Monday, November 23, 2015

WWI #121 -Yo Yo

Back at the beginning of the year, I remember my weekly weigh-ins going back and forth ... 151 on week, 153 the next, and alternating week to week. I was frustrated that I was so close, but couldn't quite break into the 140s. Now, that weekly yoyo seems to be back, just 10 pounds up from earlier in the year. I'd LOVE to be back at 153! Alas ... I'll keep working. Numbers weren't great this week. Up 2.7 for the official Friday stat. The average did drop a bit (.8, to 162.4). Average intake was 2393. Average daily burn was 2829. I did end up with a small deficit for the week (-885).  Here's a quick week recap ...

  • Friday (1113): The elementary was out today, but I still had the middle school drop off. Hit the 10:00 Zumba class though, and got in some elliptical. Had a bridal shower in the evening for my niece.
  • Saturday (1114): Early basketball game, stopped off for donuts. Add in popcorn and Popeyes and only 40min on the elliptical ... not a great day for food and fitness.
  • Sunday (1115): Got in 40min on the elliptical, and also got in a nap. Big breakfast, and then soup at my MILs in the evening. 
  • Monday (1116): Back to the routine. Zumba, elliptical and bike. Should have done weights! Eating was a little high, but did keep it under 2000.
  • Tuesday (1117): Zumba, elliptical and bike ... and blog updates! That did mean a bit of sitting today. Snacking was a little high.
  • Wednesday (1118): Zumba, elliptical and bike. Bad food day, higher calories and all snack stuff. Had boy's basketball stuff all evening.
  • Thursday (1119): Zumba and elliptical ... didn't get to the bike, and didn't get in my evening Zumba (no one showed). Hubs birthday today, but he was off most of the evening doing a derby. I did make him a lemon jello cake, yummy!
Pictures From The Week
 #2 and his new personalized basketball shoes

 Back with my butt in the bleachers watching basketball.

 I ordered this artwork (image from Amazon) for Hub's birthday gift.

 Ask for a simple smile and I get this ... just blow!
Happy Birthday Hubby! I ♥ U!


Still some celebrations this weekend ... more birthday stuff for Hubs, and a wedding reception. Next week is of course Thanksgiving! The kids are only in school Mon and Tues, so the schedule will be a bit skewed. We'll see how it goes for weigh-in next Friday!

Tuesday, November 17, 2015

TV Tuesday - PlayOn and PrimeTime

Quite a while ago, I did a post about streaming shows vs watching them on DVD (I didn't even discuss watching anything "live" ... because I just don't do that!) I rarely watch DVDs anymore. Streaming is just so simple.

We have Netflix and Amazon Prime. Between the two, I have a "to watch" list a mile long. As I mentioned in my previous post, I also use the PlayOn service. 

PlayOn updated their program in October. It was a rather large change ... and I'm not very good with change. However I must say, after a couple hiccups, I am LOVING the updates, and it is really changing what I'm watching (keeping up with current shows rather than waiting for them to hit Netflix/Amazon or DVD). 

PlayOn works with your PC, and then can stream anything available on your computer to your television, via several different devices (we use a Roku box, that we have for Netflix/Amazon anyway). I love that I can watch downstairs in my gym while I workout. Most of the networks make their shows available online, and with my PlayOn service I just record them to my computer, and then stream them to my TV. The PlayOn service even skips the ads! I could always fast forward through them, but now it's automatic, and I love that! You can also subscribe to programs and they will record automatically. I even get my beloved captions on many of the networks and Hulu (the free version, I didn't want to pay for another streaming service!)

PlayOn is touted as a way to cut cable. Unfortunately ... we still have cable, as my boys MUST watch the NBA. The premium channels (HBOGO, AMC, USA, etc.) also require a cable login. But I still love PlayOn as it makes viewing shows on my timetable so much easier. 

So ... what am I watching?

I saw "Zoo" come up as a recently added program on Netflix, and I figured I'd give it a try. I guess it was a "summer show" on CBS. I'd just recently finished up Revolution (What I'm Watching October 2015) and so it was a bit hard to see the main swashbuckling hero from that show, now a stereotypical nerdy scientist. But I did like the show overall.


I'd heard quite a bit of buzz about "How To Get Away With Murder" but hadn't seen any episodes or really knew anything about it. The first season appeared on Netflix, so I watched. It was one that kept the excitement and interest. I finished it up as the new season began to air ... and so I've added it to my list of shows I'm keeping current on.

I've mentioned my favorites before ... Grey's Anatomy is at the top of the list. Two seasons ago, I mentioned the unique use of background music; familiar songs, reworked. I didn't see it last season, but now it's back. I really pay attention to the background music! I wasn't sure I cared enough able my other regulars to follow them week to week ... but now that PlayOn has made it so easy ... I am. I have subscriptions to Nashville, Scandal, The Good Wife and The Walking Dead. I'm only an episode or so behind on most, but I haven't caught ANY TWD yet ... although I have heard about Glen.

I recorded "The Voice" and got the kids watching it... I just wanted them to watch something other than "Friends" or "One Tree Hill."  I couldn't quite get interested enough myself (too much talking, not enough excitement for working out). #3 and #4 are completely hooked on it this season.

Hubs and I have been watching "Homeland" ... one we watch together, while lounging in bed and eating popcorn. 

What are YOU watching?
How do you watch your favorite shows?





Saturday, November 14, 2015

WWI #120 - Ups and Downs

I wasn't expecting this week to be good weight-wise, as I started off the weekend SO BAD as far as food and fitness (it was a "birthday week"). I was a little surprised to get the drop from last week (still up a smidge from two weeks ago), as the numbers for the week really weren't very good. While technically the scale shows a 1.2 drop from last week, my average was up 1.61 (163.20). Intake was up, averaging 2457, and average daily burn dropped to 2872. Still, I ended up with a weekly deficit of -827. Here's a quick week recap ...

