Shoe and Tell

Shoes ... I hate them. I really do. Looking at the picture above, and seeing several pairs of sneakers one might think I like shoes, as I have so many. But it's not true. They are a necessary evil for running, or other workouts. Having a home gym, I can actually get away with wearing slippers for my elliptical and stationary bike. I ONLY wear sneakers during a workout. If I'm jogging at the gym, I'll often bring my sneakers with me and put them on right before I run, taking them off the moment I'm done. My boys do this with their basketball shoes ... they do it because they want to protect the shoes, not wearing them outside on the street. I do it so my poor little feet can breathe! There are many reasons why I will never run a marathon ... but one reason is because I can't keep shoes on my feet for over an hour. Any race I run will have to be completed in 60 minutes or less!

I admit ... I'm cheap. I've only purchased shoes from the discount big box stores (and still went with the cheap ones there). I keep reading recommendations to go to a running store to be fitted. To have my gait examined. I am thinking about it. I say to myself "but I'm not a runner" so I don't know if I should invest in expensive shoes. Bad shoe experiences COULD be one of the reasons I dislike running though. I'm just so afraid I'll go through the time and expense of trying a "good" pair of running shoes and still hate them, still dislike running. I guess I won't know until I try.

In the picture above, the blueish pair of shoes are the ones I hate the least. They are Reebok running. Quite lightweight. I actually don't know the exact style or where I picked them up. I couldn't buy them again if I wanted to. The white Sacouny shoes are also "running" shoes. I had other Sacouny shoes I liked fine in the past, but these ones never felt great. I'll wear them for my one mile run and I'm ready to take them off. Next to them ... are some Skecher Shape Ups. Remember those? Supposed to tighten and tone just by walking. I had actually picked them up after hearing people rave about them simply being comfortable. I did not find that to be the case, but I have found I like wearing them for my weight workouts. Still ... it's an hour, and then they are off.

When I'm not working out, but going out (and must wear something on my feet) ... these are my standby shoes. My plastic sandals for summer, slip on boots for winter. I do have some other shoes (different colored sandals, boots, a dress shoe or two. No heels really, just not that type of gal).  I do have some slippers I wear here and there (and on the elliptical and bike).  But at home, it's bare feet all the way! I only wear socks if I'm wearing sneakers.

It's time to head out to Zumba ...

 I guess I need to put on some shoes.

Linking up with Wednesday Wonderfulz, which is focusing on running. My shoe topic does fit in with that theme. I'd be interested to hear if any runner ever hated shoes too! I'll have to check out all those who link up and see what shoes are mentioned as favorites.  Also linking up with Workout Wednesday ... and there was a fun little shout out to ME on the blog today! Thanks!

Footwear Feature

Workout Wednesday ... or What I'm Wearing Wednesday.

Either one works as I feature my footwear!

Lately, I've been pretty good at getting the workouts in. I pop down to my home gym multiple times a day. I just keep my footwear there in the gym, because I rarely wear them anywhere else. The other day, as I'd done four different workouts wearing four different types of footwear ... they were all lined up and I HAD to shoot a picture. 

I've talked about shoes/slippers several times on the blog before. My pink fuzzy slippers and navy slippers appeared all the way back on a post in 2014. Not much wear and tear on the elliptical and stationary bike. I've also had my Sketchers ... the "Shape-Ups" that were all the rage years ago for a long while. I only wear them for my weight workouts ... I never liked walking in them.

Even with the little running (jogging ... wogging) I do, I have had to replace my running shoes a few times. I have yet to go to a running store to have a personalized recommendation. I guess I feel like I'm not a serious enough runner to do that. My most recent pair are Ryka brand, and I've liked them ... as much as I like any shoe. I hate shoes. 

My oldest son just bought himself a new pair of running shoes ... and he's been using them. He marks the miles on the side of the shoe. He ran a marathon! Over six days anyway. He's been trying to keep up with me on the Fitbit Family list (I'm currently staying ahead though.)

I like that the boys are old enough now that they are buying their own shoes. 

I'm cheap ... they are not. 

They are Nike snobs

#1 son bought these RoscheTwoFlyKnit shoes, and #2 liked them enough that he immediately ordered a pair too. 

#2 bought himself the basic Nike Rosche shoes a while back. #3 ended up getting a couple, and then the little boys did too (courtesy of #2 for their birthdays). They are really showing the wear and tear. Toes poking through! They do get pretty rough treatment though. 

While I don't run a lot, I do spend quite a bit of time dancing. I bought shoes specifically for Zumba when I started going five days a week. I loved my Ryka Downbeat high-tops, but after a year or more, I could feel I didn't have the support or cushion I needed. I'd originally got them on quite the deal, but the few I could find out there were pretty pricey. I've been using a pair of Reeboks that work, but kept glancing at the Downbeat on Amazon and elsewhere. A few weeks ago, I saw a couple being sold on Amazon for $25 (I'd paid $30 when I pickup mine up originally, most places they were $60 or above). It was a new seller ... no reviews. I was a bit skeptical ... but, it's Amazon. They stand behind their brand, so I figured I was safe. It was a scam. The shoes never came. The tracking number I was given was fake. But Amazon DOES stand behind their brand and I was covered under their A-Z Guarantee. Still sans the shoes though.

