Sunday, December 22, 2013
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
wow
I have a horrible adrenalin rush at the moment due to stress, pumpkin bread, peanut butter, stress and change....
it has been the weirdest day...
and after all that you know what my thought is.... can I get the office with the window then?
actually my new interior office with the view of Macys and the sunset works rather well for me...
I know I left a lot of the middle out of those comments...
oh well
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
year end holiday stress
UGH!!!
I then start to think about all the things that could fall apart and fall through the cracks... and you know it just goes from there. I am waiting for a sales bonus from work - that should help. Unless that falls apart in the process. And then there is the year-end bonus that could fall apart as well if the sales piece falls apart... You get the picture.
I'd like to think that all of this is a result of PMS - and I wonder where that moon is at - and having to getup tomorrow at approximately 3:30am to get to a meeting by 5:30am... A meeting that no one will notice is even happening.
deep breaths... a workout would help - I know this..
but I need to just relax and get to sleep...
think I will opt for some tea
Thursday, November 28, 2013
In the test kitchen
Today I am in charge of the vegetables. I am making a squash casserole - probably the least healthy of the dishes.
I am also bringing green beans. Going to roast those and toss with toasted almond slivers.
The other two veg items that will not be going with me are a roasted cauliflower medley and brussel sprout dish.
The roasted cauliflower and onion is tossed with kalamata olives and almonds.
The brussel sprouts will be roasted with almonds and then tossed with spaghettis squash. I have a hot and tangy fruit sauce I am going to use with this.
Not sure if I will cook it all today. But I do have a number of days off to make sure I eat healthy.
Next two weeks I am on the road. I will need to figure out some healthy meals.
Thankful (2)
Can't overlook the second thing to greet me after the morning sun... He's still so happy in his old age.
Things I am thankful for this Thanksgiving
The sun rise streaming in my bedroim window.
Yes, I am still in bed. I opted to not sign up for eithet Turkey Trot as I haven't been as disciplined with my running. I am glad for that - the no race this morning bit - it is only 21ºF out there.
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Caffeine
Well for my birthday I was given a box of Starbucks Kcups - caffeinated variety. I have been meaning to exchange it but the need for coffee got the best of me over the weekend. And so I opened it. UGH! What was I thinking?!?!?
I did well with only one cup on Saturday. But since then I have escalated and have actually had 3 cups today. I am preparing for the crash as I type.
I know it is going to undermine me in various ways.
Transitioning to gallons of water at this moment.
With the full moon and the stress of being off from work for two days - I do not need the mood swing related to a caffeine crash. AGAIN - what was I thinking...
Sunday, November 17, 2013
Built more
We did drive by Mount Mitchell. And my car did chug up and down some of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
I don't see ,myself attempting to ride my bike in that area any time soon.
Tomorrow is Monday Night Fotball
Sunday, November 10, 2013
Friday, November 8, 2013
Sleep
I have let him sleep,out of his corner both nights. Generally he looks more comfortable where he lays when I go to bed. So I let him stay. But around 3am it doesn't seem to be all that comfortable for him anymore.
It is starting to wear on me. I hate to say that. I know he relies on me for most of his daily activity. I know it is hard for him. His spirits are fine. Of course they because now after 4 hours of some sort of whining whimpering and barking he is asleep at me feet. Me, I now have to go get ready with my day and be productive.
I am planning on going to bed at an uber early hour this evening and possibly tomorrow too.
I like my sleep too much.
I like that well rested feeling.
I am tired of feeling tired.
I suspect yesterday's blood donation has something to do with my tired too. She did a good job of jabbing up my arm. Man is it sore.
Thursday, November 7, 2013
Routine
I hate when times my routine gets out of whack. Yesterday I ended up working late to get some printing done for today. I find that it's easier to me that after hours when no one is in the office. But with a late start we're heading home talking 630 then there's a late arrival to home and then there was the chat with the neighbors so I find myself getting ready to workout around 8 o'clock. That would be fine if I had already eaten dinner but I hadn't. So my double workout becomes a single workout. My soup for dinner is fine. Oh but then I realize I have chicken and salmon in the refrigerator that needs to be cooked. So there I am roasting chicken and salmon in the oven at 830 at night. And I think I eventually sit down to eat its almost 9 o'clock. That's so not in my schedule. I watch some TV I eat I have a glass of wine and the night just gets away from me . I've been going to bed around 9 o'clock all week. So I start reading. I'm reading killing Kennedy. So I keep reading. I pour another glass of wine. I start snacking on some blue corn chips. And again the night continues to get away from me. Its late by the time I go to bed. The dog end up waking me up around 3. Its just a miserable night. But hey I got the printing done. If I'm going to be true to my schedule and my diet and my workout I need to not do that very often.
Sunday, November 3, 2013
Why I run!
It definitely gets the blood and sweat flowing. The heart and lungs get a great workout not just the legs.
I need to remember to do this more.
The post T25 stretch was prettt great as well.
Now to plan this weeks food menu.
Week one done
Thursday became Halloween snacks and treats. I just don't do well with picking at appetizers instead of a meal. Way too much fat and too many carbs and not enough vegetables.
I came home from the festivities and did my Ab Interval workout and Speed 2.0. It felt good to get the workouts in. Drank a whole lot of water as well.
Friday saw the snacking on too many leftovers. I hate when people feel the need to give me back scraps of snacks. I know this is wasteful but when I am done entertaining I so throw everything out. Chips and crackers do not need to be put back into a bag for next time after sitting out on a counter for hours. And surely we all don't need crackers as a day to day food. Have you ever read the label on those things... Wow! Salt, partially hydrogenated, high fructose corn syrup. Nothing good. But hey when put in my path I ate a good amount of them.
Friday was to be a double workout. Good thing with the continued snacking. I went to the movies instead. Saw The Counselor. Half way through the movie I remembered why I wanted to read the book instead - graphic cinemas violence isn't as bad in written text. But hey this is the first straight to screenplay attempt by Cormac McCarthy so there is no book. It was good. Somewhat confusing. I wish there had been a little more character development. But hey Brad Pitt is still fine to look at - I don't even mind his long hair need a bath look. And Michael Fassbender just needs to be in more movies. Those blue eyes and smile are amazing.
Anyways, I digress, no workout Friday.
But I kicked butt and got that double workout in yesterday.
The Core Cardio is a good routine. Oddly I struggle with the jumping jacks at the beginning. And I love jumping jacks. Maybe I am just not warmed up enough at the timing in the routine.
The Lower Focus workout is OK. The lunges bother my left knee so I don't push myself as much on that routine.
But I got them both done along with some house work, grocery shopping, vacuuming and gardening. It was a day of movement.
Followed by a small celebration at a friends house. It was a nice time. A bit more food than needed. Getting ready to run that out. Waiting for the sun to come up a bit more and warm things up. I hate the cold.
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Pretzels
I did my workout this evening.
Even added 10 minutes of Speed 2.0 for a little extra cardio.
Now I just ate a very late dinner. It was light but so not necessary. Errrrr....
I need a lot of water to offset my carb intake and go to bed.
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Day 2 -Alpha Speed 1.0
Last night was Speed 1.0
This routine is a combination of cardio exercises and some stretch and stability exercises.
I struggled with the routine at first because of all the crazy burpees. But over the past few months I have improved in that area.
I still struggle with the stretch aspects... But that has mostly to do with holding a pose while your leg is dripping wet from the previous cardio focus.
Last night I did good. Even held my own through most of the burn out round. OK made it through the burpees with good form and then lost track. But a good workout none the less.
I was going to go for a run this morning, I was in bed by a little after 9. I was asleep by 930 I would guess. I woke up 4 something. My alarm started going off at 515. I hit the snooze until that was no,longer an option. And finally got out of bed at 615. All this is leading up to - no run this morning.
Tonight is Total Body Circuit.
This is the one where I feel like I leave a 5 gallon buckets worth of sweat behind on my yoga mat. Planks planks and more planks.
Fit to the Finish
I am more apt to stick with some of the low impact alternatives. I think that ironic given my desire to add running into my mix. But some of the up down jumping and I just don't go. I feel too many years of gymnastics in the midst of it all.
