Loads of Laundry

Laundry ... it's never ending, right?

And when you are an avid exerciser, it adds up even faster!

The hubs goes through spurts ... being very active and eating healthy to, well, not doing that so much. I remember one of the "on" times a while back, he actually apologized for the extra laundry his workouts were adding. Of course I told him not to worry about it. I was happy he was being healthy. This go round, he's been doing his own laundry. I asked him if this was out of guilt, or just necessity (only having a couple pieces of workout wear, and needing them washed immediately so he could wear them again the next day. He could buy more, but he's hoping to not be this size for very long). It was the latter. #2, my basketball boy is in the same boat. He has a practice jersey that he wears every day, so he generally runs a small load for it as well. 

Our washer stays busy! With these two small loads, in addition to those I do to keep the house running. I pretty much do a load of laundry every single day. I do divide some things into whites and darks. I also have a basket for linens, and wash those together. For the five boys ... they each have their own individual dirty clothes hamper and I just wash all their things together (unless it is something that specifically needs to go in the white/dark loads). This is mainly just to save time when putting things away. It's a little hard to tell which shirts/shorts/socks go to which kid when sorting, so I just keep them all separate. 

So ... if you have loads of laundry each week, would you rather do ONE load of laundry every day or spend ONE day doing it all? I do the former. Here are some random thoughts  I've had about laundry lately ... 

• Why are there dozens of socks, shorts and shirts, and only two pairs of underwear?
• I love the smell of bleach. It just smells clean.
• Well that shirt shrunk! (Luckily with five boys, I can just move it down a closet).
• I love that my older boys do their own laundry.
• Now #3's white shirt is pink.
• Got to lotion up ... folding clothes (especially towels) strips the moisture from my hands!
• While I don't love doing laundry, NOT BEING ABLE to do laundry (broken washer/dryer) is much, MUCH worse!
• I like the Pinterest tip on making my own dry laundry soap!
• When it's cold outside, I really don't mind folding the clothes right out of the dryer.
• The dryer is done but I'm too busy to fold right now ... I'll just run it again a bit later. Then again. Then again.
• Turn the buzzer off on the dryer, it's too noisy.
• What is  that clanging around the dryer? Hope it's not a Fitbit!
• Oops ... washed and dried a pen. I hope the black marks are baked on the dryer walls and don't come off on other clothes.
• Why must the boys live out of their laundry basket? Put the clothes away please. And return the laundry basket, I need it.
• Does this really need to be air dried? The dryer is so much easier! 
• Whoever designed this dryer and put the lint trap on the top should be shot!
• Throw the couple "extra/alone" socks in the "solitary sock box" ... I'll go through it at some point and find some matches.

I actually don't mind doing laundry. I prefer it over other cleaning duties (dishes, cleaning bathrooms, mopping, etc). While the older boys generally do their own loads, I usually still fold them. Even though I see them in their clothes, it's always a time for me to really look, and see which ones they are wearing, which are the favorites, remind myself of their sizes. I enjoy the orderly piles, the matched up socks, the folded shirts. When the boys were little, I'd then have to put everything away too, but they are all big enough now. For the upstairs boys (#1, #4 and #5) I lay them out on their beds, so they really have no choice but to put the clean clothes away. The downstairs boys (#3 and #4) I fold upstairs and place them in a laundry basket. These almost never get put away, the boys just pick out of the baskets. It drives me crazy!

I'll leave you with five funnies ...

 

We don't think about laundry that much, we just do it.
What are some of your random thoughts?
Do any match mine?
Linking up with Thinking Out Loud *Ü*

TOL - Shaving & Fall

Fall can be a wonderful season. In years past, it seems like we skipped Fall, going straight from Summer to Winter snow. But this year ... it's Autumn, and it's nice! Leaves are changing colors, the days are getting shorter and the cooler weather has come.

We had our first cool down a few weeks ago. We pulled out our hot chocolate maker, but have yet to turn on the heat. I enjoy opening the windows and letting the fresh air in. As the first "official" day of Fall hit, I noticed the comic above come across my Facebook feed and couldn't help but laugh. I HAD started wearing the long workout wear instead of my usual shorts of summer and had wondered if I could get away with skipping a shaving session or two.  As I was looking for the illustration above to use here in my post, I found a few others along the same lines ...

I don't think I'll ever give up shaving for any real length of time ... but I do get a little laid back when the legs aren't actually on display during the day. My jammies are still short though ... and hubs likes the smooth legs, so I will keep on shaving. Especially if I'm anticipating any action *Ü*

My oldest son even brought up shaving the other day. He finds shaving his face a huge pain and commented "I don't know how you women do it, legs have to be hard!" I actually don't think they are that bad ... although sometimes I do see stray hairs missed around the knees. Knees are hard!

