HL/WWSG - Week of 19 September

[Leslie Ferguson]

Welcome one and all to the next installment of the Healthful Living and Weekly Workout Support Group. Last week was a brisk week with a new person joining the group and the return of a friend who had taken most of the summer off. It was a week with some good reports for both healthful living and workouts. Woo Hoo for us!

Hurricane season is on us still but at least the most recent one looks like it will miss us (thank goodness). Last week had a lot of us on the east coast dodging the remnants of Ivan - Karen even had to put up with a ton of rain. Maybe this week will behave - at least in the weather category and let folks get all the essential things done before fall truly hits.

Some of the positives from last week - Jennifer, our newest member got certified in her HazMat training and can now wear her Oompa Loompa suit. (I’ve seen and worn those in the past). Heather’s life appears to be settling down a little and the kids are a joy. It even sounds like she’ll be able to get more regular time with DH soon. Leah is trucking along and making good progress wogging. ;) And she’s winning some of the battles against the dreaded cookies. And Sarah’s back after the breaking and theft of her computer, but her report wasn’t all rosy - it seems she wants to drop a couple pounds which shouldn’t be a real difficult problem. Of course I know I’m forgetting someone but I’m not feeling very pithy this week.

As for the bad to balance the good. Lisa had it confirmed she wasn’t drinking enough water but she also seemed like she was making strides to achieve her goal. To top it off she had a productive meeting with a friend and hopefully a different outlook at school after a day off. Then there’s Laura taking lessons from Karen regarding doing “too much” - prayers for peace and sanity as she gets ramped up for the new school year and DD driving. Lastly, yours truly dorked his ankle (again) and may have given back all the progress I have made over the previous 6 weeks.

This week’s workout routine as scheduled (but I’m not confident I’ll make all these workouts for way too many reasons)”
Sun - XT w/weights
Mon - 5 miles at Race Pace (maybe not)
Tue - 5 easy miles
Wed - 8 x 400m hill repeats
Thu - 7 easy miles
Fri - rest
Sat - 10 miles long run (may be longer)

Healthful living: (1) My podiatry appointment on Monday morning (bright and early), physical therapy Wed and Friday for my ankle. (2) Keep moving in my positive direction to reduce my overall stress.

I’m sorry for anyone I’ve missed - it wasn’t intentional. Hope to hear from lots of good friends, Jackie O, Michelle (are you out there?), and ? Also looking forward to hearing news from the rest of the NC gang - Laura K. But I must fly for my weights routine so until this evening.

Peace,
Les

[lisalee]

Good evening, Les! Hope the appointment goes well tomorrow for your ankle. And that you make your goals for the week.

AS for me, my goals are pretty much the same for this week. I'm going back to work tomorrow in a better frame of mind (and hope it lasts all week long) It has felt good to have an all me weekend, where I didn;t do anything but take care of myself. So here's my goals:

1. positive frame of mind
2. doing the best I can do and knowing it is my best
3. not just carrying around my jug of water but actually drinking it.;)
4. I have my first workout at the gym Monday night, so I hope it goes well and I manage to hit the gym three times this week
5. Not stress eating this week
6. keeping up the walks with the dog- I bought a pedometer this weekend to see how long the walks are. I want to walk about three miles a week at least.

It was nice today because we had rain all day long. Must be making up for the nonsoon we had. I hope it goes away tomorrow though because a rainy day schedule with kids cooped up all day is no fun!

Have a great week everyone.

LIsa

[JackieO]

Ok, I'm here, and I hope this week is going to be better than the last!

The good: I worked out my minimum of three cardios and two strength training sessions last week, despite it being a very TRYING week.

The bad: The Pack lost to the hated Bears today, AT HOME (Lambert Field, to the Kerry/Edwards crowd! :rolleyes: :o ) and I was THERE. We never should have lost that game. It was as ugly as.....

The ugly: Last week's PMS, which is now thankfully over. (sorry, Les!)

I meet with my trainer tomorrow afternoon. My three objectives: Re-acquaint me with ab exercises :eek: ; tell me again why I have to do lower-body strength training; and mix up my upper body workout because I'm bored with it.

No travel this coming week, and DH is home all week, too. That really threw me for a loop last week -- he was gone two nights. DS and I ordered Chinese take-out one night (like I need that and the humidity with the PMS symptoms!).

Back on track this week. Menus planned (sort of -- anyone have a suggestion as to what to do with leftover grilled salmon? It was yummy last night, but I did a whole side of salmon and despite having guests, I have at least 8 ounces of really mild-flavored fish left over. I'd love to do something with wasabi, but I'm clueless. Maybe I'll post over on the other board...) Workouts scheduled. Beautiful summer weather in the forecast (I'd say it's about time!)

Sorry for all of you dealing with the aftermath of hurricanes. Despite our heart-breaking loss to "da dum bears" today, it was a GREAT day to be outdoors enjoying football. (Probably even a better day to be out on the bike trail, but maybe one night this week....)

Les -- take care of that ankle!

[Leslie Ferguson]

Jackie - Although none was needed, apology accepted. Those things are just a part of life and I've experienced them in varying degrees for about 22-23 years so... I'm accustomed to the ramifications of the syndrome. I hope the trainer gives you a good upper body routine - something to change things up. As for a lower body workout - I'm a big fan of lower body lifting even with all the running I do because I know I can't keep everything balanced by just running. Leftover grilled salmon - a couple options (1) mix orzo, peas, scallions, garlic, and balsamic/dijon vinegarette with flaked salmon (works hot or cold) or (2) mixed greens with pears, walnuts/pine nuts, other veggies and soy ginger dressing (better cold). Of course if you're in a soup mood Udon with veggies and salmon is always a winner. Best of luck to you this week and enjoy having hubby home.
Lisa - Not to sound trite but one day at a time. Your plan looks doable and the best thing I can tell you (from a couple years of not always enjoying going to work) win today (or at least don't lose today) and tomorrow will take care of itself. I bet you'll ahve a good week too. Nice positive attitude going into it doesn't hurt either. :)

I'll take care of my ankle with all my history of sprians etc. I'm not a big fan of long recovery periods. Oddly, my coach brought up not racing Richmond today while lifting (I had thought about broaching the subject to him anyway). I'll not make any rash decisions but I think I won't be in top form even if I got all my quality workouts in between here and there - too little time to make all the quality workouts and work and be a decent hubby. LW is very understanding but it still bugs me to "ignore" her. Only time will tell.

