed the pancakes, while Loz had Smoked Salmon and Scrambled eggs and Nick and Jason both enjoyed a big breakfast. (Photos are of Loz and Nick as Jase likes to pull faces and not have his photo taken.) We all shared a bit of Toasted Banana Bread with Strawberry Butter (to die for)

Last but not least, Sunday afternoon was Loz's Kitchen Tea. She gets married tomorrow (Valentines Day) and it's going to be a small wedding. I was so thrilled she invited me to her kitchen tea and so happy to meet so many lovely people. Jason won't be joining me at the wedding (which is a shame as he is friends with Bride and Groom too) so it makes a huge difference to know people to talk to on the day.

The little one on Loz's lap is her Nephew Ethan. He turned 3 last week and he's a bundle of energy. Plus he's just so cute.

Loz you truly are a princess! Thanks so much for involving me in your wedding. Lots of Love your way honey. Good luck!

LONG Trip

2007-02-10T17:49:00.000+11:00

Well I finally arrived back in Sydney. I was supposed to be here by 6pm last night but encountered a few issues along the way and ended up arriving after 1am this morning.

It all started out on time and on plan. I travelled the way my TomTom wanted me to which kind of goes backwards before it goes forwards but it is the quickest way normally. That is until you listen to the radio and discover your route is probably going to be blocked for hours after a major car accident.

At which stage you have to turn around and drive straight past your house to get back to the new route you now need to take. BUM!

I got to Craigieburn when I had problems with the Intercooler (car speak sorry) and had to wait for 2.5 hours for people to help me fix that at which point a problem with the alarm was discovered and again I had to backtrack to Fawkner to get that fixed. Another hour or so wasted there.

I finally got on the road and headed out of town. Where I discovered each km was ticking over pretty quickly until I needed a bathroom badly and the next toilet stop was about 20km away. All of a sudden it took forever! The perceived time it takes to travel any distance is determined by the capacity of ones bladder.

With the sheer amount of time I spend on the road I really should invest in a TravelJohn (available at Rays btw)

Are the pictures too much informtation? LOL

In truly committed style I packed all of my meals into a cooler with drinks. And even ensured I downed 2 litres of water along the way. (Much to my dismay around Benalla when trees by the side of the road looked like a fantastic spot to ummm.... stop and survey the scenery a little closer lol)

With all my setbacks I ran out of food long before I should have. I was stressed and when I got to Yass CAVED and bought McDonalds. I'm still pissed at myself for it. But there was very nearly a cheesecake incident that I did manage to avoid. (After the quarter pounder I woke up and thought "wtf are you doing?")

At Yass I also noticed my back tyre was down a bit and filled it back up again. Got to Marulan to fill up with petrol (And still haven't touched chocolate or any offerings from service stations at this stage) and checked the tyres again which were all perfect.

In Campbelltown I called Jase to jokingly give him a 1 hour warning. I am on my approach! Less than 3 minutes later my back tyre shredded doing 115km an hour in the fast lane overtaking a whole pile of people. It took me awhile to pull over and the shoulder was narrow, it was very dark and of course my car was SO full! I called the NRMA and set about unpacking the car.

I got to the tyre and it was bolted in so tight it was stuck! I originally only wanted the NRMA for their safety lights and lighting to work by but I tell you my RACV total care membership is invaluable because there was no way I was going to be able to even remove the spare on my own.

I called Jase to give him a revised plan and he set off in my direction as the NRMA told me they were going to be awhile. They ended up arriving pretty quickly (NRMA) and I met Jason and Nick half way and headed for home, I went from arriving here at 6pm to arriving after 1am!

I am so tired today!!!!! LOL

I got an sms this afternoon that put me in good spirits though.

It is with pleasure that I can let you know Em's baby arrived into the world this afternoon! Much awaited and I'm sure she's glad to be over this pregnancy. His name is William and he is 6lb 14oz! Born at 1:20pm.

I think William is the first boy in the blogger community (that I can think of from the top of my head anyway) So he's going to have plenty of girlfriends to chose from when he gets older.

On that positive note I am going to love you and leave you. Snuggle on the couch with my boy (who has just got out of hospital) and watch tv or some movies or anything.

Have a great weekend!

Bad Place

2007-02-07T15:24:00.000+11:00

You know the funny thing is that my trips to Sydney used to be what had me fall flat on my face weight wise. But this time I got it all under control. It was when I came home that all of a sudden everything went pair shaped.

I have had one massive binge. Avoided the gym and done everything WRONG!

It all came to a head last night when I sat down with a massive box of chocolates and started eating them. Totally delicious but WTF am I doing? They were supposed to be a gift for someone else NOT for Jadey!

So I threw them in th bin. I threw chips in the bin and I finished off by throwing the Jubies I had here in the bin.

Now I never ever throw out food. NEVER. But I am seriously in need of a smack across the head I'm not going to get from anyone but myself. So bin it is!

Today I've been back to eating right, went for a run at the gym getting a touch organised and read articles and bits and pieces to help me be where I want to be.

The Body for Life Champions from 2006 have just been announced and wow! Seriously go and have a look, read their stories and convert their weight losses. ALL done in just 12 weeks.

So where are my excuses? None of them are good enough.

I want to buy a freezer so I went shopping with Mum and started having a look around. I just wanted a cheap chest freezer until I realised they aren't frost free and I remember all too well the cleaning that needed doing when I worked at Dairy Hell Ice Cream. So I thought ok lets have a look around at some frost free freezers. Which are all uprights but meh easier to get to stuff and no strenuous cleaning jobs was sounding good.

Then I came across this

Does anyone else have a "thing" for good household appliances? OMG These are too good! I want them both. In my Kitchen today! 519 litres each. One with water one without. Upside down, nice and wide, very commercial looking. HOT HOT HOT!

I would have posted the photos but Blogger doesn't want to play (bastard blogger)

In typical Jadey style I went shopping to spend a couple of hundred dollars and walked away wanting desperately to charge $5,000 to my GE card. (12 months interest free no repayments it's all good right?)

I am too scared to go into a white goods store in case I severely punish my GE card.

In all seriousness though I am looking for a chest freezer. I want to be able to precook and freeze my meals and I can't do that with the space we have at the moment. I need to find my path to wellness again and I am doing nothing to help myself.

I would have to say knowing that despite the consequences and everything else that I have still binged and done myself harm I would have to fall into the category of a food addict. I hate that I have this problem but I am recognizing it and it MUST have an end put to it.

I will let you know how I am progressing with time. Maybe one of those boring daily reports on food and exercise?

