Once upon a time, as Jim and I were pulling a late-night, straight-through drive to Missouri to visit my in-laws, we got a little punch-drunk, as people do in the wee hours of the morning when you're hopped up on caffeine and Cherry Nibs.
You know ... when everything gets silly.
As we approached a sleepy, little, totally dark, quiet BFE town in the Ozarks, our speeding car was picked up by one of those mobile radar signs that flash how fast you're going.
But instead of simply displaying the MPH of our car, it repeatedly flashed a big, bright, all caps ... as if it was YELLING at us:
SLOW
DOWN!
SLOW
DOWN!
SLOW
DOWN!
It scared the crap out of us and then cracked us up. (Everything is funnier after Cherry Nibs.)
I was reminded of it tonight as I got home. After a rotten day at work and unplanned and very hurried stops at Farm and Fleet and the grocery store, I whipped in the driveway only to realize half the outside Christmas decorations were tipped over, the chickens needed feeding and watering, the garbage needed to get to the curb, there was laundry, dishes and homework to do ... in addition to finding a space for the Christmas decorations I'd brought upstairs this morning ...
You get the idea. In fact, you all probably have more on your lists than I do. But I was feeling overwhelmed, rushed, behind and HUNGRY.
So I wolfed down a big salad (always have good stuff on hand, right?). And then two turkey dogs. And then some pretzels. All in literally 10 minutes.
And then, as I was eyeing the Girl Scout cookies and yogurt, I caught myself.
SLOW DOWN!
If I kept going at that pace, I'd have the whole pantry empty by 8 p.m.
So I've taken a break to write to you and collect my thoughts. If I really want cookies or yogurt in an hour, I might have them. But by then, I'm hoping my stomach will have caught up with my brain and will realize that I'm full.
In which case, the cookies and yogurt won't be needed and a squirt of the fat-free whip cream in a can straight in the mouth will suffice.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Shout Outs
Want to crow about some successes:
Gary Allan Fan posted a personal best distance this past weekend, clocking in at 4.8 or 5.8 miles (sorry, GAF ... my memory sucks!). In either case, it's a LOOOOOONG way and made longer by the knee/muscle issues she's been battling. YAY! And congrats!
Foxy Freda also let me know she was down three pounds after implementing a new morning treadmill routine! Three pounds down is 1) proof that it can be done, 2) better than three up and 3) a FANTASTIC jump start that should be celebrated! Way to go, FF!
Dirty Girl sign ups, anyone? One of my teammates from last year has already committed (Yay, Reba!) and I'm looking for more! Who wants to go as a team? We have to sign up in the same wave to run at the same time. So let me know if you're in. The race is Aug. 18 at Camp Whitcomb Mason outside of Harltand, WI.
Find more info here:
http://www.godirtygirl.com/locations/
Gary Allan Fan posted a personal best distance this past weekend, clocking in at 4.8 or 5.8 miles (sorry, GAF ... my memory sucks!). In either case, it's a LOOOOOONG way and made longer by the knee/muscle issues she's been battling. YAY! And congrats!
Foxy Freda also let me know she was down three pounds after implementing a new morning treadmill routine! Three pounds down is 1) proof that it can be done, 2) better than three up and 3) a FANTASTIC jump start that should be celebrated! Way to go, FF!
Dirty Girl sign ups, anyone? One of my teammates from last year has already committed (Yay, Reba!) and I'm looking for more! Who wants to go as a team? We have to sign up in the same wave to run at the same time. So let me know if you're in. The race is Aug. 18 at Camp Whitcomb Mason outside of Harltand, WI.
Find more info here:
http://www.godirtygirl.com/locations/
Monday, November 28, 2011
I Loaned Olivia a Shirt
My nieces came for a two-night overnight this past weekend. I love these events because they fill my "mom" tank up, and just as it approaches uncomfortably overloaded, I get to send the kiddles home, full of sugar, spoiled rotten and tired.
For those of you who don't know, my nieces are 9- and 7-years-old, or, as Bella would say, "Almost 10" and 8.
They each packed a full suitcase for the big sleepover. As we all changed into our PJs about an hour before bed, Miss O comes into the living room rocking her summer jams: spaghetti strap top with short bottoms. Umm, yeah, a bit to chilly for Thanksgiving.
"Did you bring a sweatshirt or something to wear over your PJs, Liv?" I ask. "You're going to freeze between now and bedtime."
"No." She's not overly verbose, that girl.
I venture ahead, "Do you want a long sleeve shirt or something to wear over your jammies?"
She nods, characteristically.
So I head to my closet, find my tightest-fitting long-sleeve running shirt and take it to her. We slip it over her head, roll up the sleeves and she's good to go.
Now, it doesn't FIT her. It's too big. But the shoulders are roughly in the right spot and she can keep it on.
I marvel at how different this picture would have looked 18 months ago. To be clear, my goal isn't to wear the same size as an almost-8-year-old ... but I could have fit four of her in my old shirts.
For those of you who don't know, my nieces are 9- and 7-years-old, or, as Bella would say, "Almost 10" and 8.
They each packed a full suitcase for the big sleepover. As we all changed into our PJs about an hour before bed, Miss O comes into the living room rocking her summer jams: spaghetti strap top with short bottoms. Umm, yeah, a bit to chilly for Thanksgiving.
"Did you bring a sweatshirt or something to wear over your PJs, Liv?" I ask. "You're going to freeze between now and bedtime."
"No." She's not overly verbose, that girl.
I venture ahead, "Do you want a long sleeve shirt or something to wear over your jammies?"
She nods, characteristically.
So I head to my closet, find my tightest-fitting long-sleeve running shirt and take it to her. We slip it over her head, roll up the sleeves and she's good to go.
Now, it doesn't FIT her. It's too big. But the shoulders are roughly in the right spot and she can keep it on.
I marvel at how different this picture would have looked 18 months ago. To be clear, my goal isn't to wear the same size as an almost-8-year-old ... but I could have fit four of her in my old shirts.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
I Get "Recovery Time" ... Finally
You can Google "half marathon training plan" or training plans for 5K, 10K, marathon, etc., and find any number of workout calendars to get you ready for the race of your choice.
They all include running days, cross training or weight lifting days, and rest days.
Up until the past month or so, I didn't understand the "rest days" concept. My occasionally obsessive-compulsive-leaning personality didn't really dig the idea of a day off. Afraid, I think, of sliding back into some hole, I pressed forward, running or walking every day, or at least six out of seven days in a week.