Running shoes, Zumba shoes ... I even have bowling shoes! My own pair. For several years, the local bowling alley would offer two free games during the summer. Shoes were extra, and they hoped you'd buy some food or play in the arcade (and yes, that happened). 

I hated shelling out the $3.50 each time. I checked out bowling shoes online and found these for just $20! While we don't go bowling that often, I've saved quite a bit by bringing my own shoes over the years. Unfortunately, with the boys constantly growing feet, it isn't as economical to buy for them. I did buy a men's size 9 (which fit the oldest then ... I figured with five boys, they would all move through that size at some point. The older three are over, but #4 is in a size 8 now ... so he's coming up (I just have to remember where I put them when #3 outgrew them). 

My sons LOVE shoes. For me, they are a necessary evil.

Zumba Shoes

I discovered Zumba a little over a year ago. At first, it was just a once-a-week workout. But then, I started going to another class, then another. It was Tues/Wed/Thurs for a bit. Then I added a Mon/Fri class. I decided perhaps I should look into some shoes recommended for Zumba rather than the ratty running shoes I had been wearing.

I Googled "Zumba Shoes" and came across several informational websites (I can't remember which ones right off). Many recommendations and descriptions of what was best for a dance workout. I discovered that running shoes are NOT recommended at all, as they are usually heavier with a strong tread (which can actually cause your feet to catch). 

After reading all the recommendations, I tried the Puma Janine Dance Shoe (pictured above). I didn't like it. Now admittedly, I hate all shoes. I never wear shoes unless I am required to wear shoes. I am also cheap! $60 may not sound like a lot for you shoe connoisseurs out there, but I'd never spent that much on SHOES. I noted that one of my Zumba instructors was wearing this exact style, so I went ahead and bought them. They didn't work for me. Although the "split-sole" was recommended for dancing, I didn't feel like I had support. My feet hurt after an hour class. I sent them back. I'd never returned anything on Amazon before, but I was thankful for the return policy, as I would have hated wasting my money.

I then stopped at my local Nike outlet. While running shoes are not recommended, the Nike Free (which are running shoes) were mentioned as a popular choice on many of the sites I investigated. Very lightweight, not a lot of tread. I did have the opportunity to try them on first (unlike ordering from Amazon) and they felt comfortable.  While the hot pink seems a perfect fit for Zumba ... I'm not a very colorful gal myself (Lacking in Color Confidence).  As far as appearance, the simple B&W Puma's had been much more up my boring alley. But ...they were on clearance, and I had a gift certificate. I bought them, and I liked them.

I asked another of my Zumba instructors what shoes she liked, and she excitedly told me about a great deal she had just found out about. An online store (6pm.com) had the Ryka Downbeat (Ryka was one of the brand names I had read recommendations on from several different websites) for a great price. I compared the price from some other sellers, and it was a great deal (new customers even got an additional 10% off, and shipping was free!)

They were only available in "boring black" ... but that was great by me! 

(This deal is gone, but 6pm has other styles at great prices still)

These were a high-top, giving support to the ankles. Just the right amount of grip, a spin-spot to make twists and turns easier.  I felt like it was worth the risk (of purchasing without trying them on) and I have ended up really liking them. They are my main Zumba shoe now. Sometimes I'll wear the pink Nike's ... if they match my outfit better, or if I'm working out on carpet (they slide easily where the Ryka's feel too heavy).

I'm really not a "shoe" gal ... but I was glad I took some time and researched what to look for in a Zumba shoe. I really hadn't been aware of what worked and what didn't. In truth, the running shoes I started with really weren't that bad ... but I figured I'd save them for running (not that I do THAT very often) and buy something specific for MY workout. And it made me feel a bit more Zumba-ish too. That never hurts *Ü*

Blister on the Mister

The hubs was laying on the bed, reading on his ipad as I walked by ... and I couldn't help but notice something on his foot.  A BIG ol' blister! I mentioned that the hubs was getting back into working out and eating better. He went for a run Sunday morning.

 That's when he got THIS ... Ouch!

This was not his first run since he's started working out, but it was the first time in a particular pair of shoes. I think he won't be wearing those for a long run (5+miles) for a while. Until he makes some adjustments (he's worn them in the past without problems). You hear the stories of guys being big babies when it comes to sickness and pain. Not the case with MY guy. He hadn't even mentioned this to me. He even had his phone with him (using the Runkeeper app) ... I told him he should have called me to bring him out a different set of shoes when he felt it starting to rub. I've done that on the treadmill before ... stopped and swapped shoes when one pair wasn't working. Just another benefit of the treadmill for me :)

I posted about MY blister (here) a while back ... but I think this one wins! I generally don't have too many issues, as I don't wear shoes for the majority of my workouts (Fuzzy Feet), and I will shift shoes if I feel a problem.

Blisters ... see, shoes are evil!

Speaking of shoes ... I've picked up some slip-ons for summer for the boys. They took them off when we went to the in-laws house on Sunday and I thought it was funny they had all (well, four of the five) happened to wear their "twinner" shoes that night.

The blister isn't as bad as some of the foot issues we've had to deal with (Agony of De-Feet), and the hubs DID go running again this morning ... tough guy!

