Oh yeah, and it just so happens, that my DH had some minor surgery yesterday... he had the inital posts put in for his dental implants... in 4 months or so, he will again have a full mouth of teeth.
But I feel guilty, because I'm leaving for a week, and I can't help him if he needs something. I'm sure he will be fine because you know, he's an adult, but I still feel like I am leaving him in the lurch a bit. I've been so busy with work and other assorted things that I did not have time to go get him food he could eat.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Friday, already?
It’s definitely been a week.
I had to go to Chicago this week for work. Flew in on Tuesday morning, got to the yard office, and the first road block was getting in the door…
I buzz to get in. Over the intercom:
“May I help you?”
“It’s Anneke”
“What’s your name?”
“Anneke”
“Can you tell me your name?”
“My name is Anneke S…, I’m the safety advisor, I’m here for the safety walkabout!”
It was someone new, who didn’t know me. She thought I was asking for a key, and wanted to know my name…
So as I get in the door, one of my co-workers from Calgary is standing there, in front of the desk, just laughing.
But, the meetings went well, and I think we got accomplished what needed to get done.
I even got to speak to my boss’s boss (and we get on very well) about some frustrations I have been feeling lately, and we worked out some issues. Then I moved on to drinking wine. The four of us from our department sat in the lounge, drinking, and eating a bit of dinner after the drinking. And we all crashed and slept soundly that night. A good thing, since we were meeting to go back to the rail yard at 6:15am.
I even got in a 4-mile run on the hotel’s treadmill on Tuesday afternoon, since we were done earlier than planned.
Wednesday was some airport/airplane hell though… lines of thunderstorms in the Chicago area prevented all of the planes from leaving, just as we were taxiing out to the runway. So we sat. And I managed to finish my book before we were allowed to leave, so then I had nothing to do… we were supposed to get in around 6pm, and ended up touching down at 8:05. So much for getting stuff done at home! At least I had packed snacks with me so I was not completely ravenous when I got home… but I was not able to exercise because there was absolutely no time.
Yesterday I did go out after work. 4 miles. 42 minutes or so. Eric asked me if it was a good run. And you know, it was neither good nor bad. Which I don’t know what that means. I got out there, it wasn’t terrible, but that “runner’s high” never kicked in. I guess you can’t win them all. I am trying to loosely follow a half marathon training program – the friend who ran the 8K with me last Sunday really wants me to do a race with her in June. A week after I get back from Isle Royale – but heck, it’s a goal that will also help me get in shape for all the hiking!
And today. I fly out to Florida this evening to visit my parents for a week. I am looking forward to the sun and relaxation. I just hope the weather is good for flying!
On the weightloss front, I was very pleased with the scale this morning… it’s still going in the right direction. I’m down about 10 pounds from my “yikes” moment several weeks ago. I’m tracking points, and exercising. My goodness… is that what it takes???
And I am feeling quite cute today, in a jean jacket/blazer that is not nearly as snug as it was two weeks ago.
Time to get things wrapped up at work before leaving for a week.
ta!
~a
I had to go to Chicago this week for work. Flew in on Tuesday morning, got to the yard office, and the first road block was getting in the door…
I buzz to get in. Over the intercom:
“May I help you?”
“It’s Anneke”
“What’s your name?”
“Anneke”
“Can you tell me your name?”
“My name is Anneke S…, I’m the safety advisor, I’m here for the safety walkabout!”
It was someone new, who didn’t know me. She thought I was asking for a key, and wanted to know my name…
So as I get in the door, one of my co-workers from Calgary is standing there, in front of the desk, just laughing.
But, the meetings went well, and I think we got accomplished what needed to get done.
I even got to speak to my boss’s boss (and we get on very well) about some frustrations I have been feeling lately, and we worked out some issues. Then I moved on to drinking wine. The four of us from our department sat in the lounge, drinking, and eating a bit of dinner after the drinking. And we all crashed and slept soundly that night. A good thing, since we were meeting to go back to the rail yard at 6:15am.
I even got in a 4-mile run on the hotel’s treadmill on Tuesday afternoon, since we were done earlier than planned.
Wednesday was some airport/airplane hell though… lines of thunderstorms in the Chicago area prevented all of the planes from leaving, just as we were taxiing out to the runway. So we sat. And I managed to finish my book before we were allowed to leave, so then I had nothing to do… we were supposed to get in around 6pm, and ended up touching down at 8:05. So much for getting stuff done at home! At least I had packed snacks with me so I was not completely ravenous when I got home… but I was not able to exercise because there was absolutely no time.
Yesterday I did go out after work. 4 miles. 42 minutes or so. Eric asked me if it was a good run. And you know, it was neither good nor bad. Which I don’t know what that means. I got out there, it wasn’t terrible, but that “runner’s high” never kicked in. I guess you can’t win them all. I am trying to loosely follow a half marathon training program – the friend who ran the 8K with me last Sunday really wants me to do a race with her in June. A week after I get back from Isle Royale – but heck, it’s a goal that will also help me get in shape for all the hiking!
And today. I fly out to Florida this evening to visit my parents for a week. I am looking forward to the sun and relaxation. I just hope the weather is good for flying!
On the weightloss front, I was very pleased with the scale this morning… it’s still going in the right direction. I’m down about 10 pounds from my “yikes” moment several weeks ago. I’m tracking points, and exercising. My goodness… is that what it takes???
And I am feeling quite cute today, in a jean jacket/blazer that is not nearly as snug as it was two weeks ago.
Time to get things wrapped up at work before leaving for a week.
ta!
~a
Monday, March 19, 2007
A good weekend
Friday night, Eric and I ventured out to a fish fry. Something at work had made me a bit cranky, but I refused to let it get the best of me - but I did make Eric get me a couple of beers while we were waiting in line to get food (yes - a very popular place - we waited in line for about 45 minutes). I was feeling quite happy at that time.
Then we went to REI, and I bought a backback for my trip. I can now do some conditioning hikes, with my pack and my new boots! We were thinking about going out for a drink after our shopping, but as we were both yawning, we figured we would go home instead. And we were in bed before 10 pm. Yep, we're old...
Saturday, I went running with the group. I hadn't gone out since the bad run on Wednesday (thought I needed some recovery time) and tried to take it real easy. After mapping it out, it was actually somewhere around 5 miles, but I didn't even time myeslf to see how long it took. Drank some coffee with the group, went home to take a bath, then I was off to get my hair cut. It turned out okay - but it's a little shorter than I would have liked... the front will not tuck behind my ears, and it keeps slipping out of clips. But it's hair. It will grow. And this is the first time in a long time that I am not 100% pleased with my haircut.
After that, I went to the store, and finally bought the software to do my taxes. Then I went home, watched the Grey's Anatomy that I had recorded, then crawled into bed and took a nap until my husband got home. Ate some dinner, then started doing our taxes.
Sunday morning, I got the bed changed, the taxes done and e-filed (yay! getting a refund this year!), did several loads of laundry, made a good breakfast of egg beaters, 2% cheese slices and light wheat toast, and chatted with a friend who came over to clean up our computer (Eric and I are not "real" computer people.). The 8K race was scheduled to start at 1:20 pm. I got myself out of the house at about noon, to meet my freind at the registration area, we dropped stuff off at her car, used the porta-potties, and speed walked the three blocks to the starting area, where the race started about a minute after we got there.
It was kind of overcast and windy, but I had dressed well for the race. Up the first big hill on Summit Avenue - up to and across Snelling, I could hear my friend was breathing pretty heavy, so I asked her if she was okay - and she said she needed to walk - and I should go ahead. So I kept on. My goal was to jog/run the whole race. So there was Mile 1. The guy with the stopwatch said the time was about 12 minutes, 30 seconds. Which was okay, since I was in the back of the starting chute, and did not cross the start for a bit after the race was started.
At the mile two marker, the time there was somewhere around 22 minutes, 40 seconds. Close to a 10-minute mile! From there, to William Mitchell College - the turnaround point. Listening to my music, in the "zone", catching up to people, passing... up the small hill by Kowalski's, knowing that it's pretty much downhill from there. Down the hill past Snelling Ave, coasting, making good use of the hill. Wondering if I should speed up. Past Prior Ave (the starting point) and into the end. I finished strong, picking up the pace for the last two blocks, and seeing the time on the clock as 52 minutes.
Man it felt good.
My first 8K, and I feel like I made a very respectable showing. My friend ended up fininshing about two minutes after me, still not bad, but she was not real pleased because she felt pretty lousy throughout the whole race. Truly, what a difference a couple of days make!
It was a good weekend.
(Oh, and the scale was down another pound today - that makes 7 pounds lost... and I feel much better in my clothes!)
