A Little Post Christmas Humor

I shared this in my sermon today, found it on esermons by an unknown author. It fits me, thought it might fit some others.

’Twas the week after Christmas and all through the house
Nothing would fit me, not even a blouse.
The cookies I’d nibbled, the eggnog I’d taste
At the holiday parties had gone to my waist.
When I got on the scales there arose such a number!
When I walked to the store (less a walk than a lumber),
I’d remember the marvelous meals I’d prepared:
The gravies and sauces and beef nicely rared,
The bread and the cheese/ And the way I’d never said, “No, thank you, please.”
As I dressed myself in my husband’s old shirt
And prepared once again to do battle with dirt
I said to myself as only I can: “You can’t spend a winter disguised as a man!”
So away with the last of the sour cream dip,
Get rid of the fruit cake, every cracker and chip.
Every last bit of food that I like must be vanished.
I won’t have a cookie‑‑not even a lick.
I’ll only chew on a long celery stick.
I won’t have hot biscuits or corn bread or pie.
I’ll munch on a carrot and quietly cry.
I’m hungry, I’m lonesome and life is a bore. But isn’t that what January is for?
Unable to giggle, no longer a riot. Happy New Year to all and to all a good diet!

Sad Today...Goodbye to Mitchie

Tonight our dog Mitchie got out of our yard and got hit on our road. It's been a very sad night. I'm going to go off of the 365 stuff for tonight posting pics from a couple years ago. We'll miss you, Mitchie, you were a really good dog.

Long Time Coming

I've been going to post these pics of the boys at Thanksgiving and things finally settled down to do it.

I'm skipping some of the other pics from my Project 365 on here...but will try to keep it up more from now on.

Missed a couple of days

I've missed a couple of days on here...but here some pics from the past few days.  Our oldest went to a birthday party of his oldest and dearest friends (they've known each other since they were 18 months old).  Her party was at Pump Up the Fun...an inflatable place outside of town...they had a BLAST!

Our youngest had fun too, jumping on the toys and riding the cool car that rolls down a hill.  

Enjoying Lunch

Some pictures of my boys enjoying lunch today at Chili's.

Computer games

Last night our oldest had a friend overnight...they have been playing video games most of the time they've been together. I think both had a good time.

A Timeless Classic

Tonight, we watched some of the Wizard of Oz with our youngest. He was cute dancing as the Tin Man danced around. I hope that he will gain a love for this movie as he grows older. It truly is a timeless classic.

Alton Brown Has GREAT Tips

We watch Food TV quite often in our house and one of our favorite cooks is Alton Brown. He has such great ideas and tips for how to cook some of our favorite foods. Jim often takes the tips offered by Alton and cooks some of the greatest foods. Tonight was no exception. Jake had decided he wanted steak for dinner and Jim cooked them. Boy, were they good!!!

She's Back

A month or so ago, we added a new member to our family. Her name is Allie and she's a baby calico. She's a sweet lap cat and is so patient with our youngest.

She has been at the vet's office over the past few days. She was spayed and declawed on her front claws. She seems to be doing well, but has to be hurting...she's not as peppy as she usually is. But she's home to rest and gain her strength and is as snuggly as always.

Welcome home, Allie.

My Blogging Boys

A Little Help From a Friend

Today, the boys and I were on our way to the funeral home for a visitation. Because we're new to the area, I wasn't really sure where this particular funeral home was, but we set off to find it. We drove through the town and I didn't see it...we were on the outskirts of town and I thought, "OK, we can either drive around aimlessly and never find this place or we can stop and see where to go."

Just then I saw a WV State Police sign and an officer getting into or out of his car (he was sitting in it with his door open). We pulled up behind him and I asked him if he could tell me where it was. He said he thought he knew where it was and pointed the way. But he also asked another office just to be sure.

I didn't feel so bad since he wasn't sure and it was another lesson for the boys of the folks you can trust to take care of you. If we hadn't asked for directions, I don't think we would have gotten there.

Milestone and New Project

I've been wanting to do Project 365 for some time, but didn't start it right after the first of the year. Today I hit the "Big 4-0" and decided I would mark this milestone year with a picture each day.

Oh, great AARP is sending me emails asking me to join...our oldest says, "You can't do that, mom, you're not old enough." That made me feel good.



Here is what the front of the house looked like this morning thanks to some of our more mischievous members.

Trick or Treat

Here's some pics from last week...there would be more but my camera's memory card was loose and I only had internal memory for Batman and Robin.

For preschool our 2 year old went as Mickey.

