Yep, you read that right. Yesterday, after I went to Weight Watchers, I went to the Sizzler salad bar. I didn't even pretend to eat salad either. I just jumped right in on the "good stuff". And of course I had a brownie a-la-mode (with nuts) to top it off. So today I start paying for my sins.
At least the Weight Watcher's meeting improved. There were more younger folks there and we had some good conversation as well. The topic was maintenance. The general consensus is that everyone struggles with it and the most successful approach is to drop 5 pounds below one's goal weight and just keep it there. It saves you from popping over the goal weight line all the time. I guess that's pretty much what I've been doing. I just didn't think others were doing it as well.
Even being up a bit yesterday, I was down 2 tenths from the last time I weighed in, the beginning of February. Anything less is good enough for me! Besides, every time I step on that scale with enough confidence to be able to weigh in with my shoes on is a good experience.
We visited our neighbor in the hospital yesterday. Normally, I won't visit anyone unless they say they want visitors. Mrs. Neighbor called in the morning and said he wanted the company so we said we'd stop by. Unfortunately, he seems to still be in a great deal of pain, heavily medicated, and if you ask me, I'd think he wouldn't want any company. He just seemed pretty miserable. Hopefully he'll come around quickly.
Later today we're going to the Home & Garden Show. But before that, the piano tuner is coming to tune my piano. I also have a PT appointment right after lunch. And of course, we need to get a 5 miler in before anything else happens today. It should be a good day for it.
I guess I'll do my PT stretches and get ready for that 5 miler. So remember, YIELD to runners on the road.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Thursday, February 28, 2008
153.8
I'm going to Weight Watchers today. Of course, I knew that there was a possibility my weight would be up from yesterday's long run, and it is, a bit. But I think all will still be OK. In order to be OK I need to weigh in fully clothed, with shoes on, and still be under my allowable goal weight. I think I'm OK. But it might be close.
Yesterday's run wasn't exactly what I had envisioned. I wore shorts, just as planned but when we started the run it was only 37 degrees. Hmmmm . . . not according to plan. Then there was a slight breeze. Again, not in the plan. So to make a long story short I was chilled for most of the run. My energy was zapped by trying to stay warm and my muscles felt like they were curled up towards the end of it. My shoulders ached so badly that at one point I stopped and had hubby rub them. Oh, I didn't make the 13 miles either. At 12.22 I just stopped.
Stopping at 12.22 is significant for me. Not just because I fell short of the 13 miles I intended to run but I was running at a PR pace (personal record) so it would have been nice to finish the run. But I REALLY REALLY like to run even numbers. Even miles. In the event I cannot make it totally even, then at a half mile point will do. The next choice would be a quarter mile point. But yesterday, I didn't even care enough to even it off to the quarter mile.
My shoulders are still sore today. I missed one of my stretching exercise sessions last night because we were babysitting our beautiful grand kids. So I'll have to stretch up a storm today.
So that's the plan, stretch, go to WW, stretch, stretch, and stretch. 12.22 miles, what's up with that anyway?
Yesterday's run wasn't exactly what I had envisioned. I wore shorts, just as planned but when we started the run it was only 37 degrees. Hmmmm . . . not according to plan. Then there was a slight breeze. Again, not in the plan. So to make a long story short I was chilled for most of the run. My energy was zapped by trying to stay warm and my muscles felt like they were curled up towards the end of it. My shoulders ached so badly that at one point I stopped and had hubby rub them. Oh, I didn't make the 13 miles either. At 12.22 I just stopped.
Stopping at 12.22 is significant for me. Not just because I fell short of the 13 miles I intended to run but I was running at a PR pace (personal record) so it would have been nice to finish the run. But I REALLY REALLY like to run even numbers. Even miles. In the event I cannot make it totally even, then at a half mile point will do. The next choice would be a quarter mile point. But yesterday, I didn't even care enough to even it off to the quarter mile.
My shoulders are still sore today. I missed one of my stretching exercise sessions last night because we were babysitting our beautiful grand kids. So I'll have to stretch up a storm today.
So that's the plan, stretch, go to WW, stretch, stretch, and stretch. 12.22 miles, what's up with that anyway?
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
153.4
Drats- back to the 153's. I cannot say I'm surprised because yesterday I was a victim of lunch. I was an "accidental carb loader". Here's what happened:
Hubby and I realized, just as we were leaving the house to run errands, that a gift certificate we had to a nice restaurant was getting ready to expire. So we figured we might as well stop in there for lunch. We planned on eating something light, healthy, and not high in calories.
When we got to the restaurant, we saw the specials board and right away spied a chicken sandwich with portobello mushroom and spinach. It had a red sauce on it too. So I thought, great, this will be a good choice. When the wait staff came to take our order, spouse asked what came with the chicken whatever it was called. She was new and said she had to check, so she came back and said there was nothing on the side. We thought that was odd but it fit right in with our plans. We didn't want any french fries sneaking onto our plates!
So imagine our surprised faces when the food was brought to the table and we found out this chicken special was NOT a sandwich but in fact was a pasta dish! Yes, with chicken, portobello and spinach in it. I think at first we were speechless. Then we were hungry. Because after all, WE LOVE PASTA! So, as you can see, I was an innocent victim.
Now, I could have eaten a small portion of it and pushed that pasta away. But no, I was thinking all about the 13 miler I am going to run today and I carb loaded. Or maybe I should say I just ate too much. In my defense, I limited this unscheduled splurge to lunch and ate light for the remainder of the day but was up a titch nonetheless. Oh well . . . what's a girl to do?
So, as I said, today is a 13 miler. Our last long run until our half marathon race a week from Saturday. I'll probably burn off most of that pasta, maybe even all of it. Tomorrow I HAVE to weigh in a Weight Watchers so I just hope this long run doesn't spike up any water weight gain or anything. Not tomorrow anyway!
I'm off in just a bit. It should be a great running day . . . sunny and in the upper 40's. I'm going to wear shorts for the first time this season (Mesquite doesn't count, we had to travel there). So if you spot us on the road, give us a little room on the shoulder and a cheerful wave. Because remember . . . we're old and doing this crap! Gotta love it though!!!!
