Becoming Lean, Mean, Endurace Event Machines in 2008

[Worfiedoodles]

Hey Lean Meaners!

Ok, let me try to catch up. Busy, busy weekend. I got outside for 5.2 miles Saturday, and did 5.8 on the TM yesterday. Today is a stationary bike ride, since thunderstorms are going to be hitting when I can workout. I also ate better, after chinese and fried seafood indulgences. I decided to wait a few days on the weigh-in, to give myself time for those to work their way out of my system. I could see the bloat, so I knew that wasn't a good sign!

Dave -- It sounds like you had a fantastic workout! I am so eager to see the new Indy movie, I just have to wait until next weekend. I tried to push dh into this weekend, but he would have none of that!

Beth -- You said just what I needed to hear this morning. I do hurt less when I move, at least I can trace the reasons!

Stacie -- Here's wishing you a good diagnosis and quick healing! It sounds like your weekend was wonderful, and I'm sure those 2 lbs will disappear by the end of the week. It's probably not a real gain...you know, just those vacation gains that leave as soon as you get back to your normal routine.

Jeanne -- You have had so much going on in May, it would be a miracle if you weren't feeling the effects! Give yourself time and love. Go for a walk just for fun. Move for joy, and it will come!

Tracey -- for dh, that is awesome news! The food porn thread is indeed on Disney Restaurants. I believe it is called Disney Food Pictures...Part II. It is a continuation of a thread that got too big. I love to check it out and make decisions about ADRs.

Connie -- I'm sure you are one of the grandmas dreams are made of, and the kids are going to have a blast! I'm wishing dd a speedy recovery, and you a ton of patience!

Amy -- Hope the potential illness is all gone, and you are feeling great!

Lisa -- I'm with you on the fish and veggies. I would last about one meal on that diet!

Debra -- Where do we get this Key Lime Pie? My favorite is Lemon Meringue, but I could make an exception

Mike, Cindy, Vic, Bill and all the other Lean Meaners --

Just finished my lunch of Lean Cuisine Rosemary chicken, cucumbers, carrots, and WW Lemon Cream Pie yogurt. There's a rumor there's a 100 calorie Keebler Fudge Shop Grasshopper pack in my future, just to get over that afternoon slump. Sadly, that will be the high point of my afternoon. Pesky work!

Everyone have an awesome evening!
Maria

 

[postesf]

HI guys. Thanks. I did make an appt w/ a new ortho/sport medicine Dr. It's not until next Thursday though--later then I would have liked. I think I will take it easy until then. The bruises will probably be gone by then, but I'll still have them checked out for good measure.

The thing is...my knees don't actually hurt. It's 1-2 inches below the bottom of knee in the center. It feels like there is a small bump there.

At any rate, I will have it checked out and hopefully get back out there soon. I've decided to try to get into the routine I posted, but to just walk instead of run. If they do start feeling better and less sore, maybe I'll add some run intervals in there. We'll just see what happens.

Hope everyone has a great evening!

Stacie

 

[laxdef69]

Maybe try the elliptical to keep the aerobic conditioning, but reduce the impact on your knees for a few days?

 

[laxdef69]

Glad to see you getting it checked out by a pro.

Maybe try the elliptical to keep the aerobic conditioning, but reduce the impact on your knees for a few days?

 

[deekaypee]

I'm so glad that everyone seemed to enjoy their Memorial Holiday weekend. And did so well on being lean and mean.

Mike: I say carrying golf clubs is its own reward, unless you're a caddy! Seriously, I hope you had a great round.

Lisa: I so envy the minimalist life right now. It's just DOOD and me, so you'd think we could keep stuff out of our lives, but no.... We don't have a lot of clothes, or kitchen gadgets, or household stuff. But books, films, artwork..... oh, my. I'm at 25 boxes of books/files and counting right now, and that doesn't include the stuff in DOOD's work office that we don't need to move. The nature of the academic life, I guess.

I'm sorry to hear about your run--between the shoes and the pressure to make your mileage it (it's a good & necessary goal, but pressure nonetheless) sounds like it was a hard slog. I'm glad that you've got such a balanced perspective on it, though.

And did you say 5 months until your birthday? Five short months that will seem so long in getting here? And what a perfect place to celebrate--in fact, I think every birthday should be celebrated in Disney!! You know what would be really cool? If Disney had a run right around the time of your birthday for you to celebrate another year of your life and running adventures! Oh, wait a minute....

