What is a "bottom line"???

According to Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, there are numerous "bottom lines"...a biweekly alternative newspaper at the University of California Santa Barbara, the running scores and news for ESPN (the ticker at the bottom of the screen); net income (revenue minus costs and expenses); music venue in New York City's Greenwich Village; a World Wrestling Entertainment syndicated television show; catch phrase of Stone Cold Steve Austin and John Vespa; a publishing company...and my backside!!!!

Monday, November 15, 2010

Day 3--In the books...

Today started off the most dreariest of all days...Mondays are usually hard for me, because I spend the weekend doing all of my fun stuff..and Monday is just back to reality for me...back to the beginning of a long work week...and five whole days until the next weekend of fun.  Today was no exception--in Atlanta it was rainy and dreary most of the day...and since it gets dark at 5 p.m. now...by the time I left work (near 6), it seemed like it was 10:00p already.  Enough of my complaining...hey, at least I am that much closer to the weekend...:)

So, Day 3 workout consisted of cardio endurance training.  I was to do 35 minutes of any activity--but I had to push myself to my limit for at least 10 minutes of that.  I decided that I would get on the Stairmaster for 35 minutes...something that I have never done.  (In the past, when I was working out regularly, the most I had done was 20 minutes without stopping...and that was on a manual mode...where everything was the same...same resistance, speed, etc.).  So, tonight, I decide that I am going to embark on the cardio burn program...level 4...for 35 minutes...What was I thinking?  I think that at one point, I thought I was going to die...is what I was thinking.  I now can somewhat imagine what those folks at the Biggest Loser feel the first week or so that they are there and Jillian and Bob are pushing them outside of their comfort zone.  (Sidenote:  Luckily, I didn't have Jillian jumping on my back and cursing me...though in my mind, I was just as vocal as some of the contestants I have seen on there.  I am pretty sure that was only in my mind, anyway...).  So, I had my new Zune up and running (pun intended...because if I am running...okay, slow stair climbing...someone had better come with me!).  So, we were off...luckily the stairmaster shows a graph (what looked like a big bar chart of highs and lows...maybe my motivational scale...or worse my weight??? Oh dear...good thing I didn't think of it while I was on it...because I would have stopped then and there) and it breaks each "bar" down by the total time that you are working out and counts backward on the clock...I am so engrossed with the timers and all of the numbers that are shown...completely fixated.  Anyway...the first ten minutes went off without a hitch--then things got a bit more difficult...and it was only uphill literally (though my emotions were steadily going downhill) from there.  I pushed through it...and made it to minute 35...and then the 2 minute cooldown.  Personal best on the stairmaster...37 minutes!!!  I climbed 98 flights (need to do the research to ascertain what a flight is...), a total of 2.25 miles and burned almost 350 calories...I was also drenched in sweat...as I wore a long sleeved technical shirt because it was raining when I left home for the gym...How stupid!  I am pretty sure that no one in the gym would be marveling at my stats...but I was super proud for pushing myself...for not stepping off and saying...well, 25 minutes is good enough...I did it!!!

So, here's a photo of my post-workout...just before I started writing this post...nice 'do, I know...:)

 Have a great evening...off to bed very soon!

Sunday, November 14, 2010

End of Weekend Post...

Well, to follow up on Saturday morning's post...I did make it to my weigh in at Weight Watchers...and I had gone up a pound since my last weigh in (over 2 months ago).  While this was not the best news...it could have definitely been worse with the lack of activity due to my ankle fracture.  So, while I was not jumping for joy--I was not completely devastated either.  In fact, likely due to my due diligence at the gym last week and having my head in the right place...well, I was likely better off on Saturday morning.  Anyway--my magic number was 226.0...So, I hope that the only place I can go from here is to a lower number...:)

What else???  I did attend a Tupperware party (last second decision) and bought my very first Tupperware--ever.  I guess that it's kind of astounding...but it is what it is.  I bought a handy dandy food storage (really...from Tupperware?) container to take my lunch in...it's one that is microwavable with the vent doodad on the top.   Tupperware has some amazing products...Definitely was not in the budget to spend the money that I did...but I am hopeful that I will continue to stay motivated to keep cooking and taking the leftovers in my new bowls...when I get them.

I did make it to the gym for Day 2 of my new workout plan...today was to be spent primarily on weights...upper body strength training.  I did modify the plan a bit--as I hate (almost more than anything in life) doing weights...of any kind.  WGH did help me out...which was nice...but still did not make me love the weight training any more.  I did 15 minutes on Fat Burn on the stationary bike and 5 minutes on the stairmaster (calorie burn) before doing the weight training.  Today's workout was all about Hammer Bicep Curls, Bicep Curls, Tricep Curls and Isolation exercises...Yuck, yuck, and yuck!  Hopefully I will be able to move my arms tomorrow...

