In Pursuit Of Fitness

I'VE MOVED

2008-09-06T15:18:00.002-05:00

Actually, it's more accurate to say I'VE MERGED.

As some of you may know, I've tried to maintain a separate blog called Refrigerator Raid. It's sole purpose was to provide health tips based on current news and research (rather than personal stories).

But with new baby, it's been impossible to maintain both. Moreover, I realized that many of my favorite blogs combine practical advice with personal anecdotes.

So I've decided to do the same. You can now find me at Refrigerator Raid.

www.RefrigeratorRaid.com

Hope to see you there!

Two Pounds!

2008-09-03T15:52:00.002-05:00

In two days on the BFL program, I've lost two pounds!

Yes, I know it's mostly "water weight."
Yes, I know it's also because I had a baby 8 weeks ago.
Yes, I know I'd gain it right back if I went out and ate my typical dinner of Papa Johns breadsticks and mushroom pizza.

But I don't care about those little factoids! I'm just happy to see the numbers on the scale move again (in the right direction).

Of course, my motivation for this program has to be something other than external. It's important that I concentrate on how I feel--confident, sexier, more energetic, happier--if I want to maintain this lifestyle for the long haul. External motivational factors like my weight and dress size will only motivate me for a short period of time.

Although I confess, I'm already looking forward to my "free day." (The BFL program allows one
"free day" each week when you can eat whatever you want. The reasoning behind the "free day" is both psychological and physiological.)

New Program

2008-09-02T13:13:00.002-05:00

Baby is now about 7 weeks old, and I've decided to start a new exercise/fitness/diet/weight loss program! Based on past experience, I've chosen the Body for Life program. Although I've never achieved the dramatic results of actual BFL winners, I have lost a lot of weight and built a lot of muscle following the plan in the past.

Fortunately, Hubby is on board with the program, too. So we basically take turns watching Baby and exercising. Once my fitness levels increase and I can actually run instead of walk, we all three may be able to go out jogging together.

In terms of my diet... it's probably going to have to be bland and boring since I don't have much time to cook. (Up until this point I've been living on microwave foods, like processed mac and cheese.)

We took our "before" photos, but I'm not quite ready to share them. Maybe I'll take a progress pic in a few weeks and compare them here.

New Baby

2008-07-22T19:40:00.001-05:00

My new baby arrived on July 11, 2008!

I am (obviously) still recovering physically... plus I am learning how to be a mommy!

Until things start to heal up, I'll be taking it easy on myself when it comes to diet and exercise. However, I'm hoping to get started on a new program within a month or so. As soon as I get ready to lose the baby weight, I'll be back on this blog.

In the meantime... I'm busy cuddling with a bundle of love!

Still waiting....

2008-06-23T13:26:00.001-05:00

I am in total waiting mode. Baby hasn't yet arrived, and I admit that I'm feeling a bit antsy about it.

I really hope she shows up soon!

Done (temporarily) With Exercise

2008-06-16T18:21:00.001-05:00

Guess I'm done with exercise for a while. Every time I stand up from a sitting or lying position, I get this pain in my belly. It's usually there whenever I'm on my feet. I don't know if it's pressure from Baby or my belly stretching, but it's extremely uncomfortable. Sometimes I can only hobble to the bathroom.

I could probably get a temporary YMCA membership and try some swimming, but at this point I'm not sure it's worth the effort. Hubby thinks Baby will be arriving in less than 2 weeks. (According to my due date, she's scheduled to arrive in about 3.) Either way, she's coming soon, and I still have lots of stuff on my to-do list.

So I guess I'll just skip workouts until after Baby arrives and I've done a bit of recovering. But I'm still going to try and eat healthy foods.

Healthy Foods Can't Usually Be Frozen

2008-06-10T13:35:00.002-05:00

So I've been doing a lot of "freezer" cooking... which means I've been making meals that can be frozen right now and then thawed/cooked after Baby arrives (and life is too hectic for real cooking). It's a technique sometimes referred to as OAMC, although I've adapted it a bit for my needs. Here are a few things in my freezer stash:

Twice baked potatoes
French toast sticks
Whole wheat pizza crusts
Veggie lasagna
Mac & Cheese
Stuffed shells
Veggie noodle soup

Not necessarily the worst foods in the world... but definitely not the healthiest. And none of them would make the BFL approved foods list. There's nothing really "clean" on that list. At best, most of those meals would be okay for a free or cheat day.

So what's a gal to do? I've been trying to come up with convenient, easy-to-prepare BFL-style meals that I'll be able to grab-and-eat even if this baby turns out to have the worst case of colic ever. So far I've come up with:

Hard boiled egg whites
Plain fruit
Low-fat cottage cheese
Canned tuna or salmon pouches
Baked sweet potatoes
Oatmeal

Not exactly the tastiest menu. But I'm guessing I won't have time to make Tilapia in parchment with zucchini and carrot matchsticks... at least not for a few years. I guess we'll see how it works out.

Soba Noodle Salad

2008-06-06T14:45:00.000-05:00

Cold noodle salads are one of my favorite summertime meals. I can make one on Sunday and pretty much eat it all week long for a simple, satisfying lunch. However, I do try to limit the amount of refined grains I eat. So oftentimes I use soba noodles.

Soba noodles are an Asian noodle made from buckwheat. Although they're about the width of regular spaghetti, their texture is a bit softer and lighter (I think). Some soba noodles do include some refined grains, although higher quality versions have mostly buckwheat. A typical Japanese meal would be cooked soba noodles and a dipping sauce, but I like them in this salad:

Soba Noodle Salad

Salad Ingredients
- Soba noodles
- Lightly steamed veggies
- Sliced spring/green onions

Dressing Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons Tamari (or soy sauce)
- 1 Tablespoon Sesame Oil
- 1 teaspoon hot chili oil
- Dash white sugar

Cook soba noodles. Rinse with cold water and drain. Toss in lightly steamed veggies. Coat with dressing. Top with onions.

This is a very simple recipe that can be modified to fit whatever veggies you have in the fridge and to suit your tastes. (I like extra veggies with fewer noodles.) I often make it with matchstick carrots, red pepper strips and strips of snow peas. However, I have heard of people using broccoli and squash, too. It's the perfect cool lunch for a hot day, and you could add some cold, peeled shrimp if you wanted some extra protein.

Outdoor Exercise Protection

2008-06-06T12:43:00.001-05:00

(Sponsored Post)

Although I live in a relatively safe neighborhood--the biggest crime around here tends to be stolen bicycles--there's always the chance that some crazed, serial-killer-attacker-type will start stalking my streets.

And there are lots of loose dogs around here, too.

So I think it's smart--and practically a necessity--to carry protection during my outdoor runs and walks around town.

Fortunately, websites like LA Police Gear provide lots of equipment and accessories that can be used by the average citizen who wants to protect herself around the neighborhood, such as tactical knives. (Always check the laws in your area about carrying a blade! Many states limit the size of the knife you can legally carry concealed on your person.) For those already equipped with some basic self-defense gear, the website also sells holders for things like expandable batons.

If you're just looking for clothing, the site sells plenty of tactical apparel like 511 Shorts and Under Armour Covert Ops shirts.

Body For Life Comparisons

2008-06-04T13:44:00.002-05:00

I finished reading the two different Body for Life books: Body for Life and Body for Life for Women.

Here's my verdict:

BFL Women is definitely more touchy-feely. There's a lot more talk about motivation and "mind." Women who have typical female problems with weight--yo-yo dieting, emotional eating, etc.--may find the text useful. Overall, however, I found it lacked a lot of practicality.

Moreover, neither the eating nor exercise plan is as strict as that found in the regular BFL program. The concept of the "free" day--and the rationale behind it--seems to be missing almost entirely. And the suggested cardio is less intense (and probably less effective) than recommended in the traditional BFL plan.

Women may find BFL Women easier to follow since it's more flexible and less stringent. However, I'd guess that the 12-week results would not be very dramatic. Weight loss could almost definitely be achieved, but it won't be the kind of body transformation that can be seen in the regular BFL plan.

Personally, I'll stick to the original. I want to see serious results, and I'm not afraid of some high intensity cardio or some heavy weight lifting.

Short Walk

2008-06-04T13:42:00.002-05:00

Took a short walk today. After 20 minutes, I started having this terrible pain in my lower abdomen. I knew it wasn't contractions since it was a steady pain. But I was practically doubled over! I immediately walked home--slowly--and laid down until the pain passed.

It was a pretty scary experience. From now on, I guess my walks need to be slower (and closer to home). I had been rushing a bit because I knew a storm was coming.

Wish my walk could have been longer and better... but at least I did something. Maybe tomorrow I'll be able to get out and try again. I guess the smartest thing to do now is listen to my body.

Don't Feel Like Exercise

2008-06-03T13:17:00.002-05:00

I don't know if it's the weather--hot and muggy--or if it's my expanding tummy (which grows bigger and more uncomfortable each day). But whatever the cause, I just don't feel like exercising. Every morning I set my alarm so I can get up and take a walk. And every morning I turn it off and go back to sleep.

Now that I'm nearing the finish line of pregnancy... about 5 weeks to go... I've been growing more and more uncomfortable. An average day includes:

Kicks, punches and jabs into my ribs
Swollen feet and fingers (my joints constantly ache)
Heartburn and/or nausea
Tremendous amounts of fatigue
Shortness of breath

Overall, my physical body does not feel at its peak. I know that exercise might actually help make me feel better, but I'm finding it harder and harder to motivate myself to get out and walk.

Is "Gender Specific" Weight Loss Information Useful?

2008-06-02T14:32:00.003-05:00

When I first tried Body for Life: 12 Weeks to Mental and Physical Strength (BFL), the only available "program" was definitely designed with the male body in mind (although many women used it successfully). Later, however, they created a Body for Life for Women: A Woman's Plan for Physical and Mental Transformation program. But do women really need the gender specific advice?

Although I believe that there are natural differences between female and male bodies--especially when it comes to things like muscle mass and body fat percentage--I also tend to think that basic weight loss advice can be applied to both genders.

The basic premise of the "male" BFL program is this:

Eat frequent, small meals of "clean" foods
Exercise regularly, including both strength training and cardio components
Limit "cheat" meals to once a week

In my humble opinion, this should work for both men and women.

I recently purchased a copy of both BFL (for the third time... I always give away my copy) and BFL for Women (thinking about losing that baby weight!). Once I read both, I'll report back here as to the differences between the two programs.