Hubs will sometimes go a few days without shaving. I don't really mind. I like the look of a little stubble. It's manly. But just a couple days ... then it gets too bushy. It's almost strange to go back to the baby soft skin of a freshly shaved face after having the stubble there.  I do start to tease Hubs a bit when the hair on his face is longer than the hair on his head (and that only takes a few days to do!)

So ... that's my Thinking Out Loud for today.

What are your thoughts about shaving?

Number 22

 

Twenty-Two. What do you think of when you hear that number? 22,000 just happens to be my daily step goal, but this past Tuesday (the 22nd!) it had a different meaning. My 22nd anniversary. I went through some old photos and posted a bunch to a Facebook album (J&G). 

We've had our ups and downs these past 22 years. Life ups and downs, weight ups and downs. Life has been good and I consider myself very lucky!  We had a pretty basic day ... the hubs worked, I hit Zumba, did laundry, kept the kidlets entertained. In the evening we went out to Texas Roadhouse, it's one of our favorite places. I'm a simple steak and potatoes kind of gal. I ate a couple too many rolls but they are so good. We did skip dessert.

I hadn't been sure I'd get to my daily goal of 22,000 steps here on the 22nd of July, my 22nd wedding anniversary. But there at the end of the day I could see I was close, and I did walk around until I had passed that magic number *Ü*  Twenty Two.

As I prepped the photo collage and anniversary album was just interesting to note the prevalence of pictures (and the lack thereof) . There were quite a few photos from the dating years and our early married life. Then they slowed. At least the pictures of ME. For years, I was pretty successful at avoiding the camera. Then came 2006 when I lost the weight. Suddenly, I was in quite a few photos again (hubs and I were also actively "dating" again and taking more pictures, in fact we did a little "photo a day challenge" of us together one month *Ü*) I do still struggle with pictures though! Having lost some of the weight, the chances of looking good in a picture have increased, but I still don't think I'm very photogenic. And if you say "but you look good" ... it's because I only post the decent ones (do you do that?) I have posted about this before (Picture Imperfect). I do try not to hide from the camera so much. 

  Just sharing my thoughts on the number 22 and on appearing in pictures. 

Thinking out Loud this Thursday. 

Shouting out "I Love You" to my man!

Scouts, Sickness, Soccer, Sunburn & Steals

It's Thursday. Time for "Thinking Out Loud" ... I have had a lot on my mind of late. I often join this linkup and expound on one particular topic, but today I'll be a little more random (which is more what blog host Amanda at Running With Spoons does each week).  As I like alliteration, this week's Thinking Out Loud is brought to you by the letter "S" ...

• SCOUTS: The picture is old (2011) ... but that's ok, as it's Throwback Thursday! I have a love/hate relationship with scouts. Ok, I must admit, there is no love. I'm just NOT a scouting mama, which is a shame as I have five boys (Blackham Boy Scouts). The hubs is quite involved though, and perhaps that plays into some of my dislike. He spends so much time and money, I guess I do resent it sometimes. And my boys don't particularly like it. I have a hard time being the "mean mom" and making them go when I have negative feelings toward it myself. This week has been an ordeal! #3 had his week long scout camp, which he did NOT want to go on. The two little ones had their day camp, which they did not want to go on. There have been tears and tantrums and misery. Instead of getting a "mommy break" having my boys gone, I'm super stressed the entire time :(
• SICKNESS:  Monday morning, #4 was complaining of a tummy ache. He then threw up. He had a couple more violent sessions then made it through most of the day, only to have another attack in the evening. We've had some bad bugs go through the entire family, I had a bad case last December (after a week of the seasonal flu ... Flu x2). I was really hoping that no one else would get it, and thought we were ok after a couple days passed. But last night, #5 barged into the bedroom "I'm going to throw up"  and he did. I had managed to get him out into the hallway, so at least it was hardwood floors, not carpet or bedding (I'd spent much of Monday/Tuesday washing as #4 hadn't had such luck). 
• SOCCER: So ... no soccer for me today (because of the sick kid). I was SO sore for days after playing last week, but had finally recovered. Just in time to hit the field again. But alas ... and they won't have it next week (July24 is a state holiday here in Utah) and then the week after that Zumba starts up again. Should I stick with soccer (a different workout, a killer workout)? I'd have a hard time missing out on my Zumba class, but they are only offered at the same time! What to do ...
• SUNBURNED SKIN: Hubs and the kids hit the lake on Saturday. Even with application of sunscreen, most of them got toasted. They are all now peeling and flaking. I feel bad every time I look at them! I need to restock on the sunscreen, and hope they apply better/more often on the upcoming Seattle trip. I snuck in a little sun myself, but I have managed not to get burned in years!
• STEALS: I know I've mentioned FitStudio several times, but I just keep being amazed at this programs and the deals and steals I get! I went ahead and set up an account for my oldest, now that he is up and running with his Fitbit again (Tracking the Family). He had earned enough points that I picked him up a pair of basketball shorts free and clear. The points paid for it all ($10). With my account, I picked up a couple hula hoops and some summer toys for the boys and paid under $2. I got a 12-pack of paper towels completely free last week!

