Fitville

ride on

2012-01-28T08:55:00.000-08:00

American River, Folsom California

Almost made it to the 1,000 mile mark on Bella yesterday. Ride started off with some breathing allergy-asthma issues but after a brief stop at a coffeehouse and a quick skinny latte, those problems went away and I felt like I could ride forever. Alas, ran out of both time and daylight.

Plan is for a long walk today while this good weather lasts. I'm going to listen to Kathleen Edwards' new album.

Hope you're doing well with your new year goals & intentions, whatever they may be.

~♥~

nest feathering

2012-01-16T13:01:00.000-08:00

New this year - an entry table.

The amaryllis opened today!

Monday weigh in: 136.4

~♥~

look up and see

2012-01-14T17:51:00.000-08:00

Tonight's sunset from the walking trail. Enjoying this incredible weather while it lasts.

~♥~

where not to look for freedom

2012-01-14T14:36:00.001-08:00

I love riding my bike to this song.

~♥~

it's never too late

2012-01-12T10:48:00.001-08:00

~♥~

something's a little fishy

2012-01-12T10:20:00.000-08:00

One thing about the sugar free challenge, I'm exploring savory snacks. Tried two recently, kale chips and seaweed strips. The seaweed snacks are from Trader Joe's. The texture and flavor took some getting used to. The plain roasted variety was a bit too fishy tasting for me and the wasabi favored snacks were a bit too hot. I could probably develop a taste for either but think I'm going to learn to make my own tasty kale chips instead.

I tried a kale krunch product from Whole Foods - (does anyone know if TJ's has a kale chip snack?). I asked the helpful Whole Foods guy stocking the shelves nearby on the type a rookie should try. He directed me to their most popular seller. Something cheesy. That's cheesy in a good way, mind you. Yum! The only drawback is the price.

Do you make your own kale chips? Got any tips?

~♥~

Dude, I'll keep this in mind

2012-01-11T11:24:00.000-08:00

This is exactly the pep talk I need to get back to pilates.

~♥~

real food isn't bad

2012-01-10T10:23:00.001-08:00

"Real food isn’t bad. If it came from the earth and hasn’t been tampered with by hormones and tons of chemicals and artificial everything, it’s likely pretty good nourishment. Eat it in moderation. Eat a variety of it. Prepare it with care. Make your plate pretty. Share it with people you love. Put down your fork between bites and make conversation as you break bread. Wash it down with a glass of wine and maybe a little something sweet. Push away from the table satisfied, but not stuffed."

~ Selene Yeager (Fit Chick)

~♥~

back to the garden

2012-01-09T11:27:00.000-08:00

Each Monday, I receive an email from the Meatout Monday folks. Honestly, I don't always open them but I did this morning because the word "kale" caught my eye. Just happens I have some kale that needs to be used today. This email offered a recipe for White Bean & Kale Stew. Sounded good except for the fennel bulb. Did a quick search of the internets for other recipes with kale and white beans as main ingredients. What I found is they are mostly a variation on a basic theme. Going to try my own variation tonight and see what happens. May even make some kale chips.

Guess what?! I have a renewed interest in trying new clean eating recipes. Do you have a current favorite? I'm also putting together a list of blogs focused on clean eating. Do you have one or know of one to suggest?

For those of you catching the "back to the garden" reference: click here.

Monday weigh in: 137

~♥~

what's up, indeed

2012-01-08T10:34:00.001-08:00

One intention I have for the year ahead is to read more health related books. I'm starting out the year with this one -- it's looking to be a tough act to follow! While I have a Master's degree in health communication, my reading in this area has really fallen off. That's about to change.

~♥~

you've earned it

2012-01-07T11:35:00.000-08:00

"Relax or revive sore tight muscles for the next event. You've earned it!
Our natural aromatic herbs will work their magic while you soak or shower."

I've been using this Active Athletic Shower/Bath gel from Kiss My Face in my bath at bedtime and yes, it is just the thing for legs that have been cycling and walking/hiking. Good stuff.

~♥~

orange food

2012-01-06T11:31:00.000-08:00

Had the Dr. Oz show on in the background as I was doing some cleaning and kept hearing about the amazing cancer fighting properties of "orange foods." I happen like pumpkin and sweet potatoes so I did a little jiggity-jig and listened up for some recipes.

Here's an easy one for spicy pumpkin soup that I'm going to try tonight. What would you serve to go with this?

Update: I made the soup last night. Verdict: OK. Suspect their are better recipes out there. Will keep tweaking it.

[Image source]

~♥~

bike trail rewards

2012-01-05T11:34:00.001-08:00

Taken with my iPhone from the bike trail yesterday evening. Strangely warm and dry weather here. While I appreciate being outside riding in January, we need snow up at Tahoe.

~♥~

indispensable tee

2012-01-05T11:16:00.000-08:00

I love this tee shirt! It's J. Crew's Perfect-fit long-sleeve tee. Small or medium works out well, although the sleeves on the medium are a bit long (notice how the long-armed model is even scrunching up the sleeves). This is the perfect layering tee as it is very soft, thin and has a great neckline. I like to buy these at J. Crew outlet stores. Picked up four last week at $7.99 ea.

~♥~

This I can do

2012-01-04T12:05:00.000-08:00

Rules/Conditions/Suggestions for the January Sugar Free Challenge hosted by Spoonful of Sugar Free:

Are you allowed to eat fruit during the challenge?
Yes, you are allowed to eat fruit. Try not to overdo it, though (as in, don’t eat 15 bananas a day!). Other than that, I believe the naturally occurring sugars found in fruit are perfectly healthy in small amounts. Fruit contains plenty of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins to help your body.

