~~ They're leaving the nest, sew it's time for a trip - or two - or three...~~ D~'s bag ~9/22 ~~

[solana131]

Good morning! I know...I know....who is this person??? I am still here, and I read almost daily. Just don't have much time to comment. But I'm here.

Trip update..............................
Very excited to announce that all the ADRs and plans are finally...finally done.

I had a couple problem ADRs I needed to find a solution to. At about 3 weeks out, my cousin who lives at WDW and works as a PP photographer decided she was going to come visit us on our arrival day. Awesome. Great. But she wants to eat with us at Boma that first night too......ummmmm, doesn't she know how hard it is to change a reservation this close???
We had an ADR for 3. One would think it would be a simple matter to just add another to make it an even 4. But as I found out last year....it's not that simple. So I had to cancel one ADR and make another for 4 ppl. I searched and searched and finally got one a couple days ago.

Next was the worst one....
We were one of those caught up in the whole PPO that suddenly wasn't after the park hours changes. We had a Tusker House at 8:20 when the park was opening at 9. Well now the park opens at 8. The only thing I really care about at rope drop is Safari. And an 8:00 opening and an 8:20 ADR does not give us enough time for that. So it looked like it was either Safari or Tusker, not both because I will not wait an hour in line.
Well I searched and I searched and I searched every day. I decided to test out the Touring Plans reservation finder......and low and behold they came up with one at 10:35! But....it notified me while I was working and I couldn't do anything about it. So I missed it.

Well yesterday I got another text from TP. And whalla...we have the perfect time now. 9:40
That was it. That was the last piece of the puzzle. We are good to go.



11 days!!!!
Can't wait to see my girls! Mo and family are so much fun to be around....I can't wait for my Bradey to meet her three kidlets
And D & I will have a blast!

 

[Wood Nymph]

I am so excited about this - so is Allison! I hope to have a head piece made for myself... Allison and I are trying to decide if we want V to make us scarfs - so we can be the "winter" version, or if we want to go with ties? The ties are expensive at $20 each, and I am not sure I want to spend that much on them? The rest of the stuff we can wear at other times, but the ties probably won't get worn again, so I hate to spend that much on them. Personally - I am leaning towards having V make us scarves. Then they will be special too.

I would definitely go with the scarfs. The Gryffindor scarf is instantly recognizable whereas the tie would be too subtle. And since January can get cold in Florida, the scarf might come in handy.

I love my Garmin.... I purchased it used off of a Dis Runner friend of mine, and I am really glad I did. It was one of my first purchases, at a time when I wasn't sure I was going to stick with running - and I really like it. Mine is a Garmin Forerunner 110 - so it's definitely an older model, but it still works perfectly and it gives me all of the info that I need. So, possibly looking into getting a used one is an option? At least, now I know that it's something I couldn't live without for running, so if it ever fails or stops working on me, it's something I will replace with a newer model. So, I highly recommend some sort of Garmin/pace tracker. As a side note - I love my Fitbit too... My wrists are a little crowded when I run these days. LOL

I used to use a Garmin when I was training for races. I really liked knowing how far I was running. I got to know my neighborhood pretty well as far as where the mile marks were. Now I have discovered that the combination of the Fitbit app and my iPhone gives me all the information I need. It records my pace and distance as well as posts a map of where I ran. It is really handy and I like it better than the Garmin. I'm not training for a race, so pace doesn't matter that much. But I did discover something very interesting. My Fitbit is relatively new and I used the "track my exercise" feature for the first time on my lunch time walk on Thursday. I am a pretty fast walker and I was surprised to find out that I did a 14.23 pace in downtown Chicago. It was my "green light" walk. I just keep walking and cross whatever street has a green light so I don't have to stop. It works pretty well although I try to get to the lake front or Millennium Park if I can. Maybe I she forget trying to run and just go for the fast walk. ;

I am beyond excited to be spending time with Suzi and Mo... As a reminder - Suzi and I met up for a day at WDW in 2013, so I am just excited to be able to spend more time with her and Bradey, and now Mo (and family) at our favorite place. I am so happy that I was able to make it work out.

That is such a nice picture of all of you. I bet you will have a great time in Florida. Are you planning on spending a lot of time with Mo and her family?

And, as a fun throwback Halloween photo... Here we are in 2008 at WDW. (if you couldn't guess, we are supposed to be Alvin, Simon and Theodore, and Josh is Dave... but I was cold and had a sweatshirt on the whole night)... Happy Halloween everyone!!! Be safe tonight!

That is a cute picture. Was the Halloween party crowded? We went the last two years and they are much more crowded then I hoped they would be.

 

[Terkina]

I'm sorry to hear about Josh lake trip that didn't go as planned.
How great that you don't have much left to be done in your sewing room before your November trip.
It's sounds like a good idea to go for the winter look for your Gryffindor costume in January. It's a waist of money to buy the ties for just one times use. And to let V make the scarfs will make the costume even more special.