Thinking About The Baby Weight

2008-05-27T06:10:00.000-05:00

As birth day approaches--less than 2 months now!--I can't stop thinking about losing the baby weight. As thrilled as I am to become a mother, and as much as I want this child, I can't help feeling as if pregnancy has completely changed my body. Weight has always been an emotional issue for me, and I think it's important for me mentally to do something about my extra padding as soon as possible.

I ordered another copy of Body for Life (both the original and the one for women) since I seemed to have misplaced my copy. I've also been researching healthy recipes that I can make ahead of time and freeze, like protein pancakes and baked oats. And I've been trying to improve my diet right now so I can get used to eating lots of veggies and fruits again.

I've even tried digging up my old bikini so I can take "before" pictures, but I can't seem to find it. I probably won't fit into it after Baby arrives, so I guess I'll order a larger one for the "before" pic. I can't wait to start exercising again!

Happy Memorial Day

2008-05-26T12:16:00.001-05:00

Land of the free... because of the brave.

Slowing Down

2008-05-23T18:07:00.002-05:00

Finally took a walk today!

Between the lousy weather (wind, rain, chilly) and oversleeping, I haven't walked in about 10 days! But today was beautiful, so I forced myself out of bed. It was worth it!

I have noticed, however, that I am definitely slowing down. It used to take me about 40 minutes to walk my usual route. Today it took closer to 50 minutes. I'm sure the extra 30 lbs I'm carrying has something to do with it.

And my lungs feel like they've been smushed to the size of pancakes, too.

The Weather Cooperates

2008-05-13T10:23:00.002-05:00

Because of crappy weather and scheduling issues, I haven't been getting much exercise. But today it's gorgeous outside--sunny and warm! So it's the perfect day for a walk.

Unfortunately, with Baby's due date just a little over two months away, I am pretty much overwhelmed with my "to do" list. But rather than spend the whole day doing chores and other household tasks, I'm going to promise myself a walk outside--even if it's a very short one.

My diet has improved a bit. I am making a more conscious effort to eat veggies and fruits, and I've slowed down my consumption of refined sugars. Sure... I still have a bowl of ice cream occasionally. But at least I'm not eating three or four different treats throughout the day.

Another Walk

2008-05-05T12:41:00.002-05:00

It's starting to get hot outside, so today I was sweating during my [amble] walk. Hubby accompanied, which was nice. We spent a bit of time chatting about Baby's upcoming arrival. (Only 9 1/2 weeks to go!)

I am still obsessing about losing the baby weight after Baby arrives... and I've been polling every mom I know about it. "How long did you have your jiggly stomach?" "How long until you lost the baby weight?" Most of them tell me that it's at least 8 weeks--usually more--before they get rid of their extra tummy... and then another couple of months to actually get back to their previous size.

They do say "Nine months on... nine months off" when it comes to dropping baby weight. But I am determined to be the exception to the rule. Mostly I want to lose the weight because at this point I hope to get pregnant again in the not-so-distant future, and I really want all the weight off before we start trying to have another baby.

Healthy, Fast Meals

2008-05-01T13:03:00.000-05:00

With Baby on the way--and thoughts of losing baby weight on my mind--I've been thinking about ways to prep healthy meals quickly after we have a newborn in the house. If all the baby books and my friends-with-kids are correct, I'll have almost no time (or energy) to cook during the first few months.

I may be able to put some of the cooking responsibility in Hubby's hands. In truth, he's actually a better cook than me. But he's more of a homestyle cooking guy... his idea of a meal is fried catfish, mashed potatoes and some lima beans. Not the worst food in the world, but definitely not conducive to weight loss.

I've been checking out the whole Once A Month Cooking (OAMC) philosophy. It basically means spending a 24-48 hour period shopping, prepping and cooking enough meals to last for an entire month. These meals are then frozen and pulled out as needed. There are variations on this theme, including cutting it back to a 2-week cooking session or gradually stocking a freezer by doubling or tripling recipes whenever you cook a meal.

I've been hounding Hubby to buy a deep freeze. As soon as I get it in my house, I'm going to try the "gradual stock" method. Whenever I cook something relatively healthy that freezes well--like marinara sauce, salmon cakes, veggie soup or black beans & rice--I'm going to prep a double-batch and then freeze the extra. With any luck, by the time Baby arrives I'll have 20 or so frozen meals that will be quick and healthy during hectic days.

Why do casseroles sound gross?

2008-04-29T11:02:00.002-05:00

Hubby has leftover chicken and rice from dinner last night, and I am trying to put together a casserole to take to my dad. I've been browsing for recipes online, including my favorite site www.allrecipes.com. You'd think there'd be hundreds of chicken and rice casseroles. And, indeed, there are. Unfortunately, they all sound gross to me.

Maybe it's pregnant-lady tastes. Or perhaps it's because I haven't eaten a chicken and rice casserole in years. But every single recipe looks disgusting. Most include some type of "cream of" soup... such as cream of celery or cream of chicken. Frankly, the idea of eating "cream of" and rice just kind of nauseates me.

It must be pregnant-lady syndrome, right?

Either way, maybe I'll just turn the chicken into a nice potpie and eat the rice myself over the next few days. That may be the best way to use both ingredients with little waste, and avoid making Dad anything with "cream of" in the ingredients.

Unless someone here has a great chicken and rice casserole recipe?

Feeling Blue

2008-04-25T12:23:00.002-05:00

I think I may be feeling a bit depressed. I don't know if it's because:

I'm not getting enough exercise.
My hormones are kicking into overdrive.
I'm stressed about the upcoming changes in my life.
I miss my mother terribly.

It's probably a combination of all those things. I know that eating right and exercising will help me combat some of this sadness--and might even give me a burst of energy. But I just can't seem to get my tush out of my chair today.

I'm definitely going to make an effort to take a nice brisk walk tomorrow. But for today, I think I'll just plop on the couch and watch some TV. Not surprisingly, that sounds like a really appealing activity.

Passed The Sugar Test

2008-04-18T15:23:00.003-05:00

Whew! Just got the news that I passed my 3-hour glucose tolerance test. That means I don't have gestational diabetes. It's a huge relief, since I was really worried about it.

However, I probably should take my moderately-high results from the 1-hour test as a warning. It's time to cut back on the sugar! (It just sucks, 'cause I am totally craving candy bars and ice cream.)

I'm not a total sugar-aholic. A 1-pint container of Ben & Jerry's will last me for four snack sessions... that's basically 1/2 cup serving of ice cream each time I eat it. That's probably not too bad (especially since Hubby can eat the entire pint in one sitting!).

Nonetheless, I do need to try limiting my sugar to just one sweet snack per day... plus cut back on those starchy carbs and add some more veggies to my diet.

Another Walk

2008-04-16T13:43:00.002-05:00

I've been averaging about two 30-40 minute walks each week. Hardly enough to maintain any kind of cardiovascular fitness. But, in truth, it's all I've been able to accomplish lately.

I'm going to seriously commit to increasing the number of walks I take. I'd love to be walking five or six days a week. Funny... my belly's going to keep getting bigger (and heavier), and now's the time I'm going to try and increase my exercise.

I did manage a 40-minute walk today with Hubby. It was such a beautiful day! We took the dogs with us--and they thoroughly enjoyed it!--and just ambled around the neighborhood. I wish every day could be this gorgeous!

Failed The "Sugar" Test

2008-04-14T09:09:00.003-05:00

My OB just called and told me that I failed the 1-hour glucose test, which means there's a chance I have gestational diabetes. To double-check, I am supposed to have a 3-hour glucose test tomorrow. I admit that the news has left me a bit shaken.

In recent years, I've prided myself on being a relatively healthy person. I made pretty good food choices and exercised more than the average American. Pregnancy has kind of sent all my good habits out the window. I've barely been exercising, and I've been eating sweets and starchy carbs like they're about to be banned. So really, this news about the 1-hour glucose test shouldn't be a surprise to me. But it is. A very unpleasant surprise.

All that's required is a 12-hour fast for the 3-hour test, but I'm going to pay attention to my diet today anyway. Maybe I'll be lucky and I'll pass the 3-hour. Maybe this is the "scare" I need to get my diet and exercise back on track.

Keeping my fingers crossed that I'll pass the 3-hour with flying colors...

Short Break

2008-04-09T11:57:00.002-05:00

Due to my mother's passing, I'll be taking a short break from blogging. I'll probably be back in a week or so.

Sugar... Sugar... Sugar

2008-04-03T20:55:00.002-05:00

Originally, my OB/Gyn warned me to avoid too much sugar during the pregnancy. "Sugar is fertilizer for babies," he said. "Whenever you want to eat sugar, imagine a 10 pound baby crowning."

Nonetheless, sugar has been the one thing I've been craving during this pregnancy. It's strange, since I've never before had a sweet tooth. Yesterday's sugar binge included a Snickers bar and 3 TastyKakes! It wasn't one of my finest moments.

Fortunately, those types of binges are becoming fewer. Most days I limit my sugar intake to just a cookie or two... or maybe a slice of pie. Sure, it would be better to avoid it all together. But at least I'm trying to keep my portions fairly moderate.

As a result, my weight gain has finally stabilized! I was starting to worry. But I've only gained about 2 pounds over the last 4 weeks, which is what my OB/Gyn suggested at my last doctor's visit. So I'm back on track, and I'm happy about that.

Walking Weather

2008-03-29T21:20:00.002-05:00

Today was the perfect weather for a nice, brisk walk. Well... so it's more like a waddle. But it still counts as exercise!

The air was crisp and cool, but not so cold that I needed gloves. I just wore a light jacket to keep of the chill of the wind, plus a pair of sweatpants. The sun was shining brightly, and a lot of folks around the neighborhood were working in their garages.

Spring is definitely in the air! I'm really looking forward to ditching my baggy sweatpants, however. I bought them two sizes too large so I could fit into them during pregnancy, but they make me feel fat all over (instead of just fat in the tummy).

Swollen

2008-03-24T20:48:00.002-05:00

Cut today's walk down to 35 minutes, and felt pretty good afterwards. So far, no signs of pains or aches. I do have some seriously swollen feet, however.

Other than that, though, spent most of the day sitting in a chair. Most of the time spent with my mother is spent sitting by her bed, holding her hand, etc. I don't get a lot of activity when I'm at my parents' house.

As for my diet, it was pretty decent today. I resisted the urge to eat a mini lemon pie, a slice of coconut cake, and a huge container of French fries. And I'm planning a meal of stir-fry veggies, tofu and brown rice for later this evening. So overall, my diet is going ok today.

Sore!