But after my longest run ever a month or so ago, I made a critical mistake and have learned the rest day lesson the hard way. (See post: http://carsickcaravan.blogspot.com/2011/10/10-rule.html)
After that 8.75-mile run and the walking I did the following day, I lost more than two weeks of working out. No treadmill, no outdoor running. My bad knee hurt morning, noon and night. Walking in and out of work was painful. Ice, ibuprofen and rest ... and a lot of sit ups and weight lifting ... carried me through to vacation. Ultimately, that time off allowed me to pick back up slowly on the beach and by the time I got home, I was happily running every day.
(This is where you say, "Duh, Lisa. You are a moron. I can see where this is headed.")
So, it's no surprise that after a day-long shopping trip in heeled boots (fashion before brains), my freaking knee started acting up again. This past week brought me three more days of no treadmill.
I'm learning. Slowly.
Friday I ran about a mile and stopped when I felt some pain. Saturday, I walked a half mile, ran for 2.5 and stopped when I felt that twinge. Today, my knee felt great. But I only walked. Tomorrow, I'm not going to walk or run ... so that I can run on Tuesday.
Recovery is important. Rest is important. Make sure you schedule it like you do your workouts. Listen to your body ... it will tell you what it needs.
They all include running days, cross training or weight lifting days, and rest days.
Up until the past month or so, I didn't understand the "rest days" concept. My occasionally obsessive-compulsive-leaning personality didn't really dig the idea of a day off. Afraid, I think, of sliding back into some hole, I pressed forward, running or walking every day, or at least six out of seven days in a week.
But after my longest run ever a month or so ago, I made a critical mistake and have learned the rest day lesson the hard way. (See post: http://carsickcaravan.blogspot.com/2011/10/10-rule.html)
After that 8.75-mile run and the walking I did the following day, I lost more than two weeks of working out. No treadmill, no outdoor running. My bad knee hurt morning, noon and night. Walking in and out of work was painful. Ice, ibuprofen and rest ... and a lot of sit ups and weight lifting ... carried me through to vacation. Ultimately, that time off allowed me to pick back up slowly on the beach and by the time I got home, I was happily running every day.
(This is where you say, "Duh, Lisa. You are a moron. I can see where this is headed.")
So, it's no surprise that after a day-long shopping trip in heeled boots (fashion before brains), my freaking knee started acting up again. This past week brought me three more days of no treadmill.
I'm learning. Slowly.
Friday I ran about a mile and stopped when I felt some pain. Saturday, I walked a half mile, ran for 2.5 and stopped when I felt that twinge. Today, my knee felt great. But I only walked. Tomorrow, I'm not going to walk or run ... so that I can run on Tuesday.
Recovery is important. Rest is important. Make sure you schedule it like you do your workouts. Listen to your body ... it will tell you what it needs.
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Green Bean Casserole Twist
Green Bean Casserole Twist
2 6-8 oz. packages of steam in pouch green beans (I like the whole beans b/c they are prettier)
Olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 to 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped or 1T to 1-1/2T chopped garlic from the jar (more if you like garlic!)
8 oz. baby Bella or white mushrooms, sliced
8 oz. Shitake mushrooms with stems removed, chopped
1 can water chestnuts, chopped
1/2 c light or fat free sour cream
1 to 1-1/2 cup low sodium chicken stock
1T fresh chopped flat leaf parsley
1t to 2t dried tarragon
1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted in dry pan on stove top
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Steam beans according to package directions in microwave. Heat a non-stick skillet and go a turn or two around the pan with olive oil. Saute onions until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook until soft. Add mushrooms and cook until browned and juices have been released. Salt and pepper at this point to taste. Add water chestnuts and heat through. Add sour cream, stock, parsley and tarragon. If it seems too tight, add more sour cream and stock. Salt and pepper again to taste.
If you're making ahead, stop here and refrigerate overnight.
I put mine in a crock pot and added toasted nuts and cheese right before serving.
2 6-8 oz. packages of steam in pouch green beans (I like the whole beans b/c they are prettier)
Olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 to 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped or 1T to 1-1/2T chopped garlic from the jar (more if you like garlic!)
8 oz. baby Bella or white mushrooms, sliced
8 oz. Shitake mushrooms with stems removed, chopped
1 can water chestnuts, chopped
1/2 c light or fat free sour cream
1 to 1-1/2 cup low sodium chicken stock
1T fresh chopped flat leaf parsley
1t to 2t dried tarragon
1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted in dry pan on stove top
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Steam beans according to package directions in microwave. Heat a non-stick skillet and go a turn or two around the pan with olive oil. Saute onions until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook until soft. Add mushrooms and cook until browned and juices have been released. Salt and pepper at this point to taste. Add water chestnuts and heat through. Add sour cream, stock, parsley and tarragon. If it seems too tight, add more sour cream and stock. Salt and pepper again to taste.
If you're making ahead, stop here and refrigerate overnight.
I put mine in a crock pot and added toasted nuts and cheese right before serving.
Friday, November 25, 2011
Get 'Em While They're Young
How do you make a kid who's not so fond of fruits and vegetables eat more of them?
Promise to buy a Wii game for her if she signs up to eat more of the green stuff between now and Christmas.
Promise to buy a Wii game for her if she signs up to eat more of the green stuff between now and Christmas.
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Bike Shorts, Hunters and Fog, Oh My!
My primary combat-the-pie strategy was to get on my bike and go 20 miles or so today. So I waited for the 56-and-sunny weather to begin this morning before I hit the road.
And, as you know, 56-and-sunny never showed up.
So, in 30-and-windy-and-foggy, I set out.
This is what I took with me: running tights, bike shorts, sleeveless workout top, a long-sleeve compression shirt, a wind jacket, a fluorescent bike jersey over it all, a warm ear/head band, gloves, helmet, socks, shoes and my cell phone.
This is what I forgot: Kleenex.
To those that saw my hocking lugies from the snuggly comfort of your kitchen, warm coffee in hand: sorry and too bad.
To the hunter that took not one, not two, not three, not four, but FIVE shots as I was rolling past on the downhill: if you don't have him after three shots, you're not going to get him. (And you scared the crap out of me! You noticed the fluorescent yellow, right?)
And to my toes, who required a 30-minute hot shower to bring the feeling back: my apologies. I will look into proper bike shoes, another pair of socks and toe warmers next time.
Hope you had a great day. There's so much to be thankful for and in my life, the list includes YOU.
