Healthful Living/Weekly (?) Workout Support Group - new for April

[Leslie Ferguson]

Greetings one and all to the next installment of the Heathful Living/Weekly Workout Support Group. I’m still thinking a new name may be best but it’s hard to break from tradition. I figured it was time to start a new thread since we were working on the “February” thread in April. Time flies doesn’t it? Life has really gotten to us hasn’t it? But I’m going to turn over a new month and highlight a few things (nothing like past months I’m afraid, but here goes nothing:

Folks who’ve been here - We’ve had a new/return/de-lurking member in the past month, Sandy. It’s been nice to have a new voice to keep things going and bring some new blood to the discussion. We’ve missed Nelum and pray that she’s still well (and leave the light on for her if she comes back). Karen has been busy with Bar Mitzvah plans, Passover, and a trip or two with the kids and DH (the 5 of them would keep anyone hopping in my opinion); Kate (Mack and Me) has been here off and on and spending time with DF; Sandy is having fun with her personal trainer and doing well with her weight loss routine; and me (Les) have been here as regularly as possible.
Positive lines of discussion include - kids doing well in school; successfully finishing another semester; personal trainer time; horseback riding; family visits: Bar Mitzvahs; and healthful living in general: balanced daily routines.
Less than happy lines of discussion - economic impacts: lay offs, financial portfolios going away, stress around the house from extended hours; health issues: dental issues, accidents for close friends; illnesses of the seasonal kind; and school: studying, tests, and general stressors of school.

My plans for the coming weeks:
Workouts: I’m going to shoot for 3 or 4 workouts a week and either running or riding. I need to be more consistent but still have to balance all the other competing life events going on.
Healthful living: maintaining sanity until the middle of May when classes end for the semester (is it already ~5 weeks until things are over).

I slept in today, mostly because I didn't actually get home until almost 12:40 this morning after all was said and done. An agape supper at church followed by a service that didn't let out until about 9:00. Then I came home to sit an hour at a vigil at school from 11-12. During which I realized I didn't have any Claritin (and my allergies would have kept me up all night) so had to find a 24-hour drug store (which was harder than I imagined in Alexandria). No classes today because it is Good Friday (and no classes on Easter Monday either).

The good news for today was I extricated my bike from the shop (it definitely needed the work too). The day was fine for a ride so took my mountain bike out for a spin and I'm thrilled with the quality of the work done on it.

The remainder of the weekend: 4 church services, 1 tomorrow starting at 8:00 and 3 on Sunday; a dinner at church tomorrow before the service (I'm taking a salad -- need to figure out what). Then rest. I figure there will be somewhere in the neighborhood of 600 folks there on Sunday between the 3 services (a normal Sunday is ~375-400) so I'll be beat by the end.

Monday off... maybe another ride and hopefully I'll get a run going tomorrow afternoon before heading out for church.

Have a great remainder of the weekend and a Happy Easter/Good Passover.

Les

[karen w]

Just a drive by tonight, but had to say "Yippee!" Thanks for starting the new thread, Les! Check back as soon as I get more time.

Karen

[mackandme]

Hey Les, thanks for the new thread. Does blowing my nose count as exercise? If so, my nose is in GREAT shape! I'm super sick with cold, sinus infection, etc. Had to miss a trip to Florida with DF to celebrate his parents' 50th wedding anniversary because I couldn't risk blowing my eardrums on the plane (not to mention getting everyone else sick). So I've been spending most of my time in bed.

Hope everyone else is having a better weekend!

[Leslie Ferguson]

Sorry you've been sick Kate. I peered in on the other thread and I'm sorry that you couldn't go with DF to Florida, that probably would have been a good time for you if for no other reason than to get out of town for a couple minutes.

Fly by... with the announcement of the day for me. Over the 4 services "my" church had between 8:00 pm last night and 11:15 today we had (conservatively) more than 1000 people in church. :eek: There were at least 520 in one service alone.

Time to figure out what to do with the frenetic "E" energy that's brewing inside me.

Happy easter and peace to all,
Les

Adding: Well, I've burned off some of the frenetic energy with ~1:10 outside on my mountain bike. It was an amazing afternoon and the breeze was a little more than I expected: it took me 8 minutes more to come back on the same route that I went out on, a lot into the wind. Still it was good to burn off the energy and help my mind get less energized. Now I can get to work on the project that's due Tuesday. Thankfully the Seminary is not having classes on Easter Monday so I can have a "leisurely" Monday starting with a doctor's appointment (nothing critical, just a couple prescriptions renewed) at 8:20 (have to show 15 minutes early and the clinic is near the Pentagon) :eek: oy vey! After that it will be dedicated work on a couple things assuming that I get the paper edited this evening.

Hope everyone had a good weekend and I look forward to hearing from Karen after her fly-by yesterday and the rest of the gang.

As always... Les

[karen w]

This is going to have to be another drive by as life here has been somewhat harried with all of the upcoming events in the works, but I'll try to be better next month.:rolleyes:

Great swim today and a bike ride plus weights to boot. Tomorrow is major run-around for us with dentists, orthodontists, guitar etc...., but I have DH home for the day to help. I think he is already looking forward to going back to work on Wednesday!!!:D

Kate-sending some get well quick vibes your way. I hope you ditch this bug sooner than later once and for all. I thought I was coming down with something over the weekend, but it seems to have passed(I hope).