2008-03-22T11:43:00.002-05:00

Ok... I guess I am still in the "athlete" mindset instead of the "pregnant" mindset. I went for a walk yesterday--a slow ambling stroll, really--and felt pretty good. So I kept walking for longer than usual. My total time was about an hour, which is still less than I used to do back during my "fit" days.

The result? My legs were sore, my ankles were swollen, and my feet hurt! I keep forgetting that I'm out of shape and carrying an extra 20+ pounds! Not to mention I'm walking funny these days--it's more of a waddle--so my weight is distributed differently on my hips, legs, knees and feet.

Speaking of knees... I've been having some serious knee pain lately. I've had knee pain in the past--usually when I've been running too much. I assume this new pain is a result of my extra weight and strange gait. I just hope it doesn't affect my future fitness activities (post-baby).

Ready To Walk

2008-03-18T09:20:00.000-05:00

I visit my sick mother every day. She spends some days mostly sleeping or napping--or with other visitors--but at least I'm there to give Dad a helping hand. However, because these visits are time-consuming, it's not always easy to find time to exercise.

Then I had a revelation! Why not take a walk while Mom naps?

My parents live on a great road for walking. Although there are no sidewalks, the road is rural, safe, and relatively flat (so I can see oncoming cars).

So I packed up a bag with a pair of capris (good for warmer and cooler days), a tee-shirt, a sports bra, my old running shoes, some athletic socks, and a sweatshirt. They're my most basic pieces--nothing fancy or moisture-wicking--but they'll get the job done in a pinch. I keep the bag in my car all the time so it's ready to grab whenever I have a free hour.

The only thing I'm missing is my iPod. But maybe that's a good thing. Since the road is fairly rural, it's probably a good idea for me to keep my ears open (for dogs, animals, cars, etc.). And this will give me a chance to really enjoy nature, especially during this beautiful Spring season. Perhaps it will help clear my mind and lower my stress levels.

Sleep!

2008-03-17T11:20:00.000-05:00

Many experts agree that adequate sleep is important for maintaining our health. Unfortunately, my sleep has been both sporadic and restless. I chalk it up to a few different reasons:

Pregnancy: It's harder for me to find a comfortable position these days. I prop myself up with lots of pillows (right now Hubby and I have ten on our bed!), but sometimes I just can't get comfortable! Moreover, I find myself waking every hour to use the bathroom. My bladder has become the size of a peanut, I think.

My mother: Her terminal illness and daily care is starting to take an emotional toll on me. I tend to have a crying jag most nights--usually shortly after I get into bed, perhaps because my mind is clear to think about her. And I also dream about her a lot, too, which interferes with my rest.

Reading: Around the time my mom took a turn for the worst, I started reading books in bed before turning in for the night. Big mistake. I've always wrestled with insomnia, and for many years followed the standard sleeping rule: Use the bed for sleeping only. As soon as I started reading in bed, I found it much harder to fall asleep at night, which means I get fewer hours of rest.

I've been trying to follow Steve Pavlina's guidelines for How to Become an Early Riser, but I just don't have the discipline to do it. Nonetheless, I'm going to keep trying. I need to do something to get my sleeping schedule back on track.

A Second Mortgage

2008-03-17T11:19:00.001-05:00

Hubby and I currently have a mortgage on our home. With Baby on the way, we've been seriously considering another home purchase. We need something bigger, with more rooms and more space.

However, rather than selling our current home and buying the next one, we're thinking about keeping our current home and renting it to tenants. This means we'd need a second mortgage.

Home Mortgage is one of the better loans from a financial perspective. The interest is tax-deductible, and it tends to be low (compared to, say, auto loans or personal loans). Getting a second mortgage won't necessarily be easy, however, and it will certainly put a strain on our budget.

So far we haven't yet found the "right" house. But if (when) we do, we're going to need to seriously consider applying for a second mortgage.

Join a Gym?

2008-03-14T11:45:00.001-05:00

Since Hubby and I have a decent home gym set-up, we've never really considered joining an actual fitness facility. However, this pregnancy has made me reconsider a gym membership. Specifically, I am considering the YMCA.

Here are the pros and cons:

PROS

Extra facilities that I could use right now, such as a swimming pool
Extra facilities and services that we might use in the future, such as racquetball courts and babysitting
Special events--such as Mom's Day--that may help me connect with other mothers

CONS

Cost is $600+ annual fee, plus $100 sign-up fee
The nearest YMCA facility is a 15-20 minute drive... just far enough away to be inconvenient

At one time swimming was my main source of exercise, and I really enjoyed it. I found it to be almost meditative in nature. But at that time, the pool was conveniently located close to my job. I'm not sure that I'll make a special trip into town just to swim.

So right now it's still a possible consideration. But as my pregnant belly gets bigger, I have a feeling that a nice, soothing swim will sound like a great way to stay fit.

Inexpensive Glasses

2008-03-14T11:44:00.000-05:00

(Sponsored Post)

I started wearing glasses when I was about thirteen years old. I don't need them desperately. (Strangely enough, the first time I took my driver's license eye exam I failed without my glasses. When I went to get my license renewed, I passed.) However, I do wear them when I'm driving in unfamiliar cities or late at night, since they do improve my vision. I also sometimes wear them when watching TV.

I'd probably wear them more often if I could find a pair that really looked good on my face. I have a twofold problem: My face is very round (so round glasses only make it look rounder) and my nose is pretty much typical-Asian flat (so I have to have little nose-pieces to keep them up). On top of that, I tend to be rough on glasses, and wire frames are often too delicate for me. Believe me, finding plastic frames with nose-pieces can be difficult--and pricey.

I hate the expense of glasses. The last time I went for an exam plus two pairs, it cost me a whopping $500! That's ridiculous! However, I just discovered http://www.ZenniOptical.com, which sells prescription eyeglasses at a discount rate. In fact, they sell single lens glasses for just $8! The frames aren't designer, but they are solid and basic, which is the only thing I need.

So check out the $ 8 Zenni Optical Rx Eyeglasses if you're looking for a great bargain on glasses!

Spring In My Step!

2008-03-13T09:26:00.002-05:00

Okay... so Spring isn't here quite yet. But the recent weather makes it feel like it is! And that means it's a great time to get out and walk.

After my most recent walk, I experienced some calf and heel pain. I suppose it's partially due to the fact that I haven't been doing any exercise lately, so all my muscles are tight and sore from underuse. Some of the pain may also be because I'm carrying an extra 20 pounds on my body... it's my heaviest weight ever, and I'm starting to feel it in my muscles and joints.

For my walk today, I took it easy and stuck with a "strolling" pace. It's hard for a Type A personality such as myself to deliberately slow my steps, but I kept reminding myself that it was for the best. I also made a conscious effort to stretch both before and after my walk.

I'm really enjoying this great weather! I hope it lasts, since I dread the idea of bringing my walks to the treadmill.

Reviews For Gamblers

2008-03-13T09:24:00.000-05:00

In the past, Hubby and I have enjoyed relaxing with a few buddies over a friendly poker table. The evenings typically include a deck of cards, a box of poker chips, some snacks, and plenty of beer. And although we've never been anything other than casual players, we do enjoy a good card game.

Admittedly, most of our poker games are more about socializing and less about gambling. Our interest in cards hasn't yet caused us to spend time at an online casino. But if we were to explore this option for poker, we'd probably first want to read reviews about various casino websites.

Fortunately, sites like Online Casino List offer lots of information about online casinos, including a list of best online casinos and casinos with the best bonuses.

Hubby's always been a bit of a gambler. He spent a few hours in the casino when we went on our cruise. But, so far, he hasn't yet explored the world of online casinos. If he ever does, I certainly hope he takes the time to review some of the websites first.

Too Much Weight

2008-03-12T01:09:00.002-05:00

I had a doctor's appointment today. They weighed me, checked Baby, checked my blood pressure, etc. I knew I'd packed on a few pounds since my last visit, so I asked the doc about my weight gain.

He told me the straight-up truth. According to him, I've gained more weight than they like to see at this stage. Ugh! Talk about bad news!

Of course, I didn't really need him to tell me this. All I had to do was look at my puffy face and expanding rear-end to know that my weight gain was getting out of control. But it was still kind of hard news to hear.

So, obviously, I need to do something about this. I need to cut-up my "license to eat sugar" and return to healthier eating habits. It won't be easy, but it's definitely something I need to do.

On the plus side, eating healthy now will make it easier to lose weight after Baby arrives.

Puffy Face

2008-03-10T23:08:00.000-05:00

So I admit it. I've been slacking a bit on my nutrition since becoming pregnant. Through the nausea of the first trimester, I could only stomach "white" foods like breads and rice and cereals. In the second trimester, I've found myself craving sweets--doughnuts and ice cream and cookies. These are foods I (usually) rarely eat.

Today I peered at my reflection in the mirror, and saw a big, puffy face staring back at me. I almost didn't recognize myself! I've definitely packed on some extra pounds.

Since I want this pregnancy to be as healthy as possible, I know I must commit to returning to my normally healthy diet. I have to say "no" to the cookies and "yes" to the veggies. It won't be easy--I've grown fond of my midnight snacks of Oreos and ice cream bars--but it's something I need to do.

Ease Your Money Stress

2008-03-10T22:01:00.001-05:00

(Sponsored Post)

These days, I try to be a good steward of my money. But in the not-so-distant past, I was drowning in a pool of debt. Unable to make even the minimum payments, I wasn't sure how I was ever going to be able to pay my creditors.

Fortunately, my boss offered me a raise and my (financially responsible) fiancé gave me a loan. Between those two fortuitous events, I was able to pay off my creditors and get my finances back on track.

At that time, however, it might have been useful to know that credit was available to me. Apparently, bad credit cards are designed for folks who have poor credit. These types of cards help consumers rebuild their credit history and start repairing their financial reputation.

To find out more about these credit cards, check out BadCreditOffers.com.

Exercise!

2008-03-06T10:08:00.002-05:00

Thank goodness! For the first time in weeks--or has it been months?--I finally took a walk! I feel great!

It was a sunny but cold day today... but I didn't mind. I just bundled up, strapped on my iPod and went traipsing through my neighborhood. It felt great to get out and breathe some fresh air, even if my walk was fairly short (compared to pre-pregnancy exercise sessions).

I'd been taking it easy because of a minor pregnancy complication. But I hadn't seen any signs of the complication, and my body was feeling pretty good. Plus, my doc hadn't suggested bed rest, so I figured a short walk would be okay.

One reason I was anxious to walk is because a vicious bout of the flu is being passed around my family right now. Hubby was down with it a few days ago. The last thing I want to do is get sick, and I know exercise can help give my immune system a boost.