But I will push through until the end of the year.
I want to add some other things in the mix. Like the running. I have been struggling with the appropriate bed time. And that makes for a tired self when that alarm goes off for a run. Last night I found my pillows by 930. If I can get closer to 9 I will be all set for a 530 run.
And then there is swimming. I did swim some last week. Or was that two weeks ago? Ugh it was two weeks. So that needs to get on in there as well.
So many things I want to do and so little time to get it all done.
I think yesterday revelation will help with that.
Monday, October 28, 2013
Hike
Then there was some flat terrain.
And ultimately worked our way down the hill, out of the woods and through the vineyard.
We learned a good deal about the land and why it was chosen for the vineyard as well as the other planning that went into making it what it is.
Lunch that followed consisted of soup and bread and brownies.
Yes, my body could have had a bit more than that. But hey I did learn a new idea for soup... Brussels sprouts aren't a bad veggie in soup.
The wine was good. We stuck with the red. We didnt do a full tasting. The items on the list did not appeal to us.
And that should have been the extent of our day. But somehow we continued on to a place - make that two - closer to home. Not a wise decision. I so didnt need to stay out more. To eat more. To drink more. I continue to find myself in this situation and I just don't want to. Similar to last week... This is another one of those areas and people where I am trying to reduce exposure and I believe the other term is relevance. It goes against my wallet, waistline, health, sleep time demands. I am dragging today and that is not good.
Thoughts on how to keep on track going forward...
As an aside... We did meet a girl and either her boyfriend or roommate and they live just down the street from me.
That was a cool thing.
Which reminds me... There is an open house at a friends this coming weekend... Again need some boundaries and limits... Especially as there were people invited that I am just not friendly with. Should be interesting to see what the turn out is.
Friday, October 25, 2013
Stupid links
I am not one to open links on FB. I don't have the time. I waste enough time on there anyways. Well this week I have found myself ignoring that theory. ..
The first was a pug Halloween costume blog. OMG HYSTERICAL. Yes, the Wrecking Ball pug made the news. But thw bubble wrap pug and some others were just as good.
Tonight I opened an auto correct link.
BOTH resulted in teara streaming down my face and an inability to catch my breath.
This week I was reminded of the innocent release of blushing and laughter. A good week.
Thank you
Take a deep breath
And you realise who is relevant
Who are your good friends
It was a nice evening out
Home
This trip was interesting. It is a location I rarely go to. As a matter of fact this is only the second time I have visited. It is a smaller location so we generally send the vendor. They couldn't make it but I could... So I went.
Going to Fayetteville is about a 3 hour drive. For some reason it doesn't seem as far. I think because when you get to the end you are on I95 and those last 40 minutes feel like you are really going somewhere. I have often contemplated making it a day trip location.
Accommodations are what you would expect when getting off of I95. I hadn't thought about it prior to a coworker making the observation. There are lots of hotels of all sorts there. There are lots of fast food restaurants there. It is a pass through location not a destination. I was late in making reservations... Ok sounds like FSU would have beat me no matter when I attempted to make the reservation. So I stayed at the Hampton Inn instead of the suggested Double Tree. No big deal - they both generate points.
HAH not so fast... Wasn't really paying attention. This Hampton has outside doors. You don't see those very often. I generally avoid those when I travel by myself. Not really sure why. Just something I do. Even better... Took a room on the second floor. A safety thing. NO ELEVATOR! Here I am 8pm or later on Wednesday lugging my suitcase, computer bag and food bag (I knew the state of fast food and came prepared) up the stairs. And they were mis measured - the top two stairs made me feel like I had extra long feet... And with heels - oh teetering danger...
But it gets better...
The room is fine. King size bed. TV. Fridge. Wifi. Awkward bathroom... One of those rooms that is just a toilet and shower. The type that feels cramped when you try to walk all the way in to close the door behind you. Perhaps you know the type. Again no big deal. I am in the room by myself. Curtains are drawn so no one walking by can see in. Just leave the door open when using the shower and toilet. HAH nothing like rushing to use the bathroom, sitting down on the toilet, and looking up and staring at your pants dropped self sitting on the toilet. Yep AWKWARD. And no real space to close the door to change the view. Had to laugh.
Oh but wait...
Went downstairs day one... Got coffee. Got some milk for my Shakeology. Finished getting ready for my day. Compute bag set - check. Food bag set - check. Hand bag - check. Now to lug downstairs to the car. THE DOOR TO THE ROOM WON'T LOCK! Slam. Nothing. Slam. Nothing. Jiggle the handle. Nothing. I NEeD TO Be IN mY CAr. Run downstairs ask for help. Thank goodness I am close to the lobby. No such luck. It appears the battery that works the key cards was dead. Hence no locking. And in a whirlwind decision... I throw EVeRYThINg I have unpacked back into my luggage and food bag to throw in the car because I cannot wait for this to be resolved. Craziness.
Thank goodness I had given myself enough time to get settled at the client. So glad I am not a down to the wire person.
Over the course of the day they fixed my door and I moved back in. Oh FUN!
There will be a reduction to my bill. Need to keep on that.
Home now - as I mentioned - off to grab some sushi
Thursday, October 24, 2013
Exercise
Can watching a 22 minute video of others cycling burn calories? I feel like it should. I am pretty my heart races some on those downhills and my legs and sense of balance empathised on some up hills.
If only that were the case.
Cold temps this weekend. Maybe I will throw the bike up on the trainer.
You meet all types
My goal was to have a shake for dinnee and an apple. I got a chill in these temps so walked over to the hotel restaurant for a glass of red wine and a snack. That was OK.
Met some man in a cowboy hat from OK that is a farier. I had no idea what that was. You know I am not a horsey girl and not too sure about the horsey girls. He was a cowboy of all sorts. It was an interesting conversation and then got awkward. He offered to buy me a drink and it is just unsettling.
Came home or at least back at the hotel.
Inspired to write
Reading other peoples blogs has inspired me to sit here and write. Sadly I don't have much to talk about.
The birthday celebration continues and the workouts are farther and the farther in the distance. Not a good combination.
This week there was a lunch out. The fajita chicken taco on a home made tortilka was a great concept. The refriend beans, chips, salsa and cake. Not So Much!
Yesterday and today have been better. Of course I have been at a client in Fayetteville and options are limited. I am focusing on moderation. It seems to be working.
Of course limited options helps. Tomorrow will be protein shakes driving and wait for it.. a workout!
Then I have about 5 weeks at home. Need to hit that hard. Thought I would up to this point but have been truly surprised by the outpouring of entertaining.
Maybe I will have some good physical challenges to write about in the 5 weeks. But lets be reasonable other life will probably jump in there.
Saturday, October 19, 2013
Celebrations
The birthday celebrations are undermining my objectives. I am not complaining that people want to spend time with me and do things. I appreciate that. And when the things revolve around eating and drinking I empathise with that as well. But man oh man is body screaming enough.
Thursday was half price bottle of winr night at a local restaurant. And with that we got BBQ chicken flat bread and quac and chips. Not bad but not enough. So I ended up eating the other stuffed squash when I got home. Just not smart decisions.
Last night was girls night out. We went to this place that doea pizza. Nit my favourite pizza place but good none tge less. Beer and pizza seem to be the combo. And then there was that spinach artichoke dip to start.
But we continued. Walked to another bar. And it is a good crowded loud raring to go bar. Had a cider there.
And more.. one of our friends likes to have people over for the occassional drink. So we stopped there on tge way home.
Today I so want to swim bike run it all out od my system. Not sure my body will appreciate it. But I need to do something. Some other friends are cooking me dinner.
Tomorrow my mom wants to do something. I am thinking breakfast. Havent done that in a while.
Ugh and next weekend I am going on this vineyard hike wine tasting luncheon.
Exhausted!
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
T25 Total Body Circuit
I feel there is some improvements in some areas.
Better at push ups. Better at burpees.
All that plank position gets to me. Form gets off, how do I know... When all the blood rushes to my head I know I butt is up in the air and not table like...
Tomorrow aiming for a run, swim and ab intervals..
Oh and some Vampire Diaries.