11am: M1~ BFL ready to drink shake
12:30: Couch to 5km Program Week 3
2pm: M2 ~ Subway 6" Roasted Chicken Double Meat on Honey Oat
4pm: M3 ~ Chicken Cheese Avocado Wrap
8:45pm: M4 ~ Lemon Pepper Salmon and Steamed Veggies
10:30pm: M5 ~ Stallone Protein pudding Vanilla Creme Flavour.

1.2 litres of water down
Must improve on this.

Tagged by Deb!

2007-02-05T13:17:00.000+11:00

5 Things you Don't know About me!

Is this even possible? I don't hold back and tell you all everything.

Ummmmmm

1. I am a tad materialistic.
I like to have nice things and I like to have gadgets. I hate settling for second best or settling for something I don't "want" to fill the gaps. But lets face it I don't earn the money to buy the stuff I do want.

2. I hate paying retail. Who doesn't? I will use any and every contact I have in order to get the best deal on "big ticket" items. When I am paying through the nose anyway I might as well save every $$ I can.

3. I am an optimist and a pessimist! As well as being both an introvert and an extrovert. I fit into both categories dependent on the subject. I am very much a dreamer though. Weird huh!

4. I love and crave organisation but I can also be one of the messiest people you will ever meet. I am your classic hoarder so there is junk everywhere that I should really throw out but keep in case I need it one day.

5. I am a born again Christian and I am pro life

TAG: Kathryn, Catie, Brooke, Pip and Kek

Humina Humina

2007-02-04T21:11:00.000+11:00

I have one thing to say about the Biggest Loser.

HOW HOT IS SHANNAN PONTON???????

Drool.

Jadey is firmly a fan.

Did anyone else bawl their eyes out during tonights episode or is it just me that's the massive sook?

What a great weekend!

2007-02-04T18:35:00.000+11:00

I want to thank Brooke and Miles for hosting us all last night. Philippa, Ails and Cynthia for being fabulous bunk buddies. Linda and Ashley for turning up even though they couldn't stay and thanks so much for bringing Molly. She is just so gorgeous. To Kathryn and Bee for coming to breakfast.

I am so tired! I typed up a big long post but it didn't make much sense at all. My camera cord is in Sydney so I am sure you will get the updates from one of these girls! haha.

Breakfast By The Beach!

2007-02-02T20:21:00.000+11:00

Hi to all the Sydney girls, this one is especially for you.

I am going to miss the Trapeze activities that are happening in Sydney but I have been dying to meet you all for so long I decided it was time I organised something.

Place: Car park Opposite Palm Beach RSL Club
Date: Saturday February 17th
Time: 7:15am Meet up for a 7:30am set off

Activity: Palm Beach Steps followed by Breakfast at "Dunes"
Wear: Comfortable clothes, walking shoes and sunscreen.
Don't forget your water bottles.

The walk has around 700 steps and is a bit tough for half way (it goes up and down in 700 steps) everyone can go their own pace (I can almost guarantee to be the slowest) It takes around 40 minutes to complete and I've seen grandparents walk it so no fear LOL

For those not keen on the steps we will have breakfast at Dunes at around 8:30am. I will make a booking when I have an idea on numbers. I don't mind if you only come for one or the other. Just to get together would be wonderful. It's nice and early so hopefully it wont interfere with anyone's planned weekend activities, you will just have to fight the urge to stay in bed :)

So please respond and let me know that YOU WILL be there :-D

Stubborn

2007-02-02T13:47:00.000+11:00

Yep that's me!

I tend to wear holes in the thighs of my jeans because I have fat chunky rubbing legs. I know lots of us chunkers have the same issues when it comes to pants. Well skirts and stuff too (which is why you will almost never find me wearing one although I BOUGHT A DRESS!) because wearing holes in your actual thighs does happen and it's freaking painful!

Anyway I had 1 pair of Jeans I bought from KMart at the end of last year to get me through until I was back at that size 14 borderline I was at earlier in the year. And I have successfully worn through them between my legs. Wore them for as long as possible without looking stupid and NOW they are past it.

So I did what normal people do and went shopping. Although apparently I am again not normal. (kick a girl while she's down!) I don't fit 16's again! I am an 18 at least. But Im stubborn. I have jeans here that probably fit me from my fat pile. But I am determioned to give them away and not wear them again. I am equally determined NOT to buy clothes that are any larger than a size 16.

I now have 3 pairs of track pants and 2 pairs of black workpants that are a touch tight but wearable. I will not buy jeans until I fit back into a size 16.

Lets hope this is some motivation hey! I live in Jeans!

Alternatively I did my monthly weigh in and measurements for my Oxygen calender. I have lost cm's but hardly any weight. I am happy with this. Cm's matter!

I'm Home!

2007-02-01T19:08:00.000+11:00

I drove home on Monday in the boyfriends car. Jase is missing it and I think a bit worried about me having it plus a little upset at the inconvenience of it all but hey what a sweetheart.

I'll be putting my hands on my new car sometime in the next couple of months and I', very excited about it. It's not a 4wd but that will surely come eventually. Isn't she pretty.

At the moment I have named her Maggie but that's subject to change. LOL.

I am buying her off one of my very best friends Loz who is mentioned all the freaking time on my blog and has managed (Until now) to keep her face off of it. See below!

Loz is marrying the love of her life on Valentines day and it is so exciting! I've figured out her kitchen tea present (not telling you hun!) But although she knows what her wedding present is going to be it's being a bitch to find ha-ha. Must be perfect!

Unfortunately my first stop on arrival into town was the Royal Melbourne Hospital where a friend of mine was in an induced coma after a motorbike accident. I was put on the ICU list as his girlfriend so I could go in and see him and went back again Tuesday. He is doing much better now and I will get back in tomorrow or over the weekend to see him again. These hospitals make a tonne of money on parking though I tell you!

On Monday when I couldn't get hold of Megan at home or on her mobile I figured there was a baby coming and phoned the hospital by Tuesday. Sure enough she was there in labor. Congrats to Megan and Dean on the birth of Chiara Elizabeth Anne on Wednesday morning at 8:44am. After being told baby was going to be tiny she gave birth to a 10lb 5oz little girl who is absolutely the apple of her mothers eye. I am hoping to get in and visit them tomorrow. (with my camera)

Sunday Loz, Nick and I went to Palm Beach and had a swim. Even though we were all earing water proof sunscreen we all ended up severely burnt within 1.5 hours. My sunscreen was supposed to last IN water for 4 hours. Not happy!

