Current Hat: NY Rangers 2009 Draft Day Hat
Even furloughed from work (which is why I haven't posted in forever btw) I still feel like I have a million things to do and no time to do them. I've gained half the weight back from too many nights out with my friends, and I don't even know what the scale will look like when I go on it. I've gained about 3 hats into my collection which means it's about time to go through them and get rid of the ones I never wear. I'm in my last semester of grad school and I'm still without a teaching job. A close friend of mine told me I have to actively make a decision. Do I want to stay with my current job or have a teaching career? I fear I'll never actively make that decision and still sit here waiting, thinking I could have done something else.
Truth be told (I'm a horrible liar anyway) I could probably sit here all night and type away about what I did over the summer, or the great ranger game (loss) that I missed because I was working today, or my truck (that I love) and its constant need to get repairs, but I do need to change the litter boxes for Seeley Booth (the cat), take a shower, and work on some homework that I should have done over the week.
I'll try to do a weight update this week.
Bye for now.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Friday, May 7, 2010
Stargirl (Now with Dexter Update)
Current Hat: 2009 Draft Day Hat
Yes I'm still stressed from school, but today was my Monday for work, so I decided after work today I'd watch the Yankee game. Phil Hughes is doing awesome as usual. Anyway, that's not the purpose of this post. Before putting the game on I had some time, so I read a little in my book. I'm currently about halfway through Stargirl by Spinelli.
In the book, the main character, Leo, tells the story of a new girl in school, Stargirl. He tells of how first she was strange, then accepted and admired, and finally shunned. Stargirl embodied the the students of the school, even if they didn't know it. I really enjoyed that Leo could appreciate the uniqueness of Stargirl and the hope if makes me feel that everyone can appreciate the little uniqueness we all have inside of us.
I do enjoy reading, however I do limit what I read a great deal. Mostly I read young adult literature and when I was in the classroom I would read what the students had to for their ela classes. Now that I'm not in school, I just browse the YA section at Barnes and Noble and pick out books I've heard excellent things about. Needless to say, I like to keep in touch with the ELA teachers I've met over the years to get the latest reccommendations.
I will try to update after all my book reads (or at least halfway through) and give you a little tease. My next book I plan to read is: Pride and Prejudice and Zombies by Jane Austen and Seth Grahme-Smith.
For now: Let's Go Yanks!
I totally should have mentioned I just finished reading Dexter By Design, by Jeff Lindsay. This is the fourth book in the Dexter series. (The showtime tv series is based off the first book in the series: Darkly Dreaming Dexter) I've always been one to enjoy books in series (however I don't plan to go further in the Stargirl books) and I really feel that is because I don't have to do much research into what the next book I want to read is. However, I will say this about the Dexter series: I've never appreciated alliteration so much. Not to mention I like the sarcastic dark humor Dexter possesses. So the entire Dexter Series is on my recommended reading list. The 5th book: Dexter is Delicious is due to come out this fall.
Yes I'm still stressed from school, but today was my Monday for work, so I decided after work today I'd watch the Yankee game. Phil Hughes is doing awesome as usual. Anyway, that's not the purpose of this post. Before putting the game on I had some time, so I read a little in my book. I'm currently about halfway through Stargirl by Spinelli.
In the book, the main character, Leo, tells the story of a new girl in school, Stargirl. He tells of how first she was strange, then accepted and admired, and finally shunned. Stargirl embodied the the students of the school, even if they didn't know it. I really enjoyed that Leo could appreciate the uniqueness of Stargirl and the hope if makes me feel that everyone can appreciate the little uniqueness we all have inside of us.
I do enjoy reading, however I do limit what I read a great deal. Mostly I read young adult literature and when I was in the classroom I would read what the students had to for their ela classes. Now that I'm not in school, I just browse the YA section at Barnes and Noble and pick out books I've heard excellent things about. Needless to say, I like to keep in touch with the ELA teachers I've met over the years to get the latest reccommendations.
I will try to update after all my book reads (or at least halfway through) and give you a little tease. My next book I plan to read is: Pride and Prejudice and Zombies by Jane Austen and Seth Grahme-Smith.
For now: Let's Go Yanks!
I totally should have mentioned I just finished reading Dexter By Design, by Jeff Lindsay. This is the fourth book in the Dexter series. (The showtime tv series is based off the first book in the series: Darkly Dreaming Dexter) I've always been one to enjoy books in series (however I don't plan to go further in the Stargirl books) and I really feel that is because I don't have to do much research into what the next book I want to read is. However, I will say this about the Dexter series: I've never appreciated alliteration so much. Not to mention I like the sarcastic dark humor Dexter possesses. So the entire Dexter Series is on my recommended reading list. The 5th book: Dexter is Delicious is due to come out this fall.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
School = Stress
Current hat: Life is Good Visor
School has pretty much taken over my stress factor. I'm not worried about losing weight, because I am losing weight. I got on the scale this morning and it read 155.5...That's 15.5 lbs away from my goal weight. It's crazy to think I weighed in at 175 in December. I take a lot more control over the substances I put into my body. I eat more natural and organic foods. I've added more fruit to my diet (I still think vegetables are the devil) and have drastically decreased the amount of soda I drink (though Dr. Pepper and root beer are still favorites). That and a little exercise everyday are providing wonders. School however, is a different story.
