So, yesterday. I don't know if it's the "carb flu" or what, but yesterday was a bear. I was tired, I was cranky, my stomach felt 'off.' I was in an overall crap mood and I struggled mightily trying to get stuff accomplished on an internet that wanted to nap instead of work.
I finally gave up on the d^%# internet. I continued on with laundry, picking up the house, etc. You would think we live like slobs - we don't, it was just to finish up unpacking. A dear friend that was my lunch walking buddy for years came over and we went to lunch, so that was nice. I took a nap. T tried to cheer me up and I got very frustrated. I appreciated that he didn't want to see me unhappy, but sometimes you don't need someone to 'fix' it, you know? Anyway, we went to the gym last night and I did 25 minutes on the elliptical - 5 more than the minimum I set for myself and 5 less than I hoped to do. But I did it!
Food yesterday was labor intensive (well, dinner anyway), but really good!
B: omelet with lots of veg, some country ham, and cheese.
S: a slice of cheese, and a couple of slices of lunch meat
L: huge gyro salad at the diner.
S: none - lunch was big!
D: spicy turkey meatballs, rice pilaf made with riced cauliflower (this was really yummy!), and sauteed green beans
S: golden drink and lunch meat & cheese
I like to buy the uncured deli meats - they sell them pre packaged at my W-M grocery. They make a good quick snack and I think they are better since they have less preservatives. I buy the ultra thin sliced cheese - I could eat my body weight in cheese, so I try to portion control and those super thin slices help.
The golden drink was better! Maybe the flavors mellowed in the fridge?
Hope I will be less cranky today.
Take care!
Wednesday, March 22, 2017
Tuesday, March 21, 2017
Day 2
Good morning.
Well yesterday wasn't too bad! I did a few things around the house, but kind of ended up taking the day off from mail, dealing with job hunting etc. I was feeling mentally tired after being out of town for a week, but I planned our meals, did the grocery shopping, did some laundry, and did some cooking. So for a "day off" I got a lot accomplished!
As I mentioned, my doctor recommended the book "The Metabolism Miracle" which is basically 8 weeks of low carb with a slow carb introduction after that. You aren't counting all your carbs, really just the carbs in processed foods (stuff like corn, potatoes, etc is not on the initial plan).
Anyway it wasn't too hard to get the hang of. I will say we ate a lot more vegetables than normal and that's a good thing!
Breakfast: protein shake (3 net carbs)
Snack: lunch meat
Lunch: tuna salad on half a Joseph's lavash wrap (4 net carbs) and a cup of loaded baked potato soup made with cauliflower (the recipe was in the book and this was tasty!)
Snack: almonds
Dinner: cube steak sauteed with mushrooms, steamed broccoli, and a salad made with homemade creamy Parmesan garlic dressing.
Snack: golden milk
I think I mentioned we were going to try this whole "golden paste" thing as it's really supposed to help with inflammation. You make up a tumeric paste, which will keep in the fridge. Then add some to a cup of almond milk to drink.
I made up the paste, then added some to the milk and warmed. I sweetened with stevia and added a tablespoon of cocoa powder to each cup. It ended up tasty like a spicy, not very sweet hot chocolate. T loved it, I thought it was drinkable. Since it's supposed to be so great, we will use what I made and see if it makes any difference. I will keep you posted.
If you are curious, this is the recipe I was given:
1 C water; 1/2 C organic ground turmeric; 1/2 C organic ground ginger. Boil until like a paste. Stir in 5 tbs organic coconut oil, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground pepper, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/2 cup raw honey. (Pepper is necessary to activate turmeric benefits.). Let cool, store in fridge for up to a month. This is called Golden Paste. To make the Golden Milk, add one tsp of paste to 1 cup unsweetened almond milk and microwave for 2 minutes.
I left out the honey and used stevia. I used 1 tablespoon of the paste for 2 cups, which I heated on the stove.
Take care!
Well yesterday wasn't too bad! I did a few things around the house, but kind of ended up taking the day off from mail, dealing with job hunting etc. I was feeling mentally tired after being out of town for a week, but I planned our meals, did the grocery shopping, did some laundry, and did some cooking. So for a "day off" I got a lot accomplished!
As I mentioned, my doctor recommended the book "The Metabolism Miracle" which is basically 8 weeks of low carb with a slow carb introduction after that. You aren't counting all your carbs, really just the carbs in processed foods (stuff like corn, potatoes, etc is not on the initial plan).
Anyway it wasn't too hard to get the hang of. I will say we ate a lot more vegetables than normal and that's a good thing!
Breakfast: protein shake (3 net carbs)
Snack: lunch meat
Lunch: tuna salad on half a Joseph's lavash wrap (4 net carbs) and a cup of loaded baked potato soup made with cauliflower (the recipe was in the book and this was tasty!)
Snack: almonds
Dinner: cube steak sauteed with mushrooms, steamed broccoli, and a salad made with homemade creamy Parmesan garlic dressing.
Snack: golden milk
I think I mentioned we were going to try this whole "golden paste" thing as it's really supposed to help with inflammation. You make up a tumeric paste, which will keep in the fridge. Then add some to a cup of almond milk to drink.
I made up the paste, then added some to the milk and warmed. I sweetened with stevia and added a tablespoon of cocoa powder to each cup. It ended up tasty like a spicy, not very sweet hot chocolate. T loved it, I thought it was drinkable. Since it's supposed to be so great, we will use what I made and see if it makes any difference. I will keep you posted.
If you are curious, this is the recipe I was given:
1 C water; 1/2 C organic ground turmeric; 1/2 C organic ground ginger. Boil until like a paste. Stir in 5 tbs organic coconut oil, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground pepper, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/2 cup raw honey. (Pepper is necessary to activate turmeric benefits.). Let cool, store in fridge for up to a month. This is called Golden Paste. To make the Golden Milk, add one tsp of paste to 1 cup unsweetened almond milk and microwave for 2 minutes.
I left out the honey and used stevia. I used 1 tablespoon of the paste for 2 cups, which I heated on the stove.
Take care!
Monday, March 20, 2017
Monday - Day 1
Good morning. After spending a couple of days at the beach with the kids and going down to visit my great aunt, I am back home. I missed by bf and my dogs.
I didn't get the job I was really hoping for. I have to say my initial reaction was "devastated." I wonder if my age is a factor (I'm over 50), my mom wonders if my weight is a factor (there's a lovely thought!), I dunno. And in a way it doesn't matter.
I am dealing with a lot of feelings. For one I was hoping for this job because it's a good company and I was excited about that. I really need a steady job since T is very unhappy in his job and his industry is not in a good place right now. And I really wanted to get something with good insurance, which contract jobs don't offer. Right now I'm getting my son's insurance through the ACA and I'm depending on the VA, and T's work insurance isn't that great.
So there's the stress of money, insurance (which the current political climate is NOT helping), dealing with the disappointment of not getting something I was really excited about, and the growing frustration that perhaps I'm not ever going to go back to a regular job in corporate America - so what do I do and how do I support myself?
There just aren't a lot of jobs out there, it's very discouraging.
So there is a lot around work and income that I will probably be writing about here just to get it off my chest - it helps.
Today we are starting our diet and I am going to get out and go for a walk later - I hope T will join me. He has band practice tonight. I could go to the gym, but I'd like to help him get out of the house and moving.
Anyway, I'm home so hopefully I will get to posting more regularly.
Take care!
I didn't get the job I was really hoping for. I have to say my initial reaction was "devastated." I wonder if my age is a factor (I'm over 50), my mom wonders if my weight is a factor (there's a lovely thought!), I dunno. And in a way it doesn't matter.
I am dealing with a lot of feelings. For one I was hoping for this job because it's a good company and I was excited about that. I really need a steady job since T is very unhappy in his job and his industry is not in a good place right now. And I really wanted to get something with good insurance, which contract jobs don't offer. Right now I'm getting my son's insurance through the ACA and I'm depending on the VA, and T's work insurance isn't that great.
So there's the stress of money, insurance (which the current political climate is NOT helping), dealing with the disappointment of not getting something I was really excited about, and the growing frustration that perhaps I'm not ever going to go back to a regular job in corporate America - so what do I do and how do I support myself?
There just aren't a lot of jobs out there, it's very discouraging.
So there is a lot around work and income that I will probably be writing about here just to get it off my chest - it helps.
Today we are starting our diet and I am going to get out and go for a walk later - I hope T will join me. He has band practice tonight. I could go to the gym, but I'd like to help him get out of the house and moving.
Anyway, I'm home so hopefully I will get to posting more regularly.
Take care!
Monday, March 13, 2017
Time change fail
Yesterday we woke up to beautiful big, fluffy snow falling down. It was lovely. We got half an inch which was completely gone by lunch. Oh well, it was pretty while it lasted and no mess on the streets!
Last night T wanted to watch "Dune" - the mini-series remake by the SciFi channel. We watched the first disc as I sat and half read half watched. When the disc was over we realized it was midnight!! We managed to wake up on time this morning despite our best efforts! LOL
I have been sleeping better! I have started taking 1 g of Melatonin at bedtime. It seems to be helping, so I am very glad of that.
T is very much an "all or nothing" person and craves structure. Setting a calorie goal doesn't feel like enough of a "diet" for him. So he doesn't stick with it, and then we both end up off plan. That isn't working. I'm willing to try a "diet" if some initial structure will help us get started down the path. Hopefully we will be able to gradually remove the training wheels.
Since my doctor recommended the book, we've agreed to give it a try when I get back (The Metabolism Miracle). Tomorrow I am leaving for the beach and even though it's going to be on the cool side I am very much looking forward to it! It's still the time of year when dogs can be on the beach, so I expect we will both enjoy long walks on the beach every day! I can't even begin to say how much I love the beach. I wish I could wake up every day next to the ocean.
Okay, busy day - lots to do before I leave town. Have a great day!
Take care.
Last night T wanted to watch "Dune" - the mini-series remake by the SciFi channel. We watched the first disc as I sat and half read half watched. When the disc was over we realized it was midnight!! We managed to wake up on time this morning despite our best efforts! LOL
I have been sleeping better! I have started taking 1 g of Melatonin at bedtime. It seems to be helping, so I am very glad of that.
T is very much an "all or nothing" person and craves structure. Setting a calorie goal doesn't feel like enough of a "diet" for him. So he doesn't stick with it, and then we both end up off plan. That isn't working. I'm willing to try a "diet" if some initial structure will help us get started down the path. Hopefully we will be able to gradually remove the training wheels.
Since my doctor recommended the book, we've agreed to give it a try when I get back (The Metabolism Miracle). Tomorrow I am leaving for the beach and even though it's going to be on the cool side I am very much looking forward to it! It's still the time of year when dogs can be on the beach, so I expect we will both enjoy long walks on the beach every day! I can't even begin to say how much I love the beach. I wish I could wake up every day next to the ocean.
Okay, busy day - lots to do before I leave town. Have a great day!
Take care.
Saturday, March 11, 2017
Golden paste and "Metabolism Miracle"
Well hello, look at me, checking in on a weekend!
Just got home after running errands in the nearby city for several hours. Got a lot of stuff done.
One thing I did was buy some organic tumeric powder to try something called "golden paste". Basically it's a paste made with tumeric and other spices, which you add to hot almond milk and drink at bedtime. It's supposed to help with inflammation. A new health craze? Yeah, probably. A friend has said it's made a big difference for her energy level, so I'm willing to experiment. I will keep you posted!
My doctor recommended the book "The Metabolism Miracle" and said it helped her lose 80 pounds. It's an 8 week low card diet followed by a gradual re-introduction. 1) Unlike Atkins you aren't encouraged to eat butter sticks as a snack (okay, maybe a bit of an exaggeration!) and 2) it seems easier to figure that Atkins. So we are going to try it when I get back.
Next week I am going to the beach to stay with the boy and his gf Tuesday-Thursday, then Friday-Sunday mom and I are going to Georgia to visit my great aunt. In the interim I am trying to watch what I eat and move more.
I am taking an online class through the VA called "Moving Forward: Overcoming Life's Challenges". It's supposed to help you cultivate tools to deal with stress when you have those times of multiple, large stressers. I'm just getting started, but I figured it's worth a shot.
Anyhow, hope you have a lovely weekend!
Just got home after running errands in the nearby city for several hours. Got a lot of stuff done.
One thing I did was buy some organic tumeric powder to try something called "golden paste". Basically it's a paste made with tumeric and other spices, which you add to hot almond milk and drink at bedtime. It's supposed to help with inflammation. A new health craze? Yeah, probably. A friend has said it's made a big difference for her energy level, so I'm willing to experiment. I will keep you posted!
My doctor recommended the book "The Metabolism Miracle" and said it helped her lose 80 pounds. It's an 8 week low card diet followed by a gradual re-introduction. 1) Unlike Atkins you aren't encouraged to eat butter sticks as a snack (okay, maybe a bit of an exaggeration!) and 2) it seems easier to figure that Atkins. So we are going to try it when I get back.
Next week I am going to the beach to stay with the boy and his gf Tuesday-Thursday, then Friday-Sunday mom and I are going to Georgia to visit my great aunt. In the interim I am trying to watch what I eat and move more.
I am taking an online class through the VA called "Moving Forward: Overcoming Life's Challenges". It's supposed to help you cultivate tools to deal with stress when you have those times of multiple, large stressers. I'm just getting started, but I figured it's worth a shot.
Anyhow, hope you have a lovely weekend!
Wednesday, March 08, 2017
Still waiting
Still haven't heard from the last interview. Not insane yet, but getting close.
House sale seems to be progressing - the attorney emailed asking for a bunch of crap, so it seems like they are on the ball.
No word from my tenant, no February rent. :-(
Checked by bp this morning - high. :-(
House sale seems to be progressing - the attorney emailed asking for a bunch of crap, so it seems like they are on the ball.
No word from my tenant, no February rent. :-(
Checked by bp this morning - high. :-(
Thursday, March 02, 2017
Annual check up results
T and I went for our annual check ups. The results weren't terrible, but our cholesterol is high and his blood pressure remains high - further incentive to stick to our eating and exercise plan.
The dining room is painted! I was going to hang the curtains last night but the drill died. :-( We are going to pick up mom's this evening (T ordered a new charging cord for ours). Once they are hung I will post pictures. So happy to have that finished!
We were seriously considering having our bedroom professionally done - the wallpaper needs to be removed and the walls will need to be mudded. Even though the estimate we received was $1100, we were about convinced that it would be worth it. Then we had to have the plumber out. We HAVE to replace the line down to the street asap, and we really need to replace the pipes under the house as well. Total cost including snaking Monday: $9900. Ouch! The new sewer line is $2900, which we are getting done now. The pipes will have to wait a while. So we may not be able to justify dropping money on painting when we could do it ourselves. But it won't look nearly as nice, so I don't know..... The joys of an older home I guess.