London
I did the same run course as a walking tour. The Serpentine restaurant made a lovely lunch.
I really loved London.
Sweatshirt
Monday, October 14, 2013
Beta didn't go very far
I did a couple of hybrids weeks of Beta and then it fell apart. Mental and time issues got me off course.
So today I am starting up with a different hybrid.
Run AM on M/W/F
Alpha PM on M/W/F - with a double Friday
Alpha AM on T/R
Swim PM in T/R
Weekends will include bike rides and longer runs.
This will get me 5 weeks out.
At that time I have a doctors appointment, a haircut, and a friend from MA is visiting.
Goal is 10 pounds. Not sure that will come together as planned but it is only 5 weeks to keep the FOCUS
Monday, September 30, 2013
So have the blahs
Not sure what that is about. Change in season maybe? Cooler temps reminding me of what I was doing last year at this time. Cooler tempa reminding me I feel like I missed out on Summer. The calendar confirming I am traveling some more.
Just don't know.
Haven't worked out since before DC. I sure that has something to do with it.
Working on shifting that mental map. Ugh
Sunday, September 29, 2013
Big yellow pot
Yup, that means chili. First to soak the beans. Won't be enjoying this until tomorrow.
And more
Thus will be cooked cabbage. Yes under the carrots and the apple is some green cabbage. Not one of favourites but it definitely on the menu for healthy and filling.
Quinoa chili next.
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Back in the kitchen
Up first today in the test kitchen... roasted brussel sprouts beets and vidalia...
Note to self - remember when you have eaten beets to avoid awkward doctor visits.
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Stereophonics
Yes, this would be the whole reason I decided to come to DC. Hope its fun. I am sure it will be awesome.
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Monday, September 16, 2013
Morning Run Done
Haven't run in a few weekends. Been trying to do T25 first thing in the mornings. This week I need am extra calorie push before the DC trip. So decided to run in the morning. Tgen double up on the T25 in the evening.
Getting it done.
Sunday, September 15, 2013
Beginning of BETA
I feel different muscles too.
So we shall see how the next 5 weeks go.
Of course I am traveling these 5 weeks so it will be a different outcome. Sadly not as successful.
But going to keep pushing on.
Date last week
I have never had a man follow me to a bathroom to ask me out for dinner. I was flattered. I gave it some thought and decided I could do dinner.
The first date ended up being beer and quesadillas. Not really dinner but the golf tournament interrupted to timing of the meal. It was good conversation. You know the normal stuff - work, family, friends, home towns, interests, Red Sox/Yankees, Pats/Giants. It was a nice time.
It was decided that we would try again for dinner the next night. Again, not what I am normally accustomed to. Not that typical silent treatment to not look to overzealous too quickly.
THEN all craziness broke out.
Second guessing of dinner plans. Which required affirmations that dinner would be happening.
Dinner was like an interrogation with psycho-analysis. So much for continued conversation of interests etc. Shoot we never got to movies, music, books, etc.
Why am I still single? Why haven't my friends set me up with any of their friends? Why am I so cold? How come I am so independent? Does it bother men I've dated that I am so smart?
Like I said all sorts of craziness.
I decided that it was just some nervousness and I would give it the benefit of the doubt.
No doubt by Thursday. It was more questions... Do you think opposites attract? Do you believe in love at first sight? Why am I so cold?
I finally said, your quick conclusion of me and who I am in incorrect and that is a shame.
So we'll mark that off as done.
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
Swim. Run.
It took even more determination to get myself out of bed and go for a run this morning. Still trying out the new sneakers. Sadly foot pod was not engaged. I thought my pace was really good but it didnt capture it.
Now off to work and some Total Body Circuit this evening. PLANKS!,,
Monday, September 2, 2013
And so begins Week Five of T25
I was getting tired of all the sweaty post workout pics that we are cataloging in the challenge...
So opted for a pre party outing picture to start off this week.
I still hate making my bed. Hah!
Sunday, September 1, 2013
Bike Run Wash car Garden
Biked today for 45 minutes. I don't think the distance was that long. Will have to check.
Then I ran for 2 miles. Still my nemesis. Gosh did I ever get hot out there.
Came home washed the car. pISSEd! How is it that washing my car could damage my water proof Garmin watch? For the price they should have a longer life span than a year. Is this my third watch? I sure hope it dries out.
Now cutting back the crazy out of control oleander and lantana in the front yard.
Then a bath to wash all the crap off.
As for the opening comment... I must admit I sure do love my bike and riding and I don't know that I would have had the motivation to buy it or the trainer if not for my neighbor. oK I probably would have just maybe not that bike shop. And I do have fond memories of dancing around that bike shop. Sadly all that should have stayed back ay three years ago and never moved next door.
Ok back to the lantana... They make me itch so I am procrastinating.
Saturday, August 31, 2013
Take a Moment
Saw this on a Robbie post. Reminded me of the header photo.
Watching some Isle of Wight on Palladia. A great way to spend a quoet evening.
Spent the day with friends. It was fun.
Friday, August 30, 2013
What a week
Did not swim this week as rearranged my Total Body Circuit to the evening to try to get a better focus on those darned planks.
Ran once. Bought new sneakers so needed to get them in rotation. You got it...gonna be a few runs this weekend. Liking them so far. Have a 30 day test drive.
Got thrown off my positivity... Hate those people trying to undermine my HAPPY. Pushed through it... Still pushing through it.
Ended up doing the BETA workout tonight as a result of distraction. Oops... I kicked some novice butt with it.
Going to try to ride that bike tomorrow.... Love my bike. So glad to have added that into my routine, my life. Hill drills!!!!
Have a good long weekend.
Saturday, August 24, 2013
My head hurts
I guess I should stick to my Waterford carafe filled with ice water as my beverage of choice and fruit as my source of carbs.
So today will be the last of my Week 3 Focus T25. I am loving it. The scale is not moving much. Last night didnt help with that. But I am seeing some changes in muscle and tone. Some of the movements are still very difficult for me but I continue to plug on through. And boy does it burn some calories and make you sweat.
Also today I am planning a bike ride. Sunrise is more than an hour away so I have time for my head to feel better.
Thursday, August 22, 2013
1000 Yards! Non-stop
I got in the water not really wanting to be there. Looking at my calendar for the next 10 weeks I knew that it was imperative that I did. There will be weeks with no pool option in September. So I got in.
100 yards breast stroke. Funny I feel like that stroke is actually getting stronger.
And then I just went right into right breathe, left breathe, left right, 4 strokes. And I just kept swimming. It felt awesome.
And there I was done 23.75 minutes later.
Now I have had grilled chicken, roasted zucchini, squash, eggplant and onions for dinner. Sucking down water. Watching some Tom Cruise movie with Cameron Diaz. No idea what it is. Can't tell if it is supposed to be funny... But I am finding it humorous. I was going to do CE but this was more entertaining.
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Day two week three
So much better than yesterday. So glad I listened to my body and rested and hydrated.
I woke up on time this morning and kicked some Speed 1.0 butt. It is getting a little easier.
Today I swam 800 yards. And my pace got a wee bit better. Yay!
Tomorrow is another 25 minutes.
Monday, August 19, 2013
The start of week 3
Today's workout has me a bit hesitant. Not sure why. I feel hesitant about my whole day. Didnt sleep well. Overall don't feel well.
I tell myself just get up and put the video on. In 25 minutes you will be done. Maybe you'll feel better. If not regroup from there.
Thursday, August 15, 2013
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
Checking in
But I keep pushing through.
I also swam last night. What a wonderful pass time. I did 400 yards non stop. Haven't done that in a while. 150 of drills. Funny I have gotten better with left breathing but the drills to practice are still a struggle. Then I did a 250 snake of the pool. Why I like Tuesday night swims - usually end up alone eventually.
And I only had two lengths of crazy shark thoughts.. Oh and killer whales too thanks to some footage from that new movie... Errrr
Tonight I am working on something completely different for me. Gonna be crazy! You will have to wait and see what it is.
Monday, August 12, 2013
Week two
PMSy as well. Never fun for a workout. So don't want to do it. But I need to.
