• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Big Mama

the big mama blog

  • Home
  • Meet Melanie
  • Blog
  • Speaking
  • Books
    • *New* On The Bright Side
    • *New* Piper and Mabel
    • Church of the Small Things
    • Nobody’s Cuter Than You
    • The Antelope in the Living Room
    • Sparkly Green Earrings
  • Contact
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram
  • Melanie Podcast
You are here: Home / Other / I have renamed it the 30 Day Dead

I have renamed it the 30 Day Dead

April 29, 2009 ·

It doesn’t really take a media savvy person to realize that there are two evil pandemics sweeping the country right now: the swine flu and Jillian Michael’s 30 Day Shred.

I don’t know much about the swine flu, other than the fact that I believe pigs everywhere are being slandered for reasons that are beyond their control and we may all turn into Howard Hughes if the media doesn’t shut up and find something else to obsess over.

Here’s a new topic for them: Why won’t Anthropologie send me a dishtowel since I link to their site constantly? Is it some sort of haberdashery prejudice because I am a thirty-something mom and totally uncool in their eyes?

I believe the answer is yes and that, my friends, is fashion profiling.

Anyway, unlike swine flu, I do have some experience with the 30 Day Shred. As a matter of fact, yesterday was Day 2 for me and, if I live to see the sun rise again, today will be Day 3.

God willing and my quadricep muscles don’t explode.

I can’t remember when I first heard someone mention the 30 Day Shred, but I remember thinking they were kind of overly dramatic about the whole thing. And if there is one thing I cannot tolerate, other than reruns of “Golden Girls” and water chestnuts, it’s someone being too dramatic. It makes me WANT TO PULL OUT ALL MY HAIR AND SET IT ON FIRE.

In fact, I vaguely recall thinking that I was the master of the “Fat Burning Pilates” DVD and have reached the point where I easily keep up with smug girl in the green sports bra (as I so affectionately refer to her), so what could 30 Day Shred possibly have to offer me?

Then I read this post by Vicki where she mentioned that she was on Day 11 of the shred and her teenage son walked in and mentioned that she had developed real live ab muscles. I haven’t seen my ab muscles since the second month of my pregnancy with Caroline so I figured the 30 Day Shred might be worth looking into.

But then I just felt too tired to order the DVD from Amazon. Not to mention all the effort it would take to actually open up all the cellophane packaging and place it in my DVD player.

However, Jillian and I had a date with destiny because as I innocently walked the aisles of Target last week, I happened up on the exercise equipment aisle where I saw her staring me down, perhaps even taunting me. I had no recourse but to buy the 30 Day Shred and some lime green hand weights. Thankfully we have a nice padded oriental rug in the living room so I didn’t have to buy a mat, although I wanted to because it was hot pink and oh-so-cute.

I decided to wait until Monday to start my new workout regime because I am firm believer in procrastination, especially when it comes to anything regarding physical exertion. Why sweat today when you can sweat tomorrow?

Then all of a sudden it was Monday and I knew it was time to shred. In a pure stroke of fortuitousness, I talked to Sophie on the phone and she mentioned that she’d also purchased the 30 Day Shred and was going to do it for the first time that afternoon. I believe that each of us laughed and said, “It’s ONLY TWENTY MINUTES! How hard can it be?”

I got off the phone and turned on the DVD. There was Jillian going on and on about pain is fear leaving your body and blah, blah, blah. She suggested that everyone start at Level One. I decided I’d start at Level One to appease Jillian and her cut-off sweatpants, but figured I was really way past that since I’ve been fairly consistent with my Fat Burning Pilates and elliptical workouts.

And by fairly consistent, I mean I’ve done them four or two times each.

Level One was an experiment in PURE HATE. I can’t confirm this, but I am fairly certain it is something akin to what the CIA uses to get terrorists to talk. The static lunges with bicep curl combo is enough to get me to admit to anything I’ve ever done wrong in my life, including the time I stole a Brach’s peppermint candy when I was four years old.

To add insult to total muscular injury, Caroline stood by as my cheerleader/heckler. Do you know what’s more aggravating than some muscular girl from a T.V. show taunting you with the fact that a 450 pound person can do more jumping jacks than you?

A five-year-old girl that you gave birth to asking if you “FEEL THE BURNING MAMA” over 100 times in a three second time period.

She even got the camera and took some pictures of me while I was working out.

img_6534

This is the only one that’s fit for public viewing because in all the others you can see the profanity coming out of my head like the little thought bubbles in a cartoon.

When I finished, I collapsed in a big heap on the couch and in the words of Fred Sanford said, “I’m comin’ Elizabeth. This is the big one.”

But I survived and felt compelled to do Day 2.

In fact, I am determined to complete all thirty days of the shred even if it leaves me completely incapable of standing upright or reaching for a bag of Cheetos.

On the downside, there is a muscle in my upper arms that I never knew existed but is now screaming in pain and has requested abdication from the rest of my body.

On the upside, I’m not afraid of any kind of swine flu.

If anything is going to kill me in the next thirty days, my money is on Jillian Michaels and not some lame pig virus.

Make sure you head to Compassion Bloggers to read all the posts coming out of India. They are phenomenal.

« Previous article:

Another year, another fiesta

Next Post: »

I blame Jillian Michaels

Reader Interactions

Similar Stories

Comments

  1. ginger

    April 29, 2009 at 4:04 am

    That was almost funny enough to make go out & buy the DVD just to get a better visual. Almost. 😉

  2. Ashley

    April 29, 2009 at 4:44 am

    There may have to be a mass grave dug somewhere for all the people Jillian is about to kill. Because clearly with the economy and the swine flu sweeping the nation, there will not be time to dig individual graves for the thousands of women who desperately tried to keep up with Jillian. I’ll be in it myself.

    On the bright side, working out with her has made me far more empathetic towards her contestants on “The Biggest Loser.”