Anyway--tomorrow it's back to work and everything that entails...However...take note here--I cooked enough this weekend to take my lunch most days (if not all) this week.  This is a huge step forward for me--and hopefully will show that a little planning goes a long, long way!!!!

Leaving you with a picture from our Friday night adventure...we went to see Lady Antebellum at the Fabulous Fox Theater in Atlanta.  (Was a great show...and my pictured pal actually got to meet them!!!  How cool is that?).  

Saturday, November 13, 2010

Say it with me...OMG!!!!

Well, I did it...Day 1 of my new training plan...and Oh. My. Goodness. (or that should read OH. MY. GOODNESS!!!!).  I don't think that I have ever pushed myself that hard...or if I did, I didn't realize it...I have done interval training before--but nothing like that...or maybe I am just too out of shape.  I did the 30-minute workout from the plan...and did 2.25 mi in 30 minutes (that's less than the 15 minute mile I had been doing for 45 minutes...so yay me!).   Then, when I was done with that because WGH was still only halfway through his workout, I got on the stairmaster for 10 more minutes...for real.  So, while I am covered in the cardio department for the day (burned 473 calories total...so that's 4 activity points on WW for my new week)...still need to stretch and go weigh in at my WW meeting.  

I will go to weigh in and post an additional post with the results (not expecting a stellar performance...but it is an accountability issue...:)).

Have a great Saturday!!!

Friday, November 12, 2010

My New Plan...

I am going to try and adapt a new exercise plan…simply getting to the gym is apparently not enough for me…I need some structure and some sort of plan…I don’t typically do weights on my own…but maybe if I have some guidance through this plan from Calorie Count, I can make it work. (Special thanks to Katie J. for finding this plan and posting on her blog…HOPEFULLY by having the plan and someone to hold me accountable and that I am accountable to(you, my readers, if there are any of you left), I can work it out!!!). So, all of this is for tomorrow’s workout…since Saturday is my weigh in day at Weight Watchers (oh my goodness…will be officially on record again)…then no time like the beginning of my week to start Day 1 of this plan. The plan seems to be equally easy to follow with lots of options. I look forward to posting all of the happenings that tomorrow brings…Be warned...I will be posting the good, the bad, and the ugly!!!


Note:  I learned some new terms on this plan...for example, RPE refers to the Borg Perceived Exertion Scale (see below for description of the scale as it relates to the workout plan). 
  • Level 1: I'm watching TV and eating bon bons
  • Level 2: I'm comfortable and could maintain this pace all day long
  • Level 3: I'm still comfortable, but am breathing a bit harder
  • Level 4: I'm sweating a little, but feel good and can carry on a conversation effortlessly
  • Level 5: I'm just above comfortable, am sweating more and can still talk easily
  • Level 6: I can still talk, but am slightly breathless
  • Level 7: I can still talk, but I don't really want to. I'm sweating like a pig
  • Level 8: I can grunt in response to your questions and can only keep this pace for a short time
  • Level 9: I am probably going to die
  • Level 10: I am dead
For the most part, longer workouts should be kept to an intensity of 5 or lower and for the interval training...there will be short spurts of activity that is level 7-8.  I am sure that I will feel like everything is a Level 9...:)

Day 1...Cardio and Stretching  (All of this is courtesy of Calorie Count (Exercise Plan). 

Duration                     The Workout                                RPE

5 Minutes                             Warm up: Start with a moderate pace to gradually warm up                                3-4



2 Minutes        Baseline: Increase incline/resistance and speed to slightly higher than comfortable pace.             5


2 Minutes                 Pyramid Up: Increase the incline/resistance 2% every 15 seconds                                      7


2 Minutes                 Pyramid Down: Decrease incline/resistance 2% every 15 seconds                                       7


1 Minute                          Sprint: Move as fast as you can                                                                             8


2 Minutes                                            Baseline                                                                                                  5


2 Minutes                 Pyramid Up: Increase the incline/resistance 2% every 15 seconds                                          7


2 Minutes                 Pyramid Down: Decrease incline/resistance 2% every 15 seconds                                          7


1 Minute Hill Sprint: Increase incline/resistance by 8-10%, keeping speed moderate until you reach Level 8        8-9


2 Minutes                               Baseline: Decrease incline/resistance to baseline                                                      5


2 Minutes                              Sprint: Move as fast as you can                                                                           8


2 Minutes                   Baseline: Decrease speed to recover back to baseline                                                          5


5 minutes                                             Cool down                                                                             3-4

Total Self Inflicted TourtureWorkout Time: 30 minutes

(Sorry about the formatting of that info...obviously user error here...copy and paste was not my friend and I couldn't get the stuff lined up...YUCKO!!!)...Hopefully you get the drift...
 