I'm not registered for next fall. In case you missed it, that's my last semester to complete my masters degree. The second half of my research class is closed out and they aren't offering any graduate level math classes. Silly right? On top of that I have a few finals to worry about and I'm still working 40 hours at the beach.
Speaking of the beach, I'm messing up a lot. I figured once we stopped selling permits, I'd get back on my game. That is not the case. I shouldn't be cashier too much longer, but when I am I need to up my game. The amount of errors I'm making (6 so far this year) are simply unacceptable and I'd like to think I'm better than that.
Anyway, the plans for today: Finish mowing the lawn. Get one final ready to hand in tomorrow, laundry, car wash, and to start studying for tomorrow's exam. I have already finished two papers this morning so I do not need to stress about getting anything done today, but it's still better to get what I can done today anyway.
School has pretty much taken over my stress factor. I'm not worried about losing weight, because I am losing weight. I got on the scale this morning and it read 155.5...That's 15.5 lbs away from my goal weight. It's crazy to think I weighed in at 175 in December. I take a lot more control over the substances I put into my body. I eat more natural and organic foods. I've added more fruit to my diet (I still think vegetables are the devil) and have drastically decreased the amount of soda I drink (though Dr. Pepper and root beer are still favorites). That and a little exercise everyday are providing wonders. School however, is a different story.
I'm not registered for next fall. In case you missed it, that's my last semester to complete my masters degree. The second half of my research class is closed out and they aren't offering any graduate level math classes. Silly right? On top of that I have a few finals to worry about and I'm still working 40 hours at the beach.
Speaking of the beach, I'm messing up a lot. I figured once we stopped selling permits, I'd get back on my game. That is not the case. I shouldn't be cashier too much longer, but when I am I need to up my game. The amount of errors I'm making (6 so far this year) are simply unacceptable and I'd like to think I'm better than that.
Anyway, the plans for today: Finish mowing the lawn. Get one final ready to hand in tomorrow, laundry, car wash, and to start studying for tomorrow's exam. I have already finished two papers this morning so I do not need to stress about getting anything done today, but it's still better to get what I can done today anyway.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
No Hat
No current hat for tonight's post. Not sure why. I wore a bunch today so don't worry.
I haven't been updating as much as I would like and I took an unplanned break from exercising and working on homework in advance. Today after work I bought new running shoes (not that I run) and a couple of tanks to look good while I work out. During my break (I'd say 2-3 weeks) I gained back 3 lbs. So not terrible but not great either. I suffered through a 12 min Biggest Loser Wii workout and a 20 minute elliptical followed by some weight training. I was sore, but I felt a lot better. I was fairly productive afterwards by doing laundry and changing the cat litter. I still have some major homework to take care of that's due tomorrow, so I'll be up early to take care of that.
To help my workouts I've purchased the BodyBugg from 24 hr fitness. During the first 2 weeks, it was excellent. But during my last 3 weeks I wasn't exactly keeping it on or uploading it. So if you get it, I recommend uploading data every day or two for maximum benefits. I'm also working on purchasing a new bicycle. Apparently, the mountain bike I had since I was 12 doesn't cut it anymore.
Lastly, I'm watching The Biggest Loser right now. They just finished running a 5k. Inspiring the people of texas to do the same. So maybe I should get that gym membership and get my butt back on a treadmill.
All this for 19 more lbs.
I haven't been updating as much as I would like and I took an unplanned break from exercising and working on homework in advance. Today after work I bought new running shoes (not that I run) and a couple of tanks to look good while I work out. During my break (I'd say 2-3 weeks) I gained back 3 lbs. So not terrible but not great either. I suffered through a 12 min Biggest Loser Wii workout and a 20 minute elliptical followed by some weight training. I was sore, but I felt a lot better. I was fairly productive afterwards by doing laundry and changing the cat litter. I still have some major homework to take care of that's due tomorrow, so I'll be up early to take care of that.
To help my workouts I've purchased the BodyBugg from 24 hr fitness. During the first 2 weeks, it was excellent. But during my last 3 weeks I wasn't exactly keeping it on or uploading it. So if you get it, I recommend uploading data every day or two for maximum benefits. I'm also working on purchasing a new bicycle. Apparently, the mountain bike I had since I was 12 doesn't cut it anymore.
Lastly, I'm watching The Biggest Loser right now. They just finished running a 5k. Inspiring the people of texas to do the same. So maybe I should get that gym membership and get my butt back on a treadmill.
All this for 19 more lbs.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Smart Ass
Current Hat: 2007 NY Rangers St. Patricks Day Hat
Quick Side Note: It's a win-and-in game for the Rangers today starting at 3 p.m. Eastern...and I'll be working : (
Today's topic: What makes being a person a smart ass?
I've been sarcastic most of my life and many people have called me a smart ass on more than one occasion. Most of the time it's because I made a quick witty joke at someone's expense. Now I understand it's a pretty mean thing to do and there really is no point to it. I've stopped (mostly, it's a hard habit to break)
At work, I've been dealing mostly with the public (You Guys). Now you don't realize you say some pretty stupid stuff all the time. I understand you have questions and even though I've answered the same questions over and over again, I explain the answers the same way to you. Here's my question to you all in cyber space: Am I a smart ass for answering the exact questions people ask?