And, as you know, 56-and-sunny never showed up.
So, in 30-and-windy-and-foggy, I set out.
This is what I took with me: running tights, bike shorts, sleeveless workout top, a long-sleeve compression shirt, a wind jacket, a fluorescent bike jersey over it all, a warm ear/head band, gloves, helmet, socks, shoes and my cell phone.
This is what I forgot: Kleenex.
To those that saw my hocking lugies from the snuggly comfort of your kitchen, warm coffee in hand: sorry and too bad.
To the hunter that took not one, not two, not three, not four, but FIVE shots as I was rolling past on the downhill: if you don't have him after three shots, you're not going to get him. (And you scared the crap out of me! You noticed the fluorescent yellow, right?)
And to my toes, who required a 30-minute hot shower to bring the feeling back: my apologies. I will look into proper bike shoes, another pair of socks and toe warmers next time.
Hope you had a great day. There's so much to be thankful for and in my life, the list includes YOU.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Spaghetti Squash Doesn't Freeze
Just a helpful hint from me to you.
I roasted it, packaged it up in individual serving sizes and then popped it in the freezer. Tossed it in the microwave tonight and it was watery and gross.
I roasted it, packaged it up in individual serving sizes and then popped it in the freezer. Tossed it in the microwave tonight and it was watery and gross.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Do You Have Your Thanksgiving Game Plan?
Last year at this time I was kind of freaking out about the idea of Thanksgiving and "the holidays" in general. I wasn't too sure how I was going to manage the minefield of eating ... and stress.
I noticed today that I hadn't really even given it much thought this year. I'm lucky enough (and I've worked hard enough) to feel pretty comfortable with my situation. I know what this body is. I know what it takes to keep it here. I know what I can "get away with." And most importantly I know I'm in control.
Here are some strategies to help you be in control during this festival of food that's upon us:
1. Maintain your workout schedule. And crank it up a notch if you can. I plan on doing my normal morning routine throughout the weekend, while also working in some extra activity like bike riding, chicken coop cleaning, lawn furniture moving, mulch raking ... and POWER SHOPPING!
2. On Turkey Day, have an eating plan and stick to it. Know what you are going to eat. Think about it before you get there. Tell your husband or wife or lab partner. Write it down. Do whatever you need to do to take control of the situation so you don't mindlessly add on calories.
3. Eat breakfast. In other words, don't show up for dinner hungry.
4. Eat the stuff you REALLY love and leave the rest. Do you adore stuffing like I do? Then eat some of that. But leave the pumpkin pie if you're really not that crazy about it.
5. Bring a dish to pass that's good for you. For instance, I've been tasked with green bean casserole and a veggie tray. The veggie tray is simple ... and the dip will be with fat free sour cream. For the green beans, I've been comparing some healthier alternative recipes online and am going to blend a few together to create what I hope will be a delicious, lower calorie/fat/salt version. (Let's be honest ... no one cares about the damn green bean casserole anyway. It's filler at best. So I don't think anyone will be too disappointed if it's a little different or weird.)
6. Smell it, taste it, savor it. Slow down and pay attention to what you're putting in your mouth ... and truly enjoy every forkful. If you've been eating really clean, this whole day is a "treat" of sorts. If you just shovel the food in your piehole, you won't fully enjoy it and you'll want to eat more tomorrow.
7. If you have to or want to eat more, know what is the most safe to eat more of ... lean turkey, raw veg, fresh fruit. Pick out the healthy stuff when you first sit down so you know can have a plan.
8. Get everyone up and moving. Organize an afternoon walk with the whole family. Play soccer or football. Create a Wii tournament. Organize some relay races with silly prizes for the kids. Then run along.
9. Send the leftovers home with someone else!
10. And if you have been really good ... if you've been eating on program and exercising regularly ... enjoy the day. Eat a little more than you normally would and don't feel guilty. You've earned one day of moderate reward.
I noticed today that I hadn't really even given it much thought this year. I'm lucky enough (and I've worked hard enough) to feel pretty comfortable with my situation. I know what this body is. I know what it takes to keep it here. I know what I can "get away with." And most importantly I know I'm in control.
Here are some strategies to help you be in control during this festival of food that's upon us:
1. Maintain your workout schedule. And crank it up a notch if you can. I plan on doing my normal morning routine throughout the weekend, while also working in some extra activity like bike riding, chicken coop cleaning, lawn furniture moving, mulch raking ... and POWER SHOPPING!
2. On Turkey Day, have an eating plan and stick to it. Know what you are going to eat. Think about it before you get there. Tell your husband or wife or lab partner. Write it down. Do whatever you need to do to take control of the situation so you don't mindlessly add on calories.
3. Eat breakfast. In other words, don't show up for dinner hungry.
4. Eat the stuff you REALLY love and leave the rest. Do you adore stuffing like I do? Then eat some of that. But leave the pumpkin pie if you're really not that crazy about it.
5. Bring a dish to pass that's good for you. For instance, I've been tasked with green bean casserole and a veggie tray. The veggie tray is simple ... and the dip will be with fat free sour cream. For the green beans, I've been comparing some healthier alternative recipes online and am going to blend a few together to create what I hope will be a delicious, lower calorie/fat/salt version. (Let's be honest ... no one cares about the damn green bean casserole anyway. It's filler at best. So I don't think anyone will be too disappointed if it's a little different or weird.)
6. Smell it, taste it, savor it. Slow down and pay attention to what you're putting in your mouth ... and truly enjoy every forkful. If you've been eating really clean, this whole day is a "treat" of sorts. If you just shovel the food in your piehole, you won't fully enjoy it and you'll want to eat more tomorrow.
7. If you have to or want to eat more, know what is the most safe to eat more of ... lean turkey, raw veg, fresh fruit. Pick out the healthy stuff when you first sit down so you know can have a plan.
8. Get everyone up and moving. Organize an afternoon walk with the whole family. Play soccer or football. Create a Wii tournament. Organize some relay races with silly prizes for the kids. Then run along.
9. Send the leftovers home with someone else!
10. And if you have been really good ... if you've been eating on program and exercising regularly ... enjoy the day. Eat a little more than you normally would and don't feel guilty. You've earned one day of moderate reward.
Monday, November 21, 2011
Scale Tales
I weighed in with trepidation this morning.
I did no cardio this weekend. On Saturday, I lifted weights and did 500 sit-ups, then whipped up a delicious hungry-man breakfast for the neighborhood hunting crew, sampling along the way before joining them for the actual meal. Then dinner out where I behaved fairly well, but snuck some French fries and ice cream from others.