The Agony of De"FEET"

One of my "rewards" for activity, is a foot rub from hubby. He does an awesome job. We actually said that if I hit 30k in a day, that would "earn" me a foot rub. We've been a little hit and miss of late. I'll hit 30k, and he'll be too tired that day. Other days, I don't actually earn a rub, but I get a pity one anyway :)

Our feet are impacted a lot by our exercise. Any issues with the feet almost always negatively impact activity. Right now, I have a couple very minor issues. My baby toe is always really prone to problems. Any prolonged activity while wearing shoes often leads to a calloused ridge or a blister. It's not as bad as when I posted about it before (Blister On A Baby Toe), but it's been bugging me this week. Another toe has rubbed too ... I felt it after my jog Monday night. Yesterday I thought I should hit the treadmill, but I just did NOT want to put a shoe on, so I did elliptical and bike instead (I wear slippers for those). 

We seem to have quite a few foot issues at our house. I just took #1 to the podiatrist on Monday. He's had a big ol' wart on the bottom of his foot for a while, and it's really been bothering him. We've been waiting for a time when he could be out of commission to get it taken care of and decided to just bite the bullet and get him in. 

The top left is a picture #1 took of how it looked before any treatment. The second picture I took, after the doctor had scraped away the callous that had formed over the wart(s). The final picture is after the doctor scooped it out. He had given us an alternative to treat it with medicine, but that would have taken more time and multiple visits. We just wanted it DONE ... but poor #1 has been limping around since the "surgery". I hope it heals quick. He has a trip to New York coming up quick and will be doing a LOT of walking around!  #3 had an almost identical issue a few years ago, and I seem to recall it healing pretty fast.

I'd actually had #1 in to the podiatrist just a couple of years ago too, 

for ingrown toenails. 

I had a huge problem with that myself when I was a teen. I had the surgery when I was a junior in high school. It looked like it had become much less invasive over the years. I remember my poor toes after we took the bandages off ... they looked SO bad. And then I developed a staff infection (on a weekend, so I couldn't get in immediately). I've never been in so much pain! I still say that was the most physically painful thing I've ever experienced (even after childbirth and everything else!)

A few years ago I had a similar situation. My toe was so painful and swollen. I went into the doctor and they did an xray although I didn't remember any specific impact. Not broken. I had recently had a pedicure, but they didn't think that was the cause. He suspected a spider bite, but again, no definitive diagnosis. It was a miserable week until it finally went away. I actually still exercised a bit during this time. No treadmill. I could not put a shoe on ... but the elliptical in my slippers. It almost made it feel better, or at least a different type of pain while I worked out.

Ah ... de feet! Last year, poor #2 broke his foot right before basketball season started. The bone extending just under the little toe ... a "Jones Fracture". It is sssllloooww to heal. Poor kid was in a boot for months. We probably should have sought out a second opinion and considered surgery.  It did finally heal and the boy was back playing basketball ...

And he broke his foot. Jones Fracture.

It was his left foot this time (it had been the right originally). Seriously? Another four months of "das boot" and doctor's appointments every few weeks.

I'm so grateful we made it through this year with no serious injury and that his basketball skills didn't suffer too much of a setback (he just won first place in a region three-point contest this last Saturday). 

Because the boys spend so much time playing basketball, their feet often get sweaty and staying stuffed in their shoes for hours on end ... we get some fungus among us! Several years ago, #2 was struggling with athlete's foot. We tried all the over the counter remedies and nothing was working. Then suddenly it morphed into something awful ... seriously, not sure if I should show you the picture (if you are squeamish, look away).

Poor kid! It was Christmas Eve and we ended up at the Instacare. They almost hospitalized him. We ended up taking him to a pediatric specialist at Primary Children's Hospital and did manage to get it better.  A year or so ago we could see the signs of it starting again so I took him in quickly to see what we needed to do to prevent it. We got some prescriptions, and the doctor said to try and air out the foot (not stay in shoes all the time), change socks the moment there was moisture, switch up shoes and only wear shoes that were in decent condition. So far so good ... although we're always watching!

Hubs had his foot problems too. Several years ago he ruptured his Achilles Tendon. He had been very active just prior to this, and this was a big setback. He did manage to get back to activity though. Very grateful for modern medicine!

Well ... it's time for Zumba.
I need to wear shoes for that.
Hope my toes survive!

Fuzzy Feet

What I'm Wearing Wednesday ... 

Slippers (well, that's every day!)

I few weeks ago, I mentioned my loathing for shoes (Shoe and Tell). I just do NOT care for shoes and can't keep them on my feet for long. I wear them when necessary for workouts ... but not all workouts require shoes. At least I don't think so. My elliptical and my stationary bike for example. I wear slippers!

Slippers are so much more forgiving for my feet. They allow me a little more leeway, they aren't as tight and constricting. They aren't as heavy. And as their name suggests ... you can SLIP them on. No more of this putting on socks, bending over, forcing the feet in and tying laces. They are on, they are off. Easy peesy lemon squeesy! As I am jumping on/off my elliptical multiple times a day, this does actually make a big difference for me.

Even though there isn't a lot of impact on the elliptical, I do eventually wear my slippers out. You can see the sad shape of my slippers in the picture above. Poor little slippers. Behind my busted, broken pair of slippers, you can see my replacements.

I had stopped at Sears the other day. We have one close by and I had some "ShopYourWayReward" points I'd earned through my exercise (FitStudio) that were going to expire. Use them or lose them. The last of the winter clearance was ... on clearance, so I picked up some new slippers. Just in time!