Saturday, August 10, 2013
Bike Swim
Then I swam. Only 600 yards. I swam in the outdoor pool. I forgot how the sun plays a part in that. It was hard and exhausting. Did not expect that.
Tonight lots of water. Some Advil. Some compression socks. And off to bed.
Running late on the bed thing. Had some dogs to go "sit" before their bed time. I felt bad leaving them.
Tomorrow is a stretch day. Grocery store. Carpet cleaning. And work prep for Monday.
Diet
A candy bar over the course of two nights. A sleeve of shortbread cookies over 3 nights. Extra breakfast at the hotel. Fried fish on the road.
So today I sat down with my T25 menu guide and started mulling over this weeks menu. And then I went through MyFitnessPal to quantify the calories. I was way under. 800 calories. So I went back through on snacks. Still under. So added some other veg in the mix. Finally got to the 1200 to 1300 range.
I think this is going to be more difficult than I realised. But I will start with this menu and go from there. Using Evernote to track it all. Comes in handy for a shopping list when at the grocery store. And if it works I can share them.
So we will see how that goes.
Great first week
Now on to week two.
With a swim bike run in between.
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Repeating Week 1
The jog in place is the least intimidating.
Jumping jacks aren't bad but get tiring after a while.
The turning and twisting moves are the ones that challenge me the most. Like I can't get my body to turn fast enough. I guess that will be my learning curve.
Rode my bike Saturday. It was a lovely use of time. Enjoyed it. Has been too long.
Contemplating swimming this evening. It depends on the weather. Rain, OK. Storms not so OK.
We shall see.
Saturday, August 3, 2013
Day 4 and 5
Some of the items I find difficult... Either on the muscles themselves. All that jumping gets to my calves. All that jumping hurts my chest at times too... Would 3 sports bras be a bit too much? That along with the rebounding of the fat I am reminded why I do low impact. Of course that isn't a totally true statement it is just that my body has gotten acclimated to the smooth forward motion of swim bike run. Side to side up down motion isn't in that repertoire. And last
Y my balance is not as good as it used to be... Shame shame ex gymnast.
Overall I am enjoying the change in routine. And it is creating a calorie burn. So I am good.
But today back to old love... Zoot suit on and gearing up to head on out on the bike. Contemplating swim run too but just not sure.
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Day 3
I had waves of sweat rolling off of me. No seriously I felt like I had just tumbled out of the ocean.
Interestingly I am finding my ease or comfort with doing squats improving. I have been trying them with HHA for a bit. I get concerned with the state of my knees. But I am getting the hang of it. Will see if I am able to sit again tomorrow.
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
T25 Day 2
Did what I thought was proper planning... that is I packed the videos for the road trip. Sadly not much time this AM nor much space in the hotel room.
Fingers crossed that I get home in time to complete the 25 minute workout tonight.
The kale cabbage salad for breakfast confirms I have figured out some healthier eating on the road. Althoigh there are 2 more meals today.
Monday, July 29, 2013
T25 day one - Cardio
Who knew a 25 minute workout video would result in such a sweat.
Curious as to the end result.
Well this is a 10 week challenge.
Sunday, July 28, 2013
fyi
if you are curious there is an abundance of side to side motion... so not the same as swim bike run forward training...
just in case you want to try something other than crossfit
Saturday, July 27, 2013
Overzealous
Right now. Harry Potter.
Home
Foe a few days at least. I am giving myself a few moments of relaxation this morning. At first I was up and heading out to run. Then I gave myself a break. Sit down with a cup of tea with the dog. Take a moment as these are limited.
From there I have the new T25 staring at me. Going to check out the first weeks wortg of workouts. Yes, that should take about 3 hours.
I am dog sitting as well. So that will entail a few walks around tge neighborhood. Well not for the dogs. They get to play in the back yard. The walks are for me.
And then there is the battle with the grocery store. I need to do a quick detox this week after all that crap the past 4 weeks. I see a lot of apples kale and cabbage in my future.
One day at a time
One day at a time
Friday, July 26, 2013
Humph!
The second trip entailed a lot of sitting around and food. But I did my darnedest to get up every morning and run and throw some jumping jacks in there in the evening.
The third trip. It was just about food and family and friends. I had every intention of getting up in the morning and running. I just couldnt find the energy to get out of the house and go out into those temps. Hot and sweaty in an non-airconditioned home is not fun. I have become a bit of a whimp in that category. Or maybe other aspects of that trip came into play as well.
This trip is more sitting around and food. And I have SOOOO not been restrained on the sweets. I so thought I would. But nope!
And what do I have to show for it?!? This morning, the outfit I have chosen to wear as a comfy outfit for a Friday. For the last day of meetings. It is snug. I feel it in the arms of the shirt and across the chest and back. I feel it in my thighs and knees. Across my butt. And a slight tell tale sign in the waistline.
YUUUUUUCK!!!!
I have one more night on the road - Monday. I am by myself in an unknown area. I think I will be packing a cooler of healthy options.
Then another night the following week. Going to go with the same game plan.
I have a birthday outing next Friday. Trying to figure out how to manage that. I so wish I could play recluse for a while.
And the class reunion? Well I wasnt really planning on heading back to NJ after this last trip. I thought about it for a nano-second. I will be half way there when I am in Richmond. But the long drive back on a Sunday just doesnt appeal to me. Som good ol' at home time is what I need.
Already thinking about what I need to do when I get home to burn some of these pounds off. I have a workout schedule set up through next week. And the T25 starts up as well next week. I think I should be back on track soon.
fingers crossed
Thursday, July 25, 2013
Jumping Jacks
These are my new go to cardio workout for when I travel. Gosh they get the heart rate up. And work some odd muscles. And that heart rate.
180 completed tonight!
Try for a run again tomorrow morning.
Jersey Strong
So while in NJ we did mostly eating. I wanted to do more time walking the boards but the heat and lack of parking did not cooperate. Plus I wasn't caling all the shots.
Thursday was drinks at the beach bar in Asbury Park. It was a lovely afternoon. We did walk some boards there oh and had some ice cream.
For some reason we went out for pizza after that. So not needed but you can't miss Squan Tavern when you are there.
Friday started with a crazy bagel with cream cheese and salmon. I should have stayed with just cream cheese.
We drove all along the coast. As far south as Seaside Park all the way to Sandy Hook. Yes, a long drive. Lots of destruction. Lots of construction.
For lunch/dinnerr we headed back to Point to The Wharfside. Wanted to eat on the Patio but man oh man the heat. Hush puppies, cole slaw, salad, steamers, lobster, rice pudding. Yes, I did not need the rice pudding.
Saturday was the cemetery run. Wow. Is this something I will need to maintain in my future? We drove by the house I grew up in. The house my parents used to live in. Where my mom tossed my dads ashes. A whole lot of gas burned. Pork roll and cheese for lunch.
Off to the wedding. It was wonderful to see so many people I haven't seen in so long. Too much to really recount.
Late night afterwards trying to figure out the family tree.
Sunday. We went driving somewhere. Gosh where did we go? I drovr and everything. Oh that's right - a little shopping in Spring Lake and Manasquan. Did not find what I was looking for.
Then back up ti Monmouth Beach for a relaxing evening by the water.
A good trip. Miss some of it. Mostly the people. The humble lifestyle. The lack of pretention.
Tumble
Missed a step the other day while at a friends house. A good 48 hours of toe, foot, knee, leg pain. Thankfully nothing too seriouse. I have been able to get back out there and run the past 2 mornings. I was nervous that wouldn't be the case.
This time on the road has wreaked havoc on my system. I don't dare step on the scale. But I will need to come Monday morning.
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
new pup
i am missing something
of course this is my 4th week in a row not at home
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
New Jersey here we come
What I do I ow is the side streets around my aunts house equate to about a mile. Oh and there is a HILL so I know what my morning workouts will be. Will see how that goes. Not sure if she is an early riser or not. I know that I am so....
Friday, July 12, 2013
Stretches
I need to pull out my running stretches and yoga guide and dust them off. 4 days on the road. Lots of sitting. Lots of bad eating. Not much water. Running. Jumping jacks. All leads to stiffness.
Maybe I will scan and share.
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Handy man me
So we are conducting meetings un an old building n ow considered the training building.
