HL/WWSG - Week of 3 October

[Leslie Ferguson]

Welcome one and all to the next installment of the Healthful Living and Weekly Workout Support Group.

A new month and a new season, a time to turn over a new leaf (or to turn over an old one that has fallen off the tree). As we approach the autumn of the year I‘m looking forward to my continued participation and interaction with my friends here. I think it is time to re-institute the question of the week - kind of as a change of pace. What do you think?

I can tell that summer is trying to hold on a little here - it was warm (80) and we had thunderstorms yesterday (this isn’t supposed to happen in October). Last week was another busy week, just another in the string of weeks that are filled with too much to do and too little time.

A quick synopsis of last week:
* Success for Sarah finding daycare and her daughter enjoying herself away from Mommy. * A mixed week for Jackie those darned Packers, :mad: on and off the (healthy eating) wagon, positive interaction with DS, WW on the horizon? (I hope not.) Success for Leah keeping her head above water at work and getting workouts in on a regular basis. Lisa is making an impression on her students and making a difference. Way to go. And she’s figuring out how to balance her own studies and all the other things she does in her day. If she gets it figured out I’ll hire her to expalin it to me. Celebrations and “cooktop” envy in Karen’s house, followed with new glasses for DS. Life moves in such positive directions in her life it is good for those of us who are “on the edge.“ “Newleywed” Heather is finally getting comfortable with DH - maybe their lives will start to enmesh soon - I hope so.

Pending reports - Sarah has a physical rescheduled tomorrow, and we’re still hoping she’s fit as a fiddle. On my side - a follow-up on my ankle that doesn’t seem to be getting better.

I know there is more going on out there and I don’t want to slight anyone but moving on to the week to come. My workout schedule - it is subject to change because I finally made it official and I’m no longer training for the Richmond Marathon - my ankle and lost training won’t support it so what is my workout plan for the week?
Sun - XT w/weights
Mon - elliptical
Tue - Bike (I hope)
Wed - elliptical
Thu - bike
Fri - rest
Sat - run (?) if my doctor give me a clearance

Healthful living: the biggest thing on my plate is trying to come to grips with the changes that I will be going through as I stop training for Richmond and the sense of “failure” that I’ll associate with it. I won’t dwell on it (I hope) but I know it will be in the back of my mind. Follow up with my doctor and see if someone can figure out what is going on in my ankle foot.

I’m sorry for anyone I’ve missed - it hasn’t been intentional. Today is a little disjointed because we blessed the animals at church this morning so I’m running a little behind and I need to go and meet my coach for weights.

The question of the week - if anyone wants to “confess” what healthful and not-so-healthful traditions do your families have surrounding the holidy season? I know we have a couple and I’ll list them this evening but until then.

Peace,
Les

[helios7]

Hope everyone had a great weekend!

Thanks for the rundown Les, although its more DH's work schedule that I'm getting comfortable with ... not him! After 6 years together, 2.5 living together... we're pretty comfortable!

I'm enjoying quiet Sunday afternoon bliss. I love Sundays in the fall, DH spends them watching football with friends and I love the "me" time. I grocery shop, cook something fun and just putter! Love it! I did go to the gym today - 1 workout down. I'm one for one!

This week I'm trying the WW Core program. I'm doing it on my own (meaning with photocopied materials and not as an official WW member), but hope to just feel a little bit better. I've been feeling squishy lately (as I'm no longer hitting the gym quite as often as before the wedding) and I hope this program will help take that away.

Monday - Pilates/arms (I hope)
Tues - gym (cardio, leg strength training)
Weds - dr's appt - pilates?
Thurs - off Parent Night at School
Fri - pilates?
Sat - off.

Why is it the end of the week gets so tricky?

Have a good week everyone!
h

[karen w]

Good evening,

Les-Thanks for getting us started again! I know there is nothing I can say to make you feel any better about not doing the marathon, but I bet it's a load off to have just made that decision. And if you want my opinion(probably not, but I'm a woman and a mother so I state it anyway ) sounds like you made a wise decision. We'll be here for you big guy!

Helio-I'm with you on those fall weekend afternoons. This morning I was not feeling so great...a bit of a sinus headache which usually preceeds TOM(which reared her ugly head tonight, thank you!:mad: ). Anyway, after getting in a 30 min. bike ride, I showered, and decided to make my yearly batch of apple butter in the crockpot. DH had the kids out until mid afternoon at Sunday school and the Library book sale. All I can say is the house smells SO good right now. And the headache is almost gone, too.

Good luck with your endeavors into WW. Sounds like your off to a good start with exercise this week.

My weekend was pretty quiet. DH was gone from Friday night until last night. He came home at 9 pm yesterday so we were able to watch a movie together(and share our popcorn ). The kids and I had a pretty mellow day at home. I made them a big brunch, and since it was kinda gloomy out they played inside most of the afternoon. I cleaned both upstairs refrigerators(I do it twice a year; once in fall and again in spring). Today as I mentioned I made a double batch of apple butter(a fall tradition. I freeze some and MIL puts in an order every year, too!) The house smells so good right now!!! I got in a nice bike ride both mornings, and tonight we all went out for pizza. My tummy was a little upset(TOM, sorry again, Les) so I had soup/bread/salad. The kids behaved themselves so we went for ice cream later. Tummies are never(well, rarely) too upset for ice cream...at least mine, anyway! All in all, a nice weekend.
Tomorrow I swim early and stick around the house in the morning for the pressure test on our gas line. DD has a dentist appt. in the afternoon. I'll have to wait until Tues. for kickboxing. Oh well!