Is stevia allowed during the challenge? Since stevia is considered a sugar-substitute, I am not allowing it in the challenge. This makes the challenge, well, more challenging! Challenging is fun! If you think that you absolutely cannot complete the challenge without stevia, then feel free to use it.

Is alcohol allowed during the challenge? Yes, as long as it isn’t a “mixed” alcoholic beverage like margaritas, because they have added sugar. Mixed alcoholic drinks that use only fruit juice and no added sugar are accepted. Plain wine, beer, etc. are allowed.

~♥~

challenging times

2012-01-03T15:03:00.000-08:00

This whole 30-day challenge dealio is new to me. Never done one before although I've lurked in the shadows plenty times and observed others. So, why now? First of all, I'm not doing it to lose weight. That would be a welcome result don't get me wrong, but it's not the motivator. I just think refined sugar is basically toxic. And, I've been ingesting a lot of it lately. I'm going sugar free in January because I want to reset my appetite for sugar back to where it has been in the past. I want to think about fruit when I want something sweet -- not frozen yogurt or See's Candy.

~♥~

another milestone reached

2012-01-02T12:01:00.000-08:00

Belle during a brief stop along the banks of the American River.

My New Year's Day bike ride yesterday put me over the 4,000 miles mark. Yippee-ki-yay!

Monday weigh in: 135.6

~♥~

eyes wide open

2012-01-01T12:51:00.000-08:00

"We spend January 1 walking through our lives, room by room, drawing up a list of work to be done, cracks to be patched. Maybe this year, to balance the list, we ought to walk through the rooms of our lives...
not looking for flaws, but for potential."

~ Ellen Goodman

~♥~

no sugar, no problem

2012-01-01T11:45:00.000-08:00

Well, looky here. It's my first challenge.

~♥~

walk in beauty

2011-12-31T13:49:00.000-08:00

Native American Prayer...

Oh Great Spirit, whose voice I hear in the winds, Life to all the world, hear me. I come before you, one of your many children. I am small and weak. I need your strength and wisdom. Let me walk in beauty and make my eyes ever behold the red and purple sunset. Make my hands respect the things you have made, my ears sharp to hear your voice. Make me wise, so that I may know the things you have taught my people, the lesson you have hidden in every leaf and rock. I seek strength not to be superior to my brothers, but to be able to fight my greatest enemy – myself.

Make me ever ready to come to you with clean hands and straight eyes, so when life fades as a fading sunset, my Spirit may come to you without shame.
~ Sioux Chief Yellow Hawk

Wishing you all that is good in 2012.

~♥~

sometimes it's the little things

2011-12-23T10:58:00.001-08:00

Here's the latest product I'm wild about...brace yourself. Lip balm. Had some gnarly dry lips after the oral surgery and nothing seemed to help. Until...Dr. Bronners lip balm.

I've also tried Whole Foods organic lip balm and it's equally good, maybe better. Either of these would make great stocking stuffers, especially for people who like to be outside during the winter months.

*mwah*

~♥~

merry holidays

2011-12-22T11:47:00.000-08:00

Where do I start...well, I suppose an apology is in order. I'm sorry that I've neglected this blog for such a long time. Thanks to everyone for the birthday wishes and the advice on how to deal with the back sprain. I followed your advice, especially the gentle stretching. Next time something like this happens, I'll be sure to ice it right away.

I'm doing well. My weight has been holding steady at 135ish and I'm happy with this weight. Sure, I'd like to get down to where I was before at 128 but that's probably not realistic for me anymore.

Had what I dearly hope is the last oral surgery back on December 2nd. Recovery from this surgery has been a walk in the park compared to the previous one even though this one also included bone grafting (sinus lifts). So, after a bout of the holiday blues, I'm feeling great physically and emotionally. Looking forward to the new year as it brings an opportunity to set new goals.

I wish you all a very merry and joyous holiday season.

~♥~

birthday blues

2011-11-08T16:33:00.001-08:00

Last year around this time, I overdid it on the elliptical machine at my daughter's gym and came home with bursitis in my right hip. This year, we spent some time at my sister's beach condo to celebrate my birthday. I went with my sister to a couple exercise classes. Something I did in the second one (gyro-something) has made my back very sore. How do you deal with a back strain? When should I get back to bicycling? Will walking help or hinder my back's healing?

~♥~

moment of zen

2011-10-16T12:40:00.001-07:00

Taken near the end of my ride yesterday with my iPhone.

~♥~

what she said

2011-10-06T09:57:00.000-07:00

"I’m more interested in my experience of life now, rather than how other people experience me – appearance-wise, at least. And an exhilarating, rich and full life experience is largely dependent on feeling strong and well."

- Kim Brittingham, guest post at MizFit

~♥~

today's mission

2011-10-03T11:02:00.001-07:00

Maybe Lance can rock the biking shorts, but I sure can't. The time has come, I must shop for a new pair of bike shorts. BTW - What's the deal with "low-rise" bike shorts for women? Gah!

~♥~

pokey progress

2011-10-01T10:24:00.001-07:00

Returned from a quick overnight trip to the coast last night. This picture was taken at Bean Hollow Beach.Looking at my exercise stats from last month, I see my riding is starting to diminish while I'm picking up learning some pilates exercises. Saw the scale get down to 138 a few days ago but looks like it was a month of staying at 139, my new plateau. Plan to start doing some pilates at home this month in between classes and to ride at least my weight in miles. Would also like to walk at least 20 miles. Who knows, maybe I'll drop another half pound. Good thing I'm in no hurry as long as I'm going in the right direction.

