Sunday, June 30, 2013

Day 419

Did my running at Padden this morning before working out with Lorinda.  35 minutes so not the blazing 34min from last week but still not bad.  I feel like I found a rhythm to my running and was able to once again almost run the entire back side of the trail. 
With Lorinda we worked on the back and some stretching.  So another good workout.

Breakfast: Banana with a teaspoon of almond butter.

After running: 1/2 bottle of protein drink.  Since I was going to the gym almost directly after the run I didn't want to eat too much.  This seemed about right and L agreed.

After workout with L: Two small chicken corn tortillas with guacamole.

Mid afternoon snack: More roasted chicken and two Wasa Crisp with almond butter

Dinner" Broccoli soup with potstickers and chicken.

Late snack: Handful of almonds (didn't count)

So today was interesting.  After running and then working out with L, I went home and basically did nothing.  I just sat around watching movies and playing on the computer.  I did wash some clothes and took some garbage out but overall I did nothing.  I had to really be aware of my feeling hungry when I knew I didn't need to eat anything.  I'm sure the running and workout made my brain think I should be eating.  I might need to eat more after the workout.

Day 418

Here it is the end of the work week and the beginning of a new weekend program.  Saturday is now running day and Sunday is now biking day.  I need to start getting more serious about this race in October.  At least I think I need to do that?  Ha.
It was a relatively normal day with nothing bad happening.  So no over the top food stories and no guilt about not working out. 

Breakfast: The last of the frittata was eaten this morning and boy was it filling. Loaded up with lentils, broccoli, and bok choy made for a hearty breakfast.  I really enjoyed it though.  20oz of cold water.

1st snack: Greek yogurt and 24 almonds

Lunch: Low carb tortilla with salmon, lettuce, tomato, tahini, and hummus.  An ice cream sandwich.

Dinner: Here's where goes off the rails a bit.  Still not enough to be bad but...  Had a sandwich from a local deli.  It was rye bread with loads of pastrami and big dollop of cole slaw.  I had a serving size bag of chips and a couple of adult beverages.  A bit later still hungry (?) I had two chicken legs from an oven roasted chicken.

I am quite sure this was my brain sabotaging my earlier triumph on the scale (229lbs).  I will say though that since Weds I've eat quite a few baked goods so that could have influenced the sub conscious into wanting the big meal.  It could be my cheat meal but the weekend is starting and normally the cheat meal happens sometime on Sat or possibly Sunday.  So I guess this has to count.  I'll have to be more careful for the rest of the weekend now.

Of course next weekend is the PaizoCon excursion and all bets are off.  I'll not have a plan and just go with the flow.  I do know I will be eating lunch on Thurs at the all you can eat seafood place from last year.  Fortunately the hotel this year isn't even close so there won't be the same number of visits as last year.

Friday, June 28, 2013

Day 417

So it's the day after Tabata and I'm taking the day off from working out.  I'm visiting friends I occasionally hang out with.  I figure it's not a bad thing to take time off.  At the same time I'm conscious of possible sabotage.  I say that because yesterday I hit a soft goal weight wise and I'm afraid my brain can't take the possibility that I can achieve the ultimate goal.  Possibly this sounds like I'm making excuses but this has happened before.  I guess though since I'm aware of it I may be able to lessen the impact and maybe keep it from becoming an issue.
Wow a bit out there but still a valid concern.  I think that that is something we need to address quite often when body issues come into play.  It's easy to look at the scale and make note of the pounds going away but then look in the mirror and still see the imperfections.  The eyes can see the brain may be blowing smoke, yet the brain is trying to convince the heart to keep going, because the brain knows how it can end.  
All you need is time and honest effort.

Breakfast: Frittata with the broccoli, lentils, and bok choy along with a fruit bar from the baked goods extravaganza of yesterday.  20oz of cold water.

1st snack: Yes I'm still eating baked goods.  4 root beer float cookies.  I swear these taste just like a root beer float.

Lunch: Low carb tortilla with salmon, tahini, hummus, tomato, and lettuce.  A piece of cheese cake.

2nd snack: More baked goods: 2-lemon bars (so good) and 2-pretzel carmel brownies

Dinner: Visiting friends and they made rice with chicken and sausage with veggies.  Had a big serving and then a very small serving of rice with more chicken and sausage with veggies.  Also a small helping of salad made with cilantro, watermelon, and cucumber.  It was quite good.

So went a bit off the rails today but it still makes life worth living so I'm accepting the quilt and moving on.  The only way to live is to live and learn.  I keep telling myself that this body wasn't made in a day so don't expect it to become the body you want in a day.  Silly maybe but the truth never hurts.  At least not too much.

Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Day 416

Tabata!  Yes I love me some Tabata!  Another great session and I once again killed push ups.  I still can't do more than about one and a half by the eighth round but I'm still pushing like I can.
Today was the last day of the weight loss contest.  I have to say I was pleasantly surprised with my result today.  229.4lbs.  So I've finally broken the 230 barrier.  I haven't weighed this little since the mid '90's.  That was when I was fencing three nites a week and sweating like a madman.  I figure I can now look forward to my soft goal of 220lbs and see beyond that to the actual goal of 200lbs.  It might actually be doable.
Today was a challenge though as there was a birthday and a baked goods fund raiser going on at work.  A little indulgence was in order though so no regrets just going to focus on better eating later in the week.

Breakfast: Two eggs on a skinny bun with tomato and almond butter.  20oz of cold water.

1st snack: First baked goods indulgence.  2-cookies and a couple of other pastry types.

