October 2014

Looking back at October 2014.

It was a really good month for me!

Despite Halloween and the many tempting treats (candy corn, why do I love it so?) ... I successfully lost weight this month! During September, I  FINALLY dipped under 150. In October, I managed to stay under it the entire month! Hooray! I started the month at 148.9 and ended at 144.0. I'm not sure what the change has been. My eating has been a bit better (just in quantity, quality is lacking still). I know having the kids back to school, getting back to a routine ... that is helpful to me. It was a busy month, with a mission call for my oldest, several outings, basketball, school stuff ...

I kept up with my exercise ... getting in an hour of elliptical almost every day. An hour of Zumba Mon-Thurs. I did get in one Saturday session this month. Lots of riding and reading (I feel like I've gotten through a ton of books!) and back to PlayOn, watching some of the current content coming out (Grey's Anatomy, The Walking Dead, Etc.) Spending more treadmill time during this TV time too. Still getting in weights once a week. The one Friday I didn't get to goal, I was still really close.

Hopefully I'll be able to keep the exercise/eating up, and keep the weight down as November hits. The weather was beautiful in October. Halloween evening we couldn't have asked for anything better. A cool front is coming in ... it really doesn't impact me much, as I'm an indoor exerciser anyway. If anything, sometimes I'll get in another workout simply to warm up! There are several birthdays coming up (my mom, hubs ... and me) so there will be some eating out and cake to contend with. But looking back at October ... I can't help but be pleased with my progress *Ü*  After months and months feeling like the scale was stuck, it's SO nice to see a shift!  Below, you can follow the details of my day to day (if you are interested). 