Anyway - peaceful dreams to all my friends and be careful out there,
Les

[tmsl]

It's the start of the work week again. I got up this morning with a mild headache, but I am determined to plow through. Our weekend ended up being quite nice weather wise. Ivan was just west of us that we received less rain than from Frances. The far western part of the state took a beating though and I can't imagine what those folks are going through. Anyway, DH and I headed to Charlotte on Sat. to do some shopping and went to a birthday party after church yesterday.

I managed to get my 8 mile run in on Friday afternoon and I am not sure I can imagine running 5 more miles on top of that. I have to do 10 in two weeks and that will tell me if I sign up for the half or the 5k race. If I do the 5k that weekend, then I plan to do one the weekend before that as well. Plus there will be the 10k Turkey Trot in November, so I can get plenty of races in this fall.

I haven't planned out my week yet, so that will follow later.

Les~is there another Boston q race later on you can do??? Take it easy on that ankle and I hope your appointment is going well.

Karen, Jackie, Leah, Lisa, Jennifer, Heather, Sarah and others-have a great start to the week.

Laura K.

[Sarah428]

Good Monday Morning All!
I'm just so happy to be back, even though this morning has been quite challenging.

Les - So sorry about your ankle, how frustrating. Hope your appt today went well...and thanks again for the weekly wrap-up, I feel all caught up now;) !

Lisa - Glad to hear your spent a whole weekend taking care of yourself, I need to put that into my schedule too!

Jackie - I didn't see the game but was shocked when I heard they lost, and at home! Sorry, but the Lions are 2-0:) ! Hope your session with the trainer leads you in the direction you want to go.

Our weekend was once again action packed, wedding, house work, etc. This week is also busy. Tonight interviewing 3 potential daycare providers, Wednesday going to look at a house, Thursday b-day party...which leads us to the weekend and yet another wedding!

I'm feeling pretty motivated this week and think I might be back on the healthy train (maybe because I have my yearly physical on Friday:o ).

Monday - 30 minute lift routine mixed in with 30 min cardio, 20 min walk w/ dog (done!). Hope to add 20 minutes of pilates tonight after daycare interviews.
Tuesday - 20 minute elliptical, 10 min core, running group, walk w/ dog and friend in evening
Wednesday - Ditto Monday
Thursday - Ditto Tuesday
Friday - Ditto Monday
Long run on the weekend

Healthy Living:
1. Don't stress about those few pounds, focus on taking good care of my body and it will all level out
2. Remember to relax, stop and smell the falling leaves!

Have a great start to the week everyone!

Sarah

[karen w]

This is going to be a quick one as I have to go to DS#1's open house in a short time(the last one, hurray!!). I had a busy day today starting with an awesome swim and a really amazing kickboxing workout. Wed. night I can test. Did the grocery store, took DD to swimming class, just finished feeding the kids(and myself), and now have 15 min. to rest the tootsies before heading out to the open house.

Les-You can come over to my house and cook for me anytime. All of your ideas for Jackie's salmon sound wonderful. Hope your appt. went well today.

Lisa-You sound like you have a new fresh outlook this week. Good luck to you this week accomplishing your goals, and drink some water!

Jackie-Sorry about the game! I keep an eye on how they are doing as well being a native Wisconsinite. Sounds like there is potential for you, DH, and the kids to have a nice, more relaxing, family week coming up. I hope you enjoy it!

Sarah-Good luck with all of those interviews. I know things will work out.

Laura-Hope your headache goes away quickly. Glad Ivan spared you. We got a good 6 inches of rain from Friday into Saturday afternoon.

Have a good night everyone,

Karen

[JackieO]

I'm ready to divorce my family....as many of you know, I cook for a "tough crowd." Rather a meat-and-potatoes group, and skip the potatoes, if you please. :mad: Since it's only the three of us and as DS gets older, we fall into these wacky schedules that are very conducive to "let's grab fast food" instead of "let's make the most use of our home-cooked, planned-over meals." Sheesh....I took Les' advice and made some couscous tonight, flaked in big chunks of left-over salmon, sliced some leeks and a tomato, defrosted baby peas and found a fab-oo viniagrette recipe using balsamic vinegar, olive oil, shallots/garlic, salt and a mix of flat-leaf parsley and rosemary. Ok, I'm salivating....DS pronounces this dish inedible, DH picks out the salmon and peas ("I don't really like this grain," never mind it's wonderfully seasoned....) Anyway, <I> liked what I made, and Waldo was happy to have a few bites of seasoned salmon! I'm feeling a little bit like the Little Red Hen tonight -- I have a chocolate swirl banana bread loaf in the oven tonight and I think I will take it to work tomorrow to share with my colleagues, who appreciate good cooking.