For instance, a gentleman came in and asked how much the applications were. I responded that they were free...he could have as many applications as he wanted. Yes, I could have told him the permit he was applying for was $65, but he didn't ask that. My mother asks questions all the time about things she doesn't want to know the answer to. She thinks she's smarter for some reason by asking one question to come up with the answer to another.
Wake up people! Just ask the question you actually you want to know the answer to and then people like me can't be a smart ass by answering the question you actually asked! This means you have to think. You have to know what you're getting to; what your point actually is. People have become too lazy to not think before they speak. It's time to change that. We can become a smarter more thoughtful people. All you have to do is think!
Quick Side Note: It's a win-and-in game for the Rangers today starting at 3 p.m. Eastern...and I'll be working : (
Today's topic: What makes being a person a smart ass?
I've been sarcastic most of my life and many people have called me a smart ass on more than one occasion. Most of the time it's because I made a quick witty joke at someone's expense. Now I understand it's a pretty mean thing to do and there really is no point to it. I've stopped (mostly, it's a hard habit to break)
At work, I've been dealing mostly with the public (You Guys). Now you don't realize you say some pretty stupid stuff all the time. I understand you have questions and even though I've answered the same questions over and over again, I explain the answers the same way to you. Here's my question to you all in cyber space: Am I a smart ass for answering the exact questions people ask?
For instance, a gentleman came in and asked how much the applications were. I responded that they were free...he could have as many applications as he wanted. Yes, I could have told him the permit he was applying for was $65, but he didn't ask that. My mother asks questions all the time about things she doesn't want to know the answer to. She thinks she's smarter for some reason by asking one question to come up with the answer to another.
Wake up people! Just ask the question you actually you want to know the answer to and then people like me can't be a smart ass by answering the question you actually asked! This means you have to think. You have to know what you're getting to; what your point actually is. People have become too lazy to not think before they speak. It's time to change that. We can become a smarter more thoughtful people. All you have to do is think!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Back to Updating
Current Hat:2009 NY Yankees World Series Championship
Okay, a lot has happened since I last updated. I'm sorry. So now I'll write up a quick "where are you now" update and tomorrow maybe saturday I'll do a post about a specific topic. Probably APEX's Bodybugg although it could be about something else. It could be about fee hikes at New York State Parks, or dealing with patrons. It could really be about anything. My point is that it won't be about everything. I started this blog to talk and reflect about specific things. Lately, I've been talking the facts about my day to day activities, and who really cares about that?
Where Am I Now?
Well. The Rangers are still out of the playoff picture, but we could do some damage with two games against the flyers to end the regular season. Maybe Boston will do us a favor and lose....lose a lot.
The Yankees won 2 out of 3 against Boston. This is a great start to the season, but championship teams are steady throughout the season. Many times teams that get ahead early also finish early.
I weigh 156 lbs. I try to burn 2500 calories a day while only eating 1300. I feel great about myself. I have an issue though. I've always been one where if my body is trying to do too many processes at once, I pass out. While I've been working out as much as I have been, and it getting nice out, I feel as if I'm going to pass out. I've been good, and at that point I stop working out. However I need to focus on getting the proper nutrition and giving my body a break.
School is still a nightmare. I have so much left to do for school and every week I scramble to get it all done. Wednesday's are a day full of work no matter how nice it is, and on thursday's I feel free and I don't want to do anything. I've been trying to schedule myself specific homework times, but I haven't been following through.
I have a job, but I'm still looking for my career. This is part of my problem. I've been doing some overtime at my day job and when I get home I just want to work out (which is great, because I used to not even want to do this) and snooze in front of the TV.
Goals for this week: BALANCE. I need balance in my life and this is a good week for that. I have homework, school, social obligations, work, and chores to do at home. I would like to balance these all and even have some free time to update the blog and maybe some video games would be great...not to mention keep working towards my weight loss goals.
Until next time,
Okay, a lot has happened since I last updated. I'm sorry. So now I'll write up a quick "where are you now" update and tomorrow maybe saturday I'll do a post about a specific topic. Probably APEX's Bodybugg although it could be about something else. It could be about fee hikes at New York State Parks, or dealing with patrons. It could really be about anything. My point is that it won't be about everything. I started this blog to talk and reflect about specific things. Lately, I've been talking the facts about my day to day activities, and who really cares about that?
Where Am I Now?
Well. The Rangers are still out of the playoff picture, but we could do some damage with two games against the flyers to end the regular season. Maybe Boston will do us a favor and lose....lose a lot.
The Yankees won 2 out of 3 against Boston. This is a great start to the season, but championship teams are steady throughout the season. Many times teams that get ahead early also finish early.
I weigh 156 lbs. I try to burn 2500 calories a day while only eating 1300. I feel great about myself. I have an issue though. I've always been one where if my body is trying to do too many processes at once, I pass out. While I've been working out as much as I have been, and it getting nice out, I feel as if I'm going to pass out. I've been good, and at that point I stop working out. However I need to focus on getting the proper nutrition and giving my body a break.