Yesterday the toilet un the ladies room was running running running. Of course I took the lid off the tank to tinker with it so I could flush. And in the fiddling a spray of water came out of the tank at me.
It sure did startle me. Thank goodness it did get me wet. That would hace been hard to explain.
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
6-6-3-5-4-1-3-4-1-9-1-home
That kind of sums up my nights on the road and nights in my own bed off and on. Just crazy!
This morning I ran. This evening were jumping jacks. In between lots of sitting around and eating. Tomorrow will be about the same.
This is life on the road and helping clients.
Sunday, July 7, 2013
5 week routine
This one is just to figure out how to cover the next 5 weeks...
I will be traveling for the most part and needed to get my head around what I have available to do during those days for the workouts..
I probably over programmed myself but then again maybe not.
It is mostly running when I am not home. Hip Hop Abs when I am home. And the weekends are for swimming and biking.
The other themes is a jumping jack challenge and a push up challenge... I figure I can do those anywhere.
We shall see how it goes.
I am already behind for the day. I purposely watched Wimbledon. How could I not route for Any Murray. It was a hard last game but I am so glad it didn't go on any further. I really needed to move on with my to do list.
It also included laundry, cleaning, banking and some work.
It is 4pm now. Calling it a day. Going to get out of my PJs - well what better way to stay in and get the mundane done.
And then head on out for a walk which will end at a friends house.
Happy Day
Almost forgot. Thats just odd for me. Too much on my mind.
Sore throat is not a good thing.
Saturday, July 6, 2013
Ride
Now still pulling together the game plan for the next few weeks.
Friday, July 5, 2013
Regroup
Hard to believe last year around this time Robbie was about to release Candy and Chris Moyles was about to go off the air. The year went fast. Last year I found myself in a royal funk around this time. Tired and bored with work. Tired and bored with it all.
I was lucky enough to find some distraction even if not the smartest of distractions. During that time I also made a change to my workout routine. At that time I started adding the morning run walk. Yes, I have done it before but it became quite a routine. It started at the suggestion that changing the time of your workout causes changes to metabolism etc. So I am about to do that all over again.
I am not giving up my morninh workout. I am just switchinh up what it will entail. Instead of the run I am going to drop my Hip Hop Abs routines in the morning.
And yes, the run will be completed at the end of the day in the heat of it all. Like I said switching it up.
Thw upcoming work travel will impact it as well. So off I go to figure out the next 30 or so days.
Thursday, July 4, 2013
Happy 4th of July
The home from the holiday blues have officially kicked in.
Got up around 7 today and was out for a walk run by 730. I was out there for about an hour.
Went to the grocery store. $100 of stuff later I was home unpacking. Getting the menu in order.
Around 1130 my mom and I walked to town for some BBQ and ice cream. All very tasty.
Then I showed her the pics from my camera.
It turned into a lazy afternoon of me trying to stay awake. I read some. I Robbie'd some. I made some home made dog food.
And now I siton the back patio with a Magners cider. There are people down the way getting a bit rowdy. Thankfully my rowdy neighbors went somewhere this morning. I know friends have plans but I never got an official invite and having learned my lesson to not invite myself I sit here alone.
Kind of reminds me why I enjoy traveling by myself. Makes me wish I was still out there traveling by myself.
Being tired surely plays a part. If I make it to 9pm it will be amazing.
Walk to Paddington
I did this walk the first day. The air of excitement and some thrill of the unknown made for a brisk walk. Granted I took a big nap once I got settled in the room but I don't recall it tiring me.
I did the walk last night just to regroup in where I was going this morning. Plus I needed to get some more exercise in. At least that's how I felt in the beginning.
This morning lugging my luggage with me.. wow... it was a tad exhausting. I didn't sleep well last night so that probably is part of it. At least I slept well all other nights. And I haven't had any coffee yet.
I got up at half past 5. Showered etc. And was out of the hotel about an hour later. I now sit on the track in the Heathrow Express waiting to go to the airport. It will leave at 10 after and takes 15 minutes to get there. I am thankful I listened to my own travel clock to head here. Like to keep that travel anxiety low.
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
National Gallery
I did the art thing. Confirming my stance on the art thing. There are some pieces that I find truly amazing and awe inspiring. The rest just bore me.
I am surprised by the number of people milling about and totally consumed by it all. I guess a student of the arts would enjoy it. Perhaps would know what they are looking at or looking for. Me. Does it appeal to the eye? Yes. Then I am good. Does it make me smile. Even better. Do I have to contemplate it. Then I will continue on.
So at this point all that I have not seen includes the other national museums and Harrods. There were some other pubs and clubs suggested but those won't happen. Oh and currry.
Going to check my map. Figure out the best way back to the hotel.
Posh
That is the only word I can use to describe todays lunch. Wow.... I am sure my bartenders accent didn't hurt. No, not British... Italian... And the hostess' ability to tactfully send people away. Snooty comes to mind but hey they let me in.
From here I am headed to Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery. Harrods probably won't make the cut in the retail therapy tour. I am indulged enough.
Have yet to eat curry. May need to inquire with concierge when I get back to the hotel. I also need to figure out my travel for tomorrow. I think I will haul my butt and luggage over to Paddington on foot. The tube has stairs - not condusive to the suitcase. A cab for a mile seems silly. I would like to find the Paddington bear while I am there - a Mark Owen thing... look him up :)
And then catch that Heathrow Express. I think I will leave the hotel at 6am to figure it all out.
Picadilly Circus
So I found my way back to Regent Street to head towards Picadilly Circus.
Of course that was via No. 1 Golden Square and Absolute Radio. There it is tucked in amongst the buildings spinning tumes and keeping me entertained oh for the last 13 years. Their earlier Virgin Radio format is probably what reintroduced me to Robbie and Take That. And lets not forget Keane and Snow Patrol and Stereophonics and yes Coldplay. It continues to entertain me (hahahahaha) with lots of music.
I stumbled across Viva Forever as I made my way from there. La la la. La la la la la la. La la la. La la la la.... SPICE UP YOUR LIFR! And then we have to Trocodora. Picadilly Circus (um almost non event). And lunch.
Thank you Pauline for the Fortnum & Masob suggestion. Confectionary heaven. And I haven't even walked around yet. I thankfully came in and went straight for lunch. Lobster bendict. My new favourite! Isle of Wight tomato salad. White wine and waiting on dessert. Some crazy specialty. They got me the kids version. It just arrived. Oh MY GoodNess!
Last day
I slept in. Whoo hoo... what is that half eight? I had breakfast at the normal spot. Today was a white coffee with a ham and cheese croissant. All under £5.
So I needed to put some more $$ on the oyster card. Last day seemed to be a struggle for me and mass transit.
It kicked me out at Oxford Circus. Again coming up from underground I was all turned around. I walked back and forth twice to figure out where House of Fraser was.
Yay! #farrell. I found what I was looking for. A lovely raspberry silk scarf. I must say there was an Aran sweater that was just lovely. I doubt it would come in handy in North Carolina. So it stayed on the shelf.
From there I circled some more. Back and forth trying to figure out which way is Selfridges which way is Golden Square. Eventually figured it out. So I went to Selfridges. Sadly it loses some appeal when all I can envision is Jeremy Piven. But when I walked in... if shops were like this in Charlotte I would be a shopper. Fun. Hip. Trendy. Clean. Bright. Good music. I used the loo. And then I stopped at the Origins counter. Tried some new makeup. I sure hope they have it at South Park. Love it! Then went by Dior. TwO, yes two new Addict fragrances. The one with jasmine was nice. Sadly the rose scent eventually overpowered the jasmine. T
Catching up with an old friend
Well dinner at the pub turned into drinks with an old friend. Old as in time that has passed not that either of us are old. And time that has passed... would that be 25 years? We last saw each other when we were 5.
It was fun to catch up. The Champion closed too early. I am sure we could have chatted for a while longer.
Traveling alone
One of the things I have found here and in Dublin is the pub table system. Often times the tables are first come first serve... I could smell burning wax hair on fire girl got distracted...
Many don't have much of a wait staff.