JenB's Journal 

• 1001 (Wednesday) Weight 148.9. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 31007. Total Burn 3293. Exercise Burn 1619/1609 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 1.5milesIncline, 10milesBike). Calories in 2000. Zumba hadn't started this week, even though I was a little late. Not sure if it was shoes, or the floor, but it felt a little slippery today. I was also a bit sore from my weight workout a couple days ago. It was so nice walking out into the cool outdoors afterward, it felt wonderful. I hit Walmart on the way home to restock some household needs. Got in some additional exercise the after-school pickups ... #2 even came home! Then I had to turn right back around and go back for #3's school conferences. Not really Parent/Teacher conference, because these are "student lead" ones. You can go around and talk to the individual teachers after, but he's doing well in his classes and neither of us felt the need. We were in and out pretty quick. He had a basketball game in the evening. Our boys got into the lead early and kept it the entire game ... until the end, when the other team made a comeback to win by two. My boy was upset but held it together pretty well (he has trouble keeping emotions in check at times). It was a good lesson in not giving up (the other team), because you can come back!
• 1002 (Thursday) Weight 148.5.  Good Day. Fitbit Steps 32871. Total Burn 3299. Exercise Burn 1616/1617 (60minElliptical, Zumba, 70min/3.5milesIncline, 10milesBike). Calories in 2300. Dropped the boys off at school, and then quickly ran an errand (dropping a box at UPS) then went to Zumba. Got in some additional cardio at home after, then picked up the kids after school. #5 had a soccer game at 6:30 ... they lost again. Then I took #3 to the high school for his basketball practice. #2 originally had a game scheduled at 8:00, which was changed to 9:00, but then was changed to 7:00. As I couldn't be in two places at once, I told him to find a ride with one of his basketball buddies. I asked Hubs if he might be able to stop in at the game on his way home from work. I do like to have someone there for  support, and just in case of injury. Hubs did, and brought him home, stopping at Chick-Fil-A on the way. I still had 10:00 pickup of #3, so I did some additional exercise just to stay awake! If I stop and sit I would fall asleep (hubs was out cold!)
• 1003 (Friday) Weight 149.5. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 26214. Total Burn 3133. Exercise Burn 1451/1447 (60minElliptical, Zumba, 40min/2milesIncline). Calories in 1500. Slept in a little, so did #2. Actually I went to wake him and he wasn't in bed! I was a bit alarmed, but found him upstairs crashed on the couch. Dropped off the high school boys (my son and his friend) then dropped off my elementary boys. I went to Sam'sClub to grab milk,bread,eggs and look for the new SuperSmash3DS came that came out today that the boys were pooling their money together to buy. It wasn't there, so I stopped next door at Walmart, but they didn't have it in. I stopped at Target, and got it. #3 was out of school today (due to the PT conferences this week) so he got first crack at the game while I went to my Zumba class. I stopped at Maceys on the way home to drop off a paper at the bank, and grabbed a few groceries too. Got in a bit of exercise, then pickup for the early out elementary. They were anxious to try the new game. I'd banked my calories just in case the hubs suggested dinner or a movie, but we didn't end up going out (which I was fine with too). I could have/should have gotten in some additional exercise, but I was feeling lazy. Just made simple dinners for the boys, but I didn't really eat. Kept calories low today!
• 1004 (Saturday) Weight 147.3. Ok Day. Fitbit Steps 18102. Total Burn 2471. Exercise Burn 800/796 (60minElliptical, 10milesBike). Calories in 2100.  Saturday sleep in *Ü* I had meant to lay out some croissants last night. #1 son wanted breakfast and decided to go get donuts. I can't really resist donuts. #5 had his final soccer game. We parked a little further away, I prefer to walk more and not struggle as much to find a space. I kicked the ball around with the kids before the game and tried to walk up and down the fields while they warmed up. Our team got a goal and was actually ahead for the first time. My little guy took a turn as goalie (I'd rather him be out running around more) and did pretty well, but one ball got by. So it was a tie, but I think our kids were pretty happy with that still. This was a quick season! Just four weeks. I'm afraid #5 might be a little bored now without some sports, basketball doesn't start for a while. Hubs was out running errands. I was really tired for some reason. I took a little nap! It was General Conference weekend. #1 son went downtown with a friend for the Priesthood session. Hubs took #2 and #3 (and one of their friends) to it, then out to Italian Village after. That was a place he frequented back when he was a teen.  Even with the donut start to the morning, I kept calories somewhat in check for the day. 
• 1005 (Sunday) Weight 147.7. Ok Day. Fitbit Steps 13903. Total Burn 2285. Exercise Burn 800/600 (60minElliptical, 10milesBike). Calories in 2300. Slept in again. Love that! General Conference, so no needing to dress for church today. I made the usual breakfast. We usually go to Maga's on Conference Sunday. I do often take advantage of the quiet time and stay home alone, which I did do today. Got in another nap. Did some exercise, blogging, clean up. Made brownies for the boys, and did NOT eat any myself! Hubs wanted to watch a movie, so some down time with "Fast and Furious 6". There were a couple ridiculous laugh out loud moments. Hubs made his popcorn ... I ate quite a bit of said popcorn. Yum! 
• 1006 (Monday) Weight 149.2.  Good Day. Fitbit Steps 34377. Total Burn 3484. Exercise Burn 1910/1898 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 2milesIncline, 1mileEasyWalk, 16milesBike, 60minWeights). Calories in 1500. Got the kidlets off to school. #4 did have a rough morning, per usual for a Monday. Zumba was great today. I was watching my HRM and really got the heart rate up today! Stopped at Kmart, then SmithsMarketplace on the way home. It was such a pretty day out and the sunshine was calling, but I stuck to my schedule and did weights. #1 picked up pizza for dinner. #3's basketball practice got cancelled, so I thought I was going to get an early evening in ... but then found out #2's practice went until 10:00. I did my usual bike/treadmill into the evening, just to stay awake! As practice got out, #2 insisted on stopping by a friend's home to say goodbye to his brother, who was leaving tomorrow for his mission. Another buddy came, and I dropped him off after ... so didn't get home until almost 11:00.
• 1007 (Tuesday) Weight 147.7. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 30052. Total Burn 3183. Exercise Burn 1589/1506 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 60minIncline, 10milesBike).  Calories in 1850. I'd tried bribing #4 with a computer game he wanted if he would get up and off to school without complaint. He did this morning. We left just a bit early, so I made it to Zumba on time. Another good class. Seems like if my Monday class is good, it carries over for the rest of the week (and vice-versa). Today I couldn't resist the sunshine, I spend a little time outside reading. Still got in some treadmill time and additional elliptical. Daddy came home a little early and took the three youngest out to see Maga's new house. One the way home, he dropped #3 at practice (resheduled from yesterday) and then took the little ones to Chick-fil-a. Practice ended at 9:30, which while only 30 minutes earlier, seems much better than 10:00. I collected both boys (#3 and #2 who had been hanging out with a friend). 
• 1008 (Wednesday) Weight 147.0. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 28554. Total Burn 3208. Exercise Burn 1200/1535 (60minElliptical, Zumba). Calories in 1900. I started the day with some elliptical and Zumba.  #2 was out of school today ... he slept in, I didn't see him before I left. He ended up going up to a cabin with friends. I got the lawn mowed and then got the mail and ... the day changed! There was a big white envelope addressed to my oldest from the church. His mission call. We weren't expecting it quite this quickly! We decided to throw together a quick "opening party" for those family and friends who could make it on such short notice. #3 had his basketball game, and #1 was going to his friend's opening at 7:00, so ours was planned for 8:30. I made a store run and picked up ice cream and toppings for a sundae bar. It went well. Mexico, Peublo North. He leaves mid February.
• 1009 (Thursday) Weight 146.9. Good Day. Fitbit Stepts 25002. Total Burn 3000. Exercise Burn 1200/1292 (60minElliptical, Zumba, 10milesBike). Calories in 1850. #4 was having a school activity today, Colonial Days, where they rotate through different stations learning things people did back in the 1800s. Carding wool, weaving, candle dipping, ink pen writing, soap making, brick making ... his class had tried the weaving yesterday and it totally flustered my poor kid. He doesn't like any kind of deviation from the norm anyway (he gets that from me) so he was already concerned about the day, and the weaving attempt pushed him over the edge. He was so upset and crying that he didn't want to go. I had signed up to be a helper ... anything to help him out a little (even though I had to miss Zumba). Before the activity even started, a woman from the office came to get me saying #4 had gotten hurt playing football before school. Sigh ... sometimes I have to suspect injury and sickness is a ploy to get out of things he doesn't want to do. I had him come sit with me at my station (the weaving station ironically) and then as they rotated I'd have him try to join his group. Sometimes he'd end up coming back with me, other times he made it through the station. He did master the weaving (I was able to catch what he was doing wrong). So anyway, that was my morning from 8:30-12:00. It is fun to help out with the kids. Many of them knew me from last year when I helped out in the classroom and did the class parties. Back at home, I went ahead and got in my Zumba on my own to my YouTube playlist. Home workout has the advantage of me getting to pick my favorite songs, having a fan on, and not being self-conscious about my moves ... but it does lack the energy and fun of a live class.  I was able to get a bike session in today too ... lots of good books on deck! #2 had a basketball game in the evening and #8 had practice (starting the same time, so I had hubs drop #3 at practice). The game was pretty close. #2 wasn't getting shots in, but did manage a couple free throws at the end when it counted. They got the win. We got home, then I picked up #3 from his practice. Time for bed!
• 1010 (Friday) Weight 146.9. OK Day. Fitbit Steps 22748. Total Burn 2786. Exercise Burn 1276/1213 (60minElliptical, Zumba, 10milesBike). Calories in 2600.  Triple to school carpools on Friday mornings. A quick Sam'sClub run in-between and off to Zumba directly after dropping #3 off at middle school.  Friday Zumba is always fun, worth the trip across town. A bit of quiet time in the empty house, then after school pickups. I picked up #2 after his basketball class. Our little niece was in a play, and the family was going to support her. Hubby had only picked up five tickets, figuring a couple kids would bail. I don't know if they knew that was even a possibility ... #1 and I ended up staying home. I was quite the little actress back in the day, but it's really not my thing anymore. I much prefer watching basketball games than having kids in dance or other performances. Good thing I have all boys and they all like sports! I got in some reading and riding, and then it was an early night in.  Ate  a little too much. I'd picked up another big bag of candy corn this morning and put it in the decorative pumpkin. Not sure WHY I tempt myself that way! Daddy also stopped at Chick-Fil-A on the way home from the play ... and I did partake.
• 1011 (Saturday) Weight 147.4.  OK Day. Fitbit Steps 16522. Total Burn 2401. Exercise Burn 849/726 (60minElliptical, 10milesBike). Calories in 2250.   Ah sleep in. I can't even express how excited I was to not set the alarm and have no set time to wake up. Did hit the elliptical first thing. I'd laid out some croissants to rise, so that was breakfast. #3 had a game, and #2 came along to watch. It was a very easy win for our boys, but the calls were definitely skewed for the other team. I think the refs felt sorry for them. They called every little thing against our boys, and almost nothing against the other team. I don't know that anyone had fun that game! #2 had a 3x3 tournament at the school. He hadn't eaten breakfast nor brought anything to eat ... so we stopped at Arby's before dropping him off. I would have liked to see him play, but he didn't have a set schedule and I didn't want to spend the entire afternoon standing around. Got in some reading/riding.
• 1012 (Sunday) Weight 147.7. Bad Day. Fitbit Steps 7858. Total Burn 1998. Exercise Burn 250/321 (20minElliptical). Calories in 2700. Sleep in again. I hit the elliptical first thing, but then didn't feel like going back down to the gym. I deserve a rest day, right? I did end up walking to church. It was a little too chilly, but #2 had already assumed my seat in the car and it was easier than making everyone shift seats. #4 had a tough time as always. He looks so miserable, like he's going to cry any minute. His pants are a bit of a problem. He's not fat, but he's a bit more pudgy than the other boys, and the regular pants are too tight around the waist, even when we went up to a 14 (he's 11). I guess I need to pick up a "husky" pair (my other boys are sticks!). A quite afternoon. I made spaghetti for dinner, with cheesy bread and corn. Homemade oreos for dessert ... was it a request or a demand? I'm not sure! Too many calories in for me anyway, especially with little exercise to combat it.
• 1013 (Monday) Weight 149.5. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 30504. Total Burn 2924. Exercise Burn 1781/1610 (60minElliptical, Zumba, 2milesIncline, 10milesBike, 60minWeights). Calories in 2000. Whew, made it through the weekend without bopping over 150. Yea! Got in a couple small elliptical sessions before getting the kids off to school, then headed out to Zumba. Good numbers, not quite as up as last week. Nina's little boy tried to play on her ipad and ended up locking it (guessing the password wrong too many times), but luckily the other instructors had music and just took more of a turn today. That is a benefit of having multiple instructors! Backup! Stopped at Kmart on the way home, made two purchases (my account and #1 son) and didn't pay a penny ... all FitStudio points. Ordered a pair of husky pants for #4, and paid $4 for them with points. Hope the get in by Sunday.  Got in some weights then picked the kids up after school. It was Papa Murphy Monday ... not sure if we'll continue that when #1 leaves, he's our main pizza eater, and he's the one that picks them up each week. I did indulge in some of the Chicken Garlic pizza ... sans toppings, so basically breadsticks. The boys downed the pepperoni. I made brownies for the treat, and to have leftovers for lunches. I even resisted eating any! Trying SO hard to stay under 2000. #3 had basketball practice from 8:00-10:00. I dropped him off, picked up #2 ... a girl (his girl apparently, when did THAT happen?) had stopped by to ask him to Sadies. So that was waiting for him. I got in some bike and treadmill time, not because I needed additional exercise, but because I had to stay moving to stay awake until 10:00.
• 1014 (Tuesday) Weight 148.2. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 32334. Total Burn 3222. Exercise Burn 1605/1542 (60minElliptical, Zumba, 60min/3milesIncline, 75min/20milesBike). Calories in 2350. I like Tuesdays, I seem to have the most hours in the day on Tuesdays. That is mostly because Zumba is earlier (and on time) and so close. I even have the little boys go to school a little early ... well, they always used to go early, but then #4 has been wanting to go later, closer to the bell. But I need to leave just a bit earlier to make it to Zumba on time. I just go straight to the church after dropping them off. The music was already going today, but I hadn't missed much. Good class as always. I didn't quite get the heart rate up as much. Some "slower" songs, missing some of the more high impact ones to drive the heart rate up and keep it there. Still good numbers. Home again by 10:00 and ... the sleepies hit. Hard. Since I am utterly spoiled, and I could ... I took a nap. I got in a little exercise, then picked up the kids from school. I made banana bread and muffins (a whole bunch of bananas had gotten away from me). I thought it was pack meeting, so hubs took the two youngest ... and no one was there. I guess it's next week. They ended up going to Arctic Circle for a treat. #3 had 8:00-10:00 practice again. I dropped him off, and picked up #2 (who had practice earlier, he had just stayed after school). More evening exercise just to stay awake. These 10:00 pickup times are killer ... but I DO get a lot of activity in!
• 1015 (Wednesday) Weight 147.8. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 30011. Total Burn 3165. Exercise Burn 1360/1487 (60minElliptical, Zumba, 10milesBike, 1.5milesIncline, 30minWeights, 10minHula). Calories in 2600. I need to keep my journal entries more current, I'm writing this a week later and I'm not remembering much about the day. Got in my exercise, a little too much eating. I had bananas going bad, so I made muffins and #1 asked me to make a loaf of banana bread ... but then I ended up eating way too much. Just something about toasting it makes it so yummy. The muffins temp me, but not as much as the bread. Random sweets today too. Early out at the elementary as it's Fall Recess starting tomorrow. Basketball game for #3 in the evening, they won but my boy was still grumpy about not getting some calls. We stopped and grabbed him some KFC after ... I had some cheese curds (from the A&W portion) and then we stopped at Sam's Club for gas.  I'm glad we made it, as were were empty! But gas was $.30 more expensive elsewhere. $2.99 at Sams.
• 1016 (Thursday) Weight 147.4. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 35246. Total Burn 3472. Exercise Burn 1809/1797 (60minElliptical, ZumbaX2, 10milesBike, 2milesIncline). Calories in 1700. Slept in a bit with the kids out of school. Daddy and #1 still had work. I still got in my morning Zumba. The kids stayed pretty busy, playing games (Monopoly, baseball), #3 practicing his juggling skills, and I got out the "Bloonies" for them to try. We had a couple friends over for most of the day. I ran #2 to his friend's as per usual ... he never stays home! I made tacos for dinner. No basketball for #2 this week, which made it possible for me to go to Marian's new evening class. I mean, I had a ton of steps already, and wasn't totally in the mood for more, but I wanted to be supportive. I went and had fun. I wasn't sure if I'd have energy late in the day, but I got good numbers. Kept calories better in check today.
• 1017 (Friday) Weight 146.1. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 19144. Total Burn 2869. Exercise Burn 1145/1201 (60minElliptical, Zumba, Swimming). Calories in 2000. Another day for the kids off school. The kids wanted cocoa and toast for breakfast ... it's hard for me to resist. I hit my Friday Zumba as usual and got in some elliptical. Ran #2 to his friends, and #1 got home quite early. The boys got out Clue and Mastermind to play today. My folks had my BIL and the kids over, so they invited the rest of the cousins to come play. We headed out (sans #2) and swam in the pool. It has still been open as the weather has been so nice, but will close tomorrow. We had it to ourselves, that was nice. I'd brought along some games (the Lightening Reaction, Frisbee Golf, Cosmic Catch) and grandma cooked up five Papa Murphy Pizzas and then made brownies for dessert. Hubs was going to come out and join us (even stopped off and grabbed some gluten-free cookies for my dad) but then got sidetracked and didn't make it. We beat him home. #2 caught a ride home, not getting home until late.