School is still a nightmare. I have so much left to do for school and every week I scramble to get it all done. Wednesday's are a day full of work no matter how nice it is, and on thursday's I feel free and I don't want to do anything. I've been trying to schedule myself specific homework times, but I haven't been following through.
I have a job, but I'm still looking for my career. This is part of my problem. I've been doing some overtime at my day job and when I get home I just want to work out (which is great, because I used to not even want to do this) and snooze in front of the TV.
Goals for this week: BALANCE. I need balance in my life and this is a good week for that. I have homework, school, social obligations, work, and chores to do at home. I would like to balance these all and even have some free time to update the blog and maybe some video games would be great...not to mention keep working towards my weight loss goals.
Until next time,
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Swamped
Current Hat: 2009 NY Rangers Draft Day Hat
Congrats to the NY Rangers who won against the Islanders tonight, especially my boy Marc Staal with the game winning goal. However, they still don't gain any ground in the playoff race. Hope for them is fading.
Anyway, I just wanted to stop in and say that I still have too much work. It hasn't stopped. I have a major paper due tomorrow, that is about 1/2 way to completion, on top of some other work. I still have been working out, but I don't expect much of a weight loss this week since I have been over indulging quite a bit. More on that after my paper is done.
Congrats to the NY Rangers who won against the Islanders tonight, especially my boy Marc Staal with the game winning goal. However, they still don't gain any ground in the playoff race. Hope for them is fading.
Anyway, I just wanted to stop in and say that I still have too much work. It hasn't stopped. I have a major paper due tomorrow, that is about 1/2 way to completion, on top of some other work. I still have been working out, but I don't expect much of a weight loss this week since I have been over indulging quite a bit. More on that after my paper is done.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Too Much Work
Current Hat: Yankees Adjustable Ball cap
One of my professor assigns a lot of homework. She expects us to think and delevop our ideas. She expects us to be able to write academic papers and be accurate in our citations. I think this is a breathe of fresh air. My other professors do not hold us to high standards and don't hold us accountable. Just goes to show you that reducing the standards/expectations is not the way to go. I wanted to write her an email expressing this, but I feel that would be sucking up, so I'll wait until the semester is over.
I did complete everything I needed to yesterday, but I'm not necessarily happy with it. I half assed everything. I really needed to reschedule something so I could spend more time on what was important.
It's 10:38 am and I halfway completed what I needed to for today. I still need to read a chapter for class tonight, workout, vacuum and clean out my truck. I have no doubts that I'll be able to complete this before my class tonight and then start on my homework due next week. Ahh...the power of scheduling and structure.
One of my professor assigns a lot of homework. She expects us to think and delevop our ideas. She expects us to be able to write academic papers and be accurate in our citations. I think this is a breathe of fresh air. My other professors do not hold us to high standards and don't hold us accountable. Just goes to show you that reducing the standards/expectations is not the way to go. I wanted to write her an email expressing this, but I feel that would be sucking up, so I'll wait until the semester is over.
I did complete everything I needed to yesterday, but I'm not necessarily happy with it. I half assed everything. I really needed to reschedule something so I could spend more time on what was important.
It's 10:38 am and I halfway completed what I needed to for today. I still need to read a chapter for class tonight, workout, vacuum and clean out my truck. I have no doubts that I'll be able to complete this before my class tonight and then start on my homework due next week. Ahh...the power of scheduling and structure.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Procrastination
Current Hat: 2009 Yankees World Series Champions
Last week was Spring break, so today is my first class in two weeks. Of course that means that I have to cram all my homework in today. I do much better in a schedule. I have part of a schedule already that's working well. I just don't know when to fit school into it.
7 am - wake up, have breakfast
845 - work until 515 Friday thru Tuesday.
Wednesdays & Thursday nights - school
Tuesday is laundry day. Wednesday fold laundry and put away.
Workouts: After work before I feed the cats.
And then I follow several TV shows: House, Castle, Biggest Loser, Bones, Grey's Anatomy, Private Practice. Days of Our Lives is in the air now since I work when the show is aired, but I like to keep tabs on it and watch it on my days off.
I'm sure you already know that I also follow 2 sports teams: NY Rangers and NY Yankees.
So where to I fit in school work? It never takes a constant amount of time. Too variable. Not to mention it's only during certain times of the year. Thoughts?
Goals for Thursday: Put away laundry (can't today since I have to cram in my homework since I didn't do it for 2 weeks), schedule HW time, Workout.Vacuum.
Update 11:34 am: Good News, On top of all that was mentioned before, I'm also booked wednesdays in the summer for sailing!
Last week was Spring break, so today is my first class in two weeks. Of course that means that I have to cram all my homework in today. I do much better in a schedule. I have part of a schedule already that's working well. I just don't know when to fit school into it.
7 am - wake up, have breakfast
845 - work until 515 Friday thru Tuesday.
Wednesdays & Thursday nights - school
Tuesday is laundry day. Wednesday fold laundry and put away.
Workouts: After work before I feed the cats.
And then I follow several TV shows: House, Castle, Biggest Loser, Bones, Grey's Anatomy, Private Practice. Days of Our Lives is in the air now since I work when the show is aired, but I like to keep tabs on it and watch it on my days off.