Ok, family rant over. I met with my trainer tonight and worked up a new upper body routine that I am excited about -- she also showed me some Pilates moves that I can do at home or at the gym for lower body and abs. I'm liking this already....and I will set up another appointment with her in 2-3 weeks to add to that. Floor work for my lower body is so much more appealing/interesting than machines...and since DS took a strength/agility class this summer that uses a fitness ball, I think we'll invest in one for the home. Maybe we can agree on exercises if we can't agree on food/nutrition! :p

And despite my weight gain, I actually lost inches on my shoulders/upper arms, so the weight training there helped. The hips/waist have gone to pot, and this "pushing-50" age range isn't helping. But given my HRA results that included blood work, I'm in a good place given my age and I KNOW what I need to do to improve. That's half the battle....45% of the remaining battle is mental/attitude. HELP ME with that!!! okay? :cool:

I'm having lunch tomorrow with a friend who just re-upped with Weight Watchers and is doing the Core program. As I said, I'm giving myself until the end of the month to lose a few pounds on my own; if it doesn't happen, I'll go back to WW. But I hate to do that -- I <KNOW> the simple formula is calories in vs. calories out + exercise, and I'm not a dork about healthful eating. Duh. :o D-I-S-C-I-P-L-I-N-E. Oh, how I miss my old gym and the trainers and the incentive programs....And you know, given the results of my health risk assessment, I'm not in trouble. I'm just not where I want to be in terms of clothes fitting and feeling fit. Thank you Mom and Dad for good genes! )

Hmm...I smell my banana bread finishing up in the oven. Wanna bet my indulged family gets a slice tonight?? Ha! :D

[Leslie Ferguson]

Jackie - I'll come up and eat what you cook - that sounds better than I imagined/thought up. I guess I'm blessed that LW will eat just about anything that I prepare (she hates to cook) so I can build as I go (and often do) with reasonable impugnity. I hope you didn't let the bread get attacked. I remember the rules - no dinner, no dessert. :D I like your attitude about your workouts, eating, and life in general. I think you'll find the niche that helps you reach your weight loss goal. I'll be here to root you on, vent your frustrations at, etc. Enjoy the evening with Waldo - someone who appreciates you. :)
Karen - If I'm in the area it's a deal. Cooking is a passion (but you wouldn't know it to look at me). Good luck on your test Wednesday - it sounds like you are ready for the change in belt and more involved testing and training.
Lisa - Best of luck to you and the interviews. What a life - wedding, work, wedding. I'm tired thinking of that. I hope your physical goes well and there are no surprises.
Laura - I'm glad you to dodged Ivan and had a good weekend with DH. Sometimes the best thing is to push through and not let "little" things bother your workout. I know when I make my workout I feel a lot better. I could run another Boston q this year - Kiowa is one, just about any certified marathon that is run before 1 March will qualify me for Boston this year. Luckily I'm still able to run based on my Richmond time from last year (a long story). I am seriously contemplating laying off until the spring and runing Boston and maybe racing something else to qualify for Boston again. I'll let you all know.

Part of the reason that I'm contemplating laying off a little while is I'm feeling very pressured at work, application for the Priesthood, and really can't carve out the time (even if I'm physically able) to do the quality workouts in preparations for Richmond. I think that would reduce some of the stress on my life right now. To top it off I'm not sure my leg/ankle will take the pounding in preparation for a race in 8 weeks.
I had a frustrating appointment this morning with the Podiatrist. He confirmed that I have good bones in my feet and the structure and mechanics are good but he wrote a consultation so I could see the person that makes custom orthodics (like the PT said I needed the other day). Why did I waste my time and why couldn't they just schedule me to go to the place I needed to go? You've gotta love socialized medicine. :rolleyes:
If there's a plus for the day I got a good workout in - 60 minutes on the elliptical but didn't get done until nearly 7:30. :rolleyes: Tough evening for me - not eating dinner until almost 8:30. Luckily LW is very supportive and wishes she could do more. I think I'll extend her contract another year! ;) Why stop at 21? :D

Best wishes and sweet dreams for everyone. I hope we hear from Jasmine and the rest of the gang soon - even if just to let us know they didn't float away. Until tomorrow.
Peace,
Les

[jfadler]

Hi Folks!

Do I ever have news! I'm getting married! My now-fiance and I decided to get married over the weekend. I'm so excited.

Today was my first real day in the office. I got started on a project right away, and I found out they're throwing me into the field tomorrow and Wednesday. The site is about an hour and a half from where I live, but only about 45 minutes to an hour from my fiance's place, so I'm heading down there for the next few days. It'll be long hours and hard work, but I'm looking forward to it. It'll be a new experience.

Unfortunately, the new schedule will futz with my healthful living agenda this week. I spent a lot of time yesterday cooking meals for the week so I could have good, home-cooked lunches and dinners. Also, I had planned to try to get to the gym at least 4 times this week. Well, now I'll just have to play it by ear food-wise for a couple of days, I had to do a short work out this evening, and hopefully, assuming I'm not exhausted from working sunup to sundown for two days, I'll get back to the gym on Thursday, ideally to do a full workout (cardio + weights + PT). I'm definitely planning to work out on Friday, though. I'll see what happens. I can't do better than my best.

Gotta run. I'd like to get to bed at a decent hour. Hopefully I'll have time to follow everybody, but if not, I'll make sure to check in before the end of the week.

Ciao,

Jennifer

[Laura]

Congratulations Jennifer, that is very exciting news!!

Jackie, I hear you on the feeding the family issues. Actually, my DD is very adventurous and loves most of what I make. But because of DS I have a limited selection that will make everyone happy, so then of course DD gets bored with what I am making. Throw the different schedules everyone has in there and it makes for interesting meals. Good job on the weight loss. I measure tomorrow after a month of my more intense workout regimen. I know I have lost inches, but only about 3 pounds. That is the direction I would like to be going in, but at a faster rate! :D

Les, I am glad you are getting the ortotic appt, but sorry the Podiatrist was a bit of a waste. To me, I would back off from Richmond just from reading your post, but I understand the need to process the decision.

Laura K. When is your race? I do remember training last year when my partner and I had run 10 and we looked at each other and thought there is no way we could run another 3, but I think you would be surprised. Still it sound like you have a good back up plan.

I ran 5 yesterday. That was the five I swore I would run on Sunday, but something called a Key Lime Martini and some really good food got in the way. I dragged myself to the gym yesterday afternoon and promised myself I only had to run 1, but once I got on the treadmill I felt pretty good. The last mile was a little tough, but I got it done. I did intervals on the treadmill this morning. I probably should have pushed myself harder, but I haven't run intervals in a long time.

The rest of the week goes like this:
Wednesday: 35 minute run, upper and lower body weights
Thursday: 25 minutes on the spin cycle
Friday: 35 minute run, upper body weights
Sat: off
Sunday: 6 miles.

[Laura]

Congratulations Jennifer, that is very exciting news!!