Wendy: I'm such a quick-fix kind of gal for some things. Love the immediate gratification. So I really like hearing how you use external motivators to get you going. That's a great idea. And congratulations on the 11 pound loss!!! I think you're on your way to a leaner lifestyle. (Round lifetime--hah! ) I loved your meals, without the fish though. Mmmm, veggies and dairy. Don't know about cutting my carbs, though.

Amy: SO sorry to hear that you were sick over this Memorial weekend and am glad you are feeling better. I hope you can get around to fun running soon. And speaking of this, just a question...do you run or bike with your DDs? This may or may not be related to "challenging" your schedule. (I think it's actually me missing having WO buddies of my own.)

Connie: I'm so glad that some of the things you enjoy sans DOOC are some of the things I enjoy sans DOOD--reading in bed, eating my fave foods, watching my fave movies/TV....I don't know why, but it make me feel not so strange about liking DOOD's absence. Plus, closer to you, which is a plus! I'm also asking the big questions about moving things--and we're getting rid of a few things. We've only lived here 10 months, so there hasn't been a lot of accumulation, luckily. It sounds like DOOC should come here & keep me on my moving schedule..

I'm also keeping good thoughts and sending some meditative energy to your family, esp. DD, for this weekend. I'm sure all will go smoothly, but it never hurts to send the PD!

Beth: I love the wagon tips (and when I update the link for the thread, in they go)! They're useful, quick, often simple, and I need the blessed reminders. Especially these days, as my schedule crunch begins. Keep 'em coming! I'm glad to hear your motivation remains high--and I can see that reflected in your tip. (It's an especially good one, too, because I think it's easier to be other people's best friends.) P.S. Speed Racer in IMAX--wow, that must have been visually spectacular!

Tracey: Great job walking to the pool. Not only did you save on gas, but you set a great example for the whole family. How was the weekend at the lake in terms of prepping the house? Not too sad, I hope. Good luck to your DH and his 5th interview. Wow!

Yep, I made pancakes. Mmmmm. We were testing them out for next weekend, where DOOD's out-of-town friend is spending part of his Pgh trip (where he's reviewing a museum exhibit) helping us move...just because. I thought the pancakes would be a nice thank you. You have a lot of good ideas on WW points. I don't know about their soups, but I do enjoy a good veggie soup in general. I also like rice cakes as a vehicle for my peanut butter.

Oh, I'm primarily a playwright, which is how I got interested in film. This summer I thought it would be fun to try my hand at a screenplay. It'll probably be horrible, but what the heck?!

Stacie: Yay for your good holiday, with lots of activity, margaritas, and Jimmy Buffet! Sounds great, very relaxing and summery. I've been meaning to ask: what do you do that you support all these traveling folk? I hope your job is satisfying enough to keep you away from here--or at least pays for the rest of the Disney & racing addiction.

I looked at your ideal schedule--sounds great--and your daily commitments. Wow. That's enough to keep you busy, busy, busy. I'm not an a.m. person at all, so I can understand how difficult it is to manage the morning and night swings. (I envy Lisa's ability to get up so early.)

I wish I knew what to say about your knees. Mine are week, so I ice them every day--even when they feel fine (as they have been) and even on rest days. It's probably psychological for me, but I like it. So I say rest and ice as a stopgap to the doctor's appointment, and listen to Lisa's and Beth's advice as they sound like the gurus in this area. Good luck, and I think no running!!!

Jeanne: First, and more You've been extraordinarily busy this entire month, with lots of travel and big moments in the family. I don't think it's surprising that you feel tired, as your routines have been thrown out of whack. Plus there's the emotional roller coaster you've been on--with good events like the Minnie, the trip to DL, your son's moving. Great moments and memories, but exhausting. I hope you give yourself some time to recognize how these things contribute to your physical feelings.

That said, I would recommend trying to find a balance between rest and staying active. I think if you set up a routine that you can stick to, one that keeps you moving but also give you schedule stability, then you'll come away feeling more energized. At least, I know that's what I need when changes threaten to throw my daily schedule off. Regardless of what you do decide, though, I hope you find some time for some "all about you" moments, just for your mental and emotional health.