We had a great and indulgent lunch at Dunes and really enjoyed each others company. To say it made it harder for me to leave is nothing short of an understatement! I love my friends so much and our time together is always quality.

My burn has meant I haven't done any exercise until today as I haven't been able to wear a bra! (Shocker) But today I finally moved on to week 3 of the couch to 5 km program. I tell you it's hard freaking work and I wanted to stop running so many times. I'm proud to say I didn't though and although I struggled hard I got through it! Just. But that's all that matters right?

I think my shoes are making a big difference but I am still getting used to them. They feel alot heavier than the Shox but I don't feel as much pain. The lactic build up I felt as I was running today was hard to get through though.

Something new for the diet is a Creatine supplement. I am not loading (on professional advice I don't need to) but just taking a level teaspoon in my shakes after a workout daily. I started using it today. I have EAS Phosphagen which is great because it mixes smoothly and has no taste or anything so I don;t even know it's there. It should help me, build and maintain good muscle mass, reduce post workout soreness, lift bigger weights, run better and as a lead on from having more muscle eventually lose more weight. Apparently I will hold water though so I am expecting a weight gain and I just don't care!

Anyway I hope everyone else is good!

2007-01-27T12:10:00.000+11:00

Personally I think this is a much better photo of Jen. I am so excited to go and learn so many new things. Get out of my comfort zone by a damn long way and get some more motivation and knowledge to do the right things by my body.

Fabulous!

This morning Loz came and picked me up and we headed for the gym. That place is packed on a Saturday morning and for basically the first time we weren't there at opening. My ankles were a bit tender and Loz had a goal of doing the steps at Palm Beach again so we headed off to Palmy and did the other lot of steps near the RSL. Great walk but God it stuffs me.

Then we drove up to the parking area at the Dunes / "Summer Bay" and parked the car and walked out to the end of Palm Beach to the rock pool and back. Sat down and enjoyed a beautiful healthy breakfast at the Cafe there called Dunes which is really quite lovely.

Actually I just googled Dunes, Palm Beach and found it has quite the following.

We burnt over 1500 calories this morning and was going to go for a swim after Brekky but Loz has a Gift Registry to put together for her wedding which is like 2.5 weeks away (So Exciting!) And neither of us remembered sunscreen & weren't to keen on burning. Although we plan to head back tonight for a swim. Must remember my camera this time!

I'm getting weird about going home at the moment which is very annoying. I love being here and I love being with my folks. I don't want to go and yet can't wait to get back all at once. With Loz's wedding around the corner I shall be back in a mere matter of days though so I will try not to fret.

I hope you are all having fabulous weekends. I hear Melbourne is cold and wet right now (boo hiss) Hoping that I bring todays weather back with me.

Australia Day

2007-01-26T20:31:00.000+11:00

Happy Australia Day All!

I have had a slow and nothing kind of day today which has been pretty good until now when I am bored and dying to eat the chocolate that is sitting in the house.

This morning a mate came around and we were going to help him clean up his car, but it wouldn't start. But he came anyway (has 2 cars) and we had a good old Big Aussie Brekky.

I cooked my little heart out and I don't think anyone actually NEEDED to eat for most of the day afterwards. I kept it fairly healthy too. I am so happy with my boy who had cleaned up the whole kitchen before I could get near it. Thanks Bup Bow!

One day I will get involved in all the celebrations etc like I used to. In Frankston we used to have an Australia Day Parade that went from the city centre out to Ballam Park (locals would know it) At the park there would be a carnival to enjoy with rides and food and general fun, as well as the awards and citizenship ceremonies etc.

I used to be a professional clown! In fact it was my first job and I started out in parades like these. Leading a float and making kids laugh etc. It was brilliant! Even though every year I would need to be almost starkers under my costume because of the heat! Oh and do you have any clue how many guys will hit on a clown? I swear to God, if you are single and looking give it a go. It probably comes down to the confidence thing guys seem to like.

The days of parades are now long gone. And I don't know if they have the celebrations in the park anymore. I hope they do! I am in Sydney this Australia Day though and I should have made some kind of effort to find something similar and enjoy a day out.

This Australia Day seems to be extra patriotic this year. I haven't seen so many flags in a damn long time! Good on us Aussies I say. Wave em proudly. I guess it comes from all the controversy in the last week.

I am still carless but will be driving the other halfs wheels back to Melbourne on Monday. Bit of a bummer for him though cause then he wont have any wheels to get around with. It makes it hard with his leg and all too, but what can I do when I need it for work?

I know it sounds ungrateful when I whinge about MIL but I have said alot without any response. The reason cooking becomes difficult is because when I live here and I get home from work she has already got dinner organised and cooked up. Very frustrating because she tends to have everything cooked by 4 - 5pm.

Anyway, she listened to me about the rissoles! Success.

(And here I am craving the chocolate great example I set huh!)

Tomorrow Loz and I are planning on going for a run and then going for a swim. We avoided the pool today because I suspect they would have all been packed with kids and families and while I love kids I KNOW, when I don't I just haven't the patience LOL. Very bad.

I wonder if we should do brekky too. Will try to remember to charge my camera tonight and take it with me. Jase has it at the moment at a mates house.

We were supposed to go out tonight for dinner with friends, but in a last minute change of plans Jase has taken his car to a friends place to fit his stereo before I go. He's had the new speakers sitting in his office for a damn long time, aren't I the lucky girl? LOL But for the time being I am at home, been reading all your blogs, commented on most. Bored out of my mind. Cannot wait for the tennis to just P... Off!

I was looking forward to dinner out too. Ah well such is life LOL

Now I was reading Rae's & Lia's blogs and wondering how on earth they do the food thing. I mean obviously I have food issues. They just seem to glide trough it all. No chocolate binges. No Mc Donalds or KFC splurges. Is it something you just learn? And when will it come easy to me?

I REGISTERED!!!!!

2007-01-25T09:30:00.000+11:00

Me and my friend Loz just simulatneously registered for Phat Camp 2007!

OMG! So damn scary!

So Sydney siders, I am heading your way to do Phat Camp with the lovely Fitness International champion and Ms. Fitness Olympia champion 2005, Jen Hendershott in May 4 - 6. I would LOVE it if you could join us for a fun filled, healthy, informative weekend.