I love that T and I can talk about our feelings - something that was seriously lacking in my marriage. I can talk about the emotional struggle with food and he not only understands, but he asks really insightful questions which help me face those issues. I am blessed.
House appraisal is today, hopefully things will continue to move along on that front. I sent my tenant the official "you have 30 days to move" letter via return receipt mail. I feel sad for her, but glad to be moving on. This house has been an albatross for too long.
My son's spring break is this week - he and his girlfriend are coming up. I'm so excited!
Take care.
The dining room is painted! I was going to hang the curtains last night but the drill died. :-( We are going to pick up mom's this evening (T ordered a new charging cord for ours). Once they are hung I will post pictures. So happy to have that finished!
We were seriously considering having our bedroom professionally done - the wallpaper needs to be removed and the walls will need to be mudded. Even though the estimate we received was $1100, we were about convinced that it would be worth it. Then we had to have the plumber out. We HAVE to replace the line down to the street asap, and we really need to replace the pipes under the house as well. Total cost including snaking Monday: $9900. Ouch! The new sewer line is $2900, which we are getting done now. The pipes will have to wait a while. So we may not be able to justify dropping money on painting when we could do it ourselves. But it won't look nearly as nice, so I don't know..... The joys of an older home I guess.
I love that T and I can talk about our feelings - something that was seriously lacking in my marriage. I can talk about the emotional struggle with food and he not only understands, but he asks really insightful questions which help me face those issues. I am blessed.
House appraisal is today, hopefully things will continue to move along on that front. I sent my tenant the official "you have 30 days to move" letter via return receipt mail. I feel sad for her, but glad to be moving on. This house has been an albatross for too long.
My son's spring break is this week - he and his girlfriend are coming up. I'm so excited!
Take care.
Monday, February 27, 2017
Pooped
It was a good but busy weekend. We were gone all day Saturday. Sunday we painted the dining room (yes, the painting is DONE!). Today we got up and T was taking a shower and it was gurgling in the other bathroom, so now we are waiting for the plumber. We know we need a bunch of pipes replaced (including the one from the house to the street), but we are hoping snaking will buy us some time until the Florida house sells.
Speaking of which, it's under contract, we're done with inspection, and hopefully everything has been submitted to the lender - I asked my realtor to confirm.
Since I'm waiting for the plumber, I've scrubbed the bathrooms. My son and his gf are coming for spring break Saturday, so the house needs a good cleaning & picking up before then.
Still waiting to hear about the interview last Thursday. I REALLY want this particular job, fingers crossed!
Take care.
Speaking of which, it's under contract, we're done with inspection, and hopefully everything has been submitted to the lender - I asked my realtor to confirm.
Since I'm waiting for the plumber, I've scrubbed the bathrooms. My son and his gf are coming for spring break Saturday, so the house needs a good cleaning & picking up before then.
Still waiting to hear about the interview last Thursday. I REALLY want this particular job, fingers crossed!
Take care.
Friday, February 24, 2017
A week of being nibbled to death by cats
Gah.
This has been a busy week, and frustrating week, a week where I don't feel I have accomplished much, but hopefully a positive week!
The dining room is stalled out. Walls are prepped and primed, but no paint has been slapped on them. Motivation level for this is not there, although I really want it done.
I did go to the VA for my annual check-up Tuesday. In a not surprising move, the doctor told me to get off my duff and lose some damn weight.
Garb for this weekend is stalled out. I'm midway through making T a viking coat, hood, and leg wraps, but since it's supposed to be 70 degrees Saturday where is the motivation for that!?!? I have gotten the breakfast stuff bought for the event and I'm taking it up to site tomorrow.
Supposedly we agreed on a repair credit for the house sale after the Monday inspection. I'm just waiting for the buyer's agent to send the amended contract (ugh, why so slow? Let's get this moving people!). I had a guy come out to give us an estimate on the crap ton of plumbing work we need to get done on this house the second the Florida house sells. Hopefully I will be getting that tomorrow, but I am scared. Basically we need to replace everything under the house, have clean outs added, and replace the line to the street.
Job interview yesterday went well. I haven't heard anything back from my interview with (insert mega bank here), and I would REALLY like to work at this place (it's the credit union where I've banked since I was 17) and I really, really liked the hiring manager and we seemed to click. So fingers crossed for that!
This has been a busy week, and frustrating week, a week where I don't feel I have accomplished much, but hopefully a positive week!
The dining room is stalled out. Walls are prepped and primed, but no paint has been slapped on them. Motivation level for this is not there, although I really want it done.
I did go to the VA for my annual check-up Tuesday. In a not surprising move, the doctor told me to get off my duff and lose some damn weight.
Garb for this weekend is stalled out. I'm midway through making T a viking coat, hood, and leg wraps, but since it's supposed to be 70 degrees Saturday where is the motivation for that!?!? I have gotten the breakfast stuff bought for the event and I'm taking it up to site tomorrow.
Supposedly we agreed on a repair credit for the house sale after the Monday inspection. I'm just waiting for the buyer's agent to send the amended contract (ugh, why so slow? Let's get this moving people!). I had a guy come out to give us an estimate on the crap ton of plumbing work we need to get done on this house the second the Florida house sells. Hopefully I will be getting that tomorrow, but I am scared. Basically we need to replace everything under the house, have clean outs added, and replace the line to the street.
Job interview yesterday went well. I haven't heard anything back from my interview with (insert mega bank here), and I would REALLY like to work at this place (it's the credit union where I've banked since I was 17) and I really, really liked the hiring manager and we seemed to click. So fingers crossed for that!
Wednesday, February 22, 2017
Progress at a snails' pace
Okay, T had redone 4 more seams in the dining room. That room is moving at a snail's pace, but I think we are (finally) ready to paint!
House is under contract, we are negotiating credit after inspection (which came back really good), so I'm positive that we will work that out, but really hope we can move up closing date from April 15th.
House is under contract, we are negotiating credit after inspection (which came back really good), so I'm positive that we will work that out, but really hope we can move up closing date from April 15th.
Monday, February 20, 2017
More progress
On the dining room front: we are done sanding and priming. The walls aren't perfect, but they are good enough. Moving on to paint.....
Weight: T and I bought a white board, sat down, and wrote out short, medium, and long term goals. These were mainly focused on our health (exercise, vitamins, water, diet), but we also included financial and other goals. We are maybe going to sign up for a 5K for the weekend after my birthday. It's down at the beach and that's a bit over 60 days for now. Doable and motivational? I think yes.
Pictures to follow!
Weight: T and I bought a white board, sat down, and wrote out short, medium, and long term goals. These were mainly focused on our health (exercise, vitamins, water, diet), but we also included financial and other goals. We are maybe going to sign up for a 5K for the weekend after my birthday. It's down at the beach and that's a bit over 60 days for now. Doable and motivational? I think yes.
Pictures to follow!
Thursday, February 16, 2017
Progress
The Florida house is back under contract and the home inspection is scheduled for Monday. Yay! That's the point where I can breathe a bit easier knowing we are for sure moving forward.
We got the first coat of primer on the dining room by the end of day yesterday. We mudded the seams and are painting over the wallpaper - I think it will look fine when it's done, but I did need to do some touch up mudding today. The low cut in work is done, so tonight I'd do another coat rolled on and T will do the cut in around the ceiling and we can start painting tomorrow! Woo hoo!
Next week is shaping up to be super busy, so my plan is to take Sunday to work on the sewing I want to have done for the event the following Saturday (the 25th).
Anyway, things here are going petty well. Our water heater died, but thankfully T had purchased water heater insurance through Duke Power, and they came out and replaced it yesterday. Total cost out of our pocket was $240 for a gas water heater that has a 15 year life expectancy, so I think that was pretty good! And same day!
Even though I am kinda tired of dealing with ancient wallpaper, I am so glad to see the improvements in the house. It really is coming together. :-)
Take care!
We got the first coat of primer on the dining room by the end of day yesterday. We mudded the seams and are painting over the wallpaper - I think it will look fine when it's done, but I did need to do some touch up mudding today. The low cut in work is done, so tonight I'd do another coat rolled on and T will do the cut in around the ceiling and we can start painting tomorrow! Woo hoo!
Next week is shaping up to be super busy, so my plan is to take Sunday to work on the sewing I want to have done for the event the following Saturday (the 25th).
Anyway, things here are going petty well. Our water heater died, but thankfully T had purchased water heater insurance through Duke Power, and they came out and replaced it yesterday. Total cost out of our pocket was $240 for a gas water heater that has a 15 year life expectancy, so I think that was pretty good! And same day!
Even though I am kinda tired of dealing with ancient wallpaper, I am so glad to see the improvements in the house. It really is coming together. :-)
Take care!
Wednesday, February 15, 2017
Monday, February 13, 2017
Monday so soon?
Well hello there. I hope you had a nice weekend.
T and I went to the Lutheran church here in town (very similar to Episcopal, but there isn't one of those and T's Lutheran, so there ya go). We really liked the pastor, but he is moving to Wilmington in 2 weeks! :-O
After that, mom and Jan (my ex MIL) came over and we went out to lunch and swapped Valentine's. That was nice. Then T mudded the seams in the dining room - finally going to get it painted this week! So SCA projects take a bit of a back seat as we work on the house.
Speaking of house, got a decent offer on the Florida house, fingers crossed please! They scheduled the close later than I would have liked, but at least it's a decent offer!
We are considering doing Atkins. This week we are eating up some of foods that would not be allowed (yogurt, 15 bean soup), so we will gradually slide into it. We'll see how that goes.
Today is shopping, laundry, and paying bills. It's sunny but cooler here today. We are planning to go to water aerobics tonight.
Take care.
T and I went to the Lutheran church here in town (very similar to Episcopal, but there isn't one of those and T's Lutheran, so there ya go). We really liked the pastor, but he is moving to Wilmington in 2 weeks! :-O
After that, mom and Jan (my ex MIL) came over and we went out to lunch and swapped Valentine's. That was nice. Then T mudded the seams in the dining room - finally going to get it painted this week! So SCA projects take a bit of a back seat as we work on the house.
Speaking of house, got a decent offer on the Florida house, fingers crossed please! They scheduled the close later than I would have liked, but at least it's a decent offer!
We are considering doing Atkins. This week we are eating up some of foods that would not be allowed (yogurt, 15 bean soup), so we will gradually slide into it. We'll see how that goes.
Today is shopping, laundry, and paying bills. It's sunny but cooler here today. We are planning to go to water aerobics tonight.
Take care.
Friday, February 10, 2017
Grateful
Good morning.
This has been a very up and down week, with some good days and some very rough days. My weight is down a pound, which is pretty amazing.
T and I sat down last night and had a conversation. I have been living on my credit cards and in a couple of months I will no longer be able to pay my bills. I am looking for a job, but in the interim I feel like I need to at least look for a part time job. I was counting on the house sale to pay off all my debt (which it will), but in the meantime I need cash flow to at least slow down the hemorrhaging.
Since I have two interviews I am still waiting to hear back from, he suggested I give myself until the beginning of March, and then start looking.
Anyway, I am still hanging in there. Take care.
This has been a very up and down week, with some good days and some very rough days. My weight is down a pound, which is pretty amazing.
T and I sat down last night and had a conversation. I have been living on my credit cards and in a couple of months I will no longer be able to pay my bills. I am looking for a job, but in the interim I feel like I need to at least look for a part time job. I was counting on the house sale to pay off all my debt (which it will), but in the meantime I need cash flow to at least slow down the hemorrhaging.
Since I have two interviews I am still waiting to hear back from, he suggested I give myself until the beginning of March, and then start looking.
Anyway, I am still hanging in there. Take care.
Tuesday, February 07, 2017
An unpleasant update
About 4 weeks ago, I received a decent offer on the house, which I accepted. When they went out to do the inspection, my tenant told my realtor that she's cleared the final hurdle to get the loan. When the deal fell through, I agreed to give the tenant time to get the financing together, even though I felt a lot like Charlie Brown with Lucy pulling the football away (again).
My realtor did her best to be diligent - I have the email from the loan officer assuring us it would close by Jan 27th at the latest. There were just a couple more items underwriting wanted.....
Tenant got those items in and we waited, and waited... Finally yesterday underwriting came back and declined the loan. I had another offer but did nothing about for 3 weeks, so I've wasted another 3 weeks. Tenant first had the house under contract last May. Nine months I've been going through this, and completely missed peak selling season.
My realtor basically hung up on her realtor when she wanted to launch into a long detailed story about what happened. Lucy (my realtor) called back the investor that made an okay offer. They are supposed to walk through the house sometime today. It's $25K less but at this point I just need to be done with this.
My realtor did her best to be diligent - I have the email from the loan officer assuring us it would close by Jan 27th at the latest. There were just a couple more items underwriting wanted.....
Tenant got those items in and we waited, and waited... Finally yesterday underwriting came back and declined the loan. I had another offer but did nothing about for 3 weeks, so I've wasted another 3 weeks. Tenant first had the house under contract last May. Nine months I've been going through this, and completely missed peak selling season.
My realtor basically hung up on her realtor when she wanted to launch into a long detailed story about what happened. Lucy (my realtor) called back the investor that made an okay offer. They are supposed to walk through the house sometime today. It's $25K less but at this point I just need to be done with this.
Monday, February 06, 2017
On the mend
Thanks for the good wishes - I am definitely on the mend. Not 100%, but much better.
Waiting on some word on the house today - supposedly we are closing Wednesday but we are waiting for the final clear to close from the lender. They've found something to nitpick every time we've gotten to this point. It's beyond absurd. Never buy real estate in south Florida!
Nothing from the job I interviewed with a week ago - ugh. I was really hoping for that one. But I do have a phone interview tomorrow. I'd really enjoy staying home if I didn't need money, you know? ;-)
We went to Wilmington this weekend. A couple of times a year we have an event that is just classes. I taught a basic sewing and beginning wire weaving and took a couple of embroidery classes. We had a nice day, saw friends, and got to spend time with the boy and the grandpups. I just wish we had been feeling better, but it was a good weekend.
Today I am unpacking, doing laundry, picked up some groceries, etc. while I try to stay sane while I wait for some word on the house.......
Here is a picture of viking wire weaving (not my piece, but a beautiful example!):
Waiting on some word on the house today - supposedly we are closing Wednesday but we are waiting for the final clear to close from the lender. They've found something to nitpick every time we've gotten to this point. It's beyond absurd. Never buy real estate in south Florida!
Nothing from the job I interviewed with a week ago - ugh. I was really hoping for that one. But I do have a phone interview tomorrow. I'd really enjoy staying home if I didn't need money, you know? ;-)
We went to Wilmington this weekend. A couple of times a year we have an event that is just classes. I taught a basic sewing and beginning wire weaving and took a couple of embroidery classes. We had a nice day, saw friends, and got to spend time with the boy and the grandpups. I just wish we had been feeling better, but it was a good weekend.