ONU Homecoming

Last Saturday we went to Homecoming at Ohio Northern. The Polar Bears won their game 28 - 0 over Marietta. The boys enjoyed some football, cotton candy and rides. Here are some pics from the day.

Things I Learned at the Corn Maze Tonight

Tonight I went with our youth group to the local corn maze. It's a good fall night here...by good fall night I mean COLD. But I bundled up and and off to church I went. We got to the maze and things seemed to be going well except it was about 7 o'clock and getting dark. The guy who runs the maze told us that if we got stuck in the maze for over 2 hours, someone would come find us. I was hoping that there were torches along the way or some kind of lighting devices. There were none. Did I bring a flashlight...uh no.

So off we went. I checked the time as we entered the maze...thinking if I hear, "If you build it, he will come," I was going to make a run for it. We chose to answer the movie, music and TV questions. I didn't want to do the biblical questions cuz I didn't know how hard the questions would be and didn't want to get stuck in the maze any longer than I had to be.

It started off well. We found the first post for the question with little trouble...actually that's how the first five questions went. Then it got REALLY dark. People were screaming in the maze, folks (which ran the danger of being maimed by me) were jumping out of the maze, cutting through the corn stalks, and screaming which was a little un-nerving.

Finally, less than an hour later, we emerged from the corn...we unfortunately were the last ones out. But we made it none the less...and in 50 - 55 minutes.

Things I learned:
1. Don't go to the corn maze at night.
2. If you do go at night take a flashlight. Using your cell phone works ok unless you keep pressing the camera button. (I have great pics of blackness of the corm).
3. When wandering around in the corn, it might be a good choice to continue turning the way the previous clue told you...when we followed this tip we got to the next question easier...and this might just be true of this particular maze.
4. Dress warm...I was fine but my legs are still a little chilly...reminded me of the ol' marching band days in November.
5. Make sure that everyone uses the restroom before you leave your starting point...especially if they say they have to go to the bathroom before you enter the maze.
6. It helps to pick a topic/category that you have a handle of...or have someone who has a bunch of trivia in their head.
7. Did I mention to take a flashlight?!

All in all it was fun...just wish I could have seen a little better.

Happy Birthday!!

Today is a special day in our house...as is most birthdays. It's Jim's birthday and also his brother Tom's birthday. Happy Birthday my honey I hope your day is great. We love you very much!!

This Season Won't Be the Same

As a Michigan and Patriots fan, I must say this year might very well turn out to be a disappointment. I will miss seeing Tom Brady, one of my favorite player on the gridiron this fall due to his knee injury.

College football is off to a rough start too as Michigan lost their season opener to Utah. This past weekend was a win but was hoping for larger margin of victory.

Could the Polar Bears of Ohio Northern pull off a good season? Time will tell.

As the season goes on, if you see me dressed in black, you'll understand why.

Batting Down the Hatches

It looks as though this hurricane season is going to be one that will make history. As we collected money to help the rebuilding efforts of the churches that were devastated by Katrina, as we prayed for family members who were hoping to flee from Gustav's wrath but were having trouble finding gas for their car, and as we hoped that the storm would weaken or change course, it marched on. Now the weather officials and others are keeping their eye on Hanna and Ike, other storms that could reek havoc on our coasts.

Let us remember all those who are trying to gather their most prized possessions and leave their homes to find safety. May they travel safely.

The Timing is a Little Eerie

It always sets me back a bit when things in life are a little to perfectly fit to one another. A while ago our conference was sent letters by the bishop to collect a special offering for the continued Katrina efforts either last Sunday or this Sunday.

Last week our congregation had a LOT going on. We did a blessing of teachers, students, administrators and staff as most prepared for the beginning of school this past week. Our service ended with the breaking of ground for our new Family Life Center. So, the service didn't really lend itself to having a special offering.

This week we see the potential of Hurricane Gustav to cause significant damage in that same part of our country. As folks seek to find a safe place to go until the storm eventually passes, as once again some face the horror of losing everything they have again, and as folks are still traveling down to that part of our country seeking to help rebuild the devastation, we will gather. We will gather to pray for those who are once again being effected by these acts of nature and we with gather together to offer from our blessings so that others might know the help and love that God offers.

Hard to Believe It's Been 45 Years

Forty five years ago today, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. gave his "I Have a Dream" speech. Today is another day to be a milestone in history.

Enjoy this video from the past as we think about the future.

First Day Went Well

My 7-year-old started second grade today. I was nervous for him because he was switching schools and this was the first time he'd be away from one of his best friends since they were 18 months old. The little one and I walked with my oldest to the art room where he and the other kids would wait for their teachers. I asked if he wanted me to wait and he said no.

