Working on Weight Loss and getting Lean!

[rubato]

Hi ladies. How's everyone doing?

Debra: I'm so sorry to hear about your holidays. How's your FIL? Are the inlaws going to Disney also, or just you and DOOD?

AFM: Okay ladies, I am stressing out!!!! I leave in 1&1/2 days!!!!! I feel like I'm not ready, not prepared, not organized and am going to ruin my family's vacation if I can't run these 2 races and then, walk everywhere with them for 7 days. I have packed 3 or 4 times now. I keep going in to the guest room and redoing everything. Anyone else experience this craziness? I just cut my leg shaving and it's not a little cut, I took a chunk out of the back of my knee.

I do have to say that I'm excited to meet everyone. I wish Jackie was going too, but that will have to be another time.

Anyway, have a great day ladies. If I dont get on tomorrow, I'll see everyone on Friday!

 

[bunnyfoo]

Hi ladies! Happy new year! I've just been busy making my packing list and checking it twice. I've got one really cold weather outfit and then one regular weather outfit. I'm bringing arm sleeves and a space blanket from the Scotiabank half (if I can find it). I couldn't find any old (small blankets) lying around so will probably grab a pool towel or two to sit on and do my warm ups on.

Tandy - Ouch! I like waxing but have heard stories about people also doing the same thing with wax. I think if they're on meds that thin the skin, waxing can be dangerous! I'm going to give myself a pedi tonight, knock on wood that I don't take out my back How's your ankle/flexor doing?

I've spent too many hours on Epic Mickey. I'm just not a good gamer - I can't seem to make Mickey do all the jumps etc. but the puzzles are pretty easy.

Debra - The shopping was pretty good - picked up a short sleeved sweater top, sweater dress, tunic top and a pair of PJs. Funny thing was the manager wanted to apply the credit in a funny way. The cards were originally $25 off $50 but there was a big sign in front of the cash saying the limit had been removed. Anyway she insisted and ended up not giving me the entire $100 credit because everything was on sale and nothing was more than $40. But because she applied the discount pre-tax, I still ended up paying less (even without the extra $10). At the end of it, she had the nerve to say she was letting me get away with not paying enough taxes. I said that if she had scanned in everything, hit the total button, entered the $100 as a payment, it all would have worked out properly. Sheesh!

And for FIL and MIL ... I hope the heart attack hasn't caused any serious complications. Sorry to hear about all the IL drama, especially over the holidays. Was it at least warm in NM?

AFM - The eating's sort of under control. I'm not eating big portions but I can't seem to shake the sugar. Which unfortunately means my skin has broken out Ugh! It's pretty awful Either its the sugar or stress related to the full ... or maybe the ex. Yes, he's coming for part of the trip so he'll be there Friday night and until Wednesday. He's also offered to take me to the airport so I thought that was nice too, especially since my flight is leaving at 7AM.

But I can't really tell where things are with him - it seems to go hot and cold and I just honestly don't know most days. My therapist thought maybe he just missed the idea of me, I wonder if he was right about that. But with the trip, I have no expectations - I'm just concentrating on finishing the full and looking forward to meeting all of you!

And since it's the new year, I thought it would be a good time to post some of our goals (fitness, running or otherwise). So here are mine:

Running:
* Run two marathons (no time goals)
* Run a 3:00 30K
* Run a sub 27:00 minute 5K

Fitness:
* Lean out enough to wear a bra tank top to the gym without having to hold my breath
* Do 5 chin ups by the fall (I can barely do one right now)
* Continue (or get back) with clean eating and low sugar

Personal
* Find a new career/job

Anyone else want to share their's?

I might not have a chance to post before I leave but I'm looking forward to our meets! And we'll have to get a Leanies photo so we can post it on the thread!

Have a great day everyone!

 

[MouseDogMom]

GOOD LUCK to everyone headed to WDW this weekend! I'd love to be joining you guys, maybe not so much to run as just to hang out, but I'll be there in spirit cheering all of you on.

Debra - Hope FIL continues to recover. I'd made a comment on your FB, but deleted it when I realized that there might be family members reading it and didn't want them to see... wondered if you REALLY wanted him to train for the 2012 5K since it would mean they'd have to actually come again next year. I know you SO love having them there for marathon weekend. But then I saw that they may have other reasons to be there, so it might not be such a bad trip after all!

I've actually asked for the next 2 Fridays off, so I can take it just a little easy while recovering. And I can't believe I have a 20 yo either. She's growing up SO fast.

Tandy - The craziness is perfectly normal. Even though I'm not doing it this year, it sounds just like the past 3. Fortunately, we drive, so I can pack everything. Just ask DH! As for being able to walk around the park with your family, just give yourself a little recovery time after each race (I still am a fan of ice baths, or at least cool/cold ones, even though I HATE them), along with a short nap, and then keep moving. They just have to be a little understanding and move a little slower to keep pace with you!

Vicky - Great goals for this year. I can't quite get motivated to compile a list right now. Running, period, would be sufficient! I did really good with the 2010 goals, but I doubt 2011 will be as successful. Good luck with the BF. Hope the trip goes well!

DD left this morning. It's going to be a LONG two weeks (and two days, but who's counting?) I have my post-op visit with the ortho on Wednesday. Things were going well until this morning when I was hopping around the bedroom getting dressed and tripped and fell. I'm all bruised on the good side. Apparently I need to use the crutches and NOT try to hop around.