I'm sure you already know that I also follow 2 sports teams: NY Rangers and NY Yankees.
So where to I fit in school work? It never takes a constant amount of time. Too variable. Not to mention it's only during certain times of the year. Thoughts?
Goals for Thursday: Put away laundry (can't today since I have to cram in my homework since I didn't do it for 2 weeks), schedule HW time, Workout.Vacuum.
Update 11:34 am: Good News, On top of all that was mentioned before, I'm also booked wednesdays in the summer for sailing!
Friday, March 19, 2010
Hat Unveil
Current Hat: My brand new: 2009 NY Rangers Draft Day Hat
Yep, I'm wearing my brand new hat. This means of course that I actually have 20 hats, but I'm not changing the blog name. This project is about where I started, the journey, and where I end up.
I've been working out like crazy. Okay, maybe not like crazy but for an hour every day at least. Yesterday, I did Bob Harper's challenge that he tweeted: 100 pushups, 100 situps, 100 lunges, 5 minutes meditation. Not only did I complete the challenge, but I did 100 squats for good measure. Needless to say today I could not even attempt a pushup or situp. Bob tweeted another challenge today for the weekend: No soda, 1 min sprint/1 min walk on treadmill or outside for 30-45 minutes 200 situps and 5 minutes meditation. Here's the plan. I have to work the weekend, but I get an hour lunch break. Since I work for the parks I should be able to do the sprints then. I tried to start the situps today but I'm still too sore from yesterday.
I should work on my homework, but Seeley Booth (the cat) is begging for attention. He's been lonely since I've gone back to work. So I'll be a couch potato and he'll be a happy cat.
Yep, I'm wearing my brand new hat. This means of course that I actually have 20 hats, but I'm not changing the blog name. This project is about where I started, the journey, and where I end up.
I've been working out like crazy. Okay, maybe not like crazy but for an hour every day at least. Yesterday, I did Bob Harper's challenge that he tweeted: 100 pushups, 100 situps, 100 lunges, 5 minutes meditation. Not only did I complete the challenge, but I did 100 squats for good measure. Needless to say today I could not even attempt a pushup or situp. Bob tweeted another challenge today for the weekend: No soda, 1 min sprint/1 min walk on treadmill or outside for 30-45 minutes 200 situps and 5 minutes meditation. Here's the plan. I have to work the weekend, but I get an hour lunch break. Since I work for the parks I should be able to do the sprints then. I tried to start the situps today but I'm still too sore from yesterday.
I should work on my homework, but Seeley Booth (the cat) is begging for attention. He's been lonely since I've gone back to work. So I'll be a couch potato and he'll be a happy cat.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Weight Update
Current Hat: 2007 NYR St. Patricks day hat
As I've talked about, in December of 2009 I weighed in at 175. I graduated high school in 2004 at 126. Currently my weight is 160. I lost 15 lbs.
I decided a little after christmas that it was time to get my act in gear, I couldn't eat whatever I wanted and not exercise. If I kept that lifestyle I'd continue to gain more and more weight. I've never been skinny, always having a tummy, but I decided it was time to make my tummy smaller like it once was.
My goal is to be 140 lbs for my cousins wedding at the end of July. It's likely many of my friends from college will be there, and they would remember the 175 lbs version of me. I'd like to think that I've changed.
I don't eat whatever I want anymore. I eat a small bowl of cereal for breakfast. I used to never eat breakfast. Today I had half of a sandwich for lunch instead of a McDonalds extra value meal. Between breakfast and lunch I worked out. I wanted to do 10 minutes on the elliptical since it felt so good the previous two days. Instead I did 25 minutes for a 500 calorie burn followed by knee raises, front and side arm raises, front rows, shoulder presses, bent over rows, bicep curls, tricep kickbacks, sumo squats and lunges. Right now I feel great. I'm seeing more definition in my arms and back, my thighs are smaller, and my face looks smaller.
The Biggest Loser has been a huge inspiration. The contestants are bigger than me, working out harder than me, and end up being smaller than me. Last night Sherry was kicked off and in her "Where are you now" segment she weighed in at 138. Why not me? The truth is, it could be me. The only thing stopping me from my ideal weight is me.
As I've talked about, in December of 2009 I weighed in at 175. I graduated high school in 2004 at 126. Currently my weight is 160. I lost 15 lbs.
I decided a little after christmas that it was time to get my act in gear, I couldn't eat whatever I wanted and not exercise. If I kept that lifestyle I'd continue to gain more and more weight. I've never been skinny, always having a tummy, but I decided it was time to make my tummy smaller like it once was.
My goal is to be 140 lbs for my cousins wedding at the end of July. It's likely many of my friends from college will be there, and they would remember the 175 lbs version of me. I'd like to think that I've changed.
I don't eat whatever I want anymore. I eat a small bowl of cereal for breakfast. I used to never eat breakfast. Today I had half of a sandwich for lunch instead of a McDonalds extra value meal. Between breakfast and lunch I worked out. I wanted to do 10 minutes on the elliptical since it felt so good the previous two days. Instead I did 25 minutes for a 500 calorie burn followed by knee raises, front and side arm raises, front rows, shoulder presses, bent over rows, bicep curls, tricep kickbacks, sumo squats and lunges. Right now I feel great. I'm seeing more definition in my arms and back, my thighs are smaller, and my face looks smaller.
