tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88316726417652233892024-02-06T19:36:24.519-08:00My Journey From Wide to Wyldly FitIt seems I'm beginning to understand that it's time to travel a different path - look for changes coming to this journal...Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.comBlogger88125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-49263520115497927772013-04-01T19:09:00.001-07:002013-04-01T19:09:09.933-07:00The Great 2013 Reboot!<p>So, having watched “Fat, Sick, and Nearly Dead,” and hearing so many folks extoll the benefits of juicing (Joe Cross-style, not Lance Armstrong), I decided that I should give it a try. After all, I recently acquired a very capable masticating juicer at a good price, and have been enjoying the fruits of fruits and veggies on occasion for some time now.</p> <p>Somehow, I even talked my beloved hubby, the die-hard meat eater, into joining me on this little adventure!</p> <p>So, given the fact that a doctor appointment today made it necessary for me to work from home, and given the fact that I will be stuffing my body into a swimsuit in less than two weeks, I ascertained that this past weekend was a perfect opportunity to give it a try. We would shop Friday evening for the necessary produce, and start Saturday morning, consuming nothing but fresh fruit and veggie juices for three days.</p> <p>Day 1 started with a relatively small, mostly fruit-based juice, and called for four more varied juices as the day went on. I’m not sure if it was because we got started late (having slept in), or if our produce was significantly larger than that used for the menus, but, after the first juice, we found ourselves working on meals that ran from 30 to 40 ounces each – including the “snack” juices. We managed to slug them down, until the last one of the day, which included beets, among other things… Well, it appears that either me or my body have a SERIOUS aversion to beets – I was in the bathroom less than halfway through my first glass, as my stomach rejected the offering.</p> <p>On Day 2, a second beet-enriched beverage produced the same results – along with an alarming shade of violent violet from my “other” end. And today, it wasn’t even beets – I think my body simply rejected a pure veggie diet. At this point, I made the executive decision that the experiment was an epic failure, and should cease immediately. Upon finishing at the doctor appointment, I took my husband for a hamburger and fries. I feel much better now!</p> <p>I think that, going forward, I might go for some juice once a day or so, with ingredients of my own choosing – I do enjoy the products of my juicer (apple and pear juices are more like nectars than juices). I just can’t be one that does it for days at a time.</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-51606451348859670412013-03-11T21:01:00.001-07:002013-03-11T21:17:27.407-07:00My First Review And Giveaway!I’ve been sort of half-assed looking at online personal training sites. I’d been considering <a href="http://www.fitorbit.com/">FitOrbit</a> (and had even purchased a voucher with my <a href="http://www.earndit.com/">Earndit</a> points) and a handful of others, when I received an email newsletter from <a href="http://www.purewow.com/">PureWow</a> describing a new site called <a href="http://bodbot.com/">Bodbot.com</a>, so I decided to check it out.<br />
<br />
The site is well-designed – I have yet to experience slow load times, crashes, or other errors, and is visually attractive, as well, with a design that manages to be both Zen and sexy at the same time. It is also blessedly advertisement-free (at least as of this writing).<br />
<br />
The basic free membership gives you access to a full selection of workouts that are based on your input for a comprehensive list of fitness tests that are part of your initial profile setup. In addition, you also will need to identify your training goal and whether you want to work out your entire body or focus on specific muscles. You’ll be asked about your gender, age, height and current weight, and what equipment you have available (both at home and at the gym, if applicable). Tell the “bot” how often you want to work out – what days and how much time you have available. You can set preferences as to how hard you want to work, how hard you’ve trained in the past, and exercises you don’t like. Finally, there are a series of questions that equate to your fitness test – these are used to determine the most appropriate workout routines for your current capabilities. I’ve found that, by filling out all of this information as accurately and honestly as possible, I’m given workout routines that are challenging for me without being so difficult that I cannot complete them – something that I haven’t experienced previously, even when working with a live, in-person, certified trainer.<br />
<br />
As you complete sets and reps of an exercise, you simply click “I did it!” on the site (or on the Android or iPhone apps, which are just as well-designed and Zen-sexy as the site), and the workout is added to your history and incorporated into the algorithm that gives you future workouts. If you skip one, the site is nicely non-critical:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQXs4pPu8v6Omf7nsalmupYVMOCjTTuPDTysd7MNVSo4sXel6zvgG-8S81C64wfv31rh7G3Z-P-PqiQUrYCrStDntlDZbp1rsIwbRsmWEFgos8ntKPzguuadbuBYU9DYgrAde6x6kmG7Y/s1600-h/image%25255B7%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKBDmAjLr8Cdfp_VgD0-aL318dRArmLTX18cNSinTxnHXwbV4sl8BS0NUAKDC7pSC1VdbwB23FPt56oTO_SBmU_WxCIvyiiRjbU3mkNN0wxyIeRwTZEOhuAXz_LGcDZFOcGs4-Bxl4CE4/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="image" width="476" /></a><br />
<br />
If you’re like me (immensely self-critical), you’ll find this of great benefit. I find that it’s helping me to forgive myself for those missed workouts that are, for most of us, a fact of life.<br />
<br />
Bodbot is refreshingly free of the social networking aspect that is becoming more and more prevalent in health, diet, and fitness sites these days – I don’t know about you, but I don’t have time to send motivating messages to folks on yet another site. However, each time you complete a workout, a motivational quote is posted to each user/member’s feed. If you want to support a new member, or send motivation to someone who has not logged in for a while, you can do so by simply clicking a button. There is a feature where you can search for other members, but it is simply used for challenging them to a selection of workout-related objectives.<br />
<br />
There is also a paid, “Plus” membership available – this gets you additional fitness tests and analysis tools, and gives you access to new features before they are fully released – you will have input into what works on the site, and what doesn’t. This Plus membership is available at $10 per month, but is not necessary to fully benefit from the tools available.<br />