  • Friday (1106): Did pretty good during the day, getting in elliptical, Zumba, bike and even weights! Kept calories okay, but then we went to a dinner theater with my folks. Cheesy bread there pushed me way over.
  • Saturday (1107): Basketball game at 8:00 in the morning. Got in a little elliptical, raked leaves and mowed the lawn. Hubs was out for the evening, so I could have/should have gotten in some evening workouts, but alas. Overate as well, tons of treats and some bakery items Hubs had brought home during the day.
  • Sunday (1108): Slept in, and had a marathon "Homeland" watching session complete with Hubby's popcorn. High calorie intake day, very little burn (absolutely lazy day!)
  • Monday (1109): Back at it with elliptical, Zumba, bike and weights. I didn't make my evening Zumba class, as I had to pick up #3 from basketball at the same time, but still almost a 30k day. Kept calories in check.
  • Tuesday (1110): My birthday. The usual school stuff, elliptical, Zumba and bike. In the evening we went out to dinner, which pushed intake calories high for the day.
  • Wednesday (1111): An hour of elliptical, Zumba and bike. Had to check #3 out of school for an orthodontist appointment, and PT conferences with the little boys in the evening. Calories were a little high.
  • Thursday (1112): I did get in my double Zumba today, as well as elliptical and bike. Kept calories right at 2000. 
A couple pictures from the week ...

 Dinner theater with my folks and child #3

My boys, kitties and a birthday cake

Saturday, November 7, 2015

WWI #119 - Up, Up, Up

Well dang, I wasn't able to hang onto the loss from last week. Up a little over the weekend, a small drop after a good Monday, then up a little again. Eating was up this week. I really am not sure why I had been more successful in controlling calories the past few weeks. I was back to my "norm" this week, with an average up above 2000 ... I didn't have one day under. Just had the munchies, and there was Halloween candy around, and other tempting treats. I upped my exercise too, but it just doesn't seem to matter. If I eat over 2000, the scale shifts up, regardless of deficit or extra activity.  NUMBERS: Friday weight was up 1.3 pounds. Average was only up .1 (161.59). Average intake was 2350. Average daily burn was 3106. It resulted in a deficit of -2796. Alas. Exercise UP, Eating UP, Weight UP.  Here's a quick week recap ...

  • Friday (1030): The kids were out of school, so I was able to hit a free Zumba class. Also got in an hour of elliptical and 30min on the bike. Too many treats, but just barely over 2000. Not bad for a Friday.
  • Saturday (1031): The youngest had an 8:00 basketball game. They won.   I made cookie press cookies (pumpkin shaped) in the afternoon. Hubs took #3 to a friend's for a party, and the younger two kidlets went trick-or-treating. I only got in an hour of elliptical today, but #4 (12-years old) hit a new high, 40,000 steps!
  • Sunday (1101): Slept in, then started the day off with a session on the elliptical. Didn't get back down to the gym though. A little nap, then off to my folks for the monthly "Waffle and Welatives" party. We also celebrate birthdays. My mom's (and mine, and Hubs) are coming up, so I picked up a cake from Sam's Club. As we went to pose for a picture, I proceeded to dump the cake upside down on the counter. Oops. Over in calorie oops too.
  • Monday (1102): Nice active day! Up early for some elliptical, then Zumba and some quick shopping stops. Got in additional Zumba and bike, and then hit an evening Zumba class too. Big stepping day, over 38,000 steps. Kept calories right at 2000.
  • Tuesday (1103): Scale did a drop after yesterday. Ate too much today though, just grabbing some of the kids Halloween candy and other treats. Even with an hour of elliptical, Zumba, and track time (almost five miles) while waiting at basketball practice, still a deficit, but ...
  • Wednesday (1104): Scale shifted up again. Got in my elliptical, Zumba and bike. Still too much snacking, just can't seem to stop. Spaghetti dinner and cheesy bread didn't help ...
  • Thursday (1105): Got in early elliptical, then additional to add up to an hour. Zumba in the morning, and some bike. I've gone to my evening Zumba class the last couple weeks, but when no one showed we went home. There were a couple people there today, so we danced. ;) I did stop and grab some Crazy Bread from Little Caesars on the way home though ... had a couple pieces.
***Pictures from the Week***
 Do these count as "costumes"? Off to trick-or-treat.
#4 gave all his candy to #5.
Neither of them like anything with nuts ... so those go to me. 
Mmmmm, Reeses!

 "OOPS"-sidedown Cake!

November Bloom?
I was shocked to see my lilac blooming again!
Not the entire tree, just some buds here and there.
I thought it was only a spring thing!

I hope to have a better eating week coming up ... but it hasn't started off very well.





Sunday, November 1, 2015

October 2015


I was a day late, but I did remember to snag the Fitbit graph of in vs out for October. It was actually a good month! I hit goals ... average burn above 3000, and intake below 2000.  It did show up on the scale too. Started the month at 166.5. Ended at 161.30. Average was 163.59, which was down over five pounds from September's average. Low was 159.6 and high was 166.7.

October was Halloween of course (see me in my little kitty cat ears helping out at the elementary school). The little boys almost didn't even go trick-or-treating, but decided to at the last minute. #4 hit 40K that day, and passed me up on our Fitbit friends list. Hubs and the boys had a get-away to St. George and I went in for my annual exam (all my numbers/tests were pretty good).  That was October!

Here are the journal entries from the month ...

1001 (Thursday) 166.5. Total Burn 3474. Exercise Burn 1500/1691 (60minElliptical, ZumbaX2, Bike). Calories in 1800. Well there was the scale shift. I wasn't sure it was going to happen this week. That was the highlight though. It was a rough morning. Even with the bad sleep, I've been getting up and hitting the elliptical first thing, getting in 30-40minutes in before hitting Zumba. This morning, there was an issue with the computer that had #4 stressed out, and #5 broke down completely, stressed about missing school tomorrow, as Daddy has planned a weekend getaway and wanted to leave early. So ... I went into the school when I dropped off the munchkins and talked with the teacher and everything will be fine. I hit Zumba, then stopped at the store grabbing a few groceries and my prescriptions. My thyroid medication actually didn't have any refills left, but they were able to call and get another month ... but I do have to get into the doctor for my annual exam. I did start my anxiety medication back up. I'd quit it in the Spring, not really feeling it was doing anything. I'm not sure if it helps my anxiety at all, but I do think maybe it helps with nervous eating. I've been doing better since I started it up again, and when I stopped is when I had my weight gain over the summer ... got in my elliptical,  but my bike was interrupted when I had to pick up #3 from school (he was scheduled to go to weights, but it got cancelled). We went back to the school a bit later for parent/teacher conferences, although they are "student lead" and I didn't really talk to many of the teachers (the kid has all As). I went to evening Zumba, taking a neighbor girl who wanted to attend too. Not many people tonight, it sure varies. I got my best stats of the week at this class. Kept calories in check today too. 

