155.4

Well, it seems I made it through Thanksgiving no worse for wear. Even though I did "pig out" on pizza and pumpkin pie, it (the pizza) was relatively low in calories. And combined with my miles ran for the week, it worked out okay for me. We're going to run 5.5 miles today so I can officially log in a minimum of 30 miles for this week. I usually don't hit the 30 mile mark, just nudge up against it with a 27 or 29, so I'm pleased with myself to be able to accomplish crossing that line.

In the past, when I was training for a marathon, I was able to get in over 30 miles, but it seemed like every time I did, I'd end up with an injury. Now that I have more experience, and with the benefit of hindsight, I think I was just packing too many pounds down the road. This has been a good year for avoiding injury (so far) and I am hoping to actually declare it to be my first injury-free year.

Speaking of injuries, I was reading the newspaper this morning about all the early morning shoppers who were injured, or even killed, by the mass hysteria of saving a buck in the wee hours of Friday. What have we become? I mean, if I was to read in the Bible about some prophecy that people would kill each other in order to obtain the "right" to purchase some inconsequential item at a reduced cost, I don't think I could believe anything like that could happen in my lifetime. And yet, here it is . . . right in our faces.

It would be so easy to get depressed about what we, as people, have evolved to, but I have to remember that there are probably lots of acts of kindness that were not reported in the newspaper. Generally, we are a good people. Unfortunately, there are always exceptions, and the best thing to do is remove ourselves as far away from those other people as we can. I mean really, don't you think that these people are also exhibiting this type of behavior in their every day life? I suspect so. I mean, they can't bake cookies for the down trodden on Monday, then on Friday, kill someone over the right to buy a computer game. Or can they?

155.6

Yes, a good Thanksgiving plan!

155.2

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

I guess I have no choice but to talk about things I am thankful for and to at least comment on the eating plan for the day. Yep, I do plan to eat. OK, ya think I might need to put some more thought into that plan?

First, I'll back up a little. Yesterday, we ordered our "take and bake" pizza from Papa Murphy's. I ordered a gourmet veggie delite. We ordered the pizza, told them we'd be back in an hour, then took off for a 6 mile run. And was it a great run too! For some reason, this first run after Monday's long run, was really good. I felt strong and my time was really good too. I was glad to go the extra mile since I'll be eating more calories today.

So, I got the pizza. Spouse wanted a Chicago stuffed pizza and I wasn't willing to use THAT many calories so we ended up with 2 pizzas. I figure even if I eat the whole thing, it will total out to 1610 calories. Hmmmm . . . really, that isn't too bad IF I make it the only thing I eat today. Actually, I will have pizza for lunch AND supper. I really don't think it will be THAT filling since there isn't a lot to it. So, it's an option.

Mrs. Smith also made a pumpkin pie for us today. I love pumpkin pie but it's a killer in terms of calories. So I'm thinking the pie might just have to be an indulgence. Especially if I eat too much pizza. With these 2 items being the whole menu of the day, at least I'm limited to the number of calories I can consume. In a "worst case scenario", I would be over eating enough calories to gain about half a pound.

Now, having said that, we're also going running this morning too. We reserved a movie at Redbox (not the closest ones) and we're going to run there to pick them (actually there's 2 of them) up. That'll be just over 5 miles if we do a direct out and back route.

OK, so that's the calorie plan for the day, not detailed, just sort of loose. Really, I'm leaving it sort of open, just enjoying my pizza and pie, and not sweating it out. So, on to the thankfulness . . .

First of all, I think for every long run I have, I concentrate on things I am thankful for, because the first part of the long runs is almost always a prayerful state. So I am cognizant of the many blessings in my life. I have good health, and the fact that I am not over weight is just icing on that cake. My spouse, whom I am thankful for, has good health as well. We have a lovely home, and a good life together. We have few real worries. If anyone can say that, how much more can you ask for? Not much I'd say, but God has blessed me with even more.

I have a good life, I mean a really good life. I'm not doing the 9-5 thing so I can pretty much do as I want. I'm able to relax and enjoy life and spend my time doing what I enjoy, like running and taking piano lessons. We're not rich by any means, but we're okay. I mean, really, isn't okay just fine anyway? I think many people would love to be just okay in terms of finances.

My life isn't perfect, but it's good . . . and for that I am very thankful. Thanks be to God!

155.6

This morning, upon wakening, spouse decided we needed some new luggage. Now this Hawaii trip has been in the works for about a year and now we are finding all these last minute things we need to do in order to be ready for it. Remember, it was just a couple days ago when I decided I needed a fanny pack? Anyway, we got lucky and found a heck of a good deal on luggage at Dillard's this morning. OK, cross that one off the list.

The grands were over last night for a few hours. It just amazes me all the changes I see in them every time we see them (which is about once every week or two). Carly says a few words and Jackson is maturing and speaking much more clearly.

I got a hair cut this morning so I feel good about that. This way it won't be an issue if we're in humid or rainy weather. It's short enough it can do anything it wants and the "spikes" will be in style. I definitely need to do color next time around though!