Phat camp is 2 full days and Friday evening. You will be training 5 body parts, learning new and exciting exercises, trying new ideas of cardio, sitting through nutritional and motivational seminars. Jen shares stories of success and of struggles. There are activities that focus on cooking, supplements, time management and commitment. You will also receive a free Phat Camp T-shirt compliments of iSatori Technologies and Phat Camp Inc. You will take home with you paper works with workouts, exercises, cardio, nutritional facts and much more. You will spend the weekend with women just like you. At Phat camp Jen has the NO drama policy. Come to camp and be yourself. Work as hard as you want or as little.

Sydney Fires

2007-01-23T08:54:00.000+11:00

OK so I found a car last week. Made a deal with the bloke and everything and flew down to Melbourne with the boy to check it out. What the guy failed to inform me was....

It has a roadworthy that expired mid last year NOT supplied with roadworthy like he said.

The photos depict the car when he bought it - 5 years ago and a hell of alot of scratches and mistreatment since then.

It has about $1000 worth of work that needs doing before it is roadworthy.

His word was worth nothing to a $2 hooker!

I left the car in Melbourne and had to HIRE a car 1 way back to Sydney to get Jase home in time for work on Monday morning as there was basically no flights available. I had a migraine Saturday night after all the stress so poor Jase had to do all the driving as I couldn't find a focus at all.

I'm somewhere near $1500+ down for my misadventure and so upset about it all. That's a shitload of money when you are trying to buy a car.

Back to the drawing board.

Sunday night we went out for dinner with friends and on the way home could clearly see the glow from the fire in Sydney's Northern suburbs. So after driving 1000kms we decided to take a quick detour (an hour perhaps) and drive out to see the fires.

We almost got stuck up North as the closed the southbound lanes of the F3 amd the Old Pacific Hwy was a standstill! Luckily we decided to take the Wisemans Ferry route home and after going through the middle of fires on both sides of the road and taking a few piccys (virtually none of which turned out) we made it home 4 hours later.

Mary I am so sorry I missed your BBQ. I ended up taking off for Melbourne on Friday night.

Yesterday I took Jasons car to get repaired on the other side o town and then came back to pick up a workmate of his to take him to the ferry as it was the only way up or down the coast. The queue? 3 hours long! It went for miles and miles. Poor bloke.

I grabbed a shot from one of the residents parking spots. to give SOME idea but there was no way of getting the whole queue in the photo as it was just too long and went too far back down the peninsula. It easily stretched back past the Pine trees winding all the way out onto the street. Palm Beach was just manic so I gave up on the swimming idea for the day.

Have so far made today a good one. Got out of bed at 5am and was at the gym for doors open. Still in week 2 of the couch to 5km but as I was ok with it before the change in shoes I think that's all it is. Just getting used to me new running style with the new shoes.

Again can't praise Running Science enough.

Also got some shakes etc with me now so that was breakfast sorted and I just need to keep on track to make sure I get the results I am aiming for. Having not weighed for over a week now is killing me! I can't believe it. I am so scales orientated and not having mine "ooch." I just need to keep plodding along with the knowledge that if I do the right thing I will see the results.

Sydney

2007-01-16T13:50:00.000+11:00

Things have been going well this trip! In a kind of way.

So the thought pattern was that I am supposed to buy a new car now I sold my old one. I mean I drive for a living so really there isn't much other choice. Except all my options have blown up in my face and I can't buy anything.

So I am in Sydney and I am carless. *Cries*

Something will sort itself out I am sure. There are a few options happening at the moment, but it never stops the stress.

I went and had my feet assessed at Running Sceince in Rozelle. For those who don't know Running Science is a team of physiotherapists, podiatrists and othe health professionals who ensure you get the correct shoes for your gait. (Pronate/supinate/neutral and the zillion other factors)

They are absolutely fanstastic and I cannot praise them highly enough. Their service and analysis and sales are brilliant and although I have struck a small rubbing problem not detected at purchase one phone call and they are more than happy to help me get it all sorted out.

They put me on a treadmill with cameras aimed at my feet and watched the way I walk, where I throw my feet to, the way they roll and the balance. It turns out I have neautral feet but they are very unstable so it was more a matter of a snug fit and creating that stability.

I progressed from Rozelle to Bondi Junction for a Body Composition scan. I took Jason with me of course and although he didn;t have a scan done Jarrod was more than happy to offer him some advice in a NICE POSITIVE MANNER! So freaking improtant! Especially to Jase who can get narky if he thinks someone is trynig to blow wind up his butt or putting him down. I was so happy! My results weren;t so great. Alot worse than last time but I managed to keep all bar 1.1kg of muscle on me so at least that's a positive. Now I am working to get it all off and I have Jarrod's help in doing so.

He is totally brilliant and if you haven't done so and HAVE the chance to do it, go have a scan done with him! www.bodycomposition.com.au and tell him I sent you! This is the ONLY accurate way of measureing your bone density, bone weight, muscle weight, fat weight and therefor the only 100% accurate way to measure your body fat percentage etc. (Water tests are close enough to accurate but pinch tests and especially body fat scales are FAR from accurate or reliable)

Plus he helps set your calorie intake / workout level etc. Which is a huge help!

Sunday Morning Loz and I caught up and decided to battle the steps at Palm Beach. It was quite a workout and I have lost all step climbing fitness since the last time I battled the 1000 steps in the Moutn Dandenongs. My calves are still KILLING me! I am near on cripple especially if you ask me to go downhill or down steps. They just don't want to be stretched that far. A great workout so long as you take your time.

I plan on getting a swim in at some time down at the Palm Beach pool. In Sydney pools seem to be carved into the rock beachside at almost every beach. The Palm Beach pool looks particularly appealing! It's a fantastic idea! The waves from the ocean and high tide fill the pool and it's a nice level predictable area for swimming. I'm not a beach fan I'm, a pool fan so this works well. The stunning view of the beach that I love and the pool environment. Plus it's free!!!!!

Palm Beach is home to the rich and famous as well as "Home and Away" so there's the chance I might see a celeb or two as well. Have charged my camera batteries and will take some shots.

Sunday Jase and I went car shopping and couldn't find a thing that was half decent. There were 2 cars I was supposed to buy as "interims" both fell through. We decided to add X Trails to the list, remove CRV's (not comfortable for Jase to drive) and Add the new Mitsubishi Outlanders as a future option for lease. (1 - 2 years) I thought I might get to see the new Short Wheel Base Pajero in the flesh (And was dying for a tes drive) But although they were supposed to go on sale in October or something last year, they are all still sitting on the docks apparently.

SWB Pajeros have been a passion of Jason's since he got his licence (first, second third and forth car for him) And for me since we borrowed one of his old pajeros off a friend to tow my car back from Melbourne to Sydney arond 5 years ago. They were discontinued in 1999 and the Long Wheel Base is just too big!