Happy Monday to you all!
~a
Then we went to REI, and I bought a backback for my trip. I can now do some conditioning hikes, with my pack and my new boots! We were thinking about going out for a drink after our shopping, but as we were both yawning, we figured we would go home instead. And we were in bed before 10 pm. Yep, we're old...
Saturday, I went running with the group. I hadn't gone out since the bad run on Wednesday (thought I needed some recovery time) and tried to take it real easy. After mapping it out, it was actually somewhere around 5 miles, but I didn't even time myeslf to see how long it took. Drank some coffee with the group, went home to take a bath, then I was off to get my hair cut. It turned out okay - but it's a little shorter than I would have liked... the front will not tuck behind my ears, and it keeps slipping out of clips. But it's hair. It will grow. And this is the first time in a long time that I am not 100% pleased with my haircut.
After that, I went to the store, and finally bought the software to do my taxes. Then I went home, watched the Grey's Anatomy that I had recorded, then crawled into bed and took a nap until my husband got home. Ate some dinner, then started doing our taxes.
Sunday morning, I got the bed changed, the taxes done and e-filed (yay! getting a refund this year!), did several loads of laundry, made a good breakfast of egg beaters, 2% cheese slices and light wheat toast, and chatted with a friend who came over to clean up our computer (Eric and I are not "real" computer people.). The 8K race was scheduled to start at 1:20 pm. I got myself out of the house at about noon, to meet my freind at the registration area, we dropped stuff off at her car, used the porta-potties, and speed walked the three blocks to the starting area, where the race started about a minute after we got there.
It was kind of overcast and windy, but I had dressed well for the race. Up the first big hill on Summit Avenue - up to and across Snelling, I could hear my friend was breathing pretty heavy, so I asked her if she was okay - and she said she needed to walk - and I should go ahead. So I kept on. My goal was to jog/run the whole race. So there was Mile 1. The guy with the stopwatch said the time was about 12 minutes, 30 seconds. Which was okay, since I was in the back of the starting chute, and did not cross the start for a bit after the race was started.
At the mile two marker, the time there was somewhere around 22 minutes, 40 seconds. Close to a 10-minute mile! From there, to William Mitchell College - the turnaround point. Listening to my music, in the "zone", catching up to people, passing... up the small hill by Kowalski's, knowing that it's pretty much downhill from there. Down the hill past Snelling Ave, coasting, making good use of the hill. Wondering if I should speed up. Past Prior Ave (the starting point) and into the end. I finished strong, picking up the pace for the last two blocks, and seeing the time on the clock as 52 minutes.
Man it felt good.
My first 8K, and I feel like I made a very respectable showing. My friend ended up fininshing about two minutes after me, still not bad, but she was not real pleased because she felt pretty lousy throughout the whole race. Truly, what a difference a couple of days make!
It was a good weekend.
(Oh, and the scale was down another pound today - that makes 7 pounds lost... and I feel much better in my clothes!)
Happy Monday to you all!
~a
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Slogging
That's what my run felt like today. Pretty much pure hell. Thanks to the larger than I should have eaten lunch, I felt like I wanted to throw up pretty much the whole time. But I did it. I contemplated not going out, but gave myself a stern lecture, and got out there.... my third day in a row of running. 3 miles today, in about 36 minutes (including the strtching and a bit of walking). I also signed up to run an 8K race on Sunday... so I need to shake this one off.
Monday's run was awesome. I felt great, it was a beautiful day, and I did 4 miles with no problem. Yesterday, in Superior, it was 61 degrees (In March????) and I did a bit over 3 miles.
And I have been writing down what I eat. And trying to be very conscious about what I am eating, and I have been staying within my points. Will wonders never cease?
Not much else to say at the moment... I think tonight is a night of watching mindless TV.
Monday's run was awesome. I felt great, it was a beautiful day, and I did 4 miles with no problem. Yesterday, in Superior, it was 61 degrees (In March????) and I did a bit over 3 miles.
And I have been writing down what I eat. And trying to be very conscious about what I am eating, and I have been staying within my points. Will wonders never cease?
Not much else to say at the moment... I think tonight is a night of watching mindless TV.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
I'm fine, how are you?
The good news was that I did not have to stay for the second day of meetings in Portage. The bad news was that I got to drive home in a bit of sticky, slimy snow.
About 20 into my drive, all sorts of people are slowing down, and I see emergency lights flashing - a small silver car had flipped over in the ditch. It kind of freaked me out - so it took me a bit longer than expected to get home. Some of it was not too bad, and as I was thinking the roads were going to get better, the snow started sticking to the road again, and I was ultra paranoid going over bridges and under overpasses.
But I made it home.
I did make it onto the treadmill yesterday morning at the hotel. It was a really crappy treadmill - the guide on the deck was falling apart (one side was completely gone) and the speed control was a slider, you had to kind of guess where you wanted to set it, because it read out the MPH, but that was just off. But I did get in 40 minutes.
And today, I got home from work, put on my running clothes, and ran my 3 mile loop. And it felt better than the last time I did that. I'm looking forward to going out for a run tomorrow afternoon!
Food today was not so good. My friend and I went out to lunch at an Indian buffet. I have not had Indian food in way too long. But, I will have to say, I stopped eating when I was full. And I ate a lot of the vegetarian items. And tonight I ate a healthy salad with craisins, pine nuts and some blue cheese. I think I was justifying it somewhat, because the scale was not completely awful this morning - goes to show you what can hapen when you actually follow the WW guidelines!
We got a call from my stepson this evening, just as I was coming in from my run. He has decided that he wants to go back to school and actually finish getting his degree. Woo Hoo! I guess that his job that was supposed to give him all of these opportunities is not panning out, so he is going to get a degree. Yay education. That, and he has a girlfriend he really likes. Okay, so now I feel old...
And I'm going to go - the cat is begging for some attention.
ta!
~a
About 20 into my drive, all sorts of people are slowing down, and I see emergency lights flashing - a small silver car had flipped over in the ditch. It kind of freaked me out - so it took me a bit longer than expected to get home. Some of it was not too bad, and as I was thinking the roads were going to get better, the snow started sticking to the road again, and I was ultra paranoid going over bridges and under overpasses.
But I made it home.
I did make it onto the treadmill yesterday morning at the hotel. It was a really crappy treadmill - the guide on the deck was falling apart (one side was completely gone) and the speed control was a slider, you had to kind of guess where you wanted to set it, because it read out the MPH, but that was just off. But I did get in 40 minutes.
And today, I got home from work, put on my running clothes, and ran my 3 mile loop. And it felt better than the last time I did that. I'm looking forward to going out for a run tomorrow afternoon!
Food today was not so good. My friend and I went out to lunch at an Indian buffet. I have not had Indian food in way too long. But, I will have to say, I stopped eating when I was full. And I ate a lot of the vegetarian items. And tonight I ate a healthy salad with craisins, pine nuts and some blue cheese. I think I was justifying it somewhat, because the scale was not completely awful this morning - goes to show you what can hapen when you actually follow the WW guidelines!
We got a call from my stepson this evening, just as I was coming in from my run. He has decided that he wants to go back to school and actually finish getting his degree. Woo Hoo! I guess that his job that was supposed to give him all of these opportunities is not panning out, so he is going to get a degree. Yay education. That, and he has a girlfriend he really likes. Okay, so now I feel old...
And I'm going to go - the cat is begging for some attention.
ta!
~a
Monday, March 05, 2007
100 calories
Okay seriously, everyone has jumped on the 100-calorie bandwagon.
On my travels, I knew I would have a fridge and a microwave in my hotel room, so I stopped at the grocery store (Super Wal-Mart...) and bought stuff for dinner and snacks, since I didn't manage to grab more from home. There are 100-calorie packs of everything now - I saw Doritos, Chetos cheese balls, Chips Ahoy, Grahm Crackers, Wheat Thins, Cheese Nips, Nutter Butters, and Hostess cupcakes. I also saw that pop secret now has 100 calorie packs of microwave popcorn. I've also seen 100-calorie lowfat granola bars. In the same vein, Quaker has a 90 calorie pack of mini rice cakes.
I admit it, I buy them. But holy cow, there sure are a lot of them out there - it makes me wonder how many people buy them, then eat the whole box.
It does make me happy to see that there are healthier/controlled portions out there. And packages that have 1 serving in them - unlike the "grab bag" of pretzels that has 2.5 servings in it. Seriously???? Who actually will eat 1 serving out of a bag like that? And how do they figure out what a serving is - is it something arbitrary that they make up to make their nutrition information look good?