This high end place I ate at the other day... you give them your table number with your order. By the time I made it through the queue and got back to the table someone else had taken it. Ah the challenge of being on your own.
This evening I sit at a pub. There is table service. But still a first come first serve approach. Service is I could be invisible. I am OK with that. Pacing myself. I could use the loo. That runs the risk of my table not being here when I return. So I will sit and wait for my friend.
Other observations.
Wow people drank A LOT at the concert. Many Very Very drunk people.
Ther is a nationality of tourist that I was surprised by how rude and self absorbed they were. Amazingly not American.
And how is there always on really loud laughing British woman in every crowd. 4 for 4 this week.
Dinner
On day one my tour guide suggested a oub down the way from my hotel The Champion in Notting Hill.
It was a quick walk from the hotel.
I had a PIMMS & lemonade. Isnt that what you are supposed to do in London in Summer. I had fish n chips with mushy peas. Again, isn't that something you are supposed to do? And now a cider as I wait for a friend. He is over near the airport. He is grabbing a cab this way. Crazy. Havent seen him since high school. Will be interesting.
Purpose
There was a reason for my walk. I had come across this place called Searcys. There is one at the top of The Gherkin. There is also one in this shopping area near SPC. It is a champagne bar. I found it a novel idea. Like the scone, clotted cream and jam snack I had at ToL.
I had a normal champagne and a rose. Both quite tasty. And then back on the tune quest.
Central Line west.
Queensway station.
Sainsbury stop - 2 2liter bottles of water and 2 apples for 2 pounds... I can't complain.
Bank of England Museum
With map in hand I left ToL in search of the Bank of England Museum. I headed north. Along the way I found a House of Farrell -- not the one I needed however. I found the Royal Exchange -- swanky! There was a random statue to Reuters. Yes, there is a man behind the name, behind the news. And I even found the BANK. But I could not find the entrance to the bloody museum! UgH..
I walked some more. Gave up. Headed back to St. Pauls. You see the tube stations really aren't that far from one another so I figured I would walk back to where I started.
Tower of London
I just lost my rambling commentary. Silly autocomplete... the purpose is to complete the word in question... not to delete the entry and replaceit with said word.
So I had started by saying how turned around I get when popping out to the sunlight from the tube. I don't know how many circles I made to find St. Pauls. The same was true when leaving SPC and heading to Tower of London. Saving Grace? The altar is in the East and that was the way I was headed. Of course the meandering from the street to the waterfront to the street made for some confusion.
Eventually I found my way to the Tower of London. Me and a whole lot of others. I had been forewarned of lines. I just settled in to that fact for my day. Stood on line to buy a ticket (may seriously consider The London Pass the next time). Stood on line to get in. Stood in line for some exhibits. Stood in line for food (yum, cottage pie). Stood in line to see the Crown Jewels. I would equate it to the Blarney Castle without the paths and parks and gardens to take you away from it all. Maybe even some Disney feel.
The Tower was good to see but it lost some of its magic and history with all the people. There was a sculpture to those that lost their loves within the walls. This was not a commmon practice. Truly those executed inside the walls were those that raised too much commotion so they kept it under wraps. There is the Bloody Tower. Named so for a totally different reason than I thought. The chapel you could not visit unless on a tour. I didn't fo a tour. The jewels we're worth the wait.
I wad surprised how much of the day it consumed.
And then I was off!
St. Pauls Cathedral
This would be where Lady Di got married. As for majesty it is more majestic than Westminster Abbey. It holds lots of British history in the walls. Kind of made me wonder what the decision process was for Princess Kate when getting married. Seriously this is something that crossed my mind.
The other thing that ran rampant through my mind... no photography INCLUDES photos taken wiht iphones and ipads blatantly ignorant and rude tourists!
I spent a good amount of time taking in all the statues and memorials to so many people and places and events. Supposedly there was a huge outpouring of grief and support and consoling here after 9/11. And behind the main altar is a memorial for US troops during WWII. The cathedral was significantly damaged by bombings during the war as well. The cathedral and palaces were main targets in attempt to undermine the crown and church with hopes it would force the British people to cave.
The art work. The mossaics. The dome. The quire. All very breathtaking. Some of the design decisions made me laugh... they were made with keeping a distance from catholicism and the Pope in mind.
Below in the crypt... oh dinner is here..
There is a chapel in the crypt for the OBE. I thought that cool. If I am correct Wellington and Nelson are buried in the crypt. The battery to my ipod audio tour died about this point. I spent some time in the gift shop and headed on. Surprisingly they were sellling rosary beads and hand rosaries in the gift shop. I thought those were Catholic as it is about Mary. Guess I could learn more about the Church of England... aaah, lunch conversation with Brian...
Thw sales clerk mentioned people buy them to wear. OK that surely isn't a Catholic thing. I considered gettting myself another set but opted not to.
From there a headed on out.
Not sure how long I was there.
Breakfast - pre Tower of London
That is where I am headed today. A quick coffee and pastry for breakfast than off to the tube. As we learned in Dublin... the little eatery next to th hotel is far mire reasonable and within reason for breakfast than the crazy expensive hotel buffett..
Sunday, June 30, 2013
Greenwich
Now this has a whole different feel. Less modern. Less kids. More crowded. I walked around some but must admit the heat and sun and crowds were getting to me. A/C seems close to non-existent. The same could b e said for deodorant. No, seriously. And of course watching people walk around in so many layers juat made it all the worse.
I glanced in at two of the museums. I checked out the park. I walked through the market. A great concept except stuffy stale air and well those references above.
I found the most trendy least pubish brewery amd had a half pint sitting in the sun. That sun screen everyone questioned me to pack... it is back at the hotel.
People are everywhere taking advantage of the weather. I suspect on a day like today at home we would drudge through our day miserable that it was already Sunday and not take advantage of it. I am impressed with the Brits or whoever all thes other people are enjoying the day.
I need to go catch the boat.
The O2
So I guess I first became aware of the O2 when it was opened as tge Millenium Dome. Maybe. Maybe not. I know a number of artists tgat have perfotrned there. And somewhere in the googling of it all I realised it is quite an interestibg structure.
In my planning I was glad to find the British Music Experience was there. It would give me a reason to go and not just oddly gawk at the architecture.
I had no idea until I landed at the dock what all there was there.
Emirates Air has a sky tram. A cross between a Disney ride and the tram up Stone Mountain.
You can sign up to walk/hike across the top of the dome.
There are more eateries than I anticipated.
And fountains for hot sweaty kids to plan in.
The BME was an experience of the senses. There was music music music. There was some memorabilia. And tonnes of electronic mediums delivering all sorts of musical historical facts. Some of the gadgets were not the easiest to use but I got the hang of it.
My quest for trivia knowledge of all things British music could have had me stay there all dat. I did not allow myself to get sucked in... but I so could Bowie; Beatles, Freddie, Robbie, The Specials, Adam Ant, Stone Roses. All sorts of stuff. All sorts of AHA moments. All sorts of Oh I haven't heard that in ages. Or I loved this song. They have a website. I intend to revisit.
From there I strolled around some and decided on lunch at an outdoor Mexican restaurant. Yes, some of the most bizarre Mexican food I have had in some time. It wasn't bad it just seems to have soice influences from other regions. And I don't think my margarita had any tequila in it.
I set out for ince cream to offset it. I was unsuccessful. So went back to the dock and came to Greenwich.
The Shard
I passed the line for the London Eye and opted to head straight to The Shard. The Thames Clipper is definitely a commuter boat. OK by me. Gets me to all the places I want to go.
Could see The Shard in the distance. Took some time to find my way there. You pretty much need to make your way around the major train and bus stations. Thankfully traveling alone I got a ticketto the top right away. Wasnt sure how I'd fair the elevator ride. It was unnoticeable at all. You take an elevator to the 33rd floor and then another to 68 or 69 and thenyou walk up a floor for internal viewing. Then go up to 72 floor for exposure to the elements. It was really cool.
You can see Wembley and The Eye and the Gherkin, Tower of London, Tower Bridge. So much better a view than the Eye.
From there I made my way back to the dock. It was easier to navigate on the way back. Good thing too. I had to take a little jog from London Bridge down to the dock to not miss the boat.