Sunday brought no workout at all, another big breakfast, some more shopping, and another dinner out with more French fries. Plus some chocolate.
So you can understand why I was a little nervous to hop on the scale today.
But, to my surprise, I was down four pounds from last Thursday.
Sometimes the scale makes no sense at all. Sometimes you do everything right and the needle doesn't move down. And maybe it even moves up.
Then there are other times when you swear you've done everything wrong, and you drop.
The scale is only one measure of how well you're doing. The cold, hard truth is that if you eat well, and you exercise enough, the pounds will come off. Nobody's perfect, but if you do the right things often enough, good things happen.
Believe you can do it.
I did no cardio this weekend. On Saturday, I lifted weights and did 500 sit-ups, then whipped up a delicious hungry-man breakfast for the neighborhood hunting crew, sampling along the way before joining them for the actual meal. Then dinner out where I behaved fairly well, but snuck some French fries and ice cream from others.
Sunday brought no workout at all, another big breakfast, some more shopping, and another dinner out with more French fries. Plus some chocolate.
So you can understand why I was a little nervous to hop on the scale today.
But, to my surprise, I was down four pounds from last Thursday.
Sometimes the scale makes no sense at all. Sometimes you do everything right and the needle doesn't move down. And maybe it even moves up.
Then there are other times when you swear you've done everything wrong, and you drop.
The scale is only one measure of how well you're doing. The cold, hard truth is that if you eat well, and you exercise enough, the pounds will come off. Nobody's perfect, but if you do the right things often enough, good things happen.
Believe you can do it.
Cold Weather Tips
CC Reader GaryAllanFan shared a really good article about running outside this time of year. Whether you bike or run or walk or rake and shovel, much of it still applies.
Thanks, GAF!
9 Tips for Running in Cold Weather | Active.com
http://www.active.com/running/Articles/9-Tips-for-Running-in-Cold-Weather.htm?int=23-45
Thanks, GAF!
9 Tips for Running in Cold Weather | Active.com
http://www.active.com/running/Articles/9-Tips-for-Running-in-Cold-Weather.htm?int=23-45
Sunday, November 20, 2011
The LBD
That's Little Black Dress, BTW. (That's By The Way, FYI.) (And that's For Your Information ... umm, yeah, I'm done now. Sometimes this blog is really only to entertain me.)
Today was the annual fall shopping trip for me and my oldest and dearest friends. I have mentioned this trip before, I think. I used to sort of dread it. Not the hanging out with my friends part ... always loved that. But when I was bigger, the clothes shopping part was just NOT fun for me. My feet hurt all the time and I never liked hiding out in housewares while everyone else was in the fitting rooms.
This year's trip came with a mission that was 180 degrees from any previous outing: Find an LBD for a New Year's Eve wedding.
I've never owned an LBD before. BBDs, yes. Even MBDs. (Big and Medium, in case you're not tracking with me.) But this dress had to meet a list of requirements. Be sparkly enough for New Year's, but not so shiny that I'd look like I was trying to be in the wedding vs. just a guest. Be form-fitting enough to take advantage of all the hard work I've put into this new body, but not too slutty/cheap/cheesy. Be youthful enough to belie my 44 years by a few, but not so young as to make me look desperate. You get the idea.
I can't tell you how much fun it was to try on no less than 10 sparkly, shiny, form-fitting dresses ... knowing without a doubt that all of them would fit and that I would have the opportunity to choose the one that looked great ... not just pick the one that "worked" enough.
And best of all, I had the best built-in selection committee and cheering section a girl could ask for.
Now, for some strappy high heels ...
(The moral of this story is: The work it took to get here is WAY worth it.)
Today was the annual fall shopping trip for me and my oldest and dearest friends. I have mentioned this trip before, I think. I used to sort of dread it. Not the hanging out with my friends part ... always loved that. But when I was bigger, the clothes shopping part was just NOT fun for me. My feet hurt all the time and I never liked hiding out in housewares while everyone else was in the fitting rooms.
This year's trip came with a mission that was 180 degrees from any previous outing: Find an LBD for a New Year's Eve wedding.
I've never owned an LBD before. BBDs, yes. Even MBDs. (Big and Medium, in case you're not tracking with me.) But this dress had to meet a list of requirements. Be sparkly enough for New Year's, but not so shiny that I'd look like I was trying to be in the wedding vs. just a guest. Be form-fitting enough to take advantage of all the hard work I've put into this new body, but not too slutty/cheap/cheesy. Be youthful enough to belie my 44 years by a few, but not so young as to make me look desperate. You get the idea.
I can't tell you how much fun it was to try on no less than 10 sparkly, shiny, form-fitting dresses ... knowing without a doubt that all of them would fit and that I would have the opportunity to choose the one that looked great ... not just pick the one that "worked" enough.
And best of all, I had the best built-in selection committee and cheering section a girl could ask for.
Now, for some strappy high heels ...
(The moral of this story is: The work it took to get here is WAY worth it.)
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Winter is Coming ...
I've been accumulating cold weather gear for the past few weeks in an effort to make sure I have no excuse to not work out when the mercury drops.
I struck gold today as my beloved brother-in-law brought me a few goodies from the Trek sample sale ... including gloves and a windbreaker. I'm so psyched to try them out!
How is your workout going to change in the winter months? Leave a comment and share your cold weather tips for other CC readers.
I struck gold today as my beloved brother-in-law brought me a few goodies from the Trek sample sale ... including gloves and a windbreaker. I'm so psyched to try them out!
How is your workout going to change in the winter months? Leave a comment and share your cold weather tips for other CC readers.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Damn Girl Scouts!
The Girl Scouts pretend to be do-gooders. Merit badges, that "I've something in my pocket that belongs across my face" song, campfires and the like.
But they're evil.
They guilt you into buying those freaking cookies and then they have the audacity to make a new flavor that hits my weak spot.
Have you tried the Lemonades?
At "only" 75 calories per cookie, these shortbread and lemon icing bundles of deliciousness have attacked my better senses.
And yes, I ate a whole box between Wednesday and today. A whole box.
Let's just hope I don't come across a troop member on one of my weekend runs. I may make them hoof a few extra miles along with me to wear off the extra calorie intake.
My advice? Don't buy the cookies. And if you do or must, don't open the boxes. Give them away. Put them in the freezer immediately so they're out of sight, out of mind. Or send them to your husband's work ... whatever it takes to get them out of your own house.