<br />
The founders of the site, Edward Laux, and Sergio Prado, have both brought their own personal fitness journeys to bear in the development of the site – from both ends of the spectrum. Edward “grew up obese as a youth”, while Sergio was “massively underweight". Both have realized impressive success in their fitness goals, and have decided to pay it forward by sharing their knowledge with others. They are also extremely responsive – if you reply to a message from the site, you should expect to hear from one of them personally to answer your inquiry.<br />
<br />
One thing that I’m not quite clear on is the reason behind the earning of points and achieving levels, although I’m sure that there is some plan in the works for this feature. The company is, after all, a start-up that is currently financed primarily through Fundable.com. In fact, there is a current promotion – for a $60 contribution, you can have a Plus membership for life. Of course, I have to give the standard disclaimer – this is, once again, a startup, so there is no guarantee as to how long that “life” might last. I’m pretty confident, though, that the program will be successful if the right folks get notification of it.<br />
<br />
And, right now, I’ve got not one, but TWO of these lifetime memberships to give away – here are the deets:<br />
<br />
<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/18187a0/" id="rc-18187a0" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-10134906240112507852013-03-04T21:39:00.001-08:002013-03-04T21:39:00.947-08:00Mindfulness<p>Mindfulness is the practice of immersing oneself in any experience so deeply that one can fully share it with others just through words.</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-87509876414786378812013-03-03T22:21:00.001-08:002013-03-03T22:21:00.199-08:00The New Psychedelic Experience<p>During the late ‘60s, a psychedelic experience typically involved mind-altering substances ingested by members of the free love generation that characterized the Haight-Ashbury district of San Francisco. Yesterday, I was part of a more modern (and less hazardous) psychedelic experience that took place somewhat south of the Haight, at Candlestick Park.</p> <p>In just over a year, the Color Run has become one of the most popular “running” events in the country. It’s actually more of a big fun party, encouraging free-spirited play and pure fun. It has also been very successful in getting folks who wouldn’t otherwise consider participating in a 5K event to do just that. It’s not timed, there is no pressure to perform – it’s all about smiles and having a good time with thousands of the closest friends you never met before.</p> <p>This was my second year participating, and I look forward to being a part of future events! I started off looking pretty tame:</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJVKdQ_jEcb154ULh14XBIUqTvEfVyZZ2NXQNTOrKSJRubz0_K7mmV5wlYaBOJsZV34XqJiz87qARjYZnC4emDjrr_Br7g0LqUt-sNVpWVqzaqrrjRh0r25kKomzhlVZ7mIBq52LtiLsc/s1600-h/20130302_091643%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="20130302_091643" border="0" alt="20130302_091643" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCTwBmY3YUK8jojcead5mlvcLmqxIToIBFRGhzOGqRTKnYw28ehnOqRtrgEyRfDfGUXj6sel3nLO9A__raXLheybJe3_i3lqPMNz8P-7QBmfFeiT4p0t9sLVPobwyRRdew_Qx7vT5d3sY/?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p>After waiting in line for packet pickup, which took considerably longer than it did last year, due to a significant increase in attendance, I made my way to the starting line. They were sending out groups of runners every 10 minutes or so, with crew members tossing out swag to those waiting to go. Of course, the color started to appear in advance of the start:</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLYJx5LIXUCwmP6TltPy_Zt75w6PHdxgoQbUuwpsYRgUzKzaL5nbNek7R5WQvbhbY8tLXHHFOinAt5KI6vJZCThmP0D_R8bjfsgz384nNOoIp2Wzi-CfLL01iNe5s498Jc89aviGaTa0o/s1600-h/Start001%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Start001" border="0" alt="Start001" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ITpyU2swrwDCvHvXtQg7fmQs2uX7H-nV1s2dZKa_Og2gUxBGtfBMHnp_LU0Y5YlbJOS-fRo07yFkBa0SscpoNpEV8iHff1uK9x0gSMyGcfpFUo8xMt5jIJzxzq7ogG7IAKKZ8FsRRQE/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvs1AqeRqTuv78_4DvHVYEAfWU4H4HIg1xYp94AFJoTBmsTPM45wbEWUOIWgVzRvgtC62ck8BYzTFuwnshLq6R1__IH4p6TKADpRUjHzej-bCaEMRfrb-OmW7cDMPRTdhvLgdbwcleDfE/s1600-h/Start002%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Start002" border="0" alt="Start002" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqQnZqd4A_yHhNRyaQTAHmNn46iqPIaEanNsrVTkKHHb-06h5_W8AQyOx6De8CJfyI9qtiC2v64X-NKeZoxdrERMfPdglLkIFrE53E9tXnitJWLUiyBRSHdtl2jTrJYi9VfzwmvQFBTi0/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkdbNHJHG-RMYP2Sw04RgyUup9lmjUjjD1nlGHvoMOabERQ-GIpWsBcf19Wf2mjUvPT5FKT3wYz6On-WMDYQ87jjMQOwCtabPsSHTzlJxCQC2I3WwvANJy4Zj35E8HcBJ9YHKVmSx8Jw8/s1600-h/Start003%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Start003" border="0" alt="Start003" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXSUA-j4y1o7vtW8U8pZ0jgD_eVGVwKJHSz7fPrENi2AulAleZi0R1GRJlgdtq0i3MT3t6Q2Lswp8e698Sn_T9JOX8RUISqzqfJDW0EuStisxYIBjPnVTSt9gMy-wU7e4ZXVedI9-LPDE/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a></p> <p>Finally, the group that I was a part of was sent out to play!</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijuz8t41NfxjR1Xa54R_QXbaj50ZoNvMz6z2W_fer_5vGRtdXmOpqAzZVE8DO32MADzAl1Fu9LpHKVLuNBJPuCxrva6SsDtGSM-L1hybAnmMLGh3u2r27lZLlFRykwe70ERmm85_3COwg/s1600-h/Orange001%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Orange001" border="0" alt="Orange001" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2fQXntOyT846An9Ac0ZOGmWM5Va1ypZUBBxb3WNsSaePJfLSUhkJyrJZCOEa9_WzgkqFQepdpAlSPqJTD8WMIKO9XW0I_pm6xf82elkbGt1EBB6MLRHpoSq7EpHB1aeQU4eHrf4bS0C0/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7B8KobVeSP4UHoXf-S8CrQFSnYcIfEa8lUlwm6FrTJd6CZAxIGQhjv2sRVMcJETVAS6kGNt-6PqL0s-0hK2pXVm0Qo-guVGGhda16QC2lmhuXPQGwYZkkVYMMPW_-yP5q-j8TcJs6ygw/s1600-h/Blue004%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Blue004" border="0" alt="Blue004" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJOQHpotZoqgPdC1botVBAzEvwh8Nbfv-HCv_8T3RUecksm56gNJyFdsoJJrHGS27Hc-jkr1OHczvBbIxizzUtg6poRKNZkB1mTDWIVpkqgg44OwS2jvZ9q74UBUOchwmYdXQCfOvy-Qk/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNPWiiUA5xLkOsklmW8mzldbuAkwDRhLVqI401TZvF19XnB6TwJlEGWsG1XbjkV0cCmVtWgsZ5KiNL0MYZDn3W8drdkgyy3SeIJ9AaFLTeQc-MzfJvjDUn2bFuSVwN1msCfIxNAW-CnCk/s1600-h/Pink004%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Pink004" border="0" alt="Pink004" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT-3p3LrDxogJDeeiqAPsYB9lkeL53B-wvcGaAvGYyIkMNiPu9rfRMpTUhB4PE_8OO8FMicGoUu1dCAQWMzg17JzlI-iqdyalY7rQ_vgpHpqntbii7ZmWnUKlhnCuN5s-D8HiVPJW4OAQ/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a></p> <p>When I reached the finish line, I looked somewhat different:</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7pbRMPP0jJetHCk23c2ItTKzEB4wzc3QSmE7jv9jSmfrjWI6kCcES5JqRA0_Mt6RFMhU3cnkMemulew_CH_wIgX1QXd52FpORea0xh2wj9tfE_8FLH1B1OHnbp4hn50RKtD-4CkWUOIA/s1600-h/20130302_121055%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="20130302_121055" border="0" alt="20130302_121055" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisHY0HNXlJVw2fQ00x0fosAKtNrTtqjlLVUUF1IpcKBLCdGQCVHbeIb05i7XEDugFBNTLRtPK5QCPTwUs4fVU1ZUSN4ePrlYXB3HQphoQfWveagzva9CuUAcHps4QFwGrW2J6NCaA8kyg/?