Today I am unpacking, doing laundry, picked up some groceries, etc. while I try to stay sane while I wait for some word on the house.......
Here is a picture of viking wire weaving (not my piece, but a beautiful example!):
Tuesday, January 31, 2017
Sick :-(
The house is still in limbo. I have a cold and feel yucky. I got a call and I have a phone interview next Tuesday - so hopefully something will break soon on the job front.
That is all.
That is all.
Sunday, January 29, 2017
Knee deep in chicken!
Hello there! Hope you are enjoying your weekend!
Friday my mom came and we got the bathroom primed. Yesterday T did the first coat of paint and today I did the second, so I will hang pictures tomorrow. Another room tackled!
Friday T attempted to reproduce a Basque chicken dish we had while out in Reno (did I mention he used to be a professional chef?). It was really good but it was a whole chicken - so a lot for two! Then we had leftovers Saturday for dinner. Today he wasn't feeling well, so I made chicken soup with matzo balls for lunch. We are going to have dinner with friends tonight - she is making chicken pot pie! LOL And we still have leftover chicken!
I will post before and after pics as soon as I have all the pictures hung and the bathroom is put back together. This week I am going to focus on a couple of craft projects, but plan to start on the dining room next week. I also got a lot of cleaning out and organizing done of my sewing stuff that lives in the guest room, so it feels good to be making terrific progress in that room.
No updates on the house. Ugh.
Take care!
Friday my mom came and we got the bathroom primed. Yesterday T did the first coat of paint and today I did the second, so I will hang pictures tomorrow. Another room tackled!
Friday T attempted to reproduce a Basque chicken dish we had while out in Reno (did I mention he used to be a professional chef?). It was really good but it was a whole chicken - so a lot for two! Then we had leftovers Saturday for dinner. Today he wasn't feeling well, so I made chicken soup with matzo balls for lunch. We are going to have dinner with friends tonight - she is making chicken pot pie! LOL And we still have leftover chicken!
I will post before and after pics as soon as I have all the pictures hung and the bathroom is put back together. This week I am going to focus on a couple of craft projects, but plan to start on the dining room next week. I also got a lot of cleaning out and organizing done of my sewing stuff that lives in the guest room, so it feels good to be making terrific progress in that room.
No updates on the house. Ugh.
Take care!
Friday, January 27, 2017
The roller coaster continues
Weight: I gained 2.2 pounds last week, lost 2 this week. Hormones? Poor choices? Yes to both, but I seem to have course corrected. It's scary how 1 or 2 evenings of poor choices has such an impact.
As I said, the house deal fell through. then my tenant came back and said she was ready to close. Since I don't really trust her or her realtor (believe me, I have reason not to), my realtor asked for that in writing from the lender (which we got). So we are giving her until the middle of next week, at which point I go back to the low ball but at least in the park offer and see where that goes. I need this to be over.
I had a phone screening interview yesterday. It was with HR, but it was an interview. I think it went well and I expect to get an in person interview with the hiring leader. They have just started the interviewing process, but I think I would be a good fit for the job. Fingers crossed!
I am still considering the possibility of opening my own bookkeeping business, but right now I would like the security of a regular, full time job. We would like to get our finances in better shape and make decisions from a solid financial foundation. T took a significant pay cut when he took his current job. It was the right choice - his old company is in a mess and he'd have been laid off by now almost certainly. And of course his commute was a nightmare. But we are not getting by on just his income.
Getting back out there for a job has been just as hard as dipping my tow into the dating pool was. I was pretty badly burned at my last job - it was a nightmare.
I was given a team of 5 people: 2 worked in other locations and basically did what they wanted. One told me she couldn't stay past 3:30 on Fridays because her personal training appointment was at 4. Of the 3 in my location, one was a drama queen, one was the former manager who had been demoted, and one was a younger girl with anger management issues who didn't want to work her schedule but her daddy had been with the company 30+ years. I was working 50-60 hour weeks and held responsible for anything that went wrong, but not given any authority to fix it.
My intent was to stay until school started back just so there would be vacation coverage but they let me go 2 weeks before that (shooting themselves in the foot, but hey). The job they described when I was hired and the job I was doing were 2 totally different things. They expected me to fix stuff they all knew was broken, but given no tools to do so. The environment was hostile and unpleasant and full of back stabbing. It was such a relief when I packed up my stuff I never even cried even though it was the first time in my life I'd ever been fired. Mostly I was just grateful it was over. It reminded me eerily of how I felt when my husband left: relief. I felt like I'd just escaped an abusive relationship because in a way I had.
Still and all, the self esteem takes a beating in that instance and it was frustrating because I knew I was a good project manager and the way that team was, I'm not sure anyone could succeed in that role until the higher ups made some hard choices. So I knew it wasn't me, it was a poor fit and a bad situation. But still. And of course recruiters hear you were fired and don't really want to work with you, so that's been hard.
OTOH, this has given me time to work on the house, do things I wanted, think about what I truly want to be doing, just given me some breathing room. So overall, the break has been a tremendous blessing. And thankfully we have been able to manage even though things have been tight. Always have an emergency fund!! You never know when you might need it!
Take care and TGIF!
As I said, the house deal fell through. then my tenant came back and said she was ready to close. Since I don't really trust her or her realtor (believe me, I have reason not to), my realtor asked for that in writing from the lender (which we got). So we are giving her until the middle of next week, at which point I go back to the low ball but at least in the park offer and see where that goes. I need this to be over.
I had a phone screening interview yesterday. It was with HR, but it was an interview. I think it went well and I expect to get an in person interview with the hiring leader. They have just started the interviewing process, but I think I would be a good fit for the job. Fingers crossed!
I am still considering the possibility of opening my own bookkeeping business, but right now I would like the security of a regular, full time job. We would like to get our finances in better shape and make decisions from a solid financial foundation. T took a significant pay cut when he took his current job. It was the right choice - his old company is in a mess and he'd have been laid off by now almost certainly. And of course his commute was a nightmare. But we are not getting by on just his income.
Getting back out there for a job has been just as hard as dipping my tow into the dating pool was. I was pretty badly burned at my last job - it was a nightmare.
I was given a team of 5 people: 2 worked in other locations and basically did what they wanted. One told me she couldn't stay past 3:30 on Fridays because her personal training appointment was at 4. Of the 3 in my location, one was a drama queen, one was the former manager who had been demoted, and one was a younger girl with anger management issues who didn't want to work her schedule but her daddy had been with the company 30+ years. I was working 50-60 hour weeks and held responsible for anything that went wrong, but not given any authority to fix it.
My intent was to stay until school started back just so there would be vacation coverage but they let me go 2 weeks before that (shooting themselves in the foot, but hey). The job they described when I was hired and the job I was doing were 2 totally different things. They expected me to fix stuff they all knew was broken, but given no tools to do so. The environment was hostile and unpleasant and full of back stabbing. It was such a relief when I packed up my stuff I never even cried even though it was the first time in my life I'd ever been fired. Mostly I was just grateful it was over. It reminded me eerily of how I felt when my husband left: relief. I felt like I'd just escaped an abusive relationship because in a way I had.
Still and all, the self esteem takes a beating in that instance and it was frustrating because I knew I was a good project manager and the way that team was, I'm not sure anyone could succeed in that role until the higher ups made some hard choices. So I knew it wasn't me, it was a poor fit and a bad situation. But still. And of course recruiters hear you were fired and don't really want to work with you, so that's been hard.
OTOH, this has given me time to work on the house, do things I wanted, think about what I truly want to be doing, just given me some breathing room. So overall, the break has been a tremendous blessing. And thankfully we have been able to manage even though things have been tight. Always have an emergency fund!! You never know when you might need it!
Take care and TGIF!
Wednesday, January 25, 2017
Monday, January 23, 2017
Oops!
Well I got busy and suddenly realized I hadn't blogged in days. I guess it isn't quite a habit yet!
Saturday we went to a business meeting for our historical group and didn't get back home until 3. A friend was coming over and we made supper, so no painting occurred. :-( Oh well, we will be home all this weekend with no commitments, so we can get the bathroom knocked out easily enough.
Yesterday I was feeling really down in the dumps. I interviewed for a job last week, which I did not get. They wanted more experience in that specific field, which I do not have. Not surprising, but disappointing. This whole job search has been frustrating and disappointing. Ugh. I am going to look into two things: starting my own small business and some things I can do on the side to earn some income. I may start writing about those things here.
T was very understanding. I tell you what, this has been a heck of a way to start off our relationship (well, this time around). He keeps joking that we are just front loading the "worse" of that "for better or for worse". He's quite a guy. :-)
I went to the grocery store this morning. More protein powder - yay! Costco has their pre-made shakes on sale this month, so I plan to pick up a couple more boxes of those. Oh, and Aldi had a knock off brand TRX trainer for $20, so heck yeah I bought one! I really like those things - it's something we can install in a doorway and use 5 minutes at a time. We are both excited about that.
Have a good day and take care!
Saturday we went to a business meeting for our historical group and didn't get back home until 3. A friend was coming over and we made supper, so no painting occurred. :-( Oh well, we will be home all this weekend with no commitments, so we can get the bathroom knocked out easily enough.
Yesterday I was feeling really down in the dumps. I interviewed for a job last week, which I did not get. They wanted more experience in that specific field, which I do not have. Not surprising, but disappointing. This whole job search has been frustrating and disappointing. Ugh. I am going to look into two things: starting my own small business and some things I can do on the side to earn some income. I may start writing about those things here.
T was very understanding. I tell you what, this has been a heck of a way to start off our relationship (well, this time around). He keeps joking that we are just front loading the "worse" of that "for better or for worse". He's quite a guy. :-)
I went to the grocery store this morning. More protein powder - yay! Costco has their pre-made shakes on sale this month, so I plan to pick up a couple more boxes of those. Oh, and Aldi had a knock off brand TRX trainer for $20, so heck yeah I bought one! I really like those things - it's something we can install in a doorway and use 5 minutes at a time. We are both excited about that.
Have a good day and take care!
Thursday, January 19, 2017
Plan B
After 2 nights of very poor sleep, last night was much better! That was good, because I had to get up extra early this morning for a dental appointment. Even though I've moved 30 minutes away, I decided to keep my same dentist. I had a protein shake (I like the Premier Protein - 160 calories - I get at Costco, if I don't make one from powder) and headed out. After the appointment I was very hungry, loud tummy growling and all, and had a chicken biscuit at Chik-Fil-A. 450 calories for just the biscuit, not a meal. So I am going into lunch with a big chunk out of my daily 1500 calorie budget already! Not a disaster, but maybe I should have packed something from home.
I have accepted an offer on the house in Florida. It's not as much as I was hoping for, but at this point I am still unemployed and I need as much equity as I can squeeze out of the house, and I need it sooner rather than later. So that is progress.
T is getting pretty frustrated with his new job, which I hate for him. But it is still better than his last job.
Yesterday was beautiful and we opened the windows and the doors. Made a lot of progress in the guest room and the house is really starting to feel homey. All in all, with accomplishments, the house contract, and a boost of good weather, I am feeling more relaxed than I have in a while.
Take care!
I have accepted an offer on the house in Florida. It's not as much as I was hoping for, but at this point I am still unemployed and I need as much equity as I can squeeze out of the house, and I need it sooner rather than later. So that is progress.
T is getting pretty frustrated with his new job, which I hate for him. But it is still better than his last job.
Yesterday was beautiful and we opened the windows and the doors. Made a lot of progress in the guest room and the house is really starting to feel homey. All in all, with accomplishments, the house contract, and a boost of good weather, I am feeling more relaxed than I have in a while.
Take care!
Tuesday, January 17, 2017
Home safe!
I drove to Charlotte for my interview this morning! The drive was no problem - the interview was at 11 so there was no traffic. It seemed to go fine. It is for a mortgage company. I have loads of experience in the finance industry, but not mortgage specific. So it's partly a matter of whether they are okay with someone who has loads for experience with this role but in a slightly different field. We will see.
Slept for crap last night. I got an email from my aunt yesterday. Her partner had surgery to remove colon cancer back in the fall, which was complicated by pre existing hernias. Long story short: a combination of the complicated surgery, inadequate after care (she was pushed into a rehab facility without the appropriate specialty experience by the insurance company), plus some poor monitoring has led to her needing more surgery months before the doctors wanted to do it. She's been in the hospital for months, and things aren't looking great. That plus anxiety made for poor after dinner choices and major insomnia.
Today has been much better.
Progress is happening in the guest room - it feels good to see things improving around the house. This is a smaller house so it is forcing me to do some much needed down sizing. I am glad. My mom has been in her house since 1971 - the attic and storage barn are stuffed full. She keeps saying she needs to pare down but never does. My son hangs on to everything so I've jokingly told her I would either call in the guys from that show "American Pickers" or give it all to my son, who would never get rid of anything and it would be kept, untouched, as a shrine to her memory for 60+ years! I'm only half joking. ;-)
Eating was on point until last night, and there was damage, but not too much. Today has been on point with food. Mistake made, acknowledged, and now to keep moving forward.
Have a good day!
Slept for crap last night. I got an email from my aunt yesterday. Her partner had surgery to remove colon cancer back in the fall, which was complicated by pre existing hernias. Long story short: a combination of the complicated surgery, inadequate after care (she was pushed into a rehab facility without the appropriate specialty experience by the insurance company), plus some poor monitoring has led to her needing more surgery months before the doctors wanted to do it. She's been in the hospital for months, and things aren't looking great. That plus anxiety made for poor after dinner choices and major insomnia.
Today has been much better.
Progress is happening in the guest room - it feels good to see things improving around the house. This is a smaller house so it is forcing me to do some much needed down sizing. I am glad. My mom has been in her house since 1971 - the attic and storage barn are stuffed full. She keeps saying she needs to pare down but never does. My son hangs on to everything so I've jokingly told her I would either call in the guys from that show "American Pickers" or give it all to my son, who would never get rid of anything and it would be kept, untouched, as a shrine to her memory for 60+ years! I'm only half joking. ;-)
Eating was on point until last night, and there was damage, but not too much. Today has been on point with food. Mistake made, acknowledged, and now to keep moving forward.
Have a good day!
Monday, January 16, 2017
A bit of disappointment
Good morning!
I hope you had a nice weekend. Mine was pretty good. We did get our hallway paining done, as well as some more organizing in the den (T's office). We didn't paint the bathroom - which is fine. I'm more disappointed that we both let ourselves transform into tired, cranky toddler/martyrs and acted like sleep deprived 3 years old kids. Not for long thankfully, but still!
We could have eaten more vegetables and less cheese.