Lunch: Tortilla (low carb) with salmon, tomato, tahini, hummus, and lettuce.  More baked goods (2-lemon bars and a salted Carmel brownie)  Then a piece of cheese cake.

2nd snack: A piece of cheese cake

Dinner: Banana sandwich made with almond butter on two Wasa crisps.  Greek yogurt and Chia seeds.  A cookie from the baked goods.

Yes today was a throwback to the old days.  It felt good but I also realize that I'd better not do that to many times or else the 230 mark will be a thing of the past and 200 will never see the light of day.  Gotta remind myself 229.4 not bad and I can do better.

Day 415

Quick and to the point.  I did the stretching/yoga/core class and that was a good break from Tabata.  It makes a nice transition between the two days of Tabata.

Breakfast: It was again the frittata with broccoli, tomato, Bok choy, and lentils.  Also the famous 20oz of cold water.

1st snack: Greek yogurt and 24 almonds

Lunch: Low carb tortilla with hummus, tahini, salmon, lettuce, and tomato.  Ice cream sandwich.

Dinner: Was feeling a bit hungry so had a Greek yogurt with 24 almonds and Chia seeds.  Then had a half of a cantaloupe with some peach/mango salsa.  I finished off the Wasabi trail mix.  There was hardly any there only about two tablespoons.

Tomorrow is the final day for the weigh in contest and I'm very curious (as I said yesterday) as to how I did this last week.  I really don't know how I will feel one way or the other.  If I've gained weight or if I've lost weight.  I do know that my clothes continue to fit and maybe even are a little more loose.

Tuesday, June 25, 2013

Day 414

Tabata!  Yes it is that time again where I sweat like a cold brewski in 100 degree weather.  It was great and I'll enjoy the stretching class tomorrow because of it.  Otherwise a normal day.  Had the frittata for breakfast and it will be quite delish the rest of the week.  I'll once again be curious how the weigh in will go on Wednesday though.  I'm expecting to be surprised.  There, that leaves it open to any result without me declaring any disappointment or elation. 

Breakfast: Frittata made with broccoli, bokchoy, and tomato with lentils for fiber and protein.  20oz of cold water.

1st snack: Greek yogurt and 24 almonds

Lunch: Low carb tortilla with hummus, tahini, ground turkey, lettuce, tomato, and a hard boiled egg.

Dinner: Mexicali salad from TJ's and I added a tomato.  Two big handfuls of Wasabi trail mix and 6 strawberries.

I battled the hungries tonight and just barely succeeded in defeating them.  The Wasabi trail mix was a constant reminder of something I could eat.  I was able to hold off, even though many times before I went to bed I caught myself reaching for the bag.  Once again the Padden run makes it's power known with the siren of hunger.  I have to remember to eat more earlier in the day.  I also wonder how that might change when I start running on Sat morn and riding on Sun morning?  Will I be even more hungry?  I guess we'll find out as this weekend starts that program.

Monday, June 24, 2013

Day 413

Running around Padden day.  Good news as I was able to make the run in 34 minutes!  A whole minute faster than the last few weeks.  Setting myself up for the new program starting next weekend.  I was able to run the entire west side of the route.  This is the hilly side.  I impressed myself as I'd start to slow down and mentally tell myself that the next corner I'd walk for a bit.  The next corner would come and I would keep running.  I'm not too excited but at least I'm seemingly getting better at this running thing.

Breakfast: Greek yogurt and Chia seeds, 20oz of cold water.

After run: Protein drink.

After grocery shopping: Turkey, bacon, and avocado sandwich on an 8" wheat hoagy roll.  I loaded it with the veggies and it also had Asaigio cheese.  I also had some strawberries and Wasabi trail mix with my low sodium V-8.

I'm doing the game thing again today so I'll not be eating a true dinner.  More like snacking for 5 hours.  I'll probably have more of the Wasabi trail mix (two handfuls) and an Apple Pie Larabar.  Included in that will be a low sodium V-8 and a dark chocolate candy bar.

Tomorrow is the start of the new work week and Tabata!  So looking forward to the breath taking workout.


Saturday, June 22, 2013

Day 412

Met up with L today and we had a good one again.  We worked the chest today and talked about running issues.  We meet early as she had a triathlon to compete in later in the day.  She seemed ready to go (maybe not as excited about swimming but still game) so I hope she does well and is satisfied with her results.  I wish her luck (ha I just typed lunch that would have been funny, "I wish her lunch") and know she'll do herself proud.

She inspires me for my race in October.

Breakfast: Greek yogurt and Chia seeds.  20oz of cold water.

After workout: Protein drink. 

I went for a bike ride after the gym and it was good.  I then had two fish tacos with tomato and avocado along with a low sodium V-8.

Mid afternoon snack: Starbucks Tall skinny vanilla latte with protein

Dinner: Went for a Bento box from the local sushi place.  It consisted of prawns deep fried (5), California roll (6), small salad, and a small Miso soup.

Dinner was a bit earlier than normal so later I had a half of a cantaloupe. 

So another good day and it was even nice weather so made the bike ride even more enjoyable.  We are starting to head into our nicer weather (fingers crossed) so I'm starting to think about plans for bike riding. 
Tomorrow is running around Padden and then next week I'll start the running around Padden on Saturday before meeting with L and Sunday riding the trail for the mountain bike portion.  I plan on making that a regular thing from now on until the race.

Day 411

So it's Friday and I'm rather happy with that fact.  Not because it's been a bad work week or because I love the weekend (which I do) but simply because I take a break from working out.  Again that's not because I don't like working out (who doesn't right?) I just like being able to give myself the day off.  All it means is that I'll work that much harder the rest of the time.  And that is a win/win in my world.