• 1018 (Saturday) Weight 146.0. Pretty Good Day. Fitbit Steps 23600. Total Burn 2897. Exercise Burn 1042/1229 (60minElliptical, Zumba). Calories in 2600. Ah ... real sleep in (I can't really sleep through Hubs getting up and leaving for work). The main instructor at my Thursday Zumba class was having a class at Gold's Gym and said entry was free today ... so I went. Nice to get a little Saturday Zumba in, it's been a while. No basketball games with the Fall Recess. I ran to the grocery store, as we were running low on several things (I hadn't made my usual Sam'sClub run yesterday with the kids out of school). In the early evening, Hubs and I took the three youngest to Desert Star Theater, which is a fun and crazy performance. Very melodramatic (the audience it supposed to "boo/hiss" for the bad guy, cheer for the hero). Lots of punny humor. #3 had been a few times before and had wanted to go back ... the two little ones weren't very impressed, so we'll probably not bring them again (it is pretty pricey). It's a dinner theater, so we had pizza and cheese bread and some treats.
• 1019 (Sunday) Weight 147.0 Ok Day. Fitbit Steps 11930. Total Burn 2247. Exercise Burn 500/574 (40minElliptical). Calories in 2400. Sunday sleep in, then the usual Sunday Circles breakfast. #4 was having issues, he and I walked over to church a little late. We walked home too. Prepping for the primary program. I'm off the hook as pianist this year, which is good as there are several songs I have trouble with (not that I've really put in much time trying to practice).  #3 had a school assignment, making a poster for Spanish class, and he and I spent much of the afternoon on it. It turned out cute, and I finally used some of my neglected scrapbook supplies. I made haystacks for dinner. #1 could tell that I was worn out from homework help and dinner and HE made the homemade oreos on his own. I limited my self to just a half of one. Daddy built a fire and the little ones roasted marshmallows. Time for bed ... the regular routine starts up again
• 1020 (Monday) Weight 149.0. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 24411. Total Burn 2961. Exercise Burn 1317/1276 (60minElliptical, Zumba, 10milesBike). Calories in 2100. Monday mornings are always hard for #4, after the contentment of being safe at home all weekend. With the long weekend I was anticipating a worse time than usual ... and I got it. The poor kid just lay sobbing in his bed for a half hour, stressing about school and assignments and such. Logic and reason just don't seem to have any effect. I finally got him dressed and got a little breakfast down him. More tears at drop off. I ended up parking and taking him into the school and talking with the teacher for a minute. #4 finally went in, but I kept my cell phone handy in case of a call. I had Zumba out in Draper today, which is a little further away than I like when I'm worried about #4, but there wasn't a call. Zumba was good, although it started later than usual (which is already late) due to chairs left up and some sound system problems. But good class once we got going. My Kmart order hadn't come in, so I bagged stopping today. #3 was supposed to have a basketball practice after school, but I got an email that it was cancelled. I called the pediatrician to see if I could bring in #4 to discuss his anxiety and they had an opening for today. It was RIGHT after school, not enough time to drop #5 home, so he came alone. I packed them some after school food if they were hungry and brought their Ipods for the waiting room. A couple years ago when #4 was having a tough time, we did counseling and medication. I didn't feel like the counseling helped, and it was just another tough thing that #4 struggled with (and me too, as we are both such homebodies. We need therapy to get to therapy!) I think the medication helped before, so we are going to try it again. It's just so hard to see him so stressed all the time over such minor things! I started some medication for my anxiety a couple months ago and I don't know if it's helped me ...  We stopped at the Dollar Store on the way home. Both little boys thought it was pretty cool and we did leave with a few bags full of stuff. We still had some left over pizza, so we didn't do the usual "Papa Murphy Monday" for dinner. I made chicken pillows, and brownies for dessert (and leftovers for lunches). It was nice not having a 10:00 pickup from basketball practice, although I did have to run grab #2 at 8:30 ... he had just never come home since I dropped him off at school this morning.
• 1021 (Tuesday) Weight 148.7. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 31149. Total Burn 3304. Exercise Burn 1662/1623 (60minElliptical, Zumba, 3milesIncline, 15milesBike, 60minWeights). Calories in 1800. Thunderstorms were in the morning forecast, but I don't think #4 realized that. He actually got up without issue this morning and didn't have a problem until he say the somewhat stormy looking skies. He struggled a bit with drop-off, and I was glad Zumba was close to home today. Around noon, it did start to rain and the wind was blowing, but no thunder or lightening. No call from the school either, so that was good. I got in quite a bit of exercise, even though I had a couple lazy hours mid-morning. I got spacey in the afternoon and went to pick up middle school an hour early! I've only been picking up middle school for years at 3:00, not sure why I got goofed up today! #1 brought a praying mantis home from work, and that became quite the attention getter for much of the rest of the day. Dinner was toasted cheese sandwiches. #3 did have 8:00-10:00 practice. I dropped him off, and picked up #2 from his friend's house. Helped #5 with some homework. Hubs was up late working on a video for scouts. #3 was in tears after practice having jammed his finger ... hope it is just a jam.
• 1022 (Wednesday) Weight 148.3. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 27875. Total Burn 3224. Exercise Burn 1418/1543 (60minElliptical, Zumba, 10milesBike). Calories in 1900.  A bit of a rough morning with #4 again. At least Zumba was nice and close in case I got a call ... which I didn't. I was almost 20minutes late, but class hadn't started yet. So many of these free classes don't start on time ... so people don't come on time, etc. But always good once it gets going. Sometimes they pull people up on the stage to help out as a "backup dancer" ... I'd been picked before but weaseled my way out of it. I mean, I do go up sometimes on Monday, and actually lead a song on Tuesday, but I know the song. It's a little more hit and miss here at MZL. Anyway, I couldn't get out of it today and ended up on stage for a couple songs. Luckily I was at least somewhat familiar with them. I prefer being down in the crowd though :)  I stopped at Target on the way home. Grabbed some paper for a school assignment for #5, and tried on some athletic leggings. I'm always wearing more baggy stuff, I'm just not sure I'm ready for anything tight fitting. I did end up buying a pair, but went to an x-large (when I'm in a medium of most things). They have a small pattern too ... but still black/gray. I didn't get in as much exercise today, as I was on duty as "homework helper" again. The construction paper I'd bought still wasn't large enough, I ended up cutting up a posterboard. I had to fold it into a book cover, and then #5 had to write different things on each flap. We'd gone over that last night, so I prepped the papers and he went to work. Hubs and #3 went to a derby. #3 and I had brainstormed a bunch of ideas for his school assignment ... writing a children's story showcasing chemical and physical properties and changes. I spent some time taking our rough draft and coming up with some rhymes and getting it typed up. I also got caught up on some blogging, journaling and data entry. Too much time sitting in a chair though! #2 usually has a basketball game Wednesday evenings, but they had a bye today, and I have to admit it was nice to have the night off.
• 1023 (Thursday) Weight 148.2. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 31551. Total Burn 3115. Exercise Burn 1200/1435 (60minElliptical, Zumba, Walking during Basketball). Calories in 1500. The weight hasn't dropped like it usually does after the weekend gain. It is TOM time, but I haven't really noticed a correlation with that. Terrible morning with #4 ... much sobbing. I ended up walking him into the school again, chatting with the teacher for a moment. I actually just stayed, as #5 was getting an award 20 minutes later. Not enough time to go home or do anything else. Always proud of the boy's achievements. The little program didn't last long, but just perfect timing to make me miss my morning Zumba class. I did end up doing some on my own, but I wasn't feeling particularly motivated. I got "the call" near the end of my workout and had to go pick up #4 from school. He was feeling sick. His anxiety and worry does make him physically sick sometimes. I managed to finish my Zumba and get in my hour of elliptical, but that was all. #3 and I finished up his assignment after school, so it's ready to be handed in tomorrow. Then #3 and Daddy went to do another derby, and Hubs would drop #3 off at basketball practice after. #2 had two games, at 8:00 and 9:00. I usually video them, but he hasn't seemed interested enough to look through the highlights, so I didn't bother today. I sat and chatted with a couple of the other mom's for a while. But I'm no good at sitting. I stood up for a while, then came down to an unoccupied corner and was able to pace around while watching the games. They won them both. Hubs had to pick up #3 from his practice at 10:00, and #2 and I got home a little while after that. I had felt like I didn't get a lot of exercise, my Zumba and elliptical are my norm, I didn't get in any "extra" (bike or treadmill) but the steps while watching the game added up, and I ended up over 30k.
• 1024 (Friday) Weight 146.5. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 24032. Total Burn 2977. Exercise Burn 1100/1307 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba). Calories in 1800. I was happily surprised at the weigh-in this morning. A drop from yesterday (and every day this week). It was a crazy, rushed morning, but at least #4 seemed ok. Got the high school boys off, then the elementary kids. Ran to Sam'sClub and home, rushing to unload, get the middle schooler off, and then head out to Zumba. There, the gym was set up for a Halloween party. We had to Zumba around the tables. I was dragging a bit today. Haven't been sleeping great, not sure why. Early out at the elementary. Middle school carpool. Then #2 had me pick him up and help a little making a poster to answer for Sadie Hawkins. I got #1 to drive him for the drop-off, saving me from having to go out again. I jumped in the shower, then had the little boys take them, as they had colored hair from "crazy hair day" at school. I'd kept calories in check, wondering if Hubs and I might do something for date night (which we didn't end up doing) ... I was a little hungry heading to bed but didn't indulge.
• 1025 (Saturday) Weight 145.4. Bad Day. Fitbit Steps 20296. Total Burn 2184. Exercise Burn 500/520 (40minElliptical). Calories in 2450. Only a "bad" day in that my intake exceeded my burn. Love sleeping in on Saturday mornings. Got in an elliptical session first thing ... forgot to put on my Fitbit! Had family croissants for breakfast. With Halloween coming up, I had the little boys look through the costumes. The basement is now a scary mess with costumes strewn all over ... of course the little boys both say they need/want something new. I did have some Fitstudio points to spend, so I packed them up and headed to Kmart and let them pick out new costumes. Also picked up some pants for #4 I'd purchased and had shipped to the store.  Hubs suggested going out to lunch, so we hit Rodizio downtown. I don't know that I'd eaten until I was uncomfortably full in a while, but that was the case today. Total guesstimate on the calories! #3 had a basketball game at 6:00. I didn't video, but paced a small section ... that meal was sitting heavy in my stomach. Got about 7000+ steps in, and our boys lost, so #3 wouldn't have cared about a video anyway (he hasn't even looked over the clips from their recent wins). There isn't always a place for me to walk, but I do prefer it to sitting! While we were gone, Hubs took the two little ones over to the church for a Trunk-or-Treat. #2 was out, but #1 was willing to pick him up, so Hubs and I got to go to bed early.
• 1026 (Sunday) Weight 147.6. Ok Day. Fitbit Steps 13367. Total Burn 2302. Exercise Burn 500/625 (40minElliptical). Calories in 2000. Sunday sleep in, morning workout, then family breakfast. I walked to church. It was a little cool, but nice. The church seemed warm after the walk. #4 was struggling today, very emotional. Some primary program practice. I'd put a  roast in the crock pot, and hubs made up some of his mashed taters. It was a simple but yummy meal. We watched Jumanji as a family then played some games (Apples to Apples). "Middle Earth" (the storage room/den off the family room) had gotten out of control, so I did spend some time cleaning it up. Sometimes (most times) I feel like such a failure at trying to keep things straight in the home :(  Made brownies for the treat (and leftover for lunches) ... Hubs was craving homemade oreos, so I made those too. Got in a final elliptical session to end the day. Catching up on Downton Abby.
• 1027 (Monday) Weight 147.5. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 32803. Total Burn 3369. Exercise Burn 1732/1693 (60minElliptical, Zumba, 10milesBike, 2milesIncline). Calories in 1700. Lowest Monday weigh-in in a while! Didn't bump up after yesterday (not that I was super bad yesterday). Tough morning with #4, had to walk with him into the school. I wasn't sure if I was going to make it out! Went to Zumba. Nina had an appointment so Sabik, T and Deb were handling it. I even helped with a couple numbers. There was a pretty good crowd there. I didn't stop at Kmart on the way home, as I'd just gone on Saturday with the boys. #3 had basketball practice right after school, so I dropped him off after picking up the elementary kids. I picked up both #2 and #3 at 6:00. I'd invited my folks over for "Grandparents and games" night. I made tacos (gluten free for my dad), and we had skookie for dessert (not gluten free, but Hubs had purchased some gf cookies). We played Apples to Apples, Rummikub and Progressive Rummy. Hubs was working on some scout stuff, as Court of Honor is coming up quick. It was a fun night. I'm surprised I got as much exercise in during the day as I did!
• 1028 (Tuesday) Weight 145.3.  Good Day. Fitbit Steps 30715. Total Burn 3334. Exercise Burn 1691/1659 (60minElliptical, Zumba, 10milesBike, 1.5milesIncline, 60minWeights, 10minHula). Calories in 2250. Yea, my Motivated Monday showed up on the scale today! Another busy day. #4 did better today ... some whimpering but not outright crying. Still didn't get the elementary kids to school early enough to make it on time to Zumba, but I was only a few minutes late. Love getting done and home again by 10:00. I pushed my weight workout to today, knowing I had a bit more time on Tuesdays. Got in some reading and riding, and treadmill time too. Lots of car trips in the afternoon. Had to drop off a BIG box to #2 at the high school (for a pumpkin drop assignment). Then picked up #3. Elementary pickup, then took #3 back to the middle school for open gym. Had to pick him up a couple hours later, and then grab #2 when his basketball ended. Whew! Food was a little higher today as #1 picked up Chinese for dinner, and I made lemon jello cake for dessert.
• 1029 (Wednesday) Weight 145.9. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 35750. Total Burn 3282. Exercise Burn 1591/1615 (60minElliptical, Zumba, 10milesBike). Calories in 2000. Busy day today! Got the kids off to school then hit Zumba. Got really good numbers today, the high for the week. Stopped at a couple stores on the way home, grabbing some things for Hubs for the Court of Honor tonight. Got my a cute new pair of workout pants too. Mowed the lawn ... not that it really needed it. With the cooler weather and the water turned off, it hadn't grown much at all, but still looked slightly better evened out a bit. I enjoy mowing the lawn. It was a beautiful day out! I did some prep for hubs (pulling out the chocolate fountain and accesssory boxes. Cutting up strawberries and rice krispie treats). I'm sure he could have used more help, but #3 had a basketball game. Again, I didn't bother videoing, but walked around a bit instead. Got 4000 steps while watching. We stopped at the church on the way home and got the tail end of the choclate fountain. Yes ... I had some, but I didn't overindulge.
• 1030 (Thursday) Weight 144.9.  Good Day. Fitbit Steps 33956. Total Burn 3181. Exercise Burn 1800/1520 (60minElliptical, Zumba, 10milesBike, 2milesIncline). Calories in 1400. I'm really surprised I got the steps and stuff in today! I started my morning with elliptical as usual, but did not get to go to Zumba. The elementary was having their Halloween parade, followed by class parties. I tried walking around a bit waiting for the parade to start. I ended up sitting at a table for a few hours, running the "memory game" portion of the party. Glad when it was over and I could stand and stretch. It was early out for the elementary, then I picked up #3 from middle school. I took him back at 5:30 for open gym. Hubs took the two youngest to meet #1 and my folks for dinner. I couldn't make it, needing to run the older boys to basketball, but I was able to fit in an evening session of Zumba over at the church with Marian. I had to sneak out a little early to go grab #3. I was still late, an accident right in front of me slowed me down even more. When I picked him up, I told him we could go home for 15 minutes, or I could just drop him off early at the high school for his 9:00 practice. He said that was fine, we did make a quick stop at Arctic Circle to get him a little food. I then headed out to watch #2 play in his basketball game (he'd hitched a ride with friends). An easy win for them. I got in 5000+ steps just pacing around while watching. The coach took them out for Frazils after. I'd made the Hubs go pick up #3 from the high school at 10:00, but they went over, and I would have been able to make it there in time. Too bad for poor, tired hubs! I was so busy today, I didn't eat much!
• 1031 (Friday) Weight 144.0. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 28723. Total Burn 3061. Exercise Burn 1200/1405 (60minElliptical, Zumba). Calories in 1800. Slept in a bit, with the kids out of school. Hit MZL Zumba at 9:00, although it didn't start up until 9:20. Good class. I did a quick stop at Target on the way home to return some leggings I had purchased last week. Made french toast for the boys for breakfast, and it was a pretty quiet day. Dropped #2 off at friends (I even let him drive) and took the little boys to the dollar store (they had been bugging me to go again). Made stroganaoff for dinner. It was a beautiful night for Halloween, about 70° out. Hubs set up the projector, playing "It's The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown" on the garage, and he and the older boys took turns sitting out there and handing out candy. He thought we only got around 75 or so kids. I went walking with the little boys. Got about 6000 steps. #5 was tired and wanted to be done, #4 wanted to go further, and I was willing to go back out with him, but once we were home, we just stayed. We were in bed pretty early (#2 was sleeping over, so there wasn't a late night pickup for him).