Les-How was your leisurely Monday? I bet those intense days full of services like you had yesterday leave you full of adrenaline. Good thing the weather behaved and you were able to burn some steam. I know I get the same way when I do something so intense. Hope the rest of your week goes smoothly.

Karen

[Leslie Ferguson]

Hey Karen - I think we've all been a little possessed with life this past month. I can't imagine why a Bar Mitzvah and sleep-over would cause any more consternation in your non-packed schedule. ;) Only kidding. I hope that DH doesn't abandon you too quickly and go back to work, luckily you have him for a couple days. I hope that you can keep your sanity checks in this coming month (and I bet you will). My best to the family as the big day arrives.

I had a good leisurely Monday. Started with a routine Dr.'s appointment to renew some prescriptions and follow up on an ER visit from a month ago. Finished my paper that's not actually due until midnight tomorrow and turned it in - it's done and that will be good enough. Then I went out and got new scoots and took off for an hour run - divine weather: lower 50s, overcast, a gentle breeze and a slight drizzle as the run finished. A little more work and I'm heading in "earlier" tonight. You aren't kidding either, the Extrovert in me was firing on all cylinders yesterday afternoon - the body was tired from standing and singing as much as I did in 15 hours but my mind was totally alert - an hour on the bike did a lot to blunt the excess adrenaline.

Tomorrow starts a new school week. Hope all are well especially Kate and her cold and Sandy after this divine weekend.

Peace all,
Les

[Leslie Ferguson]

Drive by... Laying low today - needed to rest and had to prep for fasting blood work in the morning which precluded running or spinning. Tomorrow may be a wash out too - supposed to rain like the dickens.

Peace all - coming down from a fantastic weekend after being back at school today.

Les

[SandyM]

Hi everyone - and Happy Wednesday!

I had a great workout on Monday morning with Anthony (took a vacation day). Tuesdays are a designated night off, but I'm back at it (on my own) tonight, and then back with him on Thursday.

I'm 1/3 of the way through the purchased sessions (8/24), and I can't believe I've hung on this long. :eek: If you knew me personally, you'd know this is so far off the charts for me. But I'm loving the idea of creating an additional facet to Sandy - stretching my limits, doing things I never thought I'd be able to.

I bought my own Bosu, and I'm looking forward to incorporating that in my workouts from home. That thing is my nemesis at the gym, and I need to figure out a way to at least accept it. ;)

It's rainy and dreary here and has been for the last few days, but gorgeous weather is on the way (mid-60s tomorrow & Friday), and I'm very much looking forward to that.

Kate - I'm sorry you had to miss the trip. I hope you're feeling better soon.

Hi Les & Karen!

[Leslie Ferguson]

Hey Sandy, it's good hearing from you and it sounds like you are having a good time with your personal trainer. So much so that you are doing extra on your days off. I have to admit I didn't know what a bosu was until I googled it, looks interesting and a little devilish. ;) I hope that your good weather showed up, I think the yucky stuff you've had is in our area. :(

A shout out to Karen and Kate... praying you both are well.

It was a weird and funky day - amazing how blood work and an hour off the schedule throws the whole day off. Also found out this afternoon that (I forgot) I'm playing in an Ultimate Frisbee Tournament this weekend. Change of plans. Feeling a little like Homer Simpson -- DOH! Now I've got to do more stuff between now and Friday afternoon so I can let myself play in the tournament. Oh and it was pouring all day today too - funky rain.

With that... peace all,
Les

[karen w]

I'm still here and coming up for air once in a while!

Les-I think we call those "senior moments" or "Alzheimer moments." Either way, I know you will have a blast at the Ultimate games over the weekend.

Sandy-I know for me doing things that I never thought I'd be able to do is such a self confidence booster, and I think feeling good about yourself is the first step to acheiving your goals. So way to go and keep up all the hard work!

It's amazing what a bit of stress can do to your workouts. With the countdown to our big event on May 2, I have been having really great swims and workouts at home as well rotating between the treadmill, elliptical, and bike along with my weight routine. Today was the elliptical and weights. At least it is keeping me sane and grounded for the here and now.:p The kids have been staying busy for the most part with friends and sleepovers etc... Yesterday all three went with a neighbor to an indoor water park ~30 min. away from here. It is inside a hotel and WOW was it $$$$(IMHO. . . a ripoff, but had I known ahead of time. . . . .). They had a great time, though, and I had a few hours alone to run some errands and get my hair cut so I guess it was worth it. Our weather has been nice here, too. Tomorrow we are even supposed to hit 70 degrees!:)

That's the wrap for now. I'll check back when I am able. There are still alot of details to work on before the party and it is going to be really hectic that last few days. I can't beleive it is in 2 weeks! YIKES. . . did I just type what I think I did???!!!:eek::eek::eek: I hope by #2 and #3, I'll have the routine down pat. ;) Anyway, have a good TGIF and a nice weekend.

Karen

[Leslie Ferguson]

Karen - Sending calming thoughts to you as the next 2 weeks come and go. I sense all will be well but I'm definitely a low maintenance kind of person. Personally, water parks are overrated and too expensive. Of course, you can't go in the ocean all the time, especially up your way, at least without a drysuit. Enjoy 70 degrees tomorrow, I think we'll be there or close to it. Yep, senior moments but I'm not that senior (although I'm getting there in some circles). I guess I can't keep those things to myself and have to put all my appointments on the calendar or else things may explode like this at some later date. Oh well, obviously too many balls in the air for my own good.
Sandy - It sounds like you're getting a good base started and you've set yourself up for great things. Once you get hooked in a sane manner it will be hard to "go back." Glad you're here.