... although honestly, sometimes trying to save a little here, a little there is a bit pointless, as the hubs isn't on the super saver side *Ü*. He took the scouts scuba diving last night. Went out and bought a brand new waterproof camera to document it (pictures below and you can see a VIDEO too) ... at least #2 said it was really fun.

I must admit, I was thinking about this blog post in the wee hours of the morning. I got back to bed after tending to the little one ... I didn't get back to sleep. I'm dragging today. I hope to get in a few elliptical sessions, maybe a nap. What are you thinking about this Thursday?

Got Gas?

Yea ... down 20! Up again, I can't believe it! Do you ever watch the fluctuations of gas prices and feel some of the same things you do as you watch your weight go up and down on your bathroom scale? I do! Yes, I'm Thinking Out Loud about gas this Thursday (a bit random, but that's what "Thinking Out Loud" is all about!)

In Monday's post, I mentioned some of my anxiety issues, my main one having to do with driving. My grandmother never learned to drive, and my mom is actually worse off than I am (although I think she's ok being a passenger, which still stresses my out completely). I can and do fill up the car with gas, something I don't know if my mother has ever done. It's not that big of a deal, but I'll admit to feeling a little dismay when I see the needle creep toward "empty" ... I don't dread it, but I don't like doing it either. It's an inconvenience, and it takes a toll on my time, and my pocketbook!

Gas is expensive. My burb can hold 27+ gallons, so a fill-up is often over $100. Ouch! I do try to save when and where I can. One thing I do is sign up for the "Fuel Savings" at my local grocery store. That can really add up. Right now, they are offering double points on weekend purchases. I admit, I push my shopping at that store to Fri/Sat to get the double deal.  I'll buy Amazon giftcards from that store (they automatically get 2x the points, and if you watch, 4x is often offered). I know I'm going to use Amazon credit and I can come home and add it to my account immediately. No need to fear I'll forget or lose the giftcard. I'll buy other giftcards if they are ones I know I'll use. I can often earn up to a $1 off a gallon, so that adds up to almost $30 off for a full tank.

When I don't have fuel rewards waiting, I'll try to check prices. It's amazing to me that sometimes stations can vary by 20¢. $5 a fill-up may not seem like a huge amount, but I still like to save where I can. It all adds up (just like those extra calories). 

I have an app on my phone called Gas Buddy. You can input your zip code and get a listing of the local prices. It's just a handy thing to have on hand. I won't really travel to get a cheaper price, but if I see that one station is less than another, and they are both on my way ... I'll hit the one with the lower price.

While I don't drive that much, Hubs and #1 do. They both work fairly far from home. Unfortunately fill-ups appear on the credit card statement a lot. And then there are the wave runners ... Hubs puts the premium in those babies. They are expensive little babies!   And anytime you hit the road for vacation, that sure adds up quick too. I know gas is even more expensive elsewhere!

I mean ... even with my anxiety, I'm glad we have cars to drive. It does making getting around easier. The workout world puts an emphasis on walking or biking when you can, but sometimes you do have to drive.

I'm getting a little low on fuel now ...

...and gas prices just jumped again!

Just in time for the holiday weekend.

Fitness in the Schools

A month or so ago, I was watching my son's basketball game at a local middle school gymnasium. I noticed this sign up ... it made me glad I was NOT a 7th grade boy (I mean I'm glad I'm not for MANY reasons!) I have been incorporating a mile run (ok, jog) into my weekly workouts. Now admittedly, I stay somewhat comfortable at 5mph, which ends up at a 12 minute mile. According to this sheet, I'd get a D- ... Yikes!

Now I'm pretty sure if I pushed myself, I could run faster. A little faster ... I'm really not sure how much better I'd get (10 minutes maybe!). I actually remember being required to run a mile when I was in middle school as well. I remember pushing myself to finish first (out of the girls anyway) and then promptly throwing up afterward. I think I threw up three years in a row, during the first run of the season. I actually ended up running track, and doing good in the sprints. But a mile? That is distance, and I didn't (and don't) do distance.

I did have a 7th grade boy this last year. While he loved his physical education class, I do remember him moaning about the mile. I do think he squeaked in under 8:00 minutes.

As my fourth grader's school came to a close a couple weeks ago, they participated in the Presidential Physical Fitness Challenge. I do have vague memories of this too. Has it been around for a while? I mean if I am remembering it from elementary school, we're talking over 30 years ago!

My little guy suffers from anxiety. They did a "fun run" several weeks ago, and he stressed about that. He had complete meltdowns over the end of year academic testing. Ironically, he is at the top of his class academically and physically.  I wasn't surprised when he expressed concern about this Presidential Fitness Testing too. 

I just told him to do his best. It's never as bad as he thinks it is going to be. He came home and told me about the variety of different exercises they were measured on. He did really good on everything, except the V-sits ... he just isn't very flexible (me either!) I had to laugh though, as he complained about his "abs" for the next few days. Oh, such a workout!