In another vein, it is day 3 of counting points, again. I am feeling a little less hostile about it than I did this morning. I still don't really like it, but it's good to feel a little more in control of things. And I really did need to get back into the water and fruit/veggie habbit. Scale was down a little bit this morning, but still way higher than I would like.
No exercise today - but you can bet that I will be on the treadmill in the morning.
g'night!
~a
On my travels, I knew I would have a fridge and a microwave in my hotel room, so I stopped at the grocery store (Super Wal-Mart...) and bought stuff for dinner and snacks, since I didn't manage to grab more from home. There are 100-calorie packs of everything now - I saw Doritos, Chetos cheese balls, Chips Ahoy, Grahm Crackers, Wheat Thins, Cheese Nips, Nutter Butters, and Hostess cupcakes. I also saw that pop secret now has 100 calorie packs of microwave popcorn. I've also seen 100-calorie lowfat granola bars. In the same vein, Quaker has a 90 calorie pack of mini rice cakes.
I admit it, I buy them. But holy cow, there sure are a lot of them out there - it makes me wonder how many people buy them, then eat the whole box.
It does make me happy to see that there are healthier/controlled portions out there. And packages that have 1 serving in them - unlike the "grab bag" of pretzels that has 2.5 servings in it. Seriously???? Who actually will eat 1 serving out of a bag like that? And how do they figure out what a serving is - is it something arbitrary that they make up to make their nutrition information look good?
In another vein, it is day 3 of counting points, again. I am feeling a little less hostile about it than I did this morning. I still don't really like it, but it's good to feel a little more in control of things. And I really did need to get back into the water and fruit/veggie habbit. Scale was down a little bit this morning, but still way higher than I would like.
No exercise today - but you can bet that I will be on the treadmill in the morning.
g'night!
~a
Somewhat better...
Yeah, so I figured out I can't just write down what I eat, I need to keep track of the points, or at least to make a good-faith effort to track points.
And I hate it.
I hate thinking about what I put in my mouth. I hate planning out what to eat. I hate packing snacks and such for when I travel. I hate measuring things. I hate feeling deprived when others are eating and drinking without a care.
But on the flip side, I HATE that I don't fit into my clothes. I hate having my photo taken - I try and hide the fact that I have a double chin (again) by lifting up my chin, and it still does not work. I hate feeling fat. And most of all, I hate it when I feel self-conscious when my husband touches me.
That being said, I had a decent weekend. I ran with the group on Saturday morning. 3 times around Lake Como without walking. That's about 4.5 miles. I also wrote down what I ate, ate a decent meal before we went out to a party, didn't drink any wine or beer (well, I had sips here and there to see what other people's drinks tasted like, but I stopped there - I knew what it tasted like, and I did not need more) .
Sunday, we ate brunch at the bowling event we attended... and I guesstimated the points, and figured I had used up all of mine for the day, and then some - so for dinner I had a salad with a bit of salad spritzer (1 calorie per spray), dill pickles, and two large cups of hot tea. Seriously... lettuce and pickles for dinner. Eric made Sesame Chicken for himself, and I think was kind of hurt that I didn't want any. But life is about choices, isn't it?
Well, traveling again this week. I get to go to Portage, WI for two days. At least the hotel has a treadmill. I just need to figure out what hours it is open, and fit it into my meeting schedule.
That being said, I need to get my rear in gear, and get on the road.
~a
And I hate it.
I hate thinking about what I put in my mouth. I hate planning out what to eat. I hate packing snacks and such for when I travel. I hate measuring things. I hate feeling deprived when others are eating and drinking without a care.
But on the flip side, I HATE that I don't fit into my clothes. I hate having my photo taken - I try and hide the fact that I have a double chin (again) by lifting up my chin, and it still does not work. I hate feeling fat. And most of all, I hate it when I feel self-conscious when my husband touches me.
That being said, I had a decent weekend. I ran with the group on Saturday morning. 3 times around Lake Como without walking. That's about 4.5 miles. I also wrote down what I ate, ate a decent meal before we went out to a party, didn't drink any wine or beer (well, I had sips here and there to see what other people's drinks tasted like, but I stopped there - I knew what it tasted like, and I did not need more) .
Sunday, we ate brunch at the bowling event we attended... and I guesstimated the points, and figured I had used up all of mine for the day, and then some - so for dinner I had a salad with a bit of salad spritzer (1 calorie per spray), dill pickles, and two large cups of hot tea. Seriously... lettuce and pickles for dinner. Eric made Sesame Chicken for himself, and I think was kind of hurt that I didn't want any. But life is about choices, isn't it?
Well, traveling again this week. I get to go to Portage, WI for two days. At least the hotel has a treadmill. I just need to figure out what hours it is open, and fit it into my meeting schedule.
That being said, I need to get my rear in gear, and get on the road.
~a
Friday, March 02, 2007
Admitting you have a problem
Hi. My name is Anneke, and it appears that I have a problem with food. As in, I like it way too much. I think I'm obsessed.
I have all sorts of good intentions, then I throw them out the window, so to speak. I told myself I would continue to exercise more consistantly - but it is really hellish to get up and onto the NordicTrack at 5:30am, especially when the house is cold, and all I seem to want to do is to crawl back into my warm bed and pull the flannel sheets over my head. And I don't seem to be able to consistantly get my rear in gear in the evenings, either. Seems like I get home from work, and my first priority is food. Making supper, or eating a snack. How do I make my first priority ME?
Who put me in this handbasket, and how can I get out?
And I was seriously hating myself for my eating habits yesterday - I thought my vendor was going to take me out to lunch, so I did not pack anything for lunch. But, we are in Minnesota, and in the midst of a rather large snowstorm. Lunch plans were cancelled. I could have gone and picked up some soup and sushi, but I had some figs in my office (and had eaten a large bowl of Wheaties for breakfast) and figured I would just go home early... then there were the potato chips I had to eat. Then there was the piece of cake from the lunchroom. Then another piece of cake... Yep, I thought one was just not enough. Then I came home, and shoveled snow. Decided it was okay to have something else, since I had "exercised" so last nights food consisted of: pretzels and pesto dip, Chicken Quesedilla Pizza Rolls, a banana with peanut butter, some light microwave kettle corn, and um, the three glasses of wine to wash it all down.
I need help. I know that. I just don't know what I want to do. I honestly don't want to go back to WW - the meeting time I can make consistantly is Saturday am, and I want to continue with the running group. Why am I obsessed with food? If I figure that out, things just might get better...
yargh.
thanks for listening
~a
I have all sorts of good intentions, then I throw them out the window, so to speak. I told myself I would continue to exercise more consistantly - but it is really hellish to get up and onto the NordicTrack at 5:30am, especially when the house is cold, and all I seem to want to do is to crawl back into my warm bed and pull the flannel sheets over my head. And I don't seem to be able to consistantly get my rear in gear in the evenings, either. Seems like I get home from work, and my first priority is food. Making supper, or eating a snack. How do I make my first priority ME?
Who put me in this handbasket, and how can I get out?
And I was seriously hating myself for my eating habits yesterday - I thought my vendor was going to take me out to lunch, so I did not pack anything for lunch. But, we are in Minnesota, and in the midst of a rather large snowstorm. Lunch plans were cancelled. I could have gone and picked up some soup and sushi, but I had some figs in my office (and had eaten a large bowl of Wheaties for breakfast) and figured I would just go home early... then there were the potato chips I had to eat. Then there was the piece of cake from the lunchroom. Then another piece of cake... Yep, I thought one was just not enough. Then I came home, and shoveled snow. Decided it was okay to have something else, since I had "exercised" so last nights food consisted of: pretzels and pesto dip, Chicken Quesedilla Pizza Rolls, a banana with peanut butter, some light microwave kettle corn, and um, the three glasses of wine to wash it all down.
I need help. I know that. I just don't know what I want to do. I honestly don't want to go back to WW - the meeting time I can make consistantly is Saturday am, and I want to continue with the running group. Why am I obsessed with food? If I figure that out, things just might get better...
yargh.
thanks for listening
~a
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Do what you say you are going to do....
Okay, so I did not exercise yesterday.
I'm using the excuse that I shoveled snow for about two hours on Sunday, and I was TIRED. I actually felt like I had run a half marathon kind of tired. And I know how that kind of tired feels... so yeah, about two hours of cardio work.
I had intentions of exercising yesterday afternoon, but I had a taste test I was going to do, and they had overbooked the study, so they paid me the $75 for showing up, and sent me home after being there for 15 minutes. So what's a girl to do? (And no, I did not go to a mall or a department store...) I called my hubby, and told him my story, and he asks if that means I am taking him out to dinner.