Nice day today and I actually got out and played Frisbee this afternoon. A little sore in my left lat and tricep but that's just part of the deal these days I guess. I need to pack and get things shoved into my car so I can leave at a reasonable hour tomorrow and hopefully beat the traffic to Richmond (don't really think that will happen but...).

Hope all are well and keep things on a relatively even keel.

Peace,
Les

[Leslie Ferguson]

Short personal check in... After 4+ hours to cover the 93 miles from Richmond and staring at Church in the morning. The conditions would have been better if it had been 10 degrees cooler because there wasn't a cloud in the sky. We almost won one game - it actually took 5 minutes of overtime to lose. Not bad considering we only practice once or twice a a week starting in February (as opposed to Princeton who plays in an Intramural league at least once a week for their entire school year). Only a little barking dogs at the bottom of my legs and a little shoulder pain (love arthritis). But I can't complain - we had a great time and I think I'm set for another year of Ultimate (next year).

Time to head to bed - it was a long 24 hours and I need to be ready for tomorrow.

Peace all,
Les

[karen w]

Les-Glad the ultimate was fun, but sorry you have to deal with arthritis. Aren't you a bit young to have to face that monster already??

Our weekend was pretty good here. We all went to services on Friday night and DH & DS#1 went as well on Saturday morning as DS#1 was invited to the Bar Mitzvah that was taking place that morning for one of his classmates. He had a fun time at the afternoon reception as well.

I had a good elliptical run yesterday and treadmill today.

This evening we ended up eating out with DD's friend from next door as her mother was tied up in the ER with their middle son who flipped over his ATV. Hate to say it but it was bound to happen. . . those things are so dangerous. Fortunately, he was wearing a helmut so was not seriously injured. . . just an injured jaw and a knocked out tooth. Guess he will be dining on milkshakes in the forseeable future. The real question is will he get back on an ATV again?? If he is smart, the answer will be "no" but time will tell. He is just 16-17 y.o. and we do know at that age, kids often sit on their brain if you know what I mean!:p We had a nice dinner out anyway, and it was so beautiful here, we ate outdoors too!:)

Looking forward to school resuming tomorrow(sorta!?;))

Have a good week,
Karen

[Leslie Ferguson]

Les-Glad the ultimate was fun, but sorry you have to deal with arthritis. Aren't you a bit young to have to face that monster already??
Yep I've got that monster in at least three joints. I call it a sign of a well spent youth. One from a broken collar bone (probably broke it body surfing in High School or taking a tumble off my bike in Elementary School), another in my ankle that I've sprained 11 times (and will be a candidate for reconstruction at some time I'm afraid), and the other in my kneecap that I dislocated playing football in High School. Just my war wounds (to go with my hearing). I'm pretty much ok with the arthritis but every once in a while it is bad and I'm hampered by the fact that I can't take NSAIDs (I'm limited to tylenol and aspirin).

This evening we ended up eating out with DD's friend from next door as her mother was tied up in the ER with their middle son who flipped over his ATV. Hate to say it but it was bound to happen. . . those things are so dangerous. Fortunately, he was wearing a helmut so was not seriously injured. . . just an injured jaw and a knocked out tooth. Guess he will be dining on milkshakes in the forseeable future. The real question is will he get back on an ATV again?? If he is smart, the answer will be "no" but time will tell. He is just 16-17 y.o. and we do know at that age, kids often sit on their brain if you know what I mean!:p We had a nice dinner out anyway, and it was so beautiful here, we ate outdoors too!:)

Looking forward to school resuming tomorrow(sorta!?;))

Have a good week,
Karen

I'm sorry about your neighbor's son getting hurt. ATVing is dangerous and I bet that he'll still go out again. One of the kids I saw this summer in the hospital dumped his mini-bike and told me that he would go out again once he recovered (luckily he was wearing a helmut too). Glad that you had a good weekend with the exception of that news and I hope the remaining two weeks go well as the Bar Mitzvah approaches.

I had a decent day today - church went well, my proposal was received without issue, and I had a good and frank meeting with a group at church.

Now to the coming week's work since I goofed off all day yesterday.

Peace,
Les

[SandyM]

Hi everyone!

Karen - I hope the neighbor boy is okay. Those ATVs scare the daylights out of me. A bunch of my cousins in NY have them, and they make me nervous. I'm sure he'll be back on - kids have short-term memories, as far as I can tell. ;)

Les - glad you had fun with Ultimate. Hope the pain doesn't linger. I'm with you on NSAIDS - can't take 'em.

As for me, I probably had my best workout ever last night. This weekend, Bob (my boyfriend) gave me a set of 15-lb. dumbells, and last night Anthony designed a program that I can do at home if I don't feel like heading to the gym - all with using the dumbells. Lunges, squats, crunches, bicep curls, and my least-favorite-thing-ever, plank-to-pushup.

I was miserable the first time I tried the plank-to-pushup exercise - I couldn't get past 3, and I was so frustrated, I almost quit. That was 8 weeks ago, though, and I was able to get through three reps of 15 of each of the above exercises.

Needless to say, my quads are SCREAMING right now. Sitting down and going down stairs is very slow for me lately. But, as I heard someone on Facebook mention - it's a "good pain". :)

I'm taking tonight off (Tuesdays and Fridays are generally off nights for me), so I'll be back at the gym tomorrow, and then again with Anthony on Thursday. My sessions are almost half over (10 out of 24), and I'm already plotting and trying to budget to sign up again. :)

Have a great rest of the week.