I will sometimes take an insert and slip it into my slippers, just to give a little extra cushioning (and a little extra wear ... that's how I dealt with the busted bottom in my poor brown fuzzy slippers for as long as I did). 

So I'm stocked for slippers ... I'm mainly wearing the pink fuzzy ones on my elliptical, the white ones are back up for them. The blue ones, being a bit smaller and streamlined, work better for the stationary bike, as the foot straps are quite narrow.  I look SO cute, I'm sure, ellipticalling away in my pink fuzzy slippers. That is just one more benefit for my home gym ... no one sees me!

Slippers sure cost a heck of a lot less than running shoes too! That's for sure!

Anyone else out there wear slippers for exercise? Just me?

WWI#46 and a Peek In the Gym Bags

So I had a really good Friday last week ... double Zumba, controlled calories. Saturday morning I'd dropped a bit more, closer to the "under 150" where I want to be. But then ... #1 son went and got donuts. And I ate a donut. In the evening, hubby asked if I'd like to go out to dinner. I hadn't planned on it, hadn't "banked my calories" if you will, but we hadn't gone on a date in a bit so I sure didn't want to say no, and I was hungry. When the scale jumped the next morning, I really wasn't surprised. Again, not surprised when it inched up again for Monday morning.

Even though Monday was a holiday (Memorial Day) and that can throw off my routine ... it was a great day. Lots of exercise and kept eating in check. Tuesday was good too. While Wednesday and Thursday were "good" (I did get to goal), I was feeling a little unmotivated those days. They weren't as good as they could have been. You can see more details on my Day to Day Doings. I keep all my numbers and a daily journal entry there.

NUMBERS: Up 1.3 from last week. Average up .1. The high for the week was HIGH ... 155.4. The low was 150.9, so a shift of 4.5 pounds throughout the week. I had a couple bad days, the rest were good. I was able to get a weekly deficit of 2724. Calories in averaged 2236. Average burn was up slightly to 2909. 

Diane, at Fit To The Finish had an interesting blog post yesterday, about Setting a Line in the Sand. I posted a bit ago about some of my "lines" (My Milestones) those numbers that have particular meaning. I've been stuck just over the 150 pound mark (one milestone) but staying under the next couple "numbers" (153.3 and 155). I was disappointed this week to blip above 155 (and was able to correct that pretty quick) and I have been keeping my Friday weigh-ins under the 153.3. I'm keeping an eye on my "lines" ...

I'm linking up with Fitness Friday with Jill and Aubrey,  and a late Weigh-In Wednesday. 

Now onto the FUN stuff ...  
Five for Friday!

I'm always a little late getting my Friday post up. I can't really prep my post the night before, as I don't have all my "numbers" in yet. I've also got into the habit of checking in on the DC Bloggers, who often have a "theme" for their Friday Five. Today, it's "Five Things In My Gym Bag" ... so, linking up with Courtney, Mar and Cynthia and then also jumping onto the other Friday Five linkups out there. Five on Friday at The Good Life, Friday Favorites at Running4Cupcakes, Friday Favorites at Housewife Glamour, High Five Friday at LaurenElizabeth and Five Things Friday at Fitting It All In.

Now I am a homebody. I've got everything I need right downstairs (J&GsGym). So I don't really have a gym bag, as "going to the gym" for me is simply walking down to our basement. Occasionally, I would hit the indoor track while the boys played basketball and I'd have a small bag for those trips. I have been heading out to Zumba this year, but my classes are close, so I'm ready as I leave the house, not needing to take anything extra. Today (and last week) ... I traveled a bit further, and went after dropping the kids off at school. There would be a lag time of about 30minutes from when I left the house to when I started my workout. That's TOO much time to have shoes and a HRM on! So this picture is MY five things I needed ... shoes, socks, and the three pieces to my heart rate monitor. I'd be in trouble if I got to Zumba and was missing any one of these five items.

The boys are finishing up school this week, and they cleared out lockers yesterday. My son wanted his gymbag for after school (hanging out playing basketball with his buddies) but had no place to put it. I told him to leave it in the car, and I'd meet him after school. BIG MISTAKE! His bag SMELLS so bad! I had to take it out of the car. I went ahead and checked what was in his gym bag ...

His basketball shoes (I bought him some of those sneaker balls to help combat the smell but they just aren't strong enough I guess), an extra shirt, some deodorant, a charger for his iphone and a snack.

I figured I'd check out the 13-year old's gymbag too ... shoes, a basketball, a water bottle, a sweat towel, some first aid supplies (band-aids, wrap, kneenex for bloody noses) ... he had a few of his jerseys in there too.

What are five things YOU have in your gym bag?

Free Summer Bowling

Today's Motivation Monday falls on Memorial Day. The kids are out of school. They tend to stay pretty busy on these rare breaks throughout the school year, but summer is coming shortly. After days on end with no school ... the inevitable whine of  "I'm bored, there's nothing to do" is bound to happen. What to do ...

What about bowling?  Our family has had some fond bowling memories (Blackham Bowling ). When the kids were on year-round school, off-track bowling was something we did to fill the time. For summer ... there is the KidsBowlFree program. Just go to the website and see if there is a location  near you participating. Two free games of bowling per kid, per day, all summer long.