  3. Amy

    April 29, 2009 at 5:22 am

    I am on day 7 of the Shred. It hasn’t gotten much easier for me…of course I have skipped a few days here and there to let my muscles heal. I feel your pain! I tried level 2 this weekend and it about killed me! Also, I haven’t lost weight…I’ve gained. What’s that all about? I look forward to reading your experiences with Jillian. 🙂 Love your blog…it makes me smile every morning!

  4. Chelsea Price

    April 29, 2009 at 6:17 am

    Well, at least you legs look awesome in this picture, right? :o) Cause they do!

  5. suburbancorrespondent

    April 29, 2009 at 6:21 am

    I never even heard of it. I thought you were talking about some month-long challenge to get rid (safely) of all our old bank statements.

  6. Alissa

    April 29, 2009 at 6:29 am

    Greeeeaatttt! I bought “The Shred” yesterday and now I’m scared! *gulp*

  7. Becky Jo

    April 29, 2009 at 6:35 am

    I just finished day 1 and … I am pretty sure that Jillian is either a stinkin genius and my new BFF OR she is a terrorist intent on wiping out the USA one stay at home mom at a time.

  8. Stephanie

    April 29, 2009 at 6:37 am

    I had a friend recommend this to use for a post baby work out but after reading your take I’m a wee bit frightened!

  9. Robyn

    April 29, 2009 at 6:38 am

    You are so hilarious! I have that DVD! Do I use it? NO!! I’ve only gotten through day one! To my defense we did move a week later and I haven’t been able to find it since! Maybe the packers took it? Thanks for the laugh! I can’t wait to hear about your results after the 30 days!

  10. sarah

    April 29, 2009 at 6:43 am

    I love it! My husband and I got Bob Harpers Weight Loss Yoga this past weekend at Target and we curse him with every breathe we take (in our heads, of course). Those BL trainers are HARD CORE. I am not sure if it makes me feel better than Hebba and Vicki can do stuff that I can’t… but I keep going back for more. I could not walk for 2-3 days after I used the yoga the first time. I have a love/hate with it.

    Your legs look AWESOME in the picture though. Keep up the good work!

  11. Lynley

    April 29, 2009 at 6:44 am

    When Anthropologie finally decides to send you that dishtowel (hopefully they will) would you mind asking them as to who’s job it is to paint all the real bread they currently have in one of their display’s to keep it from molding? It is a burning question of mine.

    Good luck with your DVD. I have always wondered why no biggest loser contestant has never shoved Jillian off the treadmill as she sits perched on top yelling at them.

  12. rachel

    April 29, 2009 at 6:45 am

    This is so great!

    If you don’t make it, I’ll miss your posts. 🙂

  13. Sarah at themommylogues

    April 29, 2009 at 6:56 am

    Alright. I’m going to Target today. I’m thinking of buying it and putting it next to my Yoga Booty Ballet DVDs. It would look nice there. I’m pretty sure it’s impossible for me to do 30 days of anything in a row. Except eating ice cream. When I was pregnant I ate a large bowl of ice cream every single night. That was a hard habit to break.

    BTW, I HATE water chestnuts.

  14. Gina Dunn

    April 29, 2009 at 7:07 am

    Funny and inspiring enough to make me want to go purchase it for myself.

  15. Rosemary

    April 29, 2009 at 7:08 am

    I went home to SC for the last eight days and had no internet accesss (gasp). Yours was the first blog I went to this morning, and I just need to say thanks for the laughs. I am still chuckling over the 30 Day Shred (and don’t think I will be buying it), but also.. loved the earlier entry about Caroline constantly talking and following you into your room to count off the minutes of your ten minutes of quiet. Actually choked on my coffee when I read that. My Erin .. a 14 year old version of Caroline! As much as the constant chatter gets to me sometimes, it’s a wonderful thing when they are teenagers.. I always know what’s going on! With everyone in the school. Every day.

  16. gillian

    April 29, 2009 at 7:17 am

    My sister gave me the 30 day shred dvd for my birthday 3 weeks ago but I have yet to even open it! Your post is certainly encouraging me to start it though…on Monday 😉

  17. BlueAngel

    April 29, 2009 at 7:22 am

    My husband always made fun of me for sweating so much in 20 minutes. (which it is really 30 with warm up/cool down)

    So I told him he had to do it with me.

    He has never made fun of me since. He could barely get through it and he is military! (I mean you will do fine at level 2)

    ENJOY! I have seen results 😉 Get ready for swimsuit season!

  18. jamie b

    April 29, 2009 at 7:29 am

    You make me laugh! Today will be day 6 for me. Yesterday seemed to go by faster, so I hope that’s the case today! 🙂

    I’m giving away a copy of the 30 day shred on my blog! Come and enter! 🙂

    http://www.meetthebakers.com/2009/04/first-giveaway.html

  19. Allyson

    April 29, 2009 at 7:38 am

    You inspired me, I ordered it yesterday from Amazon. My younger sister and I are going to do it together! Keep up the good work 🙂

  20. Joc

    April 29, 2009 at 7:43 am

    I can’t believe you don’t like Golden Girls reruns. I watch them every chance I get. That Bea Arthur was SO funny.

    And in other news, that 30 day shred sounds intriguing.

  21. Amy

    April 29, 2009 at 7:43 am

    So stinking funny!!! You’ve almost convinced me to try this torture exercise. Almost.

  22. Jenn

    April 29, 2009 at 7:49 am

    I ordered it yesterday. I’d been meaning to but I finally did it. So, I’m excited/scared for when it gets here. by the time I get it, you’ll probably be about 20 days through so maybe you and Sophie should continue your documentation for the rest of us considering the 30 day dread 🙂

  23. Jill

    April 29, 2009 at 7:51 am

    Your legs look pretty good, so why are you doing the shred? I don’t see any belly fat! I told my friend I wanted that DVD and she said it was really high impact and hard on the joints. Maybe that was her way of telling me I’m not cut out for it!

  24. Elanah

    April 29, 2009 at 7:53 am

    You have me sold!!! I’m looking for a workout at home, and this sounds awesome. And I always love an excuse for Target.