After the workout, I will complete a series of stretches...I am only listing below the stretches.  The website has pictures and descriptions of how to complete each stretch.  (Note:  This is a very good thing for those of us (ME) that might not know the technical terms and do better with a visual diagram/photo!).
 
Stretches
Hip/Glute Stretch
Hamstring Stretch
Inner Thigh Stretch
Lunge Stretch
Kneeling Hamstring Stretch
Piriformis Stretch
Knees to Chest
Knee to Chest
Calf Stretch
Kneeling Calf Stretch
Spine Twist
Quad Stretch
 
 
So, this looks like a full workout Saturday for me...Stay tuned for weigh in results (scary...and it's not even Halloween...but there were some Halloween treats ingested!) and my workout/stretch results...
 

Thursday, November 11, 2010

So, I have done it…again!

Or at the very least...I plan to do it again!!!

Nope…not worked out…as we have a social obligation this evening (the Wild West Comedy Show with Vince Vaughn and Kevin James)…so walking today will be limited at work and from the parking deck to the venue and then to our seats…and vice versa. So, I don’t plan to break a sweat…though I did wear heels to work and to the show this evening (so maybe my calves will at least get a workout)…


What I did do…I signed up to commit to a 5K on Thanksgiving. However, since I will be in Louisville, Kentucky with my husband’s family (and since I don’t always know what the Thanksgiving game day plan entails..when we will eat or what family will be there), I am doing this on my own. I will take my Garmin (who is not currently named…though I am thinking Kyle Busch might be an appropriate name…as when he’s (yep, my Garmin is a “he”) in action, he’s spot on—unstoppable…but when it’s bad, it’s really bad…Hot and Cold, I guess you could say. Anyway, I will take KB with me…along with the Asics and some workout clothes…and probably a handy dandy border collie (who will welcome the 5K and likely want to do more!). Anyway...while many cities have a Turkey Trot or other Fun Run aptly titled for Thanskgiving…I will be doing this without entering an actual event…will call my jaunt on Thanksgiving, Alternative to NFL (or Napping) 5K.  All of this came about due to Alissa's post.  And while I am at it...I want to give kudos to Alissa…she reached a milestone today—losing 70 lbs!  So awesome job, for sure.
 
 

Anyway…just wanted to add this post while I was thinking about it..and had a moment to spare at work…back to crunching…and I am only talking numbers (not abs!).







Make today a great one!!!






Cheers!

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

I did it again!!!

Yep...I made it to the gym 2 days in a row!!!!  This is a huge accomplishment for me...as I haven't been to the gym in at least 7 weeks prior to yesterday.   I did more cardio tonight...the bike (Fat Burner Mode for 20 minutes...KILLER!) and then the stairstepper for 17 minutes (15 minutes + 2 minute cooldown)...OMG...that's all I have to say.  I could barely get upstairs to get ready for bed (and type this post).

I got home from the gym and had DVR'd the CMA awards that were on ABC...What a great night for country music.  (I won't bore you with the rundown...but it was a great night if you are a Lady Antebellum, Blake Shelton, Miranda Lambert, or Brad Paisley fan!!!  P.S.  There were many other winners...but these happen to be among my favorites!).  This is why my post-gym post is so late...had to watch the entire show...:)

Off to bed now...Until next time...make it a great one!

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Got My Groove On...

Okay...maybe that's not such a great title...but it's late...:)

Just had to share that I did make it to the gym this evening...for the first time in a long time (like over two months---since I fractured my ankle!).  I likely overdid it a wee bit...did a full 5K (well, 3.24 mi to be exact, with the cooldown) in less than 45 minutes...44:52, if you must know.  While I know this will not set any records...it was a tough one for me...because obviously I upped the speed, and so you  know, I increased the incline to 4.0 for almost 30 minutes of the jaunt.  So, my return to L.A. Fitness was, by my account, a complete success.  I did have to ice the foot upon our return home...it was just a bit not quite right, if you know what I mean. 

Eating has been okay, thus far, this week, as well.  I am keeping up with the water, too...especially after reading around on various blogs that this might be a huge way to help flush my system.  So, we'll see what happens when I make my vivid return to Weight Watchers for the Saturday a.m. meeting.  (I couldn't, in all likelihood weigh in while I had my cinder block orthopedic boot for the past 7 weeks...:)

Just had to share my mini-successes...here's to a great week...and as one of my favorite songs currently on the radio (just some Uncle Kracker and Kid Rock)..."Damn!  It's good to be me!!!!"  The photos are us at the Uncle Kracker concert in Atlanta over the weekend...not a great self-photo (I stink at taking those) of me...but I did better with the actual photo of Uncle Kracker...:)

Mei Ling and Me at Wild Bill's...before Uncle Kracker


One of many photos of Uncle Kracker (just thought I would share!)  Highly recommend going to see him, if you get the chance...quite an awesome show!!!!

Have a great one...