Of course ... it generally isn't totally free. You do still have to pay for shoes unless you happen to have your own. I DO have my own bowling shoes. Not that I'm a big bowler! I picked some up for $20 a few years ago, figuring it would be worth the investment for me. With kids constantly growing, it may not be worth a purchase ... and rental shoes are SO cute!

If your kids are anything like mine, they beg for arcade tokens and want some drinks and pizza every trip too. That can add up quick ... and of course I'm sure that is the impetus behind the "free" offer. Sometimes I splurge on the extras ... other times I'm the mean mom and we "only" bowl (I mean, that IS what we went there to do, not to eat or play video games). The free also only applies to the kids (15 and under). If YOU want to bowl too, you'll have to pay, but there are family deals that accompany the program. This is the first year I have actually added on a "family" plan, for me and my 18-year old son. $25 and we both get a couple games each trip too. I figure four trips and we'd probably recoup that cost. I do like to participate too, and I think the kids enjoy beating me ... at least they can try!

I know bowling isn't the MOST active thing the kids can be doing this summer ... but it's better than video games or watching TV. A nice air-conditioned bowling alley can be a welcome relief on a hot summer day. 

I'm hoping that my purchasing a pass ... actually paying $25 (for two adults) will motivate me (ala Motivation Monday! *Ü*) to use our free bowling coupons more this year. I think we only made it in a couple times last year.  It doesn't burn a bunch of calories (have you seen comedian Jim Gaffigan's take on bowling? We love Jim), but you are moving and using some muscles you might not otherwise.

I must admit ... I like to leave the bumpers up.

And now a quick weekend recap. Friday was better than usual ... I got in a double Zumba (morning and evening) and kept calories in check. Saturday started with donuts and ended with ...

#datenight #toomanycalories

Sunday ...

#ilovereading #twoholdscomeinatonce

#baseballboys


It's a little hard when the new week starts off with a holiday.
Off my routine ... but it's going to be a good day *Ü*

My Treadmill 5k

I am not a runner. But for a while now, I've been challenging myself to run (well, jog) a WHOLE mile. Not necessarily every single day, but at least add it into the rotation a few times a week. Even for just one mile, it take a bit of mental prep for me. I just don't really care for running. It's hard! And I have to wear shoes. I don't like shoes. Being on a treadmill, I simply set it to a steady 5mph pace, so it's a 12-minute mile. I can jog for twelve measly minutes, right?

I've been doing this for several months now. My jog is often my warm up before my weights workout. On rare occasions, I'd feel good, or a specific song would come on that would encourage me to keep going ... and I would. There were days when I'd do a mile and a half, or even two miles. Back in February I did 2.5 miles, my longest run to date. In that post I mentioned at SOME point, I planned on doing a treadmill 5k.

I have done ONE 5k in my life (My First 5k). I THINK I jogged the whole thing, trying to keep up with my kid on a scooter, but I may have stopped to check on another child (the oldest had pushed a little too fast and I found him sitting along the side of the road as I caught up).  I've been wanting to try an actual race again, but have never gotten around to it.

But I finally did a 5k on the treadmill!

I prepped myself mentally. I am going to do this. I put on the shoes I hate the least (I've been trying to break in some new ones that I'm not sure about yet, I used my older ones). I redid my playlist (I shared five of my favorite 5mph songs here, those five and others helped me get through. I'll be sharing more of my motivational music in an upcoming Friday Five).  I was ready.

I did it. It wasn't even that hard. 

Being one the treadmill, and being a bit OCD ... I didn't feel like I could stop at 3.1, so I continued to finish the lap at 3.25, 40 minutes. You can see my treadmill overestimates on the calorie count. My Fitbit came in closer to expected. I probably should have taken the time to slip on my HRM, but it does seem pretty consistent with the Fitbit for straight jogging.

I'm sure I'll try my treadmill 5k again. I'm not sure when ... should I try to commit to once a month? Hmmmm. I'd really like to join an actual 5k again too, just something local and small. I'll be keeping my eyes open for some possibilities. I don't know that I'll be actively trying to improve on my time, as being on the treadmill, I just stick with a set, steady speed with my matching music. But if I give an actual race a try, it will be interesting to see how I do when I don't have the treadmill determining my pace.

Hubby Happenings

Several months ago, I did a post (The Hubs Is On Board) as hubby was going to try to get back into better eating and exercising. He's had his ups and downs these past many years. Whenever he has put his mind to it, he has had success.

This time ... it didn't happen.

A few weeks ago, hubby recommitted. I've noticed his change in eating habits lately. I've tried to be helpful (not tempting him with yummy treats, trying to have healthy foods around, trying to pack him a lunch with nutritious options). Clean eating has never been my strong suit, but the hubs doesn't have my issues and in the right frame of mind, he actually enjoys the good-for-you stuff.

He's been exercising regularly as well. Many mornings he'd beat me to the elliptical. Squeak, thump ... our elliptical is having some issues. One day, we both went down to the gym at the same time. I beat him to the elliptical, so he went to the stationary bike. After that, he pretty much decided he preferred the bike (although it has a squeak too). Once he got some workouts behind him, and was fairly sure he wouldn't have a heart attack if he pushed a little more ... he went for a jog. That's probably his preferred exercise activity. After a run on Sunday morning, he mentioned to me how running outside in the beautiful day made 30 minutes just whiz by. I know this is how the majority of people feel ... but I'm still just an indoor exerciser (away from weather, strangers and dogs).