We're heading out for a run in just a bit. We also need to pick up tomorrow's Thanksgiving pizza . . . busy . . .busy . . .busy!

154.4

I was looking at my running numbers for the year and realized that I ran more miles this year than last year. Of course, since my pirformis was an issue for so long last year, that isn't a tough record to break. But I'm hoping I can hit 1,000 miles for the year. It's going to be a close one. I'll either just barely make it, or just barely miss it. A lot depends on the weather and how many runs we miss due to unexpected circumstances. I'm hoping we can get some good mileage in while we're in Hawaii.

Yesterday's run went well, although I still seem to be tired from it today. It seems when it's colder outside that the run takes a harder toll on me. Spouse and I were both pretty tired after the run. Well, we weren't tired, we just didn't have any energy to do anything except laze in front of the TV. I think the difference is that it was a mental fatigue more than a physical one. It's just hard to explain unless you've been through it before.

I'm just glad I was able to get the full 13 miles done and didn't poop out like I did the prior week. I felt strong running up the hills and my time was much better. But having said that, I was sure glad when my GPS clicked over and beeped me for at 13 miles!

I found a fanny pack yesterday too. We stopped at Shopko to get a drink and use the bathroom and Spouse suggested we take a quick look to see if they had any fanny packs. Not only did they have them, but they had 4 styles to choose from and all of them were on clearance for only $3.99 each! So, I finished the last part of the run with a new fanny pack buckled around my waist.

Tomorrow I'm hoping to get a hair cut (my stylist is trying to fit me in for this last minute request). I suppose I could use a color job too but that will just have to wait awhile until I have more time. Maybe I'll grow all my color out just to see how much gray there is. Or that might scare me . . . make me feel (look) middle aged! Hmmmm . . . I'll have to ponder that one a bit more.

154.8

We're getting ready to head out for a long run in a little bit. The temperature is still a bit cool, 38 degrees. I prefer to have something in the mid to upper 40's. Since the sun is out, the 40's would be nice. At least we don't have any snow! But regardless of the temperature, we'll head out in about an hour.

As you might recall, last week my long run wasn't that great. I was slow and it was a hard effort. Hopefully today will not be a repeat of that. It never ceases to amaze me how you never know how it's going to feel until you actually get out there and start running. It doesn't matter how the first 2 miles feel because I know after that it will get better. Mostly because I know the first couple miles are all up hill, then we get into a more pleasant rolling hills area.

The dangerous thing about this route is it finishes at Great Harvest Bread Store. I mean, almost right to their front door. How convenient . . . oops, I mean . . . awful, is that? Just when I am at my weakest, my most tired, there it is, like an oasis on the horizon. OK, no sense on dwelling on that, is there?

So, this is Thanksgiving week! I can't believe it's here so soon. Our menu will consist of pizza (Papa Murphy, veggie de-lite) and pumpkin pie. I mean, really . . . who needs more than that? At least the "total damage" I can do will be restricted to those amounts and there won't be days and days of left overs to pick at. I'm really looking forward to that pumpkin pie!

Tomorrow the "grands" are coming over for awhile, (while their mom works and dad plays basketball). I think Carly will start talking any time now. I need to get some more photos so I can enrich your lives with them - ha! ha!

I need to have spouse check for the luggage requirements for our Hawaii trip (a week from tomorrow) and decide what pieces of luggage I'm taking. I want to find a fanny pack to take but so far I can't find one (except at Overstock.com and I'm not sure I'd receive it in time).

But for now, I'm just concentrating on getting that 13 miler done!

155.8

We've continued on Project Deep Clean but didn't finish the task yet. However, today will be the day! We have everything done but the kitchen, and that gets started as soon as I finish this post. Ah! It will be so nice to have a clean house when we get back from Hawaii!

This morning, after sleeping in so late that I even alarmed myself, we went for a 5 mile run. It was sunny out and the haze blew out with yesterday's winds. So it looked really pretty out. It was a bit cool, about 42 degrees, but I was dressed for it so it wasn't an issue. It was a good run and I was surprised when I finished and checked my GPS that I had a much better time than my usual. About a 20 second improvement!

Yesterday's trip to the mall didn't produce any good buys. There was stuff on sale, just not the stuff I was interested in buying. After that we went to the Mongolian Grill for lunch. It is one place you can go and really eat a lot of food and not use many calories. Of course, if you select the high calorie stuff and put the oil on it, you can eat a lot of calories. But you can also have a huge bowl of veggies, no oil, just a "sprinkling" of noodles, and have a very low calorie, high volume meal.

Tomorrow we're going to do some Christmas shopping. We also have to act as greeters for our church's bazaar. Then next week, my whole goal is to prepare for the Hawaii trip. We have the grands coming over on Tuesday but other than that, I've left the whole week open. I'm not sure what exactly I'm going to be doing that is going to take so much time, but I am compelled to leave myself a big span of time to get it done. I'll probably do some Christmas related stuff so I have less to do when we get back (not that we do all that much anyway). And I hope to get in some quality running as well. I know we're on borrowed time when it comes to decent running weather so I need to get all I can.