Friday, October 29, 2010

Almost the weekend...

Not much time to post...just wanted to send a quick update that me and WGH and the boys (the canine ones, Albert and Bally) are taking a long weekend in the mountains of North Georgia.  We always go away this weekend...a tradition of sorts.  Anyway...the weather should be nice, dry, and chilly...Will post pics upon our return.

I won't be working on Monday--which simply means that I postpone my normal Monday blahs to Tuesday...and it's month end close...NICE!

Have a great weekend!!!  I know that I plan to!

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Quick Update

I didn't get around to posting any photos...but thought I would update Albert's status...the doctor is not sure what the ailment is...but has assured us that Albert is not in pain.  She did an ultrasound of all of his major organs yesterday and everything looked healthy and his blood pressure was perfectly normal (supporting the no pain claim).  Anyway...she has said that the x-rays looked normal to her--so no lung cancer.  They did test his urine and that showed that he does have a urinary tract infection...but the liver enzymes were within a normal range.  This contradicts the next hypothesis of Cushing's Syndrome...a thyroid condition (at least that's what WGH told me...I haven't thoroughly researched).  While Al is showing some of the symptoms (ravenous hunger, excessive thirst, hair loss) of that, the fact that the bloodwork in July wasn't elevated and the fact that his liver enzymes (from the urine) weren't elevated yesterday, she's pretty sure that's not what it is.  Anyway...next Tuesday, he's going back for another test...something about his larynx being enlarged.  They will have to sedate him to check this...but she seems to think this is relatively easy enough to check...and could provide answers to the panting problem.  I did notice last night, that the normal triggers for barking (a doorbell ring on television or my cell phone ringing, for example) did not elicit any sort of response...so maybe this is the issue.  What I don't know and what WGH failed to ask (or tell me) is what the course of treatment is.  If it's not the larynx issue...then we may have to pay to run the official test for Cushing's...(each of these procedures run about $200...plus the $200 we spent yesterday...but if it gives us peace of mind and Albert relief, I can't think of money better spent...I know, we are crazy dog parents!!!)

At any rate...for now, Albert is taking Cipro for his infection...hopefully, that will at least begin to clear before next week.

Thanks again for reading...and I promise I hope to get back into the swing of things soon...and I will post those photos!

Make today a great one!!!

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Where Have I Been???!!!!!

First and foremost, if any of you are still out there reading…I am sorry. I am sorry for my lack of diligence in posting on this blog for well over a month…actually, 7 weeks, to be exact (but who’s keeping count?). I fell and fractured my foot…and well, with my foot out of commission, so was my head. Unable to exercise and hold myself accountable—left me with very little blog about. However, I am back…and with a (hopeful) vengeance. To think that I would actually miss exercise used to be almost laughable…but I really and truly did. The doctor release me from the prison of my orthopedic boot (pics to follow…but think huge, gray, cinder block attached to one of your extremities…and you will know just what I went through!). Anyway…while the foot is not fully 100%, I am going to attempt to make it back to the gym this week. I know that long times on the stairstepper are not likely—but hopefully just some time on the bike or something will give me some peace of mind.




And speaking of peace of mind…I know that many of you know nothing more about me than what is on here…but some of you might know some of my personal life. Well, I am going to ask for some positive thoughts and prayers…not for me, but for my canine boy (one of two in our house), Albert. Albert was a geriatric pup when we adopted him some four years ago. I found his picture on the bulletin board at the hospital when my Mom was in there. After my Mom passed away, probably as a way to ease my pain, WGH (World’s Greatest Husband) agreed to Albert coming to live with us. He really helped me manage that horrible time in my life...just being there to look at me with his crinkly face and his huger (is that a word) than teddy bear appearance has been a source of comfort for me. Anyway…fast forward to today…Albert has been showing some stranger than normal (and let’s understand, Albert’s behavior has been far from normal on anyone’s scale…) signs…heavy, heavy panting. Back in July, we had lots of bloodwork and other tests run—and at that time, our vet thought that Albert was fine…maybe experiencing some arthritic pains or something and the panting was a result of the pain. Over the weekend, Albert’s heavy panting started to include a wheeze (not all the time…but it was definitely present). So, WGH did take Albert back to the vet…where another vet in the practice (not our normal vet…and not one that I would prefer, since she has said she was more of a cat vet…but I am sure she’s perfectly fine…that’s just my preference). Anyway, she ordered a chest x-ray after examination of Albert. The x-ray showed a spot on his lung…and that’s all she’s said. Today, at 3:30p EST, WGH is taking Albert to an Internist (how silly is it that my dog has a specialist? And really, he has many specialists…he’s had surgery 2x, goes to physical therapy…need I go on?). Anyway…please send positive thoughts Albert’s way (and mine, too…I am/have been a wreck for 2 days!).