 

[Wood Nymph]

We were one of those caught up in the whole PPO that suddenly wasn't after the park hours changes. We had a Tusker House at 8:20 when the park was opening at 9. Well now the park opens at 8. The only thing I really care about at rope drop is Safari. And an 8:00 opening and an 8:20 ADR does not give us enough time for that. So it looked like it was either Safari or Tusker, not both because I will not wait an hour in line.
Well I searched and I searched and I searched every day. I decided to test out the Touring Plans reservation finder......and low and behold they came up with one at 10:35! But....it notified me while I was working and I couldn't do anything about it. So I missed it.

Well yesterday I got another text from TP. And whalla...we have the perfect time now. 9:40
That was it. That was the last piece of the puzzle. We are good to go.

We had a similar situation with Tusker House. Our daughter had made a reservation for four and we needed to make it for five. Finally, after checking multiple times a day for weeks, a reservation opened up two days before the original ADR. And it was at a better time, too. Tusker House has got to be the hardest reservation to get after BOG and CRT.

I hope you have a great time. Bradey will make a perfect fourth in the group of kids.

 

[solana131]

Are you planning on spending a lot of time with Mo and her family?

I hope so. I plan all my mornings out. We always have park hoppers, so when my schedule shows "MK Day" or "EP Day" that means rope drop. We go hard until about 1pm, then take an afternoon break. Then our afternoon/evenings are totally open. I plan to hop each evening to whichever park they are at and visit with them. So yes....we will be stalking Mo for the few days we overlap

 

[ljcrochet]

We had an ADR for 3. One would think it would be a simple matter to just add another to make it an even 4. But as I found out last year....it's not that simple. So I had to cancel one ADR and make another for 4 ppl. I searched and searched and finally got one a couple days ago.

I wonder if you could have just showed up with 4 since 3 sits at a 4 table top any way.

 

[solana131]

I wonder if you could have just showed up with 4 since 3 sits at a 4 table top any way.

Sometimes and sometimes not. We went from 3 to 4 last June when my aunt decided to join us and it was a nightmare. Some restaurants would let us just add one, some wouldn't. I didn't want to chance it. All is good now

 

[FantasiaMagic]

but I do try to let things roll off my back in most situations at the airport. Thanks for being open minded, I hope I am not coming across as rude or pushy... I just wanted to tell another side of the story.

No! Not at all! I'm glad you told your side of the story. You honestly really made me more open minded and the next time I am at an airport or Disney, I will keep this in mind!

OK - you don't have to answer this if you don't want to... But did you end up going to college far away from home? If so... are you happy with that decision, or do you wish you were a little closer? Or if you are close to home, do you wish you had gone further?

Oh don't worry I don't mind answering! I ended up going to school 3 1/2 hours away from my home. That was kind of my max (my parents too lol). I wanted to go away to school but not be too far away. With the distance I'm at, it is not that difficult to come home for a weekend if I choose to. And to answer your other question yes, I am happy with the decision. Like I said I knew I wanted to go away - it has given me more independence and it's good to learn to do things on my own. What also made it A LOT easier, was the fact most of my friends also went away. I think if more of them stayed home, I would have been a lot less unhappy. The first week or so was kind of hard, but as I met more people here at school, and saw my friends were going through the same thing as me, it made it a lot easier.
My advice for Allison would be to do what she's comfortable with. The right decision will come.
(If you have any other questions about college, feel free to ask!)

I keep telling Allison that she doesn't have to decide right away what she wants to do... It's helpful to have some sort of direction - but she can just do her generals and decide later. Allison is my "planner" - so not having a direction has been something that has bothered her for years... She had a plan previously - but the college she had planned to go to closed a few years ago - and it really affected her. Ever since, she hasn't had a plan and it's been hard on her.

I know what you're saying. Like I said before I still don't know what I want to do, but I am taking a class next semester, like a professional development course that can help you in the right direction to find a possible major. I would think most schools would have this type of course, so that might be a good idea for her to take as well! I hear the classes are usually easy and very helpful!

Hehehe.... Well, I am thinking either doing my Minnie nails.... Or going a different route with black tips/white dots... Just for something different and fun... Going that route will still match with all of my outfits, yet it will be something new. I haven't decided yet.

Oohh black and white would be nice too! And would go well nice with all of you wonderful outfits!

Thanks!!! She wore a sweater over it yesterday all day, because it was quite chilly here... The kids are all planning to trick-or-treat tonight. I hope you have a happy Halloween too!

Yes, it's been chilly here too. I hope they have a good time tonight!

Still no luck. Such a bummer, I guess we'll be buying a new bag (or 3) depending on if we have to buy them as a set or not, for the lawnmower. So much for that trip to the lake...

That's too bad..

I am beyond excited to be spending time with Suzi and Mo... As a reminder - Suzi and I met up for a day at WDW in 2013, so I am just excited to be able to spend more time with her and Bradey, and now Mo (and family) at our favorite place. I am so happy that I was able to make it work out.

What a great picture! Goofy looks great too!