Dave: You've had such an active day. One of the things I always appreciate about you is that you list your stretching as your activity, as it keeps me mindful of the benefits. Short anecdote that I think you, in particular, will enjoy. I was XT at the gym today and at the end of my WO. I was stretching in the general mat area, when a trainer came up with a new client. He was introducing her to stretches on one of our little machines, which I was also using. And I overheard him tell her to watch me as an example of what he wanted her to do! I felt so proud--that's the first time anyone has used me as a positive example.

And I hope you enjoyed Indy Jones--I had a good time. I totally agree with your affirmative question,

Guys is there anything better than a good movie, hot popcorn and a babe snuggled up to you.

Throw out the babe and replace her with DOOD, though.

Maria: It really sounds like you had a very active weekend--yay for you! And yay for knowing to stay away from the scale when weighing in will just undermine recognizing your other accomplishments. I just know you'll continue to work on healthy eating and reign in that cookie monster (gotta appreciate those 100-cal packs for just such a reason).

As for me: Nope, don't like the Key Lime Pie. Don't really like any cream or custard pie, with the exception of pumpkin. You can all have my share. Now DOOD makes an excellent Key Lime Pie (apparently), so maybe I'll have to convince him to make one or two marathon weekend. In the meantime, he's had versions from both Whole Foods and Trader Joe's, and prefers the former. Just so you know. I make an excellent carrot cake, a solid pumpkin-bourbon pie, and a calor-horrific cheesecake. But just pretend I didn't say that.

I'm still working on my training schedule pre-marathon training. Because of June's time crunch, I'm trying to emphasize working smarter and harder, instead of longer. The problem with me is that when I get busy--like with moving--I fall into a moderate, not-too-much HR raising WO, and tend not to challenge myself. That way, I can WO on autopilot. I'm going to try to avoid doing so in June.

So, I'm working on shorter, faster runs. Too bad about the mileage for the challenge, but what can I do? It's all about me, right? Ideally, I'd like to build both speed for my running and strength in my muscles so that I can run on consecutive days. Anyway, a tentative plan, come June is:

M: Run, Pilates
Tu: Biking, Weight Train (primarily circuit training for the first couple weeks in June), other XT?
W: Run, Pilates
Th: Biking, Weight Train, other XT?
F: Pilates, other XT?
Sa: LR
Su: Yoga (I might switch this because of a class schedule shift)

Those are the basics. Every day, I'd like to also get back to doing a short, gentle/meditative yoga for mental health reasons. Each day should also include some core, stretching work, and Chi exercises. On the days I have more time/feel inspired, I'd add other workouts such as the elliptical and rowing machines. But I'd rather have it a little skimpy now, while I'm unsure of how much extra time I'll have. For that reason, I've also shifted from a 2-week rotation of WO to a weekly rotation--it's just easier to manage.

I still need to figure out my intake numbers for fat and protein to meet my activity level and that will allow me to drop 2% points of body fat over the summer.

 

[deekaypee]

Mike:

Here's the playlist I took with me to Cleveland. I just hit shuffle and let the songs guide me.

Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World/Israel Kamakawiwo'ole
Kung Fu Fighting /Fatboy Slim
A Little Less Conversation/Elvis Presley
Seasons in the Sun/me first and the Gimme Gimmes
Tainted Love/Soft Cell
SexyBack/Justin Timberlake
Boys and Girls/Good Charlotte
Don't Go Breaking My Heart/Elton John & Kiki Dee
Rock the Casbah/The Clash
Burning Love/Elvis Presley
Pipeline/Agent Orange
Call Me/Blondie
I Walk The Line/Johnny Cash
SOS/Rihanna
These Boots Are Made for Walkin'/Nancy Sinatra
Hot in Herre/Nelly
Mercy/Duffy
Hot Stuff/Donna Summer
Who's Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf/L.L. Cool J
Get'cha Head In the Game/High School Musical
You Can Leave Your Hat On/Tom Jones
Mustang Sally/The Commitments
Sunny Side of the Street/The Pogues
Afraid/Nelly Furtado & Attitude
I Ran (So Far Away)/A Flock Of Seagulls
Moving On Up/M People
She Hates Me/Puddle of Mudd
I Don't Wanna Grow Up/The Ramones
Ain't No Other Man/Christina Aguilera
Love Shack/The B-52's
Dizz Knee Land/Dada
Bang the Drum All Day/Todd Rundgren
ABC/The Jackson 5
Not Ready To Make Nice/Dixie Chicks
We Got The Beat/The Go-Go's
Dancing in the Street/Martha & the Vandellas
We Are Family/Sister Sledge
Hotel Yorba /The White Stripes
Son of a Preacher Man/Dusty Springfield
You Sexy Thing/Hot Chocolate
Fell in Love With a Girl/The White Stripes
Lady Marmalade/LaBelle
Come on Eileen/No Doubt
Red Rose/Alphaville
R-E-S-P-E-C-T/Aretha Franklin & Blues Brothers Band
Ain't No Mountain High Enough/Marvin Gaye/Tammi Terrell
Little Room/The White Stripes