OK, I guess I need to get started on the kitchen so that this whole project is in my rear view mirror - Oh, happy day!

155.8

Yesterday was a success in terms of "Project Deep Clean" and there is a possibility we'll push through and wrap it up today. Of course, we also decided to run out to Costco and Dillard's in awhile so now the possibility exists we may get side tracked and not wrap this up today. Oh, gee, which way will it go . . . how can you stand the suspense? (I really can't believe I'm even writing this . . . I'm boring myself to death!)

It is a very windy day today, about 45 mph winds according to the weather reports. So I'm glad we got our run in yesterday. Tomorrow, the winds should subside and we'll be good to go, with cleaner air, and just a little bit cooler. Once again my quads feel tired. I remember this happened about a month ago. I'm not sure what finally got me over it, but I do know that resting them wasn't the answer. Odd, huh?

There was a report on the news the other night talking about how women are so dissatisfied with their bodies, and how we're faced with all these images of beautiful, thin women that really don't even exist (due to photo retouching). It got me to thinking. Yes, I am not totally satisfied with certain aspects of my body, but I'm not THAT bothered by it. I mean, yes, I need to pull almost everything back up a few inches to undo what gravity has pulled closer to the earth. And I wish the skin under my chin and my arms was tighter, more taut, less flabby. And speaking of flabby, I have this stomach "situation". I'm not wishing I had abs of steel, but maybe something more solid than my abs of jello. Maybe even abs of clay, or abs of plastic would be sufficient or at least an improvement. Because I looked at my face with my reading glasses on recently, I'm acutely aware of the lines, spots, and wrinkles in my face. Strangers don't stop in the street and point, in awe of my beauty (although they DO stop me and compliment me on my legs). Even if I was dressed by some Hollywood designer, I'd still have ugly feet.

I guess what I'm saying is that I have PLENTY of room for improvement AND I am keenly aware of my "shortcomings". I didn't discover these shortfalls because a size 0 (really, what IS that?) model is on my TV every 5 minutes, or did I? Either way, I'm okay with it. I'm not losing sleep over any of these things. I've accepted all of these things, and more, as part of being what makes me, me. Because despite falling so short of the world's standards of these benchmarks of beauty, I really do think I am beautiful. I am healthy, happy, and have a good spirit. But I think it all falls into this one equation:

Health = Beauty

So, let's all be healthy, shall we? Feed your body well today and marvel in how your body responds to a consistent exercise program. Be healthy, be beautiful.

155

No! No! No!

(Warning: Biggest Loser spoiler directly ahead)

How in the world could Amy NOT evict Vicky from The Biggest Loser campus when she had all the power in her hands? OK, maybe I'm way to involved with this but it seems to me when someone treats a person as badly as Vicky treated Amy (and others I might add) and when they have such an attitude of superiority, that they should get what's coming to them. Instead, the lamb goes to slaughter, the wolf remains, and injustice prevails. It just isn't right.

OK, now back to planet Earth. This morning I have tons to do as "Project Deep Clean" must get well under way (actually, continue moving forward) or else I'm NOT going to complete it before leaving for Hawaii. Not an acceptable thing! So first things first, I need to get these sore, tired (still?) quads out the door for a 5 miler. It's a great day for a run. And, since it appears that Blogger is having difficulties saving this post, I don't want to add to it just to lose it. So, until later today . . . TO BE CONTINUED. . .

OK, now it's later and I'm back from a 5 miler. It amazes me how one never knows what kind of a run awaits you until you get out there and start running. I thought I'd be dying because my quads were so tired feeling but actually it was a pretty decent run. My pace was OK . . . not the best, not the worst, and my effort was somewhere in the middle. Even more remarkable is that my quads feel more rested after having run 5 miles. Sometimes it just doesn't make any sense.

Now, having gotten the run out of the way, it's time to start the dreaded housework. So, here I go . . .

154.4

I think my get-up-and-go has got-up-and-went. I'm tired today, a residual affect of yesterday's long run. This usually doesn't happen, but every now and again I'm tired the day after a long run. Must be a sign of old age.

Two weeks from today I'll be boarding a plan for Hawaii. I can't believe it's almost here. It has been in the works for so long that it still seems like it's some sort of abstract thought or plan. I have no clue what Hawaii is like since I've never been there, but somehow I think it will be like when we went to the Bahamas except that people won't be bugging me to braid my hair. I mean my longest hair is about 2" long on a good day, there isn't anything to braid. But they wanted to prove me wrong. A couple twists and a bead later and the lady proved anyone can be a potential customer.