Jackie, I hear you on the feeding the family issues. Actually, my DD is very adventurous and loves most of what I make. But because of DS I have a limited selection that will make everyone happy, so then of course DD gets bored with what I am making. Throw the different schedules everyone has in there and it makes for interesting meals. Good job on the inches lost. I measure tomorrow after a month of my more intense workout regimen. I know I have lost some inches, but only about 3 pounds. That is the direction I would like to be going in, but at a faster rate! :D

Les, I am glad you are getting the ortotic appt, but sorry the Podiatrist was a bit of a waste. To me, I would back off from Richmond just from reading your post, but I understand the need to process the decision.

Laura K. When is your race? I do remember training last year when my partner and I had run 10 and we looked at each other and thought there is no way we could run another 3, but I think you would be surprised. Still it sounds like you have a good back up plan.

I ran 5 yesterday. That was the five I swore I would run on Sunday, but something called a Key Lime Pie Martini and some really good food got in the way. I dragged myself to the gym yesterday afternoon and promised myself I only had to run 1, but once I got on the treadmill I felt pretty good. The last mile was a little tough, but I got it done. I did intervals on the treadmill this morning. I probably should have pushed myself harder, but I haven't run intervals in a long time.

The rest of the week goes like this:
Wednesday: 35 minute run, upper and lower body weights
Thursday: 25 minutes on the spin cycle
Friday: 35 minute run, upper body weights
Sat: off
Sunday: 6 miles.

Hi to Karen, Sarah, Lisa. I am off to work. Laura

[Sarah428]

Opps, set the alarm for p.m. instead of a.m.:o
So I missed my running group this morning but did get a fast 30 minute walk in with the dog leash on one hand and pushing the stroller with the other. I'll get another hour walk in this evening so I don't feel too bad.

Daycare interviews were a nightmare yesterday! One cancelled, one called when we were on our way there and said she had filled the spot and couldn't take anymore kids. The two were did interview were awful:( . We're meeting w/ someone tommorw how was our 1st pick from the get go but at the time we started looking she was full. She just had a mom that decided to quit her job to stay home so now she has an opening...maybe its fate!

Did get my pilates in last night like I was hoping, even 45 minutes instead of 20...not bad!

Laura - Key Lime Martini, yum! No wonder you couldn't pull yourself away and get to the gym.

Jennifer - Congrats! Hope your week doesn't wear you too thin.

Les - And speaking of wearing yourself too thin, you do seem to have alot on your plate right now. Maybe backing off Richmond is a good idea. Take care!

Jackie - I dread the day that DD doesn't like what I cook, right now she loves everything. You did your best, sounded wonderful to me! Your session with the trainer sounds like it went good, makes me think I should just bit the bullet and make my appt.

Hi to all I missed!

Sarah

[ellery]

Hi all! I can't even pretend to keep up with how busy the thread has been so far this week! I'll try to check back in later and be a little more personal, but for now this is quick.

Had a nice weekend in Virginia, ate a little too much wedding cake (mmmmm) and got to visit with my mom and some of our friends. Lifted and taught last night. Plan to run on the treadmill tonight - would rather run outside but am a little squirrely about running at dusk when DF is not in town. Plan to lift and do cardio tomorrow. Thursday I'm taking off to do a little cooking in advance for inviting friends over for dinner Saturday. Friday shall lift and do cardio. Saturday I have another 3 hour yoga workshop that I'm really excited about. It's the same lady I took that other workshop from, from Asheville, NC, and she rocks! Very excited about that. And Sunday shall get another run in. Am hoping that I carry on my streak of running the whole 3.1 miles from now on, with no breaks, or maybe one or two quick stops to stretch out the calves.

Am doing pretty well on the eating goals (wedding cake & cookies aside) and have lost 2 more pounds actually. It was nice to see people on Saturday and have them notice the weight loss. :D My main healthy living goal for this week is just to keep doing the cardio as opposed to sneaking out of the gym "early."

Okay, must get back to work as I hear boss coming down the hall...

!!!!

Leah

[karen w]

Hi everybody,
Another very good day, here starting with a good swim and kickboxing workout. DH was home today so I even got a break from doing the bus stop runs!:) I started some early holiday shopping in the afternoon since I have to get some things for a few nieces and a nephews, and I need them by Thanksgiving. We will be going to visit my folks over Thanksgiving, so I will give them their Hannukah presents early. Also found a cool Halloween costume for DS#1. DH took the boys to karate tonight. I stayed home with DD. She requested her favorite meal...hot cereal and cinnamon toast! Who am I to argue with her. It's certainly not unhealthy. And hey, I had some leftover soup and PB & J on an English muffin! Tomorrow I will just do my swim in the morning since I will be doing my kickboxing testing in the evening. I don't want to overdo it!;)

Les-I LOVE cooking as well, but you would not know it from looking at me, either!:D I hope the orthotic works out for you, and gives you some releif. Let us know how things go.

Jackie-I hear you on the cooking dilemmas. Fortunately, DH loves my cooking and will eat almost anything. He is definetely NOT a meat and potatoes man, either. He gets a steak craving once a year, and satisfies it by ordering one when we go out someplace. Since I'm not much of a meat eater, this is definetely a good thing!:D The kids, on the other hand, is where the troubles begin. DD eats nothing, DS#1 has a more simple palette(he would be the meat and potatoes guy if I served it), and DS#2's tastes are typically exactly opposite DS#1. I always try to make them a home cooked meal at night, but sometimes I do cook them a different meal than what I'm making for DH and I. Just because they don't want something spicy or more exotic etc... does not mean, DH and I are going to give up enjoying these things. I will often let them taste what I've made for us so if they like the dish, I will make it for them next time. And I have come to the conclusion, most of the time I can't please all three of them at the same time, so I don't even try to anymore.

Sounds like your enjoying the new routines. A big congrats. on the inches, and good luck on the #'s!

Jennifer-CONGRATULATIONS!! What exciting news. It sounds like you have a good excuse to let healthy living slide a bit in the upcoming week!