To receive the Presidential Fitness Award, the student must rank in the 85th percentile of each exercise. My little guy missed it by one exercise (only two students in the class were able to get it). If the students are above the 50th percentile, then they still get the National Physical Fitness Award. He (and many classmates in the 4th grade classes) were able to get that certificate.

 

I do love being a mom to five active boys! They love recess, and PE class ... it was interesting to get a little peek into some of the physical fitness requirements the schools are expecting from the youth today. You seem to see the stereotypical "rope climb" and dodge ball and such when school fitness is featured in films or TV programs. Does anyone actually have to do the rope climb? I pretty sure I'd fail miserably at that as well!  Just Thinking Out Loud about school fitness today *Ü*

Even though school has ended for us ... I've been doing the ol' school carpool still because of basketball camp. #2 is working out with the cross-country team in the mornings, then staying for the basketball clinic from 10:00-1:00. I make a trip to the school at 1:00 to pick him (and friends) up, and to drop off #3 (as the different ages have different times). Then take #2  back at 4:00 for a "shooting clinic" and then I go back at 5:00 to pick up both boys. But today is the last day of that ...

 

Church ... and Zumba

I've been spending more time at church lately ... well, in church BUILDINGS at least. Here in Utah, the LDS (Latter-Day-Saint) religion is very prevalent, and there are so many church buildings all over the place. They are really nice buildings, and they often have a nice gym and sound system (some nicer than others). It's great that the church is allowing the buildings to be used  for things other than direct church activities.  Things like Zumba! Zoooomba!

So far, I've attended five different Zumba groups, in five different church buildings. I plan on trying out a new one tomorrow.  The church culture itself is beneficial to group activities like Zumba. That's where I first heard about the free Zumba class ... the one that started this whole thing. At church.

I grew up in a very religious home, it's never really clicked with me though. I just kind of go with the flow. I struggle on Sundays sitting through hours of meetings. I find it a bit funny just how much time I've been spending "at church" lately ... an hour each morning. But I'm NOT sitting!

 A fuzzy photo of one Zumba group.

This last Tuesday, I started the day at the church (with Zumba) and ended the day at the church (with my boy's Scout Pinewood Derby). The spacious church gym, great for dancing, great for social activities ... great for basketball, or so my second son would say!

Here's some pictures from that night.

And I made a highlights video, where you can see the cars in action!

DerbyTime2014

I am so grateful the church allows these extra activities in their buildings. I know if Zumba is held in an LDS church building, it is free (there can't be any charges as that would endanger the church's non-profit status). It's nice to see the comradeship of the women ... all are welcome, whether you live in that immediate area, whether or not you are active in the church. Of course, these Zumba classes DO start with a prayer!

Just Thinking Out Loud this Thursday. I've been having some religious struggles these past few years. I find it funny that now I'm spending more time "at church" than I ever did before. I find myself noticing cars in the parking lot of churches as I drive by during the day ... I always wonder if there is a Zumba class going (in the evening it's probably something else, but usually just SAHMs around during the day! Unless it's a funeral ...)  Do you have a lot of church buildings where you are at? Anyone Zumbaing at your local church building?

Check Engine

It's amazing how much stress a little light can create. We've actually been dealing with the engine light in my son's truck for a while. We took it in for repairs, $400 later ... the light was still on. We took it to our regular mechanic (they had been closed the first day, which is why we tried somewhere else), another $400, and it was STILL on. We figured perhaps it was just defective ... but #1 took it in for inspection and registration and it didn't pass the emissions test. Back to the mechanic with the problem in black and white (Cylinder 8 Misfire) and they said that is internal, and will require an engine rebuild.

That doesn't sound good. We haven't figured out what we are going to do yet.

I hate car problems...I'm sure I'm not alone there. I don't even like cars though, they are a necessary and expensive evil. I really don't like driving at all. I actually have extreme anxiety in the car. I don't drive freeways or downtown, and even as a passenger, I struggle. I'm tense and anxious the entire time. I do okay driving around the neighborhood, those trips required for school and shopping. Basketball pushes my boundaries at times. I had to drive across town Tuesday night for #3's game. Last night #2's game was too far. It would have required the freeway. I had to have him catch a ride with a basketball buddy and I missed out and seeing him play.

Now ... I'm getting stressed on even the smallest of drives. Why?  Because the engine light has now come on in MY car now too. I'm seriously sick about it.

Hubs says we'll work it out and I'm sure we will. I just don't know how. I don't know when we'll have the time for any of us to have a car in the shop. I guess we can rent a car for a few days, but still, just the thought of having to find someone to deal with the problem, fix it, pay for it ... and we're under a deadline with the registration expiration too.