The thing about this Hawaii flight that I'm not looking forward to is flying over the ocean. I fear water (I mean REALLY fear), so therefore I fear crashing into the ocean. I don't fear the crash, which would most likely kill me way before I had a chance to drown, I fear the drowning part. So not only would my greatest fear come true, my drowning, but I'd be bruised and battered and even less likely able to save myself. Actually, on the way down I'd probably freak out so badly that I'd die from a heart attack, then be torn to pieces from the impact with the ocean, then, become fish bait. Hey - no drowning! I guess there's a good side to everything . . . even crashing into the ocean. How's that for an optimistic attitude?

OK, on to better things to think about than the possibility of my upcoming demise. After all, I could die in a car accident on my way to the airport when I'm no where near the water. Crap, I'm "back there" again. Sorry.

Tonight is The Biggest Loser where that bitch (yes, I did say bitch didn't I?) Vicky starts seeking revenge. I hope she gains weight. I hope Bob tells her she's a game playing bitch and he doesn't like her either. I hope her husband tells her she should stop being a bitch. I hope she gets voted off. I hope her underwear ride up every time she tries to exercise. I hope she chafens every time she tries to hike or run on the treadmill. I'm not so bad that I hope she crashes on a plane on the way to Hawaii and ultimately drowns in the ocean, but I do hope somebody puts her in her place!

OK, apparently I'm really having a good time entertaining myself this morning and anyone reading this is just an audience member. It's probably time to get off stage. I'll chat more tomorrow (that is if I don't drown between now and then).

154.2

We headed out for a long run this morning even though I didn't feel quite up to par. This meant that although I didn't feel 100%, I wasn't low enough on the scale to not get in my long run. It's been 2 weeks and I HAD to get in a long run. It didn't go terribly bad, I was just extra slow and it took extra effort. But that's OK. Sometimes that's just how it is, regardless of how I feel. So now, it's done. And 12 miles isn't anything to be ashamed of so I won't hang my head in shame.

So for the rest of the day, I don't expect to accomplish too much. Mostly because after a long run I don't feel like accomplishing much, even on a 100% day. After my long runs, that's my time to just do whatever I want to do, or better stated, to NOT do anything I don't want to do. I give myself permission to not be productive and to NOT feel any guilt about it either. That really is a gift you know. I mean, I know I've been "groomed" to be productive, to not waste time. But sometimes, ya just gotta enjoy "dinking around" and just relaxing . . . sans the guilt!

153.4

I am feeling sooooo much better today! My stomach is pretty much settled back down, the chills are gone, and no fever. What a difference a day makes!

Since the rainy weather initially postponed our long run, then my sickness out right cancelled it, I guess we're right back on schedule for a long run tomorrow. The weather is supposed to be good too. Since that makes it a full 2 weeks between long runs I should have lots of energy! I hate missing a long run but I'm reminded that sometimes I just don't have control over everything.

Before I got sick I was able to start the upstairs cleaning. I got the piano and guest rooms done. I checked the calendar and unless I want to deal with this cleaning project the week prior to going to Hawaii it looks like I need to wrap this up during the upcoming week. So that means there's going to be a hard push in that direction starting Wednesday. That's the plan anyway!

I'm still trying to figure out how I can make these trail shoes work out. I'm not quite ready to admit defeat (or da-feet). It's just such an odd spot to have a problem with a shoe. I feel like it's just a thought away from being able to be resolved . . . if I only knew how.

153.6

No long run today. I'm sick. The concert was good. The church was beautiful. They have a bell. I love church bells. That's all for now.

153.6

I went to Weight Watchers this morning and did my monthly weigh in. It really does make me feel so good to be able to step on the scale, in jeans AND shoes and know I'm still going to be under my goal weight. It's the part about wearing shoes that makes me feel so empowered. The person ahead of me had to do the traditional disrobing before weighing in and I remember when I "had" to do that too. Actually, I'm not sure I "had" to, but at that point it sure feels that way. I'm one month away from my 1 year (of successful) maintenance anniversary!

This evening we're going to the new Methodist church for a piano concert. I forget the name of the person who is performing but he is supposed to be well accomplished. I've also been curious about this church too so it will be nice to be able to check it out. I think they just moved into the new building this past summer.

My intentions today are to continue with my deep cleaning task. I hope to do the piano room and guest room. If I keep chipping away at it, I'll have everything done by the time we leave for Hawaii. That's the plan because I surely don't want to deal with it when we get back.

We went for a 5 miler yesterday afternoon. Because I wore my new trail shoes again, my pirformis is bothering me today. And, the spot on my ankle bone that the shoe irritated the time before, was further irritated to the point of bleeding. Did I mention these shoes cost me $95. That kind of money and my feet bleed. I hate it when that happens. But, I'm still trying to figure out a way to make them work. Tomorrow is a long run (over due from Monday) and the weather should be great. And . . . I will wear my regular running shoes.

For anyone who might be keeping track, I refrained from getting into the chocolate last night. Using Beck's NO OPTION tool really is effective in helping me NOT eat what would normally tempt me. But I do have to consciously use the tool. That makes all the difference. Now, if I could just employ the same tactic to get me to do that cleaning today . . .