Since I had some errands I wanted to get done, I went home, gathered up my husband, and we ran errands: Drop off library book, pick up another, filled out the paperwork to cancel my Y membership (not using it, thanks - much easier to run out my door than pack up to go to the gym), went to REI and tried on backpacks for my backpacking/camping trip (I want to get the pack so I can do some training hikes with it), went to Joe's Crab Shack for dinner, then went to Warner Stellion to look at a freezer - our freezer came with the house, it's ancient, and does not close properly, therefore we have to defrost it way too often.
So the short version is that we got home after 9pm, and I don't want to do anything that late at night that resembles exercise, which just tends to keep me awake.
I know excuses, excuses.
I did, however, get in 45 minutes on the NordicTrack this morning. And I got out the ab machine I have, dusted it off and did some exercises on that too.
I am kicking around the idea of enrolling myself in a half-marathon training program. The coach of the women's running group I have now joined is offering a spring program. I am not planning on doing a half this spring, but doing the program would have the benefit of getting my legs in better shape for the trip to Isle Royale. And heck, perhaps I could do a smaller race, to see if I improve my PR. Then also I can continue training for the marathon I want to do in the fall. The information session is tonight, and I am debating weather to go or not. And I am leaning toward "not" at this point. I'm still going to run. And continue to train. And to get my legs under me and in shape, so I can do some more serious training all summer.
What's a girl to do?
Thanks for letting me babble.
~a
I'm using the excuse that I shoveled snow for about two hours on Sunday, and I was TIRED. I actually felt like I had run a half marathon kind of tired. And I know how that kind of tired feels... so yeah, about two hours of cardio work.
I had intentions of exercising yesterday afternoon, but I had a taste test I was going to do, and they had overbooked the study, so they paid me the $75 for showing up, and sent me home after being there for 15 minutes. So what's a girl to do? (And no, I did not go to a mall or a department store...) I called my hubby, and told him my story, and he asks if that means I am taking him out to dinner.
Since I had some errands I wanted to get done, I went home, gathered up my husband, and we ran errands: Drop off library book, pick up another, filled out the paperwork to cancel my Y membership (not using it, thanks - much easier to run out my door than pack up to go to the gym), went to REI and tried on backpacks for my backpacking/camping trip (I want to get the pack so I can do some training hikes with it), went to Joe's Crab Shack for dinner, then went to Warner Stellion to look at a freezer - our freezer came with the house, it's ancient, and does not close properly, therefore we have to defrost it way too often.
So the short version is that we got home after 9pm, and I don't want to do anything that late at night that resembles exercise, which just tends to keep me awake.
I know excuses, excuses.
I did, however, get in 45 minutes on the NordicTrack this morning. And I got out the ab machine I have, dusted it off and did some exercises on that too.
I am kicking around the idea of enrolling myself in a half-marathon training program. The coach of the women's running group I have now joined is offering a spring program. I am not planning on doing a half this spring, but doing the program would have the benefit of getting my legs in better shape for the trip to Isle Royale. And heck, perhaps I could do a smaller race, to see if I improve my PR. Then also I can continue training for the marathon I want to do in the fall. The information session is tonight, and I am debating weather to go or not. And I am leaning toward "not" at this point. I'm still going to run. And continue to train. And to get my legs under me and in shape, so I can do some more serious training all summer.
What's a girl to do?
Thanks for letting me babble.
~a
Friday, February 23, 2007
MIA
And I am not even traveling this week. And I didn't go anywhere last week...
Big Sigh. I have been catching up on stuff around the office. And dealing with a huge project/analysis that they threw at me last week.
And someone asked me the other day if they had filled my equivalent position yet... the one that has been vacant since July..... 2005 that is. My response:
"Yeah, just excuse me as I laugh quietly to myself in my cubicle… it's either that or cry in frustration. They interviewed, again. And they plan to hire someone, again. But they have to jump through the hoops and the loops of our HR department, again. And now my boss (the person hiring, and therefore the person who would make the candidate the offer) is on vacation until the 26th. So it's a waiting game, again. And they plan to hire the person who took the job and quit once already…"
On another note - I have decided for Lent, I am going to exercise every day. No excuses. So Wednesday I got on the Nordic Track in the morning. Thursday, after work I ran 3 miles (in 33 minutes!) and I got on the NT again this morning. Tomorrow, I am meeting with the women's running group my friend has invited me to, and we will do a 3 mile loop around Lake Harriet, weather permitting (if we don't have the predicted 4 inches of snow!)
The run yesterday was actually pretty good. The first mile really kind of sucked, but once I got into it (I told myslef I was going to run the whole loop) I felt really energized and strong. I could have done more, but I'm not going to push it at the moment. I need to work on my 3-milers more consistantly before I start adding some more miles. Sitting here thinking about it really makes me want to go for another run!
This last weekend was actually pretty relaxing - and I needed it, but the food and beverage thing did not go so well. I got on the scale on Tuesday, and I was up 5 pounds. Yikes. So I am working on that.... I'm currently writing down my exercise, and my feelings about that, etc, and my food that I eat - but I haven't bit the bullet to figure out points. It's a start, right?
The other thing I plan to do for Lent, is to get some $ stuff under control. I am not going to go into a department store of a mall - I don't need any more "stuff!" It's quite rediculous, actually. My bonus this year is going to pay off credit cards. And I need to save money. My DH got put on a budget, but I can't seem to do the same for myself. I do well for a while, then I just cave, and go on a clothes shopping spree. It makes me feel good. I need to stick to the running endorphins, I guess.
Make it a great one!
~a
Big Sigh. I have been catching up on stuff around the office. And dealing with a huge project/analysis that they threw at me last week.
And someone asked me the other day if they had filled my equivalent position yet... the one that has been vacant since July..... 2005 that is. My response:
"Yeah, just excuse me as I laugh quietly to myself in my cubicle… it's either that or cry in frustration. They interviewed, again. And they plan to hire someone, again. But they have to jump through the hoops and the loops of our HR department, again. And now my boss (the person hiring, and therefore the person who would make the candidate the offer) is on vacation until the 26th. So it's a waiting game, again. And they plan to hire the person who took the job and quit once already…"
On another note - I have decided for Lent, I am going to exercise every day. No excuses. So Wednesday I got on the Nordic Track in the morning. Thursday, after work I ran 3 miles (in 33 minutes!) and I got on the NT again this morning. Tomorrow, I am meeting with the women's running group my friend has invited me to, and we will do a 3 mile loop around Lake Harriet, weather permitting (if we don't have the predicted 4 inches of snow!)
The run yesterday was actually pretty good. The first mile really kind of sucked, but once I got into it (I told myslef I was going to run the whole loop) I felt really energized and strong. I could have done more, but I'm not going to push it at the moment. I need to work on my 3-milers more consistantly before I start adding some more miles. Sitting here thinking about it really makes me want to go for another run!
This last weekend was actually pretty relaxing - and I needed it, but the food and beverage thing did not go so well. I got on the scale on Tuesday, and I was up 5 pounds. Yikes. So I am working on that.... I'm currently writing down my exercise, and my feelings about that, etc, and my food that I eat - but I haven't bit the bullet to figure out points. It's a start, right?
The other thing I plan to do for Lent, is to get some $ stuff under control. I am not going to go into a department store of a mall - I don't need any more "stuff!" It's quite rediculous, actually. My bonus this year is going to pay off credit cards. And I need to save money. My DH got put on a budget, but I can't seem to do the same for myself. I do well for a while, then I just cave, and go on a clothes shopping spree. It makes me feel good. I need to stick to the running endorphins, I guess.
Make it a great one!
~a
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Happy V-Day
At least I did not say V- D! I wonder what kind of hits I could get with that phrase...So on with the Snackie instructions, with today being a day of self-love.
One thing I like about me: I think at this point, I would say my intelligence, and that I like for things to get done right. Like knowng that RSVP means that the host would like a response, weather it be yes or no. Like knowing the ins and outs of federal regulations as they relate to work policies, so people call me up and ask me questions and my opinion - it give me warm fuzzy feelings to know that I can speak intelligently, and that people listen to me. Like my stepdaughter telling my Mother-in-Law that I am one of the smartest people that she knows... it makes me feel good!
Oh, and I like my hair. (had to add that one in!)
So, here's your chance to tell me what you like about ME!
And on another note, I had a dream about my ex-boyfriend last night... we were actually very civil to each other, but for some reason, he needed to tell me that he had been pregnant with twins... some medical anomoly, and that I had two other friends that were pregnant with twins (I currently DO have a friend pregnant with twins.)
Weird.
~a
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
V-day Eve
And I am sitting at home by myself.