It's been great having the hubs back in the groove. Although ... he is a SWEATY mess when he comes home. It's pretty standard to hear shrieking and screaming as he comes home and attempts to give me or one of the kids a big hug.  I turned the tables on him the other day ... he was laying in bed as I finished a workout and I came in a jumped on him, giving him a kiss. He was like "ummm, you're kind of sweaty" ... and let me tell you don't get nearly as sweaty as he does!

I had picked up a Fitbit Zip for hubby back in November. It didn't take. He'd forget to move it from his workout wear to his regular clothes, or vice versa. He lost it after just a couple of days (it did turn up a few days later). He didn't particularly like it, he told me "all this is telling me is that I'm NOT moving."  When it was determined that he wasn't going to be using it, #1 son adopted it ... and then lost it (for good this time). I am wondering if now that hubby is back in the groove, if he'd be inclined to try it again.

He does have a Garmin, which he wears for his runs. It's one of the nicer ones, with a HRM and we like the GPS tracking display on the computer, showing his route. He also tried Runkeeper for the first time, and seemed intrigued. He just placed an order for an armband. I actually like the thought of him having his phone with him on runs (and I can track him with the Find My Friend app). 

He bought some new insoles for his shoes too. I've never tried insoles myself. He picked up some new compression shirts, and the laundry has multiplied since he has started exercising again. He has apologized for all the extra laundry, but I've told him it is just fine! I am absolutely alright with doing more laundry for a happy and healthy hubby!

He's even mentioned hiking or racquetball again! It's been years since we did that together. He has invited me to go walking a couple times, but it's caught me off guard and I wasn't ready to drop and go (and to wear shoes).

Linking up with Workout Wednesday and the Hump Day Blog Hop.

Lacking in Color Confidence

Black is slimming right? That is what we women are told. I'm not sure if that is the reason why my wardrobe has a lot of black ... or if it's just what I am comfortable with.

 I have yet to master the "selfie" ... especially the full body shot!

Ironically ... a couple of my more well know photos (like my main profile picture, the one in red down on the sidebar, or on my Facebook page) is in red. I snapped the picture (above, left) before going to a Cinco de Mayo Zumba day... we were supposed to wear red or green). But the majority of the time, the other photo is a little more standard. Back to Black.

It's a bit of an inside family joke too. My hubby's name is Grayson Blackham. I call him GrayBlack. I tell him I just love him SO much that I have to surround myself in gray and black, even in my clothes. I am probably wearing black 90% of the time. Exercise wear and everyday wear. I'll sometimes branch out to such bright color combinations as white and tan, or khaki, brown and denim. Exciting!

I do own some colorful shirts. Red, yellow, blue, pink ... but I just don't feel that comfortable in them and I wear them very rarely. I'm not sure if I feel they draw the eye, and I prefer to blend into the background ... or if after wearing black for so long, it is just the "comfortable" choice.  And slimming ... don't forget slimming!

I lack color confidence in everything ... not just clothes! When I had my nails done, I'd always just go with the very basic, standard french tip. When I got a pedicure, I'd do the painted french tip there too, or go with a very reserved color ... most recently, I did a glitter gray. Lipstick ... I'll wear a light gloss, but nothing with any real color. I know many shoes are very bright and colorful ... my most recent purchase were a plain black pair. If you've seen me post my PolarFT4 after exercising (ZumbaStats) you'll see I went for the basic gray model, not the cute pink one everyone else is rocking!

I have regretted not getting the pink Polar. Just a splash of femininity. I have noticed a bit of bright pink sneaking in ... not necessarily by choice, but just because that was the color available (in a pair of slippers, new shoes, headphones) I'm not sure I'll ever really be confident in color, but sometimes when I push myself a bit, I feel it's an NSV (and I take a picture I like, which ends up being my profile picture).  I have been thinking quite a bit about my color choices (or lack thereof) ... and I thought I'd Think Out Loud and share my thoughts with you today.

Upping the Activity

 Workout Wednesday

Ah ... my home gym. Treadmill, elliptical, stationary bike and full weight set (and a few fans! *Ü*) I'm spoiled. In the past few months, while I never stopped working out, my activity did wane. With the holidays, prepping for #1 son to return home after two years away (we'd given away his room and had to rearrange to find everyone a spot) and just some discouragement ... 

Trying to jump back on the workout wagon (even though I KNOW it's the eating!)

Tuesday, I had my first 30k day since October(2016) when I had two. 

Then today ... Wednesday, I did it again. 

I've been good at getting up and hitting the elliptical first thing. One 20min session then I wake up the boys. Prep lunches and make sure they are ready, then another 20 before driving middle school carpool (#2 drives himself and #3 to school). Back home, one more 20min session then off with #5 to elementary. 

I haven't been great at getting to Zumba on Wednesdays for a while. But I did today. Then I had some treadmill time. 30min/2miles.  I really tried to push myself. I know ... I'm more of a quantity over quality when it comes to workouts. I have such a hard time getting my heart rate up. Admittedly, my elliptical is pretty easy, my bike time is more about reading than riding (I just feel a little guilty spending too much time in a book, but if I'm "exercising" than it's okay, right?)