Added: Patience is bitter, but it bears sweet fruit. - Turkish proverb(found over at Sheesh -- really fits where I am right now)

~♥~

a life lesson

2011-09-28T17:12:00.000-07:00

So, I learned something the other day. See there, you're never too old to learn! Here it is: When you have a little bout of asthma during a ride, that is not the time to push yourself into your longest ride of the year. I did this and it was not good. Very wiped out afterward. Today's shorter ride with good breathing was really fun although it was pretty dang hot.

Think I'm going to name my bike Bella because she's awfully pretty.

~♥~

Quotable - Why I Don't Diet

2011-09-23T15:09:00.000-07:00

"Diet companies convince women (and men, to a slightly lesser extent) that skinny means healthy, that weight loss is the key to happiness, and that being even slightly overweight is shameful. Healthy, beautiful humans come in all shapes and sizes, but the diet industry will never acknowledge that fact."
- Why I Don't Diet, Sally McGraw

~♥~

freaking finally

2011-09-23T10:43:00.000-07:00

After saying and writing numerous times that I was going to sign up for an exercise class, I finally did it. I signed up for six pilates classes and attended the first one this past Tuesday evening. It was very low key and the instructor was attentive. Two days later, I felt muscles around my upper rib cage I didn't know I had. I really liked it. Really, really. I think I'd get more out of the classes if I learned about beginning pilates exercises. Do you have a DVD to recommend?

Here are two giveaways I want to point out (not that I want competition, but hey, life's about sharing):

MizFit is giving away an amazing customized workout T-shirt.
Ellen at Femagination is hosting a great book giveaway. Are you expecting? Do you know someone who is?

Both giveaways end on Sept. 30th. Good luck!

~♥~

cycling humor

2011-09-15T11:29:00.000-07:00

Source: New Yorker

~♥~

ah ha!

2011-09-12T06:15:00.000-07:00

There’s a reason that you can learn from everything: you have basic wisdom, basic intelligence, and basic goodness. Therefore, if the environment is supportive and encourages you to be brave and to open your heart and mind, you’ll find yourself opening to the wisdom and compassion that’s inherently there. It’s like tapping into your source, tapping into what you already have. It’s the willingness to open your eyes, your heart, and your mind, to allow situations in your life to become your teacher.

~ Pema Chödrön

~♥~

Quotable

2011-09-11T09:55:00.000-07:00

Life is like riding a bicycle. You don't fall off unless you plan to stop peddling.

-- Claude Pepper

~♥~

in the high sierra

2011-09-10T09:10:00.000-07:00

Love being on or near water.

We went kayaking yesterday. Not sure how many calories kayaking burns but it sure feels good to glide along in the warm sunshine.

~♥~

up at the lake

2011-09-09T10:22:00.000-07:00

View of Mt. Tallac from Taylor Creek Visitor Center

Uncrowded & gorgeous bike path near Emerald Bay at Tahoe

Went to Tahoe yesterday with our hybrid bikes in tow. It's worth waiting until after Labor Day to go. No crowds & September is so beautiful with its greens and golds. We biked 21 miles.

~♥~

staying fit at any age

2011-09-08T09:21:00.000-07:00

Hmmm, makes sense...

In your 30s -

since sporadic workouts you may have relied upon in your 20s are losing their effectiveness, it's time to develop a regular routine to head off bone density loss and decreasing flexibility

In your 40s -

ramp up cardio to fend off the insidious encroachment of belly fat

In your 50s -

because you may burn approximately 150 to 200 calories fewer per day due to decreasing estrogen levels, slash 200 calories a day utilizing a high fiber, low fat approach
add strength training to your exercise activities

Source: Health, Sept. 2011

~♥~

just for laughs

2011-09-08T06:30:00.000-07:00

"Laughter is the key to a better life."

~♥~

work those hips

2011-09-07T12:36:00.001-07:00

~♥~

supplemental superstar

2011-09-07T11:20:00.000-07:00

A thorough overview of the many attributes of the supplement astaxanthin. I haven't tried this yet but I'm seriously thinking about it. Yet, it does sound almost too good to be true.

~♥~

you're not crazy

2011-09-06T13:12:00.000-07:00

Here's a nutshell answer from Dr. Oz to the question of why we* gain weight after reaching fifty or if not gaining weight, finding it harder, much harder to lose weight than it was in our 20s,30s, & 40s:

By age 50, you’re burning 200 fewer calories every day than you did at age 30. This is caused by estrogen loss that occurs during menopause. Unfortunately, your body turns to alternative sources, such as fat cells in the belly, which can produce estrogen. Fat cells grow bigger, resulting in an expanding waistline. ...Women in their 50s need to consume alternative sources of estrogen, like phyto-estrogens, such as flaxseed.

On this same topic is an excellent post about this very thing over at Cranky Fitness.

* Women, that is. Men can blame their expanding waistlines at any age on beer.

~♥~

summer daze are gone

2011-09-06T10:46:00.000-07:00

Wrights Lake taken with iPhone kayak cam.