September 2014

Ah September ... it was a pretty good month. I hit a low (in years) on my weight, getting under the 150s (now to stay there!). Average burn and intake are closer to goal (3000/2000) then they have been in a while. There have been some storms and anxiety issues, fun family time, and sports started back up. Soccer for #5 was basically only four weeks, a September sport! I lost ... but found my Fitbit. Good thing, I rely on it's feedback so much!

I hit goal (22,000 steps, total Fitbit burn of 3000, 100 active minutes) every weekday. The one Saturday I was successful, #2 had a basketball game at a gym with a track above the court, so I was able to watch and get in a workout. 

Weight-wise ... I started at 155.9, which as also the high for the month (Monday morning after a birthday weekend). I ended the month at 150.50 and had more lower weigh-ins (under 150)! My low for the month was 147.8.

 

 As far as eating and exercise ... I've been doing better at staying under 2000, at least during the weekdays. Still generally overeating on weekends, but keeping it better in control. Not sure what has helped with this. Still exercising a lot. An hour of elliptical almost every day. Zumba Mon-Friday. Instead of attempting "jogging" I've switched to upping the incline and doing a little hike many days. I went a week or so without biking, but got back to it here near the end of the month. I did get in weights at least once a week.

Here's a closer look at my day-to-day ...

Jen'sJournal September 2014

•  0901 (Monday) Good Day. Calories in 2000. Fitbit Steps 25386. Total Burn 3065. Exercise burn 1300/1341 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 10milesBike, Badminton). Weight 155.9 Labor Day. The boys had scout flag duty, but it's the last day, they are stopping the program. That will be a bit of a relief. Hubs and #1 did go into work today. I went to Zumba. Nina was very energetic today which does give me leave to be more bouncy. I hoped it would reflect a little more in the numbers, but still didn't break 400 on the Polar. Stopped at Kmart on the way home, sometimes I'm not really needing anything to get with my credit. Had a little trouble checking out today, but it worked out and I paid less than $2 for $20 or more worth of stuff.  Back at home, the boys seemed bored. I offered to take them to Jump or the park, but they didn't seem interested. They DID want to go to Airborne, which is further and more expensive, I finally said ok, but then #3 only wanted to go if he could take a friend and that wasn't working out so we decided to postpone, which then sent #4 into tears. Ah happy day. I ended up dropping off #2 at a friend's, and getting some badminton in with #4. Daddy finally made it home after a long day and built a fire for roasting hotdogs and marshmallows. Grabbed #2 at 9:00 and home and ready for bed! Did keep calories in check today, but it was nothing nutritious. At least the big bag of candy corn is now gone. I really hadn't planned on having the cinna-wheel (part of Papa Murphy Monday), but it's hard to resist.   
• 0902 (Tuesday) Good Day. Calories in 1650. Fitbit Steps 25665. Total Burn 3051. Exercise burn 1300/1335 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 10milesBike, 40minWeights). Weight 154.5  The new carpool schedule gets me up a little earlier, but allows me to get in a full 40 minutes on the elliptical in the mornings (20 min before the first carpool and another session after, before 2nd carpool). After I drop off the elementary kids, it's a bit of a rush to get to Zumba if I walk, but the weather has been so nice I do like to. I was a tad late today, and the speaker was having problems. On Sunday, the normal speaker system wasn't working and I had wondered then if it would impact Zumba. Umm ... yes. We gave up trying there and moved into the parking lot (as we've done a few times before) and Marian played the music through her car speakers. It was a beautiful, cool morning, and I was glad I had my cap to keep the sun out of my eyes. Walked home and got some stuff done around the house. Did some reading and riding and weights. I almost slipped outside for some sun, but didn't. #1 was home early to head to the dentist for some filling, and I worked on some insurance stuff for his wisdom teeth removal. Then after school carpools. #2 was staying for a weight workout with the basketball team, so I just grabbed #3. I got in a quick 10min session on the elliptical after bringing him home before heading out to grab the little ones. They were both so thirsty! They want to take water bottles tomorrow. The old school had drinking fountains in each room I think. Then it was Airbourne time, happily it was two-for-Tuesday, which saved us $30. The boys played and I sat and read ... just sitting exhausts me! I was so tired when we finally got home. #4 grabbed me for some badminton, but I didn't hit my gym again and was ready for bed by 9:00. #2 still needed to be picked up, but #1 was awake and available for chauffeur duty. I kept calories in check today. I had planned on making some dinner when the boys got back from bouncing but it was so late. We just threw in the extra pizza from yesterday. I don't eat pizza, so I just had some apples and cheese to take the edge off.  
• 0903 (Wednesday) Great Day. Calories in 1950. Fitbit Steps 38145. Total Burn 3640. Exercise burn 1530/1932 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 30min/1.5miles Treadmill Incline, 10milesBike). Weight 153.2  Started early, getting in an elliptical session before the first carpool, and a second before dropping of the little boys. Went to the 9:00 Zumba ... I didn't show until ten minutes after, but still had to wait another ten, like last week. Good workout, although not quite the numbers as last week. I stopped at Sears and Walmart after. I got in my last elliptical, then did some treadmill with incline. Did some cleaning and then it was time for afternoon carpools. I then mowed the lawn and made dinner, then it was time for sports. Dropped #2 at the high school and took #5 to soccer practice. It ended just in time to take #3 to basketball (picking up #2 at the same time). It didn't end until 10:00, and I knew if I stopped or even slowed down I'd fall asleep, so I went down to the gym for some reading and riding. I didn't get badminton in with #4 today (much to his chagrin) but he played with Daddy, then Daddy took the little ones out for ice cream. I kept calories in check, even with the fried chicken and yellow rice. Felt very good today!  
• 0904 (Thursday) Good Day. Calories in 1250. Fitbit Steps 32321. Total Burn 3434. Exercise Burn 1550/1732 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 30min/1.5miles Treadmill w/Incline, 10milesBike). Weight 152.1  Up in the night for a bit, not sure why. Good thing I had my alarm set, because I was still out cold at 6:30. Couldn't get in a full 20 minutes on the elliptical, I tried for 10minutes but couldn't even get that, as #2 said we needed to leave a little early. Oh well. Dropped the boys off and finished my show ... which wasn't quite 10 minutes. Got the little ones ready and dropped them at school. Went to Zumba, and got better numbers than last week. Fun day, although the a/c just doesn't seem to be doing much in this particular gym. Stopped at Smiths on the way home to grab some groceries. It was a nice day, so I caught a little sun, which felt really good. Got some reading in, and finally updated my GoodReads for the past few books I've finished. Afternoon carpools, then soccer practice for #5. #4 came again and he and I played some badminton and frisbee. When we got back home #3 announced he had basketball practice (this was news to me) so back out again to drop him off. #2 finished at 9:00, but hung around until #3 was done at 10:00 to save me from needing to make two pickup trips. I went ahead and hit the bike again in the evening, to stay awake while reading until practice was over. Hubs was out cold by the time we got home.  
• 0905 (Friday) Ok Day. Calories in 3300. Fitbit steps 27493. Total Burn 3123. Exercise Burn 1500/1427 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 35min/2.0milesTreadmill, 38min/10miles Bike). Weight 151.0  Being late start Friday, I slept in a little. Dropped off the high school kids, then elementary. My middle-schooler asked me to make him cocoa and toast, so I did. Normally I don't eat breakfast, but I couldn't resist this, so that started my day a little heavy. Dropped him off and went straight to Zumba. As I got to the church I  could tell something was off. Apparently people were prepping for a funeral. Luckily we had a backup church and went there and got our Zumba on. I could see my heart rate was up today, and it was feeling good. Best numbers of the week. Home again, but early out at the elementary, then middle school pickup. Got in some treadmill and bike. French Toast Friday for dinner ... the two toasts and generally snacking pushed me way over calories today, Hubs brought home some yummy cookies, and of course that didn't help either! I think I was feeling a bit week from my uber low day yesterday, maybe making up a bit.  
• 0906 (Saturday) Bad Day. Calories in 3300. Fitbit Steps 14165. Total Burn 2393. Exercise Burn 650/691 (60minElliptical). Weight 152.0  Saturday sleep in ... the #1 went and got donuts. I can't resist donuts! #5 had his first soccer game. Hubs came too, which was nice as the parking was so crazy, I would have been completely stressed out. These are bigger fields. Last year my munchkin was in 2nd, playing in the 1st/2nd age group. This year it's 3rd/4th, so he's now the younger set. I could tell he was a little winded ... I do know how he feels from my recent soccer experiences. He had four really close goals, but none went in, there team didn't score (the other team had three). Poor munchkin, after his undefeated season in the spring, with goals every game, it was a little hard for him to handle. But losing is a lesson in and of itself. It was #1's birthday tomorrow, so we were planning on hitting The Cheesecake Factory (his choice) and then a local Demolition Derby. Hubs ended up taking a nap, and we didn't get off as early as I would have liked. We had about a 30minute wait when we arrived, and we wandered the mall. The kids love all the gadgets at Brookstone. Then we ate ... it was good, but pricey! We got out too late to hit the derby, which might have been a good thing, as the weather turned. Wind, lightening and rain ... my poor #4 would have had a panic attack! I went ahead and dropped #2 off at friend's, and then went to the store to grab some supplies for a birthday dinner tomorrow. Still no Oreo Ice Cream cake :(  
• 0907 (Sunday) Bad Day. Calories in 2800. Fitbit Steps 8051. Total Burn 2126. Exercise Burn 250/415 (20minElliptical). Weight 152.6  Happy birthday to my #1 son! I made the usual Sunday Circles for breakfast, and then instead of church, we hit the lake. It was an absolutely lovely day. I haven't gone in the past, but I went today. Waverunning, playing in the sand ... I mostly stayed in the shade and read my book.  Maga, Ana and her boys joined us. We stayed fairly late, too late for me to make the planned chicken pillows. I did quick toasted cheese and then homemade oreos, the birthday boy's favorite. He got a Lightning Reaction game, which shocks as part of the play ... there was a lot of laughter! 
• 0908 (Monday) Good Day. Calories in 1400. Fitbit Steps 28500. Total Burn 3221. Exercise Burn 1500/1506 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 30min/1.5milesTreadmill/Incline, 10milesBike). Weight 154.0   #4 has been complaining of a sore throat, and having allergies (runny nose, sneezing). He woke up coughing bad and I figured he was angling to stay home from school. I couldn't quite convince him to tough it out ... I'm never sure when to actually keep them home or not. I did let him stay, even though it meant I didn't get to go to Zumba :(  I could still get in my elliptical, I'd just check with him to see if he needed anything, then go downstairs for 20 minutes. #2 texted needing his basketball shoes for the afterschool clinic, so I had to run those to him. Once school got out and brothers were home to help, I did do an hour of Zumba to my youtube playlist. I made chicken pillows for dinner. #3 had basketball practice at 8:00-10:00. After dropping him off, I stopped at the store for some bread and bananas. I hit the bike to keep myself awake until the 10:00 pickup time. Grabbed #2 too, as he had just never come home from school/basketball, but hung out with friends all evening. Successfully controlled calories today, trying to make up for the wicked weekend. 
• 0909 (Tuesday) Good Day. Calories in 2000. Fitbit Steps 23806. Total Burn 2985. Exercise Burn 1260/1278 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 10milesBike). Weight 152.9  Wow, rough morning!#4 has been struggling with his weather phobia again, and it was storm. Gray skies, rain and some thunder. Every time it rumbled, he'd burst into tears and say he didn't want to go to school. As I have my own anxieties I know how he feels. I was a mean mommy though, and made him go. We waited until just before school started (usually he likes to go early and play) and I walked in with him. As he got control of himself and went to class, I talked with the ladies in the office, just letting them know what was going on with him. I then talked to the school psychologist as well, and she'll refresh his teacher (I mentioned it at Back to School but there is so much going on, who knows if it would be remembered). So there is a plan in place if he freaks out, but the weather did improve later (then got stormy again in the evening). Emotionally draining! It was early Zumba day too, so I missed half of it (but still went for half as it's super close). In the craziness of the morning, I hadn't pulled my hair back into a pony. Not sure how the Zumba instructors do it with their hair down, it totally bugged me! I did another 30 minutes at home to complete the hour. The morning emotions had affected me so much (another little simple something, which just starts the slide) I had to lay down for a small nap. Afternoon carpools ... I was anxious to pick up elementary to see how he did. Even though it was raining, he seemed fine (I met him up at the doors with an umbrella). I did finish up my elliptical, and got in some reading and riding. Made Macaroni Rosa for dinner, but only hubs and #1 like it. I had made chocolate chip muffins after school, and a lemon jello cake for dessert. #2 was gone all afternoon with friends, I picked him up around 8:30, and was happy to have an early night in. 
• 0910 (Wednesday) Good Day. Calories in 1800. Fitbit Steps 30122. Total Burn 3219. Exercise Burn 1300/1514 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 1mileJog, 50minWeights). Weight 152.7  I've been having a bit of a hard time getting up early enough to get in a full 20 minutes first thing. I've been doing more 10 minute sessions, as that's what is fitting the schedule right now. Got the kids off to school, then hit Zumba. Stopped at Sears on the way home to spend some points. It was a beautiful day ... so I soaked up a little sun. I did my first mile jog in a while (long 12 minutes!) and then did weights. I always dread weights somewhat, but enjoy it once I get started. After carpools, I mowed the lawn (front and back today). Hubs and #2 went to do a derby. I took #5 to soccer practice and got some walking and reading in. As I read in the sun and at soccer, I didn't hit the bike today. #1 picked up pizza for dinner, although we have a lot of leftovers! Another fairly early evening in.  
• 0911 (Thursday) Good Day. Calories in 1800. Fitbit Steps 26557. Total Burn 3115. Exercise Burn 1250/1415 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 30min/1.5miles Treadmill Walk). Weight 151.7 Got the boys off to school and then hit Zumba. It felt really good today, my heart rate was up. My numbers were good but I actually expected them to be slightly higher (Polar, Fitbit 479 and 7289 steps). I was pretty sweaty, enough that I should have been embarrassed to shopping after, but I needed to spend some Fitstudio points and Kmart is just down the road from Zumba. The boys have enough basketball shorts, but they were on clearance so I grabbed some more. Picked up a pair of shoes for #4 as well, as his current ones have been hurting his feet. Grabbed a little sun again today. Did some walking on the treadmill. I'm feeling my weight workout from yesterday (or possibly the jog) ... my calves and quads are really tight. So I just did an easy walk, no incline or speed. After school pickups, then #5 had a soccer game at 5:30. Unfortunately they were unable to score again (4-0) but he handled it better (although he was sad he didn't hear "cheering" for some of his moves ... I'll have to be louder!) #2 had stayed with friends after school, and then had practice from 6:00-8:00. #3 originally had practice scheduled from 8:00-10:00 but it got cancelled ... and I can't say I felt too bad about that. Another early to bed night :) 
• 0912 (Friday) Good Day. Calories in 2750. Fitbit Steps 31169. Total Burn 3182. Exercise burn 1500/1491 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 43min/2.2 miles Treadmill w/Incline, 10miles Bike).  Weight 150.2   Slept in a bit, as I'm wont to do Friday mornings with late start at the older boy's schools. I'd laid out some frozen croissants last night, and baked them up fresh this morning. We used to love these, but I'd had trouble finding them in past years. I found these at Walmart a week or so ago, they are much bigger, about double in size of the ones we used to get. The boys liked them, and I had one ... but #2 took one bite and then threw his away. Oh well, I probably would have eaten it too if he hadn't already put it in the garbage.  Dropped off the high school boys, then the elementary boys. I quickly ran to Sam'sClub to gas up my car and buy some groceries. #3 helped me unload, and then I dropped him off at middle school. I went straight out to Zumba and it was a good class. Very energetic numbers. A little bit too much time waiting between songs, or I'd get higher numbers. I wore white today, so I didn't have my little black hat to catch my sweat. I missed it. I do have a white hat around somewhere but I couldn't find it this morning. Hubs was home early, as he was prepping for a Fathers/Sons overnighter. I went to grab the elementary boys (early out) and there was some construction preventing me from parking in my usual spot. I had to go into the crowded parking lot. I hope they are done by Monday! #2 got a ride home, and then I picked up #3. We saw #1 coming home as we were ... if I had known, I would have had him grab #3!  There was a bit of a rush with final packing. #1 decided to go too at the last minute. #4, my fellow homebody did not go. So the rest of the day was just him and me. I thought about taking him out to dinner, but I'd already eaten too much. I'd picked up a bag of candy corn at Sam's this morning and I can eat that stuff by the handful! I'd also had me leftover alfredo from last Saturday's "Cheesecake Factory" outing. I mean I had put it in my food diary last week, but I'd forgotten just how high a calorie count it was.  We did get some badminton in. I ended up staying up late, as I often do when the hubs isn't around. I did a late night session on the bike, finishing up a book I'd been reading. 
• 0913 (Saturday) Pretty Good Day. Calories in 1750. Fitbit Steps 18656. Total Burn 2642. Exercise Burn 1015/953 (60minElliptical, 40min/2miles Treadmill w/Incline). Weight 149.8  Lazy morning, slept in. Got some stuff done around the house, and the guys got home in the early afternoon. Very sandy! It was everywhere. They all showered, I did laundry and put away the extra food. Hubs took a needed nap. Mr. Social (#2) took off with friends. I was tired by early evening, Hubs and #1 already to bed too, so I sent a text saying it was time (9:30) and surprisingly he agreed. He was tired too!  
• 0914 (Sunday) Ok Day. Calories in 2300. Fitbit Steps 14217. Total Burn 2443. Exercise burn 650/755 (60minElliptical). Weight 149.6  Sunday Circles ... Belgian waffles are one reason I can't control the calorie count well on Sundays! I dropped #2 off at a different church, a farewell for the brother of one of his buddies. I skipped the first hour of our church so I'd be around to pick him up again. I walked to/from church ... should not have walked home, as we had actually needed to stay at the church for a setting apart. So the two little boys and I hopped in #1's truck to hurry back. Hubs and the boys had a rousing game of Monopoly. #4 wasn't too happy, as he wanted to have Daddy help him with the blow dart gun. He and I got in a little badminton. I made French Dip, with brownies for dessert. We've had family videos on the whole weekend ... fun to see the boys when they were babies! 
• 09152014 (Monday) Good Day. Calories in 1700. Fitbit Steps 26817. Total Burn 3188. Exercise Burn 1500/1485 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 40min/2miles Treadmill w/Incline, 40minWeights). Weight 153.3  I feel like this was my first "official" back to school Monday. I got the boys off. Dropping of middle school, a boy had crashed on his bike and totally smashed his face. Ouch. The paramedics were there and it backed up traffic, so I took the alternate way home. So glad I have that option. Hit Zumba in Draper, I only missed last week, but it felt like forever since I'd been there. Good class, I could tell my heart rate was up and I got good numbers. I didn't do my usual Kmart stop, as I had just gone last Thursday and hadn't recouped my points yet. I snuck in a little sunshine and some additional workouts. After school pickups ... construction by the elementary still. I went 15 minutes early and still couldn't get a good spot.#2 had never come home from school (Mr. Social), but when I dropped #3 at the high school for basketball practice, I dropped off basketball shoes and some dinner, as #2 had practice from 8:00-10:00.  