[mackandme]

Hey all, sorry I've been missing. I've finally put my cold mostly behind me, and have gotten a couple nice rides in on Mack. He's been spunky - I think the two weeks off did him well. We went galloping across the 100 acres yesterday faster than you'd ever think an asthmatic, aging Clydesdale could gallop! It's a good thing I didn't go out today, though, as it was in the 90s (!) and the fungus count was high.

Karen, I hear you on being busy getting ready. Our wedding is less than a month away. Hopefully there isn't some big thing that I'm forgetting to do.

Sandy, sounds like working out with a trainer has been a great inspiration for you. You should definitely try to find a way to re-up with him.

Les, are you allergic to NSAIDs also? I found out the hard way a couple years ago. Swelled up so bad I lost all the skin on my hands, feet and face. It was ugly! I have lots of chronic pain from old injuries too and just have to suck it up.

[Leslie Ferguson]

Kate - Good seeing you and what an image of Mack racing across the 100 acres. Vivid language and I chuckle about it.
Karen, I hear you on being busy getting ready. Our wedding is less than a month away. Hopefully there isn't some big thing that I'm forgetting to do.
I too hope that the coming month isn't too wicked for you - there's plenty of stress to go around in your neighborhood.
Les, are you allergic to NSAIDs also? I found out the hard way a couple years ago. Swelled up so bad I lost all the skin on my hands, feet and face. It was ugly! I have lots of chronic pain from old injuries too and just have to suck it up.
Oh yeah - I found out the hard way... a few years ago when they finally figures out what was causing my problems I put on 12 pounds of water in 3 days below my waist. I was miserable and it was really painful. Luckily I didn't lose any skin. Now I'm relegated to aspirin and Tylenol for my chronic pain (arthritis in 3 joints). When it's bad (and that's not often - only once in the last 6 years) I get the real deal steroids (prednisone was my last jewel) - takes the swelling down like a charm but...

Sandy - It sounds like you are doing well with your trainer and I too hope that you can re-up with him after this session is over.

I finally got a workout in tonight: 40 minutes plus cool down on the trainer (thankfully it's still up). Early-ish morning tomorrow as I have to go over to the VA hospital on the other side of the District for my intake interview/exam. Then classes and...

Hope all are well and I'll be by again in the near future.
Peace,
Les

[Leslie Ferguson]

Back-to-backs... Well, one thing got moved from my plate between now and the end of the semester: I no longer have a huge interview the day before Finals because it was moved until June 11. A mixed blessing - now I don't have to worry about it and finals but I have it hanging over my head for another month. But all will be well with the interview. Pluggin along with classes etc. and making headway slowly but surely. I even had time to get out for a run tonight which was grand and I love my new scoots. Down side of things though, somewhere in the last couple days I aggrevated my right shoulder and it looks like there's a little fluid in it (probably not as much as I think but the dimple at my collar bone isn't very pronounced like my left shoulder). I hope it isn't a full blown arthritis attack but I'm not holding my breath. Now it really sucks that I can't take NSAIDs because if it doesn't get better with ice and aspirin I'll have to talk to my doctor about steroids or something that will take the swelling down. Not my choice though.

Now I'm off to ice after a shower - I hope everyone has a good Friday.

Peace,
Les

[karen w]

Les-What is the interview for, if you don't mind me being nosy. . . AGAIN!!:D Sorry to hear you tweaked your shoulder. Mine had been bugging me from a hook punch I threw at boxing awhile back and is just now feeling almost as good as new. Glad the scoots are comfy and you're getting a chance to break them in, too. If your weather is like ours, there will be lots of opportunities to give them a good testing over the weekend. . . unless of course duty calls.

Kate-Glad the crud finally passed. I can't beleive your wedding is coming up so soon!! WOW! Calming thoughts coming your way as well.

Sandy-OK, when the boyfriend gives you a piece of workout equipment, is that a good thing or not??? If you have asked for it that is one thing, but if not. . . well, what's the message??:D Is that like your husband getting you a treadmill for your b-day when you really wanted jewelry or something??!!:p (not that mine has ever done that or would dare think of it!) You know I am only teasing, Sandy!;) Seriously, it sounds like you are making a ton of progress.

I am hanging in there with one week left to go until DS#1's Bar Mitzvah and still managing to get in my daily swims and exercise routines. Today I actually tried out a kickboxing class at the YMCA. Very different from the ones that I am used to at my martial arts studio, but a very good, fast paced workout. Something I will likely do again as my contract nears its end at the martial arts studio.

DH is on call over the weekend, DS#1 is going to a class mates bat mitzvah, DD is doing some volunteering with her teacher tomorrow at an Earth day celebration/sale, and I have some Bar Mitzvah stuff to work on so it should be a full weekend. And the weather. . . .80's!!! A summer teaser!

Enjoy everyone,
Karen

[Leslie Ferguson]

The interview, without too much mind-numbing detail, there are three phases in the Episcopal Church's ordination process: Aspirant, Postulant, and Candidate (followed by Deacon and if you are becoming a priest - Priest). There is an interview before each phase. The interview reviews progress, asks questions about spiritual formation (ministry, education, and personal growth) and any items identified in previous interviews that work was needed for. There's an interview for becoming a Deacon too. It sounds rigorous but that's the rules our denomination (and I bet for many denominations).