Monday Loz and I caught up first thing in the morning for a workout - the gym we chose to go to first was a dive! SO inappropriate when your free weights jump from 500g to 5kg! What about 1-5? So we jumped on the treadmills and made sure to get something out of it.

Last night I caught up with another friend and his new lady (who is so lovely! I could see us becoming great buddies too) and we went to the local RSL for a lovely dinner (I am making really healthy choices but allowing myself the chippies on the plate as there are only a couple) then sat around in the lounge drinking diet coke and talking all night.

It wasn't that condusive to my 5:45am appointment with Loz again this morning for another workout lol. But I got out of bed and went to the gym and proceeded with my couch to 5km program. This time Fitness First @ Mona Vale which is 300x Nicer that Dee Why. The first treadmill I jumped on was a bit of a worry though as I almost fell on my face and then my butt when the belt started slipping. Scary!

Got a great workout done in the end though.

Today I have been stuck at home searching for cars basically. As I said there are a few prospects so all hope is not lost (although yesterday and this morning I was stressed to tears over it) and I have my fingers crossed for one in particular (stay tuned)

Jason's car is in getting the air conditioner fixed (must have!)

My trip is now being played out almost minute by minute - well hour by hour anyway. I have no idea when I am going home and no idea what I am doing day to day but I am working out everyday as planned!

Loz is a great workout partner and she keeps me on track.

Anyway so that's my update so far. I hope all is well with you all. It is taking me forever to get through my blog roll but it's happening :)

Go Hard!

Bye Bye Eugiene Bailry!

2007-01-12T12:30:00.000+11:00

I was going to be driving with a girlfriend up to Sydney today but she had interviews to go to (was made redundant a couple of days before Christmas nice huh) and then all of a sudden I Sold my car. LOL

He (Eugeine Bailey my OH named him) is going to his new home tonight on my way to the airport. I had just decided to keep him awhile longer too. It's apparently hard to find the car I want to replace him with.

I am still going to Sydney I haven't even booked the flight yet but I am going.

I have figured out workouts with my best friend and we even have a 3 day pass to a gym yay! I gotta keep myself in check food wise and we are home free YAY!

Week 2 isn't going as good as the first week with some major insomnia keeping me awake yet tired out of my mind. I did go to the QVM Night market though which is brilliant if anyone was thinking of going. Definitely do! But keep in mind that the market has a strong foodie base so you don't want to go in expecting to eat clean.

I bought a new headscarf and some headbands (I have been living in this sort of thing this season) Got some nice tassels. Would have bought a whole lot more if time and money allowed

My TomTom died but has thankfully been revived using the reset button (wish I'd known about that when I didn't know where I was)

I have been writing this entry for HOURS now and haven't got tat much to say so I will update from Sydney I'm sure!

Couch to 5km!

2007-01-09T17:34:00.000+11:00

Thanks very much to LMS I downloaded the Couch to 5km podcasts created by Robert Ullrey. I started last week and finished Week 1 on Sunday. Today I started week 2.

I really enjoy using the podcasts and I find them much easier than clock watching. Kek from Fit Bodies has been a great help too as I was struggling at one stage last week with some niggles and she gave me some advice that means I am running pain free now.

I had a pretty uneventful weekend, I'm trying not to spend any money as I am heading up to visit the boy at the end of this week with a girlfriend and I need to buy myself some new shoes so I can have a long running life. :) I am not going to organise a catch up this time because I have Rikki with me, but I have a WHOLE TONNE of trips planned for this year so we will definitely have a meet up.

I haven't made the decision on weather to do my Body Composition scan again or not. I'd like to but I don't but I do LOL. It's a familiar thing with me at the moment. I am also contemplating attending Phat Camp this year. I can't go the the Melbourne or Gold Coast "Camps" as I have Beauty Expo and Fitness Expo those weekends but I am considering the Sydney camp. Is anyone else interested? I have heard so many good things!

The LITS 12 week challenge is under way but we decided to allow late entries (everyone finishes at the same time so the only disadvantage is to those who entered late) I think it is traveling along great and I have been able to come up with quite a few articles and bits and pieces to help spur the challengers on. I hope it's helping.

My chart is really colourful at the moment as I have mostly completed all my daily tasks and stayed on track. It's very rewarding to get my gold star AND see my weight drop :) I'll take a photo at the end of the week and show you all what it looks like.

I am praying to continue on while I am away and I have told both my OH Jase and my gf Rikki who is coming with me that exercise, water and good food MUST be maintained everyday while we are away.

So wish me luck :)

"Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure."
- Confucius

Good Week (97.5)

2007-01-07T14:35:00.000+11:00

As I have said so many thousands of times before the focus here is on Progress not Perfection.
Have I made progress this week? Hell yes!
Have I been perfect this week - Nope
Do I win a prize - YUP!

Looks at my weight loss since Monday! 2.4kg's Gone! I am enjoying my free day today but as planned I'm not going overboard nor do I even wish to.

I woke up to a couple of pieces of chocolate. I can eat the pie my Dad bought home (even though I asked for rolls and deli meat) and I'll have whatever I please for dinner (That time has not yet come and so I dunno what that will be yet). But I am not pigging myself as I have done in th past.

Previously I would remember every single craving I had for the entire week, buy it all up and then try and eat it all on the one day. Which left me feeling frankly like crap. So This is all about restraint. Or even more listening to my body. You know my biggest craving right now is a FRESH soft roll from the bakery with butter and vegemite. Yumm

I'm going to the gym this afternoon to get done what I didn't to yesterday. You see I had no trackpants left that actually fit over "Mount Jadey" That were clean and dry. A problem that was going to happen every 3rd day unless I fixed it so I went to BigW yesterday and bought 3 more pairs of trackpants. 3/4 length and they fit nicely.

You see I got fat cause I made excuses. Injury, illness, family problems, can't be bothered maybe tomorrow, no clean trackies ......... The list could go on.

But NONE of these excuses are going to get my pants done up. So I'm really over the excuses I tell myself and I am striving for accomplishments.

There is a Ralph Marston Quote that has inspired me well. Thanks to Rae who posted it on her blog awhile ago.

EXCUSES OR ACCOMPLISHMENTS?

IT IS EASY TO MAKE UP EXCUSES TO TELL TO YOURSELF. FOR YOU CAN CHOOSE TO BELIEVE ANYTHING YOU SAY TO YOURSELF.

