I am not a big breakfast eater, I have to really make an effort to eat in the morning. The new diet plan is really tough having to make a veggie omelet (or scrambled eggs with veggies as it's just easier!) and oatmeal before I get to work. Maybe if I actually got out of bed before 7:15a.m. it would give me enough time to take my son to school, shower, eat, get ready and still leave for work by 8:20a.m. But honestly, laying in bed is much more inviting than getting motivated.
I have however been doing quite well with eating breakfast. This morning I had two hard boiled eggs before driving my son to school. When I came home I made oatmeal and it was cooling on the bathroom counter while I was in the shower.
If it weren't my own hair, I would be completely grossed out by my flying hairs into my breakfast while I blow dry my hair! I really must make time to eat at the kitchen table, free from hair!
Friday, February 27, 2009
Delerium & Idiocracy
I will be the last to admit that I'm a genius or know anything about politics. I did however, watch some of the presidential debates and followed the election process. Therefore, I did know who was running in the campaign race for presidency.
Whether I had a complete "brain fart" moment (evening) last night or I was beyond tired and was actually trying to carry on a conversation while I was asleep, I'm not really sure.
I was retelling a story to JC about the election and my sometimes need to play devil's advocate. I completely drew a blank when trying to name the President. Seriously.
Me: I was like, "You know the guy that's our President, What's his name?" (Of course this came after me trying for LONG moments in my mind to figure it out on my own.)
JC: "Obama."
Me: "Yeah, Obama."
What was even worse than that, for about five more minutes I rambled on about his opponent, Dick Cheney. Ummm...yeah.
It wasn't until about an hour later when I woke up that I realized what an idiot I was that it was McCain. Sigh. So either JC was too polite to correct me, was also asleep or he doesn't follow politics either. When I woke up I acknowledged what I had done by saying I was wrong and he said, "What???" Oh, never mind.
Whether I had a complete "brain fart" moment (evening) last night or I was beyond tired and was actually trying to carry on a conversation while I was asleep, I'm not really sure.
I was retelling a story to JC about the election and my sometimes need to play devil's advocate. I completely drew a blank when trying to name the President. Seriously.
Me: I was like, "You know the guy that's our President, What's his name?" (Of course this came after me trying for LONG moments in my mind to figure it out on my own.)
JC: "Obama."
Me: "Yeah, Obama."
What was even worse than that, for about five more minutes I rambled on about his opponent, Dick Cheney. Ummm...yeah.
It wasn't until about an hour later when I woke up that I realized what an idiot I was that it was McCain. Sigh. So either JC was too polite to correct me, was also asleep or he doesn't follow politics either. When I woke up I acknowledged what I had done by saying I was wrong and he said, "What???" Oh, never mind.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Teacher & Police Remarks
From Teachers:
These 12 are actual comments made on students' report cards by teachers in New York City Public school system. All teachers were reprimanded.
1. Since my last report, your child has reached rock bottom and has started to dig.
2. I would not allow this student to breed.
3. Your child has delusions of adequacy.
4. Your son is depriving a village somewhere of an idiot.
5. Your son sets low personal standards and then consistently fails to achieve them.
6. The student has a 'full six-pack' but lacks the plastic thing to hold it all together.
7. This child has been working with glue too much.
8. When your daughter's IQ reaches 50, she should sell.
9. The gates are down, the lights are flashing, but the train isn't coming.
10. If this student were any stupider he'd have to be watered twice a week.
11. It is impossible to believe the sperm that created this child beat out 1,000,000 others.
12. The wheel is turning but the hamster is definitely dead.
From Cops:
These 16 were taken off actual police car videos around the country.
16. 'You know, stop lights don't come any redder than the one you just went through.'
15. 'Relax, the handcuffs are tight because they're new. They'll stretch after you wear them a
while.'
14. 'If you take your hands off the car, I'll make your birth certificate a worthless document.'
13. 'If you run, you'll only go to jail tired.'
12. 'Can you run faster than 1200 ft/second? Why? Because that's the speed of the bullet that
will be chasing you.'
11. 'You don't know how fast you were going? I guess that means I can write anything I want on
the ticket, huh?'
10. 'Yes, sir, you can talk to the shift supervisor, but I don't think it will help. Oh, did I mention
that I'm the shift supervisor?'
9. 'Warning! You want a warning? O.K., I'm warning you not to do that again or I'll give you
another ticket.'
8. 'The answer to this last question will determine whether you are drunk or not. Was Mickey
Mouse a cat or a dog?'
7. ' Fair? You want me to be fair? Listen, fair is a place where you go to ride on rides, eat cotton
candy and corn dogs and step in monkey poop.'
6. 'Yeah, we have a quota. Two more tickets and my wife gets a toaster oven.'
5. 'In God we trust, all others we run through NCIC.'
4. 'How big were those 'two beers' you say you had?'
3. 'No sir, we don't have quotas anymore. We used to, but now we're allowed to write as many
tickets as we can.'
2. 'I'm glad to hear that the Chief (of Police) is a personal friend of yours. It's good to know
someone who can post your bail.'
16. 'You know, stop lights don't come any redder than the one you just went through.'
15. 'Relax, the handcuffs are tight because they're new. They'll stretch after you wear them a
while.'
14. 'If you take your hands off the car, I'll make your birth certificate a worthless document.'
13. 'If you run, you'll only go to jail tired.'
12. 'Can you run faster than 1200 ft/second? Why? Because that's the speed of the bullet that
will be chasing you.'
11. 'You don't know how fast you were going? I guess that means I can write anything I want on
the ticket, huh?'
10. 'Yes, sir, you can talk to the shift supervisor, but I don't think it will help. Oh, did I mention
that I'm the shift supervisor?'
9. 'Warning! You want a warning? O.K., I'm warning you not to do that again or I'll give you
another ticket.'
8. 'The answer to this last question will determine whether you are drunk or not. Was Mickey
Mouse a cat or a dog?'
7. ' Fair? You want me to be fair? Listen, fair is a place where you go to ride on rides, eat cotton
candy and corn dogs and step in monkey poop.'
6. 'Yeah, we have a quota. Two more tickets and my wife gets a toaster oven.'
5. 'In God we trust, all others we run through NCIC.'
4. 'How big were those 'two beers' you say you had?'
3. 'No sir, we don't have quotas anymore. We used to, but now we're allowed to write as many
tickets as we can.'
2. 'I'm glad to hear that the Chief (of Police) is a personal friend of yours. It's good to know
someone who can post your bail.'
AND THE WINNER IS....
1. 'You didn't think we gave pretty women tickets? You're right, we don't.........sign here.'
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Accomplishments
Still feeling somewhat low this morning, I decided I needed to get out of my "funk" and get motivated. I managed to schedule a hair cut appointment (every girl feels more like a woman after a good haircut and color, right?), schedule an appointment for my two front tires to be replaced and make travel arrangements.
This weekend I am planning on taking T skiing up north. I booked the same hotel in Cadillac and figured we could hangout at the pool and rent movies the night before and enjoy skiing for $9 lift tickets the following day. I had asked JC if he wanted to go skiing, but as his job is based on the weather, he wasn't sure if he would be able to. Regardless, I decided today, I need to just do things for me and everything else may or may not fall into place.
I still have the free airfare voucher from my "bump" last April on the way home from London. I had to book the ticket by April 13, 2009, but was leary of anything too far out that my schedule may change. Today, I called to see about going to the Key West and learned that United doesn't fly to Key West. I did book a ticket to San Francisco. Done deal.
JN is planning on going also and has yet to book her flight. She has an aunt in the area and may go out longer than my Wednesday-Sunday jaunt. I still have to figure out hotel arrangements, but figure that is the least of my concerns. I'm really looking forward to getting away for a few days next month and maybe even getting some sun!
Then to top off the accomplishments was the email to my step mom. It feels great to actually set out to do things and get them accomplished! Now if only the scale recognized my hard work!