Then I took a leisurely cruise on the River Thames out to the O2. It is an entertainment peninsula all on its own. I did the British Music Experience. And that's what it is
Sunday Funday
Could actually be a slower day than my itinerary. Hadnt given much thought to the time it would take to get to the hotel from Wembley. Quite the exercise in people moving. Some 60, 000 people meander on over a fee hours. And then at the end of the night masses of really drunk people all flow out of the stadiun and line up for the tube. Amazing. Overwhelming. And serenity insisting in a moment.
By the time I got back to the hotel I was wired. Ended up stopping at the hotel bar for a wine. Ran into three women that I saw on the tube on the way to the show. What are the odds. I probably chatted their ears off I was so hyped. It was late when I got to bed.
And that damned 430 sun woke me up even with the drapes drawn. My sinuses felt the weight if a days city travel as well.
This morning I sit at the local breakfast nook next to my hotel. Coffee eggs and toast on order. Then off to the Eye. Depending on the lines I may just jump on the boat first.
Supposed to be another beautiful day!
Saturday, June 29, 2013
Wow
I haven't been to a stadium concert in ages... The Cure Giants Stadium circa 1989?
I need to check how many people this place holds. Their seats are comfier than Panthers Stadium. I forget the stats of this versus Croke Park. They give tours of Wembley except Robbie is set up here all week.
Got myself a tshirt. Wore the Stereophonics tshrt to the Keane show. Wearing my Keane tshirt tonight. Gonna wear the Robbie tshirt to the Stereophonics. Full circle.
DJ just started and I realized the earplugs Lynn gave me are sitting on the desk back at my room. Ears ringing tomorrow!
DJ was OK. He did a little nod to Freddie with some We Will Rock You. I think I forgot the Queen cover in my Robbie cou tdown.
The video montage in between isn't too bad either. I wonder who picks those.
The drunk people are a bit much. Mom and Nana sitting next to ne just let the boy with them go to the loo by himself. He might be 12. I suspect the bag of Malteasers has him akl hopped up or the taste of his moms Pimms.
Olly was fun. Quite the dancer. The sample of Earth Wind and Fire got the ccrowd to their feet. A good thing since he only has a few releases to date and some are mellow.
Now we wait for Robbie.
Sold out but the stadium isn't packed yet. The beer lines are long. Carlsberg I am avoiding the beer. The ladies room line was amazingly manageable. The stadium is doing sonethibg right there. I had a hot dog for dinner. That may come back to haunt me.
Will write morw tomorrow. Diwnloading wee video to YouTube then off to bed
Day 3 continued
From the Abbey I walked around some. Took a picture of some statues and made my way back to the hotel.
I stopped at the Churchill War Rooms along the way. It was interesting to see the confined underground spaces they stayed in during the war. How they ruled from below ground. It reminded me of the bombing stories my landlady in Bermuda had told me of. There was a museum dedicated to the life of Churchill as well. He lived to 1965 the age of 90. I could imagine my dsd spending a good amount of time there. For me I spent just enough.
From there I walked past St. James Park and down the Mall towards Buckingham Palace. I think the approach and the statue are fsr more commanding of attention than the palace itself. Most likely touring the palace on Tuesday AM
Lunch at Serpentine Bar and Kitchen was delicious. My big meal of the day.
The nap was good too. I don't normally schedule naps into my holiday but thought today might warrant such behavior.
Now I am off to Wembley.
Day 3 Lunch time
Wow.. so glad I opted to get on out early. The crowds grew quickly at Westminster Abbey. An informal line started. The a semi formal line took over. And finally all directions were given barricades were put in place and the waiting began. It wasn't too long of a wait. I am glad I went when I did.
Jeremy Irons is the tour guide on the auduo guide but I am pretty sure the female voice was Dame Judy Dench. It had a brighter and lighter feel to it once inside than the abbeys in Dublin. Too think to be a young girl and to be married there. I am more and more impressed with her composure.
And the people and royalty laid to rest there. As most know cemeteries are not my thing. So to casually happen upon the tombs of Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots... I lit a candle and said a prayer for my dad. And they do stop throughout the day for prayer. When I was there it was a prayer for forgiveness. I was shocked at those unfamiliar with the language or rude enough to not observe the moment of silence.
Oh lunch is here - lamb, chips, rocket, white wine and a chocolate cookie.
Day 3
And the crowds gather outside Westminster Abbey. It opens in 25 minutes or so.
I successfully mastered the tube. Even better I learned a more direct route to get to Wembley this evening. Yay me! Only one stop and I can get there on the www exact same lines that brought me to Westminster this morning.
I will be walking back to the hotel from here. Having lunch at Serpentine and taking a nap.
Friday, June 28, 2013
Day two - part three
I venture out again. The main itinerary of the day... Fat Tire Bike Tour... I signed up for the Royal Gardens Tour. Me and about 12 others.
We started at the same place - Kensington Gardens - and made our way through Hyde Park past Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, House of Parliament, Big Ben, a statue of Abe Lincoln (I probably should go back and get a picture), Westminster Abbey, St. James Park. Oh I am sure I missed something.
It was a great way to spend 3+ hours. I highly recommend it. The tiue guide - Max - was very knowledgeable. The people all very friendly. There was a family with small boys from Myers Park. A family of 3 from Minnesota. A couple from Orlando. Two guys from Texas studying international accounting in Paris for the Summer. A high school math teacher from Chicago. And I know I have missed some others. Only my tour guide knew who Robbie Williams was. Lol
And now I am at dinner at a pub down the street from my hotel. Steak and ale pie and a Guinness. Ok I know that is not British beer but all the rest was overwhelming.
Now to head back to the hotel to upload all this.
Day two - part two
I am in prime location to Hyde Park. I walked out the front door. Got a "white coffee" (miso or au lait for the rest of you) and headed across the street to Kensington Gardens.
The weather was spotty but the walk was nice. I saw Royal Albert Hall - there was a graduation going on there. I saw the Princess Di fountain - nice and understated. There we're people swimming in Serpentine. And the walk continued. I suspect I will become quite familair with Hyde Park during my stay. There are 2 restaurants there I want to check out.
And back to the hotel I went.
Day two
Wow.. I just wrote so much and the phone replaced it all.
Day two started at 2AM or even earlier. That is when our flight appraoched London and they threw on the lights and served breakfast.
Through the clouds I saw a brief glimpse of the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Stadium. Looked just like that Take That Olympics foorltage without the fireworks.
And then again through the clouds I saw The Gherkin, The Strand, The London Eye and Tower Bridge. I felt like Wendy. If you are unfamiliar with the alliteration go to Disney. Peter Pans Flight. It felt judt as magical.
The airport is huge! It felt like gate E30 in Charlotte. The toilet was nice. The immigration girl not so much. Wow, she read all the stamps in my passport. Baggage claim awkward. ATM OK once I found one that worked. Yes, there was a moment of fear with that. And they have the Heathrow Express process down pat.
The train ride... in my mind was a train ride. I came out into Paddington Station and felt what I always feel in train stations... where the heck am I and where do I go from here. Give me strength to master that over the next few days.
I walked from there with my luggage to the hotel. Checked in. Took a nap. Errr - my non diamond HH status negates my free internet access. Errr. It will probably do well to clear my head.
And I took a teo hour nap in my little twin bed in my smaller than a dorm room room. It is quaint.
Day one
Well that was spent around the house. Then I was at the airport.
Oh the people watching at the airport. One word.. Bojangles. Wow! I opted for the grilled chicken salad. Not as reasonable as the Waxhaw or South Park version. But OK for airport food.
The airport itself was crazy crowded. The queue for my flught was rude and insane. And I am damned tired of people and their luggage carry ons. They take up more space than necessary.
On my flight I sat next to an elderly woman. She could have been my mom. Sorry Mommy no disrespect on the elderly comment. She was retu red amd traveling by herself. She was dropping off her suitcase at a hotel and then boarding a train with her backpack to Scotland for 2 weeks.
She was traveling far more free spirited than any trip I would plan. Probably because I actually plan. She was just winging it. I was impressed even if that would never be my approach.