Today is more work around the house - I'm finally ready to tackle the pit of despair guest room.My plan is to hit it in brief but intense strikes throughout the week and be finished by Friday afternoon. Next weekend we will paint the bathroom. That will leave us with only 2 rooms to paint! The hardest ones, but still!
I need to double check everything for my interview outfit tomorrow, and run out to pick up a few random items. I'm pretty impressed I've knocked out about half my to do list already and it's not even lunch!
Have a good day and a better week!
I hope you had a nice weekend. Mine was pretty good. We did get our hallway paining done, as well as some more organizing in the den (T's office). We didn't paint the bathroom - which is fine. I'm more disappointed that we both let ourselves transform into tired, cranky toddler/martyrs and acted like sleep deprived 3 years old kids. Not for long thankfully, but still!
We could have eaten more vegetables and less cheese.
Today is more work around the house - I'm finally ready to tackle the
I need to double check everything for my interview outfit tomorrow, and run out to pick up a few random items. I'm pretty impressed I've knocked out about half my to do list already and it's not even lunch!
Have a good day and a better week!
Friday, January 13, 2017
Weekend!
My bf has had a very rough week at work, so I am especially grateful that it is Friday afternoon. We aren't going anywhere this weekend - our plan is to do some work on the house.
We have a small hallway that joins the two bedrooms and a bathroom. When we first moved in this had 2 different wallpapers separated by a chair rail high border. When we removed it, we realized there were multiple layers of paper and paint and the walls were gypsum board. We got everything down and my son & a friend were able to mud and sand so the walls are ready to be primed and painted!
While this house has a lot of great features, unattractive wall to wall carpet over hardwoods, and rooms that either had 1980s wallpaper or contractor white walls did not show it off to its best effect. We pulled up the carpets and had the floors refinished and are removing wallpaper and painting. It's hard to tell in photos, but the difference in person just by painting in the living room is amazing. It looks so much homier! We are using a very neutral color (except the bathrooms) that is sort of a pale beige meets pale grey and plays nicely with warm and cool tones. We may change down the road, but it's a good jumping off point.
The scale was up 0.8 pounds this week after being down like 0.6 last week. I did a big shop today and stocked up on lean proteins & vegetables.
I hope you have a terrific weekend!
We have a small hallway that joins the two bedrooms and a bathroom. When we first moved in this had 2 different wallpapers separated by a chair rail high border. When we removed it, we realized there were multiple layers of paper and paint and the walls were gypsum board. We got everything down and my son & a friend were able to mud and sand so the walls are ready to be primed and painted!
While this house has a lot of great features, unattractive wall to wall carpet over hardwoods, and rooms that either had 1980s wallpaper or contractor white walls did not show it off to its best effect. We pulled up the carpets and had the floors refinished and are removing wallpaper and painting. It's hard to tell in photos, but the difference in person just by painting in the living room is amazing. It looks so much homier! We are using a very neutral color (except the bathrooms) that is sort of a pale beige meets pale grey and plays nicely with warm and cool tones. We may change down the road, but it's a good jumping off point.
The scale was up 0.8 pounds this week after being down like 0.6 last week. I did a big shop today and stocked up on lean proteins & vegetables.
I hope you have a terrific weekend!
Wednesday, January 11, 2017
Just Whoa.
Do you ever have one of those days where there is just so much that you are left with your head spinning? So that was my day yesterday.
In no particular order:
1. Smelled burning plastic in the kitchen. One outlet was VERY hot. The circuit it is on has a fuse that is too big, so instead of shutting off it was overheating. We moved most things off that circuit until we can get new fuses and replace that outlet. Scary. Oh, and we hadn't bought a fire extinguisher since we moved in - but we have one now.
2. The saga of 1 million excuses (aka "why my tenant has been trying to buy the house since May but hasn't closed the deal") continues. The latest is that we expected situation #9572 to be resolved this week, nope looking at 3 more weeks or so as a best case scenario. I've dropped the price again. I'm getting lots of showings, but I'm near the end of my financial and emotional ropes. I have too much equity to just walk away, but ARGH!!!
3. Did get a call about a potential job, and a callback for an interview next week. The bad news is that it's 3-4 hours per day in commute time unless I find a place to stay during the week down in Charlotte. Still.. see my "near the end of my financial rope" comment above. So if the company seems good and it seems to be a good fit I will take it. Maybe if I prove myself they will be open to some flexibility?
4. Got a message from my ex husband's now ex girlfriend. (Did I mention he dumped her on Christmas day, but is locked into a lease so is sharing a house with her and her 6 year old daughter until June? And has taken up with someone else he's known for a MONTH and they are trying to have a baby??). "I am truly sorry if I every caused you any pain. When S and I started seeing each other, he told me you guys were over. So I never thought that he was cheating on you. The shoe is on the other foot now and I see how I probably hurt you." No shit, you've known me for like 20 years and you take up with my husband of 15 years and you think I might find that hurtful? Don't worry - I took the high road, which happens to be the truth and told her she did me a huge favor and I am much happier now that I was with him. Oh, and I swear the people I know that do live in a trailer park don't act half as white trashy as my ex. Sheesh! Thank you lord I'm out of that insanity!!!
Ugh. Just .... ugh. Some good, some bad, but too much roller coaster and not enough kiddie ride! :-O
In no particular order:
1. Smelled burning plastic in the kitchen. One outlet was VERY hot. The circuit it is on has a fuse that is too big, so instead of shutting off it was overheating. We moved most things off that circuit until we can get new fuses and replace that outlet. Scary. Oh, and we hadn't bought a fire extinguisher since we moved in - but we have one now.
2. The saga of 1 million excuses (aka "why my tenant has been trying to buy the house since May but hasn't closed the deal") continues. The latest is that we expected situation #9572 to be resolved this week, nope looking at 3 more weeks or so as a best case scenario. I've dropped the price again. I'm getting lots of showings, but I'm near the end of my financial and emotional ropes. I have too much equity to just walk away, but ARGH!!!
3. Did get a call about a potential job, and a callback for an interview next week. The bad news is that it's 3-4 hours per day in commute time unless I find a place to stay during the week down in Charlotte. Still.. see my "near the end of my financial rope" comment above. So if the company seems good and it seems to be a good fit I will take it. Maybe if I prove myself they will be open to some flexibility?
4. Got a message from my ex husband's now ex girlfriend. (Did I mention he dumped her on Christmas day, but is locked into a lease so is sharing a house with her and her 6 year old daughter until June? And has taken up with someone else he's known for a MONTH and they are trying to have a baby??). "I am truly sorry if I every caused you any pain. When S and I started seeing each other, he told me you guys were over. So I never thought that he was cheating on you. The shoe is on the other foot now and I see how I probably hurt you." No shit, you've known me for like 20 years and you take up with my husband of 15 years and you think I might find that hurtful? Don't worry - I took the high road, which happens to be the truth and told her she did me a huge favor and I am much happier now that I was with him. Oh, and I swear the people I know that do live in a trailer park don't act half as white trashy as my ex. Sheesh! Thank you lord I'm out of that insanity!!!
Ugh. Just .... ugh. Some good, some bad, but too much roller coaster and not enough kiddie ride! :-O
Tuesday, January 10, 2017
We're back
Our trip was really lovely. We got home late Sunday and I spent yesterday doing laundry, unpacking, etc. T had to work so I picked up the dogs.
Susie was glad to be home.
Jordan wasn't as glad Susie was home.
Finally she just went to bed. Our bed.
Today I am making chicken stock from the Christmas turkey carcass. I applied for a couple of jobs - one through an agency and one through a friend of a friend, so maybe I will get some response rather than throwing it down the black hold that most jobs boards seem to be.
We got a fair bit of snow here while we were gone and the roads were icy yesterday. Today I am staying home and just using a workout video. I have plenty of protein powder for AM shakes, frozen leftovers for meals, and I made a loaf of bread yesterday so we could have a tuna melt with a cup of soup for lunch. I need to do a big grocery shop later in the week.
It's good to go, but it's good to be home as well!
Susie was glad to be home.
Today I am making chicken stock from the Christmas turkey carcass. I applied for a couple of jobs - one through an agency and one through a friend of a friend, so maybe I will get some response rather than throwing it down the black hold that most jobs boards seem to be.
We got a fair bit of snow here while we were gone and the roads were icy yesterday. Today I am staying home and just using a workout video. I have plenty of protein powder for AM shakes, frozen leftovers for meals, and I made a loaf of bread yesterday so we could have a tuna melt with a cup of soup for lunch. I need to do a big grocery shop later in the week.
It's good to go, but it's good to be home as well!
Wednesday, January 04, 2017
Packing up, heading out
Since we are flying out of Raleigh at 7:15 AM, we are staying overnight with friends. So after dinner we'll be headed that way. I got up this morning, fed us (protein shakes) and the dogs (kibble & homemade wet food), then threw a load of laundry in the wash and cleaned the kitchen.
I then sat down, balanced my checkbook, paid my bills, and sobbed. I mean loud, wet, red faced sobs. If I had to have a big problem (say, money or a family member with serious health issues) then of course I'd choose money issues any day. It's only money! OTOH, I am faced with some nerve racking choices in oh 30 days or so if something doesn't break. So yeah, big sobs. T has been a trooper and continues to be a source of strength and support.
Then I calmed down and did some ironing and folded the clean laundry so we can pack our suitcase. (We are sharing since it's a short trip and they charge per bag). It's a busy day - gotta get Jordan to my mom's and Susie to the kennel for boarding (she isn't integrated enough into the pack to leave with my mom for 5 days) plus pack up her stuff, pack my stuff, fix supper and give the kitchen one more cleaning, make sure trash is out and nothing in the fridge will spoil etc.
I watched an interesting documentary yesterday called "The Barkley Marathons". They describe it as the "toughest race you've never heard of". And yeah, it sounds unreal tough. And I have no interest in ever attempting it, but the founder of the race made a lot of good points about people trying something and being okay with failing - so many people don't/can't handle failure and this is a race that only 10 people finished in the first 25 years it was run. It's on netflix streaming if you are so inclined.
Anyway, I am not taking a computer so don't expect to hear from me until Monday. Until then take care!
I then sat down, balanced my checkbook, paid my bills, and sobbed. I mean loud, wet, red faced sobs. If I had to have a big problem (say, money or a family member with serious health issues) then of course I'd choose money issues any day. It's only money! OTOH, I am faced with some nerve racking choices in oh 30 days or so if something doesn't break. So yeah, big sobs. T has been a trooper and continues to be a source of strength and support.
Then I calmed down and did some ironing and folded the clean laundry so we can pack our suitcase. (We are sharing since it's a short trip and they charge per bag). It's a busy day - gotta get Jordan to my mom's and Susie to the kennel for boarding (she isn't integrated enough into the pack to leave with my mom for 5 days) plus pack up her stuff, pack my stuff, fix supper and give the kitchen one more cleaning, make sure trash is out and nothing in the fridge will spoil etc.
I watched an interesting documentary yesterday called "The Barkley Marathons". They describe it as the "toughest race you've never heard of". And yeah, it sounds unreal tough. And I have no interest in ever attempting it, but the founder of the race made a lot of good points about people trying something and being okay with failing - so many people don't/can't handle failure and this is a race that only 10 people finished in the first 25 years it was run. It's on netflix streaming if you are so inclined.
Anyway, I am not taking a computer so don't expect to hear from me until Monday. Until then take care!
Tuesday, January 03, 2017
Well rested
I slept last night - woo hoo! Went to bed around 10:30 or 11 and woke up when T's alarm went off at 7. I let the dog out, then dozed a bit when he took a shower. Then up, fed dogs, got myself dressed & us fed, then took Susie (the new dog) for a walk down the street. She did great on the leash! Susie was at the shelter for nearly 3 months after being picked up as a stray. We're not sure what her story is - she's 2.5 years old and not really house trained. So she's a project dog, but she's smart and sweet and crazy about T.
Here's Susie:
And the dog I've had for 9 years or so, the amazing Jordan J:
We've been having protein shakes most morning. After we used up our tub of Muscle Milk, I checked the nutrition on the protein at Aldi. For 10 more calories a serving, it has nearly double the protein of Muscle Milk. 170 calories and 30 g protein, and the less than $1 per serving. It's not as cheap as eggs, but it's quick and easy and the price isn't bad. I just buy vanilla and if I want a different flavor I add things like PB2 powder, chocolate powder (the stuff you bake with), frozen fruit, etc. Lunch has been generally leftovers from the previous dinner or a cup of soup, salad, sandwich, etc. We are trying not to each out much - hard when you travel, but it's just easier when we are at home. It helps we live in a small town with very few dining options - at least ones we're interested in!
Hope you have a good day!
Take care.
Here's Susie:
And the dog I've had for 9 years or so, the amazing Jordan J:
We've been having protein shakes most morning. After we used up our tub of Muscle Milk, I checked the nutrition on the protein at Aldi. For 10 more calories a serving, it has nearly double the protein of Muscle Milk. 170 calories and 30 g protein, and the less than $1 per serving. It's not as cheap as eggs, but it's quick and easy and the price isn't bad. I just buy vanilla and if I want a different flavor I add things like PB2 powder, chocolate powder (the stuff you bake with), frozen fruit, etc. Lunch has been generally leftovers from the previous dinner or a cup of soup, salad, sandwich, etc. We are trying not to each out much - hard when you travel, but it's just easier when we are at home. It helps we live in a small town with very few dining options - at least ones we're interested in!
Hope you have a good day!
Take care.
Monday, January 02, 2017
My #1 health priority right now
It's not what you think.
One huge down side of all the stress that I've been under is that my insomnia has gotten absolutely out of control. More nights than not I'm awake 2-3 hours in the middle of the night, and that number is usually closer to 3 (sometimes more).
As a result my bedtime and get up time vary weirdly and frequently I wake up like I did this morning, feeling drugged. I occasionally resort to a Tylenol PM, and melatonin (which isn't always effective). There are many things I cannot control (will my house in Florida ever sell, because I really need the money pretty badly), but there are some things I can do that will help. And being well rested makes it so much easier to stick to a diet.
So that is my top priority when I return from Reno. Well, that and talking to my realtor about what I can do to dump the albatross.
One huge down side of all the stress that I've been under is that my insomnia has gotten absolutely out of control. More nights than not I'm awake 2-3 hours in the middle of the night, and that number is usually closer to 3 (sometimes more).
As a result my bedtime and get up time vary weirdly and frequently I wake up like I did this morning, feeling drugged. I occasionally resort to a Tylenol PM, and melatonin (which isn't always effective). There are many things I cannot control (will my house in Florida ever sell, because I really need the money pretty badly), but there are some things I can do that will help. And being well rested makes it so much easier to stick to a diet.
So that is my top priority when I return from Reno. Well, that and talking to my realtor about what I can do to dump the albatross.