This weekend I am planning on taking T skiing up north. I booked the same hotel in Cadillac and figured we could hangout at the pool and rent movies the night before and enjoy skiing for $9 lift tickets the following day. I had asked JC if he wanted to go skiing, but as his job is based on the weather, he wasn't sure if he would be able to. Regardless, I decided today, I need to just do things for me and everything else may or may not fall into place.
I still have the free airfare voucher from my "bump" last April on the way home from London. I had to book the ticket by April 13, 2009, but was leary of anything too far out that my schedule may change. Today, I called to see about going to the Key West and learned that United doesn't fly to Key West. I did book a ticket to San Francisco. Done deal.
JN is planning on going also and has yet to book her flight. She has an aunt in the area and may go out longer than my Wednesday-Sunday jaunt. I still have to figure out hotel arrangements, but figure that is the least of my concerns. I'm really looking forward to getting away for a few days next month and maybe even getting some sun!
Then to top off the accomplishments was the email to my step mom. It feels great to actually set out to do things and get them accomplished! Now if only the scale recognized my hard work!
Communication
Communication is such an integral part of any relationship. Often times, communication can be misconstrued or assumed, especially written communication (email or social networking sites).
Last week I received a Facebook (Social Networking Site) request from my step-mother to be her friend. I accepted although I wondered if it was the right thing to do. Communication between my dad, step-mom and myself has been strained since Thanksgiving (and longer - but not to the same extent). I have talked with them twice on the phone since, so the request seemed odd, but to ignore or deny it seemed just plain wrong.
The following day my step-mom put a message on my "wall" for everyone to see that they would be moving back to Michigan (from Florida) due to the economy and become "snow birds". Seeing that this was the first that I had heard of such information, I messaged her back with the famous when, where, WHY questions. She responded via a personal email to not post to the world that the economy was difficult and that they were no longer sustaining life in their oversized home as she is unemployed as of December. They felt that they could sell their home and move back to Michigan and buy a home without a mortgage and even be able to have an occasional dinner or movie night.
I may or may not have offered my opinion. In my mind, I believe that I was communicating. I responded with shock that they couldn't find something in Florida where the weather is more suitable to my father's (and her) health and that they hated Michigan when they were forced to move back for two years to sell their rental home and avoid capital gains.
Yesterday, I received a forwarded email from my aunt with an email from my step mom. She stated that she was tired of people being too quick to offer their opinion, her family, daughter and myself without walking a mile in their shoes. She also said she was waiting for the news to be on the front page of the tabloids as word was spreading like wildfire - but little did she realize when she posted it on the "wall" that my aunt also had access to the wall and information. Furthermore my step-mom stated that in the future due to lack of support from the family that they would not share their plans or situation until it was a done deal. And, that summarizing was the nice version.
That email coupled with my weight gain was enough to put me in more than a crappy mood all day. Since when does having a conversation with someone about their situation consist of giving your opinion? Regardless, when does a person giving an opinion give someone the justification of bad mouthing and discontinuing communication, especially when the opinion wasn't negative?
Today, I emailed my step mom. I basically called her out on her feelings and our misunderstanding of communication. I also said that I wish them the best in what life brings to them and if and when they want to communicate, they know how to reach us.
I'm tired of trying to take the high road. I'm tired of being the mediator. I'm tired of trying to communicate commonsense.
I don't feel fabulous about saying what I needed to say. But, I do feel better and know that tonight when I lay in bed awake I'll be able to rest easy knowing that I did what I could and said what I felt, to the person that needed to hear it most.
Last week I received a Facebook (Social Networking Site) request from my step-mother to be her friend. I accepted although I wondered if it was the right thing to do. Communication between my dad, step-mom and myself has been strained since Thanksgiving (and longer - but not to the same extent). I have talked with them twice on the phone since, so the request seemed odd, but to ignore or deny it seemed just plain wrong.
The following day my step-mom put a message on my "wall" for everyone to see that they would be moving back to Michigan (from Florida) due to the economy and become "snow birds". Seeing that this was the first that I had heard of such information, I messaged her back with the famous when, where, WHY questions. She responded via a personal email to not post to the world that the economy was difficult and that they were no longer sustaining life in their oversized home as she is unemployed as of December. They felt that they could sell their home and move back to Michigan and buy a home without a mortgage and even be able to have an occasional dinner or movie night.
I may or may not have offered my opinion. In my mind, I believe that I was communicating. I responded with shock that they couldn't find something in Florida where the weather is more suitable to my father's (and her) health and that they hated Michigan when they were forced to move back for two years to sell their rental home and avoid capital gains.
Yesterday, I received a forwarded email from my aunt with an email from my step mom. She stated that she was tired of people being too quick to offer their opinion, her family, daughter and myself without walking a mile in their shoes. She also said she was waiting for the news to be on the front page of the tabloids as word was spreading like wildfire - but little did she realize when she posted it on the "wall" that my aunt also had access to the wall and information. Furthermore my step-mom stated that in the future due to lack of support from the family that they would not share their plans or situation until it was a done deal. And, that summarizing was the nice version.
That email coupled with my weight gain was enough to put me in more than a crappy mood all day. Since when does having a conversation with someone about their situation consist of giving your opinion? Regardless, when does a person giving an opinion give someone the justification of bad mouthing and discontinuing communication, especially when the opinion wasn't negative?
Today, I emailed my step mom. I basically called her out on her feelings and our misunderstanding of communication. I also said that I wish them the best in what life brings to them and if and when they want to communicate, they know how to reach us.
I'm tired of trying to take the high road. I'm tired of being the mediator. I'm tired of trying to communicate commonsense.
I don't feel fabulous about saying what I needed to say. But, I do feel better and know that tonight when I lay in bed awake I'll be able to rest easy knowing that I did what I could and said what I felt, to the person that needed to hear it most.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Biggest Loser Week #7
Weight gain of .8 lbs. Seriously.
I'm really ready to throw any and all scales out the window! I worked out at the gym four days and at home two other days. I've really tried to follow the meal plan.
Despite my strong desire to give up and have a box of smores pop tarts and a pan of brownies, I'm not. Not yet that is.
I'm really ready to throw any and all scales out the window! I worked out at the gym four days and at home two other days. I've really tried to follow the meal plan.
Despite my strong desire to give up and have a box of smores pop tarts and a pan of brownies, I'm not. Not yet that is.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Collecting & Cleaning house
I purchased my house a decade ago, ten years, ten years? Anyway...when I purchased my house the previous owner was gracious enough to leave behind cleaning supplies, hazardous chemicals, paints and miscellaneous items. Honestly, many of them still remain in my house. When I painted the basement a few years back, I did discard many of the old paints and chemicals.
Last night in my joyous celebrating of basketball practice being cancelled due to lack of availability by the majority of the team, I opted to clean house, well kinda clean house. I stopped mid-way making dinner and went into the bathroom to clean the toilet and the shower. Isn't that what normal people do when they have last minute free time? I realized I didn't have the shower cleaner in the bathroom (must have been sidetracked last time and put it away in the kitchen) and asked T to grab it for me. He came back with two, identical cleaners, just one was, well about ten years or so old. So while I cleaned the bathroom I thought T would be entertained with trying to find the oldest cleaning product under our kitchen sink. Most didn't offer dates, but the oldest that he could find...1996. I can only imagine the power of the clean now!
A few weeks ago I had cleared out my bathroom cabinets finding rubbing alcohols and peroxides from 1999. I suppose I should discard things more frequently, BUT in my defense it seems like when I do, then I need it. Never fails.
In addition to discarding the cleaning solvents, I went through my closet like a tornado and in a matter of minutes had a large pile of clothes ready to donate. I went into the storage room and grabbed the three plus garbage bags of already packed away clothes as well. Then I ransacked two more areas of hanging clothes. Within no time I had two industrial sized garbage bags, about 25 pounds a piece packed and ready to go. I even managed to drop them off today at Goodwill.