  25. Kelley

    April 29, 2009 at 7:54 am

    This line killed me: “…I can’t confirm this, but I am fairly certain it is something akin to what the CIA uses to get terrorists to talk.”

    Good luck with the workout. : )

  26. lavonda

    April 29, 2009 at 7:54 am

    Nothing makes me jump for the remote control faster when I’m awake at 1 in the morning than the beginning sounds of the Golden Girls intro music! Please.
    I prefer not to watch women in their 70’s talk about youknowwhat until I myself am in my 70’s. And maybe not even then…

    Seriously, it’s so good Caroline is old enough to help you tie your shoes for the next few days. Cause you’re gonna feel 70. (love the muscles wanting to abdicate from your body… that made me laugh out loud!)

  27. Ann

    April 29, 2009 at 8:01 am

    Your posts make me laugh every time. Can’t wait to hear about the other days and your pain and you swearing at Jillian Michaels- who is by far one of the most annoying people on earth!

  28. Michelle

    April 29, 2009 at 8:04 am

    I’ve heard about this stupid DVD everywhere I’ve gone lately. Please tell me the Lord is not speaking to me through you regarding the shred. I’m still on level one Bob’s fat burning yoga after having it since Christmas. Sigh.

    Guess it’s time to have both Bob and Jillian in my home.

  29. Becca

    April 29, 2009 at 8:06 am

    Love your blog – I sneak in a few minutes every morning at work to get my morning laugh. I am pregnant due in August but I have heard RAVE reviews of the 30 Day Shred. I’m hoping it will help lose the baby fat come August. Good luck and be sure to update all of us so we laugh at…I mean, WITH you along the way!

  30. [email protected]

    April 29, 2009 at 8:12 am

    Okay, tonight is the night. I’m taking the cellophane off and starting tonight- is it really that bad? It can’t be nearly as bad as my bootcamp experiment! Anyway- keep it up- those abs are in there somewhere!

  31. Carolyn

    April 29, 2009 at 8:20 am

    So, so funny!!! BTW, I agree with you on the over the top coverage of Swine Flu, or as i have seen it referred to “Aporkalypse Now”.

  32. Cheri

    April 29, 2009 at 8:21 am

    Silly me – I thought The 30 Day Shred was an organization program to help you organize and streamline your office.

    Oh well, at least after 30 days, I have no superfluous paper about.

    I am content.

  33. chrissy

    April 29, 2009 at 8:27 am

    My neighbor and I have been doing that DVD together for several months now. It is brutal. The good news is, by the end of the first week or so you’ll find that first workout getting easier, and then it keeps getting easier after that. Then try the workout called ‘No More Trouble Zones’, and you will find out that your entire body is a trouble zone. It’s all good, though.

  34. Minnesotamom

    April 29, 2009 at 8:27 am

    Woohooooooo! Atta girl. I’ve done Level 1 5 or 6 times and think I might be able to move on to Level 2 one of these days, but I’m mighty scared. That said, I’m going to give away a copy on my blog. I likes it that much!

  35. Lindsey

    April 29, 2009 at 8:31 am

    oh how i laughed when i saw the title of your post today because i am in the early days of the shred as well. i have done four days so far, and after the third day, i promise you i could not even straighten my arm all the way. how absurd is that?! please continue to update us along the way. my day 6 will be my first day at level 2 so the pain may start all over again in brand new way…joy. also, my sister-in-law (who has already completed it and moved on to jillian’s next workout dvd) said there may not be a lot of weight loss by the end, but there should be some serious muscle tone. we’ll see…

  36. Cindy

    April 29, 2009 at 8:39 am

    Well, I’d love to do this but I don’t want my 16 year old stepson walking in on me and commenting on any part of my body!
    So, my question is, can this be done in the somewhat small area that is my bedroom?

  37. ncmama

    April 29, 2009 at 8:41 am

    Hilarious post! I just ordered the DVD from Amazon last night after reading Vicki’s update on her blog. Love the sound of dropping a pants size. Please keep us updated! Your humor motivates me. 🙂

  38. Holly

    April 29, 2009 at 8:50 am

    Jillian makes me cry. I worked my way through Level 1 for a while, then boldly though I was ready for Level 2. Um…no, not yet.

    Good luck!!

  39. Pam D

    April 29, 2009 at 8:51 am

    One thing I found is that it’s easier to do the cardio on the wood floor and the pushups/ab stuff on the carpet. I was trying to do it all on carpet, and I couldn’t get through the cardio. But once I got on a hard surface for that, it fell into place. As much as ANYTHING can fall into place when 49 is around the corner and after that? I think I hope that the shred just takes me before THAT.

  40. Sunni

    April 29, 2009 at 8:51 am

    Let me just say that if I had legs like yours, the 30 day shred would be the last thing on my mind. Seriously.

    Of course I totally appreciate your driven attitude of wanting to improve yourself.

  41. Heather

    April 29, 2009 at 8:59 am

    Hilarious! But now that you’ve started this, you know you have to finish it! We all want to see if you survive and what you look like at the end. If I survive the swine flu (I’m leaving on a cruise to the Caribbean in 4 days!!), then I’ll cheat death again and buy The Shred.

    Keep those posts comin!

  42. Cindi in Boston

    April 29, 2009 at 9:04 am

    I got the 30 Day Shred dvd through netflix about 2 months ago. My husband is mad at me because I refuse to return it, I keep telling him I will one day get to it. We are currently receiving only 2 of the 3 movies that Netflix sends because I haven’t returned The Shred, my husband is going to divorce me soon.
    After reading this blog entry, I feel like I should start it too. If I don’t comment tomorrow it means “The Shred” was too much for me, or I’m blaming you for the pain I’m in… hehe..

  43. Megan

    April 29, 2009 at 9:05 am

    Hahah! This was hilarious. I just blogged yesterday about how I have bought the DVD but yet to try it. Now I am even more scared than I was before! Atleast we are all doing it together!