Have a good week all,
Karen

[Laura]

Les, thanks once again for a great recap of last week. I am sorry that the ankle does not seem to be improving, I know you must be tiring of the problem and the lack of a definitive diagnosis.

Karen and Heather, I am glad you had nice relaxing weekends. Ours was nuts as usual although today DS and I had a nice 4 hours hanging out together (Starbucks after church, go cart racetrack and Chipotle for dinner). DD was at a friends and this was our time just to touch base. He is a great kid!

Despite the burrito I was able to run 7 miles tonigh albeit very slowly. Still I was pleased that neither the lungs or the legs really gave out on me. It helped it was a 80's flashback weekend on the radio .

Last week my workouts kind of faltered toward the end, hopefully I will be more diligent this week.

Sunday: 7 mile run - Done
Monday: lower body weights
Tuesday: easy 3 mile run
Wednesday: 20 minute spin cylcle/ weights
Thursday: 4 mile run
Friday: running intervals and upper body weights
Saturday: off

Have a great week everyone!

[Leslie Ferguson]

Originally posted by helios7
Thanks for the rundown Les, although its more DH's work schedule that I'm getting comfortable with ... not him! After 6 years together, 2.5 living together... we're pretty comfortable!

Oh boy did I misunderstand your previous comments. It looks like I've done a good job of a minor foot in mouth plant. If it's any consolation - even after 21 years it isn't easy getting used to new schedules - either mine or LW's. After a while we've just figured out how to "orbit" in the same house doing different things and still having quality time together (it's nice to take a look in the sewing room and seeing LW busily at work creating a quilt - and it makes me proud of her too).

I did go to the gym today - 1 workout down. I'm one for one!... This week I'm trying the WW Core program. .. I've been feeling squishy lately (as I'm no longer hitting the gym quite as often as before the wedding) and I hope this program will help take that away...
Why is it the end of the week gets so tricky?

I'm glad you enjoyed your football games. I would guess that you root for one of the NY teams - the Giants? Regardless the NY teams were 2-0 today so there must be some rejoicing in NYC now. I hope you continue to meet your workout goals and make progress with the WW core program. I'd guess it's harder to make workouts later in the week because you "have X things to do" in the week and by Thursday or Friday you know how many you really have to push for to meet your work goals for the week.
Karen - There is a bit of relief to finally have decided against racing the marathon in November - there's way too much junk on my plate right now and I really didn't need the added stress. It's also good that my coach agreed and is already trying to help me decide what to do next. Now all I have is to assist the folks who are racing the Marine Corps Marathon get ready - they're running 20+ miles this weekend and my coach will be in Chicago for the Chicago marathon. I hope all your visitors pass quietly and that the pressure test goes well in the morning.

I had a good weights workout this evening and I'm really trying to focus on strengthening my ankles and lower legs. I'm still trying to remember my answers to the questions I posed. A potential "unhealthful" tradition in our family is making and consuming carrot pudding (an old family recipe from my german gret grandmother). The main ingredients aren't too bad (right) carrots, walnuts, raisins, and flour (that's all I can remember but bet there's a few other ingredients in the mix). The kicker is the hard sauce that goes on top - butter cream frosting made with good, healthy butter and of course rum to give it a little kick. Oh so rich and oh so hard to turn down (it is eaten hot with hard sauce melting all over it). I'm sure I can come up with a "better" bad tradition and a good one but my brain is tapped out right now.

Anyway, thanks for being here - I think I'll be okay even if a little dejected. Have a great week ahead and peace to all,
Les

[Sarah428]

Welcome to October! We had a nice fall weekend getting stuff done around the house. Sat a.m. was wet and cold, but cleared up. Went out to dinner (since DD was away for the weekend) and rented movies. We actually got out the air mattress and had a slumber party in the living room ! Sunday I ran a 5K (24 min 33 sec, also took some time off my 1st 5K run) and then did more house hunting . We're actually going to meet with a builder this week. We looked at some houses he built in the neighborhood we want but there all 2 bedrooms and we want 3 with the possibility of the 4th, so that might be the route we take.

Les - Sorry about the marathon but glad you came to a decision, that's the first "step" (sorry for the pun!)

Karen - Yummy apple butter!

Laura - That's so funny that you mentioned the burrito and running. Sat night DH wanted mexican and I decided that wasn't a good idea the night before running a 5K !

Heather - Good luck with the WW core program. I too backed off the gym a little after the wedding and now feeling I'm getting back into it.

So I mentioned that I was planning on changing up my gym routine so here it is:
Monday - upper body strength training, spinning class
Tuesday - lower body strength training, lap swimming
Wednesday - upper body and 40 mins cardio OR Ultimate Challenge Class (20 min spinning, 20 track work, 20 core work)
Thursday - Elliptical and running group
Friday - lower body strength training, 40 minutes cardio or swimming
Weekend - Long run
Extra - Evening walks w/ dog and pilates twice a week

This morning was my first spinning class ever, there were pros and cons but I'm going to stick with it for a while. I've also never used the pool at the gym before so that will be new as well. Hoping to hit the Ultimae Challenge class on Wednesday evenings, but can't this week due to DH schedule. So I'm hoping this will spice it up a little for me.