• 09162014 (Tuesday) Good Day.  Calories in 1800. Fitbit Steps 23710. Total Burn 3026. Exercise 1100/1331 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba).  Weight 150.8  Quite a bit more sitting than usual for me today. Got the kids off, and then I hit Zumba. I went straight to a doctor's appointment, just checking back in, but sitting for about an hour. Home for a bit, then off to the oral surgeon with #1 to get his wisdom teeth out. In at 1:00, out at 3:00 ... the actual surgery was only 30 minutes or so though. He did good, but it was pushing my pickup times. #3 hitched a ride home with a friend and I made it in time to get the elementary school kidlets. I was a little late, but that made the parking lot easier to navigate. There was a break in the pipe, and water was flowing everywhere ... but not to the school apparently. Luckily it was end of day there (and the boys have been taking a bottle of water to drink during the day). I ran to the store to pick up prescriptions. Hubs had a little rest (had an early morning, I didn't sleep well either, so I was dragging a bit) and then was off to a derby, taking the two little ones to help (as the three big ones were all occupied). Got the kitchen cleaned up and even mopped the floor, it needed it badly. I took #3 to basketball practice at 8:00, then came home and helped #4 with homework (I remember how to add fractions, although my way seemed new to him, I guess I don't know how they are teaching it in school). Then time for pickup ... and to bed.  
• 09172014 (Wednesday) Good Day. Calories in 1500. Fitbit Steps 27552. Total Burn 3114. Exercise Burn 1400/1426 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 25min/1.25 Treadmill w/Incline). Weight 149.6   Another bad night, I don't know if I slept at all. Very off emotionally this morning. I wasn't sure if I had the energy for Zumba, but I went anyway. In all my other classes, I'm more personable with the instructors and other participants. This class, I really don't know anyone. Today ... I wanted that anonymity. I was able to get a good workout in. #1 is recovering nicely, just taking it easy.  He took a long nap (12:00-3:00) ... I checked on him a couple times to make sure he was breathing. As I haven't really slept the last couple nights, I tried to lay down for a little nap myself, but couldn't fall asleep. I mowed the front lawn and got in some workouts. Got some stuff worked out that should help my emotional state. #3 had basketball practice from 8:00-9:30 ... #2 had never come home, hanging out with friends all day. I collected them both ... and to bed! 
• 09182014 (Thursday) Good Day.  Calories  in 1650. Fitbit Steps 24449. Total Burn 3059. Exercise Burn 1500/1380 (60minElliptical, 53minZumba, 40min/2miles Treadmill w/Incline, 30min Weights). Weight 148.0  Another night of not good sleep! I was really thinking I would sleep good last night! Got the kidlets off to school and went straight to Zumba, stopping to fill up the car with gas on the way. Very slow pump, it took forever! We were missing the main instructor at Zumba class, but there are several that usually teach, so class went on as normal. One of the other ladies was commenting she didn't know many of these numbers, but as the instructors were some from my other classes, I was pretty familiar with all the steps. Got good numbers. I haven't hit Kmart this week, but my points hadn't really added up and I didn't feel up to shopping anyway. Got in some additional exercise and did weights. Hubs had a derby, and #3 went along to help, even though he had basketball practice (he made it there, was just late). #5 had a soccer game at 6:30. Zero-Zero the first half, then the other team made three goals. With under a minute left, my boy scored a goal. He and the team was ecstatic, it was the first, the only, goal of the season. They still lost the game, but even that one goal can lift a little one's spirits! I had changed out of my exercise-wear, and as I was watching the game I felt for my Fitbit ... and it wasn't there. I couldn't believe I had forgotten to switch it as I changed. I'm usually so good at remembering. When we got home I looked around, and no Fitbit to be found. At that point I could distinctly remember I HAD put the Fitbit on. It was LOST! Probably somewhere out there in the soccer fields. I'd downloaded an app a year or so ago that is supposed to help find a lost Fitbit. It can pick up the bluetooth signal they send out. I opened it up, and could "see" Hubs flex (hubs wasn't home, he wasn't wearing it obviously), and three Zips (#1, #4 and #5). I walked around the house and checked the car, but no "One" showed up. It only has about a 15-20 foot range, so you do have to be in the immediate area. I knew it was a huge longshot, but I went back to the soccer fields. At this point, they were empty and it was almost dark. I parked in the same spot and retraced my steps. Through the parking lot, across the fields, where I had sat watching the warmups. I had walked around the entire field before the game ... trying to get steps in, before I realized I didn't have my Fitbit on counting them. Nothing. As I was about to give up, suddenly, "One" appeared in the app! I immediately knew what had happened. During the warm up, my kid had kicked the ball past the goal. It had bounced into the neighboring field, where a game was being played. I had dashed out to recover it before it interfered. That's when my Fitbit must have fallen off. It was still a bit of a needle in a haystack. Long grass ... it was now completely dark. Using my phone as a light (why hadn't I thought to bring an actual flashlight??) I was on my hands and knees feeling through the grass. I found it! I couldn't believe I actually did, but I was so happy to be reunited with it! Happily back home. I still had 10:00 for #2 and #3. Finally the end of a long day.  
• 09192014 (Friday) Good Day. Calories in 2300. Fitbit Steps 23672. Total Burn 2958. Exercise Burn 1250/1281 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 20min/1mile Treadmill w/Incline). Weight 147.6.  Unfortunately STILL not a great night for sleep. It started off good, but around 3:00, I was awakened by thunder. I lay there in bed worrying that it would wake #4 ... which it did eventually. I finally got back to bed around 5:00 or so. Groggy morning. Got the high school boys off, then the elementary kids. I stopped at Sam's Club to grab some groceries. Hurriedly put them away, dropped off #3 at middle school and headed to Zumba. We had to switch churches again. Got in a good workout and headed home. Busy morning! Time for early out at the elementary before I knew it. Then middle school pickup. The hubs texted he was heading home early and had I "banked calories" enough to go out to eat or to a movie. We went to Red Robin, a favorite of mine. We did indulge in the mozzarella sticks. I always have the fish and chips, but I only get a half order, which is always enough (although I CAN eat four full pieces).  The hubs was off to meet a friend and I ... was off to bed. Around 9:00, I put #1 in charge of picking up #2 (who of course was out with friends, football game at the high school) and told the little ones to head to bed. I was OUT at 9:15 and finally got a good night's sleep! 
• 09202014 (Saturday) Good Day. Calories in 1850. Fitbit Steps 32019. Total Burn 3189. Exercise Burn 1850 (1300/1512). Weight 147.7  I'd laid out some croissants to rise last night. We had them for breakfast (I only had a half). Hubs was off to Seattle for a quick "brother's weekend".  #5 had a soccer game. I made sure my Fitbit was firmly attached ... but I forgot to switch my Omron! Heavens. Pedometer problems ... all user error. I guess I normally don't change clothes as much, I just wear my workout wear all the time. I had to park pretty far away, so we did get quite a bit of walking in before and after the game (and #5 got his steps in during the game!) Another scoreless loss though. I had to make another quick store run, and grabbed some Crazy Bread for the kids (yes ... I had a couple pieces too). #2 had been invited to play with the JV team at 5:00 as it was Homecoming and a few of the players were going to the dance. He got a text at 2:45 saying if he could make it to the 3:00 game, they could use him then too. So we rushed out the door. The gym where they were playing is really nice. It was a track above the courts, although unlike the other gyms with tracks above, this one is also the walkway to the seats and such, so it can be very congested. During the 3:00 game, I walked while I watched. In the hour between the games, I put on my shoes and headphones, and attempted to jog to the track. I got in 3.5 miles or so. I went ahead and sat during the 5:00, video taping it. My boy did good, and they had him play the entire game. They were behind by about 10 for most of the game, brought it within three there at the end but weren't quite able to get to win. I grabbed him some Arby's on the way home (nothing for me, I was being a good girl) and then ... big surprise, I dropped him at a friend's house. He was able to get a ride home, so it was another early to bed night for me. 
• 09212014 (Sunday) Ok Day. Calories in 2600. Fitbit Steps 11786. Total Burn 2301. Exercise Burn 600/623 (60minElliptical). Weight 147.8  I often dread Sundays ... church and I don't really get along. Emotionally, or the sitting for three hours. Today, it was a special meeting. #1 still went, but the rest of us skipped guilt free. A Sunday off felt wonderful. I did make the usual Sunday Circles breakfast, then made roll dough and got breadsticks and cinnamon rolls rising. I got in a little elliptical, but it was basically a rest day. It was also a gloomy, overcast day. Quite a bit of rain at one point, but no lightening or thunder to really spook #4 (tomorrow's forecast has improved too, I'd been keeping my eye on it, knowing that Mondays are hard for him even without weather worries). I made some chicken soup, and the boys gobbled it and the breadsticks up. The cinnamon rolls too. I was in a bit of a munchy mood today, too many calories, not enough cardio. I really thought I might have a good cardio day, but then I felt a little more like taking it easy. I've been so happy to have my weight under 150, I hope it doesn't bump up over tomorrow! Hubs and his brother went to the SeaHawks game, which was an exciting OT win. He comes home tomorrow but will go straight to work. 
• 0922 (Monday) Good Day. Calories in 2250. Fitbit Steps 34254. Total Burn 3426. Exercise Burn 1950/2012 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 53min/2.75 miles Treadmill Incline and easy walk, 37min/10milesBike). Weight 149.8  Ah Mondays, I love returning to the routine but poor #4 struggles so! After settling into the comfort of home over the weekend, he really has a hard time going back to school. There were a lot of tears this morning. Thunderstorms had originally been forecast for the day, but they finished up yesterday, so we didn't have weather to compound the problem (it was problem enough without it!). After I finally got the boys off, I headed out to Zumba. After going to Southziders twice a week for a while, switching back to MZL on Wednesdays makes it feel forever inbetween the Southziders classes. It was a good class as always. I stopped at Kmart on the way home to spend some Fitstudio points. I did some cleaning and mowed the front lawn. Picked up the kids after school. Hubs came home around 6:00 but was so tired he went in and fell asleep. I had prepped cinnamon rolls and breadsticks, leftover dough from yesterday, but he slept through them. #3 had practice from 8:00-10:00. I was very tired too, but had to stay up to pick him up. I did a session on the bike, and the just walked on the treadmill to stay awake. I knew if I stopped and sat the sleepies would hit hard.   
• 0923 (Tuesday) Good Day. Calories in 2250. Fitbit Steps 24062. Total Burn 3028. Exercise Burn 1400/1336 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 30min/1.5miles Treadmill Incline). Weight 150.4  I didn't get my usual drop in weight after a good Monday :(  TOM time and I was dragging. I felt fine for Zumba, but when I got home the sleepies hit so hard I did lay down for a nap. I did get in some additional workouts, but I had to push it. After picking up the kids after school, I took #3 to the high school, as the basketball team was going to a movie together. Back at 6:30 to pick him up again, and then back at 8:30 to pick up uniforms and pick up #2, who was watching a volleyball game. It was nice to have everyone in for a fairly early night though.   
• 0924 (Wednesday) Good Day. Calories in 1800. Fitbit Steps 28011. Total Burn 3182. Exercise Burn 1492/1492 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 30min/1.5mileTreadmill Incline, 45minWeights). Weight 150.0  Well ... I'd wondered when this would happen. I got to my Wednesday Zumba class late as always, and they had already started. I think I just missed the first song and still got in a full hour. I'll have to get back to coming on time if they start on time consistently. Stopped at Maceys for some groceries and a little time at the credit union there at the store. Got in some additional exercise at home, and spent a little time in the sun. Hubs had a derby, #4 went along to help. I took #3 to his basketball game. Got a text from #5, that #1 had left and he was home alone. I got in touch with #1 and had him come back and pick up the little one. I was a bit distracted during that game, but the boys got the win. We stopped and picked up #2 on the way home (he'd had basketball practice).   
• 0925 (Thursday) Good Day. Calories in 2350. Fitbit Steps 26385. Total Burn 3028. Exercise Burn 1400/1343 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 40min/2miles Treadmill Incline). Weight 149.1 The little boys haven't been wanting to go as early to school. I prepped my Zumba stuff and went straight to the church after dropping them off. I was a little early. I dropped off some paperwork at the bank on the way home. Additional exercise and some sun again today. Lots of driving around in the afternoon with after school pickups. #2 actually came home for a while, as he had a game (I dropped him back off at the school at 6:00 and met him at the game at 8:00). Hubs and #3 went to a derby, and then Hubs dropped #3 at his practice. I took #5 to his soccer game ( they lost again), then home, then I rushed to #2's basketball game (easy win for them). Back home, but then I still had to pick up #3 at 10:00. I overate a bit today. #1 picked up pizza, and got some chicken garlic without the toppings (so basically breadsticks for me) and a cinna-wheel.  
• 0926 (Friday) Good Day. Calories in 2500. Fitbit Steps 27851. Total Burn 3042. Exercise Burn 1300/1350 (60minElliptical, 54minZumba, 30min/1.5 miles Treadmill w/Incline, 36min/10miles bike). Weight 150.4  Crazy Friday morning as usual. The kids requested French Toast. Drop off high school, then elementary, then run to Sam's Club, then unload quick then run to the middle school, then straight to Zumba. Whew. Had a little time at home before early out at the elementary and then middle school pickup. Hubs texted saying he was on his way home. We hit a movie. The little boys had been invited to a birthday party a couple houses over. I was worried about the weather for #4, so I made sure the brothers were aware. As we came out of the movie it was pouring, with thunder and lightening. At home, #4 had come home from the party distressed. At this point the storm passed, and he was ok to go back to the party (it still had an hour or so to go). #2 was at a football game, and they had to evacuate to the gym at one point. With the movies treats, I ate too much, and my tummy wasn't particularly happy with me.   
• 0927 (Saturday) Pretty Good Day. Calories in 2200. Fitbit Steps 20917. Total Burn 2776. Exercise burn 1200/1087 (60minElliptical, 35minZumba, 40min/2miles Treadmill Incline). Weight 149.8   There was a neighborhood 5k, a Zombie run ... but seriously, the theme intimidated me, and the weather was bad, a downpour. It had been a CRAZY night with thunder and lightening for about an hour around 4:00 in the morning. I kept waiting for #4 to wake up terrified, but he managed to sleep through it.  So it was Saturday sleep-in for me. #5's soccer game got cancelled due to the rain. It stopped for a bit, but was pouring again when his game would have been taking place. There were still some soccer games going on though. The hubs ended up going to Mesquite with some friends (I was invited, but that's not my scene at all) ... I had a great afternoon, taking a nap. I'd made cinnamon rolls and breadsticks, which the boys love. #2 got dropped off home late. 
• 0928 (Sunday) Bad Day. Calories in 2400. Fitbit Steps 8773. Total Burn 2088. Exercise Burn 400/389 (40minElliptical). Weight 151.5  Sleep in Sunday too. I got up, exercised, and made the usual Sunday circles, although a couple of the boys weren't really hungry, having eaten leftover cinnamon rolls. Hubs had some stuff to catch up on at work (he likes Sundays, as he can actually get stuff done without others around) and I took the kids to church. Had tacos for dinner. Got one more session on the elliptical, but I was taking it easy today. More thunder and lightening in the evening. 
• 0929 (Monday) Good Day. Calories in 1600. Fitbit Steps 34254. Total Burn 3541. Exercise Burn 1800/1838 (80minElliptical, 60minZumba, 1mileJog, 2milesIncline, 10milesBike, 60minWeights) Weight 152.3  I'd really worried about this Monday morning, but #4 seemed to be ok. There were clouds, but some blue skies too. I got the boys off then went to Zumba. It was a little short with a longer cool-down, so my numbers weren't quite as good as previous weeks. Stopped at Kmart and grabbed some belts for #2 and myself. Yes ... I have actually felt the urge to wear a belt lately! Unheard of! For some reason, I just kept exercising today! Got a lot in, and also mowed the front lawn ... it looked like rain coming again so I wanted to get it done. I was downstairs in the gym when there was a huge boom of thunder, then another. It shook the house. I wasn't surprised when #4 called me in tears. Unfortunately, it was right as I had to leave to pick up #3 ... I didn't want to leave him standing in the pouring rain. I told #4 I'd be there as quick as I could. I grabbed #3 and dropped him home then headed to the elementary. The storm had really slowed, but I figured I'd check in. #4 had gone back to class. They were in the gym playing dodgeball. I peeked in and let him see that I had come, but he as ok. There really wasn't time to go home, as it was close to school letting out anyway, so I just stuck around until the bell. There really wasn't any more thunder or lightening. #1 picked up pizza for dinner. I dropped #3 off at the high school for basketball practice and grabbed #2, who had gone to a friend's after his practice ended. Then ... I just had to stay awake until 10:00 to pick up #3 again. I was really tired and knew if I stopped or even sat down I would be in trouble. I went and did 10miles on the bike, then a little elliptical. Not that I needed more steps or exercise, it was just to stay awake! 
• 0930 (Tuesday) Good Day. Calories in 1800. Fitbit Steps 32040. Total Burn 3271. Exercise Burn 1600,1578 (60minElliptical, Zumba, 1.5milesIncline, 1.5milesEasyWalk, 10milesBike). Weight 150.5  September ends. #4 was very reticent about going to school today. I could barely get him out of bed and dressed. Unfortunately, I couldn't promise him a nice day, thunderstorms were in the forecast again. I did get him off to school, five minutes early even, so I could make it to Zumba on time (I've been a little late the last few weeks). It was a good class, but small, just five of us. Back at home I perused the library site, as many new books had been added. Got in another elliptical, then hit some housework. It was one of those distracted doings days... clean the kitchen, put away the peanut butter and jam, oh, the jam is gone. Run down to the food storage to grab another. Oh, I haven't put away the last few bags. Stop and sort everything. Much better. Back to the kitchen, put away the towels I folded yesterday. Oh, I'll replace the hanging towels as they missed the wash last time. Put them in the laundry basket and oh, I need to put the darks in the washing machine. Back to the kitchen. Unload, the dishwasher ... I could use some music. I really need to update the playlist on the Ipod. Spend a minute on the computer, while that is syncing, go to the other computer and check Facebook and email and pay a couple bills. The toilets really need cleaning, spray them and let them sit. Back to the kitchen to load the dishwasher. Oh, the washing machine is done, I need to go put the clothes in the dryer. Oops, #2's clothes are still in there from yesterday. Set the dryer to warm them up and go vacuum the kitchen. Oh, that poor plant is wilting, hurry and water all the plants. Back to vacuuming. Ok, that should be long enough in the dryer, pull out those clothes and fold them. Shoot, I forgot about the toilets, quickly clean them ... I really should do the whole bathroom, but I'm actually not finished with the kitchen yet. Oh, the mail has come, so out to grab it. Quickly call Time Magazine and tell them NOT to automatically renew (I like it yes, but the kids are doing a fundraiser at school and will get credit if I subscribe through them) ... and speaking of the kids, it's time to pick them up! I'm off! Tuesday evening we actually didn't have anything going on! No games, practices ... well, Daddy had a derby, and #3 went along to help.