But they're evil.
They guilt you into buying those freaking cookies and then they have the audacity to make a new flavor that hits my weak spot.
Have you tried the Lemonades?
At "only" 75 calories per cookie, these shortbread and lemon icing bundles of deliciousness have attacked my better senses.
And yes, I ate a whole box between Wednesday and today. A whole box.
Let's just hope I don't come across a troop member on one of my weekend runs. I may make them hoof a few extra miles along with me to wear off the extra calorie intake.
My advice? Don't buy the cookies. And if you do or must, don't open the boxes. Give them away. Put them in the freezer immediately so they're out of sight, out of mind. Or send them to your husband's work ... whatever it takes to get them out of your own house.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Grapes vs. Heroin
I have a problem: I'm addicted to grapes.
I spent $12 at the grocery store today on grapes. Grapes to get me through until my normal shopping day on Saturday, mind you. Grapes that I had to stop and get because the $8 worth I bought on Tuesday afternoon when I got home were polished off this morning on my way to work.
I think a drug habit would be cheaper. And heroin doesn't cost me 100 calories a cup.
P.S. Weigh in went well! I was up one pound ... and that's just a normal fluctuation.
I spent $12 at the grocery store today on grapes. Grapes to get me through until my normal shopping day on Saturday, mind you. Grapes that I had to stop and get because the $8 worth I bought on Tuesday afternoon when I got home were polished off this morning on my way to work.
I think a drug habit would be cheaper. And heroin doesn't cost me 100 calories a cup.
P.S. Weigh in went well! I was up one pound ... and that's just a normal fluctuation.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Nine Days ... No Weigh!
Tomorrow is judgement day of the post-vacation kind.
I haven't weighed myself since before I left for Florida and I'm a little nervous. Yes, I worked out every day. I actually put on more miles than normal, just because it was so GORGEOUS outside and I could walk everywhere ... well, wanted to walk everywhere. And because we only ate out once, I had good control over what my calorie intake.
So I think I should be in fairly good shape. I mean, my summer clothes still fit just fine. I also have the last vacation to use as a comparison. If you remember, I ate and drank in Mexico last February and ended up dead even upon my return home.
But it's still a little scary to step back on. This is the longest time I've gone without checking the scale since this whole thing started. Couple that with the three weeks before vacation where I wasn't doing as much cardio as usual ... and the three Girl Scout cookies and half bag of sourdough pretzels I ate today ... and there's good reason to worry.
But tomorrow I will step on the scale and I will know if how I lived this past week was OK. It's part of my transition to the "I-am-done-dieting-and-this-is-now-a-way-of-life" mindset.
Like my thighs, my abs and my ass, my brain has to learn a few new moves.
I haven't weighed myself since before I left for Florida and I'm a little nervous. Yes, I worked out every day. I actually put on more miles than normal, just because it was so GORGEOUS outside and I could walk everywhere ... well, wanted to walk everywhere. And because we only ate out once, I had good control over what my calorie intake.
So I think I should be in fairly good shape. I mean, my summer clothes still fit just fine. I also have the last vacation to use as a comparison. If you remember, I ate and drank in Mexico last February and ended up dead even upon my return home.
But it's still a little scary to step back on. This is the longest time I've gone without checking the scale since this whole thing started. Couple that with the three weeks before vacation where I wasn't doing as much cardio as usual ... and the three Girl Scout cookies and half bag of sourdough pretzels I ate today ... and there's good reason to worry.
But tomorrow I will step on the scale and I will know if how I lived this past week was OK. It's part of my transition to the "I-am-done-dieting-and-this-is-now-a-way-of-life" mindset.
Like my thighs, my abs and my ass, my brain has to learn a few new moves.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Daylight Savings Reset
Has your body clock readjusted to the time change?
If you're still waking up an hour too early, remember there's a way to put that extra hour to work. Morning workouts give you extra energy for the whole day and start your day off right.
If you're still waking up an hour too early, remember there's a way to put that extra hour to work. Morning workouts give you extra energy for the whole day and start your day off right.
Monday, November 14, 2011
Goal Met!
I ran the whole beach this morning. From the pier to the bridge and back again. I didn't know this would be my challenge when we landed here in Tampa, but it quickly became such.
I'm pretty sure I didn't set any land-speed records. And I'm also pretty sure keeping up the distance will be harder at home without all this sun, sand and warm.
But it was a fun vacation game that kept me focused and kept me engaged during the week.
I bet the old, limping Asian woman in clogs isn't going to miss seeing me every morning.
I'm pretty sure I didn't set any land-speed records. And I'm also pretty sure keeping up the distance will be harder at home without all this sun, sand and warm.
But it was a fun vacation game that kept me focused and kept me engaged during the week.
I bet the old, limping Asian woman in clogs isn't going to miss seeing me every morning.
Sunday, November 13, 2011
New Vacation Strategies
OK, we've discussed how to work a workout into your vacation. We've talked about how to plan your eating before you go, how to navigate the endless buffet, how to pack healthy snacks.
Well, here's a new one for you: Try a condo on the beach!
I've never vacationed this way and I have to admit ... it's pretty freaking awesome. Here's what I like about it.
1. You control all of your food in the same way you do at home. We're making small trips to a nearby grocery store, which means we're saving money AND eating much healthier than we would at a restaurant.
2. Everything is in walking distance. Because this is a high tourist area, options abound. Grocery store, pharmacy, dollar store, 7-Eleven, ice cream shop ... even this town's main "boardwalk" attraction ... . all of it is just a nice afternoon jaunt away.
3. The beach just makes you want to eat better and move more. I have a hard time sitting still when I know I could be out there walking around. I don't want to eat heavy when I'm wearing a swimming suit.
Try it!
Well, here's a new one for you: Try a condo on the beach!
I've never vacationed this way and I have to admit ... it's pretty freaking awesome. Here's what I like about it.
1. You control all of your food in the same way you do at home. We're making small trips to a nearby grocery store, which means we're saving money AND eating much healthier than we would at a restaurant.
2. Everything is in walking distance. Because this is a high tourist area, options abound. Grocery store, pharmacy, dollar store, 7-Eleven, ice cream shop ... even this town's main "boardwalk" attraction ... . all of it is just a nice afternoon jaunt away.
3. The beach just makes you want to eat better and move more. I have a hard time sitting still when I know I could be out there walking around. I don't want to eat heavy when I'm wearing a swimming suit.