I will post more…just wanted to put a quick update out there…I have lots of pics to post…and will be sure to put Albert’s pic out there for you to see…



Until later…be good…and if you can’t be good, then be good at it!!!!

Friday, August 20, 2010

And here's another new challenge...


For the record, I have enlisted in the MOST WORKOUTS category--as there's simply no way I can only log mileage.

You can find this challenge at Drazil's blog...

New Challenge--Drop Dead Gorgeous by December...

Was just browsing through some blogs...catching up on some reading when I came across this new challenge, Drop Dead Gorgeous by December.  I am so on board with this one...I know that it totally is not all about a number on the scale...but with this kind of commitment and positive thinking, I can't help but wonder if it will all pay off (everything is connected right?).  Anyway...I am in (even had to copy and paste the directions so that I could remember to do everything that is required.   The challenge starts this Sunday, so take a look and if interested, be sure to sign up!

More news to come later...and photos, I promise!

Until then...enjoy this Friday (although it's dreary and cloudy here!).

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

One more random ramble...then I am done (for today!)

So, it's 12:02 a.m. (Wednesday) but I had to share that I did make it to the gym Tuesday evening...and I did 50 minutes of interval training (5 min warmup, 3 minute walk/2 minute "run" then a cool down).  And since that didn't kill me, I did make it to the stairstepper for an extra 12 minutes...Oh my goodness!  I have never felt so invigorated and totally pumped (or if I have, it was a while ago...since this is only my second time to the gym in a month!).  I just had to share...

Planning to get up in the a.m. and do something active at the gym...we'll see what happens.

Off to bed for now...Good night, Dear Friends!

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Random Ramblings...

Okay…so I have been less than diligent in my blogging…Hopefully you are still here—and may even be venturing through this whole new post. (What?! A new post…it’s only been 2 weeks and counting…Can’t be!).




So first, let me begin by saying that my weight loss has been anything but super. For the first week of End of Summer challenge, I rocked…lost over 4 lbs. Then the second week was less than superb (although I did record a minimal loss). I am drinking my water…have ventured back to the gym (it’s just too dang hot to be out and about on the road…although I do have a 10K in less than 3 weeks!!!! All I can say is, “OH MY!!!”). Anyway, I am hopeful that my true weigh in at Weight Watchers on Saturday a.m. will be a super success this week.



To continue with my week of mediocrity…I called my hair salon (am way overdue for some color and a cut) to schedule an appointment this week before our eighth wedding anniversary celebration (actually our anniversary is the 24th, but because it falls on a “school” (read, “during the week” since we have no kids or any connection to any part of a school year) night, we are celebrating this weekend. The past several years we go out to dinner, rent a limousine, go to several bars (read “indulge and imbibe”) and spend the night at the hotel that we spent our wedding night in 2002 (who says I am not a creature of habit sappy romantic?). Well, this year, they have opened one of our favorite restaurants (and where we tend to totally overdo the dinner part of the evening), Ruth’s Chris, closer to home (vs. driving 20 miles down the interstate…we only have to go less than 8 mi) in a hotel…so it’s a win/win…we are closer to home and there’s a hotel (read: “No Limo/Car Service Required!”). Anyway, Wonderful Husband has decided that this is a better (“cheaper”) option. We did go to this same restaurant on Valentine’s Day (which was right after it opened)…and while the food was great and the service was equitable to what we have had at the other locations…I have heard nothing but less than stellar reviews from others. (So, I am worried a little about that…but can tell you they get one chance…and if they jack it up, we will not go back and bad, horrible letters to a corporate office will ensue). Anyway—back to the hair salon…so I call (and have been going to my colorist for about 3 years and the stylist for about a year). This salon is what I would call high(er) end…since I have two people tending to my needs…and they have titles like Stylist, International Level and Master Colorist, International Level (which translates to years of service…and International is the top level…which translates to more $$$$). Anyway, I call (and am on hold for over 8 minutes—who would have thought that Top End Salon would have only one person answering the phone?) and finally get the Customer Service Specialist (that’s what the title is…for real, I heard it on the recording, more than once in the 8 minutes I was on hold!!!) , who is eagerly waiting to take my hard-earned paycheck and firstborn book my pricey appointment. So, I tell her that I need to come in for color and cut in the evening, sometime this week (see how flexible I am?). (Note: I already know that both Colorist and Stylist only work Wednesday through Saturday…and only Wednesday and Thursday evenings due to their International claim to fame). So, I throw out Wednesday evening…I am told that my appointment with Colorist is no problem…but that Stylist (after 20+ years of service at this salon…not just 20+ years of service in hair cuttery) is no longer employed there due to a family situation four weeks ago. OMG! What am I going to do? (You have to appreciate the fact that a gal’s relationship with her Stylist is magical…and Stylist and me, well, I thought that it something more…She could just read me…knew what I wanted and somehow worked her craftsmanship and made it happen. We reached an understanding…How could this be happening?). So, there’s this moment of silence…I awkwardly laugh (it’s what I do when I am uncomfortable…to keep from throwing out horrible expletives). Customer Service Specialist, thinking that I might need her to call 911, starts asking me if I am still on the line…hello? Upon regaining consciousness, I tell her that yes, I am still there but disappointed (wonder if she heard me crying?) that Stylist is no longer there…but I KNOW I need a hair appointment (Okay, need might be too strong of a word…WANT is probably more correct…sometimes for me, the line is blurred!). Anyway, through my heartbreak, I schedule the appointment with Super (INTERNATIONAL) Colorist and am assured that my new INTERNATIONAL Stylist (why couldn’t I step down a level or three???) is equal to my first stylist. Stay tuned…the appointment is Wednesday evening…I shall post the results, with or without desired results. (Note: one of my closest friends actually has her hair cut by my new International Level Stylist…and she does a bang up job…I have always loved my friend’s hair…so I am hopeful…but still a lot nervous!).

