Weekly Recap & Weigh-In (#73)

It's Friday (ok ... it's Saturday, I didn't get around to finishing up my post yesterday). Time for a look back at the week and the official "step on the scale" accountability.

This past week was not a good one. I'm not sure why. My energy has just been completely sapped! Starting with the weekend ... I usually still get in my hour of elliptical, even on Saturday and Sunday. But not last week. Mondays are almost always my most motivated days. Monday was good. Elliptical, Zumba, bike and treadmill ... and kept calories in check. I was happy when my weight dropped Tuesday morning after the jump after the weekend (not only over 150, but the high in quite a while). 

Then ... I just lost it. I didn't go overboard on eating (well, Wednesday was a 3000 intake day with a family activity in the evening ... hot chocolate and then some Popeyes). It was my activity ... I just didn't feel like my usual energetic self. I still hit Zumba Mon-Thursday but it was HARD every day. I did NOT do weights this week, nor any additional bike or treadmill. It was all I could do to get in my hour of elliptical each day.

So NUMBERS ... I'm surprised I didn't log a gain this week. Weight actually dropped a couple ounces (although the average went up by a few ounces). Other than the Monday morning jump, weight stayed quite steady. With uber-calorie days Sunday and Wednesday, intake averaged high at 2436. With my low energy, I only managed an activity average of 2820. So ... no deficit this week, my calories in were more than calories out (only by about 70, but not good when I'm aiming for a deficit of -3500 or more).

Tuesday ... realizing my energy was low and I wasn't getting much done, I agreed to take the kidlets to Airborne (a trampoline park). They got plenty of steps for a couple hours while I sat and read my book. I did get a little extra walking in at a basketball practice, but even though there were a couple of games, I didn't get in steps there (both because of lack of energy, and the locations weren't ideal. I video taped instead).   Wednesday we went down to Thanksgiving Point to drive through the light display ... In a limousine!

 

 

Missing #2 who couldn't miss basketball practice. The limo and lights part was fun (with the extended family too, cousins, Aunts, Uncle and Maga) but the drive there wasn't. My anxiety was in full force as we were late, hitting rush hour traffic, driving at night and all the headlights and brake lights. At least the weather was fine, snow and ice wouldn't have helped.

I had a couple struggles with #4 (Anxiety Child) this week too (he's the one making funny faces in the pictures above!). He's been doing better, going to school without crying or complaining (which is NOT to say he likes it, he's just trying). But Wednesday they had a substitute and he couldn't quite handle that. I home schooled him for a half-day and had him go in the afternoon (when they had their regular rotations). Thursday he was ready to go when he was hit with an extreme stomach ache. I actually didn't think this was school related, but we waited it out (had him go to the bathroom and he started feeling better). So he missed the morning that day too, but then went to school when the pain passed. I was lucky that #1 son was around, so I still made my Zumba classes those day, although with my lack of energy, I actually wouldn't have cared too much if I'd had to miss (which would usually be TRAGIC for me! Can't miss Zumba!)

So ... am I getting sick? Other than the extreme exhaustion, I don't really feel "sick" at all. No tickle in the throat, or coughing or runny nose. Yet anyway. I have had a lingering headache. It was exactly one year ago that I came down with the flu. I remember trying to push through it the first few days, before it knocked me down completely. Crossing my fingers there is not a repeat of that this year!

... and just following up on the topic of Salted Caramels from last week ...

I didn't eat ANY this week!

Reading While Riding

I've never been one for riding bikes. The traffic, the helmet, weather conditions, dogs, bugs, flat tires. I don't have to deal with any of that on my handy dandy stationary bike. Plus it has another great advantage ... I can read while I ride!

I'm sure no one recommends reading while riding a regular bike!

Many people poo-poo the idea anyway, saying that if you are reading, you are probably not putting everything into your exercise. I don't dispute that. My "exercise" isn't on the bike, my bike riding is just a little extra activity I do. No, I don't get a big calorie burn, nothing close to a spin class or mountain bike ride, but it's more than I would have if I had been sitting or laying down.

I think I actually concentrate better on my book while riding the bike. I am more focused on my reading than if I'm completely comfy. I do read each night before I fall asleep, and sometimes my mind wanders, and I feel my eyes growing so heavy. On the nights the boys had a late basketball practice, I would go read on the stationary bike in order to stay awake!

A couple of my boys have even jumped on board. I encouraged my oldest to give it a try, and he did. For #4, when we were doing a couple trial run "homeschool" days (anxiety issues) I had him do some reading and riding as part of his routine. I'm not the only one who has thought of this ... I found this article online (Elementary School Replaces Desks With "Reading Bikes" and Test Scores Skyrocket). In the picture in the article, the kids are reading regular books. I LOVE digital books for reading on the bike, it's much easier to "turn" the pages and my ipad mini fits on the bike perfectly. 

It's a bit ironic ... I ADORE reading and always have, but my boys? It's not something they have ever enjoyed. At times they would get into a book or series, but they only read because it is required, not for their own enjoyment. These last few years however, my oldest HAS started getting into books. He's only into non-fiction, seeking knowledge, not entertainment. He even got a job at Barnes and Noble! He was pretty happy when he won the prize in a work contest ...

He was wearing the headphones while reading and riding, which was actually a good thing, as I wanted to hit the elliptical at the same time. That way I could still watch my show without disturbing him (I'm not really used to the family coming down to MY gym).

I've done quite a few "What I've Been Reading" posts ... book reviews and recommendations. I had totally planned one doing one on that topic this past Tuesday, but I didn't get around to it. I'll try to get it up this coming "Topic Tuesday" and do one once a month. I read enough that it should be easy to come up with something to say on the subject. I LOVE reading ... have I mentioned that?

Well ... time to hit the home gym again!

Linking up with Thinking Out Loud and a late Workout Wednesday.

What Happened This Weekend?

Monday morning accountability.

I can't say I was really shocked ... it wasn't a great weekend.

Do you ever have those self-destructive days? I thought I had a pretty good week last week. I was determined to reverse the recent upward scale slide. I was uber active all week long, and did pretty good on the eating. But it didn't show up on the scale. I admit, I was disappointed, and had a little bit of the "if being good doesn't work, lets just see what happens when I totally screw up!" attitude. 

• Friday mornings are a bit crazy. There is early morning basketball practice ...two additional trip for drop-off and pick up, in addition to the three existing trips to school. I didn't start my day with a workout. I made it to Zumba, and got in two 20 min sessions on the elliptical. I pretty much ALWAYS get three. I'm a little OCD about my "hour" elliptical, but it didn't happen on Friday. I went to watch #2 play in his school basketball game. I manned the video camera during his game (highlights below) and then walked during the JV game (#2 dressed and sat the bench but didn't get any playing time). I stopped and grabbed some Dominos Pizza on the way home. We hadn't had it in forever, but they had a 50% off deal on. Not the best dinner, and I'd indulged in salted caramels throughout the day, even after contemplating them as the cause for my Friday failure at weigh-in ...
• Saturday I was up early, dropping #2 off to practice and taking #5 to his game. I videoed this game too, although I don't get enough highlights from a single game ... I'll wait and make a compilation video at the end of the season. Back at home, the kids asked for French Toast. I made it, I ate it. I only got in two 20min elliptical sessions Saturday too. No Zumba, but quite a few steps from shopping with the kids. #3 had a game in the early evening, and there was no place to walk ... so I manned the video camera again. Hubs picked up some Popeyes ... fried chicken for dinner.
• Sunday I made our usual Sunday Circles breakfast. I indulged in a Belgian waffle, bacon and hash browns. I got hit with the sleepies after the morning meal and crawled back in bed and figured I'd just take a rest day. I actually feel SO much more tired when I don't exercise though. A little later I was dragging so much I went and did 20 minutes on the elliptical, but that was all the exercise I got in for the day.  In the evening we had the inlaws over and Hubs made his famous BBQ (steak, marinated chicken, mashed taters). I made Brazilian Cheese Rolls, which have been a big hit at our house recently and our guests loved them too. We had Skookie for dessert. WAY over calories for the day!