I'm so glad I got some exercise today! As long as everything stays okay with my pregnancy, I'm going to try and ease into an every-other-day habit. Now's a great time, too, since Spring is on the way!

Finding Insurance

2008-03-06T10:06:00.001-05:00

(Sponsored Post)

In the past, Hubby and I kept our insurance levels at the bare minimum. Essentially, we purchased just enough to cover our belongings, and we generally chose higher deductibles so we could lower our premiums. It seemed to be the wisest financial choice, since both of us are skilled professionals with income.

However, now that we have Baby on the way, we've had to rethink our position on insurance. Since this is our first child, we really have no idea what type of financial impact this "new addition" will have on our life. As a result, we both want to make sure that we have adequate insurance coverage in the event of an emergency, disaster or other damaging event.

And we're not the type of folks to blindly go with the first insurance company that offers us their business. Instead, we prefer to browse around and shop for price quotes to ensure that we get a good deal. Fortunately, there are plenty of insurance websites that can help us find the right coverage for the right price. Car Insurance, life insurance, homeowners insurance and health insurance are just a few of the different types of insurance that can be researched online.

Hubby and I haven't yet made any final decisions about the new insurance coverage we will need. But by researching different types of insurance with online insurance websites, we're confident that we'll be able to choose an insurance plan that meets our new and growing needs.

Fighting Disease With Diet

2008-03-02T23:41:00.002-05:00

My mom's long and painful struggle with cancer has really made me take a long, hard look at my own life.

We've all heard stories of people who "pointlessly" lived the "perfect" healthy life. They ate healthy foods, exercised regularly, didn't smoke, didn't drink excessively, and didn't do drugs. Yet they still ended up with fill-in-the-disease-here and died too young.

And we've also heard stories about very old people who lived extremely unhealthy lives. They ate nothing but potato chips and candy bars, they were sedentary couch potatoes, and they smoked 2 packs of cigs a day. And they also lived to be 90+ years old without a single major illness.

But health experts say that those people are the exception, not the rule.

So what's the truth? Is it all just a game of chance? Does living healthy really make a difference in the final outcome?

I've always believed that life is pretty much a craps shoot. But I've also believed that it's important to play the odds. By this I mean that healthy living doesn't guarantee a healthy life... but it does put the odds in your favor.

And to a certain extent... it's all about achieving some kind of balance between the "ideal" and the "realistic."

Or am I just deluding myself... and it's all just a matter of spinning the roulette wheel and hoping for the lucky number?

Seafood Awareness

2008-03-02T23:30:00.001-05:00

What did one oyster say to another?

We're still friends, even if you are a little cracked.

I know… I know… terrible joke. I never claimed to be the next Steven Wright.

But ever since I've started eating seafood again, I've been focusing more on the quality of my seafood. Although I think this type of food is generally healthy, there are some warnings associated with many different types of seafood.

Fortunately, websites like BeOysterAware.com help me learn more about the issues surrounding seafood, such as the risks and cautions associated with eating oysters.

BeOysterAware.com is a great place to learn about Gulf oysters as well as find new recipes for preparing and serving these mollusks. So check it out if you're looking for loads of information about oysters.

Potato Chips

2008-02-29T21:10:00.002-05:00

As many of you know, my mom is very ill. As a result, I've kind of been grabbing meals whenever and however I can. Many times this is a standard sandwich, since it's easy and simple.

Unfortunately, I have a horrible habit of eating potato chips with sandwiches. I like the contrasting texture of the potato chip's crunch. I also feel the need to have "just a little something" with a sandwich, and chips just seem to be the perfect accompaniment. (Why else would they always come with sandwiches in most restaurants and delis?)

I've been trying to come up with a healthier substitution for potato chips as a sandwich side dish. Pretzels and corn chips really aren't a better solution. Baby carrots or cucumber slices provide a crunch, but they're not really satisfying when it comes to taste. Anyone have a better suggestion?

No Exercise!

2008-02-20T18:04:00.003-05:00

Because of a (hopefully) minor complication, my doc told me to avoid exercise for a while. So what have I been doing in the meantime?

Well... my mom has been terribly sick, so I've been spending plenty of time with her. When I'm not at my parents' house, I'm usually:

Napping
Reading
Eating
Watching TV

It's a far cry from the healthy, active gal I used to be. But I console myself by planning my post-pregnancy diet and exercise plan. If everything goes well, I'll be prepared to shed the baby weight!

Homestyle Restaurants

2008-02-20T02:30:00.002-05:00

Depending on where you live, you may be familiar with "homestyle restaurants." The meals are supposed to mimic "homecooking," and generally include classic favorites like mashed potatoes, meatloaf, fried chicken and hamburgers.

In my part of the world, we have a homestyle restaurant on every neighborhood block. Quality differs, and in some cases may be just a step above the typical diner or "greasy spoon." Other homestyle restaurants, however, may actually come close to imitating the type of meals Grandma used to put on the table.

Choosing a healthy homestyle restaurant meal isn't always easy. Around here, butter is added to every vegetable. (Except green beans, which are cooked in ham broth.) Many dishes are fried, and the "wheat" bread is rarely 100% whole grain. Salads in homestyle restaurants are typically nothing more than some iceberg lettuce with a tomato slice and a couple of carrot shreds.

As a result, we try to avoid homestyle restaurants as much as possible. When forced to eat at one, however, I usually stick to these menu items:

Baked potato
Vegetable or seafood soups
Broiled fish

Not the healthiest of all meals--and I admit to sometimes indulging in a side of French fries--but better than most homestyle fare.

Valentine's Day Dinner

2008-02-14T17:57:00.004-05:00

My previous Valentine's Day would have included:

Expensive restaurant meal with wine... including dessert.
Wine at home

Total calorie consumption would have probably been 3,000 just for dinner and drinks (not including breakfast and lunch).

Today, however, Hubby and I dropped things back a notch. No wine (since it's not good for Baby), and lunch out instead of dinner. My lunch wasn't the greatest--crab cake sandwich and onion rings. But hey... that's what the Baby wanted!

By the time the day is through, I'll probably have consumed a total of 2,200 calories. Much less than previous Valentine Day celebrations... and almost right on target for a pregnant lady needs.

The biggest saving grace is the lack of wine... since a bottle can easily have 1,000 calories (and it wasn't unusual for me to drink a bottle on my own during "special" occasions). Whew! It's always hard to believe how many calories I was really consuming during the days I was still drinking.

Domain Registration

2008-02-14T17:55:00.000-05:00

(Sponsored Post)

I own a few different blogs, but most of them rely on the blogger platform domain name. However, I've been thinking about using a domain registration service for some of the more popular ones.

Registering a domain name would give my visitors an easy-to-remember website URL for my blogs. If I want to increase traffic and boost my blog's performance, a domain name is practically essential.

Paylessdomains.com.au is a great service for bloggers who want a new domain name. It's relatively inexpensive, and it offers lots of extra features (for a fee), such as web hosting packages, email hosting and SSL Security Certificates. Register for more than one domain name and you can get discounts, too. The service is perfect for anyone looking for an Australian domain name.

I've registered domain names in the past, and the process is always very simple and easy. If you're hoping to boost traffic and develop a popular blog, a domain name is an inexpensive way to create a memorable blog URL.

Taking It Easy

2008-02-11T20:07:00.000-05:00

So because of a minor pregnancy complication, my doc advised that I "take it easy" for a little while. This means I've been spending the last couple of days on the couch. I am the quintessential couch potato. I'm surprised that the TV remote control hasn't become permanently embedded in the palm of my hand.

Another downside to "taking it easy" is that I'm trying to spend very little time on my feet, which means I am eating meals that require very little kitchen prep. My typical daily menu includes a few frozen dinners and the occasional delivery pizza or Chinese. Not exactly the healthiest foods.

Fortunately, Hubby is off work for a few days... so he can cook for me and pamper me! We just loaded up on a bunch of groceries, so he has plenty of ingredients for healthy meals. Now I only need to convince him that salad is a better dinner choice than fish 'n' chips!

Kustom Fitness Website

2008-02-11T13:27:00.000-05:00

(Sponsored Post)

The web can be a great tool for anyone looking to get fit, lose weight or become healthy. And it doesn't have to cost a lot of money! Kustom Fitness is a free website that allows you to plan your diet, track your goals, schedule workouts and more!

Kustom Fitness is also a great social networking website. You'll be able to meet friends and workout partners who share the same interest in fitness and weight loss. By joining a group of likeminded folks, you'll be more likely to stick to your healthy lifestyle since you'll have support and encouragement from others.

The website even offers Kustom Fitness Mobile, which allows you to stay connected through your cell phone!

And though there are a few additional services that require payment, most of these tools are absolutely free!

Maternity Exercise Gear

2008-02-07T21:48:00.001-05:00

At this point, I can still squeeze into some of the larger exercise sweatpants and shirts that I purchased after finding out about my pregnancy. But in a very short period of time--probably just another few weeks--I'm going to have trouble fitting into my workout clothing. As a result, I've been doing some browsing for maternity exercise clothes.

The results? In the secondhand market (eBay, thrift stores, etc.), there's almost no maternity exercise clothing. The same is true of discount stores (like Wal-Mart). There are some very pricey specialty stores that sell maternity workout gear, but the cost is crazy! A 3-piece yoga suit like this one costs $118! That's way ridiculous!

Since I'm not running or doing anything super strenuous, I don't really need fancy moisture wicking fabrics. I'll probably be ok in just plain cotton tees and shorts this summer. It's not the best choice, but it's certainly the most economical.

Get Paid To Blog

2008-02-07T21:44:00.000-05:00

(Sponsored post)

Many bloggers are trying to monetize their blogs, and why not? It's a great way to earn a few bucks for doing something you love. And now there's a new program in town--named Smorty--that allows you to write your opinions about websites, services and products in exchange for payment.

If you're an opinionated person and you like to share your thoughts, Smorty is a great way to get paid to blog. Personally, the idea of getting paid for blogging appeals to both the frugal and practical aspects of my personality.

The process is simple! Sign up, wait for your blog to be approved, and then accept opportunities as they arise. Opportunities do go quickly, but plenty are available for even small bloggers. In no time at all I had gotten this blog approved and was writing my first post for money.

So if you're looking for a way to blog for money, check out Smorty. It's simple, easy and fun, too!

Sushi Without The Fish

2008-02-03T19:04:00.000-05:00

Ok... they may not be the healthiest meal in the world. But they're terribly tasty and relatively easy to make, plus Hubby enjoys the leftovers in his lunchbox. They're basically a very plain sushi roll.