Zumba can be a little hit and miss. At times, I have great energy, get really good stats/steps and other times ... it's half hearted (and that is absolutely reflected in the heart rate). It can depend on the teachers, and whether or not I know or like the songs ... and other times, it seems like no matter what I do, even giving it my all, it just doesn't show much in the stats. I still absolutely enjoy my Zumba though. Beyond just exercise, it gets me out of the house (which is an issue), has given me confidence and many new friends.

Here's a closer look at my Treadmill Time ...

I do NOT like running. I rarely "run" ... 5mph is a comfortable jog, but I can't keep that up for too long (I did do one WHOLE mile last week). As everyone seems to say HIT workouts are the thing, I try to add intervals, turning up the treadmill (I tried a little 6mph, 7mph and even 8mph for a small stretch ... very small).  But this might motivate me to see if I can improve on these stats, push it into the peak a bit more. I don't know that I'll ever actually enjoy running ... I know MOST people prefer the outdoors to a treadmill, but the weather (hot sun or cold rain), cars, dogs, insects, stranger danger ... and just the possibility of getting stuck far away from home if there is a problem (even just a potty problem). 

See? Here's #1 having to pull rocks from the groves in his shoes.

That doesn't happen on a treadmill!

 ... and a little funny from last week. #1 son took off running in the rain. It turned to snow and he was freezing and miserable and had a cramp and was a few miles away from home, up by the high school. He went into the school, and had his brother called from class ... and absconded with his car, driving home. 

He tracks his miles on his shoes ...

When he first got home from his mission, he spent a little time in the gym (with weights) but hasn't been in there much. The seniors on the other hand ...

They seem a little lost without basketball. It's been LIFE for the past several years, and now it's over (except for Stockton ... he's planning on playing college ball). Many days after school #2 and friends hit our home gym. #3 son has been spending time with weights too, and even #4 has started hitting the gym again (both working with weights, and on the treadmill). Once again, BOYS IN MY GYM! I always try to make sure I get in whatever workouts I want during the day, because I don't know if my gym will be available when school is out. 

Next is Spring Break ... not sure what that will do to my routine!

Toe Trouble (and Other Medical Mishaps)

Time for another Medical Monday.

Just a recap on the general health issues from the family these past few months.

 I'll start with a cute picture!

I've been mentioning #2's toes in the last couple "Medical Monday" installments ... but it was basketball season, so what do you do? Ingrown toenails are a pain. Literally! I suffered through them my teen years. #1 had issues and we had to get him in and taken care of. #2's turn.

Here's a bit of a before ...

... and you can see it's not only the big toe that's the trouble. He has a lot of chafing and itching and irritation between the little toes too. Nothing as serious as years ago when his case of athlete's foot morphed into something crazy (The Agony of Defeet). Anyway, I finally called the podiatrist and took him in (top picture). His toe was so bad, the doctor said they wouldn't be able to do the permanent fix. He cut in and did what he needed to do to get this one cleared up. I didn't watch, but #2 did. The doctor cut down and simply removed a big slice of the edge of the toenail. Bandaged him up and said he could return to activity when he felt ready (which was playing in a basketball scrimmage the next day). Had to stay out of water (shower) for a day, and any swimming or such for about a week. He recommended that we come back in during the next month or so for the permanent fix (what #1 and I had done ... no problems since!) but we haven't made it back.

I've had a little toe trouble myself. This second toe on my right foot has been afflicted with this scaly dryness for ages now. Not a huge deal, but it can feel fairly painful and burning at times. It hasn't spread at all, but it also hasn't gotten better. It's such a small problem, I can't quite justify going into the doctor for it, but it really bugs me!

... and my poor baby boy's baby toe!

 (added 08/12/2017) After my original post, but it certainly belongs here with "toe troubles" right?! His shoe rubbed and created a big ol blister, and the little man peeled the skin off. Probably shouldn't have done that! He had to sit out his basketball game, he just couldn't play through the pain (even with different shoes). We tried to leave it out in the open air (Sat/Sun/Mon) and then when he had a basketball clinic Tues/Wed (and school starting, needing to wear shoes) I bought some of the special "blister band-aids" and they seemed to help. By the following Saturday, he was able to play in his game.

... onto other issues!

I'm seeing RED!

This has happened to me a few times in the past. Usually I can pinpoint a "violent" event that caused the burst blood vessel (such as sickness/vomiting ... or tickle time from Hubs, in which I fight him off!) This time, I have NO idea what happened!

It took about a week for it to fade. 

Until then,
I just gave everyone the evil eye!

... then there was my mouth.

Back in April, I had such a sore throat. I didn't really show any other signs of sickness (coughing or sniffles) and when I did a glance in my mouth with a flashlight, I saw several little sores. Canker sores on the roof of my mouth.  It was SO painful, and lasted a couple weeks. It impacted eating a bit ... not enough to shift the scale though!

 Poor #4 came home from a neighborhood walk with a dog bite!

... and the same child's thumb(nail)

He smashed it playing basketball and damaged the nail bed.
Then he bites his nails to complete the look.

Hubs and I had some general testing done as we were applying for a life insurance policy for us both. Blood and urine samples taken. Tons of questions. Ages/health of parents and siblings. Smoking was asked about multiple times ... yet I can't recall them asking anything about alcohol. Weight changes are asked about, medical issues, etc.