So ... three days of "eh" exercise and oodles of intake calories, I'm not really surprised at the 152.7 on the scale. I guess there was that small part of me that was hoping that because the scale didn't move as predicted when I was being good, maybe it wouldn't move as predicted when I was being bad. But it did. Now to try and correct it! Linking up with Marvelous in my Monday as I recap the past week and start a week fresh!

Sundays are always slow, with the sitting at church. I did my Sunday Selfie ... which I do sometimes when I'm bored :) My Omron pedometer can be a bit bulky at my waist, especially in a skirt. So today, I clipped it to the top of my boot!

I did walk to/from church, the weather over the weekend was wonderful! It has been all week, and the forecast continues to look really nice. I know some people want snow for Christmas, but I'm loving these 50° days!

In addition to the lack of movement during the basketball games (I need to stand still for the video-taping) I also made some highlight videos. This requires about an hour going through the clips, and then another hour or so making the muvee. But they are a fun way to relive the glory moments. The entire game condensed to just a few minutes. Here's #2 and #3's game from the weekend...

 My #2 is #3 (on his jersey *Ü)

My #3 is #31

I find as I'm sitting at the computer, going through video clips, or writing a blog entry ... I get the munchies. I get the munchies BAD. It's just second nature to grab something and eat it while I work, even if I'm not particularly hungry.

The bad news ... I at a LOT of salted caramels this weekend.

The good news ... the opened packages are now GONE.

The bad news ... I still have two big packages of salted caramels.

The good news ... they aren't open. I SHOULD be able to resist as long as they aren't open.

Well ... enough sitting in front of my computer typing. I've been sipping on a Fresca to keep my mouth busy, not snacking! Still, time to get up and move. Even though the Motivation Monday link-up is no longer active, I always try to motivate myself and start off the week with a bang! I've done pretty good so far today. Thanks for checking in *Ü* How was YOUR weekend?

Sunday Stats

Zumba, Zumba, Zumba, Zumba, Zumba

Five Days ... Five Classes

• Monday with Southziders ... HRM 473, Fitbit 517 and 7676 steps. "In Zone" for 39 of the 69 minutes. Average heart rate 127. I'd anticipated a hard morning with Anxiety Child ... but it didn't happen! "I even surprised myself" he said as I dropped him off without complaining or tears. Great to hit Zumba to start the week. Good numbers! I helped lead four songs.
• Tuesday with Marian ... HRM 424, Fitbit 484 and 7275. "In Zone" for 51 of the 61 minutes. Average heart rate 125. Anxiety Child cooperated again today, so I thought I'd make it on time. I was only a minute late, but class had started. Marian introduced some fun Christmas songs!
• Wednesday with MZL ... HRM 430, Fitbit 537 and 8140 steps. "In Zone" 47 of the 70 minutes. Average heart rate 116. I carried my shoes/hat/HRM in with me, and dropped the watch part of the Polar. Luckily someone found it and brought it in. I couldn't seem to get my heart rate up at the start of class though, not sure why. Some songs I wasn't as familiar with? A little sore from my weights workout yesterday? Not positive the HRM was working 100% either. Still stepped up and got good Fitbit numbers. Had a new Christmas song with this group too. Brought in some toys as they were asking for donations. Not quite as big a crowd today (still more than the other Zumba classes I attend, but not as many people as usual.)
• Thursday with Claudia&Co ... HRM 389, Fitbit 457 and 7032 steps. "In Zone" 41 of the 63 minutes. Average HR 119. I dropped off the kids at school (Anxiety Child had a good morning) and went straight to Zumba, which gets me there a little early. There is always a little setup (pulling the dividers open/closed). Marian started, and Nina came soon after, but no Claudia today. It is so nice when there are multiple instructors so a class doesn't get cancelled when one person has to skip. Marian did her Christmas numbers, gotta get them in while we can
• Friday with Heather ... HRM 315, Fitbit 472 and 6673 steps. "In Zone" 32 of the 63 minutes. Average heart rate 114. My Polar was misbehaving, especially at the start. You can see I upped the numbers slightly in the chart above, as I know it missed out on some. Time to wash the strap and hope that fixes the problem. All of the other Zumba classes are held in larger church gyms ... but this one is a small one. It gets a little crowded at times (I'm a bit claustrophobic). One of the things I DO like more about this class is it does NOT start with a prayer like all the others do. Am I a bad person for finding that a positive thing? *Ü*

It was nice to get back to my five different classes for the week ...

WWI#72 and Salted Caramels

Blah, blah ... another weekly weigh-in. Another week up again! I must admit, I really had high hopes for this week. I thought for SURE I was going to be able to reverse the rising trend of the past few weeks. But no. I'm a little bummed. I'm just barely under my "150" limit, and I bopped over it twice. Not good.

NUMBERS: Up 1.4 from last week. Average was up too ... 1.38. My intake was a little high, at 2107 but I was extra active! My average burn for the week was 3132 per day. I had several 30K days, getting in my hour of elliptical spread throughout each day, my hour of Zumba Mon-Fri, several sessions on the bike and treadmill and a weights workout. There were several basketball games (Sat/Tues/Wed/Thurs/Fri) too, where I walked around while I watched, usually getting in 6000+ steps during the hour. Crunching the numbers, I had a deficit of 5041! That should be a loss, not a gain. Of course ... the numbers are all estimates, I do realize that. It's hard to know for sure on calories in and calories out even when you are keeping a food diary and monitoring activity.

I was trying to think back on what could have changed these past few weeks. Why, after losing steadily for several weeks, have I started to gain some back? Oct and the first couple weeks of November were great ... then? There were birthdays, and Thanksgiving, but the other addition ...

Salted Caramels

Last Christmas Hubs gave me a box of salted caramels from Willam's Sonoma. They were wonderful! I never succumbed to the whole "pumpkin spice" temptation that others did during the fall (I like the smell of the candle, but the taste? I'll pass). Salted caramels seem to be a winter holiday trend, and they ARE a major temptation. Hubs bought me another box from William's Sonoma. It's gone. There were some for sale at Sam'sClub ... half the price, and I figured I needed to at least give them a try. They were really good too. Then hubs found some at Costco for an even better price. I joked that I probably should try all the  brands out there to compare. I really have trouble stopping at a single serving ... I wonder if the shift in the scale is reflecting my current salted caramel addiction?

I should try a WHOLE WEEK without eating any ... can I commit to that? I'm not sure ... not as long as there is an open container in the house (which there is). It's a good thing these things are seasonal!