I'm stressed. I've been doing ok as far as not letting the stress affect my eating. I overindulged this past weekend, but that was Easter, not this. I've been trying to outlet my emotions in exercise ... hitting the elliptical or treadmill. Zumba makes me happy ... except that I drive to those locations and that little light just blares at me every time I go anywhere. I wake up at night and worry and can't get back to sleep. 

So Thinking Out Loud this Thursday.

THAT is what has been on my mind lately!

First world problems I know. We're lucky that we have three cars to start with. That although I'm NOT looking forward to the cost, it probably won't devastate us financially (I'm sure hoping not!).

It would be interesting if our bodies had warning lights on them. Maintenance required. Check Engine. If there was a little light that wouldn't turn off until you dealt with the problem ... hmmm. There's food for thought.

A Vicarious and Virtual Vacation

This week, my guys are in New York City. My brother-in-law was taking his family, so Hubby decided to take the two older boys and his mom and join them. I was invited ... but I'm NOT in a New York state of mind. I am overwhelmed easily and New York City is, well, overwhelming. I have a slight panic attack even thinking about it.

I'm not afraid of flying, but I don't do well at sitting still. Road trips or plane rides are hard on me for that reason. I don't do well in crowds. I can't stand standing in lines. I am a creature of routine. I like schedules and complete control. I mentioned my vacation issues once before (here) ... that trip, I stayed home alone and I don't regret that decision. I did go on the Disneyland trip a couple years ago (Fall 2012). The "Happiest Place on Earth" ...  not for me. I think that was actually the trigger of a depression that packed on 20 pounds.

I'm trying to examine if it's my anxiety overriding everything. If I talked to my doctor, would medication and/or counseling help to overcome some of my issues? Or is it just me? Even if I weren't anxious and afraid, it's just not really the sort of thing I enjoy. I stress about the cost $$ the entire time. There are fitness/food ramifications as well ... I need to exercise. I NEED my exercise endorphins. Seriously. Any sort of vacation is going to disrupt that (although the boys walked so much on Sunday, that they beat me in steps ... I posted a comparison in our Fitbit charts on Monday).

And the eating ...

I have a hard enough time controlling calories here at home ... on vacation when you are eating out for every meal and indulging.  The boys are raving about the food, but that's another of my issues. I'm so picky.  I'm not sure I would have been able to find anything I liked at the places they've gone (I'm not a pizza or burger gal).  I'm really hoping they don't bring home that big (5pound) chocolate bar. Hubby brought that back year when he made a trip to the Hershey Store.

The actual reason behind the trip was to go see Les Miserables. A fellow we went to high school with (Will Swenson) is playing Javart.  Will and my BIL have stayed close friends over the years. I knew Will quite well too. We were in many productions together back in my acting days...

A Christmas Carol (left) and 42nd Street (right).

He also took me to prom.

That was my one regret. I LOVE Les Miserables, and it would have been great to see Will in it. But I didn't want it enough to overcome my anxieties and issues (hubby even asked if I'd want to fly in JUST for the show). But the cost would be too high. Time, $$, emotional breakdown. Besides, someone needed to stay and take care of the younger kids. The New Yorkers went to see the show yesterday ... Hubby said it was awesome (he loves LesMiz as much as I do). I have yet to hear what the 18-year old thought. Apparently the 15-year old fell asleep. 

Rambling a bit ... but it is Thursday, 

and Thursdays are for Thinking Out Loud.

Am I the only woman in the world who would say NO to a trip to New York?
How do you feel about vacations?
Do you love Les Miserables?

Zoomba

I think we've all seen this Zumba meme or one similar, right? 

 Honestly though, I have NO illusions. 

I can't dance. I know this.

When I got on my fitness kick, I knew almost everyone had tried and loved Zumba. I'm not a social exerciser though. I'm a homebody with a gym in the basement. I like my routine and my comfort zone. And ... I can't dance. I was heavily involved in musical theater when I was a teen. I am aware of my limitations. I got the lead role (Laurie) in Oklahoma. She doesn't dance. I sought out the role of Dorothy Brock in 42nd Street ... they actually say about the character "but she can't dance!" so it was perfect for me.

Back in January, I did a post (I Hope You Dance). A Zumba class was being offered. It was close, convenient and free. In that post I discussed my anxiety before attending. I mentioned how I wasn't super sold on it after I went...

I'm addicted now. 

I think back on those first few classes and the original instructor. I actually think it was great now, to have her introduce Zumba to me. Her routines weren't super challenging, and thus they didn't intimidate me too much. After attending her class for several weeks, I faced my anxiety again, and tried two other Zumba settings. Now I go every Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday morning. The three groups all have their own style and set up and it keeps it fresh and interesting. It's a great way to start the day. 