154.4

I feel like a bank robber who got away with the money, and is just waiting to hear if a dye pack will explode and spoil the riches. OK, maybe not the best analogy but this morning my weight was the same despite the fact my fingers found their way into the left over Halloween candy . . . again. Luckily, there isn't much left because I don't know how much longer I am going to be so liberal with myself. I mean. really, I need to have a serious talk with me and tell me that this has gone on too long. Eventually it will catch up with me.

Well, will it, actually catch up with me? After all, I'm not eating it all up in one sitting, I'm eating some here and there. Maybe this "moderation" thing is going to work out OK. Wait a minute . . . did I just suggest that candy in moderation was okay? And really . . . is this really "moderation", to eat 6 pieces? I mean 6 pieces is about 300 calories (or more). Hmmmmm . . . I'm thinking about a river called Denial. I don't think it's realistic that I can eat candy for several days in a row and expect that one morning I won't wake up to an increase on the scale. I mean to even think this was a possibility is setting a bad precedence, don't you think?

OK, here's the thing . . . for this night, tonight, I will not eat any candy. NO OPTION! That's my promise to me. No candy tonight. That gives spouse one more day to munch more of the left overs (and I might add he is being effective with his disposal of it too!). If it was up to me, I'd throw it all away, but spouse put the kibosh (is that a word?) on that.

On another note, I just read in the newspaper that there are 2 weekends until Thanksgiving and just 6 until Christmas. Oh, that is scary. This is the most difficult time to be a dieter. But, this is also the same time of year I reached my weight goal of 155 pounds. I am so close to celebrating a 1 year anniversary of keeping the weight off. So far, so good, I just need to maintain my focus and stay away from that left over candy!

154.4

Oops, I guess I forgot to blog anything yesterday, didn't I?

It's a rainy day today so I'm not sure if we'll get a run in or not. I'm hoping we can go later this afternoon. This morning, I need to go pick up my wedding ring (that has just been resized SMALLER). We also need to do a few other errands so I'm not sure how much time that will take. It's looking like our long run isn't going to happen until Saturday. That means our running schedule is officially "screwed up" and probably won't get normal again until spring. Hopefully, it won't be a bad winter.

The grands were over for a few hours last night. We bought some coloring books and crayons for Jackson so he was delighted to be able to color and seemed to enjoy it best when spouse or I assisted. Of course, he also wanted his 16 month old sister to color with him too but she's pretty dangerous with a crayon in her hand. When they get old enough, I have a ton of crafting stuff that they'll enjoy being creative with. I have stamps and scrap booking stuff that I've saved specifically for that reason.

I have to say something about The Biggest Loser. Here's your official notice that if you don't want to know who was voted off you should stop reading now. This Vickie person really pisses me off. The fact she continues to lose good amounts of weight surprises me because she is 150% into game play. If she was to win, I think they should stop payment on the check and cancel future shows. Her attitude is rude, disgusting and offensive.

She is so smug about feeling so safe from elimination, as if she is untouchable. She even bragged that she KNOWS she worked harder than everyone else on the ranch. She is so full of herself that I'm hoping she'll gain weight. Anyway, her hubby was up for elimination last night, along with someone from the "other side". Since Vicky's side had the numbers in their favor, she KNEW her hubby would be safe from elimination, so she wasn't worried a bit. Well . . . surprise! Another member of her group saw the wisdom of breaking up the tight 2 couple alliance and voted against the hubby, so hubby went home. Ha! Ha! How do you like that Vicky? Are you feeling so smug now? Are you still feeling like the puppet master? I have to say I shouted praise at the TV when I saw that. The "scenes from next week" indicate she'll be on the attack to seek revenge. Hopefully, she'll be headed out the door too! OK, I'm way to into this, huh? Sorry, it's like a soap opera for obese people. But I just can't wait to see how this plays out.

OK, back to reality. I have lots to do so I better get started.

154.6

Too busy, I'll stop back later.

155

Ah! I took a walk down memory lane last night. I returned to a place I hadn't been for awhile. Then again, it's the sort of place where I hope I don't soon return. But, eventually, I know I'll be back. That place is called gluttony.

Yes, I took a walk on the wild side. I mean it wasn't anything near what I'd done in the past but still it was enough that I was unhappy with myself. A neighbor invited us over for cake and ice cream. I stated on the phone that I'd have a tiny piece of cake. I ate supper and saved enough calories for that piece of cake. Then, once we got there, she loaded the plate with cake and ice cream. Now I actually did have a couple different options at that point, but I chose the worst one, I ate every speck of it. And I enjoyed it too. Actually, I didn't really feel bad either. After all, it wasn't a "caloric crisis" situation. It was just more than I should have eaten but I could have just considered it a treat.

Anyway, after we got home, I got into the left over Halloween candy. I ate 7 pieces of it. They were the "bite sized" candy bars. I had 1 pack of m&m's, 2 Krackles, 1 Butterfingers, 1 Kit Kat and I think 2 more pieces but I don't recall what they were at this minute. I COULD have totalled the calories but instead I chose to "enjoy my ignorance". Well, it really wasn't ignorance because I had a general idea how many calories I was eating. I finished the night off with a piece of string cheese (80 calories). Finally, I brushed my teeth to put an end to this madness.