 

[windwalker]

Oh Debra, did I say that out loud about the popcorn and the babe. Oops.

Yes the movie was excellent. Just what you would expect from Harrison Ford and Spielberg. The popcorn was hot and the soda cold and the snuggling was priceless.

Next week shall I see Kung Fu Panda?

Everyone who is feeling puny, get better.

Walking Panda

 

[Worfiedoodles]

Dave -- you'll appreciate this. I went to order contacts from 1800Contacts, and they couldn't fill my order because my prescription is over a year old (August 2006, to be exact). I made that year's supply last a long time! Tomorrow a.m. I have an eye exam, and then I can get my contacts. It just seems like a hassle. I know, I know, I should get my eyes checked every year. I'm just lazy about medical appointments...Anyway, I guess it's good because I won't have to worry about passing the vision part of my drivers' license renewal with the right prescription!

Any eye advice I should be aware of? I've worn contacts for 26 years without problems, so I tend not to give it much thought...

Have a great night, everyone! Sorry to digress, but I know the wise Panda has good eye information!

Maria

 

[windwalker]

Dave -- you'll appreciate this. I went to order contacts from 1800Contacts, and they couldn't fill my order because my prescription is over a year old (August 2006, to be exact). I made that year's supply last a long time! Tomorrow a.m. I have an eye exam, and then I can get my contacts. It just seems like a hassle. I know, I know, I should get my eyes checked every year. I'm just lazy about medical appointments...Anyway, I guess it's good because I won't have to worry about passing the vision part of my drivers' license renewal with the right prescription!

Any eye advice I should be aware of? I've worn contacts for 26 years without problems, so I tend not to give it much thought...

Have a great night, everyone! Sorry to digress, but I know the wise Panda has good eye information!

Maria

Hi Maria, long time no hug.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((Maria))))))))))))))))))))))

Oh much better.

Now about the contacts. Always follow the directions for wear. Some people try to make them last but that is dangerous. Your eyes have to breath and contacts, even those that allow air to pass will get plugged up with protien deposits from the tears, this keeps your eyes from breathing and your eyes will build more blood vessels to draw air from around the contact. This gives you like vericose veins in your eyes.

Also sun glasses are important for everyone. If you don't want cataracts and other ugly eye problems, wear sunglasses. Contacts don't give you any protection from harmfull UV rays.

How is everything else in the life and times of Maria going?

Walking Panda

 

[Worfiedoodles]

See, I knew the Panda had good advice for us all! And what a lovely hug, you take good care of us princesses! The last thing I need are more varicose veins! shudder.

I'm about to assist my leanness by getting a good night's rest. I missed my bike ride tonight, so I'm going to have to do one tomorrow. Gotta keep that lean mean effort going!

I can make my ADRs for dining for marathon weekend July 13th, so I'm hanging around the food threads a little too much. It's like a guilty addiction!

Maria

 

[Creativebeth]

Good morning again Lean Meaners! Nice to see everyone!

Dave: I am glad you liked the movie.....I have been so excited to see it.....I am a die hard Indy fan! ((((My dh thinks I am crazy! I am also a die hard Rocky fan.....had to see that one too!))))

Maria: My eyes are one thing I do do every year. Always had a unnatural fear of losing my eyesight, so I do the eye check every year! Good luck with your contacts!

Connie: Hugs for your DD.....Hope that goes well. Enjoy the grandchildren!

Lisa: How's it going up North?

Debra: How's the packing going?

Stacie: How's your wagon trip going? Probably bumpy, huh????? Isn't it always?

All about me: I am truly happy to report that things are getting better every day. My sugar cravings have ceased, and I am not starving every minute of the day. This is the part of the process I enjoy. I don't feel consumed with thinking about food all the time.