Look ... Leggings!

I follow several Zumba instructors on Facebook, and a few weeks ago I heard many of them talking about some great giveaways they had received to pass on to their favorite students. I didn't really pay it much heed. My Zumba classes are already "giveaways" (Free Zumba in Utah) and although I thought some of the Zumba Wear I'd seen was cute, it wasn't something I was planning on adding to my wardrobe anytime soon ...

Then I went to one of my classes, and my Tuesday Instructor (thanks Marian!) gave me this coupon. I am the skeptical sort, so I figured there were some strings or something ... and I wasn't sure if I could even pull off leggings (body wise or confidence wise). I went home and looked up the deal ...

Hmmm ... a little tight, a little bold, even if they were MY colors (black and gray). $50? I'd never spend that on an item like this (I'll spend that on gadgets like my Fitbit or Polar, but not clothes) but here it was FREE, although I did need to pay the shipping (a little over $5). 

I had tried a pair of leggings at a local store. Although I've been in a medium in most things for a while, I just wasn't comfortable with how tight and form fitting they were. I ended up buying an x-large. When I tried working out with them at home ... they started to slip. I just returned them, sure that leggings weren't for me. Here ... willing to risk the $5 shipping investment, I wasn't sure what size to order. I did get a giggle out of Zumba's sizing chart -

Based on the measurements ... I was probably "marvelous" but I just wasn't sure. I read the reviews and some said they ran small. I ordered a "lovely" (large). Zumba.com was super fast with the shipping. When they arrived I tried them on and really liked the feel. Silky smooth, and the form fitting feel was completely new to me. I still wasn't sure it was ME. I wore them to my Tuesday class (I'll often stop at a store or something on the way home from my other classes, but not on Tuesdays. Just wearing them to class was enough of a challenge, I wasn't going to wear them out in public.) My Tuesday teacher was the one who had given me the coupon too.

The elastic waist wasn't adjustable They DID fall down a bit ... I would have to pull them up.  I've heard this can be a common problem. I had been quite the seamstress in days past, so I figured I could handle a quick-fix. I felt a little sacrilegious cutting a small hole in the waistband ... but I did it. I then threaded a string (ok ... a shoelace) through and - I had an adjustable drawstring. No more falling down. 

While the leggings are super comfy ... I'm still not entirely comfortable in them. That's just me. I'm used to baggy. I'm used to plain, not patterns. I wore them to my Friday class and my Zumba instructor there had a pair on too ... she had on the blue ones. They would be way to bright for me! And ... while it seems to be the trendy thing to do, I tied my jacket around my waist. That helped bolster me a bit. It covers up the butt ... and then I have somewhere to clip on my Omron pedometer.

I don't know that I'll be shopping at Zumba.com again anytime soon. It's not really my style or price range ... but I am loving my leggings!  I have to admit ...I feel just a little different, and little more "Zumba-ish" when I'm wearing this outfit.  So thanks again Zumba. Once again you pushed me out of my comfort zone, for better or worse. *Ü*

Linking up with Workout Wednesday. 

Can clothing change your confidence?

TV Talk Tuesday

My TV time is exercise time. I only watch while I workout. 

What have I been working out to lately?

Last month I was getting into the shows starting their new seasons ... and I am still interested in them (caught up on several, behind on a few). But I'd heard a lot of good things about the show "Nashville" that I went ahead and requested a hold at my local library. With the library hold program, you are never quite sure when it is going to come in. I got it pretty quick, and it was the entire season. 24 episodes. And it was due back in one week!

I abandoned watching anything else (Grey's, Scandal ... even The Walking Dead!) and just watched Rayna James and Juliet Barnes sing and struggle with their social lives and careers while I elliptical-ed, walked on the treadmill, and even while I did my weight workouts. I do workout a lot... but I didn't quite get through all 24 episodes in the week. I kept the DVDs a few extra days, paid the fines, and finished it up. Season 1 done.

Back in my high school and college days, I was a singer myself. I never did envision or even want stardom. I was content to be the lead in the school musical, sing solos at church, and place in local talent competitions. I've enjoyed watching music shows like American Idol (years ago, not lately) and The Voice. I really enjoyed the singing series "Smash" ... catching up on it once it hit Amazon Prime. While I'm not big into country music, I have really been enjoying the show (and the music). There sure is a lot of sleeping around though!

At one time, DVDs were the preferred method of catching up on past programs. Before Netflix and Amazon Prime really hit the scene, and even after, when wifi was iffy. I LOVE closed captions! I just can't catch all the spoken words (especially on the treadmill, it is noisy!) and although Netflix and Amazon have come a long way in adding subtitles to their shows, DVDs have had captions for a while. One complaint I had on the captioning on Nashville is the song lyrics weren't subtitled. The music is such an integral part of the show, I really wish I'd been able to catch all the words (which I wasn't!). Some shows even caption the background music ... I just felt like I missed out on the meaning of much of the music.

So I'm almost done with Season 2 now ... and I've been recording the current Season 3 (using PlayOn/Playlater ... ABC does include captioning as they post their shows to the web). I'm not sure if I'll jump right to it when I finish Season 2 or take a break and watch something else ... hmmm.

While I watched Season 1 on a show streak, I've been interspersing a  few favorites while watching Season 2.  I couldn't help but laugh in a recent episode of Grey's Anatomy where one of the doctors has on a "wrist thingy" and is taking stairs and bouncing in place to get more steps! I'm a little behind in Scandal, but hearing that a prisoner was eating 2700 calories a day? I've been gaining at 2200 and that's when I'm very active. No fair guys! I don't think I've seen the characters on Nashville fitting in exercise (at least on the show) ... of course I rarely see them eat either (although there is plenty of drinking going on). How do they stay so trim (I guess those concerts can be calorie burners)...

Any other Nashville fans out there?

One Super Sunday Sleep In

I know there was a sleep study that indicated it was better for the body if you had a consistent wake up time every single day. But for ME? Weekends are made for sleeping in!

This was my Fitbit sleep tile Sunday morning when I FINALLY rolled out of bed. I'd gone to bed at 9:59, and got out of bed at 9:53. I was in bed for 11 hours and 54 minutes, and "asleep" for 10 hours and 4 minutes. My average is probably around six hours of sleep a night. It felt good to catch up a bit. Sunday was actually the only day over the entire Thanksgiving Weekend that I was able to really sleep in though.

My MIMM Weekend Recap ...

• Friday, I planned on hitting my Zumba class at 9:00. So that WAS a sleep in, based on my usual 6:00 rising time. I ended up needing to pick up #2 from his friend's at 10:30 that evening (that is past my bedtime!) even though Daddy and #1 son were out late that night already.
• Saturday ... #2 had to be at the high school at 8:00 in the morning to go driving for driver's ed. Normally, he has basketball practice at that time, but not this weekend. I was glad #2 got one of his driving done (he has to do three) as the other workable time is 5:00 a.m. THAT is early! #2 actually attended a family event (see the picture below) and so he was home, instead of out with friends that evening. That meant an early in night for me!
• Sunday ... It felt SO good not to set the alarm and just stay in bed until I was ready to get out. It made breakfast quite late, insomuch that it was more of a brunch. We are on the 1:00-4:00 church schedule for another few weeks. Then we'll switch to the 9:00-12:00 with the new year. I'll miss my Sunday sleep ins I think ...