All day I wondered how he was doing. When I picked him up, I prepared for the worse. The "I hate this place why'd we have to move." But he said he had a good time. There were kids he knew from his summer program as well as those he knew from church. He likes his teacher and he said, "I actually made a new friend today too." I hope his enthusiasm continues...and he continues to like the school and his new friends.

Where Did the Summer Go?

I can't believe the summer is over already. The locusts are singing, the air is getting chillier and the school bells will ring tomorrow. This year is different for us than most...our oldest will be starting at a new school. He's not excited at all for the change and I think I'm nervous more for him than he is himself. We're hoping to stop by the school today to see his classroom. Maybe that will give both of us a little bit of security as this new chapter opens in our lives. I hope he continues to make new friends as easily as he's done in the past. This will definitely be a big change.

No Wheaties for Phelps

I just saw on the news that Michael Phelps won't be gracing the front of a Wheaties box. He has signed a deal with ellogg's and will be featured on their Corn Flakes and Frosted Flakes boxes. The folks at Kellogg's say that Phelps is GR-R-R-E-I-G-H-T anyway. Congrats Michael!

Happy 2nd Birthday!!

Today is the second birthday of our little one. It's hard to believe that it's been two years since he came into this world. I went to the hospital he was born in to do visits today and it was a little surreal to think 2 years ago I was a patient in that place.

Happy birthday to my little one. You've grown so quickly these past two years...I look forward to the years ahead. Just don't grow up too fast...mommy's having a hard time with you getting older.

This Just Bothers Me

OK, normally I don't blog about politics, but when I received an email tonight it bothered me so much I just had to write about it... hoping to release some of the anger I feel right now.  It appears that there is a move to redefine abortion to include birth control, which would eliminate many state laws protecting women's rights.

It apparently comes down to pretty much an insurance issue, so that if birth control is redefined as abortion - the means of birth control won't be covered.  It seems so wrong in so many different ways that this is even an option for some people to think about.  

It takes away a woman's right to decide when to get pregnant... it takes away the peace of mind offered to someone who at this time does not want children.  

What about persons for whom birth control is needed?  Those who need the medication for health reasons?  This is not to mention the whole psyche of the decision to label contraception as abortion... preventing a pregnancy is not the same as terminating one.  

If you would like to get more information, go here.

Time Goes Fast

It's hard to believe that it's been almost 2 years since our youngest was born.  It seems like just yesterday we were preparing our oldest to be a good big brother and I was waddling around waiting for the birth.  It was a Friday, the weather was warm and our family was gathered around.  

Today we're having a little party with grandma and grandpa...a trial run for our bigger party tomorrow and his party with his "school" friends on Monday.  I baked an Elmo cake for the occasion today and will make another one tomorrow...it looks kinda like the one above.  We'll do cupcakes for Monday.  I hope he has a great time.

Sorry it's been a while

Yes, it's been a while...we moved to a new house and started a new appointment.  Things are going well...just busy.  I will post more later.

Annual Conference

Well, this year's Annual Conference went off with very few glitches. Our nominations report was kinda an interesting folly of errors...each quadrennium the conference committees turn over and it's our job to fill them again. As chair, this is a monumental task. Luckily, our Conference Secretary is my right hand woman. This year, because everyone was listed in the data bank, she got the report ready...but interesting things happened. For instance, men were listed as women and vice versa...the document had the wrong number, we missed putting some of the reports that we had within our report...then there were some we just didn't have at all. That's what we get for examining and reexamining it over and over...especially at midnight or later.

Other than that things were pretty boring...no really controversial resolutions, unless you count the ones about plastic bottles and CFLs. Couldn't believe those got some discussion but when they presented the proposal for a 35% increase in insurance. Crickets.

What's going on?!

Chip Off the Ol' Tooth

Well, yesterday was a day of weirdness...our oldest decided to make dessert for dinner...strawberries, shortcake and leftover Sweethearts. He gave Jim and I tastes of the shortcake with the SweetHearts pressed down in. I took a bite and felt a pain in my back molar. But, since I didn't see anything I thought it just felt like it chipped.

Later, my youngest and I were having our favorite evening snack...s'mores. As I bit into one and began to chew it, I felt something sharp in it. I spit it out...it was part of my tooth. I had broken off one of the corners of my tooth.

Well, I called the dentist and left a message. I don't just call the dentist...unless I'm canceling an appointment that is (see other dentist posts). So I knew she'd know it was the real deal. She called me this morning and told me to come in at 10.