I'm glad that you're able to keep things relatively sane with a week before the big day. I guess I need to send my card don't I? Good that you are getting your workouts in and I'm sorry about your shoulder issues too. The tough part of getting older. I hope that DD and DS#1 have good weekends as well as DH. 80? :confused: :eek:

I finished the week well and was able to go out for a ride. About an hour which is just fine and it was glorious. Now I think I'll head back to campus - one of the dorms is having a party (the dorm is named "St. George" and they have an annual party with poem about St. George, slaying the dragon etc.).

Best to all and peace,
Les

[SandyM]

Sandy-OK, when the boyfriend gives you a piece of workout equipment, is that a good thing or not??? If you have asked for it that is one thing, but if not. . . well, what's the message??:D Is that like your husband getting you a treadmill for your b-day when you really wanted jewelry or something??!!:p (not that mine has ever done that or would dare think of it!) You know I am only teasing, Sandy!;) Seriously, it sounds like you are making a ton of progress.

Karen? You crack me up. :D And yes, I know you're teasing. We were sitting on the couch last weekend, and I told Bob I wanted to run up to the store and pick up some dumbells. He said "What size?" and I told him. He disappeared upstairs and offered up a set he had. Saved me some money, and it WAS something I requested. :) I can see, however, where for some folks it might be rather insulting.

When I told Anthony I had them, last Monday he formulated (and put me through) a specific workout using the same weight dumbells, and he wrote everything down so that I could do them at home on the chance that I wouldn't get to the gym for a workout. I love it.

Today we were going to golf, but we were a bit nervous about the weather forecast (scattered thunderstorms) so we opted for a bike ride instead. I haven't been on a bike seat in several (like, 15, maybe more) years (save for spinning), but as the saying goes, you never forget. We rode 11 miles (on the street), and I LOVED it. I need to adjust the seat because I'm not getting good extension on my legs. The bike was an inexpensive purchase (again, over 15 years ago), and I didn't put much thought into it at the time. I plan on incorporating a once-a-week ride, and once I really get into it, I'll start figuring out my needs (new bike, etc.). One way it was 5.5 miles, and we rode against the (11 mph) wind on the way home - which was HARD. I got to roughly mile 9 and got right to where I sometimes get with my workouts with Anthony - "I can't go on anymore! I have to stop!" but he has ingrained in me to DIG DEEP and push further. I put on the turbo and realized the harder I drive, the faster I'll get home. :)

Karen - I hope you're feeling good about where you are with preparations for the party next weekend. Isn't this weather fantastic???

Les - I'm sorry to hear about your shoulder. And about the interview - I personally would rather have gotten through it and get it over with, but for you it's probably best to just knock one thing off the list and put it off for a bit.

Karen - I'm so glad you're feeling better. Remind me please (as the resident newbie) when your wedding is? I'm giggling over your "asthmatic aging, Clydesdale". :) Have you ever posted a picture of Mack? I'd love to see one.

Well, all in all in spite of a few (some rather strong) storms, we've had a great weekend here in Michigan. Hoping for a fantastic week for you all.

[karen w]

Karen - I hope you're feeling good about where you are with preparations for the party next weekend. Isn't this weather fantastic???

Karen - I'm so glad you're feeling better. Remind me please (as the resident newbie) when your wedding is? I'm giggling over your "asthmatic aging, Clydesdale". :) Have you ever posted a picture of Mack? I'd love to see one.




Hi all,

Sandy-As to the party. . . thanks for thinking of me. Yep, everything is falling into place and as nervous as I am, there have been no problems thus far so I'll pray it stays that way. But about MY WEDDING. . . I think you were referring to Kate as I was married 15 years ago this upcoming December and I don't have a Clysedale in my back yard nor anywhere else last I checked!!:p Glad you knew I was teasing about those weights. Your boyfriend sounds like a great guy. . .kinda like my DH. If I said "jump" to do something or "I want X, Y, or Z" his first responses would be "how high" or "how many can I buy you?" Sounds like you also had an amazing bike ride. DH and I do that a bit and it is fun. We are going to Martha's Vineyard this summer and bringing our bikes. Last year when we were there, we rented bikes and took some nice rides, but this time we want comfier rides on the bum, if you know what I mean.;) BTW. . .I did not know that you were in Michigan. Where?? I'm a midwest gal(from WI) but my mom is a summertime "U.P. er" She has a place just over the Wisc. border in the upper peninsula. Not sure how much longer she will hold onto it though since my Dad passed away about 1 year ago.

Les-Did not know this process of ordination was so complicated. I guess that is a good thing in the long run, though. Best of luck during the interview.

Great swim today and ellipticized plus weights (and then there was my workout with DH. . . never mind!). Hey, I needed the stress releif. Rest of the day was busy with the grocery store, kid shuffle, and Bar Mitzvah details.

Funny of the day. . . In the mail we got a letter from the State Dept. of Jurisdiction addressed to DS#1. Suspecting it was a summons for jury duty, I opened it! Yep . . . guess not only is DS#1 considered an adult in the Jewish community soon, but Uncle Sam wants a piece of him, too!:p He does not know about this yet. DH and I are going to give him the letter at the end of our speech to him next Saturday as a joke, but we have already taken care of notifying the state he is not eligible for jury duty at 13 y.o.!!!:D

Karen

[mackandme]

Sandy, the wedding is May 16. It's really small, only 30 guests, but still managing to be a handful! I *may* have successfully attached a couple pictures of Mack. He is half-Clydesdale. Not sure what the other half is. He's kind of like a slender Clyde with short legs! But a big old neck, as you can see from the close-up picture. I'm not a petite person!