1002 (Friday) 165.3. Total Burn 2878. Exercise Burn 1259/1107 (60minElliptical, Zumba, Bike, 30minWEIGHTS). Calories in 1800. I went ahead and took #5 to school, then hit Zumba. I usually can't hit Debbie's class on Fridays, as it starts at 9:00, and I have to drop off #3 at 9:30, but with middle school out today, I could! It was nice to get to that class again. Back at home I helped pack up some stuff, and then Daddy and the three little boys were off for the weekend. #2 couldn't miss school or work, so he was staying home, and I was staying home with him. It was a very quiet day. I was able to keep exercise and eating better than a usual Friday, and better than I would have on the road with the family. I couldn't get to sleep until really late though.

1003 (Saturday) 166.2 Total Burn 2636. Exercise Burn 1000/860 (60minElliptical, Bike, 30min/2.25 Treadmill). Calories in 2000. I'd thought about hitting Zumba over at USSD, but then I slept in after my late night to bed. Another quiet day, as #2 was out with his girlfriend for most of it (with the car, Dad had taken mine, I didn't want to drive his big ol' truck). I got in some exercise. Eating was ok ... it was cold and rainy and cocoa and toast sounded good ... and I haven't been able to stay away from the candy corn. 
1004 (Sunday) 166.7 Total Burn 2500. Exercise Burn 609/721 (60minElliptical). Calories in 1800. Another quiet day. #2 slept almost the entire morning, and then was off to work. My family was having their monthly gathering, but Daddy and the boys were getting home around that same time, so I stayed home and made them dinner and dessert. I do enjoy the quiet house for a short time, but it's nice to have everyone back too.

 1005 (Monday) 167.3  Total Burn 3246. Exercise Burn 1379/1464 (60minElliptical, Zumba, Bike, 30min/1.5milesTreadmillIncline). Calories in 1600. I must admit to being a little sad at the scale shift up over the weekend. I was good all three days and had deficits, and still a two pound up. But ... it is lower than it has been lately on a Monday morning, so that is good I guess. Got in 40min on the elliptical (three sessions) between getting the kids up and off to school. Hit Zumba, then stopped at Kmart and CalRanch on the way home (more food for the duckies). Laundry and such, then afternoon pickups. Mac&Cheese for dinner. Hubs was out with a work friend for dinner and a movie and didn't get back until late. #2 was working, and the little boys got caught up on "The Voice" and watched it live ... commercials! I can't stand commercials! Netflix, Amazon and PlayOn have spoiled me! 

1006 (Tuesday) 166.7. Total Burn 3546. Exercise Burn 1750/1767 (60minElliptical, Zumba, Bike, 60min/5milesTrack). Calories in 1500. Got in some early morning elliptical before getting the boys off to school. Hit Zumba, then home for a while. Additional elliptical, bike and weights. #5 had basketball practice in the evening. I sure didn't feel like jogging, but it's either that, or sit and wait, or make multiple trips. Jogging it is. I really surprised myself getting in over 9000 steps during that hour. Kept calories low today too. It helps when I make a dinner I don't like (Taco Tuesday).

1007 (Wednesday) 165.6. Total Burn 3277. Exercise Burn 1400/1505 (80minElliptical, Zumba, Bike). Calories in 1350. Early elliptical, boys to school, then Zumba. Stopped at Sears/Sams/Walmart on the way home. Indulged in some Skinny Pop, and even a Nutrageous bar (I've had one in my drawer for a while now and resisted).  Additional elliptical, even an extra 20min today. Reading/riding on the bike too, although it was late in the evening, I wasn't sure I would get it in. The older boys had basketball clinic. Managed to get in dinner (Hawaiian Haystacks) before they left. It's hard to coordinate schedules. I do like the chicken&gravy over rice, but I didn't have any tonight, keeping calories quite low for the day, even with my earlier indulgences.
  
1008 (Thursday) 164.2. Total Burn 3342. Exercise Burn 1640/1578 (60minElliptical, Zumba x2, Bike). Calories in 1900. Early elliptical, Zumba, and a quick stop at the store. Additional elliptical and bike. Hubs and #3 had another derby tonight, I managed to make a spaghetti dinner to feed them before they were off (although #2 was gone to work already). I did indulge in some of the french bread. Evening Zumba, then home for a shower and to bed.

1009 (Friday) 164.3. Total Burn 2519. Exercise Burn 770/754 (60minElliptical, Bike). Calories in 1950. A little bummed that weight went UP from yesterday's weigh-in. I definitely had a deficit yesterday. Not sure if I was down about that (although overall satisfied with the one pound loss for the week), or just a bit worn out from my week, but it wasn't a terribly productive day. Friday is late-start anyway (at the high school and middle school) and now that I don't have a Zumba class to go to ... I was just dragging after the final drop off. I didn't have internal motivation to do Zumba on my own, instead, I took a nap. Because I'm a SAHM with kids in school and I'm spoiled and lazy like that. Early out at the elementary. Grabbed some Papa Murphy on the way home from picking up the middle-schooler. That was dinner. I did have some of the thin crust with alfredo. I wanted more, but limited myself to two pieces. Hubs and #3 did a derby again. #5 had a friend over, and I didn't quite feel comfortable disappearing into the gym, so I didn't get in a lot of activity today.