I want to get up early this morning and run, but alas, that didn't happen. I was tired yesterday from getting up early, and I just couldn't get out of bed. I do have a little bit of time tonight maybe to run before my oldest ds's band concert.

Wagon tip of the day: Today we are all to look at the portion size of the food we eat. When I have been losing weight ((((forever)))) I tend to forget to look at serving sizes and calorie counts. The one big culpret is cereal. Most cereal portions sizes are 1/2 cup to 1 cup. I have never eaten 1 cup of cereal. I feel my big cereal bowl is a portion, right????? Portion size is very important.......so check it out before eating!!!!!

Have a great day everyone!!!

Beth

 

[postesf]

Hey folks! Just a quick drive by HHHEEEELLLLOOOO! Work is crazy busy. These boys are driving me insane! Traveling all around the world. Geez! I hope things will calm down and I can check back in this afternoon...

FYI Deb... I am and Admin Assistant for Caterpillar Inc. I am in the BCP Division (Building Construction Products). Yes, as a secretary, I get paid really well to do this. I am very well aware I couldn't work anywhere else in this gerenal area and get paid the same thing to do what I do. I don't mind my job and I am pretty good at it. I'm naturally a planner/organizer type so that fits in well with handling my boss's calendars, travel etc, etc... DH is an Engineering/Designer type. He actually designs the hydraulics that goes on our big machines. He works for another company, but we outsource some of our work to them... I stretch our budget as far as it will go so I can get my travel in. My parents own the place at Stacy -- where we went last weekend -- so not too much out of pocket to go there. Just food and gas.

Ok...gotta jet. Meetings to schedule and trips to plan!!!

Hope everyone has a great day!!!
Stacie

 

[amykab]

Here's the playlist I took with me to Cleveland. I just hit shuffle and let the songs guide me.

Thanks for posting this, I needed some new ideas!

Oh Debra, did I say that out loud about the popcorn and the babe. Oops.Yes the movie was excellent. Just what you would expect from Harrison Ford and Spielberg. The popcorn was hot and the soda cold and the snuggling was priceless.Next week shall I see Kung Fu Panda?Everyone who is feeling puny, get better.
Walking Panda

Glad to hear the movie was good. We might actually have a babysitter this weekend, so DH and I may go see a movie. One of my coworkers felt it was too sci fi and the ending was hokey..Yet, he is going to see it again...

My .02 on contacts (not that anyone asked)..I used to wear them ( I had LASIK in Feb) and I just have to say never wear them overnight, longer than you are supposed too, and make sure to use rewetting drops etc etc. I had 2 corneal abrasions/ulcers from wearing my contacts too long and letting my eyes get too dry. The abrasion felt like I had a knife stuck in my eye! Anyhow, I love my 20/20 Lasik'd vision!

I am trying to settle on a schedule for training..I like seeing everyone else's routines/schedules. I haven't been happy with my recent runs/walks, so I think I am going to revisit C25K, maybe start at week 3. I didn't follow it through when I was training for the Minnie 5K/15K because I got too worried about getting in the longer runs. I am stuck in a 42 minute rut for the 3 miles distance and would like to be below 40 minutes. I also may register for a 4th of july 5K when we are in NC, to give myself a short term goal.

On a happy note I lost 2 more pounds. I hadn't weighed myself in 2 weeks due to my monthly bloat, so I was happy to see a loss. I had plateau'd since doing the Minnie. I am trying to work on my diet and make better choices.

Hope everyone has a good wednesday!

Amy

 

[postesf]

Yay for losing 2 more lbs Amy!!! That is awesome!

I got nothing to offer on contacts or glasses...I've got perfect vision! Yay me! All of my family has glasses, but me so we'll see how thing go as I get older. Matt needs glasses, but we tend to spend our $$ on vacations instead of eye doctor visits. Matt's dad has this weird thing happening though... His stucky stuff is pulling away from his retina... eww. They say it happens to everyone, but if it doesn't come lose, it can cause the retina to tear and it would need surgery so he doesn't go blind. Kinda scarry.

I am into movies though. Maybe we'll catch one this weekend. I would like to see the new Indiana Jones movie. I don't remember any of the others, but I think I would enjoy it none the less.

Beth... Glad the sugar cravings have ceased. I'm craving a Bojangles Chicken biscuit right now. Darn those biscuits!