And, as a fun throwback Halloween photo... Here we are in 2008 at WDW. (if you couldn't guess, we are supposed to be Alvin, Simon and Theodore, and Josh is Dave... but I was cold and had a sweatshirt on the whole night)... Happy Halloween everyone!!! Be safe tonight!

Another great photo. Oh my gosh yes I see it! That is a great idea for a costume theme - adorable. I always loved Alvin and the Chipmunks...that reminds me, I haven't seen that movie in a long time lol. I love the face make up you and girls have as well!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hey Suzi!

Trip update..............................
Very excited to announce that all the ADRs and plans are finally...finally done.

I'm glad everything is done! And that is awesome that you were able to get the desired ADR times, especially for Boma. That can be pretty stressful when Disney changes the hours, especially when you think you have everything figured out - but then you have to rearrange the plans! Everything sounds great and I can't wait to hear all about the wonderful trip you all will have!

 

[DMGeurts]

Good morning! I know...I know....who is this person??? I am still here, and I read almost daily. Just don't have much time to comment. But I'm here.

Trip update..............................
Very excited to announce that all the ADRs and plans are finally...finally done.

I had a couple problem ADRs I needed to find a solution to. At about 3 weeks out, my cousin who lives at WDW and works as a PP photographer decided she was going to come visit us on our arrival day. Awesome. Great. But she wants to eat with us at Boma that first night too......ummmmm, doesn't she know how hard it is to change a reservation this close???
We had an ADR for 3. One would think it would be a simple matter to just add another to make it an even 4. But as I found out last year....it's not that simple. So I had to cancel one ADR and make another for 4 ppl. I searched and searched and finally got one a couple days ago.

Next was the worst one....
We were one of those caught up in the whole PPO that suddenly wasn't after the park hours changes. We had a Tusker House at 8:20 when the park was opening at 9. Well now the park opens at 8. The only thing I really care about at rope drop is Safari. And an 8:00 opening and an 8:20 ADR does not give us enough time for that. So it looked like it was either Safari or Tusker, not both because I will not wait an hour in line.
Well I searched and I searched and I searched every day. I decided to test out the Touring Plans reservation finder......and low and behold they came up with one at 10:35! But....it notified me while I was working and I couldn't do anything about it. So I missed it.

Well yesterday I got another text from TP. And whalla...we have the perfect time now. 9:40
That was it. That was the last piece of the puzzle. We are good to go.



11 days!!!!
Can't wait to see my girls! Mo and family are so much fun to be around....I can't wait for my Bradey to meet her three kidlets
And D & I will have a blast!

Wahoo!!!! I am so excited!!!! We ate at Boma for dinner in 2012, and it was fantastic - we have not made it back since, so I cannot wait to eat there again.

And Yay for a different time on TH - it is honestly one of my favorites... Not sure if it's the food, or the atmosphere, or just being in AK? It's a fantastic place. And I cannot wait to share it with you guys!

Thanks for stalking the sites for that one Suzi - I was totally OK with how it was, but now it's even better.

I cannot wait to see all of you! It's going to be epic!

I would definitely go with the scarfs. The Gryffindor scarf is instantly recognizable whereas the tie would be too subtle. And since January can get cold in Florida, the scarf might come in handy.

I used to use a Garmin when I was training for races. I really liked knowing how far I was running. I got to know my neighborhood pretty well as far as where the mile marks were. Now I have discovered that the combination of the Fitbit app and my iPhone gives me all the information I need. It records my pace and distance as well as posts a map of where I ran. It is really handy and I like it better than the Garmin. I'm not training for a race, so pace doesn't matter that much. But I did discover something very interesting. My Fitbit is relatively new and I used the "track my exercise" feature for the first time on my lunch time walk on Thursday. I am a pretty fast walker and I was surprised to find out that I did a 14.23 pace in downtown Chicago. It was my "green light" walk. I just keep walking and cross whatever street has a green light so I don't have to stop. It works pretty well although I try to get to the lake front or Millennium Park if I can. Maybe I she forget trying to run and just go for the fast walk. ;

That is such a nice picture of all of you. I bet you will have a great time in Florida. Are you planning on spending a lot of time with Mo and her family?

That is a cute picture. Was the Halloween party crowded? We went the last two years and they are much more crowded then I hoped they would be.

That's what I was thinking too Sue... but then I started thinking about the cloaks - it would be so fun to have the cloaks too... but at 5 yards of fabric each - I am not sure I could justify that for a "one time use" thing. We'll see.... If I happen upon a deal on black fabric - I may give it a try.

Oooh - so, did you just hit "track your exercise" on your phone app, and it tracked it? I love the idea of your "green light walk" that's awesome! And in Downtown Chicago too - how fun!

Thanks!!! I think we are? Like Suzi said - our mornings are planned out and our evenings are open so we can go hang out with Mo and family. I think it was super thoughtful for Suzi to do it this way - that way Mo and her family have alone time with out us, and then they also have time with us... The best of both worlds - I hope. LOL

Well, that was back in 2008, and I haven't been to a party since. I've heard that they let way more people in now than they did in earlier years, and I thought it was pretty crowded that night... There weren't as many awesome meet n' greets like they do now - but the Villians were out, the lines to meet them weren't too bad. But there were definitely crowded areas of the park. We will be going to another MNSSHP with V's trip in October, so I"ll probably be able to better gauge the crowd difference then.