Summer days, summer nights are gone
Summer days and summer nights are gone
I know a place where there's still somethin' going on
[Bob Dylan, Summer Days]

Well, as much as I'm resistant to accept it, summer ended yesterday (I guess). This particular summer stands out for awesome weather which means there were many fantastic moments spent outside. This was also a summer in which I sported all kinds of bruises on my legs and arms from falls from my bikes. The giant bruise on my left outer thigh is still slightly discolored and tender. To add to the bruises and scrapes in various degrees of healing, I was stung on my bum by a wasp. Yep, my ass was on fire! I'd never been stung before so at first I didn't realize what it was. Then as the night wore on and the allergic reaction set in (felt like I'd sat down on a fire-hot hibachi), I was prompted to do a quick google image search on wasp stings. Bingo.

Despite the painful incidents, I'm going to remember the summer of '11 by the complete happiness I felt while kayaking one afternoon. Think I had a big smile on my face the entire time.

Onward to fall and all things pumpkin.

~♥~

quotable

2011-09-05T08:22:00.000-07:00

"All life is an experiment. The more experiments you make the better."

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

~♥~

change is good

2011-09-04T14:21:00.000-07:00

How do you like the new look around here? Sometimes, you just have to change things up and keep moving along. One thing I'm going to begin to do is feature products, things, food I have discovered* that I like. I still intend to keep this blog ad free but I've benefited from what others have shared on their blogs and feel it's only fair that I "give back."

The first thing out of the gate is this moisturizer with sunscreen. It lives up to the marketing promises: it makes my skin look and feel great. It smells wonderful too. I love to be outdoors so it makes sense to develop a habit of using sunscreen on my face, neck and chest. It's too bad I've arrived late to this party though as I already have some sun exposure damage. I'll give the SPF 30 version a try next time.

Have you tried this product or something similar?

* I discovered quite a few new (to me) skincare and cosmetics when I was prevented from working out while recovering from oral surgeries and bursitis in my right hip.

~♥~

choose your bad

2011-09-01T16:43:00.001-07:00

[When I add peanut butter or almond butter to apple slices, I never feel deprived.]

~♥~

dignity is a metal bikini

2011-08-31T14:29:00.000-07:00

Congrats to Carrie Fisher for strengthening her health by losing a lot of weight. Hopefully, her success will inspire other women over the age of 50 to make efforts to improve their health and fitness levels. But, for the love of god, please leave the metal bikini to our fond memories.

~♥~

2011-08-12T22:23:00.000-07:00

Went for an end of the day walk. What a gorgeous day & evening in the Sierra foothills.

~♥~

the learning curve

2011-08-11T15:00:00.001-07:00

I went mountain biking with my sister and her family last Friday. Great trail in the woods. It was fun until I fell on my arm -- not while doing an amazing trick, however. I was actually walking my bike in a semi-treacherous part and slipped! The left side of my body looks like it should belong to an active 10 yr old boy instead of a woman pushing 52. Bruises on my leg from the goofy tip overs on my road bike and now my left arm near my elbow has scabs and bruises.

~♥~

incidents & accidents

2011-07-15T10:21:00.000-07:00

I took a little spill yesterday. It was the classic tip over incident many, most, all have at least once while getting used to clip-in cycling shoes. Feels like my bruises have bruises this morning. My only bike accident in almost 4,000 miles of cycling.

~♥~

riding on a bike with no name

2011-07-14T09:30:00.000-07:00

I've been riding my new road bike and am starting to feel comfortable with the increased speed and the different riding posture. Went on my first ride the other day using cycling shoes that are clipped into the pedals. Guess I was expecting to really feel a difference in terms of speed and power up hills, but I really didn't. I did feel more "confined." Managed not to tip over though. A small victory!

My bike, she needs a name. Ideas?

A quick pic in front of the Williams Pond off the American River.

Update on the fitness weight loss: legs are starting to look more like they used to i.e., slimming down and muscle definition developing especially in the calves. But, I'm not losing any weight according to the scale and the fit of my jeans. I'm staying at 10 pounds more than I want to be.

~♥~

must be love

2011-07-02T13:16:00.000-07:00

My new bike: Felt ZW5 2010

After reaching the 3,000 mile goal on my Trek hybrid, I decided that my passion for biking had been proven. It was now time to enter the world of road biking. Got a smokin good deal from a local, indie bike shop on this all carbon frame beauty because she's a 2010. Still getting used to her and riding with cheap temporary pedals. Bought biking shoes yesterday and ordered pedals. Onces the pedals arrive, I'm going to sign up for a session with the "fitting guru."

It feels great to be excited about riding again!

~♥~

made it to 3,000

2011-06-11T10:46:00.000-07:00

Bykasandra and I have ridden 3,000 miles together! Thinking seriously about getting a road bike now. Any suggestions?

~♥~

make me want to holler

2011-06-09T09:10:00.000-07:00

Since I've started exercising again the result has been weight gain. WTH?

On a positive note, feeling pretty good and the weather has gone from chilly and rainy to perfect. Yee-haw!

~♥~

a turtle start

2011-06-02T12:49:00.000-07:00

Despite being ready to get back moving, I'm off to a turtle start. Oh well, this might be the best way after all. Didn't go for a ride but have been walking. Going to start tracking my activity/exercise month by month in the side bar*. It'll be interesting to see how it corresponds with any weight changes.

In other news, finally tried sauteed kale the other night. I liked it a lot. It was also good finely chopped and added to eggs for breakfast the next day. Since it's our Saturday and there doesn't seem to be any tornado sightings or quarter sized hail today, we're heading down the hill for a bike ride.

* Totally ripping off this idea from The Merry at Sheesh.