The Biggest Loser has been a huge inspiration. The contestants are bigger than me, working out harder than me, and end up being smaller than me. Last night Sherry was kicked off and in her "Where are you now" segment she weighed in at 138. Why not me? The truth is, it could be me. The only thing stopping me from my ideal weight is me.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Just Do It
Current Hat: Life Is Good Visor
Ok, the end of last week was a bust. I didn't do what I wanted to get down. So this week I just did it. I don't care that it took effort and that it probably wasn't fun, I just did it. I'm happy with the end result.
Yesterday, I worked out with TBL Wii and did a Light full body workout for 1/2 and felt up to working out on the elliptical for an additional 10 minutes. I got around to finally changing the litter boxes so Seeley Booth and Archimedes are happy (Yep, I give my cats weird names...you got a problem with that?) I also did some dishes yesterday.I did purchase a new hat yesterday but I ordered it online, so I'll unveil which hat it is when it comes.
Today, I remembered how good I felt after working out yesterday that I put in 15 minutes on the elliptical and threw in some squats, lunges, front kicks, and tap punches for good measure. I feel so much better after doing something! There may or may not be another post later.
Tonight's plan: Laundry, Switching back and forth between Biggest Loser and NY Rangers game, and general room cleaning/tidying (yes, they are two different things).
There will be a post tomorrow with the weekly weight loss update.
Until then,
Ok, the end of last week was a bust. I didn't do what I wanted to get down. So this week I just did it. I don't care that it took effort and that it probably wasn't fun, I just did it. I'm happy with the end result.
Yesterday, I worked out with TBL Wii and did a Light full body workout for 1/2 and felt up to working out on the elliptical for an additional 10 minutes. I got around to finally changing the litter boxes so Seeley Booth and Archimedes are happy (Yep, I give my cats weird names...you got a problem with that?) I also did some dishes yesterday.I did purchase a new hat yesterday but I ordered it online, so I'll unveil which hat it is when it comes.
Today, I remembered how good I felt after working out yesterday that I put in 15 minutes on the elliptical and threw in some squats, lunges, front kicks, and tap punches for good measure. I feel so much better after doing something! There may or may not be another post later.
Tonight's plan: Laundry, Switching back and forth between Biggest Loser and NY Rangers game, and general room cleaning/tidying (yes, they are two different things).
There will be a post tomorrow with the weekly weight loss update.
Until then,
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Disappointments
Current Hat: 2009 NY Rangers Second Season Hat
I had 3 goals for today and I only completed one of them. I'm okay with that. I've been keeping myself busy and I don't feel that I've been wasting my time. If I didn't have work today and I didn't complete my goals I would be angry with myself. Today I am only disappointed. I wanted to get them done today, but I didn't. I'll do it tomorrow.
Here is why today is different than tomorrow. Today I came home and did 1/2 a workout, took a shower, did some grocery shopping, came back home and did the dishes. Right now, I'm watching When Harry Met Sally and waiting for my cake to finish baking. Yes, I'm unhappy with my weight, and yes I made a calorie crammed cake. I'm counting on my family to eat most of it, and I can enjoy VERY VERY small pieces. To be perfectly honest I just wanted the cake fixings off the counter. I HATE unnecessary items on the counter. Tomorrow I don't see any of these issues coming up. To make sure of that I plan to come home from work, change the litter boxes, eat dinner, then work on my homework.
No post tomorrow, I'll be trying to come up with 1 topic to write about instead of just telling you about my day.
I had 3 goals for today and I only completed one of them. I'm okay with that. I've been keeping myself busy and I don't feel that I've been wasting my time. If I didn't have work today and I didn't complete my goals I would be angry with myself. Today I am only disappointed. I wanted to get them done today, but I didn't. I'll do it tomorrow.
Here is why today is different than tomorrow. Today I came home and did 1/2 a workout, took a shower, did some grocery shopping, came back home and did the dishes. Right now, I'm watching When Harry Met Sally and waiting for my cake to finish baking. Yes, I'm unhappy with my weight, and yes I made a calorie crammed cake. I'm counting on my family to eat most of it, and I can enjoy VERY VERY small pieces. To be perfectly honest I just wanted the cake fixings off the counter. I HATE unnecessary items on the counter. Tomorrow I don't see any of these issues coming up. To make sure of that I plan to come home from work, change the litter boxes, eat dinner, then work on my homework.
No post tomorrow, I'll be trying to come up with 1 topic to write about instead of just telling you about my day.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Goals and Regents Exams
Current Hat: NY Rangers 2009 Second Season Hat
On Wednesday night I set 3 goals for Thursday: Workout, post a new blog post and read about regents exams. Well on thursday I didn't want to workout, but I did, and I blogged about that already. I read 3 short articles about NY Regents exams and now I'm going to blog about that.