 

August 2014

Time to update for August. It was a pretty good month.  I got a new pink Polar, and did ok with exercise. I did have a bit of a slump this month that was a little hard to break out of. Hopefully the return to routine will get me back on track. In August we had the final weeks of summer, trying to get in all our bouncing and bowling. We also hit the park, splash pad and mini-golf course. There was school registration, and then the start of school. Back on schedules, no more sleeping in. Basketball is starting back up as well. Lots of BB Guns, Badminton and Birthdays in August... three different cake temptations and dinners out as we celebrated.

Numbers ... started the month at 153.7, and ended it at 153.8. The high for the month was 156.5 and the low was 151.6. Not great for weight, but at least maintaining and not really gaining. I've got to control the weekends better!  Here's my day to day doings ...

0801 (Friday) Pretty Good Day. Weight 153.7. Calories in 3000. Fitbit Steps 22488. Total Burn 2811. Exercise burn 1244/1100 (70minElliptical, 45minZumba, 45minTennis). My usual Friday Zumba was a bit earlier, as the instructor had to take off for family duties. It got started a little late, so was only 45 minutes. This Zumba isn't too far from my folks, so I'd planned to head over there afterward. I played some tennis with my dad (no nephew today, so we actually got some games in). Then mom and I went out to lunch. It's hard not to eat too much! Back at home I got in a little more elliptical, but not that much, I am feeling my soccer soreness, although nothing like that first week!

0802 (Saturday) Ok Day. Weight 155.8. Calories in 2100. Fitbit Steps 16284. Total Burn 2511. Exercise burn 700/789 (60minElliptical, Lawn Mow). No Zumba today. Just didn't feel like it, and didn't have a class anyway. Not very motivated. Did get the lawn mowed, and I pulled stuff out of the pantry to put down some contact paper. It does look a lot nicer, but I need more paper to finish up.

0803 (Sunday) Ok Day. Weight 154.4. Calories in 2500. Fitbit Steps 12010. Total Burn 2275. Exercise Burn 300/560 (20minElliptical). Started the day with a quick session on the elliptical, then didn't get back down. Not a planned rest day, but I didn't feel bad about it either. Did walk to/from church as well. My boys were coming back today, so I spent some time prepping. Making sure everything was clean. I made some roll dough and got cinnamon rolls and bread sticks rising. I made chicken soup. They were hungry when they walked in later in the afternoon. Very happy to have them all home. Loads of laundry to do tomorrow (actually, I did get started on some today).

0804 (Monday) Good Day. Weight 153.5. Calories in 2700. Fitbit Steps 29523. Total Burn 3345. Exercise burn 1500/1635 (100minElliptical, 60minZumba, Jump2000). Back to the routine, the summer routine that is. Hubs and #1 were up and off early, so harder for me to sleep in, which isn't a bad thing. Good to get up and started! Got in a couple sessions on the elliptical before heading out to Zumba. #2 wanted to be dropped at the gym as usual, but the usual gym is undergoing renovation, so I dropped him at a different one (accepting his membership while the other is closed) which further, but still on the way to Zumba. I stopped at Kmart on the way home, spending my FitStudio points for the week and stopped to gas up, as the guys had left me with an empty tank (I'd filled up #1's truck before turning the keys back to him!) The munchkins wanted to go to Jump N Bounce, so we did. It was a little more crowded, there were some other people up in the lounge. I didn't know if my pacing would bug them (or if they would just think I was crazy) so I didn't get many steps in and was happy when the kids were done. Papa Murphy Monday ... #1 picked up pizza on his way home. I had wondered if the family might want some home cooking after being on the road for over a week, but I guess not. They didn't object to some homemade oreos though ...late pickup of #2, who of course was out with friends all afternoon/evening. Some crazy lightening going on as I went to pick him up. I was glad my weather worrier had gone to bed already!

0805 (Tuesday) Ok Day. Weight 153.3. Calories in 2500. Fitbit Steps 20320. Total Burn 2787. Exercise burn 1056/1078 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba). Had my early/close Zumba, so #2 got a ride to the rec center today. It looked like rain (it's been raining a lot lately) but I went ahead and walked. Zumba was good, but I goofed on starting my Fitbit timer. I did press the button, but I had forgotten to "stop" it from sleeping, so when I thought I was turning it on, I just turned my "sleep" off. Luckily I can input things manually on the comptuer at home (can't do that with the HRM, there have been times I've forgotten to start it and I'm just out of luck). I'd gotten one elliptical in before Zumba, then did another 10 and a 20 min, but I was totally dragging today. Just felt like crawling in bed and staying there. The kids didn't ask to go anywhere, so we didn't. #1 stopped off and visited my folks and went out to dinner with them. I did have to pick up #2 in the afternoon, which took 45min with the further location and then dropping off his friend (who had given the ride there). And of course he then HAD to hang out with friends ... but no evening pickup required as they were having a sleep over. He said they played basketball, volleyball, soccer and staying up late, he racked up 35,000 steps, a new high for him. He missed out on the scones, pot roast dinner and lemon jello cake we had at home.

0806 (Wednesday) Good Day. Weight 152.5. Calories in 2100. Fitbit Steps 30552. Total Burn 3114. Exercise burn 1450/1410 (80minElliptical, 60minZumba, Jump7000). Hubs didn't go into work as he was leaving with the Varsity scouts (including #2) for their campout ... not really a campout, but river running. I went to Zumba, then grabbed #2 and brought him home for some breakfast and they were off. I got in a little more elliptical and the kids did request going to Jump .... well, #4 didn't want to go but I don't like leaving him home alone and made him come. He did run around some, but spent some time up with me playing his DS and I let him get a churro treat. The other boys had fun playing ball tag with some other kids that were there. Then a birthday party came and it was overrun with little kids so we left. Benefits of having a pass, otherwise you almost feel obligated to stay and make sure you get your monies worth. I did get 7000 steps while waiting, and I finished my book (which finished the series). Not sure if I'm just emotional or if I was into the story and characters, but I was practically in tears as I turned the last page. Mac & cheese was requested for dinner ... I did have some. I'd never make it for myself, but I do like it.