Breakfast: Two eggs on a skinny bun with roast beef, tomato, and avocado.  20oz of cold water.

1st snack: Greek yogurt and 24 almonds

Lunch: Low carb tortilla with hummus, tahini, ground turkey, tomato, and lettuce.  Pasta salad.

Dinner: Adult beverage.  Hamburger sans bun, broccoli, and tomato salad.  A bit later still hungry so 100cal bag of popcorn and still hungry after that so had a skinny bun with almond butter and 4 slices of roast beef.

So my dinner choice wasn't real satisfying and thus had a bit of off the reservation happening.  I still tried to keep it under control and feel like I partially succeeded.

So a pretty good week overall.  I didn't gain any weight and my clothes continue to fit better.  They aren't getting looser per se but still the belt is solidly in the 6th hole and doesn't seem like it's going back to the 5th anytime soon.

Friday, June 21, 2013

Day 410

Breakfast: All week I've forgotten to include the three slices of roast beef as part of the egg sandwich I've been having.  So breakfast is two eggs, roast beef, tomato, and avocado on a skinny bun.  20oz of cold water.

1st snack: Greek yogurt and 24 almonds

Lunch: Low carb tortilla with ground turkey, hummus, tahini, tomato, and lettuce.  Also pasta salad.

Dinner: Hamburger on a skinny bun with an egg, tomato, and avocado.  Went with sweet potato fries from TJ's and eight onion rings also from TJ's.

So I went to the gym for what seemed like the first time on a Thursday in quite a while.  Not sure if that was true but it felt like it.  I decided to give my legs a rest and so worked the upper body.  I did one of L's workouts and tried to use a heavier weight than normal.  I really need to start pushing more iron around.  At this point though I've got a good schedule of workouts going.  I feel I just need to do a little more each time.  So the plan to start running on Sat morning and riding on Sunday morning will be the beginning of that plan.

July is going to be interesting as I'm expecting to not meet with L much that month.  We both have commitments that will keep us from getting together.  It's mostly going to put the pressure on me to continue to workout.  I really don't think it will be much of an issue but it's still going to be in the background.  I expect that we will change things up a bit and meet during the week or make an early time to work out.  I figure by the time August rolls around I'll be needing to really step it up and try really hard to make better times.  Both the running and the bike need to pick up speed.  That's on me and I'll be focusing my efforts in that direction. 

Thursday, June 20, 2013

Day 409

Tabata!  Except it wasn't.  I showed up for class and no one else did.  Bummer.  The instructor was very apologetic and asked if we could just skip it tonight.  She had a meeting she would need to run to at the end of the class and since I was the only one there we decided that we'd call it. 
She did get me to do a version of Tabata on my own though.  I used the elliptical and the recumbent to do intervals similar to Tabata.  I didn't sweat quite as much as I normally do but I still felt that I got a workout that was worth the time spent.  So I basically did 20sec hard with 10sec easy.  I also ramped up the levels so that it wasn't easy.  Next week back to normal.  This week was a weird Tabata  plan overall.

Breakfast: Two eggs on a skinny bun with tomato and avocado.  20oz of cold water.

1st snack: Greek yogurt and 24 almonds

Lunch: Low carb tortilla, falafel, tomato, hummus, tahini, lettuce.  Pasta salad.

Dinner: Protein drink.  Greek yogurt with Chia seeds, jerky, small handful Wasabi trail mix, and three slices of roast beef.  The roast beef came a bit later after dinner as I was still feeling hungry.  That seemed to work as I was able to feel not hungry.

So the fake tabata was actually a good workout and I was happy with it.  If the instructor hadn't pushed a little bit I'd have probably gone home early.  So good job Angie!

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

Day 408

Not much to say so let's just put it down on screen and move on.  Oh did the stretching/yoga/core class tonight and it was good.  I felt the Tabata from last night and when I left the class tonight I felt good.  So this one's a keeper.

Breakfast: Two eggs on a skinny bun with tomato and avocado.  20oz of cold water.

1st snack: Greek yogurt and 24 almonds

Lunch: Falafel with hummus, tahini, tomato, and lettuce on a low carb tortilla.  This was quite delicious and I'm going to remember this for the future.

Dinner: Greek yogurt and Chia seeds.  A handful of Wasabi trail mix, banana, and two slices of roast beef.  The roast beef came in because I was feeling hungry and I needed to satisfy that as simply as possible.  It worked.

Tomorrow is Tabata and weigh in day for the second to last week of the contest.  I'll be curious once again to see if I've lost or gained weight.  I have no idea as to what it will be.

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Day 407

Tabata!  It's that day of the week and I'm ready to do it.  This week is going to be back to normal after last week's down time.  I only worked out twice during the work week and that's not normal for me.  It's okay though as it was nice to take it easy.  This week though back to it for sure.  So Tabata was fun and different as we had a different instructor.  This one likes to mix it up and not let us get complacent.  I like all the different styles available.
This weeks breakfast is back to an old standby but with a delicious twist.  Same with lunch.  An oldie but goody with all the ingredients including one that always gets forgotten.  Looking forward to lunch this week.

Breakfast: Two eggs fried on a skinny bun with roast beef, tomato, avocado, and cheese.  20oz of cold water.  Won't have cheese the rest of the week.

1st snack: Greek yogurt and 24 almonds.  There were still quesadillas left from the Friday birthday food and I had a couple of slices.  Couldn't help it.