Happily Hub's Meniere's hasn't raised its ugly head in a while. There was a time or two when he felt twinges, but no full fledged attacks. We are more than okay with that!

Not a bad few months. Staying pretty healthy!

Until next time ...

Saturday Stats

Five Days, Five Different Classes ... Multiple Instructors.

Quick Recap of my Zumba this week.

• Monday... at Southziders: A little slow to start (chairs left up and some sound problems) but once going, we were going. Smaller group today, but that means more room to move around. Hit goal numbers and even felt a Zumba "high" ... you know like a runner's high, where suddenly you have a lot of energy and you don't feel tired!  ...
• Tuesday... Marian is always ready to go right at 8:45, I was a little late (came straight from dropping kids to school, forgot my hat!) and was only the second person there. We started anyway and soon more people showed, as they usually do. Glad I didn't miss the first song, as I like the warmup! HRM does continue to have sporadic problems, if you see me fiddling with it, I'm trying to get it to pick up my heart rate!
• Wednesday ... MZL in West Jordan. Got to the church late (at almost 9:20) but it hadn't started yet. HRM seemed to be working well today. I got pulled up on stage at one point! I mean I've been a "backup dancer" at Southziders, and I even lead a number in Marian's class sometimes, but that is when I know it's a song/steps I KNOW. I did ok for those couple of songs but I'm good being down among the masses ... this class having such a large audience makes being on stage a little more intimidating too!
• Thursday ...  Had to Zumba at home on my own today. The munchkin was getting an award at school, and of course the presentation was right during Claudia's class I tried Zumba-ing upstairs today. A little more room, but shaggy carpet. I didn't wear shoes today (I hate shoes). Did get a call from the school and had to go get #4, so my Zumba hour was broken up into two parts. HRM was misbehaving again today!
• Friday ... with Heather Jones. Grateful for this Zumba a little later in the day, so I can make it after dropping off the late-start middle schooler. At the church, the gym was set up for a Halloween party. Heather took the stage (she usually stays on the floor) and the rest of us moved where we could between the tables. Heather was still suffering a bit from a pinched nerve, so a couple dances she had others come up to help lead. Time was cut a little short today, but I did do a bit more at home so I did actually get in an hour today with that.

Tracking Trek

If you are familiar with the LDS church at all, it's likely you have heard of the history, where the pioneers pulled handcarts across the plains until they reached Utah. One summer activity many in the church do every few years, is a small reenactment of said trek with the youth. They wear pioneer clothing, pull hand carts and walk and walk and walk.

My 17-year old was participating in our pioneer trek this year (my 15-year old was also eligible, but didn't want to and we didn't force him). #2 grabbed some plain pants and a couple long sleeve shirts at the local thrift store, and donned "the hat" that Daddy and older brother had worn on previous pioneer treks and packed the few things allowed ...

One duffle bag, a bucket (with water, scriptures, gloves, suncreen, etc.) and a sleeping bag.

Silly kitty didn't actually get packed ;)

I made sure his Fitbit was charged and ready ... 

They left Tuesday (July 26) and traveled by bus to Wyoming. This was the Martin's Cove trek. They walked a few miles that night, and then camped (and did some square dancing, which my son said was surprisingly fun!) Wednesday there was quite a bit of walking. Just over 26k in steps. But Thursday ... that was the big day (Fitbit snag pictured above). Just a bit of walking Friday then the bus ride home (and apparently he wasn't too tired, because he went and played basketball with his buddies for a couple of hours that night). 

My Zumba buddy Suzanne also went on trek (a number of leaders go as Ma/Pa/Uncle/Aunt "family" members, plus more to help with food, organization, etc. 

Tuesday morning was when Suzanne usually joins us for Zumba, but that doesn't look like Zumba workout wear!  I am very glad I have boys, they are so much easier to outfit than trying to find appropriate dresses or skirts (and bloomers, bonnets and aprons). That Tuesday morning, the church gym was FILLED with pioneers! They cleared out and we had our Zumba class there a couple hours later.

When my son got back home, I had him sync his Fitbit, and even with that huge day, he hadn't quite caught me in steps (although he was close). I remember watching and waiting for Suzanne to sync ... normally she syncs every day, but they were without internet access for the four days. She had the ChargeHR, and said that her battery lasted (I would have been worried about that, as I put mine on the charger every night. My son has the Zip, which has a replaceable battery that lasts about six months, so he was set). 

Here's a couple more pictures the group historian shared with the parents ...

 Square Dancing (probably no Zumba songs, right?)

On the trail.

I've never been on a pioneer trek myself.  I was 13 when our church did trek back in the day. The age cut-off was 14 years old, and I have to admit, I was relieved I didn't have to go. My two older brothers and older sister went (my future husband was 14-years old, and on this same trek). They said it was a great experience ... that they never wanted to do again! I think most of them HAVE done it again (as ma/pa/leaders), and I think it's a little easier now than back then (they worked the "starvation" experience a little on those older treks, but they don't do that now). Even with my crazy steps ... I'm not sure I'd want to do a trek now. I HATE shoes! This requires hours upon hours of wearing shoes/sneakers/boots (which I NEVER do ... I'll wear them for Zumba, but I elliptical in slippers). When I was discussing trek with Suzanne  the following Tuesday at Zumba, she said that was the first time she had put on sneakers since her return five days earlier!