Karen, i hope life is not too crazy for you now, but I'm sure it is. Jury duty! at age 13! that's impressive. our government at work, huh?

Les, all of that sounds awfully complicated. When DF was very active in the Catholic church they tried to convince him to be a deacon. I'm sure glad they didn't because we wouldn't have been allowed to marry if he had become one.

[Leslie Ferguson]

Life is spinning out of control... 10 things besides classes this week (3 down)... 3 weeks until classes are over...
I'm vicariously running and riding with you -- thanks for keeping me honest or at least remembering that I'm here.

You're right, the process is difficult but in some senses being a minister is a vocation/calling/profession that is pretty testing emotionally and physically (at times). And considering the track record of some denominations being selective is a good idea.

Karen, jury duty at 13? I can't even get jury duty at 46. :rolleyes: I hope the remainder of your week isn't too weird - I think mine will be good enough for all of us thank you.

Kate, counting down to the 16th, bless you as you approach the day. All will be well. I also love the pictures and Mack sounds like a hoot.

Sandy - you're the one keeping me in tow right now. It sounds like you and your boyfriend have a great relationship - that's always a good thing (considering I am more in love with my wife now than when we were married years ago).

See you sometime, maybe after a run tomorrow. Peace,

Les

[Leslie Ferguson]

Moving into May and getting the thread back onto the board. Not much time to write, projects galore...

This past weekend I had a great three-peat (three sermons) at church, well received on all accounts. I spent the rest of the afternoon getting new scoots for my scoot (that would be car) to the tune of ~$600. Got the must do things off my list for the day, did a spin for a half-hour after dinner (I hope I don't pay for that) en route to writing a sermon for Friday.

Done cooling down so until later... peace,
Les

[karen w]

Evening Les,

Sorry to leave you by your lonesome for awhile, but after our events of the weekend, it took ALL of us a few days to recover and catch up on our sleep. The Bar Mitzvah was spectacular, however, and everyone. . . kids and adults. . .had a great time. The adults were all very impressed with all of my ideas and creativity that went into the party, so I was happy. Even my SIL from Long Island was asking questions and taking notes! We had 9 boys sleep over Saturday night as well as my niece from San Francisco who kept DD company. It was chaotic and not much in the way of sleep went on, but they were all well behaved and had a good time. My oldest brother and his two kids flew home to San Francisco on Sunday and my Aunt and Uncle from San Diego as well as my mom flew home yesterday. The kids all had alot of trouble getting out of bed for school yesterday, but I think we all finally caught up on our sleep. So now it is back to the usual grindstone, so to speak.

In spite of our chaotic weekend, I managed to get in a bit of exercise each day. I woke up early(or did not sleep as in the case of Sunday morning:rolleyes:) each day and ellipticized. I think that helped me maintain some ounce of sanity throughout the process. And I did make it to the pool both yesterday and today. I think there is something to be said about trying to stick to a few routines when life becomes topsy turvy. It worked!;)

That's it for now.
Karen

PS:Les-I did get your e-mail regarding your thoughts on the letter DS#1 received from the state. We are in the process of checking into that now, but it is an arduous process(getting credit checks on a minor) so will take some time. Thanks for the heads up. In all likelihood, this is a fluke, but one never knows these days. Anyway, in the meantime, we did go on-line and checked the box stating that he was under 18 y.o. so he has been officially excused from this obligation! It made for a very timely letter, however, as we incorporated it into our speech to him on his Bar Mitzvah day about him "becoming an adult" now that he is a Bar Mitzvah and handed it to him on the Bimah(stage). That got quite a few chuckles from the Rabbi, Cantor, and our guests!:D

[karen w]

Guess Les is sinking under a sea of papers and books!;)

Good swim today and ended up going back to the YMCA after dropping DD off at school very early this morning for her band practice. I needed to kill time before stores opened so where better to do it since it is right on the way back from her elementary school. I walked/ran on the indoor track, did a few weights, and abs. Spent about 1 1/2 hours there and then did my errands.

Oddity of the day-This morning there was a rapping noise on the window(our big palladian bay windows in our family room). When I went to check it out, it turned out to be a very very large pilliated woodpecker actually rapping on the window glass! Everytime he was scared away, he just came right back to do the same thing as soon as we left the room!!! Eventually he flew away, but when I came home from my errands around noon, I found the same guy pecking on the glass of DH's greenhouse! Weird!:confused: He did eventually fly away and has not been back that I have heard for the rest of the day.

Karen

[Leslie Ferguson]

Sorry Karen, it's frantic right now. I love the story about the woodpecker - we had a duck at one of the last commands I worked at do that to one of our plate glass windows (it was mirrored so the duck thought there was another duck there). He pecked at the window and then moved away - it was really funny to watch from the inside. It's great that the Bar Mitzvah went so well and that your SIL is taking notes. :) I hope (and bet) that everything works out with DS#1. I'm also glad that you've workouts in and the house back to normal (as normal as it gets).

It's been a busy week and won't really get much slower until the 18th. I spun after dinner on Tuesday, rested tonight so I can go over my sermon that I deliver in class on Friday - I think it's done. And I'll also put some finishing touches on a paper that's due next week - thus leaving just 3 things to do: 2 finals and one paper.