Laura-3# is fantastic! And inches to boot! Sounds like you are on the right track, too.

Sarah-Sorry about the alarm screw up. Boy, I hate when I do stuff like that. It messes up your whole routine, but sounds like you got in some good healthy living anyway. I'm still crossing my fingers for you that the day care situation will work out.

Leah-Another one to congratulate on lost pounds! Wow! Sounds like everyone is doing so great! Glad the wedding and visit was a nice one. Have fun with your friends this weekend.

Have a good night everyone,
Karen

[JackieO]

We seem to have ourselves a zippy little thread going here this week...yeah, us! :)

I skipped out of work a little early this afternoon because I really wanted to go to the gym. (I'm not making this up.) But after spending some time thinking about my new routine and acknowledging how sore I felt from trying just one set of reps in my new upper body workout yesterday, I went back to lower body. I also did a treadmill workout alternating between fast walking and slower hill-climbing to give my legs a work out. I felt like jelly when I walked out of the gym, but heh, that's a good thing, right? I'm mixing it up!

Came home and made roast beef hash for dinner (everyone ate it with no complaints) and my first batch of Bree's Lentil/Tomato Soup that is so famous on the other board. I'll be eating that and the leftover salmon salad from last night for lunch tomorrow. :rolleyes:

But perhaps best of all, I had a lunch "date" with a neighbor of mine who is in the middle of a sexual harassment suit against her employer and currently out on medical leave because of it. She's gearing up to return to a different job, but still at home. When I went to pick her up for lunch today, she was in a t-shirt and shorts and she said, "I hope you don't mind...I made us lunch and we can sit on the patio and enjoy it." Not only didn't I MIND, it was a GREAT lunch -- a Mediterranean salad of peppers, cukes, tomatoes and feta served over lettuce, that funny-sounding grain (quinoa?), and grapes, with several artisanal breads. (She's on WW and all except the bread was in the new "core" plan.) We got caught up and enjoyed the last day of (meteorological) summer. It was about 80 degrees outside, but her patio is west-facing and she has a pergola, so it was quite pleasant. (And BTW, we have had more 80-degree days in September here than we had in all of August...if it continues, it will be all of the summer! WEIRD.)

I'm feeling quite Martha Stewart-ish -- not prison-bound, but because as I've been harvesting my herbs (let's pronounce the "H" ala Martha! :p ), I have been freezing them in broth in ice-cube trays so when the dead of winter hits and I want a fresh taste, I can pop some basil or parsley or rosemary in whatever I'm making. For those of you who garden, that may not seem like much, but believe me, with my brown thumb, I'm looking forward to this! :o

Ok...I'm going to bed early (earlier?) tonight, so this is enough. Sorry to be so selfish; I truly have read everyone's posts and am happy we all seem to be in positive mind-frames this week. Let that continue! :cool:

[Leslie Ferguson]

Congratulations Jennifer!! That's fantastic news (being the "long time married man around here - ok the only married man around here).
Great job Leah and Sarah with your weight loss. Moving down the right track and having fun doing it. Woo Hoo!
Laura - I know in my heart of hearts that I need to tool back a little but like you said - I need to process it too.
Karen - The joys of motherhood (no kidding). I'm glad today was such a great day for you and somewhat envious (at least on a "slow" day).
Jackie - Not much more to say except it sounds like you had a better day today that the past couple ones. Good going with your workout and keeping things fresh.

Well, I have to say that I got my due this evening. Part of the reason I really love my wife. With all the other junk that is going on in my life (that she has no control over) she "fixes" me this evening. Imagine seeing this The "kids" sledding (http://www.snapfish.com/viewsharedphoto/p=332211095824103102/l=33823356/cobrandOid=1000111/otsc=SYE/otsi=****) * (See comment below) when I walk into the bedroom this evening. Boy did I let out a hearty laugh - just what the doctor ordered!

On a more "official note" I had a good 60 minute elliptical workout this evening and a decent dinner to boot. I guess there was more success in today than I admit.

Tonight I'm feeling a little more human and a little more like I know I should. So until morning... Peace and sweet dreams,
Les

* yes the picture is what you think it is - two stuffed animals wearing workout gloves sitting in my bike helmet.

[Laura]

Ugghh... I really didn't want to work out this morning. I ran (sort of) for 30 minutes and did upper and lower body weights, but I wasn't really into it. My legs are dead. Given I ran 5 Monday afternoon, and intervals yesterday morning, I don't think they were quite ready for another run this morning. Looks like tomorrow is the bike.

Les, the picture is great; it sounds like your LW knows just what you need. After 21 years, I guessing she should, right? I glad your elliptical workout went well.

Karen, Good luck on your testing. My DS will often eat cereal as part I of his dinner. Because his swim practice starts at 6:15 (meaning we leave the house around 6:00) he will have a bowl of cereal (or two) before practice, and then eat what we had for dinner (plus dessert) when he gets home around 9:00. I can't blame him for being hungry (he went 6000 yards last night), but I think I may need to get a second job to keep him full.

Jackie, sounds like your lunch date was just wonderful. It really sounds like you are at home in your new community.

Leah, Congrats on the weight loss, and people noticing! I know that I could lose weight faster if I really watched my intake, but I think I know myself well enough that if I continue to exercise as I have been, and generally eat well, I will get the results I want (just at a much slower pace). I am meeting a friend at PF Changs for lunch today, I don't know what is healthy there, but I will try to find something. Maybe a walk will be in order later if I don't have any good choices.

Have a great day everyone!

Laura

[karen w]

Stopped in to leave a quick note before I'm off to my kickboxing testing. I had a pretty decent swim this morning. After the kids got off to school, I did some more holiday shopping(man, it just seems so early for this, but I suppose I might actually be ready for it!). Also had to stop to get milk at the store. Spent a quiet afternoon at home with DD doing a little knitting practice, reading etc... Tomorrow DD starts her long days at kindergarten!! Yeah!! So I don't have to march up to the bus stop 4-5 times tomorrow; only 3 since she'll be coming home in the afternoon on the same bus as DS#2. She will have 2 long days a week(Tues. and Thurs.).