I'm sorry to hear about Josh lake trip that didn't go as planned.
How great that you don't have much left to be done in your sewing room before your November trip.
It's sounds like a good idea to go for the winter look for your Gryffindor costume in January. It's a waist of money to buy the ties for just one times use. And to let V make the scarfs will make the costume even more special.

It's OK - he'll survive, the leaves will still be there next time.

I know - I am starting to slow down up there, and it's a nice feeling to know I get a break soon.

Yes, that is what I was thinking too. Now I just have to find the right colors of yarn for her.

We had a similar situation with Tusker House. Our daughter had made a reservation for four and we needed to make it for five. Finally, after checking multiple times a day for weeks, a reservation opened up two days before the original ADR. And it was at a better time, too. Tusker House has got to be the hardest reservation to get after BOG and CRT.

I hope you have a great time. Bradey will make a perfect fourth in the group of kids.

Oooh - glad you were able to get a better reservation for the right amount of people. I agree - I think that TH, BoG, CRT and CP are getting more and more difficult to get. Although - I think CRT is fading a little bit... So many people aren't justifying that 2 credit meal anymore.

I am so excited for the kids to meet... I am kind of sad that my girls won't be there. They have not met the Midgets yet either.... Some day - I hope they can.

I hope so. I plan all my mornings out. We always have park hoppers, so when my schedule shows "MK Day" or "EP Day" that means rope drop. We go hard until about 1pm, then take an afternoon break. Then our afternoon/evenings are totally open. I plan to hop each evening to whichever park they are at and visit with them. So yes....we will be stalking Mo for the few days we overlap

I am excited for this! And I am very excited to tour the parks the way you do.

I wonder if you could have just showed up with 4 since 3 sits at a 4 table top any way.

I replied to Suzi below.

Sometimes and sometimes not. We went from 3 to 4 last June when my aunt decided to join us and it was a nightmare. Some restaurants would let us just add one, some wouldn't. I didn't want to chance it. All is good now

I agree - I think in most cases we could have? But I just hate to risk it, especially if something opens up that's right.

No! Not at all! I'm glad you told your side of the story. You honestly really made me more open minded and the next time I am at an airport or Disney, I will keep this in mind!

Oh don't worry I don't mind answering! I ended up going to school 3 1/2 hours away from my home. That was kind of my max (my parents too lol). I wanted to go away to school but not be too far away. With the distance I'm at, it is not that difficult to come home for a weekend if I choose to. And to answer your other question yes, I am happy with the decision. Like I said I knew I wanted to go away - it has given me more independence and it's good to learn to do things on my own. What also made it A LOT easier, was the fact most of my friends also went away. I think if more of them stayed home, I would have been a lot less unhappy. The first week or so was kind of hard, but as I met more people here at school, and saw my friends were going through the same thing as me, it made it a lot easier.
My advice for Allison would be to do what she's comfortable with. The right decision will come.
(If you have any other questions about college, feel free to ask!)

I know what you're saying. Like I said before I still don't know what I want to do, but I am taking a class next semester, like a professional development course that can help you in the right direction to find a possible major. I would think most schools would have this type of course, so that might be a good idea for her to take as well! I hear the classes are usually easy and very helpful!

Oohh black and white would be nice too! And would go well nice with all of you wonderful outfits!

Yes, it's been chilly here too. I hope they have a good time tonight!

That's too bad..

What a great picture! Goofy looks great too!

Another great photo. Oh my gosh yes I see it! That is a great idea for a costume theme - adorable. I always loved Alvin and the Chipmunks...that reminds me, I haven't seen that movie in a long time lol. I love the face make up you and girls have as well!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hey Suzi!
I'm glad everything is done! And that is awesome that you were able to get the desired ADR times, especially for Boma. That can be pretty stressful when Disney changes the hours, especially when you think you have everything figured out - but then you have to rearrange the plans! Everything sounds great and I can't wait to hear all about the wonderful trip you all will have!

Oh good... Sometimes I worry about talking about it.

It sounds like you've made a great decision for you. And that class definitely sounds like a good option - hopefully there is something similar where ever Allison decides to go to school. That's true too - I think a lot of Allison's friends are planning to go away for school, so hopefully it will be a good experience for her. I am just nervous - she is my first.

Yes - I am really leaning towards black and white... Simple and easy - and different.

LOL - yes, we ended up as mish-mash costumes that night.... That was before I learned to sew - I don't even remember how I attached that big "A" on Allison's shirt? It's probably paint or something? And I knew they (used to, not sure if they still do?) do free face painting at MNSSHP - and I loved how ours turned out the first time we went in 2003, so I knew we would do it again. I'd really love to splurge and do it again to coordinate with one of my outfits... Maybe they do a Christmas face paint at MVMCP? I"ll have to investigate.