After about 2 hours I had been prepared for a crown, and had my temporary crown attached. Tonight it hurts...not an usual thing when I leave the dentist. I'm hoping it continues to decrease in pain...if it gets worse I may need a root canal...don't want that. Did I mention I have TMJ? Yeah that makes working on my back teeth uncomfortable to say the very least. But now thanks to motrin and time my tooth/jaw is feeling better. In about 2 weeks I'll have my new crown.

Very Sad Situation

I was going to post this earlier but when I didn't feel good but thought I'd post this now. I was saddened to hear of the tragedy in Stephen Curtis Chapman. On Thursday I was driving to work and heard that on Wednesday Stephen lost his 5 year old daughter in a tragic accident. She was hit by her teenage brother as he backed down their driveway.

I can't imagine the loss he and his family must feel. I can't imagine how sad and guiltridden their son must be. This is truly a tragedy.

The memorial service was today...how very sad this is.

Please pray for Stephen and his family as they go through this very rough time in their lives.

On Top of Everything Else

Yesterday was a mixed up day. I had a lot to do for work...prepare for a conference call for the conference committee I'm the chair of and preaching for our worship experience we have on Thursday nights. On a good low stress note, my DH was on his way home from being gone to WI for several days...I was looking forward to him being home.

The calls always cause me a little stress trying to be sure I've got everything ready to go, so when I got a huge headache I didn't think much about it.

After the call I went downstairs for Common Grounds...my head still pounding. The service went well...and after I preached my head got a little better. I thought it was just my stress that had caused it.

But on my way home it started again then I started feeling dizzy. I ran through a drive thru thinking I was maybe just hungry, but it got worse when I got home. Now my tummy was feeling funny, my dizziness continued and my head was throbbing. I talked to our sitters for a while then they went home...not too long after DH arrived home. I started feeling worse. The food I had gotten didn't even really sound good. Then I started getting really cold.

Great, I thought, I've got the flu. I went to bed at 8:30 which never happens, had a run with gastrointestinal pyrotechnics once and slept from then on.

Today I don't feel too bad...my head still hurts off and on and my tummy's kinda funny. I have been eating some applesauce...my headache is pretty well gone...it comes just a little off and on. Hoping to just take it easy today so that we can enjoy the holiday weekend.

The Prodigal Returns!!

Stimpy's back!!! Mitchie, our dog, was out for his evening stroll and found her under the car. I backed the car up slowly and rescued her. She's back safe and sound!! Yea!!

Loss

Last night, as I was getting things ready for today, it dawned on my that I hadn't seen our cat, Stimpy for a while. I had cleaned out her litterbox earlier in the day...saw her earlier but hadn't seen her roaming as he usually does. I set out some food then thought I'd check in the morning maybe she's upstairs somewhere hiding...she does that sometimes.

When I woke up I didn't hear her usual meow...I went upstairs, she hadn't used the litter box. We looked around as I took the oldest to school. I kept thinking maybe she was just hiding. After work...still nothing around box...food still there from the night before. Stimpy was gone.

We've alerted our neighbors...maybe she'll return...be found. The last time she did this she was gone for about 6 weeks. But this time in 6 weeks, we'll be gone to the new house.

I can still remember when I first got Stimpy. She was a cute little kitten with an attitude. She is a light gray tabby with green eyes. Even though she wasn't really personable, she was a companion. I was just out on my own...teaching.

I hope she comes back...I kinda miss that whiny meow of hers.

Don't Dis on the Polar Bears

I was listening to talk radio this morning the host was saying that the only reason the environmentalists are putting the polar bear on the endangered species list is because they want to protect the land from drilling. He basically said it was a ruse by the environmentalists to raise gasoline costs. According to Beck, just putting the polar bear on the endangered species list will cost everyone $1.50 more at the pump.

I'm sorry but not everything is a conspiracy. As a polar bear myself (an Ohio Northern Polar Bear, that is) I find it bothersome that someone would think people are making this up. The problem is that the polar ice caps are melting...and why?...because of global warming. This is damage that humanity has done over the last several decades...it is a result of us not taking care of the environment.

The polar bears are finding it harder and harder to find their food. They have to travel farther distances to get the seals and fish they feed upon. People are not making this up...it is fact. I'm sorry sir, but you are wrong. As Klondike our mascot would say, "Don't dis on the polar bears, they've done nothing to you."