 At the annual "Leg Lamp Lighting" party. 

Missing #1 (he had to work), and Anxiety Child was NOT happy.

I have to say ... I'm very happy to have the Thanksgiving holiday and the November birthday's behind us. I know Christmas is right around the corner, but I feel like I have three "normal" weeks (as far as school and such) to try and get back on track a bit. The return to the routine. Basketball is starting up again, so schedules will be a little crazy in the evenings. #3 has a game starting at 9:30 at night, downtown! He won't get home until after 11:00 on a school night ... and that's definitely past MY bedtime!

I did bop over 150 for my weigh-in this Monday morning (150.5). I'd done so well for several weeks, I'd like to get back to bigger deficits, lower caloric intake, keeping up the activity.  I had been quite nervous about this morning regarding Anxiety Child. He struggles almost every Monday, having to return to school after the weekend. With this longer weekend, I was anticipating a complete meltdown. He surprised me (and himself) by having a good morning and getting off to school without complaints or crying.  I've told him I want him to make it through these next three weeks, and then we'll revisit the homeschool possibility if that's still something he really, really wants.

But for now? Three weeks of a schedule. 

Which means alarms set for 6:00. 

With a few more Sunday Sleep Ins. I'm going to enjoy every one!

November 2014

At the end of the month I try to do a quick recap of the month and include my journal entries. I'm backdating this post, so you won't know exactly how behind I am. November was NOT a good month for weight, maybe that's one reason I put off doing my recap. I didn't even bother to make my "Streaks" calendar marking my good days, or my "exercise" calendar ... even though it probably would have been easier this month, as I did really cut back.

There were some birthday celebrations (my mom's, mine and the hubs). Some struggles with Anxiety Child and some homeschool days. Thanksgiving. More basketball. Even with my discovery of Play Later's new ad-skip technology which got me excited about catching up on my current shows, I just lacked motivation this month. The eating got a little out of control too, with the dinners out, birthday cake, the salted caramels making their debut, and the weather finally turning colder and us breaking out the hot chocolate maker ...

Weight to start ... 144.9.
Weight at the end of the month ... 149.0.
Not a good month.

I generally try to rearrange my "daily doings" into a chronological order for the month recap ... but I've been SO behind I'm just doing a simple cut and paste this time (so they are in descending order).

1130 (Sunday) Weight 149.0. OK Day. Fitbit Steps 12878. Total Burn 2323. Exercise Burn 650/645 (60minElliptical). Calories in 1900. Slept in today! Finally did get up and do my first session on the elliptical then made breakfast. Went to church. Anxiety Child was having a struggle today. I'd planned on making tacos, but everyone was snacking on different things. I attempted the Brazilian Cheese rolls but they didn't turn out this time, not sure why. I made a double batch of brownies, leftovers for lunches. Hubs did some of the things on my "honeydo" list ... clearing the drain in the basement tub, filling my car tires, and screwing in a cabinet that was lose. I had some things on a list for #1 to do, but he didn't do anything! Back to the schedule tomorrow! Starting fresh with a new month too :)

1129 (Saturday) Weight 148.5. Ok Day. Fitbit Steps 15503. Total Burn 2502. Exercise Burn 650/827 (60minElliptical). Calories in 2400. Didn't really get to sleep in, as #2 had to be at his driver's ed today at 8:00 to do one of his required roads driving. Hubs went off doing errands much of the day. I took #4 and we ran to Winco to pick up some tapioca flour (for Brazilian Cheese Rolls)  and then stopped at the dollar store. Later in the afternoon I took #3 to the Sam'sClub parking lot where we counted cars who stopped at the stop signs for a social psychology experiment (are people more likely to stop when someone is watching?) In the evening, my BIL hosted his annual "Leg Lamp Lighting Party" featuring the leg lamp from "The Christmas Story" and hundreds of homemade donuts. The weather was pretty nice for it ... and my car has heat now!

1128 (Friday) Weight 148.1. Pretty Good Day. Fitbit Steps 21689. Total Burn 2850. Exercise Burn 1100/1177 (60minElliptical, Zumba) Calories in 2000. My car hasn't had heat, which has been inconvenient as the weather has turned. Hubby and #1 dropped it off at the shop to get it fixed, which meant #1 and I were sharing his truck for the day. I took it and #2, dropping him off at a church for basketball with buddies, then I hit the Zumba in West Jordan. I usually go out to Sandy, but wasn't sure I could be away that long today. I usually can't hit the MZL group as they start at 9:00 and that doesn't work with middle school drop-off, but it worked out perfectly today. I went to Maceys on the way home to grab a few groceries. I didn't have a very productive day. I was wondering when they would call with the burb done, which didn't end up happening until 5:30. I'd run #2 a couple more places ... he always needs chauffeur duty.  We did get the car back before #1 had to go into work. As he was working late, he said he'd pick up #2, so I was anticipating an early night in. Hubs ended up going out with a buddy, and #2's phone died and I didn't have a way to hook him up with #1 or Daddy, so I ended up making the run to pick him up at 10:30 that night.

1127 (Thursday) Weight 146.4. Bad Day. Fitbit Steps 13329. Total Burn 2361. Exercise Burn 610/697 (60minElliptical) Calories in 2800. Slept in a little. My usual Zumba was cancelled, and although I'm sure there was probably something available out there, I decided to take the day off. I did still do some elliptical though. I got up and made the Pie in a Pan dessert, then Lemon Jello Cake (hubs request for dessert). The brownies were ready, and the turkey cookies .... well the kids were already eating them! They weren't going to make it to the party! Oh well. #3 and I also made up some Brazillian Cheese Rolls for a school assignment. We'd made them before, but everyone really enjoyed them today. I had thought we could take the leftovers to Thanksgiving, but there were no leftovers, even after making a second batch. We ended up with an impromtu cleaning out of the little fridge. The door had been left open a little, which made the ice build up in the freezer section until the door wouldn't close. It was a fairly nice day though, and good to get it defrosted and cleaned out anyway.  Hubs made the potatoes and we were off to my BIL's for dinner.Good meal and company. I'd brought Apples to Apples and #4 played with his cousins (we'd brought it to JUMP yesterday and played a little there too ... hopefully the kid got his fix). I went down and did a final 20min on the elliptical. I came back up to hubs already asleep (it was about 10:00). I did overeat today, but not too terribly.

1126 (Wednesday)Weight 147.1. Pretty Good Day. Fitbit Steps 23437. Total Burn 2910. Exercise Burn 1100/1243 (60minElliptical, Zumba) Calories in 1600. The kids were out of school today for Thanksgiving break. #2 still had an early morning practice, I dropped him off at the high school at 8:00. I should have planned to hit Sam'sClub quick during their early hours, but I hadn't thought ahead and didn't have any makeup on and was just wearing slippers. I went to Zumba, then stopped at Sams. Grabbed some potatoes (hubby is on mashedtaters duty for Thanksgiving) and a few other things. We had friends in from out of town and had plans to meet up at the local JUMP place at 1:00. The kids were very excited and counting down until we could go. We hadn't seen these friends in over a year. We joined up with them and it was a happy reunion. The kids bounced for a couple of hours and then we went back to our house for a bit. After they left, #4 was in tears, sobbing, so sad to have to say goodbye to his good friend again. He said "I wish Marc would move back and go to my school. They I would go to school every day without complaining." I am on dessert duty for tomorrow so I made brownies and sugar cookie turkeys. #2 was out late with friends, but I figured #1 could pick him up after his work (he finished up at 11:00) or Daddy went out with a friend (he ended up not getting home until around 1:00 even though he said it was going to be a short visit! *Ü*) But I ended up going to pick up #2 at 10:30, as his phone had died and I wouldn't have a way to contact him with one of the other rides.