Have a great week all, off to my physical.
Sarah

[Sarah428]

Welcome to October! We had a nice fall weekend getting stuff done around the house. Sat a.m. was wet and cold, but cleared up. Went out to dinner (since DD was away for the weekend) and rented movies. We actually got out the air mattress and had a slumber party in the living room ! Sunday I ran a 5K (24 min 33 sec, also took some time off my 1st 5K run) and then did more house hunting . We're actually going to meet with a builder this week. We looked at some houses he built in the neighborhood we want but there all 2 bedrooms and we want 3 with the possibility of the 4th, so that might be the route we take.

Les - Sorry about the marathon but glad you came to a decision, that's the first "step" (sorry for the pun!)

Karen - Yummy apple butter!

Laura - That's so funny that you mentioned the burrito and running. Sat night DH wanted mexican and I decided that wasn't a good idea the night before running a 5K !

Heather - Good luck with the WW core program. I too backed off the gym a little after the wedding and now feeling I'm getting back into it.

So I mentioned that I was planning on changing up my gym routine so here it is:
Monday - upper body strength training, spinning class
Tuesday - lower body strength training, lap swimming
Wednesday - upper body and 40 mins cardio OR Ultimate Challenge Class (20 min spinning, 20 track work, 20 core work)
Thursday - Elliptical and running group
Friday - lower body strength training, 40 minutes cardio or swimming
Weekend - Long run
Extra - Evening walks w/ dog and pilates twice a week

This morning was my first spinning class ever, there were pros and cons but I'm going to stick with it for a while. I've also never used the pool at the gym before so that will be new as well. Hoping to hit the Ultimae Challenge class on Wednesday evenings, but can't this week due to DH schedule. So I'm hoping this will spice it up a little for me.

Have a great week all, off to my physical.
Sarah

[ellery]

Mmmmmmm.

Just finished polishing off lunch, which was leftovers from last night's yummy meal (pork tenderloin medallions, mashed sweet potatoes and sauteed apples - there's a thread on it if you want the recipe). Yummmmmmm.

Had a nice weekend. Got up early, did yoga Saturday, got a hair cut, ran errands with DF. Went to the beach briefly yesterday, got my run in, cooked yummy dinner.

Workout schedule this week:
today: teach, 30-45 minutes cardio
Tues: team-teach, lift afterwards if not too pooped
Wed: teach, cardio
Thurs: off, or workout, depends...
Fri: depends on what I did Thurs
Sat: yoga
Sun: run

Healthy living goal this week? Pretty easy now that the dinner party's dessert and goodies are gone from the house. (in my belly, that is) As in, try not to give in to hormonal eating.

Sorry this is short, but supervisor is across the hall and I'm pretending to be busy...



Leah

[helios7]

Well, despite a crappy day at work (will our MT afternoon class EVER separate? ) I did make it to the gym. So 2 for 2 - how long will it last?

Les- I totally understand. Its a weird thing. My DH and I are newlyweds, and yet our relationship after six years just gets better as each year goes by. But as you say, there are always twists and turns. His job in the past year has developed into a job that requires very long hours which is very hard for me since then I spend way too much time alone. But I'm a homebody, so I also kind of like the time... sometimes. But then I feel bad making DH do things like clean on his short weekends.....its a never ending cyle.

As for sports - I could care less but DH is a huge Giants/Mets/NJ hockey team whatever their name is fan. I am SO not a sports fan...

Sarah - yep! Amazing how the motivation flees right after isn't it? I just haven't cared lately. I mean, i've gone to the gym and eaten well, but just not gone to the gym AS MUCH and eaten well AT EVERY MEAL. Oh well, squishy isn't the worst feeling as its pretty easy to remedy. 15 pounds though... we won't go there!

Leah - your lunch sounded lovely.

Laura - I don't think I can walk let alone run after a burrito!

Karen - your apple butter sounds good! Could i have the recipe? And, how exactly do you use apple butter? Baking? On foods? I'm a little in the dark. But it sounds yummy!

Okay,
Shower time. Helios (my cat) is looking disapprovingly in my direction. I think he wants his chair!

Have a good night all.
h

[karen w]

Les-Your mother would be proud of you cleaning some of the "junk" off that crowded plate of yours! As for unhealthy traditions...that is a toughy since we don't celebrate x-mas so holiday time around our house is not that big a deal. I guess potato latkes(fried in oil) are the unhealthy villian in our winter holiday celebrations. But they are SO GOOD! And I even found a baked version that is healthier that DH and I prefer which we do sometimes. That's all I can think of right now, anyway.

Heather-Sorry about the crappy work day, but WAY TO GO on those workouts this week! AWESOME JOB!! The apple butter recipe is from the Oct. CL which I have not gotten yet:mad: , but I copied it off the good food board. I usually freeze some and MIL gets some, too. We use it on toast, muffins, waffles etc... I bake with the store bought stuff as my homemade stuff is too good to disguise in baked goods .

Leah-Always feels nice to have good, warm food in the tummy! Yummy! Glad you had a nice weekend.

Sarah-Sounds like a nice weekend for you and DH. Good luck venturing into building. We did it 7 years ago, and have no regrets. DH and I designed our house. Just remember building/owning a house is an ongoing project. We are still making modifications/changes/additions etc... to this day. As they say houses are money pits! But it is a good investment, too. And congratulations on the marathon!!

Laura-Another runner to congratulate this weekend. 7 miles is no small feat, slow or fast(at least, to me). I'd swim 7 miles anyday over running it, but it would take me alot LONGER!!!