Now that I've bared my sin for all to see, I can see one thing. The "old me" would have never stopped where I stopped last night". Yes, I over ate . . . yes, I continued to eat when I wasn't hungry . . . yes, I was fully aware of the many tools I COULD have employed to bail me out of the situation, but, I didn't. Oh well . . . it's over, time to move on. So I'll just splash water on my face, stand up straight, brush the wrinkles out of that party dress, and continue on with my life. Doing what I know is right for most of the time and forgiving myself when I don't.

153.8

A Tour Of My Accomplishments For The Day

Oh, have I been so busy today! I always like to have the house clean on Christmas but there's a problem with that. First of all, that means I have to actually be the one to do it, and secondly, I have to be the one to do it. OK, I guess I could hire someone to do it for me but I'm too cheap and I would just supervise them so much that they'd probably quit. But mostly it's because I'm too cheap.

My desires for a clean house are further complicated by the fact we're going to Hawaii the first of December. So, I either have to start soon, or try and do it just before Christmas. So, my hand was forced. Usually when I clean, I only do the upstairs, and then only what HAS to be done.

Our home is a ranch style but the downstairs is a day lit basement and fully finished. It rarely gets cleaned. I mean there's just the two of us so things don't get too messed up for the most part. So I decided I better start there first, otherwise, once I finished the main floor, I'd lose interest and NEVER finish (or even start) downstairs. Besides, I was getting a bit concerned about how big the dust bunnies might be getting. So earlier in the week, I decided today would be the day to do the downstairs. As the day got closer I found myself searching for reasons to postpone it. Not being able to find any, I persuaded spouse to assist me and this is what we accomplished:

This is the office, probably the most used room down stairs. This is my desk, where I am actually sitting this minute. This is exactly how It looks only I cleaned up the little pile of papers. Anyway, EVERYTHING got moved and dusted, the windows got cleaned AND the curtains got washed and ironed (I told you I was busy!).

This is the other part of the room. See how nice and clean the valance is? I made them a few years back and this was the first time I washed them. I took the photos with my cell phone and couldn't fit everything in on one frame. Normally, spouse has huge piles of "stuff" around his desk but he was a real trooper today and cleaned it all up!

This is the big room. It really doesn't have a name, other than the big room. It is so named because it is a very large room. It's as long as the house is wide. At one end it's like a sewing/craft room and the other it a fitness area. I like this room because I can leave my sewing machine out and I have lots of table space for sewing or crafting. There's also a TV mounted on the wall that is on a swivel so it's viewable for sewing and exercising. The table to the left also has a computer on it but we don't use it. Anyway, everything got dusted here too. The windows and valances (I made these too) got washed and ironed. The floor got cleaned too. Even all those beer steins on top of the cabinets got dusted! It was round up day for the dust bunnies for sure!

This is the other end of the room, again, I couldn't fit everything in the small photo. Yes, for the record, I did dust the exercise equipment. Since we've been running outside there has been NO reason to use the treadmill nor the elliptical. So for now, I feel no shame about dusting it off.

OK, here's my shame. Yes, I had to dust this too. I keep saying I'm going to start doing some weight work and I never do. I have no excuse as you can see. I REALLY do need to get my butt on the machine and firm up a few things.

The room next to the office is this room. We're really not sure what to call it. There are lots of books in it so maybe we could call it a library or a reading room. Maybe we should call it a den. There's a TV inside the entertainment center but we rarely ever watch it since it's not high def.

The other side of the door is spouse's wine cellar. You may notice some dolls in this room. I went through a phase where I collected rag dolls. Now I'm past that so I'm waiting for Carly to get older so I can give them to her.

This is the other wall of the unnamed room. (I guess we forgot to straighten the pillows after the couch got vacuumed.) Again, I made the valances and they got washed and ironed.
Yes, I even cleaned the bathroom! Since we rarely use this bathroom, I don't clean it as often as I SHOULD. But today's it's all clean and shiny!

So I got everything done downstairs*. It is a huge accomplishment since I usually get sidetracked before I even get started. Now I just have to do the rest of it. Maybe I'll start next week. Right now, I think I need a break!

*Disclaimer: There is actually one more room but it is Spouse's work room and it's best if I enter only when necessary because the condition of it often frightens me.

UPDATE

Hurrah for me - we did make it on that 7 mile run and it was fantastic. The sun never did come out, although once we got home and after I showered, I did see a pinch of blue sky. I am very happy with the run. It felt good and I ran well. My time was better than expected too.

Our new running jackets were delivered about an hour before we took off for the run so we decided to try them out. I really like mine (spouse did too) and am happy that I no longer have to fear being caught in the rain or other inclement weather. It's wind proof as well as water proof. Although it breathes, there is some vapor that is trapped but I guess that's inevitable. It was nice to not have to wear so many layers I felt like the Pillsbury Dough Boy (OK, girl).