Try it!
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Earn It
Two days of ice cream in a row? Why yes!
But I earned it. I walked about 2 miles to get it yesterday and not quite so far today, but I don't feel a bit guilty about eating it.
(Doesn't hurt that both ice cream shops offered low-fat/less-sugar and sugar-free versions, either.)
But I earned it. I walked about 2 miles to get it yesterday and not quite so far today, but I don't feel a bit guilty about eating it.
(Doesn't hurt that both ice cream shops offered low-fat/less-sugar and sugar-free versions, either.)
Friday, November 11, 2011
Older, Wiser and Faster?
Here's a strange bit of trivia regarding me and old people: I have used them as training aids for a long time.
When I first started walking, I heard a story on the morning news about how an 80-something woman walked three miles a day, regardless of the weather. Then, I overheard a couple of retired neighbors discussing how they walked three miles every night after supper. I decided then and there that 43-year-old me should be capable of knocking out a mile or two every day. And whenever I didn't want to do it, I'd conjure up an image of an 80-year-old woman walking in a snowstorm and feel like a schmuck for trying to weasel out of my workout.
And now, hanging out here in Florida, the snowbirds have figured into my training plan.
This morning, I hit the beach early ... just after 7 a.m. It was breezy and cold, by Florida standards. (With apologies to my Wisconsin friends ... I know 60 degrees doesn't sound so terribly cold right now, with your first snow and all.) A storm rolled in last night, dropping the temperature considerably, so not many people were out cruising in the sand this a.m.. My goal was to cover the whole beach ... from the pier on the north end to the bridge on the south end ... about 4 miles I think.
Since I've been here, I've been walking every day. My knee has decided to cooperate and has allowed me to walk. I've been trying to take it easy ... and not push it.
But this morning, as I was thumping along at a steady but conservative pace, I got passed by a jogging blue hair.
And all bets were off.
Though my knee was still feeling wobbly, I could no longer hold back.
So, I ran. I RAN!!!!!!!!
It was probably 1.5 to 2 miles tops. It was slow. It was on a very forgiving surface that causes, I think, less stress on my joints.
And it was SO FUN!
Fingers crossed already that I can do it again tomorrow. How I love those old people!
P.S. I also lapped the limping Asian woman in the clogs. She looked pissed.
When I first started walking, I heard a story on the morning news about how an 80-something woman walked three miles a day, regardless of the weather. Then, I overheard a couple of retired neighbors discussing how they walked three miles every night after supper. I decided then and there that 43-year-old me should be capable of knocking out a mile or two every day. And whenever I didn't want to do it, I'd conjure up an image of an 80-year-old woman walking in a snowstorm and feel like a schmuck for trying to weasel out of my workout.
And now, hanging out here in Florida, the snowbirds have figured into my training plan.
This morning, I hit the beach early ... just after 7 a.m. It was breezy and cold, by Florida standards. (With apologies to my Wisconsin friends ... I know 60 degrees doesn't sound so terribly cold right now, with your first snow and all.) A storm rolled in last night, dropping the temperature considerably, so not many people were out cruising in the sand this a.m.. My goal was to cover the whole beach ... from the pier on the north end to the bridge on the south end ... about 4 miles I think.
Since I've been here, I've been walking every day. My knee has decided to cooperate and has allowed me to walk. I've been trying to take it easy ... and not push it.
But this morning, as I was thumping along at a steady but conservative pace, I got passed by a jogging blue hair.
And all bets were off.
Though my knee was still feeling wobbly, I could no longer hold back.
So, I ran. I RAN!!!!!!!!
It was probably 1.5 to 2 miles tops. It was slow. It was on a very forgiving surface that causes, I think, less stress on my joints.
And it was SO FUN!
Fingers crossed already that I can do it again tomorrow. How I love those old people!
P.S. I also lapped the limping Asian woman in the clogs. She looked pissed.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
No More Limits #3
Remember my freak out last February about wearing my bikini in public?
Umm, yeah. I'm over it. Walking back and forth between beach and condo without a cover-up and second thought. Walking into half a dozen swimwear stores today and trying on new suits without worrying if they'll fit.
It feels good.
Umm, yeah. I'm over it. Walking back and forth between beach and condo without a cover-up and second thought. Walking into half a dozen swimwear stores today and trying on new suits without worrying if they'll fit.
It feels good.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
I Made My Mom Sweat Today
My mom is a fast walker. Always has been. (Whereas, my dad was more of a saunter-er. Made trips to the mall or Great America or anywhere difficult ... as my sister and I would have to sort of fill the gap inbetween.) At my heaviest, and well into my get-fit-extravaganza, I had a hard time keeping up with her.
This morning she suggested an early morning walk on the beach and I jumped at the chance. We laced up and headed toward the shoreline.
After 30 minutes or so, she said, "I think we should turn back."
And I looked at her. She was sweating. Whoops. I think I may have accidentally forgoten she is almost 70. The trip back to our condo was a little slower.
I sure hope I'm moving that far and fast in 25 more years.
This morning she suggested an early morning walk on the beach and I jumped at the chance. We laced up and headed toward the shoreline.
After 30 minutes or so, she said, "I think we should turn back."
And I looked at her. She was sweating. Whoops. I think I may have accidentally forgoten she is almost 70. The trip back to our condo was a little slower.
I sure hope I'm moving that far and fast in 25 more years.
Walking on the Beach ...
... is better than walking on a treadmill, any day of the week.
Just sayin'.
Just sayin'.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Hurry Up!
Here's a strategy for burning a few extra calories.
Hurry up.
Yup. That's it. Hurry. Scurry. Zip around. Leave you lumber, meander and stroll at home.
There's a woman I know who never sits still. She scoots everywhere she goes. She's a real whirling dervish, s they say ... always in motion. I've seen her blow in from work, pick up a dust rag on her way up the stairs, wipe things off as she makes dinner in one fell swoop. Then in a flurry of dish soap bubbles and flying leftovers in plastic wrap, dinner is over and she's out the door for her nightly two mile walk.
This walk is really a scamper, half-jog-like shuffle. Rain, snow, sleet, dark of night ... she's out there.
I was thinking of this yesterday as I was rolling into Target. I wasn't in any particular hurry. And out of nowhere, a little sprite of a thing buzzed in front of me toward the door. She was moving, too. My head snapped up. My thighs tightened and I kicked it up a notch. All of a sudden I didn't want to get passed.
