So in the Biggest Loser" contest at work, I have lost 12 pounds... a little over 4% of my original weigh in weight. And the exercise and the eating less have not been the burden I always allowed them to be in the past.
What is different?
My focus...
I am not beating myself up on the imperfect days. I am just jumping right back in.
I am exercising by dancing and loving it.
I am letting go and letting God...FINALLY.
It is a long road and there are no shortcuts. I am moving forward and happy with my progress. And I am dragging some of my friends along for pieces of the journey. Eileen has jumped on the "Made to Crave" bandwagon, Lindsey signed up for belly-dancing and Zumba, and a few others are trying to decide where they want to wade in.
Healthy- here I come...
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Friday, May 27, 2011
My “Summer of Change” Journey
I started focusing on doing things for me at the start of May, after three hard months. I wanted to cleanse my mind and body and move forward in my life as it has been newly defined. The decision was made and the approach to the change was multifocal.
I did the “Made to Crave” challenge to focus my cravings on God and move them away from food. Each morning for 21 days I read a devotional message of encouragement to stay on track. In addition, I joined “The Biggest Loser” at work. (Paid $20 in and weigh in each Monday. So far I am in 2nd place)
I have lost 10lbs so far…
I also started Swing Dance classes- though I missed the one last night. I find the class exhilarating and feel totally proud of myself at the end. It is $5 a night down in Covington, KY and it is so much fun.
I signed up for the Bloom Bookclub on Sunday afternoons- The Fitting Room is our book.
I also decided to make use of the time my son is in New York. So I signed up for classes at the Community Arts Center in Fairfield. I always say I will take a class, and in the nearly five years I lived here, never took one. During my Summer of Change Journey I will be taking… drum roll please…
Tai Chi on Monday night
A gentle yet powerful form of exercise that combines fluid movements with energy circulation, breathing and stretching techniques, it will improve muscle tone, balance and reduce stress.
Salsa on Tuesday night
Learn lots of salsa free style moves in this series. Learn new moves each class that will get more intense as the series goes on. Learn combinations all to help you develop a strong basic, timing, and styling in your dance.
Belly-Dancing on Wednesday night
In the style of American Tribal Belly dance, this style has its roots in the gypsy dances of the Middle East, but carries the modern touch of American artistic sensibilities. It provides a low-impact work-out with an emphasis on strengthening core muscles. It also helps improve memory by learning short choreographies, the artistry of the dance is uplifting.
Followed by Pottery later on Wednesday night
The main focus will be to develop wheel throwing, hand-building, glazing, and decorating skills. Instructor will work with each student at their individual level, while maintaining a fun and creative atmosphere.
and Zumba on Saturday morning...
Zumba combines Latin and International rhythms with dance steps such as: the meringue, salsa, mambo, samba, as well as belly dance and a little hip hop. The class utilizes simple, repetitive movements for an awesome low-impact cardio workout.
Classes start the first week of June and run through the end of August. I can’t wait. (The class descriptions are from the Fairfield Flyer)
And of course with Thursday as my Swing dance night and the pool, I have a well rounded summer.
Wish me luck!
I did the “Made to Crave” challenge to focus my cravings on God and move them away from food. Each morning for 21 days I read a devotional message of encouragement to stay on track. In addition, I joined “The Biggest Loser” at work. (Paid $20 in and weigh in each Monday. So far I am in 2nd place)
I have lost 10lbs so far…
I also started Swing Dance classes- though I missed the one last night. I find the class exhilarating and feel totally proud of myself at the end. It is $5 a night down in Covington, KY and it is so much fun.
I signed up for the Bloom Bookclub on Sunday afternoons- The Fitting Room is our book.
I also decided to make use of the time my son is in New York. So I signed up for classes at the Community Arts Center in Fairfield. I always say I will take a class, and in the nearly five years I lived here, never took one. During my Summer of Change Journey I will be taking… drum roll please…
Tai Chi on Monday night
A gentle yet powerful form of exercise that combines fluid movements with energy circulation, breathing and stretching techniques, it will improve muscle tone, balance and reduce stress.
Salsa on Tuesday night
Learn lots of salsa free style moves in this series. Learn new moves each class that will get more intense as the series goes on. Learn combinations all to help you develop a strong basic, timing, and styling in your dance.