  44. Laurie

    April 29, 2009 at 9:29 am

    Today was my day 1 and it was definitely intense. You think you’re in pretty good shape until this. LOVED your Fred Sanford line – cracked me up because honestly some of the cardio I couldn’t keep up with [even though Jillian kept telling me I was capable and strong!!]I know that being consistent with the shred will be worth it. Instead of having a child watching, I had my furry child licking my face during the ab part and jumping on me while I tried to do jumping jacks!!

  45. Sammy

    April 29, 2009 at 9:34 am

    How DARE you say such blasphemy about The Golden Girls when Bea Arthur is just barely gone!!

    May she rest in peace.

    🙂

  46. Erin

    April 29, 2009 at 9:36 am

    Okay…I ordered it! Let the misery begin…5 to 9 days from now when I finally get it dropped on my doorstep!

  47. zelzee

    April 29, 2009 at 9:36 am

    Ok, you had me until the “jumping jacks”…………where’s the bathroom????

  48. Julie

    April 29, 2009 at 9:38 am

    I completed day 6 of the 30-day shred this morning. And those muscles in your upper arms? Mine STILL hurt. But I am loving how my clothes fit differently. Haven’t lost any pounds yet, but I’ve lost inches!

    YOU CAN DO IT!
    🙂 Julie

  49. Jennifer Griffin

    April 29, 2009 at 9:41 am

    Ok – too, funny because I had almost the exact same thing happen! Read Vicki’s blog, thought to buy the DVD on Amazon, realized my purse was downstairs in the car – too lazy to go get my credit card (See the irony? Didn’t want to exert myself to buy an exercise video!) Then low and behold, there she was in Target, daring me to buy her DVD. I bought it, and it’s still in the bag. Maybe tomorrow…. If you live through your day of Shredding!

    Good Luck!
    Jen in Jax

  50. Ann G

    April 29, 2009 at 9:45 am

    Hey Melanie, you can do it!! I’m done with Day 23 of the 30 Day Shred (on Level 3, which is a real killer!)…doing Day 24 tonight! and I’m still alive to tell about it! I’ve been following Anita the whole time not doing too bad if I don’t think about it! Just keep it up and you’ll see and feel muscles you never knew about!! Don’t let Caroline watch — it’ll go smoother for you!!
    For the good news, I’ve lost 10 pounds during this time period, so keep it up and those extra Cheetos will have no negative effect on your hips and waistline!

  51. wegotspirit

    April 29, 2009 at 9:55 am

    OK, I’m tempted. I need to get in on this action – hate to be excluded – it would have nothing to do with the fact that I have a muffin-top to beat all muffin-tops post baby #2 (15 months ago). But I am famous for buying workout DVDs and NEVER EVEN OPENING THEM! Oh motivation! Come to me!

  52. Tiffany @ Paging Doctor Mommy

    April 29, 2009 at 10:06 am

    I’m still planning to try it… just have to go buy the dang video!

  53. Keyona

    April 29, 2009 at 10:11 am

    Girlfriend you are hilarious! Ok, I’m going out this weekend at getting this Shred thingy. I’ll keep you posted! :o)

  54. melissa

    April 29, 2009 at 10:15 am

    Goodness, I have a 3 year old cheerleader/heckler that works out with me daily also. It gets old fast!

    I haven’t tried the 30 day shred yet but I am tempted. Then again I am a huge baby so maybe I should stick to my treadmill.

  55. Holly @ Crownlaiddown

    April 29, 2009 at 10:20 am

    Well said, Melanie! Praying that you don’t join Elizabeth for many, many years.

    I thought, as I read your post, what fun it’d be to be in an exercise class with you and Sophie–I would probably not do all the steps the teacher asked me to, but my ab muscles would be greatly enhanced from all the laughter!

  56. Holly @ Crownlaiddown

    April 29, 2009 at 10:20 am

    PS I smell a podcast coming from your experiences with the Shred!

  57. Jennifer

    April 29, 2009 at 10:30 am

    This had me rolling on the floor with laughter. Does that count as exercise?

  58. hayley

    April 29, 2009 at 10:31 am

    good luck! for me it was the 6 day shred 🙂

  59. Darla

    April 29, 2009 at 10:32 am

    Posted last night about how meaningful Amanda’s Compassion posts have been…especially in light of the fact that we had a big flood in Houston yesterday and it made me realize that we have resources to get over our despair that they do not have.

    And….I am MULLING over the idea of the 30 day shred. Just kind of, you know, stretching out my brain for starters.

  60. Rachel

    April 29, 2009 at 10:41 am

    Is there anything that you recommend that I won’t do? I’ve just started the oil cleanse, and I just may have to try the Shred.

    By the way, I’m SHOCKED to see that you’re wearing an A&M Baseball shirt. 😀

  61. Alison

    April 29, 2009 at 11:17 am

    I have been toying with taking on the shred. Then I hear storys like yours… and I am way overweight, I am afraid I may be in for trouble! Oh well, I need to get into something quick and effective, I will give it a try. Keep us updated on how it goes!

  62. Jamie

    April 29, 2009 at 11:27 am

    My shred should be coming in the mail any day now but I think I may be too busy to check the mail…I’m a little scared of it but man I gotta at least pretend like I’m trying to get this baby weight off.

  63. Ashley

    April 29, 2009 at 11:31 am

    I drank the koolaid. I ordered it from Amazon. I just hope I don’t chicken out before it arrives.

  64. Kaye

    April 29, 2009 at 11:42 am

    I ordered my copy this morning. Thought the least I could do is know we’re all hurting together:) I commented on BooMama’s too, shall we all take before and after pictures….not!
    I’ll have to hide to try this since the fam always picks on me about things like this, so I’ll be a closet-worker-outer:( for how many days, we’ll see!
    Blessings,
    Kaye
    Matthew 21:22

  65. Nicole

    April 29, 2009 at 11:43 am

    This made me laugh out loud! I even read it to my husband and he laughed out loud!