Need to jet but hope Kate is keeping sane as the big day comes along. Also hope that Sandy is well.

Peace all,
Les

[Leslie Ferguson]

I rode this afternoon in honor of knocking out a sermon in class and a paper (the mark up/edit by LW is sitting in front of me -- and it's calling). I went for an hour (still on the mountain bike - too many chances to ride on the trainer still to come) and had a blast. It's definitely nice to get out but the threat of rain (we've had 9 days straight and more is brewing) was just about too much.

Ta ta for now. Papers call,
Les

[mackandme]

Karen, glad to hear you have gotten through the Bar Mitzvah. I'm sure you can breathe a sigh of relief now that all that planning is over. I went to a couple Bat Mitzvahs when I was a kid and they were huge events!

Les, sounds like one more week of the semester left for you. DF just got his grades - A's in both classes. He was worried about one of them but it all turned out OK. I hope the same happens for you.

I did get to the Y last week - but only to use the restroom! We had to evacuate our building at work b/c of a fire in the elevator shaft and were stuck standing outside for a couple hours. The Y is conveniently located across the street. Hopefully once all this wedding silliness is over, I can make it back there regularly. Have managed to squeeze in a couple rides on Mack. I haven't been able to post much because my workload has really increased now that we have so few people left in the office. I really have to hustle some nights. But it's better than the alternative. DF is feeling pretty stressed about being unemployed.

Anyhow, wedding jitters kicking in. Still have a lot of decluttering and cleaning to do around the house, but almost everything else is done. Just cross your fingers for us that it doesn't rain, as that's what they're calling for!

[karen w]

Kate-I'll pass on any leftover "calming" prayers that I did not need for DS#1's Bar Mitzvah. Of course, I'll need them back after your wedding as I have to begin the plans for DS#2's Bar Mitzvah soon(they are just over 13 months apart . . . Irish twins!:D). Congrats to DF on those fantastic grades. BTW. . . May 16th is my FIL's b-day!

Les-When do you get to finally come up for air this term?;)

Early check in today as the family is going to DS#2's spring band concert tonight. His teachers have all said that he is becoming quite the musician and he still really loves the guitar which is great. Anyway, had an awesome swim this am and ran/power walked after breakfast on the treadmill at home. Just threw something together for dinner tonight and now I am off to do my Costco shopping for the week. That grocery list seems to be never ending and I suspect it is only going to get worse now that we have one teen in the house and another one not far behind. DD, on the other hand, is still a bird(and too fussy for her own good:rolleyes:).

Have a good day.

Karen

[Leslie Ferguson]

Coming up for air? I'll be done with finals by noon on Monday. I've got a paper and final due on Friday this week then the one on Monday. :cool:

Kate - all will be well and be assured that I'll be sending calming prayers to you in the coming days.

Peace,
Les

[Leslie Ferguson]

One test and one more paper down. The end is in sight and it comes on Monday morning with my last exam.

Will try to say more this evening.
Les

[mackandme]

Hey all, I am officially hitched. It rained, and rained, and rained from the wee hours of the morning until about 1 p.m. And then it stopped! So we got to go ahead with the outdoor wedding. The pathways of the Japanese Garden are all paved, so the dress didn't get too horribly dirty. Will post more when we get back from Italy, but I wanted to post a photo of the bouquets because they were so beautiful (tho I took this picture today so they're starting to fade)! My maid of honor's is on the left and mine is on the right.

[Leslie Ferguson]

Congraulations Kate on getting married. I know you won't get this until later but I'm happy and proud.
Les

[karen w]

YIPPEE!! CONGRATULATIONS KATE!!! But more importantly, enjoy married life. It really is wonderful! I can't wait to hear all about Italy and see lots of pictures.

Les-Glad to hear the end is in sight for you. I will continue to pray for a calming end to the term as well as good grades(which I have faith that you have already handled on your own, but added prayers never hurt!)

Well, DH was working over the weekend so we had our first quiet one in awhile with no specific plans, no sleepovers etc... It was a nice change of pace in our hectic schedule of late. I got a bit of cooking done and the kids. . . .well, they were "vegetables" all weekend long(not so sure that part was good, but hey. . . I guess they need their down time once in awhile as well). Besides, DS#1 had just gotten back from his 7th grade field trip to Plymouth, MA. He left very early Thursday morning on coach buses with the entire grade and returned Friday evening(god bless all those teachers that chaperone!:eek:). They had a blast touring Plymouth rock, Pkymouth plantation, whale watching on a boat tour(one swam under their boat!!), having a D.J. and pizza party at the hotel that evening etc.... Gee, I don't remember field trips like that when I was his age. :rolleyes: DH also finally planted most of the garden vegetables(of course, murphy's law. . . we are expecting a very cold night tonight so say a prayer for those tiny tomato plants.) Fortunately, he is waiting to put the eggplants in as those would not tolerate a night like tonight at all, but the tomatoes will likely be OK.

Anyway, got an elliptical ride in both Sat. and Sunday and today I swam and spent 45 min. on the treadmill followed by a few weights. Got to get to the store later today along with a few other errands that need to be accomplished as usual this week, but right now I am watching the waters pour down around the house. . . our house is being power washed!:D We usually do it every other year or so and we were a bit overdue. Wed. they are coming back to paint our front porch which is also over due.

That's it here. Have a good day. Think of me tonight as I sit listening to DD's 4th grade band concert.:rolleyes: UGH!