Les-LW reminds me of my DH. He is also very tolerant of my exercise addictions. He jokingly says it's cheaper than psychiatric care:p . I love the picture!

Jackie-What a wonderful sounding lunch! Glad you had an enjoyable afternoon, and a good workout to boot. We are also experiencing summer right now. We have had a gorgeous week with a high pressure system and sunny warm days. We have had more warm sunny days this week than all summer!!!

Laura-AKA "dead legs!" Sounds like you had a tough workout. Hope the biking goes well tomorrow.

Have a good night everyone,
Karen

[Leslie Ferguson]

Laura - I can understand dead legs - especially with your back to back quality workouts (and the altitude). Good call going to the bike tomorrow. I fully understand the feeding frenzy associated with your son. Imagine trying to keep properly fed and hitting good for you food (not just empty calories) to maintain the marathoner. Years ago I wouldn't get close to my meal rate when on travel (easy to stay under rate when you eat pastrami sandwiches and a dark beer for dinner) now I get pretty close every day. Oh well, the price of healthy living.
Karen - I hope your test went well. Congratulations cutting out a couple trips to the bus stop. LW is so good to me and is a real trooper trying to find things that feed the child in me that gets squashed by the Navy. Hence the kids in the "sled."

Speaking of biking - I decided I needed a break from the elliptical tonight and went for a good bike ride - the nights are becoming very conducive to riding. 50 minutes (ran out of light) and I felt good. On the down side - my ankle seems more sore today than it did yesterday... go figure especially considering I had PT this morning.

Oh well, ice is almost done and so am I. Until tomorrow - peace,
Les

[JackieO]

Originally posted by karen w
Tomorrow DD starts her long days at kindergarten!! Yeah!! So I don't have to march up to the bus stop 4-5 times tomorrow; only 3 since she'll be coming home in the afternoon on the same bus as DS#2. She will have 2 long days a week(Tues. and Thurs.).
Karen
Our school district just abolished the half-day kindergarden option with nary a peep from the community -- a far different outcome than in the last place I lived. Having two long days a week and three short ones makes for a nice compromise.

Well, folks, you're talking to the newly elected chair of the Parent's Organization for the De Pere High School. :rolleyes: The organization all but imploded last year, I guess, so there are two moms of sophomores who have decided to take on the task and re-energize the group. Since I foolishly checked off a couple boxes on the form when I returned my dues....guess what? Oh, well. It's a good way to meet people.

I was so sore from my new upper body workout session with the trainer on Monday (and I only did one set of everything!), that I returned to the lower body routine on Tuesday. I made it through two sets of upper body yesterday. Also did cardio on the treadmill Tuesday, skipped the cardio except for riding my bike to/from the gym yesterday. My inner thighs are still speaking to me from Tuesday's workout, so it will be just a bike ride on the trail tonight (cold front is to move thru, making the weekened a little iffy). But I'm still motivated for the strength training, which is a good thing.

Better get back to work...lots of stuff piled up overnight!

[ellery]

Hmmm... scratching head... Jackie, didn't you pledge about a week ago that you weren't going to sign up for anything else? ;)

Okay, that aside, yet another very quick check in here - I'm up to my eyeballs today in kids, paperwork, and babies. Mmmmmm....babies....warm fuzzy foreheads...adorable little fingers and toes.... I love my job sometimes!

Am pooping out on the workout front here a little bit. I ran Tuesday night on the treadmill, which apparently wiped me out for last night's workout for some reason. Was just pooped, tired legs, tired body. Lifted and did 20 minutes on the elliptical anyway. Am debating between taking tonight off or tomorrow as my day off this week. Eating still doing okay. Nothing really exciting to report other than my yoga workshop and "dinner party" that I'm hosting Saturday. Am trying to get DF to hop off the fence about what we're going to do about our wedding - run off to the Bahamas and do it or stick with what's becoming a nightmare planned for next May. (By the way, Jennifer, CONGRATULATIONS!!!! :D :D :D ). Must be something about this thread - join and get engaged. Feel free to share the story of the proposal... ;)

Okay, now must do work. Sorry to those I missed... the story of my hectic life these days... ;)

Leah

[Sarah428]

Another crazy week here...is this how it will always when you have a toddler:p ?

Skipped the gym both Tues & Wed due to my sore throat and cold, but did get walks in with the dog and some pilates. Today did 50 hard minutes on the elliptical and 20 minutes of core work. Hoping to walk the dog tonight and maybe get some more pilates in.

Interviewed what could be our new daycare provider last night, keep your fingers crossed for us. The house we went to look at was a bust so the search continues.

Leah - Mmmmmm....babies....warm fuzzy foreheads...adorable little fingers and toes.... I love my job sometimes! Don't forget the diapers, droll, throwing of food (which Ella is doing at this moment), etc. Don't get me wrong, it's wonderful most of the time! Hope your dinner party is a hit, and hopefully some wedding decisions will get made so that doesn't have to hang over your head any longer.

Jackie - I'm w/ Leah, oh well, at least you have then energy to do it all!

Les - You and LW are so lucky to have each other, how cute were "the kids"! I kept saying all summer I needed to get on my bike, and now it's almost October:o .

Karen - How'd the test go? I wish I could get holiday shopping done early. I don't wait until the last minute but I just can't get into the swing of things until after Halloween.

Laura - How are the legs holding up? Mine felt like Jell-o this morning:p .

It's lunch time!
Sarah

[ellery]

Originally posted by Sarah428
Leah - Don't forget the diapers, droll, throwing of food (which Ella is doing at this moment), etc. Don't get me wrong, it's wonderful most of the time!

:D

Can you tell someone's biological clock is ticking? I have baby fever BAD lately...

:D

Leah

[Sarah428]

Can you tell someone's biological clock is ticking? I have baby fever BAD lately...

Oh yeah, I could it hear it all the way over here!