I simply make up a batch of sushi rice with my trusty rice cooker. (Don't waste your time or money on a cheap-o rice cooker. Spend the cash and buy a Zojirushi Rice Cooker and Warmer. It's totally worth the money.)

Then I take a sheet of toasted nori (sometimes I cut the sheet in half) and slather on the rice until it forms a thin layer. Sometimes I add veggies (like avocado) on top, other times I just leave it plain. I roll it up as I would a roll of sushi, then cut into pieces. That's it! Sometimes I cut one roll into two pieces and just eat it in bites like a hotdog.

(Here's a link to simple instructions that illustrate the steps I take: http://sushifan.com/make_sushi.html)

I could make it healthier with short grain brown rice instead of white sushi rice... and sometimes I do. Nori is pretty healthy--it's a sea veggie--so I feel I'm at least getting my vegetables when I eat this snack. And if I use a filling like avocado or asparagus, I get a little nutritional boost, too.

Slacking on exercise...

2008-01-30T13:41:00.000-05:00

It seems like everything is conspiring against me... or, at least, my ability to exercise.

My mom's been very sick, so I've been spending a lot of afternoons with her. Hubby's been working a lot (and I prefer to exercise with him). The weather's been super cold and windy, so outdoor walks don't really work right now. And I've been incredibly tired (probably a combination of physical and emotional exhaustion).

Sounds like a bunch of excuses, right?

I guess that's really all it is. I'm making a bunch of lame-0 excuses to justify my lack of exercise. Looking over my workout journal, I've been averaging one short walk per week.

That's hardly acceptable.

If I don't exercise during this pregnancy, I'll probably continue to feel tired and exhausted. Which means I'll be a tired and exhausted "new mom." Which means it'll take me even longer to lose the baby weight.

The smartest thing I can do right now is stay active throughout this pregnancy. Regular workouts now--even if they're just brisk walks--will help me lose the weight once the baby is born. So I gotta get motivated to do it, even if I don't feel like it.

Frozen Meals

2008-01-26T14:24:00.000-05:00

I've become a frozen meal junkie.

I've always stayed away from frozen meals--except the occasional Amy's Organic Meal--because they're loaded with chemicals, preservatives and sodium. The only benefit to these meals at all is that they're calorie-controlled. Most "healthy" versions contain around 300 calories. Add an extra dish of veggies, and it's a pretty decent sized meal for very little calories.

Hubby works past dinner time a lot of evenings, which means I have to fend for myself. In the past, I might have made myself a healthy stir-fry or nibbled on a bowl of soup. These days, however, I just don't have the energy or motivation to cook.

The result? I am eating frozen meals all the time. I mostly stick with vegetarian versions, like beans/rice or spaghetti marinara. Nonetheless, these aren't exactly well-rounded meals. (In truth, I don't make that extra side of veggies like I should.)

I'm going to have to start thinking of some options for quick and easy healthy meals that require very little cooking.

Human Touch Massage Chairs

2008-01-26T14:22:00.000-05:00

This is a sponsored post

During this pregnancy, I have experienced most of the typical pregnancy side effects and symptoms… including back pain. I've been longing for a quality massage that can help ease some of the discomfort I'm feeling through my shoulders and back.

So I was amazed and delighted to discover Human Touch Massage Chairs, which have advanced computer controls. These chairs are designed to relieve pain and alleviate stress with massage technology that replicates the feel of a real massage! They're customizable so you can create an experience almost identical to the one you'd receive from a human massage professional.

One of the favorite features of this product is that it gives you a full body massage--shoulders, back and legs. I'm currently experiencing some pain in those areas, and I know a chair like this would help me find some relief.

Food Diary

2008-01-21T13:45:00.000-05:00

Even though I am currently pregnant, I still keep a food diary. When I'm trying to lose weight, cut fat or build muscle mass, a food diary helps me track my diet to ensure that I'm getting the proper nutrition for my goals. I figured it could do the same for me during pregnancy.

But keeping my food diary, I help ensure that both me and the baby are getting plenty of nutrients. I can quickly glance at a week's worth of entries to find out if I'm short on veggies, fruit or whole grains. I can also find out if I've been having too many treats of ice cream and brownies.

I've been keeping this food diary for years. Simplicity is one of the reasons I've been able to maintain it. I don't track macronutrients, and in some cases I don't even track portion sizes. A typical entry might look like this:

10:00 AM: 3 scrambled egg whites, 1 slice whole wheat toast, 1/2 apple

Although it's not incredibly detailed, it's just enough info to help me stay on track.

Auto Warranties

2008-01-21T13:42:00.000-05:00

This is a sponsored post

Although I consider myself a "green" environmentalist, Hubby and I own a gas-guzzling SUV. The reason? We fancy ourselves to be outdoor enthusiasts, and I love to exercise outside. So we wanted a vehicle that would hold our bikes and provide the 4-wheel drive we'd need to go up a mountain.

As a result, our SUV takes a beating. At one point, we considered purchasing an Auto Warranty. Auto warranties generally cover more than the factory warranty, and they're a great choice for car owners who tend to be a little rough on their vehicles. They may also be useful for folks who want a little extra protection and peace of mind.

To learn more about auto warranties, check out the personal finance website FinanceGenius.com. It's full of information about all things related to money, including insurance, auto warranties, student loans, mortgages and more.

Slowing down...

2008-01-20T12:11:00.000-05:00

Since it was cold today, I decided to hop on the treadmill. Imagine my surprise to discover that I'm walking at about half the speed of my pre-pregnancy walks. It was a huge shock to me. I knew that I had slowed down... but I had no idea how much I had slowed.

I did some very light upper body stuff today. And, again, I cut back the weight about 50%. It was a dramatic change.

I figure this change in the feel of my workouts is for a few different reasons:

My changing body: I'm carrying more weight, and my lungs are starting to get smushed by my insides. (I've even noticed that I get short of breath more easily just doing basic housework.) This means less endurance, less energy, etc.
I'm less fit: If truth is to be told, I'm simply less fit. I barely moved during the "queasy" phase of my first trimester. And I dialed everything back a notch so I didn't do anything risky during those early days. Since it's been months and months since I've gone on a real run or done any real weight lifting, I've clearly lost some of both my aerobic and strength capacities.
I'm nervous: Even though I'm in the "safer" zone of the second trimester, I'm still worried about straining my body too hard. If I weren't pregnant, I would be physically capable of pushing myself harder and accomplishing more on the treadmill. But I don't want to do any single thing that might cause problems for me and the baby.

So... until this pregnancy is over, I guess I'll just do my best to stay fit with my lighter workouts. It's been hard for me to mentally accept, but I don't really have a choice.

Veggies

2008-01-17T15:48:00.000-05:00

I've been trying to find a way to eat more veggies.

Normally, I am a total veg-head. But ever since this pregnancy, I've kind of lost my taste for them. So now I'm trying to "trick" myself into eating more. Here are a few things I've been doing:

Snacking on veggies and dip
Mixing broccoli and cheese (and serving over a baked potato)
Adding chopped veggies to omelettes
Cooking pots of veggie soup (and adding extra cabbage)
Mixing veggies into ramen noodles
Adding extra veggies to sandwiches

It's still not as good as eating things like veggie stir-fry, but at least it's a start. Hopefully, in the near future, I'll re-develop my taste for vegetables. A small part of me does miss meals like veggie casseroles.

On the plus side, I've really been enjoying fruit. In the past, I always had to force myself to eat it. Now, in a strange twist of fate, I can't seem to get enough bananas, blueberries and clementines. (Although I still hate apples.)

Walking

2008-01-10T15:03:00.000-05:00

Went for a 30 minute walk today. I'm having some leg/hip pain, so it's not exactly a speed walk. But at least it's something.

DH has been great about coming along with me. Many times we bring the dogs, too, so they get a chance to exercise. It's a nice way for the whole family to get some "bonding" time together... and I'm hoping he keeps walking with me for a while.

I have to go out and get some new sports bras soon. My boobs have gotten bigger and they no longer fit into my old bras. And even though I'm not doing any high-impact exercise, the girls still need a little support!

Back to Basics

2008-01-09T12:07:00.000-05:00

My morning sickness has finally subsided, and veggies are starting to sound good again. (Well, at least as good as veggies can get.) I am trying to eat at least a few servings a day, but it's not always easy (unless you count the tomato sauce on my pizza).

One good thing about pregnancy is that I am enjoying sweeter foods... which means I've actually developed a taste for fruit! In the past, I avoided fruit as "too sweet." But now I find myself craving things like bananas and berries. (On the downside, I am also craving pudding and cookies.)

I'm also craving white, starchy carbs... things like potatoes, rice and pasta. Can't seem to get enough of it! And, unfortunately, I'm not doing enough exercise to justify the large portions I'm eating.

But as I enter the second trimester... hopefully I'll get a handle on my cravings.

My Health "Condition"

2008-01-02T10:49:00.000-05:00

So... as many of you know, I've been changing my eating habits and limiting my exercise because of a health condition. Well... it's time to break the news:

My "condition" is a bun in the oven!

Hubby and I are pregnant with our first child... a big thrill for both of us.

I will continue posting here, as I want to keep my diet as nutritious as possible throughout this pregnancy. (Though I haven't been doing such a great job so far.) Also, I am going to keep walking as long as this pregnancy permits, since staying fit will help me bounce back after the baby is born.

In the meantime, I am also keeping a pregnancy blog here: http://bitsofpieces.wordpress.com/

Cold, Cough, Congestion

2007-12-27T22:53:00.000-05:00

On Christmas night, I started getting a tickle in my throat and a runny nose.

By the next morning, it had blown into a major cold. I had all the typical symptoms: cough, running nose, sore throat, sneezing, aches and chills.

I've spent the last few days lying around... I've been drinking tea and sipping soup, and watching bad daytime TV. It sucks... 'cause I really want to get out and go for a walk. The weather is super mild for late-December, and it's perfect "jog around the neighborhood" temperatures.

But I know better than to push myself when I'm feeling sick... since my top priority is ridding myself of this cold as fast as possible. I'm even going to skip a party tomorrow night because I know I need the rest!

Merry Christmas

2007-12-21T18:11:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas!

I'll be taking a break from blogging--at least 'til after Christmas, possibly until the New Year. I hope everyone has a happy and healthy holiday!

Christmas Parties

2007-12-17T13:14:00.000-05:00

Fortunately for me, Hubby and I have few holiday events this year. We did his "work" party, which consisted of a nice buffet. (I had some steamed veggies, potatoes and salad. I admit to having a piece of dessert, too.) Since I'm on the wagon, I only drank water... which probably saved me about 500 calories, since normally I would have had at least 4-5 glasses of wine.