Karen

[Leslie Ferguson]

Drive by... finished with my last exam for the semester and year! I'm a happy camper. Calmness was the key and the prayers were quite helpful.

Now to feed the beast (as it were). More later, hopefully after some sort of decent exercise.

Peace and thanks again,
Les

[Leslie Ferguson]

Ok, bumping up and I guess it's time to post another note about keeping the thread alive. I'll be able to put more effort into the thread if others want to keep it going. Of course, there may be some issues with notifications because one of the other threads I'm following has had posts and I'm not getting anything about it. I wonder...

Life is better now, classes out, sleeping in as much as possible, and running and riding regularly. Even doing some cooking. :D I ran today and the heat/humidity was nasty. I definitely have lost my tolerance for the humidity, not a good thing considering I'm supposed to be running in a half-marathon in Sepatember in Virginia Beach (it will be hot and humid even starting at 6:45). I rode yesterday for about 14 miles and took some new routes. I can't wait to get my road bike so I'm not standing in 1st to go up the hills (like on my mountain bike). The hour's run today was fun but I've definitely got to get more of them in and soon.

Off to the dentist tomorrow morning so I'll probably ride again since it's supposed to be warm by midday.

Peace to all and happy Memorial Day,
Les

[karen w]

Hi Les,

I sent you a message regarding the thread, so you can check that out. As for life here. . .busy and good in two words. Yesterday was our Memorial Day Parade and we really lucked out. It was lousy weather in the morning, then it cleared up a bit, and then later in the evening after the parade was over the skies opened up and it poured!! DD marched with her school band and played her trumpet. DH and I rode our bikes up there just as we did last year. It works out much nicer than trying to park a car up there and manuever all of the traffic and crowd etc... plus we get in some exercise to boot! We were able to find a friend to give DD a ride home with her instrument so all worked out well. And DS#1 went to a Bar Mitzvah of some camp friends(twins) over the weekend and spent the night there. DH picked him up yesterday morning before the parade. He was TIRED!!:D

Today I went to the pool. The YMCA was open for their holiday hours. After my swim, I went to the store, then came home and made French toast brunch for everyone. Later in the afternoon, I made some yummy muffins with some graveyard "freezer" bananas:p. Tonight we all went out as a family to eat dinner outdoors since the weather cleared up from yesterday. Unfortunately, it is supposed to get cooler and wetter again this week. I guess we will have to call the carpet cleaners as I am not sure it is going to be a good idea to get them cleaned this week. Oh well!

That's it here. Have a good week to all.

Karen

[Leslie Ferguson]

It sounds like you are quite busy with the kids. When do they head off for camp this year? I seem to remember that they are going for the full summer again which will give you and DH a little time together. Smart call on biking to the band things. Always nice to get some exercise and not have to futz around with parking etc. in largish events like that.

I've laid a little low the past couple days. I ran on Monday like I mentioned and was totally taken out of the workout picture yesterday after I had a tooth extracted (I wasn't expecting that). Funny how that takes all your energy away. ;) But I felt better today so after getting a call from my bike shop releasing the road bike I went for a jaunty spin on that thing - oh my how it works with a head-to-toe tune up. Shifting is odd so I'll have to keep fiddling with it.

That's about it, catching up on sleep and nursing a hole in my lower jaw. Peace to all and I'll see you on the flip side,
Les

[karen w]

Drive by here as I just got back from DD's wind ensemble concert and have to get all the rugrats off to bed.

Les-Sorry to hear about the tooth, but glad you are on the mend now and catching up on sleep among other things.

Kids go off to camp at the very end of June this year. . .the last week(I beleive on Tuesday of that week). I still have not begun the labeling process of all the clothes yet this year, but that needs to begin soon. I'll give myself until at least June 1st(and maybe then some!!!!:D:rolleyes:) It always gets done!

Daily swims are going well here and this morning also a good workout on the elliptical. I have been pretty successful in getting some upper body weights and abs in at least 2-3 times a week as well.

Good evening,
Karen

[Leslie Ferguson]

Hey Karen, I'm glad that you've got a few days before you have to get the kids off to camp. I'd give yourself a little more than until Monday to get their stuff labled. ;) Maybe... I'm also glad that you're still getting your workouts in, although I never doubt that you are faithful in your workouts considering that wonderful gym you have at home. I hope the remainder of the school year passes without too many issues for you.

I'm being a good boy still. I rode my bike today, I think running just 2 days out from having a tooth yanked is a bad plan. Of course it started raining when I was out which made me a little nervous. I'm out on my skinny tire bike on damp/wet streets - not the optimal thing. So I was a little tentative but better safe than sorry.

Otherwise on the mend... I pray everyone else is well. I'll see you in the funnies.

Peace,
LEs

[cwalker3]

I generally suggest people workout 4-5 times a week to reach your goal and 3-4 to maintain. I believe the workout routines should last about 45min to an hour.

[karen w]

Hey Karen, I'm glad that you've got a few days before you have to get the kids off to camp. I'd give yourself a little more than until Monday to get their stuff labled. ;)


Oh no. . . you misundersood. . .that was when I was "theoretically going to START labeling stuff, not finish! Although, in all likelihood I won't get things started that soon. As that would give me ~3 weeks to get all three kids stuff labeled and packed and that is not a quick task. But I'll make a mad dash to the finish line in that last week or two.:o

Had a good swim and run(treadmill) today. That's it! Have a good weekend.

Karen