As for my Monday...another busy one. I had a fantastic swim this morning. Got the kids to the bus stop by the skin of my you-know-what, but they got there! Then the oil CO. came and applied pressure to the gas line. Tomorrow the town has to come out to look at the gauge. If they give us an A-O.K., we order the cooktop. They came and went early enough for me to get to kickboxing so I was able to go to class after all, and.....I signed up for a WHOLE year!
This afternoon took DD to the dentist. Her teeth got a clean bill of health, and the dentist found two loose ones to boot(well, they are not THAT loose, yet!), but she'll probably lose her first tooth within the school calendar year, anyway! Otherwise, it was another Monday as usual.

Hope everyone has a nice evening,
karen

[Leslie Ferguson]

Originally posted by helios7
Les- I totally understand. Its a weird thing. My DH and I are newlyweds, and yet our relationship after six years just gets better as each year goes by. But as you say, there are always twists and turns. His job in the past year has developed into a job that requires very long hours which is very hard for me since then I spend way too much time alone. But I'm a homebody, so I also kind of like the time... sometimes. But then I feel bad making DH do things like clean on his short weekends.....its a never ending cyle.

As for sports - I could care less but DH is a huge Giants/Mets/NJ hockey team whatever their name is fan. I am SO not a sports fan...

What's funny is I feel like I'm letting LW down by working long hours and not spending more time with her. I really get stressed out not being home to cook dinner etc. but she's a trooper and reminds me that she's quite happy just having me home after all these years and that my sanity (as Karen says - exercise is a lot cheaper than therapy) and physical health is more important. We'll have many more nights to be together and for me to cook for her so she'll "take her lumps" for now. I'm with you, I'm not really a big fan of any one team - I just like to watch a good game. I do like to root for the 'Skins because I've followed them since the late 60s but if they lose so be it.

Karen - I knew I'd do another good job cleaning my plate - just like when I was a little kid (mom wouldn't send my eggplant to India even though I offered ). Wow - what a busy day for you but it is good that everything worked out for you and all the pieces fell together.
Leah - Thanks for the check in. It's always good to hear from HHI. Best wishes for a productive week of workouts.

This whole marathon thing is pretty off. I pretty much knew I wasn't racing racing Richmond but I think Saturday sealed my running it for fun. Oddly, I'm really at peace about it. Maybe I'm getting wiser? I certainly know that I'm getting older.

No running today. But I did get a bike ride in in failing light. It seems that the gym lost power and I couldn't get my elliptical workout in like I wanted. Maybe tomorrow.

Thanks again for all your prayers and wishes. I'll be okay I just need to figure out how to keep my sanity and do all my projects over the next couple months. Oh well - need to hit the skids (go to bed). Be good to yourselves (hi! Sarah!).

Peace,
Les

[jfadler]

Hi Folks,

I keep forgetting it's Monday. I'm ready for the weekend. I had a very busy weekend. Between wedding planning, preparing for a move, and normal-life chores (those we all love: laundry, cleaning, etc.), I ddidn't have much time to chill. My boss kicked me out around 5 on Friday, which is a good thing, though I had several hours' work I could have done. I didn't even have a chance to get my desk in order, so I went to a very messy desk piled with work (and I've only had this job for a few weeks). I had to go into the field today. I was planning to go out this morning, but had a lot to accomplish before I did, so I didn't leave the office until two. It took about 4 hours to get to the site, do what I had to do, and get back to the office. That's not so bad. One of the properties on the field site is a dairy. It makes the average barnyard smell seem delightful. At one point, I was beside a rather busy road in steel-toed workboots, dirty jeans, a bright orange safety vest and with very unruly hair, and was catcalled. Go figure. Anyway, sorry for griping. I tried venting about my day to my fiance, and discovered that he was in a bad mood himself, thus not exactly receptive. Maybe he'll have perked up in a bit.

On the health front: candy wasn't the problem today. I think I've eaten just about everything I like, and they're replacing it with stuff like candy corn, which I find to be quite gross. Unfortunately, there is now a large tub of bite-sized cookies in the kitchen, right next to my office. What did I do to deserve this? I was beat after work and really didn't feel like exercising. I managed half an hour at an easy pace on the exercise bike, but that's it. I hope tomorrow I'll be more into it. I don't have to be in the field tomorrow, so I may not feel as drained at the end of the day.

Good luck for healthful living and dining this week.

Jennifer

[Sarah428]

Day 2 of new workout schedule! This morning was lower body work (smith machine squats, abductor/adductor machine, weighted calf raises, walking lunges and plie squats) followed by 20 minutes in the pool. I felt sorta goofy in the pool at first, I got 16 laps in with some water bicycles in between...swimming is alot more work than I thought (kuddos to you Karen).

Doctors appt went fine, she's putting me on prenatal vitamins since I mentioned we might try for #2 after the holidays. Seemed a little early to me for vitamins but she said it's better to be on them, just in case. Really nothing else to report, but that's a good thing.

My head is spinning from the thoughts of building a house, so many details and I don't know where to begin! Hoping to put it in the back of my mind and relax tonight after some pilates.

Jennifer - Hey, 30 minutes is better than nothing! That's a successful exercise session considering your day.

Les (aka O Wise One) - On Sat mornings when I get up for my long run sometimes I'll walk Ella and feel bad and that I should stay. DH also says "go, I'll get up with her", he knows we both need me to have that time too!

Karen - A whole year of kickboxing, you're gonna be one tone Mom!

Heather - Sorry about the crappy day. Are your workouts 3 for 3 yet?

Leah - You and I store the sweets in the same spot, a belly is a perfect storage area . Good luck on your 5K training!