I'm hoping he'll clear me to start on the exercise bike - I'm in desperate need of activity. The holiday sweets were almost gone, and DH came home from the store with a package of Double Stuf Oreos. I'm not accusing him of sabotage or anything, but seriously? I'm not moving off the couch, and you bring me Oreos?

Jackie

 

[deekaypee]

Oooh, crunch time! Were that I were doing crunches. But no, I'm talking about the pre-Disney trip. Not packed, don't have bibs printed or waivers, and just picked up a couple of ADRs today. Three flights in one month, plus holiday stuff, demonstrates that I'm organizationally challenged.

On the good news, my FIL seems quite chipper now that he's out of the hospital and snowbirding. Now, whether he'll make the necessary lifestyle changes.... who knows? I hope so.

Tandy: Welcome to taper madness! You sound, well, totally normal to me. Or abnormal in good company. I think the madness is intensified with the Goofy. I look forward to seeing you/meeting you, too. (And I'll miss Jackie this year. )

Vicky: I hear Epic Mickey has some very frustrating controls, so I'm not convinced it's just you as a gamer. Good reminder to bring a space blanket. I always get so cold before the race. It sounds as if you got a great deal, if less than great customer service. I received a Bed, Bath and Beyond gift card - whoo hoo. I spent it on pillows because I'm a wild woman.

It sounds as if your WDW trip has the potential to be stressful with the ex. But you know, you'll have fun with us. And maybe he really misses you. Or you miss the idea of him. Regardless, with the full, and WISH, and the trip with him, you'll have some great stories to tell!

Jackie: I was just going to ask how you're doing! Good to know you're trying to carve out some Friday recovery time. You so deserve it. USE your crutches, bunny! On your DH, if not anything else, for bring home the irresistible Oreos!

Good suggestion on the much-detested ice baths. They really do work, Tandy!

Oh, and my in-laws aren't my friends on Facebook. I'm sure you're shocked. But yeah, if they went it would be all about babysitting the granddaughter. Not a bad thing. And I'm really working on my relationship with them - that's a NY resolution. DOOD was really upset about the heart attack, as was I (surprisingly). He deserves to not be put in the middle and, since he just can't quit them, I need to step up. Or totally step out of their lives. (Wait, that last bit wasn't trying very hard. Unless you count looking for an escape route. )

Beth: I just wanted to say Hi!

AFM: DOOD and I have both been having some knee pain since we got back from Santa Fe. Since we both ran the same route on the trip (a hilly golf course...hillier than Pgh) and both sat in the cramped plane, we think one of the two (or both) had an effect. So it's been easy miles and light cardio in hopes all will be well for the half. We know taper madness tends to make aches & pains more noticeable, so we're hoping that's mostly it.

Goals, goals, goals. We'll considering I'm in my biggest pants now and they're tight, my first fitness goal is drop the weight I said I'd lose last year (and did, then regained) and then some. More concentration on strength training and core, because when I let that slide everything else falls to pieces. And getting my work/life balance under control. I'll have more specific plans of action when I get back. Right now I'm just treading water and trying to reign in some of the taper madness.

 

[rubato]

Good morning ladies.

Vicky: We will be the breakout twins. I am breaking out from stress. And, pimples are not pretty when you're 40. I can't decide if I like pimples or wrinkles more!

Jackie: I'm sorry to hear about your fall. And hubby's sabotage. And your daughter leaving. Let's hope the rest of the week is better. Thanks for the encouragement. I was just having a breakdown yesterday.

Debra: You crack me up. You are just now getting ADRs! Of course, the Disney expert knows better, right? At least you got some. I know there's still a lot of stuff open, my family just has specific wants. I have changed mine at least 20 times. And, of course, no one is going to be hungry when it's 'officially' time to eat. I hope you guys aren't hurting this weekend. My knee was acting really strange on my walk yesterday, but I'm choosing to ignore it. If I don't acknowledge it, it's not real.

AFM: Well, I've been putting my nerves to good use. My house is spotless! I don't enjoy coming home to a dirty, unorganized house, so it's all good. I'm on the 3rd load of laundry now and getting ready to go run my last run before the half. (Wow, I can't believe it). I just checked in on Southwest, and got good positions in line, so hubby can have a good spot. Frank is incredibly claustrophobic and a control freak, so flying is BAD!!!!! I will drug him up about 8 am and he needs an aisle and, preferrably, a bulkhead. Harrison and I don't even sit with him, because he keeps going back and forth between drugged sleep and freaking out. Yes, I'm a bad wife.

I had a nice surprise this morning. I got on the scale not expecting anything good. I weighed 137!!!!!!!! 3 pounds from my goal. I'm sure it won't last because it's just my nerves. Plus, hello, I'm going to Disneyworld! And, on the dining plan! Dessert here I come!!!

I hope everyone has safe travels and will see you on Friday. Jackie, you'll be there in spirit.

 

[Worfiedoodles]

Hello Lovely Lean Ones!

I tried to make it over here all day yesterday, but what with work craziness, this is the best I could do...and I have to make it short so I can get ready for work. I'm on a huge deadline today since we leave tomorrow, so I may not have any DIS time later.

Anyway, I just wanted to say I'm looking forward to seeing some of you at WDW, and of course we'll be missing Jackie and Beth!

I have yet to start packing or even choosing my reading material. I had planned to leave work today about noon, but that turns out to have been a fantasy. I'm glad I can sleep in Friday morning (our only plan is the Expo), I think I'm going to need it!

Debra, Tandy, Vicky and lurking Corinna --Travel Safe! Now let's go get those medals!