Hubby and I realized, just as we were leaving the house to run errands, that a gift certificate we had to a nice restaurant was getting ready to expire. So we figured we might as well stop in there for lunch. We planned on eating something light, healthy, and not high in calories.
When we got to the restaurant, we saw the specials board and right away spied a chicken sandwich with portobello mushroom and spinach. It had a red sauce on it too. So I thought, great, this will be a good choice. When the wait staff came to take our order, spouse asked what came with the chicken whatever it was called. She was new and said she had to check, so she came back and said there was nothing on the side. We thought that was odd but it fit right in with our plans. We didn't want any french fries sneaking onto our plates!
So imagine our surprised faces when the food was brought to the table and we found out this chicken special was NOT a sandwich but in fact was a pasta dish! Yes, with chicken, portobello and spinach in it. I think at first we were speechless. Then we were hungry. Because after all, WE LOVE PASTA! So, as you can see, I was an innocent victim.
Now, I could have eaten a small portion of it and pushed that pasta away. But no, I was thinking all about the 13 miler I am going to run today and I carb loaded. Or maybe I should say I just ate too much. In my defense, I limited this unscheduled splurge to lunch and ate light for the remainder of the day but was up a titch nonetheless. Oh well . . . what's a girl to do?
So, as I said, today is a 13 miler. Our last long run until our half marathon race a week from Saturday. I'll probably burn off most of that pasta, maybe even all of it. Tomorrow I HAVE to weigh in a Weight Watchers so I just hope this long run doesn't spike up any water weight gain or anything. Not tomorrow anyway!
I'm off in just a bit. It should be a great running day . . . sunny and in the upper 40's. I'm going to wear shorts for the first time this season (Mesquite doesn't count, we had to travel there). So if you spot us on the road, give us a little room on the shoulder and a cheerful wave. Because remember . . . we're old and doing this crap! Gotta love it though!!!!
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
152.6
It's back . . . it's back! Hurrah! A 152 number again! OK, can you tell I was happy about that?
It amazes me that a week ago I was in the buffet line 3 different times and now I'm at an all new low. However, I did also put a lot of miles on my feet when I pushed away from the buffet - 24 or so (at least if I recall correctly). So I'll just take this number and be happy.
We went for a 5 miler yesterday and are planning for 13 tomorrow. I was excited this morning when I awoke because despite the fact there's still a ton of snow outside it felt like spring in my heart. We're supposed to be in the upper 50's on Saturday! And the vast blue sky! Oh yeah, we're stepping away from winter!
It amazes me that a week ago I was in the buffet line 3 different times and now I'm at an all new low. However, I did also put a lot of miles on my feet when I pushed away from the buffet - 24 or so (at least if I recall correctly). So I'll just take this number and be happy.
We went for a 5 miler yesterday and are planning for 13 tomorrow. I was excited this morning when I awoke because despite the fact there's still a ton of snow outside it felt like spring in my heart. We're supposed to be in the upper 50's on Saturday! And the vast blue sky! Oh yeah, we're stepping away from winter!
Monday, February 25, 2008
153
Oh . . . so close to a 152 number again! I'm just 8 measly pounds away from my final and ultimate weight goal of 145. But really, I sort of hope I never actually make the final goal because, (and I've mentioned this before) I feel most comfortable (psychologically speaking) working towards a goal as opposed to maintaining a specific weight.
Perhaps that's because reaching a final goal signifies that the journey is over, when in fact, we know it's just begun. Maintenance . . . no one thinks about that. Maybe that's why so many of us regain our weight! But I've been thinking about it a lot lately.
Maybe once I reach my ultimate goal I'll make another one, just 5 pounds away, and then just cheat enough that I never make it. Can I trick myself into maintaining by doing that? Actually, as silly as it sounds, I think I might be able to do just that.
Our half marathon is coming up quickly. We want to get a last long run in, then taper until race day. Unfortunately, the weather hasn't cooperated. That's why I'm glad we went to Mesquite. Because I KNOW that 3 weeks out from the race I did run 13 miles and if I need it to, that will carry me to the finish line on race day. But I'd rather run another long run. So between the weather and the scheduling of appointments (specifically PT and a piano lesson), it looks like Wednesday is going to be the long run day. Right now the weather looks perfect for it (mid 40's and sunny), and the day is wide open. Then we'll just fill in with 5 milers until we get within a couple days of the race. So that's the new plan.
We finally spoke with Mrs. Neighbor and it turns out Mr. Neighbor had to have emergency surgery, totally unrelated to his prior arm/wrist surgery. I won't go into details but it is a serious thing and he is expected to be in the hospital for a couple weeks. You just never know when something like that is going to knock you out. So you better be in the best shape as possible - that's my plan!
Perhaps that's because reaching a final goal signifies that the journey is over, when in fact, we know it's just begun. Maintenance . . . no one thinks about that. Maybe that's why so many of us regain our weight! But I've been thinking about it a lot lately.
Maybe once I reach my ultimate goal I'll make another one, just 5 pounds away, and then just cheat enough that I never make it. Can I trick myself into maintaining by doing that? Actually, as silly as it sounds, I think I might be able to do just that.
Our half marathon is coming up quickly. We want to get a last long run in, then taper until race day. Unfortunately, the weather hasn't cooperated. That's why I'm glad we went to Mesquite. Because I KNOW that 3 weeks out from the race I did run 13 miles and if I need it to, that will carry me to the finish line on race day. But I'd rather run another long run. So between the weather and the scheduling of appointments (specifically PT and a piano lesson), it looks like Wednesday is going to be the long run day. Right now the weather looks perfect for it (mid 40's and sunny), and the day is wide open. Then we'll just fill in with 5 milers until we get within a couple days of the race. So that's the new plan.
We finally spoke with Mrs. Neighbor and it turns out Mr. Neighbor had to have emergency surgery, totally unrelated to his prior arm/wrist surgery. I won't go into details but it is a serious thing and he is expected to be in the hospital for a couple weeks. You just never know when something like that is going to knock you out. So you better be in the best shape as possible - that's my plan!