I expect Christmas Eve will be a relatively light meal. My mom's been sick lately, so she'll probably just throw together something small. I might bring a dish, too. And if I do, it'll be something healthy like a nice veggie casserole.

Christmas Day will probably be my biggest obstacle. We do a heavy breakfast, dinner and late supper... so I have to restrain all day long. Fortunately, the meals seem to come so close together that I'm pretty much stuffed by the time I reach the next event... which cuts down on my portions.

After that I only have to deal with a friend's dinner party--not a problem--and New Year's (I'll probably snack a bit).

Being "on the wagon" will be a lifesaver for my waistline this season. I usually drink alcohol at every holiday get-together... probably between 500-1,000 calories. By avoiding alcohol at just 4 events, I've saved myself a pound of weight gain. Pretty cool.

Light Lifting

2007-12-11T13:04:00.000-05:00

My current health condition means I've had to kick back my cardio workouts to just walking... which isn't bad, but isn't great either. (I've decided to add some elliptical machine in at some point, perhaps.)

I'd also cut out strength training to be extra cautious, but then I started to notice a big difference in my upper body strength. I couldn't even really see a muscle when I flexed my bicep! So I am now adding some strength training back in to my routine. I'm just doing some upper body stuff--bicep curls, tricep extensions, military presses--with some light weights (8 lbs.). It's not much, but at least I feel like I'm doing something.

Overall, I'd call my exercise routine light but adequate. It's just enough to keep me from turning into a total couch potato, but not enough to see any gains. In fact, it's probably not even enough to maintain my current level of fitness. All it does it slow down my fitness loss.

Still... research suggests that a brisk walk most days of the week coupled with some light strength training is the minimum we need to improve our health. So even if I'm not in "athletic" mode, I'm at least doing something good for my heart, muscles, bones and body.

Rethinking My Diet

2007-12-08T18:10:00.001-05:00

For quite a number of years, I've been a vegan. This means I've eschewed all animal products, including dairy, eggs and seafood. I became vegan mostly for ethical reasons, although environmental and health reasons were also considerations.

During the last few weeks, however, I've been seriously rethinking my position. Here's why:

Fish: It's almost impossible to refute the evidence that certain seafoods are extremely healthy for humans. (And, from an ethical standpoint, Jesus ate fish.)
Eggs: My biggest problem with eggs was always the treatment of chickens in large egg-laying plants. But obtaining eggs from a genuine free-range farm (local, so I can actually see the farm and chickens) eliminates that issue.
Dairy: Again, the treatment of the cows (and the hormones) were always the sticking point for me when it came to dairy. Organic and local dairy products can help ease my mind.

The primary reason I've been reconsidering this, however, is because Hubby and I are thinking about having children (some day). And, in the event that happens, I won't be raising them as vegans. For one thing, raising a vegan child is a great way to have social services knocking on your door. For another, I don't think it's healthy to give children inordinate amounts of soy, which often happens in a vegan diet. And finally, I believe veganism is a personal choice of ethics, one that my child is free to make on his/her own when he/she is capable of intellectual reason.

And if I'm not going to raise my child as vegan, what's the point of eating vegan myself? I'm certainly not going to prepare three different meals--a vegan one for me, a vegetarian one for the kids, and a meat one for Hubby--at dinner!

I think I could be comfortable feeding both me and any future children a lacto-ovo-pescetarian diet. And Hubby would be willing to go along with that diet, too, I think.

Health Enemy

2007-12-05T14:59:00.001-05:00

The TV is probably my absolute worst enemy when it comes to health and fitness. Here's why:

After my workday, I am more likely to plop on the couch instead of going for a walk.
I eat a lot of meals in front of the TV, which means I'm not really conscious about my portion sizes (and it takes more food to satisfy my appetite).
When I watch movies and fun shows, I like to munch on snack foods.
Watching TV means lying practically motionless on the sofa.

I'd like to combat my TV addiction and start doing smarter things for my health. So I've decided to try and:

Limit the amount of TV I watch... down to 2 hours per day.
Switch to healthier snacks such as air-popped popcorn and fresh veggies.
Try to be "active" during TV time, even if I'm just knitting a scarf.
Start eating meals at the dining table instead of in the living room.
Give myself exercise rewards: If I workout that day, I get extra TV time.

It may take me a while to make all those changes, but those are my ultimate goals.

Treadmill

2007-12-03T14:57:00.000-05:00

Back on the treadmill today! I dislike the treadmill, but it's sooooo windy and cold outside. I decided it was better to do a brisk walk inside than to bundle up and fight the bitter weather.

The one benefit to the treadmill is that I get to watch TV while I exercise. And now that I'm walking instead of running, it's a lot easier to concentrate on a show. I'm not a big fan of daytime TV, but I sometimes watch Discovery Health or TLC or the Style network.

I've definitely noticed that my pace has slowed lately... even my "brisk" walking isn't so brisk anymore. And it makes me sooooo jealous when I hear Hubby trotting away on the treadmill at a speedy run. But because of my health issues right now, I got to take it easy. So I'm trying to be as patient with myself as possible.

And I figure a little bit of exercise--even if it's just light walking--is better than nothing.

Stretching My Foot

2007-11-27T15:21:00.000-05:00

Since I've pretty much cut out running--and am down to just strolling through the neighborhood--my foot hasn't been bothering me. In fact, it's been feeling pretty darn good. So I think it's safe to say that my plantar fasciitis is definitely a result of running.

Of course, since it's feeling good now, I should probably be stretching it to keep it nice and pliable. But I just keep forgetting to do it! I have always been bad about stretching... it's my least favorite part of exercise. I occasionally do some yoga, but not very often. It just bores me.

Let's face it: I am a give-me-the-action kind of gal. But I know I need to start stretching more. Not just my foot, but all my muscles. I just gotta find the motivation to do it.

Energy!

2007-11-26T16:18:00.000-05:00

Went for a walk this morning... my first walk in about a week. It was only 40 minutes, but I felt great afterwards! This is the first time I've had any real energy in quite a while! I told Hubby that I need to make these morning walks a habit.

My iPod mix had been designed for running, however, so most of the tunes were too upbeat for my walk. I'm hoping to find some time this evening to put together a walking mix for the future. If everything goes ok with my current health condition, I should be able to keep walking for at least four or five more months. So it makes sense to make a new music playlist.

I've also got to get more dedicated about journaling my food. Ever since I dropped the habit, it's been hard to restart it. And these days I'm eating lots of snacks since my stomach just can't handle big meals... so that means I'm constantly jotting down my food in my notebook. Still, a diet journal is one of the best tools for tracking my nutrition. So I just gotta get motivated to do it.

Printer Cartridges

2007-11-26T14:29:00.000-05:00

This is a sponsored post

I'm a writer and editor, so I use a lot of paper. Although I write on my computer, I prefer to do my final edits on a hard copy. As a result, I also use a lot of printer ink. And it's not always easy to find the right ink cartridge for my printer.

Fortunately, CartridgeFinder.com has an easy-to-use Cartridge Finder that's designed to help you find the right ink cartridge for you based on your printer brand and model. Even better, the website has teamed up with PriceGrabber to help you find the lowest price on the cartridge, too!

Personally, I think it’s great that I can get a low price on my printer ink cartridges, since the cost can really add up quickly!

Thanksgiving Hangover

2007-11-23T12:02:00.000-05:00

Fortunately, mine isn't too bad today.

I have totally stopped drinking, so I didn't have any wine or beer yesterday. And even though I had to eat two dinners (one at my parents, one at the in-laws), I managed not to overdo it at either.

For me, the worst part about Thanksgiving is that all the food is beige! Mashed potatoes, corn, bread... all the stuff that I can usually eat is beige in color and has very little nutritional value. Normally I'd bring my own healthy dish--like a veggie casserole--but this year I just didn't feel like cooking. So I ate beige, not-very-healthy foods yesterday.

I'm hoping to try and take a walk today, even though it's a little chilly outside. I haven't gotten much exercise lately, and it's time for me to get moving.

World's Weirdest Diet

2007-11-15T15:03:00.000-05:00

A few days ago, I bit my tongue really really bad while I was sleeping. Since then, it hurts to eat anything.

On top of that, I have a sore throat.

So, for the past three day, I've only been able to eat soup.

Soup!

And when I got weighed at the doctor's office yesterday, I was three pounds lighter than I expected. How funny!

More Walking

2007-11-08T14:21:00.001-05:00

I've never been a huge fan of walking. In the past, I've usually "fitness" walked for one of four reasons:

1. To warm-up before a jog
2. To cool-down after a jog
3. To get some exercise if I'm suffering an injury
4. To ease back into a running program after a long absence

Well, I've been walking for exercise during the past week. It's not an everyday thing yet, but it'll be 5 days this week by Saturday. Hubby has been joining me, which gives us a chance to spend a little time together. I haven't been walking as briskly as I'd like--still need an "ok" from my doctor first--but at least I'm doing something.

If my doctor tells me to take it easy for a while, I've been trying to think of some other low-impact activities to do. Personally, I love swimming. I think it's a great meditation-type exercise. Unfortunately, the nearest pool is about 20 minutes away... plus it requires a pretty expensive membership. I'm not sure if I'd be motivated enough to actually drive there... and pay the financial price, too.

Another option might be the elliptical machine. We have one in our home gym, so it's very convenient. We also have a recumbent stationary bike, which could be a good option, too.

Still... there is something I like about being outside... especially this time of year. So I might stick to walking for now. Perhaps I'll even learn to like it.

FitnessBliss Bells Software Review

2007-11-08T14:19:00.000-05:00

This is a sponsored post

Many fitness enthusiasts--including myself--prefer to exercise in the comfort of our own homes rather than the noisy, crowded environment of a gym. And dumbbells are perfect exercise equipment for the work-at-home fitness buff. They're economical and they take up very little space in a home gym.

However, it's not always easy to think of new exercises that can be done with dumbbells. Fortunately, now you can use FitnessBliss Bells. This software is designed to help exercisers create dumbbell weight-lifting routines that will keep your workouts varied and interesting!

The software includes a diagram of your muscles (so you know which body parts you're targeting), pictures of the exercise being executed (to help you understand proper form), a schedule with sets/reps, and a place to track your progress. You can see a sample of it here.

FitnessBliss Bells features more than 100 different dumbbell exercises, so you'll never get bored! You'll be able to target all the muscles of your body with this innovative software. FitnessBliss Bells even includes pre-designed routines that are specific for certain athletes, such as baseball players or golfers. By choosing one of these routines, you can immediately begin working out with a program that's designed to help boost your performance in your preferred sport.