Weekend at the Hospital

This weekend we've been spending some time at the hospital. Friday night Jim was having severe pain in his left abdomen so we got the boys to a friend's house and came to the ER. Through a CT scan they found out he had a kidney stone 5.9 mm. They gave us medicine for his pain then sent us home with an appointment with the urologist for Monday. But during the night the pain worsened and we were back. They admitted him so that he could receive stronger pain meds.

He was scheduled for the procedure to remove the stone yesterday but because it was trama day here at the hospital he was bumped til today. He's in surgery now. I know it's an easy procedure but it's still nerve racking to sit and wait and not really be able to do anything.

It's ironic...I was supposed to preach today...I had written a sermon entitled hurry up and wait. Little did I think I would be living that sermon and not preaching it. Our senior pastor is covering for me today while I wait.

It's been almost a half hour since they took him in...the doctor said the procedure takes about 45 minutes to an hour. It won't be long I hope...then he'll be in recovery for about an hour. The good thing is that they have internet here so I can pass the time blogging and surfing which takes my mind off of it a little.

Old Friends...New Possibilities

We will receive a new appointment this year. Even though we are just moving about 7 miles or so it's still a move. We've been packing boxes, purging some of the things that we don't need or want any more. My office is filled with stacks of books (trying to categorize them before packing) and stacks of boxes. It wasn't until today that I think the move really got to me. I went to U-Haul to pick up some more boxes and decided, after talking to a friend of mine that's moving from southern to northern WV, to rent a van. They only have one big one left now. Thanks to Sharon we'll not be without a covered place to move our stuff in case of rain. When I got home and told WabiSabi about it, it just hit me...we're really moving. Wow.

So much emotion...so much sorrow...grief in the fact that we're leaving good friends who have been like family to us. They have walked with us through joy and held us close when we experienced rough times. Memories have been made in this appointment...Jim and I were married early on in our time here...both of our sons were born...I finished seminary...I was commissioned then ordained. So many memories.

As these next 2 months fly quickly by, I am seeking to make more memories. Our time here has been blessed and we will never forget this congregation and their impact upon our lives.

We look forward to the new possibilities that lie ahead and know that God goes with us through this transition.

Not First, but Not Bad

Well, the results were posted today. For a while I'd been running 9th in our Biggest Loser contest. When things were all said and done, I wound up finishing in 8th place. Today I finally broke through my plateau...I lost another pound.

I went back to my deep water aerobics class...aka swimming with the sadist. She really worked us today...laps running in the pool, laps running and pushing barbells up and down, kicking only, arms only back and forth, back and forth, then pull ups on the diving platform. Just thinking about it wears me out. Hopefully this change in exercise will help me to continue to break through this ceiling.

Six weeks til our trip to Florida...I want to lose at least 10 more pounds by then if possible.

The Results Are In...

Week 13

Well, the contest is over but I'm still trying to keep on with the weight loss plan. It appears that this week my body has once again decided to rebell...my weight continues to be the same, 'course now I'm more on track for where SparkPeople says I should be. I'm still losing inches but the weight is the same. I've been excited that I'm fitting into my old clothes...it's like a new wardrobe.

Before and After

Well, since Marko posted his before and after pics, I thought (with much humiliation of the before pic) to post mine. The before is to the left/top and after to the right. Not too bad I guess...only 30 more pounds to go.

What a Difference 12 Weeks Make

As you know, over the past 12 weeks I have participated in the Are You a Bigger Loser Than Marko? Contest. Marko is the president of Youth Specialties and after the first of the year he decided that he wanted to lose some weight but that it'd work better if he was joined by friends. Something like 164 of us joined him. I started watching my diet and working out again. It paid off (until these past 2 weeks when I've hit a plateau). Over the past 12 weeks I've lost 20 pounds. I'm fitting in clothes that I haven't fit in since before I got pregnant with our youngest. I feel better. But I'm not done yet. According to SparkPeople if I continue my work I can be down to my ideal weight by the end of the summer. Wow. How cool is that?

Last Few Days

Well, we are in the twelfth week of Are You a Bigger Loser Than Marko. Friday is our last weigh in and the winners will be announced next Monday. Last week I didn't feel so great so I allowed myself to eat a few more comfort foods...and I didn't mix up my exercise as much as usual. I didn't lose but I didn't gain either. This week I'm going to mix up the workouts and eat better. We'll see where I wind up. I only have about 30 more pounds or so to reach my target weight...almost 1/2 way there. I didn't think it'd ever happen.