So, with the hair appointment on Wednesday, I won’t be able to work out Wednesday evening (I am getting full foil highlights—and even though my hair is short(er), it’s still way thick and will take about as close as forever as I am willing to go…then I will have to introduce myself to the Stylist (and am sure that it will not be unlike a first (blind) date…YUCK! Maybe I should just get a wig…LOL!



So, since it’s only Tuesday, I have to applaud myself for my decent food choices to date…(Note, I said decent…not STELLAR!).



Sunday—while I was supposed to go to the Farmer’s Market and meet up with other bloggers Tammy, Tina, and Crys (sorry!), I ended up with a migraine and just didn’t feel up to snuff (Didn’t feel like I could be my usual outgoing, sunny, confident self (read that with as much sarcasm as you can muster) through the pain, so I cancelled). I had three slices of bacon (center cut Oscar Meyer) and 2 slices of whole wheat toast for breakfast; nothing for lunch as I was saving everything for the Mellow Mushroom pizza that we ordered. I only had 2 slices (ground beef w/jalapeno peppers). (In the not so distant past, I might have eaten at least four slices of the pie).



Monday—I had my usual Weight Watchers (1 pt) yogurt (Peach flavored) for breakfast; Lunch—I did have a Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger from Wendy’s; Dinner—whole wheat spaghetti with tomato (w/extra lean ground beef) sauce and one piece of garlic toast. I did drink 8 oz. of fat free milk (this is my nightly ritual). I also consumed over approximately 80 oz. of water for the day (I have an easier time doing this at the office…). I only had one can of Pibb Zero (it’s like the most addictive alternative to Diet Coke…and unfortunately, equally as hard to find outside of the Atlanta area…and even sometimes within our area!).



Tuesday—Breakfast—Weight Watchers yogurt (Blueberry Pie flavor); Lunch—we had a Finance Departmental meeting at Copeland’s (if you are not familiar, it’s a Cajun chain…New Orleans style food). I did get the soup du jour (loaded baked potato) and side salad with balsamic vinaigrette on the side (although I did eat the two bits of cheese toast that were served with it). I did not order dessert (which was easy enough for me…they specialize in cheesecake—not a fan!) although I did taste of the whipped cream that was on a co-workers dessert plate. (While this was not a great lunch…it could have been SO much worse…so I am calling this a success!). I have drank about 80 oz. of water today…so I think that it’s been another successful day. I am sure that Wonderful Husband will have prepared a super dinner, as well…



Speaking of dinner…it’s time for me to go home…Off to dinner and then to the gym this evening…



I told you that this post was random…guess I didn’t lie! I should re-title it…Random Ramblings… (Note: I did change the title...)



Have a great one…More (less Random, I hope) Later!

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Missing in Action....

Well, it seems like forever since I have been on here...and I guess in Blogland, it has been!!!  I have missed posting--but I have been reading blogs and posting comments--just haven't done the nitty gritty dirty work to get a post out here...The epitome of lazy, I guess...But my intent is to not fall by the wayside again...

Let's see...before I left, I was heading to Louisville for HullabaLOU music festival in Louisville, KY on July 23 and 24...What a huge success this was!  On Friday, we ventured to Churchill Downs a little early and took all of the stages in and then saw part of performance from Train and then Dierks Bentley and Bon Jovi on the main stage.  On the smaller stages we saw Blood, Sweat and Tears, B52s, and Gloriana.  We saw part of the televised broadcast of Gladys Knight (no Pips, though!)...they had cameras at every stage showing it on the closed-circuit screens throughout the venue.  Bon Jovi was awesome--and I learned from people around us that they had not been to Louisville in over 20 years!  I guess that I am spoiled living in Atlanta, as most big acts flow through here at least once a year...Bon Jovi, included.  I had just seen them in April at Phillips Arena which was awesome...but this crowd was totally loving Jon and the gang!  The highlight of Friday's show was when Dierks Bentley shared the stage with Bon Jovi for one of the encores...completely awesome!!!  Saturday, due to the heat, we didn't venture out nearly as early (as I didn't really know many of the bands on the smaller stages).  We waited until about 4p and headed to the racetrack.   On the mainstage, we saw Sara Evans, Jason Aldean (fellow Georgian) and Kenny Chesney.  We had some great people sitting around us who totally loved the concerts.