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p>Yup, I have blue teeth.</p> <p>I also decided to try a new shade and style of color in my hair.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmc-6QTpviTojofn3_I9iItCeNeRGSx7c46h6Q3QJV8TEy3uxlSLb6ugNTS9pmaBD2YNYs-W-tMfozBuFNF0-jcly4QraVc5KG33bISM3tL7dYGmQZpUABU6hBb1VoKMXKzD1fpF8ijaE/s1600-h/20130302_134116%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="20130302_134116" border="0" alt="20130302_134116" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitB1dR8a_X_uvNCMace9IMXMTNjrwfd7ZMfRte7Zdk6dKXg45zTqD3qViN9kO1FTj-vBvtX_VTyOR9AF3D6fT8pI5HaCOllUlIXjAwRaArsHIjIETvG5wqoxDN9Ua5SjjRd2WpY1v0nHI/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p>The overall picture reveals me, happier and more relaxed than I’ve been since early this year.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqW_ooJbknEpoRWF2gWKIL0FRnQUflNlwEnMxdleODLlwVGz_-ubOmHLGoDa5SGi1nML_c3GIIEO3rlwjQsqpYcCuA24Fjo7vSU5wp1O0_brZ8LbwPTv60IY4VC9hW34EV2C8cihDSmRY/s1600-h/20130302_133726%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="20130302_133726" border="0" alt="20130302_133726" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9-5DOJmIeXGCPSJgWbYbGj5UO2WG73q67gOIiJxtldsDeoGeHOaONkFu_JslXklnzYslIxE5O20MeTzSRNkz8boqEd29J1j-14H0MLBsjaKsG0NEsiZF4HdIZUN7flRH2PFeN8yow9sY/?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p>I look just like Humpty Dumpty in his Easter finery, don’t I? Time to get back to work on that spare tractor-sized inner tube!</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-32502959833382040352013-01-19T23:59:00.001-08:002013-01-19T23:59:10.892-08:00It’s About Time, Right?<p>So it’s nearly three weeks into 2013, and I’m just now getting around to my first post of the year. Hey, I never claimed to be speedy, right? And those who have managed to stick with me know I’m not the most consistent blogger on the block…</p> <p>Anyway, if you look up, you’ll see I’ve added some pages to the site. First, a bit more informative “About Me” page that will most likely change as I come up with more things to share about myself. The second new page is dedicated to the first of a series of S.M.A.R.T goals I’ve been considering, and follows the methodology of goals that are specific, measureable, achievable, relevant, and timely. It also includes a table for tracking my progress, which I’m going to do my best to keep up-to-date.</p> <p>I’ll be adding more of these pages in the coming days, as I manage to document the rest of my goals for the year in this manner. I think that this is going to go a long way towards helping me to make progress!</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-5815973576293350492012-12-31T23:16:00.001-08:002012-12-31T23:16:32.749-08:002012 Reflections–The Last One!<p>I just finished filling out my <a href="http://fatgirlvsworld.blogspot.com/p/gtd.html" target="_blank">#gothedist</a> worksheet for this year – I made my goal by a couple of tenths of a mile – my decision to start walking around the building on a regular basis while at work paid off! Just ordered both of my “rewards” for the year… I never cease to amaze myself!</p> <p>I have to admit – this past year, I counted every bit of walking/running/hiking I did, whether it was intentional or coincidental. This year, I’m changing that – I’m only counting intentional mileage. So, if I get up and take a walk around the building while at work for the sake of having a walk, that counts – walking to another department to do my job does not. I’m also increasing my mileage goal by five miles per week each quarter. In Q1, I’m shooting for 15 miles per week, then 20 for Q2, and so on.</p> <p>Wish me perseverance and motivation!</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-36736336146696615452012-12-31T17:45:00.001-08:002012-12-31T17:45:39.765-08:002012 Reflections #3–No Resolutions<p>This year, I’m not making any of the traditional resolutions. I’m trying something different this year – I’m actually working through a S.M.A.R.T goals planning program – Specific – Measureable – Attainable – Realistic – Timely. I plan to blog about my progress here, on a weekly basis – maybe I’ll start SMARTGoals Saturday, huh?</p> <p>There are a number of things I would like to accomplish over the course of this coming year:</p> <blockquote> <p>1) Run 5K without stopping to walk.</p> <p>2) Lose 50 pounds.</p> <p>3) Remodel my workout room and office (which have simply been storage for the past five years!), and our downstairs bathroom.</p> <p>4) Update my professional certifications.</p> <p>5) Be a better blogger.</p></blockquote> <p>Over the coming days, I’ll be fleshing out the details of these goals, following the S.M.A.R.T. methodology – of course, that doesn’t mean I’m not going to get started on them before my plan is complete; I do have some ideas on how best to get started.</p> <p>I’m planning to meet up with some friends tonight, to say farewell to 2012 with a labyrinth walk, and setting my intentions for 2013:</p> <p>I will relinquish my fears – they no longer serve me. Instead, I will face each moment with the courage I know lies within me.</p> <p>I will relinquish blame – it no longer serves me. I will practice forgiveness of myself and of others.</p> <p>I will relinquish doubt – it no longer serves me. I am strong and confident.</p> <p>I will relinquish shame – it no longer serves me. I accept myself as I am.</p> <h1><font color="#9c85c0" face="Brush Script MT">Let the past rest in peace – it cannot be changed.</font></h1> <h1><font color="#9c85c0" face="Brush Script MT">Let the future take care of itself – what will be, will be.</font></h1> <h1><font color="#9c85c0" face="Brush Script MT">Live in the moment, and find bliss.</font></h1> <p>I share these blessings with those who wish to accept them. May 2013 be your best year.