Lunch: Falafel with tomato, lettuce, tahini, and hummus on a low carb wrap.  Had a small cupcake (again couldn't help it).

2nd snack: 4-5 small pieces of little bread and hummus.  A very small piece of cake.

Dinner: Protein drink.  Greek yogurt with Chia seeds, piece of jerky, three strawberries, and a small handful of Wasabi trail mix.

Breakfast and lunch were very good.  This is something I always try to maintain and that's meals that satisfy my craving for good food.  Sometimes it turns into quantity over quality but I fight tooth and nail to reverse that trend.  If I can give myself quality food I'll be satisfied with small portions and that will be good for me in the big picture.  If I can sustain that first mouthful feeling thru out the meal than I know I'll be satisfied to the point of not needing any more after the initial serving.  Again something to strive for every day.

Day 406

So it's Padden day and I went for a bike ride and run.  It was a half bike ride and then I ran around Padden.  My running time was still 35 minutes which at first I was a bit disappointed in but then realized I'd just biked for 30min and it wasn't an easy bike ride.  It did help me make a decision that changes my routine just a bit.  I'm going to start running around Padden on Saturday before I meet with L and then on Sunday I'll do the bike ride.  This way my Sunday routine will still be on time and I can start riding the full trail to become a better rider.  At least that is my hope.  Where I think I can make up time is the bike part so that's the new focus.  I can't just focus on the bike though so the running also needs a focus.  So by splitting them up on different days I think that will solve the issue.  Plus I get to ride the bike in more challenging terrain.

Breakfast: Greek yogurt mixed with a banana and Chia seeds.  20oz of cold water.

After bike/run meal: Protein drink then after grocery shopping a Mexicali salad with 8 pot stickers and four strawberries.

Mid day snack: 100cal bag of popcorn, an apple, and a handful of Wasabi trail mix.

Dinner: Once again more like an extended snack than an actual meal.  I was with a group of D&D players for the evening.  I had a Peanut Butter Larabar, two handfuls of the Wasabi trail mix, jerky, a candy bar (dark chocolate), and a low sodium V-8.  This was eaten over a four hour period.

So there we go, the end of the weekend and I learned something about the Padden training.  I did feel very good running after riding.  I actually seemed to be able to run farther and a bit faster.  Of course I then would run slower but at least I was still making the running motions.  I also practiced the speed-up method L has spoken about.  She suggested waiting until the end of the run to practice it and so I think that made a big difference in my ability to master it.  All body parts felt good, no hitches or possible cramps.  Still a bit disappointed in the time but not discouraged at all.  I'll be out there again next Sunday.

Monday, June 17, 2013

Day 405

It's Saturday and I've got to meet with L and then go to sushi.  That makes for an awesome day of fun! 
We talked about my starting to ride and run around Padden to get more prepared for the race.  I'll plan on riding half of the mountain bike trail and then run around the lake to see how it is.  I need to get better at the mountain bike trail as that is where I will need to make time.  I just don't think the running is going to go any faster especially after running and then riding and then running again.  L is very encouraging though so I shouldn't get too wound up about it.  I guess I just need to keep doing what I'm doing and it will come. 
One change I'm going to make though is this, I'm going to start running Sat morning before meeting with L and then mountain bike on Sunday.  I need to still stick to my Sunday routine and if I try to do both there just isn't enough time to do it properly.  Besides it won't hurt me to get up and run before L does her thing on me.

Breakfast: Greek yogurt with Chia seeds and 20oz of cold water.

After workout: Sushi.  This was mainly the "not raw" type of sushi so there was white rice and other stuff.  Also a beer.  I was conservative in the amount of sushi I ate and I think I did fine in moderation.

Dinner: Went with friends to a movie so dinner was later but still early.  Had a rice noodle salad that was quite delicious.  Then indulged and had an ice cream cookie sandwich.  Which I have since learned is very high calories and fat.  The numbers are so bad I'm not at liberty to reveal them.  Lets just say I won't be eating this anymore except on very rare occasions.  I knew this going in so I savored the opportunity to enjoy this particular ice cream treat.

Late nite snack: Since dinner was earlier than usual I did have a banana and almond butter as a late evening snack.

So had a good workout with L and then the sushi so balanced out somewhat.  Tomorrow is Padden running and biking so looking forward to that.

Saturday, June 15, 2013

Day 404

Ya, it's the end of the week and tomorrow is L day so life is good.  I'm going to be good and not go overboard for food today.  It is a birthday at work so there will be special stuff and I'll probably have an ice cream sandwich for lunch.  No working out today and I decided at the last minute not to go for a bike ride after work.  Taking it easy this week.  I ended up only working out twice this week.  The stretching/yoga night and then of course Tabata.  Otherwise nothing, nada, no workout.  That's okay though as the Sunday run is going to be the bike/run tryout.  I'm curious as to how that will go and I'm thinking I won't worry about time.  I'm going to get there early though so my day will still be on track.

Breakfast: No frittata today but still had two eggs with a veggie patty on a skinny bun with a Babybel cheese round.  20oz of cold water.

1st snack: Greek yogurt and 24 almonds

Lunch: I'd planned on the quinoa and veggies i'd been eating all week but... The boss brought in quesadillas for a birthday at work.  I ended up eating 4 slices with guacamole and sour cream plus I had an ice cream sandwich.  Also there was some small sliced French bread and I had three of those with peanut butter.

2nd Snack: Quesadilla

Dinner: Again some quesadilla (3) and then some quinoa with broccoli and cauliflower.  Also an adult beverage.