Sunday, February 24, 2008
153.6
Well, it looks like my 152's were short lived because I returned to the 153's today. At least I had the thrill of seeing it on the scale for one day. And I shall see it again!
I definitely have to go to Weight Watchers this week. I HAVE to weigh in by the end of the month. You'd think it wouldn't have taken me all month, after all I'm several pounds below my goal weight. Sometimes I guess it's just a matter of finding time. But Mary and I both HAVE to find time this week.
We went over to the neighbor's house last evening to make sure things were okay and no one was home. Mrs. Neighbor came home later that evening but I thought it was too late to knock on the door. We're going to go back and try again today.
I definitely have to go to Weight Watchers this week. I HAVE to weigh in by the end of the month. You'd think it wouldn't have taken me all month, after all I'm several pounds below my goal weight. Sometimes I guess it's just a matter of finding time. But Mary and I both HAVE to find time this week.
We went over to the neighbor's house last evening to make sure things were okay and no one was home. Mrs. Neighbor came home later that evening but I thought it was too late to knock on the door. We're going to go back and try again today.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
152.6
I never thought I'd be staring at a 152 number this morning when I stepped on the scale. I was so surprised that I weighed a second time to see if it was true. Then later, I began to doubt myself and had to recheck my running log (where I post my daily weight) to see if that was what it actually said. Now that I am past the disbelief part, I find myself thinking that surely tomorrow it will be back at a 153 number. I wonder what the basis for all this disbelief is? Why can't I just be satisfied and enjoy the fact that for this day I weigh a number starting with 152?
When I was at PT the other day, I was laying on the little bed in the PT room and the PT was jotting some notes in my file when he asked me how much I weighed. After I told him, I smiled to myself thinking that it wasn't such a "bad number" to own up to. It's so weird to be conscious of the little tape that runs in the back of my mind. The one giving me feedback on my weight. Sometimes it's a good message, often it isn't. I think it's important to monitor that tape and try to influence the message it sends us. Perhaps that little tape, like back ground music in an elevator, has more to do with our self perceptions than we realize?
I haven't run since Tuesday but I'm happy to say that our recent storm has finally (and I do mean finally) blown out the air pollution that has hovered over us ever since we've been home. So today we'll head out for a 5 miler. I start getting nervous after taking too much time off from running. I start wondering it I really can run for "that long". Well, of course I can so I'm not sure where this self doubt comes from. Maybe the runner in me has a little tape that plays in the background too.
On another note, my neighbor was taken away in an ambulance this morning. He had surgery on his arm a few days ago so we're assuming it may be related to that. Later on, we'll go knock on the door and make sure everything is all right. It's a difficult thing to know where the line is between letting a neighbor know you're concerned and having them think you're just nosey. But this neighbor once knocked on our door only to say he hadn't heard me playing piano for a couple days and just wanted to make sure things were okay. I thought that was very nice, especially considering we're not really close neighbors, more of a chatting over the fence sort of neighbor.
I've been dutifully doing the exercises for my shoulder. They hurt like hell but seem to be loosening things up. I do them three times a day. The PT told me yesterday I may be back to full range of motion within 2 weeks. That would be so wonderful!
So anyway, I'm just waiting for the fog to lift (literally), hoping the sun will come out, and then heading out for a run.
When I was at PT the other day, I was laying on the little bed in the PT room and the PT was jotting some notes in my file when he asked me how much I weighed. After I told him, I smiled to myself thinking that it wasn't such a "bad number" to own up to. It's so weird to be conscious of the little tape that runs in the back of my mind. The one giving me feedback on my weight. Sometimes it's a good message, often it isn't. I think it's important to monitor that tape and try to influence the message it sends us. Perhaps that little tape, like back ground music in an elevator, has more to do with our self perceptions than we realize?
I haven't run since Tuesday but I'm happy to say that our recent storm has finally (and I do mean finally) blown out the air pollution that has hovered over us ever since we've been home. So today we'll head out for a 5 miler. I start getting nervous after taking too much time off from running. I start wondering it I really can run for "that long". Well, of course I can so I'm not sure where this self doubt comes from. Maybe the runner in me has a little tape that plays in the background too.
On another note, my neighbor was taken away in an ambulance this morning. He had surgery on his arm a few days ago so we're assuming it may be related to that. Later on, we'll go knock on the door and make sure everything is all right. It's a difficult thing to know where the line is between letting a neighbor know you're concerned and having them think you're just nosey. But this neighbor once knocked on our door only to say he hadn't heard me playing piano for a couple days and just wanted to make sure things were okay. I thought that was very nice, especially considering we're not really close neighbors, more of a chatting over the fence sort of neighbor.
I've been dutifully doing the exercises for my shoulder. They hurt like hell but seem to be loosening things up. I do them three times a day. The PT told me yesterday I may be back to full range of motion within 2 weeks. That would be so wonderful!
So anyway, I'm just waiting for the fog to lift (literally), hoping the sun will come out, and then heading out for a run.
Friday, February 22, 2008
153.8
Yesterday, I was lucky because I went to Sports Authority and found some new running clothes on clearance. I didn't have any more sleeveless (singlets) tops to wear for running so the need was great. The thing about those tops is that they have to fit perfect under the arms or after 10 miles or more, the excess fabric will slice flesh. Not a fun feeling!
The present plan is to forgo our long run until Monday. This is due to several factors, first of all the air quality has been in the red alert stage for awhile now. Secondly, it is presently snowing. Finally, we want to get back to Mondays as our usual long run day anyway. So that's the plan and hopefully the weather won't mess it up.
Roxie: Thank you for your suggestions. I also hope you will find that little spark within you to get back to running. It's the best medicine for the heart, head and soul!! And of course, it keeps the ol' body in good shape too!
Speaking of shape . . . I went to my second PT appointment this morning. I got some more information about how the body forms these adhesions when a joint is not being used. In my case, it is the shoulder joint from when I injured it in October (the sports bra fiasco). But my thoughts are more about as the body (specifically mine) ages. Anyway, as a joint is no longer used to its full range of motion or potential, it begins to form these adhesions. They further immobilize the joint, making movement even more painful. So it's a continuous thing that results in rigid joints unless something breaks the cycle. In my case, these "exercises" they have me do, actually tear the adhesions up and restore mobility. Yes, it does hurt like hell!