Sunday, January 01, 2017
Robo-vac
I got a Bissell robo vac for Christmas. I love it! Here is what the dogs think:
Thankfully no terror or chasing it, just a bit of mild curiosity. It helps that it's surprisingly quiet!
Thankfully no terror or chasing it, just a bit of mild curiosity. It helps that it's surprisingly quiet!
Happy New Year
Weight was down 2.4 pounds this week - go me! We did stay up until midnight last night - T didn't want any champagne and I hated to toss most of a bottle, so I settled for a gin & tonic. :-)
Christmas is all packed up and ready to be put away. I need to find my suitcase and start staging myself for the trip to Reno. I am excited!
2015 was very much about getting over losses and 2016 was about trying new things (some worked, some didn't). 2017 will be about settling in to the things that worked - the new home, new relationship, as well as trying some more new things. While I am looking for work, I am also pursuing the possibility of starting my own business! So something very exciting, challenging, and completely out of my comfort zone! More about that when I discuss the whole job thing that went down this year. It really gave me clarity around what I wanted to do - and what I didn't. So I am grateful for that even though there was also a lot of fear and anger.
I hope 2017 is kind to you all. Take care!
Christmas is all packed up and ready to be put away. I need to find my suitcase and start staging myself for the trip to Reno. I am excited!
2015 was very much about getting over losses and 2016 was about trying new things (some worked, some didn't). 2017 will be about settling in to the things that worked - the new home, new relationship, as well as trying some more new things. While I am looking for work, I am also pursuing the possibility of starting my own business! So something very exciting, challenging, and completely out of my comfort zone! More about that when I discuss the whole job thing that went down this year. It really gave me clarity around what I wanted to do - and what I didn't. So I am grateful for that even though there was also a lot of fear and anger.
I hope 2017 is kind to you all. Take care!
Saturday, December 31, 2016
Wrapping up Christmas
Today T had to ride down to take a look at a site we are thinking of using for one of our medieval events, so I'm home alone. Mom came down and lent a hand - my son and his friend did the final sanding on some mudding they had done. This house had a ton of wallpaper, all from the 1970s or 1980s and totally not my taste. We had a small hallway that needed the walls completely mudded after pulling off the wallpaper and a bathroom where we decided to simply mud the seams.
Unfortunately, the mud my son bought was NOT of the dust free variety. Mom came down and gave me a hand with the cleanup as well as starting to take down Christmas decorations. T and I are flying out to visit with friends in Reno, leaving home Wednesday evening, so I want to have the house clean and the decorations put away before we head out.
Right now things are pretty hectic with the holidays, upcoming vacation, and a new dog who is not yet house trained. We adopted Susie this week from the shelter. She's a 2.5 year old Shepherd mix. T's ex kept their dog and he couldn't bring the cats (I'm allergic and we have a pet door they could have easily gone out). My big dog Mya passed away 3 months ago, and I wanted Jordan to have a companion dog plus I wanted T to have a dog that was "his". Susie adores him, but we have to keep an eye on her to get her trained.
Once we are back we will start tag teaming the gym and for now we are counting calories and making sure we get plenty of veggies, water, etc.
I had a wonderful holiday season - gifts, family, food, being with someone who loves the holiday! My son & his girlfriend came up and it was so nice!
My ex broke up with the woman he was seeing (the one started seeing either 5 minutes before or 5 minutes after he left me) on Christmas day. Which was pretty crappy, especially since she has a 6 year old daughter and B has been in her life for 2 years AND they are locked in to a lease for another 6 months. So yeah, I hate it for the little girl. So, he continues to be the same self absorbed goober. He did agree to pay half the cost of a train ticket so his mom could go up to Maryland to see her sister and grandkids, so he is at least helping her out. I still remain in the mix on that, simply because Jan remains a part of our lives. Ironically, Jan is crazy about T and is so happy for me - so that's nice. :-)
So this weekend is all about getting the house in order before we leave town. We may stay up until midnight but we aren't going anywhere.
Pictures of the house before we moved in:
Back:
Bath 1 (seams are mudded so we can paint over wallpaper)
Bath 2 (wallpaper is removed and bath is repainted)
(Guest room)
(Master bedroom. Sadly, we haven't touched the wallpaper or curtains yet.)
car port and storage area in backyard - which is now fenced in.
Former garage which was converted to a den.
Dining room. This wallpaper is still up.
Three season porch out back.
From the street.
Knotty pine kitchen.
Living room. It's 30 feet long, so we have it set up half as a living area and half with a formal dining table.
Updated pictures to come!
Unfortunately, the mud my son bought was NOT of the dust free variety. Mom came down and gave me a hand with the cleanup as well as starting to take down Christmas decorations. T and I are flying out to visit with friends in Reno, leaving home Wednesday evening, so I want to have the house clean and the decorations put away before we head out.
Right now things are pretty hectic with the holidays, upcoming vacation, and a new dog who is not yet house trained. We adopted Susie this week from the shelter. She's a 2.5 year old Shepherd mix. T's ex kept their dog and he couldn't bring the cats (I'm allergic and we have a pet door they could have easily gone out). My big dog Mya passed away 3 months ago, and I wanted Jordan to have a companion dog plus I wanted T to have a dog that was "his". Susie adores him, but we have to keep an eye on her to get her trained.
Once we are back we will start tag teaming the gym and for now we are counting calories and making sure we get plenty of veggies, water, etc.
I had a wonderful holiday season - gifts, family, food, being with someone who loves the holiday! My son & his girlfriend came up and it was so nice!
My ex broke up with the woman he was seeing (the one started seeing either 5 minutes before or 5 minutes after he left me) on Christmas day. Which was pretty crappy, especially since she has a 6 year old daughter and B has been in her life for 2 years AND they are locked in to a lease for another 6 months. So yeah, I hate it for the little girl. So, he continues to be the same self absorbed goober. He did agree to pay half the cost of a train ticket so his mom could go up to Maryland to see her sister and grandkids, so he is at least helping her out. I still remain in the mix on that, simply because Jan remains a part of our lives. Ironically, Jan is crazy about T and is so happy for me - so that's nice. :-)
So this weekend is all about getting the house in order before we leave town. We may stay up until midnight but we aren't going anywhere.
Pictures of the house before we moved in:
Back:
Friday, December 30, 2016
A little background
I am going to do a couple of brief recaps just to set the stage for where I am now.
I am a member of a non profit which is about recreating and sharing knowledge about the middle ages - everything from making clothing and accessories to armor to combat. I first got involved back in 2000 and T was one of the first people I met. We hit it off immediately - we had so much in common and enjoyed being around each other. We dated for a while but we were both a little afraid of taking our relationship to the next level and didn't realize that our feelings were reciprocated, so we ended up breaking off our relationship. While we remained friends, we gradually drifted apart, he quit the organization and moved on to other hobbies, and I moved to Florida.
Fast forward to January of this year: I was 10 months out from my separation and in October of 2015 his wife admitted to an affair and asked for a divorce. Apparently the marriage had been in trouble for quite some time, but as I can attest - a separation is difficult. In any case - he began reaching out to old friends to build a support group - one of the things that had occurred was that he became isolated from "his" friends, and the joint friends weren't folks he felt he could really talk to. He reached out to me via facebook, and we began chatting.
It quickly became apparent that the chemistry was still there. We spent a LOT of time talking about our goals, our beliefs and values, our priorities: in short, all of the things I never was able to discuss with my spouse! We realized that we were very much in the same place, shared core values and priorities, and that our feelings hadn't changed. Within a month we were dating and when I purchased my house in July, he moved in. He had been wanting to move back to this area (he was about 2 hours away) to be closer to his family - so it was logical as well as being what we both wanted.
We're getting married this year - we know where, who we want there, we haven't picked a time. We aren't in a huge hurry but know that we want to be together and married. Crazy, right? I had reached a point where I was cool with being alone - I still missed the idea being married, but not being married to my husband. being alone was far preferable to being unhappy in a relationship and the dating scene was beyond frustrating. So once I was okay with where I was and wasn' looking - there he was.
I am a member of a non profit which is about recreating and sharing knowledge about the middle ages - everything from making clothing and accessories to armor to combat. I first got involved back in 2000 and T was one of the first people I met. We hit it off immediately - we had so much in common and enjoyed being around each other. We dated for a while but we were both a little afraid of taking our relationship to the next level and didn't realize that our feelings were reciprocated, so we ended up breaking off our relationship. While we remained friends, we gradually drifted apart, he quit the organization and moved on to other hobbies, and I moved to Florida.
Fast forward to January of this year: I was 10 months out from my separation and in October of 2015 his wife admitted to an affair and asked for a divorce. Apparently the marriage had been in trouble for quite some time, but as I can attest - a separation is difficult. In any case - he began reaching out to old friends to build a support group - one of the things that had occurred was that he became isolated from "his" friends, and the joint friends weren't folks he felt he could really talk to. He reached out to me via facebook, and we began chatting.
It quickly became apparent that the chemistry was still there. We spent a LOT of time talking about our goals, our beliefs and values, our priorities: in short, all of the things I never was able to discuss with my spouse! We realized that we were very much in the same place, shared core values and priorities, and that our feelings hadn't changed. Within a month we were dating and when I purchased my house in July, he moved in. He had been wanting to move back to this area (he was about 2 hours away) to be closer to his family - so it was logical as well as being what we both wanted.
We're getting married this year - we know where, who we want there, we haven't picked a time. We aren't in a huge hurry but know that we want to be together and married. Crazy, right? I had reached a point where I was cool with being alone - I still missed the idea being married, but not being married to my husband. being alone was far preferable to being unhappy in a relationship and the dating scene was beyond frustrating. So once I was okay with where I was and wasn' looking - there he was.
I don't have a style.
Insomnia stinks. Just read this article and I thought I'd share it:
http://www.theestablishment.co/2016/07/15/toddler-grandma-style-the-fashion-approach-that-will-set-you-free/
"Why not dress for the second-birthday/retirement party you want your life to be? You have nothing to lose but your self-imposed wardrobe restrictions." Indeed. I haven't had a personal style in years. My style is whatever fits with a side of yoga pants (I have lived in workout clothes for years). Maybe 2017 is the year to figure out my style.
http://www.theestablishment.co/2016/07/15/toddler-grandma-style-the-fashion-approach-that-will-set-you-free/
"Why not dress for the second-birthday/retirement party you want your life to be? You have nothing to lose but your self-imposed wardrobe restrictions." Indeed. I haven't had a personal style in years. My style is whatever fits with a side of yoga pants (I have lived in workout clothes for years). Maybe 2017 is the year to figure out my style.
Thursday, December 29, 2016
A return to blogging (probably)
Well, good morning and happy holidays.
Apparently it's been nearly a year since I updated this thing. Wow. Where did that year go? I can tell you I have crammed a tremendous amount into it!
In the past year I have:
I haven't made fitness or weight loss a priority - mostly it hasn't even been on my radar. But T and I sat down last night and discussed our goals for next year, and we both agreed that weight loss and improved fitness was on both of our lists.
He's been through as much as I have this year, so status quo has been okay as we navigated the rocks and shoals, but now we are both ready to do better. We have begun simply - with maintaining a daily calorie goal and sticking to that. He's dropped about 8 pounds and I've dropped a couple. We did NOT want to wait until January 1 - why not start now if we really want to do this? was our thought process. So we did.
It's been a crazy wonderful, crazy frustrating year. Hopefully 2017 will be a year where we have a chance to regroup and spend less time reacting to what life throws our way and more time making intentional choices.
Take care!
Apparently it's been nearly a year since I updated this thing. Wow. Where did that year go? I can tell you I have crammed a tremendous amount into it!
In the past year I have:
- Gotten a divorce
- Reconnected with an old boyfriend and gotten engaged
- Been laid off
- Bought a house
- Had my house in Florida on the market since April (under contract since May) and it still hasn't sold!
I haven't made fitness or weight loss a priority - mostly it hasn't even been on my radar. But T and I sat down last night and discussed our goals for next year, and we both agreed that weight loss and improved fitness was on both of our lists.
He's been through as much as I have this year, so status quo has been okay as we navigated the rocks and shoals, but now we are both ready to do better. We have begun simply - with maintaining a daily calorie goal and sticking to that. He's dropped about 8 pounds and I've dropped a couple. We did NOT want to wait until January 1 - why not start now if we really want to do this? was our thought process. So we did.
It's been a crazy wonderful, crazy frustrating year. Hopefully 2017 will be a year where we have a chance to regroup and spend less time reacting to what life throws our way and more time making intentional choices.
Take care!
Sunday, January 17, 2016
My neglected blog
Good morning,
It's not that I am unfocused about eating well or exercising, it's just that write now my time and energy are so squeezed, I don't have a lot of either for posting or reading of blogs.
Doing fine - work is going well.
It's not that I am unfocused about eating well or exercising, it's just that write now my time and energy are so squeezed, I don't have a lot of either for posting or reading of blogs.
Doing fine - work is going well.
Thursday, January 07, 2016
Good morning
Just wanted to do a quick check in again. Work is still busy, I expect the days to be long for a while. This weekend we are going to Wilmington to see my son (mom is going with me). I am looking forward to that since he was home for Christmas for such a short time.
Not really reading a lot of blogs - I try to pop in now & again.
Take care!
Not really reading a lot of blogs - I try to pop in now & again.
Take care!
Tuesday, January 05, 2016
Wiped
Just wanted to check in. I get home from work late, eat, and I am wiped out!! I am walking at lunchtime and I do have my kettlebells here at home, but it's definitely going to take me a bit to find my groove. In the meantime I am having a good time! Tired, but good. :-)
Take care!
Take care!
Saturday, January 02, 2016
Lift off
The house is quiet, I'm jamming out to the "Zohan" soundtrack, and it is now COLD here!! :-O But sunny, so the dogs and I will be taking a walk today.
I found a recipe for pumpkin pancakes in Shape magazine I plan to make for breakfasts this week. I'm doing kimchi fried rice for lunches (it's mostly vegetables, I put maybe a quarter cup of brown rice in each serving). Keeping dinners simple since I am wiped when I get home from work and my mom is not into cooking.
Back in September or early October my son and I made about 3 gallons of mead (a honey wine). I plan to get that bottled this weekend, take my mom and MIL to see Star Wars, and I am meeting Janet at the gym for another workout tomorrow. I am signed up for water aerobics for January, so I will be starting that back up.
I am thankful for my job - not only because money is nice but because I like the people and it really consumes a lot of my energy. I did have some moments of anger and sadness at my ex over the holidays, but my energy is a lot more focused on work and on my future - a much better place to be.
It continues to be a journey, but I feel a lot more positive!
Be well!
I found a recipe for pumpkin pancakes in Shape magazine I plan to make for breakfasts this week. I'm doing kimchi fried rice for lunches (it's mostly vegetables, I put maybe a quarter cup of brown rice in each serving). Keeping dinners simple since I am wiped when I get home from work and my mom is not into cooking.