Deb...I would be very happy w/ a margarita and key lime pie as my 1/2 marathon recovery in January. I'm sure you'll be waiting for at the finish line...right???

Have a great night everyone!
Stacie

 

[JustSmile]

Hi all....I seem to be getting on here later everyday....I do much better first thing in the morning.
Stacie...The NC coast sounds lovely. So tell us were you named after this town? Take care of those knees....glad to see you've already made an appointment. We're headed to Myrtle Beach, SC next week. I'm not sure where that is in relation to you or if you've been there, but we're looking for restaurant suggestions.
Jeanne...Oh, so you'll be an empty nester. My oldest is starting high school in the fall and even that makes me a little sad. You're just getting ready to start the next big adventure in life. Wonder what it will be? Get out there and get moving I find that once I get out there, everything seems so much better and I find energy that I didn't know I had.
Dave...Sounds like you had a perfect day.
Lisa...Hey girl!
Maria...Yum, I love WW yogurt, but the cookies sound really good!
Deb...Thanks for asking about the lake house. It's a little sad, I feel bad for my kidlets mostly, on selling the place at the lake. We're all trying to make the best of it. Wow, a playwright and an attempt at a screenplay. I shouldn't be surprised, you are a gifted writer (well your posts are funny, touching, meaningful, etc). Now, I feel like I know a celebrity! I was a teacher before I retired(I was 27) to stay at home with my kids. I know what you mean about boxes of books, although mine are all Pre-K--5th grade reading levels . It doesn't seem to matter where you fall in academics, we all seem to accumulate books, books, and more books!
Beth...Way to stay on track and for 2 lbs!
Amy.... for 2 lbs.
The weather turned cool here yesterday and I had a nice evening run with long sleeves on! I've been feeling sluggish and started boosting up my water intake. Wow, what a difference some extra H20 can make! It's Pilates for Dummies today. Take care all.

 

[JustSmile]

!
Deb...I would be very happy w/ a margarita and key lime pie as my 1/2 marathon recovery in January. I'm sure you'll be waiting for at the finish line...right???

Me too, Me too!!! Yup, yup, yup!

 

[deekaypee]

Dave: I think of you every time I see the previews for Kung Fu Panda. I'm going to see it when it opens, because I think (hope?) it will be quite clever!

Beth: Still packing, but at least we've found some books to donate to the local library. I loved today's tip on portion sizes. It never ceases to amaze me how little it takes to make a serving. 1/2 cup of cooked rice? I know it sounds obsessive, but I measure my food with cups or a scale. Are you planning on seeing IJ & Crystal Skull soon. I think you'd really enjoy it. Psst. Pay attention to the opening images as the movie begins--it's an homage to the first film. (The first of many.)

Stacie: I hope I wasn't being too nosy about your job. I had this vision of you as some kind of travel agent with some high-powered clientele. Very glamourous and intimidating in a Sex and the City kind of way. (Who knows where I come up with these images? Maybe it's because that movie is finally opening and Hollywood can settle down into a reasonable promotion of summer fare.) Your real actually sounds pretty great as it taps into your natural strengths and what you like to do, as well as gives you time for the important things in life.

You may laugh now, but the possibility of key lime pie isn't entirely out the question. If DOOD's parents have their way, we'll be renting a house for a week-10 days prior to marathon weekend, so the whole family can celebrate the holidays together. I'm agin' it, as I'm the only person who really likes Disney (the rest range from DOOD's appreciation of it b/c of me to his brother's outright contempt). But, IF that's the direction we go in for the holidays, I'm pretty sure DOOD and I will be doing the majority of the baking. And I could be convinced to add key lime pie to the list and have some slices available to special 1/2 finishers. (Maybe a few hours post-1/2, just to let the tummies settle and get some proper fueling first.) And I can always learn to make a mean margarita for just such an occasion. I will keep everyone posted here. Regardless, you know I'll be waiting for you and Tracey (and everyone else) at the finish line, right? I wouldn't miss it for the world!

Amykab: on the loss of two more pounds. That's fantastic!! Especially after a plateau. And double for the commitment to making better choices. I'm working on increasing my speed, too, for the next few weeks just to see what I can do. I'll be interested in hearing how working through C25K again (I'm a grad, too!) helps you in this process.