This morning they had me stand along side a "finger ladder". This is exactly as it sounds . . . a little ladder for your fingers to walk up. Anyway, the idea is to walk as high as the shoulder or arm will allow, then back down and then repeat for a specified amount of time. In my case it was 3 minutes. Now I will remind you that I can endure discomfort. After all, I just ran 13 miles last weekend so some discomfort is involved in that, but not pain. So, back to the finger ladder. Before 3 minutes was up I broke into a sweat. Yes, me . . . the ice princess who is never warm . . . broken into a full sweat over a finger ladder. So the moral to that story is that we all need to keep our joints moving. Move it or lose it!
My other frustration today is over MSN and my e-mail. I was on the telephone until midnight last night with a MSN representative trying to repair a problem with my e-mail. I thought it was fixed when we hung up, only to find out today that I can no longer receive my e-mail. I have to go to spouse's computer to retrieve e-mail. And I might add that the spell check on Blogspot works fine on his computer and not at all on mine. So I guess I have some weird things going on. Spouse is working on my computer as we speak.
I never did weigh in at Weight Watchers yesterday. So I'll need to do that for sure next week. It just seems that the time flew so fast and before I knew it, the day was over . . . except that I was on the phone with MSN that is. This afternoon I need to spend some quality time on the piano bench, then go to Bible study tonight. So I guess MSN is going to have to wait a bit longer.
Tomorrow is my "official" weigh in day so we'll have to see what happens there. I really do need to see a number below 153 one of these days but I'm fairly certain tomorrow isn't that day. Oh well . . . and on I go!
The present plan is to forgo our long run until Monday. This is due to several factors, first of all the air quality has been in the red alert stage for awhile now. Secondly, it is presently snowing. Finally, we want to get back to Mondays as our usual long run day anyway. So that's the plan and hopefully the weather won't mess it up.
Roxie: Thank you for your suggestions. I also hope you will find that little spark within you to get back to running. It's the best medicine for the heart, head and soul!! And of course, it keeps the ol' body in good shape too!
Speaking of shape . . . I went to my second PT appointment this morning. I got some more information about how the body forms these adhesions when a joint is not being used. In my case, it is the shoulder joint from when I injured it in October (the sports bra fiasco). But my thoughts are more about as the body (specifically mine) ages. Anyway, as a joint is no longer used to its full range of motion or potential, it begins to form these adhesions. They further immobilize the joint, making movement even more painful. So it's a continuous thing that results in rigid joints unless something breaks the cycle. In my case, these "exercises" they have me do, actually tear the adhesions up and restore mobility. Yes, it does hurt like hell!
This morning they had me stand along side a "finger ladder". This is exactly as it sounds . . . a little ladder for your fingers to walk up. Anyway, the idea is to walk as high as the shoulder or arm will allow, then back down and then repeat for a specified amount of time. In my case it was 3 minutes. Now I will remind you that I can endure discomfort. After all, I just ran 13 miles last weekend so some discomfort is involved in that, but not pain. So, back to the finger ladder. Before 3 minutes was up I broke into a sweat. Yes, me . . . the ice princess who is never warm . . . broken into a full sweat over a finger ladder. So the moral to that story is that we all need to keep our joints moving. Move it or lose it!
My other frustration today is over MSN and my e-mail. I was on the telephone until midnight last night with a MSN representative trying to repair a problem with my e-mail. I thought it was fixed when we hung up, only to find out today that I can no longer receive my e-mail. I have to go to spouse's computer to retrieve e-mail. And I might add that the spell check on Blogspot works fine on his computer and not at all on mine. So I guess I have some weird things going on. Spouse is working on my computer as we speak.
I never did weigh in at Weight Watchers yesterday. So I'll need to do that for sure next week. It just seems that the time flew so fast and before I knew it, the day was over . . . except that I was on the phone with MSN that is. This afternoon I need to spend some quality time on the piano bench, then go to Bible study tonight. So I guess MSN is going to have to wait a bit longer.
Tomorrow is my "official" weigh in day so we'll have to see what happens there. I really do need to see a number below 153 one of these days but I'm fairly certain tomorrow isn't that day. Oh well . . . and on I go!
Thursday, February 21, 2008
153.4
OK, I can breathe again. My weight is about back down where it should be. It's lower than when we left for Mesquite so all is right with my world. Speaking of which . . .
We had an earthquake this morning. The center of it was quite a distance from here, the next state over, but I felt it shake the house this morning. The news reports are still being collected but it looks like the epicenter is Wells, Nevada and it is quite large in terms of tremors felt in surrounding states. I hope no one was injured.
I've been thinking that I feel more comfortable, in a psychological sort of way, of thinking of myself as being on a continued weight loss plan, than to be maintaining my weight. To clarify, my initial goal of 155 has been met, so I lowered it to 145. Actually, I am quite pleased with how I look now, although I still could stand to lose some more around my middle. But if I never got to 145 it wouldn't be a big deal. Don't get me wrong, I hope I do, and I will try to get to 145, but if all I did was stay the same as I am now, it wouldn't be a big deal. But I don't want to intentionally try to stay at this weight. Weird, huh? Anyway, for the record, I am going to try to get down to 145.
If I have time today I will stop in at WW and weigh in for February. I need to weigh in before the end of the month. Then I need to get back to the meetings - they are free after all!
I started PT yesterday. I am optomistic because the PT said that he didn't think I had a tear. He thinks adhesions have built up within my shoulder joint (scar tissue from original October injury). So that's something that would respond well to PT. I started the stretching exercises so it hurt move last night. I have another appointment tomorrow. He'll measure any changes in my range of motion (which is very limited to begin with). So hopefully it won't take long and I'll be good as new!
I need to get going this morning. We're not running because the air quality is on RED ALERT today (again). It's supposed to be improved by Saturday when we do our long run. So I guess that's it for now.
