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!

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!!!

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!!!!

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!).

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!

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!

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!

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!!!

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!

Hard work does pay off...

Sorry about the delay in getting this next post out and about...but the past week has been all about some hard work.

My parents always told us (me and my sister) growing up that if you want something...you earn it.  And when you are younger, it's all about  money.  I realize that they did this to help teach us fiscal responsibility and pride in personal ownership.  One of my youngest memories is going to the bank with my Mom and opening a savings account.  I would proudly put my allowance ($2 a week) into that savings account and was amazed and shocked when I had saved over $100.  When I got my first job at McDonald's, I earned something like $3.75 an hour to basically be the janitor of the store.  I was only 15, so I couldn't actually do something like handle money or bag orders.  But it was all good--it was all about me and those paychecks that I would so proudly take to the bank on a weekly basis.   Once I turned 16, I got a better paying job (what? say it isn't so!) at Six Flags in the Admissions department.  Now, Six Flags is a seasonal employer, so no overtime is paid.  I would proudly work 40, 50, and on rare occasions 60 hours a week for my paycheck there...and loved, loved, loved that job!  (Sidenote:  I must have--because I continued working there all through high school and into my freshman year of college...I drove home every weekend to go to work at Six Flags!  How crazy is that?).  I tell you all of that to help demonstrate that I am not adverse, allergic, afraid (or any other word that starts with an "a") of hard work...I guess you can say that it's kind of second nature for me.

Not that you asked for a resume of my past employers...but I thought that I should share that I do not come from an independently wealthy family or have any false sense of entitlement.  I believe that in order to value the things that are most important--you to have to earn them.  I know that for the person that I am today, I have earned many badges and paid many dues.  And I think that probably all of the most valuable, prized lessons I have learned have been through sheer work and determination.

For example, Wonderful Husband often tells me that he wishes that we would have met years before we did.  However, I know me...and know that had I met him at any point before I was ready, I would not appreciate the man that he is.  I would have likely overlooked him entirely, because I was not ready to work for the relationship.   See, I truly believe that everything happens for a reason and that I had to go through a phase called, "starter" marriage (see, some folks buy "Starter Homes" as their first home...well, I had a "starter" marriage...a complete debacle which is another whole post for another time!).  Suffice it to say, "SM" was one of the most tragic mistakes of my life--but it was a life lesson that I had to learn on my own...no one could tell me (I knew best at age 27!)...no one could lend me advice (I loved him!)...and certainly no one could bail me out of the financial ruin and mental devastation that I experienced six months into it (Thankfully Mom and Dad didn't tell me "I knew it!").  But with hard work (and more than my share of frogs (not that I kissed them!), I found my Prince...and he's truly one of a kind.  He's my biggest supporter, my sounding board, my personal chef, and most of all, the most rational and understanding person I know (If you don't want an honest answer, you had better not ask the question!).  I love him more and more as each day passes.  

The same applies to weight loss, for me, too.  I think that I have to work hard for each and every victory (on the scale and otherwise) to be able to appreciate where I have come from.  I do get bogged down with the scale (I am obsessed...I weigh each and every day!) and often feel depressed or upset when I don't see instant results.  I almost feel like if I work  hard today, then the scale had better show it tomorrow!  And this just isn't always the case for me.   Case in point, the scale actually reflected a .5 lb. gain last week.  However, my clothes are fitting a bit differently due to all of the walking that I had been doing (since the Peachtree I haven't quite been on the wagon yet...but there's tomorrow!).  People at work have noticed...friends that have seen pictures have noticed...so I know that my hard work is paying off...just not the jackpot winnings that I would like...but a small payout is nothing to be shunned.  After all it's all about the journey--and goodness knows, this is no sprint!!!  I am committed to this process (that is obviously lasting a little bit longer than I would like...because I am all about instant gratification).

Anyway...to recap this past week...