So quesadillas were the villains today but I kept it from becoming a bloodbath.  Tomorrow will take care of that.  Of course the plan for tomorrow after workout meal is sushi.  Meeting work friends and expect to be under control for that.  I can only hope.

Day 403

Taking the day off from the gym.  Meeting up with friends at their home for dinner after work.  I haven't hung out with them in a while so it should be fun.  We're going to talk about our plans for the return of the "Debacle in July" II.  Yes once again I'm going to subject myself to four days of not exercising and definitely not eating anything healthy during those four days.

Breakfast: Frittata with mushrooms, ground turkey, and spinach with cheese.  20oz of cold water.

1st snack: Greek yogurt and 24 almonds

Lunch: Quinoa with brussel sprouts, cauliflower, broccoli, and cheese with black bean/corn salsa.  Ice cream sandwich.

No 2nd snack

Dinner: Dinner was at friends and I was good only had a very small 2nd portion.  We had roast pork with kale over rice.  Did have an adult beverage.

So even though I didn't go to the gym I was conservative in my food choices today.  I think I did fairly well so looking good for the day.

Day 402

Yay Tabata!  This week has been a bit different and will continue in that vein.  So Tabata was the choice today and that will be it for the rest of the week until I meet with L on Saturday.  I guess it's an off week but the good news is it's also weigh in day and I actually lost weight.  Not a lot but it's a loss so very nice surprise.  I'm always impressed when I've lose weight since it does seem to be an issue.  At the same time definitely more comments about looking like I've lost weight from people I haven't seen recently.  So over all I shouldn't be bothered about the weight thing.  Of course this is old news and such.  I just can't help it, when the main objective is my health and weight is one of the concerns.

Breakfast: Frittata with ground turkey, mushroom, and spinach.  20oz of cold water.

1st snack: Greek yogurt and 24 almonds

Lunch: Quinoa with brussel sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, and cheese mixed with black bean/corn salsa.

2nd snack: Ice cream sandwich

Dinner: Due to Tabata I did feel a bit hungrier than normal so my dinner was different than normal. First up I had a protein drink then I had a hamburger on a skinny bun with almond butter and a Babybel cheese round melted on top.  Big handful of Wasabi Pea trail mix and a low sodium V-8.

That did seem to satisfy the hunger.  Tabata was intense tonight.  We did one set that consisted of a small band strung between our ankles and we lunged sideways across the floor.  That was a killer but then we did mountain climbers so that was even more killeresque.  Still once again a great workout.  The next week should be back to normal though for everything (not expecting any overtime at work).  Tomorrow I'm going to friends after work so I'm skipping the gym.  I'll try to be good and not over indulge for dinner there.  Could be a challenge though as they are really good cooks.

Wednesday, June 12, 2013

Day 401

So I didn't have to work overtime today but not sure how the rest of the week will go.  So I figured I'd better hit the gym while I had the chance.  I tried out a new class and was pleasantly surprised.  It was listed as a stretching class but that was just the tip of the iceberg.  The instructor started us out with core then moved into some yoga and finished up with stretching.  I heard the word Pilate's in there somewhere also.  I really like the idea of this class in between the two days of Tabata. 
So for now I've got Tabata on Monday then the stretching/yoga class on Tuesday and than back to Tabata on Wednesday.  The rest of the week can be made up of bike riding or weights at the gym.  Of course then there's L day and running day.  So I think I've discovered a good mix for now.
I've felt good all week and the belt is in the 6th spot so I'm keeping the flow going.  I'm going to be curious tomorrow as to the actual weight for weigh in day.  Not sure but I think I'll do okay.

Breakfast: Frittata with mushroom, spinach, and ground turkey along with cheese.  20oz of cold water.

1st snack: Someone put some donuts in the break room at work and so of course I had a half of a donut.  Also had the Greek yogurt and almonds (24).  Then had another half of a donut.

Lunch: Had the weird salad mix again.  Quinoa, broccoli, cauliflower, and in the quinoa was brussel sprouts.  I tossed in some cheese and black Bean and corn salsa.

no 2nd snack

Dinner: Because the gym workout wasn't intense (even though I did sweat my shirt) I skipped the protein drink.  I did have the Greek yogurt and Chia seeds.  I also had a big handful of the Wasabi Pea trail mix, some jerky, cauliflower, low sodium V-8, and a banana.  That was over the course of about 2 hours.

So even though it wasn't a hard workout (like Tabata) I was a bit hungrier than I anticipated.  Maybe I should have had the protein drink and then I wouldn't have nibbled my way thru the evening.

I really enjoyed the gym class and I'll be back for more.  I did feel a bit awkward but am confident that I'll get the hang of it by continuing to go to the class.  Similar to Tabata as I felt a bit "fish out of water" my first couple of sessions.  Now I'm a pro (snicker).  It should be fun and worthwhile.

Tuesday, June 11, 2013

Day 400 or Wow I can't believe I ate the whole thing!

Yes it's day 400 and I'm quite happy that I've made it this far in the journey.  I celebrated by not going to the gym and working overtime at work.  It seemed like the thing to do and of course the boss was quite pleased.  When I did get off I thought I'd do a mini home workout but ended up not even doing that.  So it was definitely a cheat day as far as exercise was concerned.

Breakfast: Started the week out with the frittata made with ground turkey, mushrooms, spinach, and cheese.  I put some guacamole on it and drank 20oz of cold water.

1st snack: Greek yogurt and 24 almonds

Lunch: Made quinoa on the weekend and mixed in some brussel sprouts.  Microwaved some cauliflower and added some cheese and salsa.  Weird but tasted okay.