Maria

 

[deekaypee]

Tandy: Congratulations on being so close to your goal. That's great news to head into the race - as well as having a spotless house. I failed on both accounts. I can empathize with Frank; I don't get claustrophobic on flights, but I tend to be stressed. Of course, my drug of choice is sugar. Must work on that. But I don't think you're a bad wife, not at all. Would sitting next to him alleviate his stress? No. It would add to yours. Let someone else experience the joys.

Yeah, this trip has been bad for organization. I think we tend to get lazy with marathon weekend, as we avoid most of our favorite restaurants prior to the race. Then there's during the race and spectating. Combined with low season, we've been winging it the past couple of years. Not setting a good example.

Maria: Can I say that I just love that you mentioned picking out reading material as part of packing? That's what I do, too. I didn't pack until late last night, in my usual procrastinating self. Even let DOOD pick out my book, just to get me out of my rut. It'll be Wolf Hall. (As a safeguard I downloaded some TV shows on my iPod. )

Okay, I'm looking forward to seeing everyone who's going in just a couple of days. Post 1/2 marathon, I'll come back with some plans for 2011 that I'll actually achieve. I'm putting 2010 way behind my bigger behind & using this weekend to inspire me. Well, actually, I'm using all of you to inspire me.

(As a small start, I'm now in day 5 of the 100 Days Challenge!)

 

[Creativebeth]

Hey Lean Ladies!

Long time since I have been here!! I missed you all...... I can sit here and give you all big excuses, but that is all it would be empty excuses!

I have fallen so far off the wagon.....I still can't see it in the horizon!

I started back at Weight Watchers last week, at a very scary weight! Holy Toledo! I hate that I am back up again......I did keep over 30 pounds off from the original weight, but still not good enough.

I have been liking the new points plus at WW.....and I will let you know how it goes when I weigh in on Thursday!

Let's all just keep plugging along I guess!

Hope you all are having a good time in WDW!

Beth

 

[rubato]

Hi Beth. Welcome back. We have all missed you. WW is awesome. I hope the new system works for you.

Debra, Maria and Vicky: It was so great meeting all of you. I wish I would have had more time to spend, but Frank and Harrison were already sick of how much time my racing was taking away from 'their' Disney vacation. At least now I have some faces to go with names. I felt like I knew you all already.

AFM: I am home and 5 pounds heavier. Yes, you heard me right. After running 39.3 miles, I gained 5 pounds. I will never do that silly dining plan again. There is no way in the world that I am going to be offered dessert 2 times a day and not take it. Plus, the snack credits have even more dessert choices available to me. But, I feel so stinking amazing! I am so happy to have done these races. I can't believe that I started feeling good again after only a few hours. Only the quads hurt. I'm just glad we didn't come home until last night. We have so many stairs in our house and that would have killed me. So, officially I am a Goofy Challenge winner!!!!!! 1:48 and 4:55 for my races. I feel great about both of those numbers, even though the 1:48 is 4 minutes slower than my goal. I am healing nicely from my fall also. The only problem is I lost the entire knuckle on my pinkie. There is a good 1/4" divet where the knuckle used to be (for those of you who weren't there, I fell during the marathon).

I am Disneyed out. I promised Frank that we wouldn't go back for at least a few years. He wants to go on another cruise and we promised his friend that we'd go back to Europe next year or the year after. So, I think we're done for awhile. It was really crowded to us and the weather was a little chillier than we're used to on our other trips, so that added to it. Plus, Frank didn't get the racing high I did.

Have a wonderful day ladies.

 

[Worfiedoodles]

Wow! What a weekend!

I was just saying how we were missing you, Beth, at the Leanie Meet on Monday. Great to see you posting again!

Tandy -- I am so sorry about your knuckle, that is awful! I really hope you are able to go to your doctor and have something done? Congrats on two fabulous races, and totally Going Goofy!

I had a super time at the Leanie Meet -- so great to see Vicky, Tandy and Debra and their assorted male folk! It's hard to go wrong when you're eating ice cream! Debra and Vicky and Mark and Nathaniel, respectively, ordered a Kitchen Sink at Beaches and Cream. I'm wondering if you guys polished it off?

I'm crossposting my race report, with apologies to Debra and the lurking Corinna! (That's Cor-ee-na), I've been pronouncing it wrong for far too long -- and a note this was written for the Princess BL thread, and some folks who have never raced before...

I'm not much one for race reports, but here it is -- I woke up at 3am Saturday, and I just knew it was going to go well . I felt healthy, relatively rested, and I had all my gear laid out and ready to go, d-tag (for timing) already on my shoe. Dennis walked me out to the buses (he was doing the Full the next day), and I was off! My bus took the same route as the regular traffic (this was new to me), so we got there a little later than I would have liked. I went out to the bus just before 4, I'll be heading out 20min earlier for Princess. I barely had time to stand through the Port-a-Potty line and then walk down to the race. I was so excited because I had moved up two corrals for my start, which was also making me think this could be a very good day. I should preface all of this by saying I am not a fast runner. My best time at that point was 3:11. I lined up about 6 rows from the start of my corral (F), and in the very front I saw the 3 hr pace team. I really, really wanted to break 3 hours, so I knew that if I could get past them and never see them again, I would do it.