Spent most of the evening, watching some TV, and working on a baby afgahn for a friend of mine. So am I a geek if I am really wanting to go visit the knitting and crocheting show at the Mall of America on Saturday??? I will admit it, I want to enter into the contest to see if I can crochet faster than the average person, the finalists can go compete in New York. Yep. I'm offically strange.
I had a really "A-HA" moment last week, with regards to getting into shape. I got into the hotel at a fairly decent time, and spent about 25 minutes on the starmaster, and ran for 30 minutes on the treadmill. And the running just felt good, with the music cranked on my mp3 player. Jess talked about how she was dedicating her yoga last week to her uncle, and I am unoffically dedicating my hiking/camping trip to Isle Royal at the end of May to my sister... not that she has what you would consider a "life-threatening" illness, but she is diabetic. As in needs daily doses of insulin. As in would never be able to go out for days at a time without facilities with which to keep her insulin supply refrigerated. I'm doing it because I can. And I know I can.
Of course the feeding of my face the entire weekend, and the absence of exercise was not a good thing. I believe my "experiment" of not tracking what I eat, and planning to get in shape is a failure. If I don't write it, and hold myself accountable that way, it does not happen.
So, I am writing things down again. I got myself a new cute little pink memo notebook, with a rubber band around it (gotta love the stuff at Target) and I am writing things down. I am also writing notes to myself about the day there too, to keep my head in it.
And tomorrow is Valentine's Day. I told Eric that I didn't really want anything, and that I was not planning on getting him anything... but I think that was after he already got me something. Sometimes he just does the darndest things. Like the year that I had lost so much weight, and was cold a fair portion of the time, he bought be two cashmere cardigans "to keep me warm when he was not there to do it for me." Yep. Offical sap. He also pointed out a restaurant on Monday as we were on the way home from the grocery store, and asked me if I had ever eaten at it, and if I wanted to eat there on Valentine's day. An Indian restaurant. He does not really like that kind of food... but I REALLY hate going out to eat on Valentine's day, so I told him I would rather have a nice dinner at home. And so we shall.
In that vein, tonight I looked through my low-fat, and weight watchers type cookbooks, and I think I have set upon what I would like to prepare: Shrimp in a cheese sauce (lf cream cheese, and ff feta, spices, etc.), some sort of potatos (probably mashed) veggies, and "strawberry granache" for desert (basically frozen strawberries, pureed with some sweetner and a small amount of lemon juice). And perhaps a glass of wine.
Anyway, I'm off... it's bedtime for Anneke, if I want to get up at 5:30 am to exercise again in the morning. I did 45 min on the NordicTrack this morning, and I plan to repeat it tomorrow morning. Hopefully I won't wake up during the night to hear the retching of the cats again. The only good thing about hearing it, is that you know to look for it - it really sucks to step in that with bare feet in the morning!
On that note-
TA!
~a
Spent most of the evening, watching some TV, and working on a baby afgahn for a friend of mine. So am I a geek if I am really wanting to go visit the knitting and crocheting show at the Mall of America on Saturday??? I will admit it, I want to enter into the contest to see if I can crochet faster than the average person, the finalists can go compete in New York. Yep. I'm offically strange.
I had a really "A-HA" moment last week, with regards to getting into shape. I got into the hotel at a fairly decent time, and spent about 25 minutes on the starmaster, and ran for 30 minutes on the treadmill. And the running just felt good, with the music cranked on my mp3 player. Jess talked about how she was dedicating her yoga last week to her uncle, and I am unoffically dedicating my hiking/camping trip to Isle Royal at the end of May to my sister... not that she has what you would consider a "life-threatening" illness, but she is diabetic. As in needs daily doses of insulin. As in would never be able to go out for days at a time without facilities with which to keep her insulin supply refrigerated. I'm doing it because I can. And I know I can.
Of course the feeding of my face the entire weekend, and the absence of exercise was not a good thing. I believe my "experiment" of not tracking what I eat, and planning to get in shape is a failure. If I don't write it, and hold myself accountable that way, it does not happen.
So, I am writing things down again. I got myself a new cute little pink memo notebook, with a rubber band around it (gotta love the stuff at Target) and I am writing things down. I am also writing notes to myself about the day there too, to keep my head in it.
And tomorrow is Valentine's Day. I told Eric that I didn't really want anything, and that I was not planning on getting him anything... but I think that was after he already got me something. Sometimes he just does the darndest things. Like the year that I had lost so much weight, and was cold a fair portion of the time, he bought be two cashmere cardigans "to keep me warm when he was not there to do it for me." Yep. Offical sap. He also pointed out a restaurant on Monday as we were on the way home from the grocery store, and asked me if I had ever eaten at it, and if I wanted to eat there on Valentine's day. An Indian restaurant. He does not really like that kind of food... but I REALLY hate going out to eat on Valentine's day, so I told him I would rather have a nice dinner at home. And so we shall.
In that vein, tonight I looked through my low-fat, and weight watchers type cookbooks, and I think I have set upon what I would like to prepare: Shrimp in a cheese sauce (lf cream cheese, and ff feta, spices, etc.), some sort of potatos (probably mashed) veggies, and "strawberry granache" for desert (basically frozen strawberries, pureed with some sweetner and a small amount of lemon juice). And perhaps a glass of wine.
Anyway, I'm off... it's bedtime for Anneke, if I want to get up at 5:30 am to exercise again in the morning. I did 45 min on the NordicTrack this morning, and I plan to repeat it tomorrow morning. Hopefully I won't wake up during the night to hear the retching of the cats again. The only good thing about hearing it, is that you know to look for it - it really sucks to step in that with bare feet in the morning!
On that note-
TA!
~a
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Dreams
I had a really weird one last night.
I was trying to go somewhere to audition for something. I don't remember what I wanted to audtition for, but I needed to drive somewhere to autition. I thought it was Duluth. But when I drove there (and in my former car that I sold 6 years ago) I called my cousin to get directions, and he told me that the audition was in Minong. Why Minong? Not sure. So as I am pulled over in this lot, talking on the phone, some idiot manages to hit my car and ding up the front bumper. He tried to give me $5 then $10 to just forget about it, but I wasn't interested, I wanted his insurance information. Along about that time, my mother shows up, saying she's late and needs to get a birthday present to someone. I figure, why not, I'm not going to make my thing anyway... so she gets in with another lady, the present, and a golden shepard. And then it's my new car with the leather seats. Large dog in backseat with leather seats don't mix... so I tell her that I have changed my mind. So my mother tries to drive off in my car - which is a manual transmission that she really hates to drive (she can in a pinch, but really does not do it well). So I try to put on the emergency brake, but she takes off anyway. I manage to get her slowed down, and yank the steering wheel over so we are turning circles on some park lawn, and I shove her out the door of the car.
Then my alarm went off.
What does this mean????
The good news is that I got out of bed in Fargo this morning, and ran on the treadmill in the hotel. Bad news: it was already in use when I got down there this morning, so I did 15 minutes on the stairstepper. Also, it's snowing, and I have to drive to Harvey, ND for a meeting at noon. So, I am up, showered, need to pack and get out the door.
So really, what does that dream mean?
~a
I was trying to go somewhere to audition for something. I don't remember what I wanted to audtition for, but I needed to drive somewhere to autition. I thought it was Duluth. But when I drove there (and in my former car that I sold 6 years ago) I called my cousin to get directions, and he told me that the audition was in Minong. Why Minong? Not sure. So as I am pulled over in this lot, talking on the phone, some idiot manages to hit my car and ding up the front bumper. He tried to give me $5 then $10 to just forget about it, but I wasn't interested, I wanted his insurance information. Along about that time, my mother shows up, saying she's late and needs to get a birthday present to someone. I figure, why not, I'm not going to make my thing anyway... so she gets in with another lady, the present, and a golden shepard. And then it's my new car with the leather seats. Large dog in backseat with leather seats don't mix... so I tell her that I have changed my mind. So my mother tries to drive off in my car - which is a manual transmission that she really hates to drive (she can in a pinch, but really does not do it well). So I try to put on the emergency brake, but she takes off anyway. I manage to get her slowed down, and yank the steering wheel over so we are turning circles on some park lawn, and I shove her out the door of the car.
Then my alarm went off.
What does this mean????
The good news is that I got out of bed in Fargo this morning, and ran on the treadmill in the hotel. Bad news: it was already in use when I got down there this morning, so I did 15 minutes on the stairstepper. Also, it's snowing, and I have to drive to Harvey, ND for a meeting at noon. So, I am up, showered, need to pack and get out the door.
So really, what does that dream mean?