</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-79852715345599543512012-12-30T23:45:00.001-08:002012-12-30T23:45:16.144-08:002012 Reflections #2–The Good, The Bad, And The Downright Ugly<p>I think I’ll do this backwards…</p> <h1>The Downright Ugly <img style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-sadsmile" alt="Sad smile" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8wWpnkemfYtkp5AYTte6bwwgjMohjZsTDaNEpjg5c-6TLGV2mu7wxP48Q02y97sDKJOLxK5QOR5jOW_bCyxSck3Vt-lxXtVH3u-aZ1Ol1RakoAwhOn_eSK2u9chcNzEJDwCLMNBbWGWM/?imgmax=800"></h1> <p>Probably the biggest thing that was ugly about the past year for me was my work environment for the first part of the year – and the effects that it was having on the other areas of my life. I was extremely unhappy because I felt that I wasn’t being treated fairly and that I was basically at a dead-end with my employer at the time – no opportunities for advancement, and constantly having to take the fall for and clean up after messes that were not entirely of my making. While I realize that I was indeed a part of the problem, I couldn’t at that time accept that I appeared to be the only one taking the blame. I fell deeply into the black pit of depression, stopped caring about my work ethic, my health and well-being, and the things that made me happy. In fact, it got so bad that I nearly blew my career right to hell. Fortunately, life circumstances took me out of the situation before permanent damage was done – more on that in a later section of this post.</p> <p>With regard to my fitness, I’m also ending the year on an ugly note – the number on the scale is higher than it was at the start of the year, and my clothing is now a fair bit more snug that it was 12 months ago. I’m trying to learn not to place value on these things as much as I do, but it’s difficult to undo 50 years’ worth of indoctrination that one’s worth is inversely proportional to the size of one’s butt and gut.</p> <h1>The Bad <img style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-eyerollingsmile" alt="Eye rolling smile" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq4s5_vf_Cx7GeGAN99gzUtrJClOkbBMdA3n5PmOiNBqH8tx2-l87KzM-DQ-7R4LwlIX_9O6BBJ_QBQVZy3EJDlUqGyFu7l_PQ-onP_Jxcy57_5FSZbbRBIqzPoPasWuqxvRG4LYx3O54/?imgmax=800"></h1> <p>I still can’t run for more than a minute at a time.</p> <p>My eating habits, activity consistency, motivation, and self-acceptance are still mediocre, at best.</p> <p>I tried hypnosis for weight loss… <img style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-embarrassedsmile" alt="Embarrassed smile" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwpVh7MxZqo4gCY6jTM0F_W0wnMJA9DKCB_Jm4FTP1ZpDS7Xab8t4LFaVrjHEQ5JYDcIT6NLe-alIvYyfeFXkqxxeQU8Wv8eSV6npHTJ0RVNNam_fGBmRG0BEsWql9CQX6xW7lKV_PaeE/?imgmax=800"></p> <p>I didn’t get any work done on the house.</p> <p>I didn’t progress with any professional education or certification.</p> <p>I didn’t have the Hawaii 5-0 I was dreaming of. <img style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-cryingface" alt="Crying face" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOt-pvL1AlYq0VQ19mJcJRY8Jir5jqjHiwT00eGFO9dO2KwWCyfFYCblSOguSU6xiIOd7mrHcIkgGvAFHaI0R7PYqCFLAcT29QDrC7dhnU7L1BWE7TAde1aHzGyH0Ktg0IIHD9CEoKiBg/?imgmax=800"></p> <h1>Now, On The Other Hand…</h1> <h1>The Good! <img style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-hotsmile" alt="Hot smile" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhklpa7us6wkF2Ah7mKzoBTD29DVlyCXlPWH-yjxISYsP3LSGaLWNDyNuTkhpQPovP8uXEGFuF3APQWolkgC207MwsVZDC-74RZ6LTXGuNFzhrVoHaE-H-2DzqJshxvJ37PUiOhXqsgO-4/?imgmax=800"></h1> <p>I got an awesome job that I absolutely love! My career goals have been enhanced and renewed, and I’m looking forward to building my skills and knowledge in the coming year.</p> <p>I’m registered for several running events in the new year, including a New Year’s Day virtual 5K.</p> <p>I’m at peace with my decision to remove my mother and sister from my life.</p> <p>I’m happier than I’ve EVER been.</p> <p>On rare occasions, I’m blissful in the moment.</p> <p>I have a New Year’s blessing that I want to share tomorrow…</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-69173161745529962192012-12-26T21:37:00.001-08:002012-12-26T21:37:47.372-08:002012 Reflections #1<p>Now that Christmas is over, I was thinking of running a series of short posts reflecting on what I’ve accomplished this past year, and what I’ve come up short on, what I’ve done right, and where there is/was room for improvement.</p> <p>Problem is, I came home from work with a queasy stomach and a pounding head – not conducive to my thought process. I’m finally starting to feel a bit better, so hopefully, tomorrow is a better day.</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-62942706018019244252012-12-10T21:28:00.001-08:002012-12-10T21:28:21.049-08:00Starting Something New<p>Today I started something new – I downloaded a little program to my work computer that lets me set any number of countdown timers, and created two of them, to start with.</p> <p>First, I created one that will remind me to drink some water every hour, since I often get caught up in my work and forget.</p> <p>The second goes off every two hours, and tells me to take a walk. If I’m not on a call or critical issue, I’ll do just that – since today was a beautiful day, I went out and walked around the hospital. I got in a nice ten-minute brisk walk, and soaked up some nice vitamin D in the bargain. When the alarm next went off, though, I was tied up with a software vendor that is setting up a new system. Surprisingly, I was actually disappointed that I had to miss my little stroll!</p> <p>I’m actually looking forward to seeing that little message pop up on my screen tomorrow, telling me to stand up and back away from the keyboard for a bit!</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-18584099950483897602012-12-04T22:09:00.001-08:002012-12-04T22:09:42.148-08:00Out With The Old….<p>So, some time back (September, at Fitbloggin’, actually), I began to realize that this journal was not focused where it really needed to be, and I began to talk about making some changes to it. I really think I was sending myself the wrong message – one that was reinforcing my self-loathing by pointing up the differences between the way I look and the way society thinks we should all look.</p> <p>Well, I’ve finally started the makeover, with an entirely cosmetic facelift. I’m striving now for simplicity and clarity, in the hopes that these characteristics might carry over to my way of thinking about weight loss. The pretty pictures of palm trees won’t help me realize that it’s not about looking good to impress others – it’s about learning to be comfortable in my own skin whether it’s at my current weight or any other. It’s about being aware and mindful of what I put into my body, and why.</p> <p>Without self-acceptance, I can start over a thousand times, and not realize more than temporary success.</p> <p>Please, if you’re still with me, be patient. I think I’ve finally crashed and burned, and I’m ready to rise from the ashes.