0807 (Thursday) Good Day. Weight 152.6. Calories in 2350. Fitbit Steps 24350. Total Burn 2769. Exercise burn 1050/1064 (60minElliptical, 45minZumba, Jump 8000). Started the day with elliptical, then had to choose between Zumba and soccer. Soccer requires "more" and it had been a while since I'd seen the Thursday instructors, so I chose Zumba. I was a little late, but it hadn't started, in fact, they couldn't get in the church, the key wasn't working. Marian started playing music from her car and we just danced in the parking lot. It was missing a little "oomph" ... If I'd had more energy, I might have bailed at 9:30 and gone to soccer, but as it was, I just didn't care, even when I only got 45 minutes instead of an hour. I hit Kmart after, spending some Fitstudio points. Back at home, #3 had made plans with friends to go to Jump, so we did. He had four friends meet him there. My little guys gave out early, and I actually went ahead and ran them home at one point, then went back to supervise. I was there for almost five hours. I did get in 8000 steps, but still, rather non-productive. But #3 doesn't often initiate like that, so I wanted to support him. 

0808 (Friday) Ok Day. Weight 152.2. Calories in 2200. Fitbit Steps 14364. Total Burn 2488. Exercise burn 650/785 (60minElliptical). I slept in, so much so that I didn't get in my morning elliptical. My usual Friday Zumba wasn't happening, as the instructor was actually up by us, at the soccer fields (big tournament, much car/crowd chaos, yesterday and tomorrow too). I planned to hit MZL ... I SHOULD have double, triple checked Facebook, as I had seen that on Wednesday they had switched buildings. I went and ... empty parking lot. I guess I should have got on my phone and checked, I would have found out they had switched to the Kearns building. If I had left immediately, I probably wouldn't have been too late. But ... I didn't care enough. Just feeling BLAH lately. I'd planned on hitting Macey's for some grocery shopping after Zumba, so I just went and did that. Stocked up on fruit snacks as they are on sale and my last stock up is about gone. The boys wanted to go bowling, so we did.  I was even going to spring for some fries and chicken tenders, but the line at the snack bar was so long that I didn't. I guess that saved me some calories! I did end up getting in my hour of elliptical, but I really had to push myself.

0809 (Saturday) Ok Day. Weight 153.1. Calories in 1800. Fitbit Steps 13553. Total Burn 2381. Exercise burn 450/673 (30minElliptical, Lawn Mow) There was 7:00 Zumba but I just didn't feel up to it at all, I didn't even try. I think there was 8:30 Zumba too, but I didn't have the energy or desire for it either. I did do my elliptical first thing. I had made cinnamon rolls to rave reviews last weekend and had told the kids I'd make them again, so I did get them going. Mowed the lawn and put more contact paper down in the pantry. Hubs and #2 came home mid-afternoon. #2 of course wanted to go to friend's, so I dropped him off (with a pan of cinnamon rolls) and then hit the grocery store. I had #1 on pickup duty (for #2) as I was super tired and ready for bed early. 

0810 (Sunday)  Ok Day. Weight 153.7. Calories in 2500. Fitbit Steps 16874. Total Burn 2540. Exercise burn 650/829 (60minElliptical, Badminton, Walk to/from Church). Back to making breakfast for the gang, I had a couple weeks off there. Got in some elliptical, then walked to/from church. We played a little badminton and beach volleyball (not played at the beach, but played with a beach ball) and #2 and Daddy joined in while I took a lot of pictures. I made toasted cheese sandwiches for dinner and homemade oreos for dessert.

0811 (Monday) Good Day. Weight 153.9. Calories in 2400. Fitbit Steps 29163. Total Burn 3236. Exercise burn 1400/1524 (80minElliptical, 60minZumba, Jump3000, Badminton). Got in my elliptical, and then Zumba. Felt good to be back at it. #2 had gotten a ride to the rec center, but asked me to pick him (and five buddies up) and transport them to their next basketball location, so I did. The little boys wanted to go to Jump ... actually #4 really did NOT want to go. We didn't end up staying for very long. I got in 3000 steps. I played some badminton with #4.  Papa Murphy Monday, pizza for dinner. #1 had also picked up a cinna-wheel ... I ate too much of that! 9:30 pickup of #2, dropping off some basketball paperwork. It was a productive day for me though, I scheduled my doctor's appointment, a DMV appointment for #2 (learner's permit), make reservations for a show on Saturday (season tickets, we've struggled to get in) and got some school registration stuff done.

0812 (Tuesday) Good Day. Weight 153.1. Calories in 2150. Fitbit Steps 25987. Total Burn 3019. Exercise burn 1350/1311 (80minElliptical, 60minZumba, Jump2000, Badminton). #2 wanted to be dropped off at the gym, so I quickly did that before Zumba. Got back home in time to walk. Good class, over 400 on both HRM and Fitbit, although didn't get to 7000 steps. There was a dog that came charging and barking at me. I have actually approched the family, told them how fearful I am of their dogs and asked them to please control them. One of the kids was out and said sorry, but that doesn't stop the dog! My car had given me a warning yesterday about engine coolant, and I knew it was time for an oil change. Not my favorite thing to do, but I took it in. A mom was there with five little kids! They were actually pretty well behaved, but that did immediately fill up the tiny waiting room.  #3 had arranged for friends to meet him at Jump again today. We went over and YIKES ... it's only been that crowded one other time. A day care was just leaving (about 40 kids) but another one was just checking in. I was ready to call it quits, but couldn't really as the boy's friends were already there. So it wasn't a pleasant day waiting. My little ones gave out, so I brought them home. #3 ended up going home with one of the other boys, which meant I had to go pick him up. A storm was rolling in, blowing dust and back home I quickly put the badminton net away before it broke. #3 had basketball over at the high school. I picked him up at 9:00, grabbing #2 at the same time (I'd told him I wasn't going to make two trips). He had actually gone with us to Jump, calling it quits early at the gym, but he DID call it quits when he saw the crowds and just walked from the Jump place to his friend's house and had spent the day there.  

0813 (Wednesday) Good Day. Weight 151.8. Calories in 2700. Fitbit Steps 28539. Total Burn 3166. Exercise burn 1310, 1466 (80minElliptical, 60minZumba, Park3000). I dropped #2 off at the gym on the way to Zumba, then grabbed him after and we stopped at Kmart and got him some shorts and a belt. A little back-to-school shopping with my Fitstudio points. He picked out a couple cargo shorts ... I haven't seen the kid in anything other than basketball shorts (and church clothes) in forever! He then wanted to go to his friend's house (big surprise), I packed up the other kids and after dropping him off, we checked out a park that opened up this summer. Had a nice big playground, a splash pad, tennis courts and basketball courts. #3 and #4 had an altercation which lead to #3 going off and sulking for the rest of the time. So frustrating! So #4 and #5 (and a friend) got all wet and had fun anyway. #2 had basketball again in the evening. There is a big soccer tournament going on on the fields just outside our neighborhood. I thought the one last week was bad ... this one is even worse! Cars lining the streets, parked illegally. It's imposible to turn left out of the neighborhood, and even turning right is scary with all the traffic and the limited sitelines with the cars lining the sides of the roads. There may be fields enough for games ... but there is NOT parking! A plane crashed onto those fields (as there is the small Airport#2 right there too) on Sunday. Thank goodness it wasn't one of these days where the fields and roads were jam packed! Made spaghetti for dinner, although hubs didn't get home until very late (and I needed to get it in before taking #3 to basketball at 7:00). 9:00 pickups ... better than the 10:00 ones, which will probably start up again in the fall. Food added up quickly, some not good choices (cold cereal for breakfast, some ice cream, some spaghetti and bread) but nothing big and bingy. It just adds up!

0814 (Thursday) Pretty Good Day. Weight 151.6. Calories in 2800. Fitbit Steps 23691. Total Burn 3061. Exercise burn 1320/1362 (90minElliptical, 55minZumba, 45minweights). #2 was sleeping in ... it was odd just leaving to Zumba without him asking for a ride somewhere. I did choose Zumba over soccer again. #5 had been invited to go to the water park with a friend, and I needed to get back to help get him off. Zumba was just so-so. I love one of the instructors, but am not crazy about a couple of the other ones ... that SHOULD push me to go to soccer. I just need to get up the oomph! I did offer to take the other kids somewhere, bowling or something. We talked about mini-golf but I didn't want the little one to miss out. We ended up not going anywhere. I did take #2 to a friend's around 4:00 (made a bunch of muffins and sent them with him, I feel bad as he's often mooching food off these families other days. I try to send stuff to feed him and friends when I can). Got in some elliptical and actually did weights! I wish I could say it felt wonderful to be back at it ... it wasn't bad or anything, but I still just felt like I was going through the motions. It had been pretty windy and sunny all day, so it wasn't until late evening that I suggested to #4 we try a little badminton. I actually didn't bother putting up the net, we just bounced the birdie back and forth (imaginary net). One half of the sky was blue with white fluffy clouds, the other was dark, and soon lightening was streaking the sky. It was still pretty far away, I could see #4 getting anxious. He's my one with the weather phobia. He really tried, but it was heartbreaking to me to see his little face fill with fear at each flash. I said we could go back inside and he practically dropped the racket and ran. He had me hang the blanket over the window in his room, something we do to block out any light. Hubs and #1 had a work activity at the lake (hubs had taken the wave-runners) and they weren't home until late. I had the 9:00 pickup (#3 from basketball, #2 from friends) ... soccer clearing out at that hour, the 7:00 drop-off at the high school is complete car chaos. I actually have to come home a different way or get stuck in soccer traffic, turning my 10-minute trip into a 45-minute one!

0815 (Friday) Pretty Good Day. Weight 152.8. Calories in 2100. Fitbit Steps 20535. Total Burn 2806. Exercise burn 1100/1100 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba). Instead of hitting the gym today, #2 was going golfing with his buddies. I dropped him at a friend's house at 8:00. I thought about hitting double Zumba today, but I didn't quite get back and out the door in time for the 8:30 class. I did a session on the elliptical and then went to my 10:00 class across town. After getting back from Zumba, the kids said they wanted to go mini-golfing. Well, #5 did NOT want to. After being gone all day yesterday, he was wanting to just stay home. It was ok, as #1 was home from work to watch him. I took #3 and #4 and their friend ... it was actually the same course that #2 had gone to earlier in the day (they had both regular and mini available). Warm sunny day, I wore a tank and got a little sun on my shoulders. In the evening, we went to a wedding reception. It was in Lindon, which is a 30-40min drive on the freeway. Even as a passenger, I'm not good on freeways. Makes me anxious. The wedding reception was for people hubs and #1 knew (we brought #1 with us) ... definitely pushing me out of my comfort zone for the evening.

0816 (Saturday) Bad Day. Weight 153.3. Calories in 2750. Fitbit Steps 14503. Total Burn 2386. Exercise burn 400/677 (20minElliptical). I was tentatively planning on hitting Zumba. My motivation for Saturdays hasn't been great, even for the later one (8:30) when I can sleep in a little. I did get up and was pretty much out the door when #4 asked me to play badminton with him. Sometimes you do just need to stop and play badminton. I didn't make it to Zumba. After playing, I went down and hit the elliptical for 20, but that was my only exercise for the day. I did stay busy and active though. Cleaned the kitchen, including vacuuming and mopping. Mowed the lawn, and then played ping pong with #4 (badminton has increased his interest and skill with other racquet sports *Ü*). I also had him do a couple Zumba songs with me. He's been interested in "Just Dance" lately, and is always impressed with  my steps after I return from class. I'd been debating taking him and having him try it, but I could see he was getting easily stressed out about it. I made cookies too; cookie press ones, which are dangerous ... it's easy to eat a lot of them! In the early evening, hubs and I headed out to a local theater for a parody play "Calamity Jane". It's dinner theater, and we ordered some cheesy bread. Yummy, but not low calorie stuff.  #4 got his highest step day to date ... 20K, he beat me!

0817 (Sunday) Bad Day. Weight 155.5. Calories in 2600. Fitbit Steps 10,448. Total Burn 2207. Exercise burn 350/486 (20minElliptical). Got up and hit the elliptical first thing. We were about out of milk and my car needed gas, so I did take care of that. Made breakfast ... I actually didn't indulge in a full belgian waffle, but I must admit I snuck some cookie press cookies from the freezer. Church, I walked to and from. The youngest and oldest walked with me ... it was warm and just a few feet from the house my oldest said "I've made a huge mistake" ala Arrested Development. It was fun to chat with him on the walk though. I always have good talks with my boys on these, even though they are short. It was the two little ones for the walk home, even though #4 wasn't really working on steps today after his big day yesterday. He told me in the morning "Sunday is a day of rest, I'm taking a rest day" *Ü*  I did challenge him to a little badminton in the evening though, after the sun went down. I made Hawaiian Haystacks for dinner, and #1 made gingersnap dough for dessert. He packed up half the dough and headed out to his friend's house for the evening. I turned the rest of the dough into cookies ... and did partake. Mmmmm cookies! The cookie press cookies are gone!