For whatever reason, over the past month I've really decided that I have too much stuff. I have just been cleaning house and getting rid of things. When I cleared out the bathroom and linen closet I also went through dressers and threw out two garbage bags full of stuff. When did I become such a pack rat? Or better yet, how to I manage to live a clutter free life (I'm not going green or selling all my worldly possessions and the clothes on my back and living out of a tent!)?
Last night in my joyous celebrating of basketball practice being cancelled due to lack of availability by the majority of the team, I opted to clean house, well kinda clean house. I stopped mid-way making dinner and went into the bathroom to clean the toilet and the shower. Isn't that what normal people do when they have last minute free time? I realized I didn't have the shower cleaner in the bathroom (must have been sidetracked last time and put it away in the kitchen) and asked T to grab it for me. He came back with two, identical cleaners, just one was, well about ten years or so old. So while I cleaned the bathroom I thought T would be entertained with trying to find the oldest cleaning product under our kitchen sink. Most didn't offer dates, but the oldest that he could find...1996. I can only imagine the power of the clean now!
A few weeks ago I had cleared out my bathroom cabinets finding rubbing alcohols and peroxides from 1999. I suppose I should discard things more frequently, BUT in my defense it seems like when I do, then I need it. Never fails.
In addition to discarding the cleaning solvents, I went through my closet like a tornado and in a matter of minutes had a large pile of clothes ready to donate. I went into the storage room and grabbed the three plus garbage bags of already packed away clothes as well. Then I ransacked two more areas of hanging clothes. Within no time I had two industrial sized garbage bags, about 25 pounds a piece packed and ready to go. I even managed to drop them off today at Goodwill.
For whatever reason, over the past month I've really decided that I have too much stuff. I have just been cleaning house and getting rid of things. When I cleared out the bathroom and linen closet I also went through dressers and threw out two garbage bags full of stuff. When did I become such a pack rat? Or better yet, how to I manage to live a clutter free life (I'm not going green or selling all my worldly possessions and the clothes on my back and living out of a tent!)?
Snow, Skiing and BASEBALL?
Lake effect snow is forecasting 4-8" in the next 24 hours. On the one hand this would be fabulous if in fact I: a) was planning on going skiing, b) wasn't traveling across state for the theatre and hanging out with friends, and c) actually managed to get gas for one or both of my snow blowers.
On the positive side, JN and I will be driving across state together and she has graciously offered to drive. Of course I'll bring my trusty sidekick Susie along for the ride! I did pick up my brand new skis yesterday so I'm more than eager to get out on the slopes, but figure the first opportunity I will have is the following weekend. (Good things happen to those who wait, right? I'm praying now that means no more ski injuries!) I'm hoping to at least ski every Sunday if not more.
Last night my son's dad called him to inquire about the upcoming baseball season. Seriously, basketball isn't even over yet! He then told our son that practices begin a week from Sunday. Isn't it still February? I know that baseball is all encompassing and I should bring myself back to the right frame of mind by reading my baseball blogs, but I'm not ready for it. And, since I'm the proud new owner of new skis, every other Sunday as long as there is snow, T will be skiing! (I sure hope he doesn't get hurt - I would NEVER hear the end of it!)
On the positive side, JN and I will be driving across state together and she has graciously offered to drive. Of course I'll bring my trusty sidekick Susie along for the ride! I did pick up my brand new skis yesterday so I'm more than eager to get out on the slopes, but figure the first opportunity I will have is the following weekend. (Good things happen to those who wait, right? I'm praying now that means no more ski injuries!) I'm hoping to at least ski every Sunday if not more.
Last night my son's dad called him to inquire about the upcoming baseball season. Seriously, basketball isn't even over yet! He then told our son that practices begin a week from Sunday. Isn't it still February? I know that baseball is all encompassing and I should bring myself back to the right frame of mind by reading my baseball blogs, but I'm not ready for it. And, since I'm the proud new owner of new skis, every other Sunday as long as there is snow, T will be skiing! (I sure hope he doesn't get hurt - I would NEVER hear the end of it!)
Orange Issues
It seems like far too long since I've posted about any of my "issues". I'm pretty sure I still have them, as they seem to surface themselves typically at the most in opportune moments.
As of now, my most recent "issue" is I am now the proud owner of orange...teeth. Yes, it is true.
If it wasn't annoying enough for my co-workers to listen to me crunch endlessly on my baby carrots, I am now noticing that my teeth appear to be permanently orange!
At what point does eating healthy become EASY?
As of now, my most recent "issue" is I am now the proud owner of orange...teeth. Yes, it is true.
If it wasn't annoying enough for my co-workers to listen to me crunch endlessly on my baby carrots, I am now noticing that my teeth appear to be permanently orange!
At what point does eating healthy become EASY?
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
10 Thoughts to Ponder for 2009
Number 10
Life is sexually transmitted.
Number 9
Good health is merely the slowest possible rate at which one can die.
Number 8
Men have two emotions: Hungry and Horny. If you see him without an erection, make him a sandwich.
Number 7
Give a person a fish and you feed them for a day,teach a person to use the internet and they won't bother you for weeks.
Number 6
Some people are like a Slinky ...Not really good for anything, but you still can't help but smile when you shove them down the stairs.
Number 5
Health nuts are going to feel stupid someday...lying in hospitals dying of nothing.
Number 4
All of us could take a lesson from the weather. It pays no attention to Criticism.
Number 3
Why does a slight tax increase cost you $200.00 and a substantial tax cut saves you $30.00?
Number 2
In the 60's, people took acid to make the world weird. Now the world is Weird and people take Prozac to make it normal.
Number 1
We know exactly where one cow with Mad-cow-disease is located among millions and millions of cows in America but we haven't got a clue as to where millions of illegal immigrants and terrorists are located. Maybe we should put the Department of Agriculture in charge of Immigration?
Biggest Loser Week #6
Another Tuesday weigh in - due to the office being closed in observance of President's Day.
The scale was a little faulty when I went to get on it today and after some battery adjustments, it seemed to work. I still am rather hesitant to revel in any weight loss since historically the weight returns, but this week the scales showed a loss of 3 pounds (although the recorder showed 3.2 as the scale added .2 pounds after she wrote down my weight.)
Overall, due to the weight gains over the past weeks, I am officially 2.8 pounds less than the weigh in on 1/5/09. Both my circuit workout and meal plan have kicked off, so see what upcoming weeks bring. But for now, I'm not entirely optimistic, because afterall, I'm a realist.
** On a funnier note - I won the Biggest Loser of the week. I wasn't able to get my prize, but seems rather ironic since I'm gathering I have been the consistent biggest gainer of the week until today. Baby steps...
The scale was a little faulty when I went to get on it today and after some battery adjustments, it seemed to work. I still am rather hesitant to revel in any weight loss since historically the weight returns, but this week the scales showed a loss of 3 pounds (although the recorder showed 3.2 as the scale added .2 pounds after she wrote down my weight.)
Overall, due to the weight gains over the past weeks, I am officially 2.8 pounds less than the weigh in on 1/5/09. Both my circuit workout and meal plan have kicked off, so see what upcoming weeks bring. But for now, I'm not entirely optimistic, because afterall, I'm a realist.
** On a funnier note - I won the Biggest Loser of the week. I wasn't able to get my prize, but seems rather ironic since I'm gathering I have been the consistent biggest gainer of the week until today. Baby steps...
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Workout Update & My Diet Plan
Yesterday I did my first full circuit training workout. It was tough, but not impossible. I wasn't on the verge of puking, but probably shouldn't have had a lean piece of steak before hand. I was able to do the three sets of the circuit in a few minutes over an hour. I did lower the bicep weight as well as the incline on the treadmill during the third set. Additionally, I decided that the circuit shouldn't begin and end with the treadmill as then I would be doing 6 minutes of cardio for the back to back sets. So that took out 9 minutes of cardio that I had initially thought I had to cram into the hour workout. I was pretty sore by last night. Not to mention the 6.5 miles of stationary bike I did in the morning. I finally decided I had had enough after two games of bowling last night and watched the third - the 12# ball wasn't helping my sore muscles and back much.