    I bought this video about 3 months ago, did it once and put it away. Far, far, away…. Until Vicki put out the challenge. I did not officially join but I did pull the dvd back out. I did it once last Friday and my arms are still sore. I might try it again today but you reminded me NOT to do it with any of my kids around.

    Last time 4 of my 5 kids were shredding with me or on top of me! I coughed really loud when she busted out the **s reference and prayed they didnt hear and was totally annoyed that my 10 yr old daughter kept saying, ” This is not burning my legs. WE do more plies in ballet!” Then she did real push ups when I could barely finish my girl style!

    I am thankful there are no pictures to document my 2nd Day Dead…. at least you were standing up! I would have been on the floor! Pray for me as I meet up with Miss Jillian today …and for my arms.

  66. Kelli

    April 29, 2009 at 12:00 pm

    I did my day 2 this morning and I hurt!!! Glad I’m not the only out of shape mommy! Good luck and hopefully we can stick with it!

  67. Tara G

    April 29, 2009 at 12:01 pm

    I bought Jillian to rotate with my other workout videos. I am thinking she never had kids because she is awfully bouncy. Seriously, I realized that I needed some more Kegels added into my daily routine if we were to continue our friendship. I mean, I have had 3 kids and they were all well over 8 lbs each…

  68. Wendy

    April 29, 2009 at 12:10 pm

    Ha ha! Awesome. Ordinarily I would never presume to post a link to my own blog on someone else’s, but I just recently wrote this post after my first day of the 30-Day Shred:
    http://thedelightedlife.blogspot.com/2009/04/30-day-dread.html

    Jillian is tough. Although, it does get a lot easier as you keep up with it!

  69. Stephanie(ocean mommy)

    April 29, 2009 at 12:19 pm

    Girl I so feel your pain….

    I just finished my time with the slave driver about an hour ago…I’m dreading putting this computer down and standing up!!

  70. Lori

    April 29, 2009 at 12:19 pm

    I watch The Biggest Loser, and I’ve been thinking about getting this DVD. However, I’m not sure why you’re doing it. You look awesome!

    Have you heard of Joannie Greggains? She does an amazing 12 min. video called Super Stomachs.

  71. Kristyn

    April 29, 2009 at 12:37 pm

    Ha! I just blogged about this very topic today. 🙂 I’ve done at least 10 (non-consecutive!) days of level 1 and have dared level 2 twice now. Maybe today I will make it all the way through. 😉 My 3.5 year old told me to “Take your shirt off, Mommy. Those girls are just wearing their bras.” Gotta love the encouragement from the under 6 crowd!

  72. Melissa

    April 29, 2009 at 12:45 pm

    im there with ya! i ordered the dvd after hearing everyone and their momma talk about it. i did day 1 and thought i was dying that evening and next day. i havent put it back in the dvd player yet, but i plan to!

    good luck!

  73. Paula

    April 29, 2009 at 1:03 pm

    Second week and just started Level 2. It’s hard! Haven’t seen a difference yet.

  74. Becca

    April 29, 2009 at 1:04 pm

    This totally cracked me up 🙂 haha I cant wait to try it. Or I can. Whatever.

  75. delaina

    April 29, 2009 at 1:25 pm

    Congrats!
    I’m starting next week.

  76. Amanda @ Serenity Now

    April 29, 2009 at 1:30 pm

    Well, now I am tempted to go to Target, where I may or may not purchase The Shred. I am probably more likely to do it at home, since I rarely go to the gym. I WISH my legs looked like yours!!!!

  77. Lasha

    April 29, 2009 at 1:37 pm

    Even though you have warned us about how horrible this video is, I’m not going to lie, I want to go buy it.

    Maybe the 30 day shred really works if it’s like you say it is.

    I’m really thinking I may buy it, honestly.

  78. lavonda

    April 29, 2009 at 1:44 pm

    I just had to come back and say Becky Jo’s comment has made me laugh several times today every time I’d think of it…

    too funny!

  79. Darla

    April 29, 2009 at 1:46 pm

    Hey…I meant to say Melissa earlier. Apparently I was stretching my mind so much about the Shredding DVD that I mixed up the sisters. I think it’s a sign that the DVD is too much for me.

    Anyway…I know you knew who I was talking about, but still!

  80. Amy

    April 29, 2009 at 2:10 pm

    This could be your best post ever…I am still laughing.
    That was awesome.
    Amy

  81. Amy

    April 29, 2009 at 2:10 pm

    This is the first time I’ve posted, but I love your blog…you always make me laugh! Ok…..first of all, good for you that you are attempting a Jillian workout. I’ve done them and they are killer! For anyone out there who has Exercise on Demand….you can do her videos…including Boost Your Metabolism and No More Trouble Zones….WOW! Those are KILLERS!!! Keep us informed on your workouts. If I can do it then ANYONE can!

  82. RachWinn

    April 29, 2009 at 2:12 pm

    he he he!!

    I did order mine from Amazon and as soon as it comes I’ll be joining this sick-groupie-clan thing.

    It all reminds me of the 70s when running was “in” and the 80 when Jazzersize was all the rage.

    Crazy people. (I admit I’m crazy too.)

  83. Andi

    April 29, 2009 at 2:18 pm

    Oh my gosh that is the funniest thing i’ve ever read and only because I did buy that DVD from Amazon and got it two weeks ago. I was able to take the wrap off and look at the DVD but the thing has not made it to the player. Afer reading this, I may turn it into a garden ornament to keep the Grackles and squirrels from eating my tomatoes.

    PS: is there a language 101 rule of words ending in el or le……it’s been forever since I’ve cared about spelling correctly.

  84. The Stain Fam

    April 29, 2009 at 2:24 pm

    I am so sorry. That is really all I can say. I am so sorry. If this behavior continues you may want to seek a professional. I do believe self-inflicting pain is curable. Of course the easiest therapy is a Route44 diet coke.

    Sincerely, drinking diet coke, eating chocolate cake {I had my last course1 cake class last night}, and sitting on my bum in Arkansas

    P.S. I am so sorry.