I just wore the jacket and that was it. I was very comfortable, even though it's a very light weight jacket. I think the weight was something like 11 ounces. It's exciting to think that I have something to wear that will make cold weather running more bearable (and even enjoyable)! I don't remember if I mentioned it or not but we also bought trail running shoes so when it's snowing or there's snow on the streets we can keep our feet dryer and not have so many traction issues. So, I guess my attitude is shaping up - who'd have thought?

155

The Best of Intentions

I had the best intentions this morning. I put on my running tights, a long sleeved shirt, a vest and a light jacket, along with a hat, gloves and my Smart Wool socks and we jumped in the car to head down the hill to run our 7 mile route. It started snowing lightly while I was getting dressed but I don't mind running in the snow. The thermometer said 41 degrees (yes, I know it isn't SUPPOSED to snow above freezing). So we drove a mile and a half down the hill and parked the car. The plan was to walk up the hill about a quarter mile (our warm up) and then head out west for a 3.5 mile out and back. Well, what actually happened was that the snow turned to rain and a burst of wind hit us and our common sense kicked in and we turned around and went back home. We (I) had the best of intentions.

So now after watching an updated weather forecast, they're saying the clouds SHOULD move out of here later this afternoon (and yes, there is no longer any precipitation coming from the sky), and perhaps we can try again later this afternoon. If so, it should be more comfortable conditions. When it's 41 degrees outside it makes a huge difference if the sun is out or not, and if there's any wind. However, I do realize that in a few short months we'll think that any conditions at 41 degrees will be balmy. But not today. . . today it was cold and breezy with the possibility of getting all wet.

So, the new plan is to try again this afternoon. I mean if we're fortunate enough to be able to be fussy about our conditions, then why suffer?

154.6

This morning we're going to run the hills in our neighborhood for a 5-6 mile run. The primary reason we're doing this killer hill run is because it's so darn cold outside and it should warm us up right away. The thermometer seems stuck on 32 degrees. That wouldn't be bad if the sun was shinning but so far it has been stuck behind some clouds. So, I'll drag out the winter running stuff today. I'll wear the hat and gloves. I'll also wear the tights I recently purchased for the first time. I'll wear my sun glasses, not because the sun is out, but to keep the tears in my eyes from freezing.

Yes, the whining about the cold weather has begun. I hate cold weather! It was 84 in Hawaii yesterday. Did I mention we're leaving for Hawaii in less than a month? Oh, a reprieve from the cold. Soon I'll be running in shorts again : )

Yesterday, I finally took my wedding ring to get it resized. I haven't worn it in ages because, since I lost weight, it just spins around my finger and drives me nuts. It's also big enough that I was afraid of losing it. The jeweler talked me into getting it sized to a 6.25. I thought 6.5 was better but he said that was still too loose and it needed to be a bit snug to keep it from spinning around. I told him I didn't want it too tight when my fingers swell up from whatever makes them swell up. So we'll see how that works. I have so many rings that need resized that I need a jeweler willing to give me a quantity discount on resizing. But I can't complain because I'm happy to have the problem!

Well, I gotta start dragging out all the winter running stuff now. I know I'll be happy once I get out there and warmed up. I really am going to try and find something to like about cold weather running. But it's not going to be easy . . . .

156.2

Oh . . . what an exciting night! I swear, when I went to bed last night, I actually felt the warmth of pride to be an American. I felt like I was united with my fellow Americans. I felt excited and hopeful that we can come together as a nation and fix some of the problems that have bogged us down over the past years. I felt proud to have a new president that is respected, dignified, intelligent, and able to offer so much hope to a depressed nation.

And don't forget . . . we made history too! Hey, we have a president who can actually give a speech! He not only knows all the basics, such as grammar and how to pronounce words, but he delivers his words with eloquence and passion. How refreshing is that?

Oh, John McCain's concession speech, that was a great speech too. I'm so glad he didn't have Sarah speak because that would have ruined the moment. His speech was full of compassion and grace. I have to admit I was touched by his words as well.

Now that we've elected ourselves a new president, and we can look toward the future with excitement and the hope that things will get better, here ends my political chatter.

Oh, wait, just one more thing that I forgot to chatter about. My state had a lunatic running for Governor, actually I suppose all states have their own lunatic, but ours was very visible because prior to running for Governor he was a business person with ads on television. After his business shut down, then he kept getting into the spot light for his odd antics. It was suspected that he was bi-polar but not diagnosed, therefore, not receiving any medication to control the manic episodes. Since he called the present Governor (who was re-elected and doing a swell job anyway) the anti-Christ, he decided he (the lunatic) needed to run for Governor. I THOUGHT everyone knew this guy was off the deep end, off his rocker, one brick short of a load, holding an "ADMIT ONE" ticket to the Ha Ha Hotel, etc. But he got almost 18,000 votes. I mean, that's a lot of people who want to hand the management of our state over to a nut case! What's up with that?