By the time I left the airport I felt like I should hang about some and help her out. She was having difficulty with seeing the forms and finding her luggage. I helped her with the ATM but we parted ways there.
I slept OK on the plane. USAir made a big deal about the meal and complimentary glass of wine and coffee. I JUST wANTED to SLEEP! I eventually slept.
And so was day one.
Sunday, June 16, 2013
Happy Fathers Day
I have stuff going on in mybhead that I feel like writing about. Just not sure what the overall topic would be. I guess for me this day leads to reflection on numerous levels. And the things I am uncovering in that reflection are startling, awkward, unsettling, disappointing. Not sure how to put my finger on it. I guess the easiest way to o ut it... as I continue down this path of trying to be healthy I feel like I have less and less in common with others. I suspect that is not entirely the case but that is how I feel right now. And that is what has been on my mind this week, this weeekend, today.
What does it have to do with Fathers day? Probably nothing more than timing.
Thursday, May 30, 2013
Gotta Look Sharp
I am on a mission... Weight loss over races. I have found the races stress me out more than one would think. The mental chatter undermines me. So...
I have found a bunch of before after pics. Will have to work up the nerve to post some others....
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Training
The nicest thing about the dream - it was peaceful. A calm happy place. Of course at the end of the dream I struggled with my flight home. That is probably more in line with my mental map at the moment.
We have a sales meeting today. I am good for the meeting. The prep and unforeseen server reboot melt down out a crimp in my style yesterday. Trying to not let that negativity consume me. Wow, I sure can still have a bitter sarcastic and mean spirited tongue. I may take after my dad in most ways but when it comes to expecting a lot from people and letting them know it.... That could be more my mom.
And then there is some rash all over my legs and arms. Oh HELLO summer! And the first time in the sun in months... I do believe it is an allergic reaction to the sunscreen that I picked up from a friend.
And then there's the ol skin virus. I think that is back. You know I also excited for that. Again I have been riding my bike a lot so it could be something else. The bottom .ine is your. Odd is supposed to beagle to fight it in the long run. I am going with that for now.
As for training... The swim, bike,run,hip hop abs combo is working well. No races in the future. They have sadly been under,inning my focus. I have been getting too consumed in the event that I get in my own way of the training. So for now it is just training.
Well gotta go get that suit on - grey skirt suit that is.
Monday, May 27, 2013
Before
Finding interesting shots on my phone sd card. It looks like runng took precedence to cleanong on this day... on most days..
Friday, May 24, 2013
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
60 days of Robbie
And that's where the Robbie piece comes in. And probably over the next 60 days it will seem like a Robbie obsession. And I am OK with that.
It is my motivation over the next 8 weeks.
And then to top it off - concert at Wembley Stadium!!! And I hope to be TEN pounds lighter.
Monday, May 6, 2013
Fridge full
So yesterday I was to race in my triathlon. It was cold and raining. Really cold. I know I spent $$ to compete but did not want to get out there in this weather and find myself ill, under the weather or under a golf tournament bus. Might sound silly or wimpy but that's that. Sunday, May 5, 2013
Race day
Everything is laid out around the house in preparation for race day. First layer upstairs. Second layers and bib down stairs.
Sadly it is 50F outside and windy. And the rain is about to start at some point between now and my estimated bike ride. Agreement with myself... this is a hobby; you do not need to put yourself in harms way by riding your bike in the rain.
Si all items will continue to be splayed out like this until I get home from church. Then I will follow the routine I have followed for some time now... trainer and swim and maybe a run.
Oh and the other reason for my hesitation - that would be this weeks weird health reaction - got very ill at church the other night. No seriously, they wheeled me out, called 911, had the EMTs check me out, read me some death disclaimer when I declined going to.the hospital.
Blaming it on dehydration from the golf tournament. Maybe an odd blood sugar scenario as well.
Friday, May 3, 2013
last few days
or just the fact that i know i can physically complete the distances - it is a short race
and the fact that i dont have the time to do any more
so that will be that...
looking into what to do next..
i just dont feel like signing up for another race at this time..
i am still loving swim bike run but the motivation to compete is just not there - maybe that will change on sunday
i am seriously considering adding a beachbody workout into my mix instead..
something to switch things up for my mind and body
will think on that some more this weekend..
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
i dont want to change
so when she said yesterday - i dont think i could do a triathlon. i dont know how i feel about that having to change bit - it brought a smile to my face
so many people really think that you change clothes in the midst of a triathlon
i never thought about it before - i dont know what my original concept was - maybe i thought people changed too but i dont recall...
that whole concept of getting wet and staying wet while cycling and even running does not bode well with others...
speaking of wet - have to get back in the water tonight
i had a mental detour last night... hated that i did but it worked out OK for me in the end
it was nice to sit in front of the tele with a cup of tea and do some work on the home computer.. felt oddly relaxing and productive all at the same time...
as for the tea thing - i had gotten into a habit of wine every so often in the evenings while on the couch... and i must admit the habit and history kind of started screaming in my face... decided i needed to regroup on that after work stress habit - dont want the wrong ones grabbing hold and becoming more -- nothing should be that stressful to derail me that much
OK speaking of stress -- off to the car dealer for an unexpected car service
Monday, April 29, 2013
weather dilmena
feeling kind of wimpy with that stance...
but i am a triathlon hobbyest or some other term i have yet to create..
well will just focus on the training and let's hope the weather plays fair.
Sunday, April 28, 2013
Another small workout day
I then trekked over to the lake house and did 800 yards in the pool.
Today still trying to pace my swim time for Sunday so I know my starting position.
I vacuumed. I finished making that soup. Made some bread to go along with it.
Watched some tele with the dog.
Googled random Robbie Williams videos.
And now am listening to the teaming down rain outside procrastinating on turning out the lights to go to sleep.
I need to do it all over again tomorrow somehow.
Ideally it would be a run bike in the morning and a swim at night.
We will see if that happens.
Saturday, April 27, 2013
Bike. Swim
This years weather is so different than the previous years. I have yet to get out on the road to ride. Glad i have the trainer. But really would like to get out there. Covered 50 minutes today. That should be close to 10 miles.
I also swam 800 yards. I needed to vet in the water to time my pace. It is about the same as always 2:10 to 2:20... that shohld be OK for nwxt weeks race.
No running. The stomach and I are still at odds.
I napped a good part of the afternoon. Then made some homemade ginger carrot soup with a hint if orange. (My neighbor gave me a produce care package yesterday - odd but useful)
Gonna do my best to get to mass in the morning and then off to train some more and make some headway around here.
Shoot it really does look like I have been on the road fir 3 weeks.
in the world of firsts...
i suck down some breakfast at the hotel - scrambled eggs, bacon, fruit, muffin, coffee, oj...
still feeling a bit out of it as i head to the airport - a really nasty feeling i must say
get through all that is the airport and grab myself a mango smoothie - the concept sounds appealing at the time - mango, peaches, ginger, vanilla yogurt... it tasted wonderful
as usual, i hit the seat on the plane and go to sleep for a few minutes - gonna guess 30 or so...
i feel better after the nap
and then out of all things - the flight pattern starts to take a toll on me... this is not something that normally gets to me... sure, i am not a fan of being below deck on boats and the occassional car ride can get to me but never on an airplane
the mountains below, the horizon in the distance, the hard left turn as if we have to go east now that we have spent so much time going south... but i am ok
and then there is the approach - and at this time i just want to be on the ground... and from the looks of things we are circling some - oh there is carowinds below us - not far now..
and then we get it - additional turbulence --- and i am done
i forewarn the poor woman sitting next to me that i dont feel well... she says the turbulence is getting to her too - not sure if i needed to hear that
but whatever the case - that smoothie did not want to stay down
thank goodness it was just a smoothie...
i have never had anything like that happen to me before - i sure hope it is not a new found motion sickness - that would SUCK!
i think my stomach was just sour... as it is still pretty iffy at the moment
i ended up coming straight home instead of going to the office... i worked on getting some food into my system and then i did some work
watched some Vampire Diaries and off to bed I went
today is the last weekend before the race - i am now trying to motivate to get some activity in.. not sure a run is going to go anywhere...
swimming at 930