BUT WHAT DO THOSE EXCUSES ACCOMPLISH? WHERE DO THEY TAKE YOU?

IT’S EASY TO USE YOUR THINKING TO RATIONALIZE YOUR WAY OUT OF TAKING ACTION. WITHOUT MUCH EFFORT, YOU CAN THINK OF PLENTY OF GOOD, BELIEVABLE REASONS FOR NOT MAKING THE EFFORT.

AT SOME POINT, THOUGH, YOU MUST ASK YOURSELF THIS QUESTION. DO YOU WANT YOUR LIFE TO BE FILLED WITH EXCUSES OR WITH ACCOMPLISHMENTS?

IN FACT, EACH TIME YOU CATCH YOURSELF THINKING UP AN EXCUSE OR RATIONALIZATION, ASK YOURSELF THAT QUESTION. CHALLENGE YOURSELF TO CONSCIOUSLY CHOOSE WHETHER OR NOT YOU WISH TO ACCOMPLISH.

WHEN YOU FORCE YOURSELF TO LOOK AT IT THIS WAY, THE EXCUSES WILL BEGIN TO LOOK PRETTY SILLY AND USELESS. THE MORE YOU REMIND YOURSELF OF THE VALUE OF ACCOMPLISHMENT, THE MORE YOU WILL TAKE ACTION INSTEAD OF MAKING UP EXCUSES.

AND THE MORE YOU TAKE ACTION, THE MORE YOU WILL ACHIEVE.

- RALPH MARSTON

Summernats

2007-01-05T19:35:00.000+11:00

One of my very best friends Loz and I are as you may not know car freaks! So the Summernats is supposedly car mecca. Ok who am I kidding? It is car mecca! And it's on this weekend. You probably saw bits and pieces of it on the news, or you totally ignored it cause cars bores you as much as the cricket does me.

Now Loz and I have made resolutions for going on 3 years now I think to BE AT SUMMERNATS. But we can't just be there. See we have both been before and yada yada but we had to be there and be "in good condition"

I wont lie here, Summernats can be a very dangerous place for a girl, let alone a hot looking girl. "Can be" being the operative words, you have to be smart about these things and not flash your tits to thousands of people to start with, and it's a touch smart to wear a bit more than the girl I posted above.

But I tell you what we both love POSITIVE attention. Is there anyone out there who doesn't? And I have been to Summernats fat, trust me when I say it becomes freaking obvious you aren't the most attractive chick in town. I haven't been since Summernats 15 in 2001.

Next year will be Summernats 21st birthday, I plan on being there and looking stunning. So does Loz.

So could I be more vain?

2007-01-05T18:56:00.000+11:00

You are free

You are free to follow the demands of your ego. You are also free to let go of those demands.

You are free to imagine and impose all sorts of limitations upon your life, your actions and who you can be. You are also free to move beyond every one of those limitations.

You are free to think positive, empowering thoughts even when faced with situations that could be considered hopeless. You are free to act in such a way that will bring value and meaning to your life and your world.

You are free to take difficult problems and turn them into spectacular opportunities. You are free to take ordinary moments and turn them into special treasures.

You are free to take whatever may come your way, and direct it toward positive purpose. You are free to fail a thousand times, and then to get back up and achieve stunning success.

You are free to find the beauty and value in all that you experience. Remember always that you are free, to live, to love, and to bring the very best possibilities brilliantly to life.

-- Ralph Marston

I'm a little over the heat...

2007-01-05T14:24:00.000+11:00

A good night sleep would be FABULOUS. I keep saying I am going to get up early rah rah rah, but my sleep is so broken and restless that I stay in bed at least until 10am. I feel so slack for it. Then I don't want to do my workouts because the gym only has aircon in the studios and not in the main area, which means it's a freaking sauna!

I did go for my run last night - 2nd day of the c25k. Very proud got through it all. Sweat so much I thought my pants were going to fall off with how wet my back and pants ended up. I took in an ice pack and put it on my head and neck during the walk periods.

The outside of my shins hurt when I run down through my ankles.

Met my brother in there and he looks GREAT! He's got himself all sorted out and he says to me "Do I look bigger?" I asked him if he was using roids cause he was looking huge! Nope all clean. It's hard for him to gain so I am very proud he's doing it clean.

It's his birthday today and he is even inviting us to his "dinner". So much has changed since he moved out. I am just so happy. I actually like hanging out with my brother when he's like this.

I HAVE to do an upper body workout sometime today. I haven't decided when exactly though. It must be done! It's too damn hot right now though to do anything but sit in front of a fan.

CHALLENGE! (97.8kg)

2007-01-04T12:56:00.000+11:00

I am back in challenge mode. I have decided that I will be submitting a challenge pack to Body-for-Life and I am also doing the Living in The Suburbs forum 12 week "New Year, New Me" challenge (How fitting). I won this challenge last year using Body-for-Life methods and it saddens me that I am now bigger than I was in the Before photos of that previous challenge.

It also excites me. Because I know what I am capable of. I plan on making this challenge alot more full on than the last one and I am praying to God to make sure I suffer no injuries or illness to set me back. It's not easy to post a before photo huh!

I have had 2 perfect days out of 3 and I know that if I'd managed my time better we could have had a 100% run so far. This is OK - Progress not perfection. That saying helped me keep my food in check even while I was sitting in the movies being offered Nando's Chippys. (argghh so strong!) I just wanted to be able to colour in the "I ate clean" box for yesterday even if my workout box and walk the dog box was going to remain empty.

I also started the couch to 5km running program. With huge thanks to LMS and Linda who pointed me in the direction of the Podcast which makes life mush easier. I don't like watching "times" when I am trying to give something my all. I always find that counting down to the finish makes it harder LOL. I tried starting this program last year and failed miserably. It is so good to know that at least I can run now for 60 seconds straight on a treadmill.

In the next 12 weeks you will see me:~

Lose more than 10kgs
Create a reliable Sleeping Pattern
Drink more than 2 litres of water every day
Improve my strength my 10%
Drop more than 15cm from my waistline

I have updated all my stats in the sidebar (Current to the 1st Jan) and I plan on continuing to do so every Monday.

Now a few people have commented lately and I don't know where your blogs are. If you aren't in my blogroll please please let me know where your blogs are when I next comment so I can come visit you too :)

My after photo - 82ish Kg

Happy New Year! (99.9kg)

2007-01-01T14:48:00.000+11:00

I hope all those that went out partying last night are all home safe. Also feeling not too hungover.

This is the New Year! 2007 is going to rock!