</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-5016086387827335842012-11-08T22:34:00.001-08:002012-11-08T22:34:32.324-08:00The Bucket List #1<p>Visit Scotland, see my castle</p> <p>Dive at night with the mantas off of Kona on the big island of Hawaii</p> <p>Run the San Fran Women’s Nike</p> <p>Write a novel</p> <p>Write a book to help people like me</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-78348150456106357992012-09-24T22:02:00.001-07:002012-09-24T22:02:07.601-07:00My First Fitbloggin’ Chapter 1<p>Well, my first Fitbloggin’ has come and gone, and I’ve got soooo many thoughts coming through right now that it’s difficult to decide where to start… Maybe I should start at the beginning….</p> <p>I landed in Baltimore after a flight that was uneventful, and would have been on time if not for a fuel truck blocking the access to our gate. Fortunately, it appears that Baltimore has the fastest baggage claim on the planet, as my suitcase was already on the carousel when I got to it. I then rushed off to find the closest check-in desk for the shuttle, but, when I got there, nobody was in attendance, and the kiosk needed a reboot.</p> <p>The next desk was all the way down at the far end of the (very long) baggage claim area, so I got my very first workout of the trip trying to get down there in time to catch the shuttle so that I could get to the McCormick tour. I became ever more doubtful, as they told me that my shuttle would be there in 30 minutes or less.</p> <p>Finally, they called for the bus. I got on with another woman, who, as it turned out was Kia, aka <a href="https://twitter.com/bodhi_bear">@bodhi_bear</a>. She set the tone for my entire weekend, with her friendly and welcoming attitude, and her successful efforts to contact the McCormick folks to ensure we both made the tour.</p> <p>Thanks to Kia, I began to feel that I just might be able to feel comfortable with so many new people, which is a rarity for me.</p> <p>Well, time to call it a night, so that I can actually make it to the office tomorrow… Stay tuned!</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-69850294785509875872012-09-21T12:53:00.001-07:002012-09-21T12:53:06.612-07:00An Apology To All My New Fitbloggin’ Friends<p>Hello, new (and even old) friends… My name is Sue, and I’m a crappy blogger. It’s been two weeks since my last post… And that post promised a bunch more posts that never came.</p> <p>In the coming weeks, there are some serious changes I’ll be making. For one thing, the palm trees are going away… </p> <p>The facelift won’t be starting until I get home from Fitbloggin’, though… So give me a bit o’ breathin’ room, ‘k?</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-50209028013947429992012-09-05T20:54:00.001-07:002012-09-05T20:54:17.312-07:00Go Big AND Go Home…<p>I’ve always been one of those “all or nothing” people – if I couldn’t do it perfectly, then it wasn’t worth doing. This has proved to be my downfall in many aspects of my life, including my quest for a healthier body and lifestyle.</p> <p>Every time I’ve been motivated to get started on changing my habits, I have given up at the first slip-up. I think that goes back to having grown up constantly hearing that I’d never amount to anything or succeed at anything, but that’s an entry for another time. At any rate, my quest for perfection has derailed my healthy goals time and time again (as anyone who’s read my past entries here knows).</p> <p>To that end, I’m going to try to learn a different attitude – I can choose to make good choices, or I can choose not to. From here on out, there is no failure; there are only options, some OK and some better. Each day that I make at least one good choice is a successful day.</p> <p>For instance, today, I chose to eat fresh fruit, cherry tomatoes, and a Greek yogurt as snacks during my workday, instead of going to the cafeteria for a bagel or some chips. I chose to get on the treadmill instead of vegging out on the couch. I chose to write this blog entry instead of surfing mindless websites. On the negative side, hubby and I chowed on a whole Hillshire Farms kielbasa and Bush’s Baked Beans for supper tonight. Still, more better choices, so today is a win. It will help me to keep in mind that there are no bad choices, no bad days, no possible chance of failure.</p> <p>Let’s call this #7daychip attempt #267… I’m off to a great start!</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-24425129458757736592012-09-03T15:46:00.001-07:002012-09-03T15:46:26.434-07:00But Seriously…<p>OK, it’s already September, and I haven’t made a whole lot of progress with my weight loss… I have, however, made great strides in my mental and emotional well-being, so life has not been completely wasted this past nine months…</p> <p>I’m really in a place where I think I might actually be able to start being really happy just being me – regardless of what that me looks like at any given time. Maybe, just maybe, with that sort of attitude, I will be able to see exercise as a way to reward my body for the good things it can do, instead of a chore.</p> <p>I’m the type of person that will procrastinate on chores any way I can, regardless of whether it’s cleaning the house or moving my body in some fashion. Sometimes, even typing out a blog entry feels like a chore, which is why I don’t do it as often as I’d like. For instance, I started this post two days ago!</p> <p>OK, I guess I need to go listen to my hypnotherapy session on “Turning Procrastination Into Motivation”…</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-67976514876287228802012-07-29T18:11:00.001-07:002012-07-29T18:11:11.484-07:00Here I Go Again…<p>Over the last couple of weeks, I’ve really lost sight of my goals. I’ve been using the excuse of a sick husband to justify my poor choices, and, even though he’s been pretty much back to normal for the last week or so, I’ve continued to let myself walk all over myself.</p> <p>That stops today.</p> <p>As of now, I’m back to logging my food, tracking my water, getting some exercise at least five times a week, and doing my hypno and meditation on a daily basis. I’m also putting a different spin on things (yet again!), based on a concept I picked up at work.</p> <p>For the past month and a half, I’ve been working in the IT department of a major hospital in the Bay Area. For the first time, I’ve been exposed to the security requirements of HIPAA – the governmental regulations regarding the protection of patient health information and privacy. The IT team even has a team that is solely dedicated to security, in order to ensure compliance with respect to all of our computer systems. Part of my job is to resolve any issues that come up in that area.</p> <p>One aspect of this plan is the concept of a “focus vulnerability”. This is where a single software or hardware component has been identified as having the potential to be a serious risk to information security. We then focus on that component to ensure it meets all standards in order to minimize that potential. Once it’s been addressed and proven stable, the next likely risk is identified, and the cycle starts again. Of course, we also continue to focus on other aspects of information security, such as making sure antivirus and security patches are as up-to-date as possible.