To save money, NY state is looking to cancel 13 out of 17 Regents exams. This saves the department of education 13 million dollars. If you're like my mom, you don't know how this adds up to 13 million. There are certain costs to the exams. I believe most of the costs to create the test are relatively small. Teachers go to Albany to make the tests. Then of course we have to produce the test. Then teachers grade the test. So making and grading the tests are generally covered by Teacher Salaries. The big cost is the production and materials but also analyzing the tests. Teachers grade with a raw score. The tests are then sent away to see what the curve of the test should be and also if any of the questions are not valid.
I personally do not have a problem with ridding the state of 13 out of 17 exams. Opponents believe that without a test the standards will fall flat. I disagree. Teachers want to teach and they want the best for their children. The best = the standards. Of course in some situations the standards will not be meet in this scenario BUT progess will be made toward the standards. No teacher wants to sit in a classroom and have students not learn.
I think this would be a step in the right direction. There are too many high pressure tests out there. Students would already be tested every grade 3-8 in math, science, english and social studies in high stakes tests by this point. If you want me to teach to the test, you need to make the test better. I do think, however, that students will not do as well on these tests if you take most of the tests away.
In the end, NY state will not take these Regents exams away. The department of education is still responsible for the budgets cuts, which I fear means schools will be missing part of their state aid. Less money to use to prepare the students for the exams.
Now, the title of the post is two things, and I did touch on my goals, but let me go a bit further. My goals for tomorrow include: Changing the Litter Boxes, Starting my homework for wednesdays class, and to post another blog entry to let you know how it's working out.
Now, LETS GO RANGERS!
On Wednesday night I set 3 goals for Thursday: Workout, post a new blog post and read about regents exams. Well on thursday I didn't want to workout, but I did, and I blogged about that already. I read 3 short articles about NY Regents exams and now I'm going to blog about that.
To save money, NY state is looking to cancel 13 out of 17 Regents exams. This saves the department of education 13 million dollars. If you're like my mom, you don't know how this adds up to 13 million. There are certain costs to the exams. I believe most of the costs to create the test are relatively small. Teachers go to Albany to make the tests. Then of course we have to produce the test. Then teachers grade the test. So making and grading the tests are generally covered by Teacher Salaries. The big cost is the production and materials but also analyzing the tests. Teachers grade with a raw score. The tests are then sent away to see what the curve of the test should be and also if any of the questions are not valid.
I personally do not have a problem with ridding the state of 13 out of 17 exams. Opponents believe that without a test the standards will fall flat. I disagree. Teachers want to teach and they want the best for their children. The best = the standards. Of course in some situations the standards will not be meet in this scenario BUT progess will be made toward the standards. No teacher wants to sit in a classroom and have students not learn.
I think this would be a step in the right direction. There are too many high pressure tests out there. Students would already be tested every grade 3-8 in math, science, english and social studies in high stakes tests by this point. If you want me to teach to the test, you need to make the test better. I do think, however, that students will not do as well on these tests if you take most of the tests away.
In the end, NY state will not take these Regents exams away. The department of education is still responsible for the budgets cuts, which I fear means schools will be missing part of their state aid. Less money to use to prepare the students for the exams.
Now, the title of the post is two things, and I did touch on my goals, but let me go a bit further. My goals for tomorrow include: Changing the Litter Boxes, Starting my homework for wednesdays class, and to post another blog entry to let you know how it's working out.
Now, LETS GO RANGERS!
My Battle with Weight Loss
Current Hat: White Oswego State Lakers 2007 NCAA National Hockey Champions Hat
Current weight: 163 lbs
In December of 2009 I weighed in at 175 lbs when I decided enough was enough. I've always had a bit of a tummy at any weight no matter how active I was. I loved sports even though I never played for a team. Lately I've been gaining and gaining weight. I needed a point where I'd red flag myself and force myself to lose the weight even though I wasn't that overweight. That point was 175 lbs.
Since then I've gained several workout tools. I use The Biggest Loser Fitness Game and EA Sports Active both for the Wii. I have an Elliptical machine in the basement along with a soon to be finished weight bench (It came without an essential part, but it just came in the mail). I also own 3 Biggest Loser Workout DVDs: Last Chance Workout, 30 Day Jumpstart, and Cardio max.
So the weight has been coming off slowly. Usually 1-2 lbs a week if I've been good and usually I get a 3 week period of losing nothing after losing weight for 3 weeks.
Yesterday I didn't want to do any of the goals I had set for myself including working out. Well I did them anyway. It felt good. The workout was 30 minutes Upper Body on TBL (The biggest loser) wii game. Lots of planks, pushups, tricep dips, jumping rope, and punching. I made it through. I wanted to give up and I didn't. My reward was the 163 on the scale today. Hopefully on wednesday (my official weigh in day) it will say 162. Tonight I'm doing TBL Cardio Max dvd then watching the rangers game. Yes, I promised you I'd write a piece on Regents and I didn't forget. I will write it during the game.
Today was also my first day back to work. At the beach they can't keep everyone all year round, so I was let go in the winter. My brain is mush now, the way I'd like my body to feel after tonights work out.
Current weight: 163 lbs
In December of 2009 I weighed in at 175 lbs when I decided enough was enough. I've always had a bit of a tummy at any weight no matter how active I was. I loved sports even though I never played for a team. Lately I've been gaining and gaining weight. I needed a point where I'd red flag myself and force myself to lose the weight even though I wasn't that overweight. That point was 175 lbs.