1010 (Saturday) 164.4. Total Burn 3002. Exercise Burn 950/1236 (60minElliptical, Bike). Calories in 800. Slept in a little, then hit the elliptical first thing. #5 had a basketball game at 11:00. I tried to walk around a little as I ran the video camera. He and I did a little shopping after, picking him up a new ball and some new shoes. It was a productive day at home. Vacuuming, bathrooms, laundry, cleaning out some cupboards and mowing the lawn. Hubs took the ducks to a farm for the winter. Big football day for the local colleges, but #4 was watching basketball (pre-season NBA). #2 worked the Real soccer game (double header) then stopped by KFC, and ended up staying and helping them close as they were understaffed. I did get in additional elliptical and my reading/riding on the bike ... kept calories way low today. 

1011 (Sunday) 163.2. Total Burn 2472. Exercise Burn 650/713 (60minElliptical). Calories in 2400. Not sure if it was my empty tummy keeping me awake, or something else, but it wasn't a great night for sleeping. Hubs left early for some pickleball. I had to hit church a little earlier than my usual, so we didn't do the traditional Sunday Circle breakfast. There were Krispie Creme left over from yesterday ... hubs had brought them home after his trip dropping off the ducks (I had one yesterday, one today,  #4 resisted and didn't have any! The other kids had them for breakfast). Walked to/from church. #2 was off to work again. The rest of us hit Texas Roadhouse for an early dinner. I limited myself to one roll. I hadn't totally planned on an hour of elliptical today. I did one 20min session in the morning, and ended up doing two more in the evening after eating a bit more than I had planned. Still kept intake under burn ... just barely!

 1012 (Monday) 164.8. Total Burn 3180. Exercise Burn 1450/1412 (60minElliptical, Zumba, Bike, 30min/1.5mileTreadmillIncline, 10minWii). Calories in 1400. Back to the routine. Got in early elliptical, 40min before Zumba. Stopped at Kmart on the way home. #2 was home, hadn't been feeling well at school. He had a basketball game in the evening, but was skipping it to attend a work thing (who IS this kid?). He was able to get a nap in too. Poor kid is really burning the candle at both ends. Hubs took #4 to a Jazz game (pre-season, but front row seats). Didn't get a letter from my missionary today :(

1013 (Tuesday) 163.2. Total Burn 3280. Exercise Burn 1600/1523 (60minElliptical, Zumba, Bike, 60min/4milesTrack, 15minWEIGHTS). Calories in 2050. The kids often like to go a little early to school, get in extra playing time. Today we were early enough that I returned home and then walked to Zumba. It was a beautiful morning, but the cool outside made the gym in the church seem extra warm. It felt so good to walk out into the cool morning after class! I really need to get more accomplished, especially on Tuesdays, the early class gives me some extra time. I just haven't felt very motivated of late. #2 was working a double Real game, so he was off as soon as school was out. #3 has had a cold, but still hit weights after school, and the basketball clinic in the evening. #5 had scouts after school, and then basketball practice in the evening. #4 came with us and shot around, while I walked the track. I just didn't have any energy to jog tonight.

1014 (Wednesday) 162.9. Total Burn 3458. Exercise Burn 1621/1701 (100minElliptical, Zumba, Bike). Calories in 2000. Got in my early elliptical, and then more than the usual throughout the day (I started a new show, "Zoo" which has me hooked). Zumba at MZL, it was a "purple party" for domestic awareness. They always take group pictures with these, but I usually take off quickly at the end. This time they stopped class quick, so I was actually in the picture. I went overboard with the candy corn today ... I can't just have one handful, I end up having several.

1015 (Thursday) 162.6. Total Burn 3148. Exercise Burn 1400/1393 (60minElliptical, Zumba x2). Calories in 2450. The kids are out of school for UEA, so I slept in, and didn't get in any early elliptical. In fact, I barely made it to Zumba at 9:00. The kids actually seemed bored already (just on day one) and #3 and #4 both spend a bit of time in the home gym (MY home gym). I hit evening Zumba as well. Hubs was packed and supposed to fly out to Seattle today at 5:45, but got to the airport late and missed the flight. He ended up re-booking for the morning, so he came home to sleep. He just can't stay away ;) There had been an advertisement for the buffet Golden Corral and the two little boys thought it looked good. We hadn't been in forever, so I told them I'd take them today. It was a bust. The kids were not impressed at all. I was glad they had gotten in on a $2 special. I ate too much though ...

1016 (Friday) 164.2. Total Burn 3042. Exercise Burn 1380/1278 (30minElliptical, Zumba, 80min/4.5milesTrack, Bike). Calories in 2000. With no school carpools, I was able to hit Zumba. The two yougest kids wanted to go shoot hoops at the rec center. I feel comfortable leaving them if older brothers are there to watch ... but older brothers didn't want to go. So I stayed, walked the track and did some bike while they played. My folks came over in the evening. We went out to Mountain Mike's pizza, which had a gluten-free crust for Grandpa, and video games for the kids. We always bring plenty of quarters. Then my folks came back to the house and we played games. Scattergories, Rummikube and Apples to Apples. It was a fun night. We missed #2 who was working.

1017 (Saturday) 164.5. Total Burn 2889. Exercise Burn 1200/1123 (100minElliptical, Bike, Hula). Calories in 1800. We didn't have a lot on deck today, no basketball games with the fall break. I went to the grocery store to grab some things, we were about out of milk and bread. #3 got invited to go play basketball with his buddies, but then they got kicked out of the church, so I had to go right back and pick him up. There had been rain in the forecast, but it didn't hit until late. I didn't even know it was raining until #3 pointed it out. #2 was working concessions at the soccer game, I hoped they didn't get too wet there!

 1018 (Sunday) 163.2. Total Burn 2540. Exercise Burn 830/781 (60minElliptical, Bike, Hula). Calories in 2450. Without Daddy here, we didn't do the usual Sunday Circles, as he is the waffle maker! I did pancakes instead. Usually pancakes don't really appeal to me, but I had some. I got in some exercise, but not a lot, just barely enough to cover calories for the day (as they were a bit high, dang ice cream and candy corn temptations!) I got in a nice Sunday nap as well. 