Rude Awakening

Early this morning I was awakened by the bed shaking. I thought I was losing my mind, dreaming or being attacked by our cat. The bed shook for a while then it was done. It had awakened me enough that I got up to go to the bathroom and noticed the TV on in our boys' room...I went to turn that off...wound up getting our oldest a glass of ice water...then headed back to bed. I had tried to figure out what had happened...thought maybe it was some kind of muscle spasm that my legs were going through because of exercising...something had to make sense. Then when I was talking to my mom I found out about the earthquake. How weird...didn't ever think I'd be awakened by an earthquake without living in California.

Happy Birthday, Noah!

Please Vote

I just heard tonight on the news that We Are Marshall is up for an award from the Tribeca Film Festival for greatest sports movie of all time. It's up against Rudy. Now, Rudy is an OK movie...but We Are Marshall is much better. 'Sides our family isn't in the movie Rudy, but we can be seen in the student chant shot from We Are Marshall. If you'd like to vote go here .

We Are....Marshall.

Happiness Is...

getting into my old jeans. I haven't been able to fit into these Gap jeans for I don't know how long...at one time I couldn't even think of wearing them....then after I stared working out I could put them on but not button or zip them...now they fit buttoned, zipped and all. YIPPEE! It's paying off. Only 4 more weeks of Biggest Loser...but the weight loss will continue
..through the summer and beyond. The past two weeks I've made top ten...will it be 3? Don't know...

Gems From My Oldest

Today, as I was taking our oldest to his swimming lessons (there may be another post at a later time on that) he looked at me and said, "Wow, Mom...you've lost a lot of weight...you look thinner."

It mean so much coming from him...I was feeling pretty good as over the past few days I've gotten into clothes that I couldn't wear since I got pregnant with our youngest.

I told him thanks and that I'm going to try to lose even more weight...he goes wow then you'll really be skinny.

What a great kid!

FINALLY!

I finally made it into the top 10 of the Biggest Loser. They finally listed everyone, but I counted and there I was. Finally this working out and watching what I'm eating is paying off. And, the best part is I feel GREAT! I think I've walked about 10 miles in the past 2 weeks or so and have done water aerobics at least 3 days a week.

Even my aerobics instructor today said that she could tell how much weight I've lost...

Happy Easter!!

Happy Easter, friends and family. I hope you have a blessed and happy celebration of the resurrection!!

My Meez

You like my new Meez? Not sure I like the background but it's different.

Not So Mad Today

OK, yesterday I was pretty ticked because of what the scale said...but today when I measured myself (I didn't get to do that last night as usual) I found out that what my former aerobics instructor had said...don't go by the scale, go by the way your clothes fit or the way you measure...how smaller your waist is getting. Today I got out the tape measure and looked at what the other numbers said. Well, I've lost like 3 inches off of my waist and almost 3 off of my hips. I'm gradually getting smaller.

Today I went back to the Y for early water aerobics. Tuesdays should be known as swimming with the sadist because it almost killed me. It's deep water aerobics and boy was it interesting and DIFFICULT. We began with these floaty belts around our waist...I thought ok cool...we'll probably tread water and stuff. NO...we started by running from one side of the pool to the other...when you ran out of floor you kept on running...next we did cross country skiing...same thing...we followed that with getting these foam ended barbells and pushed them up and down while we ran down and back...we did a back float kick thing next with the barbell across our chest as we lay on our backs...then it was "sit in a chair" and use only your arms down and back...and now go backwards doing the same thing. Finally as I'm getting more and more tired, we had to swim laps...with these float things holding us back...as fast as we can. I thought I was going to die. I haven't swam laps since I was in college and needless to say I was in so much better shape then.

Maybe I'll go back next week...boy, that was a workout.

OK, Now I'm Mad

This week was dismal as far as weightloss goes. Last week I hit my second goal weight, having lost weight consistently over the last five weeks until this week. Today I weighed myself...no weight loss. I'm mad. I've been working out 5 - 6 days a week...and this week I stepped it up a notch by taking the killer water aerobics class. Maybe I'm gaining muscle which will mean more weight loss but that makes me mad. I knew I'd do this sometime but was hoping it wouldn't happen.

I was a little frustrated at having consistent weightloss and never making it into the top 10...but grrrrr.

I'm going to continue counting calories, watching what I meet and working out, but just know I'm frustrated.

Perhaps I should try Charlene's approach above.

That Kicked My Rear But I'm Going Back

Today I had to go to the Y earlier than my class...but because of that I was able to do something that I've been wanting to do for a while. My aerobics instructor was teaching the arthritis class so I thought I'd be doing my own thing during that time. There is also another water aerobics class at the same time. I've never done this but have thought about it. When I entered the pool area I asked one of the lifeguards if there was class and she said the teacher wasn't there. So, I went to the warm pool and began water jogging and working with weights. Then I heard music next door. My usual aerobics instructor told me to go over and try the class and that Mary would "kill me." OK...I thought I'd try it.