1125 (Tuesday) Weight 147.2. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 35585. Total Burn 3325. Exercise Burn 1620/1657 (60minElliptical , Zumba, 1.5milesIncline, 60minWeights, BBWalk8000). Calories in 2250. #4 had seemed fine after school, and fine this morning, but he crashed right before school started. I told him he could come to Zumba with me if he would go to school right after. We were still late to Zumba, and he didn't participate the whole time. Said he wasn't feeling well. I gave him my phone and had him read a chapter of the book they are reading in school (which was what he was missing). Didn't quite get the numbers, coming in late and being distracted by the boy. I did do Shake and Chocolate. I dropped #4 at the school after and he went without too much more trauma. At home I got in weights and some walking/incline and did a little more Zumba on my own. I didn't pick up #3 after school, as he had basketball practice. I wish I had a carpool for the little ones, as they don't get out until 3:35 and #2's basketball game started at 3:30. So ... I was late. Hubs had come from work to watch too.  #2 did really well and the team won. I stuck around a little after (#3 was coming over from the middle school to watch the JV and Varsity games and I told him I'd take home his backpack so he wouldn't have to lug it around all night). #2 ended up dressing for the JV and sitting the bench, which meant there was a chance he could play. So I decided to stick around and watch, but NOT sit (my back was already hurting from the sitting so far). There was a little corner where I walked around and could still see the game. #2 did get to play for one whole minute right at the end :)  They won as well, as did varsity that night. Happy that hubs was willing to go back and pick up the kids, because a warm shower was calling my name that night.

1124 (Monday) Weight 150.3. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 31292. Total Burn 3615. Exercise Burn 1400/1929 (70minElliptical, Zumba, 10milesBike). Calories in 1850. Very rough morning for #4, but they say he's always fine once I leave. I went to Zumba. It was only Nina and T today. I helped out doing four numbers. I stopped at Kmart and picked up some slippers for #3 and a belt for #5 (with my SYWR points). I also stopped at Smiths and picked up a prescription and a few groceries. I had been a bit stressed for the basketball "team dinner" tonight but I totally lucked out! The JV and Varsity were having their own dinner, so we only had to feed the sophomores. We just decided to do pizza and cookies and the other two moms bought the stuff (although I volunteered). I brought plates and napkins. #2 had just stayed after school for practice. I had run #3 to his practice at 5:30, then I grabbed him from that practice and ran him and a friend to the high school at 7:00 and then stuck around for the dinner and brought #2 home. Back at 9:30 to grab #3.

1123 (Sunday) Weight 149.2. Ok Day. Fitbit Steps 11624. Total Burn 2266. Exercise Burn 500/587 (50minElliptical). Calories in 2200. Usual Sunday. Sleep in. Big breakfast ... again, I skipped the waffle, although I did sneak some cookies from last night. Hubs was looking through a box of pictures for much of the day. Church was usual. #4 struggled a bit, as it had been a few weeks since he'd been to class (with us going to my brother's ward, primary program practices, etc). Homework help and such too. Tried to get #4 excited to pass of the state capitals tomorrow. He has them down! He wanted to play Apples to Apples but we were all a little burned out on games and the grandparents weren't available (I did ask!). I made homemade oreos for the Sunday treat.

1122 (Saturday) Weight 148.2. Not A Great Day. Fitbit Steps 10797. Total Burn 2168. Exercise Burn 560/494 (50minElliptical). Calories in 2450. Feeling better,  but still not 100%. Just felt like taking it easy today. Hubs and the two older boys went up to Payson to help move Maga's stuff from storage into the new house. They were gone most of the day. It was a cold and dreary day out. Overcast and gray, rain, then snow. I stayed in bed until late and never even made the bed. I got in a little exercise and felt ok, but didn't want to push too much. Played some games with the kids ... Scattegories, BabbleOn and Boggle. Made cookie press cookies ... pumpkins for Thanksgiving. Hubs and the boys got home, and #2 had me take him to his girlfriend's house. He was going to practice his driving, but the snow scared him, so I drove. It was pretty bad. Not really slippery, but visibility was had. Couldn't see the lines on the road, and my windshield wipers leave a swath of stuff right at eye level. He was getting a ride home, so I took a shower and changed into jammies when I got back home. Hubs took the two little ones out to see BigHero6, while #1 and #3 chilled at home. A bit too many calories, especially without much exercise to combat them.

1121 (Friday) Weight 147.5. Pretty Good Day. Fitbit Steps 23214. Total Burn 2875. Exercise Burn 1159/1205 (70minElliptical, 60minZumba). Calories in 1800.  Even with school late start, it was a no sleep-in morning for me. I had to get #3 to practice at 6:30. Then #2 to high school at 8:15, the elementary kids off at 8:40 ... back to the middle school to grab #3 and take him home for a quick shower, then back for school at 9:30. Whew. Five trips out before 10:00. I went out to Zumba. Heather was late, and when we opened up the church, the power was out. We headed to the backup church. So nice to at least have that option. A few new people. On of the gals was standing so close to me though, I didn't feel I could move. I finally rotated to the back of the room where there was more space.  I need space. I stopped at Kmart to try and grab the new Pokemon game fro #4. they didn't have it, so I stopped at Smiths Marketplace and got it there. Home for a bit, then pick up the early out elementary, then middle school pickup. I was thrilled when I got back and #4 had pulled his tooth out! Hopefully no more pain there then! Hubs had a derby and #3 went along to help again. It was a pretty low-key Friday night. I'd made chicken soup earlier, but #4 doesn't eat it and asked for toasted cheese. I was making it when I was suddenly hit with a dizzy spell. I felt like I was going to pass out. I was cold and clammy. I just wanted to finish the sandwich for my son before I went to lay down but I couldn't find the spatula (which he finally handed to me, but I had burned them by then). I was DONE for the night. I felt awful. Freezing and like I might throw up. Hubs came home and got me a bucket and a heating pad and I fell asleep. I had mentioned to him that #2 was still out, so he took care of getting him home too.