1019 (Monday) 164.4. Total Burn 3513. Exercise Burn 1730/1754 (100minElliptical, Zumba, Bike, Hula). Calories in 1800. Back to the routine. Up early for some elliptical before getting the boys off to school. It was a "purple party" at Zumba, and quite a larger crowd than the usual. I did a quick stop at Kmart on the way home. Got in several more elliptical sessions and my bike. Also some hula. Monday Mountain Mike pizza day, I just grabbed it to bring home. Hubs returned safely from his trip, but didn't get in until really late.

1020 (Tuesday) 162.3. Total Burn 3601. Exercise Burn 1650/1847 (60minElliptical, Zumba, Bike, 60min/4.1milesTrack). Calories in 2400. Up and ellipticalled, then got the boys off to school. Walked to/from Zumba again. Back at home, I made dough and prepped breadsticks and cinnamon rolls. I baked up some chicken and made soup for dinner. Got in some additional exercise and did weights. #5 had his practice in the evening, so I walked the track while waiting. 

1021 (Wednesday) 164.0. Total Burn 3339. Exercise Burn 1444/1575 (80minElliptical, Zumba, Bike). Calories in 1850. The usual morning (elliptical sessions and morning school carpools) and then Zumba. Got in extra elliptical throughout the day, and bike. Made some scones with the leftover dough.

 1022 (Thursday) 162.8. Total Burn 3487. Exercise Burn 1595/1731 (80minElliptical, Zumba, Bike, Lawn Mow). Calories in 1950. Got in my elliptical, Zumba and bike, and got the lawn mowed as well. Evening Zumba didn't happen though, as I was the only one to show ;(  Still at 31+K for the day!

1023 (Friday) 162.6. Total Burn 3185. Exercise Burn 1270/1430 (60minElliptical, Zumba, Bike). Calories in 1450. I sleep in a little on Fridays with late start at the high school and middle school. I wasn't feeling 100% either. My stomach felt a little sick, and my head was foggy. I did some elliptical and got the kids off to school. I wasn't sure if I had the motivation to even try to do Zumba on my own. Then Nina posted about her $5 Friday class, a new location, and I knew right where it was. I decided it hit it. It was a little crowded ... and I hoped being a paid class it might start on time, but alas, still late ... but I was so glad I went and I felt good after (although later in the day the tummy/head issues did come back a bit). Got in some additional elliptical and bike. Should have done weights, but didn't get them in. Early out at the elementary, and after middle-school pickup, #3 had a game (at Soccer City, close to my Monday Zumba). They lost. Two more games tomorrow. Kept calories in check. 

1024 (Saturday) 161.9. Total Burn 2495.  Exercise Burn 650/744 (Zumba, Walking). Calories in 2550. I had been looking forward to a lazy Saturday morning sleep in, but then Hubs said he was taking off around 7:00 to go mountain biking. So I decided to get up too, and hit a Zumba class. I'd gone to Zumba Underground a long time ago, when it was in the basement of a house. She has since started Saturdays at a local gym. She was letting her Undergrounders in for free. It was a nice space, nice floor, just four of us. I'll try to hit it again. Then #5 had his basketball game at 10:00. Very easy win for the boys, but my munchkin slid into the concrete seating while trying to save a ball and hit his head hard. Poor kid. I was so cold and not feeling great when we got back home, so I layed down for a bit. Then I was off with #3 to his two games at 3:00 and 5:00. I was video-taping, but as we were getting thrashed I figured I wouldn't be making a highlight video, and I walked while I watched. I walked the hallway while reading in-between games, and even practiced a little Zumba when I found an empty room. In the evening Hubs and I watched "Age of Adeline" and ate popcorn. Yummy popcorn. Oops ... over in calories! 

1025 (Sunday) 161.8. Total Burn 2401. Exercise Burn 400/650 (40minElliptical). Calories in 2400. I got my lazy morning sleep in today. We were planning a big, early dinner, so we didn't do the usual Sunday Circles. #2 was off to KFC for a 10:00-10:30 shift. Poor kid, it's been understaffed so he's had so many more hours than he wants, but he's so loyal and helpful. Hubs and I did a little food prep, as he wants to eat better (and he didn't have a lazy sleep in, he was off for a run in the early hours). It was only my second time at Costco ever! We stopped at Smiths too, as the kids had gone through all the grapes I'd purchased just a few days earlier. They were great grapes! We hit Rodizio, the Brazillian steak house at Trolly Square right when they opened at 4:00. At first #4 seemed to be having a bit of an anxiety attack (complaining of his tummy), he didn't like anything on the buffet portion. But he surprised us by being willing to try a bunch of the different meats ... rattlesnake sausage, wild boar, chicken heart (he said that was disgusting). Our family favorites are the traditional beef and bacon wrapped turkey. We were all quite stuffed. It was a fun family outing, just wish the two oldest boys could have been with us.

1026 (Monday) 163.8. Total Burn 3732. Exercise Burn 1895/1970 (60minElliptical, Zumba x2, Bike). Calories in 900. Back to the routine. Getting up early enough to get in some elliptical before taking the kids to school. I quickly made some blueberry muffins too (well, me and Betty Crocker) to take to Zumba, as we were having a little breakfast baby shower for Nina after class. I did my usual quick stop at Kmart on the way home to spend my weekly Fitstudio points. Got in a little additional elliptical and bike. Laundry time too. #2 had work in the evening. Daddy took the three younger boys to Maga's for shakes. I hit a Halloween Zumba class located nearby ($40 for a 10-pass). It was a little more crowded than I would like, and almost all Halloween songs with everyone dressed up. It was also 90 minutes rather than the usual hour ... so big steps for the day. I wasn't terribly hungry today either, calories were way low.

 1027 (Tuesday) 160.9. Total Burn 3366. Exercise Burn 1675/1620 (60minElliptical, Zumba, Bike, 60min/4.5milesTrack). Calories in 1500. It was a little cool this morning, so the kids didn't go quite as early (I was busy prepping a roast for the crock pot too). I didn't quite have time to get back home and walk, so I just stopped on the way home from dropping the boys at the elementary school. Got in Zumba, and more elliptical and bike back at home. I also had a doctor's appointment, just my annual exam. Everything seemed fine, still waiting on some bloodwork. Got a flu shot and lab work, but was in and out in under an hour. Hubs had a derby and #3 went along to help. #5 had basketball practice. #4 went and just shot hoops and I walked/jogged while I waited. 