****************************************************************************************************

I really had a fabulous day yesterday.... It couldn't have been more amazing - to be honest. Aside from "leaving for Disiney day".... And there really wasn't much special about it.

First off - I decided that I was going to town to get a few groceries. I've been down on myself these last few days... I stepped on the scale the other night - and my weight took me by total surprise. I've gained 25 lbs this year!!!! I was feeling really crappy about it, and just completely overwhelmed and distraught. I kept questioning myself and how that could be? I look at my clothes and everything I was wearing still fits (I have one pair of jeans that are slightly tighter)... The number I saw was awful. But as I was planning my grocery shopping trip to stock up on "good for me foods" - I got to thinking and it just didn't make sense. So here's a copy of my post on FB yesterday... I am sharing here, because I believe the message is an important one.

Not my typical progress post, please read.

After weighing myself the other night, I was very discouraged, and honestly heartbroken. My weight is higher than it's been in 2 years. I keep telling myself, this can't be right. I take very good care of myself, mostly eating high quality minimally processed foods, I lift heavy weights, I run, I sleep, I take days off. My health is one of my top priorities in life, and it's very important to me.

The photo on the right was taken this morning. The photo on the left was taken in 2013. In both photos, I weigh 191 lbs.

These 2 photos are absolute proof to me that what a person weighs is completely arbitrary. After all, a person can weigh 191 lbs and be a generous size 16. Or a person can weigh 191 lbs and be a size 10.

To those of you out there concentrating on the scale, I beg you to THROW IT OUT! What the scale tells you is of no importance, you should not let it control your efforts to be healthy or to stay healthy. Let your size and overall health be your determining factor.


I've made this photo public for anyone who wishes to share it. I feel this message is profound.

I just think the above message is so important, and it reconfirms what I've been saying for a long time. One of the main reasons I don't weigh myself, because just stepping on a scale like that - even though I feel great - is enough to send a person into a total tailspin. I purposely dressed up yesterday so Allison could take that picture of me.

As a side note... The skirt I am wearing there is part of my "Gryffindor" school uniform for January. Allison has the exact same one. I just love that outfit though - after 3 days of being down on myself, it felt good to dress up, even if it was only to run to town to get groceries.

After I went to town - I came home and went to work. I finished one item and I am almost done with another. I will finish it up this afternoon.

Then Gus and Yohan came over... The kids all had a great time dressing up. Allison was a Gossip Girl (no idea what that is?), Gus was a Secret Service Agent, then V and Yohan should be self explanatory. I took all of them in to town to trick-or-treat... I was going to let them go by themselves, but there are just too many little kids out in the dark - and I just wanted to be safe.

After - we all came back here and the kids played on the WII.

Today - it's my long run day... I am alternating coffee/water as I type. I was up uber early this morning thanks to the time change. So, I went back to bed - and I still got up early. I may have to nap today, as I am always tired after my long runs anyways. I will be running on a busy trail in town.

Then I will come back here to finish up that one item. Tomorrow starts a new work week for me - I will be doing my last custom order before I leave.

I hope you all had a wonderful Halloween!!! And you have a nice relaxing day today - try to stay out of the candy.

D~

 

[Terkina]

Remember muscles weigh more than fat. You look GREAT

The kids looks great in their costumes. In Norway kids want to be dressed up as vampires, witches or other scary and ugly things. It's a shame that they won't dress up as something cute and nice. They think they are supposed to dress up that way. Not everyone celebrate Halloween in Norway. This is because it's a very new thing in Norway and many people thinks it's the business community that has brought this tradition to Norway to earn more money. Some people have started to celebrate something they call Hallovenn (Hallofriend) on Halloween. What they do is that they invite the kids to a party at home or at a venue where the kids comes dressed up and have a great time. That way the kids don't go trick or treating on doors that don't celebrate Halloween and the kids still get to dress up and eat lots of candy and other stuff.

Today the weather forecast say it's going to be a storm here. At the moment it's raining and a lot of wind outside, but it's not that bad I think. It's probably worse further out on the coast. Tromsø has mainland and some islands protecting it so it's not often we get really bad storms on the Tromsø island.

 

[Wood Nymph]

ooh - so, did you just hit "track your exercise" on your phone app, and it tracked it?

That's right. There is a + sign in the upper right hand corner of the FitBit app. When you hit it you get a list which includes track exercise, log food, water, weight and sleep. When you hit the track exercise button you get a GPS map of where you are. There is a start arrow and when you hit it it starts the timer and gives the distance. At the end of the exercise you hit finish or stop or whatever. You get time, distance and pace. That is all I need. The neat part is that it gives you a map with your route marked in a dark line. It is funny to see the results of the green light walk. The lines can be a little crazy.

That's what I was thinking too Sue... but then I started thinking about the cloaks - it would be so fun to have the cloaks too... but at 5 yards of fabric each - I am not sure I could justify that for a "one time use" thing. We'll see.... If I happen upon a deal on black fabric - I may give it a try. ....The skirt I am wearing there is part of my "Gryffindor" school uniform for January. Allison has the exact same one. I just love that outfit though - after 3 days of being down on myself, it felt good to dress up, even if it was only to run to town to get groceries.