~a
Sunday, February 04, 2007
Sick
But I'm getting better.
I got home Thursday evening, and put myself to bed. My lovely hubby made me a bowl of chicken soup, as I requested, and I fell asleep around 10pm.
Friday, I didn't even consider going to work. I felt completely lousy. I got out of bed to pee, and to find something to eat. I watched a bunch of movies on cable (Actually watched "Fried Green Tomatos" for the first time, really!), and napped. I got up around 5:30 because I was feeling a little more human, took a bath, put on some "real" clothes, ate the dinner of spagetti that Eric had prepared, and I was done. I thought we might be going to a store to look at some stuff, but I had zero energy - back into bed for Anneke!
Yesterday, I slept until 9, putzed around the house for a bit, then started working on a sewing project that took the rest of the day. I made myself a fleece hat, scarf, and mittens. It would have gone faster had I cleaned and lubricated the sewing machine earlier, but hind sight is 20/20 right?
Today, we went up to have breakfast with Eric's sister in Caimbrige, and to his mother's house to see if we could find the reciept for the book she gave me for Christmas (one that I had purchased and read already), with no luck. On the way home, we stopped at the Circut City to return the case for the MP3 player that I had gotten for Christmas, with no luck there... they have a strict 30-day return policy. "It's written on the BACK of the reciept". AAAAAARgh. Um, it's a case. and it was $10. for cripes sake... I know I should not be aggrivated, but I really am. I most likely will not use it, as I prefer the one it came with. And they recommended this accessory to Eric - not telling him that they player ALREADY CAME with one. Am I irritated? That would be a "yes".
And today is the Superbowl. I am trying to decide if I want to watch it. I would just watch for the commercials, how completely sad is that? And there are definately other things that could get done - top of the list is laundry and packing for the three nights I will be gone this week.
It was actually nice to get outside today, even though the high temperature today was predicted to be -4 F. Yep. Since I have not been outside since Thursday, it was a bit of a novelty. It makes me glad that we have cars that run well in this sort of weather!
On that note, I am going to start getting things ready for dinner - Chicken and squash are on the menu at the moment. We will see how I feel like preparing them!
ta
~a
I got home Thursday evening, and put myself to bed. My lovely hubby made me a bowl of chicken soup, as I requested, and I fell asleep around 10pm.
Friday, I didn't even consider going to work. I felt completely lousy. I got out of bed to pee, and to find something to eat. I watched a bunch of movies on cable (Actually watched "Fried Green Tomatos" for the first time, really!), and napped. I got up around 5:30 because I was feeling a little more human, took a bath, put on some "real" clothes, ate the dinner of spagetti that Eric had prepared, and I was done. I thought we might be going to a store to look at some stuff, but I had zero energy - back into bed for Anneke!
Yesterday, I slept until 9, putzed around the house for a bit, then started working on a sewing project that took the rest of the day. I made myself a fleece hat, scarf, and mittens. It would have gone faster had I cleaned and lubricated the sewing machine earlier, but hind sight is 20/20 right?
Today, we went up to have breakfast with Eric's sister in Caimbrige, and to his mother's house to see if we could find the reciept for the book she gave me for Christmas (one that I had purchased and read already), with no luck. On the way home, we stopped at the Circut City to return the case for the MP3 player that I had gotten for Christmas, with no luck there... they have a strict 30-day return policy. "It's written on the BACK of the reciept". AAAAAARgh. Um, it's a case. and it was $10. for cripes sake... I know I should not be aggrivated, but I really am. I most likely will not use it, as I prefer the one it came with. And they recommended this accessory to Eric - not telling him that they player ALREADY CAME with one. Am I irritated? That would be a "yes".
And today is the Superbowl. I am trying to decide if I want to watch it. I would just watch for the commercials, how completely sad is that? And there are definately other things that could get done - top of the list is laundry and packing for the three nights I will be gone this week.
It was actually nice to get outside today, even though the high temperature today was predicted to be -4 F. Yep. Since I have not been outside since Thursday, it was a bit of a novelty. It makes me glad that we have cars that run well in this sort of weather!
On that note, I am going to start getting things ready for dinner - Chicken and squash are on the menu at the moment. We will see how I feel like preparing them!
ta
~a
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Guest of the Day
I walked into the hotel last night, and saw my name on the board that I was the guest of the day. I got upgraded to a suite at the Holiday Inn in Minot, ND. Woo hoo, glamour abounds!
It was actually kind of funny - it was two rooms, and I swear, there was more floor space than the 1-bedroom apartment I used to rent. The bad things: the refrigerator froze my baby carrots and broccoli that I had packed for afternoon snacks while I was travelling. The wireless internet was being finicky, and kept kicking me off of our e-mail system. The plug on the jaccuzzi tub did not hold water in the tub. I woke up in the morning with the beginnings of a cold, and did not have the energy to get up and run. And lastly, the room was too stinkin' big - it took quite a while to gather up all of the things that I had scattered about the suite of rooms. Ya well, what do you expect?
I had a couple of good laughs today. At the meeting this morning, someone brought in something he had printed out, an item that was for sale on e-bay... I kid you not, an "Authentic North Dakota tumbleweed" I guess it takes all kinds. So in the van, driving with my co-workers, one of them kept looking for some to go rolling across the highway, so he could chase one and pick it up - a new get rich scheme! Of course there were none rolling at the time. We did notice some snagged in some trees by the side of the road, but he wanted to "catch a live one" it just was not sporting if he just picked up one that was not moving!
Okay, I guess you had to be there. Take my word for it, it was pretty funny.
I get to go home tomorrow! I get to go home tomorrow! I get to go home tomorrow! It's been a long week of traveling. And next week, I get to do more traveling. It sure is a challenge eating correctly, staying up with e-mail and phone calls, and finding time to exercise. To top it off, it appears that I am coming down with a lovely cold.
But, I have NO plans for this weekend. I plan to stay home, prep and cook some food for my book club that is in a couple of weeks, and relax. Do some laundry? Perhaps. Only if I really feel like it.
I got nothin' else.
~a
It was actually kind of funny - it was two rooms, and I swear, there was more floor space than the 1-bedroom apartment I used to rent. The bad things: the refrigerator froze my baby carrots and broccoli that I had packed for afternoon snacks while I was travelling. The wireless internet was being finicky, and kept kicking me off of our e-mail system. The plug on the jaccuzzi tub did not hold water in the tub. I woke up in the morning with the beginnings of a cold, and did not have the energy to get up and run. And lastly, the room was too stinkin' big - it took quite a while to gather up all of the things that I had scattered about the suite of rooms. Ya well, what do you expect?
I had a couple of good laughs today. At the meeting this morning, someone brought in something he had printed out, an item that was for sale on e-bay... I kid you not, an "Authentic North Dakota tumbleweed" I guess it takes all kinds. So in the van, driving with my co-workers, one of them kept looking for some to go rolling across the highway, so he could chase one and pick it up - a new get rich scheme! Of course there were none rolling at the time. We did notice some snagged in some trees by the side of the road, but he wanted to "catch a live one" it just was not sporting if he just picked up one that was not moving!
Okay, I guess you had to be there. Take my word for it, it was pretty funny.
I get to go home tomorrow! I get to go home tomorrow! I get to go home tomorrow! It's been a long week of traveling. And next week, I get to do more traveling. It sure is a challenge eating correctly, staying up with e-mail and phone calls, and finding time to exercise. To top it off, it appears that I am coming down with a lovely cold.
But, I have NO plans for this weekend. I plan to stay home, prep and cook some food for my book club that is in a couple of weeks, and relax. Do some laundry? Perhaps. Only if I really feel like it.
I got nothin' else.
~a
Thursday, January 25, 2007
3 days in a row
I exercised!
I went to the Y yesterday to get a printout of what I paid in membership dues for 2006 (our company reimburses about half) and ran on the treadmill. 3 miles. I had some new music on my mp3 player, and it really got me going and motivated. I think it will be a good friend - I am quite happy with that gift from my DH.
I have my bag packed and ready to go this afternoon, but I am going to play it by ear. I have a few things that need to get done tonight, one of them is meeting some girlfriends for drinks and commiseration - a good friend of mine had her father pass away on Wednesday.
I was talking to Eric last night about getting myself motivated to get more into shape, and why... one of them being the trip to Isle Royal in May, the other being that I want to run a marathon this year. He got a pretty surprised look on his face with the second reason. I guess I had mentioned that I would think about it, but did not tell him that I was planning on running the TCM this year. He said that he would need to get organized to resume his volunteer position of running the clock at the finish line so he could be there for me that day. How many people can get a hug and a kiss from their spouse as they cross the finish line of a large race like that?