Back in September or early October my son and I made about 3 gallons of mead (a honey wine). I plan to get that bottled this weekend, take my mom and MIL to see Star Wars, and I am meeting Janet at the gym for another workout tomorrow. I am signed up for water aerobics for January, so I will be starting that back up.
I am thankful for my job - not only because money is nice but because I like the people and it really consumes a lot of my energy. I did have some moments of anger and sadness at my ex over the holidays, but my energy is a lot more focused on work and on my future - a much better place to be.
It continues to be a journey, but I feel a lot more positive!
Be well!
Friday, January 01, 2016
Happy New Year!
Here's to a better 2016 and good riddance to darn 2015! :-) Went to bed at 9:30 last night - exhausting week.
Went to the gym this morning, so I started the new year off right! After that I sat down and work on my book keeping. I worked on my budget, reviewed my debt, balanced my checkbook etc. Always a good thing to do periodically.
I have 3 simple goals for this year:
1. lose 60 pounds
2. Become debt free
3. Purchase a home (incurring some more debt, but that will be my only debt)
Simple, not necessarily easy. But very doable.
I hope you achieve your goals this year!!
Went to the gym this morning, so I started the new year off right! After that I sat down and work on my book keeping. I worked on my budget, reviewed my debt, balanced my checkbook etc. Always a good thing to do periodically.
I have 3 simple goals for this year:
1. lose 60 pounds
2. Become debt free
3. Purchase a home (incurring some more debt, but that will be my only debt)
Simple, not necessarily easy. But very doable.
I hope you achieve your goals this year!!
Monday, December 28, 2015
2001
This is my 2001st post. Unbelievable!
Today was a slow day at work, so it was certainly tempting to eat! Luckily I didn't overdo it - I had my food packed. Dinner was a really good veggie lasagna (heavy on veggies, light on noodles). Tomorrow I am going to be riding in one of our trucks all day, so I plan to pack a lunch that doesn't require heating.
It's still really warm here (mid 70s) but stormy. The weather is so weird! I plan to get on the scale this Friday and see how I'm doing.
Have a good day tomorrow!
Today was a slow day at work, so it was certainly tempting to eat! Luckily I didn't overdo it - I had my food packed. Dinner was a really good veggie lasagna (heavy on veggies, light on noodles). Tomorrow I am going to be riding in one of our trucks all day, so I plan to pack a lunch that doesn't require heating.
It's still really warm here (mid 70s) but stormy. The weather is so weird! I plan to get on the scale this Friday and see how I'm doing.
Have a good day tomorrow!
Sunday, December 27, 2015
Ready for the work week
This has been a nice break, and I have another long weekend coming up! Food is all prepped. I'm relaxing for a bit before I head to the gym to work out.
I hope you all have had a nice holiday. take care!
I hope you all have had a nice holiday. take care!
Saturday, December 26, 2015
Happy holidays!
Yep, this week has been as crazy and tiring as I expected. It was a good week and a nice Christmas. There were a couple moments of sadness, but overall really nice.
The weather here has been freakishly warm - in the 70s. I thought we were going to have to turn the AC on! My son set up the hot tub for me yesterday, but I haven't tried it out yet. We didn't give each other a lot of gifts, just a few really thoughtful things. It was a nice day.
Today I need to plan the menu, take a walk in the park, and I think we will go to Star Wars. That's about it!
I hope you all enjoy your holidays and have a nice weekend!
The weather here has been freakishly warm - in the 70s. I thought we were going to have to turn the AC on! My son set up the hot tub for me yesterday, but I haven't tried it out yet. We didn't give each other a lot of gifts, just a few really thoughtful things. It was a nice day.
Today I need to plan the menu, take a walk in the park, and I think we will go to Star Wars. That's about it!
I hope you all enjoy your holidays and have a nice weekend!
Monday, December 21, 2015
Day 1 down!
Well, I survived day 1! It was mostly filling out stuff in HR and orientation, being walked around to meet folks, and having lunch with the management team. There is so much to do at this job. I fully expect it to consume my life for the next few months.
I feel like things are beginning to come together....
I feel like things are beginning to come together....
Sunday, December 20, 2015
Bonus post about counting calories
I might not have time or energy to post tomorrow, so I wanted to share this thought.
I know (and have experienced) that food tracking is pretty important in successfully losing weight. I just don't like tracking throughout the day. I can do it, I just don't like doing it. But I'm not a toddler, and I can do things I don't enjoy. However, I have figured out a way to make it easier for me: I prep my food on the weekend and count the calories as I cook it.
For example: Today I made cottage cheese and oat pancakes. I counted the calories as I added the ingredients, so I know each pancake has roughly 50 calories (some a bit bigger, some a bit smaller). Ditto for my pesto salad, which I made and put into 3 containers. Each serving has around 275 calories. I know the counts for 1 c grapes and 12 almonds (my snack). Since I eat the same thing every day, I know how many calories I have going into dinner each night. This way I only have to figure 1 meal (dinner) and 1 snack (after dinner) every day - the rest of the day is accounted for. Some people would rather have variety - I'd rather have the food prepped and counted.
In short, do what works for you. Set things up so you can succeed.
I know (and have experienced) that food tracking is pretty important in successfully losing weight. I just don't like tracking throughout the day. I can do it, I just don't like doing it. But I'm not a toddler, and I can do things I don't enjoy. However, I have figured out a way to make it easier for me: I prep my food on the weekend and count the calories as I cook it.
For example: Today I made cottage cheese and oat pancakes. I counted the calories as I added the ingredients, so I know each pancake has roughly 50 calories (some a bit bigger, some a bit smaller). Ditto for my pesto salad, which I made and put into 3 containers. Each serving has around 275 calories. I know the counts for 1 c grapes and 12 almonds (my snack). Since I eat the same thing every day, I know how many calories I have going into dinner each night. This way I only have to figure 1 meal (dinner) and 1 snack (after dinner) every day - the rest of the day is accounted for. Some people would rather have variety - I'd rather have the food prepped and counted.
In short, do what works for you. Set things up so you can succeed.
A new beginning
Happy Sunday! In less than 24 hours I will be at my new job. I have a lot of feelings about this. My last job was an 18 month contract - I hoped to get on permanently, but at the same time I wasn't as emotionally invested since I was a contractor. And while there are perks to not being full time, I needed something with benefits since mine and my son's health insurance is through my husband's work, and that won't last forever.
I am excited because the company is much smaller than where I've been in the past (I worked at a major credit card company and one of the largest banks in America) and they treat it like family. My boss works for the president that runs all the companies under the umbrella (I'll work for a subsidiary). It's also a LOT of responsibility. So nervous, but excited.
Last night I ate a side of pasta with dinner. Big mistake. If there is one food that sets me off, it's pasta. I have no idea why! I ate a smallish side portion, and still ended up feeling "nibbly" all evening. I can eat a small serving of the Barilla protein plus, but last night was a reinforcement of why I have to stay away from the regular stuff. I'm not normally sensitive to carbs, but pasta is the exception.
I had a great workout with Janet yesterday. Today I am going for a walk in the park, getting ready for tomorrow, and watching some football. I hope you have a nice day!
I am excited because the company is much smaller than where I've been in the past (I worked at a major credit card company and one of the largest banks in America) and they treat it like family. My boss works for the president that runs all the companies under the umbrella (I'll work for a subsidiary). It's also a LOT of responsibility. So nervous, but excited.
Last night I ate a side of pasta with dinner. Big mistake. If there is one food that sets me off, it's pasta. I have no idea why! I ate a smallish side portion, and still ended up feeling "nibbly" all evening. I can eat a small serving of the Barilla protein plus, but last night was a reinforcement of why I have to stay away from the regular stuff. I'm not normally sensitive to carbs, but pasta is the exception.
I had a great workout with Janet yesterday. Today I am going for a walk in the park, getting ready for tomorrow, and watching some football. I hope you have a nice day!
Saturday, December 19, 2015
Weekend plans
I am meeting with Janet again today for a good workout. I've got food planned for the week and the shopping list made. This weekend will be shopping, food prep, laundry, and getting ready for work. :-)
The realtor I worked with to sell my NC house has moved, but she gave my name to another lady she thinks I will like. I have started looking a bit on my own (online), but she is going to set me up on the MLS so I can start looking at houses! Still a ways down the road, but exciting!
The realtor I worked with to sell my NC house has moved, but she gave my name to another lady she thinks I will like. I have started looking a bit on my own (online), but she is going to set me up on the MLS so I can start looking at houses! Still a ways down the road, but exciting!
Friday, December 18, 2015
Last day
Today is my last weekday of unemployment before I start my new job Monday. I am excited and nervous! Last night I was feeling really sad - I have no idea why. I started eating a second snack, then took myself to bed.
Yesterday I had Janet take my measurements - I will ask her to do it again in a couple of months to see my progress. I don't measure myself, so that will be a neat additional measure of progress.
Today mom and I are hitting a couple of consignment shops (they do furniture and housewares) just to look around. Yesterday I made a tablecloth and valences for mom's kitchen out of some pretty holiday fabric I bought last year. I am thrilled with how they turned out. Today I am making her a tote bag.
I still dream about my ex most every night, so I obviously still have a LOT of unresolved feelings. (Not romantic, these are anxiety dreams!) I miss being married, even if things were pretty bad. I hope that at some point down the road I will meet someone that will be a better partner to me.
But I am spending time with friends, and making time for those connections. On the way to Wilmington last weekend, we stopped in Cary to have breakfast with a good friend and his girlfriend - that sort of thing. While there we stopped by and hung out for a while with a couple I've been friends with for many years and we made plans to see each other again. I know I have a lot of wonderful people in my life, and I am thankful for that.
Yesterday I had Janet take my measurements - I will ask her to do it again in a couple of months to see my progress. I don't measure myself, so that will be a neat additional measure of progress.
Today mom and I are hitting a couple of consignment shops (they do furniture and housewares) just to look around. Yesterday I made a tablecloth and valences for mom's kitchen out of some pretty holiday fabric I bought last year. I am thrilled with how they turned out. Today I am making her a tote bag.
I still dream about my ex most every night, so I obviously still have a LOT of unresolved feelings. (Not romantic, these are anxiety dreams!) I miss being married, even if things were pretty bad. I hope that at some point down the road I will meet someone that will be a better partner to me.
But I am spending time with friends, and making time for those connections. On the way to Wilmington last weekend, we stopped in Cary to have breakfast with a good friend and his girlfriend - that sort of thing. While there we stopped by and hung out for a while with a couple I've been friends with for many years and we made plans to see each other again. I know I have a lot of wonderful people in my life, and I am thankful for that.
Thursday, December 17, 2015
Reality Check
So, on Tuesday the trainer (Janet) gave me an assessment to fill out, which asked for my height and weight. I brought it home, filled it out, and this morning got on the scale. Ouch. My guess the other day was correct - I have gained exactly 15 pounds. I am now officially the highest I have ever weighed in my entire life.
I won't lie, I am ashamed, embarrassed, sad, angry.... well, you get the idea. As the saying goes "done can't be undone", but in this case, it kinda can. I can lose the weight.
I am having a hard time writing this - I spent the first years of this blog fretting about losing 10 measly pounds, and now I need to lose 60 or so. Dear lord.
I'd say no time like the present, but trying on my dress pants for work 2 days ago was all the wake up call I needed.
This morning I weighed 210.8.
I won't lie, I am ashamed, embarrassed, sad, angry.... well, you get the idea. As the saying goes "done can't be undone", but in this case, it kinda can. I can lose the weight.
I am having a hard time writing this - I spent the first years of this blog fretting about losing 10 measly pounds, and now I need to lose 60 or so. Dear lord.
I'd say no time like the present, but trying on my dress pants for work 2 days ago was all the wake up call I needed.
This morning I weighed 210.8.
Tuesday, December 15, 2015
Thank you!
Once again, thank you for the well wishes! I am excited. The work is similar to things I've done in the past, but it's an entirely new industry. So I expect to be brain dead when I get home for the next 6 months or so!
I am still have some rough evenings, but overall things are smoothing out on several levels. The support and love of my friends and family, the knowledge that I have a job with a good company, getting to the gym with the trainer .. it's all helping.
I won't say I'm out of this funk/weight gain ride I've been on for nearly a year (I've gained 15 pounds since the ex left), but I think I've made a lot of progress.
Here's to hoping 2016 is a lot better than this year has been!!!
I am still have some rough evenings, but overall things are smoothing out on several levels. The support and love of my friends and family, the knowledge that I have a job with a good company, getting to the gym with the trainer .. it's all helping.
I won't say I'm out of this funk/weight gain ride I've been on for nearly a year (I've gained 15 pounds since the ex left), but I think I've made a lot of progress.
Here's to hoping 2016 is a lot better than this year has been!!!
Monday, December 14, 2015
Thursday, December 10, 2015
A good day
Another productive day so far. I've run a bunch of errands, gotten my winter work clothes all organized, I'm working on my holiday cards.
Food last night was MUCH better and that felt good! I made a really nice lunch to have for the remainder of the week. I riced a cauliflower, roasted zucchini and onion, and poached chicken breast. I have all that in separate containers. Then I made an Indian style sauce. That way we can both eat it, with or without the sauce, or mix & match with something else. I wanted a lunch that gave me a good 3-4 servings of vegetable, and this does that nicely!
The weather is great (it's supposed to be 70 this weekend), so another walk in the park today. :-)
Have a good one!
Food last night was MUCH better and that felt good! I made a really nice lunch to have for the remainder of the week. I riced a cauliflower, roasted zucchini and onion, and poached chicken breast. I have all that in separate containers. Then I made an Indian style sauce. That way we can both eat it, with or without the sauce, or mix & match with something else. I wanted a lunch that gave me a good 3-4 servings of vegetable, and this does that nicely!
The weather is great (it's supposed to be 70 this weekend), so another walk in the park today. :-)
Have a good one!
Wednesday, December 09, 2015
Thank you
First of all, I wanted to take a moment to thank those of you that take the time to leave a comment. I think it's obvious I'm hardly a big time blogger with a huge following - I write this largely as a therapeutic exercise for myself. But if anyone can relate or takes something away, then I am glad. And I also appreciate your support.
I do pretty well until 7 or so, then I go off the rails if I'm going to. I'm just so tired of it, I feel like a broken record. OTOH, I went to the gym and worked out with a trainer yesterday. I ate pretty well (until after dinner). I got a lot accomplished. I've been productive today, and the weather is terrific so I will be taking the dog for a walk later.
The job I interviewed with is checking my references and doing a background check, so one step toward an offer??? Fingers crossed!
Have a good one!