I finally started in Wave 6. I headed out feeling ok, but I was surprised at the number of people I was passing. The first mile is always rough because you're packed almost like sardines, and it's hard to find your space. Anyway, I couldn't see the clock when I started, but I knew I was theoretically about half an hour behind the first Wave. I made it a point to eat my second set of Clif bloks at Mile 2 (I eat a couple before I start), and as usual, I completely missed Mile 4. I know it's there, but I never see it! Anyway, by Mile 5 it was starting to get light and I was close to the MK. I saw some WISHers cheering, and that always gives you a little extra boost. Running right down the middle of Main Street USA is also a big pick me up, not to mention running through the castle! I really didn't think I needed to hit the restrooms, so I skipped it. If you do think you might have to go, I think it's worth making the stop in the MK. But I digress -- I saw plenty of characters on the way to and in the MK, and as you leave Capt. Jack Sparrow is also available for photos...he had quite a line, though!

After MK the entertainment slows down some, but I was happy I was still feeling good. I was having 13 and 14 mile splits, so I could live with that. I also passed one of my Ohana cousins Debra!, which was a big boost for me. She was Goofy last year, and taking it easy this year, and it boosted me to see her since I knew she had started in the corral ahead of me. I kept moving even when I could feel myself slowing, and got my usual boost from seeing ThunderMatt on top of the over pass after Mile 10, waving to everyone and encouraging the WISHers.

I got myself up the overpass (definitely my least favorite part of the race), and made past Mile11. Then this guy wanted me to stop so he could take a picture of the back of my WISH shirt. I told him I wasn't stopping, but he could take a picture. He did, so hopefully it turned out for him. As I was running down the hill, my Ohana cousin Debra! caught up with me to give me last minute encouragement about reaching my goal. Then I ran around the bend and up the last overpass, and then down toward Mile12. I saw my cousin's husband Mark! (who I suspect finished at well under 2 hours), and then kept going into Epcot. I made the loop in Epcot, then I was headed for the finish! I crossed the line, got my Donald medal (as I was waiting for my medal I heard the announcer say, "Here comes the 3 hour pace team" so I knew I made my goal! ), ate an orange, and had a massage. Then it was time to board a bus back to the WL resort.

Here's the part that's not so great. I don't know how this happened, but apparently my d-tag did not record at the 15K split, or the finish, so I don't have an official time. I'm trying to see what I can do about it -- I realize I may not be able to get an official time (although I certainly should show up in the photos at the finish), but I'd like to at least know unofficially how I did so I know what to shoot for to improve even by a couple minutes for Princess. I also want to know how this could have happened, so I can avoid it in the future. I was pretty upset when I went to look up my results online and I don't have a finish time, but I do have a medal and I know I did it....It's really frustrating since this is literally the best race of my life, and I have nothing to prove it. One of my BL buddies was tracking me, and says at the 10K split I was on target to finish in 2:54, so that is some comfort.

Anyway, I am really looking forward to doing it again next month and figuring out how to have it count! I ran 2M this morning, and I feel really good. Now I want to take off some weight (I think I'm looking at a 3 lb gain after my week in WDW, which I can definitely live with), and do whatever I can to improve. It is clear I need to do more crosstraining, so I'm going to make a real effort to get that going.

DS is home from school today and DH is out blowing away the endless snow which is still falling pretty heavily, so I'm going to go make lunch for my fellas. I will catch up with this and other threads later --

Now -- DS is also going to be home tomorrow, so that will hinder my posting. I plan to run 3M and catch up on I hope you are all set for a great day tomorrow!

Maria

 

[Creativebeth]

Congrats to Tandy and Maria!!!!! Such a tremendous job ladies....I am proud of both of you!!!

Debra: So, Goofy again? Good for you!

AFM: I am liking the new WW plan. The week went pretty well with a loss of 8 pounds today. I usually do pretty well the first week, now the real work will begin. I would love to see 2 pounds next week....but that may be really difficult after a big loss this week. I am loving the "free" fruit....having something to eat when I am hungry really helps since I am not a big veggie girl!

So, sitting here I am trying to get over the feeling of failure. How can someone do all this work to lose weight, and then turn around and gain 60% of the weight back? I really hate the 'starting over'....... BUT, I have to see the good where it is. I am following a decent plan to support my running, I didn't gain everything back, and my friend Nancy is joining me in the
WW adventure! So, on that note......let's get going!!!!!

Beth

 

[MouseDogMom]

Beth - Welcome back! We've missed you! It's just not the same without you. And trust me, you're not the only one who backslid (pretty sure that's not a word, but it seems to work, so I'm going to coin it) over the past few months. Some of us won't even discuss weight, much less go near a scale.

Tandy - CONGRATULATIONS! Awesome times, especially for Goofy. You are a machine! And to think you thought you were injured and it would affect your performance? Sorry to hear about your fall - that couldn't have been any fun. It's really hard to balance running and a family trip. DH has already told me if we do it again, that he's not coming to any of the WISH meets - I'm welcome to go solo, but it's just too much time.

Maria - I already said this on the 'Ohana thread - but way to go! Much relief that it was your chip and not you not crossing the finish line. And terrific race report. I was reliving each mile with you while I read.

Debra - I'm very jealous of those of you doing the 100 Days Challenge. I want to, I really do. But I can't. And I'm very unhappy about it. But as of Monday, I'm actually doing something. Details to come.