[ellery]

:D

Leah

okay, now back to the regularly scheduled thread... ;)

[tmsl]

It has been a busy week!!! My running partner and I came to the conclusion we are not ready for 13 miles, so we will proceed with multiple shorter races in the next few months. I have neglected weights as well, so I am back to my superset workout that I did last year. I am not trying to bulk up, so I have decided to do lower weights and more reps. That being said, I did squats for the first time in probably a year and those muscles are talking now!!! I plan to keep the weights to three times a week and leave a couple of days to run. Hopefully I'll be more motivated than I have been lately.

Sounds like everyone else is having a busy, but productive week. Hang in there, one more day til the weekend!!

Laura K.

[karen w]

Can I join the "tired leg" club too??? Testing went great last night. It was a 45 min. very intense, fast paced class with all belt levels from white to bo-black conducted by the owner of the school(Master Steve). Then each belt color had to do a different selected manuever to break wooden boards, then push-ups(25 for white belts, 30-yellow etc... up to 75 for bo-black). Next we all watched the bo-blacks and black belt club do their synchronized moves and their 10 defense moves. Over all, there was alot of energy and comraderie. It was a great(albeit exhausting) night. The master threw in quite a few sets of squats as well so my upper thigh muscles were a bit sore. My legs kinda felt like rubber bands in the pool this morning. So, of course, instead of resting I went to class again this morning. Now the legs are more like jello! I think I'll rest tomorrow:eek: . I'll just have a nice relaxing swim in the morning and call it a day. Besides it's a biggie for me!!:D Yep, the big one.....Four..."O"!!

Jackie-Good luck with the "PTO" challenge. Sounds like you will be a busy lady this year! Yes, it was nice to have an afternoon uninterrupted by trekking to the bus for DD so I could get some errands done!

Laura K-I can't even fathom running 13 miles let alone the distances that Les has accomplished! Take it slowly!! Sending you motivating thoughts.

Leah-Have a nice weekend with your dinner guests. And babies are great, but spend some time with DF before hopping aboard the baby caravan! (Unless, of course, the sand is running down quickly...don't know how old you are, and I don't want to assume anything!)

Sarah-Yep, life is crazy with toddlers...and get's even crazier as they get older!!(Are you listening, Leah!!) Still crossing my fingers that there will be a resolutions to your day care woes and soon!

Les-Take care of that ankle!

Have a good night all!
Karen

[ellery]

Alright - this is my last check in of the week as I will be elsewhere tomorrow all day, allegedly learning stuff. :D

Ended up taking tonight off - we all seem to have tired legs this week, huh? Went to the grocery store, cooked Dom's Mom's meatballs (oh my gosh the house smells fantastic!) in preparation for Saturday and cleaned up a bit. Will hit the gym tomorrow night when I get back in town from the training, and will make dessert for Saturday tomorrow night. Then all I have to do on Saturday is do yoga, assemble a salad and bread, make manicotti, and impress DF with my calm, cool collected nature. :D (I'm not known for being calm before guests arrive) :D :D

Um, not gonna talk about babies anymore, but unfortunately, nature is tapping on my shoulder (gonna be 34 next month - eek!), so... it's something to think about. Not gonna talk about it anymore not gonna talk about it anymore not gonna talk about it anymore...

Okay, I'm off to start getting ready for bed. Hope everyone had a nice week and I'll check in next week.

:)

Leah

[lisalee]

Good evening everyone! I too am a member of the tired legs club. went for my first workout on Monday night and tuesday sitting down for any length of time and then getting up proved to be interesting! I went back last night and feel much better tonight although my legs (inner thighs) are a little sore still. So glad tomorrow is friday!!!

Happy Birthday Karen and Congratulations on your yellow belt!

Jackie-I too remember a message a while back about learning to say no. I think it is great you are helping out the PTO by being president, but don't let it overwhelm you!

Les- I hope your ankle is feeling better.

Leah- My clocking stopped ticking a long time ago (or it is so muted I can't hear it!) Anyway, perhaps a baby is in your near future or maybe a little later. Either way I bet you will have a wonderful time as a mother! Have a great time with your dinner party also, I'm sure it will be a success.

Not much else to say. Hope everyone enjoys their friday and weekends.

Lisa

[Leslie Ferguson]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KAREN!! The big 40! Woo Hoo!

shaking head...
Jackie - I too seem to remember "not taking on more things" from you too (ok pot calling the kettle black). ;) DS will be blessed having you as the president of the PTO. I bet your dead legs feel pretty good now - always a little better (even if stiff) remembering back to the great workout.
Lisa - I'm glad that you got back to the gym with your busy schedule. How are your classes going?
Leah - I heard that bio-clock ticking all the way up here too. Have a good day out of the office learining new things.
Karen - Congratulations on your new belt and the fun of earning and testing for it. That sounds like a wonderful Birthday Present - one you'll never forget. Breaking boards? :confused: Our Karen?
Laura K - Probably sound reasonong - it looks like there's a lot of that going around the board these days. :rolleyes:

Thanks all for the wishes for my ankle. I wish I could say it felt better but it is probably more sore now than it was Tuesday evening. It seems more sore since I had PT yesterday, and in a new place to boot. But I was undeterred and did only 50 minutes on the elliptical this evening - got to the gym too late (after 6:30 when I started) and couldn't afford a full hour so... 50 minutes it was. :D

Why is it you feel worse after having therapy than before it?

Peace friends (sorry to have forgotten anyone too),
Les

[ellery]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KAREN!!!!!


:D :D :D :D :D

Leah

[JackieO]

Originally posted by karen w
Jackie-Good luck with the "PTO" challenge. Sounds like you will be a busy lady this year! Yes, it was nice to have an afternoon uninterrupted by trekking to the bus for DD so I could get some errands done!
Karen

Eeeeek...NO! I'm just the publicity chair!!! All I do is write a few news releases and make up a few flyers. That's all, I swear.

Happy birthday, btw!

I meant to ride my bike yesterday after work, but the dog was so happy to see me when I got home and he did a little dance by the door when I put my shoes on, that I just took him out for a walk on the trail instead. Oh well, it was movement. And I can go to the gym this afternoon for cardio and a lower body work-out.