Cloaks would be fun but your Gryffindor outfits are good enough, too.

Your before and after pictures are amazing. You look really healthy now, and happy, too. That is what is most important.

The kids look really cute for Halloween. I'm glad you had good weather. We had a cold, rainy day and only had 26 trick or treaters come to our door. We usually get around 80. I have a lot of candy left over.

Good luck on your run.

 

[Tinkercc]

D,

You look amazing! You should be so happy with all the healthy choices that you made and continue to make! Have a great day!!

 

[MPWife153]

I have ditched the scale too! Like others have said, muscle will make you gain weight & 25lbs of muscle is better than 25lbs of fat

 

[FantasiaMagic]

Oh good... Sometimes I worry about talking about it.

I know what you mean, but not to worry at all!

It sounds like you've made a great decision for you. And that class definitely sounds like a good option - hopefully there is something similar where ever Allison decides to go to school. That's true too - I think a lot of Allison's friends are planning to go away for school, so hopefully it will be a good experience for her. I am just nervous - she is my first.

Yeah I really do think I made the right decision. My mom was the same way - they always say the first is the hardest.

t's probably paint or something? And I knew they (used to, not sure if they still do?) do free face painting at MNSSHP - and I loved how ours turned out the first time we went in 2003, so I knew we would do it again.

That is so cool! And yes it looks so pretty!

What a great picture of you and the girls! They are so little!

To those of you out there concentrating on the scale, I beg you to THROW IT OUT! What the scale tells you is of no importance, you should not let it control your efforts to be healthy or to stay healthy. Let your size and overall health be your determining factor.

You are such an inspiration D, and you are so right.

And you look absolutely amazing! I love that outfit as well!

As a side note... The skirt I am wearing there is part of my "Gryffindor" school uniform for January. Allison has the exact same one. I just love that outfit though - after 3 days of being down on myself, it felt good to dress up, even if it was only to run to town to get groceries.

Those skirts will look great for both of your outfits. And dressing up is always nice once in awhile!

Then Gus and Yohan came over... The kids all had a great time dressing up.

What fun!

Allison was a Gossip Girl (no idea what that is?),

That made me LOL, just the way you wrote it made it so funny! it's a TV show that a lot of teens Allison's and I ages watch. Usually on Netflix I believe? I never got into it, but I have friends that have watched it before.

Gus was a Secret Service Agent, then V and Yohan should be self explanatory. I took all of them in to town to trick-or-treat... I was going to let them go by themselves, but there are just too many little kids out in the dark - and I just wanted to be safe.

They all look great and how cute that they all went trick-or-treating together!! Yeah, a lot of mischief can happen on Halloween - I don't blame you for wanting to be careful!

I hope they all had a good time - and got lots of candy!

 

[KathyM2]

I searched and searched and finally got one a couple days ago.

Wahoo!! Awesome! I guess persistance pays off when it comes to ADR's.

That was the last piece of the puzzle. We are good to go.

Awesome!! They should know better than to change park opening times goshdarnit!! Really can wreak havoc with your plans!!! Ugh!! But so glad it all worked out!

 

[Hardheadedwoman]

OK, I was lazy this morning and will do my 9 miles tomorrow - promise! LOL Thanks for the info on the Garmin! I've mostly been relying on my phone but I really need a backup.

We went to a Halloween party this weekend and our friend's sister ran the Princess Half a few years ago and I had a lot of fun talking Disney and running with her! She gave me some great tips on where my family should hang out (Main Street at the 5 mile mark and then trek it to Epcot for the finish) while I run as well as a play by play of the race and course which really has me excited! She was like, "Plan on crying when you run through the castle!"

Oh, and here's my costume! I found my skirt on Amazon for $6! It's a little see thru so I'll only be able to wear it with tights or something underneath but I was happy with it.
https://instagram.com/p/9iBbFsyQ6C/

Love the Halloween throwback photo!

PS Love the outfit with the gray skirt that was posted above! You look fantastic!

 

[DMGeurts]

Remember muscles weigh more than fat. You look GREAT

The kids looks great in their costumes. In Norway kids want to be dressed up as vampires, witches or other scary and ugly things. It's a shame that they won't dress up as something cute and nice. They think they are supposed to dress up that way. Not everyone celebrate Halloween in Norway. This is because it's a very new thing in Norway and many people thinks it's the business community that has brought this tradition to Norway to earn more money. Some people have started to celebrate something they call Hallovenn (Hallofriend) on Halloween. What they do is that they invite the kids to a party at home or at a venue where the kids comes dressed up and have a great time. That way the kids don't go trick or treating on doors that don't celebrate Halloween and the kids still get to dress up and eat lots of candy and other stuff.

Today the weather forecast say it's going to be a storm here. At the moment it's raining and a lot of wind outside, but it's not that bad I think. It's probably worse further out on the coast. Tromsø has mainland and some islands protecting it so it's not often we get really bad storms on the Tromsø island.