Saw the ortho last Wednesday. He told me that I could start putting weight on the left leg, and only needed to use the crutches for another week. So as of today, that means NO MORE CRUTCHES! I had my PT evaluation on Monday, and he gave me a set of exercises to do at home, and cleared me to start doing upper body stuff with the dumbbells I have. He told me not to do crunches, since I'm not supposed to bend the leg more than 90 degrees, but I figured out how to do ab exercises while doing the stuff he gave me, so I'm killing two birds at one time. Today I had my first session in the pool, and really felt like I had a good hour's workout. So by my figuring, I'm actually doing a modified 100 Days Challenge - just not the intensity that Bingham probably had in mind.

The PT and I are at odds, and I'm hoping the ortho will overrule him when I see him again in 3 weeks. Every conversation I had with the doctor before the surgery was geared toward this procedure meaning I could run again once it was done, so I assumed that meant at the same intensity and distance, as soon as I was through with the 3 month no-running period. The PT on Monday said he doesn't think I should be at more than 2-3 miles by the end of the YEAR. Excuse me? I was planning to run a marathon this fall? Or at the very least, the 10K at MCM if I didn't feel ready. Not okay. I'm going to be patient and not pitch a tantrum until I see him on Feb 2nd, but if he backs up what the PT said, you all will be able to hear me scream. You won't need to wait for me to post. I wouldn't have had the surgery if I'd known that. The cortisone shot was working just fine. Deep breaths. Deep breaths.

Jackie

 

[bunnyfoo]

Hi Leanies! Happy Friday! Well, I got back late Wednesday evening and now it's back to the real world... Hard to believe that this time last week, I was sitting on a boat traveling from HS to Epcot *sigh* Looks like I have lots of catching up to do.

Jackie - Great news on the crutches! I wonder if your PT is only saying 2-3 miles by the end of the year as a way of being cautious. Maybe he says that so that patients don't just jump of the clinic and start hitting the pavement too fast too soon. MCM is on my radar as well. I really want to do Honolulu but am thinking it might be out of my budget. Can I ask you what hotel prices are like for the race? I have friends that might let me stay with them but they're in DC and I'm not sure what the commute is like over to Arlington.

Beth - WTG on 8 lb loss! That is awesome!! I can't explain the weight gain except to use Debra's saying "Life Takes Over". I think if I had to sum up my 2010, that's the phrase I would use! The important thing is that you're back on track and with WW, I'm guessing most of the weight will be gone within a few months? And it's a new year, a fresh start so you're not allowed to feel like a failure!

Maria - Fantastic RR! Congrats on your under 3 hour finish! You rock! I had so much fun seeing you and Dennis again at the Pop meet and B&C. I will have to try and get to the meets earlier or on time *ahem* so I can have more time to chat with everyone! Did you happen to look at your D Chip when you finished? I had a friend who did the W&D and folded the chip in a funny way - he had problems with his recorded times as well. Personally I don't like them much. I usually get Nathaniel to put mine on the morning of the race (which should make the Princess interesting, no pit crew). Speaking of the Princess, do you have a new time goal? As for the Kitchen Sink, we made a pretty good dent in it. I have before and after pictures that I will send you

Tandy - It was so awesome to run the full with you! I mean this honestly when I say that I don't think I could have done it without you. And you are one tough cookie because if I had fallen, I'd still be sitting on the bridge crying my eyes out. I figured that if you kept going, I had no excuse to quit or stop. Yes the thought had crossed my mind... And I can't believe we missed beating Galloway by seconds!! But it was really cool to meet him at the finish! Where in Europe are you and Frank thinking of vacationing? You'll have to come back and do the Goofy again when they have the full color medals! Btw, have you been to the doctor to ask about your pinkie? I hope there's something they can do...

Debra - Loved hanging out with you and DOOD before and after the races! Loved the hair too! So no name for the purse yet - although I had thought about drawing a pair of eyes on a piece of paper, cutting them out and taping them to the purse and doing the travelling gnome thing. No I'm just kidding! But I did see someone carrying a full sized garden gnome in their pack at Epcot. I asked the security guard and he said that wasn't the first gnome he had seen Anyway, the purse is awesome! And a big thanks to you, DOOD, Maria, Corinna, Tracy and Mel for scream teaming outside of HS! And your photos are awesome! I like your's much better than my ASI pics!!

AFM - I think I'm still on a bit of a high from the race! I wore my medal everyday after Sunday. Unfortunately, the back of my medal wasn't quite finished and it got snagged on my marathon shirt. So there are a couple of pulls on the fabric which I'm not sure how to fix Maybe I'll just frame the shirt and the medal…

I did a RR which I posted on my team thread - it is long so don't feel like you have to read the whole thing I got a nice surprise from Nathaniel after the race. He had ordered a custom cake from the GF bakery which was delivered to our room a little bit late. It arrived on Sunday night and I couldn't figure out why we were hanging around instead of hitting MK. The cake was awesome and I'll have pictures of it shortly. I said he must have been a lot more confident than I was in my finish. Not sure where he and I stand but we're talking and things seem to be at least more friendly than they were a couple of months ago. But I still feel like things appear to be one way (like the cake) and then he'll act aloof. Dunno

Anyway the solo part of the trip was nice! I woke up when I wanted, did what I wanted, ate where I wanted. The wait staff at the restaurants were actually quite nice and I did see several other solo diners during my trip. I noticed they would come over to chat for a bit and it felt like we always got a little bit of extra attention

Oh and funny story … I watch a woman shoplift an oyster from the 'Pick a Pearl' exhibit in Japan. I happened to be standing beside her while we were watching someone else pick their oyster. I noticed she was leaning her arm on the side of the tank but didn't think anything of it. As I continued to watch the CM teach everyone how to bow correctly as part of Japanese customs, I notice this woman's fingers were now dangling in the water. As the CM opened the oyster and was beating on the drum, this woman stuck her hand into the tank, scooped up the closest oyster, pulled her hand out soaking wet and stuck the oyster into her pocket!!! I had never seen anyone shoplift a shellfish before! Anyway, there was this wet spot on her pocket and I'm sure she smelled lovely for the rest of the day. And you know, that was the only time I didn't have my camera out and ready to take pictures or record video. Darnit!