No 2nd snack

Dinner: Because I worked overtime and got home late I had a weird (seems to be a theme today) mix of broccoli, Asian slaw, and quinoa in a veggie broth soup.  Then had two handfuls of Wasabi Pea trail mix.

So there it is, the 400th day of this blog about me.  I've exercised and tried to eat right.  I'm training for a running/bike ride race and still trying to lose another 20-30lbs.  Recently I have lost a bit more weight and that was encouraging.  Also encouraging are the comments I've gotten from people who knew me when I weighed much more than I do now.  So even though I haven't lost much weight lately I've at least slimmed down enough people have noticed.  That's not a bad thing and something to look forward to for the next 400 days.

Monday, June 10, 2013

Day 399

Ran around Lake Padden today and boy are my legs tired.  Ha.  It seemed like I was moving faster than I had in the past few weeks but the time was still the same, 35min.  I do think I was running at a better clip at times but still not able to maintain the pace.  I'm guessing it will come but I'm going to have to work for it.  Which means more running. 

Breakfast: Greek yogurt with Chia seeds and 20oz of cold water.

After the run: Protein drink and then went grocery shopping.  After the shopping I had a salad with chicken and quinoa along with some cheese.

Mid afternoon snack: While cooking up the work week lunch I had a small bowl of quinoa and veggies.  It was more like a sampling of the lunch offering.

Something called dinner: It really wasn't dinner but more like a snacking meal.  I went and played the D&D game that has been gathering on Sunday's.  Since it really isn't possible to eat a real meal I took some Wasabi Pea trail mix, a candy bar from TJ's, jerky, and a low sodium V-8.

Tomorrow is Tabata Monday but I have this weird feeling I'm not going to make it to the gym.  I've already made plans for Thursday so this week seems like it will be an off week.  I'll need to be careful how I eat.  And what I eat.  I'm thinking the frittata was the way to go for breakfast (less carbs) and even though I'm eating quinoa (carbs) for lunch, they are still good with lots of protein.  I will be interested to see how the Weds weigh in goes.

Sunday, June 9, 2013

Day 398

Got together with L today as usual.  She was out of town last week so I was on my own for the workout.  I did a pretty good job of exercising but I missed the advice and social nature of our weekly workouts.  So it was good to meet with her this week. We did biceps and triceps.
The weather didn't really cooperate in the sense of being sunny, but I still went for a bike ride after the workout.  So the bike ride was just practice for tomorrow's running around Padden.  It was a good bike ride.  I might have to start thinking about riding to work in the coming weeks.  Probably an awesome way to start the workday.

Breakfast: I always have something different for breakfast on the weekends.  This time I'm having Greek yogurt with Chia seeds and a banana mixed together.  Also the standard 20oz of cold water.

After workout: Came home and had a protein drink then went for an hour long bike ride.  After the bike ride I had a fish sandwich on a skinny bun with almond butter and BBQ sauce.  Also had some sweet potato fries (frozen TJ's).

I ate nothing else until dinner as I was going to friends for a BBQ and we were having hot dogs.  These were not your little wimpy hot dogs but the giant ones from Costco.  So I had two, buns on both, and some pasta salad, potato salad, and chips.  Then they brought out the cake.  I had a piece of that.  Again not my finest hour of eating but still I held back to an extant.  There were more hot dogs, and salads,along with chips of which I could have eaten but didn't.  That's one of those things that is different from the old days.  In the old days I would have had a third hot dog and definitely more chip.  So in the big picture it's a win.  Also something to remember and to build on.  Moderation and control are all part of the picture I'm trying to live to.  Not there yet but getting closer?

Friday, June 7, 2013

Day 397

Ah, once again it's that day of the week I look forward to the most (other than Tabata days).  Friday.  Yes it's that day.  The day where I allow myself a bit of indulgence and the letting down of hair.  I don't work out and I try to be good with what I eat but I don't let it control me.
This Friday was different but the same.  I didn't go to friends for the game but still met up with friends at a restaurant.  We had Mexican and adult beverages.  Not a lot as I really don't support driving under the influence.  At least under the influence of adult beverages, I have no problem being under the influence of Mexican food.
When I got home I started feeling like I needed to do something other than sit in front of the computer so I went for a bike ride.  Crazy.  I think I was a bit buzzed.  It was a short ride, only 25min but still fun.  I tried not to coast and I think I accomplished that goal.  As much as anything though it was just to get out and get moving.  And I did.

Breakfast: Three egg frittata with spinach, veggie meat, avocado, and salsa.

1st snack: Greek yogurt and almonds (24)

Lunch: Spinach salad with cauliflower, black beans, Babybel cheese round, and salsa.  2 small slices of French/garlic bread.

2nd snack: 2 small slices of French bread with peanut butter

Dinner: Mexican.  Two seafood enchiladas with rice and a large adult beverage.

After the bike ride I had a few slices of deli turkey with a Wasa crisp cracker.

So another successful Friday.  Tomorrow L is back and we're on.

Day 396

So the day after Tabata and I feel good.  The push ups were tough but I'm not feeling any residual from them.  I did them on my toes but by the end of the series I was still only able to do 1 and maybe a half.  Still the weather is good so I'm going for a bike ride for sure.  I also hit the chiropractor and that was a good idea.  I'd been feeling a bit of an issue with my neck and the chiro visit made a big difference.

Breakfast: Three egg frittata with spinach, veggie meat, and feta.  20oz of cold water

1st snack: Totally spaced bringing yogurt so just made do with almonds.  For once ate more than 24. 