Today I went to the gym for a 2:00p.m. surprise workout, which was actually Zumba. This was the first Zumba class that I have participated and while it wasn't entirely awful, I doubt that I will go out of my way for another. The instructor didn't talk much, so it was just the philosophy of do what she does. It was a cross between latin dance and aerobics, which doesn't bode well for someone with no rhythm and two left feet. Although I thought I fared pretty well, just wasn't as much of a workout as I prefer. The personal trainer I met with, was participating in the class as well and was working out next to me. She had my meal plan done early - so I picked it up on the way out. I confirmed that the circuit workout shoudl only start with three minutes of cardio.
My Diet:
Meal 1: Veggie Omelet - 5 egg whites and one whole egg. 1 cup oatmeal.
Meal 2: Protein Shake or 1 cup yogurt.
Meal 3: 6 oz chicken sandwich on whole grain pita bread or tuna sandwich.
Meal 4: Fruit of my choice or protein shake.
Meal 5: 6 oz. chicken, fish or lean steak. 2.5 cups salad with low fat dressing. 1 medium potato or sweet potato.
She further added that I could do something different for dinner - a kebob with peppers, onions and mushrooms and that if using butter it must be unsweetened and unsalted. I could also substitute 1 cup of green beans or 1 cup of brown rice for the salad or potato.
And there it is. For the birds if you ask me. I LOVE FOOD. I did ask for clarification as to how long in between meals - 3 hours. I can also "snack" on any vegetable in between meals if I desire. I inquired about milk and dairy and she said that I could use veggie cheese shreds on my omelet or fat free cheese on my sandwich. I didn't even bother to inquire about pizza, pasta, bread, bread and bread. I know better than that.
She said that the diet is high in protein to give me energy for my circuit training and offers about 1400 calories. According to her, IF I follow the diet and circuit training religiously, within 2-3 months I should lose 25 pounds.
While I'm always up for a good challenge, I will use the diet as a guide not my food bible and therefore anticipate that my results will not be as she predicts. I know that I will not make the diet a lifestyle change, so I have no intention of trying to prove that I can do it for 2-3 months to then go back to adding more carbs and other foods I love, only to gain significantly.
Moderation. Moderation. Moderation. That's my philosophy - so with my new guide and workout schedule, I'll see what happens after 8 weeks.
Today I went to the gym for a 2:00p.m. surprise workout, which was actually Zumba. This was the first Zumba class that I have participated and while it wasn't entirely awful, I doubt that I will go out of my way for another. The instructor didn't talk much, so it was just the philosophy of do what she does. It was a cross between latin dance and aerobics, which doesn't bode well for someone with no rhythm and two left feet. Although I thought I fared pretty well, just wasn't as much of a workout as I prefer. The personal trainer I met with, was participating in the class as well and was working out next to me. She had my meal plan done early - so I picked it up on the way out. I confirmed that the circuit workout shoudl only start with three minutes of cardio.
My Diet:
Meal 1: Veggie Omelet - 5 egg whites and one whole egg. 1 cup oatmeal.
Meal 2: Protein Shake or 1 cup yogurt.
Meal 3: 6 oz chicken sandwich on whole grain pita bread or tuna sandwich.
Meal 4: Fruit of my choice or protein shake.
Meal 5: 6 oz. chicken, fish or lean steak. 2.5 cups salad with low fat dressing. 1 medium potato or sweet potato.
She further added that I could do something different for dinner - a kebob with peppers, onions and mushrooms and that if using butter it must be unsweetened and unsalted. I could also substitute 1 cup of green beans or 1 cup of brown rice for the salad or potato.
And there it is. For the birds if you ask me. I LOVE FOOD. I did ask for clarification as to how long in between meals - 3 hours. I can also "snack" on any vegetable in between meals if I desire. I inquired about milk and dairy and she said that I could use veggie cheese shreds on my omelet or fat free cheese on my sandwich. I didn't even bother to inquire about pizza, pasta, bread, bread and bread. I know better than that.
She said that the diet is high in protein to give me energy for my circuit training and offers about 1400 calories. According to her, IF I follow the diet and circuit training religiously, within 2-3 months I should lose 25 pounds.
While I'm always up for a good challenge, I will use the diet as a guide not my food bible and therefore anticipate that my results will not be as she predicts. I know that I will not make the diet a lifestyle change, so I have no intention of trying to prove that I can do it for 2-3 months to then go back to adding more carbs and other foods I love, only to gain significantly.
Moderation. Moderation. Moderation. That's my philosophy - so with my new guide and workout schedule, I'll see what happens after 8 weeks.
Valentine's Day
I would be the first to admit that I'm clearly not romantic. I would also say I am not high maintenance. However, depending on whom I'm being compared to, I am probably a bit of both.
Valentine's Day, like Sweetest Day, is another Hallmark holiday for me. I don't get worked up about it. I tend to not celebrate it, whether I'm dating someone or not. I often don't do anything for my son in the spirit of either holiday.
For some reason, this year, I decided to decorate brownie bites, with pink strawberry frosting and milk chocolate frosting and then top them with Hershey's hugs and kisses. I then put them in a Valentine's box for JC and a separate smaller box for my son. I also picked up a too cute dog stuffed animal for my son. Not really knowing exactly where JC and I stand in our relationship, I figured the brownies were cute and harmless and went with a pretty basis generic card.
Valentine's Day, like Sweetest Day, is another Hallmark holiday for me. I don't get worked up about it. I tend to not celebrate it, whether I'm dating someone or not. I often don't do anything for my son in the spirit of either holiday.
For some reason, this year, I decided to decorate brownie bites, with pink strawberry frosting and milk chocolate frosting and then top them with Hershey's hugs and kisses. I then put them in a Valentine's box for JC and a separate smaller box for my son. I also picked up a too cute dog stuffed animal for my son. Not really knowing exactly where JC and I stand in our relationship, I figured the brownies were cute and harmless and went with a pretty basis generic card.
JC saw his gifts and then went to his car to give me mine. Clearly handing them to me haphazardly as he was racing against time to get home for work. He hadn't signed the card, but still gave it to me anyway promising to sign it later. Along with the most perfect Hallmark "Between You and Me" card was a box of chocolates.
A box of Hershey's Hugs and Kisses chocolates...(and who said he and I didn't have anything in common?)
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Personal Training Plan
I met with the personal trainer. I wish she had nice things to say about me, or my body, but well truth be told, she wouldn't have a job if she did, right?
From first re-introductions she told me to take a seat and then quickly told me to stand to give me my once overs and body feels. I apparently do not stand straight and my upper body leans downward to the right, possibly due to healing incorrectly from my broken collar bone injury. She states she can "slowly fix that". My triceps are weak, very, very weak, but I have good shoulder definition...on my left side ONLY. My legs, oh my legs...need to definitely tone the legs and "raise the butt". Then there is my mid-section, much work to be done. Sigh...That was all in the first TWO minutes.
Then we headed to the locker room for measurements and weight. She told me to take my clothes off, um, NO. I figured the sports bra and shorts were sufficient and she didn't say another word about it. Beyond my left shoulder looking better, both my right arm and right leg are slightly bigger than the left - although in my mind this is muscle size!
She put me on the elliptical although preferred the treadmill but with my knee surgeries the elliptical is better for me, while she mustered out a "circuit workout". She did the circuit with me, while testing my weight limits. She classified me as a "White Fiber" stating that I am strong, not necessarily having the endurance. She did say that she was impressed with my lunge form and my strength, that physically I am strong. So I guess it wasn't all negative.
She also hoped that I would commit to 1-3 sessions with her per week and if I agreed to 30 sessions, the rate would lower $5 to $40 per hour. Gag...My intention was to get a baseline workout, direction and see how I could do. So now I have the plan in place - an 8-week workout that I should do three times per week with the goal of doing the circuit three times in an hour. In between the circuit training, I can do cardio and abs. After Monday she will have my meal plan ready confirming I drink too little water and need vitamins for starters.