1120 (Thursday) Weight 147.8. Great Day. Fitbit Steps 34754. Total Burn 3701. Exercise Burn 1700/2030 (60minElliptical, 60minZumba x2, 10milesBike). Calories in 2000. #4 has been doing SO well, but he reverted this morning and was crying about school. I walked him into the classroom and made my get-away. I'd forgotten my purse, and phone! I've been very absent minded lately. I ran home to get them before Zumba, but it made me late. I should have just gone straight and then stopped after. I did hit a store after, Sam's Club, restocking on milk and bread. Grabbed some salted caramels to compare them with the really expensive ones Hubs had picked up a week or so ago (they compared!) I picked up #2 and #3, and then took them to pick up the little ones. We went straight for haircuts afterward. #4 decided he'd just have me do it (to get us home faster, but it saves me $10+ too). I dropped #2 off at the high school for his practice, and got #3 home in time to go to a derby with Daddy. I did then cut #4's hair, and it didn't look too bad. I was running a little late to Zumba, I don't remember why. I don't like being late! Last week I hadn't been feeling well, but happy to say that wasn't the case tonight. I was able to keep the heart rate up. After it ended, I went and picked up #2 from practice and hurried home to #4, who had been texting that his tooth was hurting more and he wanted me :( Poor kid!

1119 (Wednesday) Weight 147.6. Pretty Good Day. Fitbit Steps 29005. Total Burn 2906. Exercise Burn 1350/1236 (60minElliptical, Zumba, BB Walk 8500). Calories in 2100. Happy birthday to the hubs! Unfortunately it was a pretty normal day for him, just working as usual. I put up some baby pictures on Facebook. I got the kids off to school and then hit Zumba. Didn't quite get the numbers on the Polar today. I tried to get the house straightened (that's what Hubby would like most) and left his b-day swag on the counter (Oreos, DietCoke and a new Roku ... I'd made him a quilt too but had given it to him earlier when he caught me finishing it up). Then I was off to see #2 play in a showcase game at the high school (just 20 minutes, against the other half of the sophomore team). Then the JV played the Varsity, then the Varsity played the faculty. That game was pretty fun to watch. Then it was a team meeting ... and I am officially overwhelmed. Required "volunteering" to make dinner for the entire team, pack lunches, work in the snack bar. All the money and fundraising. And the games had gone over, and the meeting was long, and #4 was texting me that his tooth was hurting and he wanted me home, and I wanted to be home. I'd made a lemon jello cake for hubby ... they had to sing and eat it without me (and the two basketball boys). Long night!

1118 (Tuesday) Weight 149.6. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 34759. Total Burn 3784. Exercise Burn 2050, 2097 (60minElliptical, Zumba, 60minWeights, 3milesIncline, 10milesBike). Calories in 1450.  After not having my usual good Monday (eating wise at least) I was determined to have a good day today ... and I did. Got the kids off and made it to Zumba on time. Home for my weights workout, and some treadmill time and reading and riding. Hubs had received tickets for the Jazz game, so he took an excited #4 to that. Row 5! It was a quiet evening at home ... got in a little more exercise!

1117 (Monday) Weight 148.9. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 29796. Total Burn 3281. Exercise Burn 1300/1603 (60minElliptical, Zumba, 2milesIncline). Calories In 3000. The day actually started great (even with 6:30 carpools in the morning). #4 was FINE and went to school without complaining. Unheard of for a Monday morning lately. I went to Zumba and got great numbers there. I'd invited the parents over for Grandparents and Games, so I spent some time getting the house cleaned up and ready. We had a little friend (old neighbor) over in the afternoon to play with #5. I had #1 pick up pizza (including a gluten-free one for Grandpa). I'd dropped #3 off at practice and told him I'd be there at 7:00 to take him from the middle school to the high school, but I got distracted with the grandparents there. He had to call and ask if anyone was coming. Hubs went and did the transfer, and picked up #2 at the same time. The younger kids talked about homophones with Grandma (we've been making lists of them) and then we played Apples to Apples. I ate too much! Pizza and ice cream sundaes.

1116 (Sunday) Weight 149.2. OK Day. Fitbit Steps 12030. Total Burn 2269. Exercise Burn 450/590 (40minElliptical). Calories in 2000.  Sunday sleep in. I made the usual Sunday Circle breakfast and for the first time ... I did NOT eat a waffle myself! The boys have gone back to the regular pancake mix for their waffles. It's a ton cheaper, and it doesn't tempt me. I had been making just me a waffle from the more expensive mix, but I resisted today. We sat out church, although I still went to do my duty at the piano in primary. I walked to/from ... it was a little chilly! For dinner I made Baked Ziti, which I don't eat, so again, no temptation. I was able to stay at 2000 calories today. I cooked up some gluten free pasta and made a couple ziti for my dad too (they freeze well). Made brownies for dessert and leftovers for lunches, but again resisted eating any. Pretty good day.

1115 (Saturday) Weight 147.0. Ok Day. Fitbit Steps 14919. Total Burn 2083. Exercise Burn 450/416 (20minElliptical, BB Walk 7500). Calories in 1950.  Love to sleep in a little on Saturdays. #2 is going to have 8:00 practices, but not today. That didn't stop him from knocking on the bedroom door at 7:30 saying he needed a ride. Ummmm ... I'm still sleeping! His friends picked him up. It was Sadie Hawkins that night, and I guess the date is ALL DAY these days.  I was still taking it a bit easy, allowing myself a relaxing weekend. I only got in one session on the elliptical. In the afternoon, the Hubs and I hit a matinee,  "Catch Me If You Can" the musical at Hale Theater. It was good. Quite a workout for those dancers! In the evening #3 had his final basketball game for the fall season. I got in some steps before and during the game (about 7500). That was my only other "exercise" for the day.

1114 (Friday) Weight 145.8. Pretty Good Day. Fitbit Steps 21383. Total Burn 2784. Exercise Burn 1000/1124 (60minElliptical, Zumba)  Calories in 2300. Still feeling a bit off from whatever hit me last night. I got to sleep in a bit today, but #3's early morning practices will start next Friday. As of today, the kids wanted coccoa and toast, so I made that for breakfast and indulged a little myself. I did make it to Zumba and felt fine. Stopped at Maceys for a little grocery shopping on the way home. Early out at the elementary. Hubs picked up some Popeyes for dinner. I didn't like it the first time I had it ... maybe it had been the spicy instead of the mild. But I liked it tonight!

1113 (Thursday) Weight 144.8. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 34041. Total Burn 3710. Exercise Burn 1600/2000 (60minElliptical, Zumba x2, 10milesBike). Calories in 2350. Got the kids off to school then hit Zumba. Got in some reading and riding, although my bike book isn't totally keeping me captivated. Picked up the kids after school. #2 stayed for the last day of tryouts. Hubs had a derby and got #4 and #5 to go along and help. I dropped #3 off to his basketball practice on the way to Zumba. I was OFF at Zumba in the evening, I'm not sure what it was. I just felt a little dizzy, and cold. My heart rate dropped and I couldn't get it back up and I really didn't even care. I was able to finish the night but just barely. I think maybe I hadn't eaten enough. I did come home and eat some, and then snacked on some chick-fil-a that Daddy and the boys brought home. I had to run pick up the kids from basketball. #3 came out, but #2 was waiting for the final list to be posted. The coach saw me waiting and said "I don't know why he's being so slow, he KNOWS he made the team!"  We had been pretty sure he would, but until it's there in black and white you just never know for sure! He's a happy boy!