OK, now that really does end my political discussion (rant). I'm done, for now anyway. So let's talk about weight and eating, shall we?

In all the excitement last night, I abandoned my good sense and over ate. Yes, I did go to the freezer and take out a few of those left over Halloween candies, and yes, chocolate tastes just as good frozen as it does at room temperature. Actually, if you wait for it to melt on your tongue it's even more fun to eat. But, I didn't go crazy with it like I might have in the past. If I put them all together I probably ate about the equivalent to one normal sized candy bar. So, yes, it was over eating, but kudos to me, I didn't go over board and binge on it. Oh, one other thing, I had an "unauthorized" PB&J too.

So now I look back on last night's (over) eating and come to the conclusion that yes, I did over indulge, but it wasn't typical of my past behaviors. So, it is what it is, I'm not spending a minute more worrying about it. And today I'm back to my sensible eating habits. Because you see, it really is a victory for me to not go to extremes. So let's all celebrate our victories today, where ever we find them, shall we?

154.8

Yesterday's long run (13 mi.) turned out to be a very nice surprise. Since we'd just done a long run on Friday (10 mi.), I anticipated that my legs would be a bit dead for this run. We did the Mountain Road route but changed it a bit at the end. We kept the hills at the beginning, but came back more on a zig-zag than the straight shot on Washington Blvd. that we usually take.

Since the weather is turning more toward winter, the parks department locked up all the restrooms. This eliminated our incentive to go all the way to the parkway so next time we'll alter the route a bit more. We knew they'd be closing up the restrooms any time now. Since we aren't in an area where there's even a "private bush", we had to tweak it a bit. The nice thing about the cooler temps is that we didn't have to carry water with us. We bought water at a mini-mart and for the second stop, we stopped at a grocery store for water and toilets. It isn't the ideal situation but it is nice not having to carrying water.

The run felt really good. I felt strong for the whole thing. When I hit the 10 mile point, where I usually am really feeling rather fatigued, I started wondering why I felt so good. Could the extra long run somehow be providing a training effect, making this easier? I have to explore that thought because I assumed it would tear me down more than build me up.

Last night we found some running jackets on "clearance" for $78 that are waterproof and still breathable. We ordered them for Christmas gifts for each other. I am so excited to get them and try mine out, (after Christmas of course). I always wanted one but they're so expensive. I hope it really is waterproof and breathable, especially since my inclement weather running months are here.

Well, I have a piano lesson later today and I spent all of about 5 minutes practicing yesterday so I better spend some extra time "on the bench" today. Since it is Election Day, I'd be remiss if I didn't remind everyone to get out and vote. Since I mentioned the "rhythm method" of voting yesterday, I'll continue with that again today (believe it or not this kept going through my mind on my run yesterday):

It'll be a pain if we're stuck with McCain.

and

We'll be wailing if we're stuck with Palin.

so

Listen to your mama and vote for Obama!

154.6

We're headed out for another long run this morning . . . just trying to finalize the route. It looks like if we don't get going pretty soon we might miss our window of opportunity. So, even though I am concerned about the abundance of long runs lately, here goes another one.

On another note, after reading the newspaper this morning I understand there are still people who are "undecided" about their presidential vote. Are you kidding me? Two years of listening to these guys and people are still undecided? I mean, really . . . undecided? Still? After all this? What's it going to take for you to finally make a decision? Maybe you should just stay home and let those who have an opinion decide this election. Or, just vote for anyone whose name rhymes: "Yo mama . . . yo mama, she vote for ______________" .

154

I am very proud of myself today! Last night, despite giving out some of my most favorite candy bars, I did NOT eat one of them. But the best part (can it actually get any better than that?) was that I wasn't even tempted. I just set it in my head that there was NO OPTION. I just wasn't going to do it . . . no "ands", "ifs", or "buts", NO OPTION. It's a tool I learned from the Beck Diet Solution book. I just ate my regular calories, brushed my teeth when I was done, and that was it. No chocolate hang over for me this morning!

Earlier in the evening, the "grands" came over to trick or treat us. It's really amazing to think that this time last year, Carly was just a tiny baby (3 1/2 months old) and this year, she was a cute little witch, able to walk around and play with her brother. They were both very cute in their costumes.

We didn't get a lot of trick or treaters even though it started off with a bang. We had a group of at least 30+ come to the door all at once, including parents. I was wondering where they'd parked the bus because this was way beyond a couple car loads. The parents had plastic grocery bags and held them out for candy along side their kids. My thought was that if we had many of these groups we'd be running out of candy rather quickly. But it turned out to be our only giant group and the rest of the evening was just a few here and there. Since we live on top of a huge hill, many don't want to make the effort to come up the hill.

This giant group stays on my mind. The kids were all wearing store bought costumes but yet the parents (not in costume) were still holding out bags to receive candy. Were they that poor or was the price slashed on their self respect for that evening? I don't recall any "Thank yous" from the parents yet a good number of the kids said it. Were they embarrassed? If they were, did they sell their dignity for some chocolate? I really don't know . . . I just wonder.