I do pretty well until 7 or so, then I go off the rails if I'm going to. I'm just so tired of it, I feel like a broken record. OTOH, I went to the gym and worked out with a trainer yesterday. I ate pretty well (until after dinner). I got a lot accomplished. I've been productive today, and the weather is terrific so I will be taking the dog for a walk later.
The job I interviewed with is checking my references and doing a background check, so one step toward an offer??? Fingers crossed!
Have a good one!
Tuesday, December 08, 2015
Stuck in the middle
Isn't it a Tom Petty song that has the line "The waiting is the hardest part"? Waiting to hear about a job I interviewed for last week, waiting for my recruiter to set up an interview this week, waiting....
It's hard feeling like your life is on hold. I'm trying to do things I can do now, but honestly, my motivation is pretty low. It isn't really even about overeating, it's about not feeling like I have any energy. I just want to sit in a chair and read a book. I want to be in a cocoon.
I did meet a friend for lunch yesterday, I took the dog for a walk in the park, I fixed a healthy dinner. I'm NOT just sitting in a chair, but honestly there are a lot of things I could be doing that I'm not! And I waffle between completely understanding and reading a book, and feeling the need to push myself out the door. So I'm doing a little of both, which I guess isn't terrible.
I'd like to share something I read in the book "50 50" by Dean Karnazes:
"It is so easy to live a life that has been scripted for you by others, to fall into the mire of conformity by following a path that society has laid before you, rather than heeding your own unique calling. Comfort, complacency, routine, the path of least resistance, the easy road - those things are the bane of humankind. It is a disquieting moment when you awaken to realize the trappings of conventionality have created a life for you that is entirely different from the one you wish to live."
Wow.
There are a lot of things I say I want to do, but don't. I use lack of (fill in the blank) as an excuse. I really need to figure out what I honestly want to do, what things I think I SHOULD want to do but don't really, and start. (Cross Fit, kayaking...)
Losing weight is something I actually DO want to do, but am obviously scared of doing. I am scared of the results and I am scared of giving up my emotional dampener.
Life is a terrific place, but it isn't always easy. Right now is tough, and I know I will come out the other side a stronger version of myself if I use the moment to dig deep inside. It's just sometimes I'm nervous abot what I will find.
It's hard feeling like your life is on hold. I'm trying to do things I can do now, but honestly, my motivation is pretty low. It isn't really even about overeating, it's about not feeling like I have any energy. I just want to sit in a chair and read a book. I want to be in a cocoon.
I did meet a friend for lunch yesterday, I took the dog for a walk in the park, I fixed a healthy dinner. I'm NOT just sitting in a chair, but honestly there are a lot of things I could be doing that I'm not! And I waffle between completely understanding and reading a book, and feeling the need to push myself out the door. So I'm doing a little of both, which I guess isn't terrible.
I'd like to share something I read in the book "50 50" by Dean Karnazes:
"It is so easy to live a life that has been scripted for you by others, to fall into the mire of conformity by following a path that society has laid before you, rather than heeding your own unique calling. Comfort, complacency, routine, the path of least resistance, the easy road - those things are the bane of humankind. It is a disquieting moment when you awaken to realize the trappings of conventionality have created a life for you that is entirely different from the one you wish to live."
Wow.
There are a lot of things I say I want to do, but don't. I use lack of (fill in the blank) as an excuse. I really need to figure out what I honestly want to do, what things I think I SHOULD want to do but don't really, and start. (Cross Fit, kayaking...)
Losing weight is something I actually DO want to do, but am obviously scared of doing. I am scared of the results and I am scared of giving up my emotional dampener.
Life is a terrific place, but it isn't always easy. Right now is tough, and I know I will come out the other side a stronger version of myself if I use the moment to dig deep inside. It's just sometimes I'm nervous abot what I will find.
Monday, December 07, 2015
Monday
My weekend wasn't as productive as I would have liked, primarily because I spent Saturday helping a friend finish moving her folks. It was a good cause, but I still need to sort my fall clothes - it's December for pete's sake!
Anyhow, weekend was pretty good. I am meeting a friend for lunch (yeah, I get together with my girlfriends a lot these days!), and I have plenty of time to go and get started on clothes, but .. ugh. I should get up and get moving, but I'm feeling kind of slug-esque. Part of me says enjoy it now since it won't last forever! :-)
But after meeting her for lunch, I am taking a walk and starting on my clothes!
Food is fine and going out really isn't an issue for me.
Have a good day!
Anyhow, weekend was pretty good. I am meeting a friend for lunch (yeah, I get together with my girlfriends a lot these days!), and I have plenty of time to go and get started on clothes, but .. ugh. I should get up and get moving, but I'm feeling kind of slug-esque. Part of me says enjoy it now since it won't last forever! :-)
But after meeting her for lunch, I am taking a walk and starting on my clothes!
Food is fine and going out really isn't an issue for me.
Have a good day!
Friday, December 04, 2015
Better
Got a decent night's sleep. Got up, had a protein shake, fed dogs, got dressed, and started doing chores.
I feel better today. If nothing else, I always pick myself up by my boot straps. I've been very productive this morning and I'm meeting a friend for lunch, which will be nice.
Today is a better day. Take care.
I feel better today. If nothing else, I always pick myself up by my boot straps. I've been very productive this morning and I'm meeting a friend for lunch, which will be nice.
Today is a better day. Take care.
Thursday, December 03, 2015
Hot mess
I hate that phrase, but it seems to be accurate. I do fine a day or 2 and then go off the rails. It's accomplishing nothing except increasing my frustration, yet I stay in the same cycle. It feels like the movie "Groundhog Day". Ugh.
Interview seemed to go well - we'll see what's next.
Thanks you for the comment - I spoke to a friend as well and I am going to go ahead and take care of the small unit.
Yesterday's was my MIL's birthday - she was over here for dinner. She'd just opened her present from me (holiday earrings) when my husband called. She didn't answer. My mom said "He's probably calling to wish you a happy birthday - answer!" He called right back and she answered. He then chewed her out about something this weekend and did NOT wish her a happy birthday (I doubt he even remembered). Ugh.
Because we're still facebook friends, I posted a photo of her and tagged him, knowing he would see it. (I didn't tell her I did it). She left here near tears. He did call her later and wish her a happy birthday. What a jack ass.
Supposed to go to the gym today. :-( I don't wanna!
Interview seemed to go well - we'll see what's next.
Thanks you for the comment - I spoke to a friend as well and I am going to go ahead and take care of the small unit.
Yesterday's was my MIL's birthday - she was over here for dinner. She'd just opened her present from me (holiday earrings) when my husband called. She didn't answer. My mom said "He's probably calling to wish you a happy birthday - answer!" He called right back and she answered. He then chewed her out about something this weekend and did NOT wish her a happy birthday (I doubt he even remembered). Ugh.
Because we're still facebook friends, I posted a photo of her and tagged him, knowing he would see it. (I didn't tell her I did it). She left here near tears. He did call her later and wish her a happy birthday. What a jack ass.
Supposed to go to the gym today. :-( I don't wanna!
Wednesday, December 02, 2015
Doing what you have to do
Went to the gym and worked out with the trainer (I like her), ate pretty good, got a good night's sleep. I have an interview in a couple of hours.
Our stuff is in 2 storage units: a big one that has the furniture and household stuff, and a smaller one that has the overflow and garage contents (mostly his). I'm trying to decide if I want to go ahead and separate that stuff out so it's done, or just wait until I move. It would save me a little money, but mostly it's one more thing I can go ahead and split out. I can't decide.
Okay, have a good day!
Our stuff is in 2 storage units: a big one that has the furniture and household stuff, and a smaller one that has the overflow and garage contents (mostly his). I'm trying to decide if I want to go ahead and separate that stuff out so it's done, or just wait until I move. It would save me a little money, but mostly it's one more thing I can go ahead and split out. I can't decide.
Okay, have a good day!
Tuesday, December 01, 2015
Sadness and stress
I've been feeling sad and stressed. I don't really want to go into all of it, but my husband is supposed to keep us on his insurance until the divorce and I don't think he did, so I think I will probably have to sue him, which will suck.
It's been a crappy week.
I am meeting with a personal trainer today. I wish I could say I was excited about it, all I can say is that I will show up. Right now, showing up is the best I've got.
Grrr.
It's been a crappy week.
I am meeting with a personal trainer today. I wish I could say I was excited about it, all I can say is that I will show up. Right now, showing up is the best I've got.
Grrr.
Saturday, November 28, 2015
"Black" Friday
No, I didn't go shopping. The black was my mood yesterday. I spent the day in my pjs, eating and reading a book. It was bad - I was feeling really sorry for myself.
Today I got up, showered, and started on things I needed to get done. I know this is part of the journey, but that doesn't make it suck less.
I have raised my child into a successful adult (for the most part!), I don't have a husband or anyone depending on me. I need to find my focus and passion - I don't know what that is. That's my mission for 2016.
Take care!
Today I got up, showered, and started on things I needed to get done. I know this is part of the journey, but that doesn't make it suck less.
I have raised my child into a successful adult (for the most part!), I don't have a husband or anyone depending on me. I need to find my focus and passion - I don't know what that is. That's my mission for 2016.
Take care!
Thursday, November 26, 2015
Happy Thanksgiving!
Last night I was feeling kinda sorry for myself - I guess it's just part of the ride of divorce! Anyway, I got up this morning and went for a walk in the park. The weather was lovely and it was really nice. My son was here for the day, but headed back a few minutes ago.
We had a nice meal, but no going overboard. Since it ended up being just the 3 of us, we had a roaster chicken and sides, but not a huge, over the top meal. I sent most of the leftovers home with my son. That was great, but now it's back to normal.
I hope you enjoyed your holiday!
We had a nice meal, but no going overboard. Since it ended up being just the 3 of us, we had a roaster chicken and sides, but not a huge, over the top meal. I sent most of the leftovers home with my son. That was great, but now it's back to normal.
I hope you enjoyed your holiday!
Wednesday, November 25, 2015
Tuesday recap, and holiday prepping
Yesterday was another good day. Walked in the park twice, did my short kettlebell workout twice, ran a bunch of errands. Food was really good:
Breakfast: half a chorizo sausage and 2 eggs with salsa
Snack: pear
Lunch: grilled chicken caeser salad with the dressing on the side
Snack: banana
Dinner: 1 salmon patty, black eyed peas, cucumber and tomato salad, pickled beets and okra
Snack: 4 ritz crackers and a slice of provolone cheese
Snack 2: a slice of melba thin rye with 1 T of hummus (not planned, but I was hungry)
I have a bunch of desk work I have been avoiding that I really need to work on today! Also make the cornbread for the dressing. My son will be home this evening - yay! :-)
Have a great holiday!
Breakfast: half a chorizo sausage and 2 eggs with salsa
Snack: pear
Lunch: grilled chicken caeser salad with the dressing on the side
Snack: banana
Dinner: 1 salmon patty, black eyed peas, cucumber and tomato salad, pickled beets and okra
Snack: 4 ritz crackers and a slice of provolone cheese
Snack 2: a slice of melba thin rye with 1 T of hummus (not planned, but I was hungry)
I have a bunch of desk work I have been avoiding that I really need to work on today! Also make the cornbread for the dressing. My son will be home this evening - yay! :-)
Have a great holiday!
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Yesterday
Yesterday was overall a pretty good day. I walked in the park, went to water aerobics, and ended up doing several chores even though I was pretty tired after that interview! I made a really good homemade spaghetti sauce with ground chicken. I also made zucchini noodles and used those along with a few real noodles.
Thanksgiving has totally changed. My son's friend can't make it down. Then MIL was planning to come over - she got a call Sunday that her brother is in the hospital and is not expected to make it. Originally she & my ex were going to go to Maryland for Christmas to spend with her other son & family. Now they are going up tomorrow and not Christmas (I guess she will be with us for Christmas, which is fine).
So, okay. Brian wants her to drive up to the mountains so they can leave from there. She was so upset she didn't understand the address, so I had him send it to me. I asked my mom "Why am I having my husband send me his girlfriend's address so I can put it into his mother's GPS for her?" I swear, the high road sucks ass. So I had a glass of wine. But no beer and no overeating, so that's an improvement.
MIL doesn't like the girlfriend and thinks her 6 year old is a spoiled brat. Knowing this woman, I'm sure she is. I do care about my MIL and I'm happy to have her around. I just sometimes feel like I still have the worst of my marriage (been trying to get my husband to send me info about next year's health insurance plan has been impossible.), but none of the few benefits. Grrr. It's not forever.
Thanksgiving has totally changed. My son's friend can't make it down. Then MIL was planning to come over - she got a call Sunday that her brother is in the hospital and is not expected to make it. Originally she & my ex were going to go to Maryland for Christmas to spend with her other son & family. Now they are going up tomorrow and not Christmas (I guess she will be with us for Christmas, which is fine).
So, okay. Brian wants her to drive up to the mountains so they can leave from there. She was so upset she didn't understand the address, so I had him send it to me. I asked my mom "Why am I having my husband send me his girlfriend's address so I can put it into his mother's GPS for her?" I swear, the high road sucks ass. So I had a glass of wine. But no beer and no overeating, so that's an improvement.
MIL doesn't like the girlfriend and thinks her 6 year old is a spoiled brat. Knowing this woman, I'm sure she is. I do care about my MIL and I'm happy to have her around. I just sometimes feel like I still have the worst of my marriage (been trying to get my husband to send me info about next year's health insurance plan has been impossible.), but none of the few benefits. Grrr. It's not forever.
Monday, November 23, 2015
Monday
So, I had a job interview this morning. I think it went okay - I should here next week about whether I made the second round of interviews. Fingers crossed.
Getting ready to go to the park for a walk. I have a list of stuff to do but after a 2 hour interview, I am exhausted!
Getting ready to go to the park for a walk. I have a list of stuff to do but after a 2 hour interview, I am exhausted!
Sunday, November 22, 2015
Home again
An uneventful drive back home. Nice to be back. I cannot believe it is the week of Thanksgiving! When did that happen??
I am reaching out to some friends - working on building my accountability team. Seriously. I mean, I am so fortunate - my weight doesn't impair my ability to do much of anything - my health numbers are good. But I don't like th eway I look and I know this isn't good for me.
Ok, nice to be home!
I am reaching out to some friends - working on building my accountability team. Seriously. I mean, I am so fortunate - my weight doesn't impair my ability to do much of anything - my health numbers are good. But I don't like th eway I look and I know this isn't good for me.
Ok, nice to be home!
Saturday, November 21, 2015
In Georgia
We drove down to Georgia to visit my great aunt. She is slowing down .. a lot. And her memory is definitely not as good. I worry because there isn't really anyone here that helps her with her business or anything. Mom pays a lady to come in once a week to give her a good bath, make sure she has stuff she needs, etc. But her kids & grandkids rarely check on her. It's shameful and makes me angry. All we can do is come down periodically, take her out, and have Mona come in once a week. :-(
The weather has been overcast but no rain and not cold, so that's good. We've done the usual: cemetery, thrift and antique shops (limited), take her out to eat. It's been a good visit, but it makes me sad.