0818 (Monday) Good Day. Weight 156.5. Calories in 2500. Fitbit Steps 26225. Total Burn 3160. Exercise burn 1350/1433 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 30minBike). Whoa, weight is up. Not really surprising. #2 had asked me last night if I would take his friends to the golf course in the morning ... ok. The plan had been 8:00, but after I'd gone to bed he sent a text saying they were switching it to later, I'd drop them on my way to Zumba (it was out that way, just a slight detour). That was well and good, probably saved me time over a special trip out, but I was a little worried about the boys being late, making me late. I don't like not getting in my full Zumba hour. We did make it off ... squished eight of his friends into our suburban (no, it doesn't hold that many kids!) I dropped them and made it to Zumba (luckily it started late). T was doing a new song from Heather's class and had me come up and help lead it. My heart rate was high during that song. Not sure if it was because it was a nice energetic one, one that I knew ... or nerves! Anyway, good numbers today. Heart rate was up, even though I felt about the same as some of my other classes where I haven't been able to get it up. I figured the kids would want to do something ... bowling, jump or the park, but they seemed content to just hang around the house. I'd ordered "Just Dance 3" for #4 (he'd played it at his friend's house) ... it's his birthday at the end of the month, but I gave it to him early, as he has the extra time now. I actually got in some time on the stationary bike, it's been a while! When I get reading in elsewhere (waiting at Jiffy Lube, or Jump or the Park) I don't get to the bike, and I have seemed to have something almost everyday lately. It was good to get back at it. Papa Murphy Monday. #1 brought home pizza and cheesy bread. Mmmm, cheesy bread. I was a little sad that in making the cookie press cookies on Saturday I had forgotten to use the snowflake shape I'd received for Christmas. I know it isn't really the season, but I thought "snow in summer" would have been fun. As Hubs and the boys seemed sad the cookies were gone already, I made up another batch, all snowflakes this time, which made it go quicker and easier than trying to color the dough and switch out shapes and such. Daddy and the two little boys did some bb gun shooting out back. They ran out of targets (cans of soda). I thought I had cleared out all the old soda last time they had shooting practice, but when I looked again I found some more cases (quite old at this point). A can of V-8 ended up out there two, and when it was shot ... it looked like blood all over! Crime scene! When they were done shooting, it was still barely light enough to get a little badminton in. Then I had to go pick up #2 ... because obviously he had not come home after golf, but stayed out with friends all day. He was just under 30K for the day. I was a close second!

0819 (Tuesday) Good Day. Weight 153.7. Calories in 2000. Fitbit Steps 30138. Total Burn 3178. Exercise burn 1417/1467 (80minElliptical, 60minZumba). I usually walk to Tuesday Zumba, but it was raining, and I had to hurry to an appointment right after, so I drove. Felt good, but the heart rate wasn't very up today. Off to the doctor, my annual physical. As my anxiety issues are seeming to get worse with age, my mother had really encouraged me to talk to the doctor about them. So we are going to try a medication to see if it helps. Back at home, we packed up and hit JUMP. We even had #2 with us! I got in 5000 steps while I waited. Our pass goes until the first week of September, I wonder if we'll make it back in. Badminton with #4. Chicken Alfredo for dinner, then dropped #3 off at basketball. Pretty productive day ... I even scrubbed a toilet!

0820 (Wednesday) Good Day. Weight  153.7. Calories in 2000. Fitbit Steps 23184. Total Burn 3000. Exercise burn 1150/1289 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, Treadmill Mile). Not a great night. A thunder storm woke my weather worrier around 4:00 in the morning. I was able to comfort him and get him back to sleep, but I couldn't fall back asleep. Lots of storms lately!  Dropped #2 off at the rec center on the way to Zumba. Lots of little kids running around today, I was a little afraid that one of them was going to bump into me (or vice versa) and a little bit later it happened (although not to me, to one of the other ladies). It put a damper on the day a bit. It's hard, I know these free church classes are great for moms with little kids (who can't afford a gym membership) and yet the kids can't just be allowed to run either. Stopped at Kmart on the way home to spend my Fitstudio points. Got some cute camis on clearance. I suppose we should have gotten out to do something fun on these last days of summer, but the kids seemed content at home. I did get some badminton in with #4. Basketball clinic at the high school again. More rain ... Poor #4 was really having a tough time. I had to sequester him downstairs in a room with the window covered, put on a show, give him his video game and noise cancelling headphones. Scary storms! There was a rainbow after though!

0821 (Thursday) Good Day. Weight 153.7. Calories in 2250. Fitbit Steps 25009. Total Burn 3185. Exercise burn 1100/1474 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba). Busy day today! Dropped #2 off at the rec center then went to Zumba. It was good today ...a couple of the instructors that I have a harder time following weren't there, the instructors that I'm more familiar with were. I asked the kids if they wanted to go bowling, as our free passes end with August. We did and it was fun. I splurged and bought some food too. We stopped at the rec center on the way home to grab #2. Then he and I were off to the DMV to get his learner's permit. He had already taken and passed the test, so it was just filling out the paperwork and paying the fee. I got in some badminton with #4 a couple times during the day, and some ping pong too. In the evening, I took #3 to back to school night. We walked around and found his locker and classes. Then I dropped him at the high school for the last night of the basketball clinic. Tryouts are next week.

0822 (Friday) Good Day. Weight 153.7. Calories in 2500. Fitbit Steps 23487. Total Burn 3026. Exercise burn 1000/1316 (30minElliptical, 60minZumbaX2). Double Zumba today. I dropped #2 and his friend off at the high school for sophomore orientation and then headed to 8:30 Zumba. I won't be able to hit this class again with school starting up. I snuck out a bit early so I could make it to Heather's class across town at 10:00. My heart rate wasn't too impressive at either class.  I stopped at the rec center to sign up the little one for soccer, then grabbed some groceries. I got a text #2 to come pick him up, which I wasn't expecting, he had indicated he was going to hang with friends after school (half day) but I guess that didn't work out, so I went and grabbed him. I started some cinnamon rolls. #2 was out with friends later in the day and was going to spend the night, so I had planned on taking a big pan of fresh rolls to feed his friends. They were at the park, but it started to rain, so they ended up at one of the houses. I dropped the rolls by (much to the chagrin of #1, who doesn't like to share). At least with #2 sleeping over, there was no late night pickup. I was in bed by 9:30.

0823 (Saturday) OK Day. Calories in 2050. Fitbit Steps 15357. Total Burn 2461. Exercise burn 400/751 (30minElliptical, Lawn Mow). About 2:00 in the morning, thunder and lightening woke me up. I'm not scared of storms myself, but with #4's worries, I was anxious, wondering if it would wake him up too. I could not get back to sleep. Around 4:00 there was a huge boom and that did wake him. I was able to comfort him and he fell back asleep. Thunder and lightening continued ... long night! I think I finally fell asleep around 5:30 (checking my Fitbit sleep readings). The hubs and I got up and hit SamsClub, as we needed some stuff for a barbeque tomorrow. Did some cleaning, mowed the lawn, played some ping pong with #4. Hubs got the kids weeding out back. Hubs and #4 did some shopping and came home with chick-fil-a. If I don't put it into MFP immediately, it is so easy to forget! #2 went to the Apple Store to get a glass covering off his iphone, and they grabbed some Popeyes on the way home. #2, Mr. Social wanted to go hang out with friends again (even though he had been with them all night and hadn't come home until 1:30 today!) TOM hit this morning.

0824 (Sunday) Bad Day. Calories in 2600. Fitbit Steps 12507. Total Burn 2410. Exercise burn 400/699 (20minElliptical). Up and hit the elliptical, but that was the only "exercise" for the day. Made breakfast. Last week I was pretty good, not eating a whole waffle ... but I ate one today. Walked to/from church, then did some cleaning/vacuuming in prep for the parents coming over. Gray made his delicious bbq and we played games. Grandpa played some of the boys in ping pong, and we got some badminton in. Also Rummikub and Apples to Apples. We sang to Cooper and had the white cake from Sam's Club.

0825 (Monday) Good Day. Calories in 2000. Fitbit Steps 25387. Total Burn 3182. Exercise burn 1100/1461 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba). #2 was back to school today, so I actually had to set the alarm and get up early. We left here around 7:00, which is early, we won't do that every day. The younger boys start tomorrow, so they were still home today. I hit my Zumba and then was willing to hit Jump or bowling, but they didn't seem inclined. Just an "at home" day. I picked up #2 after school, but took him back at 6:00 for his basketball clinic. Then it was back to school night for the two little ones. Poor #4 is having extreme anxiety about starting up again. He broke down into tears at the school but managed to pull himself together. I hope once he gets the first day behind him it will get better. At least the storms originally forecast for tomorrow have shifted, so he shouldn't have to battle his weather phobia at the same time. We had Papa Murphy pizza for dinner, with a cinna wheel for dessert. I also made brownies, as I package up the left-overs for the lunch treats.

0826 (Tuesday) Good Day. Calories in 2000. Fitbit Steps 24643. Total Burn 3058. Exercise burn 1200/1339 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 30minBike). I've really been struggling with sleep lately. Not sure if it's a possible side-effect of the new medication, or just coincidental timing. I'll keep an eye on it. I felt like I was awake for several hours in the night. The boys were up early without much urging. #3 needs to be ready early, as I have to take him at the same time, even though it gets him to school quite early. The high school and middle school are close together, so I just do the drop offs together. We're leaving about 15minutes earlier than last year, as the high school starts sooner. The elementary is starting later, so I have almost a full hour in-between the two car trips. I dropped off the little ones, got back home and grabbed my HRM and shoes and walked to the church for Zumba. Feeling a little burned out, perhaps the lack of sleep? Fitbit numbers were the usual but HRM was a little low (315). I was dragging so much today, that I actually laid down for a nap. Not sure if it helped or not. Just picked up middle school for the first pickup, as #2 was staying after for a weight training clinic. Then off to the elementary for the little ones. Poor #4 looked so sad, already stressing about how hard school is, and worrying about an assignment (optional one) due in April! Not sure what to do about his anxiety. The thunderstorms originally forecast for the morning did end up hitting, but at least I feel like it's better for him to handle them in the safety and comfort of home, rather than school. There was some thunder and lightening than had him shaken.  Hubs was out late with a work dinner ... I went and picked up #2 around 9:00, Mr. Social, enjoying "Taco Tuesday" with his friends.

0827 (Wednesday) Good Day. Calories in 1700. Fitbit Steps 25369. Total Burn 3185. Exercise Burn 1300/1470 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 30minTreadmillWalk, 30minWeights). #4 was struggling with school and storms, in tears as I dropped him off. I figured perhaps I should stick close to home. I hit MZL zumba rather than my usual one in Draper. It was a good class though, I enjoyed it. I had a pretty productive day with workouts, and kept calories in check!

0828 (Thursday) OK Day. Calories in 3000. Fitbit Steps 28002. Total Burn 3056. Exercise Burn 1309, 1348 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba, 38minBike, 20minTreadmillWalk). Birthday for #4. Sent him to school with a treat to give his class. Some presents before and after school. Good day with workouts, but wasn't able to keep the food in check. I did ok for most of the day, but #4 chose Chick-Fil-A for his birthday dinner. I wasn't going to order anything, but hubs got me some nuggets and the birthday boy shared his shake. It adds up quick. I didn't even have the cake I wanted. I tried to pick up our usual oreo ice cream cake earlier but it wasn't in stock at the store. Had to settle for a big "cookie" cake ... which wasn't that great, but I still ate more than I should have. So good day in that I did meet my exercise goals, but bad day in that I consumed as many calories as I burned. #3 had his final "tryouts" for basketball (until 10:00) ... hubs was still awake so did the pick up for me as I did a final late workout.

0829 (Friday) Good Day. Calories in 2050. Fitbit Steps 25184. Total Burn 3098. Exercise Burn 1150, 1386 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba). First Friday on the school schedule. High school and middle school have late start, although not the same time, so it takes me two separate trips. Elementary starts at the same time, but has early out. Challenging but doable. Went straight to Zumba after dropping off #3 and it was a good class, I was surprised my HRM weren't a bit higher. Got in some additional elliptical and mowed the front lawn. Played a little badminton with #4 once the sun wasn't in our eyes. I was tired, but he wasn't to keep going until he got a certain number of steps.   #2 actually requested pickup around 7:30 (usually he begs to stay out late) but it was nice to have an evening at home. I actually kept calories in check today.

0830 (Saturday) Bad Day. Calories in 3250. Fitbit Steps 11166. Total Burn 2246. Exercise Burn 603/540 (60minElliptical). Had a family activity today (baptism of my niece), so it was about an hour drive, and hour plus sitting for the service, then visiting at the house after, then home. I hadn't eaten before, so I was hungry. I had a couple slices of meat, grapes and baby carrots and I did snag a few oatmeal chocolate chip cookies. I'd made brownies to bring last night.  After the drive home, I was exhausted for some reason. Hubs too. We both got in a nap. It's #3's birthday tomorrow, so we had a family dinner to Texas Roadhouse. It was a bit of a wait, but I introduced #4 to a "Stack the States" app that I'd downloaded when he started to panic about learning them. All the boys were soon into it, and tossing out capital cities and states. It was a really fun night. Ate too much of course. Back at home, I did get in a little more elliptical to make sure I hit my 10K to fulfill my Pact (not sure if I would have otherwise).  Hubs went and got "Divergent" and we watched that (I've read the entire trilogy). I quite liked it. We usually have popcorn when we watch a movie, but we were both too full.  

0831 (Sunday) Bad Day. Calories in 3000. Fitbit Steps 8112. Total Burn 2010. Exercise burn 300/285 (20minElliptical). Birthday for #3 ... whereas #4 had seemed pretty pleased with his presents (and he had told me some stuff he wanted) I gathered #3 wasn't super impressed. Kids are tough to please sometimes. Sunday Circles for breakfast. I walked to/from church. Hubs helped out in #5's class, and got to witness the misbehavior of a couple of kids I'm always telling him about (MY kids are perfect of course!) After church we went out to my BIL's house for a family celebration with Hubs side of the family. Smoked brisket, mashed taters, rolls (which had fallen, I still ate a few) and then chocolate cake for the birthday boys. Not a lot of steps today, #4 managed to beat me (he got 11K).