My circuit consists of: treadmill (3 minutes), step ups, squats (w/5# dumbbells on shoulders), walking lunges, lat pull down, close grip (rowing), tricep push down, and then free weights of tricep kick back, biceps and side lateral raises (standing flies), then following up with hyperextension (inverted/reverse sit-ups), two variations of ab exercises and another three minutes on the treadmill.
I think the circuit is definitely manageable. There were times that it was slightly difficult, but typically after the increase of weights after I completed one set of 15. With the tricep push down I did 45 as she raised the weights three times. She assured me before we began that her goal was to push me to the point of puking. Yeah, that wasn't close to happening, not today at least. I didn't schedule another session with her as I want to try it on my own for a week or two and then meet with her again to see about progress. Weight wise, she didn't seem all that confident, but she felt that I could get down five pounds lower than my goal weight, which is a total of 23 pounds. I didn't ask her what time frame that was - as I'm positive it won't be in 8 weeks! But, it is good to have goals!
From first re-introductions she told me to take a seat and then quickly told me to stand to give me my once overs and body feels. I apparently do not stand straight and my upper body leans downward to the right, possibly due to healing incorrectly from my broken collar bone injury. She states she can "slowly fix that". My triceps are weak, very, very weak, but I have good shoulder definition...on my left side ONLY. My legs, oh my legs...need to definitely tone the legs and "raise the butt". Then there is my mid-section, much work to be done. Sigh...That was all in the first TWO minutes.
Then we headed to the locker room for measurements and weight. She told me to take my clothes off, um, NO. I figured the sports bra and shorts were sufficient and she didn't say another word about it. Beyond my left shoulder looking better, both my right arm and right leg are slightly bigger than the left - although in my mind this is muscle size!
She put me on the elliptical although preferred the treadmill but with my knee surgeries the elliptical is better for me, while she mustered out a "circuit workout". She did the circuit with me, while testing my weight limits. She classified me as a "White Fiber" stating that I am strong, not necessarily having the endurance. She did say that she was impressed with my lunge form and my strength, that physically I am strong. So I guess it wasn't all negative.
She also hoped that I would commit to 1-3 sessions with her per week and if I agreed to 30 sessions, the rate would lower $5 to $40 per hour. Gag...My intention was to get a baseline workout, direction and see how I could do. So now I have the plan in place - an 8-week workout that I should do three times per week with the goal of doing the circuit three times in an hour. In between the circuit training, I can do cardio and abs. After Monday she will have my meal plan ready confirming I drink too little water and need vitamins for starters.
My circuit consists of: treadmill (3 minutes), step ups, squats (w/5# dumbbells on shoulders), walking lunges, lat pull down, close grip (rowing), tricep push down, and then free weights of tricep kick back, biceps and side lateral raises (standing flies), then following up with hyperextension (inverted/reverse sit-ups), two variations of ab exercises and another three minutes on the treadmill.
I think the circuit is definitely manageable. There were times that it was slightly difficult, but typically after the increase of weights after I completed one set of 15. With the tricep push down I did 45 as she raised the weights three times. She assured me before we began that her goal was to push me to the point of puking. Yeah, that wasn't close to happening, not today at least. I didn't schedule another session with her as I want to try it on my own for a week or two and then meet with her again to see about progress. Weight wise, she didn't seem all that confident, but she felt that I could get down five pounds lower than my goal weight, which is a total of 23 pounds. I didn't ask her what time frame that was - as I'm positive it won't be in 8 weeks! But, it is good to have goals!
Personal Trainer & Weight Analysis
Today is the day. The BIG day. Maybe it will be the BIG of the BIGGEST LOSER competition for me. Or maybe it will lead to BIG weight loss. Regardless, it may lead to BIG changes for me.
Trust me when I say that I feel like over the years I have thought or tried it all, with the exception of dieting. I am not a dieter. When I make changes, I make more lifestyle changes of eating healthy. I've never been to a Weight Watchers meeting. I did purchase Richard Simmons "Food Mover" Program or something many years ago, which I suppose was similar to the WW program. It brought insight into how much I don't eat. But when life takes hold of me, my lack of eating habits kick in quickly.
I'm nervous. It's worse than any possible interview or first date experience, this meeting with the personal trainer. I've wondered what I should wear. Is it too much, not enough. I don't want to have to strip to get a complete body analysis, so I plan on wearing shorts, which is not what I work out in. I also have my list of likes and dislikes for my food plan that she will create. I just don't want to be joke. I did talk to JC last night and finally asked him how much he thought I weighed. He low balled me by almost 20 pounds, but I'm not sure if he was being honest or not and then he emphasized, "Honey, you carry it well."
Nice. Wow, flatter me some more, maybe I'll shed a few pounds under the flattery. Sigh...
I have started thinking more about when the weight came on. Over the past decade or so, since beginning birth control pills and other methods, I've decided that I should stop and see if I could drop the extra pounds. But I'd rather take the pounds than an "oops" nine plus month later seven pound loss!
I've also kicked around several ideas/myths (we all want to believe something, right?): a) Muscle weighs more than fat or b) Eat too few calories.
In regard to muscle weighing more than fat, while this is true, on the Biggest Loser the other night Jillian yelled that this is false - at least in Aubrey's case when she didn't lose much weight in 30 days off the ranch and claimed to be working out hard. So does that apply to me? My clothes are fitting better, but the scale is going up. When I work out, I work out hard, is it too hard?
In regard to eating too few calories, I'm almost beginning to believe this; however, if it were true, I would think that I would be losing weight. Anorexics lose weight, right? So I haven't completely grasped this idea; however, I have begun to notice some side affects that may be attributed to not eating properly. I've noticed that I'm more distracted, more irritable. I am beginning to feel like I have traits of Attention Deficit Disorder that I have never had before. That goes along with feeling bored, but not depressed. I seem to be more aloof. I'm not noticing things that I had once noticed, vision slightly out of focus or just not seeing things. I seem to catch myself in closer calls when driving, so either not seeing them as quickly or having slower reflexes. I seem to be more tired, fatigued. Workouts that were easy for me are becoming increasingly more difficult and I'm becoming more winded and am sweating more. Therefore either being I'm pushing myself harder, improving my technique and intensity or I have too few calories and carbs to support my intensity of cardio.
All these questions...I'm tired of them and the million more running through my mind. By this afternoon I hope to have answers. I hope to have direction. I hope to alleviate the myths and understand the truth. That I'm Wrong, but there is still hope for me to find the right path and get back on track once and for all. Here's hoping...stay tuned for the results of the initial assessment.
Trust me when I say that I feel like over the years I have thought or tried it all, with the exception of dieting. I am not a dieter. When I make changes, I make more lifestyle changes of eating healthy. I've never been to a Weight Watchers meeting. I did purchase Richard Simmons "Food Mover" Program or something many years ago, which I suppose was similar to the WW program. It brought insight into how much I don't eat. But when life takes hold of me, my lack of eating habits kick in quickly.
I'm nervous. It's worse than any possible interview or first date experience, this meeting with the personal trainer. I've wondered what I should wear. Is it too much, not enough. I don't want to have to strip to get a complete body analysis, so I plan on wearing shorts, which is not what I work out in. I also have my list of likes and dislikes for my food plan that she will create. I just don't want to be joke. I did talk to JC last night and finally asked him how much he thought I weighed. He low balled me by almost 20 pounds, but I'm not sure if he was being honest or not and then he emphasized, "Honey, you carry it well."
Nice. Wow, flatter me some more, maybe I'll shed a few pounds under the flattery. Sigh...
I have started thinking more about when the weight came on. Over the past decade or so, since beginning birth control pills and other methods, I've decided that I should stop and see if I could drop the extra pounds. But I'd rather take the pounds than an "oops" nine plus month later seven pound loss!