Not much to report about last week...it's so uneventful that I can't even remember anything about it.  Oh yeah... I did have to report a gain in the weight loss department.  I am so saddened by that--but in this life, I just have to take the good with the bad...and know that hopefully it will all net out to a loss (eventually).

Over the past weekend, Wonderful Husband and I went to see Korn and Rob Zombie (and a lot of other "different" type music from what my preferences are).  Okay--stop laughing...I am pretty sure that I looked like someone who totally didn't belong there...especially with the "Zombies" walking around...it was crazy!  However, the music was okay.  My husband did tell me that he thought that I would like Rob Zombie...but didn't think that I care too much for Korn.  (Obviously my music tastes are quite eclectic, if you look at my Zune, you will see that...there's country, metal, rock, pop, and soon there will be some Zombie!!!).   I think that it will be some good workout music.  Wonderful Husband loved the show...and he doesn't say that a lot about concerts--heck, he doesn't go to many shows (unlike me...I am a concert junkie!  Am heading to see Sugarland on Thursday night!).

My food is under control this week...and I have been drinking water like nobody's business.  I tend to drink 96 oz. of H2O while at work (so I spend a lot of time traveling back and forth to the potty...but this is extra activity...LOL!...and allows me to refill the water bottle on the way back to my desk.  I am hopeful that I will show a loss this week...

Speaking of losses...I did join this challenge.  Hopefully the month of August will be what I need to get me back on track.




Until next time...(and I will post pics later...)...make it a good one!

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

For Entertainment Only...

Okay--it's Tuesday afternoon, I am getting ready to change my clothes and hit the pavement.  Was doing some final checking of email and ran across this...from the DoesThisBlogMakeUsLookFat.com.  I hope that this will give you a chuckle or two...

Ingredients for the Perfect Fitness Pal


1. Slightly larger butt than you.


2. No schedule conflicts so when you want to exercise she's available.


3. Has free passes to the local gym, fun fitness classes, Starbucks.


4. Sense of Humor


5. Gets that she's not the "trainer" and if you have a cramp you have a cramp.


6. Some days she'll let you know you're "perfect" at your current weight.


7. Some days she'll talk about her recent weight loss - which inspires yours as well.


8. Some days she'll agree - let's just use those Starbucks coupons and forget the workout.


9. She'll be disappointed if you can't work out - which makes you find the time.


10. She's not a complainer.


11. Her workout clothes don't match and consist of a BIG SHIRT and gross leggings - like yours.


12. She's Bob from Biggest Loser.


I would have to say that my ideal list order would look a bit different...but have included some comments here...

First on the list would have to be a sense of humor.  I cannot always laugh at myself...so I would need someone who would do this..and allow me to find the humor in the way I use a machine or how ridiculous I might look in Zumba class.  The fact that she's not a complainer will be a huge plus, too...because goodness knows I can complain with the best of the best.  (And this could be the primary reason that she will need aforementioned sense of humor--to keep from pushing me into oncoming traffic!).

Secondly, it would have to be the Bob comment...if I dare had Jillian, I would probably have to resort to some sort of violence at some point (like when she jumped on my back, for example!).  However, I doubt that Bob would wear some gross workout attire...hmmmm....And I am pretty sure that Bob wouldn't allow me to bypass any workouts...for Starbucks or any other excuse.  Maybe #12 on the list is not my #2...

All in all, this list is all inclusive with what my ideal workout partner would be like...and I think that we can all relate.  However, since I have yet to meet her (at least "her" that is geographically desirable and conducive to my workouts), I will just have to depend on me...Hopefully I can dig deep to find that sense of humor...

Hope you had a great Tuesday!!!

Monday, July 19, 2010

Life is Good!!!

You know, too often (really too often in my case) , I get bogged down in my own family,  work, or self-created drama. I realize this and even as I am having a moment (or ten), I am aware. I become too wrapped up in my own life and every little thing that is bothersome or is causing me worry and anxiety…is really small stuff…not even worth a blip on the cosmic radar screen, really. I have a job, a house, and family that loves and supports me. I have read too many stories out here in Blogland of real tragedies, real mishaps, real life…that have brought me to tears and may me realize that I am one of “those” people…too caught up in my own drama to take note and smell the roses and be thankful for what I have vs. the Have Nots. So for any of you that have read my blog and found it to be a whiney, self-absorbed piece of junk (and you are still here), I apologize. I can’t promise that I won’t digress and move back toward that line of thinking—but I hope that you will help me keep it all in check.