  85. Emily

    April 29, 2009 at 2:32 pm

    I had the opportunity to meet Vicki last week, and the first thing SHE ASKED ME was if I was “SHREDDING” with her. Similar story as yours, with Jillian Michaels starimg me down at Target and all…But sadly, no, I am not shredding with her since hubs and I just joined the gym.

    I will say that Vicki looks awesome. I don’t know what she looked like Pre-shred, but all her hard work is paying off. The woman is cut. I hope that when my older two kids are in college and the baby’s in high school I will look like her.

  86. Christy M.

    April 29, 2009 at 2:38 pm

    Ahhh, reading this brings back so many horrible memories from Level 1. WOW. I’m on Day 3 of Level 3 now (Shredding with the Sisterhood {shrinkingjeans.net] <—shameless plug), and I’ll tell you, it gets easier. By the time you’re done with Level 1 you’ll feel so strong! Level 3 is pretty much kicking my A$$, but I know it will get easier!

    Loved this post so much!

  87. Janet (aka JT)

    April 29, 2009 at 2:42 pm

    My children are the reason I quit doing pilates last summer. Instead of leaving the house to go outside and play, once they found out Mommy was exercising, they’d come running in and watch. It was awful. Then they’d imitate whatever I was doing and laugh and laugh and laugh, all the while I was cursing the day each was born under my breath. I finally decided I couldn’t live that way; plus, I’d pulled several muscles in my stomach from tensing up. It was awful.

  88. LilSis

    April 29, 2009 at 2:44 pm

    Oh Boy! I saw Jillian on Rachel Ray the other day and I was contemplating buying the DVD. Now, I’m wondering if I should wait til you report back with your results. I definitely do NOT need yet another workout video that gathers dust!

  89. Tara

    April 29, 2009 at 2:47 pm

    oh yes ma’am! That Jillian will kick your hiney into shape! Level two isn’t too bad either. I love it because its only 20 minutes and heck, right when it’s over I go pop open a huge diet coke and a box of cookies…you know, work out so you can eat kind of thing….lets face it I don’t eat to live, I live to eat!! And work out to eat as well 🙂

    Hate to say it though, I have been doing that video for quite some time and I do see tons of changes and such but it just never gets easier…she is just tough!I guess if it works though I can hack it for 20 minutes a day the rest of my life….wait did I just say that?

  90. daniella

    April 29, 2009 at 3:02 pm

    Good for you, Melanie! I can’t deny that your legs are already starting to look smokin’. Unfortunately I’m all preggers and refuse to lift a finger; a 26 pound toddler is enough exercise for me. Something tells me, though, that after the baby comes I’ll find another excuse ot avoid the wrath of Jillian. But I keep flexing my core and booty throughout the day (even in my state of condition), does that count?

  91. rachel

    April 29, 2009 at 3:32 pm

    New to the blog and I live it! You’re so entertaining!

    Oh yeah, good luck with that whole miserable pain/death by workout thing!

  92. Janel

    April 29, 2009 at 3:46 pm

    I know, and maybe even have nightmares about, the smug girl in the green bra on Pilates! Thank you for making me laugh!

  93. Angi

    April 29, 2009 at 4:15 pm

    If you make it all 30 days, I will applaud you!! I’ve started it a couple of times and never make it past day 7 or 8. I’ve never tried level 2 or 3. Level 1 was enough misery for me!! I’ll just stick to tennis:)

  94. Elaine at Lipstickdaily

    April 29, 2009 at 4:30 pm

    Oh no oh no oh no . . . I’ve never heard of it before and now I’m gonna have to do it . . . to go along with the Flat Belly Diet . . .

  95. Alissa

    April 29, 2009 at 6:08 pm

    Just finished day ONE and I agree….30 day DEAD is appropriate!

  96. Rebecca

    April 29, 2009 at 6:33 pm

    I’ve been “lurking” on your blog for a while and have never commented before, but i just had to today…because i also started 30 Day Hell on Monday…and i don’t know if i’ll ever recover full movement back in my legs.

    I also made the comment to my friend “i figure i can do anything for 20 minutes” right before i did the workout for the first time.

    Now i know never to make that statement again 🙂

  97. Kris

    April 29, 2009 at 6:54 pm

    not only am I a fan of Jillian, I have tried the 30 Day Shred. Well, only the first 3 days, because that’s what lives on Comcast On-Demand. I thought…I was going to lose my innards after Day 1. And on Day 2, I awoke to being sore from my wrist to my ankles. not a spot in between was spared the pain. it wasn’t pretty. wasn’t pretty at all. 🙂 i hear it works. i’ve moved on to that crazy leslie sansone and her walk at home. but i still think about jillian….

  98. Heather

    April 29, 2009 at 7:38 pm

    Again, laughing out loud. I am going to start her workout tomorrow. She does some similar or the same ones on Comcast on demand. I thought I would try the free ones and see if I can hang with it for longer than 20 minutes!!

  99. Courtney

    April 29, 2009 at 7:41 pm

    You totally inspired me. I read your blog this morning at work, and after work I went to Target. Not only was the 30-Day Shred DVD on sale, but I also bought an exercise mat, also on sale.

    I almost got new hand weights, but I was thinking that was a bit too ambitious considering I hadn’t even looked at the DVD yet. And considering my past record with exercising… well, let’s see if I can actually stick with it!

  100. Mary @ Giving Up on Perfect

    April 29, 2009 at 7:41 pm

    Wait…what? You don’t like the Golden Girls?

  101. the domestic fringe

    April 29, 2009 at 8:37 pm

    Wow, you’ve actually inspired me with this post. I think I need that video!

    Thanks.
    -FringeGirl

  102. paula

    April 29, 2009 at 9:17 pm

    Just finished day 2 and I do believe I am being punished for every bad thing I’ve ever eaten. I should have paid more attention to the verse “be sure your sins will find you out.” They have done found me out!!

  103. Rachael

    April 29, 2009 at 9:28 pm

    I have so many still-in-cellophane Workout DVD’s, it’s stupid. However, I think I may need this one. I’m thin, but OHSOFLABBY.