1028 (Wednesday) 159.8. Total Burn 3132. Exercise Burn 1050/1393 (60minElliptical, Zumba). Calories in 2000. I was dragging a little this morning. Still got some morning elliptical in, and hit Zumba. I was actually surprised my stats were as good as they were. My left arm (flu shot) was feeling sore, and I just felt a lethargy in my legs. I pushed through, but then needed to lay down for a bit. Then off to the elementary to check out #4 for a dental appointment. I usually will leave the kids and run a few errands, but I wasn't sure anxiety child would be cool with that, and it wasn't supposed to be that long of an appointment. They pulled out a baby tooth that had a cavity. Unfortunately it had spread, so we'll need to come back in a month or so. I also made an appointment for #3 for ortho which was overdue. Got #4 settled  back at home, then did the other school carpool pickups. We didn't really have any plans in the evening, low-key night at home. 

1029 (Thursday) 159.6.  Total Burn 2731. Exercise Burn 700/993 (60minElliptical). Calories in 2200. I had forgotten to set my second alarm (I have one set for 5:30 to make sure #2 is up and off, then one for 6:30 for me). I woke a little after 7:00, and quickly woke #3 and we still got him to school on time, but I didn't get my early elliptical in. Dang ... and this was the morning I miss Zumba too. I just stayed at the school after dropping off the munchkins, finding a parking spot and then going into the gym to wait for the parade. After the parade, the 6th grade (#4) performed "Thriller" ... then it was off to #4's class to help with the halloween party. I had brought the cup crash, monster toss, eyeball relay and PicturEEKa and got the other parent volunteers set up helping. Seven minute rotations x 12 ... so finally done a couple hours later. I'd worn some kitty ears, and had my picture taken several times for the "parent in a costume" scavenger hunt. When 6th grade was done, I rushed to my 4th grader's classroom and there was in charge of Bingo. We finished up with about 25 minutes before school got out. Do I check the kids out and go home? Go home (for 10 minutes) and come back? I ended up just waiting. Long day at the school! Got in some elliptical at home, but that was it for exercise for the day. I went to Zumba, but like last week, no one showed. Hubs and #3 were off doing a derby. #2 was off working. 

1029 (Thursday) 159.6.  Total Burn 2731. Exercise Burn 700/993 (60minElliptical). Calories in 2200. I had forgotten to set my second alarm (I have one set for 5:30 to make sure #2 is up and off, then one for 6:30 for me). I woke a little after 7:00, and quickly woke #3 and we still got him to school on time, but I didn't get my early elliptical in. Dang ... and this was the morning I miss Zumba too. I just stayed at the school after dropping off the munchkins, finding a parking spot and then going into the gym to wait for the parade. After the parade, the 6th grade (#4) performed "Thriller" ... then it was off to #4's class to help with the halloween party. I had brought the cup crash, monster toss, eyeball relay and PicturEEKa and got the other parent volunteers set up helping. Seven minute rotations x 12 ... so finally done a couple hours later. I'd worn some kitty ears, and had my picture taken several times for the "parent in a costume" scavenger hunt. When 6th grade was done, I rushed to my 4th grader's classroom and there was in charge of Bingo. We finished up with about 25 minutes before school got out. Do I check the kids out and go home? Go home (for 10 minutes) and come back? I ended up just waiting. Long day at the school! Got in some elliptical at home, but that was it for exercise for the day. I went to Zumba, but like last week, no one showed. Hubs and #3 were off doing a derby. #2 was off working. 

1030 (Friday) 160.4. Total Burn 2930. Exercise Burn 1200/1187 (60minElliptical, Zumba, Bike). Calories in 2100. The kids were out of school today. I slept in, but was up in time to hit Debbie's Zumba class in Daybreak. I wore my Halloween shirt, and there were some Halloween songs again. I stopped at the Dollar Store and Walmart on the way home. I did get in elliptical and bike, calories went slightly over, but not bad for a Friday. Spent quite a bit of time going through the costumes ... it is purge time! Hubs was out with some work buddies late. #2 brought his girlfriend and some pumpkins over and they carved them. Ahh, the smell of pumpkin guts. We haven't gotten around to it for a few years, but the little ones didn't seem that into it.

1031 (Saturday) 161.3. Total Burn 2693. Exercise Burn 650/945 (60minElliptical). Calories in 2000. Happy Halloween! No sleeping in, as #5 had an 8:00 basketball game. They won. #3 wanted to hang out with some friends, friends that live FAR, where I haven't been before, and would require a late pickup. I just knew I wasn't up for it myself, but Hubs agreed to take him and pick him up. I made cookie-press cookies, in a pumpkin shape. They are a family favorite, especially of #3. One cookie press broke, but luckily I had a backup and was able to finish. The two little boys hadn't been sure they were even going trick-or-treating but decided to in the end. #5 just dressed up as a basketball player (one of his NBA jerseys) and #4 was going to go as a Lego Guy (he'd accidentally forgotten the costume at school yesterday, but I had stopped and picked it up) ... but I suggested a "Ref" to keep with the basketball theme. Normally, one parent goes out with the kids, and the other stays home to hand out candy. The boys said they were old enough to go alone, and would stay in the immediate neighborhood, so I let them (of course after a bit I stressed and wished I had gone). They made it back fine. #4 gave #5 all his candy, and I get all the "nut" ones (Reeses, Butterfinger, BabyRuth, Snickers) as the youngest is allergic. Too many of the cookies tonight too though!  #4 had been super active, and was close to a new goal of 40,000 steps on his Fitbit, so he kept walking around until he hit it. I was glad when everyone was in bed and asleep!