Last week (not going to make any excuses…I was a slacker!) was not one of my best weeks. However, in the interest of full disclosure and needing to hold myself accountable for all of my actions, it’s in the books. As someone’s blog read (and I apologize if you are reading this now…and I cannot give you due credit), there are no excuses! I cannot think of any…except that one night I was not feeling well…really, really severe migraine headache (okay, well, we know that exercise creates endorphins, and I would have likely felt better and at least earned some self platitudes, if I would have worked out). I didn’t. The scale was none too friendly this week, either. Another pound…in the wrong direction! Dang it! Again, I accept total responsibility. So, I am going to make the following goals (along with my plan of action to help get there!) for myself this week…


  •  Bring my lunch at least three times this week (no less eating out!!!)
    •  I have stocked up on frozen meal
    •  I have bread for sandwiches, if needed
  • Exercise must be a priority…this should be number 1, most likely!!!
    • Bring workout clothes to work so that I can change and hit the pavement before going home. I find that it’s way too easy to go home, eat dinner, and then hit the sofa…without doing what I know should be done!!
    • I will work out three times before Thursday!!!! (Sidenote: We are leaving for Kentucky on Thursday evening for a weekend at HullabaLOU in Louisville…I am excited (live music is a love of mine...all kinds of music, but at these particular shows, I will get to see Bon Jovi, Kenny Chesney, Dierks Bentley, and Jason Aldean) and know if nothing else I will sweat, sweat, sweat...
  • Posting here
    • No excuses!!! No excuses!!! No excuses!!
    • I get on the computer and read my entertainment news, and read all of the blogs I follow, I can certainly provide something…anything!
However for some good news about the past week…I did get in contact with a professor from  Previous Academic Institution and found out that should when I pass the CPA exam, gain my 2000 hours under another Certified Public Accountant, I will only need six more upper level accounting courses to gain my licensure. Why is this good news? Because I thought that I was either going to have to apply to Graduate School (which actually scares the dickens out of me on all levels…monetarily (it would cost almost as much as my entire undergraduate degree), professionally (when would I have time to complete the coursework?)…talk about pressure! Anyway, turns out that the ambiguous language from the Secretary of State’s website was not all that mysterious…I just need two more 3-hour upper level Accounting courses…WOO-HOO!!!

Saturday, some of the gals (We call ourselves "The Gang") and me went for an all girls boating adventure. It was an adventure (weather was not exactly the most cooperative, but there was still fun to be found on the lake...heck if there's no fun around, we make our own!)!  I will be the first to admit that I had little to no faith in our ability to complete it (the normal Boatmaster was at National Guard drill)…but we (Okay, really one gang member did it--the rest of us just did what she told us) did it! (Okay, I did nothing except sit on the boat and get into the water)…but our fearless Captainess of the vessel (The AquaHolic--I love the name.  Fearless Captainess came up with the name about four years ago, but was only recently reassured that it was a most terrific name for a boat that is on the water virtually every weekend!!!!) was awesome!!! She navigated everything from getting the boat out of the garage, hitched to the truck, into the water, drove us around on the lake, and then out of the water, on the trailer, hitched back to the truck, and home again! She’s who I want to be when I grow up…oh yeah, she knows how to drive a stick shift, too!!! I have included pics of us me at the lake (gasp! in a swimsuit no less!!!!  I didn't include the other gals to protect their identity, since I knew if I asked to use their swimsuit photos I would be told a resounding #?*! no (you insert the expletive of choice))…not our my most beautiful moment…but we always have a camera around to capture a good laugh! (And hopefully Bud Light will pay some endorsement money!)



I also met Tammy (from From Fat to Fab ) for lunch on Sunday. I went through my closets (yes, you read that correctly—I have clothes in every closet in our house…that translates into lots and lots of clothing…too much really!) and passed along some of my (hope to be) left behind treasures. I have made a promise to myself (okay, this was just today…but I passed it along to Tammy, and hopefully she will help me out and hold me accountable)that whenever I buy anything new, I must get rid of one item (one in, one out). I hope to accomplish two things—1) Make my husband happy that there is closet space for something besides my wardrobe…I don’t know, a jacket or a coat, or something that might belong to him not belong to me; and 2) Pass along some real gems (or what I think they are, anyway) to someone else. So, the first bagful (and it was a Glad trashbag full--not because it was trash--but because that was the biggest bag I could find...) was handed off to Tammy on Sunday. I learned that out of the bag, she did get a few things…but she also paid it forward.

So, while it was not my best week of record...it certainly was still okay.  I hope will do much better this week...

Remember--"What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us"--Ralph Waldo Emerson

Make everyday count!