~♥~

I'm ready

2011-05-30T11:23:00.000-07:00

Long time, no post. I finally got the all clear to resume physical activity a few days ago and believe me, I'm ready. While I might be psychologically ready, I've lost a lot of ground in terms of fitness. My weight has essentially stayed the same at ten pounds extra. I'm not going to be obsessive about the scale says: my focus is going to be on fitness. When I get back to my former fitness level, I'm sure I'll be happy with whatever the scale reads.

My biggest challenge is to re-establish exercise habits. We're going for a ride today.

~♥~

stay calm and carry on

2011-05-04T15:58:00.000-07:00

This morning I went for my follow up appt for the second oral surgery. Was hoping to get the all clear to resume physical activity, specifically bike riding. But, no. Things are healing but not enough. Another follow up appt in two weeks. So, I will start doing more walking but biking will be restricted to short, very short rides. Until I get the all clear, I'll carry on with the brisk sitting.

Meanwhile, I'm becoming an expert on Chobani greek yogurt. Tried lemon yesterday. Yum.

~♥~

silver lining

2011-04-26T08:58:00.000-07:00

Six days ago, I had a second round of extensive oral surgery. Recovery has been challenging with lots of pain and swelling. There is a silver lining though -- I've perfected (by my current needs) the chocolate protein smoothie.

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsweetened chocolate almond milk

1/2 cup nonfat strained plain greek yogurt

1/2 frozen banana

one scoop chocolate whey protein powder

3-6 ice cubes

splash of brewed coffee (I'm going to start freezing left over morning coffee in ice cube trays)

If you want to blend enough to share or have some left over for later in the day, increase the almond milk to one cup and use a whole banana. When I'm no longer recovering from oral surgery, I'll probably add a little peanut butter.

~♥~

love the skin you're in

2011-04-15T08:33:00.000-07:00

Before I left for a trip to DC with my younger sister, I received a bottle of Eucerin's new Daily Skin Balance lotion to try as part of Eucerin's Skin First Movement. I didn't take it with me but I was ready and eager to give it a try once I got home and back into my routine.

Since making some changes in my life such as eating healthier and being more active in order to be fit and healthy as I enter my 50s, one result is that I've begun to show more skin. No, not in a look-at-me-in-my bikini way (not that there's anything wrong with that -- hello, Valerie Bertinelli), but in a wearing sleeveless tops and sundresses way. I've also exposed my body to the elements more than I used to while taking long bike rides. Bottom line is: it's important to take care of your skin as it is your body's natural protective defense against the elements. And, having smooth, healthy looking skin is essential to looking and feeling vibrant.

This is a great product. First, I really like its light, fresh scent. Its mosturization is long-lasting and it never feels sticky or greasy even when it's first applied. I like the body lotion so much, I'm going to purchase the hand creme.

You can learn more about this body lotion and Eucerin's Skin First movement by visiting the Facebook page. Might find some samples and coupons too.

~♥~

How to make the perfect vinaigrette

2011-04-14T19:50:00.000-07:00

~♥~

wise words

2011-03-18T11:34:00.000-07:00

"We tend to pursue happiness by trying to obtain things we lack. That's an iffy proposition, and it focuses all our attention on our own neediness. If we don't get what we want, we may end up feeling victimized, which predisposes us to anger and depression. Kindness and helpfulness, by contrast, generate positive circumstances from within. They give us a sense of efficacy we can't get from trying to control all the forces that impact our lives. Moreover, helping others tends to create one of the most powerful psychological conditions known to humankind: gratitude."

~ Martha Beck

[image source: here]

~♥~

ducks lined up at last

2011-03-18T11:02:00.000-07:00

It has taken a long time, but I've finally gathered my health issue ducks in a row. The bursitis seems to have abated and the five PT visits have made great improvement to my right hip's comfort and range of motion. Puff tooth was extracted yesterday afternoon. I'm already beginning to feel better [although the cost of getting a dental implant is shocking!] And, I had a blood draw earlier this week to check my current thyroid hormone levels because I'm still certain that my current prescribed levoxyl is too low. I think it needs to be increased back to where it was six months ago. We'll see...hmmm, actually those results should be back. Better go call the doc's office.

Feel so ready for spring this year. How about you?

~♥~

a new old fad diet

2011-03-08T12:45:00.000-08:00

Apparently, there's a lose-a-pound-a-day-diet people are willing to spend a lot of money for while jeopardizing their health. It sounds like medically supervised anorexia to me.

The regimen combines daily injections with a near-starvation diet, and patients, mostly women, are often enticed by promises that they can lose about a pound a day without feeling hungry. Perhaps even more seductively, they are frequently told that the hCG will prompt their bodies to carry away and metabolize fat that has been stored where they least want it — in their upper arms, bellies and thighs.

~♥~

Is physical therapy supposed to hurt?

2011-03-07T11:44:00.000-08:00

The journey down the health status rabbit hole continues. I've gone to physical therapy twice now to address the pain in my right hip. The first was an evaluation. Some of the stuff the PT did hurt a bit at the time and I was sore the next day. This last visit was extremely painful and I was very sore for two days after. Is this normal? I'd like to feel that I'm making progress to be able to walk for exercise again but worry that this is causing more damage.

I'm going again later today. This time I'm telling her to take it easy.