Well, actually - I used to say that too, but then someone called me out on it.... Technically, 1 lb of muscle weighs the exact same as 1 lb of fat, but muscle is denser and more compact. But I totally get what you are saying, and I know that's what's going on - but it's an awful mind game, and even though I know that - I am still struggling with it. Sigh. It's a hard thing to get past.

I was talking with Myrthe about this a few years ago, and she said the same thing about The Netherlands.... Kids want to be scary and grotesque, and not the fun and cute characters that kids typically go with in the US... Don't get me wrong - there are a lot of people that do the scary and grotesque here too, but personally, I don't like that side of Halloween. I think Hallofriend is a good idea.

I hope the storm wasn't too bad. Stay warm!

That's right. There is a + sign in the upper right hand corner of the FitBit app. When you hit it you get a list which includes track exercise, log food, water, weight and sleep. When you hit the track exercise button you get a GPS map of where you are. There is a start arrow and when you hit it it starts the timer and gives the distance. At the end of the exercise you hit finish or stop or whatever. You get time, distance and pace. That is all I need. The neat part is that it gives you a map with your route marked in a dark line. It is funny to see the results of the green light walk. The lines can be a little crazy.
Cloaks would be fun but your Gryffindor outfits are good enough, too.

Your before and after pictures are amazing. You look really healthy now, and happy, too. That is what is most important.

The kids look really cute for Halloween. I'm glad you had good weather. We had a cold, rainy day and only had 26 trick or treaters come to our door. We usually get around 80. I have a lot of candy left over.

Good luck on your run.

Hahaha.... I bet your green light walk is awesome! I wish I would have used my "map my run" app yesterday along with my garmin - I guess I could plug in my Garmin and sync it with Connect, I ran some pretty crazy trails yesterday... . Beautiful - but my route was crazy. The only thing I don't like using an app for, vs my Garmin, is if I want to know my pace, I have to dig out my phone from my SPIbelt - which is sometimes difficult... And since my Road ID is currently MIA, I had to carry my drivers license with me yesterday... If I am carrying anything, but my phone in there - I hate trying to take my phone out, because I'm always afraid I'll drop the other stuff and not know it. But I should be running some sort of app simultaneously for the fun of it.

Thank you! I really do love that outfit on me, and if I do say so - I think that picture is very flattering. I do know, when I look in the mirror - that is not what I see. But I do like that picture. I just thought the message was so important, it's so easy to get caught up in what the scale says, when there are so many other tools out there for us to use to gauge our health.

The weather for Halloween wasn't too fantastic.... It was quite cold - IMO... but the kids had fun, and that's what's important.

Thanks! I took the time this morning to do my own "map my run" LOL - it's pretty crude, but the trail I was on was pretty cool. That will be posted below. The run, itself, wasn't the greatest - but I did enjoy it.

D,

You look amazing! You should be so happy with all the healthy choices that you made and continue to make! Have a great day!!

Thank you so much! It's so hard sometimes, to focus on all of the dynamics, rather than just one thing. It's a pretty daunting task most days, but I do work hard and I try hard not to get caught up in "societies version" of health. I know when I go in for my annual physical in Feb/March - I know my weight will be up - A LOT - from last year, and I really need to focus on the good aspects of that, and not the vague chart that most Dr.s go by. I'll keep telling myself that, over and over again until then.

I hope you had a great day too!

I have ditched the scale too! Like others have said, muscle will make you gain weight & 25lbs of muscle is better than 25lbs of fat

Good for you!!!! It plays such games with us! I think the scale is a good tool - sometimes - but relying on it solely is a recipe for disaster... As long as our clothes still fit - we are doing something right. Keep it up! You are doing great!

I know what you mean, but not to worry at all!

Yeah I really do think I made the right decision. My mom was the same way - they always say the first is the hardest.

That is so cool! And yes it looks so pretty!

What a great picture of you and the girls! They are so little!

You are such an inspiration D, and you are so right.

And you look absolutely amazing! I love that outfit as well!

Those skirts will look great for both of your outfits. And dressing up is always nice once in awhile!

What fun!

That made me LOL, just the way you wrote it made it so funny! it's a TV show that a lot of teens Allison's and I ages watch. Usually on Netflix I believe? I never got into it, but I have friends that have watched it before.

They all look great and how cute that they all went trick-or-treating together!! Yeah, a lot of mischief can happen on Halloween - I don't blame you for wanting to be careful!

I hope they all had a good time - and got lots of candy!

I am so glad you are happy with your decision - that is the biggest hurdle to overcome - IMO.

Yes - I love seeing the girls so little... I still see them that way when I look at them - it's hard to see them as *almost* grown ups. They will always be my babies.

Thank you! That is one of my new favorite outfits! I really like how it looks on me, and it feels flattering. I am just very self conscious in it - because it feels like my cross-body bag is always rubbing on it, and it feels like it's pulling the skirt up... So, I am constantly feeling back there to make sure I am not giving people a show. LOL That would be awful! But otherwise - I do love it!