Anyway, I'm motivated for now. Here's to keeping it up!
~a
I went to the Y yesterday to get a printout of what I paid in membership dues for 2006 (our company reimburses about half) and ran on the treadmill. 3 miles. I had some new music on my mp3 player, and it really got me going and motivated. I think it will be a good friend - I am quite happy with that gift from my DH.
I have my bag packed and ready to go this afternoon, but I am going to play it by ear. I have a few things that need to get done tonight, one of them is meeting some girlfriends for drinks and commiseration - a good friend of mine had her father pass away on Wednesday.
I was talking to Eric last night about getting myself motivated to get more into shape, and why... one of them being the trip to Isle Royal in May, the other being that I want to run a marathon this year. He got a pretty surprised look on his face with the second reason. I guess I had mentioned that I would think about it, but did not tell him that I was planning on running the TCM this year. He said that he would need to get organized to resume his volunteer position of running the clock at the finish line so he could be there for me that day. How many people can get a hug and a kiss from their spouse as they cross the finish line of a large race like that?
Anyway, I'm motivated for now. Here's to keeping it up!
~a
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Because it does not know the words
Our house has a funny hum to it when the heaters are going. I think there must be some sort of blockage or air bubble in the hot water pipes, but dang, it's kind of annoying in the quiet of the morning, trying to figure out what the strange noise is!
Back at work after a week out of the office. I know I can access e-mail pretty much from anywere, but cleaning out my inbasket can be a task! I am now down to 150 messages. And waiting for my vendor to show up to take me out to lunch. I'm trying to decide where I want to go.
Friday's party was fun. Not as many people last year, but still a respectable showing. I guess e-vite does not send out reminders anymore, unless you tell it to, so as a result I believe a number of people who said they would come forgot about it. I was not stressed at all about getting the house cleaned and food prepped on Friday (took the day off of work) because I had gotten most of the food ready before that day, and the house was in pretty good shape to begin. We still have about half a keg left, but we will be bringing it to Jaycee convention this weekend. My last "official" duty as a 2006 board member.
Today was day 2 of getting up in the morning, and NordicTracking for 45 minutes. And 50 crunches and stretching. I am seriously thinking about cancelling my gym membership. I pretty much just use the treadmill when I go, and if it's nice outside, I would rather run outside than in. The NordicTrack will do for now, and I think I will save up some $ to purchase myself a treadmill for at home. It's less of a hassle than going to the gym - I don't have to spend the extra half-hour to 45 munutes in travel time, etc.
Sunday, I met with some friends to plan our hiking trip to Isle Royal. I am darn excited about it, it will be some long days of hiking though. Which is why I have to get myself in shape. Eric and I looked at some hiking boots and backpacks last night. The trip is planned for the end of May, before the black flies hatch.
I'm actually in town all this week - it's kind of a novelty. But, the next two weeks are going to be another whirlwhind of travel. To the exotic places such as North Dakota, and Northern Minnesota! It's been nice to be at home and be a homebody. I might (gasp) cook dinner for two tonight!
Nothing else exciting going on... or at least anything I can remember.
ta!
~a
Back at work after a week out of the office. I know I can access e-mail pretty much from anywere, but cleaning out my inbasket can be a task! I am now down to 150 messages. And waiting for my vendor to show up to take me out to lunch. I'm trying to decide where I want to go.
Friday's party was fun. Not as many people last year, but still a respectable showing. I guess e-vite does not send out reminders anymore, unless you tell it to, so as a result I believe a number of people who said they would come forgot about it. I was not stressed at all about getting the house cleaned and food prepped on Friday (took the day off of work) because I had gotten most of the food ready before that day, and the house was in pretty good shape to begin. We still have about half a keg left, but we will be bringing it to Jaycee convention this weekend. My last "official" duty as a 2006 board member.
Today was day 2 of getting up in the morning, and NordicTracking for 45 minutes. And 50 crunches and stretching. I am seriously thinking about cancelling my gym membership. I pretty much just use the treadmill when I go, and if it's nice outside, I would rather run outside than in. The NordicTrack will do for now, and I think I will save up some $ to purchase myself a treadmill for at home. It's less of a hassle than going to the gym - I don't have to spend the extra half-hour to 45 munutes in travel time, etc.
Sunday, I met with some friends to plan our hiking trip to Isle Royal. I am darn excited about it, it will be some long days of hiking though. Which is why I have to get myself in shape. Eric and I looked at some hiking boots and backpacks last night. The trip is planned for the end of May, before the black flies hatch.
I'm actually in town all this week - it's kind of a novelty. But, the next two weeks are going to be another whirlwhind of travel. To the exotic places such as North Dakota, and Northern Minnesota! It's been nice to be at home and be a homebody. I might (gasp) cook dinner for two tonight!
Nothing else exciting going on... or at least anything I can remember.
ta!
~a
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Thursday - finally!
My morning started out pretty well.
My phone alarm went off at 5am. I think I remember waking up arounfd 4, but managed to fall back asleep. A few snoozes on the phone, and thinking that the person in the next room needed to turn off his alarm, which had been souding since 5am, I got up and put on my exercise clothes. It was then I discovered it was MY alarm going off. It sure was quiet... I'm glad I was not counting on that to wake me up! The person at the front desk who was nice enough to give me the key to the exercise room commented that I was up early. Um, it was about 6am - later than I usually like to run... I got in 3 miles this morning, better than on Tuesday when I got in about 2.5, walking most of that.
Yep. I had planned on exercising more than that this week, but I could not sleep on Sunday night, and was dead tired. I made the mistake of drinking a sugar-free Red Bull (hadn't ever had one before) at about 6pm, near the end of my drive. It sure gave me a high - but not the kind that makes me shaky, like coffee - I was thinking it might be something good to have in the morning before a race or a long training run to get me going.
We had the last day of safety meetings this morning. My 8th day in 2 weeks, sitting in bad confernece room chairs. My back was really hurting me yesterday. I think it's a combination of all the driving, sitting in the conference room chairs, and the fact that the waistband on my pants is a little too tight.
Yep. My pants are too tight. What does this mean? It means that my intention of eating healthy and exercising needs more discipline than I have been giving it. How, I'm not entirely sure... I don't want to go back to counting points and being afraid to eat something, but I think I need to cut down on the alcohol, sweets, and "empty" carbohydrates.
Eating has been a challenge this week though, since I don't eat beef. They have been providing lunch at the meetings, but it has been a huge beef fest. I think they are trying to see how many ways they can serve beef. And ham, which I just don't care for. Monday for lunch I ate spanich rice, mashed potatos, salad and bread. Tuesday was better, some turkey on a bun (or I could have had ham) potato salad, coleslaw, and baked beans. Wednsday I ate noodles, corn and a bun for lunch. Today was pretty good with half of a turkey sandwich with tomato and lettuce, and a bowl of chicken rice soup.
On the drive home, I was thinking my ear felt somewhat funny, so I made a doctor's appointment to see if I had an ear infection. I have only had one in my life (when I was 29) and it was miserable - it took 3 rounds of antibiotics to clear it up. Turns out I must have a low-lying cold, because there is fluid behind the eardrum, but no infection. The Dr. told me to take sudafed to help with the pressure, but there was really nothing else to do but just wait for it to clear up. He also asked me if anyone at home was sice. I said no. Then I said, well, I think so, but I haven't been home since Sunday!
Well, I have a day off tomorrow, to get ready for our party. I'm hoping I don't stress out too much... I suppose if the house is not spotless, people won't really care. And most of the food is done, I just need to set it out.
Wish me luck!
~a
My phone alarm went off at 5am. I think I remember waking up arounfd 4, but managed to fall back asleep. A few snoozes on the phone, and thinking that the person in the next room needed to turn off his alarm, which had been souding since 5am, I got up and put on my exercise clothes. It was then I discovered it was MY alarm going off. It sure was quiet... I'm glad I was not counting on that to wake me up! The person at the front desk who was nice enough to give me the key to the exercise room commented that I was up early. Um, it was about 6am - later than I usually like to run... I got in 3 miles this morning, better than on Tuesday when I got in about 2.5, walking most of that.
Yep. I had planned on exercising more than that this week, but I could not sleep on Sunday night, and was dead tired. I made the mistake of drinking a sugar-free Red Bull (hadn't ever had one before) at about 6pm, near the end of my drive. It sure gave me a high - but not the kind that makes me shaky, like coffee - I was thinking it might be something good to have in the morning before a race or a long training run to get me going.
We had the last day of safety meetings this morning. My 8th day in 2 weeks, sitting in bad confernece room chairs. My back was really hurting me yesterday. I think it's a combination of all the driving, sitting in the conference room chairs, and the fact that the waistband on my pants is a little too tight.