• Tuesday, the class is still with my original instructor. It's a bunch of white ladies who can't dance. I really like it though, because it isn't very crowded and at this point, I'm fairly familiar with the routines and steps.
• Wednesday ... it's kind of crazy. It's a largely Polynesian group and they whoop and holler and call out and laugh. It's gets pretty packed! They have several instructors on the stage. I do like that. It's nice to see how different people can customize the steps; some higher energy, some lower impact. Some with perfect grace, some with so much personality.
• Thursday is lead by several Latin ladies. They have the moves ... often moves I can't master. They alternate through several instructors (my Tuesday teacher is there and leads a couple songs, I'm always happy to have a couple songs/steps that I feel I can follow). 

I grabbed some snapshots from yesterday's (a Wednesday) session. I guess it was dress-up day. Bright colors, headbands, tights, legwarmers ... even a couple tutus! It was actually fun to see and added to the energy *Ü*

I do find I have definite preferences for instructors, moves, songs. I also realize I rarely like a routine the first time, that familiarity leads to liking for me *Ü*  I've come to the conclusion that I have ...

Zumba Brain. 

I'm always humming the songs ... and I don't really know the songs! I don't speak Spanish, so it's a lot harder for me to actually sing along and memorize the music. I usually only remember small portions, and I'll run those over and over in my head until I drive myself a bit crazy. I also envision Zumba moves to almost all music. I choreograph stuff in my mind (I'm NOT saying it's any good, just that it is happening). Again ... I drive myself a bit crazy.

 

I wear my PolarFT heart rate monitor, and I also start the timer on my Fitbit. After class, I pull off the two gadgets and snap some pictures so I can easily remember and compare my stats. Sometimes the two estimates are quite close, other times they are off by over 100. Whichever I go by,  I don't get the crazy burn (600+ calories an hour) that some people post. I keep all my picture stats in an album on Facebook (here). Some days are definitely better than others! It can really vary. Sometimes I'm surprised by the burn (or lack thereof) and other times it's pretty much what I expected. It's good to get some feedback tracking!

It's Thursday, and Thursday's are for Thinking Out Loud.  

I've got a lot of Zumba on the brain ... I thought I'd let a little spill out.

What are YOUR thoughts on Zumba?

And seriously, my title of the post? In my head, I need to think of Zumba spelled "Zoomba" so that I say it right. Otherwise, my ol'American pronunciation sneaks in and I see and say the "u" like "under" "umbrella" and "up" ... and that's just DUMBA. I do really feel Zumba is an NSV for me. I really feel more confident, not like the meme I presented at the top ... I still don't feel like a dancer, but I feel better about myself. I always get quite a few steps in, and I just look forward to Zumba. It makes me happy.

What is a Binge?

Source: Change Happens

It's hard not to come across the word "binge" if you are reading about weight-loss  (blogs, websites, message boards, magazines). In several blogs I've followed, the authors have admitted to a "binge" or a struggle with "binge eating" ... and I've just wondered if we're on the same page with what we think a "binge" actually is.

I guess I first heard the term as a teenager, it was in conjunction with bulimia. Binge and purge. But obviously people can just do the former.  I found this definition of binge eating disorder, which does go along with MY thoughts on the topic (source) :

Now I have do have my own eating issues. I do keep my food diary on MFP private (although I am doing my best to honestly enter everything I eat there). I have had struggles with mindless eating, and stress eating. There are times I find myself eating something and if I stop and think about it, I know I'm really not HUNGRY.  I can, and do overeat (this past weekend was BAD).

But I really don't know that I would ever say I have "binged". I've never felt out of control (just the mindless, "what am I doing? why am I eating this" feeling). I am actually a fairly slow eater. I rarely feel disgusted with myself ... those times I overeat, I usually feel there was a reason, or it was worth the indulgence. I can eat a LOT and still not feel super full (it's rare that I get to that "stuffed" point, maybe I just have a huge tummy capacity). My overeating is certainly not anything that happens with regularity.

I've just been thinking about this topic for several weeks now, and thought I'd expound on it for the Thinking Out Loud linkup  (even though the majority of topics there aren't serious in nature). But I feel like "Thinking Out Loud" does describe what I'm doing here :)

As I read on a message board "Oh, I binged" and they describe the binge ... and to me, it doesn't really fit MY definition. I did want to look into it a bit more, research it a bit.  I didn't want to let myself off the hook if what I was doing was binging, but I continue to stick with my original feeling that luckily THIS isn't something I struggle with. I've wondered about those who DO seriously suffer ... if they are sensitive when the word is used in a minor, offhand manner? I know I probably use the term OCD too casually for those who really suffer from that affliction.

Also linking up with the NSV linkup ... This past weekend was NOT great, and the scale reflected that. I haven't quite gotten the scale back to where I was before this past weekend, but even though I overate, I did record it all. Tuesday, I was SO ready to get back to my routine of oodles of exercise and eating better. Today ... I went to a DIFFERENT Zumba class. That is pretty huge for me, as I'm a creature of comfort and familiarity. It was good and I'll try to continue to hit this one on Thursday mornings.

What are your thoughts on the word "binge"?

Is it something you feel you struggle with?