And it dawned on me that I could probably burn more calories if I ran errands at a faster pace.
Is that weird?
Hurry up.
Yup. That's it. Hurry. Scurry. Zip around. Leave you lumber, meander and stroll at home.
There's a woman I know who never sits still. She scoots everywhere she goes. She's a real whirling dervish, s they say ... always in motion. I've seen her blow in from work, pick up a dust rag on her way up the stairs, wipe things off as she makes dinner in one fell swoop. Then in a flurry of dish soap bubbles and flying leftovers in plastic wrap, dinner is over and she's out the door for her nightly two mile walk.
This walk is really a scamper, half-jog-like shuffle. Rain, snow, sleet, dark of night ... she's out there.
I was thinking of this yesterday as I was rolling into Target. I wasn't in any particular hurry. And out of nowhere, a little sprite of a thing buzzed in front of me toward the door. She was moving, too. My head snapped up. My thighs tightened and I kicked it up a notch. All of a sudden I didn't want to get passed.
And it dawned on me that I could probably burn more calories if I ran errands at a faster pace.
Is that weird?
Monday, November 7, 2011
Why Not Before?
One of the other questions I get asked is:
"Why didn't you do it before?"
And here's the answer:
I didn't do it before because I didn't think I could.
I didn't believe I was capable of eating better, exercising a little and keeping it up long enough to make a difference.
In fact, I talked myself into believing that BS for years. I bought into the voice in my head that said, "You have gotten too big to turn back the clock. You are heavy enough where small changes ... like losing 5 pounds ... won't matter. Who will even notice 5 pounds?"
But guess what?
I learned that I was flat out, absolutely, unequivocally, without a doubt wrong. Plain, ol' W-R-O-N-G wrong.
Part of me was afraid of trying and failing, sure. But the truth is I had never really tried too hard before, so that was more of a convenient excuse. I thought I was too big, too weak and too lazy to try ... and too numb to care enough to want to.
Did you hear what I said? I was wrong.
I wasn't too big. I wasn't too weak. I wasn't too lazy. And when I looked in the mirror, really looked, I knew I wasn't too numb to care. This me was in there. I just had to get out of her way.
"Why didn't you do it before?"
And here's the answer:
I didn't do it before because I didn't think I could.
I didn't believe I was capable of eating better, exercising a little and keeping it up long enough to make a difference.
In fact, I talked myself into believing that BS for years. I bought into the voice in my head that said, "You have gotten too big to turn back the clock. You are heavy enough where small changes ... like losing 5 pounds ... won't matter. Who will even notice 5 pounds?"
But guess what?
I learned that I was flat out, absolutely, unequivocally, without a doubt wrong. Plain, ol' W-R-O-N-G wrong.
Part of me was afraid of trying and failing, sure. But the truth is I had never really tried too hard before, so that was more of a convenient excuse. I thought I was too big, too weak and too lazy to try ... and too numb to care enough to want to.
Did you hear what I said? I was wrong.
I wasn't too big. I wasn't too weak. I wasn't too lazy. And when I looked in the mirror, really looked, I knew I wasn't too numb to care. This me was in there. I just had to get out of her way.
Why Now?
Every once in a while, I get asked:
"Why did you do this now? What was different this time? What made you decide to do it?"
And here's the real truth.
I did it because I could no longer see me when I looked in the mirror. I just saw a fat girl.
I was a fat girl before I was anything else. It's what other people saw first. It's what defined my life. It entered the room and met the people in it before I did. It dictated what I could do ... or not do. It put the perimeters on the way I lived.
And when I went looking for the me I thought was inside, I literally couldn't see her. The face that looked back at me in the mirror was unfamiliar. Her eyes were small and sunk into overstuffed cheeks. Her smile wasn't big enough to break through the extra face that surrounded it.
The bigger my body became, the farther away from the surface I fell. I eventually was so far away from my life and myself, that I could no longer identify me. No amount of squinting or staring or searching could bring me into focus.
And when you feel that invisible, you sort of stop feeling entirely. And when you stop feeling, you stop participating in your own life.
And that's no way to live.
"Why did you do this now? What was different this time? What made you decide to do it?"
And here's the real truth.
I did it because I could no longer see me when I looked in the mirror. I just saw a fat girl.
I was a fat girl before I was anything else. It's what other people saw first. It's what defined my life. It entered the room and met the people in it before I did. It dictated what I could do ... or not do. It put the perimeters on the way I lived.
And when I went looking for the me I thought was inside, I literally couldn't see her. The face that looked back at me in the mirror was unfamiliar. Her eyes were small and sunk into overstuffed cheeks. Her smile wasn't big enough to break through the extra face that surrounded it.
The bigger my body became, the farther away from the surface I fell. I eventually was so far away from my life and myself, that I could no longer identify me. No amount of squinting or staring or searching could bring me into focus.
And when you feel that invisible, you sort of stop feeling entirely. And when you stop feeling, you stop participating in your own life.
And that's no way to live.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Great Grapes
Run, don't walk, to Woodman's in Janesville.
The green grapes are the same size as your big toe, hard, crunchy and sweet. Absolutely perfect.
I think they're $2.59 per pound, but worth every penny.
The green grapes are the same size as your big toe, hard, crunchy and sweet. Absolutely perfect.
I think they're $2.59 per pound, but worth every penny.
Chicken Chili Cheers!
It's cold, windy and gray here this morning. And you know what that means ...
Chili time! And chili is infinitely adaptable. I've given you the ingredients I used this time first, but suggested alternatives so you can adjust it to what you like and what's in your pantry.
Chicken Chili
1 small onion, chopped
2 T minced garlic
Olive oil
2 cans white beans (I had Canellini in my pantry), drained and rinsed
2 chicken breasts, cooked (Or, whatever chicken you have ... or turkey ... heck, the stuff I used today was roasted "Italian" style with garlic, oregano and basil ... this is chili, after all, any leftovers work!)
1 can low sodium chicken stock
1 can Niblet corn
1 can fire roasted tomatoes or 1small jar of salsa verde
1-3 pickled jalapenos, diced ... or chipotles ... or fresh jalapenos or serranos
1t to 2T cumin (I like cumin, so I use a lot. Start small and adjust to your own taste.)