And I am thinking about another marathon On my list are MCM, Honolulu and Disney (even though I said I probably wouldn't). MCM and Disney are the most budget friendly … but Honolulu is in Hawaii and I've never been. I do have points for an airline ticket so all I really have to pay for is hotel, food and race entry. But then I think of the airfare and think that I could do a few races in different cities for that price.

Clean eating and exercising are slowly making their way back into my routine. Breakfast has not been great the past two days but I haven't had time to go to the supermarket either. Monday I'm going in for training and will have my chiro look at my ankle. I really can't seem to shift too much weight on it - I tried these rotating planks and collapsed when I tried to balance on my right leg. Not too graceful!

Anyway, I'll post links to my pics later today! Have a great weekend everyone!

 

[rubato]

Good morning ladies. I hope everyone is having a nice, relaxing weekend. I'm just waiting until 7pm to watch my Packers. I don't know if we can pull this game off, but I will try to keep the faith. I've already got the chili and cornbread going for the game. Now, I just need dessert!

Vicky: Great race report! My memory is so bad, that it's nice you wrote it all down for me! I feel the same way, by the way. I'm not sure I would have continued after the fall if you hadn't been there! But, I know that you could have done it on your own, no problem. You were the one pushing it those last couple of miles! Just what I needed, because I was struggling from about mile 22 on. So, thank you so much for being there for me!
When we go to Europe, we'll be going for Frank's best friends wedding. He's german, so we'll start in Germany for the wedding. Then, we are going to Italy. We went in '94 and it was our favorite country. When we went to Europe a few years ago, we didn't get to take Harrison to Italy, because there just wasn't enough time. So, that's our main goal. Of course, Switzerland is on the way, if we drive again, so we'll see. It's all beautiful. If Frank had his way, we'd pull an "Under the Tuscan Sun" move and just not come back! He loves it over there.
I haven't been to the doc, because I think it's too late to do anything about it. I'll just have a couple more scars to add to already lovely collection.
I cannot believe someone would steal an oyster! What in the world!
As far as Nathaniel goes, that was a nice surprise for you. And, you guys looked pretty cozy at Beaches and Cream! Maybe there's hope for you two.

Jackie: Congrats on being crutch free!!!!! I really hope your ortho overrules the PT. If you are ready to run, you are ready. Sometimes, I think these people just don't understand how important running is to us.

Beth: Weight loss is a rollercoaster ride. You can't expect to keep all your weight off forever. It likes to come back and visit on occasion. Just make sure it's not a permanent guest!!!!! Please, don't feel like a failure. I think everyone of us is still struggling with weight loss.

Maria: What a bummer that your tag wasn't working. I really hope they figure it out for you. But, anyway, congratulations on your new PR!!!!!! Totally awesome (to use one of my favorite 80s terms). It pains me to say it, but good luck in the Patriots game tomorrow!

AFM: I ran for the first time today. I ran a very slow 3 miles and I feel great. I've been sick for a full week now. As soon as we got home, I slept and have been sleeping 12-14 hours a day ever since. I have some kind of head cold or something. There is just so much pressure in my face and my throat hurts and I have a bad headache. And, I am just SOOOO tired! I think it's a combo of being sick and running 39 miles. I seem to only be awake to eat.
But, today I feel better. So, I'm finally taking down the Christmas decorations and I cooked and Harrison has friends over. He's going to his brothers tonight until Monday night, so it's just football and eating this weekend.

Starting on Monday, I'm going to try to get back to eating properly. I'm also going to zumba for the first time in 3 or 4 weeks. I know I'm going to struggle a little bit, but it'll be great to see everyone again and get that good core workout that I've been missing. I'm trying to decide when my next marathon will be. I can either do one in April or October. I'm leaning towards October, because I want to get faster, and that will give me a lot of time to work on speed before I start upping the distance again, or vice versa. I really, really, really want a sub 4 hour finish. Until Sunday, I thought that there was no way I could run 26 miles, but now, I think the distance is amazing. It took so much mental resolve to push past the pain with so far left to run. I loved it. Well, when it was over I loved it!

Anyway, have a fabulous weekend ladies.

 

[bunnyfoo]

Tandy - I think it's that Disney cough/cold that everyone catches after coming back from a trip. I have a nasty sore throat and my head feels like it's the size of a beach ball

I'm totally pulling an 'Under the Tuscan Sun' once I win the lottery ... I just have to remember to buy a ticket every now and then I had forgotten about the German! The trip sounds awesome!! What part of Italy are you going to?

Nathaniel and I are still talking and he said he really had a fun time at Disney! He said he was a little apprehensive about coming to B&C because he thought he'd get a lot of looks from everyone. I said WISH'ers aren't like that. Anyway, I'm not really one for game play but I am trying to take things easy and not be too eager. My therapist wasn't too thrilled about the situation but I was still trying to wrap my head around some of the things he said about someone being selfish.

AFM - I went to my friend's son's birthday party. He was turning two. Holy kids and sugar! I think my ears are still ringing from all the noise and screaming I stayed for about an hour and then it got to be a bit much.