Things To Do Thursday

So I got up today and got in my usual 20min session on the elliptical. I got the kids off to school (lunches, carpoolx2) and then, I thought I'd try Zumba. At my usual Tuesday Zumba at our church, they mentioned a couple other locations with similar, free classes on Wed/Thurs. My anxiety kicks in at trying anything new, but I could feel my motivation level was low, so I figured I might do better in a group setting today. Unfortunately, I think it was Wed/FRI ... as there was no Zumba happening when I drove out to the different location.

As I had my shoes and HRM on ... I decided to hit the treadmill when I got home.  I committed to one mile at 5mph. When I hit that, I was still feeling pretty good ... so I kept going. This happened yesterday too, I went two miles then. Today ... 2.5. One of these days I'm going to do an impromptu 5k. But not today, I do have a lot on the docket today. Being a SAHM with the kids in school ... what do I have going on to fill my day?

I do plan on some additional exercise. I did NMTZ (No More Trouble Zones by Jillian Michaels) yesterday, and have weights on deck for tomorrow, so today is just cardio. I NEED to get 40 more minutes on the elliptical, because I set a streaks goal of 60min every day in February. That shouldn't be a problem - two more 20min sessions sometime during the day.  I'd also like to hit the stationary bike ... I finished up my book yesterday and have a new one waiting. I feel a bit guilty just sitting and reading, but if I'm reading and riding ... well then I'm doing two things at once and that can't be construed as a waste of time, right?

I need to finish up the boy's valentine day cards ... cutting and inserting the suckers. I'm on deck for the party at the school tomorrow. I think I'm prepped for that (as I do it every year). You can check out the list of games I'm planning (Valentine's Games).  Only one child need a "box" and we are just recycling one from last year (my Lazy Mom's Valentine Box).

I don't really have anything for hubby ... hmmmm.

We've got a lot of leftovers (pizza from Monday, baked ziti from Tuesday, chicken pillows from Wednesday) so I think I'm off the hook for making anything new tonight.   Schedules are a bit crazy anyway. Basketball practice for #2, #4 and #3 (all at different times and different locations). I believe #1 has a game at the church too. And on the topic of basketball, I'm SO behind in making my highlight videos of the games (Basketball Mom). I have the video files on my computer. I need to go through all the clips, weed out the ones without any action shots, then make them into a movie. It takes a while ... and I'm just sitting while I do all that. I don't like just sitting. But those video files are just waiting, waiting, waiting for me ... (more games coming up on Saturday too). 

Back to my morning run ... I've put on music these past couple days. The days before that, I've been watching a show during my treadmill time. I think the music is what has motivated me to keep going these past couple days. I spent some time putting together a perfect 5mph playlist a while back. I am one who needs to match my footballs with the rhythm of the music. I like to Feel the Beat.

Hubby recently bought us a much needed, new computer. I'm a PC gal, this is a Mac ... it's going to take some figuring out (even though we're an Apple family in all other Apple/Android respects). With the installation of Itunes, we've moved all the music over. Now I know you can transfer playlists as well, but unfortunately, with one of the recent updates, all of our playlists mysteriously disappeared. I still have them on my ipods/iphone ... but I'm just anticipating the hours of work that will be required to try to recreate all my playlists. Playlists are important! It took a ton of time to select all my perfect 5mph beat songs that motivated me today. I've been unwilling to sync stuff until I get this done, and things are getting outdated. Ah, technology and first world problems!

...as I was jogging, I was thinking of all the things I needed to get done today (or in the near future, I'm NOT going to get to all of these things today). Then, instead of actually DOING some of these things, I jumped online, read a little, blogged a bit, and just joined the Thinking Out Loud link-up *Ü* . I guess I best go get going on my Things to do Thursday ...

What do you have on the docket today?

Are you a Mac or PC person?

How important are YOUR playlists?

I'm also going to link-up with the Non-Scale Victory Linkup ... both for my 2.5 mile jog (my longest in ... um, I can't remember when I've ever jogged that far without stopping to walk) and even my ATTEMPT to go to a new Zumba class. It took a LOT for me to even think about walking into an unfamiliar situation ... I'll have to double check the location/times and try again. I felt unmotivated this morning, but now I'm proud of what I've accomplished just this morning! *Ü*

Thoughts on The Biggest Loser

I've been on my own weight loss journey for almost eight years now. You would think I would have had some interest in The Biggest Loser during this time, but this year was the first time I ever watched the show. Much of that was simply due to the fact that I only watch TV while working out, and previously, I didn't have a way of watching "live" programming in my home gym. Since discovering Roku/PlayOn, I have been able to watch current shows ... although I'm always behind, as I have to wait for the networks to post the program to their website.

So ... I'm a day late in watching and talking about The Biggest Loser. I'd actually planned on writing up a blog post from the start (even before the controversial conclusion this year that has social media buzzing). So although I already knew  the results, had seen the pictures and heard others opinions, I went ahead and watched the finale yesterday.  My "Thinking Out Loud" topic this fine Thursday will be some of my thoughts on The Biggest Loser (coming from someone who has never watched it before) ... the entire season, not just the end result.