Belly-Dancing on Wednesday night
In the style of American Tribal Belly dance, this style has its roots in the gypsy dances of the Middle East, but carries the modern touch of American artistic sensibilities. It provides a low-impact work-out with an emphasis on strengthening core muscles. It also helps improve memory by learning short choreographies, the artistry of the dance is uplifting.
Followed by Pottery later on Wednesday night
The main focus will be to develop wheel throwing, hand-building, glazing, and decorating skills. Instructor will work with each student at their individual level, while maintaining a fun and creative atmosphere.
and Zumba on Saturday morning...
Zumba combines Latin and International rhythms with dance steps such as: the meringue, salsa, mambo, samba, as well as belly dance and a little hip hop. The class utilizes simple, repetitive movements for an awesome low-impact cardio workout.
Classes start the first week of June and run through the end of August. I can’t wait. (The class descriptions are from the Fairfield Flyer)
And of course with Thursday as my Swing dance night and the pool, I have a well rounded summer.
Wish me luck!
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Tornados
Being from the East Coast, my tornado experience growing up was all about Dorothy and Auntie Em...
Since relocating, I have found it disconcerting that tornados are no longer a rare beast that lives only on the silver screen. After the huge tornado that tore through Joplin, MO, I took it very seriously when the clouds darkened and the winds started to pick up.
The power went out just before 8pm, and I had my son grab his camping lantern and we went to the basement to wait out the storm. It took a while for me to confirm- via cell calls to friends who still had power, that the danger had passed.
I was able to confirm my daughter's safety- she was working at the hospital and experienced her first tornado code. It is just such a strange way to live.
We are expecting storms all week, not a comforting thought. And really, enough with the rain. If farmers can't plant their corn by June 1st, they can't get it insured. Which will mean higher feed prices and higher food costs.
So say a little prayer...
Since relocating, I have found it disconcerting that tornados are no longer a rare beast that lives only on the silver screen. After the huge tornado that tore through Joplin, MO, I took it very seriously when the clouds darkened and the winds started to pick up.
The power went out just before 8pm, and I had my son grab his camping lantern and we went to the basement to wait out the storm. It took a while for me to confirm- via cell calls to friends who still had power, that the danger had passed.
I was able to confirm my daughter's safety- she was working at the hospital and experienced her first tornado code. It is just such a strange way to live.
We are expecting storms all week, not a comforting thought. And really, enough with the rain. If farmers can't plant their corn by June 1st, they can't get it insured. Which will mean higher feed prices and higher food costs.
So say a little prayer...
Monday, May 23, 2011
Busy...
How can you diet and exercise when you are busy? How do you do the lawncare, dishes, laundry return receivers and routers and go to the Fishing Derby, get home in time to watch your daughter go to the prom, then attend a work function looking and acting like the professional you are supposed to be?
I cannot lie- a good number of things did not get finished, were not done...
Saturday morning I drove with my son to Oxford to the private lake where we have our fishing derby. I sat under the leader tent, unhooking Blue Gills and PRAYING my son would catch something...anything...
With David P helping him (and adding a bobber (?) to John's line) my son was soon the proud fisherman with an 8in Blue Gill on his line. It was not the biggest fish caught, but he did well casting- according to Dave who knows about such things- and was happy enough to leave a bit early so we could be home for Elizabeth's big night.
Except...
Liz decided she was not going to the prom. I am not entitled to know why. Is it terrible that my reaction went along the lines of- now I can mail back the stuff to Dish Network via UPS... and that I could even, if I hurried, make it to Time Warner before they closed...
I know, it sounds bad... but I am not the one who called off prom...
When I got back from the mall, I loaded and unloaded after deciding the lawn could wait another day to be edged. Then showered, dressed and with John in tow, picked up my cousin. We then drove to the fundraiser hosted by Jason and Lindsey and their son Maxx. It was a great event, we had a wonderful time, and the money raised for DebRA of America will help our families.
But I was tired getting home so late, and decided not to set an alarm.
Turns out I didn't need to...
My daughter woke me up with "don't be mad". I replied "Then don't wake me up" but I was already awake. And the news was not good.
The non-prom option of a free concert ended with the car being towed. An event that surprised my daughter...
To bail out the car...$186.37...oh, it had to be cash, and they didn't have change...she would pay me back...this from the girl who received $120 to buy a prom dress, who then borrowed a dress that she didn't end up wearing... Did I get that money back? Of course not.
GOD GRANT ME PATIENCE...