Outta here to do more home building internet searches - yuk!

Sarah

[helios7]

Sadly... we're breaking the winning streak. No 3 for 3 today. I just don't feel like it. I'm in a bit of a funk. I'm tired, work is exhausting this week as we're moving towards Parent's Night Thursday. My co-teacher is getting married in six weeks and I'm tired of carrying the class with regards to deadlines this is due on this day/hearing about the wedding. And, yes I know I got married this summer but it was a little different. I'm not one of those people who talked about every little detail ad nauseum (I'm really not! Especially not at work where I wasn't inviting people) So hearing about it all day every day is getting tiresome. Come on November!


So no workout today. Did vacuum the rug, did wash dishes. Do have to cook but just can't work out. Will lie on couch and be blah instead. I have dermatologist appointment tomorrow because I think I'm allergic to platinum, or something else in my ring. Tired of red,bumpy painful swollen fingers from my wedding/engagement rings.

blah.


Feeling to blah for comments.

Taking grumpy self away from computer now...
hopefully happy heather will return tomorrow.

h

[karen w]

{{Heather}}-A virtual hug for you today. Sorry the grumpies got to you today, but I guess they make the rounds so everyone has to get them once in a while. Tomorrow is another day.

Sarah-I'll take any kuddos I can get...THANK YOU!! But I did not start out swimming 1 1/2 miles nonstop everyday. I built up slowly when I first got back into swimming a few years ago. Glad the doctor's visit went well. The PNV's are a good idea, too. Good luck and, of course, have lots of fun filling up the future house with tiny feet!

Les-I go through the same thought processes(AKA...guilt trip) everytime I leave the house early in the morning to swim or go to kickboxing on a morning DH has off. I think, "Gee, maybe I should stay and keep DH company etc..." But he has always been so supportive of my addictions, too. I probably don't tell him so enough. My DH sounds alot like LW. I think I'll tell him tonight how much I appreciate the support I get, and try to remember to do it more often as well!

Jennifer-Glad to see you back. I was wondering where you went. I'd go for another weekend, too!! I just bought a bag of candy corn for the kids(they don't know yet ). I don't often buy them junk, but it's a once a year thing. I personally hate the stuff too, but DH and the kids love it. Usually they don't eat that much of it either since I use it to decorate a cake for the Cub scouts Spooktacular cake walk.

Another pretty good swim for me today. I also went to kickboxing, but my energy level was not as high as yesterday. I think my Aunt Flow zapped a little of it today . After lunch DH and I did some more couch shopping. I think we've narrowed it down now. Just gotta measure to make sure it fits, and then I think we'll order it before the end of the month. And the gas line PASSED the pressure test!!!! Town inspector gave us the official blessing today so DH has already ordered my new cooktop. It will be delivered next Thursday. We have to schedule the oil Co. to come back out to set the tank and hook things up, but they said that should only be one visit!! SO....I may be cooking with gas in about 2 weeks!

Hope everyone has a good night. It's gonna be a cold one up here tonight(I picked the last of our peppers, cukes, and eggplants today so I have to do something with them. DH is going to cover the herbs. Otherwise there are still a few tomatoes hanging out, but those should be O.K. I think the season is coming to a close soon, though).

Karen

[Leslie Ferguson]

Jennifer - Ah, the joys of both partners being in a funk/needing to vent. I wish I had a good way to solve that problem but I'm still wrestling with that one after more than 20 years in practice. If I'm ever so lucky to find the cure then I'll bottle it and make a fortune. Another ah - the smell of dairy-air (pun intended). Aint' cattle grand? What a mental picture - standing on the side of the road in clean up gear and getting whistled at. Almost as much fun as getting hooted at by a carload after I've run about 10 or 11 miles in the (non)chilly (90 degrees and 90% humidity) in Norfolk in the summer. Ultimately looking like a wet rat. For your sake - may your candy dishes always be filled with candy corn. Sometimes stress counts for a workout too.
Karen - Cooking with gas! Soon enough. I hope you really enjoy your new Viking cooktop. Your first cooler night and time to work your veggis in to the house. I guess it is that time of year.
Heather - Un-funking thoughts headed your way - you deserve good thoughts and positive vibes. Like Karen said - tomorrow is another day - no stress over a missed workout (believe me). Sorry you get to hear about the wedding every day - I know I'd go stark raving mad if that happened to me.
Sarah - Calming thoughts to you too. It sounds like the stress level is rising oin your household too. I'm glad I'm not the Lone Ranger when it comes to feeling guilty not giving LW time when I have it. I guess in my case I've missed so much time of our earlier married life that I want to "make up" for the lost hours and days (which I know you can't do). Good things come to all who wait.

Tonight - I got a decent, albeit shorter than I'd like, elliptical. Still trying to protect my ankle and get stronger so I can get back to being human. Tomorrow is another day and I get to learn some new ankle strengthening techniques at the PT. My next to last visit there. Being healthy and trying to keep my stress down in preparation for my trip next week (to Halifax, NS).

Time to head in - so... peace,
Les

[jfadler]

Today was a much better day. Let's hope Heather gets the same upswing from her bad day.

I did well with regards to the junk food at work. It wasn't perfect, but it was definitely reasonable. No candy (except for 6 peanut M&Ms a coworker offered me, which don't really matter), no cookies. Maybe tomorrow my good day will extend into a good streak.