• Comparison & Competition: At first I was a little put off by the entire concept. We are taught NOT to compare ourselves to others. Weight loss is an individual process. I realize this is pretty essential to the "game" but it's still a little difficult to get over the negative aspect of competition to lose weight. Really the only person I want to beat or compare myself against is me.
• Challenges: I've always liked the challenges in "Survivor" ... but some of these Biggest Loser challenges just rubbed me a little wrong. I wasn't sure why "chance" was included (rolling the dice to determine how many buckets of water the team could carry), why not just let them compete fairly? Forcing them to eat candy and unhealthy foods? The equipment auction was actually interesting ... equipment/gadgets are great, motivating and helpful, but not absolutely necessary.
• Commercialization: I realize the show is sponsored and endorsements help pay the costs, but the pushing of products was eye-rolling for me. All the commercial interruptions too (especially there in the finale!) ... I was very happy I had it recorded so I could fast forward through all the breaks.
• The Caffeine Controversy: Before the big finale fiasco, there was the caffeine controversy (remember that?). On one hand, I wondered if it was just an attempt to get a popular player (Reuben) back on the show. My other thought was "is this tacit endorsement of caffeine pills" by the show as a whole? If the pills were considered "cheating" enough to take such action ... does that imply that they do actually help someone lose weight?
• Therapy: Not that I thought the trainers gave bad advice or anything, but when the trainers would sit down and talk with the contestants and delve into their backgrounds and such, I would wonder if they had a background in psychology. The show did bring in physicians, dieticians and make-over experts ... perhaps they should have a trained professional to analyze and offer therapy.
• Food, Fitness & Numbers: If you follow my blog, you know I'm a numbers gal. I would have liked to have a little more information on how many calories the contestants were eating (if they WERE tracking, I would assume so but I don't know), exercise estimates for their workouts (did they have a body media or other tracker, I thought I saw something on their arm). Were trainers and contestants allowed to crunch numbers? I'm assuming they weren't allowed to step on a scale other than the official weigh-in. I would just like to have more info on some of the background details. The day to day stuff interests the OCD in me.
• Sizes & Makeovers: I had to wonder at the sizes spouted during the show. When Rachel put on the size 8 jeans. They showed a picture of her wearing them and she looked a lot smaller than when she put them on in the show. I personally felt smaller than Rachel at that point (we are similar in height/weight at that point) and I still was wearing a size 10. At the finale when Chelsea said her dress was a size 6 ... again, doing a little of that comparison I said I should not do... I don't fit into a size 6 although I feel similar (even smaller) in size/shape.  It was fun to see the changes in the makeovers though. Even with my weight loss, I still don't feel comfortable in form fitting clothes, belts, bright colors or sleeveless shirts. I could absolutely sympathize with Marie and the hair cutting. I would feel the same way (that said, she did look great!). I laughed a little as Chelsea went back to no bangs after the makeover show. The change in David ... wow!
• Travel & The Utah Connection: It was so much fun to see the contestants come to Utah and to the Olympic Oval, which is just minutes away from my home (My Olympic Oval Experience). We're lucky to have such a nice venue accessible.  But this episode also re-enforced my fears about vacation and travel. I'm such a homebody and need to stay "on the ranch" so to speak.

Back the the show's conclusion. In the second to the last episode, Rachel was favored by far as the triathlon winner. If she had NOT won that automatic spot ... she would have been eliminated that week as she only lost one pound, less than any other contestant. I had wondered if she "threw" that week (I wasn't sure how the final weigh-in worked, if it was a total loss, or a loss from that show to the finale ... as I said, I hadn't ever watched the show before).

Rachel had been seen as a favorite to win for weeks ... but I wondered. Going against David and Bobby, who had both shown HUGE losses from one weigh-in to the next in previous shows and who still had weight left to lose. Rachel didn't  (Jay had been in a similar situation). I really wondered HOW Rachel could possibly win ... I guess I (and everyone) saw that she still could, but... The number cruncher in me wonders at what weight she could have still won (and if that would have still been an underweight number). Anyone with better math skills than me want to crunch some numbers?

Anyway ... will I watch "The Biggest Loser" again? Probably. It is amazing to see the transformations take place. It will be interesting to see the ramifications of this season's finale and how that impacts the show in the future.

... I think I'll also consider finishing up the season as an NSV.  I was on my elliptical working out for every moment watching The Biggest Loser. I don't mind pressing pause and coming back to my episode (I don't watch it all in one sitting ...er, standing/stepping). What will I watch now ...

**Update ... just thought I'd post a link to a more recent interview where Rachel has put on a few pounds and looks healthier (Biggest Loser Update) and it will be interesting to continue to check in. Good luck to Rachel!