So instead of laundry and lawn edging, I got to bail out the Land Rover. By the time I got home, it was raining again. I decided I was going to veg out with my son on the couch. My diet went out the window as I sat down to frozen pizza and Harry Potter (ABC Family was having a marathon) I am done being busy.
I cannot lie- a good number of things did not get finished, were not done...
Saturday morning I drove with my son to Oxford to the private lake where we have our fishing derby. I sat under the leader tent, unhooking Blue Gills and PRAYING my son would catch something...anything...
With David P helping him (and adding a bobber (?) to John's line) my son was soon the proud fisherman with an 8in Blue Gill on his line. It was not the biggest fish caught, but he did well casting- according to Dave who knows about such things- and was happy enough to leave a bit early so we could be home for Elizabeth's big night.
Except...
Liz decided she was not going to the prom. I am not entitled to know why. Is it terrible that my reaction went along the lines of- now I can mail back the stuff to Dish Network via UPS... and that I could even, if I hurried, make it to Time Warner before they closed...
I know, it sounds bad... but I am not the one who called off prom...
When I got back from the mall, I loaded and unloaded after deciding the lawn could wait another day to be edged. Then showered, dressed and with John in tow, picked up my cousin. We then drove to the fundraiser hosted by Jason and Lindsey and their son Maxx. It was a great event, we had a wonderful time, and the money raised for DebRA of America will help our families.
But I was tired getting home so late, and decided not to set an alarm.
Turns out I didn't need to...
My daughter woke me up with "don't be mad". I replied "Then don't wake me up" but I was already awake. And the news was not good.
The non-prom option of a free concert ended with the car being towed. An event that surprised my daughter...
To bail out the car...$186.37...oh, it had to be cash, and they didn't have change...she would pay me back...this from the girl who received $120 to buy a prom dress, who then borrowed a dress that she didn't end up wearing... Did I get that money back? Of course not.
GOD GRANT ME PATIENCE...
So instead of laundry and lawn edging, I got to bail out the Land Rover. By the time I got home, it was raining again. I decided I was going to veg out with my son on the couch. My diet went out the window as I sat down to frozen pizza and Harry Potter (ABC Family was having a marathon) I am done being busy.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
No more settling
So I have decided what I want... A friend sent this to me today and I really want to believe it is possible to find this person and share my life with him.
"Only once in your life, I truly believe, you find someone who can completely turn your world around. You tell them things that you’ve never shared with another soul and they absorb everything you say and actually want to hear more. You share hopes for the future, dreams that will never come true, goals that were never achieved and the many disappointments life has thrown at you. When something wonderful happens, you can’t wait to tell them about it, knowing they will share in your excitement. They are not embarrassed to cry with you when you are hurting or laugh with you when you make a fool of yourself. Never do they hurt your feelings or make you feel like you are not good enough, but rather they build you up and show you the things about yourself that make you special and even beautiful. There is never any pressure, jealousy or competition but only a quiet calmness when they are around. You can be yourself and not worry about what they will think of you because they love you for who you are. The things that seem insignificant to most people such as a note, song or walk become invaluable treasures kept safe in your heart to cherish forever. Memories of your childhood come back and are so clear and vivid it’s like being young again. Colors seem brighter and more brilliant. Laughter seems part of daily life where before it was infrequent or didn’t exist at all. A phone call or two during the day helps to get you through a long day’s work and always brings a smile to your face. In their presence, there’s no need for continuous conversation, but you find you’re quite content in just having them nearby. Things that never interested you before become fascinating because you know they are important to this person who is so special to you. You think of this person on every occasion and in everything you do. Simple things bring them to mind like a pale blue sky, gentle wind or even a storm cloud on the horizon. You open your heart knowing that there’s a chance it may be broken one day and in opening your heart, you experience a love and joy that you never dreamed possible. You find that being vulnerable is the only way to allow your heart to feel true pleasure that’s so real it scares you. You find strength in knowing you have a true friend and possibly a soul mate who will remain loyal to the end. Life seems completely different, exciting and worthwhile. Your only hope and security is in knowing that they are a part of your life." ~ Bob Marley
Where are you? Come find me...