I can't say anything particularly marvelous happened today, I was just in a good frame of mind. I discovered that the business park where I work has a little gym. It's not fabulous, but for days I don't lift, it should do the trick. My new apartment will also have a gym onsite, so I'll be good to go. I had a great workout this evening. My fiance also seems to be in a better mood. What a difference a day makes!

Anyway, so much to do, so little time, and bedtime is not too far off. Tomorrow I'm planning on doing just a cardio workout (as I lifted as well as cardio today). No PT this week. I can't be there when I need to be directing a guy in a backhoe in another town.

Jennifer

[karen w]

Quiet today

Anyway, I had a really good swim today. The pool is starting to get busy again, too. I did not plan on kickboxing, but I just felt so good after my swim, and had alot of energy that I said "what the heck" and went! After getting DD from the bus at noon, I spent some time doing kitchen puttering to get a start on turning the last of the garden veggies into edibles . Made some fried green tomatoes(YUM! ) for sandwiches this week at lunch time, and bought stuff to use up the peppers in chili which I'll probably freeze for winter emergency K-rations! DH called this afternoon to tell me cooktop will be delivered next Thursday, and oil Co. will come on Friday to hook it up! So in a week, I'll be cooking on my new gas cooktop! Hard to beleive it! Now, do you know anyone(organization etc...) that would buy/take as a donation(tax write off) a ceramic 5 burner Kitchen Aid cooktop in perfect condition!??:

Jennifer-I'm so glad today was a better day. A few peanut M & M's won't break the bank, that's for sure. Those are one of my favorites, too. I used to crave them during one of my pregnancies. Just remember, take it one day at a time, and celebrate every little success!

Les-Halifax??? Be it business, pleasure or both?? Just curious...or maybe nosy!

Hope everyone else had a good day, too.

Karen

[JackieO]

Originally posted by Leslie Ferguson
A quick synopsis of last week:
A mixed week for Jackie those darned Packers, :mad: on and off the (healthy eating) wagon, positive interaction with DS, WW on the horizon? (I hope not.)
Peace,
Les

Hey, guys! I just had a chance now to skim this week's thread. My schedule is careening out of control again, although I now have a PDA to try to help me manage it. I'm seriously a candidate for that Walgreens (?) commercial that starts out: Technology works for some people, but not for me....

Anyway, I don't even remember when I last posted. DH and I took a road trip up to the Peshtigo River flowage area to "inspect" the lots that went up for auction this week. Ha! All very gorgeous properties....the auction was held yesterday, and the 97 lots were sold to 72 buyers with an average price of $125,777 per lot. Given that some were much more desirable/larger than others, you know some went for way more than that and others way less. We chalked it up to an interesting exploration, and I'm glad to say I can now pursue my retirement dream in Scottsdale....

Workouts -- oi. I made it to the gym on Monday and did a good elliptical workout and lower body. Tuesday was spent with a four-hour road trip to attend a 2.5 hour meeting at corporate HQ. :mad: Today, I promised I'd take DS shopping because he has finally decided to dress himself in something other than sweatpants and rec dept. t-shirts. We went to Kohls because of a huge sale, and of all places, DS looks at the price tags and says, "We can't spend this much on jeans!!" I told him not to worry, we weren't paying the price on the tag, the jeans were 40% off and there was an extra 15% off that. He still thought that was way too much money to spend on clothes! Sheesh....I guess I should feel lucky he hasn't wanted to be outfitted in Ambercrombie and Gap for all these years, but geez! (This trait obviously comes from DH's side of the family.)

I did take DS to Applebee's for dinner tonight and I ordered an entree from the new WW menu -- only 5 points! My weight last Saturday was unchanged, and when I looked at my upcoming schedule, told myself to get real. There was no way I was going to be able to fit in weekly weigh-ins/meetings, let alone keep up my workout schedule for the next several months, so as long as my weight doesn't go up, I am just going to pluck along on my own, with your support. January might be a more realistic time-frame, given my work/vacation/holiday schedule -- DH also has a really busy semester, and I'm trying to persuade him to join me on the WW bandwagon. So, until then....no WW in my immediate future, Les!

Sorry to be so self-centered. I wish everyone well in their HL/WW pursuits this week and I'll catch up with y'all on the weekend!

[Leslie Ferguson]

Originally posted by JackieO
Today, I promised I'd take DS shopping because he has finally decided to dress himself in something other than sweatpants and rec dept. t-shirts. We went to Kohls because of a huge sale, and of all places, DS looks at the price tags and says, "We can't spend this much on jeans!!"

Count your blessings but I am like DS - even if I NEED something in the clothes department you almost have to put a gun to my head to buy something. Of course when I do buy the nicer stuff is normally from Men's Warehouse (love those clothes and the service).

My weight last Saturday was unchanged, and when I looked at my upcoming schedule, told myself to get real. There was no way I was going to be able to fit in weekly weigh-ins/meetings, let alone keep up my workout schedule for the next several months, so as long as my weight doesn't go up, I am just going to pluck along on my own, with your support... So, until then....no WW in my immediate future, Les!

IMO - Step one in the positive direction. It sounds like you've got the right idea and have a plan to maintain. We'll be here to boost you when you need it.

Sorry to be so self-centered. I wish everyone well in their HL/WW pursuits this week and I'll catch up with y'all on the weekend!