Hehehe... Thanks for explaining... Allison tried too. I hope it's a good show anyways.

Yes - they all had a great time, and divided all of their candy equally among them when they got home. It was a lot of fun!

Wahoo!! Awesome! I guess persistance pays off when it comes to ADR's.

Awesome!! They should know better than to change park opening times goshdarnit!! Really can wreak havoc with your plans!!! Ugh!! But so glad it all worked out!

I am super excited that Suzi was able to change those ADRs, it just makes that day a little easier.

I do think that's awful... It makes planning so difficult. I already think the planning involved for a trip is a bit too excessive now with the FP system, and having to do it so far in advance - or there's not much hope in doing anything when you get there... But I am so thankful that Suzi was able to take this trip on.

OK, I was lazy this morning and will do my 9 miles tomorrow - promise! LOL Thanks for the info on the Garmin! I've mostly been relying on my phone but I really need a backup.

We went to a Halloween party this weekend and our friend's sister ran the Princess Half a few years ago and I had a lot of fun talking Disney and running with her! She gave me some great tips on where my family should hang out (Main Street at the 5 mile mark and then trek it to Epcot for the finish) while I run as well as a play by play of the race and course which really has me excited! She was like, "Plan on crying when you run through the castle!"

Oh, and here's my costume! I found my skirt on Amazon for $6! It's a little see thru so I'll only be able to wear it with tights or something underneath but I was happy with it.
https://instagram.com/p/9iBbFsyQ6C/

Love the Halloween throwback photo!

PS Love the outfit with the gray skirt that was posted above! You look fantastic!

Hahaha... I understand - I was feeling pretty lazy yesterday too - my run was a rough one.

Yay for being able to talk Disney and RUnning!!!! I have yet to meet anyone IRL that does RunDisney events - all of my RunDisney friends are online. So, that's pretty exciting!

Love your costume!!!! That is exactly one that I am thinking of doing... Just simple Minnie dots with a black shirt and ears - classic. I am running in something similar when I am down there NEXT WEEK - Sold red Sparkle Skirt, black tank and Minnie Dot headband... Similar, but a little different.

Thanks!

And thanks! I do love that outfit too - I think I will get a lot more use out of that skirt than I thought I would.

********************************************************************************************************

The time change has really thrown me off, I've been up at 3 am yesterday and today... It's super annoying. I should be able to enjoy being able to sleep in.

At least it gave me an early start to my "Sunday run routine"... And it made it possible for me to get into my sewing room for a bit yesterday before my run to work on a side project. So, that was nice.

I left for my run, and I wasn't as excited as I normally am - I honestly wasn't in the mood, but I went anyways. I went to the most populated trail in our area - it was quite beautiful yesterday. This is my favorite trail so far - lots of twists, turns, small hills, people, and it follows the river.

I only did 5.3 miles, vs the 6 I was hoping for... It was kind of a crappy run - I had to walk several times... All for very short distances, but I just couldn't get my breathing right, and I continued to get side stitches the whole way.... I am pretty sure it has to do with the cold of the air. Essentially - I did an out n' back route, on several dead ends - I was guessing that would bring me to 6 miles, but it didn't - so I just stopped. Next time, I will have to go further out on one of them. My route is highlighted in blue...

Then, my after run selfie... When I am out running - I pay attention to what other people are wearing, because I like to know how to dress myself. But I've discovered that I definitely run "hot" - while others are out there right now, appearing to be comfortable in long sleeves... I start off with a light jacket on, but usually less than a mile into it - I am tying the jacket around my waist and running in a tank top - in 40° weather... So, I must be a little odd? Mark my words - by the time I stretch and get into my car... My jacket is back on and I have another on top of it - because I am cold to the bone - probably from the wet clothes.

I came home and I napped... It was nice.

We had leftover tacos for dinner and just relaxed in front of the TV all night.

Today... It was supposed to be a sewing room day for me... but - my cousin is coming down, and we are meeting at the MOA for lunch. So, I will not be in my sewing room at all today. Which is kind of a bummer - I was hoping to have a 4 day work week, but that's just not going to happen this week.

I hope you all have a wonderful day! Prayers and good thoughts to all of you!

D~

 

[solana131]

Happy Single Digit Day!!!!

 

[DMGeurts]

Yahoo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Eeep!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

D~

 

[Wood Nymph]

I start off with a light jacket on, but usually less than a mile into it - I am tying the jacket around my waist and running in a tank top - in 40° weather..

It seems like I am always starting off with a jacket and then tying it around my waist for most of the run. I like to run cold, too, but I want that jacket for when I start to cool down. We have a lot of runners in our neighborhood and the clothes they wear vary from "way too hot for me" to "you are going to freeze to death." I've learned over time what works for me and knowing the temperature and wind speed are key to it.

The time change has really thrown me off, I've been up at 3 am yesterday and today... It's super annoying. I should be able to enjoy being able to sleep in.

I was awake at 3:30am this morning. I knew I'd be in trouble with the time change because I usually wake up on the early side.

I'm very excited for your trip. It is such a nice time of the year to be in Florida.