Here are the pics I took from marathon weekend! I haven't posted just park pictures yet but I'm hoping to get to that today.

I'm hoping to get my ankle looked at tomorrow but with this cold/cough, I'm not sure I'll make it in. I hate getting other people sick so it may just have to wait.

Have a great day ladies!

 

[rubato]

Hi Ladies. How's everyone doing? I'm starting to feel that dreaded cabin fever. It's so cold and the sidewalks are really slick. I just don't want to get out there.

Vicky: How's the ankle? I hope it isn't anything serious. I can't believe that mine are still pretty good. Don't know why, but I'll take it. Great pics by the way. It looks like you had a great time. I love the cake. I showed the pic to Frank. He got this really sad look on his face and said "Why didn't I think of doing something like that for you?" It was sweet. I hope Nathaniel realized we weren't judging him. The only one who should be judging him is you. If you decide he's the one, we'll all accept it. You know what's best.
I can't stand to be around 2 year old children either, and I have a child. They are nightmarishly loud! I grew up with 2 brothers, so was happy to only have one child and have a quiet house.
So far, we only know for sure that we're going to Venice (best place I've ever been), Florence, and then, just touring the countryside. I figure we'll spend 1 week in Germany and then, maybe 2 weeks in Italy (which will include travel time). Carsten wants us to go on his honeymoon with him, but, no, that's not going to happen!

AFM: I'm officially back to normal. I ran 3 miles on Saturday, then went to zumba for the first time in 4 weeks last night and, then 6 miles today. Zumba was hard!!!! I'm out of shape. But, it hurt my ankle so bad before the races that I just didn't want to risk it. My teacher was kind of laughing about it until she heard about the races, remembered my ankle and got a look at my shoulder and arm (the bandaids had sweat off). The whole class kind of freaked, which was funny. I guess I look kind of gross.

The scale still reads 141. I haven't even tried to eat healthy since I got back. Today is day 1! I'm bound a determined. Harrison also gained weight on the trip and he got so upset again. I tried explaining that if he'd cut his hair, he'd lose 5 lbs, but he isn't going for it. For those of you who were at the meet, his hair is ridiculously long compared to what it normally is. But, he's just in this weird mood to grow it, and I don't want to fight too hard. If he was a girl, I'd be all for it. The curls are cute, he's just got too much hair!

So, I think I'm going to ask for entry into the KC marathon for my bday in April. Frank will freak, but if it's my gift, he can't fight too hard. Plus, it's only $50, not $350. I had written in another thread that I'm thinking a sub 4 hour marathon is my goal for the year. That will mean a 9 minute/mile or less pace, so I don't know if that's possible for that kind of distance, but I think it'd be fun to try. The problem is that the marathon here is in a really hilly area (yes, KC has hills), so that may affect my time a lot. I'm just happy that one week after my first marathon, I'm already planning the next one. I knew this was an addictive obsession!

Have a wonderful day ladies.

 

[deekaypee]

Woo hoo! I'm glad to be back home, feeling much better (got sick after WDW), and in the groove of working out & feeling lean. (Or getting there.)

Beth: I know just how you feel. I've gained a lot of weight back in 2010, the year that must not be named. It's good that you have a WW plan in place, and the support of your group. I have no doubt with your determination, you're back on the wagon for the long haul! And an 8 pound weight loss is phenomenal! (Glad to hear Nancy is on board, too.)

Tandy: Congrats on being back to "normal." When does that happen for me? I really enjoyed meeting (and cheering) for you, and meeting Frank and Harrison. I hope my odd sense of humor wasn't too disorienting for them. And woo hoo on your sub-4 marathon race goals. That's MUCH to be admired. Frank will definitely need to get you that KC entry fee to feed your addiction and aid your training plans. (DOOD would just be happy I gave him a definite idea for a present.)

I have to admit, I'm jealous of your Europe plans. We'll probably go in 2012, but it will be with a bunch of students so we'll stay in Oxford. Not the same thing.

Maria: I know I've already said this, but you rocked your race. I'm so proud of you - especially for coming back energized to do the Princess and continue on with your other goals. I'm definitely happy to follow in your footsteps.

Jackie: Do you watch NCIS? I think your PT needs a Gibbs jack slap. I know your MCM is calling you - and I think it's a great race to plan for. Especially because it has the 10K as a back-up, just in case there's something about your recovery and training plan that needs to be altered.

Vicky: I'm so happy you enjoy the purse, sans creepy little eyes. It really lightened my emotional load to get rid of it. Thank you. Of course, my physical load got a little heavier with the Kitchen Sink. But it was fun! I'm not sure it was as much fun as scream teaming, which was phenom ally inspiring. But the company was just as good. (I missed chatting more with Maria at DHS.) You know Jeff would LOVE for you to do Honolulu.

I'm glad we upset Nathaniel's expectations. WISHers aren't like that, although you know that some of us minded our manners for your sake.

AFM: FB pictures don't lie, so I'm feeling more motivated than ever to get my fitness goals on track. Not just because of how I look, but because of how I feel. I gained 10 pounds in 2010, which was up from 2009. Not a trajectory I wish to continue.

On the upside I got out for a slippery ice walk today - started as a run, then went to a walk, then to a shuffle. Seriously. 2 miles in 32 minutes before I gave up and went home to do Pilates and some weight training.