No sweat - there's plenty of bandwidth to listen around here and I think we've all had our share of self-centered days (at least I know I have). Good for you to check in and let us know you're frazzled but doing well.
Karen - Just decided to drop in on kick boxing??? That sounds like my kind of excuse. I'm sorry I can't help you on your cooktop but I bet there must be a place that sells all kinds of stuff. In Norfolk we have a place that sells everything - our old TV (it had to warm up to get a good picture) and our old washers and dryers. Halifax is for business but I'll try to add at least one pleasure afternoon - probably Monday before the conference or Friday after we've finished while we are waiting for transportation back to Norfolk.
Jennifer - Time is a beautiful thing and it really heals the bad moods (believe me). I hope you are still doing your exercises that you can do outside the therapist.

My "me" time - I've kind of imposed a moritorium on my visits during the day - work is too hectic these days. To top it off I'll be out of the office and away from home (in hotel rooms) for most of the next two weeks. Next week I'm in Halifax. The following week I go to San Diego (I leave 18 hours after returning from Halifax) for a three day conference. On a positive note I went to PT today and got my exercises and they are both simple and taxing at the same time. hard to explain but I bet you get my drift. I also had a good 60 minute elliptical this evening but derailed my evening and didn't finish dinner until 9:20!

Now it is time for bed and the sleep of the just. To my dear friends - thank you for bearing with my moods and my "absence". Until morning...
Peace,
Les

[tmsl]

Swamped at work this week....

Karen-have you looked to see if there is a Habitat for Humantity in your area???


Laura K.

[ellery]

Another blah one checking in.

Oh boy I can't wait till tomorrow's over. I'm pooped, pooped, pooped and all out of sorts. Was sore from the class I taught Monday, then team taught Tuesday night, which further wore me out, then taught again last night, when I SOOOO didn't feel like it. Blick. I'm just reminded of how much harder I work when I teach versus working out on my own. It doesn't help matters that I've been inhaling food like a demented anteater all week, and that I've woken up for the second day now with what I think is a sinus headache.

Whew! Vent over.

So I'm going to definitely take tonight off, and maybe tomorrow too, from the gym, and just rest and recharge and get ready for the weekend, going to yoga, a chili cookoff, and then Lowe's, as our place needs new sinks, desperately. And hey, Karen, I'll take your oven! It's got to be newer and more reliable than ours, which has to be at least 20 years old, with temperamental burners that lean.

Okay, sorry to be self-absorbed, but must be off to fix a scheduling snafu that I've just discovered amidst the 1001 things on my desk awaiting my attention. Oy.

Happy thursday all!

Leah

[karen w]

Good evening everyone,

Kind of a mellow day for me. I had my swim this morning, a pretty decent one at that. Then after the kids got off to school, I decided to do some shopping(instead of kickboxing ). Hey, I can take a break once in a while! Anyway, shopping trip was for naugt as I came home empty handed:mad: . I was looking for some casual pants for me, holiday gifts for the kids and cousins, etc... but nothing really grabbed me. Oh well. Maybe I'll have better luck next time.
In the afternoon, I decided to make one of the chili's I planned to use some of the garden peppers on...especially since the last of the soup I finished for lunch today was on the verge of spoiling. Well, I ate it and as they say in Monty Python, "I'm not dead yet!" And now at least I'll have something fresh for lunch tomorrow. So that was my day...a little more mellow for me today, and I guess that's a good thing once in awhile.

Leah-Since when do anteaters eat alot???? And a demented one, you say??? Huh?? Interesting visual! Have a nice day off.

Laura-We have not yet checked out organizations to donate the cooktop to yet, but someone else suggested Habitat For Humanity to me. I think DH wants to hang on to it for awhile...at least until we're sure I like the new one .

Jackie-WOW! You must tell me what you have been doing to have kids that are so conscious of not spending too much money for jeans, clothes etc... You sure are a lucky mom. I hope mine have an appreciation for what things cost when they get to that stage. And congratulations on maintaining.

Les-Aren't you going to be the traveling man....Happy travels in advance!

Have a good night everyone,
Karen

[JackieO]

Originally posted by karen w
Jackie-WOW! You must tell me what you have been doing to have kids that are so conscious of not spending too much money for jeans, clothes etc... You sure are a lucky mom. I hope mine have an appreciation for what things cost when they get to that stage. And congratulations on maintaining.
Have a good night everyone,
Karen

To be quite candid, I think it's genetic on DH's side....He's been running around the house this week with a ratty old burgundy sweatshirt I bought him at Marshall Fields in downtown Milwaukee (the store's been out of business at that location for about 12+ years) that is virtually hanging on him by threads. "It's still in good shape," he says. So, with that as a role-model, what can I say?

DS has always been rather willing to stand out from his friends, sort of carving out a "unique" brand or status, if you will. I think the move made him even more so. He is quite attached to his Wauwatosa Rec Dept. t-shirts, and he is all about comfort (that comes from MY DNA, btw! ), so the t-shirt and sweats came naturally to him. He has several girls interested in him now, however, so I think he is becoming more conscious of his appearance. He is also paying much better attention to personal hygiene issues, so I think he is "evolving" into guy-hood.

Anyway, as for me, I went to the ladies gym tonight and did 40 minutes of elliptical work and my lower body strength training. I'm headed to the basement, ahem, "lower level" to pump up my new balance ball. I read a Denise Austin article in Prevention while on the elliptical today that incorporates ball and band workouts. I'm going to get serious about this while traveling this fall!

[Leslie Ferguson]

Originally posted by JackieO
He has several girls interested in him now, however, so I think he is becoming more conscious of his appearance.

I'm headed to the basement, ahem, "lower level" to pump up my new balance ball.