1112 (Wednesday) Weight 145.6. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 32238. Total Burn 3432. Exercise Burn 1800/1773 (60minElliptical, Zumba, 2milesIncline, 10milesBike). Calories in 1900.  Writing in retrospect ... why can't I keep more current on my entires? It's hard to remember when a week or more has passed. Good Zumba numbers today. Anxiety child seems to be doing a little better this week. Continued basketball tryouts for #2, he's been making all the cuts as expected. Hubs, #1 and #3 went with the church young men to see the movie "Meet the Mormons".  I had to go to the high school and attend a driver's safety showing for #2's driver's ed class (he came after tryouts). With my already existing anxiety regarding cars, it probably wasn't a good thing for me to see. It WOULD have been good for hubs, as he has some bad driving habits!

1111 (Tuesday) Weight 147.9. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 32706. Total Burn 3632. Exercise Burn 1965/1960 (60minElliptical, Zumba, 3milesIncline, 8milesBike, 60minWeights). Calories in 1450.  After my so-so Monday yesterday, it was good to have a good food/fitness day today. #4 did have emotional issues getting off to school, but I managed to make it to Zumba on time. Got in exercise during the day. #2 had more basketball tryouts today but said they went well.

1110 (Monday) Weight 147.1. Ok Day. Fitbit Steps 27653, Total Burn 3116. Exercise Burn 1300/1449 (60minElliptical, Zumba 20min/1mile Incline). Calories in 3400. It's my birthday today! My one wish was that #4 go to school without tears. That didn't happen. I didn't stay with him long though, as everything says dragging it out just makes it worse. I had been afraid I wouldn't get a Zumba class in. My usual Monday was cancelling to perform on a local tv news. I had a backup planned, but it started at 8:30, which didn't work. It ended up changing to 10:30, but then my usual ended up NOT being cancelled. So I still went to it after all. I skipped my Kmart stop, as I'd gone on Saturday and didn't have more points yet. I did stop at Sam'sClub and grabbed a cake ... I'd At home, I did get a call from the school from #4. I went to go pick him up, and we homeschooled for the afternoon. #2 was SO nervous this morning, as it is the first day of basketball tryouts at the high school. He stayed after school, and then tryouts were from 5:00-7:00. The rest of us went out to Texas Roadhouse for an early dinner. Dropped #3 at practice and thought we'd pick up #2 ... but he wanted to hang out until the cut list was posted. I'd invited my folks out. My mother had been craving the cake on her birthday, back on Friday. Hubs and I had stopped at the store to grab one for her but they didn't have one in stock then. They did today :)  My MIL stopped by too. We had cake and then played games. Then picked up both #2 and #3 at 9:00 ... of course #2 made cuts!

1109 (Sunday) Weight 145.6. Ok Day. Fitbit Steps 13559. Total Burn 2339. Exercise Burn 609/680 (60minElliptical) Calories in 1900. Had the usual Sunday Circles for breakfast. We went to our church, where the boys were in the annual primary program. Maga came out to see them. #4 was NOT happy about participating. After that meeting, we hurried up to my brother's church for his daughter's baby blessing. We went to his house afterward. He's lived there a year and a half and we hadn't been yet. They had BBQ chicken and meatballs, and lots of desserts. I ate too many cookies!

1108 (Saturday) Weight 146.4. Ok Day. Fitbit Steps 17532. Total Burn 2359. Exercise Burn 600/689 (40minElliptical, 40minBleachers). Calories in 2400. I'd set out some croissants to rise last night. #3 and I were a little rushed in the morning, getting him to his 9:00 game, but still managed to get out croissant in. I didn't have a good spot to walk, but I did have a set of bleachers to myself, so I "stepped". Up and down, during the game. I worked up a pretty good sweat! The boys lost though. Hubs had come home with a new enclosed trailer for his derby stuff. He was busy with that, then helping a friend build some derby cars with his boys. I picked up #2 from his driver's ed range, and then let him drive as we did a little shopping. Hit Kmart and Kohls, got him some jeans and a couple shirts. #4 accompanied us ... which is unlike the homebody him. In the evening, Hubs and the headed out to my folks. It was my mom's birthday yesterday and we were taking her out to dinner. My brother and his wife, and my sister (in from out of town) came too. It was fun. We went back to the house after for games and didn't get home until late. Of course #2 was out even later, but got a ride home.

1107 (Friday) Weight 144.7. Ok Day. Fitbit Steps 21070. Total Burn 2802. Exercise Burn 1025/1142 (60minElliptical, Zumba). Calories in 2800. No school for the little ones, so no emotional upheaval from #4. In fact, he had almost been on a high last night, super happy and silly. He's had a couple loose teeth, and pulled one out this morning. I still had to take the older boys to school (much to their chagrin ... "Why do the elementary kids not have school??") I still went to my Zumba. I debated going to my usual class, as it's across town and I'd be leaving the kids home alone for a bit. They assured me they would be fine ... sometimes they like it home alone, playing basketball in the kitchen or things I might not allow if I was there. They are really good kids though, and I trust them not to get into anything while alone. So I went ... and it was good. The two boys were vegging too much though, watching TV and playing video games. I made them go outside and "get some steps on their pedometers" and they did. I didn't get in much extra exercise myself though. Hub's birthday is coming up and I was making him a quilt. I'd worked a bit on it the last week and was hoping to finish it up. I did the tying and was sewing the edges when Hubs came home earlier than expected and caught me in the act. Oh well, I gave it to him early. I had to run #3 back to the middle school in the early evening for basketball again. He's been asked to play up with the 9th graders for the coming season, so he's happy about that. More practices and games! It's all good. Hubs took the two little boys to Arctic Circle to redeem a couple prize winning gumballs #5 had earned his last time there. They stopped for some Popeye's chicken on the way home. I haven't been a fan of the chicken, a bit of a spicy flavor I'm not used to ... but it tasted good tonight and I ate more than I should have. I'd also binged a bit on Halloween candy earlier in the day. Too many calories today! 

1106 (Thursday) Weight 145.5. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 33490. Total Burn 3629. Exercise Burn 1800/1721 (60minElliptical, Zumba x2, 10milesBike, 1.5milesIncline). Calories in 2100. Part of the deal yesterday with #4, was that if I checked him out early, he had to go all day today without complaint. It was an "early out" day anyway ... he had some whimpers and tears but I just dropped him off. I didn't get out and walk him to class. I went to Thursday Zumba, which I'd missed the past two weeks. It was good to be back. I enjoyed my "alone time" at home. The elementary kids will be out tomorrow, and if this home school thing happens ... sigh. Kid pickups after school. Basketball practice for #3. The evening Zumba was happening, and I wanted to hit it and take #4 (as he had actually seemed to enjoy it on Tuesday). Tonight he petered out a bit. Maybe he only likes it if it gets him out of school! Still happy he came and tried it with me. We stopped and grabbed a pizza and some crazy bread on the way home. Picked up #2 when his practice ended at 9:00 (I hadn't seen him since I'd dropped him off at school at 6:30 in the morning) and it was an early night in.