    I need an Ars Kicking.

    Thanks for the giggles.

    Rachael

  104. Steffj89

    April 29, 2009 at 9:30 pm

    OMG i am going to have to check this one out to intersperse with my Flirty Girl Fit set…I am seeing minor results with it so far. I have got to be able to do it easily while the kids are asleep or just off to school on the bus.
    Steff

  105. Kit

    April 29, 2009 at 10:27 pm

    I think I might need to try this torture…
    Back in the late 90s, when Tae Bo was still cool, my second son was watching me do my work out, moaning and groaning. When I got to the hardest part and really started complaining, he said, “Just turn it off, Mama!”
    So logical…the man with tape on his hands can’t torture you if you just turn him off…
    Wisdom, that.

  106. Kacey

    April 30, 2009 at 9:44 am

    That gave me the biggest giggle. Not because I was laughing at you- but I too own the 30 day shred and I was feeling very snooty about doing a video- after all I go to kickboxing and circuit training every week at the gym. I too thought it was going to be a piece of cake – and then afterwards I cried like a little sissy girl! You are not alone!

  107. Rachel

    April 30, 2009 at 10:21 am

    I’m starting today! Reserve me a spot in that mass grave. Husband does the p90x…I’m not cut out for it.

  108. Libby

    April 30, 2009 at 10:50 am

    Mel–
    This is cracking me up! I, too, bought this dvd a few weeks (k, maybe months) ago and I did NOT survive the shred. Good luck…it’s a great workout…unfortunately I had to quit for fear of throwing a free weight through the tv. 🙂

    Love the blog, check it daily, hope to see you soon!!

  109. Jama

    April 30, 2009 at 11:02 am

    I will be praying for you becuase I just started Level 2 and today I am extremely sore. 🙂

  110. Dena

    April 30, 2009 at 11:42 am

    laughing, laughing so hard. :o) i finally joined a gym, because i was tired of hearing my boys heckle me while i was working out. whatever.

  111. Kelly

    April 30, 2009 at 12:18 pm

    Looks like it’s workin already on your legs. Nice definition. Mine look like cottage cheese. Oh, for some Italian heritage

  112. she-she

    April 30, 2009 at 1:01 pm

    Well okay we have heard enough, my friend and co-worker and I have just dedicated ourselves, we’re in. She just ordered the shred off of Amazon. We hope to get a few more women to get in on it with us, safety in numbers thing….At least there will be someone else around to pick us up when we fall out. HA! Keep us posted on your progress. I have tried all kinds of stuff that didn’t work. I had all but given up. Gonna give it a try. (I think)!!!

  113. Erica

    April 30, 2009 at 3:20 pm

    OK…I am right there with you. A friend told me about it on Sunday, so today was actually day 5 for me. Crazy thing, though, we don’t have a regular remote control, so I was using my daughter’s “Read with Me” dvd controller. The button I pushed made it go to level 2 and I couldn’t get it back. Since I work out, I figured, “No problem, I can handle this.” And I did handle it, if by that you mean falling on the floor in complete exhaustion several times.
    I really hope this will counter balance the M & M’s I am still compelled to eat!
    I have to say day 4 was much harder than day 3, but day 5 was ever so slightly easier.

  114. MVP

    April 30, 2009 at 9:34 pm

    I have to say that I LOVED this post. I am also doing the shred…after laughing off the whole “20 minutes” thing. Holy cow…it kicked my butt! And I love that you do it amongst kids toys like I do! I yelled right back at Jillian when she said that 450 pound people could do the jumping jacks that I could barely do!!! hahaaha

  115. Kelly G.

    April 30, 2009 at 10:23 pm

    I hadn’t heard of the 30 day shred before but this post was seriously funny (can you put those two words together?). I am still laughing at the fashion profiling comment! Hang in there and stock up on some motrin to see you through! Good luck!

  116. Deb

    April 30, 2009 at 11:40 pm

    Just wait until you get to level 2. I was feeling spunky tonight and decided to go for it. I think I may have scarred the dog for life. I now pant more than he does. And who has EVER heard of a plank jack? And double jump ropes after you have done 4000 squats??
    I agree, who is scared of swine flu when you have the shredder after you?

  117. JenT

    May 1, 2009 at 8:15 am

    lol…I just might have to check this out.

  118. Shannon in Savannah

    May 1, 2009 at 8:26 pm

    So, today was the third day of level 1.
    I have been following it w/ a brisk 40 minute inclined walk on the treadmill.
    Feeling good! I can’t believe I’ve lived 34 yrs. and just finding out I have all these muscles….well, muscles trying to come out of hiding. I am so sore!!!!
    Good luck to you!

    P.s My hubs has been giving me massages to help ease the pain all while having a good chuckle. He barely made it 15 minutes into the DVD today. I haven’t heard a peep outta him since! :0)

  119. Kristy

    May 3, 2009 at 10:25 pm

    I have never heard of the shred before this post – but will have to check it out.

    You CRACK me up!

  120. Steffj89

    May 4, 2009 at 1:09 am

    ok so after reading all I had to get this yesterday @ target
    I am waaaayy out of shape, but was able to complete it without completely dying but that last set of jumping jacks just about did me in…
    that said…it has to get easier right?
    i still think i will mix doing her with the flirty girl set which I love….
    Steff

  121. Madison

    May 5, 2009 at 4:58 pm

    That’s hilarious that Caroline asked you ifyou were “feeling the burning.” Of course you were!

  122. Kathie

    May 5, 2009 at 6:32 pm

    Ok – just finished day one. My knee hurts and don’t feel any burn in my abs. What I dislike abut home workouts is that I don’t know if my body is in the proper formation. I have been walking 6 miles a day for 4 months – but this cardio killed me.

  123. Tenee

    July 16, 2009 at 10:38 am

    Well, I’m about to get back up on my work out plan. If you think the 30 day shred is tough, try the quick trouble zones, on demand, by jillian michaels. That’s a workout!