"Only once in your life, I truly believe, you find someone who can completely turn your world around. You tell them things that you’ve never shared with another soul and they absorb everything you say and actually want to hear more. You share hopes for the future, dreams that will never come true, goals that were never achieved and the many disappointments life has thrown at you. When something wonderful happens, you can’t wait to tell them about it, knowing they will share in your excitement. They are not embarrassed to cry with you when you are hurting or laugh with you when you make a fool of yourself. Never do they hurt your feelings or make you feel like you are not good enough, but rather they build you up and show you the things about yourself that make you special and even beautiful. There is never any pressure, jealousy or competition but only a quiet calmness when they are around. You can be yourself and not worry about what they will think of you because they love you for who you are. The things that seem insignificant to most people such as a note, song or walk become invaluable treasures kept safe in your heart to cherish forever. Memories of your childhood come back and are so clear and vivid it’s like being young again. Colors seem brighter and more brilliant. Laughter seems part of daily life where before it was infrequent or didn’t exist at all. A phone call or two during the day helps to get you through a long day’s work and always brings a smile to your face. In their presence, there’s no need for continuous conversation, but you find you’re quite content in just having them nearby. Things that never interested you before become fascinating because you know they are important to this person who is so special to you. You think of this person on every occasion and in everything you do. Simple things bring them to mind like a pale blue sky, gentle wind or even a storm cloud on the horizon. You open your heart knowing that there’s a chance it may be broken one day and in opening your heart, you experience a love and joy that you never dreamed possible. You find that being vulnerable is the only way to allow your heart to feel true pleasure that’s so real it scares you. You find strength in knowing you have a true friend and possibly a soul mate who will remain loyal to the end. Life seems completely different, exciting and worthwhile. Your only hope and security is in knowing that they are a part of your life." ~ Bob Marley
Where are you? Come find me...
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Done
My insurance company’s check was returned unpaid. The check they issued to repair my basement. Really!?!?
I am so done- done with insurance claims that never get paid and obtuse mortgage companies that make things impossibly difficult.
Do people not understand that I have to work for a living? That running all over town is beyond what I can do today?
I have to wait get the check back from US Bank- for which I was charged 19 dollars- it is being mailed to me.
I have to send it and a notarized affidavit with the insurance appraisal- which is GOD KNOWS WHERE- to the mortgage company.
And I get to wait all over again.
Till my mortgage company feels the urge to send me a check- I think? Who knows? But I am done.
As God is my witness, I am done. I surrender. I give up. I am finished. I have had entirely enough of trying and failing to do everything myself.
I am so done- done with insurance claims that never get paid and obtuse mortgage companies that make things impossibly difficult.
Do people not understand that I have to work for a living? That running all over town is beyond what I can do today?
I have to wait get the check back from US Bank- for which I was charged 19 dollars- it is being mailed to me.
I have to send it and a notarized affidavit with the insurance appraisal- which is GOD KNOWS WHERE- to the mortgage company.
And I get to wait all over again.
Till my mortgage company feels the urge to send me a check- I think? Who knows? But I am done.
As God is my witness, I am done. I surrender. I give up. I am finished. I have had entirely enough of trying and failing to do everything myself.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Cold weather and hay
Okay, I am back in long sleeve and long pants because we will be lucky to hit 55 today and it is dark and cloudy. Did I mention we also can expect rain for another three days? I am excited that we might get to 69 by Thursday, but am not holding my breathe.
I was in shorts only moments ago, taking the cover off my pool and preparing for summer. How in the world is it only 46 degrees right now? It is the end of May. I need warm weather. And now I am back to sleeping with blankets, plural, as in more than one.
Where is my Spring?
And enough with the rain- my grass is so long I could start baling it to feed farm animals. I have mowed and weed-whacked and it is still totally out of control. It is now higher than my hedges in places.
I keep adding chemicals to the pool, hoping that eventually I will be able to get it warm enough to get into. I need to vacuum it once more, then it will be good to go- unless it rains another 6 inches, in which case I will need to balance it again.
Did I mention I was swimming after work this time last year?
Global Warming....bah humbug. I need to turn on my heater.
I was in shorts only moments ago, taking the cover off my pool and preparing for summer. How in the world is it only 46 degrees right now? It is the end of May. I need warm weather. And now I am back to sleeping with blankets, plural, as in more than one.
Where is my Spring?
And enough with the rain- my grass is so long I could start baling it to feed farm animals. I have mowed and weed-whacked and it is still totally out of control. It is now higher than my hedges in places.
I keep adding chemicals to the pool, hoping that eventually I will be able to get it warm enough to get into. I need to vacuum it once more, then it will be good to go- unless it rains another 6 inches, in which case I will need to balance it again.
Did I mention I was swimming after work this time last year?
Global Warming....bah humbug. I need to turn on my heater.
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