Lunch: Today did a broccoli, cauliflower, salmon, and black bean veggie mix.  Then had an ice cream treat. 

Didn't have a 2nd snack

Dinner: Protein drink.  Also Greek yogurt with Chia seeds and almonds (24).  Also had the last of the buffalo jerky and added a Babybel cheese round.

Since I went to the chiropractor after work I only went for a bike ride that lasted 50min.  For one thing I didn't want to over do it after the adjustment.  I still had a good ride and it was fun, which is really the objective in the long run. 

Here's a somewhat random thought.  I was reminded the other day about the food I don't eat anymore or at least not as often as the old days.  For example KFC used to be my Friday lunch every week or at least every payday Friday.  I haven't eaten KFC since I started working with L.  The question is, do I miss it?  Well yes but at the same time I don't.  I've found other food that's just as tasty and better for me to replace the KFC craving.  Granted I'm sure one of these days I'll pick up some KFC but for now I'm okay with not eating any.  The same thing happened with Mountain Dew.  I used to drink it quite often.  Especially during those D&D sessions that came around every week.  Again once I started with L, I realized I'd need to cut back on the soda and I did.  Now I drink a soda once in a while and then it's only one not the two or three I would have in the past.  So in thinking about the past and what I used to eat and the quantity I'd eat makes me realize I've changed my self and it's a good thing. I can honestly say I want to change and that's also a good thing.  Especially for me and my desire to live my life to the fullest I can. 

Thursday, June 6, 2013

Day 395

Tabata!  Need I say more?

Breakfast: Two egg frittata with spinach, veggie meat, and feta with 4 slices of deli turkey.  Added some avocado and then drank 20oz of cold water.

1st snack: Greek yogurt and 24 almonds

Lunch: Spinach salad with brussel sprouts, broccoli, and cauliflower.  Steak strips rounded it out for protein.

2nd snack: Ice cream treat.  Mint chocolate cone

Dinner: Protein drink.  Spinach salad with salmon patty, cauliflower, black beans, and salsa for dressing.  Finished off the Wasabi Pea trail mix.  Then a bit later had a banana with almond butter for dessert.

Today was also weigh in for the contest and I was a bit surprised as I weighed exactly the same as last week.  So far feeling good about this.  I'm not going to win the contest (wasn't really the purpose) but I'm encouraged.  I've seemed to have finally broken thru the wall I've been running into for the last year.  At least it seems like it anyway.  Pretty sure the running has something to do with it.

Have I said lately how much I love Tabata?  Gotta thank L for encouraging me to try it out.  Also must give a shout out to the instructors who've put up with my huffing and puffing.  Of course if anyone asks I will say that it's loads of "fun" and everyone should be doing it.  ;)

Supposed to be nice weather again tomorrow so am looking forward to another bike ride.  Crossing my fingers that Saturday will also be nice so I can go for a ride then.

Day 394

Beautiful day weather wise and so the bike comes out.  Skipping the gym in favor of bike riding and a good biking workout was had.  I also started something a bit new for breakfast (still involves eggs).  That's really got me interested in getting out of bed in the morning.  I still cheat a bit as I still sleep in while the frittata is in the oven but I'm still getting up.  That's a win for now.

Breakfast: Two egg frittata with spinach, veggie meat and feta.  Of course the standard 20oz of cold water.

1st snack: Greek yogurt and 24 almonds

Lunch: Continuing the spinach salad with brussel sprouts, cauliflower, and broccoli.  Today meat was a salmon patty.

No 2nd snack

Dinner: After the bike ride (hour long) I had a protein drink.  Then a Greek yogurt with Chia seeds and 24 almonds.  Also a couple of pieces of Buffalo jerky.  This jerky made from buffalo meat and is also spicy like buffalo wings.  Interesting combo and rather tasty.

So an hour on the bike and I tried to not coast much.  Continued to pedal as much as possible and went for the hilly route.  There's a new route I've thought about and will try that out here one of these days.  It will be a bit out of the normal routes I take and will involve at least one street I'll have to be careful on.  I'll be checking it out here soon.

Wednesday, June 5, 2013

Day 393

It's Tabata! day.  The work week gets off to a bang with Tabata.  I'm feeling great after the run yesterday and I will get in a bike ride tomorrow as the weather has turned to very sunny and warm.  The Tabata was filled with legs and abs so I'm hoping that I will feel okay over the next few days.  It can be a tough go at times especially when it's focused.  I did very well food wise today as I wasn't hungry like I've been in the past weeks on Monday after the Sunday run.  Sometimes it can carry over to Tuesday so I'm curious to see how tomorrow turns out.  I didn't eat any more food today than normal so that's not the issue.  I wonder if I could have worked harder on the run.  Not sure though as it seemed like I was going all out when I could.  Maybe next week I'll try to consciously work as hard as I can and see what happens.  Probably similar to lifting weight and lifting to failure.  It's good for your body to do that occasionally.  It's definitely something I should experiment with.

Breakfast: Two eggs fried with turkey and feta.  Salsa and 20oz of cold water.

1st snack: Greek yogurt and almonds (24) plus a piece of carrot cake from Friday

Lunch: Spinach salad with broccoli, brussel sprouts, and cauliflower warmed up in the microwave.  This was topped with corn/black bean salsa.  Someone brought in a loaf of banana bread and I had two pieces.

2nd snack: Again a piece of the carrot cake from Friday

Dinner: Spinach salad with salmon patty.  There was also avocado and cauliflower.  Of course a protein drink.  Also two big handfuls of Wasabi Pea and Peanut mix.