Primary Sidebar

Who is Melanie?

Melanie ShankleMy name is Melanie and, in some strange twist of fate, I’m also known as Big Mama because I started this blog in July of 2006 when my daughter, Caroline, was not quite three years old and I was in the process of convincing her that BIG girls use the potty and BIG girls don’t have pacifiers, thus she thought BIG was the highest compliment in the land and began referring to me as BIG MAMA.Read More

Sign up here!

Which is your pleasure?

Categories

Events Books The Big Boo Cast Diary Fashion Friday

The Latest on Instagram

The fish we caught today were all bigger than my h The fish we caught today were all bigger than my hat and, frankly, that’s hard to do.
A few nights ago, Perry told me to come look at th A few nights ago, Perry told me to come look at the sky just as the sun had set. This picture doesn’t do it justice, but we couldn’t believe how bright Venus and Jupiter were next to the moon in the dusky pink-blue sky. In full disclosure, we didn’t know which planets they were until I went inside and googled it because we are amateur astronomers at best. ⁣
⁣
Anyway, I took a quick photo because I wanted to capture it. And over the last several days, I keep thinking about those planets and how God spoke them into existence. We live in a culture that often wants to make God smaller in an effort to make him more palatable or relatable, but I find lately that I am most comforted by his magnitude and his holiness. When I look at this photo it’s a tangible reminder that he holds all things together even when there are days it feels like things are falling apart. ⁣
⁣
When we pray for peace, we’re praying to the one who placed the stars in the sky and knows them by name. When we search for wisdom, we’re looking to the one who sees all things. When we need joy, we’re asking the one who created laughter. When we face circumstances that seem impossible, we’re calling on the one whose robe fills the throne room of heaven. When we have a battle ahead of us, we have a rider called Faithful and True who fights for us. ⁣
⁣
So lift your head and remember that the keeper of the stars doesn’t overlook a single detail of your life. It’s in his hands, right next to Venus and Jupiter. ✨
Mabel believes patrolling the fence line is her fu Mabel believes patrolling the fence line is her full time job. And she takes it seriously. 🐾💕
🌟🤠𝗙𝗥𝗔𝗨𝗟𝗘𝗜𝗡 𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗧𝗦 𝗚𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗔𝗪𝗔𝗬🤠🌟⁣
⁣🌟COMMENTS ARE NOW CLOSED AND A WINNER WAS SELECTED🌟
Y’all. Rodeo Season is indeed a thing and if you want to do it right, you are going to need some fabulous boots. I’m so excited to partner with the girls @frauleinboots to giveaway the following to one lucky winner:⁣
⁣
✨ one pair of Fraulein boots (winner’s choice)⁣
✨ a Fraulein t-shirt⁣
✨ a Fraulein bandana⁣
✨ a Fraulein rope hat⁣
⁣
🌟Here’s how you enter for a chance to win:⁣
1. Follow @melanieshankle and @frauleinboots 
2. Like this post⁣
3. Tag a friend in the comments (one per comment) Every comment counts as a separate entry. ⁣
⁣
Giveaway closes at noon central time on Friday 2/10/23 and ONE winner will be selected at random using a computer generator. Winner will be notified through DM and announced in stories. ⁣
⁣
𝗚𝗢𝗢𝗗 𝗟𝗨𝗖𝗞! 🌟🤠
Had the best time last night speaking at the @fede Had the best time last night speaking at the @federationtexasaggiemoms dinner. So grateful for all they do for Texas A&M students. ⁣
⁣
There’s not much better than being in a room full of Aggies. Thanks and Gig’em. 👍🏻❤️
2022 was a year of seeing so much of God’s goodn 2022 was a year of seeing so much of God’s goodness. Like most years, there were highs and lows, but also so much joy and laughter with the people I love the most. 💕⁣
⁣
We’re ready for you, 2023! 🎉🥂⁣
⁣
“Lord, you alone are my portion and my cup; you make my lot secure.⁣
The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance. I will praise the Lord, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. I keep my eyes always on the Lord.⁣
With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.” Psalm 16: 5-8

The Latest on Twitter

Melanie Shankle @bigmama ·

Well, that was anti-climatic.

Reply on Twitter 1612659662435803139 Retweet on Twitter 1612659662435803139 1 Like on Twitter 1612659662435803139 43 Twitter 1612659662435803139
Melanie Shankle @bigmama ·

Wow, Georgia! What a comeback!!

Reply on Twitter 1609414435394965506 Retweet on Twitter 1609414435394965506 Like on Twitter 1609414435394965506 48 Twitter 1609414435394965506

Follow on Twitter

 



 

 

 

 

 



 

Footer

Stay Up to Date

Which is your pleasure?

  • About Me
  • Speaking
  • Blog
  • Contact

Copyright © 2023 · Website by Wordpress Barista

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish.Accept Read More
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Non-necessary
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
SAVE & ACCEPT

Order Yours Today!

Select an online retailer below.

cokesbury-buttonfc-buttonlifewayMardelTyndale DirectBAMWalmartiTunes

Order Yours Today!

Select an online retailer below.

iTunes

Order Yours Today!

Select an online retailer below.

Order Yours Today!

Select an online retailer below.

Order Yours Today!

Select an online retailer below.

Order Yours Today!

Select an online retailer below.

lifewayMardelBAM

Select an online retailer below.

Book Retailers
Book RetailersBook RetailersBook RetailersBook RetailersBook Retailers

Order Yours Today!

Select an online retailer below.

Order Yours Today!

Select an online retailer below.

cokesbury-buttonfc-buttonlifewayMardelTyndale DirectBAMWalmart

Order Yours Today!

Order Yours Today!

Select an online retailer below.

cokesbury-buttonfc-buttonlifewayMardelTyndale DirectBAMWalmart

Order Yours Today!

Select an online retailer below.

Book Retailers

Book RetailersBook RetailersBook RetailersBook RetailersBook Retailers

Order Yours Today!

Select an online retailer below.