Saturday, October 31, 2015

WWI #118 - Busy Week, Good Week

I was a little worried about this week. Basketball games, doctor, dentist and helping out at the school ... all were on the docket this week, and I don't do as well without my usual routine. But the scale showed success, even though my deficit wasn't quite as good as the week's past (just -734). NUMBERS:  Down 2.2 pounds from last Friday, the average went down just over two pounds too (161.49). Average intake was 1857, average daily burn was 3006.  Here's a quick week recap:

  • Friday (1023): Wasn't feeling 100%, but ended up hitting a $5 Zumba class and felt quite a bit better after. Got in elliptical and bike and spent the evening watching #3 in a basketball game.
  • Saturday (1024): Hubs was off early for a bike ride, so I hit a Saturday Zumba class. Then, there were three basketball games (one for #5, and two for #3). I ended up walking around quite a bit while watching and waiting between games, so even with no elliptical or bike, I got in the steps! Over in calories though, as Hubs and I indulged in popcorn while watching a DVD.
  • Sunday (1025): Hit Costco with Hubs, then we went to Rodizio as a family (sans #2 who was working). Just barely pulled even with calories in vs out (with just 40min elliptical). 
  • Monday (1026): Zumba (and baby shower for Nina, Betty Crocker and I made some muffins to take), some elliptical and bike, then an additional Halloween Zumba in the evening, 90minute class no less! Big activity day, and just not very hungry (or just to busy to eat). 
  • Tuesday (1027): After Zumba I had a doctor's appointment. Just my annual exam. It was nice to be in and out in under an hour, even with lab work and a flu shot. Got in elliptical and bike too. #5 had practice in the evening, so I jogged the track while I waited. Another big activity day, and still kept calories in check.
  • Wednesday (1028): After Zumba, I had to check #4 out of school for a dentist appointment. Got in my hour of elliptical during the day, but didn't get to the bike.
  • Thursday (1029): Accidentally slept in until after 7:00, just barely getting #3 to school on time. After dropping off elementary I simply stayed at the school for the parade, Thriller, #4's class party and then #5's class party (helping out at both). Felt off missing my morning Zumba, and then evening Zumba didn't happen either (as I was the only one who showed up). Still got in an hour of elliptical, eating edged a little high.
 Pictures from the Week


At the doctors office.

#5 as a basketball star on a Wheaties box



The kitties decided to get in on the action when he took it off ...

... a little video of #4 dancing to "Thriller"

A video posted by JenB (@jenblackham) on

Sunday, October 25, 2015

WWI #117 - Weekly Down, Identical Average

Last week, my official Friday weigh-in didn't change much from the week before, but my average dropped over two pounds. This week was the opposite. My official weigh-in was down, but my average stayed exactly the same. Like last week, my official Friday weigh-in was not my low for the week. Still working hard to back into the 150s (my happy-weight) and then into the 140s (goal).   NUMBERS: Down 1.6 for the official. Average was 163.3, identical to last Friday. Average intake was 2036. Average burn was 3202 ... that equated to a weekly deficit of -6079.

Weekly Recap ...
  • Friday: Hubs out of town and the kids out of school. I was able to hit a Zumba class though! The little boys wanted to go to the gym to play basketball, so I walked the track and rode a stationary bike while I kept an eye on them. My folks came over in the evening and we did pizza and games.
  • Saturday: No basketball today (Fall Break). I got in several sessions on the elliptical, and some bike. Pretty low-key day.
  • Sunday: An hour of elliptical and the reading/riding on the bike. My 12-year has started reading/riding on the bike too. Another low-key day. Did get in a Sunday nap. One of the higher calorie days.
  • Monday:  A "purple party" at Zumba, with a larger crowd than usual. Several sessions on the elliptical, and time on the bike. 
  • Tuesday: Busy day with Zumba, elliptical, bike and WEIGHTS. Walked the track in the evening during basketball practice. Also made homemade soup and breadsticks (and cinnamon rolls) for the family ... so calories were a bit higher today.
  • Wednesday: Zumba, elliptical and bike - and kept calories in check.
  • Thursday: Only morning Zumba today, as I was the only one there for the evening class. Still a 31k day with elliptical, bike and mowing the lawn. Kept calories in check too.


 Me on the track. The little boys goofing off on the court below. 

Hubs and his brother ... 
the Fall Food Tour in Seattle, Washington over the weekend.

I tried the "water and vinegar" trick to clean the microwave.
It worked. SO much better!

So that was my week. Encouraged that the scale is moving in the right direction ... it's just so SLOW. Weight fluctuates so much. Gotta just keep going. This next week will be a bit of a challenge as there are doctor/dentist appointments to interrupt my routine, and class parties at the school, and then another day off for the kidlets ... and then of course Halloween! 


Saturday, October 17, 2015

WWI #116 - Gain After Golden Corral

I had another pretty good weekend, and weight was going down. I expected a drop for the official weigh-in Friday morning ... but alas, it bopped up. I blame Golden Corral. You know, the all-you-can-eat buffet. We went on Thursday. I  didn't overeat,  had "dinner" very early in the day (around 5:00),  still had a deficit for the day ... so I really didn't think it would be that bad. But like last week, the scale shifted up from Thursday to Friday morning. 

My overall numbers for the week were good though ... only the .1 down for the official weekly check-in, but my average dropped 2.37 pounds (to 163.63) so I was happy about that. I did keep calories in check most of week, the average was 1864. I stayed active, and average daily burn was 3008.  Here's a quick recap of the week ...