Yep. My pants are too tight. What does this mean? It means that my intention of eating healthy and exercising needs more discipline than I have been giving it. How, I'm not entirely sure... I don't want to go back to counting points and being afraid to eat something, but I think I need to cut down on the alcohol, sweets, and "empty" carbohydrates.
Eating has been a challenge this week though, since I don't eat beef. They have been providing lunch at the meetings, but it has been a huge beef fest. I think they are trying to see how many ways they can serve beef. And ham, which I just don't care for. Monday for lunch I ate spanich rice, mashed potatos, salad and bread. Tuesday was better, some turkey on a bun (or I could have had ham) potato salad, coleslaw, and baked beans. Wednsday I ate noodles, corn and a bun for lunch. Today was pretty good with half of a turkey sandwich with tomato and lettuce, and a bowl of chicken rice soup.
On the drive home, I was thinking my ear felt somewhat funny, so I made a doctor's appointment to see if I had an ear infection. I have only had one in my life (when I was 29) and it was miserable - it took 3 rounds of antibiotics to clear it up. Turns out I must have a low-lying cold, because there is fluid behind the eardrum, but no infection. The Dr. told me to take sudafed to help with the pressure, but there was really nothing else to do but just wait for it to clear up. He also asked me if anyone at home was sice. I said no. Then I said, well, I think so, but I haven't been home since Sunday!
Well, I have a day off tomorrow, to get ready for our party. I'm hoping I don't stress out too much... I suppose if the house is not spotless, people won't really care. And most of the food is done, I just need to set it out.
Wish me luck!
~a
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
The flags are still at half-mast
So I suppose this is still relevant. I got this message through the Jaycees, and it really spoke to me, so I had to share:
*JCI Mourns US President Ford, a JCI Alumnus**
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
**December 29, 2006
**Gerald R. Ford was an outstanding example of effective leadership andservice.*-- Scott Greenlee, 2007 JCI President
A JCI alumnus, Gerald R. Ford, the 38th president of the United States, passed away December 26, 2006, at the age of 93. JCI members throughout the world — and particularly those in the United States and in Grand Rapids (Michigan), where Gerald Ford was a JCI member — are deeply affected by his death.
"Gerald R. Ford was an outstanding example of effective leadership and service," said Scott Greenlee, our recently elected JCI President and a current member of JCI Grand Rapids, the same local organization as Gerald Ford's. "I had the pleasure of meeting him several times, and he was as genuine as he appeared. He was very down to earth and really cared about people."
Former first lady Betty Ford announced his death in a brief statement. "His life was filled with love of God, his family and his country," she said.
"President Ford was a great man who devoted the best years of his life in serving the United States," President Bush said Wednesday morning. "He was a true gentleman who reflected the best in America's character.
"When Gerald R. Ford took the oath of office as President of the United States of America on August 9, 1974, he declared, "I assume the Presidency under extraordinary circumstances.... This is an hour of history that troubles our minds and hurts our hearts.
"It was indeed an unprecedented time. He had been the first Vice President chosen under the terms of the Twenty-fifth Amendment and, in the aftermath of the Watergate scandal, was succeeding the first President ever to resign.
"My fellow Americans," President Ford said, "our long national nightmare is over. Our Constitution works. Our great republic is a government of laws and not of men. Here the people rule."
And, true to his unassuming reputation, he added: "I am acutely aware that you have not elected me as your president by your ballots. So I ask you to confirm me with your prayers. "
He was confronted with almost insuperable tasks. There were the challenges of mastering inflation, reviving a depressed economy, solving chronic energy shortages, and trying to ensure world peace.
President Ford acted to curb the trend toward Government intervention and spending as a means of solving the problems. In the long run, he believed, this shift would bring a better life for all the people in the country.
*Ford's Involvement in the U.S. Junior Chamber of Commerce (JCI USA)*
Gerald Ford firmly believed in the power of the organization to develop leaders who could serve mankind. "By bringing together outstanding young members of communities throughout America, the Jaycees (JCI members) provide a reservoir and a forum for potential national leaders," he said, "by directing their energy and skills to a wide variety of humanitarian projects, the Jaycees serve our country and mankind."
In 1948, Gerald Ford was presented with the Distinguished Service Award by JCI Grand Rapids. In 1948, he was recognized as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Men in the country by the U.S. Junior Chamber of Commerce (JCI USA).
In 1962, then-Representative Gerald Ford welcomed JCI USA members to the first Governmental Affairs Leadership Seminar (GALS). Since then, the leaders of JCI USA have met annually in the nation's capital to hear from White House officials, Cabinet secretaries, and Members of Congress about issues of importance to young people in the United States.
In 1975, as President of the United Stated, Gerald Ford issued Proclamation 4340. "I, GERALD R. FORD, President of the United States of America, do hereby designate the week beginning January 19, 1975, as National Jaycee Week a time for the expression of America's gratitude for the many significant contributions of the United States Jaycees," reads part of the proclamation.
While we mourn the passing of Gerald R. Ford, an outstanding and exemplary leader, we also take pride in his great accomplishments. His life is aninspiration to us all.
Read Proclamation 4340 - National Jaycee Week
*JCI Mourns US President Ford, a JCI Alumnus**
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
**December 29, 2006
**Gerald R. Ford was an outstanding example of effective leadership andservice.*-- Scott Greenlee, 2007 JCI President
A JCI alumnus, Gerald R. Ford, the 38th president of the United States, passed away December 26, 2006, at the age of 93. JCI members throughout the world — and particularly those in the United States and in Grand Rapids (Michigan), where Gerald Ford was a JCI member — are deeply affected by his death.
"Gerald R. Ford was an outstanding example of effective leadership and service," said Scott Greenlee, our recently elected JCI President and a current member of JCI Grand Rapids, the same local organization as Gerald Ford's. "I had the pleasure of meeting him several times, and he was as genuine as he appeared. He was very down to earth and really cared about people."
Former first lady Betty Ford announced his death in a brief statement. "His life was filled with love of God, his family and his country," she said.
"President Ford was a great man who devoted the best years of his life in serving the United States," President Bush said Wednesday morning. "He was a true gentleman who reflected the best in America's character.
"When Gerald R. Ford took the oath of office as President of the United States of America on August 9, 1974, he declared, "I assume the Presidency under extraordinary circumstances.... This is an hour of history that troubles our minds and hurts our hearts.
"It was indeed an unprecedented time. He had been the first Vice President chosen under the terms of the Twenty-fifth Amendment and, in the aftermath of the Watergate scandal, was succeeding the first President ever to resign.
"My fellow Americans," President Ford said, "our long national nightmare is over. Our Constitution works. Our great republic is a government of laws and not of men. Here the people rule."
And, true to his unassuming reputation, he added: "I am acutely aware that you have not elected me as your president by your ballots. So I ask you to confirm me with your prayers. "
He was confronted with almost insuperable tasks. There were the challenges of mastering inflation, reviving a depressed economy, solving chronic energy shortages, and trying to ensure world peace.
President Ford acted to curb the trend toward Government intervention and spending as a means of solving the problems. In the long run, he believed, this shift would bring a better life for all the people in the country.
*Ford's Involvement in the U.S. Junior Chamber of Commerce (JCI USA)*
Gerald Ford firmly believed in the power of the organization to develop leaders who could serve mankind. "By bringing together outstanding young members of communities throughout America, the Jaycees (JCI members) provide a reservoir and a forum for potential national leaders," he said, "by directing their energy and skills to a wide variety of humanitarian projects, the Jaycees serve our country and mankind."
In 1948, Gerald Ford was presented with the Distinguished Service Award by JCI Grand Rapids. In 1948, he was recognized as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Men in the country by the U.S. Junior Chamber of Commerce (JCI USA).
In 1962, then-Representative Gerald Ford welcomed JCI USA members to the first Governmental Affairs Leadership Seminar (GALS). Since then, the leaders of JCI USA have met annually in the nation's capital to hear from White House officials, Cabinet secretaries, and Members of Congress about issues of importance to young people in the United States.
In 1975, as President of the United Stated, Gerald Ford issued Proclamation 4340. "I, GERALD R. FORD, President of the United States of America, do hereby designate the week beginning January 19, 1975, as National Jaycee Week a time for the expression of America's gratitude for the many significant contributions of the United States Jaycees," reads part of the proclamation.
While we mourn the passing of Gerald R. Ford, an outstanding and exemplary leader, we also take pride in his great accomplishments. His life is aninspiration to us all.
Read Proclamation 4340 - National Jaycee Week
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