Ahhhh- the truth is told - a girl in his life (or is that girls?). The joys of adolesence. Slow and steady - that's the ticket. I laugh when you talk about your balance ball - one of my PT exercises has to do with balance and balls but not quite the same. I have to bounce a light medicine ball off a trampoline (one handed and two handed) while balancing on my "bad" ankle. What a sight to see.
Karen - Oh my you took a break. I hope you enjoyed your rest and that your weekend is as good as today was. Of course I am sorry about the lack of shopping success but there is time. Sadly (or not) my trip to Halifax was overcome by lack of travel funds (and we're only 10 days into the fiscal year). So I'm not going to Halifax but will go to San Diego the week following (don't ask it only makes my head hurt).
Leah - What a mental picture -- a demented anteater. I think I know what those things look like. I hope your eating isn't a stress reaction.
Laura K - {{Throwing a life ring your direction}} I hope the proverbial water doesn't get you. De-stressing thoughts headed your direction.

Tonight - I had no pop and decided to bike. This time I had to go at it inside - not enough light any more after work. It wasn't bad and I came out with a nice healthy sweat rolling off me. I think I'm still dong ok with my ankle/foot but it doesn't seem to be making any progress - and that is truly frustrating.

Being a good boy and trying to turn n before Mickey's hands are both straight up. So until morning...
Peace,
Les

[jfadler]

Hi everyone,

I started reading Jackie's post (the one right after my most recent one), then realized that I'm beat and I just don't have it in me to read them all. Sorry.

So, Jackie, I like the sound of your plan. Just do what you can to take care of yourself, but don't worry too much about it. I think you'll find that everything falls into place. Just do what's good for you.

Everyone else: I hope all is going well, and your adventures in good-for-you stuff are going well, but you take time for that slice of chocolate cake (or whatever your favorite indulgence is) every once in a blue moon.

This week is kind of a write off for me. I've had a few long days, including a day in the field today, and another tomorrow. Next week may be more of the same, as well as the following week. I'll just have to do my best. For the next few weeks, the best may be trying to avoid the super-greasy stuff on the fast food menus (do they exist?). Well, what is one to do? I'll try to work some gym time in when I'm not too wiped out, but I'm not going to stress about it.

Anyway, it's past my bedtime (and it's not even 9:30), and I have an early morning and a long day ahead of me.

Goodnight,

Jennifer

[Sarah428]

Hi all, looks like everyone is glad it's almost the weekend! My week was pretty average, liking the new routine so far. I missed the gym Thursday, DD was up for a 3 hour stretch in the middle on the night so I slept in. This morning managed to get in 35 minutes on elliptical and 20 minutes of lifting before rushing home to get DH off to work.

Met w/ the house builder last night, boy is my head spinning. Not sure we'll be able to pull it off financially, I've set up a meeting with the bank for next Wednesday.

Not much planned for the weekend, tinkering around the house and working on Sunday - yuk!

Take care - Sarah

[ellery]

Quiet on the thread today. I'm busily munching a Lean Pocket (yum) and counting down the hours till the weekend. Enjoyed my night off from the gym last night and celebrated by falling asleep on the couch by 9. Brought my gym stuff along just in case I feel the urge to go after work, but will see how I feel. I think it's just allergies or something kicking my anteater behind, but who knows...

Sounds like we're all a little pooped this week. Groupthink in action?

Okay, off to finish lunch and be industrious. Hope everyone has a nice weekend.



Leah

[Leslie Ferguson]

Originally posted by ellery
Enjoyed my night off from the gym last night and celebrated by falling asleep on the couch by 9. Brought my gym stuff along just in case I feel the urge to go after work, but will see how I feel. I think it's just allergies or something kicking my anteater behind, but who knows...

Sounds like we're all a little pooped this week. Groupthink in action?

Okay, off to finish lunch and be industrious. Hope everyone has a nice weekend.

I think the day off was just what the doctor ordered for you. Allergies at this time of year are killing me too. Nose is running all the time and I keep getting that "hair ball" feeling in the morning. I agree - it seems that there is a general malaise on the thread this week. Maybe it is the cares of the world weighting us down.
Jennifer - I agree a little indulgence once in a while never hurt anyone. I hope next week is better for you.
Sarah - House buying can be the most stressful thing going in your life. I hope everything works out for the best.

A quick update - I did my last in the office PT today. The Technician (not a doctor but a person who has been doing physical therapy for many, many years) asked how I was feeling. I mentioned that my ankle was sore/hurt most of the time - even when I'm sitting. She asked how many times I had sprained my ankle to which I replied at least 10. She commented that based on my history and the fact that my pain hasn't gotten any better over the weeks (meaning that the therapy really hasn't done much except build support muscles) that I probably may need more drastic measures. Her recommendation (and I'd feel pretty comfortable taking her recommendation) was to get a consultation to see an orthopedic and probably have a foot/ankle procedure done now. I really didn't want to hear that but in my heart of hearts I knew it was coming. Now all I need is the courage to actually see the doctor and get the ball rolling. But I don't want to because I'm not a big fan of potential surgery etc. Oh well, time to start "acting my age" and listening to my own advice. I'll pick up the phone once I sign off and make the call.

I hope everyone has a safe and productive weekend.

Peace,
Les

[Sarah428]

(((Les))) - Sorry to hear about the advise you got . A girl in my running group (who hasn't been running with us for a few months now) just got the same news. Well, keep your chin up and get that ball rolling so you can get back on the road - take care!