We had an earthquake this morning. The center of it was quite a distance from here, the next state over, but I felt it shake the house this morning. The news reports are still being collected but it looks like the epicenter is Wells, Nevada and it is quite large in terms of tremors felt in surrounding states. I hope no one was injured.
I've been thinking that I feel more comfortable, in a psychological sort of way, of thinking of myself as being on a continued weight loss plan, than to be maintaining my weight. To clarify, my initial goal of 155 has been met, so I lowered it to 145. Actually, I am quite pleased with how I look now, although I still could stand to lose some more around my middle. But if I never got to 145 it wouldn't be a big deal. Don't get me wrong, I hope I do, and I will try to get to 145, but if all I did was stay the same as I am now, it wouldn't be a big deal. But I don't want to intentionally try to stay at this weight. Weird, huh? Anyway, for the record, I am going to try to get down to 145.
If I have time today I will stop in at WW and weigh in for February. I need to weigh in before the end of the month. Then I need to get back to the meetings - they are free after all!
I started PT yesterday. I am optomistic because the PT said that he didn't think I had a tear. He thinks adhesions have built up within my shoulder joint (scar tissue from original October injury). So that's something that would respond well to PT. I started the stretching exercises so it hurt move last night. I have another appointment tomorrow. He'll measure any changes in my range of motion (which is very limited to begin with). So hopefully it won't take long and I'll be good as new!
I need to get going this morning. We're not running because the air quality is on RED ALERT today (again). It's supposed to be improved by Saturday when we do our long run. So I guess that's it for now.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
155
I was happy to read the scale this morning. Hopefully in the next couple days I will be right where I was before we went to Mesquite and I found all those buffets!
Yesterday, we went for a run and decided since our air quality was so bad that we should just run the hills in our neighborhood. It looked like there was a slight possibility that we were above the air inversion. OK, we probably weren’t but it was my justification for getting out there and treating my lungs so badly. Anyway, my expectations were rather high, since my 13 miler on Saturday went so well. Unfortunately, it didn’t take very long before I was put in my place. I’d forgotten just how bad these hills are by our house. When we got home, spouse downloaded the info from his GPS and it showed that this one hill was at a 22% grade. No wonder I was sucking up a lung! I knew it was hard, but that really validated my suffering. But I just tell myself it is good training. I ran every inch of it and I can be proud of that fact.
Yesterday at my piano lesson my teacher and I picked out a new piece for me to start working on. I cannot remember the composer but it is called "The Spinning Song". It looks like it will be a piece that is just fun to play. Sometimes it’s good to have a break and just do something that’s fun, don’t you think?
I really feel bad that I don’t have anything of substance to say today. Actually, it’s been awhile since I’ve said anything worth writing, much less reading. But somehow, when I look back at it a year later it seems interesting. Because as boring as it is, on this day, I know what was going on.
I’ve decided to review all the things I do as a volunteer. I think I’m going to quit everything and start some new things. For instance, I think this past election is going to be the last time I’m going to be a poll worker. The experience is just too frustrating when you have to work with someone that is "so past prime" that they need supervision. We also volunteer for the county fair. The bad thing about that is the jobs they give us are so boring and sedentary. Here we are, two college graduates who have enjoyed success careers, who like being active, and yet we sit on a hard old chair telling people they cannot bring a soft drink into the building. I think we have so much more to offer and yet, this is what it boils down to. So I think it would be better to let the older folks, say those in their 70's and older, do that sort of thing. And in the meantime I’ll just keep my eyes open for a new opportunity. Any ideas?
Yesterday, we went for a run and decided since our air quality was so bad that we should just run the hills in our neighborhood. It looked like there was a slight possibility that we were above the air inversion. OK, we probably weren’t but it was my justification for getting out there and treating my lungs so badly. Anyway, my expectations were rather high, since my 13 miler on Saturday went so well. Unfortunately, it didn’t take very long before I was put in my place. I’d forgotten just how bad these hills are by our house. When we got home, spouse downloaded the info from his GPS and it showed that this one hill was at a 22% grade. No wonder I was sucking up a lung! I knew it was hard, but that really validated my suffering. But I just tell myself it is good training. I ran every inch of it and I can be proud of that fact.
Yesterday at my piano lesson my teacher and I picked out a new piece for me to start working on. I cannot remember the composer but it is called "The Spinning Song". It looks like it will be a piece that is just fun to play. Sometimes it’s good to have a break and just do something that’s fun, don’t you think?
I really feel bad that I don’t have anything of substance to say today. Actually, it’s been awhile since I’ve said anything worth writing, much less reading. But somehow, when I look back at it a year later it seems interesting. Because as boring as it is, on this day, I know what was going on.
I’ve decided to review all the things I do as a volunteer. I think I’m going to quit everything and start some new things. For instance, I think this past election is going to be the last time I’m going to be a poll worker. The experience is just too frustrating when you have to work with someone that is "so past prime" that they need supervision. We also volunteer for the county fair. The bad thing about that is the jobs they give us are so boring and sedentary. Here we are, two college graduates who have enjoyed success careers, who like being active, and yet we sit on a hard old chair telling people they cannot bring a soft drink into the building. I think we have so much more to offer and yet, this is what it boils down to. So I think it would be better to let the older folks, say those in their 70's and older, do that sort of thing. And in the meantime I’ll just keep my eyes open for a new opportunity. Any ideas?
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
156.2
It was with great fear and trepidation that I approached the scale this morning. The last time I weighed in was nearly a week ago. Since then, I have been to the buffet three times, and become a regular at Star Bucks (mocha light frappucino). I can also order from Denny’s breakfast menu with my eyes closed. Oh, it wasn’t pretty.
I did better (with my eating) than I would have done a year ago, but not much better. I tempered my increased food intake with a lot of walking and running. Over the five days we were in Mesquite, I ran twice - a 13 miler and a six miler. On two other days I went for long walks - a five miler and a six miler. So I did push away from the buffet for a while.
When we got home yesterday, I stepped on the scale, fully clothed. So I knew I needed to mentally prepare myself for this morning’s weigh in. I guess it could have been worse. I’m up 3.2 pounds from my lowest low, and about 2 pounds from when we left for Mesquite. It should come off quickly now that I’m home and back on my food plan.