~♥~

status - mojo slowly returning

2011-03-03T14:33:00.000-08:00

It's a new dawn
It's a new day
It's a new life
For me
And I'm feeling good

~ Nina Simone

My insurance has approved more physical therapy visits! Yaay! I can sense a future with walks and hikes. The $14 dry cut, bad idea, even worse results haircut is history. After a cut & color, it feels like I'm slowly getting my mojo back.

~♥~

the true story of the $14 haircut

2011-03-02T12:36:00.000-08:00

I'm growing out a bad haircut so that means either I spend extra time styling it in an attempt to make it look semi-decent (it never achieves decent no matter how much time is taken or the number and variety of styling appliances & products) or it's ponytail time. Just one more thing in the-not-living-my-best-life-right-at-the-moment phase I appear to be stuck in (mourning the loss of my MIL, puff tooth, bum right hip, the tragic lack of bike riding).

So, why did this happen? Well, it was one of those moments of bad judgement. I was in a conversation with a stranger (happens all the time) at the market and I noticed that I liked her hair style. Asked where she gets it cut and she told me the story of going to the cheap new place and asking for a "dry haircut." And, it was only $14! Yep, I followed her words and now have regrets. At least it wasn't a tattoo.

~♥~

Brrr & Grrr

2011-02-27T10:56:00.000-08:00

The good news: I do not have a stress fracture in my right hip or upper right femur. Yaay! No crutches for me. However, I do have bursitis. That kinda sucks. It does seem to be decreasing though so the PT has advised that bike riding is okay now. Still no weight-bearing exercise like walking or hiking.

I haven't riden my bike since Thanksgiving Day. Really. I'm going crazy too. Excited that I can get back to riding without hurting my hip, but sadly, it's been freaky cold here lately. Not bike riding conditions by a long shot.

In the meanwhile, as I wait for the weather we should be having, I've started a new blog: Sassy Banana. Come by and check us out. If you have that "sassy something" and would like to join the bunch, let me know.

~♥~

Quotable - snuck up on me

2011-02-24T13:46:00.000-08:00

"I didn't decide to become anorexic. It snuck up on me disguised as a healthy diet, a professional attitude....

I finally understood that by being on a perpetual diet, I had practiced a "disordered" form of eating my whole life. I restricted when I was hungry and in need of nutrition and binged when I was so grotesquely full I couldn't be comfortable in any position but laying down. Diets that tell people what to eat or when to eat are the practices in between....Obsessing about what and when to eat is not normal, natural, and orderly. Thinking about food to the point of obsession and ignoring your body's signals is a disorder."

~ Portia de Rossi from her memoir Unbearable Lightness

~♥~

stuffed peppers

2011-02-23T09:54:00.000-08:00

News flash - I made dinner the other night using a new recipe! As usual it was a simple dish. It turned out pretty well, although I think the flavoring could be amped up. Do you have a favorite recipe for stuffed peppers?

Here's a link to the clean eating recipe I used. The only change I made was to add brown rice to the stuffing mixture. Will use fresh garlic in the saute next time and will parboil the peppers before baking them.

* This is not a photo of what I served but it's pretty, no?

~♥~

Quotable - debating calories

2011-02-22T18:37:00.000-08:00

"And now we live in a world in which the calorie is not a measurement of heat or energy, but of willpower and integrity. We are told implicitly and explicitly that calories equal poison and we should limit them at every opportunity. A quick stroll through the grocery store turns up low-cal versions of nearly everything, from mashed potatoes to oatmeal to dressing to cookies. What happened to eating food in it’s natural form, including all of the energy it was intended to offer? (and all of the taste it was intended to have?"

~ Ashley Solomon, The Great Calorie Debate

~♥~

doctor, doctor, tell me the news

2011-02-22T08:28:00.000-08:00

Seeing the nurse practitioner today to follow up on the xrays I had taken last week to determine if I have a stress fracture or if it's osteoarthritis in my right hip.

I'm going to ask her about increasing my thyroid med back to where it was a year ago. Since it's been lowered, I've been gaining weight at the rate I was losing it before. Frustrating. It was lowered in response to a routine dexa showing I had osteopenia. Sometimes it feels as if I've gone down some weird health rabbit hole. Would love to press reset and be back where I was 18 months ago.

~♥~

Do you think I'm fat?

2011-02-21T09:23:00.000-08:00

National Eating Disorders Awareness Week

It's Time to Walk, Talk, Tweet, Post, and Blog About it!

~♥~

it's time to talk about it

2011-02-20T20:26:00.000-08:00

I started reading Portia de Rossi's new memoir today. So far, my impression is that she is putting it all out there perhaps to further her own healing/recovery and to help others who are struggling with self-acceptance; whether it is their body image and relationship with food or their sexual identity. Or both.

Turns out it's also National Eating Disorders Awareness Week. This year's campaign asks us all to do one thing. Here's my one thing: reading this book and encouraging everyone who happens by to help get the word out about the importance of understanding eating disorders.

Will you join me by posting something about National Eating Disorders Awareness Week on your blog?

~♥~

life's inevitable difficulties

2011-02-17T15:10:00.000-08:00

The more you think about your own self, the more self-centred you are, the more trouble even small problems can create in your mind. The stronger your sense of ‘I’, the narrower the scope of your thinking becomes; then even small obstacles become unbearable. On the other hand, if you concern yourself mainly with others, the broader your thinking becomes, and life’s inevitable difficulties disturb you less.

~ Dali Lama

~♥~

it had to be you

2011-02-14T10:38:00.000-08:00

“You can explore the universe looking for somebody who is more deserving of your love and affection than you are yourself,
and you will not find that person anywhere.”