1105 (Wednesday) Weight 146.9. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 35631. Total Burn 3746. Exercise Burn 1650/1822 (60minElliptical, Zumba, 10milesBike, 1.5milesIncline, Hula and extra Zumba). Calories in 1800. Continued struggle with #4. He wanted to talk to the principal again this morning, and I did have some questions about a duel enrollment (1/2 at school, 1/2 at home) possibility. I should have just made him go to class while we talked. The duel enrollment does sound like a feasible option, and the principal sounded willing to work with us, just concerned about giving into his anxieties rather than facing them. I had agreed to a "trial run" today ... I told him to go to class and then call me after lunch. We went to class ok ... good thing I had thought ahead and brought me Zumba stuff with me. Even going straight from the school, I was late. It felt good to have an outlet for all this frustration though. To just be able to forget about it for a bit. I did get the call from #4 so I went and picked him up. We pretty much stuck to his school schedule ... we did a little "recess" (three Zumba songs), then writing, working on an essay for class. Then keyboarding. We could log in to the program used at the school, so that was probably pretty much the same. We did another "recess" (as they do at school, of course I think physical activity is very important!) then a bit of art (finishing up a project we had been working on ... they would have had art at school today). Then some computer stuff they do at school ... read theory, xtra math and raz kids. I had to go pick up #3, and as I left to go pick up #5, I put #4 on the stationary bike, reading and riding. The "home school" portion actually went really well. I had pulled out a bunch of workbooks I had on hand, and printed off some assignments from edhelper.com ... but with the school using so many online resources that we can access from home too, there was more than enough to keep him busy. So it was a good experiment at least. I am feeling like it would be workable ... just would it be best? What to do?? #3 had a basketball game in the evening ... speaking of anxieties, it was one clear across town. One I have to drive on the freeway to get to. My anxieties were kicking in. I was prepared to do it if I HAD to ... but Hubs came home and was willing (he hadn't seen #3 play with this team yet this season) so I was happily off the hook. So much for setting an example for facing anxieties, right?

1104 (Tuesday) Weight 149.2. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 32255. Total Burn 3412. Exercise Burn 1823/1726 (60minElliptical, Zumba, 10milesBIke, 2milesIncline, 60minWeights). Calories in 1450. First morning with three school dropoffs. #4 was struggling, as usual. I gave up trying to get him out of the car at school and brought him with me to Zumba, telling him he had to dance along. He did quite well. After, we stopped home, finished up some homework, and I took him to school and checked him in. I walked him to his class, and he was balking as usual. As I opened the door, one of his classmates called out "Cooper!" in a happy voice, and he did go in. I have really talked to him, making sure he isn't having trouble with kids or bullying, but I don't think that is the case. Everyone seems really nice and supportive trying to help him through this. Back at home, I watched the phone in case he freaked out and called. He did actually ... but our phones have been having problems. He ended up calling Hubs, and Hubs texted me. I went back to the school, but when I peeked in he seemed ok, so I went back home. I did still manage to get in some exercise and such during the day, but I'm emotionally off. I did curb calories today though. #2 had practice after school, and then I picked him up at the high school at 7:00 and took him to the middle school for open gym, picking him back up at 8:00. Lots of running around in the car today!

1103 (Monday) Weight 149.0. Good Day. Fitbit Steps 28187. Total Burn 3049. Exercise Burn 1450/1364 (60minElliptical, Zumba, 10milesBike, 2milesIncline). Calories in 2000. #2 now has early morning driver's ed. It adds an extra, early drop off. #1 actually took the boys (our neighbor too) this morning but said that wouldn't work in the future. Too bad. I'll have to go out at 6:30, 7:30 and 8:30. Of course the elementary drop-off is compounded by anxiety boy. It was NOT a good morning. I let him tell the principal HE wanted to be home-schooled (I don't want that!), we talked to his teacher and the school counselor.  I spent 45 minutes at the school before I was finally able to peel away (and that was with him sobbing still). I headed straight to Zumba, making sure I watched my phone if I did get a call. This is emotionally exhausting! I was glad I was still able to get my head/heart into Zumba, I wasn't sure if I would. I didn't eat much during the day. It's my niece's birthday and their family was throwing an impromptu dinner. I had conflicts, picking up #3 from basketball, but Hubs came home early and took the two little boys and #1. It had originally been planned for Cafe Rio (which doesn't interest me at all) but got switched to Red Robin (which is a favorite of mine). Right when I was picking up #3, I got a text from Hubs that they had just been seated. I asked #3 if he wanted to head out. He answered in the affirmative, so we did. I probably should have taken a minute to try to track down #2 to see if he wanted to go too ... we got there just as the fried mozzarella sticks came out. Perfect timing! I was glad I hadn't overeaten earlier. I was actually able to enjoy, without really going over calories.

1102 (Sunday) Weight 146.5. Ok Day. Fitbit Steps 12146. Total Burn 2359. Exercise Burn 600/689 (60minElliptical). Calories in 2200. Daylight Savings ... we got an extra hour this morning. Made the usual Sunday Circles and got in a couple sessions on the elliptical. #4 was having a complete meltdown during church. Not wanting to participate in the primary program, worrying about school tomorrow. Back at home I gave him a "chill pill" (basically a valium) and I'm not sure if it just didn't work, or if it had negative side-effects, because the child was crying non-stop for hours. He's now insisting that he can't be gone from home for so long, that he wants to be home schooled. Sigh ... what to do. Does not bode well for tomorrow morning.

1101 (Saturday) Weight 144.9. Ok Day. Fitbit Steps 22619. Total Burn 2521. Exercise Burn 800/860 (60minElliptical). Calories in 2500. #1 went and got donuts ... so they were sitting there waiting, tempting. I give into temptation. Hubs wanted to check out "The Container Store" at the mall, so I went too, making it a mini date. We got a pretzel while we were there. Back at home the sleepies hit SO hard, for both hubs and myself! We joked the pretzels must have been drugged. We both took a nap. #3 had his basketball game in the evening. I walked around while watching, getting in 6000 steps. Then I went and picked up #2, who hadn't been home since noon yesterday! Crazy kid!

Sunday Stats

A bit of a short week with the Thanksgiving Holiday.

I still managed to get in FOUR Zumba classes.

Here's the weekly recap and stat sheet.

• Monday with Southziders ...  Anxiety Child was having a rough morning, so I was glad when I was able to get him to school and make it to Zumba. Not quite as many people today ... nor instructors! Just Nina and T (who was not able to do much with her knee). I ended up leading a few. Happy to help out, hope those there are ok with little 'ol me! Very happy with my stats today. Maybe being up front helps with additional energy.
• Tuesday with Marian ... Another rough morning with anxiety child. I told him he could accompany me to Zumba if he would go to school straight after. This is the early class, so he would only miss an hour of school. We were still late, and I was a bit distracted with him there, as he was saying he wasn't feeling well instead of participating. So not the best stats for me today. I did do a little more Zumba on my own at home to make sure I did get a full hour in.
• Wednesday with MZL ... The kids were out of school, so I didn't have any issues with Anxiety Child this morning, he was perfectly happy at home. I asked him if he wanted to come with me, but he said no. There were several kids there participating though. Got my highest step count for the week here.
• Friday with MZL ... My car was in the shop and I was sharing with #1 son today. I didn't feel like I could make it across town to my usual Zumba, but with the kids out of school, I could make it to MZL's class on time. They did a slightly different version of Baliando (I already know two different routines in other classes) and my "Shake" song with different choreography, which I'm too stuck on my own ... it made it very hard to follow (but I don't think that was just me).

With Thanksgiving behind us ... it's back to the schedule, return to the routine. I should hit all five of my different classes this upcoming week. Basketball is back in session though, so I'll be going to my boy's games on Thursday nights instead of hitting my extra Zumba class those nights.