It's late now, and I haven't eaten (watching a Disney media event stream live, for the "Let the Memories Begin" campaign) in between posting. So I'll check out for now, but I'll be back with more specific goals tomorrow. Regular posting will help me get there!

 

[bunnyfoo]

Hi ladies!

Tandy - The cake was awesome but somewhat of a pain in the butt to arrange for. I think we were able to get it delivered to the room because we were at the Poly. Apparently the GF bakery only delivers to its restaurants and the monorail hotels. I dunno. Sooo... the next time you go back for the marathon, might just get a surprise now that Frank's got the idea in his head 2013 is anniversary year for the Mickey so there might be a special medal.

I said to Nathaniel that no one really cares and that they're probably really excited to talk about the races! But he's always just been shy around people he doesn't know. And thanks for reminding me that it's my choice. I sometimes forget that and feel like I should be waiting around for him to make a choice (yes, its dumb I know).

Nice idea for a birthday present! Non-Disney races always seem so much cheaper! And I can totally see you running a sub 4 hour marathon! But I think you should try and BQ!

Debra - You know, I didn't notice the 10 lb gain you're talking about. I'll have to go and look at pictures of you from last year. Forgot to ask you how FIL was doing after his hospital stay. Anymore thoughts on getting him into the 5K for next January? I also meant to ask you how Saana was. Oh and I told him that everyone would be fine but I know how he feels because I feel the same way going to gatherings with mutual friends. But feel free to speak your mind next time 'cause he's always saying how he needs to practice being more assertive

AFM - The eating is 80% back to normal. No snacking, healthy lunches and dinners ... but I can't seem to get rid of dessert or stop eating buttered bagels with cheese slices for breakfast. I'm not as concerned about the bagels but the dessert habit is hard to kick. I can't seem to kick the need for something sweet after dinner. I think I'll just have to go cold turkey! Oh ... and btw, you ladies will find it funny that I bought a big bag of candy at the airport (stuff I can't find in Canada) only to forget it on the plane. I think it's a sign.

So my chiro looked at my ankle and I looked my ankles ... side by side on the treatment table. And the right ankle is noticeable swollen - it's not horrible looking and I only notice it when I'm looking at both feet. But I definitely have a sprain which means I have to stay away from running So that leaves me with the Princess... not sure if I go and run or skip the race and let it heal. I'd hate to lose the $140 registration fee ... and I'd miss seeing Maria, Corinna, Tracy ... but OTOH, I don't want this to be the only race I run this year. I'm thinking I'll give it until the end of the month to decide - who knows, maybe it will just get better with a little bit of RICE? My chiro did say she thinks it's treatable without acupuncture *phew*

Oh and speaking of Hawaii - my old PT is there for a friend's wedding. We were chatting yesterday and he was telling me how awesome it is. $900 for the plane ticket though! Ouch! That's what I figured it would be ... I need to win the lottery...

Have a great night everyone!

 

[Worfiedoodles]

Good Morning, Leanies!

Checking in quickly before I catch my train to NYC -- I'll be home late Thursday, hopefully I'll get some walking in Times Square in this afternoon!

I have an official WDW Half time -- 2:56:29! I am extremely excited because that is 15 minutes faster than last year! Last year was slow due to the weather, but still...those weekly 10M runs really made a difference!

Vicky -- I didn't know what to say to Nathaniel not because of anything you told us, but because I just don't know him and his interests. Talking about travel and your trip seemed like a safe bet I really hope your ankle issues improve radically, but you are right, I'd rather have you miss one race than an entire year!

Tandy -- What a great birthday present! And a fabulous goal, I bet you can do it!

Debra -- Is it just me, or is "Let the Memories Begin" an advertising campaign on the cheap? I'm just sayin'...

Beth -- I went to my first WW meeting in person in years Monday night. It was really informative, we have been using far too much olive oil in our cooking. Feel free to share anything good you learn, I will do the same. We've got this, we're just going to tackle it together

Ok, really pushed this to the last minute if I want to brush my teeth before I go...

Maria

 

[bunnyfoo]

Hello leanies! My clothes are starting to get tight so you think the mini gape in my favourite dress shirt would have stopped me from eating a bagel. Nope. I put some double sided tape on my shirt and off to work I went. Of course, running into the same cute guy on the elevator twice sort of made me rethink my eating, especially since the first time he saw me with a latte and a cream cheese bagel (yeah I upgraded from cheese slices to something better ) and then the second time with a big 'ole helping of butter chicken and rice for lunch. So between that and the gaping shirt, no dessert tonight.

Maria - Safe travels! NYC is so much fun! Are you going to do any sight seeing while you're there or is it strictly business? Congrats on your official finishing time! I'm so excited that the race officials were able to figure things out. I wanted to say something about it in my post yesterday but figured you'd want to post about it first.

I wish I had gotten a chance to talk to Dennis more B&C. I wanted to ask him about the Boston marathon and what he thought of the full this year. Do you think he'll be in for future Disney races?

Tandy - I wrote RunDisney an email about the GC. I don't expect them to send me one or anything but maybe next year, they'll be better organized about it.

AFM - The ankle is still about the same. I'm really trying to keep it in a neutral position or elevated when I can but it's not easy. I hard time sitting still

My old PT was participating in a 'Scrawny to Brawny' contest and made it to the finals! I think the prize is $10K. I saw his before and after pictures and they're kind of crazy!

As for me, time to clean up the eating! Especially if I'm not going to be as active - Anyone else figure out their racing schedule for 2011? It feels so weird saying that

Have a great day everyone