Happy Valentine's Day: it had to be YOU

~♥~

V-Day

2011-02-13T10:19:00.000-08:00

www.nataliedee.com

~♥~

a cheesy surprise

2011-02-09T10:43:00.000-08:00

Turns out eating certain hard cheeses such as gouda, edam, emmenthal and Jarlsburg, can lower the risk of developing cancer.

"...these cheeses contain a form of vitamin K called vitamin K2 (the scientific name is menaquinone) that is both antiangiogenic (blood vessel-inhibiting) and also kills cancer cells directly. The studies indicate that eating as few as 2 slices of these hard cheeses a day can lower your overall risk for cancer, including lung cancer and prostate cancer."

~♥~

scorpacciata

2011-02-08T15:48:00.000-08:00

Doesn't this just make all kinds of sense? Especially if you live in a somewhat temperate area of the world.

~♥~

debut

2011-02-05T21:04:00.000-08:00

My first youtube project...a tribute to my one-of-a-kind mother in law, Aileen. She passed away on January 26th.

~♥~

magic weight loss seeds

2011-01-26T11:30:00.000-08:00

I've just recently tried chia seeds in a smoothie. The seeds added a nice nutty flavor and some fiber. I was unaware of the weight loss claims. Well, it turns out the seeds have not been found to have weight loss properties.

The Claim: Chia Seeds Can Help You Lose Weight

Another magical weight loss food bites the dust.

~♥~

every good thing

2011-01-25T13:45:00.000-08:00

My husband's mother is nearing the end of her life. Has me feeling reflective about what's really important in this journey.

~♥~

friday five

2011-01-21T13:39:00.000-08:00

I may have found my special purpose (not a reference to "The Jerk"). I've been testing smoothie recipes. Yesterday, the Spinach Raspberry and today, the Classic Green Monster. Both were yummy and I like the way I felt after drinking them. The Spinach Raspberry makes enough for two people or to put aside some for later. The Classic Green Monster had me trying Chia seeds for the first time. I also used peanut butter as the nut butter but wonder if this is what the Green Monster goddess had in mind since technically peanuts are not nuts. I may pick up a small jar of almond butter for the future. I'd also like to try PB2. I don't like that there is added sugar but the fat reduction is appealing. PB2 seems like it would be ideal to add to smoothies. I almost ordered some online but couldn't bring myself to pay the shipping charge. Good grief, it was almost the same as the price of 4 bottles of the product. The nearest retailer that carries PB2 is not near. So, for now, PB2 is on the back burner.

I've been feeling much more back to normal (by which I mean having some energy), since I've started taking probiotics. Discovered yesterday that Raley's Sunnyside yogurt is now available with probiotics. It comes in a variety of good flavors too, including pomegranate. I'm a suckafool for anything pomegranate.

Here's one of those quick list type articles that actually has some valuable information: 7 Pains to never, ever ignore.

Learned about a new super supplement promoted by Joe Mercola via the Dr. Oz website: ASTAXANTHIN. It is purported to have antioxident and anti-inflamatory properties. Have you heard of it? Tried it?

Did you notice something different in the sidebar? I've taken down the weight information. I am truly shifting my focus away from the scale. Still about ten pounds more than where I'd like to be but I think taking a break from "weight watching" is the way to go right now.

Thanks for stopping by and have a great weekend!

~♥~

send in the good guys

2011-01-19T09:48:00.000-08:00

Probiotics - the good guys.

After two rounds of antibiotics to fight the nefarious Puff Tooth, it seems a good idea to try some probiotics. Maybe psychological, but after only one day I feel much better.

~♥~

keep your eyes on the prize

2011-01-18T08:52:00.000-08:00

Insist on the destination, Lee, not on how you'll get there. ~ the Universe

I haven't been able to exercise for a while now because of my concern that I might have a stress fracture. Haven't made an appointment yet to get that resolved (an MRI I expect) but I have moved forward with Puff Tooth.

We're at the end of the road with my poor mother-in-law. Dealing with end of life issues is very challenging and I'm afraid my eating has been pretty bad in addition to not exercising. So, I'm on a detour in my fitness journey at the moment. But, I do know this is only temporary and that's OK.

~♥~

one little word

2011-01-10T11:16:00.000-08:00

Here's an idea that makes sense to me. Instead of making resolutions for the year ahead, choose a guiding word. My word this year is...

simplify

~♥~

forks over knives

2011-01-08T10:43:00.000-08:00

Coming in March 2011

Interesting interview with The China Study's Dr. Campbell via NYT's Tara Parker-Pope.

~♥~

friday five

2011-01-07T14:30:00.000-08:00

Courtroom drama will never be the same.
You've heard of "That Girl" but what about "That Guy (at the gym)?"
Joanna reveals 7 lessons she's learned this year. [Number 7 is not just a lesson, it's a universal law.]
Dogs do the darnedest things.
I'm looking to get serious about protein shakes and smoothies. Any recipes to share?
Do you have a smoothie maker to recommend? The Magic Bullet?

~♥~

the myth of invincible me

2011-01-06T12:08:00.000-08:00

I've had a tendancy to believe I can do just about anything if I set my mind to it. But, today I feel stuck in an inertia kind of funk. I have two health issues going on. Either one by itself wouldn't seem bad, but having them at the same time has made me feel stuck. One is the root canal redo I had a couple months ago. Well, on Christmas Eve it started to look and feel infected. It progressed to a full on absess. I've been on antibiotics that I got from my NPA and the swelling and pain has diminished a bit. I'm just stuck not wanting to call the endodontist and find out what's next. What's next is probably losing this damn expensive tooth.