Since then I've gained several workout tools. I use The Biggest Loser Fitness Game and EA Sports Active both for the Wii. I have an Elliptical machine in the basement along with a soon to be finished weight bench (It came without an essential part, but it just came in the mail). I also own 3 Biggest Loser Workout DVDs: Last Chance Workout, 30 Day Jumpstart, and Cardio max.
So the weight has been coming off slowly. Usually 1-2 lbs a week if I've been good and usually I get a 3 week period of losing nothing after losing weight for 3 weeks.
Yesterday I didn't want to do any of the goals I had set for myself including working out. Well I did them anyway. It felt good. The workout was 30 minutes Upper Body on TBL (The biggest loser) wii game. Lots of planks, pushups, tricep dips, jumping rope, and punching. I made it through. I wanted to give up and I didn't. My reward was the 163 on the scale today. Hopefully on wednesday (my official weigh in day) it will say 162. Tonight I'm doing TBL Cardio Max dvd then watching the rangers game. Yes, I promised you I'd write a piece on Regents and I didn't forget. I will write it during the game.
Today was also my first day back to work. At the beach they can't keep everyone all year round, so I was let go in the winter. My brain is mush now, the way I'd like my body to feel after tonights work out.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Thursdays
Current Hat: NY Yankees 2009 World Series Champions Hat
I set goals for today. I wanted to work out, post a new blog entry, and do some research on the NY Regents cut backs. So far, I woke up, ate breakfast then watched "Everybody's Fine" instead. I'm not doing well reaching my goals and coming up is my daily break to watch Day's of Our Lives. It's silly I know, especially because I go back to working full time (I hope) tomorrow at the beach, so I'll be missing episodes of Days more often than not.
I still have plenty of time to complete my goals for today, but I honestly don't feel like it. I have to go to class at 4 and when I come back it's tv time. Of course it's an awful waste of time but from 9-11 I'm booked watching Grey's Anatomy and Private practice.
Today is the epitome of my life. I set goals but execution lacks. That's why I started blogging. Sure I could journal, but that kept the accountability factor too myself. If I could master only being accountable to myself, than I wouldn't lack in execution.
Tomorrow: I'll do a post about my thoughts on NY State Regents and my weight loss goals.
I set goals for today. I wanted to work out, post a new blog entry, and do some research on the NY Regents cut backs. So far, I woke up, ate breakfast then watched "Everybody's Fine" instead. I'm not doing well reaching my goals and coming up is my daily break to watch Day's of Our Lives. It's silly I know, especially because I go back to working full time (I hope) tomorrow at the beach, so I'll be missing episodes of Days more often than not.
I still have plenty of time to complete my goals for today, but I honestly don't feel like it. I have to go to class at 4 and when I come back it's tv time. Of course it's an awful waste of time but from 9-11 I'm booked watching Grey's Anatomy and Private practice.
Today is the epitome of my life. I set goals but execution lacks. That's why I started blogging. Sure I could journal, but that kept the accountability factor too myself. If I could master only being accountable to myself, than I wouldn't lack in execution.
Tomorrow: I'll do a post about my thoughts on NY State Regents and my weight loss goals.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
The Beginning
It always seems the beginning is a good place to start. I like to wear hats. In fact I have 19 hats (I just counted). Currently I'm wearing the NY Rangers Draft Day hat from 2008 which is silly because the Rangers were just killed by the NJ devils 6-3. I didn't get to watch the game because I was in class.
To get back on topic, I have 19 hats which is probably more than your average 23 year old female. I think my hats represent how for 23 years I've been trying to hide who I am. Sure a hat can't hide your entire body, but I also can't hide myself very well either. The fact that I need 19 hats makes me think of all many different aspects of my life there are.
I've hidden myself for far too long. I've always been the one to read numerous blogs and never post a comment. That's the reason I'm starting this blog. I want to be honest with myself. To do that I need to make myself accountable to all of you, if there is anyone reading.
So within this blog I plan to tell you many of things including my two trips to Oswego, my plan to lose 23 lbs, the awfulness of the NY Rangers, my nights of Sailing on Long Island Sound, trying to get a job, saving to move out of my parents house and trying to graduate from graduate school not to mention if I buy anymore hats. Welcome to my mind.
To get back on topic, I have 19 hats which is probably more than your average 23 year old female. I think my hats represent how for 23 years I've been trying to hide who I am. Sure a hat can't hide your entire body, but I also can't hide myself very well either. The fact that I need 19 hats makes me think of all many different aspects of my life there are.
I've hidden myself for far too long. I've always been the one to read numerous blogs and never post a comment. That's the reason I'm starting this blog. I want to be honest with myself. To do that I need to make myself accountable to all of you, if there is anyone reading.
So within this blog I plan to tell you many of things including my two trips to Oswego, my plan to lose 23 lbs, the awfulness of the NY Rangers, my nights of Sailing on Long Island Sound, trying to get a job, saving to move out of my parents house and trying to graduate from graduate school not to mention if I buy anymore hats. Welcome to my mind.
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