My 2007 Resolutions

*Reduce my weight to under 90kgs
*Reduce weight to under 80kg
*Reduce weight to under 70kg
*Never waste my gym membership
*Complete a body-for-life challenge and mail off the entry
*Complete the Couch to 5Km program
*Participate in City to Surf or similar
*Eat Healthier
*Fit into my Roxy Jeans
*Swim 1km
*Run 1km
*Run 2km
*Run 3km
*Run 4km
*Run 5km
*Ride 10km
*Ride 20km
*Improve my skills
*Learn something new
*Eliminate clutter
*Be Organised
*Train my potty mouth
*Start eliminating bad debt
*Save Money

"Today you are presented with an empty book. Today you stand faultless, the pages of this year will be filled with whatever you desire. Let your mouth only speak of joys, success and positivity, for the power of the tongue is great and that which you speak shall be. My prayer for you is health & happiness, prosperity and success."
~ Jade "Jadey" Ward (New Years message)

2006-12-31T21:32:00.000+11:00

My 2006 New Years Resolutions WERE

Complete New Year, New Me Challenge - Completed. Won $270!
Get Back to The Gym - Yup ! Went all the time until I suffered injury
Never Waste my Gym Membership by Attending at least 4 times a week - Yup!
To Participate in Gym Classes - Yup Body Combat and Cycle/RPM were favourites.
Complete the Couch to 5km Plan - Nope I gave it a go and gave up! Shocker
Complete Body For Life - Sort of completed my first challenge I have alot more to work on
To Acheive my Weightloss Goal by June 29th (or within 1 month of) Which is 64kg - Nope Closest I got was 82.2kg
To Make Healthier Eating Choices - Something else to work on.
Reduce my swearing - I think I have but I have further to go
Start Eliminating Debt - Yup process is on it's way
Save some Money - Yup got some savings in the bank for a new car
Be More Organised - I'm getting there but at some point in the year I dumped fly lady
Learn to Cook - Yup I now cook most of the meals for my family.
Improve my Skills - Yup but I can always continue this
Learn Something New - Learnt to do Brazilian Waxes. Started to learn Italian
To become and Good and Positive Influence on others - something else to work on

2006 - that was the Year That Was......

2006-12-31T20:14:00.000+11:00

So it's New Years Eve and time to look back on the year that's now behind us.

I came into 2006 after about 6 months on a weight loss journey. I weighed 92.2kg . January saw me set New Years Resolutions, weight loss goals and start a New Year New Me Challenge at the Living in the Suburbs forums. I got myself a new personal trainer and found I was working harder than ever before. His name is Jarrod and pushing me to the absolute limit was his fun. Throwing up and collapsing on the couch after my session Biggest Loser style wasn't that unusual.

January saw the announcement of Angelina Jolie's pregnancy to Brad Pitt, and we all watched on in wonder. She later gave birth to a beautiful girl they named Shiloh. January 16th saw me hit the 80's for the first time in my adult life! I was so excited.

In February I started my first ever Body for Life Challenge. Life was good and I was happily going through life and Losing weight!

In March I did the 1000 steps for the first time. Well the 1st time I didn't make it all the way (I later found out I was maybe 20 steps from the top!) But I did return and conquer 10 days later. It's now one of my favorite challenges and while I haven't done it for awhile I hope I get back into it soon! I had my first injury which was a sore lower hamstring. And I met my 2nd blogging friend Kathryn at the Make Me Over Expo. I won the New Year New Me Challenge over at Living in the Suburbs . And bought myself an iPod with the winnings.

In April I got to meet a whole heap more blogger who I can now count lifelong friends. The very next week I was leaning on these people and all of my friends when my Dad was involved in a massive car accident. I am thankful everyday that he is still with us. We almost lost him quite a few times with the accident then, pulmonary embolisms and other blood clots and haemorrhage's. During this period I got to my lowest weight ever of 82.9kg! Unfortunately the rest of the year went uphill from there.

May saw me go to my first ever "class" I picked body Combat and enjoyed it. The throwing of punches and kicks etc. Love it! And boy does it get the heart racing and your calves feel it bouncing like that all the time. May also saw me hurt Knee, Ankle and Groin all in the one day! Oh joy and fun. We took my Dad down to the Peninsula Hot Springs. And it was a huge help to both our injuries.

June saw me zipping around in a VW Beetle Cabriolet in Red! It was a hot little beastie and even though we were experiencing temps of around -5°C I still took every opportunity to have the roof down. I also decided I was having a 2nd birthday. My real birthday sucked so hey why not. In June I had been doing my best to live a healthy life for 12 months. So June 29th was my 1st New Me birthday.

In July Michelle, Shontie and I trekked up the 1000 steps. Then the next day I went back up again with some BFL friends. I bought myself a RED Polar f11 Heart Rate monitor and while my roxy jeans did up you couldn't really say they fit. Then I ran a personal best of 10 minutes! 10 whole minutes running without stopping! I stuffed up both my hip flexors straight after that and haven't run since! We had another Bloggers meet up organised by Beckie this time, we all met in the city for lunch.

In August I had a body composition scan done and it showed me how far backwards I had slipped. I got my motivation back. Injured myself again and stuffed it all back up. I visited a physio for the first time in my life. I went to the footy for the first real time in my life and saw Carlton get smashed by the Tigers.

September saw the loss of two great Aussie Legends. That of Steve Irwin and Peter Brock. It all still feels like yesterday. September saw my computer crash, which means I basically have no clue what I did for most of the month LOL .

In October I discovered Koko Black Chocolates. I'm firmly of the belief that this is Ails and Phils fault. Ails and I started a challenge to get to 70kg. I made a return to the pool and started swimming to try and assist my injury recovery. My neighbor put on a nude show in his driveway. I wrote a 101 things to do in 1001 Days list. It took me ages and ages. I crashed my car and then got it all fixed up and decided to sell it. (It's still not sold) I was heading for a trip to Sydney when my other half decided to surprise me by turning up in my bedroom as I was packing. The best surprise ever! We then went and traveled the Great Ocean Road together. Our first ever holiday. And went on a chopper ride.

In November I got my hands on a New Olympus MJU810 camera. I love it. I went and did a XXX Waxing course. Went to head office of the company I work for in Canberra and kind of went on a shopping spree. I got an organisation bug and the pantry, fridge and freezer were the first victims. Let me just add Howards Storage World has had way too much of my money this year! But I do love the place. We (not me) re-elected the Bracks Government. Then I ended up in hospital with a Migraine - my first ever. Where I endured multiple lumbar punctures, followed on by angiograms and lots of mess. I HATE NEEDLES.