The other issue is my right hip. Ever since working out in Austin while visiting my daughter in early November, my right hip has been uncomfortable. I thought it was probably arthritis because I recently developed it in my right pinky knuckle and have had degenerative joint disease in my neck for a few years. I've been doing a lot of walking lately since the weather hasn't been conducive to bike riding. The hip discomfort/pain is getting worse -- interfering with sleep. Now I'm wondering if I have a stress fracture. I don't want to make the arrangements to have this checked out because it scares me that I might need surgery or be on crutches for a while.

Bottom line is I feel like I'm breaking down. Not so invincible after all.

~♥~

fever

2011-01-05T13:12:00.000-08:00

A favorite little tune "Fever" by Takka Takka and a cute video.

~♥~

in praise of roasted brussels sprouts

2011-01-05T09:35:00.000-08:00

There was a time (most of my life, actually) when I believed that brussels sprouts belonged in the same category as lima beans and liver. Sisters and brothers, I'm here today to share with you that I've since seen the light! Brussels sprouts are good; dang good. Whipped up Ina Garten's simple recipe for roasted brussels sprouts last night. The only thing I did differently was to srinkle a bit of finely shredded aged parmesan cheese before serving. Leftover sprouts will be sliced very thinly and added to egg beaters for breakfast. Oh, yes, they will.

~♥~

Hey kids!

2011-01-04T14:54:00.000-08:00

Just picked this up at the supermarket. Getting healthy is fun. Gender stereotyping, not so much. Healthy for male fruits and veggies (broccoli & banana, naturally) means muscles. Healthy for female fruits (tomatoes & pineapples) must mean impossibly long eyelashes and big-come-smootch-me-now lips.

* No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. [Where are coloring contests prohibited?]

~♥~

Mmmm, soupy

2011-01-04T09:32:00.000-08:00

For dinner last night, I tried a new recipe for Winter Squash and Red Pepper Soup. We liked it but would not be in any hurry to have it again. John, while liking the overall taste of the soup was disappointed that he couldn't taste the red peppers more. This was probably my fault as I didn't measure the amount of squash I used and may have used more than the recipe suggested. When I have a cup of leftover soup for lunch today, think I'll add some thyme.

~♥~

getting gleeful

2011-01-03T14:38:00.000-08:00

Know what's working for me while using the ol' treadmill? Watching Glee.

~♥~

Quotable

2011-01-02T11:03:00.000-08:00

The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.
-- Carl Rogers

~♥~

a new year - a new start

2011-01-02T09:18:00.000-08:00

~♥~

wish upon a setting sun

2010-12-01T12:51:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving sunset at Avila Beach.

The visit to spend Thanksgiving with my younger twin sisters and their families was great. We even managed to fit in a twelve mile ride on Thanksgiving Day.

~♥~

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-23T17:38:00.001-08:00

~♥~

back on track

2010-11-17T09:34:00.000-08:00

It seems my weight may be drifting down toward the goal weight range ever so slowly. This is with a lot of effort on my part. So, I've been thinking, maybe I shouldn't be so number-on-the-scale focused. I'm doing what I can to address metabolic issues and really, it is what it is. I could focus more on fitness goals and the overall goal of feeling good. Does it really matter if I'm wearing a size 6 pair of jeans or an 8?

I'm feeling pretty good these days and appreciate that I'm able to walk briskly for 6 miles and ride my bike for 30. Maybe it's time to add some yoga to the mix.

~♥~

something fine

2010-11-12T09:42:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, while out and about, we drove by the local farm that specializes in mandarin oranges. Noticed a simple sign "mardarins." It's time! These little oranges are so delicious. One of my favorite things in life.

"And I just had a taste of something fine..."
Jackson Browne

~♥~

Friday fast ones

2010-11-12T08:41:00.000-08:00

bike ride today (it's been a while) - note: ride didn't happen 6 mi walk instead
blood pressure is holding steady in the good range (so happy about this)
looking for a kick ass pumpkin cookie or muffin recipe
in search of better socks for walking
feeling happy & appreciative of the gorgeous fall here in the Sierra foothills :)

~♥~

not complaining

2010-11-10T10:44:00.000-08:00

Noticed it has been a while since I wrote a non gripey post so here we are...I feel good today. The lab visit went well and best of all, it's done. Saw this leaf arrangement on bedroom deck yesterday and was reminded yet again of Mother Nature's amazing seasonal decorating abilities. It's still pretty overcast and chilly but I'm going to bundle up and walk five miles.

This had me laughing: Signs it's going to be one of those days by Jack Sh*t

BTW - If you're a Jon Hamm fan, he's on Conan's show tonight.

~♥~

d'oh

2010-11-09T12:30:00.000-08:00

Went to the lab for a blood draw today and was told that for one of the tests, the blood needed to be drawn between 7 - 9 am. It was eleven and I'd been fasting since 8 pm. Then I was told that I didn't need to fast for any of these tests. So, who's playing with me here -- the doc or the lab guy? Oh well, tomorrow morning it is. It's not as if the fasting is hurting anything.

On a more positive note, I weighed myself again this morning and was down two pounds. WTH?

Going to make the ol' favorite fall recipe from the Moosewood book. The spaghetti squash casserole. Sometimes the texture is a little strange but it makes really great leftovers. Do you have a favorite squash recipe?

~♥~