I've also kicked around several ideas/myths (we all want to believe something, right?): a) Muscle weighs more than fat or b) Eat too few calories.
In regard to muscle weighing more than fat, while this is true, on the Biggest Loser the other night Jillian yelled that this is false - at least in Aubrey's case when she didn't lose much weight in 30 days off the ranch and claimed to be working out hard. So does that apply to me? My clothes are fitting better, but the scale is going up. When I work out, I work out hard, is it too hard?
In regard to eating too few calories, I'm almost beginning to believe this; however, if it were true, I would think that I would be losing weight. Anorexics lose weight, right? So I haven't completely grasped this idea; however, I have begun to notice some side affects that may be attributed to not eating properly. I've noticed that I'm more distracted, more irritable. I am beginning to feel like I have traits of Attention Deficit Disorder that I have never had before. That goes along with feeling bored, but not depressed. I seem to be more aloof. I'm not noticing things that I had once noticed, vision slightly out of focus or just not seeing things. I seem to catch myself in closer calls when driving, so either not seeing them as quickly or having slower reflexes. I seem to be more tired, fatigued. Workouts that were easy for me are becoming increasingly more difficult and I'm becoming more winded and am sweating more. Therefore either being I'm pushing myself harder, improving my technique and intensity or I have too few calories and carbs to support my intensity of cardio.
All these questions...I'm tired of them and the million more running through my mind. By this afternoon I hope to have answers. I hope to have direction. I hope to alleviate the myths and understand the truth. That I'm Wrong, but there is still hope for me to find the right path and get back on track once and for all. Here's hoping...stay tuned for the results of the initial assessment.
Moment's Notice
Last night I was out with the guy that I've been dating (JC) and we were running around town doing some small shopping. We had killed time and then went to a little restaurant for dinner. I had a gift certificate that JA had given me for my birthday and seemed like a great opportunity to use it. JC had never been, so I'm all about experiencing "firsts".
The food was really good and it was a nice evening. Shortly after our soup and salad came out, a small commotion began nearby at a table seated with about eight gentlemen. I had observed the men when we sat down and had assessed them to be engineers on a "business" casual dinner. I overheard their waitress give them the specials and JC and I decided what we were going to order. I noticed the youngest of the group was barely 30, while others were in their mid 50's. The young gentleman was facing me and when I looked up I noticed that he had become ghost white, his eyes rolled upwards and his head was leaning against the man beside him. Despite the age of technology, none of the men at the table seemed capable of calling 911 and staff finally called. The man was brought to the floor and the others assembled around him assessing the situation.
Fortunately the man was fine. A nurse was in the restaurant and she aided the man until the paramedics arrived. The man was 31, married and an engineer visiting from Canada. He had no history of seizures, passing out, diabetes and was on no medication. He appeared to be physically fit.
Amazing how we take so many things for granted. And how in a moment, the world, "our world" as we know it can be completely different, completely turned around.
The food was really good and it was a nice evening. Shortly after our soup and salad came out, a small commotion began nearby at a table seated with about eight gentlemen. I had observed the men when we sat down and had assessed them to be engineers on a "business" casual dinner. I overheard their waitress give them the specials and JC and I decided what we were going to order. I noticed the youngest of the group was barely 30, while others were in their mid 50's. The young gentleman was facing me and when I looked up I noticed that he had become ghost white, his eyes rolled upwards and his head was leaning against the man beside him. Despite the age of technology, none of the men at the table seemed capable of calling 911 and staff finally called. The man was brought to the floor and the others assembled around him assessing the situation.
Fortunately the man was fine. A nurse was in the restaurant and she aided the man until the paramedics arrived. The man was 31, married and an engineer visiting from Canada. He had no history of seizures, passing out, diabetes and was on no medication. He appeared to be physically fit.
Amazing how we take so many things for granted. And how in a moment, the world, "our world" as we know it can be completely different, completely turned around.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Personal Trainer Plunge
It's done. I finally did it. For the second time in my life, I have hired a personal trainer. The first time was significantly different. I was getting back into the gym, recovering from a broken collar bone and wanted to know what I should and shouldn't do. It was a one time appointment. A done deal.
I talked to both personal trainers at my gym today. The first, a male, supports half hour sessions and recommends purchasing them in twelve session blocks at $20 per session. He suggests several sessions per week but has some clients that space it out to monthly. The second, a female (and former body builder), supports hour long sessions and more "circuit training". She discussed work-out plans, meal plans and personal assessments. She charges $45 per hour. The first guy doesn't believe in personal assessments - but will do a weight and body fat assessment if desired.
I clearly favor the second option. One, while I may be more motivated to push myself harder with a male personal trainer, I think a female trainer would be a better fit. One, she should be able to understand the female body and may be able to relate better. Additionally, I think the first session and assessments will be true to my ability rather than put me in a "show-off" or defensive attitude as if I have something to prove not only to myself but to the trainer. It does appear from talking to both that I do entirely way too much cardio and not enough weight training.
So without further ado, I bit the bullet and took the plunge and am meeting with the female personal trainer on Thursday. My homework: make a list of food likes and dislikes so that she can make a meal plan for me for the following week.
Do you think that Swiss Cake Rolls, Pasta and Veggies can be part of the plan?
Seriously though, my thing with food plans is I want them super basic, super easy and super plain. Forget all the condiments and give me the basics. Give me straight out protein and fruits and veggies. Give me my occasional pasta and bread and I will be entirely happy. Don't tell me I need to slave hours cooking up something I will devour in moments and don't make it so that I don't want to look at it or smell it, let alone eat it.
If she can do that, we will get along fabulously that if the pounds start to fall off - I'll end up doing and paying whatever she wants!
I talked to both personal trainers at my gym today. The first, a male, supports half hour sessions and recommends purchasing them in twelve session blocks at $20 per session. He suggests several sessions per week but has some clients that space it out to monthly. The second, a female (and former body builder), supports hour long sessions and more "circuit training". She discussed work-out plans, meal plans and personal assessments. She charges $45 per hour. The first guy doesn't believe in personal assessments - but will do a weight and body fat assessment if desired.
I clearly favor the second option. One, while I may be more motivated to push myself harder with a male personal trainer, I think a female trainer would be a better fit. One, she should be able to understand the female body and may be able to relate better. Additionally, I think the first session and assessments will be true to my ability rather than put me in a "show-off" or defensive attitude as if I have something to prove not only to myself but to the trainer. It does appear from talking to both that I do entirely way too much cardio and not enough weight training.
So without further ado, I bit the bullet and took the plunge and am meeting with the female personal trainer on Thursday. My homework: make a list of food likes and dislikes so that she can make a meal plan for me for the following week.
Do you think that Swiss Cake Rolls, Pasta and Veggies can be part of the plan?
Seriously though, my thing with food plans is I want them super basic, super easy and super plain. Forget all the condiments and give me the basics. Give me straight out protein and fruits and veggies. Give me my occasional pasta and bread and I will be entirely happy. Don't tell me I need to slave hours cooking up something I will devour in moments and don't make it so that I don't want to look at it or smell it, let alone eat it.
If she can do that, we will get along fabulously that if the pounds start to fall off - I'll end up doing and paying whatever she wants!
Ski Weekend
This past weekend, with temperatures ranging from the 30's-40's, I spent three days, downhill skiing. While I was more than concerned that the warmer weather would lead to less than fabulous skiing conditions, I was more than pleasantly surprised!
This was also the first getaway weekend with the guy that I have been dating. So true to test, the several hour drive, overnight stays and skiing would prove whether or not we could withstand each other to consider even going out on another date, let alone another trip! For the first time, ever, I have no complaints! None.
I can't even come up with a measly issue of tooth paste left in the sink, the toilet seat cover up, chewing with his mouth open, listening to lame country music, nothing. Not a single one.