So I was very satisfied with dinner.  I didn't feel the urge to scramble around the kitchen looking for that one morsel of food that would satisfy.  I'm hoping this has something to do with my metabolism finally figuring it out.  I will wait until tomorrow to decide if a schedule like today will be beneficial.

Tuesday, June 4, 2013

Day 392

So it's run at Padden day.  It went well considering it's been two weeks since the last running day.  I really have to get over the feeling I look like a mess as I'm running.  I just don't feel smooth and I think it's making me mental.  I really believe that if I'm not smooth it's cutting into my times.  The running is something I really don't do so that's part of it of course.  Riding the bike feels right and smooth (most of the time) unless I'm falling off.  Which I don't do much but have been known to do.

So the time was still okay, 35min.  I've got to get that down though as I'm sure I'll need to get it under 30min, especially the first time around.  Of course if the bike route could be done faster that would help the running section also.
Well lots to think about and work on in the next 5 months.  Yes 5 months to get totally prepared.

Breakfast: Apple Pie Larabar and 20oz of cold water.

After workout meal: Protein drink.  Then went to grocery shop and returned later for food.  Came home and had a Mexicali salad from TJ's and cut up a hamburger to mix in the salad.

Afternoon snack: A chocolate covered Rice Crispy treat and handful of Wasabi Pea and Nut trail mix, and apple.

Evening meal: Not really a meal per say as I was playing D&D.  So I had snack type stuff.  It consisted of two handfuls of the Wasabi trail mix, buffalo jerky, and a low sodium V-8.  There was cake someone had brought and I didn't indulge.  My one consolation.

So I ran at Padden and I was fairly good on the food side.  Overall I'm happy with the day's events.  Just have to keep it under control. 

Monday, June 3, 2013

Day 391

It's Saturday and Lorinda is out of town so I'm on my own.  I was hoping for spring type weather ( sunny and warm) but unfortunately it was overcast and cool.  So the gym was my only option that was acceptable to my workout desire.  I ended up going for chest and arms and then the recumbent for 30min.  I worked out for about two hours.  It was funny though as I could hear L in my head pushing me to lift that one last rep and so she was with me, in my head.  Good job Lorinda!. 

Breakfast: Greek yogurt and Chia seeds with 20oz of cold water

After workout meal: Chinese dumplings and steak strips

Early dinner: Went to same friends as Friday and had more turkey sandwiches.  Had two and some potato salad and some chips.

Late nite snack: Chocolate chip ice cream cookie.

So interesting day of food.  I felt like I didn't overeat too badly (could of only had one turkey sandwich).  The ice cream cookie was definitely an indulgence but I'm okay with that.

Tomorrow is Padden.  I'm hoping to start training the interval method L mentioned.  This time I'm going to start out slow and work up to it.  Don't want a repeat of a couple of weeks ago with the calf cramp.

Sunday, June 2, 2013

Day 390

So it's Friday and that means the weekend is almost here.  It also means that eating of food takes a curve ball to the lower extremities.  Okay not really but it does get a bit dicey.  This is simply due to the fact that weekendy stuff happens.  Be it going out for lunch or dinner, hanging out with friends after work (because it's Friday night dammit) or just plain goofing off playing video games, stuff happens.  And it's normally stuff you would not do during the week, normally.  So here's my Friday:

Breakfast: Three egg frittata and feta.  Also 20oz of cold water.

1st snack: It turned out that there was a birthday at work so guess what?  Brownies and cake!  I had a very small piece of brownie and then just 24 almonds (or I think that was the number as I didn't count this time)

Lunch: Had the veggie salad I've had all week.  I did have a piece of carrot cake though.  It was a rather small piece but very tall.

Skipped the 2nd snack (see opening paragraph)

Dinner: Okay here we go again.  Friends cooked a turkey and so there were Turkey sandwiches.  I had a total of three over a five hour period.  In there was also potato salad and a granola bar.

So there you have it.  Another Friday night and the struggle to become aware of what I'm eating.  Trying my best to not over indulge but still have a meaningful relationship with food.  HA, meaningful relationship.  Tomorrow I will be on my own for working out.  I had planned to bike ride but the weather isn't cooperating so I'll go to the gym and lift weights and ride the recumbent.  I expect to spend at least an hour or more working out.  Then it's Sunday and Padden.

Saturday, June 1, 2013

Day 389

Not a lot to say other than life continues to be good.  Gym after work was arms both bicep and triceps.  I went with arms due to the push ups from last nights Tabata.  Also went out to lunch with a co-worker and we had sushi.  I didn't go crazy and came away from lunch not feeling stuffed.

Breakfast: Continuing the frittata and added avocado.  20oz of cold water.

No snack as I combined my break and lunch so I'd have more lunch time.

Lunch: Went for sushi.  Had what they call a bento box.  This consists of a box with sections for different stuff.  I had deep fried prawns (the batter was airy), small salad, rice (which I didn't eat) and a sushi roll.  The roll was a California roll I think.  No raw fish, thankfully.  Also came with Miso soup.  Excellent choice and just the right amount of food.

2nd snack: Just 24 almonds

Dinner: Protein drink.  Greek yogurt with almonds and Chia seeds. Finished off the beet/jicama salad and had 6 steak strips.

So a good day food wise.  I didn't over do it at sushi like I do sometimes and the arm workout was a good one.  Tomorrow will be tough as once again going to friends and will eat turkey sandwiches.  And probably other stuff.

Sat I'm on my own and I'm hoping the weather will be nice so I can go for a bike ride.  The weather may hold that up and so the gym it will be.