  • Friday (1009): An hour of elliptical and 30min on the bike. I didn't have the energy to do Zumba on my own, and I haven't found a class that works with the middle-school's late start. Not a productive day. Hubs had a derby in the evening. Kept calories under 2000, but just barely.
  • Saturday (1010): Very productive day! Watched #5 in his  basketball game in the morning. For exercise, an hour of elliptical and 30min bike. Cleaning the house, vacuuming, organizing cupboards, laundry, dishes, bathrooms and mowing the lawn too. Helped #4 with some a school project. Hubs took the ducks to a farm. He brought home Krispy Creme doughnuts. I'd really limited calories for the day and wasn't sure I wanted to break that ... but I did have one. #4 resisted completely.
  • Sunday (1011): I had to hit church a little earlier than my usual, but I walked to/from. Also got in an hour of elliptical (three 20min sessions). We had a Texas Roadhouse dinner. I did limit myself to just one roll, and didn't overdo, but still one of the higher calorie days in a while. Intake and burn about even for the day.
  •  Monday (1012): Back to my early starts. Elliptical, Zumba, bike and some treadmill today. A bit on the WiiFit too. Hubs was gone all evening with #4 at a basketball game downtown. I stayed out of the candy corn completely and kept calories in check today.
  • Tuesday (1013): The kids went to school early enough that I came home and walked to Zumba. Also got in an hour of elliptical, bike, and 15min weights. Wimpy weight workout, but better than nothing, right? #5 had basketball practice in the evening. I wasn't up for jogging, but I still walked ... my ChargeHR was wonky giving me high readings. Not sure what was up, but my heart rate wasn't even though it said it was. Too many treats today.
  • Wednesday (1014): We were to wear purple to Zumba today. They took a big group picture. Early out at the elementary, as the kids have a long weekend for Fall Break. Still got in my bike, and 100min on the elliptical. I started a new show (Zoo) and I think it has me interested enough that I wanted to get in some extra sessions. 
  • Thursday (1015): The kids were out of school, so I slept in. Barely made it to 9:00 Zumba. I'd promised the little boys a trip to Golden Corral. Probably our last though, they were not impressed. #4 didn't eat much, didn't even have any dessert (usually that is his favorite part). Zumba in the evening too.
 I didn't take many pictures this week ...

The 6th grader is studying medieval times at school. 
Over the weekend we made a hennin (woman's hat) and a shield. 

 Kitten asleep IN my plant ... my poor, poor plant!

Tuesday, October 13, 2015

TV Tuesday - What I'm Watching

I didn't get a "What I'm Watching" post up in September ... but I have been watching, while working out of course! I finished the second season of Extant (Amazon Prime), and then watched both seasons of Revolution (Netflix). Both shows were exciting and action packed, perfect to keep my adrenaline pumping while exercising, and making me WANT to get back down to the gym to see what would happen next. 

I like Halle Berry. I really like Jeffrey Dean Morgan, who was a welcome addition to this second season. There were other familiar faces (Peyton, from OneTreeHill, The Governor from TheWalkingDead) and favorites from season 1. I like Sci-Fi, and I liked this summer series

Back when Revolution originally aired, my boys were interested and watched it week to week. I didn't. I always figured I would watch it at some point, and luckily I didn't see enough to spoil it for me (Series I've "Seen" But Never Watched). They never got around to watching the second season. It has been on Netflix for a while, but I just started watching. I'm a fan of post-apocalyptic stuff (tv/movies/books ... not real life though! Let's keep that stuff fiction!) so this was right up my alley. Lots of action. It kept my interest. I went into it knowing it would end at the second season (ratings dropped and it wasn't renewed) ... and while one storyline wrapped up, it was definitely left open-ended.  One little thing that made me laugh, one of the main characters, Charlie ... her pretty, long hair was down all the time. Never back in a braid or pony-tail. As a girl with long hair, it gets in the way, and I sure wouldn't want it flying around when I was fighting for my life. I can't even stand it down while I dance at Zumba.

When I finish a series, there is always that moment as I wonder what to watch next. It can be hard to make a commitment. Sometimes, I'll start a series and it just doesn't click. This time of year, the current shows are  starting back up too. I always wonder if I should watch my favorites week to week ... or just wait until the season is done.  So far, I've watched the first two episodes of Nashville (it doesn't come to Netflix or Amazon anyway). Grey's Anatomy is a favorite of mine ... I was thinking maybe I'd wait, but then I went ahead and watched the first episode. So far, I think I'll wait on Scandal and The Good Wife. I'm undecided on TWD. I'll probably catch the battle rounds of "The Voice" as well ...

What are YOU watching?

Saturday, October 10, 2015

WWI #115 - Good Numbers


I've mentioned several times, that weekends are hard for me. I know I'm not alone in this. More eating, less exercising. This past weekend was an exception. Hubs planned a weekend getaway, but #2 couldn't get off work. I didn't feel comfortable leaving our 16-year old home alone, so it was just the two of us, while Hubs took the youngest three. While I was home alone (as #2 was rarely around) I got in quite a bit of activity, and kept the calories in check. Thus ... the best stats I've had in quite a while (if ever?) NUMBERS: Average intake was 1707, average daily burn was 3061. A deficit of -7628. According to the numbers, that should equate to a two pound loss for the week. My actual numbers were a one pound loss for my official Friday weigh-in, but a -2.5 change in my weekly average. I'll take it.

It wasn't just the weekend that was good, but it was nice to have that to jump start the week. I STILL had a gain of a couple pounds there on Monday morning, which was frustrating, as I'd had deficits Fri/Sat/Sun. In fact, I had a deficit every single day (which hasn't happened in forever). I was just able to control calories this week. I'll admit, a little was the "depression diet" continuing on. Not that I haven't been hungry ... but I haven't been eating as much. Treats are still a problem. Candy Corn is a problem. I'm a bit of an all-or-nothing girl with it. I can't just have one handful ... if I have one, I have several. So even with the lower intake, it hasn't been much good-for-me food.

Just a quick week recap ... I didn't really get out Fri-Sun. #2 and I were sharing a car, and he had it most of the time (home gym comes in handy!) Mon-Thurs I got in my daily Zumba, hour of elliptical and reading/riding on the stationary bike. I did weights, and jogged the track on Tuesday during #5's basketball practice (a 32k day for me! Whew). Hubs had three derbies this week, that kept him and #3 very busy. (More detail in my Day to Day Doings).

Pictures from the Week

Hubs and the three little boys. Enjoying the sun in St. George.

#2 - roses for his girlfriend

Cute Kitty Cuddling

I don't know if my lower calorie intake is sustainable. I know I still need to swap out the treats for more healthy fare too. We'll see if I can pull off another "good" weekend with the family around!



Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...