Tracey: I know you know this, but your kidlets have lots of good memories at the lake house, and they know that you're doing what's best for the family in selling it. That's such an important lesson for them about living within one's means, about the important things are in being together and not in the stuff... Geez, now you make me want to give away more books. But I can't--and you know why, you who has the teaching gene. I have to tell you, one of my all-time favorite books is Harold and the Purple Crayon. I've repeatedly taught that book in my former Introduction to Literature courses (which was NOT geared to Ed. majors). It's brilliant.

And me, a celebrity? Naw, just enjoy writing and have been lucky enough with some small-press and regional success. The creative stuff took a backburner to academic writing and research for a long time, until I remembered why I got into the biz in the first place. Now it's mostly for fun and "personal growth" (icky phrase), so that's why I'm okay with playing with a screenplay.

Last but not least, thanks for the hydration reminder. I always need that!! Especially now that it's warmer and I'm more active and outside for longer periods of time.

As for me: Well, we signed the lease tonight and picked up our keys. Our new landlord said we can move in any time we want, as he finished prepping the place early. So that gives us a few extra days of joint labor before DOOD's departure. So what are we doing to celebrate? No ice cream, no key lime pie, no beer or gin & tonics. That has to wait until we actually put some sweat equity in. No, tomorrow we're sneaking out of adult responsibilities and going to Kennywood park--our first visit there. We had actually planned to do this before the pushed-up date of lease signing, but I'm so proud of us. We've resisted the temptation to just jump on the "found time" and move and move and move. All the moving will still be waiting for us Friday night and this weekend, so we might as well take advantage of this mid-week opportunity to visit our local amusement park to tide us over until our next Disney trip. (October & ToT.)

So tomorrow's challenge? Amusement-park food. Check out Kennywood's policies, with pertinent info bolded.:

With more than 30 refreshment stands, snack carts, and the relaxing Parkside Café, there’s no better place to be than America’s favorite amusement park.

Kennywood offers food selections for every appetite. From scrumptious Kennywood Dip Cones, Funnel Cakes, or Homemade Fudge to classic favorites like our famous Potato Patch French Fries, Hot Sausage Sandwich or beautiful Chef Salad, it’s all here!

Pepsi products and Aquafina Bottled Water are available throughout the park, as are recycling containers.

In addition, Kennywood is proud to be one of the few amusement parks still permitting guests to bring a family picnic basket. Just remember, “No Alcohol Permitted”.

Yay, one less thing to stress out about!

 

[postesf]

Hi all....I seem to be getting on here later everyday....I do much better first thing in the morning.
Stacie...The NC coast sounds lovely. So tell us were you named after this town? Take care of those knees....glad to see you've already made an appointment. We're headed to Myrtle Beach, SC next week. I'm not sure where that is in relation to you or if you've been there, but we're looking for restaurant suggestions.
Jeanne...Oh, so you'll be an empty nester. My oldest is starting high school in the fall and even that makes me a little sad. You're just getting ready to start the next big adventure in life. Wonder what it will be? Get out there and get moving I find that once I get out there, everything seems so much better and I find energy that I didn't know I had.
Dave...Sounds like you had a perfect day.
Lisa...Hey girl!
Maria...Yum, I love WW yogurt, but the cookies sound really good!
Deb...Thanks for asking about the lake house. It's a little sad, I feel bad for my kidlets mostly, on selling the place at the lake. We're all trying to make the best of it. Wow, a playwright and an attempt at a screenplay. I shouldn't be surprised, you are a gifted writer (well your posts are funny, touching, meaningful, etc). Now, I feel like I know a celebrity! I was a teacher before I retired(I was 27) to stay at home with my kids. I know what you mean about boxes of books, although mine are all Pre-K--5th grade reading levels . It doesn't seem to matter where you fall in academics, we all seem to accumulate books, books, and more books!
Beth...Way to stay on track and for 2 lbs!
Amy.... for 2 lbs.
The weather turned cool here yesterday and I had a nice evening run with long sleeves on! I've been feeling sluggish and started boosting up my water intake. Wow, what a difference some extra H20 can make! It's Pilates for Dummies today. Take care all.

OH...I love MB!!! My family normally goes there for a week every summer...All 20 of us! Yep. It's a fun trip. Where are you staying? North Myrtle Beach or South Myrtle Beach?