• The scale showed a .5 lb. gain.  I am hopeful that this will be gone this week...there's still four days 'til the next official weigh in at Weight Watchers
• I did drink lots and lots of water...but there's always room for improvement there, as well.
• I only walked two nights last week...so hopefully there will be much room for improvement there, too.

My goals for this week...

• Post a loss...no matter how small, a loss is a loss...
• Continue with the water.  I need to find my large water bottle and take it to work with me (it's 32 oz., so I have to walk to the cooler a few less times to get maximum hydration)
• Need to step up the exercise...I did walk quite a bit at Lake Winnepesaukah (went to see my favorite, Chris Young perform not once, but twice...picture below); not to mention the heat and humidity!  So, I will say work out three times before Saturday's weigh in (that would be Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday!)

• Do more frequent postings on here...No excuses!!!

Until next time...keep on keeping on!

Two Roads...

"Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood..."

That's how one of my favorite poems of all times begins...and I know this because I had to memorize it back in the ninth grade (thank you, Ms. McDaniel...for it's one of the lessons that I most reference, even today...). I am sure that you know it...but it helps me to type it here. The poem, "The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost.

 This is kind of me...kind of where I am.  There are many decisions that I have to make---and for anyone who knows me, this does not come easily or naturally.  I tend to overthink, overanalyze, and will absolutely, positively, second guess most every decision I make.  The only decision that I can think of that I readily made with wreckless abandon was when Wonderful Husband proposed to me.  (Yes, I was in shock...but I said YES! almost immediately).  Any and every other decision causes me to waiver, lose sleep over, and totally second guess myself.  Trust me, while in college, I could know the material inside and out--but left to my own devices on a multiple choice test, I would talk myself out of a correct answer most of the time.  I guess some may call that yielding to pressure, lack of self confidence, lack of (true) knowledge...whatever it is, it terrifies me to think that I will make a wrong choice.  How idiotic is that?  Most choices are not life altering decisions--choosing what to wear to work (ultimately with nearly three closets full of clothes, this is a daily chore when getting ready for work), what to have for dinner (problem is usually averted because Wonderful Husband cooks dinner just about every night), what route to take to work, which lane at the grocery store...the meaningless (little) decisions are endless.  So what is one to do when confronted with a potentially life altering decision???  (Avoidance...think about it another day...).

So, let me think about the most recent decisions I have made...

1. The decision to start back on a healthy eating plan.  This was easy enough...I know that I feel way better when eating and exercising the way that I should.  I tend to gain confidence when someone notices something positive in me.
2. The decision to make a potential commitment to (hopefully definitely) change my career path.  Since most don't know me, my journey to complete my undergraduate business degree was a long (and I like to think distinguished one...albeit costly).   So, when I graduated, the last thing I wanted to do was pursue a post-graduate degree or put in the work to a CPA designation.   Well, I am almost 100% convinced that I need to do something to better myself...and this is for me.  Not necessarily more money (per se) but for personal professional satisfaction.  I am still completing research which includes a call to the Secretary of State's office tomorrow that will help solidify my course of action.
3. The decision to start this blog.  I have been reading many blogs as of late...each one brings its own unique take and information.  While I don't profess to know each and every one you as my new BFF--I feel like we share a sort of connection.  I am so happy that I finally took the time to start this adventure (and therapy session).  I have a newfound appreciation for all of you that post each and every day...Wow!  I just don't know how you do it...but am willing to learn.
4. The decision to sign up for another 10K...on Labor Day (US 10K Classic).   This one will be another challenge...and while it's big, the turnout won't be nearly as big as Peachtree Road Race was.  I have done this event...2 years ago.  But by signing up for this today--will help ensure that I continue on my exercise plan.  (It's on the calendar in pen...because active.com does not refund registration fees!).  I did pay extra for the time chip...so this will allow me to work to trim time off of my previous 10K, which is all that I really aspire to do.

Well, those are four decisions that I have made recently...some a bit more serious and have a bit more impact to my life as I know it now...but all in all I hope that these decisions are the right ones--if not, then I will just have to make another decision...So, if you want to know the entire poem (well worth the read, I promise)...you should go and look it up online...the best lines (which happens to be the end)...

"Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference."

Hoping that this week is still great for you...Until next time...
Cheers!

Another week--another half pound...

Well, the beginning of July began with a half pound gone, a total of 22 miles walked (for the week...including completing the Peachtree Road Race; a 10K in Atlanta, if you are not familiar), and lots of fireworks, food, family and friends. 

To start, let me say that I have been a paying member of Weight Watchers since April of 2008.  And when I am active, the plan is the best one that I have found.  My biggest obstacle--me, myself and I.  When I am on plan, I am on it 100%.  When I am off of it--well, I am equally dedicated.  Obviously, I am an all or nothing kind of gal.

I have recently re-dedicated and re-focused all attention to the plan.  In addition to Weight Watchers, I have started actively tracking all things on www.sparkpeople.com.  I think that it's good for me to see another perspective on how things work.  And since I have a near and dear friend who lost over 100 lbs. by watching her intake (low carbs, limited sugar), I thought this "fresh" approach might help me.   Anyway...since I have been diligently on plan, I have lost a total of 4 lbs. (that's over two weeks).  I am happy with that loss--and can only hope that the trend continues.

Secondly, all of the walking...it's been reassuring to see that there is a direct correlation to weight loss and exercise.  Well, duh...I guess that I knew that...(a lesson that I have learned way more than once).  Anyway--this was reaffirmation for me.   And with my Garmin heart rate monitor, I get the super satisfaction (when walking outside--not inside on the treadmill) of being able to download the information and see instantaneously the fruits of my labor.  And I have busted it over the past month or so...knowing that I had the 10K coming up on July 4th.  Anyway...more activity, hopefully more weight loss...(FINGERS CROSSED)...

That takes us to the Peachtree Road Race, yesterday.  This was my second year participating.  Let me explain this to you...there are approximately 55,000 folks participating.  Yep, it's a massive event.  But all things considered, it is super organized.   We had a group of six of us participating.  Unfortunately, we were not all in the same start wave (the first runners were off at 7:30), my start time was at 8:42 (so, yes, there were already people meeting us at my mile 2 with their coveted Peachtree Road Race t-shirts and swag bags in hand).  However, for all of the other races (numerous 5Ks, 2 other 10Ks, and a half-marathon), there is nothing like the atmosphere of this one.  People (supporters, neighbors, family????) line all 6.2 miles to cheer, yell, holler (and is some instances provide adult beverages to those that need/want them).  There's music blaring, bands playing the chosen patriotic anthems, confetti flying, sprinklers spraying...everything.  It's the most fun I have ever had walking 6.2 miles.  And to beat all, I finished beating last year's time by 5 minutes.  (Okay, so it was the winning 27:52 time that won the race...but it was a personal best for a 10K).  This is my only goal...to attempt to beat my previous 10K time...so it was a success all the way around.  Plus, I was there to celebrate with other Chicas that completed this milestone.  And did I mention the t-shirt?  Well, there's a pic pre-race picture (above) and post-race (below) with THE t-shirt... Again, I cannot wait until next year's race!!!!

Post race festivities included good food, good times, and not-so good smells.  I didn't take anything to change into...so had only my trophy tee to put on...which I did.  Luckily no one at the cookout mentioned my horrific body decaying ripe smell.  However, upon my return home, my husband promptly encouraged that I take a shower...quickly.  

Then, today I met a new friend for lunch...What a great experience that was.  It was my favorite cuisine--Mexican with a new favorite person of mine!  Who would have thought the Internet could lead to what I hope is a long lasting friendship?!?!?!?  (Nevermind that the world wide web was the catalyst that allowed me to meet my husband.  I am not sure why I doubt the technological advances of the world...Nothing should surprise me!).  Anyway...she's also the reason that this post is being made...her encouragement and my deciding that I would "just do it"...Here we are!

Here's to a great weekend...and an even greater week!