The trip started with packing at his house and then heading to my son's basketball game. We then headed to my house so that I could pack up the food, snacks and my gear. We headed back by his place to grab his stuff and take care of his dogs one last time. Then we were on the road. We made great time and got to the hotel without any issues.
If anything, my good friend Susie and he may have a few disagreements, but afterall Susie IS my GPS, so I'm OK with that.
The hotel was great and TS arrived shortly thereafter. The three of us headed to Caberfae for an hour or two of night skiing. We ended up skiing for three hours the conditions were so great! Then we went back to the hotel where we met up with JN. We camped out in their room playing catch phrase and WOW while he and I shared several bottles of 3/$10 wine, how can you go wrong with that? Well, other than my nasty headache the following day, we couldn't!
Sunday the four of us checked out of the hotel and headed to Caberfae for some $9 lift tickets! Ours were included in our Sunday slopeside stay, but the others got the discount! The conditions weren't as good as it was much more crowded, but still lots of fun. TS with her "No Guts No Glory" attitude hit the slopes hard, but had rented poles so that she could manage getting her skis on mid-hill much better than Saturday! Loads of fun and lots of laugh. We stopped skiing around 6p.m. and TS and JN headed out of town.
Monday the slopes were again fabulous as they had been groomed. The slopes were barren, with no lift line waits and very few on the slopes. We were able to get in several great hours of skiing before we headed back home.
A fabulous getaway weekend and hopefully the first of many!
(On a side note, I would think with over 12 hours of downhill skiing in three days and at least four workout DVD's throughout the week I wouldn't have gained weight - but obviously what do I know?)
This was also the first getaway weekend with the guy that I have been dating. So true to test, the several hour drive, overnight stays and skiing would prove whether or not we could withstand each other to consider even going out on another date, let alone another trip! For the first time, ever, I have no complaints! None.
I can't even come up with a measly issue of tooth paste left in the sink, the toilet seat cover up, chewing with his mouth open, listening to lame country music, nothing. Not a single one.
The trip started with packing at his house and then heading to my son's basketball game. We then headed to my house so that I could pack up the food, snacks and my gear. We headed back by his place to grab his stuff and take care of his dogs one last time. Then we were on the road. We made great time and got to the hotel without any issues.
If anything, my good friend Susie and he may have a few disagreements, but afterall Susie IS my GPS, so I'm OK with that.
The hotel was great and TS arrived shortly thereafter. The three of us headed to Caberfae for an hour or two of night skiing. We ended up skiing for three hours the conditions were so great! Then we went back to the hotel where we met up with JN. We camped out in their room playing catch phrase and WOW while he and I shared several bottles of 3/$10 wine, how can you go wrong with that? Well, other than my nasty headache the following day, we couldn't!
Sunday the four of us checked out of the hotel and headed to Caberfae for some $9 lift tickets! Ours were included in our Sunday slopeside stay, but the others got the discount! The conditions weren't as good as it was much more crowded, but still lots of fun. TS with her "No Guts No Glory" attitude hit the slopes hard, but had rented poles so that she could manage getting her skis on mid-hill much better than Saturday! Loads of fun and lots of laugh. We stopped skiing around 6p.m. and TS and JN headed out of town.
Monday the slopes were again fabulous as they had been groomed. The slopes were barren, with no lift line waits and very few on the slopes. We were able to get in several great hours of skiing before we headed back home.
A fabulous getaway weekend and hopefully the first of many!
(On a side note, I would think with over 12 hours of downhill skiing in three days and at least four workout DVD's throughout the week I wouldn't have gained weight - but obviously what do I know?)
Biggest Loser Week #5
Adding insult to injury, I've officially added an additional 2.8 pounds from last weeks weigh. If that wasn't enough, I'm now .2 pounds more than the very first kick off weigh in! Sigh...what the...?
Monday, February 2, 2009
Michiganders
Jeff Foxworthy's opinion of Michigan ….
If you consider it a sport to gather your food by drilling through 18 inches of ice and sitting there all day hoping that the food will swim by, you might live in Michigan .
If you're proud that your region makes the national news 96 nights each year because Pellston is the coldest spot in the nation, you might live in Michigan .
If your local Dairy Queen is closed from November through March, you might live in Michigan.
If you instinctively walk like a penguin for five months out of the year, you might live in Michigan.
If someone in a store offers you assistance and they don't work there, you might live in Michigan.
If your dad's suntan stops at a line curving around the middle of his forehead, you might live in Michigan.
If you have worn shorts and a coat at the same time, you might live in Michigan.
If your town has an equal number of bars and churches, you might live in Michigan.
If you have had a lengthy telephone conversation with someone who dialed a wrong number, you might live in Michigan.
You know you're a true MICHIGANIAN/MICHIGANDER when:
1. "Vacation" means going up north on I-75.
2. You measure distance in hours.
3. You know several people who have hit a deer more than once.
4. You often switch from "heat" to "A/C" in the same day.
5. You can drive 65 mph through 2 feet of snow during a raging blizzard without flinching.
6. You see people wearing camouflage at social events (including weddings).
7. You install security lights on your house and garage and leave both unlocked.
8. You carry jumper cables in your car and your girlfriend knows how to use them.
9. You design your kid's Halloween costume to fit over a snowsuit.
10. Driving is better in t he winter because the potholes are filled with snow.
11. You know all 4 seasons: almost winter, winter, still winter and road construction.
12. You can identify a southern or eastern accent.
13. Your idea of creative landscaping is a statue of a deer next to your blue spruce.
14. You were unaware that there is a legal drinking age.
15. Down South to you means Ohio .
16. A brat is something you eat.
17. Your neighbor throws a party to celebrate his new pole barn.
18. You go out to fish fry every Friday.
19. Your 4th of July picnic was moved indoors due to frost.
20. You have more miles on your snow blower than your car.
21. You find 0 degrees "a little chilly".
22. You drink pop and bake with soda.
23. Your doctor tells you to drink Vernors and you know it's not medicine.
24. You can actually drink Vernors without coughing.
25. You know what a Yooper is.
26. You think owning a Honda is Un-American.
27. You know that UP is a place, not a direction.
28. You know it's possible to live in a thumb.
29. You understand that when visiting Detroit, the best thing to wear is a Kevlar vest.
If you consider it a sport to gather your food by drilling through 18 inches of ice and sitting there all day hoping that the food will swim by, you might live in Michigan .
If you're proud that your region makes the national news 96 nights each year because Pellston is the coldest spot in the nation, you might live in Michigan .
If your local Dairy Queen is closed from November through March, you might live in Michigan.
If you instinctively walk like a penguin for five months out of the year, you might live in Michigan.
If someone in a store offers you assistance and they don't work there, you might live in Michigan.
If your dad's suntan stops at a line curving around the middle of his forehead, you might live in Michigan.
If you have worn shorts and a coat at the same time, you might live in Michigan.
If your town has an equal number of bars and churches, you might live in Michigan.
If you have had a lengthy telephone conversation with someone who dialed a wrong number, you might live in Michigan.
You know you're a true MICHIGANIAN/MICHIGANDER when:
1. "Vacation" means going up north on I-75.
2. You measure distance in hours.
3. You know several people who have hit a deer more than once.
4. You often switch from "heat" to "A/C" in the same day.
5. You can drive 65 mph through 2 feet of snow during a raging blizzard without flinching.
6. You see people wearing camouflage at social events (including weddings).
7. You install security lights on your house and garage and leave both unlocked.
8. You carry jumper cables in your car and your girlfriend knows how to use them.
9. You design your kid's Halloween costume to fit over a snowsuit.
10. Driving is better in t he winter because the potholes are filled with snow.
11. You know all 4 seasons: almost winter, winter, still winter and road construction.
12. You can identify a southern or eastern accent.
13. Your idea of creative landscaping is a statue of a deer next to your blue spruce.
14. You were unaware that there is a legal drinking age.
15. Down South to you means Ohio .
16. A brat is something you eat.
17. Your neighbor throws a party to celebrate his new pole barn.
18. You go out to fish fry every Friday.
19. Your 4th of July picnic was moved indoors due to frost.
20. You have more miles on your snow blower than your car.
21. You find 0 degrees "a little chilly".
22. You drink pop and bake with soda.
23. Your doctor tells you to drink Vernors and you know it's not medicine.
24. You can actually drink Vernors without coughing.
25. You know what a Yooper is.
26. You think owning a Honda is Un-American.
27. You know that UP is a place, not a direction.
28. You know it's possible to live in a thumb.
29. You understand that when visiting Detroit, the best thing to wear is a Kevlar vest.
New Friends
I would have to say that I'm not the most open or trusting of people, by any means. I have enough reasons to doubt and second guess everyone and all intentions, several times over. Call it circumstance, happenstance, or what have you, it's what makes me me.