The software is intuitive and easy to use, so it's simple to design your own, custom dumbbell workout program. And since you can easily print out your plan and progress sheets, the workout can be handily referenced in any setting or environment.

Walking and Eating

2007-11-06T18:29:00.001-05:00

Hubby and I have been walking about 40 minutes every day. Nothing too brisk, but it's enough to at least make me feel like I've accomplished something! It keeps me from being a total couch potato, at least.

My diet is just so-so. I do have my "bad" moments--sometimes I just really want French fries, dammit!--but other times I do pretty good. I've been making a lot of veggie stir-fry with brown rice lately... it's easy to reheat the leftovers, and I feel like it's pretty healthy for me. I've also been eating more fruit, especially apples.

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, but I'm not too worried about it. My vegan diet generally means that I avoid the typical temptations at holiday gatherings. No cookies or cakes or pies for me! And when I go to my parents or in-laws, I usually can't eat the mashed potatoes (butter & milk) or stuffing (turkey broth) either. So I just bring a few healthy dishes to share and enjoy the fact that I don't have to worry about overstuffing myself on unhealthy foods.

I do admit, though, that I usually make my own vegan mashed potatoes and stuffing (with mushroom gravy) around that time... sometimes I bring a little to Thanksgiving dinner. They are two of my favorite foods! And that way I get to indulge a bit and not feel totally deprived. I just try and keep the portions reasonable.

Explanation for Silence

2007-11-02T12:11:00.001-05:00

So.... I wanted to explain my silence.

Right now I kind of have a health condition that prevents me from doing any real, strenuous workouts. I'm not quite ready to share the details about it, and will let you all know more when I hear from my doctor.

Anyhoo... until then I have bumped back my exercise to just simple walking. And I'm trying to eat as healthy as I can. That means plenty of veggies/fruits and lots of whole grains.

Crampy and Cranky

2007-10-24T11:29:00.000-05:00

Ever have one of those days? Probably, if you're female.

Anyway, today I feel seriously crampy and definitely cranky. I keep growling at poor Hubby, who's just trying to be a nice guy.

Normally I would bury these feelings under a mound of something full of carbs--spaghetti, bread, Chinese food, pizza. But I've heard that healthy eating can actually ease PMS symptoms. So today, instead of indulging in typical pre-PMS munchies, I'm going to try eating healthy fruits and veggies.

It might help a lot with my cramps... but I'm having my doubts about whether it'll ease my crankiness.

Autumn Health

2007-10-18T13:12:00.000-05:00

Today I glanced out my kitchen window to see a tree's leaves, starting to yellow and orange from the season, fluttering in an autumn wind. I could almost smell the crisp fall air, lightly scented with a hint of smoke from a far-away neighbor's wood stove.

It certainly made me feel like autumn was here... and here to stay.

There are two reasons I love autumn:

It's perfect running weather. Sometimes I only need shorts and a long-sleeve tee. Other times I need running tights and a light jacket. Nonetheless, fall weather is perfect for long runs through the neighborhood. (I hate the stifling heat of the summer.)

It's perfect soup weather. I think soup is the most convenient health food. You can make a big pot that lasts all week long, so it gives you multiple meals for just one cooking session. Even better, you can add almost anything to it, so you can get all your protein, carbs and veggies without the hassle of needing a side dish.

I'm thrilled that fall is finally here. It's enough to make me want to get outside and run!

Bling!

2007-10-18T12:56:00.000-05:00

(This is a sponsored post)

Generally speaking, I am not the flashy type. The only jewelry I wear consistently is a plain, white gold cross necklace, my wedding band and my diamond engagement ring.

On special occasions, however, I will change my necklace and add earrings. For those types of events, I prefer elegant, expensive jewelry. And one of my favorite stores to browse for this type of jewelry is JrDunn.

The store's website offers a huge variety of jewelry, including diamond engagement rings and pearl earrings.

Whether you're shopping for yourself or someone else, JrDunn is likely to have that perfect piece of jewelry for every occasion.

Odds and Ends

2007-10-15T14:05:00.000-05:00

Just some odds and ends about my life and my pursuit of fitness:

I have just recently quit--totally quit--smoking again. (And, as a result, I've quit drinking, too... at least until I get a handle on life without cigs.) So I'm ready to jump start my fitness program again. It's time to clear out these lungs and get off my tush!

I took a short break from tracking my food, but I am back to a daily journal of my meals and snacks. It helps keep me accountable, and it reminds me to stay focused. So far, so good...

I have pulled out all my winter clothes, which means it's time for running tights instead of running shorts. I gotta admit... I love running tights. They just feel so good against my skin!

My left foot is still bothering me... it seems to be something I may suffer from for the rest of my life. I haven't been very diligent about stretching and icing it. I'm making a commitment to stretch it at least twice a day.

Workout Clothing Coupons

2007-10-15T12:15:00.000-05:00

(This is a sponsored post)

If you're a regular reader of my blog, you know how much I love to shop… especially for fitness and exercise clothing. Fortunately, websites like EdealFinder.com provides coupons and deals to all my favorite stores.

Since I'm a big bargain hunter, I especially love to shop at discount stores. Kohl's coupons help me pay even less than their already low prices. Their activewear section usually has some fitness and exercise clothing that I can wear while doing yoga, stretching or aerobics. Occasionally I find a great deal on sports bras and athletic shorts, too!

These types of clothing can easily cost $20-$50 each at a regular retail store. But when I combine Kohl's discount coupons and the store's low prices, I can often drop the cost to 50% less than the regular retail price. And in my opinion, that's a real bargain!

EdealFinder.com offers other deals, too, like 1800PetMeds coupons and Zappos.com bargains.

Work Stress

2007-10-11T17:47:00.000-05:00

To be successful, you must decide exactly what you want to accomplish, then resolve to pay the price to get it. ~ Bunker Hunt

I keep this quote on a post-it note stuck to my computer monitor, and I read it every day.

For me, it sums up everything in my life. Career. Fitness. Family.

Everything worth obtaining requires sacrifice. But first it requires decision.

I decide to be healthy and fit. I acknowledge the sacrifices I must make to achieve that goal. Then I resolve to pay the price--to make the sacrifices--to achieve it.

It's a quote that inspires and motivates. It reminds us that diligence, persistence and dedication are the keys to achieving our dreams. And it is a painful reminder that we must always pay a price.

I'd never heard of Bunker Hunt, so today I Googled his name. Apparently, he was an American oil executive who bankrupted his company when he tried to (illegally) corner the market on silver in the 1980s. He was convicted of the crime.

So I guess he paid his price, too.

And I have to ask myself: Are some of the things I'm willing to sacrifice for success--time with family, meals with loved ones, parties with friends--are those sacrifices really any better than Bunker Hunt's? Or does it always come down to selfishness in the end?

Walking Tours For Fitness and Fun

2007-10-11T17:44:00.000-05:00

Although I've lived most of my life above the Mason-Dixon line, I consider myself to be a mix of Yankee and Southern Belle. The southerner in me loves the hospitality, friendliness and slower pace of the southern states. As a result, I've always wanted to take a trip to South Carolina.

My Mother-In-Law was raised in Charleston, and I've been considering a tour of the city. But since I've never been to Charleston, I prefer to let the experts guide my sightseeing. Fortunately, travel service Trusted Tours and Attractions offers a Charleston Tour that includes sightseeing.

A tour is a fun way to see a new city, and it's something I've always wanted to try. I love the idea of a themed tour, and those of you who regularly read my blog will understand why "The Pub Walk of Charleston" sounds so appealing to me!

Hubby is a lot more interested in history, though, so I could see him finding interest in "The Charleston Civil War Walking Tour." The great thing about this particular tour is that it combines history with exercise, so at least I'll be able to walk off some of that tasty southern food! The "Original Charleston Walk" is another great way to get some exercise while I learn about the local history and legends.

If you prefer a more northern destination, this travel service also offers Boston Tours and tours in other cities, like Chicago and Niagara Falls.

LSD versus HIIT

2007-10-10T12:33:00.000-05:00

They may sound like the latest street drugs, but they're really two different styles of training. And I'm trying to decide between the two of them.

Long Slow Distance (LSD): These types of runs are generally reserved for the training of endurance athletes. I suppose, however, that anyone can do LSD training... it's just the "distance" is all relative to experience. LSD runs are usually a runner's "long" run of the week. Depending on ability, it can be as long as 20+ miles (or as short as 2 or 3).
Pros: Builds stamina; necessary training for anyone who wants to complete an endurance race
Cons: Not much of a fat burner; takes a long time

High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): These are the types of cardio workouts recommended in Body for Life. They're generally very short--in BFL they last 20 minutes or so. HIIT workouts involve short bursts of "high intensity" (such as running so fast your guts practically fall out) followed by periods of recovery time (jogging or slower running). This pattern is repeated over and over again through the entire workout.
Pros: Torches calories in a serious way; short
Cons: Doesn't allow for much endurance training

So which one should I do?

While I really want to burn calories and shed some fat, I also want to get started training for some endurance events.

I think I'll try to combine the best of both worlds and do four runs each week.

1 LSD
1 HIIT
1 short, easy recovery run
1 "fun" run

That should keep my plan varied and interesting.

Body For Life

2007-10-06T13:08:00.000-05:00

I know there are at least a few bloggers out there who have tried Body for Life. It's a 12-week diet and fitness plan--fairly stringent--that's designed to help you lose weight and build muscle. (Although I tend to think it's mostly a "cutting" plan rather than a muscle-building plan.)

The basic tenants are this:

1. 5-6 mini meals per day, each of which contain one "portion" of protein and one "portion" of carbs
2. A "portion" is a serving approximately the size of your palm or fist
3. Veggies--like spinach, lettuce and broccoli--can be added to every meal
4. Workouts are either cardio (20 minute high intensity interval sessions) or weights (a half pyramid with a compound pump set)
5. Workouts are rotated each day (day of cardio, day of weights, day of cardio, etc.) six days a week
6. Day 7 is a "free" and "rest" day; no exercise, and you can eat anything you want

Follow the plan and you'll get visible results in 12 weeks.

Personally, I have always believed that Body for Life is a solid plan. It teaches portion control, regular eating habits and regular exercise. It balances cardio and strength training. And it teaches us to indulge--just a little bit--every once in a while.

Hubby and I are thinking about starting up this program again on Monday. I'm looking forward to it.