Gotta get back to work. Have a good weekend, everybody, and I hope we all have stronger legs next week! :D

[tmsl]

Happy Birthday Karen!!!!

[Laura]

Karen, Happy Birthday!!

No run this morning, as I had a 6:30 a.m. board meeting. I hope to get a run in this afternoon and will do upper body weights in the am. Have a great weekend everyone!

[karen w]

Thanks for the wonderful birthday wishes everyone! So far it's been a very nice one, too. The kids all surprised me this morning with gift certificates to Williams Sonoma, and DH's big surprise was an announcement(started a thread about it over on the Good Food Board to get advice). He wants to get me a Viking gas cooktop to replace my current one which is a Kitchen Aid Ceramic electric cooktop. He has already checked everything out, and we have the gas line in place as well(we ran it before they sheetrocked the basement last spring just in case some day...???) Well, someday is here! I'm really excited.

As for healthy living today, I had a very relaxing swim this morning which felt quite good on my "rubber band legs," and took a rest from kickboxing. Had to do my weekly Costco this morning anyway, and DD only had a half day school today. She had ballet this afternoon, and DS#1 is at Cub Scouts now. So a busy, but good day AGAIN!

Tomorrow night DH and I will celebrate my birthday. We have a sitter for the kids, and we will be going to dinner and a show. Should be fun!

I hope everyone has a nice weekend! See you next week,

Karen

[Leslie Ferguson]

Originally posted by karen w
He wants to get me a Viking gas cooktop to replace my current one which is a Kitchen Aid Ceramic electric cooktop. He has already checked everything out, and we have the gas line in place as well(we ran it before they sheetrocked the basement last spring just in case some day...???) Well, someday is here! I'm really excited.
OOOH! LW gave me a Jenn Aire cooktop last year for our Anniversary and I love my gas cooktop. Enjoy your Viking. I hope your rubber band legs get better this weekend.

Not much to report except I got a 94% on my "Health Risk Assessment" which is based mostly on a questionaire and a cursory review of my labs and medical record. Guess where I lost most of my points -- the fact I get less than 5 hours sleep on an average night. Go figure. :Rolleyes: I rested in prep for long run day tomorrow. On the schedule for 10 but was on for 20 last week and only did 10. I'm not really sure what I'll do but I better prep to do 18-20 just in case. But it will all be on the pavement - no more soft and uneven surfaces for yours truly. ;)

Night all - ice is done and I'm fading fast.

Peace,
Les

[JackieO]

Originally posted by Leslie Ferguson

Not much to report except I got a 94% on my "Health Risk Assessment" which is based mostly on a questionaire and a cursory review of my labs and medical record. Guess where I lost most of my points -- the fact I get less than 5 hours sleep on an average night. Go figure. :Rolleyes: Les

Oh, show off! :p I only got an 89 percent on mine(same cursory review, I'll bet) and guess where I lost my points? Not stretching enough and my <ahem> liver panel wasn't as good as it should be. (But heh, I live in beer country...)

But pat me on the back for this week -- I did 2.5 upper body workouts (my initiation to my new routine Monday only counts for half) and 2 lower body workouts; 4 cardio workouts in the gym, plus one walk with the dog and one leisurely bike ride today. Geez....the weather doesn't get any better than this in northeastern Wisconsin -- it was cool, sunny and not too breezy today. Perfect conditions for a bike ride, and even though DH and I did separate workouts at the gym, we couldn't settle into "indoor work" this afternoon, so went out on the trail.

As for my weight -- well, let's just say I didn't gain any weight this week. Didn't lose any, either. Oh well....in thinking back about my week; I ate chips and dip last Saturday; drank beer at the Packer game on Sunday, was pretty good during the rest of the week except I snacked a little a couple evenings, and had a kind of piggy dinner Friday night. Enough said -- I went to the Farmers Market today and brought home all sorts of wonderful fresh veggies, did the Eating Well roasted plums and pork loin for dinner tonight (WOW!), and I have lots of lovely stuff I'm not too sure what to do with for the next few days. I remembered reading some recipe recently that featured bok choy; I bought three of them today for $1 and am now scratching my head and furiously perusing my recent mags. Any ideas??? Oh, the pork loins at the grocery store were nearing the sell date (tomorrow), so they were marked $2 off! I snatched up two 1-lb. packages and cooked one tonight, the other's in the freezer for an Oriental noodle dish from Everyday Living, or whatever that Martha "easy" magazine is.

Ok, there's more to life than food. :rolleyes: I'm into my new workouts and hope to maintain the motivation.

We are off to explore a new church tomorrow -- we've been real slackers in the year that we have moved, but all of us have had an "epiphany" of sorts -- it's time to get back to a more ordered spiritual life! :cool:

Ciao.

[Leslie Ferguson]

Jackie - 89 is great! It also sounds like your test was a little more thorough than mine was. Let's face it - they took blood work results from a 2001 physical. I mean really, there are lots of other blood work in my record considering all the tests that I've had run in the past year. Impressive workouts and weigh in. A zero is a win in my book when it comes to weight! :) I'm sorry, I can't help you with bok choy - my normal ways to work bok choy into meals is either in stir-fry or figure out a soup to put it in. Of course, you could whip up an asian cole slaw (soy, sesame oil, and ginger as the dressing).

FWIW - today's run was ~10.6. It wasn't the best run I've ever had and I felt every step along the way. It doesn't look like I'm making any progress. I'm not getting worse but I'm not getting better either (zero isn't a win here). By the finish I was feeling a little twinge in my knees so it may be time for new scoots - so I sotpped at my favorite running store and picked up a pair of Nike Air Pegasus. Soft a cushy ride - probably a good pick to go with my orthotics.

Looking forward to tomorrow and a new week. However, prayers going out to the folks in Florida - they just don't need another hurricane. Also prayers for protection for Leah and Laura K - Jeanne could be a real nasty storm.

Until the morning. Peace,
Les