Definately check out the outlets. I'm partial to the ones at South Myrtle Beach. I know more about South vs. North... Broadway at the Beach is in South Myrtle Beach too. That is a really fun place. There are shops and restarants. I think they have fireworks on Tuesday nights too. I really like Margaritaville. It's pretty loud though. If you're in a party mood...check it out. Great nachos and good shrimp/crab dip! I always like to walk in the store anyway. There is a place called Landry's that has pretty good seafood. I've not been there in years though, so I'm not sure how it is now. Key West Grill is good too. There are plenty of other restarants there at Broadway at the Beach and loads down the "strip." Let me give this some thought and I'll get back to w/ any more reccomendations. Oh, and at Broadway at the Beach, there is a movie theatre, minature golf and IMAX too. Also in South MB is the new mall and also a Home Goods close by...

Deb...I like your idea of my job better! I WISH it was more glamarous. Sadly...it is not. Our friends who went with us to Stacy...He and his father own a travel agency. They do lots of group stuff and lots of cruises...

Oh...yes. I was named after Stacy. My grandfather was born and raised there... Had to be different and the spell the name differently though. IE on the end...just like my mom. Bettie with and IE.

Hope everyone has a great night!
Stacie

 

[laxdef69]

Love the play list.

I keep tweaking mine...

Anyway, today was 2000 yards swim, 5.3 miles in 49 minutes, so 9:06 pace if my division is right.

The run was fair, but there were about 3 consecutive songs where I felt great...good pace, in sync, no effort at all...I just wish they had been the last three songs, so I could have finished with that feeling.

Have an awesome day meaners...

 

[AmyBeth68]

Hi LMEMers!!!

OK....now to catch up with all of you. I love reading everyones' goals and aspirations...it's very inspiring and informative!

Lisa: YOUR schedule impresses me! I think you have such a great outlook right now...no doubt in my mind you will have great success in your upcoming races . BTW...are you running the Applefest Half? It's on my shortlist for the fall as I'm looking for a half marathon. Just curious if you've run it in the past or plan to in the future. I know you're in Maine so it *may* be quite a distance from you...but am hoping you have some info on it! TIA!

Mike: Great workout today! I had originally planned to run a triathlon in August but for many reasons I'm going to be putting that off a bit. I'm always impressed with the swimmers . Great effort...the toughest workout IMO! As for music...here are a few songs that get me going...

Papa Roach...anything they do pretty much ROCKS. Love them .
My Chemical Romance...the entire Black Parade CD is great for running IMO.
Fall Out Boy...Both Infinity on High and Under the Cork Tree albums!!!
THE BEST RUNNING SONG...Dashboard Confessional's: Reason to Believe. Check it out. It is a killer running song!

Stacie (and other MB fans): My parents own a time share in MB but I've yet to visit. Can you imagine?? LOL. I hope to take the girls there with them sometime in the future . Stace...how are the knees doing today? I'm glad you're being proactive! ((hugs))

JustSmile : How did the pilates go??? Isn't it lovely to run in the cool temps?!?! I had a cool day here and had a nice run myself. I know the HOT temps are on their way...so I'm loving the cool spring weather when it shows itself. great job out there!!!

Amy: CONGRATS on the 2lbs!!!! WTG! And I'm doing the same thing with the running...I'm going back to my basics and revisiting the plan I had for the Minnie 15K. I think it will help me refocus. I hope so anyway .

Dave: Sounds like Indy was fun . Love the snuggling! I haven't been to a movie in the theaters since last June OH MY!

Deb: I LOVE KENNYWOOD! I'm so jealous. Love the old-school style of the park. Great coasters too . Wow.. I haven't been in years but what a great amusement park. Have a blast!!! And I love your workout goals..sounds like you are being smart and really setting yourself up for succss!

Connie: for you and your DD! Sending tons of PD!!!

Beth: I'm so impressed with your resolve and healthy outlook! WTG on the 2lbs!!!

Vic, Bill and anybody else I missed (sorry!)....

As for me....Today was a successful post-illness workout . I managed to teach a pretty tough class this morning (didn't do as much of it myself but worked the arms and legs pretty good), ran 3 miles with my 4:1 intervals...run actually felt pretty nice and the cool temps helped a ton, and took a Pilates class from a fellow instructor. Tomorrow I may try to squeeze in a short 2 mile run plus I'm teaching spin and pilates. My throat is a little tender tonight but otherwise I feel much better (thank you for asking guys!).