Water

2007-10-02T15:07:00.000-05:00

Everyone used to agree that 8 glasses of water is best for optimal health. But lately I've been hearing that it's all a myth. In fact, according to my favorite health guru Dr. Oz, we get plenty of water from food and other beverages. And drinking lots of water doesn't really make our skin any healthier or more supple!

Even though experts have been saying that the "8 glasses a day" is a myth, I still try and drink a lot of water. It's refreshing on a hot day, and it helps me rehydrate after I workout. I find that I am likely to get a headache on days when I don't drink much water.

There is one unfortunate side effect, though. I find myself running to the bathroom every hour or so! Some people say that this eventually stops as your body gets used to the extra water, but that's never happened for me. I always have to go, even if I've been drinking plenty of water for months. It's rather inconvenient at times, like at the movie theater or when I'm grocery shopping.

Nonetheless, I still tend to think it's better to try and drink those 8 glasses if possible.

What about you? Do you drink a lot of water?

Healthy Holiday Gifts

2007-10-02T15:04:00.000-05:00

Yes, I know it seems kind of early (to some). But I'm already writing my Christmas gift list! Instead of giving everyone another sweater or necktie, this year I've decided to give healthy gifts!

Most of my friends and family know about my interest in all things diet and fitness, and many of them could use a little extra "push" toward a healthier lifestyle. And, fortunately, I can save money on these gifts with coupon codes from websites like CouponChief.com!

So here's my gift list for those I love most:

Hubby: He already enjoys a good run or weight lifting workout, so I think he'll get some new workout shorts and shirts with from Champion Catalog bargains.

Parents: They're a little bit older, so I'm going to scour the Footlocker coupons to find them some nicely priced walking shoes.

Friends: Most of my friends enjoy beer as their beverage of choice, so I'm going to find some cool water bottles with Sierra Trading Post deals. Maybe they'll start drinking more water and less beer!

Me: I'm going to get myself a little holiday gift, too! On my wish list this year is a new sports bra, which I know I can find at a bargain price with Dicks Sporting Goods coupons.

Bad Blogger

2007-10-01T15:25:00.000-05:00

I've been a very bad blogger! My posts have been sporadic at best. I've had an out-of-town guest, I've been swamped with work, and things in my personal life are a little stressful right now.

Not that I'm trying to make excuses... *wink*

Just as an overview...

I'm still trying to get back on track with my exercise program. Unfortunately, I've been in a bit of a funk lately, and it's been kind of hard to get my tush off my couch. To make matters worse, Hubby and I have been totally immersed in an XBox game. I should've bought Dance Dance Revolution instead. At least it requires movement!

My nutrition plan has been fairly solid, at least. Even though the weather is still a bit warm, I made a giant pot of veggie chili and have been eating it for lunch every day. It's a great way to get a boatload of fiber and nutrients in one, easy-to-heat meal.

My work life has been pretty hectic... I am trying to make money by freelancing, but it requires a lot of persistence and tenacity. I spend most of my time looking for work rather than really working, which gets discouraging at times.

Hope everyone else is staying healthy and strong!

GOALS

2007-09-23T17:44:00.000-05:00

Jake at Bring It! inspired me to write out some goals. So here they are. By...

October 7

I will reinstate my workout plan of 6 days of exercise each week.
I will reinstate my clean eating plan with 2 "free" meals per week.

October 31

I will do 20 push-ups
I will have short runs of 3 miles, long runs of 5 miles

November 4

I will lose 5 pounds

These are reasonable goals, I think. In fact, I hope to overshoot a couple. I'd really like to be doing long runs of 5 miles in a few weeks.

Giving Away Food

2007-09-22T11:56:00.001-05:00

I find that it's best--and easiest--to keep very few junk foods in my home. Sure, the occasional indulgence finds its way into my cupboards. But by keeping sweets and treats to a minimum, I have fewer temptations when I'm struck with the urge to raid the refrigerator.

As a result, whenever Hubby and I host a party or BBQ, we often pass off leftovers to our friends. Last night (after a dinner party), I ended up giving away:

8 pieces of lasagna
2/3 loaf garlic bread
2/3 strawberry pound cake
3/4 apple pie

It's not unusual for us to give away meats like bratwurst, snacks like pretzels and chips, desserts like cookies and brownies, and even veggies such as corn on the cob. If I didn't give it away to guests, I'd end up either a) eating it, or b) throwing it away to avoid the temptation. So this way, at least someone gets to enjoy it.

Have you ever thrown away or given away food just so it won't be in the house to tempt you?

Workout Gear Storage

2007-09-22T11:54:00.000-05:00

This is a sponsored post

I consider myself to be a very organized person. My office, kitchen, closets and basement are all neat and tidy. However, I do have problems finding the right way to organize my workout equipment. Exercise accessories like weightlifting gloves, jump ropes and resistance bands can easily get lost or tangled if not properly stored.

A garage storage tool chest, however, seems like the perfect storage solution for my workout gear! Sold by Carguygarage.com, these nifty tool boxes include plenty of drawers and cubbies for all my exercise accessories.

Since the holidays are right around the corner, I'm thinking that this type of tool chest would make a great gift--for me!

How do you define failure?

2007-09-20T09:58:00.001-05:00

An anonymous individual left me a rather harsh comment on my last post... The main gist was that I had a choice to be healthy or not during the week I had a house guest in my home. And, because I made some poor choices during that week, I must not really be a fit or healthy person.

That, of course, generates an interesting philosophical question.

How do you define failure to live a healthy life?

Does cheating during one meal mean that your lifestyle isn't really healthy? Or skipping one workout?

What if you take a break from healthy living for a full day... or week... or month?

At what stage have you failed at all your fitness and nutrition goals?

Personally, I think there is no such thing as failure when it comes to fitness and health. If a 600 pound man can lose weight and get healthier, then every single one of us can get fit and strong at any point in our lives.

Moreover, I believe the all-or-nothing approach to fitness and health lacks balance. Even the strongest fitness competitors have "free" days and vacation time where they relax their rules of nutrition and exercise... and these are people who compete in serious fitness contests!

So, in my humble opinion, I don't believe there is such a thing as failure when it comes to health. Nor do I believe that there's such as thing as total success. For everyone--regardless of where you are in life--there's always the chance that you can improve your fitness, strength and nutrition.

House Guest

2007-09-19T15:56:00.000-05:00

We've had a house guest for the past week. As a result, I've been eating too much, drinking too much and smoking too much.

Our guest loves to dine out, so I've been eating a lot of restaurant meals. Unfortunately, that means too-big portions and lots of extra calories. I've also been skimping on workouts... it's just hard to get active when everyone else wants to plop on the couch and watch TV.

I know there are lots of folks out there with these types of circumstances, like an unsupportive spouse, a lazy roommate or a busy family life. What do you do to combat all the things that interfere with healthy eating and regular workouts?

I know I should just say, "Excuse me, House Guest, but I have to go workout now. Feel free to watch whatever you want on TV." I should also choose healthy meals in restaurants, watch my portion sizes, and offer to cook more healthy meals at home.

It just seems as if lazy behavior is almost contagious!

Today's Plan

2007-09-12T12:39:00.001-05:00

My lungs are killing me today (too many cigarettes this weekend), so I am skipping my workout. I had planned a run, but I just don't think it'll happen. Fortunately, the weather is starting to cool--autumn is almost here!--which means outdoor runs will soon become the norm. Yes! I hate running in the heat of summer, but I love runs on crisp fall days! I may try and squeeze one in tomorrow (I have a busy day planned), even if it's a short one.

As for my diet, I am trying to be as clean as possible. I wish I could get a few more green veggies in my regular nutrition plan. I probably eat 2-3 servings of green veggies a day... plus I eat other veggies like tomatoes, squash, cucumber, radishes, carrots. All in all, I probably get about 5-6 servings of veggies each day. Not as many as I'd like (though probably more than the average American).

I still haven't been able to shake my morning caffeine. But I don't really worry too much about it--I only drink 1-3 cups of tea in the AM. Right now, I have more important health things to worry about.

Real Inspiration

2007-09-10T15:39:00.000-05:00

Whenever I feel my motivation lag, I always read a few chapters from Ultramarathon Man by Dean Karnazes.

That book gives me the kick in the ass I need to run a little longer, a little harder and a little faster.

Karnazes is a very entertaining writer. But his story would be fascinating--and inspiring--even without his clever and engaging prose.

The book mostly guides us through his personal experiences in various ultramarathons. And although others have run the same races, Karnazes obsessive masochistic personality seems to leap off the page and into the heart of the reader.

Whenever I read this book, I always feel as if I am running beside Karnazes, feeling his pain and triumph.

And the next time I strap on my running shoes, I think to myself: If he can push himself to the limits, I can push myself a little harder.

If you need a little extra motivation, I seriously recommend this book. At about $11 at Amazon, it's a total steal. Even non-runners can appreciate this man's focus, drive, determination and grit.

Healthy Debates

2007-09-10T15:34:00.000-05:00

This is a sponsored post

Personally, I believe that a little bit of debating can be healthy. It teaches us how to appropriately express our opinions. It allows us to hear the thoughts of others. And it encourages social interaction and critical thinking.

If you like discussing politics and current events, check out the Argue With Everyone Discussion Forums. These political forums are an online message board for chats about everything from elections to foreign policy to religion. It's a great place to exercise your debate muscles. There aren't many rules on this forum--just enough to keep things under control--so you're free to engage in very lively conversations.

If a little debating is your idea of a good time, check out the forums. You may find the chat interesting and stimulating.

Another tumble off the wagon...

2007-09-09T12:35:00.000-05:00

Has friends over for a bbq last night. And though I didn't do much drinking--just two glasses of wine--I did end up smoking cigarettes. My lungs are hurtin' today.

As for my diet, it was so-so. I ate some pasta salad (not great, but not too horrible). But then I ate 3 ears of corn! It's the end of the corn season, and I absolutely love corn-on-the-cob! Of course, I ate it dripping with Earth Balance margarine and salt... which really upped the calorie content. I also munched on some whole grain crackers throughout the night... but just a few nibbles. Overall, my diet could have been worse and could have been better.

I didn't workout yesterday--a planned "rest" day. Today my lungs hurt so much that I'm going to skip my workout. After a night of smoking, I need a full 24 hours to feel capable of really exercising again. (Another reason smoking is so bad for me.) I will get back on the exercise track with a long run tomorrow, I hope.

I feel bloated and pudgy. Not sure if it's all the salt, or if it's really extra fat. I guess I'll find out after a few days of clean eating.

I do plan to keep today's food clean. Even if I don't exercise, I can still stick with my diet plan.