Yesterday, spouse booked us for a trip to Hawaii in December. So I guess I have between now and then to buy a swim suit that I would be willing to wear in front of other people. Actually, the problem isn’t the swim suit so much as it is the tan line I usually get every summer. Because of all the running I do, I get one heck of a tan line on my ankles and thighs. This past week in Mesquite has already started the return of the tan line. Well, it never really left. It just got a bit lighter.
Since spring is right around the corner, which corner I can’t say since we’re still covered in snow banks, I’ve decided that I’m really going to concentrate on adding one more running day to my weekly mileage. I want to concentrate on building up some speed. I think since I’ve lost weight I have a great potential for making this a wonderful running and racing season. I should be able to set some new PR’s (personal records). The pace I had for Saturday’s 13 miler, which was a difficult rolling hills route, was the same as my old 5K pace. So the potential is there, just waiting to be tapped. I just need to NOT get an injury.
Speaking of injury, I start PT tomorrow for my shoulders, particularly the left one. I’ve been in pain since last October so I will be so happy to get my range of motion back AND to get rid of the pain. We’re just two and a half weeks away from our first half marathon of the year so I know good things are on the horizon . . . just over the top of the huge snow banks in my front yard.
I did better (with my eating) than I would have done a year ago, but not much better. I tempered my increased food intake with a lot of walking and running. Over the five days we were in Mesquite, I ran twice - a 13 miler and a six miler. On two other days I went for long walks - a five miler and a six miler. So I did push away from the buffet for a while.
When we got home yesterday, I stepped on the scale, fully clothed. So I knew I needed to mentally prepare myself for this morning’s weigh in. I guess it could have been worse. I’m up 3.2 pounds from my lowest low, and about 2 pounds from when we left for Mesquite. It should come off quickly now that I’m home and back on my food plan.
Yesterday, spouse booked us for a trip to Hawaii in December. So I guess I have between now and then to buy a swim suit that I would be willing to wear in front of other people. Actually, the problem isn’t the swim suit so much as it is the tan line I usually get every summer. Because of all the running I do, I get one heck of a tan line on my ankles and thighs. This past week in Mesquite has already started the return of the tan line. Well, it never really left. It just got a bit lighter.
Since spring is right around the corner, which corner I can’t say since we’re still covered in snow banks, I’ve decided that I’m really going to concentrate on adding one more running day to my weekly mileage. I want to concentrate on building up some speed. I think since I’ve lost weight I have a great potential for making this a wonderful running and racing season. I should be able to set some new PR’s (personal records). The pace I had for Saturday’s 13 miler, which was a difficult rolling hills route, was the same as my old 5K pace. So the potential is there, just waiting to be tapped. I just need to NOT get an injury.
Speaking of injury, I start PT tomorrow for my shoulders, particularly the left one. I’ve been in pain since last October so I will be so happy to get my range of motion back AND to get rid of the pain. We’re just two and a half weeks away from our first half marathon of the year so I know good things are on the horizon . . . just over the top of the huge snow banks in my front yard.
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Long Run - 13 Mile of Hills
Today was our long run. This was the whole reason we came down here, to do a 13 miler in decent weather. I'm happy to report that it went very well. My time was good (for me). No, I think I'll change that to say my time was great! For the whole 13 miles I had an average pace of 10:23. It was a difficult course too. It was all rolling hills, out and back. But I ran it strong and am very pleased with myself. My weight loss really made a difference in this run.
My eating hasn't gone very well since we've been here. After all, this is the land of the buffet. We hit the buffet 2 nights in a row, then resisted for 2 nights. Just one more day (tomorrow) and then we'll head back home where I will for sure return to my eating plan.
I haven't abandoned all common sense in terms of my eating, but I've really pushed the envelope on splurging. On the other hand, I've done a great job of burning calories during our time here. Unfortunately, there is no doubt that I've taken in a whole lot more than I've burned. I will surely have to atone for my sins when I get home.
My eating hasn't gone very well since we've been here. After all, this is the land of the buffet. We hit the buffet 2 nights in a row, then resisted for 2 nights. Just one more day (tomorrow) and then we'll head back home where I will for sure return to my eating plan.
I haven't abandoned all common sense in terms of my eating, but I've really pushed the envelope on splurging. On the other hand, I've done a great job of burning calories during our time here. Unfortunately, there is no doubt that I've taken in a whole lot more than I've burned. I will surely have to atone for my sins when I get home.
.
Here I am, the second to last day in Mesquite. My eating has pretty much been horrible, though yesterday there was a slight improvement . . . we didn't go to a buffet. Today we're going for a 13 mile long run. Hopefully, I won't over eat once we're done. My history in this exact situation does not suggest it will be easy. But I'm hoping and going to try my best because when I get home Monday evening, I'd just as soon NOT see any proof of my sins on the scale.
The weather here has been better than at home, but not as good as it should have been. Today however, it should be excellent, near 70 degrees and sunny. The wind should have died down as well. We're thinking after our run that we might relax by the pool. Ah spring weather . . . hurry!
The weather here has been better than at home, but not as good as it should have been. Today however, it should be excellent, near 70 degrees and sunny. The wind should have died down as well. We're thinking after our run that we might relax by the pool. Ah spring weather . . . hurry!
Thursday, February 14, 2008
.
We're in Mesquite. We got here yesterday. For the second day in a row we've found ourselves (like how I phrased that?) at a buffet. I cannot believe how much I ate! I tried to mitigate the damage from yesterday so we ran 6 miles today, then walked another 5 miler. We're planning a 13 miler (run) day after tomorrow. I just need to work off all this extra food before I get home and see the result of it on the scale!
Monday, February 11, 2008
154
The weather has finally warmed up a bit (low 40's) and it has stopped snowing long enough that most of the streets are dry, so you know what that means: I can run outside again! Hurrah!
Being able to run 11 miles outside on Saturday did my spirit good. Then, to be able to run our "usual" route today was the icing on the cake (so to speak). I am hoping that we’re past the worst part of winter and we can return to outdoor running. Ah! Just the thought of it is so appealing.