1t to 1T chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
In a stock pot, soften the onion in olive oil. Add the garlic when they are translucent and sweet. Let it cook through before adding the beans, chicken, stock, corn, tomatoes/salsa, jalapenos. I usually reserve 1/2 of one can of beans and mash them up before putting them in the pot. It makes the whole thing thicker. Add seasonings, adjust salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 30 minutes. Serve with corn bread or a crusty baguette and a green salad. You could even throw some kale or spinach in this if you were trying to kick up the vitamins. Or you could probably substitute oven-roasted mushrooms for the chicken. Remember, it's just chili. Toss in whatever you want!
Chili time! And chili is infinitely adaptable. I've given you the ingredients I used this time first, but suggested alternatives so you can adjust it to what you like and what's in your pantry.
Chicken Chili
1 small onion, chopped
2 T minced garlic
Olive oil
2 cans white beans (I had Canellini in my pantry), drained and rinsed
2 chicken breasts, cooked (Or, whatever chicken you have ... or turkey ... heck, the stuff I used today was roasted "Italian" style with garlic, oregano and basil ... this is chili, after all, any leftovers work!)
1 can low sodium chicken stock
1 can Niblet corn
1 can fire roasted tomatoes or 1small jar of salsa verde
1-3 pickled jalapenos, diced ... or chipotles ... or fresh jalapenos or serranos
1t to 2T cumin (I like cumin, so I use a lot. Start small and adjust to your own taste.)
1t to 1T chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
In a stock pot, soften the onion in olive oil. Add the garlic when they are translucent and sweet. Let it cook through before adding the beans, chicken, stock, corn, tomatoes/salsa, jalapenos. I usually reserve 1/2 of one can of beans and mash them up before putting them in the pot. It makes the whole thing thicker. Add seasonings, adjust salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 30 minutes. Serve with corn bread or a crusty baguette and a green salad. You could even throw some kale or spinach in this if you were trying to kick up the vitamins. Or you could probably substitute oven-roasted mushrooms for the chicken. Remember, it's just chili. Toss in whatever you want!
Saturday, November 5, 2011
No-Vem-Brrrrrrrrr!
Me and Gary Fisher went out for a bike ride this morning.
HolyMoses.
It's COLD. And WINDY.
Just added a new "to-do" to the list for this afternoon: Check TJMaxx for cheap, wind resistant outerwear. And get a headband (earband? what do you call those things that go around your head, but don't cover the top of your melon, yet keep your ears toasty?).
There's no such thing as "too cold" to work out. But there is such a thing as improper gear.
Hope you get some sunshine today, too. Load up ... it won't be long before the sky won't give us this abundance of warm, yellow light.
HolyMoses.
It's COLD. And WINDY.
Just added a new "to-do" to the list for this afternoon: Check TJMaxx for cheap, wind resistant outerwear. And get a headband (earband? what do you call those things that go around your head, but don't cover the top of your melon, yet keep your ears toasty?).
There's no such thing as "too cold" to work out. But there is such a thing as improper gear.
Hope you get some sunshine today, too. Load up ... it won't be long before the sky won't give us this abundance of warm, yellow light.
Friday, November 4, 2011
Boot Update
Word to the wise ... They make such a thing as "Wide Calf Boots" ... who knew?
One of our CC readers passed on this information today. Find some at Kohl's here:
A Google search revealed MANY other source, too.
One of our CC readers passed on this information today. Find some at Kohl's here:
A Google search revealed MANY other source, too.
I've been told that they're not only good for plain, ol' bigger or more athletic calves, but also good for when you want to tuck jeans into your boots!
Aren't our CC readers a helpful bunch? Thanks, Ms. JT!
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Not Well Thought Out
For lunch today, I had a cup of black bean soup. For dinner, I had some cauliflower with dip and steamed brussel sprouts. Then I went to church.
Sounds like a plan that might literally backfire, doesn't it?
(I'm so classy, aren't I?)
Sounds like a plan that might literally backfire, doesn't it?
(I'm so classy, aren't I?)
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Yummy Favorite Things
1. Spaghetti squash
2. Reduced Fat Nilla Wafers
3. Smuckers Low Sugar Strawberry Preserves
4. Fat-Free Whipped Topping in a Spray Can
5. Werther's Sugar Free Original Hard Candy
6. Steam-in-the-Bag Brussel Sprouts
7. NEW Whole Wheat Blueberry Bagel Thins!!!
8. Sweet Tango Apples (a little spicier than Honey Crisp)
9. Frozen Edamame (mix with other veg and toss in a vinegar-oil-dijon dressing for a snappy side salad)
10. Plain Sparkling Water (La Croix or Mendota Springs or whatever brand) mixed with those single serving powder mixes you put in bottles of regular water ... it's like make-your-own-soda.
2. Reduced Fat Nilla Wafers
3. Smuckers Low Sugar Strawberry Preserves
4. Fat-Free Whipped Topping in a Spray Can
5. Werther's Sugar Free Original Hard Candy
6. Steam-in-the-Bag Brussel Sprouts
7. NEW Whole Wheat Blueberry Bagel Thins!!!
8. Sweet Tango Apples (a little spicier than Honey Crisp)
9. Frozen Edamame (mix with other veg and toss in a vinegar-oil-dijon dressing for a snappy side salad)
10. Plain Sparkling Water (La Croix or Mendota Springs or whatever brand) mixed with those single serving powder mixes you put in bottles of regular water ... it's like make-your-own-soda.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Time to Tone
What do you do when your nursing an injury of an as yet undetermined sort and can't get your early a.m. treadmill workout done ... AND it's too dark by the time you get home to ride your beloved bike after work?
You swap cardio for toning.
I am still waking up early and heading downstairs, but I am doing something very different once I get down there.
I'm doing sit-ups on my exercise ball. (400 this morning!) I'm doing standing leg lifts: front, back and sideways. I'm doing planks, free weights and butt lifts. I may be down, but I'm not out.
It's not the cardio I'm craving, but it's going to have to do until I can figure out what the H-E-Double-Toothpicks is wrong with my blasted knee or until I can get home at a reasonable hour for a rendezvous with that sexy Gary Fisher before nightfall.
You swap cardio for toning.
I am still waking up early and heading downstairs, but I am doing something very different once I get down there.
I'm doing sit-ups on my exercise ball. (400 this morning!) I'm doing standing leg lifts: front, back and sideways. I'm doing planks, free weights and butt lifts. I may be down, but I'm not out.
It's not the cardio I'm craving, but it's going to have to do until I can figure out what the H-E-Double-Toothpicks is wrong with my blasted knee or until I can get home at a reasonable hour for a rendezvous with that sexy Gary Fisher before nightfall.
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