</p> <p>I plan to approach my move toward a healthy lifestyle using this methodology. To that end, I believe that my sleep patterns are a big factor in my failure to achieve success. I don’t sleep enough, and my sleep schedule is extremely inconsistent. Therefore, I feel tired for the full day.</p> <p>For instance, my husband and I were up until 3 am last night. No, we weren’t out partying – we picked up a new aquarium yesterday, and it took that long after supper to get an area cleared for it and get it set up to where the live plants could go in. We ended up not getting out of bed until 2 pm today.</p> <p>This sort of sleep habit sure makes it difficult come Monday morning, when I have to get up at 5:15 am for work, too. And even though I’m up that early during the week, I still procrastinate going to bed at night until midnight or 1 am. I know that this is not a healthy way of life, and I’m feeling the negative results.</p> <p>I’ve decided to make my sleeping habits my current focus vulnerability. I’m going to start “patching” my sleep habits. When I have to work the next morning, I’m going to go to bed at 10 pm. Initially, I’ll allow myself to read for up to an hour, followed by a hypno session. I’ll gradually reduce the amount of reading time to ten minutes, as I become more accustomed to going to sleep earlier. On weekend nights when I don’t have an early event, I’ll set my bedtime for 11 pm.</p> <p>Of course, there may be occasions when it just won’t be possible to adhere to this plan – I expect, for instance, to be having some late evenings at Fitbloggin’, getting to know in person some of the folks I’ve been sharing with online. I’m not going to beat myself up over it when there is a valid reason for it, but I also need to learn that getting caught up in a movie or TV show is not a valid reason.</p> <p>As with our information security program at work, my own healthy living efforts will also continue in other areas, too.</p> <p>I’ll keep you posted on the results.</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-41860680819871708282012-07-16T21:46:00.001-07:002012-07-16T21:46:31.155-07:00The Plague Strikes<p>I know I promised you all a video… Unfortunately, my most beloved hubby has come down sick, so I’ve got some other things on my mind instead of being creative.</p> <p>In the meantime, I’d like to mention our dinner out the other night. We went to Applebee’s for the first time in quite some time, and I have to say that I was rather impressed. Not only does their menu now offer a selection of Weight Watchers-friendly items, but they also clearly identify their lower-calorie options, with a special section listing items that are 550 calories or less – and the food is good!</p> <p>I enjoyed a roasted garlic-marinated sirloin, with herb-steamed red-skinned potatoes and a really tasty stuffed portabella mushroom, topped with a creamed spinach that was mostly freshly wilted spinach topped with a quality parmesan cheese.</p> <p>The steak, although a thinner cut, was tender and flavorful. The potatoes were delicately flavored and quite enjoyable. The mushroom was nicely done, and the spinach still had a bit of crispiness and loads of flavor.</p> <p>Portion sizes were just enough to hit the spot, costing me just 450 calories all inclusive. I felt that the meal was definitely worth the price tag, too. My only issue was (as always) the amount of sodium in the meal – nearly a full days’ allotment for one person.</p> <p>I will certainly consider a return visit – and would be even more likely to do so if the sodium content were to be reduced.</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-23919521157417844552012-07-14T23:27:00.001-07:002012-07-14T23:27:17.927-07:00Such A Blast!!<p>Today’s running event, while not quite a full 5K, was a total blast!</p> <p>As I type this, the video is downloading from my camera, so that I can build a montage of the experience. The Color Run is so much more than a running event; that’s the best word for it – an experience.</p> <p>If you have an opportunity to participate in one of these, I highly recommend it. You can find out where they are taking place at <a href="http://www.thecolorrun.com">www.thecolorrun.com</a>. If one is not offered near you, then start asking for one – that’s how they decide where to add them!</p> <p>This is not an event for the sake of competition – it’s about having fun, and bringing your “inner child” back to life. It’s about pure joy!</p> <p>I hope to have the video ready for tomorrow’s post…</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-33781204921488760082012-07-13T22:16:00.001-07:002012-07-13T22:16:50.628-07:00Just A Quickie…<p>Forgive me for being so brief this evening – I’ll reward you with some awesome video tomorrow night. I have to head out at about five am tomorrow morning, for a very cool 5K in San Francisco. I’m actually going to go to bed early tonight, although I’m not sure I’ll be able to sleep for the excitement.</p> <p>I’ve been waiting for this one for a while! Be sure and check back tomorrow for a full recap.</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-23626375266845987322012-07-12T21:30:00.001-07:002012-07-12T21:30:03.660-07:00Habits I Need To Get Back Into, Episode 1<p>I’ve really slacked off on menu planning while I was on hiatus, and I need to get back to doing it as quickly as possible.</p> <p>Over the past few months, there have been far too many impulse buys on my shopping trips, as well as a plethora of sins when dining out and ordering in. I’ve also been slacking on cooking healthy meals, and the results have not been pleasant.</p> <p>It’s been a while, so I guess I need to start by taking a new fridge and freezer inventory, then figure out what we’re eating for the next week. From there, I can build a shopping list for tomorrow’s after-work stops.</p> <p>What’s your process for keeping dietary indulgences at bay?</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-83226323458955943122012-07-11T22:11:00.001-07:002012-07-11T22:11:45.583-07:00Middle Age And An Aging Middle<p>OK, it’s been far too long since I’ve been here.</p> <p>Life’s had some major ups and downs – my job was burying me inside my black hole until I got a different one. However, that most awesome event caused me to go crazy in the other direction – I was so ecstatic that I sort of decided (without really deciding) that I deserved to celebrate every day. I really really LOVE the new gig, and am now getting settled in, and settled down. I get to do so many interesting things!