I feel like I’m just starting to enjoy weighing less in my running. Ever since October I’ve been playing games with this shoulder injury and for months I could not "swing" it when I ran. This caused not just problems while running, but kicked up the old pirformis injury as well. The shoulder is better in that aspect so it isn’t a problem while running (for the most part anyway because it did hurt at the end of the 11 miler). The other part of it, I’m hoping to get resolved in physical therapy which I start on the 20th.
We’re headed to Mesquite on Wednesday for some warm weather running. I can’t imagine what it will be like to run without all this snow stacked up everywhere! It will be heaven for sure. Oh, also to follow up on the "step-in" sports bra thing. I now "step-in" EVERY time I put on my sports bra. It is so much easier. I cannot believe it, but it’s true. Because of the shoulder injury I am unable to get it off my shoulder to "step-out" but once I get my shoulder back to normal I hope to follow through on that as well.
Our dance class starts the end of March, the 31st to be exact. There was an article in the newspaper this weekend and it talked about couples taking dance classes and the instructor in the article was the same as the one for our class. Of course this made me even more eager to start the classes. And "yes" to Roxie, I will include a full report of the class in my blog. I still can’t believe I convinced hubby to go for this. I guess that just proves one thing . . . if you nag long enough, anything’s possible!
Being able to run 11 miles outside on Saturday did my spirit good. Then, to be able to run our "usual" route today was the icing on the cake (so to speak). I am hoping that we’re past the worst part of winter and we can return to outdoor running. Ah! Just the thought of it is so appealing.
I feel like I’m just starting to enjoy weighing less in my running. Ever since October I’ve been playing games with this shoulder injury and for months I could not "swing" it when I ran. This caused not just problems while running, but kicked up the old pirformis injury as well. The shoulder is better in that aspect so it isn’t a problem while running (for the most part anyway because it did hurt at the end of the 11 miler). The other part of it, I’m hoping to get resolved in physical therapy which I start on the 20th.
We’re headed to Mesquite on Wednesday for some warm weather running. I can’t imagine what it will be like to run without all this snow stacked up everywhere! It will be heaven for sure. Oh, also to follow up on the "step-in" sports bra thing. I now "step-in" EVERY time I put on my sports bra. It is so much easier. I cannot believe it, but it’s true. Because of the shoulder injury I am unable to get it off my shoulder to "step-out" but once I get my shoulder back to normal I hope to follow through on that as well.
Our dance class starts the end of March, the 31st to be exact. There was an article in the newspaper this weekend and it talked about couples taking dance classes and the instructor in the article was the same as the one for our class. Of course this made me even more eager to start the classes. And "yes" to Roxie, I will include a full report of the class in my blog. I still can’t believe I convinced hubby to go for this. I guess that just proves one thing . . . if you nag long enough, anything’s possible!
Saturday, February 09, 2008
153.8
I’m really surprised to weigh in at 153.8 today. For two days in a row I’ve eaten meals that were definite splurges. Yesterday, I went to the Training Table for lunch and the day before we went to a Chinese buffet. I didn’t makes the wisest decisions at either but I did do better than I would have a year ago.
There is one thing I often do when these situations occur that I think does help mitigate the damage from the splurge. Since I keep a running tally of my calories as I eat them, I add the number of calories I would normally have for that particular meal. Then I finish out the day as ususal. That way it confines the damages to just the one meal as opposed to messing up the whole day. It also helps draw a "line", a stopping point for eating. When my splurge is more minimal, then I try to estimate the real number of calories and actually count every one of them and cut back the remainder of the day. But when it’s a big enough splurge that I have no idea how many calories I consumed, other than to know it was way too much, at least I can stop it at that point and not let it go any further. It’s a system that has worked well for me so far.
Today is our long run day and it looks like it will be nice enough weather that we can run outside. The snow drifts are so high that it is a bit dangerous to be in the roadway so we will be extra cautious and will change our route some in order to get away from the heavier traveled roads. I’m hoping to get an eleven miler because when we take off next week I want to run thirteen miles in preparation for out upcoming half marathon. It will sure be nice to be outdoors again!
There is one thing I often do when these situations occur that I think does help mitigate the damage from the splurge. Since I keep a running tally of my calories as I eat them, I add the number of calories I would normally have for that particular meal. Then I finish out the day as ususal. That way it confines the damages to just the one meal as opposed to messing up the whole day. It also helps draw a "line", a stopping point for eating. When my splurge is more minimal, then I try to estimate the real number of calories and actually count every one of them and cut back the remainder of the day. But when it’s a big enough splurge that I have no idea how many calories I consumed, other than to know it was way too much, at least I can stop it at that point and not let it go any further. It’s a system that has worked well for me so far.
Today is our long run day and it looks like it will be nice enough weather that we can run outside. The snow drifts are so high that it is a bit dangerous to be in the roadway so we will be extra cautious and will change our route some in order to get away from the heavier traveled roads. I’m hoping to get an eleven miler because when we take off next week I want to run thirteen miles in preparation for out upcoming half marathon. It will sure be nice to be outdoors again!
Thursday, February 07, 2008
153
Back to my all time low - hurrah! I only have a minute because I need to go to my doctor's appointment for my shoulder(s). I tried the "step in" sports bra thing last night and guess what, it worked out rather well - except that I could not get the strap on my bad shoulder. If it wasn't for my shoulder injury it may have worked out fine, hard to say. I'd like some feedback from anyone else trying this out.
We went to the gym yesterday and I ran 2 miles on the track and then 3 on the treadmill. I'd love to do it all on the track but those tight little corners just kill my legs and pirformis. I'm hoping we can do our 10 miler outside this weekend. There's still a lot of snow piled up and around so it's hard to say if it will work out but I'm hoping for the best. I NEED to run outside because my spirit is withering up!! Anyway, gotta dash to go to my doctor's appointment for now.
We went to the gym yesterday and I ran 2 miles on the track and then 3 on the treadmill. I'd love to do it all on the track but those tight little corners just kill my legs and pirformis. I'm hoping we can do our 10 miler outside this weekend. There's still a lot of snow piled up and around so it's hard to say if it will work out but I'm hoping for the best. I NEED to run outside because my spirit is withering up!! Anyway, gotta dash to go to my doctor's appointment for now.