December started of with the Blogger Christmas Party! I had a freaking ball! I watched the biggest loser finale and got my motivation working again. I spent most of December planning for Christmas and for 2007. I plan on succeeding next year! I turned 26 but wont celebrate until next year cause everyone is too busy. I end 2006 over 100kg (not sure how much but I know I am)

I'm happy to leave this year behind and I have already shopped and planned for the first week of 2007.

To all of you I wish a very Happy New Year. Safe Travels and much fun, love, health and joy to you and your family in 2007.

The A - Z of Jadey!

2006-12-30T21:46:00.000+11:00

TAGGED by the gorgeous Katie

A- Available or single? Nope. OH Is Jason and I'm madly in love after 4.5 years :)
B- Best Friend? Loz, Rikki , Simmo & Megan

C- Cake or Pie? Both PLEASE
D- Drink of Choice? Coke Zero. Current Alcoholic hit is Strawberry Margaritas.
E- Essential Item? Mobile phone close followed by TomTom
F- Favorite Color? Pink Purple, Green What context?????
G- Gummi Bears or Worms? Chicos - they are brown people!

H- Hometown? Which one? Born in Melbourne but my Heart is in Sydney
I- Indulgence? Way too many! Koko Black is a sure hit
J- January or February? Either is good.
K- Kids and names? No Kids but I like Tighe and Acacia amongst others.
L- Life is incomplete without? Love, God & Rottweilers,
M- Marriage Date? A day in the future sometime I hope
N- Number of Siblings? One younger brother
O- Oranges or apples? Apples
P- Phobias/Fears? Spiders, Death, Crowds, Strangers
Q- Favorite Quote? Are you kidding? I have Books and Books and Pages and Pages! Current quote

“It is never too late to be what you might have been”
~ George Eliot

R- Reason to Smile? My family, My Boy, My Dog, My Friends, 2006 is almost gone, 2007 is coming and it's going to ROCK!
S- Season? Spring

T- Tag three people! Brooke, Rae & Phil
U- Unknown fact about Me! I crave organisation and cleanliness and I'm normally the first person to blame for the mess and the chaos.
V- Vegetable you hate? Pumpkin, Brussell Sprouts, Peas
W- Worst habit? Swearing, Eating Crap, Stubborn
X- X-rays you've had? Brain, Wrists, Ankle, Knees, Hips, Neck, Back if it moves it's been x-rayed.
Y- Your favorite food? Too many. Actually to tell the truth I have NO IDEA. I love heaps of food but I can't think of anything that I would eat ABOVE ALL ELSE everytime. That's screwed! I have food issues.
Z- Zodiac? I don't read nor care. My future is in Gods hands

Today Is....

2006-12-29T11:43:00.000+11:00

My 26th Birthday! YAY!

"Jade is Like...."

2006-12-27T18:36:00.000+11:00

To play along type "[your name] is like" Into a google search and see what comes up :) NOTHING comes up for Jadey. SO we resort to Jade.

Jade is like a child that needs constant care.

Jade is a heart-thumping, pulse-pounding adrenaline-rush of an adventure, punctuated by brief but searing moments of revelation.

Jade is like pounding shots of premium Tequila with a best buddy in a tropical dive.

Jade is like a mighty oak; thick, heavy, barks, loses weight in the autumn, proudly gaining it back in the spring.

Jade is like comparing a micra to a Skyline..... only thing they have in comon, is that they came from the same manufacturer. ...

Jade is like my best frend.

Jade is like an Assistant youth Pastor.

Jade is like a woman.

Jade is like a day without sunshine.

JADE IS LIKE PROPLY THE CUTIEST THING EVER.

Jade is like my hero!

Jade is like one of the most amazing characters and it is great to see so many people joining the club , I mean XD why wouldnt they , Jade rocks....XP. ...

Jade is like heaven.

Jade is like to be one of the best wives and ...

Jade is like his unholy psycho female clone.

Jade is like a circus freak.

Jade is like the peacock princess of the myth of her own race, pretty, graceful and nice.

Jade is like to be one of the best wives and mothers in England. But then, mind you, she had always—Brains. ...

JADE IS like, godamned hot.

(I think I'll finish here cause I like that one LoL)

Boxing Day Antics

2006-12-27T16:15:00.000+11:00

I went shopping yesterday determined to get some organisation in my life and be ready when we tick over to 2007.

My focus for yesterday was to start getting my room in some sort of order. You remember these photos?

That was organised to me. I mean I knew where my clothes were and they had a particular order. I never showed you the floor though that was stacked as High as I could with junk I couldn't bring myself to throw away and You get some clue here as to the mess in the top of my wardrobe. Ewwwww. I wanted everything to have a place and be in it's place. I LOVE oprganisation. I Love the minimalistic look too but that's impossible for a hoarder. I filled our bin and some of our neighbours bins last night with some of the junk I had collected and kept over the years.

Also truth be told If I took a photo of my room you would flip with how messy and cluttered it was.

So since I cannot bear to throw out my health & fitness, beauty & portfolio magazines I went and bought some Magazine files. (I need to buy more but it's a start) I also bought a second hanger for my wardrobe.

Then I put on my iPod and went to work cleaning up and throwing stuff out.

The result so far is this.
A new aerial for my TV and now I can actually watch all the commercial channels YAY!

My bedside table is no longer stacked so tall of magazines and books that it resembled the Eiffel Tower. And here's a better Pic of my lamp :)

My new Body-For-Life Goals poster has been drawn up and Goals and Tasks are listed! Beside the Jeans that this blog is named for, Which WILL FIT ME in 2007.

Oxygen 2007 Fit & Fabulous Calender

Inspiration Inspiration Inspiration. My Dad thought I was gay fun fun.
OK So It's empty but at least it's not sitting on the floor. I'm yet to decide what pics deserve to be in here.

Now the only things on my floor except my Uggies.

Tell the truth it still looks like chaos in pictures huh. But I swear you just couldn't get better than this. Well not without one of those Wardrobe God things. I have to hide my rotty collection in here as They really don't "go" anywhere :-/

To come - Hat Organiser, Handbag Organiser Tub for Pj's / Non Hanging clothes

To Do:
Buy Screw to reattach Wardrobe door knob.
Find and repair Handle on Drawers
Repair Bedside Table Drawer
Find photos for Frame and Fill it.
Add Pink Accents to frangipani's and edging of frame.
New extension cord to tidy everything up
Buy New Curtains
Prepare and Paint Walls.