</p> <p>It’s a good thing that I’m coming back to earth – I’m heading for a major milestone bigthday in just 30 days. I am doing my best to avoid letting that little event – what is often considered the entry into “middle age” – send me into another tailspin. It’s far too close to being old to suit me.</p> <p>To that end, I’m really doing everything I can to focus on getting rid of my aging middle! In the next 30 days, I’m promising myself that I will lose at least five pounds. That strikes me as a good achievable goal that will encourage me to keep on going when I achieve it (notice – I said “when” instead of “if”!).</p> <p>I’m also going to shoot for 30 blog entries in that time – I really really need to get back in this habit, as it helps me to really see things clearly, even if I’m the only one that ever reads these thoughts. Also, I need to get my blogger vibe back before Fitbloggin’ in September, right?</p> <p>I’ve just realized – I guess I need to revamp my point of view here. I missed the booking window for my Hawaii 5-0, but have scheduled the trip for the second half of April. Not a bad thing, as I’m nowhere near bikini-ready. With the trip pushed out to April, I still have hopes of being able to wear a non-fat-lady swimsuit, at least. OK – I can either write an entry or work on reworking the site each day. That seems like a reasonable plan.</p> <p>So – there’s the goal: 5 pounds and 30 days of blog updates. Very doable, right? Now – to figure out a good reward/birthday present for myself! I’m open to suggestions…</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-85578797657943186172012-04-15T13:06:00.001-07:002012-04-15T13:06:57.882-07:00Back To Square, Er, DAY, One<p>It’s amazing how quickly the pounds can come back when you lose sight of your goals.</p> <p>Wait – no, it isn’t, really…  That’s what got me here in the first place.</p> <p>Monday was the last day of our cleanse, and hubs and I were both craving meat.  We had decided some time back that, on Tuesday, we would hit one of our favorite local restaurants for their truly awesome tri-tip sandwiches.  Since I had also mentioned that I wanted to see <em>The Hunger Games</em>, so we decided to make it something of a date night, in light of the fact that we didn’t have to get up at 4 am the next morning to drive to Oakland for work.  We could actually sleep in until 5:30.</p> <p>Tuesday ended up being quite a nice evening for the both of us.  We enjoyed the dinner and the movie – including the fried onion rings and pear cider that ended up joining in on dinner, and the popcorn and Icee that ended up being our double dates for the movie.</p> <p>The rest of the past week has featured more of the same – too much indulging in less-than-healthy foods and little or no purposeful physical activity.  I think I managed to backslide about half of the progress I made during the cleanse.</p> <p>Part of it, I’m sure, is that I had been letting myself slack off while doing the cleanse, with respect to my self-defined healthy checks:</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiROYbSt4fnJHpxDKJWVZDy_LPGkCV5Yz1Hm9xdhjeshG3hmQToMLS0dAVfISBdnsmdqqlL_I7uGIg4UuEuYKg0kodwAto2MrkMoaOodIQ4oaqoQF7fuOebmNGNbwhVQvB1pExzJGNsQ4M/s1600-h/HealthyChecks%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 15px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="HealthyChecks" border="0" alt="HealthyChecks" align="left" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5O7Z7qgPOWGKQZW1TPLDPCvOBW5Wdkb86bH6fKJtQuR2IUNJC77sn-_yluYtl0Ob20idKN-7-shH5TRLIJ4uOqtLEe2vqcoUr6zlpoOYP20qqqaW965eIvmezYm6gLiFcIhGobGOsCh0/?imgmax=800" width="121" height="360" /></a></p> <p>Meditation, exercise, and hypnotherapy can have multiple smilies.  I want at least one each on mediation and exercise, and at least two for hypnotherapy.  In order to achieve a successful day, I need to have a total of eight smilies.  If I miss on some point or other, I need to make it up with extra meditation, exercise, or hypnotherapy (or a combination).</p> <p>I also need to be honest with myself regarding what constitutes healthy and unhealthy or uncontrolled eating.  Indulgences are OK, as long as they are controlled, measured, and in moderation – I don’t believe in making any food off limits, but it is necessary for me to realize I can’t just have them at my whim, nor can they be a reward for anything related to my goals.</p> <p>For every seven days that I manage to achieve eight or more smilies, I will allow myself to have some “pleasure” reading – that which has no particular value to my mental, physical, emotional well-being, and is not meant to improve my career-related knowledge.</p> <p>Every time I reduce my weight by 10%, I will treat myself to a massage.  My first logged weight on My Fitness Pal was 222.8, entered on June 4th, 2011.  I’ll use that as my starting point, so that means I can go for a massage when I reach 200.5 pounds.  A week ago, I was less than a pound away from that – today, the difference is 10!</p> <p>I’ve also got in mind three special milestones that will net some more significant rewards – reaching ONE-derland, halfway to goal, and reaching goal.  I need to sit down and make myself a wish list, though, before I can really say what the rewards for these will be – I also need to define some rewards for my #gothedist2012 goals, and for my running goals.</p> <p>Finally, I’m going to set myself one more goal – to try to post and share here at least three times per week.  Each week that I post at least three entries will result in some new music to listen to while I’m walking, hitting the treadmill, or sweating it out at the gym.</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-38651718046236385882012-04-09T13:23:00.000-07:002012-04-09T13:23:00.349-07:00Staring Down The Gates Of One-derland<p>For the last three weeks (well, just short of…), I’ve been doing a dietary cleanse, eating only whole fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables, vegetable oils, and protein shakes.</p> <p>Thus far, I’ve lost fifteen pounds – and I’m within four pounds of finally dropping below 200 pounds, for the first time in years.  However, I’ve been stuck at the same number for the past couple of days.</p> <p>I have one more days, counting today, of being on this restricted eating plan (which is a good thing, as I’m getting grumpy without eating meat or grain!).  If I manage to achieve this milestone when I weigh in Tuesday morning, I’ll treat myself to a massage!</p> <p>What do you like to reward yourself with when you reach a significant milestone, and what would you consider to be such a milestone?</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831672641765223389.post-2018753621561212442012-04-08T13:11:00.001-07:002012-04-08T13:11:27.879-07:00I’ve Been Away (Again…) – Part 2<h3>So, yeah, you might say I got lost between March 21st and today…  Here, at last, is the Part 2 follow-up to my last post.