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Shocking E-mail
I just received the most shocking e-mail from a friend who read my blog. She said that when she was professionally fit for a bra at Dillard's that she was told the proper way to put on (and take off) a sports bra is to step into it, like pants. As you can imagine, this just about floored me because I've never heard such a thing. Of course, I'm going to try it the next time I go running (Saturday). I was wondering if anyone else ever heard such a thing? I must admit if this does in fact work . . . if it can get past hips and my butt, it will make a huge difference in putting on (and removing) my new sports bras. But then the question will be why no one else has heard of this. I Googled it and nothing came back, at least in the first 12 pages that came up. Has anyone else ever heard such a thing?
Monday, February 04, 2008
.
Now when I say we've had too much snow, I really mean we've had too much snow. Remember, I'm 5' 9" and the snow will soon be up to my shoulders at the front door. 
What happened to the mail box? It used to be here somewhere.
The tunnel along the sidewalk is getting so high we can't even get the snow blower to throw it that far.
Turn it off!!!
What happened to the mail box? It used to be here somewhere.
The tunnel along the sidewalk is getting so high we can't even get the snow blower to throw it that far.
Turn it off!!!154.8
Yeah, I'm up again. I was on plan yesterday, but Saturday, now that's a different story! Hubby and I checked out a Chinese restaurant we hadn't been to before. I thought I was doing good by ordering Asparagus Chicken but then it came with a gravy type sauce on it. It also had 3 fried wontons and fried rice. Of course I ate the whole thing. But, in my defense, I had just finished running 10 miles at the university gym. Yes, the gym, on the indoor track . . . 70 laps in lane number 5. Now wouldn't you have eaten the whole thing too? I thought so. Now, would you have gone for the ice cream cone for dessert? We're talking "Moose Tracks", not just plain vanilla. Remember, 70 laps . . . that's a lot of laps . . . around and around. Unfortunately, the reality is that it isn't enough laps to make up for the Chinese food and Moose Tracks ice cream. Life is so unfail isn't it?
Something shocking has happened. Maybe you should be sitting down before reading this because it's just that shocking. Ready . . . . Hubby has agreed to take dance lessons with me!!! Can you believe it? He registered us yesterday. The university is teaching ballroom dance as a community class. We'll learn waltz, foxtrot, salsa, cha cha, swing, and tango. It will be so much fun, not to mention great exercise too. Anyway, I'm excited to start but it isn't until the end of next month.
Last night, the weather report said we got 2 feet of snow, I didn't measure it but I suspect we got every inch of it in our driveway. Then we got another 6" during the night. I really am going to go mad if we don't get some melting soon. There's no place to put it anymore! A week from Wednesday we're headed to Mesquite for 5 days of much warmer weather. I'll probably post some photos on my other blog site. Maybe I'll post one here too. (I read that Blogger was having problems posting photos so maybe they haven't fixed it yet.) Hubby just came in and said he took pictures so I'll have to see how many there are. Then, I'm headed to the gym to run like a rat on the treadmill for a 5 miler. Tomorrow we're at the polls all day. Which reminds me . . . get out there and vote!
Something shocking has happened. Maybe you should be sitting down before reading this because it's just that shocking. Ready . . . . Hubby has agreed to take dance lessons with me!!! Can you believe it? He registered us yesterday. The university is teaching ballroom dance as a community class. We'll learn waltz, foxtrot, salsa, cha cha, swing, and tango. It will be so much fun, not to mention great exercise too. Anyway, I'm excited to start but it isn't until the end of next month.
Last night, the weather report said we got 2 feet of snow, I didn't measure it but I suspect we got every inch of it in our driveway. Then we got another 6" during the night. I really am going to go mad if we don't get some melting soon. There's no place to put it anymore! A week from Wednesday we're headed to Mesquite for 5 days of much warmer weather. I'll probably post some photos on my other blog site. Maybe I'll post one here too. (I read that Blogger was having problems posting photos so maybe they haven't fixed it yet.) Hubby just came in and said he took pictures so I'll have to see how many there are. Then, I'm headed to the gym to run like a rat on the treadmill for a 5 miler. Tomorrow we're at the polls all day. Which reminds me . . . get out there and vote!
Saturday, February 02, 2008
153.4
I guess I'm just going to hang around the 153's for awhile. That's okay. After all, it's below my original goal. I think once the weather "breaks" then I'll start the downward trend again. All things in good time as they say.
There was a notice in the newspaper today that the local university is having a dance class. It's for one month, once a week, and reasonably priced. I think I just about have hubby talked into it. I've been working on him for years and I think he's just about weakened and "ready for the kill". Neither one of us have an ounce of rhythm but it would sure be fun, and good exercise too.
This morning we need to get a long run done, a 10 miler. It's pretty wet outside and the streets aren't in real good shape for running. Lots of piled up snow. We drove part of our running route last night and the shoulder was all iced up, (what little of it there was anyway). So I guess we're headed to the university to do it on the indoor track. Thank heavens for my i-pod!
This winter hasn't been a very good one in terms of running weather. With all the snow we've had it's been forcing us indoors to get our runs in. I'll sure be glad when the roads clear up and the shoulder is bare enough to get outside again. Oh, how I long for spring!
There was a notice in the newspaper today that the local university is having a dance class. It's for one month, once a week, and reasonably priced. I think I just about have hubby talked into it. I've been working on him for years and I think he's just about weakened and "ready for the kill". Neither one of us have an ounce of rhythm but it would sure be fun, and good exercise too.
This morning we need to get a long run done, a 10 miler. It's pretty wet outside and the streets aren't in real good shape for running. Lots of piled up snow. We drove part of our running route last night and the shoulder was all iced up, (what little of it there was anyway). So I guess we're headed to the university to do it on the indoor track. Thank heavens for my i-pod!
This winter hasn't been a very good one in terms of running weather. With all the snow we've had it's been forcing us indoors to get our runs in. I'll sure be glad when the roads clear up and the shoulder is bare enough to get outside again. Oh, how I long for spring!
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