Kim wasn't kidding...we were jogging full force, we were kicking and all sorts of stuff. The class was fun but HARD...we didn't do stomach crunches but we did major cardio. I think I'm going back tomorrow...we'll see. Surely I should lose some weight this week although I have fallen off the wagon twice with some really good foods. So, we'll see.

What Ya Think?

So, I really liked the new Purple Cow look and decided to go onto the website and get a cooler look...it was time for a change. What do you think?

Week Four of the Biggest Loser

Well, we've just finished week four and I'm happy to say I continue to lose weight. Now, I've not lost an exorbitant amount of weight...but I've lost 5% of my body weight thus far. I hope to continue losing weight throughout the entire contest.

Then hopefully by the end of the summer I'll be down to my right weight. We'll see.

Another Snow Day

Today was another snow day for the boys. Well, actually for our oldest and I just kept our youngest at home because I don't like driving on the road to get him to childcare. I'm still not feeling 100% but today helped me to get a little more rest than normal.

I had planned on taking this day anyway as I've been fighting this cold thing for several days. Thanks to the cancellation, we got to sleep in a little bit and this afternoon in the midst of working and the little one taking a nap, I got to snooze too.

This medicine I've started taking this medicine recommended by the pharmacist. Boy that knocks your socks off. I noticed it said nighttime but she said I might be able to take it during the day. Yeah....I don't think so. This afternoon I just took half a dose and was still zonked. Last night it did a number on me...my mind was racing...weird. But at least my nose dried up and my coughing subsided so I could sleep.

Tomorrow back to work...hopefully I'll feel somewhat better...I can't be on this medicine and go anywhere so I hope that it's at least a little better.

BLAH!!

I feel like the crud has finally caught up with me. I thought I was going to "outrun" it, but it doesn't seem so. The end of last week my chest started feeling cough-y then the coughing actually began. I still thought maybe I'd be OK cuz when I get colds usually they go sore throat, runny/stuffy nose, then cough. Now the nose garbage has begun...yippee. Yesterday I got some cough medicine but it's not really cutting it with the nose stuff so back to the drugstore today for nose and cough medicine. Maybe that'll help me get some rest.

Three Weeks and Half a Ton Down

Well, we've finished three weeks of Are You a Bigger Loser Than Marko. Can you believe that the group of 176 (I think that's right) has lost over 1100 pounds? I think that's great. If nothing else we have been motivated to make lifestyle changes that hopefully will stick through the rest of our lives.

So far I have lost 9.3 pounds...I have met my first goal and am on my way to my next goal...provided I don't plateau this next week. I went to aerobics again today...feeling a little rough I think my body's trying to get a cold...so not sure what this week will look like. But I am hoping to keep on keeping on.

Wii Fit

On the Are You a Bigger Loser Than Marko site, Marko posted a comment that there is a new Wii game coming out May 19th. It's called Wii Fit and looks really cool! You can do yoga, practice your balance, do aerobics, play a thing that looks kinda like DDR and other activities to help keep you fit. It'll even track your progress.

I'm wanting it now...what a great addition or alternative to going to the Y!!

If you want to see a video of what all it does, go here.

HT Marko.

Very Rare

There have been a few very brilliant people that I have known throughout my life. In high school there was Kristen and Eric...a brother and sister...he was older she was my age...who were the smartest people I know. Both are doctors now. In college was Lara...I remember that when she took the actuarial exam she scored higher than our calculus professor (a thing our Dr. D really never got over).

When I taught I had a few really smart kids in my classes. There was one kid that was taking Algebra II when he was in 8th grade.

I was blessed with three girls in the youth group I counseled...all three are smart as tacks...one's an economist who did her graduate work at Berkley...the middle is a pediatrician and the youngest is a lawyer. WOW!!

Today's newspaper had the story of a member of our current youth group who scored the only perfect score on his ACT during the fall quarter of his junior year. He's one of the smartest, down to earth kids I've ever known.

Yeah, people like this are rare. It's even rarer to find someone so smart who can actually relate to those around them. He does all of that and is president of our youth group. Way to go!!!!

Week Two - Getting Smaller

I weighed myself today and was pleasantly surprised...I had lost weight. I was so excited. I'm down 4% of my weigh right now. Not too shabby considering I hadn't really worked out this week. I didn't get into the top 10 but wound up submitting my weight a little late...so I don't know if I was left out or not. I was upset a tad because I'm working out and really trying...I mean, come on. But at least it's weight and I'm getting more in shape and healthier. If this keeps up, I could be down to my ideal weight by our youngest's second birthday. How cool is that?!