I don't make friends easily and I don't care to share or disclose freely. Unless I either know that I will never see the person again, or it's in my semi-anonymous blog of my thoughts. Odd I'm sure, but true.
I do disclose with my very close friends. I'm not one to openly become your "best friend" by any means. Friendships are very near and dear to me and I would do almost anything for my friends, almost.
This weekend I was introduced to my son's basketball coach's wife. He was eager to introduce us since he happened to disclose to me a few days prior her new job, which in fact is working in the same field. I have to say that I did/do like the woman. I also have to admit that I'm not great with names. Someone can introduce themselves and I seem to block their names, almost as if I've assessed that it is of unimportance because the likelihood that I will speak to them again is low. Hence this causes difficulty for me when I learn this is in fact incorrect. Like in the case with this woman.
Fortunately I wasn't alone as about five minutes into the conversation she asked me my name again; however, this opened the door to ask her her name again, which I did not, therefore acknowledging that I also didn't recall her name. I seriously over analyze everything, too much. She did happen to reference herself during our conversation so I was enlightened to hear and remember her name, although I would have sworn that was not her name.
Our hour long conversation was actually quite in depth. It was like an hour long interview per se or like getting in touch with a sister-in-law of a lost friend that you may or may not have ever met. You know the ones? We discussed the job, training, kids, blended family, marriage, divorce, step-children, education, families, weight, acceptance to name a few. She must have said half a dozen times that we should get our children together as they would be great for each other. Her step-son and my son are both eleven. They seem a little old to force the "play date".
Maybe I'm too cynical. I couldn't help but to just stand there and listen to her suggestions thinking that we will never get the kids together. Is that wrong? What keeps me from allowing others to get to know myself or my son outside of the realm of the situation that brought us together?
I don't make friends easily and I don't care to share or disclose freely. Unless I either know that I will never see the person again, or it's in my semi-anonymous blog of my thoughts. Odd I'm sure, but true.
I do disclose with my very close friends. I'm not one to openly become your "best friend" by any means. Friendships are very near and dear to me and I would do almost anything for my friends, almost.
This weekend I was introduced to my son's basketball coach's wife. He was eager to introduce us since he happened to disclose to me a few days prior her new job, which in fact is working in the same field. I have to say that I did/do like the woman. I also have to admit that I'm not great with names. Someone can introduce themselves and I seem to block their names, almost as if I've assessed that it is of unimportance because the likelihood that I will speak to them again is low. Hence this causes difficulty for me when I learn this is in fact incorrect. Like in the case with this woman.
Fortunately I wasn't alone as about five minutes into the conversation she asked me my name again; however, this opened the door to ask her her name again, which I did not, therefore acknowledging that I also didn't recall her name. I seriously over analyze everything, too much. She did happen to reference herself during our conversation so I was enlightened to hear and remember her name, although I would have sworn that was not her name.
Our hour long conversation was actually quite in depth. It was like an hour long interview per se or like getting in touch with a sister-in-law of a lost friend that you may or may not have ever met. You know the ones? We discussed the job, training, kids, blended family, marriage, divorce, step-children, education, families, weight, acceptance to name a few. She must have said half a dozen times that we should get our children together as they would be great for each other. Her step-son and my son are both eleven. They seem a little old to force the "play date".
Maybe I'm too cynical. I couldn't help but to just stand there and listen to her suggestions thinking that we will never get the kids together. Is that wrong? What keeps me from allowing others to get to know myself or my son outside of the realm of the situation that brought us together?
Snow Fun
Saturday night we went sledding. It was much later than anticipated as I was helping out a sick friend. Fortunately the sledding hill has lights and was actually open until midnight.
Three of us trudged up the steep backside of the hill to get to the top of the hill. From recent rain, the hill was iced over in many spots, making footing slightly difficult. To make matters worse, carrying five sleds up the hill for the three of us, didn't bode too well either with the winds.
We all did fairly well managing to stay planted on the ground when it was most important. I did have one attempt up the hill that was unsuccessful and to break the fall, I ended up flipping around the sled and back down the hill I went! Another time, the wind tore the sled from my grip and down the hill it went. Later, we learned that off the lakeshore the wind gusts were 44mph!
Sunday my son and I headed to Pando Park for some tubing. We had never been and thought it would be fun. Fun it was! The park offers five tubing runs and four tow ropes, when they are all in operation. The three-hour lift ticket was more than sufficient, although we stayed through the entirety. It helped that with the Super Bowl, people cleared out about two-hours into our pass allowing for almost no lines whatsoever. The weather was fantastic, hitting low 30's.
We couldn't have asked for a better day or a better weekend!
Three of us trudged up the steep backside of the hill to get to the top of the hill. From recent rain, the hill was iced over in many spots, making footing slightly difficult. To make matters worse, carrying five sleds up the hill for the three of us, didn't bode too well either with the winds.
We all did fairly well managing to stay planted on the ground when it was most important. I did have one attempt up the hill that was unsuccessful and to break the fall, I ended up flipping around the sled and back down the hill I went! Another time, the wind tore the sled from my grip and down the hill it went. Later, we learned that off the lakeshore the wind gusts were 44mph!
Sunday my son and I headed to Pando Park for some tubing. We had never been and thought it would be fun. Fun it was! The park offers five tubing runs and four tow ropes, when they are all in operation. The three-hour lift ticket was more than sufficient, although we stayed through the entirety. It helped that with the Super Bowl, people cleared out about two-hours into our pass allowing for almost no lines whatsoever. The weather was fantastic, hitting low 30's.
We couldn't have asked for a better day or a better weekend!
Shower Curtains
I seriously have an obsession with shower curtains. I suppose I could have much worse compulsive addictions and obsessions. Last night, I swapped out my shower curtain as I purchased a new bath rug and toilet cover. In thinking about it, I realized I have managed to change my shower curtain four times since the week of Thanksgiving.
Four Times...seriously, I so need to get a hobby.
In my defense though, it's the only bathroom I have. I do like change and for me, the change of a shower curtain refreshes the small bathroom and actually makes me a little happier.
Yes, I really do have ISSUES.
Four Times...seriously, I so need to get a hobby.
In my defense though, it's the only bathroom I have. I do like change and for me, the change of a shower curtain refreshes the small bathroom and actually makes me a little happier.
Yes, I really do have ISSUES.
Biggest Loser Week #4
Joyous Monday brings happy thoughts of my dreaded weigh in for the Biggest Loser competition.
I am happy to report that for the first time in three weeks, I did not gain. Actually, I lost 1.4 pounds, bringing me back to the exact weight of my first week weigh in. Fabulous that it only took me three weeks to get back there. So overall I'm down 2.6 pounds, shoes and heavier clothes than my initial weigh in on 1/5/09. Guess that means I'm at least good at something, maintaining.
I am happy to report that for the first time in three weeks, I did not gain. Actually, I lost 1.4 pounds, bringing me back to the exact weight of my first week weigh in. Fabulous that it only took me three weeks to get back there. So overall I'm down 2.6 pounds, shoes and heavier clothes than my initial weigh in on 1/5/09. Guess that means I'm at least good at something, maintaining.
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