I don't think I am ready to date. I'm glad I tried it - I'm not afraid of it any more, but I don't think I'm ready for it. And that's ok.
And then finally: I have so stop the bs and seriously do something about my weight. Baby steps aren't getting it done. I texted the lady that I was training with last winter. She isn't taking clients right now while she undergoes treatment for breast cancer. Geesh. I hate that.
I need to set up some accountability for myself.
The weather has been overcast but no rain and not cold, so that's good. We've done the usual: cemetery, thrift and antique shops (limited), take her out to eat. It's been a good visit, but it makes me sad.
I don't think I am ready to date. I'm glad I tried it - I'm not afraid of it any more, but I don't think I'm ready for it. And that's ok.
And then finally: I have so stop the bs and seriously do something about my weight. Baby steps aren't getting it done. I texted the lady that I was training with last winter. She isn't taking clients right now while she undergoes treatment for breast cancer. Geesh. I hate that.
I need to set up some accountability for myself.
Wednesday, November 18, 2015
Mid week
I slept really well last night, which was nice. I got up, went for a walk in the park with the dog, swung my kettlebell, then grabbed a shower. I had 2 coupons to K0hls I could stack, so I got a really nice bra for work for $14.
Made myself a nice lunch. Since I am skipping water aerobics tonight to help a friend put together some Ikea furniture, my plan to is repeat this morning's workout again this afternoon.
There are things I am struggling with right now - like, am I really ready to date? I don't know. Sadness (first holidays since split - ugh). Just - stuff. But I'm doing okay with my food and I'm looking forward to visiting Alma this weekend.
I've been busy making soup (I made a really good vegetable yesterday), and eating my vegetables. :-)
Okay, have a good day!
Made myself a nice lunch. Since I am skipping water aerobics tonight to help a friend put together some Ikea furniture, my plan to is repeat this morning's workout again this afternoon.
There are things I am struggling with right now - like, am I really ready to date? I don't know. Sadness (first holidays since split - ugh). Just - stuff. But I'm doing okay with my food and I'm looking forward to visiting Alma this weekend.
I've been busy making soup (I made a really good vegetable yesterday), and eating my vegetables. :-)
Okay, have a good day!
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
Upcoming
Friday we are leaving for Georgia to go visit my great aunt. We are coming back Sunday, then Monday I have a job interview (wish me luck!). I tried on my interview outfit today - it still looks fine despite having gained some weight since last time I wore it.
I skipped water aerobics yesterday and I paid for it last night in the form of insomnia. Ugh! Note to self: exercise improves sleep. Go to the gym!
Food is still on track!
I skipped water aerobics yesterday and I paid for it last night in the form of insomnia. Ugh! Note to self: exercise improves sleep. Go to the gym!
Food is still on track!
Monday, November 16, 2015
A nice day
The weather here was really nice today. Mom, her friend (the one who's husband recently died) and I went to Replacements Ltd (http://replacements.com/), an antique mall, and lunch. We had a really lovely day. Once we got home, mom and I went for a walk in the park. I need to go swing my kettlebell. Food has been excellent and I am feeling better!
Take care!
Take care!
Sunday, November 15, 2015
Sunday
So it's been a pretty good weekend. Would you believe I have been on 3 dates this week????
Yeah, it's true. Met a guy Thursday night for dinner - very nice guy, zero chemistry. We said thanks and haven't communicated. Lunch yesterday was really fun! We took a walk after - we were both in the Army and had a lot we could talk about. He is going out of town on business and we are planning to see each other when we get back.
Date 3 was lunch today. He was nice, we talked sports - very easy going, no chemistry. Ugh, this is hard! But pleased with yesterday's lunch - we'll see what happens.
It's hard putting myself out there, but I was beginning to get such a complex, I figured the plunge would be good - and it has been! It's also tough because I am currently at my highest weight ever. I've struggled, mightily.
Food and emotional eating have been better this week and I was down 2.4 pounds. Keeping on, keeping on.
Yeah, it's true. Met a guy Thursday night for dinner - very nice guy, zero chemistry. We said thanks and haven't communicated. Lunch yesterday was really fun! We took a walk after - we were both in the Army and had a lot we could talk about. He is going out of town on business and we are planning to see each other when we get back.
Date 3 was lunch today. He was nice, we talked sports - very easy going, no chemistry. Ugh, this is hard! But pleased with yesterday's lunch - we'll see what happens.
It's hard putting myself out there, but I was beginning to get such a complex, I figured the plunge would be good - and it has been! It's also tough because I am currently at my highest weight ever. I've struggled, mightily.
Food and emotional eating have been better this week and I was down 2.4 pounds. Keeping on, keeping on.
Thursday, November 12, 2015
More sun
Another sunny, warm (70s) day. Another day with a few list of tasks, but nothing too bad.
The scale is down a couple of the about 4 pounds I gained on the trip. I'm near my highest weight, which would be more miserable except I am working on changing it. No kettlebells yesterday - I was tired and a bit stiff, so I decided to skip that. I did walk in the park and went to water aerobics.
Today the plan includes water aerobics, walk in the park, and kettlebells. There is no beer in the house, and there are a couple of (relatively) healthy, low cal snacks for evening. I tend to eat a light dinner before class (which is at 7) and then I want a little bit of something when I get home.
After some consideration, I decided to sign up for an online dating service. I haven't dated in over 15 years and I've never used an online service. I was building up a lot of fear of dating, so I decided to sign up and get my toes wet. I don't feel ready for a serious relationship, but I felt now was the time to face that fear. I will keep you posted.
Okay, have a good day!
The scale is down a couple of the about 4 pounds I gained on the trip. I'm near my highest weight, which would be more miserable except I am working on changing it. No kettlebells yesterday - I was tired and a bit stiff, so I decided to skip that. I did walk in the park and went to water aerobics.
Today the plan includes water aerobics, walk in the park, and kettlebells. There is no beer in the house, and there are a couple of (relatively) healthy, low cal snacks for evening. I tend to eat a light dinner before class (which is at 7) and then I want a little bit of something when I get home.
After some consideration, I decided to sign up for an online dating service. I haven't dated in over 15 years and I've never used an online service. I was building up a lot of fear of dating, so I decided to sign up and get my toes wet. I don't feel ready for a serious relationship, but I felt now was the time to face that fear. I will keep you posted.
Okay, have a good day!
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
Another gorgeous day!
Well 2 sunny days in a row. Yay!
I forgot to mention, but I wrote up a short and easy kettlebell session for myself. I am doing it each day just to build back up a bit. I will add to it, and once it is long enough I will switch to every other day.
So yesterday I walked in the park with my mom. Nice and easy. Today is more kettlebells and water aerobics. I was feeling VERY snacky last night, but did well.
I have a list of things to do over the next couple of weeks. Everything from washing the dog to organizing fall clothes. Stuff that really needs to be done and I have time, which is nice!
Nothing profound to write, just getting back into a groove. Take care!
I forgot to mention, but I wrote up a short and easy kettlebell session for myself. I am doing it each day just to build back up a bit. I will add to it, and once it is long enough I will switch to every other day.
So yesterday I walked in the park with my mom. Nice and easy. Today is more kettlebells and water aerobics. I was feeling VERY snacky last night, but did well.
I have a list of things to do over the next couple of weeks. Everything from washing the dog to organizing fall clothes. Stuff that really needs to be done and I have time, which is nice!
Nothing profound to write, just getting back into a groove. Take care!
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
It was a dark and rainy night
It rained cats and dogs all day yesterday. Luckily there was no thunder which meant there was water aerobics! My girlfriend couldn't make it (she is sick and the doctor told her to hold off a couple of days), but I went! It was nice, once I got my butt out into the cold rainy night.
Food was fine yesterday. I hit Costco and bought a huge bag of organic mixed greens (kale, spinach, chard) for smoothies & salads, a bag of frozen fruit for smoothies, tomatoes, and a rotisserie chicken for dinner and the leftovers for lunch salads.
No water aerobics today, I can't decide if I want to go to the gym or just go walk in the park now that it's sunny! I got a cute haircut and then went and picked up cucumbers and hummus to have for evening snacks this week.
In a move that is NOT at all surprising, my not yet ex has moved in with new girl. More proof they are both crazy. He's looking for a substitute, she's looking for a baby daddy.
I gained 4 pounds on the trip. I'm not surprised, but it's right back to healthy eating and exercise. And looking for a job.
I'm unpacked and my room is cleaned. I've swept the house and I need to do some dishes. Then respond to a few emails, clean my desk, balance my checkbook, etc. etc.
Mood is middle ground.
Food was fine yesterday. I hit Costco and bought a huge bag of organic mixed greens (kale, spinach, chard) for smoothies & salads, a bag of frozen fruit for smoothies, tomatoes, and a rotisserie chicken for dinner and the leftovers for lunch salads.
No water aerobics today, I can't decide if I want to go to the gym or just go walk in the park now that it's sunny! I got a cute haircut and then went and picked up cucumbers and hummus to have for evening snacks this week.
In a move that is NOT at all surprising, my not yet ex has moved in with new girl. More proof they are both crazy. He's looking for a substitute, she's looking for a baby daddy.
I gained 4 pounds on the trip. I'm not surprised, but it's right back to healthy eating and exercise. And looking for a job.
I'm unpacked and my room is cleaned. I've swept the house and I need to do some dishes. Then respond to a few emails, clean my desk, balance my checkbook, etc. etc.
Mood is middle ground.
Monday, November 09, 2015
There and back again
Well hello to anyone who might read this! My son and I are back from our trip across America. It was terrific, I'm so glad we did it.
I stopped writing because honestly, I didn't want to read it. It's been hard. Hard that your husband of 14+ years walks out the door and moves in with another woman without a backward glance. Even if you know he's a jackass, it's still a blow to your esteem. Add unemployment to the mix and you have a cocktail for a tough time.
As they say, tough times don't last, but tough people do. I am ok. I can pay my bills without too much trouble, I have a place to live. I have recruiters helping me look for something. I will find a job. Right now is a good time to take care of myself, and that is what I am focusing on. I have signed back up for water aerobics and I have a friend going with me (my mm just isn't a pool person).
I have a membership to the Y and a house full of healthy foods. I have a list of things I want to get done while I have some time. I won't lie - this sucks. But I can sit around a be depressed or I can use the time. I choose the latter.
I will write more about my trip and what is goin gon in the coming days. For now ... I'm back.
I stopped writing because honestly, I didn't want to read it. It's been hard. Hard that your husband of 14+ years walks out the door and moves in with another woman without a backward glance. Even if you know he's a jackass, it's still a blow to your esteem. Add unemployment to the mix and you have a cocktail for a tough time.
As they say, tough times don't last, but tough people do. I am ok. I can pay my bills without too much trouble, I have a place to live. I have recruiters helping me look for something. I will find a job. Right now is a good time to take care of myself, and that is what I am focusing on. I have signed back up for water aerobics and I have a friend going with me (my mm just isn't a pool person).
I have a membership to the Y and a house full of healthy foods. I have a list of things I want to get done while I have some time. I won't lie - this sucks. But I can sit around a be depressed or I can use the time. I choose the latter.
I will write more about my trip and what is goin gon in the coming days. For now ... I'm back.
Saturday, August 29, 2015
Too much time on my hands
Parked in drafts for a couple of days, in the hopes I could be more articulate.
The other night after supper I started feeling anxious, and I realized that I've addressed emotional eating, habit eating, and this one is maybe the final issue that I need to face: boredom eating. (not that those issues are solved, but they've at least had the curtain pulled back and the light of day shined on them!).
You would think people would never be bored - we have so much to do! And I certainly had plenty I could do - chores. But I wanted to do something enjoyable and nothing seemed to fit the bill. I didn't want to bring out a project (too much effort), I couldn't find a book I wanted to read. Eating would be a way to "switch off".
I have loads of things I want to do, but starting feels daunting. I've avoided that most of this week by sticking my nose in a book (thanks to a trip to the used book store), but I can't keep avoiding it.
The other night after supper I started feeling anxious, and I realized that I've addressed emotional eating, habit eating, and this one is maybe the final issue that I need to face: boredom eating. (not that those issues are solved, but they've at least had the curtain pulled back and the light of day shined on them!).
You would think people would never be bored - we have so much to do! And I certainly had plenty I could do - chores. But I wanted to do something enjoyable and nothing seemed to fit the bill. I didn't want to bring out a project (too much effort), I couldn't find a book I wanted to read. Eating would be a way to "switch off".
I have loads of things I want to do, but starting feels daunting. I've avoided that most of this week by sticking my nose in a book (thanks to a trip to the used book store), but I can't keep avoiding it.
Tuesday, August 25, 2015
I'm not ok, you're not ok, and that's ok
Hey there. I said that to a friend the other day, in kind of a joking way, but really, it's pretty true!
There's lots of things that I don't feel ok with, and sometimes I feel angry, or sad, or scared. I remind myself that those are normal feelings under the circumstances, and it's ok! I don't have to pretend them away. I don't have to share them either if I don't feel comfortable doing that.
So that's where I am - all the feelings that come with change, positive and negative. I get tired of writing about it at times, I guess you get tired of reading it too!
But I'm doing pretty well. Hope you are too! :-)
There's lots of things that I don't feel ok with, and sometimes I feel angry, or sad, or scared. I remind myself that those are normal feelings under the circumstances, and it's ok! I don't have to pretend them away. I don't have to share them either if I don't feel comfortable doing that.
So that's where I am - all the feelings that come with change, positive and negative. I get tired of writing about it at times, I guess you get tired of reading it too!
But I'm doing pretty well. Hope you are too! :-)
Sunday, August 23, 2015
Still here
It's been a quiet week. I've been feeling low energy, vaguely sad.
The funeral was nice. Mom and I did the food, and that turned out well. It's been a productive weekend, getting a lot of housework done. I have fun plans the next couple of weekends, so I needed to get some stuff done.
I decided to quit my Cross Fit gym for a while - it just feels a bit overwhelming, plus it's expensive and my job is ending in a few weeks. I have my kettlebells at home, and I still belong to the Y. I've been trimming back to my spending.
Not much else to report. Take care!
The funeral was nice. Mom and I did the food, and that turned out well. It's been a productive weekend, getting a lot of housework done. I have fun plans the next couple of weekends, so I needed to get some stuff done.
I decided to quit my Cross Fit gym for a while - it just feels a bit overwhelming, plus it's expensive and my job is ending in a few weeks. I have my kettlebells at home, and I still belong to the Y. I've been trimming back to my spending.
Not much else to report. Take care!
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