</h3> <p> </p> <h3>Literally:</h3> <p>My husband and I had a very nice weekend away, completely unplugged – there is no cell signal in and around Yosemite, and internet service at the hotels is outrageously priced.  I had a laptop with me, but only for the purpose of loading geocaches onto my GPS.</p> <p>We arrived at the hotel just ahead of the rain, but got soaked going to get dinner.  Still, the view off of the deck was pretty spectacular.  There was a spa in the room, and a fireplace, so we had a nice relaxing evening.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi52Rv2em8ZGXUozbY96O912dPQyDpN-lsOjQY92Oz52aD7n4VQesErGBerZGm31FNw2AQr5KOlIIjOUzOZy4_lzbymKAT4rJU1PG8Ghh2U4i0zhP__YxtJfJktx7eAKL9yYHBzEyGruYg/s1600-h/20120316_1828143.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="20120316_182814" border="0" alt="20120316_182814" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOLmnXUpU5ZsSLIVLac9eczlZ159nRcS6Adi-yRVEKojRMdIaoULl6S3Vq60CbAe61kZxQxS_kKNwhAmGzk2b_manmSCKVXyuXcRbTe_3aZZgewbdDHcAaIDxui1oI6V422SnbuSO3SV4/?imgmax=800" width="580" height="119" /></a></p> <p>The next morning, we slept late enough that we missed breakfast, so we made a brunch of fresh veggies (with a tasty red pepper hummus) and some smoked sausage and crackers.  After our repast, we loaded ourselves and the pup into the vehicle, to head into Yosemite National Park.</p> <p>With the weather at hand, we didn’t get to really see any of the famous landmarks – the clouds were low and full of snow.  Since the gas station in El Portal was shut down, we decided to head up to Crane Flat, where the next nearest station was.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOeA15wvk2D3noptKdrmBfNUNIk7SPlhG51DTW8PhDzUBbrDvUYXQ0mtquuhgWq2_nLPwNVq0n61gwWH0Td59dTJICNC9E3G1OYwAyP_EtUR80frPXW96zKBdTtU2eYv0AHP0qz5hKJhI/s1600-h/20120317_1226253.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px 25px 25px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="20120317_122625" border="0" alt="20120317_122625" align="left" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzAtcmDjUk6WZqbdvC7zuz8ILnzp-V3_4neQW3Z1wYgNFJgjrxzh9sQ_e3CABI_53f60f-ZgfZXOVpYLQ2sbVtEQ31-ctzwFReIBMGr_ON8vsgjY7Zs9EpqZYQ8tq_NdZAbD7FNIeigRU/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>The drive was quite nice, as we were surrounded by absolutely untouched pristine white snow.  When we arrived at the station, we were amazed to see so much untouched whiteness.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYzYxlmVoEC_gUTy9LN6bFu89x8XyxB_j8ztJceIZLNaqWMx5uQkOc7YhVF0EavOy-S7qFzLgRrGIhtBz4SSSFaMRZc9u9if2HUP9i22kOiYuO70KSTqIsEkzOF00_riGyeGD2hDCrYJA/s1600-h/20120317_1235144.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="20120317_123514" border="0" alt="20120317_123514" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhll1LsdCWpXpp2-np5Nslw1pebyqNQxuKAfL8frhEBw4Lfg3NEImHyGoXBgB-OjIInBnFj9UIyRpfSnVyiFQiR_ZLBQOy74InSM2XEfa3Hqi3kXUfyDGEf7YiyuqdF45KbWap-Dx45U6U/?imgmax=800" width="289" height="218" /></a></p> <p>Harley the Wonder-Collie thoroughly enjoyed getting out to check out the falling white stuff.  Unfortunately, since we were in the National Park, she was not able to go off-leash (although there was a fenced area next to the hotel that she thoroughly enjoyed).</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFnnG9bqa9gLGvuCP_eBYHki8Bc9370eFegGeMdTW7gQ89DCP59HUyqotgTX7Eqyzj0Is8phPSS-0K4z0xAhl2nmdg2KvjLrgZ6Pska-Q9uKgowHHs2L68XdRPm_3fXt6Rh5UrxPDBL54/s1600-h/20120317_1235046.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="20120317_123504" border="0" alt="20120317_123504" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3gT1pViMknPXqyA_QHGjdOIbxWxcOgnnjpWLbLqHFs5UbN2tBH5vl4V3utAAFwJbnVwghwxobxk-Bc947yQcfETfSXtE5jtR3cjdqP_nswc6Lr4FtfZdT5OnKosVthGmhElLAM2R1ey0/?imgmax=800" width="169" height="244" /></a></p> <p align="left">Sadly, our tour of the Valley didn’t last long, as it was very wet and too slushy to get out for any hiking, and the tops of the cliffs were obscured by thick clouds, but we did get to see a lovely little waterfall on our way back down to the hotel.</p> <div style="padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; width: 448px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; padding-top: 0px" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:73d3ee53-4f38-4e32-a65c-48a6dc2365ad" class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent"><div id="9c582d6c-5d96-4c57-be16-7afd85fe3ab1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t6LaX8xRvWE" target="_new"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuaACIjJDS7IQw2cY5m5Cj5_vq-fHCgIEalRJjSeLC_cKYCptim6_nTdX8VYs7cFEdd6Xw3cbICWDLyQab3iqz_epL9EQY3V3l0DGmqbgr5nvets07fge8OWryGll3PK0fSHad7LMJbpo/?imgmax=800" style="border-style: none" galleryimg="no" onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('9c582d6c-5d96-4c57-be16-7afd85fe3ab1'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"448\" height=\"277\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/t6LaX8xRvWE?hl=en&hd=1\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/t6LaX8xRvWE?hl=en&hd=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"448\" height=\"277\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt=""></a></div></div><div style="width:448px;clear:both;font-size:.8em">Waterfall</div></div> <p align="left"><font size="4"></font></p> <p>When we awoke the next morning, this was the view off of our balcony at the hotel:</p> <div style="padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; width: 448px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; padding-top: 0px" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:a5d9afcf-ac6b-45e3-8a37-952bde09ef49" class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent"><div id="cfcf16d2-ce05-4aab-9090-f2d581be3a38" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AwS3qs87Ok8" target="_new"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioPg5MzxSZ1aHB0HhhLZXUxR5Fxlriqj88ZI2UuiFMp87zBadXbw-IkUN93iRTi_FpKSyw69aB92_TPyPlHAd3a6_wZndzDfjCy7ZcuZCoqWGp0GzYuy6q8Imt9MEtbmei2DKOwl-RC98/?imgmax=800" style="border-style: none" galleryimg="no" onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('cfcf16d2-ce05-4aab-9090-f2d581be3a38'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"448\" height=\"277\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/AwS3qs87Ok8?hl=en&hd=1\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/AwS3qs87Ok8?hl=en&hd=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"448\" height=\"277\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt=""></a></div></div><div style="width:448px;clear:both;font-size:.8em">New Snow</div></div> <p>We drove home that day, much more relaxed than we had been in several months.  It was a wonderful cleanse for my spirit, and allowed me to be ready to get back on track toward my goals.</p> Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13778903904469916447noreply@blogger.com0