Maybe I should try the method suggested here.

End of Week Two - Big Numbers Just Aren't There

This is the end of our second week of Biggest Loser and my numbers look like my numbers are going to be small. I didn't get to work out at the gym like I like...only went 3 days instead of 5...but I did work out at home on the days I didn't go with the show Bodies in Motion...so that's something. Three days I was under my calorie count...the others I was over. I feel less out of breath but it's still frustrating to see low numbers.

Matthew McNutt, who was on the Biggest Loser when they did the states (he was the guy from Maine), is a support person, guru for our contest...he told us that the numbers the contestants pull on that show are a little misleading...that their weeks are sometimes 10 days instead of 7. That made me feel better. Plus they work out like 6 hours a day...that I can't do. I don't think I could do it even if I didn't work.

I know muscle weighs more than fat and you need that to burn the fat but it's frustrating to see the same number as last week. Sigh.

Weigh in is tomorrow...we'll see.

What Is Going On?

These past few weeks have been a weird and deadly. What could be so wrong in someone's life that they would think of going into a school and shooting people? Is it our culture? Is it that we are living in a more violent society that almost preaches get even first ask questions later? How do we raise our children to share the love and grace of God especially in times of frustration?

The sixth victim of the shootings at Northern Illinois has died. After the Virginia Tech shootings there was talk about making college campuses more secure...Do we add fences and guards to try to ensure that our college students are safe? What about metal detectors at the door of each building?

When I went to Ohio Northern, I loved the openness of the campus...I can't imagine what that beautiful campus would look like if it were "secured". It would be a sad distraction from the welcoming atmosphere of the community there.

There are no answers...there's no way to ensure that we could tell when someone is going to snap. I guess we just need to pay more attention to those we come in contact with. I just hate that the places that should support community and support have become places where people might be afraid and feel isolated.

Happy Valentines Day!!

Happy Valentines Day! Hope your day went well. Today I got a heart of sugar free candy
from my honey along with a stuffed gorilla. They both were WONDERFUL!!

After school when we got home, our oldest grabbed both gifts and said these are from me, J and daddy. He handed me the candy and gorilla. Our youngest grabbed the heart for our oldest and brought it over to me and handed it to me with a big smile. It was so cute!

Other than the fact that I was gone for dinner tonight and missed it with my guys, this Valentine's Day was pretty good indeed.

And, that sugar free chocolate is pretty good. I was amazed.

Snow Day!! Wierd Exercising Continues

Today we woke up to snow and ice...needless to say school was canceled. I don't like the windy usually extremely slick road to take our youngest to childcare, so I worked at home with both of them. Trying to continue losing weight in this Biggest Loser contest, I have been seeking to find alternatives to the Y when I can't make it there. Today we marched around the living room for about 10 minutes...something my youngest thought was great fun. Then later in the afternoon I did aerobics with Bodies in Motion on Fit TV.

According the my spark website, I burnt over 300 calories today. I just hope it's enough. These past two days have killed me as far as cardio exercises go. Tomorrow I'm hoping to go to water aerobics.

Saturday I have an all day meeting so I'm not sure when I'm going to exercise then. Although I did save the Bodies in Motion show on our DVR. We'll see.

Two Hour Delay Tomorrow

We found out earlier this evening there is a two hour delay tomorrow for our oldest. Yea! we get to sleep in. Wondering if there will be school as I sit in the recliner by the window hearing the ping of the sleet outside. Just hoping we keep power if we get the ice they're calling for. Off to bed in case there is school.

First Weigh In...Losing Weight...YEA!!

Today was our first weigh in...I went to the Y every day last week. I worked out in the exercise room twice and did water aerobics three days. There were times when I tried to find excuses not to go...but now that I've seen results, I'm excited and motivated. I've done the diet as recommended on sparkpeople.com and it's working. I had hoped for some weight but didn't expect as much as I got. And, I've lost some on my waist too! My first mini-goal is in sight...I'm excited!

Gentlemen, Start Your Engines

It seems like so long...but it's finally here...NASCAR has begun again. Last year we had a league of fantasy racing...it was kinda a weird way of figuring the points, etc. This year we're going with Yahoo. Next week begins the fantasy league, so if you're interested in joining us, let me know, there's still time.

I'll be looking for a friend from high school in the pits...he's a jack man...used to work for Scott Riggs.

Boogedy, Boogedy, Boogedy.

Here we go!